The Jewish Light Fall Bridal 2017 by The Jewish Light

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Volume 7, Number 10 October 2017

Serving the Local New Orleans, Northshore, and Baton Rouge Jewish Communities

The Top 10 Moments That Mattered to Jews in 5777 By Josefin Dolsten not songwriters. Dylan did not seem as enthusiastic as some of his fans: He took two weeks to acknowledge the award and said he was unable to travel to Sweden for the official ceremony, though he traveled there at a later date to accept the award and present the required lecture.

NEW YORK (JTA) — This Jewish year was not a quiet one, to say the least. From the tumultuous first eight months of Donald Trump's presidency, to a wave of bomb threats against Jewish community centers, to a neo-Nazi protest in Charlottesville that turned violent, to the twin weather catastrophes of Hurricanes Harvey and Irma, Jews, like so many others, found it hard to take their eyes off the news. As the year 5777 came to a close, JTA looked back at some of the moments that had the most significance for Jews, sorted below by date. Bob Dylan is awarded the 2016

Bob Dylan speaking at the 25th anniversary MusiCares Person of the Year Gala at the Los Angeles Convention Center, Feb. 6, 2015 (Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

Nobel Prize in Literature. In an unexpected move, the Swedish Academy bestowed the iconic Jewish American singer -born Robert Zimmerman -- with the highly coveted prize in October. Though Bob Dylan's fame is indisputable — he wrote some of the most well-known and culturally significant songs of the 1960s — the decision raised eyebrows because the prize has traditionally been given to novelists and poets,

er, neither of the two men arrested for making the threats turned out to be motivated by far-right beliefs. One of the accused, Juan Thompson, was arrested for making bomb threats against eight Jewish institutions in the name of an ex-girlfriend in a revenge plot. The main suspect, however, turned out to be an IsraePresident Donald Trump, U.N. criticizes Israeli settlement, li-American teenager, Michael standing with his wife, Melania, and the U.S. abstains. daughter Ivanka Trump and Kadar of Ashkelon, who was arresther husband, Jared Kushner, ed for making hundreds of threats. inside of the inaugural parade Kadar reportedly sold his bomb reviewing stand in front of the threat services online and suffers White House, Jan. 20, 2017. (Mark Wilson/Getty Images) from a brain tumor, according to his with him a cadre of Jewish advis- lawyer. ers, including his daughter, Ivanka Trump shouts down reporters Trump, and her husband, Jared who ask him about a rise in antiKushner. The couple, both of whom Semitism. are observant Jews, would take on The Security Council meeting at U.N. headquarters in New York, Dec. 21, critical roles in the administration 2016.(Drew Angerer/Getty Images) as senior advisers to the president, In December, the United Nations with Kushner in charge of a thick sharply condemned Israeli actions portfolio that included brokering a in a resolution calling settlements peace deal between Israel and the "a flagrant violation of internation- Palestinians. al law" that damage the prospects JCCs in U.S. and Canada of a two-state solution to the Israe- targeted with more than 100 li-Palestinian conflict. Traditional- bomb threats. President Donald Trump speaking ly, the United States has vetoed at a White House news conference, such resolutions — but in its wanFeb. 16, 2017. ing days the Obama administration (Mark Wilson/Getty Images) chose not to follow suit. The move prompted outrage from Israel, cenIn February, the president shouttrist and right-leaning Jewish ed at two journalists who asked him groups and then President-elect about an increase in anti-Jewish Donald Trump, who called the ressentiments and incidents, and said olution "extremely unfair." Samanhe “hates” being called an antiThe Gordon JCC in Nashville tha Power, then the American envoy Semite, although neither reporter was targeted multiple times with to the U.N., defended the abstencalled him one. After asking for a bomb threats in 2017. (Courtesy of Gordon JCC) tion, saying the resolution was in "friendly" reporter, Trump interline with longstanding U.S. opposirupted a question by a haredi Orthotion to Israeli settlements. From January to March, Jewish dox journalist -- he accused him of community centers, Jewish schools lying about his intentions -- and Trump takes office, bringing and other institutions were hit with claimed to be the "least anti-SemitIvanka and Jared with him. Trump took office in January more than 100 bomb threats. None ic person that you have ever seen in after his unexpected victory over of the threats, many of which were your entire life." Trump's response Hillary Clinton in November, called in, turned out to be credible, drew criticism from Jewish groups, pledging in his inaugural address to but they forced evacuations and many of which had already critiput "America first." The use of the spread fear among local communi- cized him a month earlier for releasslogan — the name of an isolation- ties. Several Jewish cemeteries ing a statement on International ist and often anti-Semitic move- were also vandalized, prompting Holocaust Remembrance Day that ment leading up to World War II some to blame the rise of the "alt- notably did not mention Jews. His — alarmed some Jews, but Trump right" — some say the movement said the phrase had no connection was legitimized following Trump's See TOP TEN 25 election — for the threats. Howevon Page to the earlier usage. Trump brought

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“I have a vision for New Orleans of restoring peace and prosperity to our neighborhoods, and making city government work.” —Desiree Charbonnet

Crime is our toughest problem and will be my toP Priority. WE WiLL recruit 80-100 new oﬃcers each year. WE WiLL put more police on the street. WE WiLL go aer the root causes of crime to divert young people to better alternatives. WE WiLL pay for additional police without raising taxes.

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Gates of Prayer Arnie Fielkow to Speak

Friday October 20, 8:00 pm Arnie Fielkow, the new CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater New Orleans will share his vision of the challenges and opportunities for our Jewish community as part of Shabbat worship.

His selection as the new professional head of our Jewish Federation has been met with excitement and support. A native of Wisconsin, he first came to New Orleans as Executive Vice President of the New Orleans Saints. In that capacity, he was pivotal in keeping the team in New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina. He then entered a career in politics, serving as President of the New Orleans City Council. Prior to coming back to New Orleans, Arnie was the CEO of the NBA Retired Players Association. Alongside his professional life has been an ongoing passion and involvement in the Jewish community, serving on numerous synagogue and Jewish communal boards. He views professional service to the Jewish community as the fulfillment of his Jewish values. We look forward to welcoming Arnie to Gates of Prayer. ì

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

Beginning Hebrew for Adults

Blessing Of The Pets Sunday, October 15, 9:30 am

Beginning October 18

Beginner’s Adult Hebrew class will begin, Wednesday October 18, at 6:30 pm. This class will be for those who have no to very little Hebrew knowledge. All are welcome. We will meet weekly, with the exception of holidays, till midMay. If you plan on attending, please E-mail Temple Educator Phil Gaethe at educator@ gatesofprayer. org. ì

“The animals, they came on, they came on by twosie, twosies…. elephants and kangaroosies..” Please leave your pet elephants and kangaroos at home, but bring your dogs, cats, turtles, gerbils, birds etc… for the annual blessing of the pets. ì

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A Gift Forever by Deb Silverthorn

Hannah Leah Freeman Klein, of blessed memory, believed that education was the key; the key to a future, to joy, and to success. To her dedication, and that of her husband, it will be through the Hannah and Joseph Klein Education Fund of the Jewish Children’s Regional Service, that so many doors will be unlocked.

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“My wife’s intelligence, curiosity, and desire for a challenge were just part of what made her so beautiful to me, said Joseph Klein, of his beloved wife. “This education fund is to honor her life and her memory and I hope that receiving students will study hard, reach their goals, and find their dreams fulfilled. Then, she will always live on.” Hannah, a native of Waco, Texas, and Joseph, who was raised in New Jersey, were husband and wife for the better part of seven blessed years before Hannah’s recent passing on May 3. The two first met in 2002 at Congregation Ahavath Sholom, both “walking the walk” of the importance of education, and were there for an adult education class. While the teacher didn’t show, the two students learned more about each other “We were friends, both involved in the synagogue’s Fort Worth Jewish archives ongoing project, but I wanted to be married to this exceptional person in every way,” said Klein who has now moved to Los Angeles, joining his son. “We had almost seven years but I wish it had been 70.” The youngest of five daughters, Hannah was orphaned at a very young age, her adamance that education was a priority came from her own experience. As the salutatorian of Forest Avenue High School,

she was given a partial scholarship to attend Southern Methodist University. Because of the family’s situation she was regrettably unable to complete her education – a factor that still didn’t stop her success. After beginning her career at the Otis Elevator Company, she ran the Dallas office of the General Electric Heating and Air Conditioning, eventually transferring to the GE Space Division in Philadelphia where she was the chief engineer’s executive secretary for almost 30 years. Klein started his education at an electronics technical school in Philadelphia, and ultimately achieved the level of Senior Engineering Specialist. He had a career that spanned RCA, Western Union, General Dynamics, and Lockheed Fort Worth Company. Associated for more than 50 years with the Tabernacle Masonic Lodge and as a Scottish Rite Mason, he for many years ran the blood bank for the patients of Texas Scottish Rite Hospital. Like his wife, a lifelong learner, he continued his education during his employment years, primarily at Texas Christian University. Klein describes Hannah as a “girlie girl” who loved to dress the part, always elegant and refined. She was a voracious reader, primarily of non-fiction, never without a book close by – the two of them often reading the same titles and sharing discussion over whatever the subject matter. Also an incredible pianist since she was a child; “she did not hammer the keys; she caressed them” he said. “We had lots of togetherness, but it never could have been enough.” The Hannah and Joseph Klein Education Fund will support JCRS’ provision of grants and no-interest loans to students attending colleges See A GIFT FOREVER on Page

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JEWISH LIGHT why were they so opposed to the Pharisaic approach?

Debate is not only encouraged within Judaism but resides at the very heart of our history and theology. Great Debates in Jewish History explores six fundamental conflicts that pitted the greatest Jewish minds against each other—six instances of divergent perspectives, including several that are still debated today. Discover stirring and surprising accounts that span two millennia of Jewish disputation, reflecting the panorama of Jewish history and its monumental political, ethical, and spiritual challenges. Encounter the gripping narratives of six fascinating eras, the intellectual tension and points of view they unearth, and the light they shed on the most fundamental of Jewish beliefs. EVENING OPTION: Six Monday evenings 7:30–9:00 p.m. Beginning October 30 LOCATION: Chabad Jewish Center 4141 W. Esplanade Ave Metairie, LA 70002 MORNING OPTION Six Tuesday mornings THE

the Jewish world into a frenzy: some with jubilation, others with uproar and outrage. SUICIDE AT MASADA Can we force the Divine hand to Glimpse into the minds of hasten the redemption? Should we? those who took their lives at Masa- And what about recent attempts at da in 73 CE. Discover a view of renewing the Sanhedrin? Judaism that believes it cannot survive without autonomy in Israel CHASIDISM and prefers to die rather than live under a foreign nation’s rule. What In the 1700s, the Ba’al Shem Tov 10:30–12:00 p.m. role does nationalism play in Juda- introduced a focus on joy, prayer, Beginning October 31st ism? What is the Jewish perspec- and the simple Jew’s relationship LOCATION: tive on taking up arms when defeat with G d. But this endeavor was met with resistance. What motivatJCC Metairie is inevitable? ed Chasidism’s opponents? What 3747 W. Esplanade Ave issues lay at the heart of the debate? THE MAIMONIDEAN Metairie, LA 70002 And what historic tensions set the CONTROVERSY FEE: In the 13th century, Maimonides’s stage for this upheaval that divided $70 (textbook included) major philosophical work, the families and communities? 10% Couples discount! 10% Returning students discount Guide for the Perplexed, was banned SEPARATION OF CHURCH Join the first class free (with no and even burned. Condemnation of AND STATE his writings divided the Jewish obligation to continue) A 1989 U.S. Supreme Court rulworld: Is rationalism an acceptable Course Instructor: ing, permitting public menorah disapproach to Divine worship? What Rabbi Mendel Ceitlin role does reason play in Judaism? plays, deeply divided the Jewish For more information: And how do we resolve the conflict world. Is religion designed to be a Call: 504-534-8685 personal and private affair, or one between faith and reason? Mendelc@jewishlouisiana.com to be paraded in the public domain? What presents a greater challenge RENEWAL OF THE to Judaism: the supremacy of a conSANHEDRIN In the wake of Spanish expulsion flicting religion, or the predomicame a proposal to reinstate the nance of irreligiosity? Where does THE DEAD SEA SCROLLS Sanhedrin, in an effort to herald the Judaism stand on the separation of Unlock the secret of the Dead messianic era. The idea catapulted church and state? ì Sea Scrolls by contrasting their writings with Talmudic texts, and unearth a fundamental debate about rabbinic authority and interpretaELECT tion. What led the Dead Sea Sect to break away from the Temple and the Jewish establishment? What were their theological views? And

