Gift Guide 2019 Laura Feld, owner of Laura Rose Cookies in Commerce, launched her business in 2016 after looking for something sshe could do from home once hher kids were in school — partly inspired by her mom, who used to in make m akke cookies to give as gifts. “I’ve always had a passion for creative projects,” Feld says. “I’ve loved to draw, and I’ve made custom greeting cards. When I started making the custom cookies, they took off really fast. Who doesn’t like cookies?” We, for one, love the mouthwatering, gorgeous — and festive — confections. Find Laura Rose Cookies on Facebook and Instagram; Laurarosecookies@gmail.com.
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gift guide 2019
Gifted Eight nights of awesome gifts (plus a few extras) for everyone on your Chanukah list. LYNNE KONSTANTIN CONTRIBUTING WRITER
7 For All Mankind high-waist SKINNY DENIM in coated pewter powder. Rear Ends, West Bloomfield. (248) 626-4333; shoprearends.com.
Take your pick of Eriness JEWEL-STUDDED RINGS — she’ll love them all. Zieben Mare, Franklin. (248) 539-8879; ziebenmare.com.
Vintage Italian LEATHER CUFF — studded with African turquoise. Full Moon Greetings, Commerce. (248) 896-2424; fullmoongreetings.com. continued on page 32
GIFT GUIDE • 2019
12,
STORE CLOSING
SALE
OF LIVONIA
We’ve decided to close our showroom and our huge multi-million dollar inventory of the worlds finest hand- crafted Oriental Rugs new, antique, traditional and contemporary, in every shape and size must be sold.
65% 75% ~
OFF THE TICKET PRICE
DOORS WILL CLOSE IN WEEKS! 8 MILE RD. FARMINGTON RD.
EVERYTHING IS NOW REDUCED
TIME IS RUNNING OUT... 20414 FARMINGTON RD. (S. OF 8 MILE) , LIVONIA
248.965.4446 OPEN EVERYDAY: 10AM - 6PM
NOW YOU CAN FIND THE RUG OF YOUR DREAMS! GIFT GUIDE 2019
gift guide 2019 continued from page 30
Lauren Moshi ultra-soft TONGUE BASEBALL TEE. Guys N Gals, West Bloomfield. (248) 851-1260.
Cozy faux fur MARGOT SLIPPERS by Far Away From Home. Anthropologie.com.
Thick and cozy, this Rose + Pom angora LEOPARD BEANIE is topped with a racoon pom. Rear Ends, West Bloomfield. (248) 6264333; shoprearends.com.
Michael Aram BOTANICAL LEAF GOLD CANDLEHOLDERS. Slades, West Bloomfield. (248) 851-0066; sladesgifts.com.
Faux Fa python MESSENGER BAG ME with adjustable strap. Guys N Gals, West Bloomfield. B (248) 851-1260. 85
GIFT GUIDE 2019
GRAND SLAM SALAD SERVERS by Lily Juliet are handcrafted of resin and reclaimed horn. Lori Karbal, Birmingham. (248) 2581959; lorikarbal.com. continued on page 34
Published by German art-book publisher Taschen, which treats books as works of art themselves, LINDA MCCARTNEY: THE POLAROID DIARIES highlights McCartney’s (formerly Eastman, of Kodak Eastman) vast collection of instant pictures from the 1970s-mid ’90s. This collector’s edition is signed by Paul McCartney. Zieben Mare, Franklin. (248) 539-8879; ziebenmare.com.
Authentic AIR JORDAN OFFWHITE UNC in blue. This CATS AND THE Nojo Kicks, Detroit. DREIDEL AND SILVER SPOON TEE will have Nojokicks.com. him rockin’ round the menorah. Moderntribe.com.
EX ROLL-ON OIL by Riddle has refined deep rose and leather notes. At Good Neighbor, Detroit, where $1 of every sale is donated to Humble Design. (313) 788-7800; shopgoodneighbor.com.
Happy Socks newest drops, limited-edition ROLLINGS STONES SOCKS and BEATLES SOCKS. Just Guys Apparel, Franklin. (248) 847-3528.
SWEET SUE ART PRINT by photographer Amy Carroll. Urbanoutfitters.com. DETROIT STREET MAP SKATEBOARD is laser engraved and laser cut, with a Canadian Maple deck. Detroit Surf Co., Detroit. (313) 744-3727; detroitsurfco.com.
Detroit’s own Mitch Albom, author of the best-selling Tuesdays With Morrie and much more, offers his newest creation: FINDING CHIKA: A LITTLE GIRL, AN EARTHQUAKE, AND THE MAKING OF A FAMILY tell’s Albom’s own story of becoming captivated by a little girl at the Haitian orphanage he founded and the poignant effect she had on his family. continued on page 34 GIFT GUIDE 2019
gift guide 2019 continued from page 33
Kickee Pants snuggly HOLIDAY COVERALLS with menorahs or dreidels. Perfect Trading, T Bloomfield Hills. (248) 792-5949. (
The award-winning brand behind Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls book series and podcast has now launched the REBEL GIRLS CHAPTER BOOK SERIES, inspiring and empowering young girls (and boys) to set forth and explore their passions. Each book tells the story of an inspiring woman, with gorgeous illustrations and fun activities. Rebelgirls.co.
