In This Issue: Harkavy Shainberg Kaplan & Dunstan PLC •... February 2007 JLSFeb07Cover.indd 1 1/17/07 9:12:13 PM
February 2007 In This Issue: Harkavy Shainberg Kaplan & Dunstan PLC • SEC Commissioner, Mike Slive JLSFeb07Cover.indd 1 1/17/07 9:12:13 PM 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 JLSFeb07Cover.indd 2 1/17/07 9:12:14 PM ‘‘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.” Tour Today! ‘‘We choose Belmont Village’’ • Licensed nurse onsite 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 • Short-term stays available • Separate and secured Alzheimer’s neighborhood Call (901) 624-8820 Belmont resident Bridget Forsberg with daughter Jaye Forsberg ACLF Lic. 102 © 2007 BelmontCorp Call 866-905-2266 or visit www.belmontvillage.com to order your free guide to Assisted Living The 1st - 7th grade Beth Sholom Religious School students presented Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins to Plough Towers residents in December. Throughout the production, the audience joined in with lots of laughter and sang Hanukkah songs. The student cast enjoyed refreshments with the seniors after the show. Beth Sholom Synagogue, New Philadelphia Baptist Church, Shady Grove Presbyterian Church, Neshoba Unitarian Universalist Church, Saint Louis Catholic Church, and Wesleyan Hills United Methodist Church joined together at Beth Sholom for their annual Community Interfaith Thanksgiving Service. Coleman Holiday Gift Shop - Gifts donated by Beth Sholom members, fourth and second grade students chose gifts for a loved one. JLS •• February February 2007 2007 JLS JLS-Feb07.indd 1 1/17/07 9:04:14 PM Table of Contents Home for Chanukah 4 Teen Talk/BBYO Update 6 Dining Out 8 Ketubah Renaissance 11 Cooking on the Side 12 Beth Israel’s Largest B’nai Mitzvah 14 Firmly Rooted in the Community 15 Beshert: Stories of Connections 19 In Fashion 20 L’Chayim 21 On the Sidelines 22 Dollars and Sense 25 Eye on Arkansas 26 Southern Jewish Fiction 27 Planning to Live –Business Future 28 Senior Connection 30 Coming Attractions 32 Advertiser Listing 33 Scrapbooks Beth Sholom MHA/FYOS BSSS Chabad Memphis Jewish Home ASBEE Memphis Jewish Federation Baron Hirsch Plough Towers 2 Art Director Teresa P. Bullock Art Assistant David Miller Editorial Contributors Rabbi Martin J. Applebaum Jason Braverman Gary Burhop Jennifer Edelson Donny Emerson Shep Fargotstein Chris Arpe Gang Dorothy Goldwin Mark Hayden Julie Lansky Howard Manis H. Scott Prosterman Harry Samuels 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 1 7 7 10 10 23 24 24 31 On the Cover Attorneys of Harkavy Shainberg Kaplan & Dunstan PLC Photo by Conroy Studio 901-624-6535 Editor/Publisher Susan C. Nieman Volume 1 Number 6 February 2007 Shevat/Adar 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 jewishliving@midsouth.rr.com JLS • February 2007 2007 JLS-Feb07.indd 2 1/17/07 9:04:18 PM Dear Readers, Wow! This February issue marks a major milestone. Not only is it my birthday but we are in our sixth month of production. I would never have made it this far without the help and support of my family, friends and readers. Your kind words and encouragement help make this dream a reality. When I decided to publish a magazine about Southern Jewish people, places and events, I never anticipated the tremendous response. Everyday I receive phone calls and e-mails from people I have never met, requesting their names be added to the mailing list. Not only does the mailing list include Memphis; Jackson, Miss; and parts of Little Rock, Ark.; but it is also being mailed to Arizona, California, Florida, Missouri and other places across the country. As our list grows, so does the list I need to obtain PERIODIC FIRST CLASS status. If you have NOT REQUESTED the magazine but are receiving it in the mail FREE each month, please return the sheet below and mail it to Jewish Living of the South, 1703 Tamhaven Court, Cordova, TN, 38016. I STILL NEED 1000 REQUESTER CARDS TO MEET THE U.S. POSTAL REQUIREMENTS. The mission of Jewish Living of the South is to help support the religious, educational, social and fundraising events of our Southern Jewish agencies. It is important to me that this publication help promote these activities. Through your continued support and the support of area businesses I will continue to meet this goal. But I could use some help. I am offering the right people the opportunity to join our growing team of sales professionals. I am searching for high energy part-time sales people and local writers in Memphis, Jackson, Miss; and Little Rock. This is a commission-based sales position with flexible hours and the opportunity to earn as much as you are able. If you or someone you know is interested in helping make a difference in each of our communities, please give me a call at 901.827.7244. In our April issue we will introduce Simcha Celebrations. Photos of weddings, bar or bat mitzvahs and other special simcha celebrations may be submitted for publication. Please call for deadlines and pricing details. I would like to receive a voluntary subscription to Jewish Living of the South. Name: ________________________________________ Address: _______________________________________ Phone: ________________________________________ Email: _________________________________________ Signature: _____________________________________ JLS • February 2007 JLS-Feb07.indd 3 1/17/07 9:04:21 PM Home for Chanukah By Shoshana Yaffe Every resident at the Memphis Jewish Home has a beautifully handmade scarf to keep them warm this winter, thanks to the MJH’s Chanukah project, ‘A Home for Chanukah.’ Barbara Magdovitz started the project after her father-in-law received a scarf as a gift. But there were a few problems with Joe Magdovitz’s storebought scarf. It was made of wool, which can be very itchy, it was too small and the pockets knitted on the scarf were also too small. Barbara had an idea. “You know what dad,” she said to Joe. “I’m going to knit you one that’s better for you.” She knitted the scarf in his favorite colors, using a more comfortable yarn and made larger pockets. Not only did the yarn have to be comfortable, but durable enough to be washed and dried frequently at the nursing home. Joe was thrilled, and so were MJH board members. They asked Barbara to organize a scarf-knitting project at the Home. “I realized it was a huge undertaking, so I took some time to think about it,” said Barbara. First she recruited a group of volunteers and formed a knitting committee. Then she created a “Knit Kit” with a simple pattern that she personally drew with the proper dimensions. Knitters may change the pattern slightly to adjust the length, colors and size of the pockets, “which gives the knitters, the flexibility to be creative with their scarves,” she said. Now referred to as the “Knit Kit Lady,” Barbara puts yarn and instructions inside the kits, which she drops off to volunteers. In exchange, the knitters give her a completed scarf. These days, instead of searching for more knitters, people actually call and ask if they can help. Barbara’s sisterin-law went on a trip to West Virginia. Her sister-in-law told her friend about the Home for Chanukah project. Out of no where, Barbara received five completed scarves from her sister-in-law’s friend. At a Chabad retreat in Pickwick, someone from New York handed over a scarf she had made for the project. The knitters hope to continue the project throughout the year. “The scarves are purposeful gifts,” said Barbara. “The residents need scarves, because some tend to be continuously cold.” The scarves have extra big pockets so residents can put little things inside like eye drops, remote controls or tissues. “It gives them a sense of independence, not having to constantly ask for help,” she explained. It seems the volunteers love knitting too, some say it’s therapeutic. “It’s as good for the residents as it is for the knitters,” said Barbara. This year, all 160 residents received scarves at the MJH Chanukah party, each individually wrapped by staff members. “The staff has a better idea of the size and color each resident should receive,” said Barbara. “We couldn’t have done it without them.” Knitters (back row) Gert Bozof, Hope Dan, Irma Sacharin and Rose Fishman. Residents (front row) Myrtle Shaw, Arlene Zelonky and Marie Ruffin By the end of the party, every resident had put on their scarf. “It was so heartwarming and beautiful,” said JLS • February 2007 JLS-Feb07.indd 4 1/17/07 9:04:24 PM Knitter Gertrude Gudwin with resident James Linder Barbara. One resident spoke about how appreciative she was for the scarf and the celebration, and the effort it took the volunteers to make them. There is now a stash of scarves for each new resident, which volunteers hope to keep replenished. Barbara calls the scarves the gift that keeps on giving, because they can always be repaired or added to. “They are gifts from the heart, a gift of love, a labor of love,” she said. Barbara still credits her father-in-law for the project. “If it hadn’t been for dad, none of this would have happened,” she said. “It’s all because of Joe.” 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. JLS • February 2007 JLS-Feb07.indd 5 1/17/07 9:04:26 PM Teen Talk Dollars For Darfur Samantha Notowich and Alana Gross, friends and seventh grade students at Bornblum Solomon Schechter School in Memphis, Tenn. wanted to do something to help the people of Darfur who are being starved, raped and murdered by the Sudanese government- backed militia called Janjaweed. Tired of waiting for others to take the lead, they decided to hold an event and invite everyone they knew; families, friends, classmates, teachers, rabbis, Temple and synagogue members. out flyers with information about the situation in Darfur and informed people about ways they could help. Samantha and Alana collected more than $2,900 for the Sudan Relief & Advocacy Fund of American Jewish World Service. Samantha and Alana plan to give a slide show presentation on the situation in Darfur to the upper grades at their school and lead a letter-writing campaign to elected officials. The girls handed out flyers at their school, e-mailed their friends, asked their rabbis to talk about Darfur and the event in their sermons. nities for Memphis, and Cotton States BBYO-ers to get active. With more than 40 couples in attendance, River City’s annual formal was its biggest yet. This is the time of year when the girls say goodbye to their wonderful Beau and thank him for all they have done. However, the girls surprisingly elected Jacob Baer for a third time! “We love you Jacob!” screamed the ecstatic girls of River City. “Get’Er Done,” was the theme of this year’s Cotton States Winter Regional Convention held in Nashville and coordinated by Nashville’s Marci Levy and T.J. Ducklow. It was selected to encourage teens to simply get things done, take responsibility and meet deadlines. On Nov. 24, at a local Starbucks, the girls and their