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Activist Kim Sport To Receive 2017 Hannah G. Solomon Award While recognizing Breast Cancer and Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) has selected Kim Sport to receive its top award - the 2017 Hannah G. Solomon (HGS) Award. This award is given annually to a community leader who exemplifies the qualities of Hannah G. Solomon, NCJW founder, and has brought about significant change through their volunteer leadership. Sport will be honored at the upcoming Hannah G. Solomon Luncheon on Monday, October 16, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Marriott Hotel, 555 Canal Street, New Orleans. 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. “Sport exemplifies volunteer leadership that brings forth social change. We are especially thrilled to be honoring Ms. Sport during the month of October as it is Breast

Cancer and Domestic Violence Awareness month; two areas of focus that she has impacted greatly”, NCJW President Barbara Kaplinsky said. “She makes our city, state and country a better place for all.” After retiring from an accomplished and renowned legal career in 2000, Sport started volunteering for many non-profits in the GNO area. Sport utilized her legal and persuasive skills to advocate and raise millions of dollars for a multitude of human service agencies. Sport has worked on ground-breaking women’s breast cancer health initiatives through her work with The American Cancer Society and the Susan B. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, LA Cancer Research Consortium and the Ochsner/Baptist Medical Center. She co-founded Breastoration, an advocacy and financial assistance organization, to help women facing mastectomies. In the 2016 legislative session, Sport drafted a bill which passed unanimously to assure that health insurance providers cover every stage of a wom-

en’s breast reconstruction. Kim has also impacted legislative change on domestic violence issues. While functioning as the first chair of the Louisiana Commission to Prevent Domestic Violence, and while still working as United Way’s Public Policy Chair, Kim worked to see over 70 provisions of law amended or enacted to provide greater protection and services to domestic violence victims and to appropriately treat and punish abusers. This work continues, not only on domestic violence, but also on EITC, equal pay and eradication of poverty. Sport also made meaningful and impactful strides in the support for education and children’s rights including Jefferson Dollars for Scholars and United Way’s Women’s Leadership Council and its ‘Success by Six’ Program. Sport joins an exemplary group of local community leaders who were awarded the Hannnah Solomon Award. Each of the following honorees has been a catalyst for social change: Ana and Juan Gershanik,

Tickets for the luncheon are $65 per person. Reserved tables are for 8 to 10 people. Valet parking available at $17 special event rate. Tickets can also be purchased online by logging onto www.ncjwneworleans.org Julie Schwam Harris, Marjorie and Dr. Scott Cowen, Ruth Kullman, Mary Keller Zervigon, Joan Berenson, Nancy Marsiglia, Carol B. Wise, Phyllis M. Taylor, Carol Good, Inge Elsas, Betty Wisdom, Melba and Moise Steeg, Jr., Babs Isaacson, Madalyn Schenk, Barbara Herman, Marjorie and Roger Bissinger, Hugo Kahn, Eddy Rosen, Harry Blumenthal, Jr., Shirley and Dr. Robert Haspel, Pres Kabacoff, Julanne IsaacSee KIM SPORT on Page

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Torah Academy-Mom's Night Out

community! The goal is 200 participants Contact: Chaya Ceitlin 504-451-5340 chayamn@gmail.com Cost: Free

10/22/2017 7:30PM - 9:30PM

Join us for a night out for all those well-deserved moms! Contact: Rivkie Chesney rchesney@torahacademynola.com

Chabad-Jewish Story Hour 10/23/2017 5:00PM - 5:45PM

Torah Academy

Join us for a Jewish story, activity and snack at Jefferson Parish & PJ LibraryEarly Childhood Library. Development Series Contact: Libby Groner 504-710-7891 10/29/2017 libbynemes@gmail.com 10:00AM - 11:30AM http://www.jewishlouisiana.com Torah Academy 5210 West Esplanade Ave. Chabad/HadassahMetairie, LA 70006 Women's Challah Bake Torah Academy and PJ Library 10/25/2017 are kicking off their Early Child:30PM - 9:00PM hood development series on Sunday, October 29 at Torah Academy Gates of Prayer with an interactive child yoga 4000 West Esplanade Ave. experience for parents and their Metairie, LA 70002 Early Childhood aged children. Hadassah and Chabad are partnering for a Mega Challah bake for The event will take place from women from across the Jewish 10:00-11:30 am. Dr. Carol Le

Blanc, founder of The Mindful Preschool, will give parents tools to practice yoga at home with their children. Dr. Le Blanc has been a dedicated child advocate for over 24 years and is passionate about helping parents connect with their children through mindfulness. She will teach a variety of breathing techniques, poses, and relaxation exercises appropriate for young children. No yoga experience is necessary, just a desire to "stretch" your imagination and "breathe" a little life into your day!

Jewish Community Day SchoolFundraising Gala 11/5/2017 5:30PM - 8:30PM

Jewish Community Day School 3747 W Esplanade Ave N Metairie, LA 70002 504-887-4091 Contact: Sharon Pollin spollin@jcdsnola.org www.jcdsnola.org

Jewish Community Center-Celebration Dr. Le Blanc has coached the Torah Academy teachers in the Fundraiser

past on how to incorporate Child Leslie Fischman 11/11/2017 Yoga into their classrooms. Teach7:00PM - 11:00PM ers have reported that using yoga 5342 St. Charles Avenue in their classrooms relaxes the New Orleans, LA 70115 children and brings about more 504-897-0143 focused learning experiences. JCC Annual Fundraiser CelebratTo RSVP for the event, email ing the Completion of the JCC lwarshawski@torahacademynoCapital Expansion Project la.com or pj-jennifer@jcrs.org Contact leslie@nojcc.org Contact: Lina Warshawski www.nojcc.org ì 504-456-6429 lwarshawski@torahacademynola.com

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Musical Concert and Lunch

Date: October 19, 2017 Time: 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm

Parents Circle

Date: October 18, 2017 Time: 9:15 am - 10:15 am

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Exploring Judaism: When Do I Sit, When Do I Stand? First Session: Wednesday, October 18 7:00 PM

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New Orleans JCC - Uptown 5342 St. Charles Avenue New Orleans, LA 70115 Join other parents for coffee and conversation in our newly formed group, Parents Circle. We will meet once a month to share parenting experiences, discuss universal Jewish values, and learn about Jewish holidays and other customs. Parents of all faiths in all family constellations are welcome. No prior knowledge is needed. Bring your questions, share your experiences and come be a part of this warm and nurturing group. Please RSVP to Robyn Silverman at robyn@ nojcc.org. Contact: Robyn Silverman Phone: 504-897-0143 Email: adrienne@nojcc.org No charge members onlyì

Uptown Jewish Community Center 5342 St. Charles Avenue New Orleans, LA 70115 Get questions answered and expand your knowledge of Judaism in this class for adult learners seeking an introduction to prayer and an exploration of the branches of Judaism. For 10 weeks students will learn with local Reform, Conservative, Orthodox and Chabad Rabbis about their denomination and what prayer means to them. The first session will take place at the Uptown JCC then over the following weeks, the group will meet at Temple Sinai, Shir Chadash Conservative Congregation, Congregation Beth Israel and Chabad Jewish Center of Metairie. Rabbis Matthew Reimer, Deborah Silver, Gabe Greenberg and Mendel Ceitlin will help navigate the journey. Instructor: Local Rabbi’s For more information or to register, please contact Judy Yaillen at (504)897-0143 or judy@nojcc.orgì

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New Orleans JCC - Uptown 5342 St. Charles Avenue New Orleans, LA 70115 Join us as Israeli guitarist, Or Shovaly and local flutist Estelle Campagne play an intimate concert at the JCC. A light lunch will be served. RSVP by Monday, October 16, to Rachel Ruth at 897-0143 x 161 or rachel@nojcc.org. Contact: Rachel Ruth Phone: 504.897.0143 Email: rachel@nojcc.org $5 members / $7 non-members

"The Women's Balcony" - The Cathy And Morris Bart Jewish Cultural Arts Series Date: October 23, 2017 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm

New Orleans JCC - Uptown 5342 St. Charles Avenue New Orleans, LA 70115 Join us for a showing of the film ""The Women's Balcony". When the women’s balcony in an Orthodox synagogue collapses, leaving the rabbi’s wife in a coma and the rabbi in shock, the congregation falls into crisis. Charismatic young Rabbi David appears to be a savior after the accident, but slowly starts pushing his fundamentalist ways and tries to take control. This tests the women’s friendships and creates an almost Lysistrata-type rift between the community’s women and men. Contact: Judy Yaillen Phone: 504.897.0143 Email: judy@nojcc.org Free and open to the communityì

Movie Day: Lee Daniel's The Butler October 26, 2017 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm

New Orleans JCC - Uptown 5342 St. Charles Avenue New Orleans, LA 70115 Oscar-winner Forest Whitaker delivers a powerful performance as Cecil Gaines, who served as the White House butler under eight presidents. His three decades of service unfold against a backdrop of unparalleled change in American history. This movie features an allstar cast including Oprah Winfrey, THE

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John Cusak, Jane Fonda, Cuba Gooding, Jr. and more. Movie snacks will be served. RSVP by Monday, October 23 to Rachel Ruth at 8970143 x161 or rachel@nojcc.org. Contact: Rachel Ruth Phone: 504.897.0143 Email: rachel@nojcc.org No charge members and nonmembersì

Piatigorsky Concert and Luncheon November 2, 2017 Time: 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm

New Orleans JCC - Uptown 5342 St. Charles Avenue New Orleans, LA 70115 We are fortunate to have the Piatigorsky Foundation return to New Orleans for a concert this year. Mexican tenor Rodrigo Garciarroyo will be joining us with piano accompanist Richard Dowling. Join us for a fabulous concert. A light lunch will be served. RSVP by Monday, October 30 to Rachel Ruth at 8970143 x161 or rachel@nojcc.org. Contact: Rachel Ruth Phone: 504.897.0143 Email: rachel@nojcc.org $5 members / $7 non-membersì

Shannon Sarna - The Cathy And Morris Bart Jewish Cultural Arts Series Date: November 6, 2017 Time: 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Morris Bart Sr., Lecture Series at the J: From

Ivory Tower to Engaged Anchor Institution: How Tulane's Cowen Institute Is Creating Opportunity for All of Our City's Young People November 13, 2017 Time: 11:45 am - 1:30 pm

New Orleans JCC - Uptown 5342 St. Charles Avenue New Orleans, LA 70115 When Hurricane Katrina presented Tulane University with an existential crisis of unprecedented proportions, then president Scott Cowen seized the moment of intense selfreflection by turning Tulane into an engaged anchor institution in the New Orleans community. In 2006, Tulane University became the first major research university in the U.S. to make public service part of the core curriculum and community engagement became the new norm across campus. At Tulane’s Cowen Institute, two seemingly intractable community issues-- public education and youth disconnection-- have been at the forefront of the university’s civic mission. Dr. Cowen will tell the story of Tulane’s powerful transformation and describe how he and his colleagues at the Cowen Institute climbed down from the ivory tower to make a difference in the lives of New Orleans’ public school students and young people who are out of work and out of school. Lunch will be served. RSVP by Thursday, November 9 to Rachel Ruth at 897 0143 x161 or rachel@nojcc.org. Contact: Rachel Ruth Phone: 504.897.0143 Email: rachel@nojcc.org No charge members / $10 nonmembersì

LUSHER CHARTER SCHOOL OPEN HOUSES

Kindergarten – Wednesday, November 15, 9:00 a.m. Grades 1 to 5 – Wednesday, November 1, 9:00 a.m. Willow Campus, 7315 Willow St. Middle & High School, Grades 6 to 12 Wednesday, November 8, 5:30 p.m. Freret Campus, 5624 Freret St.

