By Amy Wolff Sorter
Observant Jews in Tarrant County can find it difficult to observe the dietary laws. Though some of the local grocery stores offer kosher food sections, buying fresh kosher meats typically necessitates a trip to Dallas (or, as one person tells us, ordering in bulk twice a year from New York).
A recent announcement, courtesy of Congregation Ahavath Sholom’s Rabbi Andrew Bloom, detailed the fact that Trader Joe’s on Hulen Boulevard in Fort Worth is stepping into the breach to supply fresh kosher meats (as well as an expanded kosher food section). Rabbi Dov Mandel with Chabad of Fort Worth said this is well within how Trader Joe’s operates — this is a chain that is nationally known for carrying kosher foods.
In keeping in the spirit of that announcement, look for an upcoming article about Trader Joe’s commitment to kashruth (as well as what some of the other grocery stores are doing to meet this need).
Mazel tov, Nasons
Alex and Sophia Nason’s son Robby Nason recently completed his ears, nose and throat residency at Washington University’s Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis.
During his residency, Robby spent two years in research and five years in the head-and-neck program. The next stop is a one-year fellowship at Children’s Hospital in San Diego, where he’ll specialize in pediatric head and neck surgery, after which he plans to settle in Texas with his wife, Diane, and 2-year-old daughter, Natalia.
Robby’s seven-year residency followed graduation from University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston and receipt of his undergraduate degree from Rice University in Houston.
And congratulations to the Graneks
Elise Granek, daughter of Gail Aronoff Granek and Harold Granek, just received tenure at Portland State University in Portland, Ore. Elise is assistant professor of environmental science at PSU’s School of the Environment and is also a marine ecologist and conservation biologist.
According Elise’s web page, her research concerns “the transition zone between land and sea, examining how coastal and subtidal habitats interact in terms of biotic and abiotic processes.”
Her research also examines scientific issues and questions pertaining to “effective design and implementation of protected areas,” as well as policies to help protect and conserve both the marine community and ecosystems.
Elise’s byline appears on a great number of scientific journals and publications. The tenure is well earned and Gail and Harold have every reason to be proud of their daughter’s accomplishments.
Birthday wishes …
… go to Rosalie Schwartz, who turned 86 on June 4. Many happy returns, Rosalie, and may the next year be filled with happiness and nachas.
Caring kids will come to Daytimers
Actually, the show troupe “Kids who Care” will present a selection from its currently touring musical entitled “Choices: Be the Change” at noon, Wednesday, July 11, at Beth-El Congregation, 4900 Briarhaven Rd. in Fort Worth.
The presentation will include the Kids who Care delegation from Israel.
Cost is $9 for lunch or $4 for just the program.
For information and to make a reservation, contact Barbara Rubin 817-927-2736 or Hugh Lamensdorf 817-738-1428. You can also reserve a place by logging onto www.bethelfw.org.
Congregation Beth Israel’s blood drive
The Colleyville synagogue is teaming up with Carter Blood Care for a blood drive to take place from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday, July 22, at 6100 Pleasant Run Rd.
Those giving blood will receive something pretty cool — a gift certificate for a free pint of Blue Bell ice cream — and will be entered to win other prizes, such as Texas Rangers seats or a bed-and-breakfast getaway.
Though walk-ins are happily welcome, it’s suggested that those interested make an appointment. For information, call 817-581-5500 or email administration@congregationbethisrael.org.
Plans for July 4?
Keep us informed (and send pictures). My email address hasn’t changed: awsorter@yahoo.com. I also want to extend a special “thank you” to those who supplied us with news for this column.