Jewish Scene Magazine January 2007

January 2007
In This Issue: Jewish Brides Through the Ages • Planning Your Simcha
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JLS • January 2007
Table of Contents
Saluting the Spirit
BBYO Update
Beshert: Stories of Connections
United We Stand with the Holy Land
Dining Out
Jewish Brides Through the Ages
CruiseOne
Capturing Priceless Memories
Wedding Planning
The Invitation
Judaic Bridal and Gift Registry
A Room with a View
Dollars and Sense
From the Institute
In Fashion
On the Sidelines
Cooking on The Side
Coming Attractions
Advertiser Listing
4
7
11
13
14
16
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
31
32
33
Scrapbooks
Jewish Family Service
6
Memphis Jewish Home
6
Around Town
8
Southern Jewish Historical Society 10
Memphis Jewish Community Center 10
ASBEE
12
Baron Hirsch
12
Hadassah
24
Beth Sholom
30
BSSS
30
On the Cover
Jewish Brides Through the Ages
Shira Levy – Mariasha, the eternal
Jewish bride brings sanctity to her
marriage. (1930, Russia)
Fiddler - Lucy Voin
2
JLS • January 2007
2007
Editor/Publisher
Susan C. Nieman
Art Director
Teresa Bullock
Art Assistant
David Miller
Editorial Contributors
Jason Braverman
Nancy Daevel
Shara Danziger
Jennifer Edelson
Shep Fargotstein
Chris Arpe Gang
Sheril Greenstein
Mark Hayden
Peter Karpaty
Julie Lansky
Debbie Rosenthal
Harry Samuels
Linda Schlesinger
Amy Slovis
Greg Weisman
Shoshana Yaffe
Account Executives
Bob Drake
Bari Eiseman
Larry Nieman
Chief Financial Officer
Don Heitner
Business Manager
Alice Drake
Editorial Assistants
Bettye Berlin
Rebecca Miller
Volume 1 Number 5
January 2007
Tevet/Shevat 5767
Jewish Living of the South magazine must give
permission for any material contained herein to be
copied or reproduced in any manner. Manuscripts
and photographs submitted for publication are
welcome by Jewish Living of the South, but no
responsibility can be taken for them while in transit
or in the office of the publication. Editorial content
does not necessarily reflect the publisher’s opinion,
nor can the publisher be 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 Living of the South is published monthly by
Jewish Living of the South, Inc. and mailed free to
Jewish households in Memphis and Jackson, MS
and to others across the country. Copies of Jewish
Living are available at Borders, Davis-Kidd Book
Sellers and at other locations across the Mid-South.
Jewish Living of the South
1703 Tamhaven Court
Cordova, TN 38016
(901) 827-7244 phone
(901) 754-7822 fax
[email protected]
Dear Readers,
The associates of Jewish Living of the South and I
wish everyone a happy, healthy New Year and hope
you enjoyed Chanukah with family and friends.
Last year, I was invited to take photographs of an
amazing program sponsored by Chabad Lubavitch
of Tennessee and the Memphis Jewish Community
Center. It was a magnificent evening of song, dance
beauty, history and Judaism. I was honored to attend
and record Jewish Brides Through the Ages. I hope
you enjoy reading about it and looking at the models as much as the 400 woman
who attended.
If your plans this year, include preparing for a wedding, bar/bat mitzvah or other
special celebration, we hope the tips from some local Memphis professionals
will steer you in the right direction.
In his column, Cooking on the Side, Jason Braverman, shares his secret recipes
for Hamantashen to get us in the mood for Purim and, next month give us a head
start on some favorite Passover recipes.
I’d like to welcome Rabbi Martin J. Applebaum and our new readers from
Congregation Agudath Achim in Little Rock, Arkansas. Rabbi Applebaum
will write a monthly column, Eye on Arkansas, to keep us abreast of Jewish
happenings across that state. Look for his first column in our February issue.
To date we have received more than 1000 requests from people all over the
country requesting monthly copies of Jewish Living of the South. We continue
our goal to reach PERIODIC STATUS by obtaining 2500 names. We are almost
halfway there! If you are receiving the magazine and have not yet sent us a
voluntary subscription card or an e-mail request, please do so right now. Include
in the letter or e-mail: Your name, address, city, state and zip and a sentence
stating that you would like to receive a voluntary subscription to Jewish Living
of the South. Thank you to those who have already done so.
Sincerely,
Susan
JLS • January 2007
Saluting The Spirit
By Nancy Daevel
Karen Moss, owner of Better Bodies
Yoga, has been practicing yoga since
2001. Now she is sharing its healing
strengths with others.
She began her career as a personal
fitness trainer, is certified by the
American Council on Exercise and
holds a Senior Fitness Certification
as well as other certifications. Karen
began exploring yoga after training
and running in a Leukemia and
Lymphoma Society marathon to
honor the memory of her father, Louis
Kirschner, and believes that she was
able to complete the marathon injury
free by combining exercise with yoga
techniques.
There are no mirrors in her studio
(which is how most yoga studios
are). “Keeping outside distractions
to a minimum allows the student to
turn their focus inward, awakening to
what is going on inside of their own
minds and bodies,” explained Karen.
“Quieting the mind with yoga gives
you the time to work on that. It’s like
peeling the layers of an onion . . . you
have to deal with what’s inside, issues
we may not notice during our busy
4
JLS • January 2007
lives. We all seem to want a quick
fix. Yoga encourages one to find inner
peace.”
Yoga is not a religion. The practice
is non-denominational. “It is a
5000-year-old healing system and is
one way that everyone can connect
universally. In fact, it has made me
more grounded and stronger in my
own beliefs,” added Karen.
It is all about balance. “Yoga
strengthens areas of weakness and
balances over-stimulated areas within
the mind and body,” she said.
Yoga is for anyone. It doesn’t require
any special clothing or equipment.
It does require the participant to be
present and possess the desire to have
a healthier self. “If you can breathe,
you can practice yoga,” said Karen.
Until recently, there was no scientific
data confirming the benefits of yoga.
Last summer, at the 2006 meeting
of the American Society of Clinical
Oncology (ASCO), M.D. Anderson
Cancer Center researchers presented
the findings from a study, which
examined integrating the practice
of yoga into the traditional cancer
care plan. The study showed that
cancer patients who participated
in yoga during treatment did better
managing the side effects and felt
better overall than patients who did
not practice yoga. As a result of these
findings, a follow-up study, funded
by the National Cancer Institute,
is ongoing at M.D. Anderson. See
article at http://health.yahoo.com/
topic/breastcancer/living/article/
mdanderson/6B0E32D1-6EF3-4382AA1A01080BA72EAE
Karen Moss
Karen knows first hand that this
is true. On October 22, 2006, she
lost her mother, Sylvia Kirschner,
to Leukemia. Yoga helped Karen
offer her comfort in the last private
moments they shared together.
“Its benefits are so far reaching,” said
Karen. “We should teach people to
go into the hospitals and work with
patients.”
Today, she wants to share that comfort
in our community and beyond. Better
Bodies Yoga recently hosted Saluting
the Spirit/Yoga for Cancer, a unique
event raising awareness for the benefits
of yoga while helping those who are
touched by cancer. It was a daylong
series of guided one-half hour Sun
Salutation sessions grouped by level–
beginner through advanced. The Sun
Salutation is a series of 12 positions
performed in a single graceful flow.
It builds strength and increases
flexibility. Proceeds benefited the
Wings Cancer Foundation.
Karen believes her “studio’s strength
comes from having the right
combination of staff and something
About Better Bodies Yoga
Better Bodies Yoga, located at 692
W. Brookhaven Circle, employs
professionally trained, certified,
and affiliated teachers who provide
instruction in various forms of Hatha
Yoga to help achieve a harmonious
blending of a “Better Body,” a “
Better Mind,” a “ Better You.” For
more information, call 901.767.9642
or visit betterbodiesyoga.com.
to offer everyone who seeks to
incorporate yoga into their lives. We
are simply here to guide students,
letting them be their own teachers, on
their own personal yoga journeys.”
New classes in January and special
prices on packages can help you begin
the New Year. Give yourself the gift
of yoga and Better Bodies Yoga will
discount the tools to get you there.
Karen is married to Stephen Moss.
They have three children, Marcus,
in his third year at the University of
Kansas, Miriam, a senior at Ridgeway
High School and Joel, a sophomore at
MUS.
Wings Cancer Founcation director,
Sandy Patterson, Dr. Seth Kaufman and
Board member, Peggy Evensky.
About the Wings Cancer Foundation
Wings Cancer Foundation, with
locations in East Memphis,
Midtown Memphis and Southaven,
is celebrating a decade of providing
hope, education, research, and
support without charge to anyone
touched by cancer. Wings is a 501 (c)
3 non-profit organization. Funding
through grants, individual and
corporate tax-deductible donations
help them achieve their mission. For
more information, call 901.322.2984
or visit wingscancerfoundation.org.