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In partnership with Tulane University

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New Orleans JCC - Uptown 5342 St. Charles Avenue New Orleans, LA 70115 Shannon Sarna , author of the new "Modern Jewish Baker: Challah, Babka, Bagels and More" will share her knowledge of the seven core doughs of Jewish baking and The Cathy and Morris let us sample one! Bart Jewish Cultural Contact: Judy Yaillen Arts Series Phone: 504.897.0143 Email: judy@nojcc.org Date: November 14, 2017 Free and open to the communityì Time: 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm New Orleans JCC - Uptown 5342 St. Charles Avenue New Orleans, LA 70115 Tova Mirvis will be speaking about her newly released memoir, "The Book of Separation" which follows her first year of leaving her marriage and the Orthodox world in which she had lived. Contact: Judy Yaillen Phone: 504.897.0143 Email: judy@nojcc.org Free and open to the communityì THE

JEWISH LIGHT

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OCTOBER 2017

Community News

THE

DANNY

MARTINY JEFFERSON PARISH COUNCIL DISTRICT4

INDEPENDENT EXPERIENCED PROVEN RESULTS

“I

• • • • • •

have been privileged to serve the people of Kenner and Metairie for 23 years in the legislature. Together we have accomplished a great deal. I have gained the reputation as the “go to guy” because I get things done and I have done it by building consensus. Now, I ask for your support to bring that leadership to the Council by being your voice for District 4.”

Pentagon 9/11 Attack Survivor Supports Pro-Israel State Laws Pro-Business Tax Reformer Supports Sanctuary City Ban Pro-Life Pro-Veteran & First Responder

ELECTION DAY OCTOBER 14, 2017 EARLY VOTING SEPTEMBER 30TH - OCTOBER 7TH

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Touro Synagogue Talmud Tales Thursdays At 6:00pm October 12, 19, 26; November 2, 9, 16

Mautner Learning Center For nearly two thousand years, the stories of the Talmud – stories of life and death and love and animosity and struggle and triumph -have fascinated all who approach them. Often overwhelming and always intriguing, they continue to give modern Jews a look into the ethics and socio-political realities of the ancient rabbis, who operated under the belief that fulfilling the commandments of the Torah was of paramount importance. Join Rabbi Silverman for six Thursday evening sessions as we read through, analyze, and discuss some of the most thought-provoking stories that our Jewish body of literature affords us. Using the writings of 21st-century Talmud scholar Dr. Ruth Calderon as a jumping-off point, we will plumb the depths of these “Talmud Tales” for their contemporary importance and enjoyment. All who attend should purchase a copy of “A Bride For One Night” by Dr. Ruth Calderon in advance of our first session. Registration Fee: Members: No Charge / NonMembers: $25ì

8/24/17 11:44 AM

Touro Women's Book Group Waking Lions by Ayelet Gundar-Goshen Monday, October 23 10:30 am

Mautner Learning Center Join us on Monday, October 23 as Pat Reardon leads a discussion on Ayelet Gundar-Goshen’s Waking Lions, winner of the 2017 Jewish Quarterly Wingate Prize. This meeting is open to all

Fried Kibby Plate • Vegetarian Dishes • Yogurt Salad • Chicken Shawarma Shish Kabobs • Chicken Kabobs • Hummus • Falafels & Much More

tel: 862-6200 10 OCTOBER 2017

1500

S. Carrollton

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Hours: M-Th 11am-9:45pm F-Sat 11am-10:00pm Sun 12pm-9:30pm www.thejewishlight.org

women who wish to attend. Please contact Pat Reardon at patricialreardon@gmail.com with any questions or to get on the email list for upcoming book discussions.ì

Literature & Libations Dinner and a Lively Discussion Wednesday, November 8 6:00pm

Waking Up White, And Finding Myself In The Story Of Race By Debby Irving Led By Rabbi Alexis Berk "Irving’s personal and moving tale takes us on an adventure to a world utterly new to her as she wakes up to the reality of how, without her knowledge or active pursuit,she lives in a society which is set up to reward her at the expense of people of color. I cannot imagine a more understandable and compelling invitation to learn about how racism lives on in our homes, communities, and nation." Bishop Gene Robinson, Retired Episcopal Bishop of New Hampshire and Senior Fellow at the Center for American Progress, Washington, DC Co-sponsored by TREC (Touro’s Race and Equity Collaborative) ì

Jewish Medical Ethics Meetings Dinner And Discussion Upcoming Session: November 14 - 6:30pm

Mautner Learning Center Join Rabbi Berk and Dr. Walter Levy in exploring how we bring Jewish medical ethics to our professional lives. The session is driven by relevant ethical issues affecting health care providers. Past discussions focused on our response to the Ebola crisis, the ethics of gene editing and “savior babies,” meaning and nature of physician work, and off label use of and repurposing of drugs. Rabbi Berk provides Jewish contextual incite to these discussions. Dinner will be provided. We hope you can join us! Please RSVP to Info@Tourosynagogue.comì

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JewCCY Jewish Crescent City Youth Reform Judaism’s youth program for the Greater New Orleans area JewCCY and Junior JewCCY are off to a great start! Our 9th-12th graders in JewCCY enjoyed our Brinner Shabbat Lock-In,NFTY-Southern SummerFest, and gift wrapping for JCRS! Our 6th-8th graders in Junior JewCCY enjoyed hanging out with their friends, raffle prizes, and swimming! Big thank you to the Gelman’s who generously hosted our Hawaiian themed pool party. for information on upcoming events or dues information please contact JewCCY’s advisor, Charlie Cox: Email:charlie18cox@gmail.com, Phone - (504) 912-5515 Coming up this month:

Fundraising Workshop for Teens! Part of a monthly class offering that focuses on developing skills in leadership, organization, management, communication, event planning, and community building. The class is open to anyone in 8th-12th grade and will be held on October 8th at Touro Synagogue in the Foyer room from 11:45 am 12:45pm. Lunch will be provided.

Jacobs Camp in New Orleans! If you are in 1st - 8th grade at Gates of Prayer, Touro Synagogue, or Temple Sinai then this is the event for you! Come meet some of the great summer staff from Jacobs Camp, and experience a little bit of Jacobs Magic right here in the Greater New Orleans area on Saturday, October 21st. Look for further information emailed to you. Please contact Charlie Cox (Jacobs Camp representative and Director of Youth Engagement) for more info.

JewCCY’s Halloween/ Fall Fundraiser On Sunday, October 22nd following Religious School, everyone is invited to JewCCY’s Halloween/ Fall Fundraiser! It will be from 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm at Congregation Gates of Prayer and we are fortunate to partner with the Gates of Prayer Brotherhood who will be cooking food and watching the Saint’s game. We would love your support in helping grow our youth community and we look forward to seeing you there! *Dues for JewCCY are only $54 for the year and completely voluntary! You will receive an official JewCCY T-shirt, no admission charge for most local events, and discounted pricing on travel!ì

A GIFT FOREVER Continued from Page 4 and vocational training programs. JCRS’ students, in Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Texas have received hundreds of thousands of dollars. With the fall semester upon us, already in 2017 JCRS has provided nearly 130 students with an average of $2500 each. “JCRS is honored to be remembered by Joseph and Hannah with their generous gift and establishment of an educational endowment fund. Gifts such as these help new generations of Jewish youth while also fulfilling the donor’s intention as a memorial, and truly a legacy to Hannah and her respect of education,” said JCRS’ Executive Director, Ned Goldberg. Most freshman and sophomore students receive scholarship grants, while juniors and seniors generally receive a combination of grants and no-interest loans with a generous payback time frame. Most educational programs (other than gap THE

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year and study abroad programs) are eligible for support. “When Hannah and I sat to write our wills, JCRS and the children it serves – many who are in the same position she was many years ago – was her first bequest,” said Klein. “It was because she couldn’t finish her education that she always wanted to make a difference for someone else and now, together, we can do just that and create our legacy.” If you would like to honor or memorialize a loved one by establishing a scholarship fund at JCRS, or to learn how JCRS impacts the lives of Jewish youth across the Midsouth, call 800.729.5277, email info@jcrs.org, visit www.jcrs.org, or write to PO Box 7368, Metairie LA, 70010-7368. ì

Chai Lights ChaiLights features announcements of births, B'nai Mitzvahs, engagements, weddings, and honors. To request your special event be published in The Jewish Light send your material to United Media Corp., P.O. Box 3270, Covington, LA 70435 or e-mail jewishnews@bellsouth.net. Events are published on a first come, first served basis, as space permits. Photographs are welcom; professional ones preferred. The must be clear and in focus. ì

Gates of Prayer Mazel Tov to... Sue & Fred Preis on the birth of their granddaughter, Aviva Dae Preis. Parents are Shaina & Kevin Preis. Cathy Bart & Judy Lieberman, two women who were at the forefront of preventative treatments against breast cancer over fifteen years ago, who were recently honored at the Hadassah “Free the Tatas” Disco Ball. Casie & Jared Davidson and Karen Davidson on the birth of their daughter and granddaughter, Scott Rose Davidson. Jessica & Steve Sintes on the birth of their daughter, Shira Marie Klein Sintes. ì

and editor-in-chief of Where Y’at Magazine, on the magazine’s 20th anniversary. Judy Haspel on being awarded the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Sunny Andrews Award for Outstanding Commitment to Social Work Regulatory Board Service. Judy will receive the award at the ASWB Delegate Assembly in November. Meredith Mendler, who became a Bat Mitzvah during a recent trip to Israel. Mazel tov as well to Meredith’s parents Jeff & Paulette Mendler. ì

Touro Synagogue

Mazel Tov to... Aaron Ahlquist on being named Temple Sinai Regional Director of the ADL -Anti Mazel Tov to... Defamation League, South Central Josh Danzig, founder, publisher, Region ì Serving JefferSon PariSh for over 50 YearS Courteous Drivers...DepenDable Metairie Cab 50 yrs exCellent serivCe

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OCTOBER 2017

Chai Lights

THE

“Uniquely Qualified To Serve” ;

; ; ;

20 years of service in E.B.R. Parish School System • French & English Teacher at Baton Rouge Magnet High • Supervisor of Foreign Languages for all E.B.R. Parish schools, K-12 • Assistant Principal in middle & high school 16 years as practicing attorney in Louisiana & in Mississippi Married to attorney Johnnie Matthews for 43 years 3 Adult children: 6 grandchildren

I pledge to uphold the law and to treat everyone who comes before me with dignity and respect. It’s about justice, not politics.

JOHNELL MATTHEWS # 22 CANDIDATE FOR CITY COURT JUDGE

JEWISH LIGHT

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

Gates of Prayer ELECT: JOHNELL MATTHEWS, #22 CITY COURT JUDGE

Condolences to... Wynn Kapit on the death of his mother, Marlene Kapit. Renee Alterman on the death of her step mother, Nellie Jo Collins Leveque.

Temple Sinai Best Wishes to my friends and supporters in the Jewish Community! www.JoeGiarrusso.com Facebook: @JoeGiarrussoForDistrictA Twitter: @JiGiarrusso

IN MEMORIAM Shirley Schiffman wife of the late Leopold “Red” Schiffman, the mother of Jerry M. Schiffman and Jan S. Brauner, the grandmother of three children, and the great-grandmother of one child.

Touro Synagogue IN MEMORIAM Touro Synagogue extends its

Paid for by the Campaign to Elect Joe Giarrusso

deepest sympathies to the families and friends of... Cecille Menkus Friedler, wife of Gerald Friedler, sister-in-law of Patsy Kanter and Ann Eisen, aunt of Nathan Kanter Lillian Ross Alan Levinson Rosina Minnie Kahn Sapir, wife of Franklin Sapir Juliet Faine Nowak, mother of Dale Singer, grandmother of Michael Singer, great grandmother of Audrey and Leo Singer Paul Michael Chirlian, husband of Barbara Chirlian Deanna Jean Schoenfeld Spence, mother of Gretchen Zalkind Elissa Genet Young, sister of Errol Genet Jan Phillip Saltzman, father of Scott Saltzman, grandmother of Tierney Saltzman ì

Taking care of each other is what

community

is all about. #

We’re proud to serve our community with personal, compassionate care.

