At Kiddush at West End Synagogue a few months ago, I introduced myself to someone, who, in true Shabbat buffet line fashion, asked me my name (Emma), where I went to school (Brandeis University – no, I don’t know so and so’s niece), and what I do for work (Communications at the Jewish Federation with Barbara Dab – yes, she is an absolute gem). After a year and a half in Nashville and at the Federation, I’ve had this conversation countless times in countless buffet lines. I’ve learned how to navigate the flow, graciously respond to praise or criticism of the Federation, and of course promote The Jewish Observer.
On this day, in this buffet line, I fear I terribly offended my conversation partner – thoughtlessly, when discussing the Observer, I jokingly said that as a copy editor, I’m probably the only person who reads every single word of the newspaper. I was promptly put in my place. No, I was informed, I read every word of that paper every month. I laughed off the comment, but I should have said Thank you, or What did you think of Barbara’s story on the Transit Referendum, or do you want to volunteer as a proofreader. So now, to my buffet line friend who reads every word of the Observer, I say thank you for your support, and thank you for continuing to prove that The Observer matters.
In reflecting on this interaction, I realize how dedicated The Observer’s readership is. This year, as we celebrate its 90th anniversary, I’ve had the privilege of exploring the archives alongside Barbara Dab and Lynn Fleischer, who manages the Jewish community archives. Through this, I’ve gained invaluable insights into our community, recognizing familiar names and uncovering stories that were new to me. It’s been the most comprehensive lesson on the history of Jewish Nashville, and that’s the essence of what The Observer does—it preserves and shares the history of this community, upholds its values of free speech and open debate, and chronicles our collective story.
If you want to continue reading every word of The Observer, be sure to check out our 90th Anniversary Campaign envelopes included with this month’s paper or donate online at JewishObserverNashville.org. And don’t forget to let us know if you too read every word!
The Jewish Observer is published by The Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville and made possible by funds raised in the Jewish Federation Annual Campaign. Become a supporter today.