Mochers - Spring 2022

MOCHERS The Jewish Men’s Lifestyle Magazine

AMAZING

Arizona

SHTICK LAB TRAVEL:

To Paris with Love THE INTERIOR:

A HOST WORTHY

DINING ROOM

USA $11.99

WATCHES:

A Sports Watch for Every Budget EATS:

Mamma Mia!

IT’S A KOSHER PIZZA DRINKS:

Cocktails & Whisky ISSUE 04 SPRING

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JUMP INTO SHAPE In vest in your healt h Exercise a nywh ere

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DE PART MENTS

06 NOTES FROM THE EDITOR IN CHIEF 15 THE CHOSSON’S WATCH 17 MEN’S HEALTH & WELLNESS 20 SHPITZ SUITS 24 SHTICK LAB 34 FINE ART 36 TORAH 37 CIGARS 44 THE INTERIOR

KIDDUSH CLUB

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09 COCKTAILS 12 WHISKEY WITH THE WHISKY RABBI 18 KOSHER FOOD CRAWLS & TRAVEL: TO PARIS WITH LOVE 22 EATS: KOSHER PIZZA 39 HEALTHY EATS: THE SECRET TO THAT PERFECT CHICKEN SOUP! 41 WINE

22 FEA TURES

11 SHABBOS GAMES 25 CARS SHPIEL 26 PLACES: ARIZONA 40 SPORTS GLAZE 46 STYLE: LET’S TALK ABOUT DENIM

EDITOR’S NOTES

NOTES FROM THE

Editor in Chief Issue 4

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raveling is quite an experience. It can be expensive, time-consuming (with planning) and a FOMO (fear of missing out) moment if you don’t book the right place. You need some good luck and fair acumen.

I found the pre-travel nuances to be manageable; in planning and strategy, when I set aside a good amount of time. Usually during my work day. I YouTube prospects through as many videos as I can about a few places that peak my interest.

Book the stay and then book the flight. Send off my plans to the WhatsApp travel group coterie I’m in, and wait to see if any Mochers “bite.”

It had been two years since I’ve been to Miam; I literally flew back a few days before the pandemic hit. Wow. I think Miami got better. There’s something about the breathtaking ambiance and amenities there. The weather is crisp and the food culture is scintillating. I loved it and I can perseverate on this all day.

It’s important to mix things up every now and then.

When you spend time and money on a vacation, think of it as an investment in yourself. In fact, I’d say it’s indicative of an investment in yourself. So

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cash in on those PTO’s (paid time off) or accrued off-days, and book!

The mojitos, daiquiris, cigars, and hot tubs definitely added to this momentous occasion.

I even splurged on an Uber Premium driving down Collins Avenue.

If you think Miami (or Aventura, or Hollywood or Hollandale Beach) is eventful, just wait until you read about Arizona. It is a getaway I will be planning. Moishy Nay does an extravagant job at depicting this phenomenon. If mojitos aren’t your thing, then try some Bunnahabhain that Amir Ellituv meticulously reviews in issue 4. They actually pair well with the cigars Rabbi Benjamin Flax delineates in his articles, at least that’s what I’d say as a cigar smoker. If food is on your mind, The Kosher King, Shlomo Assayag portrays a delicious pizza experience for us.

Join me in a L’chaim, fellow mochers. Cheers to us all!

IZAK J. HELD Editor-in-Chief

Photograph by Yisroel Teitelbaum.

Office space provided by Henry Cohen.

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MOCHERS The Jewish Men’s Lifestyle Magazine

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Ami Lock Naftali Engel Kayla Goldstein

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Altchies, Altchies Media Group and Mochers Magazine is not responsible for the loss or damage of unsolicited materials. We proudly print in the United States of America. Altchies Inc. and Mochers Magazine encourages responsible consumption of alcohol and tobacco products. Mochers Magazine does not encourage alcohol or tobacco consumption for ages under the state or federal law. Mochers drink responsibly.

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COCKTAILS

Assembling Your Own Bar

By: Yissie Steinhart

S

pring and summer are on their way. Now that Covid restrictions are easing up in many parts of the country and world, this is the perfect time to build up your home bar.

All those guests you have been putting on hold are ready to be dazzled by your mixing skills.

Assembling your own bar might seem a little overwhelming, though. That’s why I’m here to help.

The two major components of your home bar are your ingredients and your tools.

Let’s start off with ingredients. You really need only a few bottles in order to cover the bases. The “five whites” are vodka, gin, rum, tequila, and triple sec. Obviously, the varieties and prices of these spirits vary greatly. I always recommend that you start with what you like. Don’t focus on price tags.

Higher prices do NOT guarantee better spirits.

If you’re not sure what you like, most companies sell 50ml bottles of their popular brands. This isn’t just a schtick for Purim. These ‘airline size’ bottles let you try the beverage before laying out big bucks for a 750ml or liter-sized bottle.

With this roundup of ingredients, you can mix literally hundreds of cocktails.

Now let’s talk about tools: You will need a jigger, muddler, bar spoon, shaker, and strainer. There are many high-quality options available.

A jigger is a measuring tool that lets you determine ‘parts’ for your cocktails.

(When the recipe says ‘one part vodka, two parts cranberry juice,’ the jigger saves you from guesstimating.)

Muddlers help you crush fruits and herbs into your drinks.

Bar spoons serve a few different functions. They are great for small measures, layering ingredients, and stirring spirit-forward cocktails.

When it comes to shakers, the question you have to ask yourself is, “How many drinks am I making at a time?” If the answer is one or two, then a cobbler shaker works just fine. If you are looking to make three or four drinks at a time, consider a Boston shaker. To clarify, a cobbler shaker is a three-piece apparatus you see in most stores. It has a built-in

strainer top and jigger cap. The Boston, on the other hand, is two cups (usually one 18-ounce and one 28-ounce), that fit one into the other. If you’re mixing with a Boston shaker, you’ll need separate jiggers and strainers.

Straining the cocktail makes sure there are no ice shards, pulp, or other bits of ingredients in the finished product. If you’re not using a built-in, look for a Hawthorne strainer and a sieve. You might use one or both, depending on how clear you want the cocktail to be.

If you want to mix like the pros, these are the tools and ingredients you’ll need to get things started. That said, I’m all for MacGyvering cocktails, too. If you’re limited to whatever’s at hand, use a wooden spoon to muddle, and try a takeout soup container as your shaker.

However you decide to partake, make sure you enjoy responsibly and safely.

As always, feel free to hit me up with questions, comments, favorites, etc. on Instagram @bar.simcha or on my email athomebartending@gmail.com.

Once your whites are covered, there are only three or four more things you need.

Whiskey (or whisky) -- which is usually bourbon or scotch, or both, depending on your preference, a bottle of vermouth (promisedlandbeverage.com, FINALLY a better option than Kedem), and some bitters.

M MOCHERS

Yissie Steinhart is a contributor for Mochers Magazine and a for hire bartender, specializing in private events and cocktail workshops. Follow on Instagram @bar.simcha

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FEATURES

The Most Epic Games TO PLAY ON SHABBOS By: Jeremy Urbach

Headbands

Incoherent

Catan

How can I describe Headbands without the words “insanely awesome’’? The answer is that I cannot. The best time to bring out the Headbands is when everyone has finished their meal and is sitting around the table talking about Joe Biden. The game includes a bunch of headbands that players wear and a variety of cards, each showing a picture of a noun. Each player gets a card that they attach to their headband and the objective is to guess what your card is. Since players cannot see their own cards, players are required to guess their card solely from asking yes or no questions to the other players. My favorite part about this game is that you can play it from the comfort of your seat at the Shabbos table and that everyone stops talking about Joe Biden.

Compared to the slow and strategic nature of Catan, Incoherent is a facedpaced, rapid fire game that you can even play during the brief moments in between the chicken soup and the main course. The game consists of a deck of cards with a phrase on one side, and the same phrase, but spelled very ambiguously, on the other side. The only objective is to guess the phrase on the card with no help except for the gibberish spelling of the phrase players can see.

Perfect for Friday night after dinner, or in the blissful hours of Shabbos afternoon, Settlers of Catan is the perfect game to spice up your Shabbos. A little strategy, a little teamwork, and a lot of luck, Catan is an adventure that will take you and whoever you play with on a mammesh journey. While this game may require a few playthroughs to get used to, it is certainly worth it to learn. In this game, players collect and manage different resources, to build roads and settlements in order to gain victory points. The first player to get ten points wins. Learn how to play this game, and you will thank me later.

M MOCHERS

Jeremy Urbach is a contributor for Mochers Magazine. In addition to writing articles for MOCHERS, he reviews herring on camera and post the reviews on Instagram and Youtube! Feel free to check out @gishmak.herring on Instagram and Gishmak Herring on Youtube! You can also find him on Twitter @OVOyurb.

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WHISKY

WHISKEY

RABBI

By: Amir Ellituv

T

he spring is here, the buds are opening, the birds are chirping, the air smells of flowers, the sun begins to show its warmth, but what about our inner warmth, what tantalizes our taste buds through the spirits, through that precious drink, the water of life - whisky.

I wish to share with you some of my recommendations of which whisky to go for during the spring and beginning of summer.

In Scotland when tasting whisky, one of the great places to try different whiskies isn’t just in the distilleries but in their hallowed whisky shops. Places like Royal Mile Whisky in Edinburgh on the Royal Mile, just before Edinburgh castle, is a whisky mecca for the mavens. Loch Fyne Whiskies is another great shop in Inveraray. These places allow you to try a wide variety of whiskies and give you an understanding of the depth and breadth of what is available. Those shops gave me access to some legendary drams, some of which I am going to review.

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Location: Derwent Water in the Lake District National Park, Cumbria

THE TALISKER 18-YEARS-OLD 45.8% Some 20 years ago, my rocket-booster towards my love of whisky occurred at Royal Mile Whisky, while my family was enjoying the Edinburgh Fringe, seeing the great street performers entertain. I slid off to the shop and was treated to some great drams. One of those was the Talisker 18. Many know about the Talisker 10 year old, that hot peppery, peaty dram from the Isle of Skye; but what about its older sibling, the 18 year old.

NOSE: Initially the pepper smell hits and before you know it, it smells like a peppered rib eye steak on the grill, but then you get hints of lemon and honey.

TASTE: Spicy, honeyed, sweet, pepper, hints of caramel, then after the lashings of peat, although not overpowering, a salty aftertaste on the sides of your tongue.

FINISH: Sweet, long, spicy, complex and smooth.

CAOL ILA 18-YEARS-OLD 43%

Location: Bassenthwaite Water in the Lake District National Park, Cumbria NOSE: Butter, peat, and wafts of smoke.

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On my very first summer in Scotland with the family, the summer that made me fall in love with whisky, we were meant to meet the family in Dundee. However on the way, I said to my wife, “there is a lovely town called Callander on the way which is only 10 minutes off the A9 (the main highway into the highlands) and we can just pop over to see the Rob Roy exhibition center.” (Rob Roy was a famous Scotsman who stole loads of sheep, and wound up the British!) What I didn’t say was that in Callander there was a great whisky shop, and it was slightly more than 10 minutes away. Anyway, everyone was delighted to arrive at the place, while I had a great time in the whisky shop. Over there they introduced me to Caol Ila. Caol Ila is based in Islay; it isn’t as famous as Bowmore, Laphroaig, Ardbeg, and Lagavulin. However, it produces such great malts and is a workhorse for the blenders. Having visited the distillery, it doesn’t have the romantic look of the others. However, the views across the straits of Jura and seeing the Paps of Jura, the iconic mountains on the Isle of Jura, is enough to make your heart melt and open your soul to that dram.

TASTE: Ash, burnt meat pieces, but not too burnt; it is complex and subtle, not too peaty and not too burnt.

FINISH: Not too long, nice mouthfeel, soft and smooth, a well-integrated and brilliantly balanced malt. One of the great-18 year-olds of Islay.

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WHISKEY

DARACH WHISKY 24-YEARS-OLD ALLT – A-BHAINNE

Location: Wast Water in the Lake District National Park, Cumbria

46.6% Having over 5,000 followers on Instagram means that people look out for you and wish to connect with you. One of the people who recently connected was William Woodburn, a gentleman who made sure his independent bottling would have a hechsher. He wanted to make sure that the Jewish public could partake in his whisky. I’m not going into the debate whether whisky needs a hechsher; however, he gave me his special bottle to try and review. It was Erev Shabbat and fortunately, I had finished typing out my Shabbat drasha, when the bottle arrived. I took pictures of the bottle, opened the bottle, and tried the dram. It was so delicious, I couldn’t put it down. Shabbat had more than arrived in the middle of Friday!

