Volume 8, Number 2 Passover 2018
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Serving the Local New Orleans, Northshore, and Baton Rouge Jewish Communities
From a Passover of Alienation to a Passover of Empathy By Hanan Schlesinger (My Jewish Learning via JTA) -- One of the most oft-repeated themes of the Torah is that we must remember that we were slaves and strangers in the Land of Egypt, and that God redeemed us with an outstretched hand. Both the experience of slavery and the experience of redemption are meant to radiate one central and fundamental call to action that the Torah comes back to again and again: Slavery and strangerhood: Love the stranger and care for him, provide for him and show him empathy Feel his pain and act to alleviate it, deal kindly with him, for you yourself know what it means to be a stranger and a slave. Redemption: Walk in the footsteps of God, who redeemed us from Egypt, and redeem the slave and the downtrodden. Provide for them as God provided for us. Just as God’s mercies are upon all His creatures, so ought our mercies to be upon all His creatures. The world is divided into us and them. That is the way that it has to be. In order to experience the security and the love of the family, the clan, the nation, there has to be those who are not part of our inner concentric circles. At the same time, however, one of the most central directives of the Torah is that this division must never be so stark as to alienate the us from the them. Our love and concern must radiate out beyond the us toward the them. Our sense of us must empower our people to reach out to them. We recall and relive our experience in Egypt on the holiday of Passover, the centerpiece of the Jewish year and the focal point of the process of handing down the tradition to the next generation. And the focal point of Passover is the Seder night with its Haggadah text. The Haggadah tells us: “In every generation one must see himself as if he personally went out of Egypt.” We spend the whole night bringing alive the events of slavery and redemption. Toward what end? What is the takeaway? Clearly the answer ought to be to develop within us the historical memory that will constantly remind us and inspire us to love the stranger and redeem him from his suffering. Yet this message is completely missing from the Haggadah. It certainly harps on our misery in Egypt, but instead of using that experience to nurture empathy for those who suffer, it sees in it a paradigm for the panorama Jewish history,
reminding us “in every generation they rise against us to annihilate us, and the Holy One Blessed be He saves us from them.” The reason for this lacuna – at least one of the reasons – may be that during the 1,000-plus years during which the Haggadah text developed, we Jews were the slaves and the strangers, and the dominant cultures were antagonistic to our way of life and often to our very existence. We were the other and little love was lost on us. Our forefathers were too busy surviving to find room in our hearts and in our texts to teach ourselves about love of the stranger and empathy for his suffering. The larger message of Passover was postponed for the distant future. That future may have arrived. Reality today is different, in Israel and to a large degree in many parts of America, from that which our forefathers knew. We are no longer the other that we used to be, and there are other peoples, cultures and ethnic groups that have taken our place. In Israel we are the dominant culture and in America we are part of the mainstream. These are the conditions of life that the Torah envisioned, and not the circumstances under which our forbearers have lived for the past 2000 years. As such, it is time for our Hagga-
dahs and our celebration of Passover, as well as our Jewish consciousness and our behavior, to reflect that change and to go back to basics. Let the Seder be our forum to proclaim and inculcate an ethic of empathy for the other emanating from two intertwined experiences: 1, Never again! Never again shall any people suffer what we suffered in Egypt. And 2, we take it upon ourselves to continually struggle to redeem the other, just as God redeemed us. (Rabbi Hanan Schlesinger lives in Alon Shvut, Gush Etzion, and serves as the director of international relations for Roots/Judur/Shorashim, the Israeli Palestinian Local Initiative for Understanding, Nonviolence and Transformation. He also frequently travels to Dallas, where he serves as the executive director of the Jewish Studies Initiative. His website is www. ravhanan.org.) This piece appeared originally on Rabbis Without Borders, a dynamic forum for exploring contemporary issues in the Jewish world and beyond. Written by rabbis of different denominations, viewpoints and parts of the country, Rabbis Without Borders is a project of Clal-The National Jewish Center for Learning and Leadership. ì
The Seder brings alive the events of slavery and redemption. (Essdras M Suarez/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)
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Exhibition “L’Dor V’Dor: From Generation to Generation
Jewish Women and their Impact on New Orleans
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Open through April 29, 2018 NEW ORLEANS, LA - Visit Longue Vue House and Gardens for its first exhibit of the Tri-centennial year to highlight Jewish women and their contributions and influence on New Orleans. The featured women were instrumental in making a difference in immigration, civil rights, women’s rights, public health, public spaces and recreation, child welfare, education, the arts and post-Katrina rebuilding of the city. The exhibit runs through April 29, 2018. Longe Vue House and Gardens is located at 7 Bamboo Road, New Orleans. Hours:10am5pm Monday to Friday. 1pm to 5pm Saturday. National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) played a vital role in the legacy and impact of Jewish Women in Orleans. The following NCJW past Presidents are featured in the exhibit: Jane Buchsbaum, Gladys Freeman, Ida Weis Friend, Helene Godchaux, Irma Moses Isaacson, Celia Katz, Florence Schornstein, Margery Stich and Sara Stone. NCJW Program Chair, Susan Kierr stated, “The exhibit is a wonderful portrayal of our mothers, grandmothers and great grandmothers and their historical impact. Young girls and elders can learn and look to these matriarchs as role models bringing forth the wisdom of the past. NCJW is proud of our New Orleans history and hopes that many will appreciate and learn from the rich Jewish women’s history in New Orleans.” Longue Vue, home to the legacy
of an amazing Jewish woman, Edith Stern z”ll, provides an excellent backdrop for the first exhibit of Jewish women of New Orleans in modern history. The scope of the exhibition will be approximately 110 years from 1895 to 2005. The exhibit title was inspired by community activist Sara Stone, z”ll, born 1915. Mrs. Stone had emphasized that mentoring and educating the next generation of leaders has been a constant thread in the history of Jewish women. L’Dor V’Dor, from Generation to Generation, represents successive waves of Jewish women demonstrating leadership and community activism for the betterment of the city of New Orleans. Longue Vue House and Gardens was founded by local philanthropists Edith and Edgar Stern, Longue Vue is a multifaceted historic estate featuring a world-class house museum and eight acres of stunning gardens that include an interactive Discovery Garden for children. As a National Historic Landmark, Longue Vue is open seven days a week to public for tours of the home and gardens, events and meetings, and educational programs. Visit www.longuevue.com for more information. NCJW is a grassroots organization of volunteers and advocates who turn progressive ideals into action. Inspired by Jewish values, NCJW strives for social justice by improving the quality of life for women, children, families and by safeguarding individual rights and freedoms. For more information about NCJW membership or information log onto the website: www. ncjwneworleans.org. or email ncjwgno@gmail.com.ì
1st Night Congregational Seder Friday, March 30, 2018, 6:30 pm cost of the Seder increases to: Touro Synagogue Member Adults: $40, Non-member An Evening of Story, Song and Adults: $50 ì Celebration with Rabbis Berk, Silverman, and Pinsky Reservations Online w w w. t o u r o s y n a g o g u e . c o m / passover-seder Deadline to RSVP is March 26. After the March 23 deadline, the www.thejewishlight.org
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March 16 -18, 2018
Congregation Gates of Prayer Uptown JCC Register Now The Complete 2018 Lineup Is Now Available... and Early Bird Registration is still open! Authors, philosophers, chefs, musicians, artists, historians, deep thinkers, burlesque dancers... Trixie Minx, Bruce Spizer, Larry Powell, Ron Marks, Poppy Tooker, Meredith Polsky, Michael Cook, Danya Ruttenberg, Rafi Zarum, Simone Levine, Sophie Untermann, Dana Keren, Alysse Fuchs and many other local, regional and national presenters will be discussing diverse topics such as: Cool Jews • #MeToo: A Jewish Response • Praying and Paying: The Marginal Cost of Being Jewish • Keeping Kosher in a Cajun and Cre-
ole World • Experiences of a Jewish FBI Agent • In Search of The Male Shiksa • Parenting as a Spiritual Practice • Are Jews White? • Krauss: The New Orleans Value Store • Exploring Community Development Through Tikkun Olam • Judaism and Vegetarianism • Explaining Southern Evangelical Theory • Jews and Judaism in the Circus and Burlesque • What Can "Transparent" Teach Us About Jewish Life, Sexuality and Israel • Once Upon Our Stories: A 21st-Century Jewish Sexual Ethic • The Spirituality of Changing Your Mind.. AND MOREì
If your group has an event that you would like for us to include on the Community Calendar please e-mail the information to jewishnews@bellsouth.net. All submissions are subject to acceptance by the Editor. ì
Special Shabbat Evening Service March 23 - 6:00pm
Guest Speaker Justin Ehrenwerth Forgotston Chapel Join us as we welcome guest speaker and Touro member, J u s t i n Ehrenwerth, President and CEO of The Water Institute of the Gulf. Justin will be talking about important work for our coastal community and how we can feel optimistic
about our future! Justin R. Ehrenwerth took the helm as President and CEO of The Water Institute of the Gulf in early 2017. Founded in 2011, the Institute is a not-for-profit, independent applied research and technical services institution with a mission to help coastal and deltaic communities thoughtfully prepare for an uncertain future. Through an integrated and inter-disciplinary approach, their work helps to create more resilient communities, thriving economies, and a healthy environment. ì
Touro Women’s Book Group The Fishermen by Chigozie Obioma contact Pat RearMautner Learning Center don at patricialrearJoin us on Monday, March 26 as d o n @g ma il. c o m Pat Reardon leads a discussion with any questions on The Fishermen by Chigozie or to be added to Obioma. the email list for This meeting is open to all upcoming book women who wish to attend. Please discussions.ì Monday, March 26 - 10:30 am
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er-by-the-sea Members: $50 / Children (Ages Saturday, March 31 - Sunday, 2-12): $18 / Non-members: $75 April 1 3. STAY TUNED FOR PACKCelebrate our Second Night ING LIST AND TRAVEL DETAILS! Seder on the beach! Our ancestors Everyone is also invited to sang and danced on the shores of observe Pesach at Our 1st Night the sea. Come with us as we dine at Congregational Seder.ì sunset with creative rituals, songs, and interpretations of the Exodus story.