ELECTION DAY IS SATURDAY, OCTOBER 14 Early Voting is Available September 30 – October 7 “As a Civil District Court Judge for over a decade, I have worked hard to ensure all litigants receive a fair and timely day in court. I humbly ask for your support as I continue my pursuit to work for equity, respect and justice for all who come before the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeal.” – JUDGE TIFFANY CHASE

12 OCTOBER 2017

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www.judgechasefor4th.com 504-407-5760 PAID FOR BY THE COMMITTEE TO ELECT JUDGE TIFFANY G. CHASE

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This Torah Study Tool Is Everywhere — but You May Have Never Heard of It By Andrew Silow-Carroll

Young leaders study Torah from source sheets at a Hillel International event, November 2016. (Hillel International)

NEW YORK (JTA) -- One of these days, maybe ahead of Simchat Torah, you are going to attend a Jewish studies class. Or not. But let's say you do. You'll sit in a classroom, or a lounge, or in the front row of a synagogue. There will be a teacher, and he or she will pass around a stapled packet of papers — maybe two sheets, maybe five — with various biblical verses, Talmudic excerpts, examples of Jewish law and perhaps a snippet of a contemporary essay or a quote from Martin Buber or Hannah Arendt. I want to talk about these sheets, why they may be uniquely Jewish, and why they may be the most important and ubiquitous example of Jewish educational technology that you probably take for grant-ed -- or never heard of. The packets are known as source sheets, and they've been with us since ... well, at least since the widespread use of the mimeograph machine in the 1950s. Before that, rabbis or teachers might quote from a pile of Jewish books they kept in front of them, and perhaps refer students to a similar pile on their desks. But once teachers could cheaply copy fragments of Jewish text, and cut and paste them in any order they wished, the source sheet became a tool for flexibility, convenience and ingenuity in the Jewish classroom. And their current dominance is an example of how technology transformed tradition -- and continues to do so in the digital age. "When you are weaving together different threads from different texts composed during vastly different times and places, the best way is to pull excerpts from different texts," said Sara Wolkenfeld, director of education at Sefaria.org. THE

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"There is an art form to it. The way you pull and combine helps express the story you want to tell in the class you are teaching." Sefaria, a nimble online database of Jewish texts in both their original language and in translation, is rapidly becoming the red-hot center of the source sheet universe, which I assure you is a thing. Since Sefaria was founded in 2013, over 12,000 people have made some 74,000 source sheets using the site's handy source sheet builder. Of those, 7,200 of their creations are available online. (Disclosure: Daniel Septimus, one of Sefaria's founders, sits on the board of 70 Faces Media, JTA's parent company.) And the range of subjects is testament not only to the depth of the Jewish canon but to the breadth of Jewish obsessions. There are sheets for lessons on sex, death, love, money, family strife and sibling rivalry, Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton. For Simchat Torah, which begins this year on the evening of Oct. 12, there's a sheet on the rules about women dancing with a Torah scroll. There's even a sheet about whether or not Jews should take part in Halloween. Other sites share their source sheets online. The Shamayim V'Aretz Institute posts sheets on animal welfare. American Jewish World Service offers material on social action. The Orthodox NCSY youth group has sheets on a range of topics. Rabbi Dan Epstein, the senior Jewish educator at the George Washington University Hillel, refers to creating a source sheet as an art form. Epstein should know: He's shared near-

Education

ly 100 source sheets on Sefaria, and they've been viewed collectively over 72,000 times. To teach a lesson on Jewish views on the afterlife, for example, he might include verses from the Bible; Talmudic passages known as Mishna or Gemara; perspectives from the medieval sages Maimonides and Saadia Gaon about the soul and reincarnation; and a teshuvah, or rabbinical ruling, from the 20thcentury Modern Orthodox authority Rabbi Moshe Feinstein. These would form the basis for a guided classroom discussion, perhaps after the student had a chance to review the material and a few key questions

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in chavruta — that is, in pairs or small groups — a staple of yeshiva education going back centuries. Epstein might not get to every text in a lesson, but that's OK. "The lesson is like a concert and the source sheet is more like a set list," he explained. "You'll get to it, but maybe you'll cancel some songs or just play a few of the longer songs." The key, he said, is knowing your audience — the languages they understand, their level of knowledge and their interests. "You need to make the student feel connected and touch the head See STUDY TOOL on Page

OCTOBER 2017

Education

THE

The Ramsey Record

RE-ELECT

• Corrected outdated 1950s zoning in Algiers • Won lower insurance rates by successfully appealing FEMA’s Algiers flood maps • Secured $100K to create new youth workforce development plan • Partnered with community leaders for youth mentoring and athletic camps • Secured nearly $1 million to fully fund the Council on Aging • Secured $1.4 million for street repairs and maintenance in the Algiers Cutoff

#71

14 OCTOBER 2017

Paid for by Ramsey for City Council

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Scouting Israeli-Style Comes to America -- in English By Ben Sales with Israel and Palestine and probNEW YORK (JTA) -- The lems in the Middle East, I felt like a 16-year-old counselor stands in a young child: There wasn’t anything I could really do. After I joined the Scouts, I felt there is something I can do.” In Israel, the Scouts (Tzofim in Hebrew) are the country’s largest youth movement, with 85,000 members from fourth to 10th grade. Youth groups play a prominent role in the lives of Israeli children, with Arielle Geismar, in the Scouting chapters run by teens aged 15 to 18 uniform, leading American Jewish meeting twice a week with little to kids in one of the first meetings of the no adult supervision. Unlike other Manhattan chapter of Tzofim Atid, the Israeli Scouts’ English-language large Israeli youth groups, the branch. (Ben Sales) Scouts have no political affiliation tan uniform shirt, untucked, with and have chapters for religious and green jeans, a green kerchief tied secular kids. around her neck and epaulets on her There’s already a Hebrew-speakshoulders. Two patches are embroi- ing branch of the Scouts in the U.S. dered on her chest. And she’s sur- for children of Israeli expatriates rounded by a circle of 11-year-olds. who are being raised in the lanHer task on this Sunday morning guage. That program has 3,500 parin uptown Manhattan is to list five ticipants across 24 chapters in cities sneaker brands before one of the nationwide. children can run around the entire The English program, which circle -- a slightly more complex began this school year, has chapters version of “Duck, Duck, Goose.” in Manhattan and on suburban Long She fails, and the next round falls to Island serving children 9 to 15, with one of the kids who wants to one- about 60 participants. up her. He promises to name five "People are looking for their kids types of knots before a friend com- to participate in something Jewish, pletes a lap around the circle. but it has to be secular in order to “Types of knots?” the counselor, attract the unaffiliated,” said Iryna Arielle Geismar, shouts as “Golden Gubenko, strategic partnerships Boy,” a 2015 Israeli hit sung entire- manager at the Areivim Philanthroply in English, plays. “I don’t know ic Group, which is funding the new types of knots. And I’m a Scout!” initiative. “We see Israel as part of Welcome to the American ver- the identity of those [people].” sion of Israel’s most popular youth The program has four compogroup, the Israeli Scouts. nents -- life skills, Israeli culture, "Golden Boy" is an appropriate social responsibility and scouting. choice for this youth group, which Activities range from learning wants to impart an Israel-centric about Israeli history to making an secular Judaism to American Jew- Israeli flag to, yes, tying a knot or ish kids, all in English. In Israel, the building a tent -- though the kids group teaches teamwork and lead- will also play lighthearted games. ership, along with Boy Scout-style There will be occasional joint activsurvival skills. Except for the lan- ities with the Hebrew-speaking guage, the new American group groups. aims to mimic that curriculum. But One of the biggest differences in the concrete jungle of New York between the Israeli and American City, the focus appears to be more Scouts, says Mika Kaminsky, the on teamwork and Israeli history and English program’s director, is that culture, less on knots and building a when they graduate, the Israelis will fire. enlist in the army, whereas the “It’s this bigger idea of connect- Americans will attend college. So edness in a time of displacement,” while the Israeli kids might focus on said Geismar, who was introduced physical challenges, the Americans to the Scouts at a summer camp run may derive more value from exerby Young Judaea, an American cises like team building and leaderZionist group “Growing up in America and watching the current See SCOUTING 27 election and everything going on on Page

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Judaism

JEWISH LIGHT

How Mark Zuckerberg Embraced His Judaism By Ben Sales

(JTA) -- Mark Zuckerberg wrote last December on Facebook that for him, “religion is very important.” Looks like he meant it. The Facebook co-founder has been invoking Judaism a lot lately. In May, he quoted a Jewish prayer at Harvard’s commencement. Two weeks ago he posted a picture of his daughter with a family kiddush cup. And on Saturday night, he posted a public apology at the end of Yom Kippur. It’s quite a transformation for a public figure who once defined himself as an atheist. Although he was a member of the Jewish fraternity AEPi before he dropped out of Harvard, Zuckerberg didn’t discuss his Judaism much before 2015. Replying to a comment last year, Zuckerberg wrote that he “went through a period where I questioned things, but now I believe religion is very im-portant.” Zuckerberg’s recent string of Jewish affirmations began nearly two years ago following then-presidential candidate Donald Trump’s call for a ban on Muslims entering the United States. Being raised as a Jew, Zuckerberg wrote, made him sensitive to attacks on all minorities. "After the Paris attacks and hate this week, I can only imagine the fear Muslims feel that they will be persecuted for the actions of others,” Zuckerberg wrote, referring to that year’s terror attack in the French capital. “As a Jew, my parents taught me that we must stand up against attacks on all communi-ties. Even if an attack isn’t against you today, in time attacks on freedom for anyone will hurt every-one.” Zuckerberg invoked his Judaism again after the August white supremacist rally in Charlottesville. “It's a disgrace that we still need to say that neo-Nazis and white supremacists are wrong -- as if this is somehow not obvious," he wrote But judging from his Facebook profile (and in his case, shouldn’t we?), Zuckerberg has reconnected THE

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with his Judaism not just as a national figure but as a person and a father. His post featuring a collage of a kiddush cup, Shabbat candlesticks and homemade challah waxed about passing the cup from gener-ation to generation. “For shabbat tonight, we gave Max a kiddush cup that has been in our family for almost 100 years,” he wrote, referring to his eldest daughter. “Her great-great-grandfather Max got it after our family immigrated here and it has been passed down through our family ever since.” At the Harvard commencement, Zuckerberg told graduates that he sings an adaptation of the Mi Shebeirach -- the traditional Jewish prayer for the sick -- when he tucks her in at night. "And it goes, ‘May the source of strength, who’s blessed the ones before us, help us find the courage to make our lives a blessing," he told the graduates in May, quoting a version of the prayer by the late Jewish songwriter Debbie Friedman and lyricist Rabbi Drorah Setel. “I hope you find the courage to make your life a blessing.” While the mogul’s newfound piety may be attracting attention, he is doing what any young Jewish parent might, said Rabbi Brad Hirschfield, director of CLAL-the National Jewish Center for Learning and Leadership. Plenty of Jews lose interest in their religion, then reconnect to it after having kids. “There are a million people in his age cohort who are deeply proud of being Jewish and are trying to figure out what it means,” Hirschfield said. “You marry and partner and have a family, and it’s not sur-prising that the questions of ‘How do I have a more meaningful life and build a better future' become more important and powerful and imminent” InterfaithFamily.com was especially pleased that Zuckerberg, whose wife, Priscilla Chan, is not Jewish, has posted about his family's Jewish rituals. "The fact that such a super-influential couple clearly are making Jewish choices for their family is the best news with which to start the new year," wrote Ed Case, founder of InterfaithFamily.com. "Mark Zuckerberg and Priscilla Chan could really change the course of Jewish history if they got

involved in efforts to engage interfaith families in Jewish life." Zuckerberg got Jewishly personal again when he asked for forgiveness at the end of Yom Kippur, the Jewish day of repentance. His critics might say he has a lot to atone for. During the 2016 presidential campaign, Facebook was accused of allowing Russian hackers to post thousands of ads influencing the election. And users also were allowed to target ads based on phrases like “Jew hater” and “how to burn Jews.” (Facebook COO Sheryl Sandberg, who also is Jewish, said the company would address the problem.) “For those I hurt this year, I ask forgiveness and I will try to be better,” he wrote Saturday night. “For the ways my work was used to divide people rather than bring us together, I ask forgiveness and I will work to do better.” It isn’t the first time that Zuckerberg has encountered trouble because of the content published on his site. In 2015, some 20,000 Israelis filed a class-action lawsuit against Facebook for ignoring incitement to terrorism on the network and enabling terrorists to find sympathizers. The case was dismissed this year. While Zuckerberg may not have always talked publicly about his Judaism, he has surrounded himself with people who do. His college roommate moved to Israel and became a Conservative rabbi Sandberg has spoken frequently about how Jewish rituals helped her cope following her husband’s un-timely death in 2015. And his sister, Randi, is open about her Jewish observances. She says her family unplugs for a “digital Shabbat” each weekend, and sang “Jerusa-

lem of Gold,” a classic Israeli song, at the Davos World Economic Forum. Davos also occasioned the first JTA clip about Zuckerberg, published in 2008. While he attended the forum that year, Israel’s delegation invited him to visit the country. He has yet to accept. But after giving his daughter a kiddush cup and atoning on Yom Kippur, maybe this is the year.ì

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Senator Neil Riser is the most qualified candidate for Treasurer of Louisiana, with support from Republicans and Democrats. He is a business leader, not a lifelong politician, and he has shown the ability to remain independent of the political insiders in Baton Rouge. We need conservative fiscal leadership in Louisiana that will fight tax increases and promote fiscal responsibility. We need Neil Riser!

