Family Chanukah Celebration • Holiday Brunch Recipes

December 2007
Family Chanukah Celebration • Holiday Brunch Recipes Compliments of the Fairview Inn
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Jewish Scene
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Contents
6
FEATURE:
Family Chanukah Celebration
10
SENIOR LIVING: Holiday Blahs
11
BESHERT: Chanukah Gift
12
BUSINESS AS USUAL:
American Paper & Twine
Editor/Publisher
Susan C. Nieman
33
COMING ATTRACTIONS
SCRAPBOOKS
IN FASHION: Holiday Fashions
18
FROM THE KITCHEN OF
Fairview Inn
20
L’CHAYIM: Irish Whiskey
22
ON THE SIDELINES: Jack Cristil
24
TEEN SCENE: Jessica Rubinsky
& BBYO
30
AGENCY/ADVERTISER LISTING
Art Director
Dustin Green
Art Assistant
16
28
32
2
9
14
15
21
23
25
26
AGENCY HIGHLIGHT:
UJC Network
27
31
ASBEE, Mphs.
Memphis Jewish Home
Beth Sholom, Mphs.
Plough Towers, Mphs.
NCJW, Mphs.
Jewish Family Service,
Jewish Council on Aging,
Senior Resource Fair
BSSS, Mphs.
Memphis Jewish High School,
MHA/FYOS, Mphs.
Jackson, Key West, Memphis
Temple Israel, Mphs.
On the cover:
Chanukah decorations at the Gelb home
Photo: Rebecca Miller
David Miller
Rebecca Miller
Arts & Entertainment Editor
Jennifer Lefkowitz
Calendar & Scrapbook Editor
Linda Schlesinger
Editorial Contributors
Bob Bernstein
Gary Burhop
Shoshana Cenker
Chris Arpe Gang
Gary Hawkins
Mark Hayden
Jennifer Lefkowitz
Alla Olswanger
Harry Samuels
Account Executives
Bob Drake
Bari Eiseman
Larry Nieman
Chief Financial Officer
Don Heitner
Business Manager
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT:
Reviews
Alice Drake
Jewish Scene is dedicated to creating awareness among the Jewish community; and promoting and supporting the
religious, educational, social and fundraising efforts of Jewish agencies and organizations throughout the South.
26
Editorial Assistants
Bettye Berlin
Emily Bernhardt
Alice Drake
Volume 2 Number 3
December 2007
Kislev/Tevet 5768
18
Jewish Scene magazine must give permission for any
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not necessarily reflect the publisher’s opinion, nor
can the publisher be held responsible for errors. The
publication of any advertisement in this issue does not
constitute an endorsement of the advertiser’s product
or services by this publication.
Jewish Scene is published monthly by Jewish Living
of the South, Inc. First Class subscription rates for
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Send name and address with check to:
4
Jewish Scene
I December 2007
28
Jewish Living of the South, Inc. dba Jewish Scene
1703 Tamhaven Court
Cordova, TN, 38016
Phone: 901.624.4896
Fax: 901.754.7822
Email: [email protected]
www.jewishscenemagazine.com
FROM THE EDITOR
From the
EDITOR
FASHIONABLE IS GUARANTEED
LATE WILL TAKE SOME EFFORT
Dear Readers,
The best part about creating Jewish
Scene magazine is that Larry and I meet
new people each day here in Memphis and
on visits to other cities. They are not only
pictures on our pages; some of them have
become our closest new friends, others seem
like family.
In October I attended a UJC Network Women’s
Philanthropy Workshop in Atlanta (page 28)
where I met Jewish leaders from areas we
have not yet traveled. Some of these women
and the work that they do will be featured in
upcoming issues.
We recently attended UJC’s General
Assembly in Nashville, Tenn., where we
met people from all over the United States
and Israel; but you’ll have to wait until next
month to see those photos and hear
about the exciting happenings in our North
American federations.
The Acura Full Line. No matter which you choose, you’ll look sharp. But if you would rather no
be the first to arrive, just ignore your available voice-activated navigation system and curb
some horsepower. After all, spending more time in the car can be a good thing. Take a test
drive today. For more information, visit acura.com.
Some of our dearest friends are in Jackson,
Miss. Each month Lou Shornick sends me
photos and keeps me informed about
everything Jackson. And on each visit,
Fairview Inn owners Peter and Tamar Sharp
and their twins, Sophie and Simon welcome
us into their lovely bed and breakfast. Sadly,
on Nov.14 Simon lost a yearlong struggle
with Leukemia. But during this past year,
Tamar has shared their daily lives and kept
family and friends posted through an Internet
site CaringBridge.org, bringing Simon closer
and touching us all. The photos on page 27
have been scheduled for December. I wish
Simon had had the chance to see them in
print. We will miss him.
In closing, I wish you all a Happy Chanukah
and Holiday Season filled with, love, happiness
and peace.
Phone
901•685•0011
Shalom,
Mon-Sat
10:00-5:30
Susan C. Nieman - Publisher/Editor
www.bellaviaggia.com
December 2007 I Jewish Scene
5
FEATURE
Light, Laughter And Music Shine Brightly
at Memphis
FamilyCelebration
Chanukah
J
Story by Chris Arpe Gang , Photography by Rebecca Miller
ewish families celebrate Chanukah in lots
of different ways. For some it’s all about the
first night when latkes and gifts are shared.
For others, the observance is low-key
until the last night when light from all of the candles on
the menorahs brightens the faces of those gathered for
gifts and holiday food.
But for Barb Gelb and Robb Zelonky and their three
children, all eight nights are special.
“We have guests almost every
night,” said Barb, director of
education at Temple Israel in
Memphis. “The house smells like
latkes all week because we usually
make them every night.”
The only time the family is
without extra people is the night
of the Chanukah play at Bornblum
Solomon Schechter Day School,
where the children are students
and play participants.
Zelonky writes and directs
the play each year. This year,
“Macca-Beach Boys,” will be
performed on Dec. 5.
To make her home festive,
Gelb decorates with a half dozen
or more menorahs, strings of lights
that look like dreidels, real dreidels
and a big pile of presents in front
of the fireplace. Each child lights a
favorite menorah before they sing
the blessings.
Daughter Zoe, 13, likes the
Noah’s Ark menorah she received as a gift when she was
a baby. The menorah 9-year-old Jacob favors is an artist
palette that reflects his creative nature. Elijah, 11, chooses
a traditional menorah. The children spend time deciding
on the colors for the candles they will burn each night.
Sometimes it’s school colors, colors of their favorite sports
teams or just the colors that appeal to them. They also
6
Jewish Scene
I December 2007
have contests to see whose candles burn the longest.
It’s not surprising that music is an integral part of
their celebrations.
“It spontaneously combusts,” said Zelonky, a
professional musician known as “Robbo.” He teaches
music to preschoolers at Temple Israel and directs the
chorus at the Schechter school. He also writes and directs
Purimspiels for Temple Israel and Schechter.
“After we light the menorahs we sing the blessings,
dance the hora and sing Chanukah
songs,” Gelb said.
The whole family is musically
and theatrically inclined. The
children all have parts in Schechter’s
Chanukah play.
This year Zelonky will be
Scrooge in half of the performances
of “A Christmas Carol” at the DeSoto
Family Theatre. Jacob is Tiny Tim
and Zoe will play Scrooge’s sister in
a flashback scene.
G e l b a n d Z e l o n ky, w h o
d ivorced about three years ago,
celebrate holidays and other special
events as a family.
“We have tried to make our
Chanukah traditions all about the
family having fun,” Zelonky said.
That’s what makes it special for
Jacob. “I like being with my family,”
he said.
On every night except one, the
children choose a gift to open from
a sizeable pile. Some are from their
parents, one is from their siblings and another is from one
of the 13 first cousins who all draw names. Packages from
the cousins are given anonymously so the children guess
who it is from. That’s a long-time tradition in Gelb’s family
of six siblings.
“We always pulled names as children and now we do
it through the mail as adults,” she said. Long before the
FEATURE
holiday, she and her siblings are sending and receiving
e-mails letting others in on their wish lists. The packages
are still sent without the name of the giver.
One year Barb’s five brothers played a very nice trick on
her. “They all know how much I love presents so everyone
in the whole family sent me a gift.”