This wonderful 24-year-old is full of mystery and enchantment.

As a 24-year-old, this dram just grew and matured in complexity and it is full of life NOSE: Layers of vanilla, banana, leather, and cinnamon.

TASTE: Let the whisky rest in the glass for a few minutes and you will marvel at its vivacious notes of creamy banana toffee, caramelized nuts, and marzipan. The spicy hits of pepper and long-lasting peat is a tapestry of flavours. This whisky challenges your senses, takes you on a rollercoaster, a ride of wonder and a journey of amazement.

Location: the peak district national park, Derbyshire

BUNNAHABHAIN HAND FILLED EXCLUSIVE WAREHOUSE 9 CAORAG 45.8% Just up the island of Islay from Coal Ila is one of my favorite distilleries, Bunnahabhain. Their warehouse tasting tour is a must when visiting the island, and they have produced some special bottlings reflecting that warehouse tour. One of them is the Caorag.

NOSE: Peat, brine, pine needles, and damp leaves.

TASTE: Very peaty, not too many flavors and slightly ‘lemony.’

FINISH: Smooth and short.

This whisky isn’t a typical bunnahabhain, but a great peaty whisky. It certainly conjures up for me the memory of going into the warehouse full of barrels and tasting some lovely drams in a special atmosphere.

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Amir Ellituv is a contributor for Mochers Magazine. Follow his brand @whiskyrabbi

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THE CHOSSON’S WATCH

A Sports Watch for Every Budget By: Andrew Lock

I

f you’ve kept even a passing interest in the watch market for the past few years, you will know that there is nothing hotter than the integrated bracelet sports watch. Based on a style that achieved its first burst of popularity in the 1970s thanks to the Gerald Genta designed Audemars Piguet Royal Oak and Patek Philippe Nautilus, the sports watch has come into its own over the past couple of years with watch brands from all over the world reaching into their histories (or their imaginations) to bring updated models to today’s consumer.

The feature all these watches have in common is that the bracelet is integrated into the case design, creating a seamless wrist presence and a comfortable fit. In addition, the timepieces are durable and water-resistant. All the watches presented here come from established brands. A warranty is only as good as its maker’s ability to stand behind it. While there may be smaller brands with attractive competing models, the choices here harken from manufacturers that should be there to service your timepiece long down the road.

In addition to the watches below, other models worth looking into are the Bvlgari Octo Finissimo, H. Moser & Cie. Streamliner Center Seconds, and the Vacheron Constantin Overseas. Here are a few favorites at prices to fit any budget, from small to extravagant.

MOCHERS

Tissot PRX Powermatic 80

The Tissot PRX debuted in early 2021 with a definite cool vibe. It is a cleanlydesigned watch with an on-trend integrated bracelet and a reliable quartz movement, all for under $400.

An automatic version was released before the end of the year. Along with an 80-hour power reserve movement, Tissot added a textured dial and sapphire case back. The watch wears a bit bigger than its 40mm size would have you expect, but is an excellent fit for most wrists. It offers a ton of value at a very delightful price of $650.

Tudor Royal Date-Day

The Tudor Royal Date-Day debuted in 2020 without much fanfare, but it is certainly not a watch to dismiss. Unlike the bold attitude of many other sports watches, the Tudor excels in versatility and comfort. When handling the watch, one can immediately see and feel the quality of the workmanship. The case is made of a steel block, just 10.5mm thick. Although the 41mm size on paper sounds larger than the Tissot, the Tudor wears more comfortably thanks to its highly flexible bracelet, which tapers down to a mere 16mm at the clasp. The watch features a screw-down crown and 100 meters of water resistance. The blue sunray dial with Roman numeral indices is classy, eye-catching and safe. The watch’s only let-down is the Sellita movement with a 38-hour power reserve. On the flip side, the Royal Date-Day is priced at a highly reasonable $2,375, so it’s a worthwhile trade-off.

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Zenith Defy Skyline

Heading further upmarket in our sports watch journey, we find the new for 2022 Zenith Defy Skyline. This watch makes a powerful first impression with its strong octagonal shape, unique dial, and 1/10th second subdial. The Defy Skyline looks and feels solid. The dial features a four-pointed star pattern represented with rich color and excellent visual depth. One feature unique to the high-beat El Primero movement within the watch is a seconds subdial that completes a rotation every 10 seconds. The wearer can remove the bracelet by pressing two clever buttons at the bottom of the case to make way for a rubber strap, which is included in the box.

The strap is soft, light, and comfortable as one could wish. With one more press of each button, the strap is removed, and the bracelet snaps right back into place. The Defy Skyline is 41mm wide and 11.2mm thick. It wears comfortably, but it does not disappear on the wrist. The Skyline is a watch with presence.

Its $8,400 price represents solid value. Get one while you can.

Girard Perregaux Laureato

The Girard Perregaux Laureato was reintroduced in 2016 as a limited edition timepiece. The collection now comes in various sizes and styles, ranging from women’s quartz models to a solid gold skeleton tourbillon. The watch most relevant here is the current 42mm time and date Laureato in steel. The original Laureto was introduced as a quartz model in 1976, the same year the iconic Patek Philippe Nautilus debuted. Thanks only to its octagonal bezel and integrated bracelet design, the current model bears a mere passing resemblance to its ancestor. The dial is decorated with a ‘Clous de Paris’ hobnail motif that is exceptionally well done and complemented by a color-matched date display. The case features a brushed octagonal bezel that, while reminiscent of the Royal Oak, is an overall softer design that integrates into the shapes and angles of the case and bracelet. The luxury is apparent here, and all parts down to the decorated in-house movement look as they should on a luxury watch with a retail price of $13,400.

Real Mochers use trufyx trufyx.com

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Andrew Lock is the proprietor of Andrew Lock Custom Menswear at 403 Central Avenue in Cedarhurst. His shop offers all manners of custom clothing as well as fine shoes, accessories, wardrobe consulting services, and the best cappuccino in town. Call 516.619.6264 or visit NYbespoke.com to schedule a fitting.

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CHOOSING

MEN’S HEALTH

NOT TO CHOOSE By: Benson Fox

C

hoices. Many do not want the responsibility for making them, and their reasoning makes sense on many levels. It feels good to cast off the yoke of responsibility since, in the short term, it provides relief, boosts freedom, and reduces effort and pain. Also, it offers one a pleasant cover and shield to avoid facing and addressing their internal unconscious suffering, and instead emotionally outsourcing it to others. They also correctly argue that not everything is determined by our internal locus of control, and we must balance it with an external locus of control such as Hashem’s will. Moreover, although all life circumstances are challenging, some have it harder than others through physiological realities, genetic predispositions, traumatic life experiences, hostile environments, and lack of love and support. Harsh experiences can and should be processed fully with the acceptance, compassion, and respect they deserve.

These benefits and needs have fueled intellectualizations and justifications through the pursuit of neuropsychological, genetic, and biological models. They place the “blame” of mental health and

bad life choices at the feet of “sickness,” chemical imbalances, and other innate factors conveniently and largely beyond their control. Personal responsibility has been further eroded through inflation of awards and grades, the march toward accommodations, endless generous governmental benefits for those who do nothing, and viewing their personal problems as purely racially, religiously, economically, and politically systemic.

For many reasons, we must not fall prey to such wallowing in the victim Olympics, where we all compete for who has the hardest life and most environmental impediments.

We always have a choice to make. All options may have prohibitive costs. One option may have a higher price to pay than the alternative, and that may make it feel like there is no choice, but there always is. You are choosing which costs and benefits are more valuable to you, and that value you are attributing is subjective, dynamic, and on a continuum. Own that and accept the consequences of your decisions in how they impact yourself and others. There are always many factors that have a part to play in your choice, but we must have the bravery, confidence, and willpower to choose to own our choices and their consequences. If your roommate kept you up late at night and you overslept, own it that you did not push back as much

as you could have to get him to stop, set a louder alarm, or buy earplugs.

Choosing not to choose is a choice as well. It is the choice of choosing your default settings and current situation and trajectory to continue. Often this choice is confused with paralysis, which is possible but can also look like the workaholic father choosing to not approach his estranged daughter since he is afraid that he will say the wrong thing.

However, there is a big distinction between how we are meant to engage with ourselves and others. For others, we should focus on the external factors, compassion, and understanding the context of the choice. But for ourselves, we should focus on our internal locus of control, what we could have done better, and how to improve for next time. Our experiences do not define us, our reactions and choices to those experiences do. We do everything on purpose with varying degrees of consciousness, including when we delude ourselves into thinking that we can stall our decisions and their ramifications indefinitely.

Let us embrace responsibility and honesty with the choices we make, and understand that we are always making choices that have negative and positive consequences, even when we are choosing not to choose.

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Benson Fox is a contributing editor for Mochers Magazine. He also practices as a certified transformation life coach and psychology intern at Lynbrook Public High School. He specializes in helping Jewish men achieve higher levels of balance, joy, and confidence. He is a Psychology major from Touro college and currently a third-year Psychology Doctoral candidate at Adelphi University’s School PsyD program. He runs a Facebook group called Jewish Men for Joy, Balance, and Growth with 1200+ members. You can check out his other content on LinkedIn or Facebook @coachbensonfox or coachbensonfox.com. Email “RESULTS” to results@coachbensonfox.com for a free discovery session.

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TRAVEL

By: Gabriel Boxer

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ebeka and I recently went to Paris.

For her it was a birthday present; for me, it was a food experience.

But we found more — it was a perfect combination of culture, shopping, and of course, the food.

The direct flight on Delta was uneventful and our room at the Hilton was comfortable. Outside, the city of love was beckoning to be discovered.

Paris is divided into 20 arrondissements or districts that define the city. Each arrondissement is its own little city. Each has a distinct character in which you can find those iconic Parisian elements — shops, history, and food.

To maximize our visit, we purchased a two-day hop on/hop off bus pass. That brought us to the Louvre, reputedly the world’s largest and most visited art museum, where we marveled at the famous Mona Lisa among other outstanding works of art. We also saw the amazing Opera House, also known as the Garnier Opera, which opened in 1875.

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We drove along the Seine River where we passed some of the famous bridges like the Lovers Bridge. We saw Notre Dame, drove along Champs-Elysees, the world’s most famous avenue which stretches from the Arc de Triomphe to the Place de la Concorde. We got out to gaze at the Eiffel Tower and of course, get some cool pics.

We were lucky to meet chef Nerwin Guzman who took us to review the kosher scene in Paris.

We started at a dairy cafe called XVII, famous for its quiche and Tunisian pastries. Across the street was Panser, known for the incredible charcuterie, which is like nothing you have ever seen or tasted.

Little did I know we were on a whirlwind night of eating and enjoying. At Chef Franc, we had foie gras and other authentic delicacies, followed by another restaurant called Bassar, and ending the night at Deli Khan, which was even more incredible. Finally, we returned to the hotel to get some shut eye before another crazy fun day.

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ANOTHER MAGNIFICENT DAY

After a quick hotel breakfast consisting of hot coffee, we hopped back on the bus to get some views of the iconic cabaret Moulin Rouge, Gare du Nord railway station, the Bastille, Place de la Concorde - the largest square in the city, and Muse d’Orsay, the museum on the Left Bank of the Sein that holds French art from 1848 to 1900.

A stop in the Le Marais district brought us to the famous L’As du Fallafel that holds up to the hype in every bite.

For erev Shabbos, we made arrangements to eat at the Great Synagogue, which was a few blocks from the hotel. In the morning, we walked to the Chabad by the ChampsElysees and enjoyed a savory kiddish. After walking everywhere all day, we were ready for a yummy Parisian dinner. We had a melaveh malka dinner at a delish Italian restaurant called Maestro, where we tasted incredible Italian food in Paris.

The next day was a shopping experience. We got some sales at designer shops, and souvenirs to bring home to the kiddies. We met up with friends and spent the night on another culinary excursion, starting with the famous Deli Atelier and followed by Kavod, also incredible.

The next day, we decided to tour Versailles. Note to self: make sure the places you want to go to are open. As it turns out Versailles is closed on Mondays, but the gardens were open. So we rented a golf cart for an incredible tour of the gardens, fountains, and smaller palaces on the estate. It was really so much fun that in the end, the fact that we didn’t get into the palace was no big deal. However, next time I won’t go on a Monday.

We spent our last night in Paris with Rodchenko, located in the La Marais area. Then we went to Tikun Olam, which is always a party.

