Last month, in partnership with the Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville, the Nashville Sounds hosted the first ever Jewish Heritage Night at First Horizon Park. Many members of Nashville's Jewish community attended the game, where they were celebrated and recognized for their contributions to the community. The Sounds strive to connect with different communities, making sure everyone knows that they’re welcome at First Horizon Park, according to Sounds General Manager and CEO Adam English.
“People want to be a part of something that brings the community together. And so, we're really happy to be that vehicle," English said.
Building on the annual success of Jewish community night with the Nashville Predators, Jewish Federation CEO Judy Alperin was inspired to pursue Jewish Heritage Night with the Nashville Sounds after successfully shepherding several such nights at the Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs.
“The Jewish Federation and our Jewish Community Relations Committee are proud to bring the community together for special moments like Jewish Heritage Night,” Alperin said.
To start off the evening, Cantor Josh Goldberg, with Congregation Micah, sang the national anthem. “I am honored and thrilled to represent the Jewish community,” he said.
The first pitch was thrown by a Jewish Family Service (JFS) representative. The organization was honored for its communitywide assistance during Winter Storm Fern earlier this year. Among the leaders who shape JFS's mission is Toni Jacobsen, clinical director, whose steady guidance most recently directed the agency’s comprehensive response to the Nashville ice storm. Her daughter, Anna Kate, threw out the first pitch. She grew up surrounded by the staff and community it serves.
During the 7th inning stretch, the Mazel Tones Youth Choir, directed by Dennis Scott and supported by The Temple’s Cantor Tracy Fishbein, sang their rendition of Take me Out to the ballgame.
“They put smiles on everyone’s faces, and it is so great to see so many local Jewish organizations represented,” said Goldberg.
Holy Smokes food truck, run by Rabbi Gavriel Isenberg, was parked on the concourse and featured a fully kosher menu.
“Every time there is an opportunity to be part of the larger Jewish community, we like to be a part of it. It is a good time for Jewish unity nowadays and all of us being together, especially a time of Jewish pride,” said Isenberg.
Throughout the evening various Jewish organizations had tables set up for visitors to come meet them and learn about their mission. Included in tabling were the Jewish Federation, JCC’s Camp Davis, Nashville’s National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW), Jewish Family Service, Hadassah, The Temple, Akiva School, and Kehillah Upper Day School.
Throughout the evening there were Jewish Heritage Night logos displayed on videoboards for everyone to see, a photo slideshow highlighting the many organizations that make up Jewish Nashville, and a Hit City Hero moment that honored Police Officer Natan Hicken.
English emphasized that they were happy to welcome Nashville’s Jewish community. “We welcome them into First Horizon Park, because we believe that this is a place for everybody,” English said. “This is a place for you to bring your family and friends, enjoy a meal, and enjoy the beautiful sport of baseball.”
Jewish Heritage Night at First Horizon Park showed that the ballpark can be a place where everyone feels included, and for many attendees, the night was a meaningful reminder of the power of coming together.
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