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Happy Passover to our many friends and clients in the Jewish Community! Jason Rogers Williams & Associates 607 St. Charles Ave., Suite 300 New Orleans www.jrwilliamslawfirm.com
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Come alone, or with your partner or family. Stay tuned for a more detailed schedule of events - to include a seaside sand pyramid contest, beach snacks and a grand scale hangout, welcoming the seder at the shores, creative Pesach dinner conversation, Havdalah and campfire with roasted marshmallows and songs, a sunrise prayer experience, and a general joy-filled festival of freedom! Pack your beach gear and spend the day and night at South Beach Biloxi Hotel and Suites, just 1½ hours and less than 90 miles from Touro Synagogue. To Join Us: 1. BOOK YOUR ROOM AT THE SOUTH BEACH BILOXI HOTEL AND SUITES Studio, one and two bedroom suites are available from $139 $269 per night Reserve your room by calling the hotel directly at 228.388.2627 and use the group rate code “TOURO.” Group room rates available until February 28. Cancellations can be made without penalty if cancelled 72 hours in advance. 2. RSVP WITH US FOR DINNER AT www.tourosynagogue.com/sed-
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L'dor V'dor
An exhibition recognizing the hard work and accomplishment of generations of Jewish women in New Orleans runs until April 29, 2018 at Longue Vue Gardens.ì
Community Passover Seder at Beth Israel
Saturday Night, March 31st following 7:30PM Services All are welcome, but space is limited Reservations are required! Members - Adults $36 pp/ Children $20 pp (6-13 years old) Non-Members: Adults $54 pp/ Children $36 pp (6-13 Years old) All Children 5 and under FREE To RSVP contact the synagogue office at (504) 454-5080 or RSVP@ BethIsraelNOLA.comì
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Fundraiser to Harness the Power of National Council of Jewish Women Greater New Orleans Section
Conserve your energy for “An Electrifying Event”. The National Council of Jewish Women, Greater New Orleans Section (NCJW, GNO) is proud is present its 2018 Annual Gala at the newly renovated NOPSI Hotel, 317 Baronne Street on Saturday, March 10th from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Guests will experience an incredible evening of vitality and elegance while supporting the critical and significant endeavors of the Greater New Orleans Section of the National Council of Jewish Women. Positive currents will be in the air as guests will enjoy a full course gourmet dinner, cocktails and an extensive auction. Vibrant New Orleans soul and funk music from the renowned band ‘Colin Davis and Night People’ will entertain guests. Sponsors and patrons will be treated to special hors d’oeuvres and cocktails at our exclusive patron gathering 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Dinner and dancing are from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Kenneth Hoffman, Executive Director of The Museum of Southern Jewish Experience (to open in New Orleans in 2019) will serve as the keynote speaker. David Bernard, Chief Meteorologist, WVUE Fox8 will serve as Master of Ceremonies. Co-Chairs Patty Barnett and June
Leopold are ‘charged up’ for an evening ignited with the Power of NCJW. Committee members who have been busy planning are: Barbara Kaplinksy (NCJW President), Barbara Greenberg, (Vice President, Development), Sarah Covert, Linda Friedman, Anne Kiefer, Susan Kierr, Millie Kohn, Jenny Nathan-Simoneaux, Phyllis Nitzkin, Joyce Pulitzer, Sandra Pulitzer, Rollie Rabin, Loel Samuel, Susan Scharff, Briann Shear, Dana Shepard, Kathy Shepard, Sue Singer, Eileen Wallen, Ina Weber-Davis, and Liz Yager. NCJW is a grassroots organization of volunteers and advocates who turn progressive ideals into action. Inspired by Jewish values, NCJW strives for social justice by improving the quality of life for women, children, families and by safeguarding individual rights and freedoms. Corporate and Patron participation will help sustain and energize the programs and operations of NCJW, GNO. A general admission ticket for dinner and dancing is $125 per person. To purchase tickets for An Electrifying Event or for more information regarding becoming an underwriter or patron, visit the NCJW website: www.ncjwneworleans. org, call the NCJW office: 504861-7788 or email: ncjwgno@ gmail.com. You can also send your check payable to NCJW: 6221 S. Claiborne Ave, Ste. 208, New Orleans, LA 70125 to purchase tickets.ì
Best Wishes to my many Jewish friends and constituents for a happy Passover
Charlie Kerner Justice of the Peace
Jefferson Parish 3rd Justice Court
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Literature & Libations Dinner & a Lively Discussion Wednesday, March 21 – 6:00 pm
Led by Rabbi Todd Silverman
The Book of Hours: Love Poems to God By Rainer Maria Rilke Selected Poems of Rumi Jalalu’din Rumi; Trans. by R.A. Nicholson Yes, that’s right – two books for one evening! Join Rabbi Silverman for an in-depth reading and analysis of the poetry of two individuals – Rilke and Rumi –who are best known for their devotional works in
love and praise of God. Although not Jewish themselves, each featured poet does justice to the life and beliefs of Jews and Judaism by tapping into the theological and spiritual similarities that fellow monotheists share with us. If you are new to Rilke and Rumi, or new to (or scared of!) poetry in general – this is an evening for you! Please RSVP to info@tourosynagogue.com by Friday, March 16. $10 suggested donation for dinner.ì
In the wake of Japan’s attack, American soldiers marched into battle while citizens rallied on the Home Front. In ration lines and victory gardens and factories across the United States, they built an Arsenal of Democracy. Experience how the Home Front supported the front lines and helped win the war—at The Arsenal of Democracy, a new permanent exhibit at The National WWII Museum.
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Best Wishes to my many Jewish Friends and constituents for a Happy Passover! Kirk Talbot
State Representative District 78
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Sunday March 11th 10:00AM to 11:30AM
Orleans. Contact: Judy Yaillen at judy@ nojcc.org. Thursday March 15th 7:00PM - 9:00PM
Chabad - Women’s Rosh Chodesh Program The Chabad Center 4141 West Esplanade Avenue, Metairie. Cost: $15. Contact: Chanie Nemes at (504) 957-4987 or chanienemes@gmail. com.
Torah Academy & PJ Library - Early Childhood Development Series Friday March 16-18 5:00 pm Torah Academy 5210 West Esplanade Avenue, Community Limmudfest South, Metairie LimmudFest New Orleans brings Contact Lina Warshawski at Jews from all corners of the region (504) 456-6429 or lwarshawski@ together for a unique shared educatorahacademynola.com tional experience. Congregation Gates of Prayer Sunday March 11th 4000 W. Esplanade Ave. S. 11:30AM - 1:30PM Metairie, LA Jewish Endowment Contact: Matthew Rosenthal Foundation of Louisiana 630-309-1706 Annual Event matthew.r.rosenthal@gmail.com Westin Canal Place Hotel www.limmudnola.org 100 Iberville Street, New Orleans Cost $ 0.00 Contact Ellen Abrams at ellen@ Tuesday March 20th jefno.org. Monday March 12th 11:45 am - 1:30 pm
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JCC Book Club – Midnight at the Pera Palace Morris Bart Sr., Lecture New Orleans JCC - Uptown Series at the J: Tricentennial 5342 St. Charles Avenue Author Brian Boyles, author of New Orleans, LA New Orleans Boom & Blackout: Contact: Judy Yaillen 100 Days in America's Coolest Phone: 504-897-0143 Hotspot and executive publisher of Email: judy@nojcc.org New Orleans& The World: 1718No charge members and non2018 Tricentennial Anthology, will members discuss the city's appearance on the Wednesday March 21st global stage as seen through the 5:00 pm - 7:30 pm histories of the 1884 World's IndusNational Council of Jewish trial and Cotton Centennial ExposiWomen - Courageous tion, the 1984 Louisiana World Women of WWII Program Exposition, and the 2013 Super Bowl hosted in New Orleans. Lunch The World War II Museum will be served 945 Magazine Street, New New Orleans JCC - Uptown Orleans. 5342 St. Charles Avenue Contact: Sandy Decquir at ncjwNew Orleans, LA gno@gmail.com. RSVP by Thursday, March 8 to Thursday March 22nd Rachel Ruth 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm Phone: 504-897-0143 Commander's Palace Email: rachel@nojcc.org Luncheon No charge members / $10 nonFor many years Robert Kohlmembers mann sponsored an elegant lunWednesday March 14th cheon at Commander's Palace for 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm the JCC senior community. We will Jewish Community Center continue to honor his memory at Speaker - Cathy & Morris this year's luncheon with support Bart Cultural Art Series from the Feil Family Foundation/ Chef Alon Shaya Lakeside Shopping Center. The Uptown JCC New Orleans JCC - Uptown 5342 St. Charles Avenue, New 5342 St. Charles Avenue
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New Orleans, LA Contact: Gate of Prayer’s Office Contact: Rachel Ruth at (504) 885-2600 or office@gatePhone: 504-897-0143 sofprayer.org. Email: rachel@nojcc.org Monday March 26th Reservations are limited to JCC 12:30 pm - 2:30 pm members only and required by Movies in Metairie Thursday, March 15 to Rachel In Passengers a spacecraft travelRuth. ing to a distant colony planet and Saturday March 24th transporting thousands of people has 5:30 pm - 9:30 pm a malfunction in its sleep chambers. Kids Night Out – Metairie As a result, two passengers are awakSpend Saturday night at the JCC ened 90 years early. Bring your while your parents have a night on lunch. Movie snacks will be served. the town. We will enjoy an evening Goldring-Woldenberg JCC of "Minute to Win It" activities and Metairie crafts, followed by dinner and a 3747 W. Esplanade Avenue movie. Metairie, LA Goldring-Woldenberg JCC Contact: Stephanie Krell Metairie Phone: 504-887-5158 3747 W. Esplanade Avenue Email: stephanie@nojcc.org Metairie, LA Free and open to the community Contact: Terrance Perkins Wednesday March 28th Phone: 504-897-0143 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm Email: terrance@nojcc.org Brain Health Series: Don't Grades: K-5 Worry, be Happy Instructor: Terrance Perkins Don't worry, be happy. Strategies $20 members only to improve your mood, reduce Sunday March 25th stress, and keep your brain healthy. 9:00 am - 11:00 am New Orleans JCC - Uptown JCC Try-A-Thon 2018 5342 St. Charles Avenue New Orleans, LA Have you thought about trying a Phone: 504-897-0143 new workout? Well here is your No charge members and nonchance! Come to our FREE “TryA-Thon” and rotate through up to members five of our awesome group exercise Thursday March 29th classes in one day! You can try 12:00 pm - 2:15 pm Zumba-N-Tone, Kickboxing, CirMovie Day: 42 cuit Training, Consistent Resistance This biopic focuses on the relaand Mat Pilates. All are welcome to join in on the fitness fun. Open to tionship between baseball icon Jackie Robinson and Brooklyn JCC members and non-members. Goldring-Woldenberg JCC - Dodgers general manager Branch Rickey, who signed Robinson and Metairie in 1947 made him the first black 3747 W. Esplanade Avenue Major League Baseball player of Metairie, LA the modern era. Movie snacks will Ages: 16 and up be served. Instructor: Various Instructors New Orleans JCC - Uptown No charge members and non5342 St. Charles Avenue members New Orleans, LA Sunday March 25th Contact: Rachel Ruth 9:00AM - 12:00PM Phone: 504-897-0143 Jewish Family Service Email: rachel@nojcc.org Passover Food Baskets RSVP by Monday, March 26 to The Goldring / Woldenberg JCC Rachel Ruth at 897-0143 x161 or 3747 West Esplanade Avenue, rachel@nojcc.org. No charge members and nonMetairie. Contact: Rachael Eriksen at members ì rachael@jfsneworleans.org.
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Chai Lights Life CYCLE
(CONDOLENCES)
If you have a condolence that you would like for us to include in Life Cycle please e-mail the information to jewishnews@bellsouth.net. All submissions are subject to acceptance of the Editor. ì
Beth Israel
Condolences to... • Leon & Ava Nowalsky, Roy & Paula Greenberg and Judith Nowalsky on the loss of their mother, Shirley Gentcher Nowalsky. • Susan & Howard Green on the loss of Susan’s mother, Ruth Hammond • The Trujillio Family on the loss of Javier Trujillio. IN MEMORIAM • Sharyn Silverstein • Marilyn Gaethe • Judge Peter Beer, husband of Marjorie Beer, father of Kimberly Beer Bailes, Kenneth Beer, and Dana Beer, and grandfather of many grandchildren and greatgrandchildren Best Wishes to all of our friends and customers from...
Chabad
Condolences to... • Richard, Harvey and Carol Stone upon the passing of their mother, Sara Stone.