Paris is a food scene like no other. Each restaurant is unique and full of fun dishes like you cannot get anywhere in the world—and all have a good ambiance. Touring Paris was also full of culture, history, and art. We also enjoyed the shopping experience. If you want the perfect combination of culture, food, and shopping, then Paris is the place— and I cannot wait for an encore!

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Gabriel Boxer is an editor at large & senior producer for Mochers Magazine. Follow his brand @kosherguru

www.mochers.com |

19

SUITS

DREAM OF ELECTRIC BLUE SUITS By: Andrew Lock

W

hen a new client walks into my shop, one of the first questions I ask is whether they have their basics in order. Just about every suitwearing man needs solid navy and grey suits in his wardrobe before beginning to think about stripes, plaids, or brighter hues.

Once the basics are in order, I recommend thinking about seasonal suits to enjoy when the weather is hot or cold. These suits can be basic solids or a bit more fun in weave, blend, and pattern.

After a while, though, it is easy to grow bored of another navy or grey suit. Even when one has variation after variation of the classic patterns, it is normal for a bit of boredom to set in. This situation is something I see from time to time. It is especially true among clients who would like to dress more creatively (in a classy way), but could use some gentle guidance to determine which colors will deliver a stylish impact and which are for those who desire attention at any cost.

The first color worth mentioning is green. This spring, in particular, my clients have been creating more green suits than ever before. Of course, I don’t mean drab olive or bright Peter Pan green.

The shades in question are infinitely more wearable in polite company, bearing whimsical names such as seagrass or dark jade. The common element tends to be - but is not always - a touch of grey blended into the color. These fabrics don’t hide their greenness, but the bit of grey makes them feel more familiar and welcome. In addition to grey, some of them have a subtle but definite blue hue that creates a familiarity in a previously “forbidden” color.

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The other element that makes many of these fabrics popular is that hardly any are of flat twill. Different shades of the same or similar colors woven together in a tropical or sharkskin weave soften the overall look and will make a new color easier on the eyes. If one is not ready to go “full green”, a clever choice would be a micro houndstooth fabric with green and black or charcoal, each playing the foil to the other. From a distance, the suit will still have its green appearance, but the muted element of the pattern softens its overall look.

The suit’s design also plays a large part in its overall impact. A more traditional grey suit can achieve its bold impression through wide lapels, contrast buttons, or an extreme taper. However, it would be best to use a bit of discretion when contemplating the design of a suit in an unfamiliar color.

A need for unique colors also comes into play in the quest for the perfect sportcoat. While many people have no lack of suits for every occasion, they often look to keep their sportcoat inventory to a bare minimum. This leads to the question - “Tell me what sportcoat I can wear on casual or dressy occasions with black, blue or grey pants. And tell me while standing on one leg.”

I’ve heard that a bespoke shop in Brooklyn kicked an impudent customer out of their store for this very question.

Thankfully, I have the answer - dark burgundy or aubergine.

An aubergine sportcoat is the ultimate in versatility. Take it on a trip, and it will match every shirt and pair of pants in your wardrobe. Choose your jacket fabric right, and it doesn’t matter whether you are dressing up or down. It will pair with absolutely everything. The best part of it is that it is not even loud. The fabric will look loud when browsing through the swatch book; it would probably look loud when tailored into a complete suit. But as a simple sport coat, these colors will elevate whatever you pair them with subtly and tastefully.

All of the above leads to a final thought. A sportcoat can be the perfect way to ease oneself into comfort with unfamiliar colors. This is true whether it is an exotic color such as green, burgundy, or brown, or a brighter or lighter shade of a standard color such as electric blue or teal.

Introducing a new color in the form of a sport coat can be less daunting than wearing that same color from top to bottom as a full suit. Don’t forget that a sportcoat does not need to have a pattern. The general rule is that as long as a jacket does not look like it is without a doubt part of a suit, it can work as a sportcoat.

Spice things up with contrast buttons and patch pockets, and it will never be mistaken for an orphaned suit jacket even if you happen to have made the matching trousers and wore it as a complete suit last week! Be creative and, above all, have fun!

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Andrew Lock is the proprietor of Andrew Lock Custom Menswear at 403 Central Avenue in Cedarhurst. His shop offers all manners of custom clothing as well as fine shoes, accessories, wardrobe consulting services, and the best cappuccino in town. Call 516.619.6264 or visit NYbespoke.com to schedule a fitting.

www.mochers.com |

21

EATS

Mamma Mia! IT’S A KOSHER Pizza!

By: Shlomo Assayag

W

hen the moon hits your eye like a big pizza pie, that’s amore! For me, the first time I saw a big, delicious, cheesy pizza, it was certainly love.

Growing up in Toronto the pizza selection wasn’t always great, to say the least. I remember seeing commercials on television or hearing other people talk about pizza wondering what they meant when they said they loved the ooey-gooey cheesy makeup of their favorite pizzas.

could even argue matzo was a precursor to the pizza, but I digress.

According to the history books, what really changed the pizza game was the addition of tomatoes as a topping. Tomatoes were widely known as poisonous fruits when they arrived in Europe in the 16th century, but by the late 18th century, people had started incorporating them into many different dishes. Once tomatoes hit the flatbread style “pizzas”, everything changed and the pizza we know and love was born.

In the late 1990s, I finally got to experience a real pizza from a newly opened pizza shop in Thornhill, where I lived. Not a restaurant that serves pizza, but a bonafide pizza shop! I was met with a perfect crust with just the right amount of cheese and sauce, and of course, the mozzarella pull, signature to every good pizza. This was the real deal. We only made pizza at home and there’s just something about a professionally-made pizza that really outdoes the homemade stuff. As kosher pizza became more popular, I started to eat pizza more often and realized there were endless possibilities and flavor combinations that really made it one of my favorite things to eat and share with others.

Pizza, the Italian food we know today comes in many shapes, forms, and sizes; the possibilities are truly endless. I like lots of different types of pizza, but for me, it really comes down to the 3 C’s - crispy, crunchy, and crust. Anyone who knows me knows I love a good crunch. From thin crusts to fluffy crusts to deep dish crusts and even stuffed crusts, there has to be that crunch factor to really get my stamp of approval.

My favorite dish even inspired me to open the first ever kosher pizza shop in a mall. Centro Cafe was a labor of love and still serves the Toronto community today. We even have a huge assortment of frozen pizzas now available at most kosher grocers. Toronto definitely makes some great pizza, but it wasn’t until I started to travel on my kosher foodie tours both in and around Toronto, Montreal, and internationally, that I really started to understand just how diverse and delicious pizza can be. Even now, twenty- something years after that first “real-deal” pizza, I still find myself discovering new and exciting pizzas all the time.

Over the last five years, I’ve been on an exciting food journey as “The Kosher King.” Amongst the many types of food I’ve enjoyed, I’ve had the pleasure to try and review over 50 different pizzas around the world and I’m still learning new things. Pizza is actually one of the oldest dishes around with early accounts dating back to thousands of years ago. Simple flatbreads with toppings were common in Italy as far back as 997 AD! Focaccia breads similar to pizza date all the way back to Roman times. If we go back even just a bit further, one

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From flour-based pizzas to gluten-free options, everyone can enjoy a pizza. I’ve even tried pizza crusts made from cauliflower! With so many options available, you don’t even have to give up on your favorite dish for Pesach or while on those dreaded carb-free diets anymore. Beyond pizza crusts the traditional flat way, I’ve also seen some new delicious items made with it like calzones, pockets, bites, and even sweet pizza. That’s right! Pizza isn’t just a savory dish anymore! The dessert pizza has taken things to a new level offering a sweet dough topped with all kinds of amazing treats. Next time a birthday rolls around, you can have pizza for dinner and dessert. If I’ve learned anything, creativity knows no bounds when it comes to pizza crust and the same can be said for the toppings.

The average toppings are exactly that, average. Sure a mushroom or onion pizza is classic, but innovative ideas have certainly been going around the past few years with new pizzas that stretch the traditional limits. Just when I think I’ve seen it all, out pops a new and exciting pizza. One of my favorites is potato pizza. Thinly sliced potato atop a saucy, cheesy pizza wins me over every time. But, I’ve also tried pasta pizza (that’s right pizza with pasta baked on top), mac ‘n cheese pizza, and even poutine pizza, a new Canadian favorite. What you choose to put on your pizza has also been the topic of great debate. My followers regularly discuss topping options

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and pineapple seems to be a divisive topic. Is it really ok to put fruit on pizza? I know it’s not my favorite, but many find it to be a “be all and end all” topping when it comes to their vision of the perfect pie.

Zucchini has also been a hot topic; done right with tomato slices instead of sauce, aka a white pizza, it seems to be a crowd favorite. The advent of plant-based meats has also really been a game-changer in the kosher world. These days you can get pretty close to the pizzas you see advertised in the mainstream pizza domain with plant-based ground beef, pepperoni, and even sausage!

Another part of the pizza that can make it or break it is the sauce. These days, tomato sauce remains the most popular choice. However, each pizza joint has its own special twists that make it distinctly theirs. From spicy to sweet and chunky to fine, the perfect balance of spice and tomato is another all-important factor when it comes to a great pizza.

Many places also offer totally different sauces like Alfredo, pesto, and oil-based concoctions. From what I’ve seen, there are some very diverse options out there, but it really comes down to personal taste preferences when it comes to crafting that perfect pizza.

Cheese choice is another debatable topic. As a kid, we had two kinds of kosher cheese in Toronto - yellow and white. You know, those “American cheese” squares that really don’t belong on anything beyond a grilled cheese. You could also purchase small bricks of what was presumably mozzarella and shred it at home, but it never really produced that amazing melt we’ve all come to know and love. As the Toronto kosher community grew and demand for better cheese skyrocketed, we started to see imported cheese from the US and other places around the world. These days, there are very few cheeses missing from our grocery shelves. From Italian mozzarella and Parmesan to all the fancy, smelly French cheese you could desire, we aren’t lacking much up here in the North anymore.

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The vast expansion of what’s available has also changed the landscape of what you can put on your pizza. Classic mozzarella still seems to tip the scales in terms of popularity, but many shops have played with ratios, adding in cheddar, and even venturing into topping their pizzas with signature blends unique only to them. In the last few years, we even have our own dairy producer in Toronto who has made a point of bringing a wide variety of cheese to the market, all while keeping it local. If you’re ever in Toronto, you should check out Nature’s Best products. They’re the first local producer of chalav Yisroel cheese in Ontario and their cheese does not disappoint! When it comes to cheese there are certainly many variations to work with. The classic mozzarella is still my favorite, but I do enjoy trying different blends and brands of cheese on my pizza. The endless possibilities really make every pizza a unique opportunity to try something new.

No matter the pizza, I can safely say I’m a big fan. I mean how many dishes can you think of that offer so much all while incorporating several food groups? But seriously, however you like your pizza and wherever you like your pizza from, don’t be afraid to try new things and of course, don’t forget to keep it kosher!

Follow Shlomo on his Instagram @TheKosherKing for all his pizza reviews!

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Shlomo Assayag Is a contributor for Mochers Magazine, follow him on Instagram and Facebook @thekosherking

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23

SHTICK LAB

WellnessMats Original Collection Anti-Fatigue Floor Mat

GrowLED LED Umbrella Plant Grow Light Gardening is all the rage these days and what can be more convenient than indoor gardening? What about sunlight you ask?

Well, you’ve come to the right place!

This gadget acts as your personal sun with optimized full-spectrum with high efficiency, Max PPFD 733 umol/m2/s, which is the key ingredient for your plants to grow faster. It has three potential power sources, a scientific built-in auto timer mode for light cycle making sure plants get enough time to do photosynthesis, and a height-adjustable metal pole of up to 29.13”.

Even if you don’t trust the science, this light has a beautiful aesthetic and comes in many gorgeous colors that can quite literally spotlight your garden and dazzle friends and family, who see you’re finally taking your wellness or at least your style seriously.

Whether you’re a chazzan, do the dishes a lot, or simply like giving your feet a break, the Wellness Mat offers you the comfort and relief your hardworking feet deserve. This mat features ADA compliance, a non-skid, sleek, smooth, and ergonomic surface, and advanced polyurethane technology. In addition, it is supportive and durable, water-resistant, washable, easy to clean, and has beveled edges that perform well under strain. Lastly, it is made in the USA, so take pride in your country and punish China by sweeping the carpet out from under them and nestling it under your now-relaxed feet. 36 in. x 24 in. x ¾ in.

