Mochers - Winter Season

MOCHERS The Jewish Men’s Lifestyle Magazine

KIDDUSH CLUB:

EXOTIC HERRINGS

WINTER SEASON

WINE

WINE 101

RECOMMENDATIONS

SUITS:

STYLE HOW TO:

PATTERN MATCHING

Wyoming

MEATS:

KEEPING OLD TRADITIONS ALIVE: A BRIEF HISTORY

OF DELI

TRAVEL:

& Panama FINE ART:

ONE LETTER AT A TIME USA $8.99

DRINKS:

AUTUMN DRAMS COCKTAILS:

maple

Old fashioned

ISSUE 03 DEC. ‘21 to FEB. ‘22

I Like Ike Marketing

Business Phone Solutions

Likeike.net

Unlimited nation wide calling Dial by extension or name Auto attendant Customizable music on hold & advertising Weekend & holiday menus Cloud based system Conferencing Uri Foxbruner Business texting Sales Executive uri.f@newtelsystems.com Centralized online management 212.681.0000 x315

On the cover: L-R: Yehuda Itshakov, Jacob Rabi, Sim Shain, Mordy Singer, Asher Blum

29

DE PART MENTS

6

NOTES FROM THE EDITOR IN CHIEF

8

COCKTAILS

12 SHTICK LAB 13 CRAFT BEER 14 WHISKEY WITH THE WHISKY RABBI 20 SHPITZ SUITS 39 CIGARS 36 FINE ART 44 WORKING SPACE

KIDDUSH CLUB

36

14 FEA TURES

22 MEATS 24 DRINKS: BOURBON 26 HOW TO HERRING 28 HEALTHY EATS 41 RYE NOT 42 WINE 46 SNACKS

11 HOT SAUCES 17 KOSHER GURU 29 PLACES: WYOMING 38 OUTINGS 40 SPORTS

EDITOR’S NOTES

NOTES FROM THE

Editor in Chief from the shoot

F

or most of us, the end of fall marks the last opportunity to have that extra space outside. Whether you’re an outdoorsman, a cigar smoker, or just sojourn at the outside kiddush club; it’s time to move the party inside.

While some may find this quite rancorous, I find it to be a good occasion to quest for an indoor arena.

What if I were to tell you that there was a place close to your home and office where you can order kosher food, enjoy a cigar, and make a l’chaim over tequila? Of course, I’m talking about your local cigar lounge. Cigar lounges across many communities have been an underrated venue. I have met some lifetime friends at the local club.

If you can’t take the smoke, a bar can suffice as well. The community go-to spot may just be a steakhouse. If that’s the case, bring the chevra and order at the bar. Winter is here and needless to say, we can all use a place to go after a long day.

I am amazed by the creativity some folks have had, especially after the pandemic. Large outdoor

6 |

MOCHERS

tents have served us for the season, but now we are all ready to move the party back inside.

In this issue, we canvass many places and experiences we can share as winter approaches. If you thrive in the cold, check out Moshe Ney’s “Where to Go in Wyoming” article.

Yissie Steinhart is also back with new cocktail recipes while Avrahom Pressburger discusses the abundant options of craft beer. These drinks couple well with Naftali Engel’s latest article on hot sauce trends. If you’re old fashioned like me, our how-to herring section will satisfy that appetite as well.

Remember, vices are a great outlet to spend your “me time.” Make it the best time!

IZAK J. HELD Editor-in-Chief

Photograph by Yisroel Teitelbaum.

Office space provided by Henry Cohen.

www.mochers.com

MOCHERS The Jewish Men’s Lifestyle Magazine

EDITOR IN CHIEF PUBLISHER & CHIEF CONTENT OFFICER

Izak J. Held

COPY EDITOR

Chana Z. Weiss

HEAD PHOTOGRAPHER

Yisroel Teitelbaum

EDITOR AT LARGE

Gabriel Boxer

ASSISTANT EDITOR

Yehuda Pitterman

LEAD CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

PUBLISHING CONSULTANT

Moshe Kinderlehrer

LAYOUT CONSULTANT

Adam Negnewitzky

DISTRIBUTION CONSULTANT

Avi Conway

SENIOR PRODUCER

Gabriel Boxer

SENIOR WRITER

Moshe Ney

Dovid Weiss

OPERATIONS MANAGER

SENIOR CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Isaac Nahon

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Lizzy Brenner Eli Jaffee Kalman Safrut Menachem Ickovitz Josh Perew Shlomo Assayag Bentzy Fox Pinny Wasser CONTRIBUTORS

Yisroel Zuckerman Noah Morris Jeremy Urbach Dovid Nahem Sruly Meyer Ahuva Shandelman

Yonatan Parmett

EVENTS MANAGER

CUSTOMER SUPPORT MANAGER

Libby Unger

ASSOCIATE CONTRIBUTORS

Daniel Green Ariel Katz Eyal Seti Yosef Vera

PHOTOGRAPHY PRODUCTION DESIGNERS

Samantha Green Deanna Perew

PROOFREADERS

Avromi Mostofsky Azi Fein

LAYOUT & DESIGN

Jewish Link Marketing Solutions PHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTANT

Naftali Kunstler MARKETING

Dufgers Social

MOCHERS

PUBLISHER

Izak J. Held

VICE PRESIDENT STRATEGY

Yonatan Parmett

VICE PRESIDENT DEVELOPMENT

Avery Wolf

CONTROLLER

Sol Feldman

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

Ami Lock Tuvia Mackay Naftali Engel

Amir Ellituv Yissie Steinhardt David Pliskin Kayla Goldstein Avrahom Pressburger

ALTCHIES MEDIA GROUP

C O R P O R AT E O F F I C E

Woodmere, NY 11598 (866) 4-ALTCHIES editor@mochers.com

Mochers is published by Altchies Media Group © Altchies Inc. (866) 4-ALTCHIES info@altchies.com Customer Support & Services: support@mochers.com Mochers Magazine is published quarterly by Altchies, Inc. in Woodmere, New York 11598-1906.

Subscription price for the U.S. is $35.96 for one year (4 issues). For all other countries outside of the US. Call 866-4-ALTCHIES to order your issues for the regular price; additional shipping costs apply for foreign orders. Copyright 2021. All rights reserved. No part of this publication is allowed to be reproduced without written permission from Altchies.

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. www.mochers.com |

7

COCKTAILS

Old

Photo courtesy of www.gimmesomeoven.com

maple

Fashioned By: Yissie Steinhart

We all know fall has arrived when we see pumpkin flavored EVERYTHING!!

As a bartender, summer’s end makes me think of fall and winter and the warm variations of drinks that are now in season.

8 |

MOCHERS

www.mochers.com

M A P L E O L D FA S H I O N E

W

1 oz maple syrup

hen it comes to cocktails, you can easily change things up and try something new by switching out an ingredient or two. These are called variations. For example, swap the rum in a daiquiri for tequila and throw in some triple sec instead of syrup — you now have a margarita. In colder seasons, I love to create some variations on classic cocktails with warming ingredients like cinnamon, honey, maple syrup, cloves, nutmeg, and ginger. (Not all at once though!)

2 oz bourbon or rye

One of my favorite variations on a classic cocktail is the Maple Old Fashioned. The “Old Fashioned” is iconic. The drink is literally the definition of the word “cocktail”. The creation of the drink was inspired by the many drinkers who ordered their drinks the “old fashioned” way: a brown spirit, sugar, water, and bitters.

“

“

This maple variation swaps out the sugar and water for pure, allnatural maple syrup for an easy to make and really delicious fall cocktail. You can either build this drink directly in your drinking glass, or build and stir in a mixing glass and then strain into your rocks glass. Either way, you will want to use the biggest ice cube you can get for this drink. That way the dilution will be slow, but the chilling will be fast.

FOR GARNISH ORANGE RIND

3 dashes Angostura bitters

Stir maple syrup, bourbon, and bitters with a bar spoon until combined. Garnish with a piece of orange rind and enjoy!

MOCHERS

M

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

www.mochers.com |

9

BottomLineMG.com

WIN A $1,000,000 JERUSALEM APARTMENT!

Actual view from apartment

LIMITED TIME!

2-FOR-1 DEAL 2 TICKETS= $360 $180 + use code

MOCHERS for $10 OFF

Questions?

516.620.0275

Proceeds support Am Yisrael Chai— helping to sustain the agriculture, infrastructure, and people of Eretz Yisroel.

The Dream Raffle.com

HOT SAUCES

THE HEAT THE NEW WORLD OF GOURMET KOSHER HOT SAUCE

By: Naftali Engel

M

y first memory of dousing food with hot sauce was in Camp Dora Golding (no offense to the chef, whose food was fantastic). On Friday night, the kids would break out their goodies, from canteen soda to giant pickle jars and a big bottle of Frank’s Red Hot Sauce. Since then, my palate has grown, and so has the lineup of kosher hot sauce options. In 2020, the hot sauce market reached $4.5 billion in sales and with that growth, the hot sauce aisle in kosher supermarkets has expanded as well. Here are a few great options to spice up your next barbecue or to bring extra flavor to your Shabbos table!

Small Axe Peppers Much more than delicious hot sauce, Small Axe Peppers empowers people across the country to bring economic growth to their community by donating pepper seeds to urban farms and then buying the peppers at a premium price. In just three days, the peppers go from being harvested in a community garden to being bottled as hot sauce, making this super fresh condiment a great choice to add flavor and heat to any dish while making a difference to communities in need across the country. Try their smooth Red Serrano hot sauce made with peppers grown in the Bronx or turn up the heat with Habanero Ginger hot sauce sourced from Baltimore’s urban gardens. Find it here: smallaxepeppers.com

Ella Jolie Hot Sauce This line of specialty hot sauces is new from Mikee sauces. Each of the sauces from this exceptional line feature truffle oil. These sauces bring a true gourmet flavor to your cooking, enriching your dishes with fresh notes of cilantro or fruity habanero. These sauces are great to add a touch of heat or used as a marinade for chicken, fish, and more!

Shop for these here: ellajolie.net

The Rebbe’s Choice HOT off the press, this brand new line from The Rebbe’s Choice is made with all natural ingredients in small batches for supreme flavor and freshness! Try the ultra-flavorful and mild Jalapeno Tomatillo hot sauce, the juicy and hot flavor of Habanero Mango hot sauce, or the Garlic Cayenne hot sauce with mild heat and a touch of sweetness from molasses. This is the first gourmet hot sauce crafted by a kosher brand for the kosher consumer! Find it in a store near you or purchase on therebbeschoice.com

Queen Majesty Hot Sauce Founded in 2013 and recently OU certified, Queen Majesty Hot Sauce is all natural and free of artificial preservatives. Inspired by flavors of jerk chicken, spicy margaritas, and freshly brewed coffee, these hot sauces are crafted to compliment your foods’ flavors, not cover them up. Try the three fantastic varieties of Queen Majesty Hot Sauce to add fresh flavor and highlight any dish! Find the Queen here: queenmajestyhotsauce.com MOCHERS

M

Naftali Engel is a contributing editor for Mochers Magazine and the Founder of The Rebbe’s Choice.

www.mochers.com |

11

3 1

SHTICK LAB

Smart WiFi Wireless Essential Oil Aromatherapy Ultrasonic Diffuser & Humidifier I don’t know about you, but as a lover of shtick, my biggest hesitation before buying something new is wondering if it will end up at the bottom of another box or just collecting dust.

To ensure that this product would actually get used, I went a bit pricier for the smart WiFi integrated with Alexa and Google Home, complete with an app and voice control. The key is that you don’t need to go and apply the aroma each time you want your room smelling glorious. You can just create a schedule so the essential oil diffuser & humidifier keeps your man cave or bedroom smelling fresh all year round without thinking twice about it.

Shiatsu Full Back & Neck Massager with Heat

This world class affordable massage pad features 4 shiatsu massaging nodes that travel up and down, relaxing 3 massage zones of your choices: full back, upper back, and lower back, making this an indispensable addition to your wellness repertoire with massages on demand while in Zoom classes and meetings. Installation is simple with a built-in strap that fastens to any chair.