Gates of Prayer
Condolences to... Caitlyn Watson on the death of her grandmother, Laura Watson and her grandfather, Percy Watson. • Jerry Zachary, partner of Henry Bernstein • Sara Berenson Stone, sister and sister-in-law of Dr. Gerald & Joan Berenson • Ruth Etta Bernstein Carol, grandmother of Martha Carol May their names be for a blessing
Happy Passover!
Mazel Tov to...
• Dr. Stuart & Gail Chalew on the birth of their granddaughter, Margolit Ava, to parents Justin & Talia Abbott Chalew on December 28, 2017. • Jackie Goldberg for being honored as an exceptional bond supporter/leader by State of Israel Bonds at their annual Prime Minister’s Club Event in Miami, Florida. • Bradley Bain, JCRC Chair, for his work in getting problematic New Orleans City Council Resolution R-18-5 rescinded. • Sidney Cotlar and Jacob Kansas for celebrating 50 years of membership in the Louisiana State Bar Association! • Myron & Marcie Goldberg on their retirement! • Joe Bruchis on his retirement!
• Uzzi & Rivka Kehaty on the engagement of their son Levi to Simi Green. • Zev & Sarah Attias in honor of their son Judah's Bar Mitzvah • Rabbi Zelig & Bluma Rivkin in honor of the birth of a new grandson.
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Passover 2018
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H oliday Features My Primitive Passover Scavenger Hunt THE
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By Linda Pressman (Kveller via JTA) -- When I see Though I’m willing to bounce back and forth between its kosher smoked fish case and the Passover display, both forming a miniature Pale of Settlement in the store for Jewish shoppers to cling to, eventually I must venture out to the Jewish section of the regular grocery stores, to their Pesach tables, and to the kosher stores to get everything else I need. Gefilte fish is an easy find at Passover. Shopping for Passover is like (Wikimedia Commons) being on the worst scavenger hunt the giant gefilte fish and matzah dis- ever. My grocery list looks like it play at Costco in late February, it was written in medieval Poland. I sends me into a panic. I think, is it need a really big brisket. Like time for gefilte fish already? I think maybe an entire cow. And chicken that finding the holiday foods, livers. Like the whole chicken. including that gigantic jar of gefilte And maybe 10,000 eggs. fish, is not easy and maybe I should I need horseradish – red and stockpile now. I start thinking about white. I need fish and potatoes, mathow many people I’m having for zah and parsley. Coconut and carPassover – a lot or a little? One man- rots. Apples and walnuts and honey ageable table or an impossible four? and wine. Oh, and they wouldn’t Most of the year I’m a pretty nor- happen to have four shankbones mal American woman. I look nor- hanging around, would they? One mal. I dress in a fairly normal man- time when my mother was alive, ner. I walk in grocery stores and she had a craving for real kishke. I have a vaguely normal shopping went to the store with her instruclist. Yes, there are certain Jewish tions: I needed rendered fat and casholidays here and there where I’m ings The butcher seemed mystified. maybe shopping for 20 pound bags How did I become my mother? of potatoes in the winter, apples and Or, rather, my grandmother, greathoney, round challahs and smoked grandmother and great-great-grandfish in the fall, or poppy filling in mother, all the way down the line? March. All a little odd. How did I get so fascinated with the But then there’s Passover. butchers at all the grocery stores in Costco, of course, can only satis- town, interrogating the staff about fy a few needs for this holiday. their briskets, their chicken livers, THE
the weights and when they’re expected? When I’ve bought everything on my list, I start cooking very meticulously. I cling to the idea that if I’m organized about this, I can be ready. I can’t really be ready. Sometimes while I’m out shopping, I run into the rest of the world. There they are, happy normal people, out shopping for regular groceries, like bread, or in the Easter aisle buying chocolate eggs, squishy Peeps and giant chocolate Easter bunnies. I’m somewhat surprised that the world is just ticking along as normal, and there’s not an emergency in their kitchens like there is in mine. Because no matter how far ahead I start, no matter how much I’m sure I’m finished the night before, it never fails that two hours before the Seder, I have to call my sister for emergency backup, for parsley sprig placement or peeling boiled eggs. Back at the store, I find the last thing on my list, horseradish root for the Seder plate — a gnarled, primitive-looking thing that I grasp in my matching gnarled hand — and I head home.ì
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Send editorial to us via e-mail at jewishnews@bellsouth.net or reach us by phone at (504) 455-8822. Our mailing address is United Media Corp. P.O. Box 3270, Covington, LA 70434 • To place advertising in THE JEWISH LIGHT, call United Media Corp. at: New Orleans (504) 455-8822 Northshore (985) 871-0221 Baton Rouge (225) 925-8774 THE JEWISH LIGHT carries Jewish Community related news about the Louisiana Jewish community and for the Louisiana Jewish community. Its commitment is to be a “True Community” newspaper, reaching out EQUALLY TO ALL Jewish Agencies, Jewish Organizations and Synagogues. THE JEWISH LIGHT is published monthly by United Media Corporation. We are Louisiana owned, Louisiana published, and Louisiana distributed. United Media Corporation has been proudly serving the Louisiana Jewish Community since 1995. Together, we can help rebuild Louisiana. We thank you for the last 23 years and we look forward to an even brighter tomorrow.
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George Branigan is uniquely qualified to Revitalize our District. As a successful business owner who has dedicated my professional life to helping other businesses, I am prepared to revitalize District 4. My only agenda is to make OUR district better. Our time is NOW. Join me in the fight by trusting me with your vote!
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Having recently served as interim Councilman, Jack Rizzuto began work on major drainage and sewerage projects for District 4, as well as playground improvements and additions to Lafreniere Park! Election Day: March 24, 2018 Early Voting: March 10 - March 17, 2018 Paid for by the Jack Rizzuto Campaign Fund
Passover 2018
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Holiday Features
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9 Things You Didn’t Know About Passover By MJL Staff (My Jewish Learning via JTA) -- Here are nine things that many likely wouldn't know about the Festival of Freedom: 1. In Gibraltar, there’s dust in the charoset. The traditional charoset is a sweet Passover paste whose texture is meant as a reminder of the mortar the enslaved Jews used to build in ancient Egypt. The name itself is related to the Hebrew word for clay. In Ashkenazi tradition, it is traditionally made from crushed nuts, apples and sweet red wine, while
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Sephardic Jews use figs or dates. But the tiny Jewish community of this small British territory at the tip of the Iberian Peninsula takes the brick symbolism to another level, using the dust of actual bricks in their recipe. 2. Abraham Lincoln died during Passover. The 16th American president was shot at Ford’s Theatre on a Friday, April 14, 1865, which coincided with the fourth night of Passover. The next morning, Jews who wouldn’t normally have attended services on the holiday were so moved by Lincoln’s passing they made their way to synagogues, where the normally celebratory Passover services were instead marked by acts of mourning and the singing of Yom Kippur hymns. American Jews were so affected by the president’s death that Congregation Shearith Israel in New York recited the prayer for the dead — usually said only for Jews — on Lincoln’s behalf. 3. Arizona Is a hub for matzah wheat. Hasidic Jews from Brooklyn have been increasingly sourcing wheat for their Passover matzah from farmers in Arizona. Excessive moisture in wheat ker-
nels can result in fermentation, rendering the harvest unsuitable for Passover use. But rain is scarce in Arizona, which allows for a stricter standard of matzah production. Rabbis from New York travel to Arizona in the days leading up to the harvest, where they inspect the grains meticulously to ensure they are cut at the precise moisture levels 4. At the seder, Persian Jews whip each other with scallions. Many of the Passover seder rituals are intended to re-create the sensory experience of Egyptian slavery, from the eating of bitter herbs and matzah to the dipping of greenery in saltwater, which symbolizes the tears shed by the oppressed Israelites. Some Jews from Iran and Afghanistan have the tradition of whipping each other with green onions before the singing of “Dayenu.” 5. Karaite Jews skip the wine. Karaite Jews reject rabbinic Judaism, observing only laws detailed in the Torah. That's why they don’t drink the traditional four cups of wine at the seder. Wine is fermented, and fermented foods are prohibited on Passover, so instead they drink fruit juice. (Mainstream Jews hold that only fermented grains are prohibited.) The Karaites also eschew other staples of the traditional seder, including the seder plate and charoset. Their maror (bitter herbs) is a mixture of lemon peel, bitter lettuce and an assortment of other herbs. 6. Israeli Jews have only one
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Abraham Lincoln was assassinated during Passover in April 1865. (Wikimedia Commons)
seder. Israeli Jews observe only one Passover seder, unlike everywhere else where traditionally two seders are held, one on each of the first two nights of the holiday. Known as "yom tov sheni shel galuyot" — literally “the second festival day of the Diaspora” — the practice was begun 2,000 years ago when Jews were informed of the start of a new lunar month only after it had been confirmed by witnesses in Jerusalem. Because Jewish communities outside of Israel were often delayed in learning the news, they consequently couldn’t be sure precisely which day festivals were meant to be observed. As a result, the practice of observing two seder days was instituted just to be sure. 7. You’re wrong about the orange on the seder plate. Some progressive Jews have adopted the practice of including an orange on the seder plate as a symSee 9 THINGS on Page
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Education
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Organic, Gluten-Free and Locally Sourced Food — Now Available at Jewish Summer Camp
I’m ready to work for District C to tackle drainage issues, enforce stricter budgetary controls, and responsible planning & growth for Covington!
By Josefin Dolsten
At Pennsylvania's Camp Zeke, campers can study the culinary arts. (Courtesy of Camp Zeke)
(JTA) — The letter Cy Golanski wrote to his grandmother last summer was short, to the point and a little different from the typical note home from sleepaway camp. “The food here is so good. Please ask my mom when the cookbook is coming out,” the 11-year-old wrote, adding a request that his grandmother make the same tomato soup he was eating at camp. This year, he will head to his fifth summer at Eden Village Camp, a Jewish camp in Putnam Valley, New York, with a focus on farming, food and wilderness. Kids there eat meals such as baked fish with chimichurri rice pilaf, Moroccan vegetable tagine and green curry with tofu and vegetables, all made from scratch with organic, local and consciously sourced ingredients. Sleepaway camps are traditionally associated with institutional food that is more filling and bland than delicious and health-conscious. But camps are becoming more focused on promoting healthy eating in an enticing way, said Michele Friedman, director of new camp initiatives at the Foundation for Jewish Camp. “It’s been a growing trend in the last five to 10 years, trying to promote healthy eating among young children and help them develop good eating habits, and at the same time make it fun," Friedman told JTA. Eden Village Camp, which launched in 2010 and is opening a new location this year in Richmond, California, is one of several sustainable living camps that the foundation has helped launch through its incubator programs. The camp is home to a four-acre farm and some 80 fruit trees, and kids help to grow and harvest proTHE
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duce. Farming makes vegetables more appealing to kids, founding director Yoni Stadlin told JTA. “When they’ve got their hands on growing broccoli, they’re much more likely to eat it,” he said. Camp Zeke, which launched in 2014 in Lakewood, Pennsylvania, promotes healthy living through nutrition and exercise. “I think a lot of families are really focused on healthy living at home, and they are looking for camps that reflect those values in the camp,” said Isaac Mamaysky, who serves as the camp's director with his wife, Lisa. At Camp Zeke, the canteen offers a smoothie bar and trail mix instead of the traditional candy and chips. Campers can participate in a variety of exercise programs, such as yoga, martial arts, dance and climbing. And while kids still eat traditional camp offerings, such as pizza and chicken wings, they are made in healthy ways. “We serve many of the things that you would find in other camps, it’s just they don’t come out of a box, they’re not frozen, and we’re making them from scratch and we’re making them in the healthiest possible way," Mamaysky said. Camp Zeke also caters to kids with food restrictions and has a separate chef dedicated to their needs. In recent years, the program has seen an increase in requests for vegetarian and vegan fare, as well as the trendy Paleo diet, Mamaysky said. Friedman said the Foundation for Jewish Camp has seen camps increasingly catering to kids with dietary limitations, such as gluten allergies and sensitivities and lactose intolerance. “There is a lot more in terms of food sensitivity and food allergies that have caused camp to amend the way the menus are developed and the kind of food that they’re serving," she said. In 2011, NJY Camps, a network of Jewish camps in Milford and Lakewood, Pennsylvania, opened a See ORGANIC on Page
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Best wishes to my friends in the Jewish community for a happy Passover. Thank you for your continued support.