The totally rad Freaky Freezies COLORCHANGING GLOVES are back from the ’80s — but now they have Thinsulate. Guys N Gals, West Bloomfield. (248) 851-1260.
Handknit in 100-percent premium cotton, NOAH THE DOG and CHARLOTTE THE DOG from Cuddle + Kind are not only snuggly, waggy life-sized pals — for every doll purchased, 10 meals are provided to children in need around the world, all year long. Cuddleandkind.com.
Tiny Whales MIDWEST IS BEST TEE, STAY GOLD JOGGERS and RAD POM POM BEANIE. Perfect Trading, Bloomfield Hills. (248) 792-5949.
Six feet of creative coloring fun: Mudpuppy’s UNICORN MAGIC ACTIVITY ROLL, with coloring, mazes and more. Perfect Trading, Bloomfield Hills. (248) 792-5949. GIFT GUIDE 2019
If it’s Insta-worthy, it’s print-worthy! The portable Canon IVY MINI PHOTO PRINTER is a pocketfriendly printer that prints peel-and-stick photos (that can be customized with text and doodles) from a smartphone or social media. Bestbuy.com.
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DECEMBER 12 • 2019
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gift guide 2019
Especially For You … Custom gifts for the most discerning recipient. RONELLE GRIER CONTRIBUTING WRITER
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othing says “I was thinking of you” better than a personalized gift. Here are some suggestions.
THE GIFT OF MUSIC Are you still trying to find the perfect gift for those impossible-to-buy-for people on your list? Consider a custom playlist created by longtime music aficionado Julie Zorn. Through her company Melody Makers, Zorn uses her vast knowledge of music to compile individualized collections of songs geared to specific listeners or situations. For example, when a friend was going through chemotherapy, Zorn made a playlist of inspirational songs to provide hope and encouragement during that difficult experience. She has also compiled playlists of high-energy music for exercise instructors or individuals to use during classes or workouts. “Each playlist has its own energy,” Zorn says. “The songs may be peaceful, energizing or uplifting — and music can be very therapeutic.” Zorn has curated songs for new parents to listen to during nighttime feedings and created playlists to ease the boredom of long automobile or airplane trips. Party playlists are another popular category. To celebrate a major birthday, one client requested a playlist of the No. 1 hit songs from the last 55 years. “Before there were playlists, I used to make mix tapes for people,” says Zorn, a retired social worker. “I’ve always loved GIFT GUIDE 2019
curating, putting the music together to bring people joy and peace and good energy.” Zorn cultivated her knowledge of musical artists and genres during the 10 years she worked for the former Harmony House chain. She gained additional experience as a DJ for local parties and events. Before creating a playlist, Zorn sets up a phone interview with the client to learn about their musical tastes, favorite artists and how they plan to use the finished product. “As we talk, I get a sense of what songs and musicians they might enjoy,” she says. After a thorough research and selection process, Zorn shares a link to the finished playlist via text, email or messenger. Recipients can listen to the music on a cell phone, computer or tablet. The cost varies according to the length and complexity of the playlist. Contact Zorn through the Melody Makers Facebook page or Facebook Messenger.
COURTESY OF VEE ROSE ART
CUSTOM PAINTINGS Looking for a gift that stands out? Imagine your sister’s face when she unwraps a painting of her all-time favorite Beatles album. Or perhaps your kids would love a pop art version of their graduation photo. Using acrylic paints on canvas, Olivia “Vee” Rose creates original wall art in a variety of shapes, sizes and themes that include movies, books, music, pets, yoga, sports, love and friendship. She can work from a photograph, illustration, book or album cover, or any visual or verbal inspiration. “Just give me a concept, and I’ll roll with it,” she says. Her canvases generally range in size from 8 x 8 to 18 x 36, but she will make smaller or larger paintings to accommodate wall space or subject matter. Prices start at $15-$20 and vary according to the size and intricacy of the piece. Contact her at Oliviagrose96@ gmail.com or through the Vee Rose Art Facebook page.