$149.95

$21.99

Marlow Pillow

Bose SoundControl™ Hearing Aids Mochers come in all shapes, sizes, and ages. Over 50 million Americans need a hearing aid and there is no shame in getting the most convenient one-stop-shop option for a little support. Bose is gold for all of its audio products and this revolutionary hearing aid is no exception. It is FDA-approved for mild to moderate hearing loss and has clinically proven self-tuning with a comfortable, discreet fit. They have free 2-day shipping, free return shipping plus a 90-day risk-free trial, and superior customer service that only a quality company can boast about. Some may qualify for their FSA/HSA eligibility. The replaceable batteries add to their longevity, as your loyal friend who lends an ear in times of need.

$849

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Benson Fox Fox is a contributing editor for Mochers Magazine, a PsyD candidate and practices as a certified transformation life coach. Email “RESULTS” to results@coachbensonfox.com for a free discovery session and check out coachbensonfox.com

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While some call it man’s best friend (replacing dogs, who are too much work), I call it my morning chavrusah. Your pillow is a critical component of both falling asleep and achieving consistent quality sleep. The problem with pillows is sometimes you want the comfort of sinking into a feathery cloud and other times you are looking for more support. The Marlow pillow fixes this problem with a zip that transforms it from a cloud to support and vice versa. It features upper supportive chopped memory foam, easy and mess-free adjustability, and extra chill cooling-infused foam. On top of that, there is a risk-free trial with a 365-day free return policy and a 2-year warranty.

So, if you still aren’t sure if it’s the right fit for you, I suggest you sleep on it.

$65

for an individual pillow or

$48.75

each pillow if you get a pair

LoRox Aligned Foam Roller If you work out regularly or find that you are tense a lot, massages are a great solution since they provide recovery, reduce anxiety and loosen up your body. However, sessions accumulate real fast to become prohibitively expensive, costing upwards of $70-80 per massage plus a $10-20 tip. This is where foam rollers come in.

They are an excellent, affordable way to get the core benefits of a deep-tissue massage for a one-time cost. This high-end LoRox Aligned Foam Roller has just the right balance of firmness and squishiness and was designed by Body whisperer Lauren Roxburgh. A fantastic wellness weapon to have in your arsenal!

$59.35

plus FREE SHIPPING! www.mochers.com

CARS SHPIEL

Mazda Sneaks Off the Charts By: David Nahem

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o wonder “Car & Driver” rates her 10/10. Mazda has been stepping up the game to beat its rivals. Now they have caught up and have taken it to the next level. To any of its classmates, style, beauty, luxury and more car for your money.

This Mazda CX5 has the goodies without the price tag.

Starting with the sport...

Let’s put it this way - you gotta be a sport to have the no-frills one. When you are just so close to feature, It might be kidai to mocher out.

Jump into the touring scene.

Drop the cloth seats and here’s where the bang comes through.

For $1445, you hit the premium package.

That adds all these key features: • • • • • • •

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Auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink Bose 10-speaker surround sound system with Centerpoint 2 and AudioPilot 2 Power sliding-glass moonroof with one-touch-open feature and interior sunshade Rear power Liftgate with programmable height adjustment Leather-trimmed seats 8-way power adjustable driver’s seat with power lumbar support and 2-position memory 6-way power adjustable passenger seat

No doubt, the best spent $1445 yet.

There are a few trims available. The one I think is a really cool one Is the Carbon Edition, which comes equipped with a gorgeous polymetal Grey on red. With a turbo-charged engine, this deff leaves its competition in the rearview mirror.

The real gold, rather platinum, here is the signature wowowow luxury on the BMW, Lincoln Genesis, possibly Bentley, or Rolls Royce. However, I definitely won’t assume these diamond Napa leather-trimmed interiors are sitting in this car. Mazda has great color options for the seats. The parchment interior is Tesla-style, but it just looks better; plus it’s real leather. If you have kids, Caturra brown is just a piece of class. Don’t worry about stains showing up. Adjustable heads up display no one ever complained about.

Some say the con here is the infotainment system. Perhaps Mazda is just not there yet, but why do I have to reach over to hit the touch screen and fingerprint it, if I can use my dial right near my gear box at my convenience.

For me, the clincher is the 360 camera - you can get in and out balagan-free. It’s the type of convenience yhat once you get spoiled with it, it’s kind of a necessity. Well done, Mazda.

David Nahem at Express Leasing can be reached at 732.272.5475 or David@expressleasingnj.com for all your leasing, buying, selling, and hack needs.

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www.mochers.com |

25

PLACES

AMAZING Arizona By: Moshe Ney

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acations vary in many areas: excitement, climate, culture, etc. The list really can go on and on. But what if you could visit a place that was multi-climate, multi-culture, and with a lot of exciting things to do? Both from a standpoint of natural beauty and a standpoint of nice locals with many different stripes and types? Come to sunny Arizona and experience the nice climate variety that it has to offer. Deserts, forests, mountain ranges, and more. And the local attractions aren’t too bad either.

There is so much to see and do in Arizona that we can’t absolutely cover everything.

But we can cover the exciting stuff. That includes: • • • • • •

Basic info about Arizona Phoenix and Local Attractions Tucson and Local Attractions Grand Canyon Hotels Jewish Amenities

OK then! Let’s get on our way! You’re bound to be blown away by amazing Arizona.

Basic Info About Arizona

Here is some basic info you should know about Arizona • Arizona has a population of 7,151,502 and has a land area of 113,990 mi2. Those dimensions measure approximately 400 mi long X 310 mi wide.

• The weather in Arizona during the Summer is HOT! And extremely. Average high temperatures in the Phoenix area can reach well over 104°F, sometimes over 26 |

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110°, and sometimes hotter! (The highest ever recorded in one area of Arizona was 128° in the year 1994.) And, while you may not have to worry about this during midwinter (the average high in Phoenix during the winter is approximately 65°), just make sure you: • Drink a lot all the time • Do NOT leave anything or certainly anyone in your car in any hot weather (it gets as hot as an oven on self-clean in there!)

• Put on sunscreen • Don’t stay out for too long if you don’t have to • Rent a car with an automatic starter so you can start your car remotely to get the A/C running before you get in • Arizona borders the states of New Mexico, Utah, California, and Nevada. It also borders Mexico.

• Arizona has no Daylight Savings Time (talk about cancel culture).

• Arizona is home to Grand Canyon National Park.

• Arizona is home to a chain of stores called Eegee’s (the Arizonian equivalent of 7-Eleven).

• 27% of Arizona is Native American Reservations.

• Arizona has more mountains than Switzerland.

If you’re planning your midwinter getaway, Arizona should definitely be one of your choices for a nice little getaway from the hustle and bustle of the East Coast and make many memories to take home afterward.

Let’s dive into some of the awesomeness of Arizona right now.

Phoenix and Surrounding Areas

Welcome to Phoenix, the capital of Arizona. This wonderful city is located literally smack in the middle of the state, and that’s very convenient for all your local travel. Many of the cities surrounding Phoenix are only 20-30 minutes driving distance so you have a lot within your grasp to explore locally.

Some of these cities include: • • • • • •

Glendale Tempe Scottsdale Mesa Gilbert Chandler

All these places and more contain some awesome attractions, both city-like and natural. Fun for everyone of all ages and sizes with flavors to satisfy everyone’s pallet.

What are some of the places that you’ll visit in Phoenix today?

Local Attractions

Here is a list of some of the various attractions that Phoenix and its surrounding areas have to offer.

Arizona Boardwalk 9500 East Vía de Ventura, Scottsdale, AZ www.azboardwalk.com (480) 951-2100 Whether with family or friends, the Arizona Boardwalk is a must-visit when you come here for midwinter or any other time. The Boardwalk is located in Scottsdale, less than a half-hour drive from nearby Phoenix. It’s also located www.mochers.com

on a huge piece of Native American territory. The Salt River Pima –Maricopa Indian Community to be exact. But don’t worry. They don’t drive around with spears and warpaint like in the good old days! This massive attraction actually has numerous attractions within that are more than enough to keep you and everyone else engaged for hours on end. Here is what Arizona Boardwalk has in store for you.

Odysea Aquarium www.odyseaaquarium.com Please try not to miss this! For those of you who love the ocean and all that’s in it, Odysea Aquarium has such a massive array of things to see and do that it can be its own article. This up-todate and super cool place has so many exhibits of underwater life and more for everyone to enjoy and be simply stunned by its beauty. There are a lot of interactive activities here as well. As I said, you don’t want to miss this.

Butterfly Wonderland www.butterflywonderland.com This is a very good place for nature lovers looking forward to major outdoor beauty.

As the largest butterfly conservatory in the United States, Butterfly Wonderland will never cease to amaze you with the plethora of colorful wildlife within its confines. And it’s not just limited to butterflies! The Butterfly Wonderland is an entire experience of its manmade rainforest, reptile exhibit, and honeybee exhibit. It also has a 3D theater featuring “Flight of the Butterflies”, a movie of the life cycle of the butterfly in a 3D you-canalmost-touch-it-and-feel-it experience.

And the Butterfly Emergence Gallery will have you wide-eyed with fascination as you watch butterflies emerging from the chrysalis. Check out their website for full details. Open daily from 9 AM-5 PM. The Science of Ripley’s Believe It or Not!® This one is for the science lovers and needs no major explanation. Get a load of all the wacky exhibits that this museum has to offer and come away baffled and amazed. For a limited time only starting February 9, 2022.

Laser + Mirror Maze www.odyseamirrormaze.com Ready for some fun-filled obstacle course action? The Laser + Mirror Maze obstacle course is something you should try out. Pick your maze. Mirrors or lasers. You’ll love it. Located right next to the Odysea Aquarium.

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Surprise Your Eyes www.surpriseyoureye.com Love optical illusions? Want to roll with laughter over everyone’s reactions on Facebook, Instagram, and beyond when you post your hilariously unbelievable pics of you doing the crazy things to the backdrop of some crazy illusionary scenery? Do it all today at Surprise Your Eyes pop-up art gallery. Put yourself into the craziest scenes and positions and wow yourself and your friends with the pics you’ll take of yourself and show off afterward. As they say themselves: “Step into the illusion!” Just walk into the frame and tell your friends to start snapping. You’ll laugh at the hilarious results.

Pangaea-Land of the Dinosaurs www.pangaealandofthedinosaurs.com This place is made especially for our paleontology travelers who want to have some light fun with the subject.

Pangaea-Land of the Dinosaurs is full of interactive activities and events for everyone to enjoy. Ranging from various dino exhibits to their awesome arcade, and even activities for your kids to try out as well. Like etching, excavation, and dino building! Make to check them out while you’re by the boardwalk.

VR Xtreme www.vrxtremeaz.com Anyone remembers the show “VR Troopers” from the mid-1990s when people were starting up an obsession with the newly found invention of virtual reality? Well, at VR Xtreme, you can take that obsession to whole new levels that the ‘90s never dreamed of! Here, you don’t just have fun. You immerse yourself into the experience! Let your senses be taken over by the actionpacked games that only VR Xtreme has to offer. Only open on weekends from 11AM-6PM so grab it while you can when you’re out on Sunday morning with family and friends. See website for full details.

Castles N’ Coasters 9445 N Metro Pkwy E, Phoenix, AZ www.castlesncoasters. com (602) 997-7575 Imagine a midwinter vacation where

you can have a load of outdoor fun and in short sleeves (pending the weather stays above 65°). Well, you can! At Castles N’ Coasters amusement park, located 15 minutes driving distance from the Phoenix Community Kollel (more on that later in Jewish Amenities). Get a load of all the various roller coasters, bumper cars, and more that will have you, your friends, and your family exhilaratingly happy that you might even come back again for more!

Ride the Desert Storm and make a full 360 as you scream your way around it.

Don’t forget the Go-Karts and Bumper Boats while you’re at it. Oh, and did I mention that the Skydive water tower ride will make your life flash before your very eyes? And you absolutely must check out the Arcade and the XD Dark Ride for more fun yet to come. Get to Castles N’ Coasters now to make it all happen! See website or call for full details of hours and pricing.

The Phoenix Police Museum Historic City Hall 17 S 2nd Ave, Phoenix, AZ www.phxpdmuseum.org (602) 534-7278 If you’re the history-loving type, then The Phoenix Police Museum is exactly what you are looking for. Be fascinated by over 130 years of police history in Phoenix, how policing has evolved over the years, and so much more. Check out all the exhibits, including weapons, cars, equipment, uniforms, etc.; absolutely free! That’s right. FREE admission! Open weekdays from 9 AM-3 PM. See website for full details.

