The Observer Vol. 91 No. 4 – April 2026

Jewish OBSERVER

HAPPY PASSOVER

The Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville Welcomes New Security Director

By BARBARA DAB

Antisemitism is rising steadily, according to the Anti-Defamation League’s most recent report. Over the past 10 years reported incidents have grown to number close to 10,000, the highest since reporting began in 1979. Here in Nashville, the Jewish community has also experienced increasing antisemitism and a growing presence of White Nationalists in and around the state.

To address the growing needs for a coordinated, strategic security plan, the Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville in partnership with the Secure Community Network is pleased to welcome John Curatolo as the new community security director. “We are so pleased to welcome John to our community. During these

challenging times, it is both comforting and exciting to have his experience and wisdom to help us navigate the landscape and create a safer, more secure environment where we can all enjoy the fullness of Jewish life,” says Judy Alperin, CEO of the Federation.

Curatolo brings more than forty years of experience in law enforcement and over thirty years in leadership roles spanning emergency management, homeland security, intelligence operations, and public safety at the local, state, and international levels.

Over the course of his career, Curatolo has held senior command positions within municipal policing, including serving as Deputy Police Chief with

the Ithaca Police Department and later as second-in-command of a municipal police department, where he provided executive leadership over operations, administration, and strategic planning. While at the Ithaca Police Department, he oversaw agency administration, budgeting, grant management, emergency management planning, and the command of major critical incidents.

Curatolo previously served as a Supervisory Special Agent with the Tennessee Office of Homeland Security and as Co-Director of the Tennessee Fusion Center, where he led statewide intelligence and information-sharing initiatives. In his earlier role as Critical Infrastructure and Key Resources

Protection Coordinator, he oversaw critical infrastructure protection efforts across Tennessee and collaborated closely with federal, state, and local partners to strengthen public safety.

He also served as a Regional Commander and U.S. Police Advisor in Afghanistan under the U.S. Department of State, where he managed complex operations and mentored senior Afghan police leaders in high-threat environments.

Curatolo says a career in law enforcement is his lifelong passion, beginning at age four, “Ever since I was a kid, it was just what I wanted to do.” He says his relationship with the Jewish community began several years ago when he was working with the State. “I was head of critical infrastructure in a key

Continued on page 4

A New Beginning: Rimon Preschool Opens Doors for Nashville’s Youngest Learners

By BARBARA DAB

Anew preschool has joined the roster of options for Nashville parents. The Rimon Preschool at Congregation Sherith Israel opened its doors last month, beginning with infants six weeks to 30 months old. The school is a continuation of Rabbi Saul Strosberg’s efforts to provide a comprehensive Jewish education for all of Nashville’s children, and this new preschool is another step in that direction. “Everyone in the community knows how much I personally love the energy and spirit that our

youngest members bring. I’m excited to see and hear babies, infants and toddlers in the building.” Strosberg is also pleased with the new educational leadership of Rimon.

“I’m excited about the phenomenal staff that we were able to recruit for this program. Already very much beloved by the community.” The Head of School is Catherine Carroll, newly arrived from

Michigan, with a 17-year career in education. She says the road to opening the school was a lengthy one that began last summer. “I came in August and

Continued on page 8

From the Federation’s CEO

By JUDY ALPERIN

The retelling of the Passover story brings familiar lessons and inspiration from generation to generation. At its core is a theme central to so many of our holidays and stories—one that serves as a timely reminder in 2026. From the moment we understood ourselves to be the people of Israel, Am Yisrael, there have been those committed to our destruction or to controlling or minimizing our existence.

During the time of Pharaoh, we lost our voice. We lost our freedom. We lost our ability to determine our destiny, at least for a time.

Faith, resilience, and the bonds of peoplehood and community sustained us. Ultimately, they led to our redemption and to a new chapter that brought us to the Promised Land.

Today, we find ourselves in perilous times that echo periods of the past. And yet, the Jewish people live. We continue to build vibrant, warm, and welcoming places to gather, to learn, to celebrate,

to mourn, and to enrich our lives. Across the United States, Jewish community centers, synagogues, legacy organizations, and innovative new groups offer myriad opportunities to connect with Jewish life. Unfortunately, the budgets of these critical institutions are increasingly strained as growing portions must be devoted to safety and security. The fact is we simply cannot do it alone, nor should we. Protecting citizens is the primary responsibility of government. Yet the Jewish community is forced to spend more than $765 million each year simply to protect itself. There is more that government can and should do to ensure that every vulnerable Jewish institution has the resources necessary to remain safe.

Our Jewish Federation, through the JCRC and in collaboration with community partners and the three other Tennessee Jewish Federations— Chattanooga, Knoxville, and Memphis— recently lobbied our state legislators to support the reinsertion of houses of worship security grant funding into the state

budget. For the past four years, Tennessee has allocated $1.25 million to assist with these critical security needs.

There is more to be done at the Federal level as well. At the end of May, Federation representatives will travel to Washington, DC, to advocate for an increase in the Nonprofit Security Grant Program, which was reduced from $350 million in 2024 to $275 million in 2025.

I want to express my gratitude to the leadership of the Jewish Federation, who recently voted to enter into a partnership with the Secure Community Network to bring a Regional Security Advisor to greater Nashville. John Curatolo began his work on March 9.

John’s arrival came during a week that offered a stark reminder of why this work matters. A lone attacker intent on causing harm attempted to carry out a violent assault at Temple Israel in West Bloomfield, Michigan, by driving an explosive-laden truck through the synagogue’s doors before opening fire. While deeply disturbing, the attack was

sadly not surprising. It was another clear reminder that those who seek to harm the Jewish community do exist, and it is our responsibility to pursue the highest level of preparedness through investments in our community’s safety and security.

With the addition of a Regional Security Advisor, we now have an experienced professional who will work with every Jewish institution, organization, and community leader to identify gaps and strengthen our collective preparedness.

The Jewish Federation does many things to enhance the quality of Jewish life here in Nashville, in Israel, and around the world. But none of it is possible without first safeguarding our community.

Please help us keep our Jewish Federation strong and able to work proactively and responsively to address today’s most important challenges. Each of us can help by contributing to the Jewish Federation’s Annual Campaign. And if you are able, please consider giving a little more this year. •

Susan Morrow Zimmerman Takes National Stage as Nashville Women’s Philanthropy Thrives

By BARBARA DAB

Jewish women’s philanthropy is alive and thriving in Nashville. That’s according to Susan Morrow Zimmerman, newly appointed to the Jewish Federations of North America’s National Women’s Philanthropy board. The appointment marks the first time someone from Nashville is serving in this capacity. “National women’s philanthropy is always something I’ve been intrigued by,” says Morrow Zimmerman. She says involvement at the national level will support her efforts to help enrich the local program. “What I’ll learn from National Women’s Philanthropy offers me so much.”

Morrow Zimmerman is no stranger to involvement in Federation. She first joined the campus campaign at the age of 19 during her college years in Pittsburgh. After moving to Chicago in 1997, she quickly became involved in the local board and was invited to join the National Young Leadership Cabinet in 2000. It was there that she made lifelong connections with women leaders around the country. She says in today’s world, women’s philanthropy is more relevant than ever. “There’s always something unique about women bonding with women, having that relationship, and finding your core strength and what you’re passionate about.”

Women in Nashville have long been involved in Federation, and Zimmerman says she is excited to address the challenges of engaging them across the generations. “I’m learning in this community that there are women who are retired, who have left the workforce. How do we find something to keep them engaged and to want to be involved?”

Erin Coleman is the current chair of Women’s Philanthropy in Nashville and a member of the National Young Leaders cabinet. She says the significance of Morrow Zimmerman’s national

involvement cannot be overstated. “In my experience in national committee’s we are a much smaller representation. Susan’s involvement helps put Nashville back on the map when it comes to women’s philanthropy; it showcases us as a city and as a Federation.”

Coleman says she is excited to chair the current Women’s Philanthropy committee and lead efforts to raise it to new levels. She references Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who famously encouraged women to have a seat at the table where

decisions are made. “For so long women couldn’t make their own financial decisions. Being empowered both financially and in leadership is extraordinary.”

The notion of stepping into and modeling leadership for a new generation also resonates with Jennifer Richardson who is on the local Women’s Philanthropy committee. “Actions speak louder than words. I don’t want to tell my daughter that it’s important to give back. I want to show her how to get involved.”

Richardson moved to Nashville from

Southern California just last year and says Morrow Zimmerman is quickly becoming her mentor and role model. “She is a powerhouse. She is my leader. She knows what she wants and she knows how to do it. We’re going to be a great team.”

According to Richardson the team has plans to continue growing local involvement in Federation and women’s philanthropy. The first step is a series of dinners. “I really want to get more women involved in wanting to give back and make it exciting where we can learn from each other, inspire each other, lift each other up while also adding to our community and our Jewish heritage.”

Coleman adds that another key element of the women’s philanthropy program is providing opportunities to take action. “One of the core principles I want to integrate is to increase your partnership and mentorship with Federation. That means at every single women’s philanthropy program we are going to engage in some sort of community service.” She says the group will also engage in women mentorship. “It’s important to be able to see yourself in the women who came before you, to be able to visualize that you can do it too.”

Morrow Zimmerman is pleased with the current local leadership team and looks forward to developing a more robust array of engagement opportunities. “We’re working to figure out what our community wants and needs and what will appeal to women here.” •

Shlicha Corner

By ZIV SHEMESH, COMMUNITY SHLICAH

The fourth and fifth of the Jewish month of Iyar, Yom HaZikaron and Yom HaAtzmaut, which stand side by side, present the Israeli reality in which history and hope meet at a single point. At first glance, it may seem like a jarring contrast: how can one move from the silence of a memorial siren, from cemeteries and the memory of the fallen, to fireworks, flags, and celebration? Yet it is precisely this closeness that expresses a profound truth at the heart of both the Jewish tradition and the Zionist story.

Jewish culture has long understood the tension between grief and joy. Throughout history, moments of mourning have been woven into our most joyous occasions. The memorial prayer Yizkor is recited during major holidays, and at the wedding celebration a glass is broken to remember the destruction of Jerusalem.

This understanding is that Israel is not only an ancient dream it was also achieved through profound sacrifice. This idea was captured powerfully by the poet Natan Alterman in his poem “The Silver Platter”:

Then the nation inquired, drenched in tears and enchantment Of the two, “Who are you?” as they stood,

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Honoring the Past, Dancing into the Future:

Yom HaZikaron and Yom HaAtzmaut

not unnerved. Their reply: “We are they, the acclaimed silver platter Upon whom the new State of the Jews has been served.”

These days reflect the reality that Israel itself weaves together grief and joy, pain and hope, bowed heads alongside proud hearts. They remind us that independence is never taken for granted. It is the result of human sacrifice and an ongoing responsibility to preserve what has been built.

Even today, in the complex reality that has continued for more than two years in the world and especially in Israel, we are once again reminded of the need for a Jewish state and of the delicate balance that exists within this contrast: Israelis will enter shelters singing, lift their spirits through dance, and offer prayers for a better future even within a painful reality. When the national days arrive, they will bow their heads in the morning during the Memorial Day ceremony, and by evening dance with proud hearts in the celebrations of Independence Day.

The well-known phrase “In their death they commanded us to live” expresses the message at the heart of this transition. Independence is not only a cele-

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bration of sovereignty; it is also a moral commitment to remember those whose sacrifice made sovereignty possible. As the Talmud teaches us, “Jacob our father did not die; just as his descendants live, so does he live,” (Ta’anit 5b). Though individuals may pass, their legacy continues through the life they helped create.

Community Commemoration and Celebration

Our community will come together to mark these meaningful days.

On Monday, April 20 at 6:00 PM , we will gather at the Gordon Jewish Community Center for a Yom HaZikaron ceremony. Together we will honor the fallen soldiers of Israel and victims of terror, including those connected to members of our own community.

Then, on Sunday, April 26 from 12:00–3:00 PM, we will celebrate Yom HaAtzmaut, marking 78 years of the State of Israel. The celebration will include a local artists’ market, a children’s activity market, family programming, Israeli food, lively music, and traditional Israeli folk dancing. As in Israel, the event will also feature a torch-lighting ceremony honoring twelve individuals who have made meaningful contributions to the Jewish community.

If you are local artists, or if your children would like to open a booth to sell their creations, you are invited to visit the Federation’s website to register for a booth or for the events themselves.