Snailax.com

M

Benson Fox practices as a certified transformation coach and specializes in helping Jewish men achieve higher levels of balance, joy, and confidence. He is a Psychology major and a Psychology Doctoral student at Adelphi University. He runs the 500 member Facebook group: Jewish Men for Joy, Balance, and Growth. Go to coachbensonfox.com or results@coachbensonfox.com for a free consultation.

Amazon – Sierra Modern Home

2 Fit2Go Watch

With a sleek, lightweight design, this smartwatch tracks steps, calories, blood pressure, and blood oxygen levels with a full 7 days of battery time. Reasonably priced with free shipping and a money back guarantee, it boasts a surprising array of features with advanced exercise metrics, 11 professional sports modes, and a heart and sleep activity monitor. To top it off, it receives calls and texts so you can stay in touch with friends and family even while on your morning run.

4 5 amazon

Gravity Weighted Blanket

As a weighted blanket user myself, I can attest that it has improved my sleep quality. Weighted blankets can also help reduce anxiety because they feel like a reassuring hug, making you feel secure in your place of rest. This luxurious yet affordable weighted blanket comes with integrated luxury cover & oxford carrying tote, is optimized to a perfect weight per square foot and 100% machine washable.

Snuggle up and experience how the weighted blanket soothes your restive body, and gently helps you drift off into dreamland.

GravityBlankets.com

Sleep Headphones, 3D Sleep Mask Bluetooth Wireless Music Eye Mask It is hard to find a good value, solid pair of headphones on the market that are good for sleeping. Is it really necessary to buy an expensive specialized pair? This 2-in-1 eye mask and Bluetooth sleep headphones feels snug and comfortable while the eye mask ensconces you with no light leaking in from any crevices.

Go to sleep with comfort and your favorite tunes with this travel and budget-friendly choice.

Amazon - LC-dolida Store

12 |

MOCHERS

www.mochers.com

KOSHER CRAFT BEER

A

s the temperature starts dropping and the leaves begin changing colors, the type of beer we drink changes as well. While in the summer months there is nothing quite like a refreshing and easy drinking beer to help quench your thirst, in the cooler fall days a malty, toastier beer hits just right. The following options are all available during the fall months and strike the perfect balance between refreshing and heavy.

1

2

3

M By: Avrahom Pressburger

Avrahom Pressburger founded KosherCraftBeer.blogspot.com in 2016 when he saw a need for kosher beer news. His primary focus is now Instagram and his username is @Koshercraftbeer. He can be reached via email to discuss any beer-related questions at Koshercraftbeer@gmail.com.

1. Sam Adams Octoberfest (Boston, MA)

2. New Belgium Voodoo Ranger Atomic Pumpkin (Fort Collins, CO)

This is the classic fall beer with an orange label that is synonymous with autumn.

The beer pours a see-through reddishcopper. The aroma is all caramel and the taste follows along with some bready notes.

Pumpkin beers are a dime a dozen once the calendar turns to September (be sure to purchase one with a reliable hechsher, there are quite a few). New Belgium’s version stands out of the pack with the addition of habanero peppers. While it may seem strange, this beer is definitely worth trying!

Overall, this is the quintessential fall beer with enough body for the cooler weather and yet the drinkability of a summer beer.

Kosher Certified by the Star-K (Availability: August-October)

The aroma has hints of cinnamon along with the obvious peppers. This beer is hot, there is no doubt about that. However, New Belgium has created this masterpiece that manages to balance the heat with the sweetness of malt and pumpkin.

Kosher Certified by the Scroll-K (Availability: August-October)

MOCHERS

3. Deschutes Black Butte Porter (Bend, Oregon) Porters can sometimes be confused with thicker-bodied stouts, but in reality, they are quite different. This beer is dark, but do not be fooled by its appearance.

This is the perfect fall beer. Checking in at 5.5% ABV, this porter is actually quite easy drinking. The taste is surprisingly complex, offering notes of both chocolate and coffee.

This beer would be perfect for sipping while sitting around a firepit on a cool fall evening.

Kosher Certified by the Star-K (Availability: Year-round) www.mochers.com |

13

WHISKY ‘S RABBI

DRINKS

Autumn Drams

By: Amir Ellituv

1

BLADNOCH VINAYA Location: Sandyhills beach, Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland

14 |

MOCHERS

2

GLENALLACHIE Location: Monsal Head, Peak District National Park, Derbyshire, England.

www.mochers.com

3

ANCNOC PEATHEART Location: Sandyhills beach in Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland

MOCHERS

Having spent the summer in southern Scotland, I am going to start with a Lowland dram. The Lowlands are the southern part of Scotland, and as a whisky region, produce sweet, fruity, and soft whisky, slightly similar to the Irish style.

I visited a little-known distillery called Bladnoch, at the foot of Dumfries and Galloway. Although not a household name, some of their whiskies are real belters, including the Vinaya and the 19 year PX-cask finish.

a combination of sherry and bourbon casks. The nose includes toffee notes, cinnamon roll, and bananas. The taste combines the nosing notes, but with an extra subtle spiciness. It is complex for a Lowland malt and well-balanced, with a sweet milk chocolate taste and a burnt brown sugar tinge. This is a malt which is easy to drink but also sweet and warming.

The 19 year old whisky is a real cracker — so smooth, yet so fruity, with sweetness, spiciness, and at the same time, a long dry finish and a mouth feel coated with oily vanilla bun. At $250 a bottle, however, it is quite the splurge.

Moving onto Speyside, the area in the northeast of Scotland with the world famous River Spey flowing through the region, which draws people from all over the world to come and fish for salmon. With over 50 distilleries in the region, it has the largest concentration of whisky distilleries in Scotland. They include Glenfiddich, Macallan, Glenlivet, Glenrothes, Cragganmore, and Aberlour.

For a more affordable option, try the brilliant 1Vinaya Bladnoch ($70), with

Some of the best sherry cask whiskies come from the Speyside region, made

4

PORT CHARLOTTE Location: Grey Mare’s Tail, Moffat Hills, Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland

www.mochers.com |

15

Continued on p16

A

s the autumn settles in and winter approaches, we want to try the kind of extra warming dram that we would enjoy while relaxing by a cozy, crackling fire, while outside falling leaves are rustled by the howling winds.

DRINKS

by master distiller Billy Walker. Billy is in his eighties and still travels for over two hours several times a week to be one of the first in the distillery. His excitement in producing whisky is legendary, and he has revolutionized different distilleries, including Glendronach and currently Glenallachie. He knows how to source the perfect sherry cask, sometimes spending over $2,000 just for an empty cask!

The 15 year old 2Glenallachie is a brilliant whisky, with a nose of caramel and toffee and tastes of dark chocolate, rich, deep, sticky toffee pudding, bringing an explosion of sweetness with great tastes coming across the palate. The finish is long and flavorful, with waves of sweetness still coming in like residual flavors of melted caramel toffees, despite the fact that you have finished your dram.

What better way to spend your autumn evening?

Twenty minutes away from Glenallachie is Ancnoc (pronounced “Anock”). While it is a lesser-known distillery and technically out of Speyside, it has a special place in my heart. In 2015, before heading on vacation near Speyside, I phoned different distilleries to make sure they would allow my kids to enter. When I spoke to Ancnoc, they said, “Don’t worry, we won’t just allow them to come in, we’ll put them to work!”

Upon arrival, they greeted us with the

16 |

MOCHERS

warmest welcome. The manager spent nearly 3 hours with us, and each of us signed our own cask. I got to try some amazing whiskies, and to this day, we still keep in touch. What makes whisky special is the personalities of the distilleries — the people who work there and the human touch that creates the marvelous spirit.

They make soft whiskies but also have a peated range, so let’s take a minute to delve into peaty whisky.

Peated whiskies are smoky, oily, briny, salty, very earthy, and they can be an acquired taste. Some say true scotch is really peated whisky! Peated whisky means the barley is malted and then dried in the kiln. Peat logs are used to give the barley an extra smoky flavor prior to being soaked in the soft Scottish water. Famous peated whiskies include Laphroaig, Lagavulin and Ardbeg, and are mainly located in the magical island of Islay.

Ancnoc Peatheart is a heavily peated whisky, but without the briny, salty flavors that you get with some of the Islay whiskies. It is crispier, friendlier to the newcomer, more welcoming, and gives you that wonderful whisky hug.

not a too heavily peated whisky — it has a lovely balance and well-integrated flavors.

It is a whisky jigsaw which fits in perfectly.

You will love it or hate it, but you have to try it.

Whilst we are in the peated range, I want to take a step further to delve into the 4Port Charlotte heavily peated 10 year old. Port Charlotte is produced by Bruichladdich, with notes of pepper and smoke in the nose, while the taste has the subtly iodine, briny coastal flavors. Imagine having a barbecue on a windswept rugged coastline with the smell of meat and coals wafting up! Brilliant in its complexity, the waves of peat come splashing down on your senses again and again.

I hope these drams make your autumn warmer and cozier.

3

M

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

The nose has a nice smokiness to it, slightly citrusy with soft caramels.

The taste is a light whisky with some smokiness to it, and notes of strawberries, spiciness, and smoky panna cotta. It’s

www.mochers.com

TRAVEL

Panama

Travel Journals with Kosher Guru By: Gabriel Boxer

MOCHERS

www.mochers.com |

17

TRAVEL

I

love to travel, but I also love good kosher food. Usually, I would happily go to Israel any day of the week for the best of both worlds, but since COVID it has been pretty hard to get into many countries. Panama only requires a negative PCR test, and since Panama has been on my bucket list for a few years, I was super excited to go.

Did you know that Panama City boasts almost 40 kosher establishments under the Synagogue Shevet Ahim certification? I had heard about the amazing kosher culinary adventures Panama has to offer but I never believed it until I went to see for myself. I went during the rainy season knowing it’s a tropical climate and the chance of rain was 100% every day, but we got lucky. Most of the days were sunny, hot, humid and perfect for the quick July 4th weekend we were able to squeeze in. We flew on Copa Airlines, which has four flights to Panama per day on clean planes with no frills. The flight was pretty quick and uneventful. With no inflight movies, I was able to catch some shut eye.

After getting through security pretty quickly, a 15-minute Uber ride brought us to the Hilton Panama. The service was very

18 |

MOCHERS

friendly and they graciously allowed an early check-in with a smile. It was super clean and within walking distance to a lot of the kosher places I wanted to check out.

For breakfast we went to Jeffrey’s, a bakery with a full breakfast/cafe menu. The menu was in Spanish, but with the help of Google we were able to translate words like queso, aguacate, and huevos. (That’s cheese, avocado, and eggs.) Breakfast was simple, good, fresh food, and the pastries and coffee were also delicious. Did I mention that this trip was mostly about the food, with a little touring on the side?

Dinner was at Aria, a sister restaurant to Kava that serves meat and has a super cool, fun vibe. We sat outside and just enjoyed the night life around us with amazing company, food, and drinks.

The next day, after we picked up our Shabbos food, we took a 1 ½-hour drive through the country, enjoying the local scenery and culture along the way. We arrived at a stunning resort boasting black

After breakfast we checked out the two large kosher supermarkets in Panama City.

Super Kosher is across from Jeffrey’s, where challah sells for about $1.50 and a pack of six marrow bones is $1.08 — just to give you an idea how reasonable the prices are.

Around the corner the other supermarket deli also makes Shabbos food to go.

Time for lunch! We took a $2 Uber to Kava, a funky, Instagrammable restaurant that is definitely not what you’d expect of a typical kosher restaurant. Besides the cool decor, this super creative dairy establishment has both delicious food and great service.

sand beaches. For Shabbos, we rented a villa with a private pool, four bedrooms, and a full kitchen. We had an amazing Shabbos at the Buenaventura hotel, which was the highlight of our trip. Just relaxing at the beach and www.mochers.com

Nancy book to my little daughter.

For dinner we went to Yossburger, which is not your average burger joint. The food was incredible, with some really creative appetizers and some of the best kosher burgers and sandwiches I have ever tasted. The service and drinks were top notch as well. When you do come to Panama, do not miss this place!

enjoying the Panamanian lava sand was such a thrill.