Judge Sidney H. Cates, IV
Civil District Court for the Parish of Orleans 25
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Passover 2018
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ALMA IS FOR LADIES WITH CHUTZPAH Hey! We’re Alma, a new place for women to talk about working, dating, TV-binging, yummy eating, bat mitzvah reminiscing, quasi-adulting, and the world around us.
Happy Passover to all my friends in the Jewish Community, thanks for your continued support! Belinda Constant Mayor City of Gretna
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Hadn’t Seen My Camp Friends for 10 Years—but Nothing Had Changed By Jessica Klein I met my friend Reni waiting for the bus that would take us to sleepaway summer camp when she was 9 and I was 10. A painfully shy kid, I huddled quietly by my mom as Reni approached, bag of gummy worms in her hand and Baby-G watch (remember those?) on her wrist, to ask if I wanted to sit with her. I must have managed a nod, because the next three hours I spent sitting next to Reni, eating gummy worms and timing the drive from Boston to Harrison, Maine. When we arrived at camp, we found we’d been assigned to the same bunk. Three years later, I was dancing the hora at Reni’s bat mitzvah, and 14 years after that, I was doing the same at her wedding. As she walked down the aisle a few weekends ago in Brooklyn— not to get too sappy, but I’m already writing a story about enduring friendships, so—for a second I caught a glimpse of the 9-year-old girl I’d first met, all frizzy hair, freckles, and eager smile. Of course, her hair was perfect on her wedding day, and her smile was composed, serene—like she’d been practicing getting married her whole life (she hadn’t been). Cue the tears. I looked to my left and my right, where our five mutual best friends from camp were sitting, either similarly tearing up or making hushed jokes about the notion of ceremony, tradition, etc.—a common pastime for us—or both. They’d traveled from as far as Idaho and as close as three neighborhoods away in Brooklyn to make it to the wedding that day, vacationing from jobs ranging from speech pathology to massage therapy. It sounds clichéd, but it felt like we’d all been giggling about our most ridiculously domineering camp counselors just last week. In reality, it had been nearly 10 years since all seven of us had been in the same place at the same time. Most people have friends with whom it feels like no time has passed, no matter how many years they’ve spent apart. With camp friends, this feeling is even more acute because you go through your first moments of true independence together. Separated from nuclear families, usually for the first time,
you have to figure out how to negotiate a world that has nothing to do with them. It’s uncharted territory that you learn to sail—sometimes literally—with other 10-year-olds. “It’s weird because I feel like I’m accessing a younger version of myself when I talk to you guys,” my friend Emma said, describing this phenomenon. “Like my adult self actually doesn’t have emotions or laughter inside of me, but when I’m with you, I can access a younger version of myself that does.” While Emma certainly isn’t joyless in her “old age,” as a high school teacher, she does have to discipline unruly adolescents all weekday-long. What makes the camp friendship so valuable for her, in part, is that when she’s with our group, she gets to act that young instead of chastising the behaviors that often come with being 14. For instance, Emma may or may not have engaged in “stupid adolescent stuff like throwing my wine glasses into the East River” at Reni’s wedding reception (sorry Reni) “because that’s totally something my 14-year-old self would have thought is hilarious.” Our 27-year-old selves, after a blink of adult conscience, did, too. Keeping close friendships from your first taste of youthful independence not only prevents you from losing grip of your childhood self, it also helps cement the essence of who you are and makes your current sense of self stronger because of it. “For me, there’s an element of comfort knowing I can simply exist and there are years of friendship to back the fact that you all like me,” said Lauren, another close friend who also may or may not have witnessed a wine glass getting hurled into the East River at Reni’s wedding. “Also, I think it was you the other day saying how interesting it is for a group of such distinct women to be friends, but I think it’s because we have an equal sense of loyalty and morals that help us connect.” Allie, who drove over from Philadelphia for the wedding and had, years earlier, flown from PhiladelSee CAMP FRIENDS on Page
2/14/18 11:13 AM
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Here Are New Some Children's Books for Passover -- and Spring, Too
Bookshelf Happy Passover...
...to all My Jewish Friends
By Penny Schwartz
Roller Coaster Grandma: The Amazing Story of Dr. Ruth (Courtesy of Apples & Honey Press)
(JTA) -- A talking parrot saves the family seder and a moose-musician is eager to host his perfect first Passover meal in a pair of delightful new children's books for the holiday, which this year begins on the night of March 30. A third book celebrates the rich diversity of the Jewish people through photographs. Looking beyond Passover, a new crop of Jewish children's books beckons for the spring that includes a picture book on Moe Berg, the Jewish baseball player who became a spy for the U.S. government; an adventure chapter book that travels back to the days of King Solomon; and a rollicking graphic novel on the life story of Dr. Ruth Westheimer. Paulie's Passover Predicament Written by Jane Sutton; illustrated by Barbara Vagnozzi Kar-Ben; ages 3-8 Paulie is a guitar-playing moosician who is hosting his very first seder and wants it to be just perfect. At the grocery store, he piles his cart with boxes of matzah, candles and lots of grape juice. But Paulie's guests -- a porcupine, bear, bunny and others -- giggle and poke fun at his seder plate with its really big ostrich egg, saltwater with pepper, and pine cones rather than walnuts for the ceremonial charoset. Kids will get in on the action when Paulie sets out to search for the hidden afikomen -- until the basement door closes shut behind him. Paulie ingeniously solves the problem and later leads his friends in a rousing rendition of "Dayenu"; he is especially grateful for his freedom. Jane Sutton's playful story, THE
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enhanced by Barbara Vagnozzi's brightly colored illustrations, captures the excitement of celebrating Passover with a tender touch that reinforces the importance of being kind to friends. The Passover Parrot Evelyn Zusman; illustrated by Kyrsten Brooker Kar-Ben; ages 3-8 Lily lives in a brownstone in Brooklyn with her parents and six brothers and sisters. She loves swinging on a tire swing that hangs from a large tree in their New York City backyard. As the family prepares to celebrate Passover, a neighbor who is moving drops off her pet parrot as a gift that delights Lily -her mom, however, doesn't share the excitement. The parrot's name is Hametz, the word for bread and other leavened food that is not eaten during Passover. Lily is determined to recite the Four Questions in Hebrew at the seder, but everyone is too busy to help her practice. Except Hametz, that is, who repeats the questions back to Lily. With a houseful of guests for the seder, Lily's father is not amused when Hametz chimes in with Lily and he banishes the parrot to the girl's room. Will the seder be ruined when Lily discovers Hametz and the afikomen missing from her room? Lily solves the mystery and the seder comes to an uplifting end. This is a newly illustrated 35th anniversary edition of this story by Evelyn Zusman, who was a Hebrew school teacher in New York and Los Angeles, according to Kar-Ben. A lively Lily and playful Hametz are center stage throughout the book's large, colorful illustrations by Canadian artist Kyrsten Brooker. She draws readers in on the scenes that evoke a nostalgic feel of urban Jewish life in the early to mid-20th century. We Are Jewish Faces Debra B. Davick Apples & Honey Press; ages 5-8 This joyful collection of colorful photographs conveys the rich diversity of Jews today, with the faces of Jewish children and teens with their grandparents, friends, brothers and See BOOKS on Page
Louis Fitzmorris Assessor St. Tammany Parish
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Arts & Culture Happy Passover to my many friends in the Jewish Community. Thank you for your continued support! Constable Tasso “Tiger” Taylor III St. Tammany Parish, Ward 3
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Bryan Batt to Star as the Almighty in Le Petit Production of Broadway Hit, an Act of God Actor Bryan Batt, an acclaimed figure in New Orleans’ performing arts and culture scene, stars in the upcoming Broadway smash-hit comedy by David Javerbaum, An Act of God, as the worldly embodiment of God.
JEFFERSON PARISH DISTRICT ATTORNEY
PAUL CONNICK, JR.
Happy Passover to all my friends in the Jewish Community.