At: www.jewishnashville.org/yomhaatzmaut •

Donor Spotlight

Matthew Goldblatt

There wasn’t one defining moment that Matthew Goldblatt said sparked his philanthropy. Instead, it was rooted in the values he grew up with.

When his family moved to Orlando, his mother helped found Temple Shir Shalom to ensure her children would have a strong Jewish community. His father, an engineer, led a life grounded in process, and doing things the “right” way.

“That’s not just about home projects but translates to doing the right things, which includes volunteering and helping when in a position to do so,” Goldblatt said.

Following what was modeled for him, Goldblatt was part of founding a BBYO chapter in Orlando while he was in high school, which he said had a profound impact on his life. He wanted to pass that experience on to the next generation and has been a BBYO adviser for the last five years and has won four consecutive “Regional Advisor of the Year” Awards.

His involvement in Jewish Nashville has been both personal and intentional, increasing his presence in recent years through NowGen, Nice Jewish Runners, and other Federation events. In the past,

he would contribute here and there, but following October 7 he realized there was a shift in funds toward overseas and wanted to ensure support locally.

“If I enjoy attending local events and want these types of things to keep happening, why shouldn’t I support them financially?” he said “It starts with the individual. Your actions reflect your priorities. If we want Jewish community and institutions to exist moving forward, it’s time for the next generation to step up.” •

Jewish Federations of Tennessee Highlight Urgent Security Needs During Day on the Hill

By ADELINE ELLISON

The Jewish Federations across Tennessee, in partnership with the Tennessee Forum for Jewish Issues (TFJI) and Friends of the Tennessee - Israel Caucus (FTIC), held a Day on the Hill in March, meeting with lawmakers from both parties to address the most pressing concerns facing Jewish communities across the state.

The central message delivered to legislators was clear: protecting Jewish institutions must remain a top priority. Leaders from the Federations emphasized the growing security challenges facing synagogues, day schools, community centers, and other Jewish facilities. They urged lawmakers to support the Houses of Worship Security Grant Program, which provides critical funding for security infrastructure, training, and emergency preparedness. Leaders stressed that these

grants have become essential tools for safeguarding all houses of worship.

Alongside security, participants discussed statewide efforts to counter rising antisemitism, including educational initiatives and bipartisan cooperation to address hate in public spaces, schools, and online. They also highlighted the value of Tennessee’s ongoing economic, cultural, medical, and technological partnerships with Israel, noting that this relationship contributes to innovation and economic growth in Tennessee.

The day was a meaningful demonstration of unity, with legislators across the political spectrum expressing support for strengthening community safety and combating antisemitism. The Federations express optimism that the conversations will lead to continued investment in security resources and sustained attention to the needs of Jewish communities throughout Tennessee. •

Security Director

Continued from page 1 resource protection role, and I ended up working with people from the West End Synagogue after they had an incident there. And I just really enjoyed it. I like going around trying to help people. It’s just a perfect job.” Curatolo credits his wife with encouraging him to apply for the position.

Curatolo says he is pleased with the community’s relationship with Metro Police and believes they are the best agency to call when things happen. His career in law enforcement helps him gain perspective in his new role. “I’ve always tried to be thoughtful in the way I approach things. I was fair to people and had evidence.”

His philosophy on security is strategic, and he says requires planning and organization. “You need a comprehensive approach to everything that’s going on. And SCN is very well put together with the way they approach training for the community, threat vulnerability assessments of different facilities, the way we will share information and intelligence with our law enforcement partners and try to keep all of us engaged in watching for threats.” He also plans to work on

securing grant funding to help build out the community’s facilities.

In addition to his professional service, John has several years of board governance experience. He served as a school board member and vice president, providing thoughtful oversight, collaboration, and long-term strategic perspective. John and his wife, Teri, also serve as board members of Hope & Healing at Hillenglade (HHH), a nonprofit equine therapy farm that assists veterans, service members, and first responders living with PTSD.

John and Teri have been married for forty years. Together they raised two sons have five grandchildren. Family, faith, and service are central to John’s life, and he says they continue to guide how he leads and supports others.

Funding for Curatolo’s position is provided in part by SCN and Jewish Federations of North America through the $130 million LiveSecure campaign, the largest philanthropic effort ever undertaken to establish a comprehensive, standards-based collective security framework for Jewish communities across North America. Alperin says, “I am grateful for the opportunity to enhance our community’s security efforts through this partnership with both organizations.” •

Community and Calm: P2G Participants Share Their Experience in Israel During Regional Conflict

By REILEY ZEITLER

I n late February, two of Nashville’s Partnership2Gether (P2G) sister Federations led delegations to Nashville’s shared P2G region, HaderaEiron, and throughout Israel, where they expected a trip centered around connection, culture, and community. While in Israel, regional tensions escalated and Israel and the United States launched strikes against Iran. The delegation found themselves in the midst of a historic moment. Although news headlines described a frightening reality on the ground, the members of the delegation say they felt safe, supported, and deeply connected to their Israeli partners, and the community that welcomed them.

Sara Rosenbaum, Chief Philanthropy Officer, Jewish Community Federation of Richmond, is one of the members of the current delegation who was in Jerusalem when the attacks first began. Rosenbaum shared that the next two days, she was in and out of bomb shelters with many Israeli locals. “There’s a lot of camaraderie and a lot of talking, you’re definitely not alone. The Israelis who were with us, are very calm and very optimistic. They were keeping us even keeled and safe.” Rosenbaum said that she felt guilty that the locals were there worrying and taking care of them, and not at home with their families. When asked what her main feeling was in the shelter, Rosenbaum says that she felt at ease. “I knew how well protected we were. They are bomb shelters. They’ve been tested, unfortunately,

way too many times. Just looking to our Israeli guys and leaders, and the fact that they remained calm, helped us remain calm.” Rosenbaum said that although the situation was uneasy and unpredictable, she felt safe and secure in the hands of the Israelis.

Erica Jolles and Mariam Feist, CEO of the Jewish Federation of Northeast Florida, were also among the P2G group in Israel during the strikes. Jolles stated that the first siren went off around 8:10am on the first Saturday of the war and that was, “the beginning of it all.” Jolles described that the alert that gets sent to the phone is one of the most jarring sounds that she has heard. After the first siren, Jolles and Feist went into the stairwell of their hotel, where they remained for roughly 45 minutes. Jolles praised the local Israelies who took them in and made them feel safe and secure admist all the unknown. “The way that

the Federation dealt with everything will have a big impact on me. From the first siren all the way to the end, all I remember is how calm the leaders and our tour guides were. How they worked so hard to keep us engaged.”

Jolles shared that one of her biggest takeaways from the trip, is that she can’t imagine traveling to Israel with any other organization other than the Federation. “Whether it’s the Northeast Florida Federation or a JFNA trip, the Federation has the people, and they have the know-how, they have the knowledge to keep us safe, informed, and calm and protected.”

On this specific trip, there was mixture of faiths and many of the participants were not Jewish. When presented with the opportunity to leave Israel, they felt uneasy and decided to travel through Egypt to return to the states. Jolles shared that the rest of the travelers felt that

there was no reason to go through Egypt, and that she felt very safe where she was. “We were at a nice hotel. We have good food, water, and good people. We have a bomb shelter. We have a stairwell. There was no reason to leave.” At that time, all indications shared with Jolles were that this was going to be a short-lived war, and she felt there was no reason to panic and leave.

The following day was Sunday, and Feist was notified by their tour company that they had booked 10 seats on a flight to Egypt the next day. Both Feist and Jolles shared that nobody was happy, and that they did not want to leave Jerusalem. Feist said, “We felt very safe. We did not like the idea of driving from Jerusalem to Eilat. There was quite a bit of unhappiness.”

While on the trip, JFNA appointed a head of security to watch over the group, and he told Feist that it is time to leave, and that it is not getting any better. Fiest and Jolles shared that once he said that they knew it was time to go.

Despite all the chaos surrounding the outbreak, the participants of the P2G trip felt safe and reassured. The women were surrounded by attentive hosts, local community members, and Federation members who prioritized their safety. They experienced firsthand the strength of the Israeli community. A community committed to coming together, to protect one another. The women left Israel with the powerful reminder that partnership means showing up for one another, especially in difficult moments. •

A Life of Chesed: Honoring Anna Sir at the 2026 JFS Chesed Dinner

By DANIELLE MENDELSON

Jewish Family Service of Nashville and Middle Tennessee has named Anna Lambert Sir as the recipient of its 2026 Chesed Award, recognizing her meaningful contributions to the Jewish and greater Nashville communities. The Chesed Dinner will be held on May 7, 2026, at 6:15 PM, with Jessica Kullock and Danielle Mendelson serving as co-chairs. Chesed is Hebrew for “loving-kindness,” brought to life through the commandment to “love your neighbor as yourself.” In addition to honoring Anna Sir, JFS will present a tribute to Annette Schaffer Eskind, recognizing her enduring commitment to JFS and the greater Nashville Jewish community. Guests are

invited to celebrate these remarkable women, be inspired by their accomplishments, and learn more about the agency’s impact on more than 1,700 clients.

For Anna, chesed is not an abstract idea—it is a way of life. “To me, chesed is always an action,” she shares. “A doing—a deliberate way of moving through the world with intention and heart.”

Born in Philadelphia and raised in New Orleans, Anna’s Jewish identity was shaped early through family and community and deepened during her time at Henry S. Jacobs Camp, where her commitment to tikkun olam—repairing the world—took root.

After moving to Nashville in 1987, Anna quickly became immersed in community life. Her work with JFS began as

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a volunteer, helping Russian immigrants learn English—an experience that resonated deeply as the granddaughter of four immigrants. She went on to serve across organizations including National Council of Jewish Women, Renewal House, Abe’s Garden, Gilda’s Club, and the Gordon Jewish Community Center, and co-chaired the Chesed Dinner two times, making this year’s recognition especially meaningful.

In 2006, Anna joined JFS as Helping Hands Program Coordinator, a role she held for 16 years. There, she focused on connecting volunteers with older adults for one-on-one visits. “Whether shortterm or lasting for years, these relationships created meaningful connections for everyone involved,” she says. “Volunteers often told me they felt they were receiving so much more than they were giving.”

Her experience at JFS left a lasting impression. “Every person is treated with dignity and respect—regardless of circumstances,” Anna reflects. “Professionalism and compassion permeate throughout JFS. I will always be grateful for my years working alongside the staff.”

When she learned she would receive the Chesed Award, Anna was surprised. “It was a complete surprise,” she says. “I feel both deeply grateful and truly humbled.”

She credits her parents as early role models, inspiring her through their kindness, authenticity, and ability to build community. She has also been deep-

ly influenced by her husband, Martin, whose long-standing dedication to social justice and building bridges of understanding continues to inspire her.

Today, Anna remains engaged in meaningful work, serving seasonally with Vanderbilt University Office of Undergraduate Admissions and teaching as a certified yoga instructor. In her free time, she enjoys reading, writing, practicing yoga, hiking, playing Mah Jong, and traveling—especially to Boston and Minneapolis.

The Chesed Dinner is both a celebration of Anna Sir’s contributions and the primary fundraiser for Jewish Family Service, one of Nashville’s oldest social service agencies.

Invitations are in the mail, so be on the lookout to RSVP. To learn more about the dinner and honorees, or to RSVP or donate, visit jfsnashville.org/ ways-to-help/chesed-dinner/.

Last year, JFS served more than 1,900 individuals through 21 programs and services, including adoption support, counseling and psychotherapy, financial assistance, senior services, information and referral, and family life and community enrichment.

For more information about JFS or the Chesed Dinner, contact Pam Kelner, Executive Director, at (615) 354-1644 or visit www.jfsnashville.org

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A Rabbi and a Doctor Discuss Courage

By RABBI MARK SCHIFTAN AND DR. FRANK BOEHM

Mark: Examples of Courage abound throughout the Bible: Daniel demonstrated physical courage when he challenged Goliath; Moses displayed moral courage when he stood before Pharaoh demanding his people’s freedom; Abraham mustered spiritual courage when he debated and argued with God over the fate of Sodom and Gomorrah; Esther discovered hidden courage when she recognized who she was, where she came from and to whom she belonged.

Each of these forms of courage are examples of the varieties of courage we are often called upon to discover and deliver throughout the course of our lives: physical courage, moral courage, spiritual courage, and hidden forms of courage, often buried deep within ourselves and our souls.

Frank, which of these forms of courage do you feel to be the most crucial to display and why? Is there just one, many or all of them?