Nancy Daevel is the
Public Relations Officer
for the Wings Cancer
Foundation.
Eileen Posner, Mindy Soren and Peggy
Evensky
JLS • January 2007
5
Jewish
Family
Service
Senior
Resource
Fair
Thanksgiving
Celebration
6
JLS • January 2007
A Busy Month
for Memphis
e
t
a
upd
Peres AZA put on their annual Thanksgiving fundraiser,
Harvest Hop. President Andrew Platkin and Sweetheart
Lindsay Scheidt starred in this year’s rendition entitled
“Super Mensch.” As always, it was a great success and
more than half the money went to charity. After the play,
Peres announced their new Sweetheart, Ellee Lazarov of
River City. Kriger BBG elected their new Beau, Aaron
Poulin, at their Harvest Moon formal.
The real judgment day was Thanksgiving Sunday. Peres
and Okeon played flag football in the annual Turkey Bowl
charity fundraiser. After a very exciting close game, the
men of Okeon AZA were the champions!
Jennifer Edelson is a 15year-old sophomore at
White Station High School.
She is the vice president
(a.k.a. S’ganit) of River
City BBG #2054 and a
Hebrew teacher at Temple
Israel in Memphis.
JLS • January 2007
7
Around Town
Jane Brown & Paul Ruben
Barbara & Michael Gordon
National Kidney Foundation’s Sip Around the World
Judy Edelson, Lisa Varner and Karen
Hamburg
Rick & Kristie Rosenblum
Mark Saslawsky, Michael Edelson, Frank,
Marilee and Alan Sher
Marc Stegman & Elaine Freiden
David & Lisa Montgomery and Susie Bowen
Marci & Chuck Goldstein
Sally and Robert Segal
Blues Ball 2006
Debbi Hicks and Dr. Hector Flores
8
JLS • January 2007
Maureen, Sam and Randa Rosenblum
NKF Sip Around the World
Joan Solomon and
Larry Neiman
Teresa and Bill Bullock
Wine Opening
at the
Racquet Club
of Memphis
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JLS • January 2007
9
Dora Levin and Susan Weinstein
Stuart Rockoff and Sumner Levine
2006
Southern
Jewish
Historical
Society
Little Rock
Arkansas
Cecille Friedler and Judy Grundfest
Martha Lou Hirsch Alman and Velma Block
Book Fair
0
JLS • January 2007
Beshert
True Stories of Connections
A monthly selection from
the book written
by Harry Samuels
OSCAR
\
By Harry Samuels
One spring evening four years ago, a small, dark wren
perched on the extremely narrow ledge of trim above
the front entry of our house. It was only a guess, but we
assumed it to be a male, so we named him “Oscar.” It
placed its wings over its head and remained in that position
until daybreak the next day. For two months this routine
was repeated nightly. We never fed or encouraged him,
but we became quite attached to the little bird. He had
become a part of our family, notwithstanding the problem
his presence created. We felt compelled to use only our
garage door while entering and leaving the house in the
evening since we didn’t want to disturb him while he was
perched.
When the weather turned cool, he left. The next spring he
returned again to the same spot over our front door. The
following spring he failed to return, and we missed him.
One day I told our next door neighbor that we really missed
Oscar and that we feared something must have happened to
him. That very evening he returned.
We’re expanding a
Memphis Tradition
Can people have synchronistic experiences with animals?
We did!
Harry Samuels is a graduate of
Washington University.For the past 50
years he has operated retail stores and a
commercial real estate firm in Memphis.
He has spent many years as a volunteer
with numerous social service agencies
and projects including the presidency of
the Memphis Jewish Community Center
and the Memphis Jewish Federation. He
helped establish a Jewish Hospice initiative for Memphis and
is the founder of Chai, a multi-faceted social support system
aiding families with catastrophically stricken children. He and
his wife Flora are the parents of Martin, William and the late
David Samuels.
For almost 30 years, Trezevant has created
a timeless tradition of distinction.
Our expansion includes: 24 new
Garden Homes, new apartments
and state of the art facilities.
Please call 901-515-2800 to find out how
to plan for your future at Trezevant.
Marketing Department
177 North Highland
Memphis,TN 38111
901.515.2800
trezevantmanor.org
JLS • January 2007
TRE.JewishLiving.7.06.indd 1
8/1/06 9:20:28 AM
ASBEE
Sisterhood Flower Arranging
Baron Hirsch
Savor the Flavor Food Fest
and Casino Night
2
JLS • January 2007
“United We Stand With the Holy Land”
MHA/FYOS Auction to Celebrate the Tie That Binds Us
By Linda Schlesinger
What makes an auction successful?
“A theme that unifies a cross section
of people in the community, great food
and great items,” according to Lisa
Kaufman, co-chair of the Margolin
Hebrew Academy/Feinstone Yeshiva
of the South PTA/LA 2007 annual
auction and dinner.
Kaufman should know. She has been
co-chairing or assisting with the
PTA/LA’s auction planning for more
than 10 years. Each year, more than
300 people attend the auction, which
usually raises in excess of $70,000
for the school’s scholarship fund.
When trying to come up with a theme,
Kaufman realized, “what could be
a more unifying theme than Israel?
It’s the one thing that truly unites us
all, Jews and Christians.” Kaufman
also realized how appropriate it will
be to celebrate American Jewish and
Christian solidarity with Israel during
President’s Day weekend.
“We needed a theme to pull at
people’s heart strings, unite them and
make them excited about being at
the auction,” said Kaufman, whose
daughter, Talia, a senior at Goldie
Margolin School for Girls, coined
the 2007 auction slogan, “United We
Stand with the Holy land.”
Especially after the war with Lebanon
this summer, “we wanted to show our
support and our unity with Israel. We
feel the best way to do that besides
giving money, which we all do, is to
educate our kids and give them a love
for Israel. We are very proud that most
of our graduates spend their first year
out of high school studying in Israel
and some even make aliyah.”
Cooper Yeshiva High School Students, Joel Bowman, Blake Berman, Arel Kirshstein
and Meir Samberg help Norman Itkowitz carry winnings
The PTA/LA will make a donation to
the Memphis Jewish Federation Israel
Emergency Fund from the proceeds
of the silent auction.
An enthusiastic and talented cook,
Kaufman particularly enjoys planning
the culinary portion of the auction. She
was actively involved in the highly
successful 2003 auction that featured
Kosher Corky’s barbecue, and at the
2006 auction, which recognized the
Jewish community’s contributions to
the refugees of Hurricane Katrina.
She coupled with former Memphis
restaurateurs Tsilya and Gregory
Sadetsky, and owners of New Orleans’
Kosher Cajun New York Deli and
Grocery, Joel and Natalie Brown, to
prepare a menu of Russian and Cajun
specialties.
For the 2007 auction, February 18, at
Baron Hirsch Congregation, Kaufman
has brought together three local
successful Jewish female caterers to
prepare a four-course meal of Middle
Eastern and American cuisine, apropos
to the auction theme. The caterers are
Rena Franklin, Executive Chef for
Morgan Keegan and former owner of
Marina’s restaurant; Karen Blockman
Carrier, owner of Another Roadside
Attraction, and five restaurants,
Automatic Slims (in New York and
Memphis), The Beauty Shop, Ciello
and Do Sushi; and Leigh McLean
owner of Lulu Grill. “It will be a
fun-filled evening accentuated with
Israeli and American music, cuisine
and ambiance,” promised Kaufman.
The auction items list grows daily
and includes beautifully crafted
Judaica, exciting sports memorabilia,
exquisite jewelry, vacation packages,
original artwork, electronics, home
accents, furniture and more. To make
a reservation or sponsor a table for a
group of friends or colleagues, call
682-2400 or visit www.mhafyos.org/
events.
Linda
Ostrow
Schlesinger is a
freelance writer
and the marketing
director
for
Margolin Hebrew
A c a d e m y /
Feinstone Yeshiva
of the South. She
was born and raised in Memphis but lived
for many years in Washington, D.C. and
Silver Spring, MD. She and her husband
David have four children.
JLS • January 2007
Dining Out
Native Son Clay Lichterman Returns for “Encore”
By Chris Arpe Gang
Clay Lichterman, sous chef at Encore
Restaurant and Bar, loves being in a
commercial kitchen.
“I like it when you are so busy
everyone is in a panic,” he said. “You
feel so good when the rush is over.”
At just 24, Clay has compressed a
lifetime of restaurant experience in
a few years that includes bussing
tables at a local Lone Star when he
was 15, being part of a Brennan’s
crew that turned out 1,000 meals per
shift during Mardi Gras and a sixmonth externship with a chef named
the “Best in America” by Esquire
magazine.