Wishing my many friends & supporters in the Jewish Community a happy Passover
Judge Joe Landry
Municipal and Traffic Court of New Orleans, Section F
14 Passover 2018
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“Bryan has been so generous to Le Petit over the years,” says Artistic Director Maxwell Williams. “He grew up on this stage. And as a board member and supporter, he’s devoted himself to advocating on our behalf. He’s appeared at our gala, and in benefit performances, but this will be the first time that Bryan is actually starring in a play in New Orleans since 1984. It’s a real thrill for us to welcome him back home!” Accompanied by His angels Michael and Gabriel, God arrives on earth in his new corporeal form to set the record straight on His teachings and the meaning of the Bible. In a brisk 90 minutes, He revisits the Ten Commandments (of which he’s grown weary) and provides a new interpretation of his most Mosaic laws; he pontificates on evolution, sexuality, and taking his name in vain, while fielding questions from the audience. Critics have lauded the show, saying "it’s an hour and half of comedy heaven” and “Mr. Javerbaum’s wit, one is tempted to say, is almost as infinite as God’s wisdom” (The New York Times). Variety claims, “Faithful and nonbelievers alike should find pleasure, and even food for thought, in the Supreme Being’s admonitions, insights, and sheer gags.” An Act of God makes its regional premiere at Le Petit Theatre, after a www.thejewishlight.org
successful run on Broadway that featured both Jim Parsons (The Big Bang Theory) and Sean Hayes (Will & Grace) in the titular role as God. David Javerbaum previously made a name for himself in the world of comedy as a writer and executive producer for The Daily Show with Jon Stewart, where he was the recipient of 13 Emmy awards. What began originally as a “series of tweets” (@TheTweetofGod), was later adapted into the book, The Last Testament: A Memoir by God and then transformed into a theatrical production. An Act of God is his first foray into theatre. Tickets start at $35 and can be purchased online at www.LePetitTheatre.com or by calling (504) 522-2081 ext 1. Student tickets are available for $15. This spring Le Petit Theatre will also be presenting A Streetcar Named Desire (March 9 – 25) and Crowns (June 15-July 1). Three play subscription packages include priority seating, free ticket exchanges, and bonus subscriber events. Subscription ticket prices start at $18. To purchase tickets, visit www. LePetitTheatre.com About Bryan Batt: Batt is a native New Orleanian, actor, designer, and civic activist. He has won two Screen Actors Guild awards for his portrayal of “Salvatore Romano” on AMC’s critically acclaimed dramatic series MAD MEN. He was recently seen as “Mayor Quinn Maddox” on the MTV cult hit series, SCREAM. Bryan created the role of “Darius” in both the N.Y. and L.A (Drama Logue Award) productions as well as the film adaptation of Paul Rudnick’s groundbreaking comedy Jeffrey. His Broadway roles include: La Cage Aux Folles (2005 Revival), Beauty and the Beast, Seussical: The Musical, Sunset Blvd., Saturday Night Fever, The Scarlet Pimpernel, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Starlight See BRYAN BATT on Page THE
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Why 'Black Panther' Might Also Be a Milestone in Black-Jewish Relations
(Bob Levey/Getty Images for IMAX) By Gabe Friedman
(JTA) — If you have checked in on the pop culture zeitgeist at all in the past week, you know that the film “Black Panther” is breaking box office records and Hollywood assumptions about race. The well-received Marvel flick was written and directed by African-Americans (co-written by Ryan Coogler and Joe Robert Cole, and directed by Coogler) and features a mostly African-American cast anchored by Chadwick Boseman in the title role as a black superhero. But some fans might not realize that the original Black Panther character was actually created by two white Jews. The superhero was the brainchild of writer Stan Lee (born Stanley Lieber) and artist Jack Kirby (born Jacob Kurtzberg), who already were veterans of the comic book industry when they started working together at Marvel at the dawn of the 1960s. The first comic book series they produced in tandem was the Fantastic Four in 1961, but they would go on to create a slew of beloved superhero characters, from the Hulk to Iron Man to the X-Men. Lee and Kirby’s Black Panther character debuted in July 1966, in a Fantastic Four comic strip (he would get his own series later in the '70s). The leader of the fictional
African country of Wakanda was the first black superhero featured in a mainstream comic book. In addition to having supernatural physical abilities (granted in part by a heartshaped herb he eats), the Black Panther is a scientist with a degree from Oxford University. In the Marvel universe, Wakanda, which resisted Western colonization, is also the most technologically advanced nation on earth — a concept meant to shatter stereotypes about Africa. Besides being a pop culture milestone, the Black Panther’s debut came at a crucial juncture in blackJewish relations. The years after World War II and up to about 1966 (yes, that exact year, as explained below) have been referred to as a “golden age” in the relationship between the two groups. American Jews, who empathized with blacks as they themselves struggled to fit into white American society before and after the war, participated in the civil rights movement to an outsized extent, and the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. often praised them for their activism. Jews "demonstrated their commitment to the principle of tolerance and brotherhood not only in the form of sizable contributions, but in many other tangible ways, and often at great personal sacrifice,” King said in 1965. However, relations strained over time, as Jews found their way into the upper echelons of America while blacks remained stifled in comparison, even after the passage of multiple civil rights bills in the '60s. In October 1966, Huey Newton and Bobby Seale formed the
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Black Panther Party (which did not take its name from the character), and kick-started the Black Power movement, which scrutinized the ways that any whites — Jews included — interacted with blacks. The aftermath of Israel’s victory in the 1967 Six-Day War subtly added to the groups’ separation. After Israel repelled attacks from many of its Middle Eastern neighbors, it took control of the Arabs living in the Gaza Strip, the Sinai Peninsula and territory known as the West Bank. It was a turning
point in the way that many groups — including blacks, who sympathized with other groups they considered oppressed — viewed Israel, and in turn some American Jews. In their eyes, Israel became another unjust colonial regime. Jews felt betrayed, as did blacks when some major Jewish groups began to oppose affirmative action. So perhaps "Black Panther" represents an opportunity for healing. The film's creators and a number of See BLACK PANTHER on Page
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Best Wishes for a Happy Passover to All of My Friends and Supporters in the Jewish Community
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Passover 2018
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FINANCIAL Happy Passover... ...to all My Jewish Friends
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Can Jewish Charities Do Good and Make Money? Impact Investors Say Yes. By Ben Sales
Julie Stokes
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Lavan's cohort of 25 fellows is examining the intersection between impact investing and Judaism. (Courtesy of Lavan)
NEW YORK (JTA) -- For all of its modern history, the American Jewish community has pursued most of its goals through philanthropy -- funding programs and institutions through donations and charitable giving that relies heavily on the generosity of wealthy people. But what if the community could achieve those same goals and also make money? A growing number of activists are promoting a Jewish take on impact investing, which means investing in businesses that also promote a social good. Advocates say investments like these -- in anything from a solar energy company to a business employing disadvantaged Israelis -- are more sustainable and can go further than just donating to charity. “Business, finance, investments and economics are such powerful forces in the world, and they can be channeled for good or for evil,” said Julie Hammerman, a former Wall Street analyst who founded the JLens Investor Network, which promotes Jewish impact investing, in 2012. “They’re really powerful arenas, and we have so many social and environmental challenges,” she said. “If we can use market solutions to fill in that gap, we’re in a better position.” Hammerman is among a few people pushing for a fundamental shift in how the Jewish community thinks about funding and maintaining ventures that advance Jewish values. They all stress that impact investing is meant to complement philanthropy, not replace it. But they say that socially conscious investments can achieve two goals: applying Jewish values to how people spend their money, and promoting Judaism through programs that
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make money rather than lose it. “How do we invest in companies that are actively thinking about their environmental footprint, how they treat their employees, what their government structures are?” asked Avi Deutsch, who with Vanessa Bartram co-founded Lavan, an organization that promotes impact investing within the Jewish community. “Financial decisions are moral decisions, and they have an impact on our world, on our society, on our planet” Religious impact investing, says Hammerman, first became popular among Christians who would avoid so-called “sin stocks,” or companies involved in gambling, alcohol, tobacco, pornography or firearms. Activists who push firms to divest from Israel, she adds, also are practicing a form of impact investing -though one many Jews oppose. The Jewish Communal Fund of San Diego offers an Impact Investment Pool, created in partnership with JLens, for donors who put their charity money in donoradvised funds at the foundation. New York’s UJA-Federation runs loan-guarantee funds in Israel for disadvantaged populations, among other initiatives. San Francisco’s Jewish Community Federation is exploring starting a fund that would offer low-interest loans to capital campaigns at Jewish institutions. “Impact investment doesn’t replace giving money,” said Sue Reinhold, the San Francisco federation’s managing director for philanthropy. “There’s all this money already put aside for philanthropy, and while it’s being stored, how can you put it to good use?” There is a range of ways to make impact investments. Foundations and people can invest in groups of public companies that abide by their values. Investors can also put their money in smaller companies whose purpose is advancing a social good -- say, raising grass-fed beef. Or people can invest in “social impact bonds” -- bonds that pay out when a certain goal is achieved, like creating a certain number of jobs in a depressed area. See CHARITIES on Page THE
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Here's a Passover Menu Low on Calories and Carbs
Health
By Megan Wolf (JTA) -- I'm a big fan of healthy whole grains, but they can easily become heavy -- even the healthy ones. Instead of packing my Passover meals with heavy dishes, I’m offering a lighter, lower calorie and lower carbohydrate option this year. If you have seen my recipes before, you may know that I love cauliflower as a stand-in for potatoes and rice. There is truly no better substitute! Not only is it delicious, it’s now incredibly easy to find already riced. And who can't use a time saver in the kitchen? I prefer frozen riced cauliflower to fresh. The more I make these dishes, the more I realize this is by far the best method of purchase. I think it works so well in part because there is already some water in the cauliflower and it helps the vegetable to cook more evenly. These recipes are delicious and well suited for any time of year, but they are especially welcome at Passover, when we're all looking to lighten our load a bit. I also love how these dishes come together in color, taste and texture. The sweet and crunchy aspects of the broccoli play off the creamy cauliflower and punchy salmon.
Simple Lemon Salmon (Megan Wolf)
SIMPLE LEMON SALMON Ingredients: • 4 6-ounce salmon portions • Salt and pepper • 2 tablespoons olive oil • 2 lemons, juiced • 1 lemon, sliced Directions: Preheat oven to 400 F., place sheet pan in the oven to heat. Whisk olive oil and lemon. Season salmon with salt and pepper. Brush salmon with half of the lemon mixture. THE
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Place salmon skin side down on the hot sheet pan, roast until cooked to your liking, or about 8-10 minutes. Serve salmon by topping the fish with the remaining oil mixture and sliced lemon.
Seared Mushroom Cauliflower Risotto (Megan Wolf)
SEARED MUSHROOM CAULIFLOWER RISOTTO Ingredients: • 1 tablespoon olive oil • 1 medium onion, diced • 10 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped • 4 cups frozen riced cauliflower • 1/2 cup dry white wine • 2 cups water or more • 1/3 cup shredded Parmesan cheese • 1 lemon, juiced • 1 pint crimini mushrooms, quartered • 1 tablespoon olive oil • Salt to taste Directions: Sauté onions and garlic over low heat until cooked through and translucent. Add frozen cauliflower and mix to combine. Add white wine and continue stirring. Add water 1/2 cup at a time, stirring frequently and adding more water as each batch is absorbed. While the cauliflower is cooking, sauté mushrooms in olive oil in a separate pan, set aside. Once the cauliflower is soft and
resembles risotto, add Parmesan • Salt to taste cheese and stir to combine. Directions: Serve risotto with mushrooms Steam broccoli until just tender atop or stirred into cauliflower, and bright green, about 2 minutes. topped with lemon juice. Toss broccoli with 2 tablespoon olive oil and place on a large baking BURNT BROCCOLI sheet, roast until crispy and starting Ingredients: • 2 heads broccoli, cut into flo- to char, about 15-20 minutes. Microwave honey until it’s liquid rets • 2 tablespoons olive oil plus then immediately pour evenly over broccoli and drizzle with olive oil, more for drizzling season with salt.ì • 1 tablespoon honey
Wishing my many friends & supporters in the Jewish Community a happy Passover.
R. Reid Falconer
State Representative District 89 Louisiana House of Representatives
Election Day is March 24, and Greg humbly asks for your vote.
Burnt Broccoli (Megan Wolf) www.thejewishlight.org
Passover 2018
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NOSHER
(food)
Cholent Pot Pie Recipe By Yehuda Sichel
Cholent Pot Pie (Alexandra Hawkins)
(The Nosher via JTA) -- Here's a comforting yet elevated Shabbat dish from chef Yehuda Sichel of Abe Fisher. Ingredients: • 1 cup pearled barley • 1 cup dried kidney beans • 3/4 pound boneless short ribs, cut into 2-inch cubes • 1/2 pound kosher salami, cut into 1/2-inch cubes • 1 large yellow onion, cut into 8 wedges • 1 stalk of celery, sliced • 3 cloves of garlic, minced • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper • 1 carrot, roughly chopped
• Kosher salt • 1/4 cup ketchup • 1/2 cup red wine • 1 teaspoon ground cumin • 1 tablespoon hot smoked paprika • 1 beef bouillon cube • 1 quart of water • 1 sprig of fresh rosemary • 1 sweet potato, cut into 1-inch cubes • 1 Idaho potato, cut into 1-inch cubes • 1/2 cup chopped parsley • Store-bought frozen puff pastry or pie dough • 1 large egg, beaten Directions: 1. Combine the barley and kidney beans in a large bowl and cover with several inches of water. Let soak overnight in the refrigerator. In the morning, drain and set aside. 2. Preheat the oven to 375 F. 3. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a 4-quart Dutch oven over mediumhigh heat.