friends handed Samantha Notowich & Alana Gross During grant allocation B’nai Tzedek teens were involved in meaningful discussions and learned a great deal about how they can help the community in Memphis and around the world. E T A PD U December was filled with opportuBy Jennifer Edelson Participants felt strongly about helping those less fortunate and that it was important to provide opportunities for Jewish education. After evaluating each application the teens voted to grant $500 each to Jewish Family Service for prescription drugs; Anshei Sphard-Beth El Emeth’s Shlichim program; Plough Towers knitting group; Hillel of Memphis’Miriam’s Café; and to Temple Israel for a program with Memphis Family Shelter. Congratulations to newly inducted regional board members from Memphis, Daniel Reef, Regional Aleph Moreh (AIT Dad); Emily Trotz, Regional Mazkirah (Secretary) and Molly Himmelstein as Regional Gizborit (Treasurer). Programming awards went to Peres and Okeon AZA for the Ronnie Weiss Maximum Credentials Award. Kriger and Tikvah BBG won the Rachel Shankman Maximum Credentials Award. The Most Improved Chapter Award for AZA was awarded to Peres. The Most Spirited Chapters for AZA and BBG both hail from Memphis – congratulations Okeon and River City! Jennifer Edelson is a 15-year-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 • February 2007 JLS-Feb07.indd 6 1/17/07 9:04:28 PM Goldie Margolin High School for Girls students helped prepare and serve food to the homeless on Thanksgiving Day. Several girls participated in the American Legion sponsored Tennessee High School Oratorical Contest. The girls also attended an evening of learning where some students delivered presentations on great Jewish sages. Every student was involved in some aspect of the Dec. 14 production of School for Scandal, by Richard Brinsley Sheridan. FYOS Kitchen Manager Linda Joffre. The girls’ play and the boys’ Steak Dinner, both prepared for after school hours, are perfect examples of the ways MHA/FYOS implements into its curriculum the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools accreditation goals of differentiated instruction and experiential learning. Cooper Yeshiva High School for Boys prepared and served more than 250 meals at its 13th annual Steak Dinner honoring MHA/ Pre-K 3 students show off their menorah headbands and Aleph Bet dolls. BSSS second grade students on a field trip to Memphis Jewish Home to sing Chanukah songs. Yehudis Samuels and Esther Samberg enjoy decorating and eating Chanukah cookies. Nathan Goren, James Parnell, Dovid Samuels and Tzvi Joffre were the third grade winners of the Edible Menorah Contest. Students participate in BSSS Hanukkah play...The Good, The Bad and The Macabee JLS • February 2007 JLS-Feb07.indd 7 7 1/17/07 9:04:40 PM Dining Out Chuck and Marci Goldstein – A Couple Who Caters to the Jewish Community” By Chris Arpe Gang If you go to a Jewish wedding, bar or bat mitzvah celebration, bris or shiva, chances are you will be noshing on food prepared by Heart & Soul Catering, a business owned and operated by Chuck and Marci Goldstein. Marci, who grew up in kosher home in Memphis, puts creative spins on traditional foods by constantly reading cookbooks, browsing Web sites and viewing shows on the Food Network. They inject as much traditional Jewishness into their menus as their clients ask for but always with their own creative touches. Chuck, who grew up in a Reform family in La Jolla, California, said adding kosher cooking to the business brought him more deeply into religion. When they serve lox, they roll strips of the bright orangepink smoked salmon into roses. White fish salad is stuffed back into the skin of the whole fish. Brisket is dredged in cracked peppercorns and napped with cabernet sauce. “Kosher cooking has so much meaning,” he said. “Everyone we work for has a favorite food prepared in a certain way. We even make cholent for kiddushes.”(Cholent is a long simmered stew usually of beef, potatoes, beans, barley and other vegetables enjoyed by many Orthodox families for Shabbat lunch. The stew is often placed in a warm oven long before sundown on Friday nights, so it is ready by noon the next day.) At a party celebrating the bat mitzvah of Sophie Weiss in December, the couple set up a latke station where they served the traditional potato versions as well as spicier Cajun sweet potato latkes. In the course of the evening, 170 guests picked up 2,000 pieces of sushi from a fourfoot boat on the buffet table. Whatever they are preparing, they take pains to make it look as good as it tastes. “Presentation is everything in catering,” Chuck said. “I’m passionate about it.” The company has won the award for the caterers’ “best presentation” for last two years at the annual Oscar night held at the Memphis Pink Palace Museum. On their travels, they scout out restaurant supply stores and other outlets for good looking bowls, plates and other accessories to make their tables visually dramatic. They also visit grocery stores and restaurants, especially Jewish delicatessens looking for new ideas. “In the delis we like to taste a little of almost everything,” Chuck said. Chuck is able to duplicate the recipe for almost any dish he tastes after a few tries in his own kitchen. Once he works out a recipe, he redefines it in his own style. Every year they attend the Kosher Food Show in New York, bringing home ideas and products to their Jewish clients. When doing kosher events, Chuck and Marci prep and cook in the kitchens of Baron Hirsch Congregation, Anshei SphardBeth El Emeth Congregation and Beth Sholom Synagogue. For non-kosher occasions, the Goldsteins cook in a commercial kitchen on Waring Road that formerly housed Brad’s Barbecue. “I wanted a place with a smoker so I could smoke salmon, brisket and turkey,” Chuck said. He uses a combination of woods, typically cherry and apple, to get the subtle flavors he likes. Chuck and Marci have been working together since they married 22 years ago. They have two children: Jason, 20, is studying political science and journalism at George Washington University and Stacey, 18, is a freshman at Kansas University. They met at a Jewish singles event in Houston, where they both lived and worked after college. Marci studied art at the University of Arizona; Chuck graduated from San Diego State University with a degree in political science. When they met, Chuck was working as a salesman for Glazer Wholesale Wine & Liquors in Houston, but he always wanted to be in the restaurant business. “My mom and dad were healthy eaters so we always had a lot of salads, fish and fruit at home,” Chuck said. Photo by Conroy Studio JLS • February 2007 JLS-Feb07.indd 8 1/17/07 9:04:42 PM “I didn’t much like salad and fish but we had a housekeeper who was a wonderful cook and I learned from her.” Marci and Chuck Goldstein, owners of Heart & Soul Catering. Both had followed friends to Houston, a city with a booming economy at the time. But Marci wanted to move back to her hometown after they married. They opened up a sandwich shop/ deli next door to a liquor store at Lamar and Winchester owned and operated by her parents, Joan Solomon and her late husband, Sherman. There wasn’t a big demand for Jewish-style sandwiches in the neighborhood so they decided to change to M & C Cooking & Market, a soul food place serving up greens, black-eyed peas, fried chicken and other Southern favorites. “That’s where we really learned to cook,” Marci said. Business boomed. Customers were often lined up outside the small building waiting for a seat or to get food to take out. Chuck meets with clients, operates the smoker and handles other cooking tasks. They are both on the scene at big events. They employ five full-time employees and a cadre of casual waiters and helpers. “We like to hire Jewish kids to help us out,” Chuck said. “Some have gone on to manage restaurants.” They also provide food for numerous charity events and work with families of modest means so they can have festive simchas. At times it can be difficult spending so much time with your spouse, the Goldsteins say. But they don’t know or want any other kind of life. “We work together just like my parents always did,” Marci said. For information about Heart & Soul Catering go to heartsoulcatering.com. Call Marci and Chuck at 901-682-0041 or e-mail at info@heartsoulcatering.com. 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. Fifteen years ago, they started their catering company. For years they were part of a large pack of small caterers. Now, Chuck said, they are in the top six. The Christmas holidays are always a busy time. On a weekday in late December, their schedule began with an early morning breakfast for faculty and staff at Houston Middle School and progressed to providing lunches at four businesses and a non-profit agency. They also catered Caren and Barney Abis’s annual Hanukkah dinner for about 45 people. “I use them for our Hanukkah dinner and also for an annual dinner for the board and staff at Madonna Learning Center,” Abis said. “They always come up with something a little different. The food is good, it’s reasonable and Chuck is very accommodating.” Chuck estimates that 30 to 40 percent of the business involves catering Jewish events; another big segment is corporate work; then there are other personal occasions. “Being a caterer is hard work,” said Marci, who takes care of the office and presides over the preparation of Jewish food. Her artistic talents come in handy in designing their tablescapes. JLS • February 2007 JLS-Feb07.indd 9 1/17/07 9:04:46 PM Chabad’s Chanukah Festival and the Crafting & Kindling of a Giant Chainsaw Carved Menorah at the Parkplace Shopping Center. Rabbi Levi Y. Klein, Director of Chabad of Tennessee explains the significance of Chanukah and the kindling of a public menorah. Carving-Artist Bo Hancock, carving 10 foot menorah with chainsaw Rabbi Klein Kindling the Menorah on the 3rd night of Chanukah Carved Star of David. Eli Ostrow, Jersie Burgess, Maya Rubenstein, Rebecca Knafo watch as Menorah is carved. Chanukah Party 0 JLS • February 2007 JLS-Feb07.indd 10 1/17/07 9:04:59 PM Illuminated Jewish Marriage Contracts By Donny Emerson “Ketubah Renaissance: The View from Memphis,” a rare glimpse into the personal Jewish ceremonial art will be on view at the Shainberg Gallery of the Memphis Jewish Community Center in February. Forty ketubot (traditional Jewish marriage contracts) from across the entire Memphis Jewish community have been selected for their artistic as well as historical interest. Many are hand painted, some by local artists. All of the ketubot have stories to tell, about Jewish symbolism, family tradition, and love. The tradition of illustrating Jewish marriage documents derives from Sephardic custom in early 17th century Venice and spread throughout the Jewish world in Europe and the Middle East over the next two centuries. After falling into decline in the late 