Now back in his hometown, he is
preparing lunch and dinner five to
six days a week with Jose Gutierrez,
the former chef de cuisine at the
Peabody’s Chez Philippe who now
owns the French bistro in Peabody
Place.
Clay’s goal is to open his own
restaurant in Memphis, a city he
considers always a few years behind
in the latest food trends. But it is
also a city with a comfortable cost
of living making it possible for him
and his wife Tali, public relations
and marketing director at Memphis
Botanic Garden, to own a nice home
and live well.
diners including Mildred Schwartz,
who has been there many times.
It’s also where Sandy Lichterman, his
grandfather and greatest fan, lives.
“It’s easier to cook in an expensive
restaurant than it is to buy simple food
and turn it into something amazing,”
Clay said.
“I think he’s responsible for about 20
percent of the business at Encore,”
Clay jokes.
Sandy admires Clay as a person who
always knew what he wanted to do.
“For his bar mitzvah he wanted
cooking equipment as gifts” Sandy
said. “And he’s never been afraid of
hard work.”
A typical day for Clay begins
every morning around 10 a.m. with
preparations for lunch. From about
2 to 3 p.m. Clay has time for a brief
break before the pace picks up again
for dinner preparations.
Although his boss treats the kitchen
crew and other staff like family, he
is a perfectionist when it comes to
food.
“Jose sometimes asks the impossible
and always expects the best,” Clay
said. “He’s a French master chef
and there aren’t that many of them
around.”
Encore, which is located in a Belzowned property, attracts many Jewish
4
JLS • January 2007
“The food is presented well and is
always tasty,” Schwartz said. “The
atmosphere is welcoming and the
service is great.”
Serving exceptional food at Encore’s
moderate prices is a challenge for Clay.
On most weeknights, he gets home
between 8 and 9 p.m. when he and
Tali start cooking their own dinner.
“She loves pasta and we make our own,”
Clay said. “She also loves to bake.”
Last year they hosted family members
at Rosh Hashanah lunch and breakfast after Yom Kippur.
“When I own a restaurant I want to
close on Passover and have our family
Seders there,” Clay said.
Clay grew up in a family with many
members who love to cook. His
mother Patti is a good cook and
his late grandfather, Jay Kochman,
completed the professional course
at the Memphis Culinary Academy.
Clay has his binder of recipes and
techniques from the school.
His eyes first opened to the world of
fine food when he and his family took
a trip to New Orleans when he was
about 12.
“At one meal I ate frog legs, alligator tail and turtle soup. I
had no clue food could be such an adventure.”
It’s not surprising that as a teen he was attracted to parttime work in restaurant kitchens.
At his first job at a now-closed Lone Star on Germantown
Road, he progressed from busboy to grill cook in less than
a year. Next he worked at Jarrett’s with chef-owner Rick
Farmer before moving on to the Grove Grill.
He spent his senior year in high school in Israel as an
Eisendrath International Exchange student.
“I traveled around the country, working here and there in
restaurants, and tasting many new foods,” Clay said.
He applied for admission and was accepted to the renown
Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, N.Y. But when
he saw the campus in a small town on the Hudson River, he
decided against enrolling.
“I wanted to be in a city,” he said. So he went to the
University of Tennessee in Knoxville as a hotel and
restaurant management major.
But he soon got restless and took off for New Orleans.
He landed a job at Brennan’s where he worked with the
late Mike Rousel, the chef who trained Emeril and Paul
Prudhomme, and Mark Serice, a chef with encyclopedic
knowledge of food and cooking. (After Katrina, Serice fled
to St. Louis and opened Truffles.)
“I thought I knew everything about cooking but they made
me realize I knew nothing,” Clay said.
Serice advised him to go to a good culinary school and
he chose Johnson & Wales in Charleston, S. C. With his
extensive experience and recommendations from Serice
and others he got advance standing in the school, which
allowed him to complete a two-year course in nine
months.
“I went to school all day and then went to jobs in
restaurants,’ he said. “I regularly got three to four hours of
sleep a night.”
As part of his training, he sought a six-month externship
at Seeger’s in Atlanta, an establishment where customers
spent about $300 for dinner.
Owner Guenther Seeger, who had been the chef in the
Dining Room at the Ritz-Carlton Buckhead, is considered
one of the top 10 chefs in America.
“I got paid about
$16,000 a year for
working 70 hours
a week,” Clay said.
“But I didn’t care,
I wanted to work
there.”
Because he wanted
diverse work experiences, his next job
was at Vini Vidi Vici,
one of 11 trendy
restaurants owned
by Buckhead Life
Restaurant Group in
Atlanta.
He met Tali while working in Atlanta.
After about two years with Buckhead Life, he and Tali
headed to Destin, Fla., where he became chef at the
Beachwalk Café. She worked for the same company in
marketing and public relations.
When they ended up being employed by different partners
who had split, the couple decided it was time to head home
to Memphis.
When the time is right, Clay is confident the restaurant he
opens here will be successful.
“I don’t have any doubt that we will do well in
Memphis.”
Encore Restaurant and Bar in Peabody Place is open
for lunch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Friday
and for dinner from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday through
Sunday. Call 528-1415 for reservations. Go to www.
encore-memphis.com, http://www.encore-memphis.com/
for complete menus and more information.
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.
JLS • January 2007
5
Timeless
Jewish Brides
By Susan C. Nieman
Every Jewish bride is imbued with light on her wedding
day – a light within her soul – that will infuse her new
home with blessings. So it has been throughout time.
So it was in February 2006, when Rivky Klein brought
to Memphis Jewish Brides Through the Ages and Around
the World, a unique presentation through costume and
song that honors generations of Jewish woman. She didn’t
realize until that evening and beyond that it would become
one of the most elegant programs the Memphis Jewish
community has ever experienced. It was a wedding to
remember.
“It was an evening of unity,” said Rivky. “Almost 400
Jewish women of all ages and from all backgrounds
attended the event.”
The event, a project of Chabad Lubavitch of Tennessee and
Laura Harkavy – Sara dedicated to her heritage.
(1700s, Ukraine)
the Memphis Jewish Community Center, was something
that Rivky had wanted to do for a long time. “My goal
was to bring something wonderful to Memphis that would
be magnificent, inspirational, educational and enjoyable,”
said the young mother of six.
Jewish
Brides
Through the Ages is
a creation of longtime friend, Miriam
Hurwitz who wanted
to create a program
that teaches Judaism
in a fun way.
“Miriam
was
a mother of a
classmate of mine
in
Brooklyn,”
said Rivky. “She
made all of the
costumes for school
Camila Benaim – La La Suleka, unwavering in her commitment
to Judaism, she died with the sanctification of G-d’s name on
her lips. (1819, Morocco)
6
JLS • January 2007
Davida Graber – Rachel (Rochel) The beloved wife of Jacob
who epitomizes the concept of selfless love. She is the mother
who watches over her children and the perfect Akere Habayis,
the mainstay of the Jewish home, for all time. (15th century
B.C.E., Canaan)
Timeless
Laura Linder – Shulamit, daughter of Rabbi Akiva; faith and
compassion saved her life. Her optimism and absolute faith in
G-d allowed her to look beyond the gloom of a fortuneteller
and live her life from a position of strength rather than fear.
(1st century B.C.E., the destruction of the 2nd Temple, Judea)
performances. She realized her natural talent and took her
costume- making to a professional level.”
Miriam designed and created the dresses to look like those
of their times and countries. She meticulously researched
details about rituals and the customs of marriage in each
country and time. Through music, song and dance she
helps the audience transcend both time and fashion to link
the audience with brides of the past and to salute the brides
of the future.
Cathy Weiss – Esther, the power of loyalty and the virtue of the
self-sacrifice. Her role is paramount to the survival of the Jewish
people in her time. (3rd century B.C.E., Persia)
acquired a professional runway and lighting and brought
in special desserts from New York.
”The generosity of our Aishet Chaylis (Women of Valor),
sponsors and donors helped make this evening possible,”
explained Rivky. “We also raffled some beautiful pieces of
jewelry that were donated by Mednikow, King Furs & Fine
Jewelry and Robert Irwin Jewelers.
Many of the brides, dancers and accompanists arrived early
to prepare their hair, makeup and costumes. “It took some
Continued on page 18
While Jewish Brides Though the Ages has been presented
by Chabad in communities across the globe, each
community adds its own style and uniqueness. The
Memphis community really put the icing on the cake.
After three months of planning, recruiting volunteers
and securing sponsors, Rivky’s vision was fulfilled. With
music, flowers, song and dance, she transformed the
JCC Social Hall into a bridal paradise. Madelyn and Jay
Daneman built the beautiful chuppa. MJCC School of
Dance instructor Nancy Frankel and Sharona Rubinstein
coordinated the dances. Flowers were donated by area
florists. Dinstuhl’s provided chocolate for the tables, Patti
King made the wedding cake and the linens were donated
by Peggy Lichterman. A team of volunteers helped with
the finishing touches to the elegant evening. Rivky even
JLS • January 2007
7
Continued from page 17
Ashley Thomas – Tikvah, committed to carrying on the unique
customs of her Yemenite heritage. (21st century, Spanish decent) Mother of the bride – Sharona Rubinstein.