Frank: Mark, while there is much to be said and written about physical, spiritual, and hidden courage, I am most intrigued about the issue of moral courage. Where does moral courage come from and how is it displayed in the way we live our lives? It seems to me that one can define moral courage as doing the right thing when the right thing is considered controversial, complicated, and based on a variety of ethical and religious elements. It can be defined as the willingness to stand up for what is right based on one’s ethical beliefs and values, even when doing so involves risk, fear, criticism, loss, or personal sacrifice. It means speaking the truth when it is unpopular, defending someone who is being treated unfairly, refusing to participate in wrongdoing, and acting according to conscience despite pressure to conform.

I have an episode in my life which meets these definitions and demonstrates the use of moral courage. It was when I was asked to help our judicial system place a ban on a controversial type of abortion that was being practiced by a small group of physicians in this country.

In 1998 I was asked by four states to defend a law which would ban a type of abortion called “partial birth abortion”, I knew that if I accepted that task, I would be criticized for defending a law

which would curtail a woman’s right to choose during late stages in pregnancy. Despite being a strong pro-choice advocate for abortion rights, I had been an out- spoken critic of performing an abortion after a fetus had reached a gestational age at which it had a reasonable chance of survival outside the womb which at the time was 24 weeks of pregnancy and referred to as a late term abortion. The procedure of partial birth abortion represented infanticide more than anything else with a fetus usually more than 24 weeks of gestational age. Even the Talmud had a passage that condemned this type of procedure. While there were only a limited number of these procedures performed each year, many lawmakers throughout the country wanted to ban this procedure. Abortions had certain limits and this was one of those limitations I could support.

As expected, many of my peers severely criticized me, yet I felt that I was doing the right thing. My testimony was presented to the United States Supreme Court and eventually, a ban on partial birth abortions was upheld. Since that ruling, no woman has suffered medically due to a cessation of this procedure, and a measure of ethical and moral correctness prevailed.

Looking back at this historical event in my life, I am proud of the moral courage that helped me make what I considered to be the right thing to do. The question I have for you Mark, is what causes someone to utilize moral courage and what factors prevent those who fail to display this important form of courage?

Mark: Frank, the question you raised has been asked and answered in two different yet related ways, each profound and compelling. Elie Wiesel, the Holocaust survivor, author, poet, and Nobel peace prize winner, once said: “The opposite of love is not hate, but indifference. To remain silent and indifferent is the greatest sin of all.” Rabbi Yoachim Prinz, the final speaker before Dr. Martin Luther King’s address to those gathered for the March on Washington, offered these words, echoing those delivered by Elie Wiesel: “The most urgent, the most disgraceful, the most shameful and the most tragic problem is silence.”

Both men urged their fellow human beings to find their voice, to stand up for and to stand by their neighbors, defending their rights and freedoms as those equally created in God’s image

and therefore worthy of our love and worthy of our protection and our voice. These two individuals reminded us that moral courage involves taking the risks involved in taking a stand that others may find uncomfortable or unsettling, but that is worthy of articulating and defending.

I became a Reform rabbi because I was inspired by the moral courage of the rabbis who spoke out during the civil rights era, delivering brave messages from their pulpits, which they knew were right, but which their congregants were not always ready to hear. And yet, they had moral courage to deliver those remarks anyway. They offered the wisdom of the ancient prophets. They were anything but silent or indifferent.

In my decades as a rabbi, I never shied away from those controversial issues of the day. I remember High Holy Day sermons I delivered such as “Can I vote for a black man?” during the Obama campaign; “Is healthcare a right or a privilege?”; and during a nationwide campaign of Islamophobia, “Why do Jews need to defend the rights of religious freedoms of others, including Muslims?” I was often fearful of what the reactions of my congregation would

Rimon Preschool

Continued from page 1 we’ve been going through licensing steps, getting Department of Human Services compliant. We were approved for our provisional business license, which was very exciting.”

Carroll says the initial plan is to start small and grow the school over time. “Starting small means, we have that family appeal and a low ratio, one-on-one care. We can give all the attention an infant would need right now.” The current license provides for an infant room with 10 children and 14 in the preschool room, and the school occupies the space formerly used by the Jewish Middle School.

The school is using the teaching methodology called Reggio Emilia. Carroll says the overall philosophy of the method is child-led and project based. “We follow the childrens’ interests. So, if we’re out on playground and they collect a bunch of acorns, we’re going to launch into that and incorporate all the developmental learning standards.” She says she has seen the difference this type of learning makes for young children. “I’ve worked in standard philosophy and Reggio, and with child led the kids are so excited and so much more inspired.”

Rimon is open to both Jewish and non-Jewish children, but with a strong Jewish core. “We’re going to celebrate all the holidays, celebrate Shabbat, and when the older children start, we’re going to have a Hebrew studies teacher,” says Carroll. Carroll says the congregation has been very supportive of the endeavor, in fact the recent open house had a large attendance from members.

Adam Roth is president of Sherith Israel. He says Rimon is a natural outgrowth of the efforts of Rabbi Saul and

be. As expected, not everyone agreed or was sympathetic to my remarks and some were quite angered by them. A few were furious with my message, and with me. However, I was always proud of having the moral courage to deliver them, and grateful to the congregation for defending freedom of the pulpit. I was proud of finding my voice and my courage to use it.

Frank: Mark, we have both had quite similar experiences with this issue of moral courage and both of us are proud that we acted as we did. Moses’s father-in-law, Jethro gave Moses a standard for legitimate authority which argued that power is not validated by popularity, charisma, or force. It is validated by character. That character is best displayed by elements of moral courage. May we all be blessed with the genetics, nurturing, life experiences, and the wisdom of our faith traditions that bring us to the place where we are able to stand tall and proud as we display our moral courage. •

Rabbi Mark Schiftan can be reached at mschiftan@aol.com

Dr. Frank Boehm can be reached at frank.boehm@vumc.org

Daniella Pressner who have both been instrumental to the growth of Jewish education in Nashville. “It was a combination of things. How do we continue to serve that Jewish journey, and quite frankly, there is a need. You look around and talk to some of the other facilities providing child care and preschool and waiting lists are 100 deep.” He says opening the school solves both the issue of access, and early introduction to Judaism. “As Nashville grows and the Jewish community continues to grow, things like this are fantastic and needed.”

To start, Roth says funding for the school will fall under Sherith Israel’s budget. “Because we believe in it strongly, the congregation will support it while it stands up. Additionally, we’ve been soliciting donations from individuals, and we’ve been able to tap into some really generous people who have graciously donated the funding.”

According to Roth, the new preschool received community support from the start. “When the idea started to germinate, Rabbi Saul reached out to The Temple and picked their brains in terms of how it’s done. We looked to them to see what kind of demand is there.” He says The Temple provided a great deal of positive input about best practices, methods, and steps to take. And the broader community was also very supportive of the effort.

Rabbi Saul Strosberg says he is excited to provide another good option for Jewish preschool, and to be reviving a long tradition at Sherith Israel. “We’re excited to be rebooting a preschool that was functioning in our building for nearly 50 years but then became neglected in the early 2000’s, but at least to build on that legacy. And perhaps most exciting, is to be able to help contribute the funnel for Nashville’s K-12 Jewish day schools.” •

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Nashville Holocaust Memorial Observes Yom HaShoah with Tours and

By MARSHA RAIMI

Nashville’s Holocaust Memorial

invites the entire community of Nashville for a docent-led tour during the week surrounding Yom HaShoah, which begins at sundown on Monday, April 13th, when the yellow memorial candle is lit, and lasts through Tuesday, April 14th.

Each tour is unique because the docents include their personal connections to the Holocaust while sharing the story of the survivors and their families who live in Nashville. The dates, times, and docents are:

Sunday, April 12, 1:00 pm – Delilah Cohn – second-generation survivor

Monday, April 13, 1:00 pm – Alex Limor – second-generation survivor and sculptor of all structures at the Memorial Tuesday, April 14, 10:00 am –Marsha Raimi – second-generation survivor

Wednesday, April 16, 1:00 pm –Felicia Anchor - second-generation survivor and Chair of Memorial Committee

The Memorial is partnering with the

PLAN YOUR

…so that it’s not just a fairy tale.

By LORETTA SAFF

WAnnual Commemoration

Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville for the community’s annual commemoration of Yom HaShoah, at 7:00 pm on Monday, April 13th. This year’s program highlights the S.S. St. Louis Legacy Project - a panel discussion and display of artifacts by Robert Krakow and features local author Cathy Lewis. Music and prayer will be led by local rabbis.

The week’s commemorative and educational activities wrap up on Sunday, April 19th, when all the docents will lead tours for the middle- and high-school students of Congregation Sherith Israel, West End Synagogue, Temple Ohabai Shalom, and Congregation Micah. The students will have the opportunity to create a ceramic butterfly in memory of the child victims of the Holocaust.

Nashville’s Holocaust Memorial, located on the grounds of the Gordon Jewish Community Center in Bellevue, is a sacred space for remembering those who suffered during the Holocaust. The twelve Pillars of Remembrance contain names of family members who perished, as well as those who survived and subsequently lived in the Nashville area.

as kids? At the end of the page, we had to decide:

If you climb the mountain, turn to page 48. If you run from the dragon, turn to page 17.

Retirement turns out to work much the same way. Finding your balance in retirement means starting to experiment with things you enjoy doing, used to enjoy doing, suspect you might enjoy or have always been curious about.

Holocaust Memorial Committee Chair, Felicia Anchor, commented, “For many of us second, third, and now fourth-generation survivors there is no cemetery we can visit to remember and honor our loved ones lost in the Shoah. The Memorial was created for this pur-

pose; as well as to educate future generations about the dangers of antisemitism and other forms of hatred.”

To reserve your space, or ask questions, email docent chair Marsha Raimi at nashvilleholocaustmemorial@ gmail.com. •

hat if retirement isn’t the end of the road but instead the moment the road splits into a dozen new directions? For many that moment is unsettling. After all, they’ve spent many decades planning the money part (savings, investments, Social Security, etc.), and now they realize they’ve spent very little time considering the life part!

Research shows that 69% of retirees struggle to adapt because they did not realize retirement would present such big questions like identity, purpose, and how they actually want to spend their time.

I have been encouraging you to think about those questions before doubt, restlessness, or regret take hold. Of course, you’ll want joy and fun along with fulfillment in retirement. When you combine these with what you are actually curious about, you will give yourself a head start.

Helping people answer those questions is what inspired my new magazine-style book, FINDING YOUR BALANCE IN RETIREMENT:

An Interactive Guide To Creating Your Retirement Adventure.

Remember those Choose Your Own Adventure books many of us read

In the book, you’ll meet Steve who is trying to figure it all out. Steve experiments with different paths – volunteering, learning, mentoring, hobbies, new challenges. Some choices energize him. Others, not so much.

But that is the beauty of retirement. There isn’t a right path or a wrong one. There is simply the one you discover that fits you best.

Don’t risk joining that 69% of retirees who spend their first year wasting time trying to figure it all out. Carve out a little time now to explore how you can make this next stage of life truly satisfying.

I’ll close with a nod of gratitude and appreciation to Robert Frost:

THE ROAD NOT TAKEN (a Retirement adaptation)

Several roads diverge in the Retirement Wood,

And happily, you can travel any. So, take time, start now to think which are good Because they are so mixed and many.

Picture yourself with lots of free time

What excites you to do or explore?

Make a list, find connections - check out that road

And watch how your spirits will soar!

Then when you retire, you’ll know your path There won’t be any closed door or fence Because you started early your path to choose

And… it’ll make all the difference.”

HAPPY PASSOVER!

Loretta loretta@coachingwithloretta.com

Heart of the Matter

By NANCY DORMAN

Jewish Family Service staff and volunteers recently gathered with Golden Lunch Bunch seniors at the Temple, Congregation Ohabai Sholom, for a joyful and spirited Purim celebration that brought warmth and connection to all in attendance. The afternoon was filled with laughter, meaningful traditions, and a deep sense of community that made the event truly special.

A highlight of the celebration was Rabbi Michael Danziger’s engaging and interactive retelling of the Purim story. Incorporating music, humor, and group participation, he captivated the audience while dressed as Forrest Gump during his iconic three-year run. His creative portrayal added a fresh and memorable dimension to the story of Esther’s courage.

The festive atmosphere continued with a lively Purim costume contest, where Golden Lunch Bunch participants proudly displayed their imaginative outfits. The room was filled with vibrant colors, laughter, and smiles as everyone celebrated together.