19th and the 20th centuries, the art of ketubah illumination was energetically revived by young American Jewish artists in the 1970s. Most of the ketubot in this exhibit are products of this renaissance in Jewish art and represent many new artistic styles and techniques. All of them are nonetheless grounded in one way or another on older traditions and forms. Ketubah of Laurie & Jeff Meskin. Produced by San Fransisco artist Richard Sigberman and calligrapher Robin Hall. The exhibit opens Sunday, Feb. 4 and closes on Feb. 25. A special series of lectures sponsored by the Bornblum Judaic Studies Program of the University of Memphis will be presented at the MJCC at 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 5, 12 and 19, and will provide background into the ketubah and its art. Ketubah of Aliza & Jason Braverman, produced in Memphis by artist Stephen Wachtel and calligrapher Uri Nahum. Photos by Norman Gilbert Photography JLS • February 2007 JLS-Feb07.indd 11 11 1/17/07 9:05:03 PM Cooking on the Side B E E F Medallions for Dinner! By Jason Braverman The vast majority of us love beef. Now I know that the conventional wisdom is that red meat is bad for you, increases your risk for coronary artery disease, etc... etc… But, beef can be healthy and is actually a necessary component of a good diet. I am not saying you should eat it five times a day, but you can safely eat red meat three times a week if you know which cuts to choose and how to cook them. Many people think that the only good cuts of meat are not kosher, because kosher meat comes only from the front half of the animal. This is completely false. First, it is possible to get real kosher filet mignon or cuts from the hind quarter, but it is extremely rare due to very complicated problems with Shechting (ritual slaughtering of the animal.) I am not qualified to give you the details but your local Rabbi can certainly fill you in on this process. However, even without going to extremes, it is possible to get extremely good quality beef. Some of the high-end kosher restaurants in the Northeast are “dry aging” their beef; this is a process where the meat is subjected to dry air to age the beef and produce a meat which is more tender and flavorful. There is, unfortunately, no easy or safe way to do this at home, but you can order meat from certain kosher restaurants, such as Prime Grill (as a very special order.) Needless to say, this is extremely expensive and best left for special occasions. Memphis is luckier than most small Jewish communities, even some large ones, with availability of fresh cut kosher beef, lamb, veal and chicken at more than one location. I love a great steak, and I love to cook beef. I can’t resist a mouth watering, succulent cut of meat, cooked to absolute 2 perfection. Such a piece of meat is almost artwork and rarely needs much accompaniment. If you can afford it, the following recipe will make for a one-of-a-kind presentation. Have your butcher cut the center cut or Eye of a Rib Roast. Ask him not to discard the rest of the rib roast (you can use this to make a beef stock). You may need to purchase two or three entire rib roasts depending on how many people you are serving. Each standing rib roast “eye” will yield about four to five 2-inch thick “medallions.” These are the tenderest cuts of kosher meat available (without getting access to the previously mentioned hind quarters.) Ask the butcher to get the most “marbled” meat possible as these contain higher levels of fat and will afford a much better taste. Meat that is very lean tends to be less tasty and tougher to eat. Once you have the medallions cut to your liking, follow this recipe: Meat Rub: ¼ cup Sweet Hungarian Paprika 1 tbs Kosher Salt (or fresh ground salt) ½ tbs Fresh Course Ground Pepper 2 tbs Fresh Minced Garlic (make sure to remove any green parts of the garlic as this will lend a bitter taste) ¼ Cup Fresh Minced White Onion (very finely minced) ¼ Cup Light Brown Sugar (do not use cane or other natural sugars) JLS • February 2007 JLS-Feb07.indd 12 1/17/07 9:05:04 PM Mix the above ingredients in a bowl and place each medallion at room temperature into the bowl to coat each side of the meat. Place each piece in clear plastic wrap and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours. Loves me. Loves me not. Loves me… When you are ready to cook the meat, carefully weigh your options. Cooking over a flame grill will provide the most authentic flavor, but is the most difficult due to the inability of most home chefs to properly gauge the temperature of the grill, and too often they will burn the outside of the meat or undercook the inside. For the home cook I recommend using your cook top, whether gas or electric, both can have excellent results. Set your oven to 350 degrees and your cook top to medium high, if you have numbers this is generally 8. Place a stainless steel or other heavy large pan onto the heat and allow to sit until it is very hot. Add about 1-2 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil to the pan and wait a minute until the oil starts to shimmer, then move the oil over the pan to coat it. Add 2-3 medallions at a time, do not overcrowd the pan, you do not want it to steam cook. Sear each steak for about 2-3 minutes per side; it should be caramelized and darkened but not burnt. To finish, depending upon the desired level of doneness, — Medium rare steaks – no oven time — Medium well – transfer steaks to a pan and place in oven for about 5-10 minutes. Test the doneness of the steak by cutting a small slit in the center of one and checking the color, pink to red is medium rare, pink and darker is more well done. Accompany these steaks with your favorite steak sauce (not ketchup please!) or make a simple pan reduction by adding a quarter cup of a dry red wine to the pan, while still very hot, scrape the bits off the bottom of the pan, add ¼ tbsp of tomato paste. Reduce this until it thickens and then serve beside each steak or drizzled over each one. For a side dish you can make fresh mashed potatoes and then pipe them onto a cookie sheet into 4-inch round “peaks,” place them under the broiler for 3-4 minutes to brown and then using a spatula transfer them to the dinner plate. Look forward to Pesach, as we will discuss the finer points of Lamb… oh, is that your mouth drooling? Mine is. 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 jason@mysimplebackup.com. Does your bank respect you – or has it put your needs on hold too many times? Let Paragon sweep you off your feet with the relationship you deserve. Our Rescue Kit makes breaking up with your old bank easy, and Paragon’s complete devotion to your needs will give you the courage to love again. Local banking from locals. Paragon Place | 6300 Poplar Avenue | Fountain Place | 5400 Poplar Avenue St. Francis Hospital | 6005 Park Avenue | Saddle Creek | 7600 Poplar Avenue PH 901.273.2900 | bankparagon.com MEMBER FDIC JLS • February 2007 JLS-Feb07.indd 13 13 1/17/07 9:05:04 PM Beth Israel’s Largest B’nai Mitzvah By Susan C. Nieman Becoming a bar or bat mitzvah at 12 or 13 years old is quite an accomplishment, one anticipated by families from the birth of each child. It is a time of joy, responsibility, obligation and celebration. The bar/ bat mitzvah has attained a certain level of knowledge and is now responsible for his/her own Jewish obligations. But there are many Jewish adults who never had the opportunity to receive this religious education as a child. It is a beautiful thing when these adults come together to study, reaffirm their Judaism and deepen their understanding of Torah. In September 2006, 13 members (ranging in age 25 to 71) of Beth Israel Congregation in Jackson, Miss., completed a year-long weekly study with Rabbi Valerie Cohen. “It was an incredibly moving experience for the class, for me as their rabbi and for everyone attending the service–whether they knew the participants or not,” said Rabbi Cohen. “It was a huge commitment. We studied Hebrew, basic Judaism and other topics that were chosen by the class members. “Each person did an independent study and reported on their research,” she continued. “There was something very special about doing this as a class, and the group formed a special bond.” thought it was about time for me to learn Hebrew so I could help them. Now it means even more to say to them that I have had mine as well.” Sharing the experience with her mother, a New Orleans Katrina evacuee, had an even greater impact. “Fortunately for me, when my house and all possessions were destroyed from the levee break during hurricane Katrina, I found myself living in my daughter, Tammy and son-in-law’s home,” said Honorine K. Weiss. “It was as if I were brought to heaven rather than thrown from my former home.” Tammy and her husband, Bert, insisted that she join the B’nai Mitzvah class. “I was reluctant to leave my worries aside,” said Honorine. “But it was an escape from the reality I was going through. Most important was the camaraderie of my fellow classmates and Rabbi Valerie Cohen. She is a blessing and a large part of my fast recovery. The experience of sharing something so meaningful with my youngest daughter is irreplaceable. I truly believe that participating in the studies opened a door to discovery and wonder for me. It is truly a blessing.” Mark Fijman didn’t have the opportunity become bar mitzvah as a child. The idea of doing it as an adult had always been lurking in the back of his mind. “When the class was announced, my wife encouraged me to take part,” said the 45-year-old Madison, Miss., attorney. “I had been impressed by her hard work and study prior to her conversion, and I decided to take the plunge. This also coincided with my son’s bar mitzvah preparation, and the example he set by his hard work and dedication also encouraged me to do the same.” Mark viewed this as an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the Torah and get some perspective on the liturgy. “The weekly class was enjoyable because it was made up of adults at all different stages of their lives,” explained Mark. “But we bonded together quickly around this spiritual journey. My class coincided with my son and daughter’s religious school class, so it was also fun for all of us to drive to our ‘Sunday School class.’ I like to think it set an example to my children that learning about Judaism is an on-going life-long pursuit. “When I finished reading my portion during the service,” he continued, “I had a palpable sense of having found a puzzle piece, missing for years and finally having the chance to put it in place.” When Tammy Rubinsky began the class she did not realize how special the experience would become. “I feel so much closer to myself, my religion and others of my faith,” said Tammy. “I have taken Hebrew classes many times in my life and always forgot it shortly thereafter. I began the class to relearn Hebrew and never thought I would have a bat mitzvah. “My children are becoming of the age to have their bat mitzvahs, and I Rabbi Valerie Cohen wih participants Jean Comley, Mark Fijman, Andrea Fish, Jo-Ann Gordon, Bill Gordon, Ellen Hart, Debra Jacobs, Harry Kolodney, Carol Kossman, Susan Rockoff, Tammy Rubinsky, Honorine Weiss and Neola Young. JLS • February 2007 JLS-Feb07.indd 14 1/17/07 9:05:05 PM Harkavy Shainberg Kaplan & Dunstan plc Firmly Rooted in the Community By Susan C. Nieman Professional service, integrity, knowledge and creativity are among its many attributes. Sharing these qualities with the community is a gift. The legal professionals of Harkavy Shainberg Kaplan and Dunstan PLC (Harkavy Shainberg) are not only dedicated to their clients but are immersed in religious and civic organizations that are engaged in improving and sustaining life in Memphis. Leaders among the Jewish and secular community, these men and women offer years of experience to organizations seeking dedicated professional membership. “There is an abundance of leadership in this firm, perhaps more than in many other organizations,” said Ronald Harkavy, who in addition to serving as president of the Ronald Harkavy Maccabi Games in Memphis. But one of his most satisfying positions was as president of the Florence G. Heller (FGH) JCC Association Research Center, a position he held while serving on the executive board of Jewish Community Centers Association of North America. “Serving local agencies is hands-on and personal because the work directly affects our community and people we know, including our families,” said Kaplan. “As a part of a continental board I had the opportunity to work with scholars and visionaries who were engaged in research and writing about cultural, demographic and sociological issues that affect and help explain developments and trends in the broader American Jewish Community. Raymond Shainberg Memphis Jewish Community Center, Memphis Jewish Federation and Anshei Sphard Beth El Emeth Synagogue, helped establish the Jewish Foundation of Memphis in 1997 and served as its president for the first seven years of its existence. “There is tremendous leadership within our firm, not only from the people who are here now but also from those who have come and gone,” said Alan Kosten, former named partner of Harkavy Shainberg who now serves as Counsel to the firm and is the chairman of the Herb Kosten Pancreatic Cancer Charitable Fund. Managing Member Michael Kaplan also served as president of the Memphis JCC and Anshei Sphard Beth El Emeth Synagogue and in 2002 was chair of the JCC Michael Kaplan and Neil Harkavy JLS • February 2007 JLS-Feb07.indd 15 1/17/07 9:05:07 PM Ronald M. Harkavy Raymond M. Shainberg Michael D. Kaplan “Then at JCCA, I had a voice and a role in the process by which information and ideas such as those from FGH research projects evolved into programming ideas and initiatives that I have seen, over a period of time, affecting the philosophy and the programs at JCCs and JCCA affiliated camps and other agencies throughout North America,” he explained. “The opportunity to do that work has been a very special privilege for me.” Allen Dunstan serves on the Professional Advisory Group of the Jewish Foundation of Memphis because he feels community involvement adds to his legal practice. “Using our legal knowledge and experience to assist the community is a tremendously gratifying way to enhance the practice of law,” said Dunstan. Harkavy Shainberg attorneys serve on the boards and as officers of many Jewish community agencies and organizations including Anshei Sphard Beth El Emeth Synagogue, Baron Hirsch Synagogue, Beth Sholom Synagogue, Bornblum Solomon Schecter School, Margolin Hebrew Academy/Feinstone Yeshiva of the South, Torah Educational Association of Memphis (TEAM), Memphis Jewish Federation, Memphis Jewish Community Center, Allen C. Dunstan Alan M. Harkavy Jewish Family Service, Jewish Foundation of Memphis and the Memphis Jewish Home. Harkavy Shainberg attorneys are just as committed to secular activities, serving on the boards of Girls, Inc., the Memphis Heart Association, Memphis Urban League, UT Medical Group, Inc., as well as bar associations and committees serving the legal profession. Ronald Harkavy and Michael Kaplan are graduates and supporters of the Leadership Memphis program. Staci Blackwell, who serves on the executive committee of Girls, Inc., finds that involvement in the community “has never been a burden, but rather an opportunity to strengthen a community that has given so much opportunity to me.” As a former president of the United Way of Greater Memphis, Raymond Shainberg noted that the experience was possibly the most satisfying extracurricular activity of his lifetime. “One of the reasons the Harkavy Shainberg lawyers have always been leaders in the community is that they believe professionals have a duty to be integral parts of the community,” explained Shainberg. This devotion to community is mirrored in the devotion they show to their clients. This is not always easy considering the vastness and diversity of Harkavy Shainberg’s client base, which according to Kosten, “includes a good combination within the community including a large Jewish clientele and an equally substantial non-Jewish client base.” Allen Dunstan and Staci Blackwell The firm’s clients include many individuals and family groups, sole proprietorships, financial institutions, large and small public and private corporations, partnerships, joint ventures and limited liability companies. These clients represent many business sectors such as banking, manufacturing, real estate lending, distribution services, JLS • February 2007 JLS-Feb07.indd 16 1/17/07 9:05:10 PM Neil Harkavy Staci Y. Blackwell S. Joshua Kahane health care, real estate development, real estate management, construction, communications, wholesale and retail. But to some extent Harkavy Shainberg is not your traditional law firm. Lawyers as well as staff see the firm as a family. “Every member of our staff is a very important part of what we are and what we do,” said Kaplan. “They have been key members of our team for a long time and are as familiar with our practice and with our clients as are the attorneys.” The others agree. According to Alan Harkavy, leader of the firm’s litigation practice and himself a past president of Anshei Sphard Beth El Emeth Synagogue, “much of our success is attributable to collaborative efforts between the attorneys and firm staff. We respect and enjoy one another and the success and the quality of our firm very much reflects the experience and the professionalism of the staff.” There is much to say about a law firm whose staff has been around for 15, 20 even 41 years. Sandy, who has been with Harkavy Shainberg for more than 20 years, cannot envision working anywhere else. “As an African-American woman, being comfortable in my place of employment is so important. Since the first day at Harkavy Shainberg, I have always felt like an integral part of the legal team and an important part of the firm family. I will probably retire from the firm.” In part, this teamwork and family feeling among lawyers and staff may be a reflection of the extensive experience these attorneys have had working together with fellow board members and professional staff at such a wide array of community organizations. Like its staff, the lawyers at Harkavy Shainberg Kaplan & Dunstan PLC have been together for many years. The firm was established in 1963 as Kriger & Shainberg by Morris Kriger and Raymond Shainberg. In 1968, when Shainberg became General Counsel at the Sam Shainberg Company, Ronald Harkavy joined Kriger and the name was changed to Kriger & Harkavy. The firm went through several name changes as Shainberg returned, Alan Kosten “When I started working for this firm there were only two attorneys, Morris Kriger and Raymond Shainberg,” said Mary Reed, who has been with the firm since 1965. “The firm’s appeal to me then was that it was small and it was great to watch it grow. As the firm expanded, the partners always made me feel like I was a part of their successes. It is so much easier to work under those conditions and to work ‘with’ people, rather than ‘for’ them. I truly believe that is why so many of our employees have come to stay. “All of the employees are long time at this point” she continued. “We are truly an extended family. It has been my pleasure to work with so many talented, bright and wonderful people. Our attorneys are truly the best!” Those feelings are echoed by Lynda Davenport, Teri Rowell, Mindy Thornton, Ann Gelston and Sandy Bond. Alan Harkavy JLS • February 2007 JLS-Feb07.indd 17 7 1/17/07 9:05:12 PM became a name partner, new partners Michael Kaplan and Allen Dunstan joined, and Kriger left to join Fogelman Properties. In 1983 the firm became a leader in the Memphis legal community moving its offices to East Memphis to be closer and more convenient for their clients. During the 1980s and 1990s the firm grew to 12 attorneys. Laurie Cooper, former Memphian Steve Graber, Neil Harkavy and Alan Harkavy joined the firm and became partners and shareholders. Cooper, currently president of the Memphis Jewish Federation, now is General Counsel at Cooper Companies and Graber, past president of Jewish Family Service, is a partner in a firm in New York, but both remain Of Counsel to Harkavy Shainberg. In 1997, with some clients having major roles in the redevelopment of the center city, Harbor Town, South Bluffs and uptown areas of Memphis, the firm reopened its Downtown office and became one of the first Memphis firms with fully staffed offices Downtown and in East Memphis. Harkavy Shainberg staff (l-r) sitting: Teri Rowell, Mary Reed, and Linda Davenport (l-r) standing: Sue Garner, Sandy Bond, Mindy Thornton, and Ann Gelston In 2000, the firm joined a growing trend among law firms and merged with a large Memphis firm in what the Commercial Appeal labeled as a merger of “Two Law Firm Titans”; but after a just a few years as part of a large firm, the partners decided that their law firm family would enjoy their work more and that they could better serve their clients and the community in their pre-merger form. So in April 2005, the firm reunited, adding associate attorneys Josh Kahane and Staci Blackwell, with offices in East Memphis and Downtown, and, crucial to reestablishing the firm, with all of the staff. A unique element of Harkavy Shainberg’s legal practice is its shared philosophy on how to practice law. Josh Kahane “We recognize the importance of providing exemplary service above all else, treating each client as if they were our only client,” said Neil Harkavy. “The first key to providing outstanding service to a client is establishing communication. At our law firm our attorneys, and not just a paralegal, are available to respond to questions from clients, their principals and other representatives. Being able to communicate with our clients about specific