Phoenix Zoo 455 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ www.phoenixzoo.org (602) 286-3800 What vacation is complete without visiting a local zoo? But this is not just any regular zoo. The Phoenix Zoo is loaded with activities to keep everyone busy the whole time during its 9-5 hours of operation. Check out their vast array of wildlife from all across the spectrum, and their water play and playground areas for your little guys. And they even have live camel rides too for a limited time! There’s a lot more here like safaris, www.mochers.com |

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PLACES

daily animal presentations, and so much more. Check out their website for details.

There is definitely a lot more to do in good old Phoenix, but we gotta continue our Arizonian expedition. Let’s head on down to Tucson!

Tucson and Surrounding Areas

Welcome to Tucson! Nice and warm here in the winter. Average highs midwinter are around 70°F. Enjoy the weather! (Lows go down to around 40°F, so bundle up at night). While urban, Tucson still has a very natural beauty to it that you can really appreciate.

Let’s see some of the exciting stuff that Tucson has to offer.

Pima Air & Space Museum 6000 E Valencia Rd, Tucson, AZ www.pimaair.org (520) 574-0462 Take your fascination of air and space to whole new levels. At Pima Air & Space Museum, there are over 300 air & spacecraft on display that encompasses 80 acres of exhibits. Get up close and personal with a whole array of aircraft that this place has to offer. Not just from the outside, but from the inside too. Sit in

those cockpits and feel the thrill of flying even while still being on the ground. Be wowed by pristinely refashioned and preserved history of the US Airforce and beyond. Open daily 9-5.

personal relaxation. A good place to go if you ever want to have a business meeting in a very relaxed outdoor atmosphere. See website for more details.

Trail Dust Town 6541 E Tanque Verde Rd, Tucson, AZ www.traildusttown.com (520) 296-4551 Howdy partner! Wanna go back in time and do it Old Western style? You found the right place for that at Trail Dust Town. Yeah, it’s light fun, but relaxing and enjoyable. There is a little bit of action too with their shooting stunt shows going on every Sunday between 7 PM and 8 PM. And don’t forget to check out their shooting gallery as well to try out your marksmanship skills. The lighter stuff includes a train ride through Old Western scenes, a Ferris wheel, and a carousel. (Panning for gold is another activity that is currently unavailable).

There are an array of shops and services throughout the area that will make for some good memories to take home.

Reid Park Zoo 3400 E Zoo Ct, Tucson, AZ www.reidparkzoo.org (520) 791-3204 Another Arizonian zoo adventure. This zoo has an expansive range of exotic animals ranging from the African Wild Dog to the Squirrel Monkey, to the Andean Bear…the list goes on and on.

Fun and exciting for all ages and stages.

Tucson Botanical Gardens 2150 N Alvernon Way, Tucson, AZ www.tucsonbotanical.org (520) 326-9686 This place has a dozen public gardens on more than 5 acres of land for your

If you’re done with Tucson, you better not be done with Arizona, as the best part is yet to come: The Grand Canyon!

The Grand Canyon

This is perhaps the biggest reason why people come to visit Arizona. To come and see Hashem’s artwork (as it were) in all its glory. The most talented man could never have even imagined creating something so stunning and breathtaking as the Grand Canyon.

According to Wikipedia, The Grand Canyon is “277 miles (446 km) long, up to 18 miles (29 km) wide and attains a depth of over a mile (6,093 feet or 1,857 meters).”

No words can do justice to all the scenery you’ll see when you get there.

Just have your camera ready to snap at everything you’ll see when you get there.

(Getting there will be discussed a little bit later in this section. Stay tuned!)

Most of this natural Heaven-sent beauty can be viewed when you go to Grand Canyon National Park. Let’s see what’s in store for you today.

Grand Canyon National Park

According to Wikipedia, this sprawling national park “covers 1,217,262 acres (1,901.972 sq mi; 4,926.08 km2) of unincorporated area in Coconino and Mohave counties,” and “received more than 6,000,000 recreational visitors in 2017, which is the second-highest count of all American national parks after Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You’re absolutely going to love this place!

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Before we discuss the highlights of this place, let’s talk about how you’ll get there.

There are only two options for getting to the canyon: by car, or by train.

By Car

Assuming you’re coming from Phoenix, the drive to Grand Canyon Village and the South Rim of the canyon takes around 3 ½ hours on I-17 North. (Driving from Tucson is not an option because you will be in the car for at least 6 hours; easiest drive is from Phoenix).

By Train

If you’re opting for a more relaxing traveling experience to the Grand Canyon that includes scenery, comfort, in-house entertainment on wheels, and more, then I suggest you make use of the Grand Canyon Railway in Williams, AZ. Located outside the Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel (see more about that later in Hotels/Lodging), the railway is hands-down the most relaxing, serene, and pleasantly awesome way to get the canyon hassle-free.

If the train is your thing, you are going to want to spend the night in Williams. (Sorry, no options for minyanim there yet. Hope you can bring on along! More on minyanim and more in Jewish Amenities). The drive from Phoenix to Williams takes around 2 hours and 50 minutes.

Take I-17 North to Exit 163 to I-40 West to reach your destination.

After arriving at your destination, spend the night at the hotel to rest up for your major trip the next morning. But be on time! Trains depart promptly at 9:30 AM and you don’t want to miss it.

Before your morning departure, there’s some light entertainment to start off your journey with a smile. A little wild west skit takes place right in front of the railway station outside the hotel with the town sheriff squaring off against some local bandits, guns and all! Check it out and laugh before you depart.

The train is very comfortable, sporting very nice seats and isles. The ride itself is 2 hours and 15 minutes each way, so take your time in enjoying the scenery.

HABANA HUT STATION - 45C ATLANTIC AVENUE - LYNBROOK, NY 11563

Getting to the Canyon

HABANA HUT STATION (516) 887-9500 habanahutstation.com

There are 6 cars to choose from, claiming a higher level of class than the next. Here is a little sampling of the cars to choose from on the MOCHERS

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Grand Canyon Railway with some small explanations. (For full details about the Grand Canyon Railway and Hotel, please visit their website at https://www.thetrain. com/ ).

Pullman Class

Like an airplane, there are different levels of comfort based on how much you pay. The Grand Canyon Railroad is no different. The most affordable of these is the Pullman Class car, which is a renovated original from 1923. This car is situated at the front of the train and usually costs $67 a ticket per adult. The joke here about this car is that the AC is 40/40. 40 MPH with 40 windows open!

Coach Class

These cars are from the 1950s with nice, cushioned seats, wide windows, and heating during the cooler months. Prices for this car are $82 per adult.

First Class

It just gets better and better! If you’re paying for this, you’re getting exactly what you pay for. Here, in First Class, the seats are wider, the windows are bigger, and there are even complimentary snacks and beverages in the morning and afternoon (check for Rabbinic supervision before you buy). Prices here start at $159 per adult.

Observation Dome

Now, this is a real scenic ride if I say so myself! The observation car is built with a dome sporting many windows so you can take your view of Arizona to whole new levels that will make for even greater memories. Enjoy your ride as you take in the gorgeous scenery from all angles and let your spirits soar! Prices here start at $189 per adult.

Luxury Dome

Now, this is journeying to the Grand Canyon in class! This car is the nicest of all of them. It’s not just the dome. It’s also the lounge down below, the bar service, and so much more. Enjoy yourself on the nostalgically flavored yet comfortable furniture in the lounge as you enjoy reading the rest of this Mochers issue or any other reading material. Also, a good place to chill with your friends who joined you for the vacation. But get ready to spend! Prices for this one start at $226, adults only! (No kids on this one. Other cars have reduced rates for kids. See website for details).

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Luxury Parlor

This is the top of the line in luxury travel.

Also exclusively for adults, where you get private bar service, a lot of room to lounge around and relax, and even the chance to step outside and view the natural beauty as it whizzes past you as you take it all in from the rear deck of this car. Enjoy fresh fruits and coffee in the morning!

(Remember that for kashrus, the fruit must be only uncut fruit). Also for those who want to spend, this car also starts at $226 per rider.

As mentioned earlier, there is in-house entertainment onboard including cowboys singing real Western Country Music (just watch out for kol isha as there may be female singers as well), and bandits who will hold you at gunpoint demanding your valuables. (Don’t worry.

They’re all professional actors and will not actually take your stuff).

Photo courtesy of @grandcanyonrailway

Whichever car you’re in, just sit back and relax because that’s exactly why you came here. Just chill! You should arrive at your grand destination of Grand Canyon National Park at around 11:45 AM. From the time you depart the train, you have around 3 hours to enjoy the Grand Canyon. The returning train departs at 3:30 PM and gets back to Williams at 5:15 PM. Now that you’re here, let’s show you some of the highlights of Grand Canyon National Park.

Grand Canyon Village. This is where the train pulls in upon arrival. The headquarters of the park is located over here together with a lot of other scenic spots that are a must-see while you are here. According to Wikipedia, Grand Canyon Village “is wholly focused on accommodating tourists visiting the canyon. Its origins trace back to the railroad completed from Williams to the canyon’s South Rim by the Santa Fe Railroad in 1901. Many of the structures in use today date from that period. The village contains numerous landmark buildings, and its historic core is a National Historic Landmark District, designated for its outstanding implementation of town design.” There are several landmarks that are within walking distance from the train depot. Just plan wisely so you don’t miss your train. If you came by car then you may have a little more time to explore.

Photo courtesy of @grandcanyonrailway

Photo courtesy of @grandcanyonrailway

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Scenic Spots Nearby. Since some of you may come with the train and have limited time, here are some of the spots along the canyon’s South Rim that you can enjoy and photograph while you are visiting. The places mentioned here follow each other and are being measured in time that it would take to walk (not drive). All in all, it should take you around 1 hour and 15 minutes of walking to see the beauty that cannot be put into words. Just remember to add some time for stopping to see the sights before heading back and make sure that you have enough time to get back to Grand Canyon Village and get ready to get back on the returning train. The walk back may be at least an hour from the last destination. Plan wisely so you don’t miss your train. There are also shuttle bus tours to take you around the South Rim, but it is beyond the scope of this article.

Please visit https://www.nps.gov/grca/ planyourvisit/shuttle-buses.htm for further details on those.

Bright Angel Trailhead. This trail is located between 10-15 minutes away from the train depot. The views here are absolutely stunning! Thousands of visitors have what to say about this place. Look at their reviews and their photos on Google Maps. You’re not going to want to miss this one.

Hermit Road. Walk another 13 minutes west and your gonna hit this road which you’ll be staying on for most of your trip.

Hermit Road, besides being an awesome lookout station, is going to bring you to some unbelievable lookouts throughout the canyon. Be on the lookout for signs with info about the places you’re seeing so you can come away with more understanding.

Trail View Point. Here is where you get a bird’s eye view of a massive portion of the canyon. This is located around 12 minutes from Hermit Road.

Maricopa Point. Continue another 20 minutes or so to this awesome spot. Here you get unbelievable rim views of the canyon, and an old copper & uranium mine.

Powell Point. Continue on the road running parallel to Hermit Road to get to this next scenic destination. Here you have sweeping views of the canyon, as well as a commemorative memorial to the 1869 and 1871–1872 crews who explored the canyon.

Hopi Point. This is a South Rim overlook with unobstructed canyon vistas. It’s also a popular stop for sunrise and sunset viewing.

But, no matter what time you’re there, make sure to take in the view and let it settle in your memory.

At this point, you probably should make your way back so you can make the train back to Williams. Once again, your total walk time including getting back to the station should be around 1 hour and 15 minutes.

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Mary Colter’s Lookout Studio. If long hikes aren’t your thing, then you can stay put in the awesome Mary Colter’s Lookout Studio and take in the beauty from there. You can get some awesome shots from this place.

There is also a gift shop on premises should you want to bring back some souvenirs for your friends back on the East Coast.

The Grand Canyon is so vast that it really should be an article on its own. We’ll have to hold it here for now. But be brave and try out the rest of it someday and just keep wowing yourself with its beauty that can never ever be properly described.

Now, let’s see some hotels!

Hotels and Lodging

A busy Mocher like yourself is going to want to retire for the night in real class befitting his lifestyle. Here are some luxury hotels that you may want to try out.