One night during Chanukah no one in the family
opens a present.
“That’s the night when we pool our money together
and give it to someone else,” Gelb said. By donating
to organizations such as Make-A-Wish or the Mother Bear
Project, they know that someone else will have something
special because of the family’s Chanukah gift.
Two nights are devoted entirely to the
children and their friends.
“On those nights the kids will take
turns lighting candles with their friends,”
Gelb said.
At least one lighted menorah is placed in a
window where it can be seen from the outside.
The children love playing with dreidels
for the chance to win pennies or chocolate
Chanukah gelt. They easily explain the rules
to friends who have never played. It’s a
favorite tradition for Zoe.
“I like having people over and playing
with dreidels,” she said.
Gelb prepares potato latkes almost every night. On kids’
nights she might pair them with pizza.
“One of my shortcuts is to use two boxes of Manischewitz
latke mix with four grated potatoes and four eggs,” she said.
“It makes a lot.”
Her latkes get high praise from her children.
Elijah says they are one of the Chanukah traditions
he likes best along with presents and parties. He’s also
wise about why the holiday is so much fun.
“If Chanukah went on forever it would be boring,”
Elijah said. (continued on p.8)
December 2007 I Jewish Scene
7
FEATURE (continued)
Gelb, a vegetarian, decided to make a healthier version
of latkes one year by baking wheat germ pancakes. “No one
liked them except me,” she said.
The family also bakes and decorates cookies in the
shape of dreidels and menorahs. Occasionally they have
store-bought donuts, another traditional
fried-in-oil Chanukah food.
Non-Jewish guests are included in their
celebration at least one night.
“I like to show them Chanukah is not
Jewish Christmas,” said Gelb, who has been
a spokesman for Judaism since she was 14.
That’s when her family moved from Scranton,
Pa., to Laramie, Wy., where her father took
a job as professor of law at the University of
Wyoming. There were very few Jewish families
in Laramie.
“Whenever there was a Jewish holiday I
was asked to speak,” she said. “I always felt
as if I was representing the Jewish people.”
In her role as director of education at Temple Israel,
she is often asked to talk about Chanukah to school or
church groups.
“I usually do it through the symbols like the menorah
and dreidels and talk about the values associated with
it,” she said.
Chanukah, she said, celebrates the Jews’ hard fought
right to worship and religious freedom for everyone.
In 165 B.C.E., the Maccabees defeated ruling forces
that had defiled the Second Temple, outlawed the practice
of Judaism and tried to force Jews into worshipping Greek
8 Jewish Scene I December 2007
gods. When the Temple was liberated and rededicated,
a miracle occurred. Athough there was only enough oil
to burn candles for one night, they burned for eight.
That’s why Jews light candles on each of the eight
nights of Chanukah.
Dreidels are a symbol of the Jewish
dedication to learning. Jews who gathered
for forbidden Torah study sessions
pretended to be gambling with dreidels
when outsiders approached.
Amidst all of the singing, dancing,
eating and gift giving in the Gelb-Zelonky
family, there is another tradition – a
moment when everyone says what they are
most grateful for.
“It almost always ends up being each
other,” Zelonky said.
Chris Arpe Gang was a feature writer at The
Commercial Appeal for 33 years. Retired from
full-time work, she is now a freelance writer. Her
weekly gardening column, Green Thumb, appears
Fridays in The Commercial Appeal and she has
recently created a Web site, midsouthgardens.com,
a comprehensive source of information for area
gardeners. She and her husband, Gregory, daughter,
Madelyn, dog and cat live in Germantown.
SCRAPBOOK
Residents, employees and volunteers enjoy their booth at the
ASBEE BBQ, Bubba and Zedie Ville.
‘‘We choose Belmont Village.”
“Mom is getting older now and needs a little help with things like meals and daily living activities. Belmont
Village is the perfect choice. She has her own apartment in a beautiful community. She has
friends, activities to keep her busy, a driver to take her places, even chefs to cook her meals.
Plus, she receives hands-on assistance from Belmont’s trained staff whenever she needs it.
She’s happy! That makes me happy, too.”
‘‘We Choose Belmont Village’’
• Licensed nurse on-site around the clock
• Medication management
• Chef-prepared, restaurant-style dining
• Free scheduled transportation daily
• Fitness and social activities
• Housekeeping and laundry
• Assistance with daily living
• Circle of Friends™ memory program
• Short-term stays available
• Specialized Alzheimer’s care
Call (901) 624-8820
Belmont resident Helen Siml
with her son, Arthur Siml, DDS
ACLF Lic. 102
© 2007 Belmont Village
Call 866-905-2266 or visit www.belmontvillage.com to order your free guide
to Assisted Living
December 2007 I Jewish Scene
9
SENIOR LIVING
Don’t
Let the Holiday Blues Make Your Holiday Blah!
By Bob Bernstein
B
oy I can’t wait for Chanukah to
begin at sundown on Tuesday,
December 4 – fun and excitement
for the next eight days. Then, at the
end of December, Christmas and finally,
the grand New Year’s Eve celebration!
The entire month of December
is filled with frivolity, fun, happiness
and optimistic hopes. “Bah Humbug,”
some may say!!
For some, including senior adults
and family members, it is not unusual for
holidays to trigger the “holiday blues,”
to feel sadness and loneliness during
the holiday period.
Elderly persons in particular are
susceptible to the blues. Holidays may
remind them of loved ones or friends
who have passed away and fun events
or celebrations of yesteryear that can
stir up feelings of great joy. However
these holiday celebrations may no
longer exist for the older person who
is alone.
Although “holiday blues” can
be serious, it should not be confused
with another condition, Seasonal
Affective Disorder, a mood disorder
that usually occurs during the bleak
winter months.
Holiday depression can occur
during any holiday or vacation time,
but most commonly occurs during
December when it seems that everyone
in the world is busy celebrating in
some way.
Experiencing the “holiday blues”
does not mean you have a mental
illness, but a “situational depression,”
which is often triggered by health
problems, loss of friends and loved
ones, children living far away, etc.
There can be many causes for “holiday
blues,” and the symptoms may mimic
clinical depression.
Though unlike clinical depression,
“holiday blues” are usually short lived,
only lasting for a few days to a few
weeks. Feelings can begin in anticipation
of the holidays or after experiencing
the holiday.
10
Jewish Scene
I December 2007
But look at the bright side.
“Holiday blues” usually subside right
after the holiday season is over and
daily routines are resumed.
As our population ages and
families become more fragmented ie:
living in cities apart from each other,
it is extremely important for family
caregivers to protect their older loved
ones from the “holiday blues.”
Dr. Allen Anderson, president of
the American Association of Geriatric
Psychiatry, states that, “Depression
that occurs during the holidays can be
prevented if families are equipped with
the proper information and are aware
of the services that are available t o
older adults and their families in
the community.”
All people feel sad or unhappy at
times in their lives, but persistent
sadness or the blues may be depression,
a serious illness affecting approximately
15 out of every 100 adults over age 65
in the United States. According to the
American Association of Geriatric Psychiatry, depression is not a normal part
of life. If it is continuous one should
see their physician as soon as possible.
For those who may experience the
“holiday blues” during the upcoming
holiday season, I suggest the following:
• Try to think of positive things
of past times in celebrating the holiday.
• Be with people you care about
and who care about you.
• Use a lot of humor in your day.
• Look in your mirror and tell
yourself how much you love you and
what a great day it is going to be.
And for those caring for a loved one:
• Foster contact with loved ones
who may live a distance away.
• Use socialization to minimize
loneliness and isolation.
• Phone older loved ones when
physical contact is not possible.
• Involve the older person in
planning activities outside the home.
There is a long list of do’s and don’ts for
managing the holiday blues. Some of the
most important things to remember are:
• Experiencing the blues at this
time of the year is “normal;” it is a very
stressful time!!
• Be positive, use a lot of humor, don’t
be a sufferer, don’t beat yourself on the
top of the head, don’t think “poor me.”
• Enlist a friend or family member
who you can talk with and can help you
through this difficult time.
There are community organizations can
assist and help both the elderly person
and family members. Look to your
synagogue, church or local library to find
a source or call Bob at 901.374.0707 or
901.603.2765.