COU RT ES Y
COP A NEW “HATTITUDE” After 30 years as an art teacher in the Detroit roit school system, Elayne Astrein was ready for a new endeavor. r. Determined to find d something she wass passionate about, hat-making was a natural choice. Several years ago, Astrein had begun
making hats for herself using a variety of techniques that included crocheting, weaving, felting and embellishing. “Whenever I wore one of my hats, people would stop and ask me where I got it,” she says. “I finally realized this is what I should be doing.” Astrein, whose hats can be found at local craft and art shows, credits her late mother, Faye Katz, for inspiring her creations. “My mom always wore hats; she told me they were elegant,” Astrein says. “She taught me about fabric and the importance of quality materials.” Today, Astrein has more than 250 different hats in her inventory; no two are alike. Styles range from fedoras to floppy sun hats to embellished baseball caps in a variety of fabrics that include suede and leather. Some reflect current fashion trends, such as animal prints, while others have a vintage look. “I use good fabrics and buttons and trims — no chintzy lace,” says Astrein, who also welcomes custom orders. Prices range from $30-$180, depending on the fabric and complexity of the design. Contact Astrein at AHat4me@yahoo.com for se information and a purchase er upcoming shows. list of her
ASTREIN AYNE EL OF
GIFT GUIDE 2019
PHOTOS COURTESY JANICE UNGAR
gift guide 2018
Piece by Piece Family time can be enhanced by doing puzzles together during the holiday. STACY GITTLEMAN CONTRIBUTING WRITER
TOP: Galaxy is selling this puzzle for the holiday. ABOVE: Janice, Joel and Matthew Ungar at work on a puzzle
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hen I think of puzzles, I think of lots of plastic cups. And I think of my grandfather. My grandfather was a man who spent 54 years on the night shift as a photoengraver for the New York Daily News. Needing little sleep, he preferred working nights so he could spend the days with his family, especially his grandchildren. From under the couch in my grandparent’s one-bedroom pre-
war Brooklyn apartment, he’d pull out a puzzle he had just started on a sturdy wooden board and set it on the coffee table — and we got to work. We completed the border first and only then would we tackle the rest of the project by sorting the pieces into cups based on colors and patterns. My grandfather taught me that puzzles are a relaxing way to develop one’s patience while spending time with family. Along the way, I learned about faraway picturesque mountain ranges from some puzzles and species of birds and flowers from others. The love of jigsaw puzzles continues into the next generations. Every year on our extended family visit to my in-laws in Florida, we spend most evenings hunched over a puzzle with thousands of pieces. My kids, nieces and nephews make it into a competition by each claiming their section. The marathon assembly sparks lots of giggles and conversation, and sometimes we break out into song, like the year we completed a Broadway-themed puzzle. My family is not alone in our craze for puzzles. According to Market Watch, jigsaw puzzles sales in 2019 were $670 million. Janice Ungar of West Bloomfield was a school librarian before a layoff inspired her to start Galaxy, a puzzle sales
business, in 2005. Ungar said that puzzles are a great, screen-free activity that reduces stress and encourages family bonding. “When I was laid off as a school librarian, I found that doing puzzles took the edge off my stress,” Ungar said. “It was also a great way as a family to come together and talk about our day.” Ungar said the bulk of her business comes from repeat customers who know she carries high-quality puzzles with content such as beautiful landscapes or famous artwork or elaborate and intricate scenes drawn by cartoon artists. Galaxy offers the newest twists on puzzles, including those with holographic images or ones that are built in three dimensions. Ungar’s latest offering in time for Chanukah is made of about 40 tiny wood laser-cut pieces, included those in the shape of a dreidel. The puzzle sells for $9.95 including shipping. Other popular puzzles she sells include ones that display masterpieces from artists like Vincent Van Gough or kitschy ones like dogs playing poker. Ungar once sold a 3,000-piece puzzle of Jerusalem but said this puzzle no longer is in stock in high-enough quality to meet her standards. Ungar said puzzles make great gifts for the family to work on as the Chanukah candles burn. “My non-Jewish customers love doing puzzles as a family activity for Christmas and maybe it will catch on with my Jewish customers for Chanukah,” she said. “Doing puzzles as an activity never really went away, but it made a significant comeback 10 years ago, and the trend shows no sign of slowing down.” To order Galaxy puzzles, go to galaxypuzzles.com.
gift guide 2019
The Gift of
Organization
Personalized totes please even the hard-to-buy-for. STACY GITTLEMAN CONTRIBUTING WRITER
PHOTOS COURTESY THIRTY-ONE GIFTS
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very family or circle of friends has certain people who are tough to shop for when it comes to gift-giving time. They leave you stumped about what present they’d flip over; yet giving them a gift card lacks sentiment. Lanie Blau Sacks, franchise owner of ThirtyOne Gifts, suggests her personalized and practical offerings can help the busy, hard-to-buy friends and family on your gift list stay organized and stylish. Everyone can use presents like colorful, pocket-embellished totes, thermal bags or storage items but rarely think to buy for themselves, she said. Sacks says when thinking about how to make gift-giving more personal, consider the recipient’s profession or hobby. Any of Sack’s more popular sellers can be customized for teachers or busy moms with clever sayings stitched on the outside. Totes can also be customized with plastic sleeves that hold photos to show off children or grandchildren. “The holidays are a great time to celebrate the hardworking loved ones in your life,” said Sacks, who is also a special education teacher in Walled Lake schools. “Maybe they’re driving the kids to and from practice and need something to keep them organized in the car. Or they’re educating little ones and need a place to put all their classroom supplies. Totes are sturdy and will be appreciated every time they are used.” Among Sack’s favorite picks are take-along “Around the Clock” thermal lunch totes at $30 to replace
other lunch boxes that may be showing wear and tear as the school year reaches the halfway mark. These are also great for grown children who are out of the house and starting independent lives in the workforce. “I have a lot of clients who have older kids who may either be in college or starting careers and living on their own,” Sacks said. “The right gift can reflect their profession or hobby, and most young adults appreciate a gift that helps them stay organized when they are traveling and on the go.” In a selection of fabrics and patterns, Sacks also carries utility totes and organizers starting at $20. The all-in-one organizer is a versatile catch-all that’s great for organizing toys or transporting small items from one place to another. Other totes and bags in her collection are great for the crafter who needs to tame an assortment of papers and scissors, an office worker who needs to keep important papers in check or for the after-work athlete who needs an orderly bag to store workout clothes. For women on your list who can never have enough handbags or totes, treat them to new ones in tribal or animal prints. If the men on your gift list have got you stumped, Sacks suggests sturdy backpacks, briefcases or crossovers starting at $35 that can be brought to the office or campus. For days relaxing at home, cloth, metallic or wooden caddies starting at $25 can be filled with remotes, magazines or eyeglasses to keep by the couch. For more product information, go to mythirtyone.com/us/en/lainiesacks/ product/4847. GIFT GUIDE 2019
gift guide 2019
Give the Gift of an Experience — and of making memories.