We spent Sunday afternoon in Panama City where we explored Casco Viejo, the old city of Panama. We enjoyed walking around the quaint cobblestone streets, taking in the views and architecture of the city. We found a lot of cute souvenirs boasting Panama’s colorful culture.

The next morning, we went to see the canal which Panama is famous for.

The canal connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, with a cost of well over $250,000 for each large cargo ship to pass through.

However, it saves these ships a huge amount of time and fuel to cut through the canal rather than go all the way around the continent.

The canal took several years to build with a lot of deaths, plagues, and disease but has been so transformative and awe-inspiring, it’s almost called one of the wonders of the world.

A second canal was recently completed to accommodate even larger ships. There is usually a long wait to pass through the locks of that canal. We were able to ride in Gatun Lake which connects the two sides of the locks.

We moved on to Monkey Island, where several species of monkeys scampered aboard our boats and ate bananas out of our hands.

Next, we took a stroll through the rainforest, encountering more wildlife including some howler monkeys which were so loud, they scared the living daylights out of our group. We also saw the most exotic azure butterflies. I almost felt like I was reading a Fancy

All good things must come to an end. Since this was a food trip, we had to get one last meal in, and we chose Aroma, another gem in the city. Aroma is a dairy restaurant with amazing fish dishes, as well as delicious pastas, salads, and incredible desserts. The server told us that although many of the local Jews do not necessarily keep kosher, with restaurants as incredible as these, they will choose kosher over any other restaurant time and time again.

M

Gabriel Boxer is a lead contributing editor & senior producer for Mochers Magazine.

Follow his brand @kosherguru

SUITS

Matching patterns is an art form and a skill that can be built over time. With a little practice, a little bit of courage (yes, get out of your comfort zone!), and the guidelines below, you can learn how to build a versatile wardrobe composed of pieces that can be mixed and matched in a variety of impressive ways.

So how do you match your pinstripe shirt with your plaid double-breasted suit? Is there a golden rule to follow? What should you look out for?

The simple answer is: less is more.

When you are just starting out on this stylistic journey, be sure to introduce patterns into your wardrobe slowly. The patterns you wear should not overpower your total look. Be courageous and leave your comfort zone but admit to the limits of your creativity. One who is a conservative dresser will want to take extra care when introducing a new look.

Menswear theory, and the theory of clothing in general, dictates that everything about your attire should bring attention to you, and more specifically, to your face. Your outfit is meant to hold people’s focus but you want them to see and remember you, not just your outfit.

You are the main character of your life, your family, your career, and of course, your wardrobe.

Your attire is not working for you if it steals the show.

Style How To:

PATTERN MATCHING

By: Andrew Lock

for the Sophisticated Mocher Learning to match patterns successfully can be tricky. This is especially true for those who grew up wearing nothing but dark suits and white shirts. Go too bold and you risk looking silly.

Dress too conservatively, and you can miss an opportunity to make a lasting impression.

20 |

MOCHERS

Imagine this: You are the host of a party.

Everything is perfect, from the decor to the wine.

You are dressed to the nines, sporting a custom suit paired with a perfect tie, pocket square, and elegant black oxfords. You look great and you feel great too.

There is only one small problem. Your black shoes have light brown soles. Ouch. That’s all anyone will notice. The contrast drags the eye down to your feet instead of up to your face.The same rule applies to pairing patterns. Your patterns don’t need to match, but they certainly should not compete. A cohesive look is one where no pattern fights with another. In high-end style, everything you wear should work in harmony to bring the eye upward to your face.

Did you know that you can match plaids with stripes? You can, and perhaps you should. The rule of patterns is to match different kinds with each other. There are four basic families of patterns: checks, stripes, repeat prints (polka dots, paisleys, or whimsical), and textures such as herringbone.

Any two of these patterns can look smart when paired together. Even three different patterns can be layered in one outfit but that should be the limit.

What to avoid? Do not combine patterns that www.mochers.com

are of a similar size, type, or color. Checked shirt and checked tie? No chance! That will look boring and redundant. Variety is the name of the game. If you would like to pair multiple patterns of the same family, be sure each is on a different scale. The contrast in size will keep the outfit interesting.

The same is true for combining varying patterns. For example, your suit might be a medium-size plaid. You could pair it with a shirt that has thick stripes or a finely dotted tie. The variety of scales will perfect the outfit. When in doubt, solid grenadine ties are your best friend. A solid tie with a bit of texture will allow you to juxtapose a patterned suit and shirt without any doubts.

Another way to introduce variety is to mix the weight, or boldness, of each pattern. Just like type and size, patterns need to have different levels of “loudness” so as not to compete with one another.

If one pattern is very faint, the other can be bolder but still conservative.

Save the loudest and strongest patterns for accents such as the tie or pocket square. The larger the garment, the less flashy the pattern should be. And for heaven’s sake do not match your tie to your pocket square!

Like the set? Buy the set! Just don’t wear them at the same time.

Different hues and shades of similar colors can look great together as long as there is one aspect that stands out. A navy suit, light blue shirt, and navy tie will look dull together but change the shirt to white or pink and the same tie will positively pop. Too many bold colors will look chaotic. Too many soft colors will look dull. An accent color should be your loudest color and should be used in your accessories.

When in doubt, follow the 60-30-10 rule that interior designers use when mixing colors in living spaces. Sixty percent of your outfit should be the dominant color (e.g. your suit/sport coat), thirty percent should be your secondary color (e.g. your shirt) and ten percent should be your accent (e.g. your tie/kippah/pocket square/socks).

Bold textures do well with other textures. For example, a heavy tweed or flannel jacket should not be worn with a lustrous printed silk tie. A Brioni tie that would work wonders with a Loro Piana super 170s suit will be completely overwhelmed by a Minnis Fresco or Harris tweed.

Pull the entire outfit together by ensuring that at least one color in the tie or pocket square is repeated elsewhere in the ensemble. It can be as simple as matching the center of the flowers on a tie to the pinstripe of the suit. This is a simple detail that makes a lovely impact.

Mixing patterns can be intimidating but it is a skill that can be developed with a little practice. Use these tips as a guide, but also follow your intuition. Try things on and then look in the mirror. Do you like the combination? If you do, others probably will too. Think it looks ridiculous? You are probably right. When all else fails, get a second opinion before heading to that important meeting or special occasion.

Here is one last piece of advice. Make your life easier. Once you find outfits that work, prepare “sets” in advance by hanging all of the pieces of the outfit together. I have clients who take pictures of ensembles that work so they can reassemble them at a moment’s notice. It is unnecessary to reinvent the wheel every time you dress. Easy access to your best clothing combinations saves you from unnecessary battles of uncertainty. Conserve your creative energy for the bigger decisions you will face during the day. Remember, the key is to go slow, vary it up, and always, always follow the rule: less is more.

M

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 to schedule a fitting.

MEATS

KEEPING OLD TRADITIONS ALIVE: A BRIEF HISTORY OF DELI

T

here are many foods synonymous with Jewish culture, but the most familiar and by far the most popular is traditional delicatessen fare.

Over the years, the “deli” has become your local spot for smoked meats, pastrami, corned beef, and old school favorites like kishka, knishes, chicken soup with matzo balls, kugel, pickled vegetables, and chopped liver. Deli food is often simple in ingredients and big on taste, leaving you with a warm memory of how Bubby used to feed you on your weekly visit.

Deli-style food originated in Eastern Europe and became popular in Canada and the U.S. when Jewish immigrants arrived in the 19th century, exploding onto the food scene of big cities like New York, Chicago, Montreal and Toronto. Deli can now be found at your local grocery store as a staple counter frequented by all walks of life. Many of the techniques used in the production of deli food were born out of supply shortages and the need to stretch the shelf life of products like meat and vegetables. The process of pickling and curing allowed products to last longer, producing a distinct array of foods that far outlasted the necessity of preservation.

22 |

MOCHERS

By: Shlomo Assayag

Cured meats, sliced meats, and brisket have kept a stronghold position in the deli repertoire. Everyone loves a delicious deli sandwich, piled high with their favorite meats atop pillowy rye bread with a crunchy dill pickle on the side. While the traditional coleslaw and potato salad continue to be enjoyed, over the years, American foods like French fries and potato wedges have crept into the typical deli menu. The deli has had a long history in the United States and Canada, although eventually its popularity took a downturn as people looked for fresher, healthier options. Some predicted that the deli scene was on its way out in the late 1990s to the early 2000s, but in the last 10 years we have seen a resurgence, as people have clung to the food of days gone by, finding comfort in the original foods of our culture.

One of the most debated topics when discussing deli is the difference between the different types of meat. Many don’t understand the distinction. Although slight, understanding the differences between the different kinds of meats will help you enjoy their unique flavors and leave you wanting more.

www.mochers.com

Brisket

Brisket is a staple in any deli and is the starting point for every type of meat available. Plain brisket can be smoked or pickled and cured. Before the delicatessen became popular, the brisket was quite unpopular and therefore the cheapest cut of meat available. In the 1800s, cost was a huge factor, so deli owners worked with this cheaper cut of meat to produce various types of what we now refer to as “deli”. Anyone who’s ever tried to cook a brisket knows it’s not easy to produce a tender, soft, delicious product from this very tough cut of meat. It was with extra care and long, slow cooking that deli owners were able to take this undesirable piece of meat and turn it into the deli we know and love today. With its vast popularity, brisket has become one of the most popular cuts of meat, which has driven up the cost and rendered it one of the most popular cuts for use in both delis and at home for the holidays and other special occasions.

Corned Beef

Corned beef came to us via necessity. Cows were typically slaughtered before winter and preserved via a salting process so that the meat wouldn’t rot over the long, cold season. This process of preservation followed Jews to America and became a popular sandwich item when it was thinly sliced and served on rye. Corned beef begins as a whole brisket cured in a brine (that is now a softer salting than that of days gone by) for at least three weeks and then boiled or steamed to soften it for that perfect sandwich. Corned beef has a distinct salty, meaty flavor that pairs well with mustard and rye bread. American fusion has also been known to include corned beef in food items like corned beef hash, deli roll, and as a crispy addition to your morning eggs.

Pastrami

Pastrami began as a type of jerky used to sustain the Ottoman soldiers back in the 14th century. The Ottomans would press their meat and fish to extract the moisture, then rub with heavy spice mixtures and leave them to air dry. These dried items would last without spoilage and provided sustenance when it was difficult to find. When the Ottomans reached Romania, the Jews in the area took to the idea using the same technique but with their own blend of spices, which became known as pastrama and eventually pastrami. Today, rather than a dry process, a brine is used to cure the pastrami and a blend of spices (unique to each meat master) is rubbed onto the pastrami before it’s smoked, brined, and steamed. Every pastrami is unique, some more peppery than others, using some mixture of peppercorns, allspice, bay leaves, cinnamon, cloves, coriander, ginger, juniper berries, garlic, red pepper flakes, mustard seed, cardamom, and onion. Molasses has been a popular vehicle for the application of the spices to help form that delicious bark you look for when seeking out that perfect pastrami. Pastrami is no longer a “Jewish” food. It has MOCHERS

become a staple across Canada and the US, most often eaten with just mustard and a perfect rye.

Smoked Meat

Smoking meat is a phenomenon that started with deli but has become a world wide pastime, rising to competition level among those passionate about the craft. To produce authentic smoked meat, you certainly want to have a smoker that can get the job done. The smoking process takes anywhere from 10-18 hours or more, depending on the result you’re trying to achieve. There are various types of smoked meat, some more peppery and salty, some sweeter and less salty, but they all have a delicious strong smoky flavor, with slightly different flavor profiles depending on the selection of smoke chips used. Smoked meat pairs so well with mustards of all types and fits right into the deli portfolio of meats. Some smoked meats go through the traditional brining and picking process, while others will simply have a carefully curated blend of spices. The most important thing about smoked meat will be the beautiful bark that engulfs the meat by the end of the process. Jam packed with flavor, this meat is a fusion of old school and new school that has become a staple of the delicatessen fare.