In Memphis:
• Jewish Family Service
6560 Poplar
901.767.8511
• Aging Commission of the Mid South
2670 Union Ave. Ext.
Info/assistance hot line 901.324.3399
• Memphis Public Library
Dial 211 (the hookup for the
community information)
In closing, I want to wish you
and your’s a very Happy Healthy and
Stress-free holiday season. Remember, do not let the “holiday blues”
get you down!!
Be positive and focus on all that is
good in life!!
Bob Bernstein is a Master Level Licensed
Social Worker. Through his company, Geriatric
Consultants, LLC in Memphis, he works with
seniors and their families and consults agencies,
organizations, senior living facilities and hospitals
in developing services and programs. His TV program, “The
Time of my Life,” appears on
local Memphis Comcast Cable
Channel 17 every Wed. at 2
and 9 p.m. He can be reached
at 901.374.0707.
BESHERT
BESHERT: True Stories of Connection
Chanukah Gift
By Rabbi Moishe Bryski
O
ne winter day, a group of rabbinical students came
from New York to Agoura, California, to assist the
rabbi of the Chabad Congregation. It was a
Saturday when a moving truck began unloading next to the
home in which the boys were housed. Although it was the
Sabbath—a day of rest, prayer, and reflection for observant
Jews—the young men were eager to extend hospitality to
their new neighbors. They were told the newcomers were
a man and his daughter. He had been hired as the music
conductor and choir leader of a reform temple in the valley.
The young men observed the rituals of the Sabbath, whereas
the lifestyles of the man and his daughter were far removed
from those of a traditional Jewish family. Yet the newcomers
were immediately and wholeheartedly welcomed by the
young men with food, Sabbath songs, and open arms.
As time progressed, the newcomers became more
comfortable in their new environment. The choir leader
decided one evening to attend a class conducted by Rabbi
Moishe Bryski, the Agoura Chabad rabbi. The subject of the
rabbi’s talk was “Faith and Suffering.” Following the lecture,
he came to the rabbi, hugged him, and, filled with emotion,
proceeded to cry on his shoulder as he related this story. A
year before moving to Agoura, he had lost his wife and two
of his three children in a terrible automobile accident. At
that time he was so distraught that he gave up. He couldn’t
fight the pain or cope with the loss. He was angry at G-d,
and he hated the thought of living. It was then he decided
he wanted to die. He planned to take his surviving daughter
to the movies, to spend one last night with her, and afterwards to take her home and commit suicide while she was
asleep. The two went to the Mountain Gate Plaza Cinema
in Simi Valley, and as they came into the mall, they heard
the sound of Jewish music. It was Chanukah, and some group was
having a Chanukah festival in front of the theater. They were
distracted as they watched the dancing and listened to the
music. Soon he and his daughter were invited to join in the
dancing. There he was, the same night that he had decided
to end his life, dancing with his daughter. He knew at that
moment that he would not give up on life but try again. He
decided to find another community and start a new life, and
he asked G-d to send him a sign that He was there watching
over him. The next thing he knew, he and his daughter were
being welcomed by the local Chabad rabbi and his rabbinic
students in Agoura.
Rabbi Bryski listened to the man’s story, and suddenly he,
too, was crying. He asked him to wait a few minutes while
he ran to his office and rummaged through some
albums taken at Simi during the previous Chanukah. There
it was in a photo. It was they, the rabbi and his Chabad
group, who were there at the mall that night. That was the
year the rabbi had decided to add another city to their list
of Chanukah festivals. Why Simi? Why Mountain Gate?
He didn’t know. Why did they grab a total stranger and
ask him to dance? Why not? It was Chanukah, and their
injunction from the Rebbe was to bring the joy and message
of Chanukah to all, so that everyone should know that
light will prevail over darkness. So they did, and there it
was in the album, a photo of the man and his daughter
dancing with the Chabad group.
Recalling that night several years later, the rabbi
remembered his wife’s concerns about the size of the crowd
and the effectiveness of that program at Simi. He remembered
that he, too, had questioned its success in his own mind.
Was the crowd adequate? Did it justify all the extra effort?
Was it really worthwhile? He never dreamt that it might
have helped to save a person’s life.
The good deeds we perform can have a ripple effect far
beyond our ability to imagine.
Harry Samuels is a graduate of Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, and has
devoted many years to volunteerism in Memphis, Tennessee. He and his wife, Flora,
have been married for 46 years and are the parents of Martin, William and the late
David Samuels. Proceeds from the sale of his books go to charity.
Beshert and Mr. Samuels newest book, Crossroads: “Chance
or Destiny?” are available in Davis-Kidd Booksellers, Amazon.
com and Iuniverse.com. Beshert is also available at Barnes
and Noble, Borders, Davis-Kidd Booksellers, Memphis Jewish
Community Center.
December 2007 I Jewish Scene
11
BUSINESS AS USUAL
AMERICAN PAPER
TWINE
By Shoshana Cenker
Think about what you can do with $500 these days.
Starting a business may not be the first thing that comes
to mind. But 81 years ago in Nashville, Tennessee, that’s
exactly what Robert (Bob) Doochin’s father, Nathan, did
with money he’d borrowed from his dad, who’d borrowed it
from his dad.
In 1926 Nathan opened American Paper and Twine.
The company is a full-line wholesale paper merchant
company that currently
distributes sanitary supplies,
packaging supplies, food service
disposables and office supplies.
Over the years, it’s
blossomed into five branch
locations across the South
in Nashville, Memphis,
Chattanooga,
Knoxville
and Little Rock.
After graduating from the
University of Pennsylvania in
1962 with a Bachelor of
Science in economics and
Rick Eisemam
then a brief stint serving in
the Tennessee Air National Guard, Bob began working in
sales at his dad’s company.
When asked if he grew up knowing he’d get into his
father’s business, “probably so,” Bob humbly replied.
When Bob and his sister bought out their brother and
father in 1982, Bob became president and CEO. In 1987, he
bought out his sister.
The company is still somewhat of a family business.
“Alberta and I have been married for 39 years, our three
children work for the company,” says Bob. His daughter
Karen Shaffer is in charge of information systems and
human resources, her husband, Preston, is a computer
programming specialist. Their daughter, Julie, is the
office products division director, while Bob’s stepson
Jason Ritchason is a sales director.
When Bob decided to add a new branch in Memphis in
the mid-1990s, he knew just the person to get things
off the ground.
“I knew Rick Eiseman from a marketing co-op group we
both belonged to,” explains Bob. “We’d kept in contact over
the years. He was the right person to run the operation, so
I offered him the job.”
It seems Bob’s offer couldn’t have come at a better
time for Rick.
After college, Rick, who graduated from
Vanderbilt University in 1976 with a liberal arts
degree including a math major and minors in
business and chemistry, worked for Paper Products
Company. That company was privately owned
by three people, one of whom, was Rick’s father,
Dick Eiseman. In 1985 Rick assumed the role
of general manager and remained in that position through three different company buyouts. In
1996, just after the last buyout, Bob came calling
and Rick answered
the call.
At the 100,000square-foot Memphis
facility, Rick oversees
the entire sales, marketing and operational services of the
branch and also profitability aspects. “My
job is to lead our people,” explains Rick.
Bob Doochin
“I’ve worked in
several positions throughout this industry,” he explains, “in
the warehouse, customer service and sales. But even today, I’m still a salesman. I have personal clients within
the company. I get an inside perspective and do a little
PR, plus this way, I can better help our sales people.”
The company services locations within an 80-to-100-
Rick and his wife, Bari, have been married for 26 years and are members of Temple Israel in Memphis. Rick
serves on the board of directors for the Memphis Jewish Community Center. The couple has two sons. Bradley
just graduated from the University of Texas at Austin and is heading to law school in Florida, and Scott, a
sophomore also attends UT at Austin.
12
Jewish Scene
I December 2007
BUSINESS AS USUAL
mile radius of each branch, so as not to
overlap branches.
“We’re heavily into the trucking
business with our own fleet of trucks
that delivers the goods we sell,”
says Bob. “You’ve probably seen
o u r trucks!”
“Business in Memphis is going
very well,” says Rick. “We set some
goals and we have far exceeded them!