THE WATERGATE HOTEL
THE CHEF AND THE DISH
GERSHWINÍS MAGIC KEY
MOTOR CITY SCUBA
CREATIVE ARTS STUDIO
LYNNE KONSTANTIN CONTRIBUTING WRITER
GIFT GUIDE 2019
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From private wheel-throwing or canvas-painting classes to Mommy and Me weekend classes and art camp — even wax hands and spin art — Creative Arts Studios in Royal Oak is inventive fun for all ages. creativeartsstudios.com.
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Give an underwater adventure in Metro Detroit. Recipients can learn to scuba dive in a pool with Novi’s Motor City Scuba, whose blended approach begins with eLearning, then classroom, then confined water before heading out to open-water certification dives. motorcityscuba.com.
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Introduce the kids (ages 6 and up) to classical music and the Detroit Symphony Orchestra with the DSO’s Young People’s Family Concerts (purchase a single concert or season tickets). Often including dance, theater, storytelling and video, the 2019-20 season includes Gershwin’s Magic Key (shown) and Musical Heroes. dso.org. Learn to cook pasta from a chef in Italy, sushi from a chef in Japan, paella from a chef in Spain and more with The Chef & The Dish, cooking classes with chefs from around the world via Skype. Your chef shows you, then watches and coaches you from your computer. From the ultimate couple’s night to a dinner party with the girls — all taught by chefs featured on the Food Network, the BBC and more. thechefandthedish.com.
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Pack up the family and head to Washington, D.C., for a festive Chanukah Getaway package: Three nights at the Watergate Hotel, including two family-connecting rooms, kosher wine tastings at the Bar at Kingbird, kosher chocolate gelt, a kids’ Chanukah book and dreidels, a private car and more. Check out the National Menorah Lighting on the Ellipse, Chanukah on Ice, Zoo Lights at the National Zoo, a holiday market and more. Kosher meals can be included for a cost. thewatergatehotel.com/offers/ hanukkah-in-dc-package.
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Take a peek into your past — and gain insight toward your future — with a visit to a psychic medium. Gift givers can schedule a small group or private reading with two local, renowned intuitive mediums, both of whom may provide affirmation of an afterlife if the client is open to it: Lynn Darmon in Farmington Hills (248-8601121; lynndarmon.com) has clairvoyant, clairaudent and precognitative abilities; Lori Lipten, a shamanic medium, author and spiritual teacher based in Bloomfield Hills (248-219-5928; lorilipten.com), says she can “see into the multiple dimensions of this universe and sense people’s souls.”
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Sign up for a course or two with JLearn (formerly FedEd), the JCC’s and Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit’s Jewish adult learning mecca. Offering workshops and classes on topics including genealogy, ethics, Jewish history, Hebrew language and more. (248) 2052557; jccdet.org/jlearn.
COURTESY OF KADIMA JARC
gift guide 2019
Giving End the year by giving to local nonprofits that help others. SHARI S. COHEN CONTRIBUTING WRITER
TOP LEFT: Friends and family of individuals served by JARC whoop it up at a festive holiday party at Adat Shalom Synagogue. TOP RIGHT: Chris, a Kadima member, works in Kadima’s Hydroponics Garden, which is operated by Kadima’s Zussman Activity Center members. They harvest dozens of heads of lettuce every few months that are then used in cooking.
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JARC (JARC.ORG) JARC provides high-quality, community-based residential and support programs, serving nearly 200 adults in its group homes and various supported
JFS (JFSDETROIT.ORG) Through more than 30 programs, JFS serves thousands of individuals with mental health and wellness needs, safety net issues, and programs for senior
– The Best Gift
ecember is the month for giving — especially gifts and parties for friends, family and co-workers, but it is also traditionally a special time to help those in need. Many nonprofit agencies welcome gifts of cash, needed items and volunteer help at year’s end. Some conduct annual giving campaigns with donor matches to raise funds for special projects or general operations. The following is a sampling of a few Jewish agencies. Many other worthy Jewish and secular nonprofit organizations and causes can be found online at their websites. Most offer donors a convenient way to give online. FRIENDSHIP CIRCLE Friendship Circle of Michigan assists 3,000 individuals with special needs and their families by providing recreational, social, educational and vocational programming. Assistance is also
provided to individuals and families struggling with addiction. Donated items sought include laptops; assorted acrylic paints, Blick or Liquitex; a foosball table; assorted color, craft, watercolor or art papers; sensory water table; high-quality artist colored pencils, paintbrushes, alcohol-based markers or multicolored Sharpie sets; bean bags; overhead projector; weighted blankets, pillows, other weighted items; disco/dance floor pad, MacBook Pro laptop; musical instruments; hairdryers; gym class scooters; sensory tools (stress balls, weighted lap pads); 12 stackable studio chairs; paper cutter; and a Saori loom (for adults with disabilities). Contact: Randall Marie Hutchinson at (248) 788-7878 ext. 211 or randall@friendshipcircle.org.
