HAKOL - New Year 2021

SEPTEMBER 2021 | ELUL/TISHREI 5782

JFS plans to bring High Holidays to older adults

Jewish Family Service staff and volunteers have made a tradition of bringing fun and meaningful holiday celebrations to older adults living in long-term care residences throughout the year. However, the pandemic has made it impossible to gather together in person during the past year. Through creativity and innovation, JFS has maintained its connection with local residences through holiday outreach goody bags and video presentations honoring each of the Jewish holidays.

For Rosh Hashanah, JFS plans to do in-person High Holiday programs at several sites, including Atria, Kirkland Village, Traditions of Hanover, Tikvah House, Luthercrest and B'nai B'rith Apartments. Staff are continually evaluating the situation with COVID and following the CDC’s latest guidance for the safest way to be together.

JFS will also be putting together a video that will be sent to other rehabilitation facilities and long-term care facilities for residents to be able to mark the New Year.

JFS thanks Rabbi Seth Phillips of Congregation Keneseth Israel, Rabbi Moshe Re'em of Temple Beth El, Rabbi Michael Singer of Congregation Brith Sholom, Federation Community Shaliach Gavriel Siman-Tov and volunteer Eva Derby for helping to bring the holidays to the Lehigh Valley Jewish community.

2 SEPTEMBER 2021 | HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY | NEW YEAR 5782

Here’s how to cast away your sins without leaving home

By Lior Zaltzman Kveller Going outside during a pandemic can be stressful. And while many are still choosing to observe the Jewish high holiday ritual of tashlich, the symbolic casting away of sins in bodies of water ahead of Yom Kippur, outdoors, it turns out you can also totally do it from the comfort of your own home!

Even if you have done tashlich this year, this at-home activity is a great chance to bond with family members and teach your kids or grandkids important values. It helps to teach resilience and the importance of owning up — and letting go of — our mistakes.

This activity is deceptively simple — but the most important part of it is participation. Your participation, not that of your kids or grandkids. Judaism teaches us that perfection is a concept that just doesn’t exist in humans. Even the bible’s most revered characters — like Sarah, Abraham, and the other matriarchs and patriarchs — are flawed and make mistakes.

To small children, parents sometimes seem perfect and infallible. But by participating in this activity, which forces you to write down your regrets and mistakes of the previous year in front of the kiddos, we don’t just show them that we aren’t perfect — we show them the importance of admitting to our mistakes, and of moving on. And therefore, we model the prospect of admitting our mistakes — from the small ones, like getting gum on the carpet, to the big ones, like hurting a friend or failing themselves — less daunting.

Here’s what you need to participate in this special at-home tashlich: 1. A container to hold water: a baking pan/

bucket/pot/whatever you’ve got 2. Water Option 1: 3. Plain paper 4. Water-soluble markers (many markers in your home are water-soluble!)

Option 2: 3.Rice paper or rice wrappers 4. Permanent markers Write the things you want to let go of, and have the kids do the same if you’re making this a family activity, and put them in the water dish.

If you’re using paper and water-soluble marker, you can watch your words dissolve.

It might take a while but the writing will soon become imperceptible.

If you’re using rice paper or a rice wrapper, you can drop the rice the “sins” right in the water, or you can crumble and tear it up before you do. Especially with the rice wrappers, the tactile feeling is just so satisfying — and the symbolism of tearing up your mistakes, something that once it is done, is irreversible, is also really powerful.

5 easy ways to get into the Rosh Hashanah mindset this year some time and space for Elul reflection this year.

The month of Elul is here! It’s a time leading up to Rosh Hashanah when we have the opportunity to tune in to our spiritual concerns, reflect on our dreams and challenges over the year that’s gone by, and consider areas for change and growth in the coming new year.

I didn’t grow up with an awareness of a month of preparation leading up to the High Holy Day season. But in discovering Elul as an adult, I embrace this time for spiritual reflection, and I’ve noticed how it’s deepened my experience of the holiday season. The personal work of Elul feels like the rehearsal period for a play, or the warm-up exercises before a sporting event — it’s the energy and dedication put in before the big day(s) that deepens the ritual experience of Rosh Hashanah worship.

Given how full our metaphorical plates are, is there a way to make time for spiritual reflection in this particular moment?

Absolutely! I believe that spiritual practice can be infused into our busy and sometimes uncomfortable lives — it doesn’t require us to escape to a retreat center, or ignore the realities that we face on a regular day. My experience is that taking a little bit of time and space for spiritual practice can actually give us renewed strength, energy and self-compassion as we navigate this new year, which, like the one before it, we can probably already describe as “unprecedented.”