It’s because of our employees. We have
the best team in the market.” And
perhaps most important, “we haven’t
lost sight of the customer.”
American Paper and Twine has
quite an extensive clientele. It caters
to the healthcare and transportation
industries, schools, and specifically in
Memphis, to distribution businesses.
Big-name clients include Fed Ex and
the Baptist Hospital system.
“We truly are a one-stop shop,”
says Rick. “There’s a tremendous
advantage to supply as many products
as you can, which is why we recently
began selling office supplies. Not many
people we call find that they can’t use
something we provide.”
The privately owned company is
always growing. “We’ve enhanced our
online capabilities and boosted online
ordering,” says Rick. “We’re constantly
upgrading.”
“We’re currently looking to add
new branches,” adds Bob. “There’s
value in what we bring to the marketplace. American Paper and Twine has
a very a promising future!”
Shoshana Cenker was born and raised in
Memphis, graduated from White Station High
School in 1998 and from Indiana University in
Bloomington in 2002 with a B.A. in Broadcast
Journalism and a minor in
Hebrew and Jewish Studies.
She studied abroad in Israel
for a semester at Hebrew
University of Jerusalem. She
is news writer/producer for
the ABC Affiliate News Station, WSB TV in Atlanta.
December 2007 I Jewish Scene
13
SCRAPBOOK
Includes History of Memphis’ Kosher & Kosher-Style
Restaurants and Bakeries
Features recipes by Celebrity Chefs
$13.00 plus $2 shipping and handling
To order: Phone: 901-767-1910 Fax: 901-767-0081
Plough Towers, 6580 Poplar Ave., Memphis, TN 38138
Third thru seventh grade students participated in “A Night
Without a Home - A Sukkot Sleepover” where they learned about
the meaning of homelessness with Manna House Co-founder
Kathleen Kruczek, then slept in the Beth Sholom sukkah.
Also available: Personalized Greeting Cards,
Note Cards and Labels designed by residents.
All proceeds benefit the Plough Towers Resident Fund
for Programs and Activities
Students delivered coats, blankets, socks and hats collected
by congregants for Manna House guests. Andrew Dodson,
Caroline Kruczek & Benjamin Greenberg sort the blankets.
Students with Kathleen Kruczek.
Drum circle and sing-along at Rabbi and Sharona Rubinstein’s sukkah.
14
Jewish Scene
I December 2007
SCRAPBOOK
Vera Lansky and
Rosebud Davis
show off the
jewelry they
made.
Activities director Emma Hobson helps Bobbie Wallace and
other residents make jewelry
Gloria Masserano, Ann Evensky, Toby Wilkowsky, Anice
Engleman at the new residents’ party.
Barbara Bingaman, Louise Warf, Ruth Diamond, William
Ditchfield at the new residents’ party.
December 2007 I Jewish Scene
15
IN FASHION
Holiday Fashion Tips
By Alla Olswanger
Top and pants:
Seriously Fun,
Germantown, TN.
Black dress and silver bag:
Bella Viaggia,
Memphis, TN.
I
t was a usual late afternoon as I walked to retrieve
my mail. As I flipped through, a bright gold envelope
captured my eye. It was a glamorous invitation to my
first holiday party of the year. One of my first thoughts was,
“what am I going to wear?”
Here are some ideas for what I hope is a useful guide in
choosing your holiday attire this season.
First, look in your closet. Do you have a silver or gold
metallic purse? What about that simple black dress? Dresses
are really hot this season, and are always in style.
If the party is casual, throw a short denim jacket over
the dress with a great pair of cowboy boots. If it’s a dressy affair, find a glamorous shawl that goes with your purse. Then
complete the outfit with the very latest shoes – round toes,
high heels.
Q
&A
with Alla Olswanger
Alla Olswanger is a buyer and
sales representative for Bella
Viaggia in Memphis. She is also
a sales representative for Seriously
fun in Germantown, TN.
Susan: Alla, I understand that
you began dancing when you were
very young. How did you become
involved in fashion?
16
Jewish Scene
I December 2007
Bare legs are sexy and in too. If your skin color needs a
lift, apply a soft tanner the night before. I prefer to use Clarins, which is a bit pricey, or Jergens, which is moderately
priced.
Here are some suggestions for those who prefer pants.
Wide-legged pants are very fashionable this season. A longer, glitzy top will help camouflage your trouble areas. You
can still use the same purse and heels.
When accessorizing with jewelry, look for big circle
necklaces or earrings in gold, silver or mixed.
Put all this together and you are ready for fun. And
always remember my most important fashion tip of all – it’s
not what you wear, it’s how you wear it that matters!
Alla: I was 5 years old when
representatives from the modeling school came to my ballet class.
They chose me out of 20 children
to do some modeling. My mom was
very excited, but my dad was very
nervous.
During that same time I began
modeling for a factory that made
children’s outfits, and because all of
the samples were made in my size, I
got to keep some of them.
Susan: What makes the fashion
industry so interesting for you?
Alla: I love to help people find the
right things to wear, because it makes
them feel good about themselves.
December 2007 I Jewish Scene
17
FROM THE KITCHEN
By Chef Gary Hawkins
Entertaining family, friends or out-of-town guests during the holiday season. Try these early
or late morning buffet specialties from Sophia’s at the Fairview Inn in Jackson, Mississippi.
Whole Roasted Salmon
Ingredients
serves 10-12
Directions
1 4-lb. Atlantic salmon 1. Mix the garlic, shallot and creole seasoning in
a bowl with the olive oil.
2 tsp. garlic, minced
2. Pat dry salmon then sprinkle salt and pepper
2 tsp. shallot, minced
over it then rub spice mix across salmon.
2 tsp. Creole seasoning
3. Bake at 400 for 10-12 minutes depending on
2 Tbsp. olive oil
how you liked your salmon cooked.
4. Remove salmon, place onto party tray, garnish
with sliced tomato, cucumbers and lemon.
5. Drizzle salmon with our House vinaigrette.
House Vinaigrette
Ingredients
1 shallot, chopped
1 cup sugar
2 Tbsp. salt, kosher
1 Tbsp. celery seeds
2 Tbsp. Dijon mustard
1 cup cider Vinegar
1 cup olive oil
Directions
1. Put first six ingredients into
processor, pulse till blended.
2. Add olive oil in a slow and
steady stream with processor on.
Asparagus and Tomato plate
Blanch asparagus and slice roma tomatoes and arrange on a platter.
Or for more flavor you can grill asparagus and roast the tomatoes. You
can also alternate yellow tomatoes with the red.
18
Jewish Scene
I December 2007
FROM THE KITCHEN
Mushroom Quiche serves 6-8
Ingredients
1 Tbsp. olive oil • 1 tsp. garlic, minced
1 shallot, small, diced • 2 tsp. thyme, fresh
1 cup mushrooms, sliced • 3 eggs, beaten
1/3 cup heavy cream • 1/3 cup cheddar • Salt-pepper
Directions
1. Heat olive oil, add garlic and shallots, cook for 30 seconds.
2.Add sliced mushrooms and thyme along with salt and pepper.
3. Cook till mushrooms are tender.
4. Beat eggs in a bowl, add the heavy cream.
5. Pour mushroom mix into pre-baked pie shell, then add
cheddar, then pour the egg mix over top and bake at 350 till
set, about 25-30 minutes.
Bread Pudding serves 6-8
Ingredients
1.5 loaves French bread, day old • 12 eggs
2.5 cups sugar • 8 cups milk
2 cups cream • 2 tsp. vanilla extract
Directions
1. Slice French bread into cubes.
2. Whisk eggs, sugar, milk and cream and extract together.
3. Pour mixture over bread and mix well, let set for 1 hour.
Pour into buttered pan and bake at 350 till set, about
30-45 minutes.
December 2007 I Jewish Scene
19
An Irish
Whiskey Primer
By Gary Burhop
ust over 200 years ago, Irish whiskey was the most
coveted brown spirit in the world. At the time
producing whiskey in Scotland was mainly illegal
and American bourbon had just been invented. Yet
Ireland, widely regarded as the birthplace of whiskey,
had about 1,000 licensed distilleries and estimates of
many times that number of unlicensed stills. Today
though, there are just three licensed distilleries on the
Isle – Midleton and Cooley in Ireland and Bushmill’s
in Northern Ireland.