Phoenix Hotels

Arizona Biltmore A Waldorf Astoria Resort 2400 E Missouri Ave, Phoenix, AZ www.arizonabiltmore.com (602) 955-6600 This is for a real Mochers’ experience. Get ready to spend for this one because it can easily be $400 a night! But it’s well worth it and has the greatest reviews from its visitors. This 4-Star hotel is really going to make your vacation worthwhile. Located on a 12-minute drive from the Phoenix Community Kollel, the Arizona Biltmore will ensure that you sleep like a king at night with its luxurious vibe. There are suites, villas, and even cottages. And their amenities are out of this world. Check out their website today for more details and see it all for yourself.

(Viewer discretion is advised for some pages. Make sure your filter is working).

Tucson Hotels

Lodge On the Desert 306 N Alvernon Way Tucson, AZ www.lodgeonthedesert.com (520) 320-2000 This nice 3-Star hotel is located just a 5-minute drive from Congregation Chofetz Chaim in Tucson. Rooms can be around $300 a night. Most rooms have fireplaces and are pretty cozy. Check their special offers as well. See website for full details.

Grand Canyon Hotels

Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel 235 N Grand Canyon Blvd, Williams, AZ www.thetrain.com (928) 635-4010 As mentioned earlier, this is one of the better options if you want to calmly travel to the www.mochers.com |

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Grand Canyon without having to drive.

Many room and suite options are available for groups of all sizes. See website for full details.

Photo courtesy of yomaps.net

Grand Canyon Lodging (On-Premises) www.grandcanyonlodges.com/lodging There are several hotels on the premises of Grand Canyon National Park should you decide that you want to stay overnight.

Search well before making your final decision. Many times, a 2-Star hotel may be better than a 5-Star over here.

(There is a full list of hotels close by to shuls in Phoenix at the Phoenix Community Kollel website at https:// www.aztorah.com/vacation-rentals-andhotels.)

Jewish Amenities

Of course, our Yiddishkeit always comes with us wherever we go. For that reason, we are also including some shuls and Jewish necessities while you vacation here in Arizona. Just so you should know, Arizona has some nice and small, yet established Jewish communities, mainly in Phoenix and in Tucson. Take advantage of these unbelievably sincere communities and take back that spark of sincerity with you when you return to the East Coast. You’ll really be amazed.

Here are some of the places you should know about and visit. (This is merely a sampling of shuls, specifically located in the Phoenix area. A more extensive list and their websites can be found on the Phoenix Community Kollel website listed below. The website also has listings for Tucson as well, including restaurants and other Kosher amenities. Check it out now for more details).

Shuls, Yeshivos, Kollelim, & More!

Phoenix Community Kollel 6741 N 7th St, Phoenix, AZ www.aztorah.com (602) 433-0300 Since the year 2000, the Phoenix Community Kollel has been “spreading rays of holy Torah sunshine” for all to see and feel. (I can’t take credit for that last line, but thanks to Yerachmiel Begun for being the inspiration for it!) For the last 20 years, the Kollel has welcomed many talented yungeleit into its walls who have reshaped the religious landscape of the Jewish community of Phoenix. For an uplifting Torah atmosphere with an inviting vibe while you are on vacation, the Phoenix Community Kollel should be on your list of places to visit and enjoy. And, if this article itself wasn’t 32 |

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informative enough, the Kollel’s website has a full list of frum shuls and Kosher amenities available throughout Phoenix and its surrounding areas. Check out their website today for full details.

Beth Joseph Congregation of Greater Phoenix 515 E Bethany Home Rd, Phoenix, AZ www.phoenixbethjoseph.org (602) 277-8858 Nice and beautiful shul in Phoenix with daily Shacharis at 6:30 AM and Mincha and Maariv around the Shekiah. Sunday Shacharis at 7:45 AM, Shabbos Shacharis at 8:45 AM. See their website for further info.

Chabad Lubavitch of Arizona 2110 East Lincoln Drive, Phoenix, AZ www.chabadaz.com (602) 944-2753 What good Jewish community would be complete without a good old and friendly Chabad center? Phoenix is no different.

Come join them every day for Shacharis at 7:00 AM, Sunday Shacharis at 8:00 AM, and Shabbos at 9:30. Never a dull moment in Chabad! Check out the website for full details.

Ohr Hatorah 6741 N 7th St, Phoenix, AZ www.ohrhatorahphoenix.org (480) 359-5572 A nice, small, homey minyan headed by Rav Shafir Roizman, a talmid of Yeshivas Chaim Berlin and other yeshivos. The minyan prides itself for being warm and inviting, allowing all types of Yidden to take refuge in its confines and imbue them with a sense of getting close to Hashem and His Torah. Minyanim times are not listed. Reach out to them via their website or call for more info.

Yeshiva High School of Arizona 7045 N 12th St, Phoenix, AZ www.azyeshiva.org (602) 266-1213

This is a very successful boys’ yeshiva out here in good old Arizona. It’s small, but the boys love it and their parents and Rebbeim couldn’t be prouder of them.

And it’s not just for the community. It’s for their visitors too. Come on and drop in while you’re on vacation midwinter and join them for Shacharis at 7:30 AM during the week and 8:00 AM on Sundays.

Mincha throughout the week is 1:40 PM, Sunday at 1:00. Check out their website for all the action going on in the yeshiva today!

Mikvah Chaya Mushka. (Located in Chabad Lubavitch of Arizona). Just in case your wife needs this, or if you as a man are stringent about immersing before Shacharis and on Erev Shabbos, this mikvah is located on the premises of the Chabad center in Phoenix and is utilized by the broader Frum community.

For women’s appointments, please call or text 48 hours in advance: (602)509-7430.

See the following link for more details: https://www.chabadaz.com/templates/ articlecco_cdo/aid/1283218/jewish/ Appointments.htm. As of the writing of this article, it is unclear as to whether the mikvah can be open in the mornings to men. Please reach out to the mikvah via the following link: https://www.chabadaz. com/templates/articlecco_cdo/ aid/5095406/jewish/Contact-Us.htm. Or contact the Chabad center at (602)9442753 or email them at info@chabadaz. com.

Groceries and Restaurants

Every great Jewish vacation needs to have Kosher food of the highest standard.

Phoenix has a bunch of these, believe it or not. Here are some listed below. (The author takes no responsibility for any changes in Kashrus status that may occur as of the writing of this article. Due diligence should be done to see the exact Kashrus status of each store, including who the Rav Hamachshir is and what stringencies and leniencies the providers hold by). www.mochers.com

Imperial Market & Deli 737 E Glendale Ave, Phoenix, AZ www.imperialkosher.com (602) 285-6999 Now, this is not simply a supermarket. It is also your one-stopshop for all of your Kosher and Judaica needs in Phoenix. Besides food, Imperial Market & Deli also hosts a selection of many Judaica necessities such as yarmulkas, tzitzis, and more. They also have a delicious Shabbos takeout menu should you not want to cook for Shabbos while you’re vacationing. Cholov Yisroel, Pas Yisroel, and Glatt Kosher all under one roof! Check out their bakery as well for their vast selection of cakes, challos, and other pastries. COVID-19 restrictions may still be in place. Call ahead or send an email for more information. See website for menus, directions, and other useful info.

Milk+Honey Espresso Bar & Eatery 12701 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, AZ www.milkandhoneyjcc.com (480) 566-9020 A nice and upscale eat-in establishment providing mainly dairy dishes all hours of the day. The menu is just too diverse and extensive to list here in Mochers. But you can get just about anything there in style for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Their ingredients are mainly cholov stam, but they do have separate ingredients to accommodate those who keep cholov Yisroel. You must tell them that you keep cholov Yisroel where applicable so that you don’t mess yourself over. They have a nice fleishig and exotic Shabbos takeout menu as well. Check out their website for all of their exotic and tasty dishes that will make your mouth water.

Kitchen18 10211 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, AZ www.thekitchen18.com (480) 284-6001 A real nice fleishig hangout for you and your friends while you’re on vacation. Under the supervision of Chabad of Scottsdale, Kitchen18 is the place to go for a nice, up-to-date atmosphere and very, very good food hot off the grill. Check out their extensive menu of meat and fish entrées, as well as their beverages and desserts. You are bound to walk away very satisfied. Shabbos takeout is available here as well.

See website for more details.

LaBella Pizzeria and Restaurant 6505 N 7th St, Phoenix, AZ www.labellakosher.com (602) 354-7002 Now, this is pizza in style…Arizonian style. LaBella Pizzeria and Restaurant has a very awesome menu of both traditional American and Mexican foods. Don’t miss out on it while you’re in Phoenix.

Check them out today! See website for more details.

There are definitely many, many more places from where these came from. Look for “kosher stores” when searching Google maps for places like these near Phoenix.

Well, that’s all for now for good old amazing Arizona. Check out and see how amazing it really is. You will be simply dazzled! And it may be more amazing than you ever realized.

M MOCHERS

EAT LIKE A MOCHER

New Amsterdam Burger Co. 680 Columbus Avenue New York, NY 10025 Corner of 93 and Columbus

Beer - Wine - Spirits Certified Kosher by Mehadrin Kashrus

Glatt Kosher / Pas Yisroel Phone: 212.362.0700 info@newamsterdamburger.com

Moshe Ney is a senior writer for Mochers Magazine.

www.mochers.com |

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FINE ART

THE LETTER KUF AND THE

Month of Adar By: Kalman Safrut

A

letter is a symbol that is commonly agreed upon to represent something. Each Hebrew letter is a symbol, but it represents much more than that symbol – also the depths of our tradition. It’s a symbol that represents a storehouse of information.

Every Hebrew month of the year is associated with a Hebrew letter. The letter for the month of Adar is kuf. Let’s explore what the shape and name of the letter means.

The shape of the letter kuf is very rare. First of all, it’s two pieces. Only one other letter is two pieces – the letter hei. Both letters are connected to kedusha; the letter hei is connected to the kedusha of emes, but kuf has a lower level of kedusha. Here’s how.

The word kof means monkey, to copy and can also mean imitation.

So, whereas God creates, we imitate God, as if God were the letter hei and we were the letter kuf. For example, a child imitates a parent until a child learns on its own how to interact in the world. We start from a place of imitation – imitating role models and parents – and then we grow until we become a bar da’at, somebody that has intelligence who can then make the best decision possible.

Kuf and Adar are about simcha -

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happiness. What does it mean to be happy? How can you have a commandment to be happy? We know that there are different levels of happiness – exterior and interior. For example, someone who smiles and laughs all the time, that’s the exterior.

Interior happiness is when someone has deep happiness. Generally speaking, people who smile and laugh all the time may not be so happy. Or perhaps it is the body that desires to be happy, starting from the outside in. We start from a low level to a high level. So, the body imitates happiness until we experience some form of happiness. Like Rebbe Nachman says, “hamcha’at kaf verikkud raglayim mamtikim et haddin” in order to bring happiness.

You can clap your hands, jump up and down and dance – doing external things that then reach an internal place. That’s the idea of happiness. It’s not “fake ‘til you make it”, but fake it ‘til you make it in a deep emotional way.

On a personal level, one experiences the two-way street of the internal and external. On one hand, you have your own personal things that you’re dealing with; on the other, who you are is manifested on what you do, but also what you do in position in opportunities you take to build yourself in an external way. It influences who you are, how you feel about yourself, and how you interact.

What’s the external doing? What’s the www.mochers.com

internal doing? One is influencing the other. What’s the point of external happiness in Adar? We make ourselves happy and make others happy.

For example, every parent knows that going on vacation is not going to be fun for them. It’s fun for the kids, right? This type of happiness takes sacrifice in order to improve the world around you. That’s why there’s a mitzvah where you have to smile at people, “receive everybody with a smile”. Your face is public property.

If you don’t work on reaching internal happiness, it’s like keeping mitzvos but not having any intention or knowledge of what you’re doing. You’re just doing something by rote. It’s only having the external and nothing in the inside. Or, it’s like being connected to Torah, but never opening up the treasure chest that is Torah.

The fact is that Adar has the power of simcha, and simcha is what brings people together. So, we see that the external aspect of happiness is so important. Therefore, we don’t want to lose the letter, we don’t want to lose our tradition. We want to engage the tradition and we want to open up the treasure chest of Torah.

May we merit to manifest true happiness and reveal our deeper selves this upcoming Nissan.

M

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Kalman Safrut is a contributing editor for Mochers Magazine.

www.mochers.com |

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Simcha and

THE PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS By: Benson Fox

Joy. We all yearn for it and value it highly, but it remains elusive except for a select few. How can we attain it in our lives?