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OCTOBER 2017

Southern & Jewish

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Can Southern Jewish Hospitality Ever Go Too Far? Wanting to share your favorite foods is great, but guilting people into eating them isn't By Rachel Stern (JTA) Welcome to our home! What can I get you to eat or drink? How about some sweet tea and some freshly baked cookies? And for dinner I have made for you my grandmother’s recipe of fried chicken, fried okra, biscuits and homemade apple pie for dessert. This is the Southern hospitality we have all come to know and love. The South is known for our way of truly welcoming people and making them feel cared for and, of course, well-fed. The Torah teaches us the value of welcoming the stranger early on when we learn about Abraham welcoming the strangers into his tent. They are given a place to rest, and chance to wash up, and, yes, food to

eat—but nowhere does it say that Abraham stuffed his guests with rich foods to the point of them needing new robes because they were so full. This need to show our hospitality through food is complicated. Have you ever tried saying “no thank you” to a Jewish mother who wanted you to eat? Just try it and let me know how it goes. Attempting to politely turn down food—even for legitimate personal reasons!—can inadvertently cause offense. It sets the guest and host up for a tough dynamic. My team of itinerant Education Fellows, who travel all across the South, have encountered this unmatched hospitality time and time again. While it is the loveliest of

gestures and my staff has enjoyed many delicious meals from the road, I wonder how hospitality has come to center around food – and what it can mean when food issues, from allergies to kashrut to vegetarianism, make feeding some-one a more complicated prospect. But how do you say no? After all, we realize how much effort and thought goes into making those delicious meals and we know that all of this is being done to make our experience a positive one. While the intentions are good from both the guest and host, often times the guest feels an obligation to eat foods that they don’t want to eat. Sometimes people even find themselves being

teased for wanting to make healthy choices. In this instance, the feeling of being cared for fades quickly and is replaced with defensiveness and frustration. We must find another way to show people that we are happy to see them and be with them in ways that don’t require them to compromise their own needs. Instead of us deciding what our guests should eat, perhaps we can ask them what they prefer. Maybe as hosts we can have a combination of both of our favorites. We may not get to showcase our grandmother’s recipes, but in the end we will make our guests feel welcomed and cared for, which is what hospitality is really about.ì

Welcome to Alma

Millennial Women Doing 'Jew-Ish,' Here's a Website for You By Toby Tabachnick (Pittsburgh Jewish Chronicle via JTA) -- An Orthodox transgender woman shares feelings of alienation in the trans community because of her Jewish identity. A woman who quit her office job to travel the world

16 OCTOBER 2017

and become a “digital nomad” offers advice to others who may be contemplating the same. A writer offers a list of six camp-themed novels that will feed the nostalgia of those missing summers filled with bug juice and cabin raids. And readers are offered a free giveaway of a “Kiss My Tuchis” muscle tank to one lucky winner “who will clearly be the envy of everyone in their Zumba class.” Welcome to Alma (heyalma.com), a newly launched website geared toward Jewish millennial women focusing on topics of cultural interest and forging a virtual community for those seeking a connection to others grappling with common “Jew-ish” issues. The fledgling site, and its accompanying social media platforms (Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Instagram), is part of 70 Faces Media, the parent

company of JTA. Seed funding for the project came from UJA-Federation of New York. Edited by Molly Tolsky, 31, the former editor of Kveller — a parenting website under the 70 Faces Media umbrella — Alma may be able to provide young Jewish women with just the right amount of Jewishness in exchange for minimal commitment. Tolsky has experience in building online communities. In her seven years working at Kveller, she helped the site amass more 84,000 followers on Facebook and 11,000 on Twitter. Although Tolsky, who is single and has no children, enjoyed learning about parenting through Kveller, she also was interested in providing relevant content for her own demographic: young Jewish women navigating relationships while building their careers. The name Alma -- a Hebrew word meaning a woman of childbearing age who does not yet have children -- fits the mission of the new project, according to Tolsky. “Ninety-one percent of our followers are women between the ages of 18 to 25, so we are definitely hitting our demographic,” she said.

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Not everyone who is an Alma fan, however, fits that profile. “We got an email from a Muslim Pakistani woman who is dating a Jewish guy and found Alma and is loving it,” Tolsky said. Mostly, though, Alma’s target audience is “unaffiliated Jews and Jews who are not participating in organized Jewish life,” she said. Many Alma readers are those who identify as Jewish and are interested in interacting with other Jews but at a cultural level. Focus groups assembled prior to Alma’s launch in late June indicated that “there are so many younger Jewish people who care about being Jewish but who don’t want to go outside their daily lives and to be forced into being Jewish,” said Tolsky. Alma, she said, gives them a way to connect in a manner that is comfortable and easy. Community, Tolsky noted, “happens more on social media, obviously, for this generation. We live on social media.” Prior to having children, many young Jewish women typically are not particularly active in organized, institutional Jewish life. See MILLENNIAL on Page THE

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Conservative Judaism Needs a New Brand. Here's Why.

Focus Issues on

By Steven C. Wernick

NEW YORK (JTA) -- We are living at a moment of great disruption. We all sense it. We all experience it. It impacts every aspect of our lives — education, economics, politics, social society. Judaism is not immune to these forces. Changes in demography; declines in synagogue membership, educational fluency and connection; the rise of the “nones” (Jews who identify as Jewish with no religion); a weakening of the bonds to Israel; intermarriage and more are all signs of this moment of disruption. The institutions we built to sustain and nurture Jewish life for the last 200 years are crumbling while a new Jewish future, one that is not yet fully defined, is emerging. Much has been written and discussed about the state of 21st century Jewry and what to do about it. Ultimately we are all asking a variation of the same question: How do we navigate a rapidly changing world in an authentic way? In his book "Leading from the Emerging Future," Otto Scharmer argues that our response “requires us to shift the inner place from which we operate. It requires us to suspend our judgments, redirect our attention, let go of the past, lean into the future that wants to emerge through us, and let it come.” During the beginning of my tenure at the USCJ, I would often be invited to speak to congregational boards about membership recruitment and retention. Leaders always wanted to know how to attract and retain new members. I observed a 90-minute board meeting that had just four agenda items: a financial matter in the religious school, a casino night, a parent’s night out and the annual dinner-dance fundraiser. At 9 p.m, following 90 minutes of frontal committee reports, it was my turn to teach this board about membership. I decided to throw aside my fancy PowerPoint and instead I asked for three people to THE

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share an experience that inspired them to sit at the board table. One person shared how his daughter stood under the huppah the week before and what it meant to be surrounded by a community that had shared in his family’s life journey. Another spoke about how her son died in a car accident 20 years earlier and teared up as she described the way the community literally helped her to get out of bed in the morning and continue living. And a third mentioned how his first trip to Israel was with the congregation and how he had become a lifelong learner as a result of it. I challenged them, explaining that “if you want to attract and retain members, then you need to talk more about these stories and figure out how the congregation enhances and expands the key moments of people’s lives and functions as a catalyst for their passions through Judaism.” In other words, it’s about purpose, not program. It’s about meaning, not membership. In our work at USCJ, we know that what all thriving kehillot (sacred communities inside and outside the walls of a synagogue) share is intentionality around Jewish relevancy and relationship. When planning their year they don’t ask what programs they need to drive people into the synagogue. They ask what questions and challenges their people are struggling with and how they can be a source of connection and meaning that leads to the Kabbalistic notion of "shleymut" (wholeness). In this time of great disruption, our focus must shift from structures to values. An authentic and dynamic Judaism is rooted in the wisdom gained at the intersection of heritage and progress. It is a Judaism that thrives in the tension of old and new, that finds unity in diversity, that is committed to lifelong Jewish growth, that is dedicated to excellence, and that understands that we are part of a great people, with a great tradition, that continues to this very day to inspire us to life fulfillment and a better world. USCJ’s new branding and messaging launched this week is designed to more clearly communicate this vision, mission and values to our network of almost 600 keh-

illot and to those in the Jewish world who are seeking meaning, connection and shleymut in this way. Our new brand is focused on this collective striving for meaning, which is why we decided on the tagline, "Seek meaning together," we understand that no one person or institution has all the answers or all the resources necessary to succeed alone. Our new logo also highlights this idea. It features interlocking U’s that reflect the strength of unity, partnership, collaboration and the notion that we are each links in the chain of the Jewish experience through time and place. Multiple shades of color reflect the diversity of our community — people of all backgrounds, ethnicities, gender, orientations and perspectives. An orange hue represents the light of Torah and the passions of our souls. Our mission is to partner with congregations and other organizations to understand the profound nature of the disruption of our time

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and to develop strategies to meet the needs of the current and emerging Jewish future. This Rosh Hashanah we begin not only a new year, but also a new age. Shanah tovah. (Rabbi Steven C. Wernick is the chief executive officer of the USCJ, the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism.) ì Call Our Trained Experts & Experience the Difference

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The Jewish Food Society Wants to Preserve Your Grandma's Recipes — Before They're Lost Forever By Josefin Dolsten TENAFLY, N.J. (JTA) — Ayala Hodak usually cooks the way her mother taught her: adding a pinch of spice here or relying on her eyes — never a measuring cup! — to judge how much liquid to add. But on a recent Tuesday, she was being much more precise. At her spacious home in this suburban town less than 15 miles from New York City, Hodak, 52, who grew up in an Iranian family in Israel, measured the amount of salt and pepper she added to a stew. She also paused to demonstrate how thickly to cut a piece of beef. Her reason for the accuracy: Hodak's recipe was being recorded by a new nonprofit, the Jewish Food Society, which aims to be an archive of Jewish recipes from around the world. Its kibbutz-born founder, who once promoted Israeli culture as an employee of the Israeli Consulate in New York, was inspired by the diversity of food traditions in Israel and her desire to preserve them in the Diaspora. “I realized there is an urgency in capturing these stories because the older generation is about to leave the world, and many of these recipes are labor- and time-consuming in a way that we should really protect them," the society's founder, Naama Shefi, told JTA. "These are skills that would just disappear if no one could capture them in a methodic way.” The project, which launched officially in March and receives financial support from several Jewish foundations, has added over a dozen recipes to its online archive,

and more are on the way. Along with the recipes are photographs and stories of the cook's family history, as well as how he or she learned to make the dish. Each week, Shefi, 36, who lives on New York's Lower East Side, interviews a chef and takes down his or her story. If distance permits, Shefi or an Israel-based employee will meet with the cook in person; if not, they communicate long distance. All ingredients are measured, and dishes are then re-created in a test kitchen and adjusted accordingly. Though some participants work in the food industry — Hodak is the manager and co-owner of Taboon, a Midtown Manhattan restaurant serving Middle Eastern and Mediterranean-inspired food — others are home cooks. Shefi came up with the idea after a Shabbat meal in 2005 at the home of her now-husband's grandmother, who was born in Turkey but also lived in Greece and South Africa prior to immigrating to Israel with her family. “The flavors really represented all of their previous immigration stories and journeys, and some worlds that do not even exist anymore," she said. "It was such a vivid expression of disappearing worlds, and of bitter and sweet memories. It was just moving, so I told him, let’s just spend a day with her try to capture a few recipes. It was just really inspiring." Shefi has always had an interest in food, though she did not get it at home. “Good food wasn’t part of my childhood," said Shefi, who grew up on Kibbutz Givat Hashlosha in

central Israel. "Between the [kibbutz's] communal dining room and the fact that my mom is not the best cook in the world, good food was out of reach." But as a young girl, she would urge her parents to take her to Tel Aviv’s Carmel Market or a nearby Yemenite neighborhood to try different types of cuisines. "It became my life’s passion," Shefi said. "At the beginning just because it tasted really good, but later because I realized it tells a fantastic story about families and people and cultures." In 2008, when she took the consulate job, she could use that passion in a professional way. Having just graduated from the New School with a master's degree in film, Shefi was tasked with promoting Israeli culture. She decided to do so through food, hosting Israel-themed dinners, wine tastings and panels in New York. She also organized trips to the Jewish state for American food writers. In 2013, Shefi launched the Kubbeh Project, a three-week pop-up in Greenwich Village serving kubbeh soup, an Iraqi Jewish dish featuring meat-filled semolina dumplings in vegetable broth. The project received wide media coverage and had people lining up for hours for a taste of the delicacy. “The first day I came to the venue at 2 p.m., I saw this line around the block, almost like a ‘Shakespeare in the Park’ line,” she said, referring to the popular free performances in Central Park. “And I was just amazed that these people are waiting for us. This line never stopped for these three weeks and people