In keeping with the spirit of Purim, attendees also worked together to prepare

mishloach manot—gift bags filled with treats—which were later shared with others, spreading kindness and generosity beyond the gathering.

The celebration served as a meaningful reminder of the importance of tradition, generosity, and togetherness, leaving everyone inspired and already looking forward to next year’s Purim festivities. •

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

Big Night Out Returns This Month at the Gordon JCC

After being postponed earlier this year due to January’s severe ice storm, the Gordon Jewish Community Center’s annual fundraiser, Big Night Out, is finally here. The community celebration will take place Sunday, April 19th, bringing members, supporters, and friends of the J together for one of the organization’s most anticipated events of the year.

This year’s theme, “Jukebox Journey: Dancing Through the Decades,” will take guests on a trip through the generations, celebrating the memories and connections that make the J community so special. The evening supports the Gordon JCC’s wide range of programs and services, including early childhood education, wellness and fitness programming, cultural events, and community initiatives that serve families throughout Nashville.

One of the highlights of the evening

will be the exciting Big Night Out auction, featuring several standout items. Guests can bid on a luxurious Wynn Las Vegas getaway, a two-night stay at Clear Sky Resorts near Bryce Canyon, and a Nashville Sounds experience package perfect for baseball fans. The auction will also include stunning Genesis Diamond earrings and a signed guitar from country music star Luke Bryan, along with nearly 160 incredible other auction items, ranging from travel and entertainment experiences to local packages, dining, and unique items.

Big Night Out continues to be a meaningful way for the Nashville community to gather, celebrate, and support the J’s mission. Tickets are still available at nashvillejcc.org/bignightout or by contacting Marilyn Rubin at marilyn@ nashvillejcc.org for more information.

B’nai Tzedek Teens Bring Purim Joy to Nashville Seniors

By LEERON STARK RESNICK, B’NAI TZEDEK COORDINATOR

On Sunday, March 1, B’nai Tzedek

teens gathered at Abe’s Garden and Richland Place for a meaningful Purim Outreach event focused on connection, celebration, and Jewish values in action.

The afternoon began at Abe’s Garden, where teens and senior residents came together for a spirited Purim celebration featuring a collaborative play, live music, and an interactive game of Purim Jeopardy. Members of the B’nai Tzedek Teen Board led the Jeopardystyle questions as mixed teams of teens and residents put their knowledge to the test, answering questions about Queen Esther, King Achashverosh, and Purim traditions. The room was filled with laughter, teamwork, and friendly competition throughout the program.

Following the program, teens traveled to Richland Place Independent Living to deliver mishloach manot and spend one-on-one time visiting residents

in their apartments. Teens and seniors played card games, asked “get to know you” questions, shared stories, and built genuine connections across generations.

The afternoon concluded with a group reflection, where teens discussed how the outreach experience connected to B’nai Tzedek’s mission and core Jewish values such as honoring elders, community responsibility, and spreading joy.

With careful planning and heart-

felt participation, the Purim Outreach event served as a meaningful reminder that philanthropy extends far beyond financial contributions. Simple acts of kindness—sharing time, conversation, and joy—can leave a lasting impression, bringing warmth, laughter, and genuine connection to the broader community.

Mark your calendars for the next B’nai Tzedek event. The Annual Meeting and Bash coming up on May 17th. •

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.

@ Chabad of Nashville

Discover Rio, Iguazu Falls, and Jewish São Paulo: A Five-Star Journey Through Brazil

This coming June, the community is invited to participate in a mission trip to Brazil, hosted by Chabad of Nashville. The trip is scheduled for June 7-15 and is open to just 30 participants. The itinerary includes the famous Iguazu Falls, the cities of Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paolo, and other cultural and Jewish sites.

Throughout the journey, participants will travel in comfort and style, with luxury accommodations, gourmet kosher dining, private guided tours, and seamless transportation.

Those interested in joining this trip are encouraged to attend the upcoming informational meeting on Sunday, April 15 at 12:00 PM, where the full itinerary will be presented and all details shared. Those interested in attending are encouraged to RSVP by sending an email with their name and contact information to rabbi@ chabadnashville.com.

Rabbi Tiechtel to complete Tractate of Talmud

There is an ancient and widespread custom for the firstborn to fast on the day before Passover. This fast commemorates G-d’s kindness towards the Israelite firstborn; when G-d slew all the Egyptian firstborn males He spared their Jewish counterparts.

This fast is treated leniently. Thus, if there is a festive meal held that relates to a mitzvah, for example, the celebration of a circumcision or of a siyum (the completion of a tractate of the Talmud) the firstborn son participates in the meal rather than fasting.

It is therefore customary to arrange for a Siyum, which is the completion of the study of a tractate of the Talmud to take place in the synagogue after morning prayers on the fourteenth of Nissan. The firstborn sons who are present (and anyone else who is interested in enjoying some refreshments...) participate in this festive meal and, having broken their fast, are free to eat for the rest of the day.

On Wednesday morning, April 1, the morning before the Seder, Rabbi Yitzchok Tiechtel will be making a Siyum, celebrating the completion of 224 pages of the Talmud of Ketubot, following the morning service at Congregation Beit Tefilah Chabad. It will be followed by a light breakfast snack thus giving the firstborns the opportunity to partake in a meal of a Mitzvah and permitting them to break the fast of the first born. For more information go to www.chabadnashville.com

A Cliff Note Family Seder at Chabad

Chabad of Nashville invites the Nashville Jewish community to its 29th annual Community Passover Seders, which will take place in the magnificent ballroom of the Genesis Campus for Jewish Life

On Wednesday, April 1, at 7:00 PM, Chabad will host a A Cliff Notes Family Friendly Seder. It will be an interactive family Seder, a warm, fun and thought-provoking event, which includes a Passover Experience in a Royal setting, handmade Shmurah Matzah for each Seder participant, an abundance of exquisite wines for every palette, an elegant royal dinner, which will include authentic gefilte fish, Bubby’s Passover Brisket, and array of salad and side dishes, catered by one of Nashville’s premiere chefs. Reservation can be made at chabadnashville.com

A Chassidic Seder for the Inquisitive Mind

On Thursday, April 2, at 8:00 PM, Chabad will host “A Chassidic Seder for the Inquisitive Mind.” This will be a full Chassidic Seder with many insights to the Haggadah and various Chassidic tales and melodies, and a exquisite Seder feast. This will be a learning Seder, where participants will delve into the deeper meaning and dimensions to the Passover Exodus and making it personal to their own lives.

This Seder will take place in the Bernard Ballroom at the Genesis Campus for Jewish Life, 95 Bellevue Road, and will be catered by one of Nashville’s premiere chefs

There will be a limited number of seats and first come first serve. Reservations can be made at chabadnashville.com/seder

Get your own personal Shmurah Matzah for your Seder

In honor of Passover, Chabad of Nashville is giving out a free Passover Shmurah Matzah for your Seder. All you need to do is email your name and contact information chabdnashville@gmail.com and you will receive your free Matzah gift box for your Seder.

For more information call Chabad at 615-646-5750.

Sell your Chametz with Chabad for Passover 2026

According to Jewish Law during Passover all types of Chametz (leavend foods) are prohibited to be owned any one of the Jewish faith.

So, what is one to do with all the leavened food in their home during Passover?

The rabbis in ancient biblical days have come up with a solution. One can authorize their rabbi before Passover to sell their Chametz to a non-Jew, who is permitted to own it during Passover. After the holiday is over, the Chametz is sold back to the rabbi, and one is permitted then to benefit from it.

Rabbi Yitzchok Tiechtel at Chabad of Nashville is offering to sell the Chametz of anyone wishing to fulfill this special tradition for Passover, thus taking Passover 2025 to the next level.

Go to chabadnashville.com/chametz by Wednesday, April 1, 2026, 9:00 AM, to fill out the online form to sell your Chametz for Passover.

Chabad to host the Moshiach Seudah

Passover begins with a meal and now ends with a meal. On the last night of Passover, on Wednesday, April 22, at 7:00 PM, Chabad will host the Moshiach Seudah (the Messiah’s meal). All are invited for the traditional feast, inspirational stories, songs, matzah & four cups of wine. In anticipation of the future redemption with Moshiach. Instituted by the Baal Shem Tov 300 years ago, the traditional Moshiach’s meal includes the eating matzah and the consumption of four glasses of wine, toasting to a futuristic era of redemption. The Baal Shemtov would make a festive meal at the close of the holiday, dedicated to the coming of Moshiach. Since then Jews throughout the world come together on the last day of Pesach to celebrate this unique custom.

For more information go to www.chabadnashville.com

All Are Invited to the TGIS Shabbat Dinner

There’s nothing like welcoming Shabbat surrounded by friends, joy, and delicious food—and that’s exactly what TGIS (Thank G-d It’s Shabbat) is all about!

Join us for a warm, all-inclusive Shabbat experience filled with traditional dishes, uplifting singing, a heartwarming Chassidic story, and the kind of community connection that makes Friday night feel truly special.

Mark your calendar for two beautiful evenings: Friday, April 10, hosted by the Lemkin family, and Friday, April 24, hosted by the Shmulei family, at 6:30 PM, at Chabad of Nashville.

Whether you come with friends or on your own, you’ll leave feeling full—in every sense of the word. There’s no cost to attend, but we’d love to know you’re coming!

Kindly RSVP by emailing: chabadnashville@gmail.com

There is a seat waiting for you at our Shabbat table!

Start Your Mornings with Starbucks, Community and Prayer

Chabad of Nashville hosts 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 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

All are welcome to join and experience the inspiration, camaraderie, and spiritual energy of beginning the day together in prayer as a unified community.

Fuel Your Week with Soul & Insight — All From Home

Start your Sunday morning with meaning, inspiration, and community.

Join Rabbi Levi Tiechtel every Sunday at 10:30 AM for a refreshing dose of Jewish wisdom drawn from the weekly Torah portion, timeless lessons that uplift, challenge, and empower.

From ancient truths to modern-day relevance, discover how the Parsha speaks to you, right now.

No RSVP, no pressure, just inspiration.

Zoom in from wherever you are.

Email chabadnashville@gmail.com for the link.

Presented by Chabad of Nashville:

Because your week deserves a deeper start.

Torah & Tea — For Women By Women

Take a moment for yourself each Shabbat to nourish your soul, your mind, and your spirit.

Torah & Tea is a weekly women’s-only Torah study group that gathers every

@ Chabad

Continued from page 12

Shabbat afternoon following the sit-down lunch at Congregation Beit Tefilah Chabad, at 1:00 PM

Led by Rebbetzin Esther Tiechtel, these classes blend timeless Jewish wisdom with a fresh, engaging style, sprinkled with warmth, wit, and heartfelt connection. Together, we’ll explore meaningful topics that speak to the modern Jewish woman, drawn from the most enduring source of all: the Torah.

Join a beautiful circle of Nashville women for:

– Inspiring Torah study

– Warm camaraderie

– Hot tea & delicious refreshments

Come as you are, and leave uplifted.

No RSVP necessary, just bring an open heart.

Your Saturday Morning, Elevated

Join us for an inspiring Shabbat experience at Chabad of Nashville.

Begin your morning at 10:00 AM with uplifting prayer, meaningful Torah reading, thoughtful learning, and an inspiring weekly message, all in an atmosphere of warmth, joy, and authentic community.

Following services, enjoy a beautifully prepared Kiddush featuring hot cholent, freshly baked challah, a gourmet buffet lunch, and a lively farbrengen with friendly L’Chaims and uplifting conversation.

Refined yet welcoming, meaningful yet relaxed, this is a Shabbat morning designed to nourish both soul and spirit.

Come experience Shabbat with depth, beauty, and connection.

Whether you are a regular or joining for the first time, you will find connection, inspiration, and community waiting for you

@ Congregation Micah

Congregation Micah – an inclusive and innovative Reform synagogue dedicated to exploring and celebrating Jewish life – is deeply committed to building meaningful community and repairing the world. We offer creative, engaging, and diverse pathways to Jewish living in Tennessee and beyond, grounded in the rich beliefs and practices of Progressive Judaism. Experience our beautiful 30+ acre campus in person or take part in our vibrant virtual programs anytime through our website, www.congregationmicah.org. Stay connected by following us on social media: Facebook and Instagram @ MicahNashville. Learn, pray, and celebrate with us in person, or livestream our services on our website or YouTube. In our tent, there truly is room for everyone.