Other Deli Favorites

In an effort to reduce waste and produce more economical choices, many dishes like kishka, knishes, chopped liver, tongue, and turkey became part of the food we know as deli. Once you find a great deli, you’ll rediscover the old school specialties you’ve always loved. In Toronto, our only kosher deli is called Jacobs Deli. They serve corned beef, pastrami, smoked turkey, and their very own smoked meat, all prepared and smoked in house in a custom made Cookshack smoker. They also have some of the old school favorites like beef knishes, kishka, and chicken matzo ball soup, to name a few, also made fresh in house. Two of my favorites unique to Jacobs are the deli crunch rolls and the poutine. Deli crunch rolls are delicious crunchy rolls with an explosive combo of smoked meats tucked inside. They’re deep fried until golden and crunchy and come alive when dipped in plain old yellow mustard. The poutine, a Canadian staple, is a big box of fries covered in the famous Jacobs gravy, topped with your choice of their crafted meats. Although poutine is traditionally served with cheese, this unexpected substitution is next level.

Meat poutine takes you on a journey of flavor that has everyone forgetting about cheese. There was a time where the old school deli might have lost its way, but right now, deli is alive and well and still being enjoyed across the globe. Rediscover your local deli today!

M

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

www.mochers.com |

23

KIDDUSH CLUB

Winter IS COMING By: Pinny Wasser

There are cold winter months ahead, but you’ll be prepared for those cozy nights in front of the fireplace with a glass in hand.

F

all is upon us, there’s a chill in the air, and the comforting smells of warm pumpkin pie and maple syrup are wafting out of the kitchen.

This is when we start transitioning from the cool and refreshing drinks of the summer to the warming and relaxing drinks of the fall. After all, nothing says a relaxing autumn night more than sitting by the fire with a scotch, whiskey or bourbon in one hand and a smooth cigar in the other.

and you just may learn what type of cigar to pair with your drink.)

SIPPIN’ THE BOURBON

Come on in from the cold and let’s dive into some options you may want to explore as you expand your fall drinking options. As discussed in Mochers Magazine Issue #1, bourbon must be made of 51% corn, aged in brand new oak barrels and hit 80 to 160 proof at the time of bottling. From there, distilleries will add their own blend of grains to achieve the signature bourbon that makes them unique. With all these factors in play, you will find a plethora of Has your interest piqued bourbons with a never ending yet? Are you running to variety of flavor profiles to Tasting Tip: light the fireplace? Are enjoy.

If your bourbon is too strong, try adding an ice cube to tone it you heading to your liquor down. This trick will also provide some refreshment to your drink. cabinet to pull out your Diving a bit further into that favorite bottle? If so, come perfect fall dram, let’s take a along as I introduce you to look at specific bourbon flavors some drinks that will be a sure way to not sip, inhaling as you sip and exhaling slowly and bottles that you may want to open only warm you up but also elevate your as you swallow. This allows your senses to up this fall. Traditionally, you will find that knowledge of the perfect fall glass. (For the open up and connect your smell and taste to each bourbon will provide your palate with ultimate “Mocher Move,” check out our cigar the complex flavor of your drink. flavors of sweet maple, cinnamon, oak, and article to enhance your knowledge on cigars even some pitted fruits like plums. Based

24 |

MOCHERS

This time of the year is synonymous with the classic fall flavors like maple, cinnamon and nutmeg. Coincidentally, those are just some of the flavors you can taste as you sip your bourbon. Bourbon provides your tastebuds with nuances of flavor that will get you to that ultimate fall chill mode. The best way to experience the full flavor profile is to not to shoot your drink back, but rather take a small

www.mochers.com

on the unique process and grain blend that the distiller uses, you may be able to note many of these flavors as you smell and take a sip. Prior to beginning their process, each distiller will decide the tasting experience their consumer will have. Not all bourbons will present these flavors at first sip, as you may need to let it sit in addition to applying the breathing tip discussed above.

Now picture sipping on some bourbon by the warmth of the fire after a long day watching football, picking pumpkins, or playing in the leaves. By now your interest has piqued, but what bottle did you pick out? If you still need a moment, I’ll give some of my favorites that you may want to pick up.

Starting the lineup would be the Four Roses Small Batch Select which gives off a cinnamon and caramel note to the nose as you smell the bourbon. As you take a sip, you will enjoy a fruity cinnamon flavor on the upfront and finish with a nice oaky vanilla as you breathe in and swallow. There is a

reason why Four Roses has been around since 1884, producing a number of truly amazing bourbons, all of which are sure to provide you with amazing flavor that won’t break the bank.

My second recommendation would be Blanton’s Special Reserve Bourbon. If you are looking for this bottle in the store, be sure to look for the round-shaped bottle with a horse on top. When cracking this bottle open, you will be greeted with the smell of fall, including delicious aromatic vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg — if that doesn’t scream fall then I don’t know what does.

As you pour and take your first sip you will enjoy the flavors of honey, oak, and cinnamon, finishing off with a spiced honey flavor. Blanton’s truly knows how to hit the ball out of the park with their bourbon.

Fortunately, if you’d like to enjoy their bourbon, there are a few options to keep your wallet in check or even allow you to celebrate and relax in luxury.

Lastly, I will leave you with a rye whiskey (bourbon) cause rye not….. I mean why not. Laws Secale Straight Rye is one of my favorites for all year long bourbon drinking and will certainly make its way to the top of your list if you decide to give it a try.

When pouring Laws Secale Straight Rye you will be met with the smell of maple, rye, butterscotch, caramel, and even a floral aroma. If the smell doesn’t bring you in, be sure to give this one a taste. Upon first sip you will certainly taste the rye, followed by the smooth flavors of maple, orange, and sweet oaky honey. You will be completely wowed as you sip this one on a cold evening this fall.

It is with these three suggestions that I will leave you, my fellow bourbon drinkers. I hope you’ve been given some more knowledge and the drive to try a nice bourbon by the fire this fall. As always, make sure to pause, breath, and take in the moment as you enjoy that sip of bourbon.

PINNY’S FALL DRINK RECIPES FOR THE MOCHERS

Classic Old Fashioned

The Mocher’s Bourbon Sour

•

• • • • •

• • • •

2 oz. rye bourbon (such as Laws Secale Straight Rye) 3 dashes bitters ½ teaspoon sugar Orange peel, for garnish Maraschino cherry, for garnish

Add bourbon, bitters, and sugar into a cocktail shaker filled with ice and stir to combine.

Add bourbon, sugar, and lemon juice into a cocktail shaker filled with ice and shake to combine.

Place one large ice cube in a glass and pour shaker contents over ice. Garnish with orange peel and maraschino cherry.

Place one large ice cube in a glass and pour shaker contents over ice. Garnish with lemon peel and maraschino cherry.

MOCHERS

Tip:

3 oz. bourbon (such as Bulleit Bourbon) ½ teaspoon sugar (or more to taste) 1 oz. fresh lemon juice Lemon peel, for garnish Maraschino cherry, for garnish

Top with sparkling water to transform your drink into a Bourbon John Collins.

M

Pinny Wasser is a contributor for Mochers Magazine.

www.mochers.com |

25

HOW TO HERRING

Most Exotic

Herring Flavors By: Jeremy Urbach

Throughout my journey of tasting and reviewing Klal Yisroel’s herring, I have come across many unusual flavors. While most herring products are similar, there is a large sea of herring out there with some unique hidden gems.

M

Jeremy Urbach is a contributor for Mochers Magazine. If you want to see his reviews of all these wonderful herrings you can find him on Instagram @gishmak.herring and on Youtube (Gishmak Herring).

26 |

MOCHERS

1

Creamy Red Onion Beets Matjes Herring

This herring from Yosef Mokir Shabbos is perhaps one of the most unique herring flavors I’ve tried. It also has a beautiful purple color, and I would go as far as saying that it is the most beautiful looking herring product on the market.

2

Wasabi Creamy Herring

3

Anything with Za’atar

4

Honey Mustard Herrings

5

Onion-Heavy Herrings

If you are a wasabi fan, you will enjoy this sweet and spicy herring. This product has a strong wasabi taste but is humbled by the sweetness of the fish. I highly recommend this product from Bubby’s NY bagels in Toronto.

Who would’ve thought that herring and za’atar would go so well together?

The combination might be the most controversial Sephardi/Ashkenazi clash of all time. Politics aside, za’atar gives any herring a nice Middle Eastern twist that earns it a spot at your kiddush.

Some brands that carry za’atar herrings are Yosef Mokir Shabbos and The Rebbe’s Choice.

While they are not the most rare, honey mustard herrings are certainly some of the tastiest. First of all, who doesn’t like honey mustard? Combine that delicious flavor with the savory brilliance of herring and you have a match that could have been made in heaven. Honey mustard or mustard flavored herrings can be found in most major herring stores.

Onion-heavy herrings are also another exciting flavor to try. While most herring come packed with onions, there are certain flavors that go above and beyond, with an overabundance of onions that allows for a more crunchy and fresh herring experience. www.mochers.com

MEN’S HEALTH

RELIGION

AND MENTAL HEALTH By: Benson Fox

M

any believe that religion should be left out of the mental health discourse, as some may see strict religious observance as costly to one’s mental hygiene. Religion is all too often brought into the conversation about mental health for negative reasons, whether as a scapegoat for excessive shame, as a “bias” of the therapist, to point to excessive rigidity to beliefs believed by some to be harmful stigmas, as context for persecution or trauma, or the source used to justify or cover-up abuse, neglect, or supremacy.

There is a growing unanimous recognition from modern-day authorities in therapy, coaching, and the most popular and prestigious self-help authors that real wellness and happiness combine spiritual and psychological healthiness and growth. It’s way overdue for us to be knowledgeable and have pride in how our religious practices, attitudes, and beliefs contribute to our mental health and wellness, which is corroborated by a

plethora of evidence. Let’s discuss many ways our religious observances provide robust resilience and wellness.

Judaism contributes to mental health in many cognitive and characterological ways, including crafting a narrative that adds meaning and context to suffering, reducing loneliness due to our constant connection to our Creator, enhancing a commitment to honesty and reality, building a sense of fulfillment and purpose, and internalizing the unconditional value of every life no matter their contribution to society due to our soul’s Divine spark.

Judaism is also uniquely beneficial for the structure it provides us that we may take for granted. This structure includes davening three times a day, setting aside daily time to study Torah and works made up of nuanced ethical teachings, morning routine of washing hands and gratitude of Modeh Ani, weekly Shabbos practices, and a nightly routine of saying Hamapil and staying quiet until one falls asleep. Structure is complemented with individual expression, maintaining flexibility in one’s focus within the framework.

This breakdown is just a minor, surface sampling of Judaism’s protective factors but enough to understand that Judaism and mental health aren’t two different dimensions, but irrevocably intertwined.

Let’s embrace our traditions and heritage with the pride and confidence that they were not created solely for a good outcome in the World to Come but were also designed as an ideal, balanced lifestyle that incorporates the well-being of the mind, body, and soul.

MOCHERS

Quality relationships and a sense of interrelatedness and community are strongly supported in the research as well. Judaism promotes this through shul attendance, social events (Simchot), unconditional love for strangers, judging your fellow man favorably, charity, and other acts of kindness. Also, interpersonal harmony, especially in the home, is considered paramount, waiving other prohibitions such as lying.

Gratitude, another evidence-based wellness factor, is practiced through honoring one’s parents, among other commandments rooted in it, and daily affirmations built into the prayers. Judaism also makes room for processing negative emotions with periods of mourning and introspection built into the calendar and activated by specific antecedent events.

It forbids jealousy, baseless hatred, and other conventional sources of negativity in our relationships and life.

M

Benson Fox practices as a certified transformation coach and specializes in helping Jewish men achieve higher levels of balance, joy, and confidence. He is a Psychology major and a Psychology Doctoral student at Adelphi University. He runs the 500 member Facebook group: Jewish Men for Joy, Balance, and Growth. Go to coachbensonfox.com or results@coachbensonfox.com for a free consultation.

www.mochers.com |

27

HEALTHY EATS

Desserts ARE IN

These moist and chewy banana oatmeal cookies are delicious and come out perfect every time! They do have some flour and brown sugar, which you can swap out for equivalent substitutes if desired.