Ayala Hodak showing ghormeh sabzi, a Persian dish she cooked with the Jewish Food Society, at her home in Tenafly, N.J., Aug. 15, 2017. (Josefin Dolsten)

stood hours and hours in the snow.” Now the Jewish Food Society, for which Shefi works full time, provides a way to combine her two passions: food and storytelling. “For a while I was really interested in storytelling through filmmaking," she said. "Still my main interest is storytelling, but the medium changed to food." In addition to the weekly cooking session, the nonprofit puts on larger-scale events, such as a Passover seder that showcased three Mexicoborn Jewish chefs, and Schmaltzy, a yearly storytelling event where people share the stories behind family recipes. A Moroccan-style Mimouna, a bread-filled celebration held the day after Passover, is in the works, Shefi said. Her family are Polish Jews, not Sephardi, but said such distinctions blur in Israeli kitchens. “Israel is a not just a melting pot, it’s a pressure cooker, so a Polish girl like me considered kubbeh as my own,” she told The New York Times. Shefi’s long-term goal for the Jewish Food Society extends beyond the archive of recipes She See FOOD SOCIETY on Page

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For Israelis, Trend of Scary Clowns Lurking After Dark Is No Laughing Matter By Andrew Tobin

Young Israelis dressed as clowns are wreaking a bit of havoc across the country. (Tolga Akmen/AFP/Getty Images)

TEL AVIV (JTA) -- Israelis aren't particularly amused by a recent phenomenon in their country: teenagers dressing as clowns and lurking after dark. In fact, the costumed young people have caused a nationwide panic. Since last week, dozens of the teens have been rounded up for scaring passers-by in parks and other public places at night. The incidents have happened in cities and towns as far flung as Afula in the north and Beersheba in the south. The phenomenon is reminiscent of the "killer clown" craze that swept the United States last year. In Israel, the trend has been widely attributed to the popularity of the recently released horror movie "It," which is based on a Stephen King novel and features a murderous clown. In a Facebook post Tuesday, police confirmed that they had detained "many youths who had frightened civilians throughout the country." In the central Israeli city of Rishon Lezion, four 16-year-old boys were arrested Monday night for wearing clown masks to frighten visitors to a local park. Last week, police detained an 18-year-old man in central Ramle and four children younger than 12 in the Negev town of Dimona for similar acts. While some of the detained were released after apologizing for clowning around, a number of incidents reportedly have resulted in injuries. According to a television report Tuesday on Israel's Channel 10, two young men dressed as clowns pepper-sprayed a 10-year-old girl in Beersheba, while a 17-year-old male in the West Bank was lightly wounded when he fell while chasing a clown with a knife. Israelis, of course, tend to be THE

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well-armed and are generally attuned to the threat of terrorism. Mix that with a ubiquitous rumor of scary clowns and it's a potentially dangerous dynamic. Case in point: A Dimona resident expressed relief to Channel 2 on Monday that he did not shoot someone dressed as a clown who startled him. “As I was walking down the street on my way home in the middle of the night, someone jumped behind me with a clown costume and yelled at me — luckily I didn’t have a heart attack," he said. “I had a pistol. Luckily I didn’t shoot him by mistake. This is really not funny." Indeed, both local and national officials are not treating the clown phenomenon as a laughing matter. In their Facebook post Tuesday, the Israel Police vowed that "illegal" clown impersonators would continue to face "strict and uncompromising police enforcement."At the same time, they urged the public "not to take the law into its hands and not to harm the youths," most of whom have not caused any harm to people or property. The police described the scary clowns as part of an “international trend that has gathered momentum on social media." The United States over the decades has seen various waves of hysteria over scary clowns. Last summer, hundreds of sightings were reported across the country. Many were hoaxes, but some led to arrests. In October, the White House even weighed in, with then-press secretary Josh Earnest saying, “Obviously, this is a situation that law enforcement is taking quite seriously." The sightings quickly spread to countries around the world. But Israel Police spokesman Mickey Rosenfeld told JTA on Wednesday that this was the first time the phenomenon had come to Israel in a serious way. "We've seen a case here or there over the years, but nothing on this kind of major or national level," he said. The Israeli news website Ynet reported that teenagers were circulating a list of suggested times and places that clowns "should work"

across the country. A video of a clown who appears to be holding a knife in Beersheba is making the rounds on Israeli social media. In response to what it said were reports by students of scary clowns "lying in wait for civilians and children," the Education Ministry issued guidelines Tuesday for handling the threats, including advising parents to "promote awareness of the issue" and report any encounters to the police. For educators, the ministry advised, “It is important to emphasize and take into account the age of the students. The conversations must be adapted to their developmental stage, and shouldn’t frighten but rather convey soothing messages and increase their sense of security.” Meanwhile, many professional clowns in Israel are worried that their image is being tarnished by the impostors. Itzik Ozeri has performed for decades as Itzik the Clown in the local media, at parties and at

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Schneider Children's Medical Center in Petach Tikvah "Everybody is afraid now that our jobs will go down," he told JTA on Wednesday. Safety is also a concern, he added. Ozeri said he was nearly assaulted Tuesday — he was parked outside a gig in Beersheba when a group of teenage boys walked by and, seeing him in costume, one shouted, "It's the killer clown!" The boys picked up stones to attack him, Ozeri said, but were stopped by a group of peers who explained, "This is Itzik the Clown. He's a good clown." Ozeri said he understood the fear. Even his 25-year-old daughter, who grew up with a clown for a father, is afraid a clown will jump out at her on the streets at night. Still, Ozeri said he has faith that this phenomenon — like so many others — will pass. "I believe in God, I believe everything will be OK," he said. "Just like this came, it will very soon pass."ì

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Fall Bridal The Best Jewish Cookbooks to Give as a Wedding Gift From fresh Israeli cuisine to classic brisket, this list covers it all. by Shannon Sarna Wedding presents can be tricky cookbooks to choose from online or to choose, that is if you don’t want off bookstore shelves. In fact, there to just stick some cash in an enve- are so many Jewish cookbooks it can lope. But cookbooks can be a be overwhelming to pick from so thoughtful gift for newlyweds who many delicious-sounding options. like to cook, aspire to cook or just Here is a list of some of the most love cookbooks. beloved, and trusted cookbooks for There are no shortage of Jewish any new couple, no matter if they love Israeli food, keep a vegetarian diet or plan to host big holiday dinners.

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Joan Nathan’s Jewish Holiday Cookbook Every Jewish kitchen should have at least one of Joan Nathan’s cookbooks, if not several. And classic Jewish holiday dishes from the queen of American Jewish food is an absolute must. The Book of Jewish Food: An Odyssey from Samarkand to New York This classic book by Jewish food legend Claudia Roden may not have fancy photos on every page, but it’s a book of deep substance, history and deliciousness whose recipes are researched and perfected. Anyone who is interested in Jewish food will want to devour it from start to finish. The Book of New Israeli Food The flavors and spices of Israeli cuisine can be exciting, and overwhelming. But Janna Gur’s first cookbook provides an education on the origins of Israeli food itself as well as dozens of perfect classic recipes from basic hummus to green Persian rice, stews, babka and more without sending readers off on a never-end-

ing ingredient treasure hunt.

fect new-meets-old book that is Zahav: A World of beautiful, clean and the perfect gift. Israeli Cooking Barefoot Contessa: Back to Basics Michael Solomonov’s Jewish cooking isn’t just award-winning cookabout the food: it’s also book is part storytellabout hosting and weling and part mouth-watering recicoming guests into your pes that any newlyweds will be home. Ina Garten not only provides excited to tackle together. an education in ingredients and Aromas of Aleppo: The cooking, but how to host a meal Legendary Cuisine of from start to finish with simple, perfect recipes. Syrian Jews This book brings the traThe New York Times ditional recipes and flaJewish Cookbook vors of traditional Syrian cooking to This enormous volume life with personal stories and beautioffers more than 825 ful photos. There are delicious recirecipes from around the pes, but also a fascinating history of world, which is sure to keep even the Syrian Jewish community. the ambitious new cooks busy for some time. Modern Jewish Cooking Leah Koenig’s stunning The Moosewood Cookbook Mollie Katzen’s vegetarcookbook offers the perian cookbook has been a fect guide to modern yet classic in Jewish kitchtraditional dishes, with ens since its release over beautiful photos, creative 30 year ago for good reatwists and truly trustworthy recipes. son: The vegetable-forward recipes This book would nicely complement one of the more classic books on this are simple, healthy and perfectly complement Shabbat meals, holiday list for a perfect gift set. dinners or everyday eating. The Gefilte The Superfun Times Vegan Holiday Manifesto: New Cookbook: Entertaining for Recipes for Old World Jewish Foods Absolutely Every Occasion For the vegan couple in Jeffrey Yoskowitz your life, this book offers and Liz Alpern’s goals have always unique recipes for Hanukbeen to bring New World sensibilikah, Rosh Hashanah, Passties and flavors into Old World over and everything in between. ì foods, like gefilte fish, kugel, challah and other Jewish classics. Their cookbook, like Leah Koenig’s Modern Jewish Cooking, is a per-

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When a Major Jewish Holiday Clashes With a Major Family Wedding By Debra Lynn Shelton

A bride and groom in the center of Tel Aviv, Nov. 4, 2015. (Flash 90)

(Kveller via JTA) -- My cousin is getting married on Yom Kippur. And her dress rehearsal is on Kol Nidre. Yes, you read that right. So, what’s a good relative to do? Apparently when she and her nonJewish fiancé scheduled their most special event, they had no idea the date coincided with the holiest days on the Jewish calendar. By the time they realized the conflict, it was too late. They weren’t able to change the date of their wedding at the fancy country club where it was booked. On a scale of religiousness, our family ranges from fairly religious to completely non-participating. So the fairly religious contingent now have a difficult decision to make.

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The bride is my first cousin, the daughter of my mom’s younger brother. For my immediate family (parents and sisters) the knee-jerk reaction was: reject the occasion altogether. Send a gift, but don’t attend. I mean, how disrespectful could you be to schedule your special day on such a somber and important holiday? What could the future bride and groom have been thinking? What could they expect? But the deeper we delved into the dilemma, the more complicated it became. For my mom who is fairly religious, in her mid-70s, and lives across the country from her two brothers, the decision was especially difficult. She was choosing between sharing the joyous celebration including magnificent meals with her cherished brothers vs. observing the High Holidays by attending services and fasting. Rather than asking the audience, she decided to “phone a friend.” That friend was her rabbi who happened to be in Israel on a trip with

fellow congregants. After explaining the situation, my mom asked: “What advice can you give our family regarding attending the wedding? I can hear my father’s voice saying, ‘family is family.’ How do I choose between my family and my faith?” His response was surprising. On a call from Jerusalem the rabbi advised: “Don’t go, but do send a gift. Do not tell her why you are not going.” This confused my mom even more, especially the last part. If she chose not to go, why not stand up and say why? She called her brothers to discuss the situation, and their voices reminded her of the deep love they share. In the end, that love overpowered everything else. She and my dad booked their tickets and will be attending the wedding at the end of September. The bride-to-be also showed some flexibility, changing the time of the rehearsal dinner so anyone who wishes may attend Kol Nidre services. She also researched near-

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by temples and their times for services on Friday night and Saturday. Her Saturday evening wedding is, technically, after the holiday is over. I think she genuinely feels bad about the predicament this has put her observant family members in, and has done what she can to rectify the situation. (I’m sure many of you will disagree with this.) Personally, I’ve come full circle. At first I was ready to book my plane ticket. Then I thought, since it was so disrespectful of the bride and groom to put so many in such a challenging position, I wouldn’t go. Then I considered what really matters: family. So I’ll be checking out flight and hotel information soon. This isn’t an uncommon dilemma in our world where so many levels of observance can be found in one family. Secular Jews may have weddings or birthday parties or even graduations or professional milestones that involve travel on Saturdays, for instance—leaving their See CLASH on Page

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Being a Guest at a Jewish Wedding: A Guide From chuppah to glass-breaking, here's what to expect at Jewish nuptials. by Rachel Lerner So you’ve been invited to a Jewish wedding but don’t know exactly what to expect? Here is a quick guide about what to do and how to act at the joyous occasion. Keep in mind that every Jewish wedding differs slightly from the next, depending on the religious and cultural background of the couple — and of course their personalities. The particulars of the guidelines below will vary depending on the celebration you attend.

day. At many Jewish weddings, men wear kippot (skullcaps), and they will most likely be provided at the wedding. In some circles, you may see women wearing kippot too. Women at more traditional Jewish weddings wear skirts or dresses that fall below the knee and cover their shoulders — or elbows, in even more traditional circles. Sometimes women wear wraps or jackets that cover their shoulders just for the ceremony, and then they uncover for the party.