Here are five ways that we can make

1. MAKE A SPECIAL PLAYLIST. Music is one of the most immediate ways that I access my deepest feelings and spiritual connections. I make playlists for occasions like holidays and birthdays, and I listen to them while I’m doing during chores like walking my dog, folding laundry or chopping vegetables for dinner — essentially, times when I can tap into the music’s energy and message. I created a Spotify playlist for Elul with songs that really stir my soul and help me think about the big questions. Take a listen to mine if it inspires you, or create your own Elul playlist!

2. REACH OUT TO LOVED ONES. Elul is a month to consider our connections to our spiritual lives as well as to friends, family and community. During this past pandemic year, so many social connections were interrupted, and many, many people experienced isolation on a level they had never experienced before.

If you have a friend you’ve lost touch with and have been meaning to check in on, this time is a great moment to send a text or email just asking how they are and letting them know you’ve been thinking of them.

3. EMBRACE THE PRACTICE OF FREE WRITING. Writing is one of the practices that I use to connect to what I call my inner wisdom — the voice that I don’t always hear when

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By Gabrielle Kaplan-Mayer Kveller

I’m busy with the demands of parenting and work. I take 10 minutes several times a week to do some free writing, during which I sit down with my journal or a blank Google Doc and just write about whatever comes to mind. I always feel much better and more connected after those sessions. The easiest way to do this is to schedule a few writing times into your calendar over the next few weeks.

Then, simply open a blank document and use prompts like: This year I hope to… One thing I’ve learned this year is… or My prayer for the world is…

4. REASSESS YOUR SCHEDULE. Right now I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed about the return of many in-person activities, for myself and my family. I am taking this month to think hard about how many extracurricular activities will feel manageable and I am practicing saying no to things that feel too much (or not safe).

One thing I’ve learned about myself over the pandemic is that I thrive with more downtime. As such, I am entering this year with the intention and awareness that

becoming “too busy” — even with good things — takes me away from feeling my most grounded and healthiest, and it also creates unnecessary pressure in my family.

Use Elul to consider what you can take on this year, and what you can say no — or “not yet” — to.

5. INCLUDE YOUR FAMILY! If you have kids and they aren’t back to school yet, they are probably busy savoring the end of summer. But you can bring your children into your Elul practice in fun, gentle ways. If you’re out enjoying nature, for example, take a moment to mention Rosh Hashanah, the world’s birthday, and invite them to share what they’re most grateful for in the natural world. Bring out your favorite Rosh Hashanah books and start reading them now, do a holiday play with family over Zoom, or if your kids enjoy art, start making some homemade cards to send to family and friends.

I hope that this month brings you and your family many opportunities for connection and growth!

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NEW YEAR 5782 | HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY | SEPTEMBER 2021 3

Continued hope and tradition at Rosh Hashanah

By Gavriel Siman-Tov Community Shaliach There is no better time in the year for a new beginning than Rosh Hashanah, As said in the book Exodus 12:1-2: “The LORD said to Moses and Aaron in the land of Egypt: This month shall mark for you the beginning of the months; it shall be the first of the months of the year for you.”

What God is trying to tell Moses and Aaron is that Rosh Hashanah is the opening of the new year. Rosh Hashanah, is the first day of the first month of the year.

It’s a new beginning for the year to come upon us.

As for me, Rosh Hashanah is a new beginning with you and for you with me, a wonderful beginning whose treasure we will discover throughout our time together.

Rosh Hashanah for me is a holiday of optimism, a holiday with a different feeling in the air, a feeling I would describe as similar to walking down the street and smelling an intoxicating smell of freshbaked bread but unable to find its source. As we do not know what will hold within the new year.

That desire to find the bakery and taste the bread is like the desire to start this year on the right foot with lots of ambitions and lots of things to fulfill and do.

To start this year with the

hope to be able to return to in-person meeting the hope to have fewer COVID cases, to be able to see each other smile and laugh together.

As a kid, and to this day, I have always hated fish. I could not bear the smell to the point I wouldn’t sit at the table if someone was having fish. Well now I can sit at the same table, but still no go for fish.

But every single year again and again on Rosh Hashanah at the holiday meal at my grandparents, I would find the fish head on the table for the blessing that we may be like the head and not the tail, and my mom would take the smallest piece and bring it to me to eat. I would make the

Couscous with Seven Vegetables recipe

By Emily Paster The Nosher Seven is a lucky number in many religions, including Judaism. The world was created in seven days; together, the patriarchs and matriarchs add up to seven; at a Jewish wedding, there are seven blessings; and so on.