4. Season the short ribs with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot and brown on all sides – about 3 minutes per side. Remove the ribs from the Dutch oven and set aside. 5. Add the salami to the pot and cook until brown, about 10 minutes. Remove the salami and set aside. Add the onions, celery, garlic, carrot and a small pinch of salt, and cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened and are slightly browned, about 8 minutes. 6. Add the ketchup and continue to cook for 2-3 minutes until the mixture starts to bubble. Add the red wine and bring to a boil for 1-2 minutes to burn off the alcohol. Add the spices, bouillon cube, water, and stir to combine. 7. Return to a boil and add the beans, barley, short ribs, rosemary and potatoes to the pot. The liquid in the stew should be just covering the meat. Remove excess liquid and add additional water as necessary. 8. Cover the stew with a lid and place in the oven for about 3 hours or until the short ribs are fork tender. Keep the lid on and let the stew cool in its liquid, then refrigerate
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overnight. 9. The following day, preheat the oven to 375 F Transfer the stew to a separate pot and simmer on the stove to bring the mixture back to temperature. Pour the warm stew back into the cold Dutch oven, sprinkle parsley over top and drape a sheet of puff pastry over the sides of the Dutch oven. Crimp the dough around the edges of the pot and trim away any excess. Brush the top of the puff pastry with egg wash and sprinkle with salt. Place the stew in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes until the pastry is golden brown. 10. Let stand for 15 minutes and serve. Serves 4. (Yehuda Sichel is the executive chef and partner of Abe Fisher, a restaurant in Philadelphia from James Beard Award-winning restaurateurs Michael Solomonov and Steven Cook.) The Nosher food blog offers a dazzling array of new and classic Jewish recipes and food news, from Europe to Yemen, from challah to shakshuka and beyond. Check it out at www.TheNosher.com.ì
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The new Armstrong International. Where New Orleans takes flight. Arriving 2019.
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Harissa Lamb Meatballs Recipe By Shannon Sarna
Harissa Lamb Meatballs (Shannon Sarna)
(The Nosher via JTA) -- You might say I am a tad obsessed with harissa these days. Harissa roasted chicken. Harissa Bloody Mary. And now these harissa lamb meatballs. Sorry, not sorry. To take a step back for just a second, harissa is a North African condiment made from chilis, peppers, herbs, oil and other ingredients depending on the region, family, etc. I have made my own, but I have also fallen madly in love with NY Shuk harissa, which is way easier and more delicious than making my own. Harissa is very popular in Israel, where it was introduced by Moroccan, Tunisian and other Jews of North African descent. As Israeli food has gained a following in America, it’s a condiment that is increasingly easy to find: I have seen it gracing the shelves of Shop Rite, Stop & Shop and Whole Foods. I made an enormous batch of these meatballs for a recent shindig we hosted, and there was not one meatball left over, so I figured they might be a hit. For the party I served them with toothpicks, refreshing the platter as the evening went on. But I have also served these on top of a bed of freshly fluffed couscous and a little extra fresh herbs for a satisfying, but not too heavy, dinner. These can be made the night before, and they reheat very well on the stove over low heat. Ingredients: For the sauce: • 1-2 tablespoons olive oil • 1 small onion, finely diced • 2 garlic cloves • Pinch caraway seeds • 2 tablespoons tomato paste • 1 28-ounce can diced tomatoes • 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes • 3 heaping tablespoons of harissa paste (you can add more to your taste) • 1 1/2 cups of water • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper THE
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For the meatballs: • 2 pounds ground lamb • 3 tablespoons minced mint • 3 tablespoons minced flat leaf parsley • 2 garlic cloves, minced • 2 large eggs • 1 teaspoon salt • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest • Vegetable oil for frying Directions: 1. To make the sauce: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium high heat. Saute onion until translucent and soft, around 6-8 minutes. Add garlic, pinch of caraway seeds and tomato paste, and saute another 2 minutes. 2. Add canned tomatoes, harissa and water, and bring to a low simmer. Cook for 30-40 minutes, covered over low heat. The tomato sauce will be done when the tomatoes have broken down and the sauce has reduced slightly and is a deep color 3. To make the meatballs: Combine ground lamb, mint, parsley, garlic, eggs, salt and lemon zest in a large bowl. Using your hands, combine until mixed throughout, but take care not to overwork the meat. 4. Form tablespoon-sized meatballs, using your hands or a cookie scoop. Roll gently and place on a plate until ready to fry. 5. Heat vegetable oil (or other neutral oil) over medium heat in a large saute pan. Fry meatballs in batches until brown, rotating them to ensure they have been browned on all sides. 6. Remove from pan. You may need to add a little more oil in between batches. 7. Add the lamb meatballs to the sauce (as well as additional liquid from frying) and allow to simmer another 15 minutes. 8. Serve with couscous and chopped fresh herbs if desired. Serves 6. (Shannon Sarna is the editor of The Nosher. Her first cookbook, "Modern Jewish Baker: Challah Babka Bagels and More," was published in 2017 by Countryman Press) The Nosher food blog offers a dazzling array of new and classic Jewish recipes and food news, from Europe to Yemen, from challah to shakshuka and beyond. Check it out at www.TheNosher.com.ì
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A Reuben sandwich from Katz's Deli in New York. (Tamsin Slater/Flickr)
A Reuben sandwich from Katz's Deli in New York. (Tamsin Slater/ Flickr)CO (JTA) -- At a time when more than three-quarters of American Jews say they do not keep kosher, should we be shocked when Jews gather together and eat nonkosher food? American Jews have always gone beyond the restrictions of Jewish dietary laws, eating nonkosher (treif or trefa) food Sometimes this has been a deliberate choice. Other times it has resulted from the challenge of acquiring meat slaughtered according to Jewish ritual law and other foods consistent with the dietary requirements. According to Pew, only 22 percent of American Jews say they keep kosher in their homes. So why was there a public outcry among some Jews following a private networking event where nonkosher food was on the menu? After local and national news sites reported on last month's Trefa Banquet 2.0, a networking event for Bay Area Jews in the food industry, letters to the editor equated the event with “trampling on a Torah scroll … or burning an Israeli flag,” and suggested that the event would logically be followed by “mocking ‘don’t kill’ with mass slaughter of the homeless and less fortunate.” I was the keynote speaker at Trefa Banquet 2.0, a reference to the most infamous meal in American Jewish history. That historic dinner, known as the Trefa Banquet, was organized in 1883 by Reform leader Isaac Mayer Wise to celebrate the first ordination of Reform rabbis in the United States. The modern occasion was a semiannual gathering of the Illuminoshi, a “not-so-secret” group of Jewish food professionals. The Illuminoshi’s meeting recognized that the majority of Jews in the local food industry prepare and sell nonkosher food. For many members,
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this professional networking group is the only Jewish organization in which they participate. The tonguein-cheek name Trefa Banquet 2.0 provided an opportunity for those present to learn about the occasion’s historic namesake and reflect on their own food choices and those of the broader Jewish community. As I said in my speech, the original Trefa Banquet took place n Cincinnati, Ohio, with 215 guests, including the most influential Jewish leaders in the United States and non-Jewish dignitaries. The elaborately printed menu featured nine courses of French dishes like pigeon “vol au vent,” little neck clams and “salade of shrimp,” paired with five alcoholic beverages. According to American Jewish lore, several rabbis expressed their shock at the non-kosher food placed before them, rushed from the room and immediately sped off to establish the Conservative movement, which would present itself as a happy medium between the stringency of Orthodoxy and the radical changes of the Reform movement. Although the truth is slightly less dramatic, the banquet did inspire events leading to the creation of the Conservative movement's Jewish Theological Seminary. Historians argue that the Trefa Banquet was probably not intended to be radical, but instead reflected the eating habits of Jews in the late 19th century. Many Jews would have eaten shellfish but not the more taboo-seeming pork, even though neither is kosher. Their public events, however, generally adhered to dietary law. This trend continues today: Despite the highly diverse personal practices of American Jews, many Jews expect public Jewish events to be kosher. The original Trefa Banquet broke American Jewish convention by conforming public behavior to personal practices. As reports surfaced in Jewish newspapers, descriptions of the event changed over time and outrage grew Wise first blamed the Jewish caterer, then later admitted that he had approved the menu. His defenders labeled his critics “ignorant fanatics” whose views were best left behind in Europe. An antiSee KOSHER on Page THE
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This Jewish Bedtime Ritual Is a Parenting Win
Kveller
By Sarah Rudolph
(Kveller via JTA) -- Twinkle, twinkle, kochavim (stars), Shining in the shamayim (sky). When I say Shema tonight, Everything will be all right. Years ago, my oldest child brought this song home from preschool. It made me wonder: What exactly was the message they were trying to convey to my little girl? As a new mother, I rejoiced in starting to pass on Jewish traditions and prayers to my daughter, such as reciting the Shema at bedtime. Freshly bathed and ready for bed, she would cuddle on my lap while we said the prayer. At first I said the words for her. Then I was overjoyed when she began to say them herself, like generations of Jewish children before her. But I wasn’t thrilled to discover that her teachers were presenting the Shema as some sort of magic formula. “When I say Shema tonight, everything will be all right.” Really? Is that what we believe? What was I to say if she woke up an hour later and vomited — should I tell her she must not have said the Shema properly? Or that her illness, despite her suffering, is actually “all right?” I could maybe get away with minimizing, say, a midnight earache, but what if something more serious were to happen during the night? Surely her teachers didn’t think through the implications of the song that much; it was just a cute rhyme. But I didn’t think it was so cute. At the time, I wasn’t ready to discuss theodicy with a 2-year-old. (Nine years later, I still don’t have perfect answers when my children ask about the existence of evil in the world — in fact, no one does.) But I knew I wasn’t going to teach her that if she always did the right thing, only good things would come — and that, conversely, if bad THE
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things happen, she must have done something wrong. Aside from being a terrifying thing to say to a child, I just don’t think it’s true — the world is too complex, and God is too complex, for any kind of simplistic, linear equation to accurately represent the relationship between what we do and what happens to us. Part of the traditional ritual of reciting Shema is to cover the eyes. When I first started saying Shema with each of my four babies, I was always careful not to fully cover their eyes because I thought that would be alarming for a little baby. I would leave my hand on the side a little, or leave gaps between my fingers, trying to accustom the baby to this ritual without making it uncomfortable or scary. As my children got older and more used to it, I was able to fully cover their eyes — the way I do myself. One recent night, when my youngest was about 18 months, she was the one who took my hand and placed it over her eyes. (I guess I wasn’t fast enough!) As we sat and rocked, singing the special songs we like to sing before bedtime, that one little move of hers got me thinking. I realized that perhaps I had unknowingly taught her a better lesson than the one her big sister learned at school. No matter what we do or how fervently we pray, we don’t actually know that everything will be all
right. Shema or no Shema, there are no guarantees. There is little that we can be sure of in this world. But what I can do — and what our bedtime Shema ritual can do — is help my children prepare to face a world of uncertainty. I can help provide them with the security to have their eyes covered — to welcome it, even — to find assurance from the embrace of their parents, and of God, to confidently embark on a long, dark night without knowing how things will be in the morning. As a mom, I hope and pray that the rituals and habits I teach my children will provide them with a framework from which to confidently explore the world, with all of its uncertainties. I hope they will be able to gain strength — through the Shema, along with every other mitzvah I teach them — to be “all right” with whatever life brings. (Sarah Rudolph lives in Cleveland with her family. She has been teaching Jewish text studies for over 10 years to students ranging from elementary school to retirement age. More recently, she has begun a foray into blogging for such sites as The