Weekly Events

Sanctuary Shabbat Services: Fridays at 6 PM

Shabbat at Micah offers many pathways to the Divine through inspiring words, the beauty of sacred space, heartfelt intention, and the power of music and song. Each service is thoughtfully crafted to be welcoming, participatory, and spiritually uplifting. Services reflect the diversity of our community and invite you to engage in ways that feel meaningful to you. Come early to schmooze with old and new friends beginning at 5:30 PM, when light refreshments are served. Services are available in person and online.

Torah Study: Saturdays at 9 AM on Zoom

Begin your Saturday with rich conversation and learning as we explore the weekly Torah portion together. Led by our clergy, this group brings together thoughtful, curious, and caring participants for in-depth discussions, diverse perspectives, and meaningful connections with the text and one another.

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

Enjoy a lively and friendly afternoon of Mah Jongg in Micah’s social hall. Players of all levels are welcome for games, laughter, and connection. For more information, please contact Paula at pgkwn@comcast.net.

Storah Time: Tuesdays at 7 PM on Zoom

Storah Time is a reflective and accessible supplement to our weekly Torah Study. This evening gathering invites you into learning that blends story, interpretation, and spiritual exploration in a gentle, welcoming space designed to meet you exactly where you are.

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

At Micah, we keep politics off the pulpit but not out of the building. Schmooze & Views offers a respectful, engaging round-table discussion of current events, facilitated by Rabbi Flip and Dr. Bob Smith. Bring your thoughts, listen deeply, and enjoy thoughtful conversation in a welcoming community setting.

At Our Congregations…

April Events

Songs of Freedom and Renewal: Saturday, April 4, Doors at 8 PM at the Bowery Vault

Songs of Freedom and Renewal is a powerful evening of music, rhythm, and spirit featuring acclaimed performer Billy Jonas and Cantor Josh Goldberg. The evening promises an engaging and uplifting musical journey that invites the audience not only to listen - but to feel and reconnect to the themes of Passover through the universal language of music. Sponsored by a grant from The Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville.

Micah x Nice Jewish Runners: Sunday, April 12 at 9 AM

We are partnering with Nashville’s Nice Jewish Runners for a fun morning of exercise and community. Come run with Rabbi Laurie, meet new people, work up a sweat, and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors.

Women’s Circle: Friday, April 17 at 12 PM

Rabbi Laurie warmly welcomes you to Women’s Circle, a relaxed and meaningful conversation group. All are welcome, and friends are always encouraged. Come as you are and enjoy thoughtful connection, a light meal, and community.

Micah Reads: Monday, April 20 at 7 PM on Zoom

Education Director Julie Greenberg guides an engaging and thoughtful discussion of The Women Who Smashed Codes by Jason Fagone. All are welcome to take part in a lively conversation, share insights, and explore the book together in a welcoming setting.

Jewish Music History Part 2: Thursday, April 23 and 30 at 6 PM

Micah’s very own Cantor Josh Goldberg leads this two-part educational class on the role of the cantor. If you’ve ever been curious about how the cantor’s role developed from ancient Jewish liturgical traditions and how Jewish cultural norms shaped expectations of these sacred singers, this class is for you.

Micah Minis: Saturday, May 2 at 9:30 AM

Experience a joyful, high-energy Shabbat celebration created especially for families with children 7 and under, where music, movement, and meaningful moments come together in a warm and welcoming space. This lively gathering encourages kids to be themselves, fosters a sense of community, and creates beautiful family memories filled with laughter, connection, and Jewish joy that carries into the rest of the weekend.

@ Sherith Israel

Scholar in Residence – Yiscah Smith

Join Congregation Sherith Israel for a special Scholar-in-Residence Shabbat with Yiscah Smith, May 1–2, during Shabbat Parashat Emor. A spiritual activist, educator, and meditation guide, Yiscah brings Jewish contemplative teachings to life, helping individuals connect with the Divine spark within and live with authenticity and integrity.

Yiscah will teach throughout Shabbat, including Friday night: “Loving Life with All Our Heart, Soul, and Might,” Shabbat morning: “Cultivating the Holistic Approach to Talmud Torah,” and learning after Kiddush on Parashat Emor: “Loving Peace and Pursuing Peace.” Join us for an inspiring Shabbat of Torah, reflection, and spiritual growth.

Film Screening – Son of a Seeker

Congregation Sherith Israel invites you to the U.S. debut screening of the documentary Son of a Seeker by filmmaker Kai Balin on Wednesday, April 15, 2026

The evening begins at 7:30 PM with light refreshments, followed by the film screening at 8:00 PM. The film tells the deeply personal story of a young man navigating questions of Jewish identity after Orthodox Judaism denies his status as Jewish, leading him on a journey to uncover his past and explore what it means to remain Jewish in the 21st century.

Following the screening, stay for a 9:00 PM Q&A with director Kai Balin, moderated by Rabbi Saul Strosberg

Annual Pesach Sedarim

Celebrate Pesach with the Congregation Sherith Israel Annual Community Sedarim, two beautiful evenings of tradition, storytelling, and festive Passover cuisine. On Wednesday, April 1 at 7:45 PM, join us for “The Traditional Seder,” hosted by the Strosberg Pressner family. On Thursday, April 2 at 8:15 PM, experience “The Sephardic Seder,” hosted by the Saadon family, with the meal prepared by Goldie Shepherd

Community members of all ages are warmly invited to gather together for meaningful Sedarim that bring the story of freedom to life.

Continued on page 14

At Our Congregations…

@ The Temple

Visit templenashville.org for all updated event information

Shabbat Schedule for April at The Temple

Our Shabbat Services will be held in person at The Temple at 6:00pm. You can also watch via zoom from https://www.templenashville.org/virtual-programming.html

• April 3rd- Shabbat Service

• April 10th – Family Shabbat with Cantor Becky Mann, 3rd and 4th grade Shabbat & Birthday Blessings

• April 17th– Shabbat Service

• April 24th– Blue Jean Shabbat

Classes and Programs

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 April 3rd for Nosh & Conversation with our Temple President, Alyssa at 5:00pm prior to Shabbat Services.

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

Our Golden Lunch Bunch will meet at Temple from 11:30-1:00pm on

• April 7, 2026 Tantsova Grupa International Folk Dance Band

• April 21, 2026 Bill Sleeter Popular Cover Tunes

RSVP to Jewish Family Service at 615-354-1686 or via email at helpinghands@ jfsnashville.org

Women’s Torah Study

April 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th

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

April 16th, 23rd, 30th

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!

April 6th, 13th, 20th,27th

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.

Tot Shabbat at The Temple

Saturday, April 11th at 4:00pm with Cantor Becky Mann 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!

Special Events

Cantor Becky Mann Musician in Residence

April 10-12, 2026

Friday, April 10, 6:00PM: Family Shabbat Service with Becky

Saturday, April 11, 9:30AM: Becky will lead Chevrah Torah Study Hour

Saturday, April 11, 4:00PM: Becky will lead our Tot Shabbat Program

Sunday, April 12, 10:45AM: Becky will perform a concert featuring our own Temple Religious School students!

Sunday, April 12, 5:30PM: Becky will perform for The Temple Fundraiser

We are thrilled that Becky will be premiering a brand new piece of music written in honor of The Temple’s 175th anniversary.

Becky Mann serves as the Assistant Cantor of Temple Israel of Westport, CT. Becky regularly shares her original music with Jewish communities around the country. A renowned composer and guitarist, she has been called “one of the brightest voices of a new generation of Jewish songwriters carrying out tradition forward in new and exciting ways.”

Passover Seders 2nd Night Seder

Thursday

April 2 at 6:00 PM

Visit templenashville.org/Passover2026 for more information and to register Passover Shabbat Morning Study & Service with Yizkor

Saturday

April 4 at 9:30 AM

Visit templenashville.org/Passover2026 for more information and to register LGBTQIA+ Seder

Saturday

April 4 at 6:00 PM

Visit templenashville.org/Passover2026 for more information and to register Sober Seder

Tuesday

April 7 at 6:00 PM

Visit templenashville.org/Passover2026 for more information and to register

Temple Annual Fundraiser-175th Celebration

Sunday, April 12th at 5:30pm

Join us for our Annual Fundraiser Dinner

An Evening of Celebration and Support Honoring our Past Presidents

With Special Musical Performance by Renowned Jewish Singer-Songwriter Cantor Becky Mann

Go to templenashville.org/fundraiser2026 to purchase a ticket!

Hike and Havdalah

April 18th

Starting at the Edwin Warner Park Nature Center on HWY. 100. Plenty of parking! See the spring bloom! Bring friends! Meet at 3:45 PM for a family friendly walk on a paved trail followed by Havdalah at 5:30 PM. All ages! Bring friends and family. For more information or questions, please contact Anne Davenport at adavlaw@ comcast.net

Chai Society (65+) Post Passover Pizza Party & Game Night Thursday, April 9th

6:00pm

Section VI Clubhouse in River Plantation

$15 a person

Go to https://www.templenashville.org/events to register

Temple Together Sushi Making with Famous Chef Marisa Baggett! Saturday, April 25th

6:30-8:30pm at The Temple

$25 a person

Babysitting available for an additional cost

Go to https://www.templenashville.org/events to register

Reach out to Sheri (sheri@templenashville.org) with questions

@ West End Synagogue

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.

April Events

April 1 – Fast of the First Born Siyyum – 7:00 a.m.

In recognition of the rescue of the Israelite first born males from the 10th plague while the Egyptian first born males died, a first-born male of his mother or father observes the Fast of the First born which begins at dawn the morning of Erev Pesach. However, if the first born comes to minyan and participates in a siyyum, the completion of study of a tractate of Rabbinic literature, the first born is exempt from the fast and is permitted to eat a festive meal with everyone else at minyan. Please join us for regular morning minyan, a siyyum led by Rabbi Joshua and a breakfast, Wednesday, April 1st, at 7:00 a.m. Please scan the QR code or visit ShulCloud to RSVP for breakfast. The Breakfast is sponsored by the Alan and Nancy Saturn Fund.

April 1 – Community Seder – 6:30 p.m.

Join us for a unique Passover Seder led by Rabbi Joshua Kullock and catered by Goldie Shepard! Be prepared for a journey into our tradition, filled with music and cre-

Continued on page 15

@ West End Synagogue

Continued from page 14

ative innovations to capture everyone’s hearts and minds throughout the night. RSVP by scanning the QR code, or by visiting our ShulCloud.

April 1 – Young Professionals Seder – 6:30 p.m.

Join our 20’s and 30’s community for a unique Passover Seder led by our Engagement and Program Director, Marc Jacobs, catered by Goldie Shepard! RSVP by scanning the QR code, or by visiting our ShulCloud.

April 9 – Men’s Torah Class – 12:00 p.m.

Join us as we begin studying the Book of Daniel—over pizza and in the company of great friends.

April 10 – It’s Shabbat with Brett Fromson – 5:30 p.m.

Families with young children are invited to join us for Shabbos shmoozing, candle lighting, kiddush blessing, hamotzi, and Shabbat songs on Friday, from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.

Email Sharon Paz at spaz@westendsyn.org to RSVP.

April 12 – Social Action Day – 9:00 a.m.

WES Social Action Day will take place on Sunday, April 12, in conjunction with Good Deeds Day International. We will also be offering an optional opportunity to gather at WES at 8:30 a.m. for coffee, hot chocolate, and donuts, before we begin our projects. There are a variety of projects to get involved with. For information on each project and to register, please scan the QR code above or visit WES ShulCloud.

April 15 – The Sandi Goldstein Learn & Lunch Program for Ages 60+ –11:00 a.m.

Reservation required, catered lunch following the presentation.

Speaker: Rabbi Raffi Levi

Lunch Catered by Goldie Shepard at 12:00 p.m. Cost: $5.00 RSVP by calling 615-269-4592 or by emailing office@westendsyn.org.

April 17 – Introduction to Judaism Shabbat Dinner– 7:00 p.m.

April 19 – Music & Me with Brett Fromson – 10:30-11:30 am

Sing a-long-and socializing for children ages infant – three and their parents. RSVP by emailing Sharon Paz at spaz@westendsyn.org.

April 19 – Shakshuka & Coffee – 9:30 a.m.

Join our Engagement and Program Director, Marc Jacobs for Shakshuka and Coffee. Email mjacobs@westendsyn.org to RSVP, or just show up!

April 25 – Birthday Shabbat – 9:30 a.m.

