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OBSERVER www.jewishobservernashville.org

Vol. 91 No. 1

JANUARY 2026 12 Tevet - 13 Sh’vat 5786

Federation’s 90th Annual Meeting to Honor Community Leaders

By BARBARA DAB

Pictured are Jacob Kleinrock and Arlene Averbuch, 2025 annual campaign co-chairs.

Thank You, Jewish Nashville!

he Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville extends its deepest gratitude to everyone who contributed to the 2025 Annual Campaign. Your generosity has empowered us to strengthen and sustain Jewish life here in Nashville, across our region, and around the world. By giving to the Annual Campaign, you placed your trust not only in the Federation’s stewardship, but also in a diverse group of community volunteers who work together to thoughtfully and democratically determine our shared funding priorities. In a moment when polarization often overshadows collective responsibility, your commitment to a broader communal vision speaks volumes. Our donors chose unity, purpose, and the belief that we are stronger when we care for the whole community—not just individual interests. We also extend heartfelt thanks to the 2025 Annual Campaign Committee. After several years without a formal committee, it was inspiring to see this group come together—seasoned fundraisers alongside newcomers eager to support Jewish Nashville. Their dedication was matched by the many volunteers who joined us for our Phone A Thons. Community members from all backgrounds and neighborhoods Continued on page 4 A Publication of the

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he Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville’s 90th annual meeting, scheduled for January 25th, will recognize and honor several of the community’s new and veteran leaders. This year’s meeting is a refresh of the traditional format and features the popular band Nefesh Mountain, along with brunch, and the launch of the 2026 campaign theme, and recognition of the community’s Life & Legacy members. Judy Alperin, Federation CEO says, “We are looking forward to seeing everyone in our community join us for this year’s meeting when we gather to honor our leaders, enjoy great music, and share plans for making 2026 our best year ever.” One of this year’s new features is the inaugural Mark S. Freedman award for Professional Excellence. Pam Kelner, executive director of Jewish Family Service is the award’s first recipient.

Kelner has been in her role for 16 years and says she is touched by the honor. “There are many Jewish professionals in Nashville who are all wonderful, but being the inaugural is JFS executive direcextremely spe- tor Pam Kelner to cial to me. The receive the inaugufact that it is ral Mark S. Freedman for Profesnamed for Mark, Award sional Excellence. for whom I have a tremendous amount of respect. We worked together when he was here and it was a true partnership.” Kelner says her driving force is the community itself. “The work we do is very important and I say this a lot, I really am lucky that I get to do what I do.” Before

coming to Nashville nearly 20 years ago, Kelner worked in the corporate world for Bloomberg in New York City. “I loved working there. It was fast paced, it was very fun, but this is different.” Among the highlights she says is being surrounded by her colleagues at JFS, and the staff at Federation, and others in the community. In addition to her professional team, Kelner says she has been fortunate to work with her team of lay leaders, too. “I have gotten so lucky with my leadership. Every single president I have worked with has been amazing in a different way in terms of what they bring to the table.” Among the highlights for Kelner has been JFS receiving the HRC Equality Award for leadership with the LGBTQ and transgender community, particularly in the area of same sex adoptions. “That was a huge deal to be recognized by them,” she says. Kelner herself was also honored in 2022 by Nashville Pride as Continued on page 6

Not Going Anywhere: Jewish Community Backs JCC Lawsuit Against Extremists By BARBARA DAB

he Gordon Jewish Community Center last month filed a lawsuit against the neo-Nazi group, the Goyim Defense League (GDL). The civil suit, filed in both Federal and Tennessee state courts names, among others, GDL founder Jon Minadeo and Travis Garland, the person who earlier this year attempted to enter the JCC costumed as an orthodox rabbi. The JCC is represented by the Southern Poverty Law Center. The lawsuit was filed after much deliberation by the Gordon Jewish Community Center lay leadership and professional staff. According to CEO Jesse Feld the SPLC initially came to Nashville to consider the possibility of filing a lawsuit against the GDL. “It started when they were looking into the events that happened, and we were happy to talk to them. At the time there was no Ellie Flier’s “Out of Darkness” Brings New Light to Jewish Music, page 7

reason not to help a group that’s trying to dismantle a neo-Nazi hate group.” Eventually the SPLC asked Feld if the JCC would be the plaintiff in the suit, something that would be decided by the board of directors. “It was something we didn’t take lightly,” says Feld. After conversations with private legal counsel, Tennessee attorney general Jonathan Skrmetti, and Davidson County district attorney Glenn Funk, and local law enforcement to ensure the lawsuit didn’t put the JCC at risk, the decision was made to move forward. “We became convinced that not only was this a just cause, but our belief is also if we don’t stand up for ourselves at this point when we have the ability to, how can we ask anyone else to stand up for us.” While not a named plaintiff in the suit, the Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville is housed in the JCC building and was also questioned during the initial Jewish Nashville Celebrates Chanukah!, page 11

interviews by the SPLC. Federation CEO Judy Alperin says, “The Gordon Jewish Community Center has our full support as it pursues this case. We believe, as do they, that the Jewish community is strong, unified, and we are not going anywhere.” At the center of the case is the January 2025 incident in which Garland in disguise, attempted to enter the JCC building. According to the lawsuit, Garland livestreamed the intrusion and refused to leave. His purpose was intimidation, harassment, and sending the message that Jews are not safe anywhere. Garland has already pled guilty to his actions and was sentenced and served time for his crimes. This case, which alleges Garland acted as part of a coordinated effort by Minadeo, and streamer Paul Miller, and others via livestream and then amplified it online. According to SPLC attorney Scott Continued on page 8 Simchas & Celebrations Special Section, page 21

From the Federation’s CEO Finding Home in Nashville By JUDY ALPERIN

’ve come to a surprising realization: I’ve been a Northeastern imposter all my life. It turns out I was destined for the South—right here in Nashville, Tennessee. When people ask how I’m adjusting, my answer is simple: I fell hard, and I fell fast. I found home. As I reflect on the past six months, gratitude fills my heart for those who brought me to Nashville to serve as CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville. My early days were a whirlwind of meetings—with community members, volunteers, donors, clergy, elected officials, academic leaders, interfaith partners, and colleagues. Each

encounter was marked by the unmistakable warmth and hospitality that define this region: openness, kindness, and a genuine spirit of welcome. Some of the highlights I’ve experienced so far include our incredible campaign event featuring Alison Lebovitz, responding to antisemitic incidents and defeating the Kol Nidre eve anti-Israel resolution at city council, securing funding for a much needed community security director through the JFNA LiveSecure program, strengthening Women’s Philanthropy, refocusing on the Jewish Foundation, highlighting Hadera-Eiron, our partnership region in Israel, building new interfaith relationships with tribal and Mormon leaders

and Bishop Spalding of the Catholic diocese, facilitating a conversation on Israel, working with our incredibly dedicated volunteer and professional teams, representing Nashville at the Jewish Federations General Assembly and representing the Jewish community to the public through local media. And yet, I know I’ve only begun to scratch the surface. My knowledge of this incredible community is still incomplete. When I walk into a program, event, or religious service, there are too many faces I don’t yet know. That’s where you come in. I want to know you—and the people you think I should know. That invitation extends beyond the Jewish community because building

bridges strengthens us all. Looking ahead, I hope you’ll join us for the Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville Annual Meeting on Sunday, January 25, 2026. We’re introducing a fresh, fun format with a delicious brunch and the soulful sounds of Nefesh Mountain, blending bluegrass and Jewish music in a way that’s uniquely Nashville. When you come, please say hello—I’d love to meet you in person. In the meantime, my door (and inbox) is always open. You can reach me anytime at judy@jewishnashville.org. Please never hesitate to reach out. Together, let’s continue building a vibrant, connected community. •

Latkes, Leadership, and Light: Women’s Philanthropy Celebrates Chanukah By BARBARA DAB

he Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville’s women’s philanthropy division kicked off Chanukah with a pre-holiday reception at the home of Erin Colemam, chair of the division. Jewish Nashville’s women munched on latkes and sufganiyot while hearing from Coleman about the Jewish Federation of North America Young Leadership Cabinet. Coleman has been a member of the cabinet for the past few years and shared her inspiration and reflections. And while mingling and enjoying conversation, the women also wrote holiday cards for Renewal House, an addiction treatment center for women in Nashville. •

Pictured l. to r.: Heidi Allen and Mimi Klein

Pictured l. to r.: Jewish Federation CEO Judy Alperin, and Jewish Federation past president Carol Hyatt.

Pictured l. to r.: Risa Herzog, Madison Hanten, Zoe Lewis

January 2026 • The Jewish OBSERVER

Jewish Nashville Women gather to celebrate Chanukah.

Building Jewish Nashville’s Future, One Leader at a Time By REILEY ZEITLER

o be a leader, it takes time, commitment, and a powerful sense of responsibility. Here in Nashville, we have many leaders who strive to make an impact in the Nashville Jewish community. Through months of reflection, discussion, and community engagement, these emerging leaders have come to realize that leadership is an ongoing journey that can make a lifelong impact. Leadership615 has given participants the opportunity to unify our community, making sure everyone feels included, heard, and understood.

Penny Woody was born and raised here in Nashville. She grew up attending West End Synagogue and Camp Davis at the Jewish Community Center. Woody says that she loves that her family “has deep roots here in this city.” Throughout her time in the program, Woody loved that her cohort had a good mix of longtime Nashvillians and newcomers as well. c

STAFF c

Judy Alperin, CEO Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville Editor Barbara Dab Editorial Associate Emma Canter Advertising Manager Carrie Mills Layout and Production Tim Gregory Editorial Board Frank Boehm (chair), Teena Cohen, Scott Rosenberg Publisher

Telephone 615/356-3242 E-mail barbaradab@jewishnashville.org The Jewish OBSERVER (ISSN 23315334) is published monthly for $36 per year by the Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville, 801 Percy Warner Blvd., Nashville, TN 37205-4009. Periodicals postage paid at Nashville, TN. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to THE JEWISH OBSERVER, 801 Percy Warner Blvd., Nashville, TN 37205 This newspaper is made possible by funds raised in the Jewish Federation Annual Campaign. The Jewish OBSERVER is a member of the American Jewish Press Association and the Jewish Telegraphic Agency. While The Jewish OBSERVER makes every possible effort to accept only reputable advertisers of the highest quality, we cannot guarantee the Kashrut of their products. The views and opinions expressed in The Jewish OBSERVER are not necessarily endorsed by Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville or its partners. The Jewish OBSERVER Founded in 1934 by

She states, “Just getting able to meet this new, fresh cross-section of people I would’ve never have met otherwise makes me really grateful for the network Leadership615 has created.” For Woody, Leadership615 opened the door for her to be involved in a leadership role in a more expedited way. She says, “It really propelled me to be fast tracked in a more significant role in the community.” When asked what advice she would give to a future cohort, Woody had a really compelling answer. She stated that she would first tell people to listen more than they speak, and to remember that “even though we are all Jewish, we may not have the same opinions, and there are so many ways to be Jewish. Take advantage of the session time, really listen to people, and try to make as many true connections with people as you can.” Since finishing her Cohort with Leadership615, Woody, along with Ayelet Berger, co-chair The Middle Tennessee Jewish Parents Collective. The purpose of the collective is to connect, support one another, and share resources for Jewish children in the community. The collective is a safe space to connect with other Jewish families with school-aged children. Ayelet Berger was born in Israel and then moved to America at age eight. Going from Israel to Kentucky, Berger says that she, “had a really big culture shock, from being surrounded by mostly Jews, to being surrounded by mostly none.” When moving down to Nashville in 2014, Berger was somewhat involved with The Federation, but she says her

Corrections Policy The Jewish Observer is committed to making corrections and clarifications promptly. To request a correction or clarification, call Editor Barbara Dab at (615) 354-1653 or email her at barbaradab@jewishnashville.org

Editorial Submissions Policy and Deadlines The Jewish Observer welcomes the submission of information, news items, feature stories and photos about events relevant to the Jewish community of Greater Nashville. Letters to the editor must be no longer than 250 words, and op-eds must be no longer than 750 words. We prefer e-mailed submissions, which should be sent as Word documents to Editor Barbara Dab at barbaradab@ jewishnashville.org. Photos must be high resolution (at least 300 dpi) and should be attached as jpegs to the e-mail with the related news item or story. For material that cannot be e-mailed, submissions should be sent to Barbara Dab, The Jewish Observer, 801 Percy Warner Blvd., Suite 102, Nashville TN 37205. Photos and copy sent by regular mail will not be returned unless prior arrangement is made. Publication is at the discretion of The Observer, which reserves the right to edit submissions. To ensure publication, submissions must arrive by the 15th of the month prior to the intended month of publication. For advertising deadlines, contact Carrie Mills, advertising manager, at 615-354-1699, or by email at carrie@nashvillejcc.org.

involvement “really amped up shortly after October 7th.” As an active participant in the current cohort, Berger believes that Leadership615 is designed to bring up the next generation of community leaders. Over the past ten years, Berger has built and run businesses here in Nashville. Because of this, she sees all the grey, and she wishes to truly find as much common ground within our community. Her wish is to “invite people in and make them feel really comfortable, not just comfortable, but that they have a very solid spot somewhere in our community.” For the past two years, Berger says that her passion has been the Middle Tennessee Jewish Parents Collective. She strives to make sure that “Jewish children feel welcome and equal, and that they deserve to have as much space as everyone else in the school system.” In Leadership615, participants produce a mission statement, a goal of what they aim to do after completing the cohort. Berger is not quite sure yet what her mission statement is, but she says that that is “honestly one of the things that I am most excited about in this program. It’s almost like how in the Haggadah, there are the four sons, I’m the who knows so little, he doesn’t even know what he doesn’t know. So, truly, I don’t know what my options are, which is what is so exciting about the program.” She goes on to say that it’s almost like “flying a plane while you’re building it. Trusting the entire experience, from concept to education, to growth.” Although she has not figured out her mission statement, Berger strives to leave the community richer than she found it. Fuller of life, love, kindness, and appreciation. Her goal for Jewish Nashville is that she wants more people who “feel safe and able to be their true, authentic Jewish self, whatever that looks like to them. I want others to feel like they have a place here within the Jewish

community to be that person, and the support to be that person in non-Jewish spaces as well.” Outside of their time with Leadership615, both Woody and Berger have applied their leadership skills to be helpful and impactful resources for the Jewish community. The Federation is immensely grateful for the time, support, and involvement in and outside of the program. When asked about their greatest influence to join the cohort, both women were quick to give the same name. Michal Eskenazi Becker. They both stated that without Michal, they may have never gained the confidence or courage to join Leadership615. When speaking with Michal, she had similar things to say about Woody and Berger. Stating that, “there’s nothing but huge appreciation for their time and leadership.” Becker believes that it is very easy to volunteer, but it is much harder to take responsibility for leadership. Her perspective is that through programs like Leadership615, the Federation is able to provide emerging leaders with the necessary tools for personal growth leading to increased capacity for the community. She goes on to say that Woody and Berger are the best examples of that, because they are not waiting for our instructions; they have initiatives. She added that, “they are leading great programs, that would have not happened if it wasn’t for them.” Programs like Leadership615 rely not just on our participants to thrive, but also on our community members who have a deep belief in the power of leadership development. Dr. Mark Goldfarb, the founder of Leadership615, is helping to ensure its impact in the Nashville Jewish community. He shared that it feels empowering for him to watch leaders emerge and thrive through the program. Adding that he is glad people are benefiting from Leadership615. One of the main things that Goldfarb wishes for participants to carry with them after the program is, “the importance of maintaining a Jewish community and how important it is that we hear the needs of the community, and that we respond to those needs.” Goldfarb explained that he believes everyone has different religious biases, and that we can all come together. Whether you identify as Reform, Conservative, Orthodox, or Chabad. He wishes that this can help the overall community prosper and move forward, “especially in the trying times that we’re experiencing now with the rise of antisemitism.” Continued on page 8

Letter to the Editor Marshall-Donnelly-Combs Will Always Be Like Family

n 100 years, (as we say addressing something sad), when in need of a funeral home, Marshall-Donnelly, is still as wonderful as they were over 100 years ago. Observing members of our Jewish Community choosing to go elsewhere was confusing, unsettling, and upon researching as to why, discovered there is no issue other than disinformation. Marshall-Donnelly is still our Jim

Brewer’s Marshall-Donnelly and though bought by Dignity, Jim is still there and his legacy of providing our Jewish Community with excellent funeral services and more importantly, Familial Compassion will always be MarshallDonnelly’s purpose. Fellow landsmen and landswomen, Come home. • Rae Levine

The Jewish OBSERVER • January 2026

Shlicha Corner Israeli Cuisine: A Living Intersection of Memory, Culture, and Creation By ZIV SHEMESH, COMMUNITY SHLICHAH

srael is a young country, yet its cuisine carries with it a long history of peoples, migrations, and memories. Born from the meeting of immigrants from every corner of the world and the local Arab Palestinian cuisine, which has had a profound and inseparable influence on Israeli food. Each wave of immigration carried with it generations of memory— Shabbat tables, family traditions, and the tastes of home: Moroccan, Sephardic, Russian, Yemeni, Ethiopian, Ashkenazi, Persian, Iraqi, and many other Jewish communities. At first glance, Israeli cuisine may appear to be nothing more than a collection of different culinary traditions.