Joy is Our Default State

One critical piece to this conversation is that Simcha is not something that needs to be achieved but is the default state of the soul. R’ Shimshon Pinkus talks about this in the context of how angels are singing all day in heaven to Hashem, not to snap themselves out of depression, but as an expression of their unending, inner joy. Our souls are spiritual entities like angels and share this innate joy in existing and manifesting. Rashi comments on the Pasuk of how “wine causes man’s heart to rejoice” by saying it removes worry, causing happiness. How does removing fear create happiness? The answer is that happiness is there, but is drowned out by our negative emotions. So, when those emotions are dulled, it allows us to access our inner default state of joy.

This insight can cause us to shift our focus from creating joy to reducing the space we allow for things that drown out our joy.

The Gratitude Attitude

The word “Jew” comes from the name Judah, which comes from “hodaah”, or gratitude. Hodaah also means admitting. The reason that “Jew”, “gratitude”, and “admitting” share the same etymology is that appreciating something also involves an admission of debt to the giver and is the essence of what a Jew is. It is a lifestyle that reflects our acknowledgment of the value of what we are given and Who gave it to us. In our relationship with Hashem, where the debt cannot possibly be repaid, choosing to deny the debt relieves us from the uncomfortableness of the lack of even reciprocation in our relationship with Him. Denial of what Hashem does for us is understandable in the short term but comes at the high long term cost of depriving us of a powerful source of joy in our lives.

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We Are All Rich Beyond Measure

The Midrash says that Asheer is an acronym for eyes, teeth, hands, and feet (Ayin- Einayim, Shin- sheenayim, Yud- Yaadayim, ReishRaaglayim). We are all rich beyond measure with bodies, souls, families, life, etc. What makes someone genuinely wealthy is their refusal to deny their wealth, as reflected by them being Sameiach bichelko, happy with their lot. The Mishna is not redefining wealth as being happy. It tells you that the way to be wealthy is realizing we all already are, and the one who lives in sync with it reflects this recognition.

Transcending from Appreciation to Gratitude

However, while appreciating what we have makes us rich, it does not make us feel loved and essential unless we attribute that good to Hashem. To have the “emunascha baleilos,” “faith in bad times,” we need to not only appreciate what we have but also “Lihaagid baboker chasdecha,” to attribute the good times to their Source.

Once we do, our lives will be an eternal love fest with Hashem inundating us with unconditional and constant gifts, which, if we recognize as coming from Him, will allow us to feel loved and receive the love that we all desperately crave. Let’s understand that joy is already in our hearts and that by reducing negativity (but not eliminating it), appreciating how rich we truly are, and attributing that wealth to Hashem, we can bring it to the surface and live with a joy rooted in reality.

M

Benson Fox is a contributing editor for Mochers Magazine, a PsyD candidate and practices as a certified transformation life coach.

Email “RESULTS” to results@coachbensonfox.com for a free discovery session and check out coachbensonfox.com

www.mochers.com

CIGARS

MOTZEI SHABBOS PUFF By: Rabbi Benjamin Flax

N

inety-nine percent of the time, a premium cigar will have a capped end that needs to be cut before smoking.

Yet, we all are faced with the perpetual dilemma, “I’m not a mohel! But fear not, there are many options to make sure you are taking off enough, and, as always, practice makes perfect.

The traditional ways to cut a cigar are straight or guillotine, V or cat’s eye, punch, or poke.

Straight/Guillotine Cut Whether you use a freebie plastic cutter or a Xikar Xi, the principle is the same.

There is a blade, preferably two, and the cap of the cigar gets sliced off. You want to cut above the shoulder, where the cap of the cigar curves in—about 2mm down. If you take off too much, you run the risk of unraveling the wrapper. Some cutters claim to provide “the perfect cut” by having a backing that will not allow too much to be sliced off; while suitable for learning, they do not last long. Single blade cutters tend to smush the cigar

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if not remarkably sharp, which is why I always advise a double blade. This can also be achieved with cigar scissors.

Yes, you can use a knife, but remember there will be smushing, and you will need to be precise.

V/Cats’ Eye Cut This type of cutter will make a V-shape into the cigar from shallow to deep.

These look like a classic cigar cutter but have a wedge blade. A nice aspect of this cut is that you cannot take too much off because of the receiver of the cutter.

But, as they are single blades, they can smush the cigar if not remarkably sharp.

Many manufacturers will tell you to avoid a V cut because it removes a chunk of tobacco that helps with the rounded flavoring. However, if the cigar is tightly rolled, this can help open up the flavor.

Punch Cut This is the easiest one to carry and is frequently seen on keychains or the circular blade on the bottom of many lighters. The punch cut takes a small round off the cap. The smoke here is much more focused through a smaller exit point, but remember your lips are

now on the cap, which some argue distorts the flavoring of the cigar. You could use a cigar holder, like FDR’s cigarette holder. However, for a cigar, the punch is the way to go.

Poke Today, this method is mainly used to open a tightly bound cigar. Historically, the small nail-like poker would create 3-4 pinholes in the cigar’s cap. As this limits the amount of smoke being drawn out and the interference of the cigar cap, many discredit this style today.

“I have heard you can pinch or bite off the cap.” Well, yes, some people do that, but it ruins the integrity of the cigar. First, it is nearly impossible to get a clean cut this way, which will cause loose tobacco to fleck on teeth and potentially break the wrapper. Secondly, if you bite the tip, the cap still should be disposed of, and spitting is not a heimish thing to do.

Lastly, If you are smoking a torpedo/ belicoso stick, I recommend either a straight cut on a 30-45 degree angle or a deep V cut.

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CIGARS

RECOMMENDATIONS:

Perdomo 20th Anniversary Maduro Epicure Originally released nearly 10 years ago, this stick still holds true to its roots. A few years back, the labels were redone making them pop and exude craftsmanship and quality. The Maduro is the cigar for after a nice meal. With its hints of coffee and chocolate, you won’t need dessert.

AJ Fernandez New World Cameroon Double Robusto Cameroon wrappers are by far my favorite and the New World shows everyone why.

The richness of the binder brings those typical coffee notes, but the wrapper sneaks in some refreshing sugars. If you like a cappuccino or a dirty chai, this is the smoke for you.

Tatuaje Havana VI Verocu Petit Corona The Petit Corona packs a nice punch that is unexpected from its size. With a box count of 50 and easy to afford price, this little guy will impress. With nice pepper notes, it is perfect for after havdallah.

San Cristobal Revelation Legend (Toro) This cigar is elegant, smooth, and consistent. I have picked up this cigar in shops around the country and always had the same experience. This mediumbodied cigar is great to help pass time and does not sit heavy on the stomach.

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Rabbi Benjamin Flax is a contributor for Mochers Magazine.

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HEALTHY EATS

The Secret to that

Chicken Soup!

By: Sruly Meyer

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s there anything more Jewish than chicken soup? It’s the cornerstone of every Shabbat meal. It’s the cure to the common cold and it’s the dish every Jewish grandmother has ready to go at any given time. It’s the perfect food on those cold winter nights, and we can’t get enough of it.

It’s mostly a very simple thing to make, but somehow everyone has their own twist on the perfect chicken soup. I’ve made it the same for years, but lately, I started asking people on my home cooking page what their own tricks and tips are on the perfect chicken soup.

Before we start with the tips, let’s discuss what we are looking for when we think of chicken soup. For one thing, we like the color nice and golden. It should have a lot of flavor, with chicken that is cooked perfectly, not too dry, not too soggy, and vegetables that don’t fall apart once the soup is fully cooked.

Did you ever notice how the longer the soup cooks the better it is? Often the soup tastes better the day after it’s made. The longer it sits, the longer those classic flavors blend and release.

Let’s start with the base, which almost every good soup boasts. Celery, onions, and carrots. Here is tip number one, don’t cut those veggies. Fill up a large soup pot with ¾ water, add salt and pepper, and set it to medium on the stovetop. You’ve been told your whole life to chop the veggies but I’m here to tell you, you will get a bigger flavor and a clearer brother if you leave them in whole!

This is where things get interesting. Do everything you can to not let the soup boil. Start it off on medium as you prepare and add your veggies. Once everything is in, set it to low. In an additional pot, boil the chicken for 25 minutes. This ensures the fat and other parts of the chicken boil out separately from your main soup pot.

Wash off the chicken and then add to your soup.

INGREDIENTS 3 large carrots⁣ 2 large onions⁣ 2 medium size parsnips⁣ 1 bunch fresh parsley⁣ 1 large yellow squash⁣ 1 stalk celery⁣ 1 whole chicken cut into eighths

Allow the soup to cook on low for 5 hours. After, set the soup aside to get to room temperature. When the soup has reached room temperature, put it in the fridge overnight. Take it out the following morning, once again allowing it to get to room temperature before putting it back on the stovetop for an additional 5 hours on low.

from breaking up and becoming pieces in the broth.

• Only use greens which can also make for a clearer soup.

• Whole green pepper (don’t eat it, it gives it a heartier taste.)

• Feeling sick, looking for a chicken soup cure? Use fresh garlic.

• Fleishig Magazine’s Shloime Klein says to use a beet for a perfect golden look.

• Want to lock in the chicken flavor? Use a whole chicken!

• Yellow beets! They will add a sweet quality to your savory chicken.

Letting the soup get to room temperature keeps the soup from being shocked from cold to hot or hot to cold, which would allow a lot of the flavors to cook out. Like many other recipes, giving your dish that extra love, and time always gives you the best flavor.

During the process of writing this article I crowdsourced additional home tips and tricks, and here is a small sampling of additional options.

We also got a funny practical tip from singer Benny Friedman, “Hold your beard with your non-spoon hand so it doesn’t accidentally dip in the soup.”

• Put the whole onion with the peel, make sure to wash it first!

• Add herbs like fresh dill, parsley, thyme, or even rosemary!

• You can add chicken bones for a meatier flavor.

• Use mesh bags to keep the vegetables

Let me know how your soup works out, or send me your own tips and tricks, DM me, @SrulyCooks.

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Sruly Meyer is a contributor for Mochers Magazine, you can follow him on Instagram @srulycooks.

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SPORTS GLAZE

The Ultimate Champion:

Phil Jackson By: Menachem Ickovitz

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he NBA is celebrating its 75th Season. When writing the history of the NBA, there are some players, coaches, and teams that have elevated themselves over others. One such person is former player and coach, Phil Jackson.

Jackson played in the NBA from 1967–1980, after getting drafted in the 2nd round of the NBA Draft by the New York Knicks. He was a role-player for the Knicks and was a member of two Championship teams in 1970 and 1973. Additionally, he was named to the NBA All-Rookie Team in 1968.

During the 1969–1970 Championship season, Jackson sustained a back injury and was unable to play. Knicks coach Red Holzman asked Jackson to be a part of the team as an unofficial assistant coach. Jackson sat by Holzman’s side and learned a lot, which would help Jackson later in his second act in the NBA. About Holzman, Jackson once said, “But he had a lot of common sense about people. I think that’s more than anything else I picked up on.”

replace him. However, Tomjanovich resigned after only coaching 41games for the Lakers due to health reasons. Jackson was rehired and coached the Lakers to two more Championships in 2009 and 2010.

Many people don’t give Jackson the credit he deserves. They say, “Anyone can coach the greatest players in the NBA to a championship.” Quite frankly, that is totally untrue. Both the Bulls and Lakers had coaches with the talent that Jackson had and they didn’t win. Doug Collins, Dell Harris, and Kurt Rambis were good coaches, but they didn’t have the missing piece that Jackson brought. It was not just about strategy; it was about dealing with the players and their egos. Jackson did that very well and has the 11 NBA Championships to show for it.

Had his NBA story ended with his playing career, he would have been one in a very long line of solid players that are mostly forgotten. However, his excellent relationship with his former New York Knicks head coach Red Holzman helped lead Jackson to his next passion, coaching.

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Menachem Ickovitz has written for numerous sports websites and enjoys taking an historic look at sports topics. He is a contributing editor for Mochers Magazine.

Photo courtesy of Steve Simoneau/ Associated Press

Jackson’s first head coaching job was in the Continental Basketball Association (CBA) for the Albany Patroons from 1982–1987. In 1984, the Jackson-led Patroons won the CBA Championship.

During this same time, Jackson coached numerous teams in Puerto Rico during the CBA off-season.

In 1987, the Chicago Bulls hired Jackson as an assistant coach under Doug Collins, and he was promoted to head coach in 1989 after the Bulls fired Collins. With the Bulls, Jackson coached future Hall of Famers such as Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, Toni Kukoc, and Dennis Rodman. The Bulls won six NBA Championships with Jackson as their coach. After the 1998 season and their 6th Championship, Jackson was not retained by the Bulls, ending the Team of the ‘90s dynasty.