The ‘malting’ process for Irish whiskey and Scotch
is virtually the same but Irish whiskey is dried in sealed
ovens and keeps the pure malt flavor. Peat is almost
never used for Irish whiskey.
The fall of Irish whiskey is a tale of famine, infighting,
bad planning and bad decisions. The greatest toll came
after the Michael Collins led rebellion. The Irish were
good at making whiskey, but it was the English who sold
it. When English firms refused to sell Irish whiskey,
instead turning their marketing prowess to Scotch, the
Irish couldn’t compete.
A minimum of three years of aging is required.
New oak casks are avoided, as the flavoring imparted
is considered too harsh. Used barrels that once held
bourbon or rum are preferred and account for subtle
differences in whiskies that may originate from the
same distillery.
What makes Irish whiskey Irish, other than
spelling it with an ‘e’, unlike Scotch whisky?
Irish whiskey is distilled three times rather than
the two for Scotch and once for Bourbon. Sealed malting ovens and triple distillation produces a spirit that
is arguably smoother, milder, softer and rounder than
Scotch and Bourbon.
Check out the selection of Irish whiskey at Great
Wines & Spirits and ‘ave e dram.’
Irish whiskey is a grain whiskey made in Ireland
from Irish-grown wheat, barley, rye or corn.
There are several types of Irish whiskey that describe
what it is made from and/or how it is made – Single
malt is all barley, Single Grain is just that, Pure Pot Still
describes the method of manufacture and Blended tells
you that it is likely made from the product of both
column and pot stills and from more than just barley.
20
Jewish Scene
I December 2007
Gary Burhop is owner of Great Wines & Spirits,
6150 Poplar Avenue in Regalia, Memphis, TN, 38119,
phone 901.682.1333, and is available to help with any
wine or spirits question.
SCRAPBOOK
Instructor Amy Filderman and her assistant, Jeannie Goin,
taught NCJW members about the art and sport of Pilates
and how to stretch and tone their bodies at the Pilates
Center of Ballet Memphis
Farmington Centre – Farminton & Exeter
Germantown, TN – 901•754•0018
December 2007 I Jewish Scene
21
ON THE SIDELINES
Jack Cristil - The Voice Behind
the Mississippi Bulldogs
By Mark Hayden
M
ost sports fans know Jack Cristil as a mainstay
of the Mississippi State athletic program. With
53 years of play-by-play announcing he’s more
than earned his legendary status.
But when other folks from Tupelo think of the
Memphis-born Humes High
School graduate, athletics isn’t the
only thing that comes to mind. In
addition to his following among
sports fans, the Jewish community
of Northeast Mississippi sees him
on an up close-and-personal level.
The 35 families who comprise
Tupelo’s Temple B’nai Israel
membership are accustomed to
Jack’s golden voice, the voice of
the Bullies (the Mississippi State
Bulldogs) as he leads Friday night
and Saturday morning services.
The Temple, which recently
celebrated its 50th birthday, has
another member who serves as cantor. Jack does the rest
of the service.
“Except I don’t give the sermon,” explained Jack, who
received his formal journalism education at the University
of Minnesota. “I don’t feel that I’m qualified to tell people
how to run their lives.”
The services are meaningful experiences for Jack. “It’s
all being part of the Jewish community,” he said. “The more
I lead the more comfortable I am. It’s an ongoing personal
experience for me.
“Any words of appreciation I’ve received from people
are nice,” he continued. “You like to feel appreciated,
whether it’s for a ballgame or a Friday night service.”
Jack conducts the services (Friday nights three times a
month and Saturday morning the first week of the month)
on a regular basis when he’s available, usually between
April and August. “Then I get busy with other things,” he said.
That is when his life goes into over drive. Between his
covering prep, junior college or his beloved Bulldogs,
Cristil maintains a full plate – a plate that seldom allows
him to visit Memphis and sister in-law Dympal.
22
Jewish Scene
I December 2007
Known mainly for his work in football and basketball,
his long road with the Bullies ironically began through
another sport. He broadcast minor league baseball
– including the Memphis Chicks for a while. But when the
minors scaled back in number of teams, it became obvious
that he had to get a “real” job.
Even though from time to time he has been briefly
tempted by other sports positions, he has been a
mainstay behind the Mississippi State microphone.
“I was offered a chance to audition for a job with
the baseball Cardinals; and I did go to St. Louis,” said
Jack. “But by that time my wife and I had started our
family in Tupelo. We decided that instead of going
into a major market with the cutthroat business that
goes on there, we’d be better off where we were. I’ve
never regretted my decision.”
And neither has Mississippi State. “We’re
pleased with what you do,”
athletic director Larry
Templeton recently told
Jack. “You can continue
doing the games as long as
you want to,” he said.
Jack bristles at any
thoughts of retirement. “I’m
in the fourth quarter and the
clock’s running so I don’t
make plans,” he said. “I don’t
buy green bananas, and I
don’t make plans for lunch.
“I’ve told them that
whenever I stop representing this university well, that they should tell me,” he
continued. “To this point, they haven’t done that. “So, I’m
still here.”
And as Martha Stewart would say, that’s a good thing.
Mark Hayden has written about Memphis
sports for a variety of magazines. He works at
HYC Logistics. For story ideas please contact
Mark at [email protected].
SCRAPBOOK
SENIOR RESOURCE FAIR
December 2007 I Jewish Scene
23
TEEN SCENE
Above
T
and Beyond
By Susan Nieman
hirteen-year-old Jessica Rubinsky,
a seventh grader at St. Andrews
School in Jackson, Mississippi,
recently completed a Bat Mitzvah project
that went well above and beyond.
Jessica wanted to raise money for
the Blair E. Batson Children’s Hospital
in Jackson. First she called the hospital
and spoke to Maurine Jackson, who
suggested possible items that the
hospital needed.
“Through our Child Life program,
we maintain activity rooms with games,
books, toys, videos etc., the kinds of
things that a family might have in their
own home,” explained Maurine, assistant
director for Community Affairs at the
University of Mississippi Medical Center.
One item she learned about was
Photos: Lou Shornick
Jessica Rubinsky presents Jennifer Lott with a $4,000 check for The
Blair E. Batson Hospital for Children
the Medwagon, made with IV poles,
doors, special wheels and easy-folding
sides for easy entrance and exit.
“When I found out that they could
use additional and updated wagons,
I decided that would be my goal,”
explained Jessica. Little did she realize,
how much her efforts would pay off.
Jessica contacted her school
principal to see if she could organize a
fundraiser at St. Andrews.
“At Saint Andrew’s core is the
theme of service, and our students
are trained from the earliest grades
to think of ways to help others,” said
principal Pam David. “When Jessica
called me this past August to ask if
she could organize a service project to
raise money to buy a Medwagon for the
Tammy and Bert Rubinsky
with daughters Ashley,
Jessica and Tovah
Hospital Representative
Maurine Jackson with Jessica,
her sisters and a friend
Blair E. Batson Hospital, I gave her my
full support. Jessica did a fantastic job
of organizing and publicizing this project,
so much so, that she raised $4,000 in
three short weeks. Families who will
use the Medwagons will be grateful for
Jessica’s kind heart and dedication to
helping others.”
Jessica planned her campaign and
prepared a Power Point video that she
presented to 400 students. She also
made flyers to hang around the school.
In the end she collected approximately
$3,000 from fellow students. She also
solicited her parents, Tammy and Bert
Rubinsky and sister Ashley, and
donated $400 from her own Bat
Mitzvah money.
On October 29, surrounded by
proud parents, friends and relatives,
Jessica presented the $4,000 check to
the hospital.
“It is such a gift to meet someone
like Jessica,” said Maurine. “For a junior
high school student to want to raise
this kind of money, and to actually do
it, shows a special kind of determination
and commitment. She truly is an inspiration
not only for our patients but for our
staff as well.”
Cotton States BBYO New Member Weekend
“BBYO...I’m Lovin’ It!”