Georgia Gruen and Jordan Sokoloff – Jewish Brides of the
Future. Chaya Klein – Flower Girl As Jewish daughters,
mothers and grandmothers, we hope to nurture the next
generation as did the Jewish women who came before us.
of them all day,” explained Rivky. “And they were thrilled
to be a part of such a beautiful evening.”
Timeless
“It was even better than I imagined,” said Cathy Weiss
who portrayed Ester. “It took almost four hours to prepare
my makeup and get dressed. I felt like a little girl again.”
The script, provided by Miriam was used as a basis for the
evening but Rivky added her own flair by describing the
brides and adding selected songs, musical accompaniment
and various dances to match the era, country and mood.
To complete the evening, the modern-day bride lit Sabbath
candles with future brides and a flower girl standing by her
side. One by one, each bride received a flame to pass to the
bride who came before her; forever linking our heritage of
the past to the future of the Jewish people.
8
JLS • January 2007
Celie Shankman,
Rebecca (Rivkah)
Our matriarch, the
embodiment of faith
and commitment. As
the bride in the first
marriage recorded in
the Torah, Rebecca is
a model for all Jewish
women and defines
Jewish femininity for
eternity. (16th century
B.C.E., Canaan)
Sponsored Section
CruiseOne Introduces
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Imagine this! You have a big celebration (anniversary, bday, even a wedding!) coming up and you want to spend
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They are ready to help tailor your dream vacation and fulfill
your every desire while you’re on your tropical getaway.
Did you know that renting a villa is actually more
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couples traveling together can usually rent a spacious villa
of three bedrooms or more for less than the cost of three
hotel rooms. Villas have from one to 20 bedrooms with
private balconies, a living room, dining room, full kitchen
and many have a private pool. Most are very luxurious
in posh neighborhoods and average 2,000-10,000 square
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JLS • January 2007
9
Capturing Priceless Memories
By Shoshana Yaffe
Weddings and bar/bat mitzvahs are
two of the biggest celebrations and
simchas you can plan. To help make
those occasions memorable, you’ll
want to find the perfect photographer.
Here are a few tricks of the trade to
help you choose the best one.
Most photographers’ schedules fill up
fast, so book early! The best resources
for finding a good photographer are
your friends and family, so ask around.
“Get names, check references and
arrange a consultation,” recommends
Hal Jaffe of Jaffe Studio & Gallery in
Memphis, Tenn.
They need to blend in, but still get
the job done. “A great compliment is
someone saying, ‘I didn’t even know
you were there,’” says Conroy.
A good photographer should be able
to capture mood and emotion within
their photographs. And you’ll want
someone “who is experienced, and
knows the routine of that type of
event,” says Memphis photographer
Barry Markowitz.
Give the photographer a ‘wish list.’
For example, you may want a closeup shot of the cake or photos of you
with certain guests.
Photographers will show you a
portfolio of their best work. Look at
samples of their wedding or bar/bat
mitzvah albums. Studios will show
you their best two or three albums on
display. But ask to see albums from
the back or those recently finished.
When looking at samples, notice
whether photo colors are bright and
clear. Check to see that the pictures
are in focus and dust free.
You want someone who is patient,
professional and friendly. A photographer can achieve your vision and
theirs without being pushy or bossy.
You wouldn’t want someone who is
going to yell at your guests if they
aren’t posing correctly.
“A good photographer will capture
the event, not control it,” says Conroy.
“They should cover it, without being
noticed.”
20
JLS • January 2007
Price ranges vary. If you purchase
a package, know exactly what that
includes. Choose the studio that gives
you the most for your money.
Your photographer will likely require
a deposit to hold the date. Don’t agree
to pay the entire fee up front. The
balance should be paid after the event,
once you have seen your proofs. Get
a comprehensive contract in writing
from any photographer you hire!
The length of time it takes to get
your photos back may vary from
one photographer to another. Find
out what kind of timetable you can
expect. When ordering the photos,
ask yourself… are everyone’s eyes
open? Is the exposure good or is it too
dark?
And one more thing, have fun!
“Let the photographer handle the
photography, and you enjoy the
event,” says Jaffe.
Some studios employ a number of
different photographers; ask to see the
samples from the actual photographer
who will be assigned to your event.
Meet with that photographer.
“You want to make sure that their
personality meshes with yours,” says
Steve Conroy of Conroy Studios in
Memphis, Tenn.
gone digital. Ask to see examples
of each and find out who keeps the
negatives, you or the photographer.
Remember that long after the band
stops playing, the cake has been eaten
and the flowers have wilted, you’ll
have memories and photographs.
Make sure you find someone who will
capture all those priceless memories.
“Point out the people you want
photographed for candids, your
family or out of town guests,” says
Markowitz.
Don’t be shy about letting the
photographer know exactly what
you want. They may even have
suggestions. A photographer should
“know what looks good, who to
photograph together and where to
place everyone,” says Jaffe.
Ask what film the studio uses. Some
photographers have given up film and
Shoshana Yaffe was
born and raised
in
Memphis. She
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. Shoshana is
currently a news writer/producer for the
ABC Affiliate News Station, WSB TV, in
Atlanta.
Wedding Planning 101
By Sheril Greenstein
1-2 months before wedding date
It’s official! The date is set and you are ready to start
planning your special day.
• Take program to printers
• Publish wedding announcement
• Obtain marriage license
Relax it’s a piece of cake when you have someone to
help. Take a look at these tips from event planner Sheril
Greenstein.
• Bask in your happiness and call your family and friends
– celebrate!
• Inform your rabbi
• Think about the kind of wedding you want – formal/
informal, big/small, time of year
• Make a tentative guest list to determine facility and
budget
• Hire a wedding planner
• Look through bridal magazines; pull out looks that you
like to show florist and wedding planner your style.
6 months or more before wedding date
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
1-2 weeks before wedding date
•
•
•
•
Finalize guest list and numbers, call who did not RSVP
Give caterer final count
Make seating plan and place cards
Contact all vendors; pay balances
Week of Wedding
Relax, enjoy, let your planner handle final details. Get
balances and checks to planner to pay for the vendors who
need to be paid the wedding day; you shouldn’t have to
worry about anything!
Sheril Greenstein may be reached at 901.335.3959
or [email protected].
Finalize date with rabbi
Reserve facility
Reserve caterer
Reserve florist
Reserve photographer and videographer
Reserve ceremony musician
Reserve reception entertainment/band, music
Reserve hotel room block for out-of-towners
Order bride’s dress
Look into booking honeymoon
4-6 months before wedding date
•
•
•
•
•
Send out save-the-date cards
Order invitations, thank you notes
Order favors
Meet with all vendors
Finalize wedding list and addresses for calligrapher
2-4 months before wedding date
• Schedule rehearsal
• Finalize menu with caterer, go for tastings
• Set service with officiant
• Order specialty linens
• Order imprintables like cocktail napkins
• Order imprinted kippahs and/or benchers
• Get envelopes to your calligrapher
• Mail invitations 8 weeks out
Lindsey Scheidt portrays Shira, her faith prevails in the modern-day
world. (21st century, USA) in Jewish Brides Through the Ages.
JLS • January 2007
2
The Invitation
By Shara Danziger
Planning an event such as a wedding or bar/bat mitzvah
involves lots of decisions. Some may be stressful. But one
part of the process that shouldn’t be stressful is choosing
an invitation. Why? Invitations are beautiful. They can be
classic, interesting, contemporary, fun, traditional, creative....you name it, it can be done.
Engraving
A rich reproduction of color with
precise, exact edges, created by the
use of a plate. Perfect for lighter
color ink on dark paper or where
designs are small and intricate.
But there is actually more than just the invitations themselves when all the accoutrements are taken into account,
including:
• The invitation itself
• Inner envelope
• RSVP card
• RSVP envelope
• Outer envelope
• Reception card (if reception is in a different location
from the wedding)
• Thank-you cards
Thermography
Print is raised on the paper through a chemical process and
can be a less expensive alternative to engraving or letterpress. Thermography allows for printing with exact color
matching.
By ordering all of the needed pieces from one stationer,
you will ensure everything is cohesive in terms of style. After all, your printed material, including the invitation, sets
the tone for your wedding whether it’s formal, fun or funky.
Also, you will typically receive the best possible price.
Speaking of price, that is something everybody wants and
needs to know. What are the typical costs for invitations
and other printed material? The answer: it depends (of
course!) The key factors that drive the cost up or down are
the type of paper used, type of printing, and the number of
layers or adornments in the invitation. Let’s look at each
element individually:
Type of paper used
Today’s market place allows for a whole palette of beautiful papers in colors and textures.