By: Sruly Meyer

Banana Oatmeal

COOKIES

Ingredients: • • • • • • • • • •

¾ cup salted butter or margarine, softened 1 cup brown sugar, packed 1 egg 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 cup mashed bananas 1 ½ cups all purpose flour 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1 teaspoon baking soda 3 cups old fashioned oats ¼ cup chocolate chips

Directions: 1. Preheat oven to 350°F. 2. Mix butter, brown sugar, egg, vanilla extract and mashed bananas until well combined.

3. Add flour, cinnamon, and baking soda and mix until combined. Add oats and chocolate chips..

4. Spoon tablespoons of dough onto a parchment paper-lined cookie sheet.

Flatten dough a bit into thick discs.

They will spread a little when baked.

5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges just start to turn golden.

6. Let cool on cookie sheet for 3-4 minutes, then transfer to cooling rack to finish cooling.

M 28 |

MOCHERS

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

www.mochers.com

PLACES

I

WYOMING

bet you never thought vacation could be this exotic. We usually envision exotic vacations as beach vacations, with fresh ocean air and palm trees. How about a different type of exotic? Instead of coastal American flavor, how about we treat you to authentic Western American flavor, with cowboys, rodeos, bison, and very wide-open space with almost no humanity around? Did I mention it has the second largest state park?

Welcome to good old Wyoming, one of the only states with a perfectly square border and plenty of wide-open countryside and mountains. It is also home to the very famous (and must visit) Yellowstone National Park, with all its geysers and other G-d made, breathtaking natural beauty.

Don’t expect any of the big city attractions like amusement parks and bustling hangouts, but the picturesque landscape is not to be missed and makes for some pretty awesome photos. You will love looking back at them when you’re back home.

MOCHERS

Wyoming doesn’t need amusement parks to provide its entertainment. The state has a very strong Western flavor, reminiscent of the good ole’ Wild West where everything was spurs, cowboy hats, guns, and a lot of cattle and horses. There are a number of rodeo sites across the state that are must visits while you are there.

Quick Facts About Wyoming

While the focus of this article is going to be mainly on the northwestern part of Wyoming, let’s at least get some quick facts about the great state of Wyoming.

•

Wyoming has a population of 576,851.

Because of its wide-open spaces, that means that Wyoming only has around an average of 6 people per square mile!

•

Wyoming is the 10th largest state in the USA.

•

Wyoming has a land area of 97,818 mi² (dimensions measuring 280 miles long X 372.8 miles wide).

By: Moshe Ney

•

Wyoming is the windiest state, with average gusts daily of 13 mph.

•

●Key industries in Wyoming include coal mining, natural gas, crude oil, cattle, sugar, hay, and more.

•

There’s a lot of sheep in Wyoming.

The state ranks 2nd in the US for the production of wool.

•

There are twice as many cattle than there are people in Wyoming.

•

The official state sport of Wyoming is rodeo.

•

The world’s tallest active geyser is Steamboat Geyser in Yellowstone National Park. (Sorry Old Faithful!)

Jackson Hole, WY

The first leg of our journey brings us to the wonderful area of Jackson Hole, WY. The reason we are starting here is because it is most strategically located near the two major stops of your trip: Yellowstone www.mochers.com |

29

National Park and Grand Teton National Park. These parks draw many tourists seasonally and you want to be in the right place at the right time so you can get it all in and tell the tale afterwards.

Jackson Hole includes the town of Jackson (not be confused with the general area called Jackson Hole). Jackson is home to around 10,000 people and is actually a popular destination for celebrities (such asTiger Woods and Harrison Ford) to make their second homes.

Jackson Hole is also home to 3 major ski areas: • • •

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort Snow King Mountain Resort Grand Targhee Resort

Yellowstone National Park

If there is any reason in the world why anyone comes to Wyoming, hands down the number one reason in good old Yellowstone National Park, also known simply as Yellowstone. The awe-inspiring scenes and G-d made wonders of this park never cease to amaze the millions of visitors who come each year.

I highly recommend this place for anyone who wants to see G-d’s hand in all its glory, as the most beautiful natural pictures ever painted across America are revealed before your very eyes.

Just so you know, Yellowstone is huge! You absolutely cannot do everything in a day.

We’re talking about an area of 2,219,791 acres (or 3468.42 mi2). Travelling across one part of Yellowstone can easily take 3 hours at a time. 1 hour and change if you’re lucky.

Plan wisely before embarking.

There are hotels on the premises of the park should you want to camp out there throughout your stay.

Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone & Yellowstone Falls This breathtaking view of the Yellowstone River is something you absolutely can’t miss. Under a clear blue sky, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone is bound to wow you in ways you never could have imagined.

According to the National Parks Service, The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone “is the first large canyon on the Yellowstone River downstream from Yellowstone Falls in Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming. The canyon is approximately 24 miles (39 km) long, between 800 and 1,200 ft (240 and 370 m) deep and from .25 to .75 mi (0.40 to 1.21 km) wide.”

30 |

MOCHERS

Be mesmerized as you watch the pure waters of the Yellowstone River flow with might and majesty down the precipice of the Yellowstone Falls into the narrow canyon below. The steep canyon gives off a very dominant feeling to its onlookers, with hues of brown, maroon, burgundy, light red, and many shades of gray weaving in and out of its exterior. The dotting of pine trees across its area adds to its mighty and powerful display for all to see.

Watching the falls is simply breathtaking.

Whether you’re watching the Upper Falls (located around 1 hour away from the park’s West Entrance) or the Lower Falls (located just 3 minutes from the Upper Falls), it’s a highlight of everyone’s trip. You can easily find places to position yourself and take pictures, either up close or from a distance.

The snapshots are bound to be A++!

There are various marked viewpoints along the way to get some of those awesome pics to print and/or save to look at years down the line. Some of these viewpoints include: • • • • •

Upper Falls View Brink of the Lower Falls Grand View Artist Point Inspiration Point

Check out Google Maps for precise locations and directions.

Hayden Valley According to Wikipedia, Hayden Valley “is a large, sub-alpine valley in Yellowstone National Park straddling the Yellowstone River between Yellowstone Falls and Yellowstone Lake. The valley floor along the river is an ancient lakebed from a time when Yellowstone Lake was much larger.

The valley is well known as one of the best locations to view wildlife in Yellowstone.”

Wildlife can include: • • • • •

Bison Coyotes Black Bears Wolves Elk

Firehole River Located 2 hours from Jackson Hole and around 10 minutes from Old Faithful (we’ll talk about that soon), you’re bound to find yourself in hot water with Yellowstone’s Firehole River. Not in the negative sense, but in the positive.

Oh, and when we say hot water, let’s just say that river temperature has been measured to reach 86°F due to geothermal influences www.mochers.com

PLACES

in the area. Which, according to researcher Jack Goldstein, “averages 5-10°C (9-18°F) higher than areas upstream of geothermal influence.” Sounds good if you want to take a little swim in the naturally heated elements! (Only open in areas mid-summer due to strong currents and high waters.

Check online for details.)

The river itself stretches over a length of 21 miles and carries with it some of the most beautiful geothermal mineral beauty that any human has ever laid eyes upon.

These come in the form of mineral pools that have gorgeous shades of blue, red, and orange along their edges. Some of these places include: • • • • • •

Morning Glory Pool Bottomless Pit Punchbowl Spring Black Sand Basin Chromatic Pool Bluestar Spring

Wherever you are in Yellowstone, make sure the Firehole River is on the agenda, together with everything that comes with it.

Mammoth Hot Springs This one is really northwest, located close to the border with Montana. But, no pun intended, this one is a really hot location. The Mammoth Hot Springs has some mammoth scenery. It’s shelf-like appearance with its orange and gold colors, combined with the steamy water cascading down itself is something that is simply breathtaking and exciting.

Lamar Valley If you’re still game to see more wildlife,

MOCHERS

the Lamar Valley is where you want to be.

Located 2 hours from Hayden Valley, taking US-89 N and US-212 E, there is a nice mix of wildlife that you can enjoy from so close that you can almost touch it!

According to yellowstonepark.com, the Lamar Valley “is often called America’s Serengeti for its large and easy-to-see populations of large animals.” Be on the lookout for a whole array of animals that will have you hopping from excitement and electrified with enthusiasm.

Keep your eyes peeled for: • • • • • • •

Wolves Bison Pronghorn Eagles Grizzly Bears Badgers Coyotes

There’s a lot more from where these came from. Check it out and be amazed!

Old Faithful No trip to Yellowstone can be complete without checking out some of its breathtaking geysers. There are many of them spread across the entire Yellowstone region, but nothing beats checking out Yellowstone’s most famous geyser, Old Faithful.

A popular destination located in the Upper Geyser Basin of Yellowstone; Old Faithful usually erupts every 45 minutes to two hours. Everyone walks away amazed at the height of each eruption, some reaching heights of over 145 ft.

There are other geysers in this area as well. Please visit https://www.nps.gov/ yell/planyourvisit/geyser-activity.htm and

www.mochers.com |

31

PLACES

https://www.yellowstonepark.com/thingsto-do/geysers-hot-springs/yellowstonegeyser-basins-map/ for more details on Old Faithful and other geothermal wonders in the area, especially on predicted scheduling for Old Faithful eruptions.

Grand Teton National Park

Located 10 miles south of Yellowstone National Park and just a 7-minute drive from Jackson Hole, Grand Teton National is another destination that you do not want to miss.

Grand Teton is a very popular destination for the brave-hearted explorers who are willing to take their adventures outdoors for more than 24 hours at a time. And that means camping. There are over 1,000 drivein campsites for all those who want to take it outdoors. First come first served. Gotta get there quick!

It’s also a good place for hiking, fishing, and of course, let’s not forget mountain climbing.

Let’s talk about some of the awesome attractions here in Grand Teton National Park.

Grand Teton (Mountain Peak) This attraction is first on the list precisely because it is the very reason the park has its name, and boy is this an impressive thing to see during the day.

its shores from all the pine trees.

time to see it.

Cody, WY OK. You’ve seen Jackson Hole, Yellowstone, and Grand Teton. It’s time to see some other parts of the great state of Wyoming.

For that, we bring you to good old Cody.

If you dare to climb this thing, just make sure you come prepared, because scaling this giant ain’t gonna be easy. If you do get up there, the view is going to be nothing short of spectacular. (See this website for more details: https://themountainguides.com/ adventure/grand-teton-climbs/).

The lake is a 20-minute drive from Jackson Hole, where you can get a beautiful view of the Tetons in all their glory along the way.

You can hike around the lake or choose a boat tour for $10 per adult. The hike is 17 miles, so if you’re hiking, get ready for an allday event. Come prepared with enough food, water, and provisions for everyone. You’ll discover some amazing scenery along the way, including waterfalls and other natural beauty in the form of flora and fauna. Don’t forget to check out the Jenny Lake Visitors’ Center for all necessary information about hiking, camping, and so much more.

If you’re more from the faint of heart like yours truly, you can easily spot Grand Teton and the Teton Range from many parts of the park and even from Jackson Hole.

Whether on top or on bottom, the Grand Teton Mountain is something you are bound to enjoy.

Schwabacher Landing Scenery, scenery, scenery. It’s just what makes Wyoming such a grab for visitors.

Located on the banks of the Snake River, Schwabacher Landing will be having you absolutely breathless as you stare out at the massive mountains ahead of you.

Let’s dive in and check some of them out!

Jenny Lake A peaceful and tranquil part of the park, Jenny Lake offers you tranquility and majesty all woven into one big beautiful natural tapestry. It has one of most gorgeous open views of the Teton Mountain Range, with shades of green running along

The feeling on the Schwabacher Landing is very serene and peaceful. Enjoy the scenery under a beautiful blue sky, including the mountains, trees, the Snake River, moose, marmots, beavers, pronghorn, ducks, mule deer, bald eagles, and more. The sunrise is stunning as well. Check it out if you’re up in

Part of the 40-mile long Teton Range, Grand Teton is the largest of these mountains, standing at 13,775 feet tall, making it the second largest peak in the U.S. (The tallest is Mt. McKinley in Alaska.)