Mo re than 50 n e w M e m p h i s B BYO
mem bers attended Cotton States BBYO’s
New Member Weekend in October. The
newly joined freshmen met plenty of new
friends from Knoxville, Nashville, New
Orleans and Birmingham. They learned about
BBYO beyond the local level and participated
in exciting, enriching and fun programming. Congratulations
to Memphis BBYO members and weekend coordinators, Jared
Bender and Rebecka Handler, for making Memphis proud!
24
Jewish Scene
I December 2007
cotton states region
SCRAPBOOK
Fifth graders Max Meyer and Darren Shwer say the blessing
on the four species on a trip to Chickasaw State Park
Fifth graders say the morning prayers at Chickasaw State Park
Third grade sukkah hop
Mrs. Balogh’s first
graders pose in BSSS
Harry Potterstein and
the Schechter Saucerers booth at ASBEE
BBQ Contest
Adam Scilken and Adam
Siegler work on their
robot in after-school
technology class
December 2007 I Jewish Scene
25
SCRAPBOOK
Hannah Chanin & Morgan Wank “kook” up some
BBQ for the Kadima Kookers
MHA/FYOS Dean Rabbi Gil Perl, Belz-Parker Artists Ascending
Concert Series Co-chairman Leonid Saharovici, Jeremy Stein
Cushman and MHA/FYOS President David Cooper after
Cushman performed for MHA/FYOS and BSSS students.
Sophomores Logan Belz and Parker Mantell
experiment in chemistry
Shlomo Bosin
Students visit Blue Dog at the Dixon Gallery
26
Jewish Scene
I December 2007
Miriam and Hillel Milevsky
Second graders celebrated their completion of the script Aleph Bet
letters with a chagigah (party) in their classroom to which their
parents were invited.
SCRAPBOOK
JACKSON, MS SCENE
THE KEY WEST SCENE
Friends and family joined Simon Sharp in
Light the Night Walk to raise funds for the
Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.
NORMA DOPP’S 95TH BIRTHDAY PARTY
AT THE RUSTY ANCHOR.
Jewish Country Music DJ Karen Lowe, Sophie Signs banner
Simon Sharp and his mom,Tamar
Norma’s grandson, Bronson Arroyo, 6’6”
pitcher for the Cincinnati Reds was member
of the Boston Red Sox in 2004 when they
won the World Series. Bronson was born
in Key West but as a young boy, moved
with his parents, Gus And Julie Dopp
Arroyo to Brooksville, Florida.
Bronson Arroyo
and Jack Einhorn
Gus graduated in 1970 with David Einhorn and Dent Pierce and is the
beneficiary of a kidney transplant. Norma Yates, Robert Dopp, Joe Allen
& Lance Lester graduated from Key West High School with Raymond
Einhorn in 1931.
Simon Says team
MEMPHIS SCENE
Loyal customers celebrated
Betty Hays’ 65th birthday at
Seriously Fun.
Bonnie Belz (l), Betty Hays (r), Alla Olswanger
Jewelr y maker Myrna Halpern shows
Bari Eiseman a necklace.
December 2007 I Jewish Scene
27
AGENCY HIGHLIGHT
UJC Network ...
Small Communities Making a Big Difference
“O
By Shoshana Cenker
ne Jew helping another,” is
how Wendy Block, National
Chairwoman of the United
Jewish Communities Network describes the organization of which she
is proud to be a part.
Marilyn Hirsch, Gail Greenblatt, Babette Rothschild,
Jean Kent, Pat Wilensky – Columbus, GA delegation
Judith Swedlow, Columbus, OH; Janice Kingoff,
Wilmington, NC
Ethiopian refugee Shlomit Daniel, Gusti Frankel
Carol Cooper, President Elect, Atlanta Jewish
Federation, Berry Zander, Network Conference Chair
Janice Kingoff, Wendy Block, Doris Levy
– Wilmington, NC
UJC Network is the umbrella
organization, which unites 396 nonfederated Jewish communities across
the United States. Unlike large
cities with large Jewish communities
and housed Federation staffs, these
smaller communities are scattered
and rely on the efforts of volunteers.
And even though the Network serves
nearly 400 communities, it only has a
staff of five!
“We are really a volunteer-driven
force,” says Richard Klein, Southeast
Regional Director of UJC Network
living in Charlotte, North Carolina.
“Our volunteers have dedicated
themselves to upgrading Jewish
communities. They put in the time
and effort.”
Richard and Paula, his wife of
nearly 40 years, are members of
Charlotte’s Temple Israel. They have
three daughters and one son, all of
whom are involved in some way with
their federations.
“They are very committed Jews,”
Richard says of his kids. “And they’ll
pass it along to their kids as well.”
The Network raises money
through annual campaigns similar to
Federation campaigns to help Jews in
need all over the world.
“Most Network communities
send 100 percent of the dollars raised
oversees,” explains Wendy who lives
with her husband, Franklin, a retired
attorney and former North Carolina
state senator in Wrightsville Beach,
North Carolina. “We send money to
Jews in 59 countries. And I feel so
lucky to be helping them.”
Network volunteers are always
working to recruit new volunteers
and promote philanthropic giving.
“We are really getting out there to
make ourselves known,” says Wendy.
“We’re working our way across
the country.”
Network also encourages people
to go on mission trips to Israel.
UJC Network serves areas with
small Jewish communities throughout
the United States.
To learn more about UJC
Network, visit www.ujc.org.
Look for features in upcoming
issues of Jewish Scene as we visit
with Network leaders across
the country who are making a
difference in Jewish communities
around the world.
UJC Network recently held its first Women’s Philanthropy Conference in Atlanta.
Women from across the South were inspired by Women Network leaders.
28
Jewish Scene
I December 2007
AGENCY HIGHLIGHT
UJC
Network cont’
“If you want to see Israel through
the eyes of people who really care
about Jews,” says Wendy, who’s been
to Israel 17 times, “take a UJC mission.”
“We run successful campaigns,”
says Richard. “And we teach people
about designating their retirement
funds and life insurance to their
Jewish communities and UJC
overseas efforts.
“We are dealing with a special
group of people in our smaller
communities,” he continues. “Our
volunteers have total dedication and
commitment. It’s part of their tradition
and heritage. Their parents did it,
and they continue. They do it for the
Jewish people. Our volunteers have
always risen to the occasion. They
inspire me everyday.”
Shoshana Cenker was born and
raised in Memphis, graduated from
White Station High School in 1998 and
from Indiana University in Bloomington in 2002 with a B.A. in Broadcast
Journalism and a minor in Hebrew and
Jewish Studies. She studied abroad in
Israel for a semester
at Hebrew University
of Jerusalem. She is
news writer/producer
for the ABC Affiliate
News Station, WSB
TV in Atlanta.
December 2007 I Jewish Scene
29
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT: REVIEWS By: Jennifer Lefkowitz (JenniferLefkowitz.com)
Q & A w/ Shira Kline
JS: How did you begin
singing, danc
dancing and
writ
writing children’s songs?
SK: I’ve definitely been
singing and dancing
(playing, imagining, telling
stories, etc) ever since I
can remem
remember. Dressing out of the “costume
box” and entertaining
Photo by Scott Gries everyone who walked
in the door, but mostly myself, music has
always been a part of my life. My father, Rabbi
David Kline, started my teaching career when
I was fourteen at his congregation’s religious
school, Temple B’nai Isarel, in Monroe, Louisiana.
I taught music throughout college and started
in early childhood music at the 92nd Street Y
Nursery School in New York City, instantly falling in
love with the boundless imaginative and creative
expression of children’s music.
JS: Name some of your influences.
SK: Open your mouth, take a deep breath, and sing!
SK: The Muppets, School House Rock, the
numerous dance companies my mom brought to
our city and home like Bill T. Jones and dancers
from Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre, Debbie
Friedman, Shlomo Carlbach, Craig Taubman’s
Jewish Discovery recordings
JS: Is there significance to the color pink?
JS: How are your album(s) a listening journey?
SK: The ShirLaLa Holiday Series is designed for
children, their parents and teachers. The
recordings engage the listener with dynamic
music in many different styles, Jewish languages
from around the world, sense of humor, art work,
stor ytelling, holiday rituals, dance numbers,
Hebrew learning, and an all around positive
association with Jewish life. Where there’s a story
to tell, it’s experienced through the joy of music.
JS: Personal quote?