The first time listed refers to the start of the kabbalat panim — the time for greeting the couple before the ceremony — and the second time refers to the actual start time of the ceremony. Though it is nice for close friends and family to arrive at the beginning of the kabbalat panim, you can consider all of the kabbalat panim as an appropriate window for showing up. If there is only one start time listed, that is probably when the ceremony is scheduled to begin, so be on time. What to Wear to a Jewish The kabbalat panim prepares the Wedding Before the Jewish Wedding couple for the wedding, and a lot of Like most weddings, the dress Ceremony code for a Jewish wedding can be You might have received an invi- different things might take place influenced by location and time of tation with two different start times. there. At a more traditional kabbal-

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at panim, the bride and groom sit in different rooms or areas, and guests greet them and often enjoy some light — or not so light — refreshments. Some brides and grooms fast on their wedding day until after the ceremony. It’s completely fine to eat in front of them at the kabbalat panim, but you may want to think twice before offering them refreshments. At a traditional kabbalat panim, the bride often sits on a special seat, and guests approach her to give good wishes. She may offer a special blessing in return. The groom might have a tisch, where he sits around a table with his family and friends singing songs. He may also share words of Torah. The guests often heckle him by shouting and singing to interrupt him, and you can join in the fun. The bride may have her own tisch as well. During the kabbalat panim, some couples read a document called tenaim, which outlines the conditions of the marriage and declares the couple’s intention to wed. This is followed by the breaking of a plate, usually by the mothers of the bride and groom. Symbolically it reflects that a broken engagement cannot be mended.

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The ketubah — the Jewish marriage document — is normally signed at this time. In more traditional circles, it is signed at the groom’s tisch. In more liberal circles, the ketubah signing may be the main event of the kabbalat panim, with the couple, witnesses, See BEING A GUEST on Page THE

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Jewish Marriage

Jewish marriage is not merely a secular legal partnership, but a union sanctified by God. Genesis tells us that God recognized “it is not good for man to be alone” and created the first human couple, Adam and Eve. Their “marriage” ensured the propagation and survival of humanity, and the joy of this archetypal couple is reflected in one of the Jewish wedding blessings: “Make these beloved companions as happy as were the first human couple in the Garden of Eden.” Jewish marriage is not merely a secular legal partnership, but a union sanctified by God. Marital obligations, therefore, are not merely personal, but have implications for universal harmony. The existence of God as a “silent partner” in Jewish marriage endows a relationship with sanctity and solemn commitment. Judaism views marriage as the basis of human companionship and the cornerstone of Jewish community. As the venue for fulfillment of the biblical commandment of p’ru u’rvu, be fruitful and multiply, Jewish marriage is also the basis of Jewish survival. Desirable times for a Jewish wedding have been set by both custom and law, but Jewish weddings traditionally are not held on the Sabbath; on the holidays of Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Passover, Shavuot, and the first and last days of Sukkot; and around certain fast days.

How Has Jewish Marriage Evolved? Over time Jewish marriage has evolved from a property transaction to a more spiritual commitment. In biblical times the fathers arranged marriages. Because the father of the bride would be losing a valuable household worker, he received from the groom’s father a bride price, called mohar, in exchange for his daughter. The groom would also give gifts to the bride, called mattan. Over time, the mohar evolved into a gift to the bride’s father, a portion of which he passed on to his daughter. During late-biblical and postbiblical times the economic situation worsened. Because men were afraid to marry and take on extra financial responsibilities, fathers began to offer dowries to attract THE

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eligible men. To relieve the groom’s financial burden at the time of marriage, the mohar was transformed again, this time into a lien to be paid by the husband to the wife in case of divorce. This change also gave the bride some protection against an arbitrary divorce. Eventually a minimum for this obligatory lien was specified in the marriage contract, known as a ketubah: 200 dinars for an unmarried girl and 100 for a widow. The groom could also provide an “additional ketubah,” a gift corresponding to the ancient mattan.

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What Were the Rituals of Marriage? Until the late Middle Ages, marriage consisted of two ceremonies separated in time: the betrothal and the actual wedding. The betrothal was a legal marriage and could only be dissolved by a formal divorce, yet the woman remained in her father’s house. The betrothal constituted the actual “purchase” of the bride, and her later move to the groom’s house, the “delivery” of the purchased “property.” By talmudic times, a betrothal celebration followed the signing of the ketubah. The groom gave the bride an object valued at less than a prutah (small coin) and declared in the presence of two witnesses: “Be thou consecrated to me, be thou betrothed to me, be thou my wife.” The betrothal itself was renamed as kiddushin, implying sanctification or setting apart and suggesting a spiritualization of the original property transaction. A betrothal blessing prohibited forbidden unions and permitted only unions sanctified by Jewish marriage. The actual wedding, approximately a year later, was preceded by a lively procession escorting the bride to the home of the groom. The chuppah (today, the marriage canopy) was originally a decorated pavilion in the house of the groom or his father, where the sheva berakhot, or seven blessings, were recited over a cup of wine. Contributing in any way to the joy of the bride and groom was deemed a mitzvah (a religious obligation). Today, the betrothal and wedding generally both take place under the chuppah. As is still the custom today in traditional communities, the celebration continued for seven days at festive meals where the sheva berakhot were repeated following the grace after meals. Copyright © 2017 My Jewish Learning. All Rights Reserved ì

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BEING A GUEST Continued from Page 22 and all the guests present. After all the legalities are taken care of, the groom is escorted by his friends and family, usually with dancing and singing, to meet the bride and veil her in a ceremony known as the bedeken. This is often a particularly moving moment of the wedding, so if you’re planning to come late and skip the kabbalat panim, try to come at least 15 minutes before the ceremony is scheduled. In a wedding with only one start time, the ketubah signing and veiling are usually taken care of with the rabbi in private, before the ceremony begins. The Jewish Wedding Ceremony Jewish weddings do not usually follow the custom of having the bride’s and groom’s guests sit separately, but at some Orthodox weddings, men and women sit on opposite sides of the aisle. As you enter the room for the ceremony, look out for a program that explains what’s going on. Not all weddings have these, but they are becoming increasingly popular. A rabbi or cantor usually conducts the ceremony, standing under the chuppah (marriage canopy) with the bride, groom, and sometimes their families and friends. In the middle of the ceremony, the ketubah may be read by a rabbi or friend. The ketubah is often a beautiful piece of art, and after the ceremony you may be able to admire it if it is on display. Near the end of the ceremony, the sheva berakhot — seven blessings — are recited over a cup of wine. These may be recited by one person, often the rabbi, or by several people. the bride and groom wish to honor. The guests in the crowd may sing along during the sheva berakhot. Feel free to hum along even if

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you do not know the words. The wedding ceremony ends with the breaking of the glass, which symbolizes that even in times of great joy, we remember that there is still pain in the world (which Jewish tradition relates to the destruction of the Jewish Temple). In most weddings, after the glass is broken it is time to jump up and yell, “Mazel Tov!” After the conclusion of the ceremony, at more traditional weddings, the couple heads directly to a private room to spend their first few minutes of marriage alone. In this case, there will not be a typical receiving line. If the cocktail hour didn’t already happen during the kabbalat panim, guests are invited for cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. Be careful not to fill up. Even at the most elaborate spreads, there will most likely be a full meal served during the reception. Jewish Wedding Celebration Lively circle dancing — popularly known as the hora — usually starts immediately when the bride and groom enter the party room. At more traditional weddings there are separate circles for men and women — sometimes split by a mehitzah (divider). In more liberal crowds, men and women dance together. Get ready for some raucous dancing, and feel free to take your turn dancing with the wedding couple. As part of the hora, the couple will be seated on chairs and lifted in the air — if you’re strong, you can lend a hand. While they’re hoisted up, the bride and groom might hold onto a kerchief or napkin. You might recognize this part from the movies. The couple may take a break from dancing themselves, sit down on chairs on the dance floor, and let the guests entertain them. You can dance See BEING A GUEST on Page

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BEING A GUEST Continued from Page 1

peace talks.

Israel freezes pluralistic Western for them or show off your back- Wall agreement. flipping, juggling, or fire-blowing talents. Be creative — it’s all about making the newlyweds happy! After the meal, more traditional weddings end with the recitation of a special grace after meals, which includes a recitation of the same sheva brachot recited during the ceremony. Guests are seated and join together for Jewish women praying at the this. Many couples produce benschers women’s section of the Western Wall in Jerusalem, May 16, 2017. (grace after meals booklets) with their Thomas Coex/AFP/Getty Images) names and the date of the wedding printed on them. You can take one of A June decision by Netanyahu's these home as a party favor. Cabinet to put a hold on the creOf course, there is great variation ation of an egalitarian section of the in Jewish weddings, so it is always Western Wall, a deal passed in good to check with your hosts prior to the wedding if you have any ques- 2016, drew the ire of American Jewish leaders. Some leaders, also tions. Copyright © 2017 My Jewish angered by the advancement of a bill to give the Orthodox Chief Learning. All Rights Reservedì Rabbinate complete control of conversions performed in Israel, TOP TEN warned of a growing schism Continued from Page 1 between American Jews and Israel. defenders said the president's critics Natan Sharansky, the chairman of were politically motivated. the Jewish Agency for Israel, also joined critics of the decision, sayOn first overseas trip, Trump ing it "will make our work to bring visits Israel. Israel and the Jewish world closer together increasingly more difficult." In August, the Israeli Supreme Court said the government must either reinstate the agreement or provide an explanation as to why it had put a hold on it. President Donald Trump and Jared Kushner, left, at the Western Wall in Jerusalem, May 22, 2017. (Israel Bardugo)

Trump paid a visit to the Jewish state on his first overseas trip as president in May, which also included stops in Italy and Saudi Arabia. The two-day trip included a stop at Yad Vashem and meetings with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Reuven Rivlin, as well as Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas. Trump, accompanied by his daughter Ivanka and her husband Jared Kushner, also stopped at the Western Wall for a private visit, making him the first sitting U.S. president to visit the holy site and earning him high praise across Israel. A few months after the visit, Trump dispatched a team of top aides, including Kushner, Jason Greenblatt and Dina Powell, to visit Israel and other Middle Eastern countries in an attempt to revive THE

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Chicago Dyke March bans three women for carrying flags with Jewish stars.

on Issues

demonstrators could bring banners with Jewish stars to a Chicago feminist march -- illuminated a growing challenge for Zionist Jews who feel unwelcome in liberal spaces. Neo-Nazis rally in Charlottesville.