independent living arrangements. Monetary contributions for social opportunities include date nights for couples; dinner out for a group home; and a Chanukah celebration for a few of the homes to enjoy together. Donations also can be used to purchase a vehicle to provide reliable and safe transportation for a JARC home. Donated items sought include new sheets and towels; new dishes, silverware and cookware, and new small kitchen appliances. Contact: jennykabert@jarc.org or call (248) 940-2617 or email . Volunteer opportunities also are available: Friend-to-Friend volunteers work directly with the individuals JARC serves, sharing their time and friendship; event volunteers provide hands-on help at JARC events, such as monthly Bingo; Judaic volunteers share their love of Judaism with their friends from JARC, perhaps by gathering for a Shabbat dinner or celebrating a holiday. Contact Jessica at (248) 940-2607 or jessicatierney@jarc.org.
continued on page 42
gift guide 2019
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Guift Guide 2019
continued from page 41
adults and the Russianspeaking community. Cash donations of any amount are welcome to help individuals and families who face challenging situations from inadequate income for basic needs to lack of transportation for an older adult’s medical appointment. Contact Wendy Eisenshtadt at (248) 592-2339. Donated items might include gift cards for stores such as Target, Kohls and Meijer to fill in items not covered through the Adopt a Family program; and slipper socks for care packages provided by the Cancer Thrivers Network for Jewish Women, a JFS program, to chemotherapy patients at local infusion centers. Contact: Lindsay Leder at (248) 592-2309. Volunteer opportunities include friendly visitors for homebound older adults; administrative assistance in the office; delivery people for kosher Meals on Wheels; and tech-savvy individuals to help older adults with electronic items. Contact: Emily Croitori at (248) 592-2317. JVS (JVS.ORG) JVS Human Services helps more than 10,000 Metro Detroiters with counseling, training and supportive services for people with disabilities, job seekers, seniors and others in need. Donated items might include gift cards for subscriptions to Amazon unlimited music and audible books; specific arts and crafts supplies; clothing for adults and gift cards for Meijer or Walmart for clothing; adaptive communication devices such as Go Talk speech tablets, noise-canceling headphones, mp3 players for music and audio books; tactile or Braille dominoes sets, Braille Uno and Connect 4 games; gas
cards for job seekers to reach interview sites, internships and employment workshops; and employers to provide job shadowing and internships for people with disabilities. Contact: Sandy Schuster at (248)-233-4290 or sschuster@ jvshumanservices.org. Volunteer opportunities include active seniors who can assist with mailings, packaging and sorting as well as individuals who enjoy community outings; pet volunteers; and sharing expertise in art, music, yoga, sports, card games and other activities. Contact: Dorothy Moon at (248) 2334392 or dmoon@ jvshumanservices.org. KADIMA (KADIMACENTER.ORG) Kadima provides comprehensive residential, therapeutic and social services to all people with mental health needs as they move forward in their lives. A gift to Kadima’s 2019 Annual Campaign will go directly to provide safe, supportive housing, therapy and enrichment programs for people with mental health challenges and their families. Donated items could include hygiene essentials such as dental products, soap, deodorant, shampoo, lotion, etc. These items can be dropped off at Kadima, 15999 W. 12 Mile Road, Southfield. TAMARACK CAMPS (TAMARACKCAMPS.COM) Tamarack Camps builds a vibrant community by providing Jewish camping experiences for children and families, respectful of financial abilities. Tamarack Camps is seeking donations for tripping gear for Camp Maas, Travel Trips and Outpost Camps. A generous donor is matching up to $10,000 through year-end 2019.
gift guide 2019
What’s Inside? White elephant gift exchanges are fun and unpredictable. BARBARA LEWIS CONTRIBUTING WRITER
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oliday party invitations seem to arrive daily and many include two dreaded words: gift exchange. White elephant gift exchange, usually in the form of a game, are popular in offices, organizations, friendship groups and even large families. What is a white elephant? Basically, it’s something you have on hand that you don’t want, but which would make a good gift for someone else. White elephant exchanges are a great way to get rid of nice gifts from
Thailand’s ancient kings would punish a subject by gifting a holy white elephant, whose upkeep could bankrupt the recipient.
well-meaning friends and family that you just can’t use. The term “white elephant” originally meant a burdensome possession that is more trouble than it is worth. The term came from a custom in ancient Thailand. If someone ran afoul of the king, he would give the offender a rare white (albino) elephant, considered holy. The recipient could be bankrupted by the animal’s expensive upkeep. In the mid-20th century, “white elephant sales” were a common feature at synagogue, a church and school bazaars. It’s hard to determine baz when white elephant exchanges w became p popular, though some organizations, including the Detroit branch i of Amein Ameinu, have been hosting gift swaps at Chanukah for decades. Today, most white elephant gift exchanges exchange involve some variation of a game in w which participants who don’t like the gift g they receive can “steal” one they like more from another participant. Really good gifts are likely to be stol stolen several times during the game.