Campaign

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showed up, side by side, to help us reach our goals. Their participation sent a powerful message: Jewish Nashville is resilient, connected, and united. A special thank you to Bill Schrieber and the entire team at PrintNetUSA, our printing partner. Their expertise and creativity helped us launch mailing campaigns that reached our community in new and impactful ways. To everyone who gave, volun-

There is no single defining line, no unified heritage. Yet markets, homes, kitchens, and restaurants have collectively shaped something new. Traditions began to intertwine, ingredients were reimagined, and flavors evolved. It is precisely this coexistence—dish alongside dish—that defines Israeli cuisine. My Family Kitchen I was born into a home where flavors blended naturally: an Egyptian father, a Turkish-Bulgarian mother, and a grandmother whose kitchen was an entire school of love. The kitchen was the heart of our home. In many cultures, hospitality and food are a language of love—when a guest enters the house, the first thing offered is something to eat or drink. Even teered, or supported the campaign in any way—thank you. Your kindness, trust, and partnership made this year’s success possible. We truly couldn’t have done it without you. • Jacob Kleinrock Campaign co-Chair Arlene Averbuch Campaign co-Chair Jason Sparks Chief Development Officer

January 2026 • The Jewish OBSERVER

when the answer is no, the cupboards are opened anyway. As a young child, I remember running between my mother’s legs while the stovetop was crowded with five bubbling pots, the oven was working overtime, and my father stood outside by the grill. It was a distinctly Israeli rhythm: fast, messy, loud, and full of life. I used to imitate my mother, and the first rule of entering the kitchen was clear—you place a towel over your shoulder. In our family, we describe our cooking style as “shchuna”—literally, “neighborhood cooking.” We don’t measure. We cook by instinct, invent as we go, accept mistakes, and try new ideas. Nothing is precise or professional, yet the result is always the most meaningful flavor of all: the taste of home. When I helped my mother cook and we reached the spice stage, we would open an entire drawer filled with colors, aromas, and textures. She would tell me what to add. I would ask how much. “Start—I’ll stop you,” she’d say. “Enough?” “No. A little more.” Bold flavors, strong colors, and intense aromas—this is the Middle Eastern cooking I grew up with. As a child, I remember extraordinary creativity in the kitchen. My earliest memory of abundance comes from mak-

ing an omelet as a young girl. I added everything I saw in the refrigerator— zucchini, potatoes, chicken, peppers. Everything went into the pan. My family laughed, but I loved it. To this day, I live by a simple rule: if it all mixes in the stomach, it can mix in the dish. Walking down the street on a Friday, as households prepare for Shabbat, you are surrounded by layers of aroma drifting from every home— fried schnitzels from one, barbecue from another, chraime fish from one kitchen, baked goods from the next. Every table carries its own color, shaped by long histories, family journeys, and the influence of other cultures. At a single Israeli Shabbat table, Persian rice may sit beside Moroccan fish, Bukharan soup next to focaccia, and open salads representing countless traditions. An Invitation to the Table Israeli cuisine lives not in definition, but in experience. This February, I invite you to experience it firsthand at an Israeli cooking workshop in collaboration with Café Nóva. Together, we will prepare a full meal—appetizers, a main course, and salads—and conclude with a communal table, sharing everything we’ve created. For more details, please follow the announcement on the Federation’s website, www.jewishnashville.org •

The Jewish OBSERVER • January 2026

Annual Meeting Continued from page 1

the ally of the year. Kelner is also proud to see an increase in donor levels and overall fundraising, creating a financially stable agency. “When I started, we were raising $40,00 a year in our annual campaign. This year our goal is $235,000.” In reflecting on her tenure with JFS Kelner says it has been a rewarding experience, and there is still more to come. “I like to say I’m not a social worker, but I have a social worker heart.” This year, the Federation President’s Award will be presented to two people, Hayley Levy Kupin and Anna Stern. The pair have been the guiding force for the past five years behind the creation and implementation of the newcomer’s program. They both were newcomers themselves at one time and understand the importance of making those first connections. “I moved Hayley Levy Kupin receive this year’s here knowing to President’s Award. no one, I moved here for a job and a decade later, because people were so welcoming to me, it made me want to stay.” Kupin and Stern started doing newcomer outreach through NowGen. We welcomed new- Anna Stern to receive comers who this year’s President’s were around our Award. age, getting them oriented, telling them about our experiences, how they could get involved,” says Kupin, “The most common questions we got were, ‘How’s the dating scene and how do you meet people?’ It worked out really well for me, I met my husband through newcomer stuff.” Stern and Kupin took expanded the newcomer program beyond NowGen during the COVID19 pandemic. “People were moving here and wanted to get involved but no one could go out and do anything,” says Kupin. They met with people over Zoom, for outdoor coffees, and eventually created an ambassador program to connect volunteers with newcomers of similar age and interests. Stern says, “We really enjoyed getting to meet people and welcome them to town. It was also great to work with the broader team of Ambassadors.” To date they have reached approximately 1,000 people. “About half of those people want to meet with us and talk, and about 25% of those we see at events and want to stay engaged.” Stern says in the process, she herself has made many friends. “We have been lucky to meet some of our closest friends thanks to having the opportunity to greet them as newcomers. It was also really wonderful to see people we have met out at events months later enjoying the community.” She says the best byproduct was the friendship between her and Kupin. “Hayley is a joy to team up with.” Kupin says she loves helping people find their place in the community and cites as an example Federation donor and engagement associate, Erin Wides. “We met for coffee when she first moved to town and look at her now working at Federation and running Nice Jewish Runners. She really wanted to get engaged

and she found her community here.” Both Stern and Kupin are honored to be recognized with the award. Stern says, “I was surprised! It is very kind that the Federation thought of us for this award.” The annual Sandy Averbuch Young Leadership Award is being given this year to Brooke Wasserman, a leader in the music industry and graduate of the Federation’s Leadership615 program. Wasserman, who has been in Nashville for the past eight years, says growing up she was resistant to organized Judaism. “I was literally kicking and screaming the night before my Bat Mitzvah because I didn’t want to do it.” Moving to Nashville, she Brooke Wasserman to the 2026 Sandy found others who win Averbuch Young felt similarly. Leadership Award. “Especially in the music industry, I found there were a lot of people who were Jewish but didn’t want to go into spaces where they would be forced to say prayers, or they would feel like they weren’t Jewish enough.” Wasserman’s answer was to create something different. “After October 7th I went to an industry party, and I found myself crying in the corner. It was a release because I hadn’t been able to talk about this, and it was the first Jew I saw that I could talk about this with.” Later on at an industry party specifically for Jewish professionals to talk about October 7th, something surprising happened. “Someone chased me down the street and said, ‘Somebody said we should talk,’ and then just poured their heart out to me.” After learning of others who felt similarly, Wasserman created a group chat for music industry professionals. The idea was to casually, through brunch or coffees, connect to others in the business. “I started adding friends and I thought we’d never make a minyan. It’s now close to 100 and that’s just predominantly the younger generation.” Her involvement with the music industry group ignited her interest in becoming more involved in the Jewish community at large, which led her to apply for Leadership615. She says at first she felt somewhat out of place, but she says she learned about herself. “In doing the program it was really powerful in the sense that I realized I had something to say and that I could actually add value in the room.” Wasserman says the program was rich in content as well as connection. “Every facet of Judaism was touched.” In addition, she says her eyes were opened to the various organizations in the Jewish community. “We had so many members doing different things, whether it was sitting on boards or East Side Tribe.” She says the conversations around navigating Jewish life helped her understand the resources available in the community and she is only just beginning. “I feel there is this runway where I have this toolbox of resources that I can really go out into the community and start plugging people in where it fits for them.” Wasserman is honored to receive the young leadership award, and has bigger plans for Jewish Nashville. “I want us to be the place where if you miss out, there’s FOMO. I want it to be the place to be.” The Federation’s 90th Annual Meeting takes place on Sunday, January 25th at 10am. Featured will be Jewish Americana band Nefesh Mountain. To register, visit www.jewishnashville.org. •

January 2026 • The Jewish OBSERVER

Paul Leight, Lynn Leight, Franklin Pargh, Maria Pargh, Bernie Pargh, Jacob Pargh, Andy Pargh, and Eli Beer at the United Hatzalah Miami Gala

United Hatzalah Honored the Pargh Family U nited Hatzalah of Israel honored the Pargh Family of Nashville, Tennessee, at the organization’s Miami Gala, in recognition of their enduring generosity, civic leadership, and steadfast commitment to the people of Israel. The Parghs were presented with the Leight Legacy Heroes Award by Dr. Lynn and Paul Leight. The Leight Legacy Heroes is United Hatzalah’s kids and teen philanthropy initiative. “Honoring the Pargh Family is both fitting and deeply meaningful,” said Founder and President of United Hatzalah Eli Beer. “Their impact on the

Jewish community is massive, and what they have done for United Hatzalah is incredible.” The Pargh Family was honored alongside other distinguished guests, including Former Mossad Director Yossi Cohen, Former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, philanthropists Barry and Missy Skolnick, and recently released Israeli hostage Bar Kuperstein. In front of 1,200 people, Bar announced that he is going to become a United Hatzalah volunteer EMT. Last night, United Hatzalah raised $120,000 for Bar and his family, to help with their medical and living expenses. •

Once in a Generation: West End Synagogue Begins a New Torah at 150 By BARBARA DAB

his year marks a special milestone for West End Synagogue. For the past 150 years, congregation has served as the spiritual home for Middle Tennessee’s Conservative Jewish community. To mark the anniversary, several events and celebrations are planned, including the addition of a new Torah scroll. The project will kick off on January 25th, when the scribe (sofer), Rabbi Gustavo Surazski, will be visiting Nashville from Israel to start writing. Rabbi Joshua Kullock, the congregation’s rabbi, says, “It’s meaningful that the Torah will be written in the South of Israel in the post-October 7th world, and shows our commitment to life and continuity.” The project is expected to take most of 2026, but Rabbi Kullock says, “It will begin formally as a congregation with the writing of Bereshit (the book of Genesis) in front of everybody.” The morning will include some special activities with the students at Beit Miriam religious school. “We want to showcase the school we are so proud of and this will be the Torah that all of these kids will read for their Bar or Bat Mitzvahs.” The writing of a Torah is itself a spiritual task, one that requires special skill and dedication. “The beautiful thing about this is we are engaging a specific human being, a specific scribe, who will be tasked with writing a Torah that is from the very beginning, meant to be for us.” He says that while every Torah has the same letters, this one is written with the congregation in the mind of the scribe. There are rituals surrounding the writing of a Torah. “The sofer goes to the mikveh as he is writing. It’s a spiritual process. Every time he sits down, there is a blessing that he will say. A kavanah, or

intention so that he is focused on writing,” says Kullock. Torahs are still written by hand, on parchment, using a quill in the style of calligraphy. The process is exacting and has specific requirements, leaving little room for individual artistic style. “We are moving into more and more of a standardized version of the Torah, which means it follows a pattern. There are a few different ways of writing in terms of the amount of words you write per column.” He says while the congregation has older Torahs with some variations, in today’s world, the practice has more specific patterns. And in today’s modern world, the finished product will be scanned to search for any corrections that need to be made before it is shipped to its destination. The scribe spends many hours alone writing and in the case of Rabbi Surazski, he will use an architect’s type of table with light underneath, and an overhead projector to help him make the letters uniform. Asked about mistakes, Kullock says the ink can be scrubbed and rewritten, except in the instance of writing God’s name. “If you write God’s name wrong, you will have to bury that parchment because you cannot erase it.” The Torah kickoff event is just the beginning of the yearlong celebration of the synagogue. Kullock says it is a very meaningful way to being. “This is a once in a generation event.” And even more meaningful that the two rabbis have known each other for decades. “We have known each other for a long, long time. He wrote my Ketuba. I am happy to have him do this work.” For more information about the kickoff event, and any other questions, visit www.westendsyn.org. •

Ellie Flier’s “Out of Darkness” Brings New Light to Jewish Music By BARBARA DAB

or over a decade, musician Ellie Flier has called Nashville home. During those years, she has carved out a place in the Jewish music scene both locally as a founder of Jewsic City, and beyond Nashville leading services and performing at synagogues and venues throughout the US, Europe, and Israel. And now, after a five-year process that began just before the COVID19 pandemic, Flier’s latest album Out of Darkness is about to drop. “The latest song I wrote was over a year ago, but the latest were written in 2018 and 2019. I’ve been sharing them live for a long time. And now it’s very exciting to be able to share them with the world.” The album’s title is a reflection on what Flier says was a particularly dark time in her life, after graduate school and a stint living in Italy. “I wrote the song, Out of Darkness, right when I returned from my travels,” she says. That was very early in 2020. “It was an interpretation of the Ma’ariv Aravim prayer, which talks about the celestial bodies, planets, suns, and the movement of them rolling back darkness from light.” She says she for her, it was a metaphor for finding light in dark times. Not long after writing the song, the pandemic added another layer of darkness for much of the world. “I was doing all these Zoom services for synagogues all over and I would always bring this song in because at the end of the song, it keeps repeating, ‘Out of darkness, there will be light to shine on us again.’” Ever the song leader, Flier’s live performances are interactive, encouraging people to sing along and use the music to really move them. “I’ll sing it the first time, people sing along with me, and on the third time, I always say, ‘Now sing it like you believe it, and there really is a change that happens.’” Flier says her overall goal is for people to move beyond what can sometimes be considered stale liturgy to find deeper meaning in the music, rather than saying it by rote. “To find new meaning and new spirituality and new purpose in what it could mean for our everyday lives.”

Pictured l. to r.: Musician Ellie Flier with Congregation Micah cantor Josh Goldberg.