SK: What a great question! Let’s see, aside
from the Kabbalistic and color therapy association
with love, compassion, and warmth, pink makes
me smile! My hair has seen a rainbow of colors,
shapes, and designs all of which reflect my love
for life and freedom of creative self-expression.
Mostly, I feel like its wearing art on my head! It
makes me feel good.
JS: What should audiences expect next from
Shira Kline?
SK: My next project is a new recording,“ShirLaLa:
The Green Album.” I’ve always been active in the
environmental movement and feel very inspired by
the recent resurgence of consciousness and action.
The Green album will bring children aboard with
a Jewish perspective that inspires critical thinking
about how we live on and care for this earth.
EASY LISTENING MUSIC REVIEWS
The LeeVees
ShirLaLa
Hanukkah Rocks
Reprise Records
Chanukah
Mixed Emotions Music
Imagine a feature presentation. That would
be The LeeVees! The LeeVees are
comprised of Adam Gardner (Guster) and
Dave Schneider (the Zambonis). The two
nice Jewish guys decided to write a bunch
of Adam Sandler ‘cool’ Hanukkah songs.
Shockingly, Hanukkah Rocks was written in
eight days! (What a miracle.) True musical
arrangements underneath wit and humor
claim the Adam and Dave duo. Some track
names include “Latke Clan” and “ApplePhoto by Ted Kawalerski
sauce vs. Sour Cream.” Hanukkah Rocks,
produced by Peter Katis (Interpol, The National, Get Up Kids) has add
added
an orchestral rock flare to the schpeal. The LeeVees catchy song,
“How Do You Spell Channukkahh” will catch you off-guard, and you’ll
sing long after Chanukah, and Hanukkah.
ShirLaLa = Cheerful storytelling mixed
with Jewish holiday music. Chanukah is
the second album in the ShirLaLa
Holiday Series. Chanukah is Jewish kiddie
rock at its hippest. Shira Kline’s highspirited tale of Judah Maccabee and the Chanukah miracle
is accompanied by holiday music genres galore: Traditional,
Middle Eastern, Latino, Yiddish, Jazzy Lounge, Rock-n-roll and Hip
Hop. Shira Kline’s, ShirLaLa, Chanukah includes a whimsical
Chanukah comic plus three interactive and engaging bonus
tracks for parents and children alike. Chanukah is an entertaining, fresh
and dynamic musical holiday experience enjoyed by the whole
family. Rock your socks.
NOW READING BOOK REVIEW
Hanukkah Moon
Deborah Da Costa
Kar-Ben Publishing
Luna Nueva = the new moon that appears on Hanukkah. Isobel visits Aunt Luisa from New Mexico in an exciting
Hanukkah celebration of Latin Jewish custom. Deborah Da Costa writes a book full of imagination and education
for kids. “Feliz Januca!” “That means Happy Hanukkah in Spanish.” Classic, familiar chocolate Hanukkah coins theme
Hanukkah Moon, giving light to a happy and sweet Hanukkah. Gosia Mosz’s warm and lively illustrations
contribute to a fun filled storybook experience for children.
Rating Scale:
Ouy
Not bad
Good
Mazel-Tov, Outstanding!!!
30
Jewish Scene
I December 2007
Jennifer Lefkowitz is a native of Memphis, Tennessee and graduate of Academy of Art
University, Motion Pictures & Television, Screenwriting in San Francisco, California.
Note: Challa @ Cha!
JS wants to know what you make of these ‘precious items!’ Mail: Jennifer Lefkowitz,
[email protected], TODAY!
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Barbara K. Lipman Early Learning Center celebrates Simchat Torah with
Cantor John Kaplan and Rabbi Tara Feldman.
Religious School students and parents prepared bag lunches for
homeless Memphians who depend on Manna House for many of their
basic needs. Several teens and their parents delivered the lunches.
December 2007 I Jewish Scene
31
AGENCIES, SCHOOLS, SYNAGOGUES
ADVERTISERS
ARKANSAS
B’nai B’rith Youth Oranization
6560 Poplar Avenue, 38138,
901.767.7440
Acura of Memphis
page 5
901.365.6565
Plough Towers
page 14
901.767.1910
Bornblum Judaic Studies
301 Mitchell Hall, University of
Memphis, 38152 901.678.2919
Bella Viaggia
page 5
901.685.0011
Post&Done.Com
page 31
BENTONVILLE
Congregation Etz Chaim
P.O. Box 477, 72712, 474.464.8001
HOT SPRINGS
Congregation House of Israel
300 Quapaw Ave., 71901-5203,
501.623.5821
LITTLE ROCK
Congregation Agudath Achim
7901 West 5th St., 72205,
501.225.1683
Congregation B’nai Israel
3700 N. Rodney Parham Rd.,
72212, 501.225.9700
MISSISSIPPI
GREENVILLE
Hebrew Union Congregation
504 Main St., 38701, 662.332.4153
JACKSON
Congregation Beth Israel
5315 Old Canton Rd., 39211,
601.956.6215
Goldring/Woldenberg Institute of
Southern Jewish Life
PO Box 16528, 39236, 601.362.6357
TUPELO
Temple B’nai Israel
1301 Marshall St., 38802,
662.842.9169
UTICA (Serving AL, AR, LA, MS, W. Tenn)
URJ Henry S. Jacobs Camp
601.885.6042
TENNESSEE
CHATTANOOGA
Jewish Community Federation of
Greater Chattanooga
P.O. Box 8947, 37414, 423.493.0270
CORDOVA
Memphis Jewish Home
36 Bazeberry, 38018, 901.758.0036
KNOXVILLE
Knoxville Jewish Alliance
6800 Deane Hill Dr., 37919,
865.690.6343
MEMPHIS
Anshei Sphard Beth-El Emeth
Congregation (ASBEE)
120 East Yates Rd. North, 38120,
901.682.1611
Baron Hirsch Synagogue
400 S. Yates, 38120, 901.683.7485
Beth Sholom Synagogue
6675 Humphreys Blvd., 38120,
901.683.3591
32
Jewish Scene
Bornblum Solomon
Schechter School
6641 Humphreys Blvd., 38120,
901.747.2665
Chabad Lubavitch of
Tennessee
6629 Massey Ln., 38120,
901.766.1800
Belmont Village
page 9
901.624.8820
Carriage Court
page 29
901.763.3232
Clark & Clark
Back Cover
901.537.2270
Hadassah Memphis Chapter
422 Miracle Pt., 38120,
901.683.0727
Comfort Keepers
page 15
901.752.1515
Hillel of Memphis
3581 Midland, 38111, 901.452.2453
David Coleman
page 19
870.633.6756
Jewish Family Service
6560 Poplar Ave., 38138,
901.767.8511
Designer Baths & Kitchens
page 25
901.756.6217
Jewish Foundation of Memphis
5118 Park Ave. #308, 38117,
901.374.0400
Gastrointestinal Specialist
page 27
901.761.3900
Margolin Hebrew Academy/
Feinstone Yeshiva of the South
390 S. White Station Rd., 38117,
901.682.2409
Great Wines & Spirits
page 17
901.682.1333
Memphis Jewish
Community Center
6560 Poplar Ave.,
38138, 901.761.0810
Memphis Jewish Federation
6560 Poplar Ave., 38138,
901.767.7100
Memphis Jewish High School
1203 Ridgeway Rd., Park Place Ctr.,
Suite 203, 38119, 901.767.4818
Plough Towers
6580 Poplar Ave., 38138,
901.767.1910
Temple Israel
1376 East Massey Rd., 38120,
901.761.3130
Torah MiTzion
390 S. White Station Rd., 38117,
901.606.7059
Young Israel
531 S. Yates, 38120, 901.761.2352
NASHVILLE
Jewish Federation of Nashville &
Middle Tennessee
801 Percy Warner Blvd., 37205,
615.356.3242
I December 2007
Harkavy,Shainberg
Kaplan & Dunstan PLC
Inside Front cover
901.761.1263
Jewish Foundation of Memphis
page 29
901.374.0400
Kirby Pines
page 13
901.369.7340
Lexus of Memphis
page 3
901.362.8833
Memphis Zoo
page 31
901.333.6600
Ménage
page 17
901.683.6809
Mona Day Spa
page 1
901.683.0048, 901.756.7945
One Beale
page 7
901.271.BEALE
Patrick’s Steaks & Spirits
page 25
901.682.2853
Sancor
page 21
901.388.3100, 800.825.6369
Seriously Fun
page 21
901.754.0018
State of Israel Bonds
page 13
727.539.6445, 800.622.8017
The Fairview Inn
page 19
601.948.3429, 888.948.1908
VistaCare Health Services
page 15
901.373.8831
Dr. Ed Wiener
page 14
901.756.1151
For more information about
the Miss America Pageant
see page 17
december 2007
WEEKLY MEETINGS & EVENTS
MONDAY
Noon Beth Sholom Lunch & Learn, bring a dairy or pareve lunch,
Rabbi Rubinstein.