Paper costs are determined by the weight of the paper, the
process used to manufacture it and its uniqueness.
Keep in mind that you will want the paper and the printing
style to work together to create the look you want.
Manner of printing
Letterpress
A raised surface of type is inked and then is literally
pressed against the paper stock to obtain the image. Beautifully done and allows for textured look in either black or
colored ink.
22
JLS • January 2007
Offset Printing
Most cost effective. Allows for use the most use of colors.
More versatile in terms of the papers that can be used.
Layers and Adornments
Layers allow you to create something unique and elegant,
and the flexibility to use color as an accent. Keep in mind,
more layers can increase the cost.
Many clients choose ribbons or embellishments as accent
pieces for their invitations. Choose something that adds
to the invite without overpowering it. However if you use
an embellishment, make sure that the quality is something
that you are proud to have on your invitation.
Now that you know all the facts, it’s time for the “off the
record” stuff. The kinds of things that will really help make
the experience, not just stress free, but fun and enjoyable.
Always make an appointment to look at invitations. This
will ensure that the stationer is giving you her full and undivided attention.
Come with an open mind – but an idea if you want something traditional, modern, wild, fun or themed.
Keep your time frame in mind. By ordering in a timely
manner, you can save money (and stress!) by not having to
pay rush production charges or express shipping charges.
Understand the store policies. Check and double check the
proof of your invitations. If the stationer makes a mistake,
it is her responsibility to have it corrected at her own expense. However if you sign off on a proof that is incorrect,
the expense will be yours to have it corrected.
Finally, and perhaps most importantly, go with your instincts! This invitation is something that you will treasure
for years. This is your event and your personalities and
ideas should be a part of the invitation.
Judaic Bridal and Gift Registry
is a Perfect Match
By Susan C. Nieman
Searching for the perfect gift for an upcoming wedding,
bar/bat mitzvah or other special simcha?
The new bridal and gift registry at the Women of Reform
Judaism’s new Judaic Shop at Temple Israel in Memphis,
Tenn. is just a short trip or phone call away.
“I wish I could register for all of these beautiful things,”
one bride mentioned to Bonnie Cooper, Temple Israel
communications director who manages the gift shop. “It
was a wonderful idea,” said Bonnie.
“There are many Judaic bridal gifts available and we were
already carrying some Gary Rosenthal pieces,” she said.
“So we brought in a few more lines, some contemporary
items that today’s brides want.”
The bridal registry includes items for Shabbat, Chanukah,
Passover, the High Holidays, mezzuzot, Jewish books and
cookbooks. The shop carries traditional and contemporary
items to match the tastes of all recipients. In addition to a
large selection of jewelry, they also carry serving pieces,
wine stoppers, decorative pieces and tzedakah boxes.
“Judaic items are so personal,” said Bonnie, “The brides
would rather have something that they like and matches
the décor in their new homes.”
judaica
Gift & Bridal Registry
Gifts to GIVE
and LOVE to get
Bonnie or one of the sisterhood volunteers would be
delighted to special order ceramic pieces, ketabah
and yarmulkes.
Visit Temple Israel’s Judaic Shop at, 1376 East Massey
Road, Memphis, Tenn., 38120, to see all of the beautiful
items or contact Bonnie at 901.761.3130 or by e-mail,
[email protected]. She can ship out-of-town items
or have them ready when you come to Memphis for your
next simcha celebration.
Women of Reform Judaism
Sisterhood Judaica Shop
1376 East Massey Rd.
Memphis, TN 38120
901.937.2768
[email protected]
The shop is open Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. 4 p.m.; Fridays 10 a.m.-1 p.m.; Sundays from 9 a.m.-12:30
p.m. when Religious School is in session.
JLS • January 2007
2
A Room With a View
By Peter Karpaty
The Tower Room, occupying the entire 33rd floor of the
Clark Tower, has an outstanding restaurant, lounge and a
highly successful catering operation.
Views of Memphis from the restaurant and banquet rooms
are absolutely breathtaking.
Executive Chef Carlos Quinn, a local Memphian, trained
and worked at The Ritz Carlton in Florida before returning
to Memphis to head the culinary team of the The Tower
Room.
Six months ago, Peter Karpaty, a Hungarian Jew and
former vice president of the Sheraton Hotel Corporation’s
World Wide Restaurant Operations of over 850 restaurants,
came out of semi-retirement to operate The Tower Room
with local management. After one visit in April, he was
so convinced of the bright potential of the restaurant
and catering facilities that he readily agreed to become
managing director of The Tower Room. Under his
direction, the facility and its services will receive highprofile advertising and publicity in the local community.
A spectacular venue in the heart of the city, The Tower
Room is perfect for weddings and receptions, rehearsal
dinners, bridesmaid lunches, fund raisers and in fact, all
social functions and corporate meetings. The Catering
Event staff arranges for all details, including wedding cake
design, entertainment, photographer, florist, decorations,
table-top design, linen and napkin color selection, white
glove service, menu, specialty wines, champagne and full
premium bar. The restaurant’s imaginative culinary staff
creates customized menus for every function.
The Tower Room serves buffet and a la carte lunch Monday
through Friday and dinner Tuesday through Saturday.
Don’t leave without a taste of the Kentucky bourbon ice
cream made in-house. On Friday and Saturday nights,
there is piano and bass entertainment for your dining and
listening pleasure.
Just off the dining room, the cozy lounge serves excellent
cocktails and an extensive selection of fine wines. Hors
D’Oeuvres are served nightly from 5:30-7 p.m.
To make restaurant reservations or to contact the event
staff, please call Ms. Mesmery Blake at 901.767.8776. You
may visit The Tower Room’s Web Site at www.towerroom.
com, where the most recent dining room menu is posted
along with special events, such as the New Year’s Eve
Celebration and monthly Wine Dinners.
Hadassah Honors its Major & Big Gift Donors and Keepers of the Gate
24
JLS • January 2007
Sponsored Section
Dollars and Sense
Securities-based Lending
– a Financing Alternative for Investors
By Shep Fargotstein
VP Investments, UBS Financial Services, Inc., Memphis, TN
If you have a portfolio that may be used as collateral
for a loan, you may be able to access liquidity without
immediately liquidating securities and still maintain your
portfolio’s current exposure to the market. This is known
as securities-based lending.
What is Securities-Based Lending?
Securities-based lending is generally a revolving line
of credit that uses your eligible investment portfolio as
collateral. This strategy allows you to access funds without
immediately liquidating your portfolio.
In order to establish a securities-based loan, your portfolio
is pledged to a lending institution as collateral. This gives
you, the investor and the borrower, the ability to access
liquidity while maintaining your portfolio’s current
exposure to the market. You will continue to receive the
benefit of any dividends, interest or capital appreciation
that may accrue in the account. However, if you have an
outstanding loan balance and the portfolio used to secure
that loan declines in value, the lending institution may
require you to post additional collateral or repay part or
all of the loan. The lending institution may also liquidate
all or part of the portfolio, which may interrupt your longterm investment strategy and could result in adverse tax
consequences.
be drawn in the same account where the eligible securities
are held, a non-purpose loan is held in a different account;
thus, multiple asset accounts may be pledged to secure one
non-purpose loan. This structure is particularly useful in
situations where multiple parties wish to secure a loan for a
single borrower, for example, business partners securing a
business loan for their company. In addition, there are often
higher borrowing limits or release percentages against the
value of your eligible securities when they are pledged for
a non-purpose loan.
What Types of Non-Purpose Securities-Based Loans
Are Typically Available?
The terms and/or types of non-purpose securities-based
loans will vary by lending institution; however, in general,
these loans are uncommitted, demand facilities with either
a fixed interest rate for a period of time or a variable rate.
The lender may require repayment of a demand loan at any
time, without notice.
For more information about whether securities-based
lending may be an appropriate financing solution for you,
contact your financial advisor as well as your legal and tax
advisors.
Neither UBS Financial Services Inc. nor its employees provide legal or tax advice. You
should consult your legal and tax advisors regarding the legal and tax implications
of borrowing using securities as collateral for a loan. For a full discussion of the risks
associated with borrowing using securities as collateral, please review the Loan Disclosure
Statement that will be included in your application package. Borrowing using securities as
collateral entails risk and may not be appropriate for your needs.
Shep Fargotstein is a financial advisor with UBS Financial Services
Inc., in the Memphis branch at 1717 West Massey Road, Memphis, TN
38120. To reach him directly please call 901-415-3040.
For Whom Is Securities-Based Lending Appropriate?
A securities-based loan may be an alternative to traditional
borrowing for an investor who wants access to borrowing
for non-purpose use. Since there is risk involved in this
type of strategy, this avenue should be explored only if you
are risk tolerant.