details of their transaction allows the client to resolve issues before they become problems.” The element of community leadership is taking root in the next generation of Harkavy Shainberg lawyers. Josh Kahane, who presently serves on the Board of Trustees of the Baron Hirsch Synagogue and Margolin Hebrew Academy/Feinstone Yeshiva of the South and recently vice chaired Memphis Jewish Federation’s 2007 Super Sunday, said “as a young attorney, I admire the legal excellence of the Members of Harkavy Shainberg, but am equally inspired by their commitment to the community at large. I am constantly learning from their examples and working to emulate these attributes in my own practice and life.” Through its deep concern for every client, the attorneys and staff of Harkavy Shainberg Kaplan & Dunstan will continue to use their knowledge, expertise and creativity to develop solutions and achieve excellent results. And so will Memphians continue to rely on their unwavering commitment to strengthen the community. JLS • February 2007 JLS-Feb07.indd 18 1/17/07 9:05:14 PM Beshert True Stories of Connections A monthly selection from the book written by Harry Samuels Bucharest By Leonid and Friderica Saharovici Shortly following World War II, Friderica Beck of Bucharest, Romania, graduated from the University of Bucharest with a degree in organic chemistry. She wished to go to another city in order to accept a teaching position; however, under the Communistic regime of the time, she was first required to obtain permission from officials of the Education Department in order to leave the city. She went to the designated office and waited patiently for the official to return. He not only granted her request but told a friend the next day that he believed he was going to marry her. Embassy Suites Hotels®...more of what matters! –Full cooked-to-order breakfast –Evening Manager’s Reception* –One complimentary suite per 40 occupied rooms –Hilton HHonors® Points & Miles® –In-House Catering by Frank Grisanti’s Italian Restaurant * Subject to state and local laws. Must be of legal drinking age. HHonors® membership, earning of Points & Miles® , and redemption of points are subject to HHonors Terms and Conditions. ©2006 Hilton Hospitality, Inc. In 1956, they were married secretly in her mother’s bedroom by a rabbi. Even the required witnesses were in attendance in accordance with Jewish law and tradition. Since that atheistic Communist society prohibited such religious ceremonies, it had to be performed clandestinely. Since coming to our city, the Leonid Saharovicis have become role models of the Memphis community. How fortunate we are that Friderica was required that day to meet her beshert in a government office of Romania! 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. JLS • February 2007 JLS-Feb07.indd 19 1/17/07 9:05:20 PM In Fashion Handbags ... to Fit Your Body & Life By Julie Lansky For those into fashion, you can understand the feeling of lusting over a gorgeous new designer handbag each season. The selection is extensive and sometimes it can be overwhelming to pick a favorite. But with the forthcoming tips, it might make the selection process a little easier. You might not give handbags the same scrutiny you give a pair of jeans but if a handbag is cute or fits your lifestyle then it works. But did you know that a handbag can flatter your shape almost as much as the right pair of jeans? Simply apply these steps to buying a bag in proportion to your shape. It can not only knock off pounds but it will polish up your style in a flash. Your handbag should first of all complement your figure. Try a shape that is opposite of your body type. If you tend to be tall and thin, look for a rounded, slouchy hobo bag, which is the hot trend this season. If you are short and voluptuous, play off opposites by choosing a bag that is long and sleek. A clutch would be a great example. In general, the rounder your figure, the more structured your bag should be. Rectangular shapes in soft leathers or fabrics will do the trick. and with any outfit. However, other purse materials are fashionable now. Fabric bags can look very stylish, as well as a mix of fabric and leather. Straw bags are simple, and create a great look for spring. Moreover, since straw looks very natural, it works well with a spring outfit of any color. While shopping, take your time and try on handbags in front of a mirror just like you would for any clothes. Ask yourself a few questions. Is your handbag an asset to your style? Does it overpower your outfit and more importantly, you? In no time, the handbag rules will become second nature and who knows…. You may just morph into a collector or handbag connoisseur. For any shape, beware of wild prints or colors that you’ll get tired of easily. Look for newness in oversized styles, metallic touches, and gold hardware, strong shapes and rich fabrics. Leather is always a classic, and it works for any situation 20 Julie Lansky graduated from University of Colorado, Boulder witha degree from the School of Journalism-Advertising. 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. JLS • February 2007 JLS-Feb07.indd 20 1/17/07 9:05:22 PM M I Y A H # Sponsored Section , «ÀiÃiÌi`ÊLÞ George Washington, General, Father of our Country, Planter and Whiskey Maker By Gary Burhop Little known but definitely true is the fact that George Washington, invested in, had constructed on the grounds of his estate, Mount Vernon, and operated in his later years an impressive distillery. Producing enough income in the colonies was a continuing struggle for every man. Farming was, and to a degree is yet today, fraught with difficulties, dependent on good weather and sometimes fickle demand for the product grown. What is known of the personal lives of many of the founding fathers is that they often found themselves in a cash flow shortage. Washington certainly entered the distilling business for one reason – to make money. As in Washington’s day, the whiskey produced in the replica facility is rye whiskey, made from at least 51 percent rye grain and the remainder corn. Rye was the preferred domestic distilled spirit, noted for a rich somewhat spicy flavor on the finish. Visitors to Mount Vernon are able to tour the distillery and view the operation but at this time cannot purchase the product. Whether the trustees will seek and be given regulatory approval to operate the distillery as a commercial venture remains to be seen. But given the American journey to Prohibition and back to our neo-prohibitionist present day, the distillery on Dogue Creek, Fairfax County, Virginia is good reminder that our history is inextricably linked to alcoholic beverages. Try these rye whiskies, available at Great Wines & Spirits: Rittenhouse Rye Sazerac 18 Year Old Rye Old Crow Rye Van Winkle Rye Whiskey Gary Burhop is the owner of Great Wines & Spirits located at 6150 Poplar Avenue in Regalia, Memphis, Tenn. Great Wines & Spirits carry a large and varied selection of kosher wines. When the first idea of constructing a distillery at Mount Vernon arose is likely lost to history. What is known is that James Anderson, the Scottish-born farm manager for Washington at Mount Vernon, convinced his employer to enter the distilling business. A site adjacent to the gristmill on the banks Largest Selection of of Dogue Creek in Fairfax County was selected. This was about two miles Kosher Wines from the main estate. From Around The World Construction likely began in 1796 and was completed in 1797. Records show that James Anderson installed his son, John Anderson, as distillery manager. Under his supervision the operation quickly became one of the largest whiskey distilleries in early America. Eleven thousand gallons were produced in 1799, worth the then substantial sum of $7500. A profit of $1800 in that year yielded a federal tax payment of $344. Best Selection –––––––––––– Everyday Low Prices –––––––––– Mixed and Solid Case Discounts ––––––––––– 20 Minute Reserved Parking ––––––––––– Curbside Pickup –––––––––––– Party and Special Orders Welcome Production continued after Washington’s death in 1799, but declined annually thereafter. The building was destroyed by fire in 1814 and the operation ceased. See us for great kosher wines Shabbat, and other festive occasions all year’round. On September 27, 2006, a carefully researched and re-constructed distillery was dedicated on the original site. His Royal Highness, The Duke of York attended and participated in the ceremony calling attention to the Scottish connection to the enterprise. Memphis/Germantown’s Wine &Liquor Superstore 6150 Poplar at Shady Grove/Ridgeway (901) 682-1333 • Fax (901) 682-1363 www.greatwinesmemphis.com JLS • February 2007 JLS-Feb07.indd 21 2 1/17/07 9:05:23 PM On The Sidelines A Job to Love SEC Conference Commissioner Mike Slive By Mark Hayden How does a job that includes watching and attending sporting events at night and on weekends sound? Too good to be true? For Mike Slive that’s partially true, because that’s only half his job. “Everybody wants to be me on Saturday but nobody wants to be me on Monday when the telephone calls come in,” said Southeastern Conference Commissioner Slive. That part of his job should remain relatively steady until early next month when all the hoopla begins with March Madness and the NCAA Tournament. “Each member wants to be as knowledgeable as they can be about the different teams,” he added. In addition to his NCAA work he travels extensively within his own conference. “During the football season I make a trip to every campus to see one of their games, and I also try to spread it out in basketball.” After almost 39 years of marriage his wife, Elizabeth, has become accustomed to his travel and work hours. His early adventures started in Utica, N.Y. and later at Dartmouth College with law stops in New Hampshire and Illinois before filling various sports posts in 1968. He was named assistant executive director of the Pacific –10 Conference from 1979-82, Director of Athletics at Cornell University from 1981-83 before taking on high profile posts as commissioner of the Great Midwest Conference, Conference USA and the SEC. “I’m doing the work that I want to do, where I want to do it and with the people I want to do it with,” said the 65-yearold Slive. “I enjoyed Conference USA; I was content in Chicago – at the home office – and the conference was doing everything we wanted it to do. The football programs were developing nicely, and the basketball was very good.” Then he received a call from a representative of the SEC. “It took us awhile to think about it,” he said. “But I agreed to come over in 2002. “It’s everything I thought it would be… and more.” And who could blame him. While his work keeps him challenged and busy, the conference continues to stand as one of the more popular leagues in the sporting world. The 75-year-old conference attracted 6.6 million fans to its sporting events last year and has topped all leagues in attendance for the last 25 years. “Actually, I say that with tongue in cheek. I love my job both days.” Three years ago Slive was appointed to a five-year term to represent the SEC on the NCAA basketball selection committee. So when his office day concludes he spends his time staying current on the nations’ top cagers and their teams. 