The record was produced by Cantor Josh Goldberg, of Congregation Micah, whose Kosher Style Records was founded in 2016 in Los Angeles. Goldberg made the move to Nashville in 2022 but continues to produce under the label. He produced Flier’s first album when the two were both living in Los Angeles. “It’s really nice to be able to work with a producer who’s not only a good music producer but also understands Jewish music.” Goldberg and Flier first met during college at the University of Southern California, before either was involved with Jewish music. Flier studied opera, while Goldberg studied popular music. Eventually they began finding themselves in the same circles, going to the same conferences. Goldberg produced

Flier’s first album, so the second one felt like a natural fit. “She is continuing to develop as a songwriter and singer and prayer leader. I think it’s so awesome what she’s doing with Jewsic City. I just hope this new album will continue to get her name and her music out there.” Goldberg says today there is a wide variety of Jewish music that offers something for everyone. “My hope is that Jewish music as an art form continues to flourish, particularly here in Nashville.” Goldberg says while there are a number of Jewish musicians in Nashville, most of them are not working in the genre of Jewish music. “There is this age-old question of what is Jewish music?” says Goldberg. “I don’t think there’s any one right answer, but to me if it has any kind of values or

anything related to Jewish thought or culture, that’s Jewish music.” He describes Flier’s style as a little bit folk, a little like Janis Ian. “She has this really sweet, soft voice and she writes lyrics in a way that aren’t just a string of translation of the prayer. It forces you to think and feel the prayer in a new way.” Flier’s is driven by a passion for creating community through music. “What really tickles me the most is when someone else sings my song. When someone hears the music I write and brings it and shares it with their community.” She continues to be a visiting service leader for congregations, including collaborating with a Huntsville, Alabama rabbi to create a Machzor. “It helped shape the vision we were trying to achieve with the music we chose and the arrangement, and the pieces. He wanted me to use a lot of my music because it is spiritual and meaningful.” Flier plans to continue making music and uplifting communities. But she says Jewish music should be part of Jewish life. “I think it’s so wonderful that you don’t have to be a professional musician to write Jewish music. I go to conferences several times a year and there are so many young people who are just learning how to play guitar because they love to song lead in Jewish spaces, and they want to write songs because they feel inspired.” The album, Out of Darkness, will drop on January 9th on all major digital platforms. For updates and links, visit www.ellieflier.com. •

Mazel Tov Players to Present “The Nerd” at Gordon JCC

he Gordon Jewish Community Center’s Mazel Tov Players will present The Nerd, a comedy by Larry Shue, on Sunday, January 18, 2026, in the Gordon JCC Auditorium. The play centers on Willum Cubbert, an aspiring architect living in Terre Haute, Indiana, who believes he owes his life to a fellow Vietnam veteran, Rick Stedman—someone he has never met but has long promised lifelong gratitude. When Rick unexpectedly arrives at Willum’s apartment during his 44th birthday celebration, Willum is initially delighted. However, his excitement quickly fades as Rick proves to be socially inept, tactless, and entirely unaware of the disruption he

causes. Rick’s extended stay leads to a series of increasingly comic and chaotic situations, testing Willum’s patience and providing nonstop humor for the audience. There will be two performances, from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. Tickets may be purchased at the Gordon JCC on the day of the event. Additional details will be announced. For more information, contact Suzanne Burns at suzanne.burns1@att.net. •

-SRSVIH XS KYMHI XLI 3EWLZMPPI /I[MWL GSQQYRMX] LSQI ]IEV EJXIV ]IEV ĚååŹžƐƒŇƐ±ƐžƣÏÏåžžüƣĮƐƞǑƞƌú ԹӒӍӑԺ ӎӔӍԞӕӌӏӑ www.TheKupinGroup.com TheKupinGroup

The Jewish OBSERVER • January 2026

Vanderbilt Hillel Israel Fellow Bar Segev Recognized Nationally By SHANNON SMALL

ar Segev, the current Jewish Agency and Escoll Family Israel Fellow at Vanderbilt Hillel, has received multiple plaudits for her work at Vanderbilt Hillel. “We are so proud of Bar and the amazing work she’s done on campus these past 3 years. She’s played a vital role in creating a positive connection between our students and Israel. She truly deserves these recognitions,” said Ari Dubin, the Executive Director of Vanderbilt Hillel. In addition to being named a Hillel International “2025 Rising Star,” she was selected to represent the Jewish Agency for Israel’s campus Israel Fellow program at the Jewish Federation of North America’s General Assembly. Speaking to a global audience, Bar shared her family’s story and reflected on her experience serving the Vanderbilt Hillel community during and after the events of October 7th. In her remarks, she highlighted the meaningful work she has led at Vanderbilt Hillel and emphasized the vital role Israel

Vanderbilt Hillel’s Bar Segev was recognized at the Jewish Federations of North America General Assembly and Hillel International Global Assembly.

Fellows play in strengthening the connection between American Jewish students and Israel. “American Jewish students

Heart of the Matter From Stigma to Strength: Parenting Resilient and Confident Teens

By ASHLEY FRANKLIN, LCSW

ewish Family Service invites you to join us for an inspiring and laughter filled program featuring internationally acclaimed comedian and disability advocate Pamela Rae Schuller. Pamela brings humor, heart, and real-world experience to an event for parents who want to empower their teens. Through relatable stories and easy to use strategies, Pamela helps adults understand what teens need most, how to show up without taking over, and why failure is not something to prevent but something to prepare for. Participants will learn how to create

Leadership615 Continued from page 3

When speaking about the hope for the future of Jewish Nashville, Goldfarb stated that he believes we need to develop young leaders, with young ideas. Emphasizing that, “this is their future. We need the younger generation to step up.” His hope is to identify, nurture and

a safety net that allows teens to take risks, make mistakes, and grow into confident, resilient young people who know they are celebrated for exactly who they are. This event will be held at Pamella Rae Schuller be featured by the Temple will Jewish Family Service. on February 1, 2026, from 1:00-2:30pm. If you have any questions, please reach out to Ashley at 615-354-1662 or ashleyfranklin@ jfsnashville.org. • create young leaders for our community by giving them some necessary tools and guiding them along a path where they can engage and stay involved with our Jewish community in meaningful ways. Goldfarb understands and highlights that, “each participant comes from a different background and may have different strengths but finding the right fit in a leadership role will be paramount.” •

… because your memories matter 479 Myatt Drive, Madison, TN 37115-3024 615-712-9521 • rdschultz@schultzmonument.com

Visit The Jewish Observer’s website www.jewishobservernashville.org

January 2026 • The Jewish OBSERVER

choose Judaism, even when it comes at a cost,” she said, “We help them see that they are always connected to Israel.

Lawsuit

Continued from page 1

McCoy, this suit has three Federal civil rights claims, two of which are part of the Ku Klux Klan Act of 1871. Chief among them, making it illegal for someone with animus to intimidate or harass people and interfere with their right to enjoy personal property, in this case the JCC. And McCoy says there is a unique element to this claim. “A key part is that it is based on racial animus. The law is interpreted to include Jewish people. The courts have said not only is it anti-Black, animus is antisemitic as well.” The other claim related to the Klan Act includes conspiring to deny someone access to public accommodations, including movie theaters, hotels and the like. McCoy says, “In this context the Gordon Jewish Community Center is a place of public accommodation because it holds itself out to the public as a place where you can come get a membership.” The overarching complaint, says McCoy, is, “All these guys got together and conspired to have Garland go in and try and mess with the JCC and their members and their use of the public accommodation, and also their right to hold and enjoy property.” There are also state tort claims, one for trespass, for which Garland was convicted criminally. The last claim is for false representation stemming from the disguise and attempt to impersonate a rabbi. McCoy says when addressing issues of free speech, this case goes beyond that protection. “This is them acting on their speech and crossing that line and harming people.” The JCC spent about $75,000 on beefed up security. That plus punitive damages designed to both punish and deter these and other would-be perpetrators, and injunctive relief where the court orders the GDL to stop engaging in this conduct towards the JCC, could amount to a judgement in the millions. In addition to the technical aspects of

They’re part of the same people, the same story.” Hillel International, the largest Jewish campus organization in the world, recognized exceptional campus Hillels and professionals for their leadership, innovation, and commitment to Jewish life during the 2025 Hillel International Global Assembly (HIGA) in Boston this week. The awards were presented during the annual conference where more than 1,200 campus leaders, supporters, sponsors, and students from around the world came together to celebrate leadership and growth. Hillel International awarded Bar Segev with the “2025 Rising Star Award,” which recognizes early-career professionals who have had a significant impact on the movement in a short period of time. In presenting Bar the award, Vanderbilt Hillel Executive Director Ari Dubin remarked that Bar “created spaces for students to both engage in meaningful advocacy and activism, and also to see Israel for its beauty and complexity.” • this case is the spiritual consequences to the Jewish community. General Sessions Judge Dan Eisenstein was in favor of the lawsuit and supportive of the JCC’s leadership. He says it is important for the community to pursue these types of cases. “We ask everybody to stand up for us, the criminal prosecutors, the police, and others. If we’re going to ask them to do something we have to take the step to do something affirmatively, too.” Eisenstein says he believes the facts in this case are strong, and the result could be catastrophic for the GDL. “If a judgement is rendered, and includes punitive damages, you could put them out of business and take over any websites that they develop and get any revenue from that.” The GDL has been distributing antisemitic propaganda in Nashville for the last several years, and has caused disruption to Metro council meetings, demonstrated in front of West End Synagogue, and marched down Broadway where one of their members committed assault. Eisenstein says this is all part of their desire to eliminate Jews. “The apparently believe in the doctrine to kill Jews. It’s like the Nazis; it’s the same mentality.” Eisenstein also believes a key factor in the spread of this hateful doctrine is the internet. “All the chat groups and the disaffected young people that are easily swayed by this stuff.” He says the groups keep popping up and it is difficult to control. “They monitor as many as they can, but they can’t monitor all of them.” There is no estimation yet how long this suit will take to run its course. McCoy says it can be a grueling process, but he credits the leadership of the JCC with being willing to confront hate. “The real bravery here is from the JCC. They are the ones who have to step back up into the front. And they have to put themselves out there again. I can understand why it was a thoughtful and serious discussion about whether or not be a plaintiff in this case.” •

Learn more about the Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville at www.jewishnashville.org

The Jewish OBSERVER • January 2026

Nashvillian responds with light to aftermath of Bondi Beach Massacre His grandmother’s menorah, his grandfather’s tallit, and his father’s kippah have reignited his Jewish identity. By ERIN WIDES

e woke up to a message from a friend that read, “I’m so sorry.” Curious about what this friend could be apologizing for, Danny Finkelstein went to a family group chat, and messages had been pouring in while he was asleep in Nashville. Fifteen people killed after two gunmen open fire during a Chanukah celebration at Sydney’s Bondi Beach. “I woke up to the news like, holy shit. It was devastating, absolutely devastating,” Finkelstein said. “That’s my family. Sydney is my Jewish connection because that’s where my cousins were, the cousins that I knew were Jewish.” Finkelstein grew up in Cairns, Australia, located in far North Queensland and known for the Great Berrier Reef. He said he didn’t find out he was Jewish until he was a teenager. “My parents are hippies, and they just didn’t mention it. They weren’t trying to specifically hide it. They were Orthodox Jews before they were hippies, they were coming of age in the 60s and 70s, so they got a Volkswagen van and traveled around Europe, even Israel and sort of found a spiritual awakening in their own kind of new age thing.” He said while they had cousins in Sydney, they were one of the only Jewish families in Cairns. One day he asked what their last name meant and that’s when his parents told him they were Jewish. The news of Bondi Beach was personal for Finkelstein, and he said the

Danny Finkelstein lit a menorah for the first time this Chanukah.

Pictured are Danny Finkelstein’s menorah, a gift from his grandmother, along with his grandfather’s tallit, and his father’s kippah.

start of the week was emotional. “It messed me up beyond belief,” he said. “I found out that the photographer at my nephew’s bar mitzvah, that I was at last year in Sydney, was killed. He was an ex-police officer, who became a photographer, and he was doing it as a volunteer for the Chabad there, and he was he was murdered. It was close to home.” Finkelstein moved to Nashville two years ago and said that decision became a catalyst for many things in his life. As a musician, he’s been able to find opportunities here, see a different part of the world, and meet new people. “One of the big things I realized was just how deeply antisemitic Australia was and maybe still is,” he said. “You know, tinnitus? Where you have a ringing in your ear? And you just don’t notice it. Then it’s gone all of a sudden and you’re like, I can hear everything so clearly. Because it (antisemitism) just wasn’t here.”

Finkelstein said he felt like he was able to let his guard down a bit and began getting involved in Jewish programing with East Side Tribe and hosting his own Shabbat dinners. These connections he made, both Jewish and non-Jewish are who stepped up when news of Bondi Beach made its way stateside. For their wedding, Finkelstein and his wife were gifted his grandmother’s menorah that his grandfather made. On a recent trip back to Australia, he received his grandfather’s tallit and father’s kippah. “Having all of those, I was like, I need to do Chanukah this year. I’ve never done it before. I don’t know the prayers. I guarantee you I’m pronouncing them wrong, but I’ve donned my yarmulke, I’ve donned my tallit, and it felt like I was really bringing home with me and lighting up my space. And it was beautiful.” That evening, his close friends came by with a handmade card and joined

him for the lighting of his grandmother’s menorah, for the first time. “They’re Christian. But it was really nice to be accepted. There was a lot of crying,” he said. As the week went on Finkelstein chose to attend events and be with his Jewish community here, and more people joined him at his home for his menorah lighting. While every moment wasn’t easy, he said people really cared about him. “I think it was nice to be there as a conduit for Australians so that the Jewish community in Nashville could grieve with me,” he said. “Because Jews everywhere are grieving and sometimes it’s nice for people to be able to reach out and hug someone from Australia and say, ‘Hey, we’re with you.’” The light of the Chanukah candles reminds us of the light we can be. Finkelstein said for him, he wants to be an example of what he hopes to see in the world. Another step he took in taking pride in his Judaism was purchasing a Magen David, which he says he now wears proudly. “It’s not a rebellious act to show up. We’re going to show up anyway. It’s despite the stuff that’s happening, we’re still going to be ourselves, and I think we simply wouldn’t be ourselves if we stopped just because things are going badly,” he said. “That’s not how we survived. I mean, the fact that Judaism still exists is crazy. It’s this dynamic between a persecution and this almost pigheaded resilience to just keep being what we are, which think created this amazing community.” •

A Miracle on Broadway: Nashville Hosts Historic Chanukah Menorah Parade

n the third night of Chanukah 2025, Nashville witnessed a historic and unprecedented moment as Jewish pride illuminated the heart of Music City. For the first time ever, Broadway, the iconic street known worldwide for its nonstop music and vibrant energy, was temporarily shut down to make way for a spectacular Chanukah Menorah Parade organized by Chabad of Nashville. Under a full Metro Police motorcycle escort, dozens of vehicles adorned with brightly lit menorahs rolled through downtown Nashville. Every crossing street was secured as the parade moved down Broadway, transforming the city’s most famous avenue into a powerful celebration of light, unity, and faith. Thousands of spectators lined the side-

ing proudly among the stars honoring music legends. As the menorah was lit, the plaza came alive with dancing, joy, and celebration. Families joined hands, children laughed and danced, and even police officers took part in the festivities,

enjoying traditional Chanukah donuts alongside community members. For one unforgettable night, Broadway shone differently, and Music City was illuminated by the enduring light and message of Chanukah. •

the Jewish people as a light from G-d that cannot be extinguished, and as a blessing to the nations of the world. The evening featured the lighting of the Chanukah menorah by the Governor together with Rabbi Yitzchok Tiechtel with Chabad of Nashville, filling the Governor’s Residence with warmth, meaning, and light. It was a truly magnificent and historic moment — marking the first-ever Chanukah reception held at the Tennessee Governor’s Residence. •

walks, watching in awe as the glowing procession passed by with music playing and spirits soaring. The parade concluded at the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Walk of Fame Park, where participants and spectators gathered around a towering, colorful public menorah stand-

10 January 2026 • The Jewish OBSERVER

n the eve of the sixth night of Chanukah, Governor Bill Lee, together with the First Lady of Tennessee, Maria Lee, graciously hosted a special Chanukah Reception at the Governor’s Residence in partnership with Chabad of Nashville, celebrating the light, joy, and enduring spirit of the holiday. In his remarks, Governor Lee reflected on the Jewish people’s remarkable resilience — noting that despite challenges throughout history, the Jewish nation has always endured. He spoke of

Jewish Nashville Celebrates Chanukah! By BARBARA DAB

his year there was something for everyone during Chanukah. The Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville’s Eight Nights of Nashville (8NON) held eight different celebrations, during which

over 2,000 people enjoyed sufganiyot, shakshuka, latkes, candles, dreidels, hockey, hot chicken, music, and much more. From downtown Nashville to downtown Franklin the lights burned brightly, and Jewish pride was on display. Below are some highlights from Chanukah 2025. •

Come on out for a night of Jewish joy and Nefesh Mountain Band magic — live at Third & Lindsley in Nashville!