32 |

MOCHERS

Located around 4 hours from Jackson Hole and around 3 ½ hours from Bridger-Teton National Forest, Cody brings you the flavor of the Old West right here in 2021.

Cody has around 10,000 people and is home to some very interesting attractions that are great for all ages.

Buffalo Bill Center of the West Most things here in town revolve around its legendary namesake, Buffalo Bill Cody, the famous Civil War soldier and showman famous for his Wild West shows in the U.S. and Western Europe.

The Buffalo Bill Center of the West is a very unique museum complex that actually hosts five different museums: • •

Buffalo Bill Museum Draper Natural History Museum www.mochers.com

EAT LIKE A MOCHER

New Amsterdam Burger Co. • • •

Plains Indian Museum Whitney Western Art Museum Cody Firearms Museum

A ticket to the center costs only $20 and is good for 2 days. You might need that amount of time if you want to check this place out in its entirety. Make sure you check it out when you visit Cody. Visit https://centerofthewest.org/our-museums/ for full details.

680 Columbus Avenue New York, NY 10025 Corner of 93 and Columbus

Old Trail Town Take a walk back in time with this wonderful Old Western exhibit.

This is the original spot where Buffalo Bill laid the groundwork for founding the town that would ultimately bear his last name.The exhibit that we see today is due to the work of Bob Edgar, who sought to preserve some of the Old Western towns that were rapidly disappearing. This preservation project was started by Edgar in 1967 and evolved into the houses and buildings that you see here today.The houses in Old Trail Town date back to the 1890s and are rich with Wild Western History. Enjoy it all when you visit Cody! Visit https://www.oldtrailtown.org/ for full details.

Beer - Wine - Spirits Certified Kosher by Mehadrin Kashrus

Cody Dug Up Gun Museum This a massive collection of over 1,200 guns from the mid-1800s until World War II. Fascinating and educational for those looking for dug up history like this. Visit https://www.codydugupgunmuseum. com/ for more details.

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

Other Wyoming Attractions

Rodeos As mentioned earlier, rodeo is popular here in Wyoming. From the bucking broncos to wild bulls, to lassoing and tackling calves and more, Wyoming rodeos will never disappoint, and are always MOCHERS

www.mochers.com |

33

PLACES

exciting and entertaining for the whole family. Please note that most rodeos are off during mid-winter and only start up again in the summer. Here are a few rodeo suggestions that you should visit. (Please note that none of these are located near each other.) Check online for more details and schedules.

• • •

Jackson Hole Rodeo Cody Night Rodeo Cheyenne Frontier Days

If you need more of an incentive, check out YouTube for clips of rodeo action that will whet your appetite for this thrilling sport of the West. (Type in “Pro Bull Riding” and “Rodeo Wyoming” for best results.)

Devils Tower This landmark is located all the way in the northeastern corner of the state. An impressive natural landmark, Devils Tower stands at 867 ft. tall. This edifice is made out of igneous rock. While this butte can be climbed, Native Americans consider it sacred and would prefer it not be climbed by anyone. There is a trail that goes around the butte so you can see it from all angles.Visit https://www.nps.gov/deto/planyourvisit/ basicinfo.htm for info on this location.

Ski Resorts

Snow King Mountain Resort Snow King Mountain Resort is located at 402 E. Snow King Ave, Jackson, WY 83001.

This is an action-packed mountain resort with all types of local activities that are great for the entire family. Besides for…

• • • •

Skiing Snowboarding Tubing The Winter Cowboy Coaster

...a number of other exciting activities include: • • • • • • • • • •

34 |

Big King Pass Treetop Adventure Amazen’ Maze Alpine Slide Scenic Chairlift Ride Bungee Trampoline Biking Bouldering Hiking Paddle boating

MOCHERS

Find out about these activities and more by visiting https://snowkingmountain.com/ things-to-do-in-jackson-hole-wyoming/.

Email:Info@snowkingmountain.com Phone: (307) 201-KING Grand Targhee Resort Located at 3300 Ski Hill Rd, Alta, WY 83414, the Grand Targhee is another action-packed attraction that you should be checking out while in Wyoming. There are a number of activities in the area good for the entire family (based on age and size) that include: • • • • •

Grand Targhee Cat Skiing Snowshoeing Nordic Skiing Fat Biking Yostmark Backcountry Tours

…the list goes on and on. Check out https:// www.grandtarghee.com/activities-events/ winter-activities/ for more details.

Hotels/Lodging

Of course, you cannot just travel and travel without resting. Wyoming has some awesome and unique places for you and your family to rest and lodge during your stay. Be advised, a lot of hotels are short staffed due to the effects of COVID-19.

Jackson Hole Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. Popular with skiers throughout the winter, yet with plenty of summer activities too, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort encompasses a number of other hotels in the area. Here are a few: (Check out https://www.jacksonhole. com/ for more details).

Hotel Terra Jackson Hole. A very luxurious hotel with all the amenities. Everything is up to date and in style.

Teton Mountain Lodge & Spa. Another luxurious beauty, this time in good old Western rustic flavor you can feel in its lobby. The rooms are still very classy, and very much the type you are craving after daily excursions in Yellowstone and beyond.

Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole. A 5-star hotel with a 10star dazzling effect. You will be absolutely overwhelmed by the extravagance of this hotel. Worth every penny.

The Alpine House.

A slightly simpler but tasteful hotel with a very homey feel.

Rooms are comfortable and inviting with a relaxing and soothing atmosphere. with suite options available as well. The location is right in the heart of Jackson.

The Wort Hotel. Large and classy hotel with a slightly rustic nostalgic feel that only Wyoming can offer. 5 suite options included plus vacation packages.

Yellowstone National Park Lake Yellowstone Hotel. Beautiful hotel on Lake Yellowstone with a variety of room and accommodation options to choose from. Simply cannot be put into words.

Old Faithful Inn. Now this one is really rustic, but nevertheless comfortable.

Located right near Old Faithful and some of the other geothermal wonders of Yellowstone, Old Faithful Inn is conveniently located right where you need to be for your Yellowstone excursion. Many room and suite options to choose from.

Cody, WY The Cody Hotel. If Cody is your thing over Jackson Hole, The Cody Hotel is where you want to stay. This 3-star Western-style hotel has all the amenities and comforts you are looking for in a comfortable hotel stay. It’s conveniently located near all of the Cody attractions, and less than an hour from Yellowstone’s East Entrance. Check out their specials and group rates for larger groups. Jetted tub suites available as well.

Shabbos and Kashrus Plans With approximately 2,000 Jews living in Wyoming, 500 of them in the Jackson Hole area, and not many that are super affiliated, this can be complicated. However, there are a lot of Jewish visitors that come in either season, and there is one place they can go to for all of their Jewish necessities — Chabad-Lubavitch of Wyoming. (Visit their website and find out everything you want to know: https://www.jewishwyoming.com/).

Chabad of Wyoming is in Jackson Hole and is conveniently walkable from a number of hotels in the area. Under the leadership of Rabbi Zalman and Mrs. Raizy Mendelsohn, all who have come to visit have always been pleased by their warm and inviting spirit and have walked away more than satisfied. A list of hotels and lodging within walking distance to the Chabad house can be found via the Chabad website.

Minyanim

www.mochers.com

Kashrus Rabbi Mendelsohn and family have all your kashrus needs covered! They have a full lunch and dinner menu to serve you with all your kosher necessities. Orders should be made preferably 48 hours in advance to ensure efficiency in getting your orders underway. Lunch can be picked up from 12 PM and on, dinner from 6:30 PM and on. See this link for the menu selections and more info: https://www.jewishwyoming.com/ templates/articlecco_cdo/aid/5131319/jewish/Kosher.htm Mikveh Unfortunately, there is no functioning mikveh to be found anywhere in Wyoming, so plan accordingly before you travel.

However, with your kind donations to the cause, Jackson Hole could possibly have a mikveh up and running in the near future. Please speak to Rabbi Mendelsohn about leaving your generous donation to ensure that taharas Yisroel will have its place wherever Yidden are found.

Shabbos Oh, do we look forward to Shabbos in Wyoming. The words peace and quiet have never had such tangible meaning before.

Join Rav Zalman and his family for an uplifting Shabbos experience in Jackson Hole, filled with a warm davening, great tasting food, and unbeatable Chassidish spirit. They treat every guest like family, serving you personally on their own authentic dishes with their own silverware.

Reservations are required at least one week in advance and have a cost to cover expenses. You can place your orders here at this link: https://www.jewishwyoming.com/ templates/articlecco_cdo/aid/5109413/jewish/ShabbatHospitality.htm Please bear in mind that Chabad of Wyoming is not funded by any outside organization, and relies heavily on outside donations. Your generous donation can ensure that guests who find their way to Jackson Hole will have Shabbos fully covered.

That’s pretty much it for Wyoming. In short, beautiful, mystical, historical…simply majestic. The memories will last a lifetime, and leave you wanting to return.

M

Moshe Ney is a senior writer for Mochers Magazine.

MOCHERS

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

Shacharis during the week is daily at 7:30 AM. Just come.

We cannot determine whether or not there will always be minyan, but, if you do come, there is always a greater chance! Mincha and Maariv are together 10 minutes before the shekiah. Check https://www.myzmanim.com/ day.aspx?askdefault=1&vars=US83001 for local zmanim.

(There is also a link to Chabad.org zmanim at https://www. jewishwyoming.com/).

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

FINE ART

One

LETTER AT A TIME By: Kalman Safrut

It is so easy to lose focus. So easy to get into the habit of routine and act on autopilot. Even work can get absorbed into autopilot. For scribes and artists this is a huge mistake that can be very costly, or worse, cause people to stumble over nonkosher Torahs, tefillin or mezuzahs.

36 |

MOCHERS

When it comes to artwork, intention is also very important. Just as you get a sense if someone is paying attention to you when they’re speaking to you, you can also tell if intention was put into the artwork you put your gaze upon. Intention is the soul of artwork, and if it is missing, although it may at first look beautiful, it has that look of “made in China” all over it.

If this is true about art, all the more so when dealing with the Hebrew letters. A Sofer Stam must have the proper intention and background of knowledge if the torah, mezuzah or tefillin he is writing is to be kosher.

Many halachot (laws) require the scribe to stay focused on what he is writing. At the onset of writing he must proclaim “I am now writing for the sake of the Holy Torah scroll, and all of the holy names of Hashem therein.” This is the minimum he must give towards the sacred work that lays before him and the preservation and continuity of our religion. The primary intention when beginning to write is in the focus and dedication towards each and every letter.

There are many more laws he must adhere to but to me, this is the most essential. If one letter is skipped or distorted the entire text is deemed invalid.

These rigorous halachot were my introduction to the scribal artwork I do today — taking the laws of writing holy scrolls and learning a standard and level of commitment and intention. This inspired me and is the standard I want to be seen in my work. For a classical scribe, the depth and sanctity is objective, for my artwork it is all subjective.

www.mochers.com

The holiness of the Torah is intrinsic to it being kosher, while my artwork is not intrinsically holy at all.

But the letters do speak for themselves, and contain a level of holiness that can inspire and open a person up to a previously unknown depth and understanding. If I can manage to take a psalm or verse from the Torah and design it in a certain way that is both aesthetically beautiful as well as insightful, then I have achieved my goal. Just beauty alone would be a failure. I want a visual d’var Torah!

There is a Halacha that says if you have two holy scrolls to choose from, one that’s written absolutely beautifully and exacting to all the writing stringencies, and another that is of lesser craftsmanship but you know it was written by a very righteous scribe, you should buy the one of lesser beauty. This teaches us that intention is more important than beauty. Of course, the highest level is to have exceptional beauty and intention, harmonizing and reflecting one another. May we so merit!