You & Us. Working together
to help you benefit from our
complete financial services.
What is Non-Purpose Borrowing?
Loans that are provided by lenders, such as banks and
brokerage firms, must be classified as either purpose or nonpurpose, as directed by the Federal Reserve. The proceeds
of a non-purpose loan may not be used to purchase, carry or
trade securities. Therefore a non-purpose securities-based
loan is a loan that uses an eligible investment portfolio
as collateral for funds for purposes other than purchasing,
trading, or carrying securities, or for refinancing other debt
used for these purposes. Some uses for a non-purpose loan
include:
• Financing real estate opportunities
• Paying taxes
• Refinancing high interest debt[1]
• Financing business opportunities
• Funding higher education
• Buying a luxury item
•
•
•
•
•
•
Is Securities Based Lending the same as Traditional
Margin Borrowing?
Non-purpose borrowing against an eligible investment
portfolio has a number of benefits that are not available with
traditional margin borrowing. While a margin loan must
Brokerage services
Advisory services
Stocks
Bonds
Mutual funds
Municipal bonds
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IRAs
Retirement services
Alternative investments
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For more information, call:
Shepard Fargotstein
Vice President–Investments
901-415-3040 800-232-7954
[email protected]
1717 West Massey Road
Memphis, TN 38120
UBS Financial Services Inc. does not provide tax or legal advice. Please
consult with your tax and/or legal advisors regarding your personal
circumstances.
©2007 UBS Financial Services Inc.
All Rights Reserved. Member SIPC.
JLS • January 2007
25
From the Institute
A Common Body of Jewish Knowledge
By Greg Weisman
On any given weekend, Education
Fellows
from
the
Goldring/
Woldenberg Institute of Southern
Jewish Life (ISJL) might be in
Memphis, Tenn.; Monroe, La.;
Fort Smith, Ark.; Tuscaloosa,
Ala., Columbus, Ga. or 23 other
communities across the South. They
are constantly on the road helping the
34 congregations using the Institute’s
religious school curriculum.
In 2006, four fellows including
Debbie Ovadia, Amy Steinberg, Greg
Weisman, and Bethany Zwick drove
over 50,000 miles through the South
to help religious schools improve the
quality of their education.
The ISJL works with any religious
school, regardless of size. Schools
using the program vary from 600
children in a big-city synagogue to
only two children in a small-town
congregation. In many smaller
congregations, these schools are run
by parents who volunteer for the sake
of their child’s Jewish education,
and often have little or no formal
educational training. In 2003, the
ISJL began its education program
to serve these isolated communities,
though several larger congregations
have also taken part in the project.
Director of Education Services
Rachel Stern Komerofsky oversees
the education fellows, who are
recent college graduates who plan on
pursuing careers in Jewish service.
During their two-year fellowships,
they serve as itinerant educators,
visiting the communities in the
program several times throughout the
year. Some have likened the program
to a Jewish version of Teach for
America.
The centerpiece of the project is
the ISJL curriculum, which was
26
JLS • January 2007
written by ISJL
staff, along with
representatives
from
various
seminaries and
universities. The
curriculum covers
early childhood
through
10th
grade
with
weekly, scripted
lesson plans to
guide the teacher.
The
spiraled
curriculum covers topics like
mitzvot, Jewish values, Tanakh,
Jewish texts, Jewish holidays and life
cycle events, in increasing levels of
sophistication. The curriculum also
includes a Hebrew program designed
to help congregations with their bar
and bat mitzvah celebrations. The
curriculum is trans-denominational
and congregations in the Reform,
Conservative, and Reconstructionist
movements, as well as several
unaffiliated congregations, use it.
Each summer, the ISJL hosts an
education conference where teachers
using the curriculum come together
for three days of intense discussion
with some of the leading figures of
the Jewish education world. The ISJL
education staff use the conference
as an opportunity to introduce the
curriculum and its updates, encourage
networking between the communities
and provide workshops on various
subjects.
Throughout the year, the education
fellows visit the communities and
meet face-to-face with parents,
teachers and students. They also
lead all-school programs, holiday
celebrations, t’fillah services and
teacher training workshops. Through
these visits, the communities learn
that, although their community
may be small or isolated, there is an
organization and a staff to which they
can turn for support.
The ultimate goal of this program
is the creation of a “Common Body
of Jewish Knowledge” to ensure
that students from these religious
schools feel confident in their Jewish
upbringing and their preparation for
Jewish adulthood.
Whether they stay in Monroe,
Tuscaloosa, or Columbus, or move to
New York, Chicago or San Francisco,
they can be proud of their Southern
Jewish heritage and be active
participants in a Jewish life.
Greg Weisman is an
Education Fellow at
ISJL. He is a 2005
graduate of Boston
University with a
BA cum laude in
Philosophy
and
Political
Science
and minor in Judaic
Studies. Originally from Northbrook, Ill.,
a Chicago suburb, Greg has extensive
experience in informal education in both
camping and coaching. Greg has been
involved with Camp Kawaga for Boys,
a summer residential camp in northern
Wisconsin as a camper and counselor.
After his two-year fellowship, he hopes to
attend rabbinical school.
In Fashion
Wedding Style
By Julie Lansky
Black Tie Optional can be one of the
most bewildering invitations for a
guest to receive. But the good news is
that it’s not that hard and it gives you
a range of options – you might just
be able to wear something out of your
own closet!
Regard semiformal as slightly less
dressy than black tie. A man may opt
for a cummerbund and tie that match
the colors of his date’s dress, or a very
nice dark suit and tie. A woman might
consider an elegant cocktail dress that
hits just around the knee.
All that Black Tie Optional means is
that you have the range of wearing
anything from a cocktail dress to a
formal gown.
If you’re attending a Jewish wedding
inside of a synagogue, be respectful,
women should cover their shoulders
with a shawl. This can also be a great
way to accessorize your outfit!
Men can wear tuxedos and women
might opt to wear formal gowns.
While you can get away with wearing
a dressy cocktail dress, it’s better
to wear a floor length gown or an
evening suit.
If you’re looking for an evening look
that you can also wear to a wedding,
but still get more use out of, look to
evening separates. You can switch the
pieces around for completely different
looks. Another tip is to choose pieces
which are transitional – ones that can
be worn to a dressy cocktail party or a
black tie optional wedding.
When invited to a casual evening
wedding, that doesn’t mean you
should be wearing jeans and a T-shirt.
Men should wear a dark button down
shirt and a nice pair of pants, and
women should wear a chic but simple
dress.
Remember, this is the bride’s special
moment, so don’t feel the need to go
overboard and out-dress her.
Julie Lansky graduated
from
University
of
Colorado, Boulder with
a degree from the
School of JournalismAdvertising. Julie is a
third-generation Lansky
in the family business,
and currently serves as
buyer for Lansky 126 and manages its Web
presence www.lanskybros.com.
Select your shoes wisely. You’ll be
on your feet socializing and dancing
well into the evening, so keep them
comfortable.
MBG is the perfect
backdrop for your
wedding ceremony
and reception. Our
facility is open seven
days a week, and
kosher catering
options are
available.
Call our rental
department at
576-4109 to tour the
facility or visit us
online at:
memphisbotanicgarden.com
750 Cherry Road
Memphis, TN 38117
Celebrate your Simcha at
Memphis Botanic Garden!
Photo by: Southern Design Studio
JLS • January 2007
27
On The Sidelines
A Lot of Fitness
and a Little Law
By Mark Hayden
Fitness trainer Tommy Gerber wasn’t always in such good
shape. He needed help from the gym. Now he helps others
see the light – hoping others will say, ‘if it worked for him,
why can’t it work for me, too.’
Gerber, who was practicing law in Atlanta, had just finished
two chili dogs and a chocolate milkshake when he paused
and took inventory of his 270-pound frame. “I was just
disgusted with myself,” he said.
Fortunately, a center run by former Mr. World Marius
Vorster was located next door. “I trained with him for
over a year and basically did everything he told me,” said
Gerber. “I was there five or six days a week.”
While training, Gerber learned the ins and outs of a
successful fitness center. He’s since earned various
certifications in personal training and weight management
but realized that on-the-job training was just as important.
“I watched Marius work with everyone from little old ladies
to professional athletes,” he said. “I took what I learned
from him and improved on the diet and the exercise parts. I
don’t know if I’ve improved on the results, but I made the
program more user-friendly.”
Tommy Gerber
After a lot of hard work Gerber noticed some positive
results. He chiseled off 70 pounds, but more importantly,
his body fat content drifted downward. That’s the key to
weight loss.
“I don’t worry as much about weight loss as I worry about
fat loss,” he explained. “That’s what I want my clients to
focus on – losing body fat. Someone can gain two pounds
of muscle and lose two pounds of fat and it doesn’t show
up on the scale. But, that’s a four-pound positive change in
the body and you can see the difference in your clothes and
in the mirror.”