Times of Israel and The Torch.) Kveller is a thriving community of women and parents who convene online to share, celebrate and commiserate their experiences of raising kids through a Jewish lens. Visit Kveller.com. ì “THE MOST WELL TRAVELED VEHICLES ON EARTH”
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Israel Under Radar
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Israel Is Ready for War with Hezbollah in Lebanon. Here Are Five Reasons Why. By Ron Kampeas
Members of the Hezbollah movement in the southern Lebanese city of Nabatieh, Nov. 8, 2017. (Mahmoud Zayyat/AFP/ Getty Images)
WASHINGTON (JTA) -- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had a simple, straightforward message this week when he toured Israel's border with Syria and Lebanon with top security officials. "Our face is turned toward peace, we are ready for any eventuality, and I don't suggest anyone test us," he said Tuesday in a video message he posted on Twitter, the sound of helicopter blades whirring in the background. The mixed message signaled Israel's ambivalence about taking on the terrorist group Hezbollah 12 years after Lebanon and Israel were left gutted by a summer war. The 2006 war was costly for both
sides: Hezbollah, the preeminent militia in Lebanon, lost political capital for inviting a devastating response to its provocations along Israel's border. Israel's military and political class at the time paid a price for not decisively winning a war that precipitated a mass internal movement of civilians southward. Yet the sides are making increasingly belligerent noises. Here are five factors contributing to increasing tensions along the border. Syria may be winding down, and Iran is winding up. The Assad regime, along with its allies Russia, Iran and Hezbollah -Iran's proxy in the region -- have the opposition in Syria's civil war on the run. Iran and Hezbollah are striking while the iron is hot, establishing preeminence in the region. Iranian brass recently toured southern Lebanon and Tehran, according to Israeli reports, and Iran is financing a military factory in Lebanon. Israeli officials reject a permanent Iranian presence on its border -- a message that Netanyahu deliv-
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ered to Russian President Vladimir Putin when they met last month in Moscow. "I told him that Israel views two developments with utmost gravity: First is Iran's efforts to establish a military presence in Syria, and second is Iran's attempt to manufacture – in Lebanon – precision weapons against the State of Israel," he said after the meeting. "I made it clear to him that we will not agree to either one of these developments and will act according to need." The mixed message signaled Israel's ambivalence about taking on the terrorist group Hezbollah 12 years after Lebanon and Israel were left gutted by a summer war. The 2006 war was costly for both sides: Hezbollah, the preeminent militia in Lebanon, lost political capital for inviting a devastating response to its provocations along Israel's border. Israel's military and political class at the time paid a price for not decisively winning a war that precipitated a mass internal movement of civilians southward. Yet the sides are making increasingly belligerent noises. Here are five factors contributing to increasing tensions along the border. A U.S. leadership vacuum is creating anxiety. President Donald Trump ordered a missile strike on a Syrian missile base last year after it was revealed that Syria used chemical weapons against civilians, but otherwise the U.S. engagement with shaping the outcome of Syria's civil war has been desultory. Russia is filling the vacuum, which is stoking Israeli anxieties. Despite generally good relations between the Netanyahu and Putin governments, Israel cannot rely on Russia to advance Israeli interests in the same way it has with the United States. "As the shape of the Syrian war changes, Israel may find its working relations with Russia undermined by Moscow’s desire to exercise influence in Syria generally from afar, and by its shifting relations with Iran," Shoshana Bryen, the senior director at the Jewish Policy Center, wrote this week in The Algemeiner. Absent focused U.S. leadership, Israel may strike out on its own to prevent Hezbollah from becoming the preeminent force in the nations
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to its north. There are signs that the Trump administration, albeit belatedly, is noticing what its absence has wrought: Last month, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said 2,000 U.S. troops currently in Syria to assist pro-Western rebels would remain stationed there to mitigate against a permanent Iranian presence in Syria. New fences make restive neigh-
A view of the border between Lebanon, left, and Israel near the village of Kfar Kila, Feb. 7, 2018. (Ali Dia/AFP/Getty Images)
bors. Israel is building a wall on its northern border along a line demarcated by the United Nations in 2000, when Israel ended its 18-year occupation of southern Lebanon. Israel is building the wall in order to prevent the deadly Hezbollah incursions that spurred the 2006 war, which claimed 1,200 Lebanese lives and more than 60 Israeli lives. But neither Lebanon nor Hezbollah accepted the demarcation as a permanent outcome, citing disputes over small patches of land that extended back to the 1949 armistice, and the Lebanese government and Hezbollah have threatened action. Oil and gas Lebanon last month approved a joint bid by Italian, French and Russian oil companies to explore seas off its coast. Israel claims a portion of the waters. Israeli leaders have called for a diplomatic solution to the dispute, but the competing claims are aggravating tensions between the countries. Hezbollah, intermittently, has also threatened to attack Israeli platforms in the Mediterranean extracting natural gas. Gaza The Gaza Strip also is restive, with an increase in rocket attacks from Hamas and Israeli retaliatory strikes after Trump in December recognized Jerusalem as Israel's capital. An Israel distracted by an engagement with Hamas and other terrorist groups in the south could be seen by Hezbollah as an opening to strike in the north. ì THE
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KOSHER Continued from Page 20 Wise Jewish newspaper publisher suggested snidely that not only did Wise not know the laws of kashrut, he also did not know that one should only eat oysters in months with an R in them — accusing Wise of being both ignorant of Jewish law and unsophisticated. The fact that some American Jews still tell the story of that night in Cincinnati in 1883 illustrates that debates about food practices are central to the ways that American Jews think about themselves. At the Illuminoshi’s banquet, eight chefs were invited to reflect creatively on their work by preparing non-kosher dishes. The chefs’ responses ranged from the classic Reuben sandwich — a staple of non-kosher American Jewish delis that violates the kosher rule of separating dairy and meat — to peanut butter pies trendily topped with bacon. Limited vegetarian options were provided in order to include vegetarians or those who, like me, do not eat nonkosher meat. Despite some reports in the Jewish press, this was not a petulantly defiant celebration of non-kosher food. Rather it was a thoughtful reflection on the ways in which many American Jews eat and Jews in the food industry make their living. Still, readers were angered by the idea of a public gathering of Jews focused on treif. An irate reader sent me a profanity-laden email asking scornfully, “What’s next, a baptism event for Jews?” Congregants at a synagogue where I had spoken a few weeks earlier objected to my attendance at the Illuminoshi gathering, even though I myself keep kosher and did not consume non-kosher meat at the event. The controversy, at its heart, seems to be about how American Jews eat and have eaten communally, and not about the eating practices of individuals. Talking openly about American Jews’ relationship to non-kosher food disturbs many American Jews. Many Jews who do not keep kosher continue to think that kashrut, even when most often observed in the breach, is important to American Jews’ identities. But in the age of identity politics, amid a changing American religious landscape, we need more reflection, not less, on the everyday practices that define who we are, in private and public. At the Trefa THE
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Banquet 2.0, organizer Alix Wall spoke about how eating pork reminds her of her mother, a child survivor of the Holocaust who was hidden with a Catholic Polish family who shared with her the little meat — always pork — they had. I have interviewed many restaurateurs who describe non-kosher dishes as Jewish ones because they evoke memories of eating with their Jewish family members. For those who attended the 2.0 banquet, it too was a Jewish event, without contradiction. Others argue for a Jewish dietary system rooted in ethical guidelines that reflect Jewish values rather than the precise ritual requirements of kashrut, which are mostly unrelated to contemporary ethical concerns. At the Trefa Banquet 2.0, Devil’s Gulch Ranch, a local, family-owned, sustainable farm in California's Marin County, provided the pork and rabbit meat used by the chefs. The Jewish owner of Devil’s Gulch, Mark Pasternak, spoke about how he saw his work as conforming to Jewish values despite the non-kosher meat his farm produces. Pasternak is not alone. The New Jewish Food Movement, sometimes called eco-kashrut, has grown steadily since the 1970s. It combines particularly Jewish ways of thinking about food, environmentalism and sustainability with Jewish religious traditions. In a thoughtful response to the Trefa Banquet 2.0 for JTA, the acclaimed American Jewish historian Jonathan Sarna suggested that the event might further divide American Jews. But at the 2.0 banquet, Illuminoshi members and their guests participated in a long tradition of American Jews using their culinary decisions to generate personal conversations about food, values and Judaism, acknowledging the complexity of religious identity in the 21st century. (Rachel B. Gross is the John and Marcia Goldman Professor of American Jewish Studies at San Francisco State University.) The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of JTA or its parent company, 70 Faces Media.ì
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Bookshelf BOOKS Continued from Page 13 sisters. While the recommended age range is 5-8, the lively but simple photographs will appeal to even younger ones, who will be fascinated by the smiling, cheerful faces of other kids. The settings traverse the globe and the Jewish life cycle and calendar, from blowing the shofar, eating matzah and lighting a Hanukkah menorah to graduations, bar mitzvah celebrations and other milestones. Kids are dressed in contemporary clothes and traditional elaborately decorated Yemenite clothing. In an author's note, Debra Davick writes that she was first inspired to create the book by visiting her children Jewish day school many years ago -- a community that included Jewish children from an array of Jewish families. Here are some new Jewish titles on the springtime bookshelves: The Spy Who Played Baseball Carrie Jones; illustrated by Gary Cherrington Kar-Ben; ages 5-9 Nothing says spring like baseball. This new book introduces kids to the unusual story of Moe Berg, a Princeton-educated, multi-lingual
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major leaguer from the 1930s who was inducted into the National Jewish Sports Hall of Fame. During World War II, Berg became an intelligence officer for the U.S. war efforts, including in Nazi-controlled Europe. Search for the Shamir Eric A. Kimmel; illustrations by Ivica Stevanovic Kar-Ben; ages 6-9 This is the second in the "Scarlett and Sam" series, a Jewish chapter book for older readers. Eric Kimmel, a popular and award-winning author, delivers a fun adventure story with returning fictional twins Scarlett and Sam, who travel back in time to ancient Jerusalem, where they face the challenge of finding a mythical insect called the shamir that the ruler needs to build the First Temple. Roller Coaster Grandma: The Amazing Story of Dr. Ruth Dr. Ruth K. Westheimer and Pierre Lehu; illustrated by Mark Simmons Apples & Honey Press; ages 8-12 In this graphic novel, kids follow the remarkable life journey of Ruth Westheimer, the popular sex-therapist media star known as Dr. Ruth who fled the Nazis on a Kindertransport, trained as a sniper with the Haganah in Israel and immigrated to the U.S. ì
BRYAN BATT Continued from Page 14 Express, and CATS. Off-Broadway: Forbidden Broadway Strikes Back, Forbidden Broadway Cleans Up Its Act (Drama Desk Nomination). Regionally Bryan originated the role of "Gould" in the Los Angeles premiere of Grey Gardens starring Betty Buckley and Rachel York. Films include the Oscar-winning Best Picture 12 Years A Slave, Parkland, The Last of Robin Hood, Funny People, LBJ, and the upcoming Ambition, Billionaire Boys Club, I Hate Kids, Easy Does It, and Darlin’. Television appearances include NCIS, NCIS: New Orleans, Law and Order: SVU, Ugly Betty and Ghost Whisperer. As an Author, both his décor book Big, Easy Style and his “momoir,” She Ain’t Heavy, She’s My Mother, have received rave reviews. In fall of 2018 his third book will be released, Pontchartrain Beach: A Family Affair. A civic activist, Batt organized, hosted and/or performed in numerous events and fundraisers in New Orleans, New York, and Los Angeles for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights Aids, The Actor's Fund, and many more. Batt has served on the