The game usually goes like this: • Everyone at the party brings a beautifully wrapped holiday gift that fits the dollar amount the host announces ahead of time. The gifts are placed in a central pile. • Participants pick numbered slips of paper and the person holding the number 1 chooses a gift, unwraps it and shows it to everyone. The guest holding number 2 goes next and, if he or she likes the first gift better, can “steal” it from the previous player. Then that player chooses another gift from the pile. • Each subsequent player in numerical order chooses a gift and, after unwrapping it, decides whether to keep it or “steal” another alreadyopened gift. Those with higher numbers have more options of gifts to steal. • Because the first player doesn’t have the “steal” option, many groups decide to let that person steal from any of the other players at the end of the game. In large groups, additional rules help keep things moving; for example, deciding that no gift can be “stolen” continued on page 36
GIFT GUIDE 2019
LUXURIOUS SIMPLICITY. BOLD DESIGN. Beautifully Baldwin, this new offering combines Touchscreen and SecureScreen technology with bold Baldwin designs to create a simple electronic connected solution. DECEMBER 19 • 2019
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gift guide 2019 continued from page 34
Etiquette Guidelines Respect the request to bring a gift of a certain value. Mandy Garver of Bloomfield Township remembers an organization’s white elephant gift exchange where one person received a couple of packages of fancy paper napkins. “They were nice napkins, but everyone was pretty shocked to see such a cheesy gift,” she said. • It’s OK to “regift” by giving something you received that you can’t use, but make sure it is “like new.” Something obviously used is a no-no. • Avoid anything political, sexual or religious (unless you’re in a group affiliated with a synagogue). • Wrap your gift beautifully. • Be sure to follow the rules of the game. Some hosts might specify all gifts should be gag gifts. If so, don’t bring something really nice. • Don’t bring items of clothing in a particular size or that won’t be of use to both men and women, unless it’s a single-sex gathering. • Don’t bring something with a promotional logo or advertising message. • Be aware of changing trends. Ten or 15 years ago, a set of beautiful notecards would generally have been welcomed. These days, few people use them.
more than three times. Vicki Salinger of Southfield said one year her Ameinu group did a variation on the traditional game by having everyone choose a gift without unwrapping it. Participants sat in a circle and listened to a story laden with the words “right” and “left,” passing their gift to the right or the left each time. At the end of the story, everyone kept the gift in hand. Marie Slotnick’s most vivid white elephant memory is the one that got away at Beth Shalom Sisterhood’s Chanukah party. Someone else received a chain necklace with a white elephant pendant. “I kept trying to trade for it so that when someone asked me about it I could say, ‘I got it at a white elephant exchange,’” said Slotnick
of Pleasant Ridge. “Boo hiss — it did not end up with me.” Some hosts, aware not all gifts will be equally great, ask everyone to vote at the end of the exchange for the worst gift of the day. The “winner” gets a nice gift provided by the host. If you’re stumped about what to bring, perennial favorites include nice picture frames and fancy edibles or potables. “Good gifts involve liquor, wine or chocolate,” said Sandy Gross of Oak Park. And the most important advice? Be a good sport and remember it’s all in fun. If the gift you like gets stolen or you pick a dog of a gift that no one wants to steal, just laugh about it. You can always put it away for next year’s white elephant gift exchange.
SUNDAY, March 22, 2020 The Student Center Eastern Michigan University Ypsilanti, Michigan
An inclusive festival of unexpected Jewish learning—run entirely by volunteers
We’re seeking presenters!
We’re seeking volunteers!
What can you share?
How can you help?
We’re currently recruiting a diverse group of presenters of varying backgrounds and expertise.
Many volunteer opportunities available. Be a key part of a remarkable day of Jewish experience and learning!
Submit your proposal by Tuesday, December 31, 2019.
Visit LimmudMichigan.org Click on Volunteer for more details.
Visit LimmudMichigan.org Click on Propose for more details.
GIFT Guide 2019
l PG-20
Give the Gift of Spa
Purchas e Krystyn by phone or o n asEuro peanSp line at a.com
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gift guide 2019
One family’s tradition of giving gifts that last generations.
N
ot that a macaroni necklace or coupons for a daddy-daughter tea party aren’t coveted, but there’s a different kind of special connected to a gift with a “story for the ages.” It may be someShelli Liebman thing that warDorfman rants narrative Contributing Writer — or that needs no words; a gift that comes with history — or one that creates its own. The search for a 90th
birthday gift for my dad led to something perfect, memorable, long-standing, personal and one-of-a-kind. Beyond his role as patriarch of our immediate family of children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, my dad Jerry Liebman is also beloved by and closely tied to a large, extended group of relatives. Through an interactive gift plan, we put out an all-points bulletin to collect birthday greetings from family members far and wide, and printed them on a template, each inside one of various-shaped
Jerry Liebman, displaying the gift he received three years ago for his 90th birthday. Behind him is the family tree created for him and his wife, Ceil for their 60th wedding anniversary.
GIFT GUIDE 2019
PHOTOS COURTESY LIEBMAN FAMILY
Legacy Gifts This family history was a 60th anniversary present to Ceil and Jerry Liebman.
talk bubbles. The compilation of 90 funny and touching thoughts and memories of how he inspires, impacts and teaches us is framed in my parents’ house to be read and reread and reread. On another wall in their home is a wood framed wrapped canvas history of our family, created for their 60th wedding anniversary. Miriam Liebman displays her unique graduation gift.