The Jewish OBSERVER • January 2026

Micah welcomes Artists-inResidence Paper Midrash T his month Congregation Micah welcomes the dynamic duo “Paper Midrash” to town for an Artists-inResidence program. Renowned visual artist Isaac Brynjegard-Bialik (brother of Mayim Bialik) and his wife, Reform Rabbi Shawna Brynjegard-Bialik, bring Torah and Jewish traditions to life for all ages through the transformative power of art. Micah’s Education Director Julie Greenberg shares, “I first discovered Paper Midrash in 2020 while searching for inventive ways to engage our teens online during Covid. We partnered for their Golem paper-cutting workshop and created meaningful totems of protection during a particularly uncertain and scary time. The experience was profound, helping us all explore our fears and hopes through the lens of Jewish teachings and artistic expression. From then I was determined to bring them to Micah in person, and I am delighted that we have finally willed that dream into a reality.” Paper Midrash will first visit students at the Jewish Middle School for a hands-on workshop before settling in at Congregation Micah to usher in Shabbat during services on Friday, January 23rd. After their visual sermon that evening, to which the entire community is welcome, the congregation will begin work on their “Thumbprint Mosaic” tallit project depicting the Exodus and Am Yisrael. Shabbat morning will bring adult learners together for their signature Torah Study with Knives papercutting session, further delving into Parashat Bo. Later for

12 January 2026 • The Jewish OBSERVER

Havdallah, Isaac and Rabbi Shawna will take participants on another revealing journey entitled “Women of Valor and Other Superheroes”. Sunday morning will include another one of their signature programs, “Street Art Prophecy”, for teens looking to connect traditional prophetic voices and values to the challenging world they are navigating. “I am grateful to our generous donor who has made this uniquely compelling approach to Torah possible,” Greenberg added, “and we look forward to bringing Nashville closer to Torah through Paper Midrash’s artful and art-filled synthesis of deep scholarship and popular culture.” Interested community members can learn more on Congregation Micah’s website: www.congregationmicah.org. •

PLAN YOUR

…so that it’s not just a fairy tale. OUTSMART AGEISM! By LORETTA SAFF

ast week I chatted with a client who had just left his fulltime job. We got into a conversation that might sound familiar — about how people treat you differently once you’re no longer clocking in every morning. Me: So how are you enjoying not working full time? Him: It’d be a lot better if people didn’t treat me like I’m old. Me: Old? What do you mean? Him: AGEISM! You know — when I join a discussion, someone says, “Oh, you probably remember this from back in the day,” or, “Let’s ask our senior member what he thinks!” Ouch. No one wants to feel “old” in their 60s and 70s — especially when that’s the perfect time for consulting, freelancing, mentoring, or volunteering! So, as a little begin-your-year-right gift, I’m sharing some friendly hints for you to use now to ‘future proof’ yourself from ageism! After all, if you’ve been taking care of yourself and plan to stick around for a

few more curious, creative, and joy-filled decades, why not make sure people see you that way, too? HOW TO “AGEISM-PROOF” YOURSELF (Or as I like to call it: “Happily Ever After, Part II”) 1️ - Pick One New Tech Thing a Year to Master You don’t have to learn everything — just something! Try: • Hosting a Zoom or creating a Google Doc • Taking an online class just because it’s interesting • Asking a “genius” at the Apple store to show you what’s new • Following a podcast that stretches your thinking It’s not about proving you’re up to date — it’s about staying curious! People notice that. 2️ - Join Groups with Mixed Ages Be the person who bridges generations! Volunteer or connect with: • Intergenerational nonprofits • Creative arts communities • Cultural boards • Startups – be a mentor When people see you contributing across age groups, “too old” doesn’t enter the conversation. 3️ - Refresh Your Professional Identity Every 3–5 Years You don’t need a new title — just a refreshed one. • Rewrite your elevator speech (that 30 second chance you have to introduce yourself.). • Lead with what you do now, not what you used to do, like. o “I’m a consultant for…” o “Currently I manage…” o “Lately I’ve been advising…” 4️ - Update Your Online Presence

Think of it as showing up digitally the same way you do in person. Just: • Update your LinkedIn photo. (yes, you need a new one) • Rewrite the beginning of your profile to reflect who you are today. • Share a post occasionally about something you’re doing, learning, or supporting. 5️ - Lead with Energy and Presence This one’s simple but powerful. Your posture, tone, and style speak volumes. So: • Stand tall.

• Use your full voice. • Dress in a way that says, “I’ve got this.” • Respond promptly to emails .This isn’t about trying to look young. It’s about looking alert and aware. SO THERE YOU HAVE IT YOUR NEW YEAR’S READY ACTION PLAN! TAKE THAT, AGEISM! Happy New Year, Loretta loretta@coachingwithloretta.com •

Looking for a new kind of exercise indoors in the hot summer?

njoy good music and great camaraderie learning Israeli dancing in the air-conditioned GJCC. In addition to Israeli dances, you’ll learn dances from many other countries, too, including Yemen, Morocco, Greece, Spain, Ireland, and others. Dancing is good for a healthy brain and a healthy body. Meet new friends at this no-cost, fun activity. When and Where? Wednesday evening in the Dance Studio at the GJCC (you don’t have to be a JCC member to participate) 5:45 - 6:15 pm Beginners/easy dancing – no experience needed! 6:15 - 7:15 pm Intermediate/advanced dancing. Questions? Email Judy Given @ given223@bellsouth.net

Friday morning in the JCC gym (you don’t have to be a JCC member to participate) 11:30 am – 12:45 pm Intermediate and advanced Questions? Email Evelyn Koch @ kochevelyn@hotmail.com •

A Rabbi and a Doctor Discuss Designating Giving By RABBI MARK SCHIFTAN AND DR. FRANK BOEHM

rank: When I became president of the Nashville Jewish Federation in 1999, one of the hot topics that I had to deal with was the request by many of our donors to promote designated giving to the various Jewish organizations and agencies of the Federation, rather than giving a blanket donation to the overall Jewish Federation campaign. The request to approve and support designated giving became a controversial subject and one that resulted in many off-line and Board meeting discussions. However, this was not brought to a vote as we did not have enough Board members who were willing to vote in agreement on a plan to support designated giving. With a flat yearly campaign achievement of approximately 2.6 million dollars, and the Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville this year announcing a goal of raising three million dollars, it is time to revisit this concept of designated giving. Mark, what are your thoughts on this? Mark: Frank, the very fact that in 1999, you already tried to develop support for Designated Giving, and that now, a quarter of a century later we still haven’t adopted that model of philanthropy, says all that needs to be said about this issue. According to a recent study by Slingshot titled “Portrait of Next-Gen Jewish Giving Today,” the current and emerging generations of donors want to

have a definitive say in where their dollars are directed. Shouldn’t the Federation allow donors to allocate at least a reasonable portion of their annual contribution — if not even all of it — to the Jewish organizations and causes with which they most identify, and which already fall under the Federation’s umbrella of supported organizations? By not evolving into this model over the past few decades, individual donors are already bypassing the Federation. They are choosing to donate directly to the causes, organizations, and institutions in the Jewish community whom they wish to support more fully and significantly. The truth is that many donors I know are already giving more to these individual agencies than they are to the Federation overall campaign. They are already bypassing the Federation allocation system to achieve their own philanthropic goals. Frank, what would be the harm of attempting this model on at least an initial limited trial basis? My guess is that instead of the fear of reducing donations to the Federation, incorporating Designated Giving might even incentivize more members of our community to consider contributing even more to— and through— the Federation. Frank: Mark, I believe that this could easily be a win-win situation for donors, Jewish agencies, and the Nashville Jewish Federation. As campaign members recruit donations from potential donors, they would explain the

option of giving a Board defined percentage of their donated money directly to the agencies of their choice. Or they could merely do as they have for years and make their entire donation to the Federation campaign fund, letting the Federation manage the distribution to the various agencies and Israel. The Federation would consider the designated funds in their overall budgeting process thus allowing the Federation to potentially reduce the overall campaign dollars to those agencies which had been funded via designated giving thereby allowing for needed and desired budget changes within the Federation. The donor would feel good about their donations. A combined campaign of designated and annual campaign donations would have a significant chance of meeting the three-million-dollar goal, thereby bringing satisfaction to the Federation. As I said, it would be a winwin situation for all. It will take a Federation Board vote to approve this approach to campaign requests from donors. However, if the Board approves and fully supports this change, I believe campaign workers will have an opportunity to make additional and creative requests that will increase campaign dollars. Mark: The truth is that our local Federation’s campaign has been stagnant for many of the past several years. More candidly, it is now raising fewer dollars than it did almost a decade ago, when it reached a height of $2.8 million dollars. This does not even account for the

impact of inflation on the value of those dollars raised. Clearly, a change in the landscape of philanthropic contributions has occurred. And equally as evident, there has been a change in manner, level, and degree of generational giving. Even more importantly, the transfer of wealth from aging generations to the successive generations of potential donors will require new and innovative ways to meet the specific requests of those newer donors to designate their priorities of giving. So, what is the worst thing that can happen, and what is the best? The worst is that the campaign remains stagnant, as more donors bypass the Federation to give more of their contributions to the organizations they designate. And the best thing would be that the Federation would successfully meet and surpass their campaign goal each year by welcoming those donors to designate at least a portion of their Jewish philanthropy under the Federation umbrella system of communal giving. Whatever we call it, designated giving, donor-directed giving, or targeted giving, could be a win-win all around, for the Federation, for Jewish organizations, and for the donors. It would be a win-win, therefore, for our entire Jewish community. • Rabbi Mark Schiftan can be reached at mschiftan@aol.com Dr. Frank Boehm can be reached at frank.boehm@vumc.org

The Jewish OBSERVER • January 2026

At Our Congregations… Nashville’s congregations Here are the websites for all five Nashville Jewish congregations, with information on services, upcoming events and more: Congregation Beit Tefilah Chabad, www.chabadnashville.com Congregation Micah, www.congregationmicah.org Congregation Sherith Israel, www.sherithisrael.com The Temple – Congregation Ohabai Sholom, www.templenashville.org West End Synagogue, www.westendsyn.org The Observer provides congregational listings of events and services as a complimentary service to the community. If your congregation is not listed, it is because we did not receive the information in time to meet our publication deadline. Please give your rabbi, executive director, or synagogue volunteer a gentle nudge.

Start Your Week with Soul, Insight, and Connection What if 30 minutes on Sunday morning could set the tone for your entire week? Join Rabbi Levi Tiechtel every Sunday at 10:30 AM for a live, online exploration of the weekly Torah portion, offering timeless Jewish wisdom that speaks to real life. Each session is engaging, uplifting, and designed to inspire clarity, purpose, and connection. Whether you are seeking spiritual insight or simply a meaningful way to begin your day, this weekly gathering offers a refreshing pause and a powerful reset. Expect deep yet accessible insights, a warm and welcoming atmosphere, and zero pressure to participate. Join from anywhere on Zoom, no RSVP required. Just log on and start your week with intention. Presented by Chabad of Nashville. Because your week deserves a deeper start. Join every Sunday at 10:30 AM at chabadnashville.com/zoom

Chabad to host two TGIS celebration in January

2026 New Year Resolutions at Chabad of Nashville for Mind, Body and Soul

Start your Shabbat off right with good friends, great conversation, and excellent kosher cuisine, all seasoned with the perfect amount of spirit and joy. TGIS is a Club Med Shabbat: An all-inclusive Shabbat experience. Enjoy a Friday night Shabbat dinner replete with traditional dishes. Blended with spirited singing, a Chasidic tale, and a chance to meet some wonderful new people. TGIS will be held on Friday evening, January 9, and on Friday, January 23, at 6:30 PM at Chabad of Nashville. There will be a special guest Scholar in Residence for both of these weekends. (See article in this Observer about Rabbi Mendel Shmotkin’s visit to Nashville for January 9-10 weekend, and Rabbi Yechiel Krisch visit to Nashville for January 23-24 weekend visit to Nashville.) There is no cost to attend the TGIS Shabbat experience, however we kindly request that you RSVP by letting us know you will be attending at chabadnashville@gmail.com

Looking for a New Year’s Resolution, one filled with meaning and purpose? Chabad of Nashville is offering various new and ongoing opportunities to nourish your Mind, Body and Soul. Pick one that suits your taste from this page and make 2026 an even more meaningful year.

Torah and Tea- A Weekly Jewish Women’s Study Group

@ Chabad /Congregation Beit Tefilah

Coffee, Community, and Prayer: A New Morning Minyan at Chabad of Nashville For the past 28 years, Chabad of Nashville has served as a spiritual home for the community, hosting Shabbat and holiday prayer services, along with weekday services for yahrtzeits and special occasions. As the new Jewish year 5785 began, Chabad took an exciting step forward by launching a daily morning minyan, bringing consistent communal prayer to the heart of Jewish life in Nashville. Each morning begins not only with prayer, but with warmth and hospitality. Fresh Starbucks coffee is served daily, creating a welcoming atmosphere as participants to start their day together. On Mondays and Thursdays, the experience is elevated even further with a delicious catered breakfast from Nova, Nashville’s newest kosher market. The breakfast spread features freshly baked pastries, burekas, rugelach, poached eggs, Israeli salad, and a variety of other flavorful delicacies that make these mornings especially inviting. The daily minyan schedule is as follows: Sunday 9:00 AM Monday and Thursday 8:15 AM Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday 8:30 AM Shabbat morning 10:00 AM Community members who wish to stay informed and connected are invited to join the Minyan WhatsApp group by texting 615 480 4731. “Starting the day with communal prayer sets a powerful tone,” shared Rabbi Yitzchok Tiechtel. “It elevates the entire day and strengthens both personal growth and community connection.” All are welcome to join and experience the inspiration, camaraderie, and spiritual energy of beginning the day together in prayer as a unified community.

Awaken Your Power with Inner Light Pilates and Meditation Looking for a meaningful way to recharge your body, mind, and soul? Chabad of Nashville Women’s League invite women and teen girls to Inner Light Pilates and Meditation, a bi-weekly experience designed to strengthen from the inside out. Held Sundays from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, this uplifting program blends core strengthening Pilates with soul centering Kabbalah meditation, creating a powerful space for movement, mindfulness, and personal growth. No prior experience is needed, and all fitness levels are welcome. Led by Jody Lumerman and Rebbetzin Esther Tiechtel, each session offers a supportive and energizing environment where participants can build physical strength, calm the mind, and reconnect with their inner light. Classes run bi-weekly on Sunday mornings. Come move, breathe, and awaken your power. Text Esther to sign up at 615-480-4225

14 January 2026 • The Jewish OBSERVER

The Five Books of Moses—the Torah—is quite simply the most widely-read, most influential literary work in all of human history. Since its first appearance in a blaze of Divine revelation on Mount Sinai over 3300 years ago, the Torah and its teachings have provoked inspired inquiry to discover its infinitely-layered designs and meanings. Chabad of Nashville will host “Torah and Tea” an all women’s classical Jewish learning opportunity, in a series of clear and engaging weekly classes. Probing the ideas and issues related to the Jewish woman, these classes will offer timely lessons -from the most timeless of all texts. Join Mrs. Esther Tiechtel together with fellow Jewish women in Nashville for inspiring Torah study, warm camaraderie, hot tea and delicious refreshments, on Shabbat afternoons at 1:00 PM, at Chabad of Nashville. Enjoy a steaming cup of tea, a relevant Torah insight, inspired discussion and friendly interaction with Jewish women.

Tel Aviv comes to Nashville with Erev Shira: An Evening of Soulful Israeli Music For one unforgettable evening, Nashville will resonate with the melodies, rhythms, and spirit of Israel. Chabad of Nashville invites the community to Erev Shira, a vibrant celebration of Israeli music and culture, on Saturday, January 10, at 7:30 PM. (see article in this Observer with more details). Featuring some of Nashville’s most talented musicians, including award winning songwriter and producer Itai Shimoni, the evening brings beloved Israeli songs to life through rich harmonies, storytelling, and heartfelt messages. From nostalgic melodies to spirited rhythms that invite singing along, the music creates connection, joy, and meaning. More than a concert, Erev Shira is an immersive musical experience where sound and soul meet. Guests will also enjoy an Israeli falafel bar and refreshments, adding authentic flavors to the evening. (see article in this Observer with more details) The event is free and open to all. RSVP at chabadnashville.com or call 615 646 5750.

Meet in Person for Storah Telling and Cholent Chabad of Nashville invites you to the Shabbat morning Storah-Telling. Participants will learn the story of the weekly Torah reading, as Rabbi Yitzchok Tiechtel tells the story and shares relevant insights for day to day living. The Storah-Telling is followed by followed by a hot cholent, freshly baked Challah, a gourmet buffet lunch, and a weekly farbrengen with some friendly L’Chaim. Participants will go home with nourishments for their Mind, Body and Soul. Join your friends on Shabbat morning at 10:30 AM at Chabad, for warmth and companionship that emanate from the Chabad of Nashville community.