Rescue workers and volunteers helping residents make their way out of a flooded neighborhood in Houston following Hurricane Harvey, Aug. 29, 2017. (Scott Olson/Getty Images)

Hundreds of white supremacists and far-rightists on the outskirts of Emancipation Park during the Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, Va., Aug. 12, 2017. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

Neo-Nazis and white supremacists gathered in a Virginia park in August to protest the removal of a statue of Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee. The far-right protesters chanted anti-Semitic and racist slogans, including "Jews will not replace us," and brawled with counterprotesters. One counterprotester, Heather Heyer, was killed when a suspected white supremacist rammed his car into a crowd. Trump waffled on condemning the protest, calling out neo-Nazis and white supremacists in one remark, but blaming both sides for the violence at other times, and saying there were "some very fine people" in both groups. Jewish groups, lawmakers from both sides of the aisle and the president's top economic adviser, Gary Cohn, criticized

Marchers at the 48th annual Gay and Lesbian Pride Parade in Chicago, June 25, 2017. (Kamil Krzaczynski/AFP/Getty Images)

In June, a Chicago lesbian march ejected three women for carrying Gay Pride flags with Jewish stars, saying the march was "anti-Zionist" and "pro-Palestinian." The decision drew heated debate, and the Jewish reporter who first wrote about the incident for a Chicago LGBTQ newspaper said she was removed from her reporting job as a result of the article. The Dyke March controversy — as well as similar debates about the role of Zionists in the feminist movement and whether www.thejewishlight.org

Trump for his response, saying he was not doing his part to condemn hate. Hurricane Harvey floods Houston Homes were flooded and lives were turned upside down as Hurricane Harvey hit Texas in August, forcing mass evacuations across the state. Over 70 percent of the city's Jews live in areas that experienced high flooding, and synagogues, schools and other Jewish community buildings sustained significant damage. Recovery from the hurricane is expected to take years, but the disaster also served as a point of coming together for the community, as Jewish groups rallied to distribute donations and local Jewish camps offered housing to those with nowhere to go.ì “THE MOST WELL TRAVELED VEHICLES ON EARTH”

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Education

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STUDY TOOL Continued from Page 13 and the heart and the hand," Epstein said. "And not just teach them new info, but teach them to do something. That's what I based my lessons around." Rabbis and teachers had always done this kind of layered Jewish teaching, building an argument or les-son out of centuries of Jewish writing on a topic the way a geologist describes a mountain by pointing to the layers of rock beneath the surface. But the source sheet revolutionized Jewish learning by making sure every student was literally on the same page. Many educators credit Nechama Leibowitz, a legendary Israeli teacher, with popularizing and democ-ratizing Torah study in Israel with the distribution of her mimeographed work sheets, or gilyonot. Sent to subscribers by mail between 1941 and 1971 (and later collected between hard covers), Leibowitz's work sheets offered Torah verses and rabbinic commentary, and questions quizzing students on the connections between them. Leibowitz, who was teaching nearly up to the moment she died in 1997 at age 92, would comment on the students' answers and mail them back. Barry Holtz, the Theodore and Florence Baumritter Professor of Jewish Education at The Jewish Theological Seminary, remembers learning Torah from original texts and all-Hebrew textbooks in the 1950s at Congregation Kehillath Israel in Brookline, Massachusetts. But the assistant rabbi there, Joseph Lukinsky, introduced new ways to teach his Hebrew school classes. "He was an incredibly creative young rabbi, maybe ahead of the

curve," Holtz recalled. "He must have been one of the first people to introduce a tikkun leyl Shavuot" -an all-night study session on the spring holiday of Shavuot -- "outside of the Orthodox world, in 1962, just for the teenagers. "It's weird that I can remember this, but he had created a packet I suspect is someplace in a closet in my house, with texts that we studied all night long, and the title was 'Gods Jews have known, and Jews God has known.' It was so radical and amazing and interesting at the time." Lukinsky, before his death in 2009 at 78, was a revered professor of education at JTS. Source sheets have spread to all the Jewish movements, and to classrooms where the often esoteric Talmudic texts and medieval commentaries may be daunting or unfamiliar. "I am a lover of rabbinic text — particularly in the Reform movement that often often finds it less ac-cessible," said Rabbi Sari Laufer, director of congregational engagement at the Stephen Wise Temple in Los Angeles. "People aren't as familiar [with Talmud or rabbinic text] or feel that it is not ours in some way. I am very committed to using and unlocking a lot of rabbinic text." A prolific poster to Sefaria, Laufer has created source sheets on work-life balance, the theology of food and seduction, and the imagery of darkness in Jewish thought, among many others. Working though the multiple layers of Jewish learning, she said, "grounds us in an entire history -- a great reminder that questions we think of as modern are questions people have been asking for thou-sands of years with incredible insight." And sometimes a list of sources can be a powerful tool for conver-

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sation -- and even change. Abby Stein, a transgender activist and teacher who grew up in a prominent Hasidic family in Williams-burg, New York, uses a source sheet in classes she teaches on Judaism and gender. The sheet, titled "Changing the Conversation: Jewish-Gender IS Queer ... and Feminist," is available on Sefaria and linked to her Facebook page. "After everything I had done to enrage the Hasidic community, the most negative, most hate I ever got was for that Torah sheet -- not media, not transitioning, but for publishing that source sheet," Stein recalled. "It threatens them the most because it is using their own text. "Usually they are very dismissive. Here when I show them a text from a Hasidic rabbi saying a man [can be] in the wrong body, or from Zohar saying an ideal person has to balance femininity and masculinity at all times, or a wife can't have kids because she is a male, they can't just dismiss it as BS." Sefaria is trying to chart a future for a study tool that is itself the product of a mid-20th century infor-mation revolution. Its library of online source sheets is interactive -- that is, every source on a sheet links to the database of myriad Jewish texts. "When you put a bunch of sources on paper, the audience can only see what's on the sheet," Wolkenfeld said. Using the database, however, "you are in control of the story. You can open up a chapter and see the larger context," she said. "From three commentaries I can navigate to 10 others." And if students have tablets or laptops, they can do all that exploring during the lesson itself. Holtz warns that if there is a downside to the source sheet, it's the temptation by a teacher to pick and choose from the wide and woolly corpus of Jewish text to prove a dubious point. "Some would argue ... that you don't cherry-pick," said Holtz, who wrote a popular beginner's guide to studying Jewish text, "Back to the Sources." "And Jewish study according to this argument should not be about all the good parts or the cool parts or obviously meaningful parts, but you should work hard through all the parts as you encounter them." And as seductive a tool as source sheets can be, many teachers don't want them seen as substitutes for the real thing.

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"A source sheet, as critical as it is, it is a tool but no replacement for the text in the original," said Tzvi Sinensky, the rosh beit midrash, or dean of Jewish learning, at the Kohelet Yeshiva High School in sub-urban Philadelphia. "We want our students engaging with the original texts and have the skills to parse the Gemara -- not to know about the text, but to know it." The source sheets Sinensky has posted to Sefaria have been viewed nearly 95,000 times. ì

FOOD SOCIETY Continued from Page 18 wants to establish a center for Jewish food in New York, where visitors would be able to take cooking classes and learn about their family’s culinary histories. Shefi describes her vision as “the James Beard Foundation for Jewish food.” For now, the Jewish Food Society provides a way for Jews to engage with their culture, Shefi said. “These [recipes and stories] are just huge parts of our lives, of our history as a people, and I feel that for many people that are less connected to Jewish culture and Jewish life, it’s a very inviting window to engage and to explore their identity,” she said. Food also provides a lens through which to understand Jewish history, she added. "I feel that recipes really carry our cultural DNA because they tell stories not just about a particular time in history, but also about how people used to live, how people used to celebrate, how people used to mourn, how people used to get together," Shefi said. "It's not just about the flavor and the food, it’s really about the experience.” For her part, Hodak is excited to have her mother's dishes — including Ghormeh Sabzi, a herb beef stew that her family would eat for Shabbat dinner, and a yogurt soup with cucumber and mint eaten on Shavuot — recorded for future generations. “I thought it’s a great opportunity to spread my tradition," she said, "to talk about my mother’s food and to keep it alive."ì THE

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SCOUTING Continued from Page 14 ship training. (At the recent Manhattan session, which took place at the Solomon Schechter School, the scouts held hands in a circle and tried to maneuver a hula hoop around the circle without letting go.) “It was skills we needed for activities, and it helped us during our army service,” Kaminsky said of her own experience in the Israeli Scouts as a child. “If you translate it to the American way of life and college, you’ll be better in college if you know how to manage your time, speak in front of people.”

For Israeli parents in the United States, sending their children to the Hebrew-speaking group offers a structured way to keep up a connection to the old country. It also gives secular Israeli parents a way to see their expatriate peers without having to join a synagogue. “We need to create these cultural hubs for Israelis because they usually will not go to the synagogue,” said Eytan Behiri, the adult supervisor of the Hebrew chapter on Long Island, whose children are members. “As much as we don’t like to say it, we are immigrants in this country. A lot of immigrants want to bring their culture and pass

it on to their kids.” Anglophone American parents said they also appreciated the connection to Israel, where some have extended family. Regina KachkoffEnk enrolled her 9-year-old daughter in the program because she liked the emphasis on Judaism without too much religion, unlike some other youth groups. And she chose the Israeli Scouts over the Girl Scouts because she saw it as more gender-egalitarian. "I don’t want them to just be sewing and doing girly things,” she said.”I want things to be equal for them. I want them to get a sense of the religion and the culture, but I

don’t want them to get so mired in the religion that they feel out of place.” Geismar, the counselor, who is still in high school herself, says the supportive atmosphere of the group is especially valuable for preteens who are “undergoing some of the most transformative years of their lives.” And she appreciates the independence and informality that Israeli culture promotes. “The willingness and easygoingness of Israelis is different than Americans,” she said. “Things don’t have to be set to a schedule. Things can be fun. In America you get so set in your routine. To be out of that is so liberating.”ì Call Our Trained Experts & Experience the Difference

MILLENNIAL Continued from Page 16 “It’s important for people to have a place where who they are is being recognized and their level of being Jewish is OK,” Tolsky said. Alma, she added, acknowledges that “you don’t have to go to shul, or light candles, or keep kosher to be Jewish.” Content on Alma has been varied, but one subject stands out as the most popular. “Hair!” said Tolsky, who grew up attending a Conservative congrega-

tion in a northwest Chicago suburb. “It doesn’t surprise me. That’s something I noticed on Kveller, too.” An article focusing on nine Jewish women and their “love-hate” relationships with their hair, illustrated with photographs, was a huge hit, she said. A photo essay titled “My Jewfro and I” has been the most viewed. “Everyone has a personal relationship with hair,” Tolsky said. “And people like reading about

other people’s hair.” Alma posts new content daily, not all of which is directly related to being Jewish. Nonetheless, Alma is on its way to creating a virtual Jewish village. “Jewish people do often feel an instant connection when they meet someone else who is Jewish,” Tolsky said. “We are hoping Alma will become an online community.”ì

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KIM SPORT Continued from Page 6 son, Sybil Morial, Donald Mintz, Grace Hudson, Diana Lewis, The Honorable Miriam Waltzer, Elizabeth Rack, The Honorable Joan B. Armstrong, Sunny Norman, Norma Freiberg, Mike Brenner, Rosa F. Keller, Barbara Lemann, Roy Schwarz, Rosalie Cohen, Florence Schornstein, Sara Stone, Millie McClendon Charles, Jane K. Buchsbaum, Edith Schulhofer, Sarah Davis, Helen Mervis, Edith Rosenwald Stern, Olga Jackson, Thomas Godchaux, Myra Soboloff, , Margery Stich and Rena Wilson.

The Hannah G. Solomon Award and Luncheon Committee is comprised of Mimi Schlesinger, Chair of the NCJW Award Selection Committee; Sue Singer, Chair NCJW Luncheon Committee; President Barbara Kaplinsky; Vice President Sarah Covert and Committee Members: Barbara Bresler, Loel Weil Samuel, Vivian Cahn, Dana Shepard, Millie Davis Kohn, Ann Thompson, Joyce Pulitzer and Liz Yager.ì

CLASH Continued from Page 21

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I’m looking forward to spending time with relatives I don’t get to see very often, and to celebrating this special milestone with them. But it isn’t an easy choice. Dear Kveller readers, I wonder: what would you do? (Debra Lynn Shelton is a young adult, women’s fiction, and mystery writer who lives in the suburbs of Philadelphia.)ì

Photo Credit: Oscar Rajo

Sabbath-observant relatives torn. After all is said and done, as inconsiderate as keeping the wedding date scheduled for Yom Kippur is, I’m of the opinion that, as my grandfather said, “Family is family.” The High Holidays will occur again next year. My cousin’s wedding will not. So, I’ll be joining my parents to watch my cousin walk down the aisle (They plan on attending services near the wedding venue.)

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