22 The tradition of the conference has a lot to do with that popularity. “SEC institutions build rivalries that younger conferences just can’t match,” he said. “We’ve built a brand and identity here that stands on its own two feet.” That wasn’t the case in either of the conferences where Slive previously worked. “With Conference USA we were brand new, looking for our place in the sun and trying to fit in, and at the same time, building a tradition among teams that hadn’t worked together,” he explained. “That’s a very different experience to what we have here.” JLS • February 2007 JLS-Feb07.indd 22 1/17/07 9:05:24 PM The Great Midwest Conference was different because it wasn’t a football conference, he added. There’s always a feeling of cordiality between the respective commissioners when their teams play each other. “We’re all very competitive so it’s very satisfying when you win,” said Slive. “It’s really the only time I can become a true fan, because with a conference game I really don’t care who wins. I just hope things go well.” With the recent expansions of the Big East and the ACC Conferences, could the SEC be looking to follow suit? “You never say never,” he said. “But we have no plans for expansion. On occasion we get some inquiries. But, it’s not something that’s on the front burner. Our goal is to meet our challenges, and this conference continues to grow as one of the more premiere conferences.” ASBEE Fun for kids of all ages with this year’s ASBEE NCSY Shlichot from Israel, Maayan Taizi & Hila Chen. Maayan & Hila have come to Memphis to bring a slice of Israel to Memphis and to help connect our community to Israel in meaningful, tangible ways. They work with ASBEE’s youth, our community’s NCSY Youth Group, at the Margolin Hebrew Academy and Bornblum Solomon Schechter School. In addition they have a weekly get together at the JSU/ Hillel with our college students and periodic visits to the Memphis Jewish Home. In addition to his SEC quality of life he and his family experience a vibrant Jewish community and belong to two synagogues in a Birmingham suburb. 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 marktn58@ aol.com. JLS • February 2007 JLS-Feb07.indd 23 2 1/17/07 9:05:30 PM Ambassador Reda Mansour’s visit to Memphis Marlin and Evelyn Graber and Irving Cherny Ron and Mimi Grossman Baron Hirsch 2 Arnold and Mary Lynn Perl and Joe Padawer Harold Goodman and Sylvia Appleton Margaret and Shep Fargotstein Jeffrey Feld, Laurie Cooper, Ambassador Mansour, Michael Levinson Chanukah Party and Shlock Rock Concert JLS • February 2007 JLS-Feb07.indd 24 1/17/07 9:05:43 PM Sponsored Section Dollars and Sense Time for Asia to Leave the Shadow of the US Dollar Asian currencies should broadly outperform the US dollar in 2007.The Euro is expected to share in this appreciation until it peaks and then loses ground to Asia. By Shep Fargotstein As the US economy slows, the center of world growth may shift eastward to Asia. After the 2000 slowdown, many Asian countries invested heavily in US assets, which weakened their own currencies relative to the US Dollar (USD). This dynamic had the effect of making Asia’s exports inexpensive, thus boosting its economies. Now it is clear that the broad demand for US assets has left the USD and many US assets largely overvalued versus their Asian counterparts. This phenomenon, which supported US consumption and growth, is no longer sustainable. Growth remains on a relatively firm footing throughout Asia, Europe and the emerging markets, which should be broadly positive for Asian and European currencies. The Euro should finally peak in 2007, as it becomes increasingly expensive relative to the USD and even more so versus Asian currencies. Rebalancing the burden of US Dollar depreciation from Europe to Asia In 2006, much of the burden of the US slowdown has been borne by European exports, with the Euro strengthening into more expensive territory. With European governments expected to clean up their finances, and with US growth slowing, Europe should also slow down in 2007. UBS is of the opinion that the ECB is unlikely to tighten monetary policy much further, consequently, without rising shortterm rates or strong growth prospects for Europe, the Euro may no longer be the clear alternative to the USD and thus should finally peak. With the US slowdown looming in 2007, inexpensive Asian currencies like the Japanese Yen and Chinese Renminbi should finally show some appreciation. This should be supported by resilient Asian growth. In this regard, UBS would only caution against assuming too strong a link between the Yen and Renminbi, since Japan and China are in quite different stages of their economic cycles. Steady ascent of the Chinese Renminbi UBS expects the Renminbi exchange rate to fluctuate more as it becomes increasingly determined by market forces. The Renminbi should continue its steady but slow appreciation vs. the USD. Indeed, there are both economic and political reasons for China to let its currency appreciate. Economically, China’s growth now appears to be more selfsustaining, i.e., less reliant on selling cheap exports to the US, which has left China today with an uncomfortably large amount of USD financial assets. A side effect of keeping the Renminbi undervalued is relatively low interest rates. Cheap credit in China has fed many inefficient investments, a situation now being brought under control by increasing interest rates and allowing the Renminbi to appreciate. China has also resorted to administrative measures, including the privatization of banks to make them more discriminating in their credit practices. The Euro and its satellite currencies Due to its sheer size, the Eurozone now largely determines the strength of neighboring currencies, including the British pound (GBP), Swedish Krona (SEK) and Swiss Franc (CHF). These currencies trade within a relatively narrow range vs. the Euro and their fluctuations vs. other currencies are largely dictated by the behavior of the Euro. The GBP, SEK and CHF are therefore close proxies for the Euro. The British Pound should continue to offer a higher interest rate than the Euro, but we expect it to show some weakness as the UK economic cycle slows. The Swiss Frank offers a low interest rate, but good valuation and the probability of relative safety in a global market correction. The Swedish Krona may eventually surpass the Euro in yield but, in any case, should remain a range-trading currency relative to the Euro. 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. You & Us. Working together to help you benefit from our complete financial services. • • • • • • Brokerage services Advisory services Stocks Bonds Mutual funds Municipal bonds • • • • • • IRAs Retirement services Alternative investments CDs Lending solutions Online services For more information, call: Shepard Fargotstein Vice President–Investments 901-415-3040 800-232-7954 shepard.fargotstein@ubs.com 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 • February 2007 JLS-Feb07.indd 25 25 1/17/07 9:05:43 PM Eye On Arkansas By Rabbi Martin J. Applebaum Dear friends, As I write my first article in this important avenue of communication, Jewish Living of the South, I am happy to share with you exciting things happening in the Little Rock area including our recent Hanukkah celebration. On Feb. 17, at 6 p.m., the annual Jewish Federation Dinner will be held at the Peabody Hotel. Reservations for the Glatt-Kosher dinner under my supervision may be made by calling the Arkansas Jewish Federation at 501-663-3571. Congregation Agudath Achim Sisterhood is baking hamentashen again this year for Purim and are ready to take orders. They will ship whatever quantity you need. In fact, I can attest these are the best hamentashen in the South! Through this column and a TV program I recently began hosting on local cable Channel 18, which airs each Wednesday at 9:00 a.m., I hope to reach out and share Jewish Arkansas with you all. If you have ideas for interesting special guests or would like to publicize your event in this column please let me know because we are the “Eye on Arkansas.” And if your travels bring you to Little Rock and you need information about programs, to make reservations or home hospitality for Shabbat, feel free to call Agudath Achim at 501-225-1683 and speak with Heather. Rabbi Martin J. Applebaum was born in Brooklyn, NY. He obtained his advance degrees in philosophy/education and religious education at Long Island University and the Talmudical Institute of Chaim Berlin. In 1979, he was recruited by the Jewish Welfare Board and Yeshiva University to help fill the need for the U.S. Army. His military education included completion of Chaplain Officer Basic, Advance Courses, the U.S. Army Combined Arms Services Staff School, and the U.S. Army Command General Staff College. Rabbi Applebaum’s military career led him to various installations around the world. After completing 20 years of military service, he retired from the United States Army with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. In February 2000, Rabbi Applebaum became rabbi of Congregation Agudath Achim. He has since been appointed chaplain for the Arkansas VA Hospitals, Little Rock Police Department, Little Rock Fire Department and Little Rock Air Force Base. Additionally, Governor Huckabee appointed him to the Arkansas Division of Volunteerism Advisory Council. To his credit, he became the Military Liaison to the Holocaust Memorial Council in Washington, D.C. and successfully requested dignitaries, such as the Secretary of Defense, to recognize the National Holocaust Remembrance Week Program in the U.S. Army. Award and decorations include three Meritorious Service Medals, four awards for the Army Commendation Medal, two Army Overseas Ribbons, the Army Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Armed Forces Reserve Medal, and was awarded the highest military award given to a U.S. Army Jewish Chaplain, the Order of Aaron and Hur Award given by the President of Israel, the Honorable Chaim Hertzog. In March 1991, he was honored by the Vice President of the United States, Honorable Dan Quayle, for his religious and military service. In February 1992, he was the first rabbi to open the session of the United States Senate. Rabbi Applebaum is married to the former Rosalie Zylberminc. They have four children, Joseph, Mark, David and Miriam. 