Scribal training gave me insight into what Jewish artwork can be.

Artwork is the combination of chaos and order, light and darkness, with contrasting themes and elements, and then maybe something you did not expect. That’s what makes a million dollar art piece.

LET GO AND LET GOD MOCHERS

But what makes something Judaica or Torah artwork? Once you see it you realize. “Nothing is more whole than a broken heart,” says Rabbi Nachman, and his words echo through time like a man shouting into a deep well.

Writing the Hebrew letters and sharing it with the world is a gift I received from Hashem. I’m more creative than the normal scribe, and I write slower and generally make way more mistakes. I watch my fellow scribes write Torah scrolls, tefillin and mezuzot with awe and deep respect. But my mind is in disarray knowing the difficulty of the competitive marketplace of buyers and sellers and at the same time staying intentional and true to the letters. It scares me to my core. I will begin writing a Sefer Torah this year BeH, but it will be on my time. Deadlines and payments seem like a strange way to structure writing the word of Hashem.

The Hebrew letters are a window into a deep reality. Some Chasidim and Kabbalists will spend long periods of time gazing or saying one letter, one sound, or one word. The idea of repeating something in your mind like a mantra brings it to a deeper place inside your subconscious. It can spark inner light that is not consciously available. This is an example of deep teshuva, inner growth that propels us to be better than we were, to give more than we do, and to keep Hashem always in our minds.

That deep inner growth is the potential of Jewish artwork. To illuminate a home or space with a pasuk or Torah concept that walks the line between revealed and hidden. Some things in life are hidden, and that’s what makes them beautiful and almost mystical. As my heart is hidden in my chest, so too the deep truths of Torah must be hidden inside of the letter, inside of the word and inside of the verse. I believe this is part of why we repeat the same words everyday in our prayers, and I think this understanding is the true revolution of Jewish artwork.

M

Kalman Safrut is a contributing editor for Mochers Magazine.

www.mochers.com |

37

1

OUTINGS

PLACES TO GO WITH

The Chevra By: Lizzy Brenner

SDS’s Top 3 Spots To Take The Crew

GREENPOINT BEER & ALE CO. What better way to experience beer than to drink & learn at the same time? Head down to Brooklyn and check out the Greenpoint Beer and Ale Factory!

You can get a tour of the brewery for around $20/ person (includes 3 tasters) that can be booked for Sundays between 12-2 PM. For lunch, Jungle Café (@junglecafe_nyc) is an amazing kosher and vegan restaurant just a 15 minute walk away. The best part is that you can take a Via rideshare from Manhattan to Greenpoint for just $5 a person!

RAAKA CHOCOLATE FACTORY

2

We’re in love with the cocoa! Check out this awesome chevra activity at the Raaka Chocolate factory in Brooklyn. You can book a factory tour & tasting ($15/person on Sundays at noon) or a 2-hour chocolate making class taking you through the chocolate making process while tasting the sweets you made ($75/person on Sundays at 2pm & 5pm). Call ahead before booking and don’t forget to bring a hat (needed for both options). All of the chocolate is soy free, nut free, vegan, gluten free, kosher and organic.

GOVERNORS ISLAND’S GLAMPING SITE Want to experience what Fyre Festival was supposed to be like, minus the music & fraud? All it takes is an 8-minute ferry ride to Governors Island’s Glamping Site. Governors Island was one of our most popular suggestions this summer but we heard such great things about this glamping site that it needed its own mention. Like a hotel, there are different types of rooms with different price points and amenities ranging from their Journey Tent (most basic) to the Summit Tent (higher end with bathroom in tent) and even the Outlook Shelter (super luxe tent). Prices start around $200 a night but fluctuate based on type of room and day of the week. Included with your reservation are games, movie nights, campfires (BYO kosher marshmallows), morning yoga, a bar and more.

While this admittedly may not be ideal for a shidduch date, it makes a great anniversary, staycation or family activity. Just remember to pack a sweater! For more details and booking head to bit.ly/sds_glamping.

M 38 |

Second Date Shadchan is a popular NYC activities feed on Instagram, constantly delivering the best date, family and group activities NYC has to offer. If you enjoyed this article, give us a follow on Instagram @SecondDateShadchan

MOCHERS

3 1 Photo courtesy of Greenpoint Beer & Ale Co. 2 Photo courtesy of Raaka Chocolate 3 Photo courtesy of @SecondDateShadchan

www.mochers.com

CIGARS

WHAT MAKES IT T

he term “premium cigar” can mean a few different things, but the key elements are that the cigar is made of mostly tobacco (cigars can use water and vegetable pectin in the process) and handrolled. That last part is my main focus today. Of course, when looking at a handmade item, there will be variations from person to person and brand to brand. Still, as an industry, cigar makers have followed a loose universality regarding sizes and shapes, also known as vitolas.

Vitolas give a quick reference to the length, width/ring gauge, and shape. Cigar length is measured in inches and width in 64th of an inch measurements. For example, a Pantela is 6x34, or six inches long and just over ½ inch wide. Some brands use standard names for vitolas, while others prefer to list the dimensions, and some want to make up new names—which is why one should know the details when selecting a smoke.

Robusto (5x50), Toro (6x50), Churchill (7x48), and Torpedo (6x48 with a pointed tip) are the most smoked cigars out of nearly 20 common cigar vitolas. These sizes, however, can range from the standard by ½ inch in length and 2-4 ring gauge sizes.

So even with the common sizes, there is deviation.

RECOMMENDATIONS: Perdomo 10th Anniversary Sun Grown Boxed-Pressed Epicure One of the newest releases from Perdomo replacing the classic orange-banded 10th Anniversary Sun Grown.

This cigar maintains the flavors enjoyed with the original and enhances the experience with a tactile change of the boxed press, which also loosens the tobacco for a smoother and more consistent draw.

MOCHERS

What does all this mean, and why is it important?

First, let’s take away the variances of wrapper and filler (the type of tobacco used), the humidity and temperature storage, and how one cuts, lights, and draws a cigar for this part of the conversation.

When looking only at vitola, a common thought is the longer a cigar, the longer the smoke time, or that a thicker ring gauge on the same length means a longer smoke. While not wholly untrue, it is not that simple.

A thinner cigar will tend to burn hotter than a thinner ring gauge. The length of the cigar can then play into when the heat of the fire burns the mouth. If you like hot, spicy smoke, a Robusto can be a great option, whereas the Toro, which takes the same 45-60 minutes for smoking, will be a cooler draw. Length can add time, for sure, as a standard Churchill smokes for around 90 minutes.

The other consideration is cigar tip.

Parejo means it has a traditional rounded cap versus a Figurado, which has a pointed cap. Therefore, if you are using a punch cutter, you cannot smoke a

The Griffin’s #500 (Corona) When looking for something light and quick to go with your coffee or pre-meal, this cigar delivers. From Davidoff, this is a taste of luxury and reasonably priced.

Oliva Serie G Cameroon Boxed-Pressed Churchill My old standard. This was the first full box of cigars I purchased and always love having it in my humidor.

Consistent through the years, the Cameroon wrapper brings in sweet and rich flavors perfect for a variety of situations.

By: Benjamin Flax

Figurado. However, depending on the depth of a v-cutter/ cat’s eye, you can use it on a Figurado.

In short, Parejo is suitable for all types of cutters, and Figurado is best with a straight-cut.

Lastly, the thing to consider most is a personal preference.

If you want a longer smoke but do not like needing to ash, go for a Gordo over a Churchill. If you never have more than 25 minutes to enjoy, opt for a Petit Corona rather than wasting half a cigar or trying to preserve an already lit cigar.

Every cigar is different, and some manufacturers recommend a specific size they think best highlights their tobacco and blend. Also, every cigar smoker is different. The reason so many vitolas are available is so you can find the right one.

Don’t be afraid to try smaller or larger than your typical smoke — you might find one that you like better!

M

Benjamin Flax is a contributor for Mochers Magazine.

La Flor Dominicana Double Ligero Maduro Chiselito If you’ve ever thought about having a cigar after the best steak of your life, this is the option for you. Full-bodied smoke that packs a punch with a captivating vitola.

www.mochers.com |

39

SPORTS GLAZE

The Greatness of Former New York Giants Linebacker

Lawrence Taylor By: Menachem Ickovitz

L

awrence Taylor, known simply as LT, played linebacker for the New York Giants for 13 seasons from 1981-1993. During that time, he played alongside some excellent linebackers, including Harry Carson, Carl Banks and Pepper Johnson, but LT was the greatest. He was a gamechanger and the type of player that opposing teams needed to gameplan around.

The list of accolades that Taylor has is amazing. He was a 10-time Pro Bowler, three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year, and in 1986 he was the NFL MVP, the last defensive player to win the title. He also helped lead the Giants to two Super Bowls and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1999.

He is credited with 132.5 sacks in his career, but in fact had more. The first year that sacks were recorded as an official stat was 1982, his second season in the league. It has been calculated that he had 9.5 sacks in 1981, which would bring his 132.5 up to 142 sacks, moving him from 14th all-time up to 6th.

In 1981, the Giants were playing against the Cardinals and Taylor was supposed to drop into coverage, but instead, he rushed the quarterback. He sacked Neil Lomax, 40 |

MOCHERS

but when he came to the sidelines, coach Bill Parcells told him that he should have been in coverage. Taylor nodded and moved on. Later in the game, the same situation arose and once again Taylor rushed the quarterback, this time causing a fumble in addition to the sack. Another Giants defender, George Martin, picked it up and scored a touchdown. Taylor’s great athleticism allowed him to break from proper position without destroying the rest of the team.

While as a person he is not someone to emulate, his playing career should be celebrated for his athleticism, determination, and instinctive approach to the game.

Another game that exemplified Taylor’s greatness was a Sunday night game in 1988 against the New Orleans Saints.

Taylor suffered from a torn pectoral muscle but it didn’t slow him down as he recorded seven tackles, three sacks and two forced fumbles. Even without being hurt, this would have been a signature game for Taylor, and even more so with an injury.

Current New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick was Taylor’s defensive coordinator in New York. Belichick, who has an amazing knowledge and appreciation of the history of the NFL, has said numerous times that Taylor was the best player he’d ever seen. In 2018, when asked to compare Khalil Mack to Taylor, Belichick famously said, “I’m not putting anyone in Lawrence Taylor’s class.”

Taylor was burdened with controversies at points in his playing and post-playing career. While as a person he is not someone to emulate, his playing career should be celebrated for his athleticism, determination, and instinctive approach to the game.

M

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.

www.mochers.com

KIDDUSH CLUB

By: Yehuda Pitterman

Rye

An interesting side effect of the surge in bourbon’s popularity (see Mocher Magazine Issue 2) is the interest in bourbon’s “cousin” rye. Rye used to be dismissed as a niche drink, the demand trailing that for scotch and bourbon. However, now that drinkers are starting to appreciate bourbons for what they are, they have started also exploring the complexities of rye whiskey. Before we go forward, let’s talk about what defines a rye. American rye whiskey (not to be confused with Canadian rye, which is just a bottle full of lies) is similar to bourbon, but must be distilled from at least 51 percent rye grain, cannot be more than 160 proof (80% ABV), and must be aged in charred, new oak barrels. This means that rye is just a bit mellower than bourbon and will have a slightly spicy note as opposed to bourbon’s sweetness.

Ryes have become so popular that many of the big bourbon distilleries have started making ryes as well. Personally, I find that ryes are more complex and not as rough as bourbon. There are some bottles that are smooth, and some that (to my unsophisticated palate) taste the same as bourbon. I found that a nice rye was a good segue from scotch to bourbon. Depending on my mood (and the bottles in question) I would often take a good rye over a single malt.

NOT

Here are some options that I have personally tried and liked or are just very popular.

1. Bulleit Rye: like their bourbon, extremely underrated 2. Alberta Premium Rye: beautiful, just beautiful 3. High West Whiskey Double Rye: it’s a double rye, what more do you need?

4. Rittenhouse: classic and extremely popular 5. Michter’s: limited release, so better buy two — one to drink, and one to keep 6. Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Rye: it’s your go to bourbon, so why not try their rye?