One of the critiques of weightlifting is the constant lifting.
“I’ve found that if you’ve got someone doing the same
thing for six to eight weeks you normally turn people off,”
he said. “If they’re in a gym and not on the weight floor
you lose ‘em. It’s all mental – if you win the mental battle
the physical battle is easy.”
Choosing the right diet is important, too. The real culprits
are saturated fats.
“With the Atkins diet you cut out the carbs, eat all the
protein you want and don’t really care about the saturated
fat,” said Gerber. “I do think that saturated fat does inhibit
weight loss a little, but I know that can’t be good for your
heart.”
Tommy works with Shayna Somer
28
JLS • January 2007
He believes in a diet of some carbs, some vegetables and
grains, but one that targets the fat. “When you combine
the carbs and the fats, that’s the real killer,” he explained.
“You’re just throwing pounds on faster than you can take
them off.”
Gerber hangs his shingle at the Memphis Fitness Club
in the Laurelwood Shopping Center. “I had no idea this
business was going to take off the way it has,” he said.
“I see an average of 22 to 26 clients a day, and I’m doing
good to book an hour for me to work out. If I can do that,
I’ve had a good day.
“So, now instead of practicing a lot of law and training
a few people, I train a lot of people and practice a little
law.”
It was once customary to make losing weight a New Year’s
resolution. It’s not that way anymore.
“Early on I had people losing weight after New Year’s,
but that hasn’t happened recently,” said Gerber. “Maybe
it’s because people know my reputation and know they’re
going to get results if they listen. I don’t have a magic pill,
though. People have to make up their own minds.”
But there’s a strange inconsistency among Memphians
and their physical fitness needs today. As health, exercise
and dieting have remained popular, obesity remains in the
news – with some reports rating Memphis as one of the
unhealthiest cities in the country.
Mark Hayden has been writing about
Memphis sports for a variety of magazines
for more than 10 years. He works at HYC
Logistics. For story ideas please contact
Mark at [email protected].
“On the whole we’re healthier but despite proper exercise
people don’t have the right game plan – they buy a box
of cereal that they think is healthy and instead it’s full of
sugar,” added Gerber.
Why are so many Memphians unhealthy? “People here
don’t exercise as much, the dinner portions are big and the
food is fried,” he continued.
There is good news, though. Most restaurants carry lowcarb menus now, he said. They are starting to catch on. So,
what can we do to reverse the trend?
“Train with me,” Gerber said. “I think I’ve had excellent
results.”
JLS • January 2007
29
Beth Sholom Religious School
Tachlich Field Trip to Wolf River Nature Trail with Cantor
Julian 3rd -7th grade
Photos by Craig Collier.
“The Big Sukkah” rehearsal produced and directed by
Sharona Rubinstein
Falling into fall at BSSS
by Caroline Frisch and Jacob Twersky
Bornblum Solomon Schechter School
prides itself in teaching students
through activities, field trips and
programs. Recently, several activities
made for terrific learning experiences.
Third graders put on a Havdalah
program at Beth Sholom Synagogue.
To prepare, they learned many songs;
some of them even multi-lingual. All
of their parents came to hear them
sing and lead the Havdalah service.
After the beautiful service, everyone
decorated a Havdalah candlestick and
holder, a wine cup and a spice box.
Second graders have been busy visiting
both the fire museum and Anshei
Sphard Beth El Emeth Synagogue. The
Anshei visit was the first of many field
trips to different synagogues to give
students a feeling about the Jewish
community surrounding them. Rabbi
Joel Finkelstein led a prayer service
and talked about the history of Anshei.
0
JLS • January 2007
What intrigued the students the most
was that the boys and girls had to sit
separate from one another.
At the fire museum, students had the
time of their lives. They talked to a
horse, which taught them about fire
safety. They went into a “smoke room”
where they saw a movie and watched
the room fill with smoke. Having
learned about the three major causes
of fire, they now consider themselves
experts on fire safety.
A special guest for our Kabbalat
Shabbat was Danny Siegel. Danny
is the founder of the Ziv Tzedakah
Organization. He encouraged students
to donate money to buy dolls for children
in Israel. His topic was “What does it
feel like to have $6223.70 per day to
give away to tzedakah?”
He spoke about the value
of tzedakah and was a
very good role model.
Our school raised enough
money to buy more than
70 life-size “mitzvah
dolls” that are buddies for
Israeli children.
Finally, we had our Thanksgiving
feast and celebrated in a family spirit.
First graders created the beautiful
centerpieces and had a pilgrim parade.
The whole school was buzzing with
excitement about this festive event.
We are so thankful for each other.
Caroline Frisch, an 8th grade honor
student enjoys theatre and has performed
numerous times around Memphis.
Jacob Twersky, an 8th grade honor student,
enjoys fishing and football.
Cooking on the Side
Humantashen
By Jason Braverman
Most Jewish holidays are solemn and modest, not so with
Purim! Purim is a time of happiness and celebration of our
victory over what could have been another Holocaust. We all
look forward to getting into costumes, handing out Shalach
Manot and celebrating with friends.
And let’s not forget the food! I am going to share some
awesome recipes that have traditionally been a secret for
generations.
Humantashen are the quintessential item that we think
of during Purim. However, not everyone is interested in
eating the traditional “Lekvar,” prune filling, or the equally
traditional “Mohn,” poppy seed filling, so I offer two kinds
of Humantashen to my friends and guests. One is based on
a cherry/pecan filling, the other, a chocolate filling. Both are
exceptionally good, and the pastry is firm but not too dense as
Humantashen can sometimes be.
Chocolate Heaven Humantashen (dairy)
For all you chocolate lovers our there… This one is for you.
2 sticks unsalted butter
1/4 cup sugar
1/8 cup powdered sugar
2 egg yolks
1 tsp vanilla extract
(the real thing please!)
2 ¼ cups sifted flour
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/3 cup heavy cream
8 ¼ ounces chopped semisweet chocolate
Roll dough to 1/8 thickness, and using an empty food can
(3” in diameter), cut circles out of the dough, take up the
scraps, roll it out again and make more circles until all dough
is used.
Place 1 tsp of filling into each circle, and using some water on
your fingers, close the sides into a triangle shape.
Place each one on a lightly greased cookie sheet and bake
until golden about 11-14min (keep watch that they do not
burn).
Sift the powdered sugar over each one to dust them
Cherry Pecan Humantashen (dairy)
If you love cherries, you will really go for this. The pecans
add a subtle flavor not normally found and is a surprisingly
good partner for the cherries.
2 sticks unsalted butter
1/4 cup sugar
1/8 cup powdered sugar
1 egg
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp vanilla extract (the real thing please!)
2 ¼ cups sifted flour
1/2 tsp salt
Cherry pie filling (with cherries)
3/4 cup ground pecans
Use the best quality chocolate, one with a high percentage of
cacao (over 60%).
Almost the same as above, sift the dry ingredients (including
the pecans), then cream the butter, sugar and vanilla.
Combine the two slowly to form dough, roll into a ball and
wrap overnight in the fridge. Preheat the oven to 350f, roll
out the dough to 1/8” thickness and form circles as described
above. Place one cherry and filling on a teaspoon and place in
center of circle, form the triangle shape and seal with water.
Bake on a nonstick sheet for approximately 20 min., watching
carefully that they do not burn as oven times vary.
Sift the flour, salt and baking powder.
Dust with powdered sugar. Enjoy.
In a large bowl, mix butter and sugar until smooth and fluffy.
Add eggs, vanilla and beat until smooth and silky.
Purim is a time to be free and remember we are a free people
who have overcome all of the tests presented to us and
Humantashen are a sweet reminder of our history. When you
bite into one of these, you are continuing a tradition spanning
thousands of years. Chag Sameach!
Slowly add butter mixture to flour until combined. Shape
dough into a neat ball and wrap in saran wrap, place in
refrigerator overnight (this is an important step as it prepares
the dough).
In a small pan, heat cream until boiling, remove from heat,
and add chocolate, stir constantly until mixed and smooth (do
not do this on the fire as it will burn the chocolate and you will
need to start over). Place in the refrigerator until it condenses
and becomes stiff.
Preheat oven to 350f.
Jason Braverman is president and CEO of
MySimpleBackup.com an online backup
and data protection service. He is an IT
Professional with more 20 years of experience
in advanced computer networks and
technologies. Jason lives in Memphis with his
wife, Aliza, and daughter Atara. He can be
reached at [email protected].
JLS • January 2007
Coming Attractions
All Year
Every Monday
Noon, Beth Sholom, Lunch and Learn with Rabbi Rubenstein. Bring
a dairy lunch, drinks and dessert provided, 901.683.3591.
Noon, T.E.A.M., Women’s lunch and learn. Call up to an hour before
to reserve your kosher lunch from Arie’s, 901.685.8322.