A sketch of a tree is centered with the names of my parents, branching out to include every member who was born into or joined our family from their 1954 marriage until the anniversary date. The only downfall is the best of all possible dilemmas: how to add the names of those who have come along since. Our granddaughter, Shira
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IconIc 20th century FurnIture, FIne-Art, Home Decor & LIgHtIng FREE ry ina Prelim raisals p Art Ap Appointment Photos courtesy Liebman family
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LEFT: Rachel Beneson, now 10, with her cousin, Shira Schon, in 2015 the day Shira received her bracelet. RIGHT: Shira Schon with her great-grandma, Ceil Liebman
Schon, now 16, regularly dons a decades-old piece of jewelry she received when she turned 12. It was a present from her great-grandma, my mom, Ceil Liebman, who received it when she was 12. The silver, narrow-cuff bangle bracelet had been a gift from friends in my mom’s Young Judaea youth group before her family moved to a new town. The bracelet came with a detailed description of how the dented markings amidst the filigree metalwork were the result of my mom’s preteen roller-skating fall. To Shira, the scrape makes the gift even more special. “I’m sure through the years I’ll add my own story to it with new scuffs and scratches,” she said. The summer prior to my niece Miriam Liebman’s graduation from the Jewish Theological Seminary in New York with a rabbinic ordination and a master’s in midrash, her mom came across a newspaper cartoon that turned into the most appropriate gift imaginable. Titled Non Sequitur, and created by Wylie Miller, the cartoon depicts a woman sitting behind a table with a cash box and a sign that reads, “What you’re doing
wrong: $10.” The caption reads, “Miriam decides to turn pro.” My niece, who laughingly admits she can be “very judgmental” at times, found it “especially fitting that the character in the cartoon’s name was Miriam.” After discovering the cartoon, her mom, Judy, contacted Miller about acquiring its original drawing. Not only did she and Miriam’s dad, Marty, purchase the artwork, Miller included a personal note, written to Miriam. The framed gift, with the original cartoon attached to the back, was presented to Miriam at dinner the night of her ordination. It now hangs above her desk, she says, “to remind me of my graduation, of my family, and that it’s OK to laugh at yourself.” Gifts like Miriam’s come with a descriptive account of their history. Others may garner a knowing reaction but need no verbal illumination. No expounding is ever necessary when Miriam’s fiancé, Akiva Fishman, wears a special T-shirt she bought for him after they got engaged. The words, “Real Men Marry Rabbis” quite simply tell their own story.
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JAN 10 & 12
gift guide 2019
Go Israeli!
Cookbooks show you how to go native. KERI GUTEN COHEN STORY DEVELOPMENT EDITOR
Part 1: Fri 1/10 at 8 pm Part 2: Sun 1/12 at 4 pm Lydia Mendelssohn Theatre
Hugo Wolf’s music perfectly matches the verbal rhythm and vocal MRƫIGXMSRW SJ )HYEVH 1¸VMOIŠW TSIXV] [MXL ER IQSXMSREP MRWMKLX XLEX QEOIW IEGL WSRK E VIMRGEVREXMSR SJ XLI TSIQ MR ERSXLIV QIHMYQ
)\GPYWMZI 4VIWIRXMRK 7TSRWSV *VMHE] Maurice and Linda Binkow Vocal and Chamber Arts Endowment Fund 4VIWIRXMRK 7TSRWSV 7YRHE] Doris and Herbert E. Sloan Endowment Fund 7YTTSVXMRK 7TSRWSV 7YRHE] UMS Sustaining Directors
734.764.2538 ——— U M S . O R G
ON SALE NOW
FEBRUARY 6 r FISHER THEATRE BroadwayInDetroit.com, ticketmaster.com, 800-982-2787 & box office Info: 313-872-1000, Groups (10+) groups@BroadwayInDetroit.com (Subject: Mandy Patinkin)
GIFT GUIDE 2019
M
etro Detroit has more than its fair share of Middle Eastern restaurants, but only Pita Post comes close to authentic Israeli. If you’ve been to Israel, you know what I mean. There’s a layering of flavors, punctuated by fresh ingredients and spices. Now you can try your hand at cooking traditional Israeli dishes by using two new cookbooks that make perfect Chanukah presents. Sababa: Fresh, Sunny Flavors from My Israeli Kitchen (Avery, $35) by Adeena Sussman, a Tel Aviv recipe developer and food writer who shops daily for fresh ingredients at Shuk HaCarmel. an open-air market. Sababa means “everything is awesome,” and you agree as you search for recipes in the oversized hard-cover book filled with gorgeous food photographs. Sussman begins with a primer on versatile spice blends and staples, then moves to salads, main courses and desserts. Sample recipes include Honey Harissa Chicken Thighs; Zucchini, Dill and Feta Shakshuka; Root Vegetables and Medjool Date Stew; and Tahini Caramel Tart with Chocolate Shortbread Crust. Shuk: From Market to Table, the Heart of Israeli Home Cooking (Artisan, $35) by Einat Admony and Janna Gur, reflects
Admony’s Sephardi upbringing in such dishes as Persian rice platters and Moroccan tagines. You’ll also find Israeli street foods, inventive shakshukas, stuffed vegetables and more — all with ingredients found in Israel’s many shuks. Now living in New York, Admony’s chapters are defined by ingredients: cauliflower and eggplant, tahini and chickpeas, dairy and eggs, couscous, salads, chicken and more. She also gives histories and her favorite spots at eight shuks in Israel, with fabulous photos of each spot. The recipe photography is outstanding as well. And, because I ate a fabulous meal at one of his restaurants on a recent trip to New Orleans, I also recommend Alon Shaya’s 2018 cookbook Shaya: An Odyssey of Food, My Journey Back to Israel (Knopf, $35). The cookbook/memoir traces his journey from Israel, to Philadelphia, to Italy, Israel again and then New Orleans, where he now lives and shares his new Southern-Israeli-Italian cuisine, such as Spicy Scallop Rolls, Yemenite Stewed Chicken and Labne Cheesecake with Pomegranate Caramel and Candied Nuts. These cookbooks should satisfy any craving for Israeli food this holiday season.
