Testimonials
Eileen and Norman Itkowitz
(Moved to Memphis in 2005)
Where did you grow up?
We both grew up in Queens, NY.
Where did you live as a couple before Memphis?
Connecticut and New Orleans
Why did you leave that community?
We left after Hurricane Katrina. We evacuated to Memphis during the hurricane.
What attracted you to Memphis?
We were attracted to the warmth of the community. People really took care of us in our time of need.
What clinched your decision to move here?
The main clincher was having a Jewish education system that went through 12th grade. Secondly, we enjoyed the weather and low housing prices. Also, Norman’s work transferred easily to the Memphis VA.
What do you do professionally?
Norman is a psychologist at the Memphis VA Medical Center and Eileen is an independent sales and recruiting consultant.
How old are your children and where do they go to school?
Our oldest is 17 and graduated in June (2014) from the Cooper Yeshiva High School for Boys. Our younger son, 14, completed 8th grade at Bornblum Solomon Schechter School in May (2014) and is now attending the Cooper Yeshiva.
What do you like best about Memphis and/or what makes it different or better than other places that you have lived?
We love the warmth and size of the community.
How do you manage being far away from family?
We visit NYC as much as possible. We rely heavily on friends and neighbors when we need extra help.
Where are your favorite places to go in Memphis with and without your kids?
Without the kids we enjoy cinemas and theatres—Ridgeway Cinema, Studio on the Square, Playhouse on the Square, Orpheum Theatre, Germantown Performing Arts Center (GPAC); Midtown and occasionally downtown (Beale Street) for music and drinks. With the kids: Memphis Jewish Community Center
Feel free to contact Eileen at eileen_smouha@yahoo.com or Norman at docnorman50@gmail..com for more information about Jewish life in Memphis.