A Coin in Charity a Day Brings Blessings Your Way It is a well-known Jewish tradition to give charity (Tzedakah) daily, as it draws down Divine energy of blessings and success in all of your endeavors. Continued on page 15

At Our Congregations… @ Chabad

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Chabad of Nashville is offering a free Tzedakah box for your home or office, that can be used to fulfill the Mitzvah of giving Tzedakah daily. The Tzedakah box is a free gift for the first 50 people to contact the Chabad of Nashville office at rabbi@chabadnashville.com

The Questions That Kept Jewish Communities Awake at Night Rabbi Tiechtel Brings the Drama of Jewish History to Life in New Winter Course Imagine living centuries ago and facing a life changing dilemma. There is no internet, no search engine, no quick answers. Instead, you write to a rabbi and wait, sometimes for months, for guidance that could shape your future. This winter, Rabbi Yitzchok Tiechtel of Chabad of Nashville invites the community to step into those moments through a new six session course, Captivating Cases in Rabbinic Responsa, beginning Wednesday evening, January 21 at 7:00 PM. Drawing on a remarkable archive of real letters and responses preserved across generations, the course explores the very human questions Jews have brought to their spiritual leaders across history. Through thirty true stories, participants will encounter moments of crisis, courage, compassion, and creativity that reveal how Jewish law has guided real lives in real time. “You see the entire range of Jewish experience in these cases,” Rabbi Tiechtel says. “There are communal disputes, heartbreaking personal choices, encounters with antisemitism, and everyday questions like ‘Is my chicken kosher?’ What makes them so powerful is how thoughtfully rabbis responded to new and often unprecedented situations.” Developed by the Rohr Jewish Learning Institute, the course opens a window into Jewish life across eras and continents, showing how timeless values met the pressures of changing cultures, technologies, and moral challenges. Along the way, students gain rare insight into how Jewish law actually works, not as a rigid code, but as a living system shaped by empathy, reason, and deep responsibility. The program is approved for Continuing Legal Education in the state of Tennessee, making it especially appealing to attorneys and professionals interested in legal reasoning, ethics, and precedent. “Jewish law has never been static,” notes Steven F. Friedell, JD, professor of law at Rutgers University Law School. He explains that the course reveals how rabbis responded to dramatic changes in science, politics, and economics while preserving the integrity of Jewish law and the cohesion of Jewish communities. According to Suzanne Last Stone, JD, professor of Jewish Law and Contemporary Civilization at Yeshiva University, students will encounter striking examples of how rabbinic scholars balanced technical legal demands with emotional sensitivity, ethical concerns, and social change. Whether participants are new to Jewish learning or lifelong students, Captivating Cases in Rabbinic Responsa promises lively discussion, meaningful reflection, and surprising discoveries. Classes will be held in person, with a Zoom option available. Course at a Glance Course: Captivating Cases in Rabbinic Responsa Instructor: Rabbi Yitzchok Tiechtel Start Date: Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at 7:00 PM Format: Six sessions, in person or via Zoom Developed by: The Rohr Jewish Learning Institute, offered in 1,600 locations worldwide CLE Approved: State of Tennessee Registration is now open at myjli.com/learn/nashville. For more information, visit chabadnashville.com or call 615 646 5740.

Rabbi Scientist to Challenge Minds and Inspire Hearts at Chabad of Nashville NASHVILLE, TN - Can ancient faith withstand modern science? Can the Big Bang and the Book of Genesis speak the same language? Chabad of Nashville will invite the community to explore these big questions when it hosts Rabbi Yechiel Krisch, a rabbi, biomedical scientist, and international lecturer, as Scholar in Residence for the weekend of January 23 and 24, 2025. Known for his rare ability to make complex ideas both accessible and entertaining, Rabbi Krisch brings together the worlds of laboratory science and Jewish philosophy with clarity, humor, and insight. His talks do not just present information. They spark conversation. Rabbi Krisch will speak at the TGIS Friday night dinner on Friday, January 23, following Shabbat services beginning at 6:30 p.m., and again at the Shabbat lunch on Saturday, January 24, at 12:30 p.m. Both events are open to the community. A respected biomedical scientist and science communicator, Rabbi Krisch’s work has appeared in The New York Times, Scientific American, and other leading publications. At the same time, he is a rabbi deeply versed in Jewish law, medical ethics, and Hasidic philosophy. This combination allows him to tackle some of today’s most fascinating and challenging questions with intellectual honesty and spiritual depth. Over the course of the weekend, Rabbi Krisch will explore how Judaism engages with modern science, medicine, technology, and ethics, not as an opponent, but as a partner in the search for truth. His lectures have captivated audiences at universities, synagogues, and conferences across the United States and around the world, including London, Spain, Australia, and Israel. Among the featured topics are A Scientist’s Rational Proof for G d and Torah, a

compelling look at belief through the lens of logic and scientific reasoning, and The Age of the Universe, which examines how a 13.7 billion year old universe and a 4 billion year old Earth can be understood alongside the opening chapters of Genesis. “Rabbi Krisch does not ask people to choose between faith and reason,” said Rabbi Yitzchok Tiechtel of Chabad of Nashville. “He shows how they strengthen one another and he does it in a way that is engaging, approachable, and deeply inspiring.” The weekend is designed for students, professionals, skeptics, seekers, and anyone curious about how ancient wisdom continues to speak to modern life. For more information, visit chabadnashville.com.

Make 2026 a Year of Meaning and Renewal with Scholar in Residence Rabbi Mendel Shmotkin NASHVILLE, TN — In a time when so many people are searching for deeper meaning, stronger relationships, and a greater sense of balance in their lives, Chabad of Nashville is inviting the community to step back, reflect, and reconnect during a special Scholar in Residence weekend with Rabbi Mendel Shmotkin on January 9 and 10, 2026. The weekend will explore themes that speak directly to the challenges and opportunities of modern life, including relationships, identity, purpose, and inner growth. Through soulful teachings rooted in Jewish wisdom and presented with warmth and clarity, Rabbi Shmotkin will offer perspectives that feel both timeless and strikingly relevant. The program begins Friday night, January 9, with a communal Shabbat dinner, creating space for connection and community. Following the meal, Rabbi Schmotkin will present “The Mystical Marriage and the Divine Union,” an exploration of how Jewish mysticism understands partnership not only between husband and wife, but between body and soul, action and intention, and the human being and the Divine. In an era when many relationships feel strained or transactional, this talk offers a deeper vision of unity, meaning, and sacred connection that applies to all of us, married or not. On Shabbat morning, January 10, after services, the community is invited to a communal Shabbat lunch at 12:30 PM. During the lunch Rabbi Shmotkin will deliver a timely and empowering lecture titled “Harnessing the Ego to Serve the Soul in 2026.” Rather than viewing the ego as something to suppress or eliminate, Rabbi Shmotkin will explore how Jewish thought teaches us to refine and redirect it. In a world driven by self-promotion, comparison, and constant noise, this session offers practical tools to transform ambition, drive, and self-expression into forces for purpose, growth, and good. The afternoon will continue with a Torah and Tea study session, a women’s learning gathering led by Mrs. Esther Tiechtel from Chabad of Nashville, together with Mrs. Dvorky Shmotkin of Chabad of Glendale, Wisconsin. This session will provide a warm and open environment for women to reflect, share, and draw inspiration from Jewish teachings that speak to contemporary life. Rabbi Mendel Schmotkin serves as the Executive Vice President of Chabad of Wisconsin, where he oversees 20 institutions and more than 80 programs. Under his leadership, Chabad of Wisconsin has grown into the largest Jewish educational outreach organization in the state. Together with his wife Dvorky, he also directs Chabad of Glendale, Wisconsin. Known for his engaging style and ability to translate deep ideas into accessible insight, Rabbi Shmotkin captivates audiences with teachings that resonate long after the talk ends. Organizers at Chabad of Nashville describe the weekend as “an opportunity to pause from the pace of daily life and engage with ideas that strengthen the mind, nourish the soul, and uplift the heart.” The program is designed for individuals and families at every stage of their Jewish journey. The Nashville Jewish community is warmly invited to take part in this inspiring Shabbat of learning, connection, and renewal. For more information and to RSVP, please visit: Chabadashville.com

@ Micah Congregation Micah - an inclusive, innovative synagogue exploring and celebrating Jewish life - is committed to building community and repairing the world! We offer creative and diverse ways to live a Jewish life in Tennessee and beyond, using the rich beliefs and practices of Progressive Judaism as our foundation. Visit our 30+ acre campus or access our virtual programs from our website, www.congregationmicah.org. Like us on socials: Facebook, and Instagram @MicahNashville; learn and pray with us in-person, or livestream our service on our website, YouTube, or Facebook. In our tent, there is room for everyone!

Weekly Events Sanctuary Shabbat Services: Fridays at 6 PM

At Micah, we approach God in many ways: the inspiration of words, the beauty of sacred space, the authenticity of our intentions, and through the power of music and song. Join us in-person or virtually for services this month that will be as diverse as they are engaging, as moving as they are participatory. Come early and schmooze with us starting at 5:30 PM! Light refreshments are served. Continued on page 16

The Jewish OBSERVER • January 2026

At Our Congregations… @ Micah

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Saturday Morning Torah Study: 9 AM on Zoom

@ The Temple

Deep conversations about the text with thoughtful and caring people led by the clergy.

Mah Jongg: Tuesdays from 12:30 PM- 3:30 PM

Join our players for an afternoon of fun in the social hall! For more information, contact Paula: pgkwn@comcast.net.

Schmooze & Views: Thursdays from 10:30 AM- 11:30 AM

At Micah, we keep politics off the pulpit but not out of the building. Share your views in a round-table discussion on current events facilitated by Rabbi Flip and Dr. Bob Smith.

January Events ReJEWvenation: Beginning Tuesday, January 6 at 6 PM on Zoom

Our 10-week course is returning! The class is for those interested in conversion to Judaism, or in brushing up on your Judaism 101. Drop in for one or participate throughout the full series.

Women’s Circle: Friday, January 16 at 12 PM

Rabbi Laurie invites you to join our conversation group, Women’s Circle. All are welcome. Bring a friend.

Micah Minis Shabbat: Saturday, January 17 at 9:30 AM

Join Micah’s clergy for a fun and engaging song session specifically geared for kids under 7!

Micah Reads: Monday, January 19 at 7 PM

Education Director Julie Greenberg leads the discussion on Uncomfortable Conversations with a Jew by Emmanuel Acho & Noa Tishby.

Visit templenashville.org for all updated event information

Exploring the Prayerbook

Every Friday from 5:00-5:40 PM before Shabbat Services Start Shabbat with a little study each week. We will explore the prayers of our Shabbat Service and discuss, and discover how these ancient Jewish texts still speak to us today. Join us in person or via zoom at https://www.templenashville.org/virtualprogramming.html

First Fridays with Alyssa

Join us on January 9th for Nosh & Conversation with our Temple President, Alyssa at 5:00pm prior to Shabbat Services

Shabbat Schedule for January at The Temple

Our Shabbat Services will be held in person at The Temple. You can also watch via zoom from https://www.templenashville.org/virtual-programming.html Friday, January 2nd- Shabbat Services Friday, January 9th- Family Service with Birthday Blessings Friday, January 16th –Shabbat Services Friday, January 23rd- Blue Jean Shabbat Friday, January 30th- Blue Jean Shabbat

Chevrah Torah Study

9:30AM on Saturdays Join us for our weekly Torah study on the portion of the week, led by the clergy. You can join us in person at The Temple or via zoom from https://www. templenashville.org/virtual-programming.html

Golden Lunch Bunch

@ Sherith Israel Weekday Services Shacharit - 6:25/6:30 am Mincha/Maariv - 10 minutes before sunset Sunday morning Shacharit - 8:00 am

Shabbat Services Friday Night - 10 minutes before sunset Shacharit for Shabbat - 9:00 am Kiddush Lunch - 11:15 am Mincha/Maariv - 10 minutes before sunset For weekly classes and special programs, subscribe to our newsletters at www. sherithisrael.com

New Torah Class New Torah Class beginning this January: Do you love the focus questions about each aliyah during our Shabbat Torah reading, but wish you were able to dive in a little bit deeper? Join fellow seekers in an inquiry-based weekly parshah study structured by the famous question sheets of Nechama Liebowitz, an acclaimed 20th-century Torah scholar and teacher. Liebowitz’s rich guiding questions have aided generations of readers of all backgrounds to unearth for themselves Torah wisdom both practical and moral, human and divine, by applying the strategies of literary analysis to the parashot. Along the way, the class will draw insight from contemporary teachers, such as R. Lord Jonathan Sacks and Dr. Avivah Gottlieb Zornberg, into conversation with our group as well! Class offered by Dr. Sarah Roth.

Congregation Sherith Israel Lecture Series Congregation Sherith Israel Lecture Series presents Joel Roberts in The Magic & Mystery of the Hebrew Language, exploring evidence that Hebrew could not have been created by human hands alone, on January 14th at 7:00pm. Joel Roberts is a former prime time talk show host on KABC Radio, Los Angeles, and as a communications consultant has worked with Fortune 10 CEOs and heads of state; onstage, he has taught seminars in 20 countries to audiences cumulatively of 500,000. His passion for the Hebrew language began at age ten and he has never recovered, and he has given this lecture to American Jews of every stripe and to native-born Israelis at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem.

16 January 2026 • The Jewish OBSERVER

Our Golden Lunch Bunch will meet at Temple from 11:30-1:00pm on January 6th – John England-Western Swing January 20th- Amy Jarman- Classical Vocalist RSVP to Jewish Family Service at 615-354-1686 or via email at helpinghands@ jfsnashville.org

Women’s Torah Study

January 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th 10:30 AM Ongoing weekly women’s Torah study led by Patty Marks. Available in person at The Temple and via zoom through https://www.templenashville.org/virtualprogramming.html

Lunch with the Rabbi

January 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th Lunch at 11:30AM Program12:00-1:00 PM $15 per person for lunch Engage with Rabbi Danziger and guests in a discussion of current and important issues from a Jewish perspective. RSVP on templenashville.org/virtual-programming. html or by calling the Temple at 615-352-7620 Available in person and via zoom at https://www.templenashville.org/virtual-programming.html

Monday Mah Jong

Join us for MAH JONG Mondays at The Temple! January 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th 1:00pm Drop in for Mah Jongg. We’ll have coffee and water. Bring your friends, a card, and a set and have some fun. Mah Jongg cards and sets are available for purchase in The Temple Gift Shop.

Afternoon of Interfaith Learning on “The State of American Religious Life” With Ryan Burge- Author, Professor, Analyst

Sunday, January 4, 2026 at 4:00pm At Immanuel Baptist Church CBS News’ 60 Minutes calls Dr. Burge “One of the country’s leading data analyst on religion and politics” Co-Hosted by: The Temple, Immanuel Baptist Church, Vine Street Christian Church, First Unitarian Universalist Church of Nashville, and Greater Nashville Unitarian Universalist Church

Every Tuesday in January Be Moved –Fitness Class

January 6th, 13th, 20th and 27th BeMoved with Marcia Berlin is a fun and effective full-body dance workout that’s gentle and easy to follow. It is designed to improve strength, balance, flexibility and range of motion. No prior experience necessary. All fitness levels are welcome. You’ll Continued on page 17

At Our Congregations… @ Temple

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love the movement, the music and the way BeMoved makes you feel. Wear your favorite work out attire & come ready to dance. 3:30pm at The Temple $18 for all three session The proceeds from this event will go towards The Quinn Cunningham Memorial Scholarship Fund at MTSU Register at https://www.templenashville.org/form/BeMoved

Tot Shabbat Indoor Playground Playdate

Saturday, January 10th 9:00-10:30am The “Big Room” at The Temple Challah provided It will be a time for parents and children to meet and connect! (No RSVP required)

Tot Shabbat –Tot Tu B’sh Tot at The Temple

Saturday, January 31st at 10:00am For families with children up to age 5 Tot Shabbat offers families the chance to celebrate Shabbat with their young children in a creative way!

@ West End For links to the following online services or programs, please scan the QR code for our LinkTree, email office@westendsyn.org, or visit our calendar on ShulCloud at https://westendsyn.shulcloud.com/calendar.