ARTISAN
Sarah Schafer, soprano Susan Platts, mezzo-soprano Daniel McGrew, tenor Jesse Blumberg, baritone Martin Katz, piano
AVERY BOOKS
Martin Katz and Friends
ALFRED A. KNOPF
Hugo Wolf’s Complete Mörike Songs
gift guide 2019
A Guide to Holiday Tipping SHARI S. COHEN CONTRIBUTING WRITER
D
ecember is a month of celebrations and giving — typically to family and friends but often to those who serve us throughout the year. Traditionally, a wide range of service personnel hope for holiday gifts from their clients even if they receive tips during the year. Clients typically think of their hair stylists, mail carriers, cleaning people and newspaper carriers as people to thank with a year-end gift. Other possible recipients include teachers, babysitters, dog walkers and personal trainers. Determining who should receive gifts and how much can depend on the frequency and longevity of their service. Clients may want to thank people for great service or provide some extra compensation for those whose wages are not very high. According to EmilyPost. com and Realsimple.com, most people give cash in the amount of one visit or one day’s service to their hair stylist or babysitter. Some people give gift cards or other gifts, but an unscientific local survey indicates many clients believe
service people prefer cash. One local housekeeper, Bonnie Krystopowicz, says her customers typically give her the cash amount of one visit. However, she has several elderly clients who give her cash plus a gift card to thank her for the errands she also does for them. Emily Post and Real Simple caution that postal carriers can accept a maximum gift of $20. Such limits may also apply to teachers. For nannies or au pairs, these authorities recommend one or two week’s pay. In group situations, such as nursing homes, they suggest a gift that can be shared, such as a food basket. Don Ontart, a hair stylist and owner of Don’s Salon in Southfield, has many Jewish customers who usually give him cash, gift cards or liquor for Christmas. “I don’t expect anything. In fact, I feel I should give my customers presents but there are too many for that to be practical,” he says. He and his staff thank their clients on the Saturday before Christmas with a delicious hot buffet at the salon.
DETROIT’S GOLDEN TICKET
ON SALE NOW FEB 18 – MAR 1
DETROIT OPERA HOUSE • BroadwayInDetroit.com BroadwayInDetroit.com, ticketmaster.com, 800-982-2787 & box office Info: 313.872.1000, Groups (12+) groups @ BroadwayInDetroit.com (Subject: Charlie) oc Feb. 23
Use Code Chanukah2019 at check out for $15 OFF your total purchase. Offer Valid through 1/10/20 for online transactions only. Can not be used on prior purchases or in combination with any other offer. Not valid after expiration date. One coupon per customer.
GIFT GUIDE 2019
gift guide 2019
Good Dog! Gifts for our favorite furry friends (and the humans who love them). LYNNE KONSTANTIN CONTRIBUTING WRITER
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The dog-lovers’ handpainted pewter Chanukah Menorah ($136.50). Moderntribe.com.
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Let Fido show his love for the D with this I Ruff Detroit ($24) baby-rib dog tank. thegreatlakesstate.com.
Match up pooches and their people with Do You Look Like Your Dog Matching Game ($16.95). uncommongoods.com.
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Take a deep dive into your doggie’s genetics with Embark Dog DNA Test ($199) — a cheek swab can analyze genetic markers to help provide breed and family trees back to great-grandparents and screen for genetic health issues. chewy.com.
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Is your pooch the outdoorsy-chic type? Of course! Treat him to a handsome heritage-inspired, sustainably minded Bandana (prices vary) designs by Billy Wolf. billywolfnyc.com.
Petey the Panda Dog Rope Toy ($16) by Jax & Bones. Teacups & Toys, Somerset Collection, Troy. teacupsandtoysmi.com.
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Create a colorful, hand-drawn Custom Pet Portrait ($53) with Madaket Lane on Amazon. Simply choose your background, upload a clear photo and wait 7-10 business days for your canvas print, ready to hang. amazon.com.
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The gift that keeps on giving: Bark’s Consuela The Cactus ($10) is like the Russian nesting dolls of dog toys, with a second toy inside the first, and another inside that. barkshop.com.
GIFT GUIDE 2019
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Gross? Yes. Funny? Yes! Crafting With Cat Hair: Cute Handicrafts to Make with Your Cat ($10) by Kaori Tsutaya. amazon.com.
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WAGWELLIES ($64) by Wagwear are non-skid rain boots, perfect for puddle jumping and cuteness. wagwear.com.