2 2 JLS February 2007 2007 JLS •• February JLS-Feb07.indd 26 1/17/07 9:05:45 PM Southern Jewish Sports Fiction The Legend of Bubby Fells By H. Scott Prosterman The Atlanta clan was driving back to Atlanta after my Bar Mitzvah in Memphis in 1968. They stopped at a roadside café near Chattanooga for lunch. My Russian stepgrandfather, Frank said to my Uncle Sid, “So . . . everywhere there is signs to say ‘See Bubby Fells’; so who’s this Bubby Fells, some ballplayer or something?” After recovering from side-splitting laughter, Uncle Sid gently explained to Frank that his reading of the sign was a delightful malapropism; and it really said “See Ruby Falls.” But the concept of a great Jewish ballplayer becoming a legend in the Tennessee Valley was too ironic to let go of. So I allowed the imagination to run its course: Bubby Fells played ball in a time when they didn’t wear batting helmets. And he took a few high hard ones in his days. Not to worry. Bubby had a thick skull and a nose full of scar tissue. Though he never quite made “The Show” Bubby Fells was a minor league legend in the late 10s and early 20s with the Chattanooga Lookouts. Bubby’s accomplishments and lore were not unlike those of the great Sidd Finch. Suffice to say, there was quite a buzz about Bubby. Bubby had the misfortune to play before the Jew barrier had been broken in major league baseball. Hank Greenberg was still going to Hebrew school when Bubby was in his heyday. And owners weren’t quite ready for a player who might not have his heart in it for Saturday day games. Everywhere you drove from Nashville to Atlanta, Memphis to Chattanooga, signs along the highway proclaimed, “See Bubby Fells.” You would see it on birdhouses, broad sides of barns and rooftops, “See Bubby Fells.” Bubby could hit, field, run, throw and even pitch a few relief innings when needed. And he also threw his share of high hard ones. As a child he was nicknamed “The Barber” because he shaved the kids so close from the mound in little league. The arm he developed as a pitcher gave him a cannon from third to first base, from a running, standing, sitting, kneeling or prone position. Though he never played more than a few games in the majors, Bubby was a true baseball celebrity to all who saw him play. What made him special? Maybe it was the pirouettes he did while waiting for high pop flys to come down to his 3rd base position; or the somersaults he did between the on-deck circle and the batters’ box when coming to bat in clutch situations. Bubby was a showman. He talked trash before they invented the trash can. He baited opposing players with aplomb. Bubby’s smirk could send a proud man into a fetal position. He was a combination of Max Patkin (the great baseball clown), Ty Cobb, W.C. Fields, and Patton. The Babe himself borrowed from Bubbie. That bit about pointing to the outfield to predict a home run? Vintage Bubbie. Though the minors didn’t pay well then, Bubby got rich on the side. You name it, booze (during prohibition), broads, numbers; if there was action to be had anywhere on the Smokey’s side of the Tennessee Valley, Bubby had a hand in it. After his playing days were over, Bubby dabbled in real estate and other more legitimate enterprises. He bought land; he bought a waterfall, he bought a mountain; soon he had his name all over the place again, just like in his playing days. He even named the waterfall after himself, but a mistake in the art department of his ad agency put down “Ruby Falls” and the name stuck. Bubby even bought the railroads around Chattanooga and named it after himself. However he changed it back to Chattanooga Choo-Choo after the Glenn Miller song caught on. But oldtimers don’t forget. You don’t see the name “Ruby Falls” along the roadside without thinking of Bubby Fells, that Hebrew Hero in the Hot Corner for the Chattanooga Lookouts. H. Scott Prosterman is a writer, historian and editor in Berkeley, CA. He grew up in Mempis, graduating from White Station in 1973 and Rhodes College in 1977. Scott also holds an M.A. from the University of Michigan. he worked as a DJ at WEVL-FM and WREC-AM in the 1990s. JLS • February 2007 JLS-Feb07.indd 27 27 1/17/07 9:05:46 PM Sponsored Section Planning to Live How to Plan for Your Business’ Future By Howard B. Manis, JD Business owners nurture their businesses as if they were members of their own family, spending countless hours molding their ideas, hard work and vision into a legacy they hope will last. Unfortunately, there is one major aspect of the business plan that often goes unintentionally neglected. Many business owners, due to time constraints, lack of proper guidance or planning from trusted professionals, or oversight and neglect, fail to properly plan for continuation or disposition of their business interest at death or retirement. This article is designed to help business owners identify some of the potential problem areas common amongst closely held and family businesses. These problems can be avoided if the owners take the appropriate actions set out below to address these pit-falls head on. 1. “I know what my business is worth” Buy-sell agreements are designed to help direct the continuance of a business interest after the death of one or more of the owners. However, merely having a buy-sell agreement will not resolve many of the common problems that ultimately cause company succession to fail. For instance, failure to properly fund a buy-sell agreement through life insurance or other identifiable means might cause a surviving owner to consider liquidating the business in order to pay the prescribed amount. Additionally, many companies fail to re-value the company over time and update the amount of coverage to coincide with the revalued price. These oversights could have catastrophic results. 2. “I am too busy running the company” Running a business can be exhausting and time consuming. Many business owners find it difficult to make time to deal with issues concerning their own future. Their time is consumed just taking care of all the day-to day issues. However, failing to make time to plan for your retirement 28 and / or death, with regards to your business, is tantamount to failing to have a will. Failing to plan for the inevitable does not mean that important decisions regarding your business will not be made, it only guarantees that you will have little or no say so in what those final decisions become. Every business owner will want to assure the family of a fair and reasonable price for the business – not the liquidation price that may result from a forced sale due to their being too busy to formulate. By coordinating your business planning with your personal estate planning, you will be able to minimize your estate tax obligations and ultimately pass along much more of your business’ value to your loved ones. 3. “That’ll never happen to me” The success of your business revolves around you. You are the wheel that keeps your business going forward – through business planning, marketing, generating business revenue, taking care of necessary business expenses such as payroll, utilities and rent. Regardless of what your business tax return says, you are your business’ most important asset. Have you ever thought of the risk to your business if you were suddenly too sick or injured to work? How would it survive? Could your business expenses be paid? What would happen to your employees? Your customers? Many business owners don’t realize the risks of becoming disabled as the result of an illness or injury – or how it can affect their ability to work, to earn an income, and provide for themselves, their families or their retirement. While you cannot predict the future and what it may hold for you or your health, planning for potential disability for you or other key employees can prepare you and your company to better deal with the problem when it occurs. Thinking it will never happen to you will only leave you vulnerable to being wrong! 4. “My business is my retirement” Many business owners re-invest all or most of the company’s profits back into the business. While there would seem to be a comfort in doing that, you potentially could be exposing your retirement to risks. Failure to invest profits JLS • February 2007 JLS-Feb07.indd 28 1/17/07 9:05:49 PM in a diversified portfolio may leave you and your loved ones vulnerable to market risks associated with your business including competition, technology and the availability of a viable and willing buyer at the time of your ultimate sale. The result these risks might include delaying retirement, accepting an undervalued price of the business or even financial insolvency or bankruptcy. Proper retirement planning, including a diversified portfolio of assets could limit the risks associated with the sale of your business. Solely relying on the sale of your business to fund your retirement would be the equivalent of putting your financial future in the hands of only one stock. Spreading your profits out into other investment vehicles such as IRA’s, 401(k)’s, mutual funds, and other retirement options will allow you to relax knowing you are helping to protect and secure your future. These are just a few of the common pitfalls many business owners have found themselves in after years of hard work and diligent planning. Each of these pitfalls can be minimized or in some cases completely eliminated with proper planning through a trusted financial advisor. Spend a few minutes investing in your business and your family’s future by contacting a financial advisor today. It might just be the best investment in your business you ever make. Howard B. Manis, JD* is Vice President at Lewis and Knowlton Financial Group, Inc, and along with J. Randolph Flatt, CLU, AEP, CLTC are available to discuss these and other common businesKillers®. Howard Manis and Randolph Flatt are registered representatives and offer securities and investment advisory services through MML Investors Services, Inc. member SIPC 8245 Tournament Drive, Suite 300, Memphis, TN 38125. *Licensed, not practicing on behalf of MML Investors, Inc. JLS • February 2007 JLS-Feb07.indd 29 2 1/17/07 9:05:53 PM Senior Connection Helping Older Adults Age with Dignity and Respect By Dorothy Goldwin “There was so much stress in my life – I had no idea what to do or where to turn. My elderly mother was living by herself at home in Midtown. Of the three of us, I am the only adult child who lives in Memphis. Last June, Mom called and said she was feeling dizzy. I could tell she was nervous. Her doctor admitted her to the hospital for tests. It turned out that she was just having a reaction from her medication; however, it was a wake-up call for my brothers and me.” INTERVENTION (The names in this scenario have been changed to protect the privacy of Jewish Family Service clients) When the Cohen family contacted Senior Connection at Jewish Family Service (JFS), a care manager scheduled a home assessment to evaluate Mrs. Cohen in her home environment. The assessment focused on the senior’s living conditions including her personal safety, ability to manage her affairs, and social