01/06 – Author Exploration Book Club – 11:00 a.m.

WES Author Exploration Book Club are exploring works by classical Jewish authors. This month we will continue reading short stories by Y. S. Agnon. Please email Susan Pankowsky, WES Librarian, at spankowsky@westendsyn.org, for additional information.

01/07 – The Sandi Goldstein Learn & Lunch Program for Ages 60+ – 11:00 a.m. Reservation required, catered lunch following the presentation. Speaker: Ziv Shemesh Lunch Catered by Goldie Shepard at 12:00 p.m. Cost: $5.00 RSVP by calling 615-269-4592 ext. 11 or emailing office@westendsyn.org.

01/07 – Sisterhood Book Club – 7:00 p.m. (via Zoom)

American Jewish University (AJU). Classes will take place in person every Sunday morning at 9:30a.m. from January 11th – mid-May 2026. To register for the class, and for more information please visit: https://tinyurl.com/wesintro26. The registration form and further information can also be found in our LinkTree, which can be accessed by scanning the QR code at the top of this page.

01/14 - Torah for Women – 11:00 a.m. (on Zoom) We continue learning together the Book of Judges.

01/18 – Bagels & Tequila Sunrise– 10:30 a.m.

Fight the winter dreariness at the January installment of Bagels &. This month we will be adding some brightness to our winter darkness as we brighten our day with some delicious Tequila Sunrises to complement our Bagel Brunch. Come schmooze and nosh with old friends and make new ones. The registration form and further information can also be found in our LinkTree, which can be accessed by scanning the QR code at the top of this page.

01/21 – The Sandi Goldstein Learn & Lunch Program for Ages 60+ – 11:00 a.m. Reservation required, catered lunch following the presentation. Speaker: Judy Alperin Lunch Catered by Goldie Shepard at 12:00 p.m. Cost: $5.00 RSVP by calling 615-269-4592 ext. 11 or emailing office@westendsyn.org.

01/24 – Sisterhood Shabbat – 9:30 a.m.

Our annual Sisterhood Shabbat is right around the corner, and it’s one of the highlights of our year. It’s a morning filled with meaning, inspiration, and the beauty of our community coming together to lift one another up.

01/25 – Torah Writing Kick-Off – 9:00 a.m.

Join us as we begin writing our new Sefer Torah. As part of our celebrations marking our 150th anniversary, we will gather in our Main Sanctuary to witness as a holy congregation the writing of the first lines of our new Torah.

01/30 – 4th & 5th Grade Kabbalat Shabbat

Enjoy Kabbalat Shabbat led by our Beit Miriam students, followed by Shabbat dinner.

01/31 – Birthday Shabbat – 9:30 a.m.

Celebrating everyone with a January birthday. Come for a special birthday treat!

Ongoing Religious Services and Learning Opportunities

Shacharit: In-Person Monday-Friday at 7:00 a.m. and Sundays at 9:00 a.m.

We’re starting the year with something light, fun, and full of heart: Love You a Latke by Amanda Elliot. It’s a sweet, breezy read — perfect for easing back into routine after the holidays. Pour yourself a cup of tea, curl up somewhere cozy, and join us on Zoom for a warm conversation and plenty of laughter. Register at the following link: https://westendsyn.shulcloud.com/event/sisterhood-book-club-1-26

Our minyanaires are always looking for more people to strengthen the only egalitarian minyan in town! Sunday services are at 9:00 a.m. and Monday-Friday services at 7:00 a.m. Thursday minyan is followed by breakfast.

01/08 - Torah for Men – 12:00 p.m.

Torah Study with Breakfast: In-person on Thursdays at 7:40 a.m.

We continue our exploration of the Book of Nehemiah while enjoying great pizza!

01/09 – Potluck Shabbat – 7:00 p.m.

Talmud Class with Rabbi Joshua: In-person on Tuesdays at 7:30 a.m. Immediately after minyan on Thursdays, typically around 7:40 a.m.

Talmud for Young Professionals with Rabbi Joshua: In-person on Fridays at 9:00 a.m.

Join us for Shabbat dinner following Kabbalat Shabbat services (6:00-7:00p.m.). Bring a dairy or pareve dish to share. RSVP by emailing spaz@westendsyn.org.

Maariv: On Zoom Sunday-Thursday at 6:00 p.m.

01/10 – Kid-ish Club – 10:30 a.m.

Kabbalat Shabbat: In-person on Fridays at 6:00 p.m.

Inviting all 2nd – 7th graders and their parents for Kid’ish Club, our monthly Shabbat T’filah Lab, led by our Teens and Morah Paz on Shabbat morning from 10:3011:30 a.m. Kiddush lunch to follow.

01/11 – Music & Me with Brett Fromson – 10:30-11:30 am

Sing a-long-and socializing for children ages infant – three and their parents.

01/11 – Introduction to Judaism Week 1 – 9:30 a.m.

Rabbi Joshua Kullock will once again be teaching our Introduction to Judaism class, in partnership with the Miller Introduction to Judaism Program from the

Join us for daily Maariv at 6:00 p.m., Sunday-Thursday. You are invited to join us every Friday for Kabbalat Shabbat at 6:00 p.m.

Shabbat Morning Services: In-person and Zoom on Saturday Mornings at 9:30 a.m.

Please join us every Saturday morning at 9:30 a.m. Great davening, insightful learning of the Torah portion, followed by a yummy (and nutritious!) Kiddush lunch following services.

Ongoing Social Programming

“Holy Grounds” Coffee Bar: In-person on Sunday Mornings at 9:00 a.m.

Join our Engagement and Program Director, Marc Jacobs at “Holy Grounds” our onsite coffee lounge, every Sunday at 9:00 a.m. RSVP by emailing mjacobs@westendsyn. org, or just drop by. •

The Jewish OBSERVER • January 2026

Community Listings Art for Every Stage B’nai B’rith Social Unit Bring together both long-term members of the Nashville Jewish Community and people new to Nashville who are ages 50+ for monthly fun social, educational and service programs. Our next event will be our annual Super Bowl Party on February 8th and our Havdalah Dinner and Election Meeting on Marh 28th.. For more information, contact Joyce Levin at joylevin8@gmail.com or Gil Fox at gsfox3@comcast.net.

Widowers & Widows Social Group Group of Jewish widowers and widows who have lost his/her spouse recently or in the distant past. This is not a dating service or a meet/meat group, but it is a group of adult individuals who are interested in doing things with a group of people who have been through a similar loss as opposed to doing things by him/herself. We meet for lunch on the 2nd Friday every other month at various restaurants. For more information, contact Gil Fox at gsfox3@comcast.net. •

Nashville Jewish Film Festival: Thank you to everyone who makes the NJFF successful Producer Sandra Shatten Foundation Maria and Bernard A.Pargh Family Foundation

Haley and Jacob Kupin Arlene and David Lapp Stephanie and Ted Townsend Eri and Greg Zagnoev

Director Laurie and Steven Eskind Donna and Jeffrey Eskind Zander Insurance

Cameo Lisa Aronow Arlene Averbuch Jeff Dattilo Karen Dattiio Cindy Gold Lorna Graff Mary Loventhal Jones Rabbi Joshua Kullock Dudley Richter Jan Riven Linda and Jeff Schoenblum Mara Sommers Alyse Sprintz Cyntha Stone Bruce Zeitlin

STAR Esther and Roger Cohn The Danner Foundation Sheri B. Lanoff The Navigation Trust Shirley and Stuart Speyer Co-Star Roberta and Mark Bergman Jody and Michael Dobrin Julie and Andrew Galbierz Carol Castleberry and Steven Greil Gruhn Guitars Paula and Jay Kholas Joyce and Barry Levin Marcum Associates – Cathy and Tony Werthan Rabbi Shana and James Mackler Marlene Eskind Moses Debi Fleischer & Robin and Charles Robin Melissa and Philip Russ Loretta and Ed Saff Harriet and Rabbi Mark Schiftan Suzanne and Jimmy Schulman Joan Shayne Neil Smith Nan Speller Melissa Werthan Libby and Moshe Werthan Supporting Cast Julie and Frank Boehm Jamie and Jeremy Brook Sharon Charney Betsy Chernau Rabbi Michael Danziger Doochin Family Charitable Foundation Dara Freiberg Jackie Karr Diane and Irwin Kuhn

Young Professionals Alysa Brodie Contributions Adele and Roy Berkon Suzanne Cohan Phyllis and Hal Helderman Trey Lipman Suzanne and Stuart Perlman Peggy and Dudley Richter Barbara Turner Host Groups National Council of Jewish Women, Nashville Section Franklin Jewish Social Now Gen Nashville Hadassah, Nashville Department of Jewish Studie, Vanderbilt University West End Synagogue Congregation Micah Congregation Ohabai Sholom, The Temple Akiva, Jewish Middle School , Congregation Sherith Israel B’nai B’rith Social Club Leadership 615 We apologize for any errors or omissions

18 January 2026 • The Jewish OBSERVER

of Creativity at the Gordon JCC

he Gordon Jewish Community Center continues to be a vibrant hub for creativity, offering a wide range of art classes and workshops designed to welcome artists of all experience levels. From those picking up a paintbrush for the first time to seasoned artists looking to refine their skills, the J’s art program provides an inclusive and inspiring environment to explore, learn, and create. Led by talented teaching artists, classes span a variety of mediums and formats throughout the year. Participants can enjoy hands-on workshops, multi-week studio courses, and seasonal offerings that allow for both guided instruction and independent artistic exploration. The emphasis is not only on technique, but also on creative expression, relaxation, and community connection. The Gordon JCC’s art classes are intentionally designed to be approachable and engaging, and all classes take place in the Madeline Pargh Arts and Crafts Center. Many sessions provide demonstrations, personalized feedback, and opportunities for artists to work at their own pace. Whether attendees are seeking a structured learning experience or simply a creative outlet, the program encourages curiosity and growth in a welcoming studio setting. Beyond skill-building, the art program reflects the JCC’s broader mission of fostering connection and lifelong learning. Classes bring people together around shared creative interests, creating space for conversation, inspiration, and a sense of belonging. For many participants, the studio becomes a place to unwind, meet new people, and rediscover the joy of making art. With offerings available year-round,

Watercolor painting is one of the classes available through the Gordon JCC

the Gordon JCC invites community members to explore their creative side and take part in an arts program that is as enriching as it is accessible. More information about current and upcoming art classes, workshops, and studio offerings can be found at nashvillejcc.org under the Madeline Pargh Arts & Crafts Center. •

Gordon JCC Adult Program Happenings: TGIT – January 2026 January 8 – Sheldon Kahan One of our favorite, sure-to-please musicians, Sheldon Kahan, returns to get our new year off to a rocking good time! Lunch: Bagels, lox, kugel, desert, birthday cake and ice cream. January 15 – Randy Horick Author and historian, Randy Horick takes us back to the beginnings of our country with an engaging presentation of Lincoln and the Civil War. Lunch: Salmon, salad, sides and dessert. January 22 – Ed Rode – Three decades of the music scene in Nashville. Ed Rode is a renowned Nashvillebased photographer and visual storyteller known for his iconic, candid portraits capturing the history of Music City’s songwriting and music scene, document-

ed in his book Songwriter Musician and featured in exhibits at the Country Music Hall of Fame. A former photojournalist for the Nashville Banner, Rode’s career spans decades, immortalizing legends like Willie Nelson, Taylor Swift, and Jelly Roll, blending artistry with deep personal narratives. Lunch: Tuna and Egg salad sandwiches, salad, chips, coleslaw and dessert. January 29 – Frist Trunk Art – compromise Kimi Foil Relief The Frist Art Museum comes to us with a traveling trunk show of their current New African Masquerade exhibit. Come explore symbolism, metaphor, and composition to create a foil relief plate based on The Compromise Kim Masquerade genre. And if you have no idea what any of that means, all the more reason to join us for this lively event. Lunch: Chicken, salad, sides and dessert. •

Visit The Jewish Observer’s website www.jewishobservernashville.org

Lifecycles B’rit Mitzvah Julia Fischer Shillington

Julia Fischer Shillington will become a bat mitzvah on Saturday, January 10, at 9:15 a.m. at Congregation Micah. She was born on April 25, 2013, in Nashville. Her parents are Vivian Fischer and Scott Shillington. Her grandparents are Bonnie and Doug Shillington of Vernon, Canada;, Marianne Fischer of São Paulo, Brazil, and Ruy Fischer of blessed memory. A seventh grader at Grassland Middle School, Julia loves tap dance, jazz dance, listening to music, baking, traveling, reading and being with friends and family.

Kyle Horowitz

Kyle Horowitz will become a bat mitzvah on Saturday, January 31, at 10:30 a.m., at Congregation Micah. She is the child of Marc and Jackie Horowitz, the sister of Peyton Horowitz, and the granddaughter of Shelly and Judy Horowitz of Florida, and Mary Acquah of Ghana, and Appiah Boahine. A seventh grader at Spring Station Middle School, Kyle has a passion for theater, skyline photography, and track. She also enjoys reading, science and math.

to create their beautiful jewelry store Wolk Jewelers in Belle Meade Plaza. It was an elegant store where customers knew they would be welcomed and treated well and fairly. The community embraced these hardworking immigrants and grew to love and respect them. Sally, as elegant as her surroundings, could often be seen patiently stringing glistening pearls in the back of the store which she did with care. Stringing and knotting while managing the books and attending to customers with humor and grace. Sally always looked beautiful, dressed to the nines, and made Henry very proud to call her his wife. All who knew Sally admired her unparalleled strength and dignity despite how tested she was in her life. She was an example of what a person can achieve and overcome through hard work and

determination. Sally was, and always will be, an inspiration to all who knew her and will be missed by so many. She is survived by her daughters, Debie Sontag (Danny) and Ruthie Hungerford (John); her grandchildren, Stephanie Sweeney (Doug), Michael

Sontag (Caroline), and Julia Hungerford; and her extended family, including the Olsky family, the Speyer family, the Abram family, the Serkin family, and the Feder Family. Tributes in Sally’s memory may be made to Congregation Micah. •

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Obituaries Roslynn Greenberg

Condolences to the family of Roslynn Greenberg. She is survived by her husband, Joel; children, Marian, Judy and Bob (Jo Ann) Greenberg; grandchildren, Rachel (Alex) and Rebekah and one grandchild, Emma Rose.

Stanford Latter

Condolences to the family of Stanford Latter, a life-long member of Congregation Gates of Prayer in Metairie, La., who died on December 13 in New Orleans. He was the brother of Ann Light (Martin); uncle of Mitchell Light (Heather); and great-uncle of Gabe and Zoe Light. Tributes in Stanford’s memory may be made to Congregation Micah.

Jan Pass

Condolences to the family of Jan Pass. She is survived by her sons, Michael and David (Alexa); her sisters, Margo Barbakow (Jeffrey) and family, Isabel Schiffer (Mark) and family; and grandchildren, Oliver and Penny Pass.

Samuel Shapiro

Condolences to the family of Samuel Shapiro. He is survived by his five daughters, including Lynn Shapiro Snyder; eleven grandchildren, including Eitan Snyder; and seven great grandchildren.