COMING ATTRACTIONS
Dec. 2
10:30 a.m. Baron Hirsch Children’s Chanukah
Workshop and Baron Kids Event.
2 p.m. Bornblum Judaic Studies U of M,
Memphis Jewish Historical Society “The Ten
Lost Tribes” film and talk by Simcha Jacobovici at
Memphis JCC.
7 p.m. Hadassah Major and Big Gifts event at
Baron Hirsch.
Dec. 3
11:30 a.m. Temple Israel Luncheon and Fashion
Show, RSVP 901.756.0783.
Dec. 6
6 p.m. Baron Hirsch Chanukah Dinner
Dec. 7
5:30 p.m. Beth Sholom Tot Shabbat and Family Dinner,
RSVP 901.683.3591.
Dec. 10
6:45 p.m. Young Israel Family Chanukah dinner.
Dec. 7
6:15 p.m. Temple Israel Consecration
Dec. 9
6 p.m. Temple Israel Chanukah Dinner
Dec. 11
11:30 a.m. Hadassah Mitzvah Day Chanukah
Luncheon at Emily Steinberg’s home. Bring toiletries for
women at abuse shelters and toys for their children. RSVP
901.683.0727.
Dec. 12
Noon Baron Hirsch Kol Rena So-Shuls Luncheon
RSVP 901.683.7485.
Dec. 13
7:30 p.m. Temple Israel University Guest
Lecturer Dr. Pierre Secher.
TUESDAY
9:00 a.m. Baron Hirsch Torah One on One Learning (T.O.O.L.) Dafna Kannai.
Noon Baron Hirsch “Call Torah,” call-in-class, Rabbi Shai Finkelstein, toll
free 1-866-266-3378, at prompt enter conference ID# 9016837485.
Noon Young Israel Lunch & Learn/Finance for Life, 5350 Poplar Avenue
#550, Development of Jewish Law and History.
7 p.m. Hillel Sip and Schmooze (bi-weekly)
7 p.m. Baron Hirsch Living Jewish, Rabbi Shai Finkelstein
WEDNESDAY
10:30 a.m. Baron Hirsch Ladies Parsha Class, Rabbi Shai Finkelstein.
11 a.m. Young Israel Parsha (weekly Torah portion) for women
Noon Baron Hirsch Reframing the Parsha, Amit Foox, at B.A. Framer,
1905 Troyer.
1 p.m. Temple Israel Women’s Minyan, Rabbi Tara Feldman.
7 p.m. Baron Hirsch Jewish History, Rabbi David Radinsky.
7:30 p.m. Beth Sholom Limmud class, Rabbi Rubinstein.
THURSDAY
9:15 a.m. Temple Israel Early Learning Center “Mommy and Me.”
Noon Lunch & Learn, w/Temple Israel Rabbi Meir Feldman, at Grove Grille.
1:30 p.m. Temple Israel Mother Bear Project for African children
with HIV/AIDS.
8 p.m. ASBEE Exclusive Telecast of Rabbi Frand on the portion of the week.
SATURDAY
8:45 a.m. Temple Israel Torah Study.
8:45 a.m. Temple Israel Exploring Judaism w/Rabbis & Cantor, 761.3130
to register, fee $40.
1-1/2 hours before sundown, ASBEE Portion-of-the-week class/
Dovid Menachem Brown Talmud Class.
SUNDAY
After morning service, Young Israel class w/ breakfast, “Yoreh Deah,”
Practical Jewish Law for men.
8:30 a.m. Baron Hirsch Talmud Class, Rabbi Shai Finkelstein.
8:30 a.m. Chabad Lubavitch Bagels, Lox & Tefillin. Minyan, breakfast,
“Living Torah” video, Torah discussion.
9 a.m. Beth Sholom Yiddish w/Cantor David Julian
9:15 a.m. Baron Hirsch IE Hanover Lecture on World Events, Rabbi
Shai Finkelstein
9:30 a.m. Temple Israel Jewish Literature w/Leo Bearman.
10 a.m. Beth Sholom Artful Torah class w/Rabbi Rubinstein.
10 a.m. Temple Israel beginning Hebrew/5758-59 Adult Bar/Bat Mitzvah
Program, fee $25, Carol Geller 761.3130.
10:30, 11:30 a.m. & 12:30 p.m. Temple Israel Advanced Hebrew
11 a.m. Temple Israel Intermediate Hebrew, fee $25.
11 a.m. Temple Israel Elijah the Prophet w/Dr. Joe Levy.
8 p.m. Baron Hirsch Shoah & Tkuma Class, Tzili & Amit Foox (for
10th-11th graders).
arkansas
FRIDAY
4:30, 5:30 & 6 p.m. Congregation House of Israel Hot Springs,
Torah Study, Oneg, Services.
SUNDAY
9:30 a.m. Congregation House of Israel Hot Springs, Hebrew School.
mississippi
Dec. 21 6 p.m. Baron Hirsch Family Friday Night Dinner,
RSVP 901.683.7485.
Dec. 22
11 a.m. Baron Hirsch Synaplex Shabbat Class
Dec. 27-30 NFTY-So Winter Kallah, Henry S. Jacobs Camp, Celia
Mutchnick, 901.761.3130.
Jan. 4-6 URJ Henry S. Jacobs Camp Winter Family Camp
arkansas
Dec. 9
4:30 p.m. Congregation House of Israel,
Hot Springs, Chanukah Play and Dinner (5:30).
FRIDAY
6:15 p.m. Beth Israel Jackson, Shabbat Services.The Shirim Choir first Fridays.
SATURDAY
9 a.m. Beth Israel Jackson, Services, 10:15 a.m. Talmud study.
December 2007 I Jewish Scene
33
ECS
Elegant Interiors and Beautiful Landscaping
Streets Lined with Sidewalks and Shade Trees
Superior Shelby County Schools
• Farmington Elementary School
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Seven Secluded, Pastoral Family Sized
Lots from $200,000
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Recreational Living: Cameron-Brown
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Green Belt Walking Trails
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Enjoy Country Estate Living Without the
Inconvenience or the Drive.
One Acre Country Estate Lots,
Conveniently Located in the Heart of
Germantown on Forest Hill-Irene Road
Safe Secure Zoning
• The Forest Hill-Irene Road corridor is zoned
for upscale living.
• Forest Brook is safely and securely located in
• Houston High School
Convenient Living: Shops of Forest
Hill, The Avenue Carriage Crossing
Mall, Saddle Creek, Fine Dining
Recreational Living: Cameron-Brown
Park, Houston Levee Park.
Germantown Green Belt Walking Trails
Strict Architectural Guidelines
Protective Covenants and Restrictions
Located Conveniently O� Dogwood
Hollow Drive, North of Wolf River
Boulevard; Between Johnson Road and
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Strict Architectural Guidelines
Covenants and Restrictions
Award Winning Germantown Schools
Reasonable, A�ordable Priced Lots
Invest in your home, not your home site
Quick Access via Hwy 385 to East
Memphis, Airport, & Downtown
Correspondingly, quick access to top
worldwide headquarters including FedEx
Headquarters & Techology Centers, Service
Master, Thomas & Betts, International
Paper, AutoZone & major regional centers
for Medtronic and Sofamor Danek.
CLARK & CLARK
CREATING NEIGHBORHOODS WITH CHARACTER
D AV I D G R I B B L E
901.537.2270
w w w. a p i c t u r e p e r f e c t l i f e s t y l e . c o m
www.enclavegermantown.com