interaction. The assessment summary revealed to the family that Mrs. Cohen’s ability to live at home could be enhanced by minimizing “obstacles” which blocked walking space in and between rooms, and by installing ADA grab bars in the bathrooms. In addition, the Senior Connection care manager recommended that the family purchase an emergency pendant for their mother to wear as a necklace. If she ever needed help, Mrs. Cohen would just press the button. It was also recommended that as a way of reducing her isolation, Jewish Family Service volunteers could call or visit her and she could enroll in the agency’s Shalom Taxi transportation program. The Cohen family and Senior Connection became a team; one which now needed a long term plan. 0 PLAN As the burden of care-giving shifted from Mrs. Cohen’s daughter living in Memphis to other family members and professionals, she began to feel relief. Care-giving can be a full time job. Indeed, there are “symptoms” of care-giving. If not corrected, they can have dangerous effects on the person providing care. The Senior Connection care manager recommended reading material as well as support group information for the entire family. Mrs. Cohen was encouraged to participate in the Jewish Community Center’s congregate meal program to supplement her own cooking. It was also suggested that the family consider options regarding senior housing, including Plough Towers and independent and assisted living facilities. “This case really speaks about the people that Senior Connection comes in contact with regularly” said William Samuels, JFS Senior Connection Care Manager. “It’s true that individual cases are about specific needs, but our attention to the seniors’ well being as well as the family’s peace of mind Who can benefit from Senior Connection? Older adults and their families who need help planning for today and for the future. Older adults with families in the Memphis area who need assistance determining needs and resources. Older adults who need ongoing reassurance and evaluation because their families live out of town. affirms our commitment to helping older adults age with dignity and respect.” “Senior Connection grew out of the Senior Adult Services department at Jewish Family Service about a year ago,” said JFS Executive Director, Bob Silver. “We realized that many of our clients had needs beyond the individual services that we had offered. It was time to offer a seamless continuum of services for seniors in the community.” JLS • February 2007 JLS-Feb07.indd 30 1/17/07 9:05:54 PM Thus, Senior Connection services evolved thanks to a grant from the Assisi Foundation of Memphis. The program identifies an older adult’s needs and coordinates resources to meet those needs. After an assessment with the older adult, a Senior Connection Care Manager can determine a plan for short-term or long-term care, arrange for delivery of services and monitor those services to assure continuity of care. “The goal of this program is to enable seniors to remain independent, active, and healthy in their own homes,” continued Mr. Silver. “One third of American Jews over the age of 65, and 39 percent of American Jews over the age of 75, live alone. Thus, they are at risk for social isolation and poor physical and mental health. It is our job to work towards reducing senior isolation by affirming contact with their friends, family and community.” Open House - Maryanna Kaplan, Executive Director, Memphis Jewish Home and Rena Rosenberg, Executive Director, Plough Towers According to the 2000 Yacoubian survey, 30 percent of the Memphis Jewish population is over 65, while 10 percent of the population is over 85. In addition to the in-home assessments, there is a friendly visitor program, Shalom Taxi, home delivered kosher meals program, chaplaincy services, outreach services to assisted living and nursing homes and an annual Senior Resource Fair. Open House - Plough Towers Choir “All of these services are for the welfare of our seniors,” said Bob Bernstein, JFS board member, chair of the Jewish Council on Aging and president of Geriatric Consultants. “The whole intent of Senior Connection is to ensure that seniors are not alone. It is very difficult for families to know all the available services for seniors in this community and how to choose what is best for their family member. Senior Connection will enable this to happen.” Assessment of the older adult’s psychological and social functioning, physical abilities, living situation and safety needs are just part of the program. Other core components include developing a customized plan, information and referral and ongoing communication with the senior and family. Fees vary depending upon the services provided. Temple Israel Hanukkah Party at Plough Towers - Volunteer from Temple Israel serving Ester Meyers. Seated to her right are Alice Abraham and Claudia Klutts waiting to be served. Call Jewish Family Service at 901.767.8511, and they will be happy to discuss your individual situation with you. Dorothy Goldwin is a Senior Connection Care Consultant with Jewish Family Service. She can be reached at 767-8511 or JFSMEM@aol.com. Temple Israel Hanukkah Party at Plough Towers - From Temple Israel: Judy Royal at podium, Michael Danziger and youth group. JLS • February 2007 JLS-Feb07.indd 31 1/17/07 9:05:56 PM Coming Attractions Mondays 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. Tuesdays 9 a.m. ASBEE Sisterhood Hamentashen Baking. Everyone is invited to join the baking. Second Wednesdays Noon, Temple Israel Book Club Eileen Wishnia, 901.685 9820. Wednesdays 1 p.m. Temple Israel, Women’s Minyan with Rabbi Tara Feldman, 901.761.3130. 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 emailjli@jewishmemphis.com. 8 p.m. Beth Sholom, Limmud Study, Rabbi Rubinstein, The Torah of Relationships 901.683.3591. Thursdays 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. Saturdays 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. Feb. 2 Baron Hirsch Family Friday Night Dinner reservations 901.683.7485. Feb. 3 Call for all times ASBEE’s Annual Tu B’Shvat Seder and Lunch following services. Baron Hirsch Synaplex Shabbat classes for adults, children and teenagers information 901.683.7485. Baron Hirsch Teen movie and discussion night information 901.683.7485. Temple Israel Winter film series – “An Inconvenient Truth.” Feb. 4 10:30 a.m. Beth Sholom World Wide Wrap David Krueger learn how to wrap Tefillin. Brunch after session. 1:00-2:30 p.m. Hadassah and JCC Mini spa day for JNF. JCC lobby $7 in advance, $10 at the event, $5 seniors and teens. Feb. 5 7:30 p.m. MJCC, “Ketubah Renaissance: The View from Memphis,” David Moss of Jerusalem, presents “Love Letters: A Personal Artistic Journey in Reviving the Hand-Made Ketubah.” Feb. 10 9:15 a.m. Beth Sholom Youth Service (toddler -12th grade will lead prayers, chant Torah & Haftarah, sing and present the D’var Torah. Kiddush after services. Lisa Harris, 901.685.8976. Feb. 11 7:45 p.m. Baron Hirsch, The Belz – Parker Artists Ascending Concert featuring cellist Nicolas Olarte-Hayes, free admission TBA, Temple Israel Blood Drive Feb. 12 7:30 p.m. MJCC, “Ketubah Renaissance: The View from Memphis,” Sharon Mintz, curator of Jewish art at the Library of the Jewish Theological Seminary in New York, presents “Courtship and Contracts: The Art and History of Decorated Ketubot.” Feb. 14 Noon, Baron Hirsch Kol Rena So-Shuls Luncheon $3 reservations 901.683.7485 Sundays 8:30 a.m. Chabad Lubavitch, (BLT) Bagels, Lox & Tefillin. Put on Tefillin with a minyan, breakfast with “Living Torah” video presentation, short Torah discussion. 10 a.m. Beth Sholom, Cantor Julian’s various topics 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. Feb.15 1:30 p.m. ASBEE Sisterhood Sponsors February Birthday Party at Memphis Jewish Home Feb. 1 12.15 p.m. ASBEE Sisterhood Lena R. Katz Study Circle, Lunch, 1:15 p.m. Study Circle with Rabbi Finkelstein. Feb. 19 7:30 p.m. MJCC Feb. 19 – Memphis’ congregational rabbis discuss some facet of the meaning of the ketubah in the contemporary world. 32 Feb. 18 9:00 a.m. ASBEE Minyan Breakfast following services 9:30 a.m. ASBEE Akiva Institute/Esther Institute 5:30 p.m. MHA/FYOS PTA/LA Annual Auction and Dinner at Baron Hirsch. Open to the community. Reservations 901.682.2400. JLS • February 2007 JLS-Feb07.indd 32 1/17/07 9:06:00 PM Coming Attractions Feb. 23-25 Hillel of Memphis Weekend,6p.m.Fri.Shabbatdinner;8p.m. Sat.DJ,snacks;11:30a.m.Sun.brunch,RSVP901.452.2453. Feb. 25 11:00 a.m.- 3:00 p.m.ASBEESisterhoodPurimCarnival MHA/FYOS Irby Cooper Alumni Basketball Game at MHA/ FYOSgymnasium.Pizzadinnerforsale. Agencies, Schools, Synagogues AnsheiSphardBeth-ElEmethCongregation(ASBEE),120East YatesRd.North,Memphis,TN,901.682.1611 Baron Hirsch Synagogue, 400 S. Yates, Memphis, TN, 38120, 901.683.7485 BethSholomSynagogue,6675HumphreysBlvd.,Memphis,TN, 38120,901.683.3591 Advertiser Listing Belmont Village 901.624.8820 page1 Comfort Keepers CaryRotter 901.752.1515 page11 Embassy Suites 901.684.1777 page19 Great Wines & Spirits 901.682.1333 page21 Harkavy,Shainberg Kaplan & Dunstan PLC 901.761.1263 backcover Barry Less Crye-LeikePropertyManagement 901.758.5678 901.461.0046cell page5 Mass Mutual Financial Group HowardManisJD 901.746.6308 page29 Margolin Hebrew Academy/ Finestone Yeshiva of the South 901.682.2400 page11 L’Chayim featuring Jonathan Adam Ross MJCC901.761.0810 page10 JewishFamilyService,6560PoplarAve.,Memphis,TN,38138, 901.767,8511 JewishFoundationofMemphis,5118ParkAve.#308,Memphis, TN38117,901,374.0400 Paragon Bank 901.273.2900 page13 MargolinHebrewAcademy/FeinstoneYeshivaoftheSouth,390 S.WhiteStationRd.,Memphis,TN,38117,901.682.2409 Stanford Group Company insidefrontcover 901.537.1600 Bornblum Solomon Schechter School, 6641 Humphreys Blvd., Memphis,TN,38120,901.747.2665 ChabadLubavitchofTennessee,6629MasseyLn.,Memphis,TN, 38120,901.766.1800 Congregation Beth Israel, 5315 Old Canton Rd., Jackson, MS, 39211,601.956.6215 CongregationAgudathAchim,7901West5thSt.LittleRock,AR, 72205,501.225.1683 HillelHouse,3581Midland,Memphis,TN,38111,901.452.2453 MemphisJewishCommunityCenter,6560PoplarAve.,Memphis, TN,38138,901.761.0810 Memphis Jewish Federation, 6560 Poplar Ave., Memphis, TN, 38138,901.767.7100 Memphis Jewish High School, 1203 Ridgeway Rd., Park Place Ctr.,Suite203,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 EducationAssociation of Memphis) 5350 Poplar Ave.Suite550,Memphis,TN,685-8322 Temple Israel, 1376 East Massey Rd., Memphis, TN, 38120, 901.761.3130 State Farm Insurance DavidRoss 901.795.9067 page9 The Tower Room 901.767.8776 page3 UBS Financial Services, Inc. ShepFargotstein 901.415.3040 page25 VistaCare Health Services, Inc. 901.373.8831 page19 The Wormser Firm HaroldWormser 901.767.0265 page5 YoungIsrael,531S.Yates,Memphis,TN,38120,901.761.2352 JLSFeb07Cover.indd 3 1/17/07 9:12:17 PM JLSFeb07Cover.indd 4 1/17/07 9:12:19 PM
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