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board of N.O. AIDS Task force and is honored to be an Emeritus board member of Le Petit Theatre du Vieux Carre. Honors include 2007 HRC Equality award, OUT Magazine’s Artist of the Year 2007, N.O. AIDS Task Force Humanitas Award, Big Easy 2008 “Entertainer of the Year,” Backstage Magazine’s Bistro Award for Best Vocalist 2008, Isidore Newman School Distinguished Alumnus Award 2008-2009, Arts Council of N.O. Community Arts Award, and the Young Leadership Council’s Role Model Award 2014. About Le Petit Théâtre du Vieux Carré Le Petit Théâtre du Vieux Carré is one of the oldest local theaters in the country. It was established in 1916 and has operated continuously as a producing theater ever since, first as a community theatre, then transforming into the professional theater it is today. For one century, the theater has been housed in a historic French Quarter building of the same name. It features a 323seat house hosting five main stage productions, casting both Equity and Non-Equity performers.ì
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ORGANIC Continued from Page 11 gluten-free kitchen to cater to kids with celiac disease and gluten sensitivity. The camp decided to do so after staff noticed an increasing number of campers following gluten-free diets, said Janet Fliegelman, the chief operating officer. “What was happening is people were sending food for their children, so that they could follow their diet, and it was isolating,” she told JTA, adding that there were also cross-contamination issues. NJY Camps tries to make glutenfree meals similar to the day’s regular meal so that campers won’t feel left out. "The idea of it is that a child who is gluten-free can come to camp and not feel pointed out, not identified. They can have a completely inclusive experience," Fliegelman said. NJY Camps also accommodate children with other dietary restrictions, such as nut allergies and lactose intolerance, according to Fliegelman. Friedman said the focus on healthy eating stems from inside and outside influences. “I think what’s happening is that the trends that you see in society in general certainly have infiltrated summer camp, and specifically Jewish summer camp, because I think food is a big part of the tradition," she said. The fact that kids help to grow
9 THINGS Continued from Page 10 bol of inclusion of gays, lesbians and other groups marginalized in the Jewish community. The story goes that the practice was instituted by the feminist scholar Susannah Heschel after she was told that a woman belongs on the synagogue bimah, or prayer podium, like an orange belongs on a seder plate. But according to Heschel, that story is false. In that apocryphal version, she said, “a woman’s words are attributed to a man, and the affirmation of lesbians and gay men is erased. Isn’t that precisely what’s happened over the centuries to women’s ideas?” 8. “Afikomen” isn’t Hebrew. For many seder participants, the highlight of the meal is the afikomen — a broken piece of matzah that the seder leader hides and the children search for; the person who THE
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some of the food brings an added significance to Jewish rituals, Stadlin said. At Eden Village Camp, kids tend to, harvest, winnow, thresh and grind wheat in order to make challah. "The coolest thing about it is that when that’s done, and they’ve seen this big field turn into a small container of flour and then that turns into a little loaf of challah, and they know how much work went into that, at the end of that you don’t need to convince kids to say the motzi," he said, referring to the Jewish blessing over bread. Golanski's mother, Gina Schmeling, a nonprofit consultant living in Brooklyn, said her two sons are never quite as healthy as when they return from Eden Village Camp at the end of the summer. “When my kids come back, they are just radiating good health, they both seem really fit, they both seem really calm, they both seem really generous and helpful in a way that they are not regularly during the school year," she said. The brothers also become more active participants at home in the kitchen, Schmeling said. "They have ideas or suggestions about food, what to make, or how to prepare things that I know a more traditional camp wouldn’t provide,” she said. (This article was made possible with funding by the Foundation for Jewish Camp. The story was produced independently and at the sole discretion of JTA’s editorial team.) ì finds the afikomen usually gets a small reward. Most scholars believe the word “afikomen”derives from the Greek word for dessert. Others say it refers to a kind of postmeal revelry common among the Greeks. Either theory would explain why the afikomen is traditionally the last thing eaten at the seder. 9. For North African Jews, after Passover comes Mimouna. Most people are eager for a break from holiday meals when the eightday Passover holiday concludes. But for the Jews of North Africa, the holiday’s end is the perfect time for another feast, Mimouna, marking the beginning of spring. Celebrated after nightfall on the last day of Passover, Mimouna is marked by a large spread of foods and the opening of homes to guests. The celebration is often laden with symbolism, including fish for fertility and golden rings for wealth. ì
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changing and re-evaluating who we are and what we want, we discover new ways to connect,” she said. But phia to Boston for Reni’s bat mitz- when we see each other, we still vah, echoed this sentiment: have a tendency to “start laughing “Even though we are growing until we cry while snuggled on a into our adult selves, constantly giant air mattress.” (It doesn’t mat-
CAMP FRIENDS Continued from Page 12
Happy Passover to My Friends and Constituents in the Jewish Community Polly Thomas • Representative District 80
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ter where we are—we will find an air mattress to laugh/cry on.) “Camp was a unique place where we could completely be ourselves, and we have taken that with us in our friendship,” said Hilary, now back in Idaho post-wedding with her dog and fire-jumping significant other (he jumps from planes to fight fires, seriously). Part of our closeness at camp came out of us being the rejects. We were the group of girls who hadn’t grown up in Westchester or Manhattan, and either as a result or because we just happened to be the kinds of kids others called “weird,” we forged bonds that came out of us truly being and embracing our norm-defying selves. Some of us (cough, cough Hilary, Sarah) ran around camp as 11-year-olds in ponchos carrying brooms, enacting the roles of “the grim sweepers.” Others would sit under a tree during our one allotted time per week for buying candy (one bar), serenading other campers with a song designed to get them to give up their candy for us (it never worked). We were strange, but we were strange together, always finding new ways to applaud and participate in each other’s weirdness. And we still do. “We’re all still
supportive,” said Lauren. “Yet now we are counseling each other about partnership and careers and life goals, rather than breaking rules or huddling in the back of a bunk listening to the popular girls tells us what to do with male genitalia.” “Instead of twirling in circles until we dizzily crashed to the floor in a contact high, we were drinking, smoking weed… but we still carry that contact high with us. As Emma said: We’re able to access a part of our former selves. Attending the wedding, I felt we were in a bubble—just our friend group celebrating being together. When we attended Reni’s bat mitzvah, I had a similar feeling: that nothing could harm us.” When we were kids, we predicted that Reni would be the first of us to get married. Nearly two decades later, we were right. Not all of our predictions have come true, like when we’d all lose our virginity or how we’d all live in a giant, decrepit mansion together when we got older, but the most important one has: We’re still best friends, and that still means everything. Jessica Klein is a freelance writer and amateur portrait artist based in New York. ì
BLACK PANTHER Continued from Page 15
has been rooting for the Black Panther film for a while. "Congratulations @marvelstudios, #RyanCoogler, and the entire cast & crew on the soaring success of Black Panther! What a thrill it is to be able to witness all the records this dynamic, thoughtful movie is smashing," he tweeted. So perhaps it’s time to celebrate the message of reconciliation that "Black Panther” represents, just like Kirby — who passed away in 1994 — might have done. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Kirby’s family compared him to Bernie Sanders, saying that he would have been delighted to see the character empower such a wide audience. "A black superhero with both amazing mental as well as physical powers, from a technologically advanced society in Africa, sends as strong a message now as it did over 50 years ago. Today, my grandfather’s message will reach tens of millions of people of all races and nationalities, a concept my grandfather could never have conceived of," Kirby’s granddaughter Jillian said in a separate interview cited by THR.ì
black writers have been praising Lee and Kirby for reaching out to non-white audiences and imagining an empowered African culture free from colonialism. Coogler called them "amazing" in an interview last week. Reginald Hudlin, who over a decade ago wrote a Black Panther TV series, called the duo's character "perfect." Stephen Bush, writing in the New Statesman, called them "genius." As for Lee, who is now 95, he Call Our Trained Experts & Experience the Difference
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CHARITIES Continued from Page 16 Jewish impact investing advocates want Jewish charities -- like local federations or family foundations -- to consider putting some of their endowments in impact investing rather than traditional investments, which aim to maximize profits. A December conference in New York on that topic, run by JLens, drew representatives from 84 organizations. But while impact investing has spread in the Jewish community, Hammerman says there’s a lot more work to be done. In addition to educating Jews about impact investing and helping foundations with investment strategies, JLens engages in shareholder advocacy campaigns to encourage public companies to behave more ethically. “Business and investment capital has been channeled now for all sorts of campaigns and pursuits and goals, and the Jewish community has been absent,” Hammerman said. "As there is recognition of the power of this arena and our lack of participation, our lack of leadership, there has been an understanding that, wait a second, we should be in this space.” But impact investing shouldn’t be seen as a reason not to donate money traditionally, said Andres Spokoiny, the president of the Jewish Funders’ Network. Spokoiny praised the partnerships that impact investing creates between nonprofits and the business sector, but said philanthropy can fill needs that will never be profitable but are still essential. “I wouldn’t want people thinking every problem in the Jewish community can be addressed by impact investing,” he said. “Some philanthropy exists because they’re market failures, things the market cannot address even if you help them, even if you level the playing field.” Deutsch says impact investing could address some issues the Jewish community has traditionally addressed through nonprofits. He suggests a ski travel business to engage young Jews, or a real estate
fund that could buy up unused Jewish infrastructure, freeing up capital for synagogues and community centers to use more productively. “The Jewish world is throwing everything it can at the issue of next-gen engagement,” he said. “How come we aren’t seeing foundations invest in these types of companies? How come no Jewish foundation that cares about intermarriage invested in JDate,” the Jewish dating website. To promote that type of thinking, Lavan is running a fellowship for young Jews with money to invest to explore the intersection of Jewish values and the market. The 25 fellows meet to learn from investment professionals and discuss investment opportunities, from Israelis making high-tech physical therapy tools to startups tackling global poverty. At the end of the course, each fellow commits $10,000 toward an impact investment of their choice. “One thing that stuck out in particular was tikkun olam, the notion of transforming the world and working individually and collectively to create a more perfect world,” said Lauren Thurin, a current fellow who comes from a philanthropic family in Australia, and who works for Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors. “It was always important to me, but I didn’t know why it was important to me.” As part of the fellowship, the fellows examine Jewish texts that inform how money should be invested. In one class, they compared the vertically integrated structure of SolarCity, Elon Musk’s solar energy company, with a rabbinic story about the Tower of Babel in the book of Genesis. In another class, they examined the Jewish idea that “the poor of your city should come first.” “Everything is about living more consciously and making choices based on your Jewish values,” said Rabbi Amitai Fraiman, who helped build the Lavan fellows’ curriculum. “And if we can add another realm of your life where you’re doing that, that’s good.”ì
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Happy Passover
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