After taking a year off from coaching, Jackson resurfaced with the Los Angeles Lakers, a team with young talent ready to win an NBA Championship.

With stars Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant, as well as role-players like Robert Horry, Derek Fisher, Ron Harper, and many more, Jackson was able to lead the Lakers to three Championships.

Photo courtesy of Charles Krupa/AP Photo

After the 2004 season, the Lakers went in a different direction from Jackson and hired Rudy Tomjanovich, a long-time successful NBA coach to 40 |

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WINE

Season Wine Guide By: Henry Pesatty

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very winter we try to dress elegantly with the proper coat, the fancy scarf and the nice pair of leather gloves, not only for the purpose of feeling warm but also fashionable. Well, let me tell you, the winter is over, and it’s time to change the outfit, as we are arriving into spring and then a bright and sticky hot summer (especially if you live in Miami, like me).

The weather is changing and our palate as well, as we are looking for new alternatives to enjoy with our loved ones, like young and fresh wines.

Start looking for ‘your wine opener and your decanter, as this wine guide is ready to start.

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WINE

DAROM RED BLEND 2020 YATIR WINERY ISRAEL Yatir Winery, from the Yatir region in Israel, always surprises me. Every wine that they make is perfect within their category. Established in 2000, it is an example of how a winery with 20 years of experience can create wines with many recognitions around the world.

Darom is a beautiful blend of Shiraz, Zinfandel, Marselan and Grenache and has been matured for nine months in French oak barrels.

After decanting the wine for 30 minutes, you will encounter many aromas like peppercorn, blackberry, sweet tobacco and milk chocolate.

IRPINIA AGLIANICO 2018 SAN PAOLO – CLAUDIO QUARTA WINERY ITALY Continuing with my love for Italian wines, I cannot pass up the opportunity to mention the San Paolo Winery, which was established by Claudio Quarta in 2006, and is located in the province of Bresci,. This winery is so unique that you can encounter different kinds of soils with influences from the ashes of the Somma Vesuvius volcano. When a vineyard is planted at 700 meters high, it will surely guarantee higher quality wines.

If you are a fan of Nebbiolo and Sangiovese like me, you will love Aglianico. Capish!!

Being of the entry level of Yatir doesn’t mean you will experience less, as this wine brings to the palate a full body, and a high level of acidity with a well-balanced tannin.

Irpinia Aglianico 2018 is a truly Southern Italian wine that brings to the nose a bouquet of aromas like cinnamon, lavender, sweet oak and tobacco.

This wine is perfect for the season, as it finishes fresh and delightful.

After you raise your glass and say Andiamo, you will experience a full-bodied wine that has a beautiful relationship, with a higher acidity and higher tannins.

Distributed in the US by Royal Wine Corp.

Average Price $24.99

It finishes somewhat spicy but is very fragrant; it is a unique Italian experience.

SHIRAN THE SOPRANO 2019 SHIRAN WINERY ISRAEL If we have to talk about Shiran Wines, we have to talk about great wines. Shiran Winery was established in Efrat, Israel by Eli Shiran in 2012.

He started in the garage in his small house in Efrat, where he created his first Gold Medal wine named Chazzan, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.

Time passed and after creating more successful wines and earning the recognition of wine connoisseurs, they moved in 2018 to the holy city of Kiryat Arba in Hebron, to keep growing the wine business.

One of my favorite wines is Shiran The Soprano 2019, a magnificent red blend of Grenache 92% and Petit Sirah 8%, aged for 12 months in American oak barrels. This wine is really a premium gem, instead of the classic wines aged in French oak barrels, it goes with American.

If you let it breathe for a minimum of two hours, you will encounter a bouquet of aromas like leather, clay pot, plum and bloody orange. This beautiful wine will provide the palate with a full body, medium acidity and soft tannins.

Imported in the US by M&M Importers.

It has an elegant and fresh finish with some hints of spice.

Average Price $25.99

Available at www.kosherwine.com Average Price $47.99

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CHIANTI CLASSICO 2019 CASTELLARE DI CASTELLINA ITALY Castellare di Castellina is a winery located in the Chianti Region, that was built with great care, attention to details and quality awareness

by Paolo Panerai in 1970, as he was deeply in love with the Chianti area. Today, Castellare is considered one of the top wineries in Tuscany.

It is important to mention that Castellare is a nonkosher winery, but thanks to Dr. Ralph Madeb and his company M&M Importer, they found an opportunity with the vineyard to produce the Chianti Classico 2019 Kosher. And it came up Bellissimo!!

Chianti Classico 2019, for who doesn’t know, is wine created with Sangiovese grapes from the Chianti Region in Tuscany.

If you love Italy, you will love the aromas that you will encounter in the nose, like cherries, sweet balsamic and roasted tomatoes. On the palate is a medium full body with a refreshing acidity and elegant tannins.

This wine is perfect for a romantic Italian evening. Mamma Mia!!

Imported in the USA by M&M Importers.

Average Price $25.99

TWIN SUNS RESERVE ZINFANDEL 2019 THE RIVER WINE & SHIRA WINERY CALIFORNIA Every time, I get more and more impressed with the great kosher wines we can find in America, especially in the West Coast like Santa Barbara, California. This time the honor is for Twin Suns Wines, a creation of love that began in 2013 with Ami & Larissa Nahari from The River Wine and Gabriel & Shimon Weiss from Shiran Wines.

Twin Suns is a promise of high-quality California wines that can be affordable.

Most wine consumers go for the typical grapes, Cabernet, Merlot, Shiraz, Malbec, etc; but what about the Zinfandel lovers? Well, from now on, you will add this variety to your wine cellar.

Reserve Zinfandel 2019, grown in the Santa Ynez Valley in Santa Barbara County and aged for 15 months in French oak barrels, is an incredible wine that cannot be missed in this season. As my motto says - Let’s start with the nose - and here you will discover a smoky aroma with notes of raspberry, white pepper and star anise.

For more wine reviews and advice, you can always follow me on Instagram @koshertolife.

The variety and the time in the barrel give the palate a full body, an enjoyable acidity, and soft tannins.

Remember always to say L’Haim!

It finishes delicatly with sweet and spicy notes.

Distributed by The River Wine, New York, NY. Average Price $29.99

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Henry Pesatty, originally from Caracas, Venezuela, is a contributing editor for Mochers Magazine. He is also the creator of his Instragram Account @ koshertolife, where he shares his passion for wines and spirits in his spare time.

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THE INTERIOR

A HOST WORTHY

Dining Room By: Kayla Goldstein

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e have all been there, sitting in someone’s gorgeous dining room, thoroughly enjoying the delicious meal and the amazing conversation. When it comes time for us to host, we want to make sure our guests are feeling just as pampered and amazing. How do we do that? Well, food is definitely a major component, but not one I can help with. I can, however, help with the design which will play a major role in the ambiance and vibe of your Shabbos meals and other events.

The first thing you want to decide on in your dining room is the color palette. I know, this sounds cliche and boring, but it actually is super important. Do you want deep moody vibes, light bright and airy vibes, or something art deco? This is an important decision as it will decide all the rest of the items going into the space. What mood and feel do you want in the dining room?

Once you have established this, you need to decide how many people you want to fit and go find a table. The table is (obviously) the centerpiece of the room, and it needs to embody the vibe that you picked above. Each person sitting at the table needs at least 30 inches to be comfortable, so calculate the number of seats you want and that will help you figure out what size table to get. Alternatively, you can take the size of the room and reduce it by four feet on each side, this will give you the maximum size table you can get.

Now we need to choose chairs, and this will once again be determined by the vibe you chose above. Do you want your guests lounging? Do you want practical chairs?

Leather or fabric, dark or light, or maybe a cool pattern!

Whatever vibe you chose above, will determine what kind of chairs regarding style, comfort, and color you will choose.

The last piece of furniture to go in here is storage. This can be a credenza for candles, a wall unit for alcohol and others, and should always include some space for tablecloths, dishes, etc. Whether it will be a heavy or minimalist piece is determined by the vibe chosen above, as, of course, those living in the home.

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Dining room designed by Kayla LLC for an indoor/outdoor feel.

Now for the decor

This is the fun part where you get to splash your personality into the room, be it with wallpaper, artwork, an amazing light fixture, or just an awesome centerpiece for the table.

There are a few things I would say to keep in mind while throwing in all that character.

1. For starters, I would say to stay away from light green or deep mustard yellow. These are not particularly appetizing colors and don’t usually encourage guests to eat, surprisingly enough. This does not mean that you should not use deep green or bright yellow- these are actually great colors for a dining room, as you can see in the photo above, but go easy with it.

2. I would also make sure to not overdo it with the patterns.

It is amazing to bring in one pattern in the wallpaper or in the chair, but that is it. Going overboard or intense with the stripes or floral can have a dizzying effect, again not very appetizing. I would suggest picking one pattern and then using it to pull colors out around the room.

3. Regarding materials, you really have to go back to the original question about the vibe you want in the space.

If you are looking for cozy and intimate, go for woods

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and fabrics. If you are looking for glam and modern, go with glass and metals. That being said, if you do want to facilitate conversations, wamer and more natural materials do tend to lead to that. Think about it, if you are uncomfortable in your chair, you are less likely to lean into a really good long conversation.

4. One last thing - lighting. It is important to have just the right amount of lighting in the room. Too dim and the guests can’t see what they’re eating. Too bright and they feel like they are being watched. I usually suggest a large statement chandelier with a grid of four or six spots around it depending on the size of your table.

I hope that this helped you in planning out your dining room. Go for the drama and style that you love and don’t hold back! Get the rugs, get the cool chairs and get that amazing chandelier! As always, if you would like help with your design, feel free to reach out at kayla@kaylallc.com

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Kayla Goldstein is a contributing editor for Mochers Magazine and an Interior Designer at Kayla LLC. Follow her on instagram @Kayla_LLC

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STYLE

Let’s Talk About Denim By: Joshua H. Jacob

Over the years, denim has become a staple in every man’s wardrobe. For some, denim is simply worn for comfort. For others, denim can be a reflection of their unique personalities and style.

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ith more denim brands popping up every year across different price points and so many types of denim fits, colors, and styles available, it can be overwhelming and exhausting to discover what denim is best for your lifestyle and wardrobe needs.

In today’s market, you will come across three types of denim - raw denim, selvage denim, and stretch denim. What are the differences between the three?

Raw denim is simply 100% cotton that is untreated and unwashed. Raw denim is stiff, rough, and will require multiple wears to break it in. The one thing that denim heads love about raw denim, myself included, is as you wear it, the denim will fade and create a look unique to the specific pair of denim. It also has a longer life span compared to other denim.

Classic raw denim manufacturers include Naked and Famous Denim and Levis 1967 505 Regular Fit. Selvage denim is a higher quality, harderto-produce denim that can be identified by self-finished edges on each side of the fabric. Selvage denim is similar to raw denim, as it is unwashed and untreated. However, it is a more complex and nuanced denim, popular with fashionistas. More and more denim brands are selling selvage that is pre-washed and made with stretch. Some of my favorite selvage denim brands and styles are Fidelity Denim and Raleigh Denim Workshop.

Now that you know the differences between the three main types of denims offered in the marketplace, the fun part begins. To discover the best denim option(s) for you, nothing compares to visiting your local brick-and-mortar store to see what they offer, feel the difference in fabrics, and try on different models and styles. Also, try expanding the scope of your wardrobe by considering colors beyond the classic blue denim. Shopping local allows you to experiment with colors and styles.

If your local store does not have what you’re looking for, don’t be afraid to ask them for recommendations.

The more they get to know you, and the more you get to know them, you not only form a bond that can last for years, but they will also suggest items they do not sell, and more importantly, items they know you will love. Not only do these stores strive to make shopping more of a social gathering, the same as if you are going out to meet friends, but they also work at making you feel as comfortable as possible, so you can enjoy your experience more. This is why I love to shop at local brick-and-mortar stores!

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Joshua H. Jacob is a contributor for Mochers Magazine.

Stretch denim is made with a percentage of elastane or any type of stretch material and is generally pre-washed and pre-faded (whiskered). Denim with stretch woven in it requires no break-in, is associated more with well-known brands like Joes Jeans, AG, and 7 For All Mankind, and is sold at most big-box retailers. For a more streamlined look that is softer than raw or selvage, stretch denim offers a unique silhouette that is edgy and comfortable.

Brands such as AG and Hudson will never treat you wrong.

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