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Sally Wolkoff

Condolences to the family of Sally Wolkoff, 104, who died on December 12 A Holocaust survivor, Sally lived a remarkable life marked by resilience, strength, and an enduring legacy. She was the beloved wife of the late Henry Wolkoff (z”l). Sally worked side by side with Henry

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The Jewish OBSERVER • January 2026 ɐ$0

Guided in Memory: Student-Led Tours Set the Stage for International Holocaust Remembrance Day in Nashville By MARSHA RAIMI

unday, December 7th marked a milestone for Nashville’s Holocaust Memorial. That day saw the most visitors in any one day in the memorial’s history. More than 60 people were guided by five MTSU History students over the course of an hour and a half, followed by refreshments in the Madeline Pargh Arts Center. The event marked the conclusion of a semester-long collaboration between the Memorial and Assistant Professor Ashley Valanzola’s class , “Holocaust Justice and Memory”. In addition to the professor’s lectures on the Nuremberg and Eichmann trials, the course included readings on memorialization efforts in a variety of countries; examination of the impact of the Paperclip Project in Whitwell, TN; and student research on the disparate standards for Holocaust education across the states in the US. These academic studies created the foundation for the course’s central assignment in public history: to revise the script that the Memorial uses for unaccompanied visitors, which will be available via mobile phone. Memorial Chair, Felicia Anchor, who visited the class to provide insight into the inspiration for, and the process of its founding, commented after the tour, “I thank Dr Valanzola and her class for taking on the challenge of developing both an educational and meaningful narrative for our self-guided tour of

Holocaust Memorial docents and committee members Alex Limor, Delilah Cohn, Felicia Anchor, and Bobbi Limor after a student-led tour. PHOTO CREDIT: RICK MALKIN

MTSU Holocaust Justice & Memory class. In center: Ass’t. Professor Ashley Valanzola (faux fur collar), Docent Chair Marsha Raimi and Memorial Chair Felicia Anchor. Cody Kroyer (center, with mustache), Lauren Stockdale, and Bella Wallace (on right side) are following up with an Independent Study. PHOTO CREDIT: RICK MALKIN

the Holocaust Memorial. Their research discovered aspects of Holocaust history that we had not included in our earlier version and added so much. Now, the many visitors who cannot join a docentled tour will experience an audio tour that offers both historical substance and important lessons that are focused on creating a more caring and respectful world”.

History student Bella Wallace, a Bellevue resident whose part-time job is giving tours at the Belle Meade Plantation and Winery, said about participating in the project, “This project was deeply meaningful to me. It provided the opportunity to work collaboratively with the Memorial and its docents while thoughtfully foregrounding the experi-

ences of the families who rebuilt their lives within the Nashville community after the Holocaust”. Ms. Wallace and two other students are registered for an independent study in the Winter semester, which will include continuing to work with the Memorial’s Docent Chair, Marsha Raimi, to finalize the revised script for recording. The Memorial’s next set of scheduled public tours is in commemoration of International Holocaust Remembrance Day in late January. They will be led by the Memorial’s usual volunteer docents at 1:00 pm on the following days: Sunday 1/25, Tuesday 1/27, and Wednesday 1/28. To join a scheduled tour, or request one at another time, email nashvilleholocaustmemorial@gmail.com •

Notice of the

90th Annual Meeting SLATE OF OFFICERS & BOARD MEMBERS 2026 Officers

Board of Directors

President: Aron Karabel Vice President: Seth Goldberg Treasurer: Jacob Kleinrock Secretary: Ayelet Berger

Felicia Abramson Melissa Alvarez Submitted by the 2025 Federation Nominating Committee Chair: Steve Hirsch Committee Members: Aron Karabel, President, Ayelet Berger, Jeremy Brook, Erin Coleman, Mindy Hirt, Carolyn Hecklin Hyatt, Alex Krew

Sunday, January 25, 2025 | 10:00am Gordon Jewish Community Center 801 Percy Warner Blvd. Nashville, TN 37205 Please note: Any twenty-five members of the Jewish Federation may submit additional names provided such names are submitted to the President or to the Chief Executive Officer at least twenty days before the annual election. The persons nominated for officer positions must be or have been members of the Board of Directors. The Nominating Committee list and all other qualified lists are to be presented for election at the annual meeting which is open to all members of the Jewish Federation. The official notice of the slate of nominees, as selected by the Nominating Committee, was published and circulated previously to members of the Jewish Federation thirty days prior to the annual meeting as required by the Federation Constitution.

20 January 2026 • The Jewish OBSERVER

ADVERTORIALS

Simchas & Celebrations JANUARY 2026

The Jewish OBSERVER • January 2026

ADVERTORIALS

Mazel Tov from Argent Trust Mazel Tov! Your daughter just gave birth to a healthy baby girl. You want to help her financially but are not sure of the best way to help. Outright gifts of cash for immediate needs, saving for future educational expenses through a 529 plan, creating a trust that can grow with your loved one – these are all great options but finding the right one takes planning. The staff at Argent Trust can help you decide how much to give to your children and grandchildren and when to give it to them. Moments of joy, simchas, are to be celebrated. They are also a wonderful opportunity to review your financial plan. Argent Trust has assisted clients as they plan to celebrate a birth, bar/bat mitzvah, graduation, marriage, new home, sale of business, retirement, and more! Contact your CPA, Attorney or Argent Trust at mhirt@argenttrust.com or (615) 385-2718 to start a conversation.

Belle Meade Cigar Premium Cigars and Gifts. This gem of a cigar shop is locally owned and sells the finest cigars, gifts, pipes, and tobacco related products in town! Swing by the Belle Meade Premium Cigars and Gift store today to purchase the finest tobacco in town... you don’t even have to leave the store to sample your purchase! The store is complete with a smoking lounge where cigar connoisseurs relax, smoke, and enjoy themselves. Come to the Belle Meade Premium Cigars and Gifts store to enjoy the best smoking experience that Nashville has to offer! After more than 20 years in business, Belle Meade Cigar will be moving in February 2025 to a new location. New location address: 104 46th Ave N., Nashville, TN 37209, Sylvan Park Area, 1.5 miles from their current location. https://www. bellemeadecigars.com/about-us/

Belle Meade Jewelry Experience a new level of personalized service at Belle Meade Jewelry & Repair. Our transition to a Private Jewelers office allows us to better meet your needs with tailored, one-on-one consultations. Elevate your existing pieces or curate new ones with our skilled design team. Automatic, battery or pocket watches welcome. Pricing may vary by make and model. Schedule time with our third-generation jeweler to receive an estimate today. Belle Meade Jewelry’s journey started in 1941 when Sol and Lester Berry opened Berry’s Loan Co. on historic Deaderick Street in the heart of downtown Nashville, TN. From there, each generation grew the business even further… until grandson Scott Isaacs decided to start his own legacy in 2006, and thus BMJ was born.

Here at Belle Meade Jewelry our goal is to melt tradition and innovation into the perfect blend. Each piece created or rebuilt here is a true reflection of refined beauty and timeless sophistication, as unique as the gems that adorn it. Visit us at their new location 4515 Harding Pike, Suite #112, Nashville, TN 37205 in the Covenant Capital Group Building. www.bellemeadejewelry.net 615-269-3288. Book Your Appointment today. Belle Meade Jewelry & Repair | Scott Isaacs, Jeweler

Mollie Berliss Mediation Mollie Berliss Mediation helps divorcing couples rebuild their lives, even when it feels impossible. Mollie guides couples through difficult conversations with compassion and care, while providing structure, clarity, and a plan for what’s next. Each person is supported while navigating hard decisions about finances, living arrangements, parenting schedules and expenses, educational and medical issues, sentimental belongings, and much more. Divorce mediation has many benefits: it gives couples more control over their future, it’s faster and less expensive than going to court, and it’s generally better for everyone’s emotional well-being. And if children are involved, mediation helps parents manage emotions and talk through disagreements privately, so that they are less inclined to vent in front of their children and put them in the middle. Simply put, mediation makes the divorce process more manageable and less destructive for everyone involved. Even a partial resolution can significantly reduce time, legal fees, and emotional distress. With a background in psychology, communications, and strategic planning, Mollie brings a calm, empathetic presence and a strong track record of facilitating difficult, emotionally-charged conversations. As a mediator, she is neutral and does not take sides. She de-escalates conflict, improves communication, guides decision-making, and helps resolve issues effectively as divorcing couples figure out their future. Initial consultations with Mollie are free. Learn more and connect with her at www.mollieberliss.com.

Zeitlin Sotheby’s International Realty A New Home. A Lifetime of Simchas A home is often the setting for life’s most meaningful moments. Long after the keys are handed over, it becomes the place where traditions are carried forward, milestones are celebrated, and everyday moments take on deeper meaning. At Zeitlin Sotheby’s International Realty, we understand that buying a home is not just a major decision it’s the beginning of a new chapter. As Middle Tennessee’s premier luxury real estate brokerage and the #1 Sotheby’s International Realty affiliate in the state, Zeitlin Sotheby’s International Realty has been proudly women-founded, women-led, and family-owned for more than 46 years. With more than 200 full-time real estate advisors, our firm combines deep local knowledge with the global reach of the Sotheby’s International Realty network, offering clients both personal guidance and worldwide access. Whether you’re planting roots, expanding your space, or preparing for what comes next, our advisors are committed to helping you find a home that reflects your life and values. Because every move is about more than an address - it’s about connection, belonging, and the communities we choose to call home. From first steps inside a new front door to the many celebrations that follow, we’re honored to support our clients through moments that matter most. Wherever your next chapter leads, we’re here to help you feel at home.

The Pargh Team The Pargh Team is one of Nashville’s leading real estate groups, known for exceptional service, strategic expertise, and a deep commitment to the clients and communities we serve. Led by Franklin and Lana Pargh, our team has built its reputation on attentive guidance, thoughtful communication, and a deep understanding of Middle Tennessee’s ever-evolving landscape. As we close out 2025, we’re reflecting on a year filled with meaningful milestones Continued on page 23

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22 January 2026 • The Jewish OBSERVER

ADVERTORIALS Continued from page 22

— growing families, new beginnings, and the joy of helping clients move into the next chapter of their lives. Real estate is woven into some of life’s biggest celebrations, and we are honored to play a part in those moments. This year, we continued elevating our marketing with refined branding, expanded team capabilities, and innovative AI-driven visuals that help listings shine in any season. From luxury estates to new-construction homes, we pride ourselves on bringing polished storytelling and strategic presentation to every property we represent. As Nashville continues to grow, we remain grateful for the trust our community places in us. Here’s to a bright, inspiring 2026, and to the homes, memories, and milestones still to come.

Hampton Inn Green Hills -Making your out-of-town guests feel at home Complete confidence that out-of-town guests will feel “right at home” is a primary concern for every host or hostess, no matter what the social event. The fully renovated Hampton Inn & Suites-Green Hills specializes in just that: making our home their home-away-from-home while they attend your special event. We are a boutique-style select service hotel in the heart of Green Hills’ fantastic shopping, dining and entertainment district. We can offer both comfortable standard rooms and spacious residential king suites with fully furnished kitchens. We provide your guests with complimentary cost saving services and amenities that other hotels often add to their bills. Our rate includes free parking, internet access, local calls and our highly praised daily breakfast buffet with hot items. The facility offers a computer center, fitness facility, and laundry services for the convenience of guests during their visit. The atrium-style sixth floor Belle Meade room offers a dynamic view of the Green Hills area, perfect for bridesmaid luncheons, rehearsal dinners, receptions and birthday parties. To keep your visitors entertained during those free times of your special event, we are in walking distance of the Mall at Green Hills, 15 restaurants and a 16-screen cinema. Contact our sales department to learn how we can help relieve some of the responsibilities so you can better enjoy your next social event. Find out more at www. nashgreenhillssuites.hamptoninn.com .

Zanders Marriage is a meaningful milestone, and a smart time to align your insurance with the life you’re building together. As newlyweds combine households, finances, and long-term goals, coverage gaps can quickly emerge. Zander Insurance helps couples create a coordinated, multi-line approach that protects both today’s priorities and tomorrow’s plans. Whether you’re purchasing a first home, upgrading your space, or renting while you plan your next move, we can review homeowners or renters’ coverage, confirm appropriate limits, and ensure you have the right protection that fits your needs. We also help streamline auto policies for simplicity and potential savings while keeping coverage aligned with your budget and risk tolerance. Once your home and auto foundation is in place, life insurance becomes a critical next step. We help you evaluate coverage that can protect your income and support your spouse if the unexpected happens. Additionally, if you’ve acquired new valuables—rings, heirlooms, or significant gifts—we can advise on options for proper protection. Zander provides clear guidance, competitive options, and a streamlined experience for this exciting new chapter.

Katy’s A one stop, locally owned shop, to answer all your Simcha gift giving needs, look no further then Katy’s Gifts in the heart of Belle Meade. Charlie and Sherilyn Tallent purchased Katy’s Nashville in 1998 and, at that time, owned stores in Atlanta as well. After commuting for years, they decided to sell their Georgia stores and, in 2006, moved to Tennessee full-time. They just moved to their expansive new location at 6033 Highway 100 in Nashville in the Westgate Shopping Center at the corner of Highway 100 and Tyne Blvd. In 2014, they purchased Brentwood Stationers and changed the name to Katy’s Brentwood as it is today. They enjoy contributing and being a part of both communities, and hope to continue to offer their guests a unique and welcoming place to shop for years to come! Visit the store or shop online. 615-383-1422. https://www.katysgifts. com/belle-meade.

Kupin Group 2025 has been an extraordinary year for The Kupin Group. From guiding first-time home buyers taking that exciting leap to helping returning clients find their next place, it has been an honor to walk alongside our clients at every stage of the home buying and selling journey. Watching our community continue to grow and thrive has been one of the greatest joys of the year. Nashville remains an incredible place to call home, whether you’re buying your NEW ADDRESS: first place, upsizing for more space, or 4515 Harding Pike exploring investment opportunities. We are proud to help our clients navigate every Suite #112 aspect of the local real estate market. Nashville, TN 37205 Another highlight was moving Hayley’s parents, Jacob’s in-laws, to town Covenant Capital and finally welcoming them into the comGroup Building munity we love so much. Helping families find home is what we do, and being able to www.bellemeadejewelry.net do that for our own family meant the world. We are also proud to continue support615-269-3288 ing Nashville’s Jewish community in meaningful ways. This year, The Kupin Group Book Your Appointment sponsored the Jewish Film Festival, NCJW’s Today! Continued on page 24

C ebrate a of Life’s Special O asions! Gifts for Birthdays, Bar & Bat Mitvzahs, Weddings, Babies, and everything in between

Westgate Shopping Center 6033 Highway 100 Nashville, TN 37205 615.383.1422 KatysGifts.com

The Jewish OBSERVER • January 2026

ADVERTORIALS Continued from page 23

Ways & Means, Hillel, and several other initiatives that keep our community connected. As we look ahead to 2026, The Kupin Group is energized and ready to continue serving the Nashville Jewish community by empowering first-time buyers, guiding families into new chapters, and strengthening the connections that make Middle Tennessee feel like home. We are grateful for the trust, relationships, and opportunities that shaped this year. As always, at The Kupin Group, we’ve got your back!

Café Sperry’s on Highway 70 A taste of perfection truly awaits at Café Sperry’s on Highway 70, where timeless quality meets everyday convenience. Sperry’s Mercantile and Cafe is just moments from Sperry’s Restaurant in Belle Meade, Café Sperry’s was designed to be your go-to stop for mornings, mid-day breaks, and everything in between. Whether you’re grabbing coffee on the way to work, fueling up after school dropoff, or enjoying a relaxed breakfast or lunch, Café Sperry’s delivers the same commitment to excellence that has defined the Sperry’s name for decades. From freshly brewed coffee and thoughtfully prepared café fare to a warm, welcoming atmosphere, every detail is crafted with care. Just steps away, Sperry’s Mercantile complements the café experience by offering Continued on page 26

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24 January 2026 • The Jewish OBSERVER

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The Jewish OBSERVER • January 2026

ADVERTORIALS Continued from page 24

gourmet shopping at its finest featuring Nashville’s highest quality meats, fresh seafood, spices, house-made dressings, and specialty items you won’t find anywhere else. Together, Café Sperry’s and the Mercantile make everyday meals easier, elevated, and unmistakably Sperry’s. For added convenience, Sperry’s Mercantile also offers online ordering with local pickup or nationwide shipping, so your favorites are always within reach whether you’re planning ahead or shopping on the go. From morning coffee runs to curated gourmet selections, Café Sperry’s on Highway 70 brings quality, comfort, and tradition together under one roof. Stop by, slow down, and savor the experience because at Sperry’s, perfection isn’t reserved for special occasions.

Red Spirits - For all your special occasions! As the calendar year of 2025 has come to a close our team at RED Spirits and Wine would like to extend our sincerest gratitude to the Nashville JCC and all of our guests for the wonderful support that we have received during the 14 years since we first opened our doors in Bellevue. We hope that this holiday season has brough everyone in our community an opportunity to cherish special time with friends and family. Mazel Tov! Being a local business, we feel extremely fortunate to have such a wonderful support base. In fact, we like to say that the “best thing” about RED is our fabulous customers! We look forward to 2026 and hope to see a lot of familiar faces, along with some new ones too! Again, we wish that everyone reading this is blessed with health, happiness, love, and peace! Shalom.