Jan. 6
10:15 a.m., Baron Hirsch Scholar in Residence Rabbi Dr. Jacob J.
Schacter presents: a Drasha entitled “On the Morality of the Patriarchs: Must Biblical Heroes be Perfect”
3:45 p.m., “The Life and Times of Rashi: History and Community.”
Free and open to the community.
Every Tuesday beginning Jan. 7
9 a.m. ASBEE Sisterhood Hamentashen Baking.Everyone is invited
to join the baking.
Jan. 6-8
Temple Israel, Artist in Residence Rick Recht
Second Wednesdays
Noon, Temple Israel Book Club Jan 10: The Good Life by Jay McInery. Eileen Wishnia, 901.685 9820.
Every Wednesday
1 p.m., Temple Israel, Women’s Minyan with Rabbi Tara Feldman,
901.761.3130.
8 p.m., Beth Sholom, Limmud Study, Rabbi Rubinstein, The Torah of
Relationships 901.683.3591.
7-9 p.m., 8 Wednesdays beginning Jan. 24, The Kabbalah of
Character. MJCC, 6560 Poplar Ave. Memphis, TN 38138. Rabbi
Levi Y. Klein, fee: $99 per course, $175 couples discount (textbooks included). Enroll at www.myjli.com, 901.766.1800 or
[email protected].
Every Thursday
Noon, Lunch and learn with Rabbi Meir Feldman, Lulu Grille 565
Erin Drive, Memphis, TN.
Noon, T.E.A.M. Men’s Lunch and learn with Rabbi Avi Mammon.
Call up to an hour before to reserve your kosher lunch from Arie’s,
901.685.8322.
1:30 p.m., Temple Israel, Mother Bear Project. Learn how to knit
bears to send to children with HIV/AIDS in emerging nations of
Africa, 901.761.3130.
Every Saturday
8:45 a.m., Temple Israel, Torah Study, 901.761.3130.
8:45 a.m., Temple Israel, Exploring Judaism, everything you always
wanted to know about Judaism but were afraid to ask, 901.761.3130.
4:30 p.m., Open Mic with Rabbi Levi Klein – Everything You Always
Wanted to Know About... Home of Dina and Sharon Knafo, 6693
Massey Lane, Memphis, TN, Chabad 901.766.1800.
Every Sunday
8:30 a.m. Chabad Lubavitch, (BLT) Bagels, Lox & Tefillin. Put on
Tefillin with a minyan, followed breakfast with a special “Living
Torah” video presentation and short Torah discussion.
10 a.m., Beth Sholom, Cantor Julian’s Medical Ethics class plus
speakers and “hot topics,” 901.683.3591.
11 a.m., Beth Sholom, Artful Torah, an art history. View paintings of
Bible stories/Biblical themes from Chagall, Caravaggio, Rembrandt,
etc., 901.683.3591.
Jan. 2
7 p.m., Baron Hirsch, Rabbi Shai Finkelstein presents Monthly Keynote Lecture “Elijah: the Mystery.”
Jan. 5
6 p.m. Beth Sholom, Services, 6:45 p.m., dinner optional, 7:30 p.m.,
Magevet Concert Jewish A Cappella Singing Group
7:30 p.m., Baron Hirsch, Scholar in Residence Rabbi Dr. Jacob J.
Schacter presents “Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik and the World
Around Him.” Dinner $20 adult, $10 child (ages 12 & under) family
cap $75. Reservation deadline Dec. 29, 901.683.7485.
32
JLS • January 2007
Jan. 7
9 a.m. ASBEE Sisterhood Hamentashen Baking
9:30-10:45 a.m., Temple Israel, Adult “Middot” class with Rabbi
Greenstein and Dr. Joe Levy, 12 sessions: Jan 7, 21, 28, Feb 4, 11, 25,
March 4, 25, Apr. 1, 15, 29, May 6
10:30 a.m., Temple Israel Cemetery, Dedication of the Levy-Cooper
Memorial Chapel
11 a.m., Temple Israel, Barbara K. Lipman Early Leaning Center
Open House
1 p.m., Memphis Jewish High School, ISEE testing for incoming
ninth graders
2-4 p.m., Hadassah Nails and Mail Mitzvah Program at Plough
Towers.
Jan. 13
7:30 p.m., Beth Sholom, Young Members Wine tasting
Jan. 14
7:45 p.m., Baron Hirsch Belz-Parker Artist Ascending Series presents
violinist Sean Lee, Free Admission.
Jan. 17
Noon, Baron Hirsch, Kol Rena So-Shuls senior luncheon, $3 per
person, transportation available, reservations 901.683.7485.
Jan. 18
7 p.m., Pizza Night, Hillel House, RSVP 901.452.2453.
7 p.m., Temple Israel, Women of Reform Judaism Game night
Jan. 26
8:30 p.m., Shabbat Dinner Hillel House, RSVP 901.452.2453.
Jan. 27
7:30 p.m. ASBEE Sisterhood Divine Dinner. RSVP 901. 682.1611
Jan. 28
TBA, Baron Hirsch, Postitive Parenting Seminar Focusing on Elementary Age Children. In conjunction with the Orthodox Union and
Anshei Sphard Beth El Emeth, series of special workshops addressing
day-to-day concerns of parents, 901.683.7485.
Jan. 29
9:30 a.m., Temple Israel, Women of Reform Judaism at the Movies
Feb. 18
5:30 p.m., MHA/FYOS PTA/LA Annual Auction and Dinner at Baron
Hirsch. Open to the community. Reservations 901.682.2400.
Feb. 25
MHA/FYOS Irby Cooper Alumni Basketball Game at MHA/FYOS
gymnasium. Pizza dinner for sale.
Coming Attractions
Advertiser Listing
Carlson Wagonlit Travel
901.761.1708
page 9
Comfort Keepers
Cary Rotter
901.752.1515
page 11
Baron Hirsch Synagogue, 400 S. Yates, Memphis, TN, 38120,
901.683.7485
CruiseOne
Debbie Rosenthal and Amy Slovis
901.682.5600
page 19
Beth Sholom Synagogue, 6675 Humphreys Blvd., Memphis, TN,
38120, 901.683.3591
Edible Arrangements
901.624.1200
page 9
Bornblum Solomon Schechter School, 6641 Humphreys Blvd.,
Memphis, TN, 38120, 901.747.2665
Harkavy, Shainberg
Kaplan & Dunstan PLC
901.761.1263
Synagogues and Agencies
Anshei Sphard Beth-El Emeth Congregation (ASBEE), 120 East
Yates Rd. North, Memphis, TN, 901.682.1611
Chabad Lubavitch of Tennessee, 6629 Massey Ln., Memphis, TN,
38120, 901.766.1800
Congregation Beth Israel, 5315 Old Canton Rd., Jackson, MS,
39211, 601.956.6215
inside front cover
Barry Less
Crye-Leike Property Management
901.758.5678
901.461.0046 cell
page 29
Hillel House, 3581 Midland, Memphis, TN, 38111, 901.452.2453
Memphis Botanic Garden
901.576.4109
page 27
Margolin Hebrew Academy/Feinstone Yeshiva of the South, 390 S.
White Station Rd., Memphis, TN, 38117, 901.682.2409
Relax the Back
901.683.8385
page 5
Memphis Jewish Community Center, 6560 Poplar Ave., Memphis,
TN, 38138, 901.761.0810
Springhill Suites
901.522.2100
page 1
Congregation Agudath Achim, 7901 West 5th St. Little Rock, AR,
72205, 501.225.1683
Memphis Jewish High School, 1203 Ridgeway Rd., Park Place Ctr.,
Suite 203, Memphis, TN, 38119, 901.767.4818
Memphis Jewish Home, 36 Bazeberry, Cordova, TN, 38016,
901.758.0036
Plough Towers, 6580 Poplar Ave., Memphis, TN, 38138,
901.767.1910
TEAM (Torah Education Association of Memphis) 5350 Poplar Ave.
Suite 550, Memphis, TN, 685-8322
Temple Israel, 1376 East Massey Rd., Memphis, TN, 38120,
901.761.3130
Stanford Wealth Management
901.537.1600
back cover
Temple Israel Gift Shop
901.937.2768
page 23
The Tower Room
901.767.8776
page 3
Trezevant Manor
901.515.2800
page 11
UBS Financial Services, Inc.
Shep Fargotstein
901.415.3040
page 25
VistaCare Health Services, Inc.
901.373.8831
page 7
The Wormser Firm
Harold Wormser
901.767.0265
page 7
Stanford Wealth Management
wishes the Jewish Community Center
and Jewish Family Service
great success on their capital campaign
To everything there is a season...
a time to build
a time to plant
6075 Poplar Avenue Suite 300
Memphis, TN 38119
901.537.1600