M MOCHERS

Yehuda Pitterman is a contributor for Mochers Magazine.

www.mochers.com |

41

WINE

Wine

101

Bonus: Winter season wine recommendation

By: Henry Pesatty

“Let’s start with the nose,”

is my motto every time I post a wine review on my Instagram page (@KOSHERTOLIFE). During the pandemic we heard a lot of, “take this time to reinvent yourself, learn new things or get new hobbies,” and learning about wine was the perfect subject for me to explore. I had always loved wines, but this experience taught me that it doesn’t matter if you are a wine expert or not. What’s most important is if you like the wine you are drinking.

Wine might seem complicated, but it’s not. Many people prefer to look for other options, since choosing wine can seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some fun and easy principles to keep in mind to demonstrate how this can be an unforgettable adventure. People will see you like a real connoisseur.

Choosing the Wine: Budget: Wine comes with a cost, so keep your budget in mind (or your spouse might be upset — no joke!). I always try to spend between $20 and $40 per bottle.

Pairing: The fancy term used for what wine you will accompany your food with. Some foods pair well with red wine while others are better with white or rose. As a general rule of thumb, red wine should accompany meat and white wine should accompany fish. (If you’re eating fried food, just order a beer!)

Mevushal or non-mevushal, that is the question: Mevushal wines are cooked, while non-mevushal wines are not. There are different halachos and minhagim that apply, so I suggest asking your local rabbi.

Origin and type of grape: This is more personal and you will learn about it with time. I love red wines, like Cabernet Sauvignon, Chianti, Nebbiolo, and Syrah, and I prefer Israeli, American or Italian wines.

Let’s Open the Bottle: Breathe: Wines are like the genie in the bottle — if you don’t open it and let it breathe, you might as well stick with whiskey. Every wine needs at least 30 minutes to breathe so that the wine can oxygenate. Good things are worth waiting for!

Decanting: Decanting the wine is recommended.

Using a decanter will give air to the wine to expand the flavor and the aromas.

Glasses: Always use a wine glass. This improves the quality and the flavor, and will also show that you know about wines. There are different glasses for each type of wine, but for beginners, stay with the one you like.

Drink: Always swirl the wine first, it tastes better when it’s been aired. Wine is not soda, whiskey, or water. Sip slowly and you will love it.

The world of wines is a never-ending story. We could talk for hours, but at the end it doesn’t matter if you know more or less than others. The most important thing is that you like the wine you chose and that you can recommend it to others.

42 |

MOCHERS

www.mochers.com

@Koshertolife Winter Season Wine Recommendations The high holidays and hot weather are behind us, now we can say that the winter is coming (except in Miami). It’s time to cozy up with a warm jacket and enjoy one of my favorite wines.

Red C Sauvignon Blanc Lake County 2020 and Red Wine 2018 Covenant Wines - Berkeley, California.

Covenant Winery, located in Berkeley, California, is well known for producing premium wines from the Napa region, maintaining high standards and quality.

It was established in 2003 by Jeff Morgan and Leslie Rudd with the vision of creating unique Californian wines that are kosher as well. In 2013, Covenant Israel Winery was founded in the northern Galilee.

Red C - Sauvignon Blanc 2020 from Napa in Lake County provides a beautiful fruity aroma with notes of grapefruit, passion fruit and dry herbs. It brings a refreshing and crisp light body to the palate. Coming from the grapes of Napa makes this wine one of the best kosher white wines available. Amazing for pairing with salads, fish, and poultry. Drinking chilled is a must.

Not Mevushal. Average cost: $28.00 Red C – Red Wine 2018 from Sonoma County is a splendid blend of Syrah, Malbec, and Merlot with a touch of Grenache grapes from one of California’s most famous wine growing regions. This wine has been aged for 18 months in a French oak barrel and is distinguished by bringing aromas of cherries with notes of plums, chocolate, and spices to the nose. This wine brings to the palate a firm body with a sweet high acidity and velvety tannins. It has a soft and dry finish, with notes of soft spices and cherries, and has been catalogued as one of the best and unique in the palates of connoisseurs. Pairs nicely with all kinds of meat.

Not Mevushal. Average cost: $45.00 Manufactured by Covenant Wines - California www.covenantwines.com

Tuké Terre Alfieri Nebbiolo Pescaja Winery - Italy Located in Cisterna D’Asti, Piedmont, Italy, Azienda Agricola Pescaja is dedicated to producing genuine and premium Italian wines. Their motto is “sole, cuore, anima,” which means sun, heart and soul — the values that they apply to grow premium grapes that are transformed into the best wines.

Tuké Terre Alfieri Nebbiolo This wine is a work of art. It’s made with one of Italy’s top grapes from the region of Piedmont. It’s

MOCHERS

distinguished by bringing layers of cherries with notes of roses, spices, some leather, and clay to the nose.

This wine brings to the palate a harmonious balance between the body and the acidity with a high tannin. It has a pleasant dry but light finish, with notes of vanilla and licorice. This wine is considered one of the best Italian red kosher wines available in the market. It pairs perfectly with beef and lamb.

Not Mevushal. Average cost: $40.00 Imported the US by M&M Importers www.mandmimporters.com Distributed in Florida by Top Wines Import Henry Kogel imhenryk1@aol.com

covenant White

Petit Castel 2019 Domaine du Castel, Israel Domaine du Castel is considered a premium winery in Israel. It was established by the Ben Zaken family in 1988 and produced its first wine, Castel Grand Vin, in 1992. They strive to create the best possible wine from the vineyard to the bottle, applying agriculture, technology and traditions.

Petit Castel is Domaine du Castel’s second wine, a beautiful red blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot. The wine is matured for 16 months in a French oak barrel. It’s distinguished for bringing notes of plums, dry herbs and vanilla. It brings to the palate a balance between the body and the acidity. Great for pairing with meat and lamb.

petit castel

Not Mevushal. Average cost: $45 Imported in US by Royal Wine Corp www.royalwine.com

Mt. Amasa 2018 Yatir Winery, Israel Yatir Winery, located in the Yatir region, is a small and exclusive winery founded in 2000 as a joint venture between local growers and Carmel Winery. Their wines have been rewarded with high scores and many recognitions and medals. Their wines are considered one of the best in Israel and around the world.

Yatir Mt. Amasa is an elegant red blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah grapes with a combination of different grapes, like Petit Verdot, Malbec, Merlot, Cabernet Franc. This wine has been matured for 12 months in a French oak barrel. It’s distinguished for bringing beautiful notes of raspberries, plums, light pepper, and some leather. The full body has balance in the acidity and tannins, creating a nice experience on the palate with a delicate finish. Great for pairing with beef and veal.

Not Mevushal. Average cost: $35.00 Imported in the US by Royal Wines Corp www.royalwine.com

M

Yatir Mt. Amasa

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.

www.mochers.com |

43

WORKING SPACE

Make Your Office

Work for You By: Kayla Goldstein

H

ave you ever walked into a space and immediately felt something? Maybe it was a romantic restaurant or a calming hotel room. Maybe you walked into someone’s house and immediately felt welcome (or not). This is because our surroundings have a profound effect on us.

Those feelings aren’t always so prominent. Sometimes we feel them hit us in the face — like when walking down a gorgeous tree lined path. Other times, it can be more subconscious. That is when we need to be most careful and put in the effort to make sure our surroundings are having the right influence on us.

Whether it’s at home or in an office building, most people spend a significant amount of time in their work space. So how can you make sure that your office is having the right effect on you? How can you know it isn’t holding you back or making you feel trapped, overwhelmed, or unsuccessful? When designed with intention, your office can be set up in a way that will make you feel all the positive emotions you want to feel when you’re working, creating the ultimate productive space.

44 |

MOCHERS

www.mochers.com

Here are a few tips that I have learned in my career as an interior designer.

First, make sure your office is located in the right place. This means your office should have a designated location. Whether it’s in your home (tucked away in a quiet corner) or in a building that is conducive to productivity, location matters.

Second, set it up the way you need it.

Don’t set up a perfect magazine office — set up an office that works for you. Do you stand a lot? Sit a lot? Go to meetings or host meetings? Think about the typical activities you’ll be doing in the office and select furniture based on that. For example, if you’re an artist, you might need a draft board, bookshelves with easy storage, and a lot of bins, but if you’re a bookkeeper, you’ll need a comfortable chair and a spacious desk with a good computer. Focus first on making it something that works for you before you look for the Instagram-worthy shot.

Once you know what you want to buy, don’t rush the purchasing process. People always ask what item to start with when designing a room — in an office, it’s the chair. As humans, our eyes are pulled towards the direction we’re heading, so MOCHERS

when you enter the office to sit down, you want that chair to be something that makes you smile every day (which means it has to be both comfortable and good looking!).

Now that you have the basics, time to style your space and make it pretty. Here is where I’m going to tell you to ignore Google. While there are many theories about how different colors stimulate your brain and your emotions, the truth is if you hate the color blue, it’s not going to inspire knowledge no matter how much you look at it. Looking at a color that isn’t pleasing to your eye will set you off a negative train of thought, which is exactly what we are trying to avoid.

The same goes for style — if you like eclectic, go for it, and don’t listen to anyone who tells you how minimalistic or busy your space should be. Simply put, if you design the space with things that make you happy, you’ll feel good when you’re in that space.

While setting up the office, make sure the layout is easy to navigate, with a clear walkway to access everything (18” is a standard walking width minimum). Make sure that your desk faces a window or door, or at the very least, a picture of something that makes you feel inspired.

Almost done here! Time to bring in the personal items; the pictures, certificates, and degrees. That picture of the dream house you are working towards or your goals at work — whatever it is that gets you working on a hard day. We need constant inspiration in this world, so give it to yourself.

For one last piece of advice, make sure to drag the eye up. Don’t put everything on the floor — hang things on the walls, get a cool light fixture, or add anything interesting so that you look up more than you look down.

It may sound silly, but it really makes a difference!

Now get to designing! Don’t forget to post it on instagram and tag me @kayla_llc so I see it. If you are overwhelmed or still struggling with the design, feel free to contact me at kayla@kaylallc.com.

M

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

www.mochers.com |

45

SNACKS

Essentia Water

SAVANNAH BEE CO. TUPELO HONEY

FOOD SNACKIE By: Yisroel Zuckerman

O

ne of the most popular Rosh Hashanah customs involves eating apple slices dipped in honey, sometimes after saying a special prayer. It doesn’t have to be Rosh Hashanah to enjoy some honey and apples. Ancient Jews believed apples had healing properties, and the honey signifies the hope that the new year will be sweet.

Savannah Bee Company grew out of passion for bees, beekeeping, and honey. Their specialty honey is the culmination of a 35-year search, both locally and around the world, for the very best.

Tupelo Honey TASTING NOTES: Buttery undertones with a soft, vanishing sweetness.

REGION: Altamaha and Apalachicola River Basins of Georgia and Florida PAIRINGS: A favorite in tea, but this golden honey is also great to brush on pastries, fresh bread, or anything you want to elevate. Bee creative!

Kosher Certified @ksa_kosher Holiday gift sets available @savannahbeeco or www.savannahbee.com.

46 |

MOCHERS

E

ssentia® Water, the #1 ionized alkaline water on the market, has introduced the first-ever, large format offering of its ionized alkaline water – the Essentia Water 2 Gallon Box. Developed in response to increased consumer demand for larger format options, the 2 Gallon Box does not compromise on taste or hydration and is a more sustainable alternative to single-use bottles.

The Essentia Water 2 Gallon Box begins rollout regionally at retailers including CVS and Walmart this month, with full distribution in early 2022 for a MSRP of $16.99 (prices may vary by retailer). Visit EssentiaWater.com to learn more and find your closest retailer at essentiawater.com/storelocator/.

Kosher Certified @oukosher News and images courtesy of @essentiawater

M

Yisroel Zuckerman is a contributor for Mochers Magazine. Follow his snack experience @kosherfoodie_stalker

www.mochers.com

E

48 |

MOCHERS

www.mochers.com