Carrie Mills Designs: Customized art for your special occasion Carrie Mills, fashion designer, illustrator, and Parson School of Design alumni, creates customized art for your special occasions. How wonderful for a bride to own a one-of-a-kind illustration marking her once in a lifetime day, or a portrait of the happy couple who just became engaged? What about the gift of a personalized mixed media beautiful collage forever commemorating a loved one’s life or a special occasion? Invite Carrie to create a piece of art in her unique and elegant style that will be celebrated in the moment and passed down for generations to come. Make your special day even more memorable with an original work of art highlighting your special moment or a loved ones’ life. It makes for a truly original great wedding, bar or bat mitzvah, anniversary or birthday gift. For more information please visit www.carriemills.org or call 615-210-5044. •

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Kvetch in the City By CARRIE MILLS

here’s an inspirational saying that goes something along the line, if you can’t get in through the front door, go through the window. Meaning, there’s always a way, don’t give up so easily. This saying came to mind the other day as I was in the process of buying yet another used car. I thought I’d hold out and buy a new car this time around, which I really did not want to do, because, let’s face it, cars depreciate the minute you roll off the lot. As good fortune had it, a fantastic preowned car came my way, seemingly out of the blue. However not really out of the blue, and I’ll tell you why. It has to do with windows. I think I cracked some kind of used car buying code years ago. And it goes back to that inspirational saying. For this particular scenario it goes more like; If you see the car you want to buy with some stranger sitting in the driver’s seat, knock on the window. Herein lie one of those stories I will probably be telling ad nauseum the rest of my life. You know how old people tell the same stories over and over again. That’s gonna be me with this one. Years ago, eight years ago to be exact, I got rear ended while driving around doing my Saturday morning yard sales. I mean, my car was totaled and I was lucky to be alive. I ended up receiving only $6000 dollars from the insurance company and I’d be damned if I was going to take out a loan to buy a new car or spend a penny more than that. Mind you, this was before Covid when used cars were still reasonable, so I began my search. However, since I was intent on purchasing a one owner, well cared for car within my budget, not such an easy find. Not knowing what kind of car to get, three of my friends all driving 2004/2005 Honda CRV’s at the time convinced me

to try and find that car model. Well, good luck trying to find one. It seemed no one sold them because they last so long. It seemed it was the type of car that was passed down in families until it’s death at 400,000 miles or so. I was one and a half months into the search, ready to pull my hair out from looking while driving a rental car, when I pulled up into the parking lot at work one morning and lo and behold, right beside me was a 2005 Honda CRV with a man sitting at the wheel. Without thinking, just moving from a blinded by the light, bold desperation, and a whole lot of chutzpah thrown in for good luck, I jumped out and knocked on the guy’s window. He rolled it down as I blurted out, “Will you sell me your car?” “Sure”, he said. Wait, what?!! Really?!! And guess what? It gets even crazier. Turns out I knew his wife and our kids grew up together at school, though a year or so apart. He then proceeds to tell me his wife is selling her car too. So, I call his wife, who then tells me they are also selling her father’s car. Get out of here!!! So now, I have three cars in literally one window knock to choose from. To make a long story short, I end up purchasing the Honda for a great price, did a few extra repairs and had the exact car I set out to find all within my budget. Fast forward to last month, 8 years later. My reliable, loved, car, now 20 years old, was starting to fall apart in expensive ways (a little bit like me). Granted, I could probably get another 200,000 miles out of it with a bunch of repairs. Thing is, I was calling Triple A one too many times and forget about highway driving now. As fate and maybe carma, I mean karma, would have it, I was literally at a yard sale on a Saturday morning once again, and no, this time, my car did not get totaled, however, I had literally just told my friends I have to find a new car, when I received a text from, guess who?!!!, the family that sold me the Honda. The mom was now selling her 8-year-old car and wanted to know if I’d like to purchase it. Hello?!! What???!!! Yes!!!! And while the saying goes, “If you can’t get through the front door, go through the window” is metaphorical, and AI recommends you don’t try it literally, I contest AI and say try it! You may end of getting a car or two out of the process and a crazy story you can tell ad nauseum for the rest of your life. •

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HUNT MEMORIALS, INC 4807 GALLATIN PIKE | NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE

26 January 2026 • The Jewish OBSERVER

Make sure to let them know... you saw their ad here!

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES DIRECTORY ACCOUNTANTS

CHIROPRACTIC CARE

OPTOMETRIST

CATHY WERTHAN, CPA CBIZ 1221 Broadway, Suite 1925 Nashville, TN 37203 (615) 245-4070 • CBIZ.com

DR. BRADLEY KROCK D.C. Discover relief with Dr. Krock, DC Expert chiropractic care for pain, wellness, and injury recovery. Book your appointment today! 615-723-0201 www.krockchiropractic.com

DR. MICHELE SONSINO Optique Franklin 436 Main Street, Franklin 615-591-4191 Optique Nashville 2416 21st Ave. South, Nashville 615-321-4393

DENTIST

DR. JAMES W. KIRKCONNELL Bellevue Eyecare Center 7640 Hwy 70 S, Ste 102 Nashville 615-662-7588 www.bec2

APPLIANCES

ELECTRONIC EXPRESS is a leader in top quality, brand-name electronics and appliances at exceptionally low prices. Stocking the latest items, Electronic Express takes pride in providing customers with products at prices to fit any budget. From televisions, appliances, smart devices and cameras to security systems, furniture and mattresses, Electronic Express has everything to take your home to the next level. Electronic Express offers special financing, delivery and installation options. We make it happen! Visit us at any of our 18 locations or online at www. electronicexpress.com

ATTORNEY MARTIN SIR, ATTORNEY Family Law / Personal Injury / Probate 3200 West End Avenue, Suite 500 Nashville, Tennessee 37203 615-256-5661 (phone) 615-256-5115 (fax) www.martinsirlaw.com

CARE GIVER

Seniors and Post Hospital Care

Custom senior care for active, healthy lifestyles. Affordable/no minimums. Meals, meds, transp., outings, dementia care & assist with hospital discharge. Professional trusted care partners. Locally owned. Call Moises for Free Assessment: 615-678-9223 www.curaforcare.com

Elite Caregiving Services Compassionate Care In Your Home We offer aftercare from surgical procedures, part-time assistance, and 24 hour elderly care. 615-881-6528 Hannah@EliteCaregivingServices.com EliteCaregivingServices.com

STEVEN R. HECKLIN, DMD DAVID M. SMILEY, DMD ABBY DILUZIO, DMD Cosmetic and Family Dentistry www.drhecklin.com 5606 Brookwood Place 615-356-7500

HOME MAINTENANCE

Home Maintenance Concierge Semi-annual Guidance and Upkeep. Perfect for busy homeowners, Seniors, Snowbirds, Caregivers. In-person service and trusted advice. No sales pitches, pressure or mark-ups. Mark Hill 615-823-8033 m.hill@tandemrealty.com www.TandemRealty.com

INSURANCE

ORTHODONTISTS

Specialists in Orthodontics Dr. Jonathan Gluck DDS, MSD Dr. Joel Gluck DDS, MS 2002 Richard Jones Road A-200 615.269.5903 drgluck.com

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT GHERTNER & COMPANY Homeowner Association and Condominium Management Full Service and Financial Management Property Management since 1968 615-255-8531 www.ghertner.com

PSYCHOTHERAPY & COUNSELING BILTMORE INSURANCE SERVICES Greg Zagnoev, Agent 615-746-RISK (7475) Home, Auto, Business, and Life JAMES A. ROTHBERG ADAM ROTHBERG James A. Rothberg & Associates Office: 615-997-1833 Fax: 615-665-1300 2000 Glen Echo, Suite 208 Nashville, TN 37215 Email: jrothberg@jarinsurance.com info@jarinsurance.com

ROBINS INSURANCE Bruce Robins, CPCU, CIC, ARM; Van Robins, CIC Auto, Home, Life, Health, Business Insurance 11 Music Circle S Ph. 615-665-9200 • www.robinsins.com ZANDER INSURANCE GROUP, INC. Jeffrey J. Zander, CIC Auto, Home, Life, Health, Business, Long Term Care, Identity Theft Protection 6213 Charlotte Pike, Nashville, TN 37209 615-356-1700 www.zanderins.com M JAFFA HEALTH INSURANCE Marsha Ross Jaffa, CIC, LUTCF 615-482-3860 Medicare, Health, Dental, and Life

IRA HELDERMAN, PhD, LPC Psychotherapy for Individuals, Adolescents, Couples and Families nashvillepsychotherapyandcounseling. com Please contact: 615-473-4815 or ira.p.helderman@vanderbilt.edu

REAL ESTATE

Jackie Roth Karr, REALTOR®

JESSICA AVERBUCH Broker/ Owner Zeitlin Sotheby’s International Realty 615-294-9880 jessica.averbuch@zeitlin.com KAROL FARAGALLI 615-289-3359 karolfaragalli@gmail.com LORNA M. GRAFF Broker, GRI, CRS, ABR 615-351-5343 lorna.graff@zeitlin.com www.lornagraff.com SETH HOFFMAN Associate Broker 615-351-2150 seth@sethhoffmannashvillehomes.com NAN SPELLER Broker, GRI, ABR 615-973-1117 nanspeller2014@gmail.com _______________________________

Nashville: 615.383.0183 Franklin: 615.794.0833 zeitlin.com

ABR, CRS JackieKarr@gmail.com JackieKarr.com Mobile: 615-330-9779 Office: 615-463-3333

SPORTING GOODS TEAM NASHVILLE Your Running/Walking Swimming Headquarters 3205 West End Ave. Nashville, TN 37203 615-383-0098

TRAVEL SERVICES

FRANKLIN PARGH 615-351-7333 franklin.pargh@compass.com LANA PARGH 615-504-2685 lana.pargh@compass.com www.pargh.com Instagram: @theparghteam

Expedia Cruise Ship Centers A Full Service Travel Agency Alan Cooper: Office: 615-454-6439 www.expediacruises.com/AlanCooper 7081 B Hwy 70 S / Kroger Shopping Ctr.

JACOB KUPIN, REALTOR HAYLEY LEVY KUPIN, REALTOR 615-281-9035 Jacob@TheKupinGroup.com Hayley@TheKupinGroup.com www.TheKupinGroup.com We’ve got your back!

Preserving the Natural Beauty of Trees and Shrubs. Specializing in the care of shade and ornamental trees and shrubs for residential and commercial properties. Serving Nashville since 1978. 615-373-4342 www.druidtree.com

TREE SERVICES

GREG ANSEL, REALTOR® Phone/Text: 615-815-6405 Email: GregAnsel@kw.com “Let’s Get Moving!” NEW & RENEWING ADS ARE SHADED

The Jewish OBSERVER • January 2026

January in the Galleries: Featuring the work of the Rhonda Wernick, S. Christopher Kuith and a Pop up Yart Sale. T he Janet Levine March Gallery will feature the work of Rhonda Wernick. Wernick’s art has always been rooted in joy. It began with her father—his resilience as a Holocaust survivor, his laughter at family gatherings, and the way he danced with complete abandon. From him, she learned that creativity is both a celebration and an act of hope. Painting is how she makes sense of the world. Whether capturing the elegance of a dancer in motion or the fragile bloom of a flower from her garden, Wernick is searching for what feels alive. Color, light, and brushstroke allow her to express the energy beneath the surface—the part of a moment that is felt rather than seen. Movement has always guided her hand. The rhythm of dance shaped her early work, but that same rhythm lives in the curve of a petal, the tilt of a wine glass, the quiet exchange between friends. Each subject carries its own music. What began as a small class in the senior lounge has grown into a vibrant community. Wernick has been teaching oil painting at the GJCC for nearly twenty years, and it has been one of her greatest joys. In her classes, art becomes a shared journey—the courage to try, the delight of discovery, and the friendship found in creating side by side. She doesn’t teach a style; she helps each artist uncover their own. Wernick also served six years on the J’s board and helped plan the Main Event, the center’s annual gala for many years. In 2013, she and Meryl Kraft co-founded Art on the West Side, an initiative to showcase local artists and bring the broader Nashville community into the J’s growing arts ecosystem. Today, the center’s monthly gallery exhibitions, curated by Carrie Mills, are a cornerstone of Nashville’s arts scene. Her

paintings reflect gratitude—for beauty, for community, and for the many chapters of her creative life. Every canvas is an invitation: to pause, to feel, and to celebrate the joy of being here. The JLMG2 Gallery will feature a Yart Sale. A Surprise pop up sale of art by local artists that are varied and affordable. The Sig Held Gallery will feature the art of S.Christopher Kuith. Kuith (pronunciation: Key-thee) is a self-taught artist located in Nashville, TN. After taking a six-year break from his art, he has re-emerged with a new perspective towards art and design. Among his work you will find surrealist landscapes, life/ death, portraits, plein air landscapes, and florals. His current mediums are oil, acrylic, graphite and oil pastels. Through his art-making process, he aims to take the viewer to a space where the mind can reel, and the eye can wander in hopeful resolution. His focus lies in creating realistic surrealist worlds that express ideas of personal and social importance through visual symbolism that he finds captivating, curious and beautiful. An ever-evolving catalogue of items, imagery, ideas and representations in an effort to express his truths. The Senior Lounge will feature the work of the Tennessee Watercolor Society. The House gallery will feature the Under One Roof collaborative exhibit. The Exhibition Dates are January 6 - 21. The Artist reception will be held on January 14th from 6-8 pm and feature music by DJ Joseph Harris, pop up jewelry by Chandler Dezigns. The exhibitions are free and open to the public. For more information, contact the GJCC at 615.354-1699, Curator Carrie Mills at carrie@nashvillejcc.org, or go to www.nashvillejcc.org. •

Unfractured Peace, by S. Christopher Kuith

Bold Spirit, by Rhonda Wernick

Nocturnal Moon, by S. Christopher Kuith

Survivor, by Rhonda Wernick

Akiva, PJ Library, and the GJCC Selected for National Prizmah Engage Initiative By ELLY EBIN

kiva School is excited to be part of a national initiative spearheaded by Prizmah: Center for Jewish Day Schools, designed to strengthen Jewish community connections. Together with PJ Library Nashville and the Gordon JCC, Akiva was selected to participate in Engage: Growing School and Community Partnerships, a year-long program for Jewish Day Schools across North America. Engage provides both grant support and expert guidance to help Jewish day schools work more closely with community organizations to meet families and support them as they make choices about Jewish education. Celia Lerch, Director of Enrollment and Outreach at Akiva Schools reflects that, “at its core, Engage is about relationships. We’re bringing together school professionals and community partners to learn about thoughtful outreach and long-term stewardship of families of our Nashville Jewish community.” Lerch adds that the guidance from Prizmah is focused on data-informed decision making and strengthening the bridges

between the early childhood experience and a Jewish day school education. For Akiva, participation in this program supports the long-held belief that Jewish education thrives when schools, preschools, and community institutions work together rather than in silos. This partnership allows Akiva to connect with families earlier, build trust and relationships, and create shared experiences that feel joyful and accessible.

28 January 2026 • The Jewish OBSERVER

Since the program began, the partnership has already brought several collaborative events to the community, including a Purim pajama party, and challah bake and storytelling. This winter, Puppets & Play, featuring the Nashville Public Library’s Puppet Truck, will visit Akiva and provide another opportunity for a meaningful collaboration. For the Gordon JCC, this collaboration has had its own unique impact

as well. Alyssa Seibers, Director of Children’s Services for the GJCC explains, “This partnership represents exactly the kind of community-building we believe in at the Gordon JCC. When we work together across organizations, we can create more meaningful touchpoints for families and show them the strength and warmth of Nashville’s Jewish community from their very first experiences with us. These events allow us to meet families where they are and build genuine relationships over time.” These events are designed as touchpoints in building relationships with the community and other local organizations, and with the idea that Jewish learning can be both meaningful and fun. For the greater Jewish community in Nashville, Engage helps align our efforts, share resources, and ensure that families have a more connected and supportive Jewish network. As Akiva, PJ Library, and GJCC continue this collaboration, the goal is simple but powerful: to strengthen Jewish life in Nashville by starting early, working together, and creating experiences that connect families to our vibrant Jewish community for the long term. •