Celebrating all of our West End April birthdays. Come join us for a special birthday treat!

April 29 – The Sandi Goldstein Learn & Lunch Program for Ages 60+ –11:00 a.m.

Reservation required, catered lunch following the presentation.

Speaker: Batsheva Capek

Lunch Catered by Goldie Shepard at 12:00 p.m. Cost: $5.00 RSVP by calling 615-269-4592 or by emailing office@westendsyn.org.

April 30 – Torah for Women – 11:00 a.m. (on Zoom)

We will continue learning together the Book of Judges.

Ongoing Religious Services and Learning Opportunities

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

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.

Talmud Class with Rabbi Joshua: In-person on Tuesdays at 7:30 a.m.

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

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

Join us for daily Mincha at 6:00 p.m., Sunday-Thursday.

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

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.

At Our Congregations…

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. •

Community Listings

B’nai B’rith Social Unit

Bringing 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 Kentucky Derby party on May 2nd. 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 counselling 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. •

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

Mazal Tov to the 74th Consecration Class of West

End

T

Synagogue: Beit Miriam Kitah Alef 5786

he Consecration Class of 5786 presented the play, “The Purim Story” on Sunday, March 1st, 2026. The ceremony was followed by a lunch reception catered by Melissa Sostrin.

Consecration students entertained everyone with a repeat performance before the Megillah reading Erev Purim, March 2nd.

The Consecration Class of 5786:

Jack Bernstein

Son of Hunter and Andrea Bernstein

Jordan Ari Bernstein

Son of Dustin and Rachel Bernstein

Sydney Alexandra Busofsky

Daughter of Jacob and Rebecca Busofsky

Eden Lottie Epstein

Daughter of Aaron and Hannah Epstein

Noah James Gluck

Son of Jonathan and Dina Gluck

Dorian Rafe Kincaid Gross

Son of Randy and Michael Gross

Isidore Grossman

Son of Benjamin and Tara Grossman

Boaz Benjamin Kay

Son of Brad Kay and Jen Allen Kay

Joseph Robert Koller

Son of Joshua and Megan Koller

Eliana Sylvia Ortiz

Daughter of David and Rachel Ortiz

Lev Asher Star

Son of Liza and Lori Star

Simon Gene Star

Son of Liza and Lori Star

Emilia Rae Yazdian

Daughter of Seth and Tal Yazdian

BBYO Helps Teens Create a Lifetime of Memories

By SAM WORKMAN, CHAPTER PRESIDENT ATHENS OF THE SOUTH AZA

BBYO is a Jewish youth group that was formed just over 100 years ago to bring together Jewish teens from across the spectrum of Judaism to come together. It allows Jewish teens to meet people from across the country and around the world. BBYO consists of AZA for boys (known as Athens of the South in Nashville) and BBG for girls (known as Music City in Nashville). Throughout the year separate and coed events are held such as NSC/ Predators/ Sounds Games, Bowling, Self-Care Shabbats, TopGolf, Brotherhood Dinners, Galentine’s Party, Hamantaschen Baking, and much more. You can go to many events without being a member, but having a membership allows you to go to select events, Spring and Fall Regional Conventions, and International Convention.

Becoming a lifetime member is a onetime fee of $249 and information and registration can be found at https://bbyo. org/become-a-member. If you are a parent or teen who is unsure about BBYO, it is an unforgettable experience that allows leadership opportunities throughout the year and summer. BBYO gives teens the opportunity to make lifelong friendships and connections that will support teens with a community that is always there for them.

Delta Region Spring Convention is April 10-12 in Memphis, Tennessee, and it brings Jewish teens together from across Tennessee, Alabama, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Louisiana. You can register at https://bbyo.my.site.com/s/event-details?eventId=a4kUZ000000Dwz3YAC .

Some upcoming, local events include an Athens of the South presentation night in late April and a Music City bouquet making with moms in May. Also in May, both BBG and AZA will be holding chapter board elections.

If you have any questions, please email AZA chapter president Sam Workman at sworkbird@gmail.com, BBG chapter president Noa Zilberman at noa.zilberman@icloud.com, or Regional Director Zoe Goldberg at zgoldberg@bbyo.org . •

An Evening of Joy and Community at Micah’s Masquerade

Micah’s Masquerade on February 28, 2026, was a joyful, Purim-inspired evening that brought the Congregation Micah community together in celebration. The night was filled with laughter, connection, and the kind of shared joy that comes from being together.

We are deeply grateful to everyone who donated, volunteered, attended, and helped make the evening possible. •

Chabad Cruises into Purim

Purim on a Cruise was celebrated at Chabad of Nashville with joy and laughter, fun and happiness, by adults and children of all ages, and all walks of life.•

What Critics Get Wrong About Chabad:

A new Nashville course explores the moral ideas Judaism gave the world

In recent weeks, the word “Chabad” has appeared in headlines and online commentary in ways that have left many people puzzled. Some national media personalities have made disparaging and troubling claims about the global Chabad movement, even spelling out the word “C-H-A-B-A-D” and suggesting that it bears responsibility for geopolitical conflicts such as tensions with Iran.

Such rhetoric has led many people to ask a simple question:

What does Chabad actually stand for?

The answer begins with a remarkable global presence. Today there are nearly 5,000 Chabad centers worldwide, served by close to 6,000 rabbinic couples who act as Chabad ambassadors in more than 100 countries.

Why would thousands of families move across the globe — from major cities to small towns and remote corners of the world — simply to serve Jewish communities?

That global network did not grow by accident. It was inspired by the vision of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi

Menachem Mendel Schneerson of blessed memory, who believed that every Jew, no matter where they lived, deserved access to Jewish life and learning. The Rebbe encouraged thousands of young rabbinic couples to leave their homes and move to cities and small towns across the globe to build communities, teach Torah, and serve anyone seeking connection. Today those emissaries, known as Shluchim, are found in more than 100 countries, from major world capitals to small communities where Jewish life might otherwise be absent.

“At its heart, Chabad is about bringing the message that every human life has divine dignity and that every community deserves light,” said Rabbi Yitzchok Tiechtel of Chabad of Nashville. Here in Nashville, Chabad of Nashville works to create a welcoming center for Jewish learning, celebration, and community, offering educational programs, holiday celebrations, and opportunities for people of all backgrounds to explore the wisdom and values of the Jewish tradition. But Rabbi Tiechtel emphasizes that the Continued on page 19

Kvetch in the City

By CARRIE MILLS

This wouldn’t be a Kvetch column if I didn’t start off with some classic Jewish mother guilt trip that I laid on my son, who, thank goodness, (thank goodness because that means he is healthy and beyond my generation worn tactics), was not having any of it.

I recently read somewhere…(opening a paragraph with that phrase, you just know I’m heading down a rabbit hole)… like, did I read it online, and if so, where online?...Facebook, Instagram, MSN newsfeed, etc. because, let’s face it, news keeps coming at me from everywhere all day, phone, computer, tv. And that does not include, emails, the Sunday New York Times actual paper, or any other magazine or subscription lying around. So, where I read something, unless instantly and duly noted, I haven’t a clue.

Let’s just guess, it popped up in my addicted laden doomscrolling through my phone, and/or perhaps it was an article from the NYT or possibly a CNN fun fact notice, which by the way, I don’t believe any news organizations have any fun fact moments anymore (did they ever?), well maybe the nightly news throws some feel-good tidbit in, in the failed attempt to leverage what feels like the apocalypse these days.

Any hoots, back to the Jewish mother guilt trip…

So, I read somewhere, that there was a study that children who call their mothers once a day showed that the mothers tend to live longer. Wow! I love that. Except, I’ve been noticing lately, my once mama’s boy (his words at one point in time, not mine) son has of lately stopped calling very often. Definitely not once a day. I mean, the absence is noticeable. The only other time this happened, and made sense to me, was when he went off to college and especially the year he spent at university in Japan.

So, like any good Jewish mother

would do when this “mothers live longer” study crossed my lap, I forwarded it to him with a little side note that went, “just saying…no pressure…) and added a smiley face emoji for proper punctuation.

He did send back a heart emoji, so I figured he took my passive/aggressive message all in good stride and would promptly adhere to a daily call/check-in with mom.

Well, hello, not really, because he still did not call, for days, maybe even a week, I don’t know, I was having a Jewish mother melt down by then, realizing my little bubala was all grown up, and I, apparently, was the one now acting like a child.

So, of course, as you can imagine, I was not going to let this go. I just put it aside, to strike again at the right time. I mean, I want to live. And if that means having my son call me every day to assure me a longer life, even if it’s full of agita, so be it!

Bingo, a few weeks later, when he started calling a bit more regularly, I found the moment and blurted out, “I think you want me to die!” Way out of left field mind you.

To which my healthy, mature son responded, “What are you talking about?!” Which then was my opening to lay the guilt straight up. “Remember that article I sent you a few weeks ago, about mother’s who live longer if their children call them every day?”

To my utter dismay, he was not buying any of it and just casually and immediately veered off onto another topic.

I did notice though, to my somewhat relief, he has been texting me more lately.

I wonder if they did a study that shows kids who text their moms every day, the moms get to live a few minutes longer?

And while his life may no longer revolve around mine, my love for him is unwavering, however long I live. And as my birthday is popping up any day now in April, I have to think something’s going right. Afterall, I made it another year around the son, I mean, the sun.

And for that I am very grateful. •

Honoring the Mitzvah of Genizah

By SOPHIE KIEFFER

Genizah is the Jewish practice of respectfully setting aside sacred texts and ritual items that are no longer usable. Because these materials often contain the name of God, they are not simply thrown away but treated with dignity and care. When they become worn or unusable, our tradition teaches that they should be honored in a thoughtful and respectful way.

zah. In the spirit of l’dor vador, from generation to generation, students from our JLAB religious school will join Micah members in preparing and participating in this tradition together, a living example of how Jewish life is passed forward.

Guided by Rabbi Laurie Rice, Rabbi Flip Rice, Cantor Josh Goldberg, and Education Director Julie Greenberg, this will be a meaningful moment of learning and shared community practice.

On Sunday, April 26, as part of our Mitzvah Weekend, Congregation Micah will gather in the beautiful Micah Cemetery to fulfill the mitzvah of geni-

By SOPHIE KIEFFER

CAll Micah members are invited to help create our Genizah and honor this tradition together. For more information about what items may be included, please contact the Micah office. •

Micah’s First Ever Mitzvah Weekend to Focus on Positive Change

ongregation Micah is hosting our first congregational-wide Mitzvah Weekend April 24th through April 26th. We’ll kick off Mitzvah Weekend with a moving Shabbat service on Friday, April 24th at 6 pm where we will hear from a variety of speakers committed to ensuring the safety of the Jewish people.

On Saturday, April 25th, we will participate in social action projects across Nashville. Volunteers will strengthen our

TGIT – April 2026

April 9 – Candace Adelson returns with Chair Yoga Part 2.

relationships with Nashville’s non-profits while creating positive change, uplifting our community, and demonstrating the power of collective service.

On Sunday, April 26th, Congregation Micah is creating our Geniza in collaboration with our learners at JLAB (Religious School). Throughout this impactful weekend, we will live out the values of our namesake Micah 6:8: “Do justly, love mercy, walk humbly with thy God.” •

Gordon JCC Adult Program Happenings:

Interested in easing into yoga. Missed Part 1? It’s all good! Come relax, breath, stretch, all without leaving your chair.

Lunch: Bagels, lox, sides, ice cream and birthday cake.

April 16 – Historian Randy Horick returns with an informative talk on the Negro League Baseball Team. Informative, fascinating, historic, all wrapped into one. Some would say it’s a home run!

Lunch: Deli lunch, sides, dessert.

April 23 – Frist Trunk Art interactive exhibit – In Her Place.

Love art? Love the Frist Art Museum? Then this session is for you! Come be creative, or just watch, learn and listen. The Frist will be here to guide as through this exhibit as creatives. Come see what that means.

Lunch: Salmon, salad, sides, dessert.

April 30 – Jewish Family Service and the GJCC would like to get to know you. Bring photos and we will ask the questions!

Well, it’s about time we learn about each other! Everyone’s got a fascination story and life. Tony and Carrie plan to uncover yours in this session where we get to know each other in a deeper, more meaningful way.

Lunch: Baked ziti, salad, garlic bread, dessert. •

Lifecycles

Mazel Tov

Tali Jude Oliphant

It is with great pride that we announce the birth of our granddaughter, Tali Jude Oliphant - born January 16, 2026. Her parents are Philip and Victoria Oliphant of Atlanta.

Tali’s grandparents are Sheri and Bob Warnke and Suzi and David Oliphant - all of Nashville - and Sheryl and Jon Kimerling of Birmingham.

Tali’s great grandmother is Jackie Tepper.

B’rit Mitzvah

Esther Mae Boehler

ter of Wolff and Wynne Geringer, and the granddaughter of Linda and Steve (z’l) Geringer (Nashville), Marie Schnabel (Florida), and Frank Schnabel (Costa Rica).

A 7th grader at Meraki Learning Center, Mila enjoys studying French and science, enriching her learning through world travel, and excelling as an elite gymnast, earning recognition as one of the Top 100 gymnasts in the United States. For her Bat Mitzvah project, Mila created a cookie business to raise money to help make gymnastics more accessible to children who are less fortunate.

belief: disabled people belong in cool shoes too.

Colin Cregar

Colin Cregar will become a bar mitzvah on Saturday, April 25, at West End Synagogue. Colin is the son of Sherri and Daniel Cregar and the grandson of Robert and Mary Siegel of Richmond, Va., and Rita Cregar of Sparta, Tenn.

Barbara Robinette who died on February 26. She is survived by her son, Michael (Margaret Lin) Robinette, and daughter, Rachel Robinette (Mike Castellanos); and grandchildren, Maddy, Simon, Charlie and Felix.

Rinah Shalom

Condolences to the family of Rinah Shalom who died on March 12. She is survived by her daughters, Angel Shalom, Trini Shalom, Leora Grasl, and Nina Cornelsen.

Tributes in Rinah’s memory may be made to Congregation Micah.

Sally Woldenberg Simon

Esther Mae Boehler will become a bat mitzvah on Saturday, April 11, at 11 a.m. at The Temple. She was born on April 12, 2013, in San Diego, Calif. Her parents are Shira and Adam Boehler. Her grandparents are Nancy and Jeffrey Kupperman of Santa Barbara, Calif., and Jill and Richard Boehler of Saratoga Springs, N.Y.

A seventh grader at University School of Nashville, Essie loves all kinds of sports, listening to music, overnight camp and spending time with her friends and family.

For her mitzvah project, Essie is involved in the Cancer Doesn’t Care Foundation, an organization focused on supporting lung screening access and research. Inspired by her mom’s strength and advocacy, Essie is raising funds for this important organization by speaking at her school and organizing a bake sale.

Kamila (Mila) Geringer

Kamila (Mila) Geringer will become a Bat Mitzvah on April 11, 2026 at Congregation Micah. Mila is the child of Miranda and Cole Geringer, the sis-

Chabad

Continued from page 17 ideas Judaism brings to the world were never meant only for Jews.

“The tradition that began with Abraham introduced revolutionary moral ideas that shaped civilization,” Tiechtel said. “The belief that every human life has dignity, that people have the right to their own property, that building families matters, that educating children is sacred, and that G-d ultimately guides history and that our choices matter.”

Those timeless ideas are now the focus of a new course being offered here in Nashville through the Rohr Jewish Learning Institute (JLI), the largest Jewish adult education network in the world.

The four-part course, titled “For All Humankind,” traces the roots of foundational ethical ideas, justice, human dignity, the purpose of education, and the direction of history, back to their origins in the Jewish intellectual tradition.

Over four sessions, participants will explore how ideas first articulated by Abraham more than three thousand years ago helped shape many of the moral assumptions people live by today, often without realizing where those values came from.

As an elite gymnast, she understands that the sport builds more than athletic ability; it instills confidence, discipline, resilience, and lifelong skills. This connects beautifully to her Torah portion, Shemini, which teaches the importance of responsibility and using our gifts with intention — turning personal passions into meaningful action to support and uplift others.

Samuel Alexander Wolf

An eighth grader at Centertown Elementary in McMinnville, Tenn., Colin is a standout athlete with a deep passion for team sports. He proudly takes the field as a member of the Warren County Pioneers football team and competes in softball for Centertown. His dedication to his teammates and his competitive spirit have been hallmarks of his middle school years.

Condolences to the family of Sally Woldenberg Simon who died on March 16. She was predeceased by her husband, Dr. Samuel J. Simon, OD, both born and raised in Nashville.

Sally is rsurvived by her daughters, Robin Born (Mark), Wendy Klappholz (Steven) and Elizabeth Bryhn (Carl); four grandson, Jason, Adam, Eric and Jacob; and her great-granddaughters, Sophie and Emerson.

Samuel Alexander Wolf will become a bar mitzvah on Saturday, April 18, at 11 a.m. at The Temple. He was born on April 20, 2013, in Washington, D.C. His parents are Beth and Jason Wolf. His grandparents are Carol Wolf of Sarasota, Fla., Jonathan Wolf, of blessed memory, Joyce and Cliff Jones of Celina, Tenn., and James Ferguson of blessed memory.

A seventh grader at University School of Nashville, Sam loves soccer, mini golf, Nashville SC, Everton FC, and the Mets, Giants, and Knicks.

For Sam’s mitzvah project, he is raising awareness and funds for Zipped. Zipped is an organization built on one

“Think of this as an invitation to hear a timeless perspective on life’s most essential moral questions from one of the world’s great intellectual traditions,” Tiechtel said. “Judaism has been thinking about these questions for more than three thousand years.”

The course is open to people of all faiths and backgrounds and requires no prior knowledge of Judaism.

“This isn’t a course about becoming Jewish or joining anything,” Tiechtel said. “It’s an opportunity to discover the civilizational inheritance that shaped the moral world we live in.”

Participants will explore topics such as ethical monotheism, the foundation of human dignity, the deeper purpose of educating children, and the idea that history itself has a moral direction.

“You walk away with something powerful,” Tiechtel said. “The clarity to explain why your deepest values are worth holding onto — and the understanding that every small choice we make contributes to building a better world.”

In a time when public conversation about Jewish communities can sometimes be clouded by misunderstanding or misinformation, Tiechtel believes the most meaningful response is simply to share the ideas themselves.

At school, Colin is well known for his quick sense of humor and his consistent kindness toward others. When he isn’t on the field or in the classroom, Colin is a talented artist who enjoys expressing his creativity. He also loves spending time at home with his cats, collaborating with his father on various hands-on projects, or connecting with friends online for video games.

Obituaries

Phyliss Richter

Condolences the the family of Phyliss Richter who died on February 12. She is survived by her son, Dudley (Peggy) Richter; granddaughters, Ashley (Scott) Tomichek, Jenny )Andy) Corts and Samantha Richter; her great grandchildren, Cole and Same Tomicheik and Henry, Raleigh and Elizabeth Corts

Susan Barbara Robinette

Condolences to the family of Susan

“For thousands of years Judaism has taught that every human life carries infinite value and that each of us has the power to make the world better,” he said. “If people want to understand what Chabad stands for, the best way is to encounter those ideas and see how they continue to shape communities around the world.”

Please support the businesses that advertise in the Observer and help support our community in all ways! Make sure to let them know... you saw their ad here!

The family thanks the staff at The Meadows for their kindness and care during Mrs. Simon’s stay. The family also thanks Gwen Beech for her kindness and commitment to Mrs. Simon’s comfort and companionship.

Donations may be made to your chosen favorite charity or cause.

Marcia (Marny) Yenzer

Condolences to the family of Marcia (Marny) Yenzer who died on February 20. She is survived by her children, Vicki Estrin (David) and David Yenzer (Lisa); sister, Donni Bane; nieces, Kari Gearheart (Gregg), Happi Berger (Jerry), and Darci Campbell (Jeff); and grandchildren, Ryan Estrin and Katherine and Elizabeth Yenzer.

Tributes in Marcia’s memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or Congregation Micah. •

Course Details Course: For All Humankind

Dates: Four Mondays, beginning May 4

Location: Chabad of Nashville

Instructor: Rabbi Yitzchok Tiechtel

Registration: chabadnashville.com

Contact: 615-646-5750

All are welcome. No prior knowledge of Judaism is required. •

Secure Your Spot for Summer at the J!

W

arm weather is right around the corner, and the Gordon Jewish Community Center is inviting the Nashville community to secure their spot at the pool early with a Summer Membership. Summer at the J is the perfect place for families, couples, and individuals to cool off, stay active, and enjoy time together all season long.

Summer at the J is all about relaxing, connecting, and making the most of the warm months ahead. Whether you’re spending the afternoon by the pool, taking a fitness class, or attending a family-friendly event, the J provides a welcoming place for the community to gather and enjoy summer together.

New this year, Summer Members will receive full access to the Gordon JCC facility and member program rates, giving seasonal members more opportunities to participate in classes and programs

throughout the summer. (Member program rates do not apply to Camp Davis or the Early Childhood Learning Center.)

The outdoor pool is a favorite summer destination for members, offering a refreshing place to cool off, relax with

friends, and spend quality time with family. Summer members can also enjoy the J’s indoor fitness center and other amenities, making it easy to stay active while enjoying the relaxed pace of summer.

Join WES Social Action Day on April 12

Members of the community are invited to participate in the Social Action Day, Sunday, April 12, organized by the West End Synagogue Social Action Committee. The projects will be held at sites throughout Nashville. All ages, from fifth graders and up may participate in helping to repair our world at these sites:

• The Urban Farm at Glencliff High School - Help alleviate hunger by pre-

paring vegetable beds, planting and weeding

• Project C.U.R.E. - Sort and load medical supplies and equipment for shipment to developing countries -

• MNPS H.E.R.O. Program - Sort and pack donations for MNPS homeless students -

• Bell Garden - Plant vegetables that will go to persons in need and/or pre-

pare the ground for planting

• Room in the Inn - Prepare a meal at WES for Sunday dinner at Room in the Inn for homeless men

• Mill Ridge Garden of The Nashville Food Project - Planting and weeding

• Percy Warner Park - Clear brush from trails and other trail maintenance

Participants will arrive at West End

For more information or to join, visit nashvillejcc.org/summer or stop by the front desk. The Gordon JCC looks forward to welcoming the community for another great summer! •

Synagogue at 8:30 a.m. for coffee, donuts and directions and leave at 9 a.m. for volunteer sites, returning at 11:30.

To register, go to https://westendsyn.shulcloud.com/socialactionday2026 or call the synagogue office at 615-269-4592.

For additional information, contact Kitty Calhoon at kcalhoon103@ aol.com. •

April in the Galleries: Featuring the work of the Paul Slivka, Billy Martinez and Humans of October 7th

The Janet Levine March Gallery will feature the work of Paul Slivka. Paul started painting houses in high school while developing a career in music as a bass player. In his early years he traveled the world playing bass in multiple bands and remains an active touring musician to this day.

Throughout his travels and his career, he became an avid art collector. One night in 2021 he picked up a brush, some acrylic paint and canvas and completed his first painting. Paul has since created over 700 paintings and remains an inspired and prolific painter to this day.

His work has been shown at The Red door Gallery in Key west as well as Wonders on Woodland in East Nashville. This is his second exhibition at the Janet Levine March Gallery.

The JLMG2 Gallery will feature the art of Billy Martinez. Martinez is an independent visual artist, publisher, and performer known for his dynamic fusion of pop art, realism, and comic book aesthetics. He is the founder of Neko Press, a publishing house and art studio he established to maintain creative control over his works.

Martinez began his professional career in the early 1990s as a freelance illustrator. In 1993, he debuted his first major series, Wildflower, which was initially published through Sirius Entertainment and later Dog Star Press. In 1999, he founded Neko Press Comics and Publishing to self-publish his flagship titles. The label became a platform not only for his own work but also for launching the careers of other emerging artists.

Billy Martinez at work

Martinez’ notable publications include, Comics, Wildflower, Kickass Girl, and The Deepest Dark, Instructional Books: Popular “how-todraw” guides such as In Your Face and Body Movin’, Commercial work, He has contributed to Heavy Metal Magazine, Image Comics, Top Cow, designed trading cards for Family Guy and Hellboy, and worked with clients like Starbucks and the Sci-Fi Channel.

Martinez is a pioneer of “Live Art” performances, a practice he developed in the early 2000s in San Diego. During these shows, he creates multiple paintings simultaneously on stage alongside live bands and DJs, often using unconventional materials like household paints alongside acrylics. A lifelong musician himself, Martinez is an accomplished drummer—his musical background heavily influences the rhythm and energy of his visual work.

The Sig Held Gallery will feature the photographic, Humans of October 7th exhibit. The ‘Humans of October 7th’ project is an ongoing project that brings to blight the human stories of the unique Israelis who stood up against terrorism. It

shows the Israeli D.N.A. at its best and shows the incredible spirit and resilience of the Israeli people. Since 2024 the project has been traveling across the world as a traveling exhibition in museums, US campuses, and Jewish communities.

The Senior Lounge will feature the work of the Robbie Laskey.

The House gallery will feature the Under One Roof collaborative exhibit. The Exhibition Dates are April 1st – 30th. The Artist reception will be held on April 22nd 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. •

The Pargh Team

With more than 20 years of experience and over $1 Billion in lifetime sales, The Pargh Team at Compass has become one of Nashville’s most trusted names in real estate. Known for their thoughtful approach and deep market knowledge, the team specializes in many of Nashville’s most desirable neighborhoods, including Green Hills, Belle Meade, Forest Hills, and Brentwood.

The Pargh Team has become a trusted resource for buyers, whether they’re Native to Nashville or moving to the area—particularly those looking to connect with Nashville’s growing Jewish community. With strong relationships throughout the community and firsthand knowledge of schools, synagogues, and neighborhood dynamics, the team helps clients navigate both the real estate market and the lifestyle that comes with it.

Their approach to selling homes is equally strategic. Each listing is supported by a comprehensive marketing plan that highlights the property’s unique features and reaches qualified buyers locally and nationally. From professional photography and cinematic video to targeted digital campaigns and private networks, The Pargh Team ensures every home is positioned to achieve its highest value.

What truly sets The Pargh Team apart is their commitment to relationships. Many of their clients return time and again, trusting the team to guide them through every stage of homeownership.

The Pargh Team is dedicated to helping people find not just a house—but a place to truly feel at home. Let them help you on the next step of your real estate journey.

AIPS - Move Management

Serving the senior population is one of my favorite things to focus on. Partnering with the best peers in the industry and certainly the BEST clients a girl could wish for. What is that focus, you might ask? Move Management. Move Management is a full-circle, service concept. Including: Downsize/Right size/ Simplify, Sort/Organize, Pack/Unpack, Move/Relocate, Layout/Design Solutions, Setup/ Staging, Cleanup/ Cleanout, Estate Sale Assistance

Our systems are personalized to meet your needs. Our teams are kind & compassionate. Our service is about lifestyle! We are also focused on life transitions and the continuing changes at any age. Creating memories in each new moment and experiencing JOY in the JOurneY!

Remember, it’s always the right move when it’s about YOU!

Angie Durr, Owner

PH: 629.999.2477 | www.aginginplaceservices.net

Carrie Mills

It is undeniable that art adds immeasurable dynamics to a home. Whether its purpose is purely décor or immensely personal, art helps a home feel like a home. With that in mind, why not consider a custom, one of a kind, piece of art to add to not only your home, but to the life of your family. A piece of art that tells a story that you want to tell that can be passed on for generations! Contact Carrie Mills to create a piece of art customized just for you. Visit her website at www.carriemills.com

Senior Move Management Services

Zeitlin Sotheby’s International Realty

Zeitlin Sotheby’s International Realty has long been part of the fabric of Middle Tennessee. Founded in 1979, the firm was built on a foundation of integrity, expertise, and a deep commitment to both clients and community. Today, under the leadership of Jessica and Sam Averbuch, that legacy continues while the company evolves to meet the needs of a dynamic and growing region.

With over 200 agents serving throughout Middle Tennessee and beyond, Zeitlin Sotheby’s International Realty combines deep local knowledge with the global reach of the Sotheby’s International Realty network, the most profiled luxury real estate brand in the world. This connection allows the firm to introduce Middle Tennessee’s extraordinary homes and lifestyle to buyers across the country and around the globe.

The region’s momentum continues to attract new residents relocating from markets such as Georgia, Florida, California, and Texas, drawn by Middle Tennessee’s economic strength, quality of life, and vibrant communities. The firm also works closely with major employers including AllianceBernstein, Genesco, and Mitsubishi to support corporate relocation and welcome new neighbors to the area.

In 2025, Zeitlin Sotheby’s International Realty celebrated a historic milestone, surpassing $1 billion in annual sales. While the achievement reflects the strength of the market and the dedication of its agents, the firm remains focused on what matters most: relationships, service, and the communities it proudly calls home.

At its heart, Zeitlin Sotheby’s International Realty is not just a global brand - It is a local company deeply invested in the people and places that make Middle Tennessee extraordinary.

Continued on page 23

The Kupin Group

Buying a home is just the beginning of your journey—and The Kupin Group is here to support you every step of the way. We know that moving in or out comes with projects, questions, and the need for trusted professionals. That’s why we provide ongoing resources and recommendations to make homeownership and selling seamless.

Dreaming of a DIY project? Need inspiration to personalize your space? We offer expert guides, reliable resources, and time-tested tips to bring your vision to life.

Looking for a skilled contractor, electrician, or plumber? Want a painter to refresh your space or a landscaper to enhance curb appeal? Our network of trusted vendors is ready to help, whether it’s a simple fix or a major renovation. From updating fixtures to organizing storage, we make it easy to turn your house into a home and get it ready to sell on the flipside.

And if life takes you in a new direction, we’ll help you prepare your home for sale and maximize your value.

At The Kupin Group, we don’t just help you find a house—we help you make it home. Whenever you need advice, recommendations, or support, reach out at 615-2819035 and info@thekupingroup.com. We’ve got your back!

Mark Hill/ Tandem...Home Maintenance Concierge & Aging-in-Place Services

Our Home Maintenance Concierge service provides homeowners with a trusted point of contact to coordinate home maintenance, repairs, and service providers. We take a fiduciary-style approach, meaning we work solely in the homeowner’s best interest. We do not accept vendor kickbacks or apply large markups—our role is to represent the owner, not the service companies. Regular in-person walk-throughs help identify maintenance needs early and ensure the home and its systems are properly cared for.

We also specialize in aging-in-place support, helping older adults remain safely and comfortably in the homes they love. Working alongside families, trustees, and professionals, we help implement recommendations from occupational therapists and aging-in-place specialists to improve safety, accessibility, and daily functionality.

Services may include home safety assessments, coordinating modifications such as grab bars or improved lighting, and ensuring critical home systems are properly maintained.

By combining proactive maintenance with trusted oversight, we help homeowners, families, and trustees keep homes safe, functional, and well cared for.

Continued on page 25

A Communit y to Ca ll Home.

A Life to Enjoy.

At Clarendale at Bellev ue Place, each day is lived in comfor t, connection, and purpose. Our independent living lifest yle is maintenance-free, with engaging amenities and ac tivities to enjoy ever y day.

For families seeking memory care, our compassionate team provides specialized suppor t that honors each individual ’s stor y, while assisted living is available for those who need daily suppor t met with dignity and independence.

Here, any resident can thrive, surrounded by warmth, friendship, and a lifest yle designed to feel like home.

Schedule a visit today to experience our welcoming communit y. 615-258- 6364 | ClarendaleAtBellevuePlace.com

tel 615-258-6364 web ClarendaleAtBellevuePlace.com em LIFE@ClarendaleAtBellevuePlace.com 7632 Highway 70 South | Nashville, TN 37221

Jackie Karr - Realtor

When preparing a home for the market, the smallest details can often make the greatest impact. Thoughtful updates such as fresh paint, updated lighting, refreshed landscaping, or simple hardware changes can instantly elevate the look and feel of a home while increasing its appeal to buyers. Strategic improvements not only help a property stand out, but they can also play a meaningful role in maximizing value. With a deep understanding of the Greater Nashville market, I enjoy helping homeowners identify the updates that make the most sense. Ensuring every improvement works toward achieving the strongest possible return.

If you’re considering improvements to your home or simply wondering what today’s buyers are looking for, I would be happy to connect and share insights tailored to your property.

Livewell by Blakeford

For many retirees, the comfort of staying in their familiar home environment is preferable to moving to a retirement community. Maintaining daily routines and independence highlights the need for safe, sustainable home living. However, home modifications are often necessary to achieve a safe environment.

As retirees’ needs evolve, features like stairs, narrow doorways, and slippery bathrooms can become hazardous. These challenges can be mitigated with simple updates such as installing grab bars in bathrooms for stability, adding shower seats for safer bathing, adding handrails to steps for easier navigation, reorganizing kitchen cabinets for easier access, improving lighting to enhance visibility and reduce fall risks, and preparing an emergency kit for power outages.

Before making modifications, a home safety assessment by a professional is recommended. They can identify hazards and suggest improvements tailored to individual needs. Certified Aging-in-Place Specialists (CAPS) are invaluable for making effective home adaptations. Families can locate qualified CAPS professionals through resources like the National Association of Home Builders directory.

LiveWell is a program whose members (healthy, independent adults, 60 and older) enjoy exceptional benefits that allow them to maintain the independence they’ve earned and remain in their family home. LiveWell offers a range of plans at different cost and coverage levels to best meet a senior’s needs. All plans include an essential package of services to make it possible for someone to be as healthy and independent as possible - at home. Contact Livewell by Blakeford for more information.

Continued on page 26

At Clarendale West End, your exciting lifestyle comes with the convenience of being near others in Nashville’s Jewish community Whether attending ser vices or celebrating traditions, you’ll be just minutes from local synagogues:

•1 mile to West End Synagogue

•Less than 1 mile to Congregation Sherith Israe l

•Less than 4 miles to The Temple – Congregation Ohabai Sholom

Enjoy the per fect blend of location, community, and connection – all in a brand -new senior living communit y made for you to live your most authentic, joy-filled life.

To learn more about our community, call 629 -276 -3239 or scan the QR code.

3416 Park Drive | Nashville, TN 37203 | ClarendaleWestEnd.com OFFICE 629-276-3239 |

Druid Tree Service

Springtime ushers in a time of rejuvenation; a new beginning. A wake up to the certainty that it’s time to again enjoy nature’s bountiful beauty of flowering trees, shrubs and flowers. Breathe in the scent of lilac and viburnum, allow the vibrant, pink cherry blossoms to transport you to, and take solace in the fact that spring, without fail, has sprung again.

At Druid Tree Service, we are specialists in preserving the natural beauty of your trees and shrubs. We believe your yard should be an oasis, deserving of the utmost care and attention. From specialty hand pruning of boxwoods, yews and ornamentals, to shade tree maintenance, our arborists offer professional care for landscapes of any size.

As you spend more time at home, you may observe that your landscape could use an expert eye on the beautiful space you envision.

We can help you through our consulting arborist’s stewardship plans. Alleviate the worry of hazards in your trees, by having our consulting arborist conduct a hazard tree assessment. Spring is an important time to identify pests and nutritional deficiencies in your plants. At Druid, our consulting arborist conducts a plant pathology assessment to identify concerns and make recommendations for pest and fertility issues.

Druid has proven experience controlling specific pests and diseases, including the devastating Emerald Ash Borer (EAB), to insure the health and wellbeing of your trees and shrubs. Druid is family owned and has been caring for trees and shrubs in the Nashville area since 1977.

We look forward to caring for your trees. Give us a call at

or email us at office@druidtree.com.

Business C ard Director y

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES DIRECTORY

ACCOUNTANTS

CATHY WERTHAN, CPA

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

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

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

CHIROPRACTIC CARE

DR. BRADLEY KROCK D.C.

Discover relief with Dr. Krock, DCExpert chiropractic care for pain, wellness, and injury recovery. Book your appointment today!   615-723-0201 www.krockchiropractic.com

DENTIST

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

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

OPTOMETRIST

DR. MICHELE SONSINO Optique Franklin 436 Main Street, Franklin 615-591-4191 Optique Nashville 2416 21st Ave. S., #104, Nashville 615-321-4393

DR. JAMES W. KIRKCONNELL Bellevue Eyecare Center 7640 Hwy 70 S, Ste 102 Nashville 615-662-7588 www.bec2020.com

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

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

FRANKLIN PARGH

615-351-7333

franklin.pargh@compass.com

LANA PARGH 615-504-2685

lana.pargh@compass.com www.pargh.com Instagram: @theparghteam

JACOB KUPIN, REALTOR

HAYLEY LEVY KUPIN, REALTOR 615-281-9035

Jacob@TheKupinGroup.com Hayley@TheKupinGroup.com www.TheKupinGroup.com We’ve got your back!

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

Jackie Roth Karr, REALTOR® 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

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.

TREE SERVICES

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

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