It is no wonder, then, that on Rosh Hashanah — when we try to do everything we can to ensure good luck for the coming year — there is a tradition of eating seven vegetables. Among North African Jews, especially those of Moroccan origin, Couscous with 4 SEPTEMBER 2021 | HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY | NEW YEAR 5782

sourest face in the world and unwillingly would eat and immediately drink a big glass of Coca-Cola just to get rid of the taste.

And no matter how disgusting it was for me, I would always eat because it is a blessing, it is a tradition that is important to my grandfather, to my mother and me.

It’s part of my history, our history, it’s something we share together, something that we will always have.

Rosh Hashanah is the opening of a new year as we can learn from the words of God to Moses and Aaron.

A new year that we will discover together as one community, one family and I can’t wait to start it!

Seven Vegetables is a traditional and cherished Rosh Hashanah dish. The couscous has a special significance: the many tiny grains represent a wish for a year with countless blessings.

With many of us rethinking our Rosh Hashanah celebrations again this year, it seems fitting to change up the traditional holiday fare.

Rosh Hashanah occurs at a time of year when many vegetables are at their peak, such as squash and root vegetables, which are perfect for this dish.

Couscous Continues on page 14

The history of honey cake

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High Holiday celebrations uncertain in Yoav

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By Nurit Galon Partnership2Gether

By Laura Williams The Nosher Honey cake has had a long and diverse evolution. From breadcrumbs mashed with honey came the sweet and spiced cake we know today. Whether you like it, love it, or will always pass on this Rosh Hashanah classic, its evolution exemplifies the culinary journey of Jewish Diaspora. This is more than a cake; it connect Jews to Torah, holidays, and the sweetness of life.

Though ancient Egyptians and Romans used honey mashed with yeast or barely, the birth of the spiced honey cake, evolving into something more similar to the one we know today, was in Italy in the early 12th century.

Similar to a panforte, it was a dense and heavily spiced cake.

Elsewhere in Europe, another variation became known as “gingerbread.” This dense honey cake made its way up to Central Europe, where Ashkenazi Jews adapted it into their cuisine.

According to the Encyclopedia of Jewish Food, the first mentions of the Ashkenazi version of honey cake came in 1105, describing it like a fine-floured challah with honey. The official name of lekach was found in the year 1200 in Germany.

Medieval Ashkenazi Jews incorporated honey cakes into a custom surrounding the study of Torah. When a new student would learn Torah for the first time, sometimes on Shavuot, the child would be given a slate with Hebrew letters, covered with honey, to lick. They would also receive honey cake as a treat. Both applications of honey were used so that they would associate the study of Torah with sweetness. It is not surprising then, that the Yiddish word for honey cake, lekach, probably comes from the German word lecken, meaning “lick.”

The honey cake lived on in multiple forms and countries.

The 19th century saw “old fashioned honey cake” as a common compliment to tea time in both England and the United States.

One article even offered it up in a list of “Prize Christian Cakes” (The Evening Post, December 21, 1818). But the Jewish community kept its own twist and connection to the honey cake.

As honey is used on the Jewish New Year as a symbol for sweetness to come, a round (another symbol of the New Year) honey cake is commonly a staple at the festive Rosh Hashanah meals. In addition to the beneficial symbolism, honey cake also has the benefits of a long shelf life; it is even said that this cake is better a couple days after it is made.

But not everyone is in favor of this practical confection. Some argue that the honey cake’s

place at the table is a matter of tradition or nostalgia for bubbe’s recipe, rather than an actual appreciation for the cake itself.

One NPR article connects the traditional obligation honey cake to its cousin, fruit cake, both coming with a list of grievances.

There are often claims that honey cake is too dense or dry, and has earned itself a reputation for remaining on the Rosh Hashanah table to be saved as leftovers, but inevitably thrown out well after Sukkot.

However, like many other traditional Jewish dishes, the honey cake has evolved once more with few modern interpretations that attempt to make it more appealing and palatable to the masses. A quick search of recipes online today shows the ways bakers have taken honey cake to a new level. There are tahini honey cakes and honey cakes with a chocolate glaze. If you’re thinking, “I want honey cake but also mandlebrot at the same time,” that exists, too!

Gluten free? Done. Vegan? Done (I know, I know, how could this be? You can actually use silan/ date syrup.)

Regardless if you like a slice that is super spicy, toned down with a chocolate glaze, or left on the table untouched, the honey cake has burrowed itself deep in the cycle of the annual Jewish menu, and therefore lives to see another year. Like the Jewish people, the honey cake reflects hints of the places we have been, while remaining sturdy and long-lasting through its connection to Jewish learning and tradition. And I, for one, am thankful that it has survived this long.

Although I began collecting reports of exciting and interesting goings on in Yoav next month for the High Holidays, sadly to say Corona is on the rampage again in Israel, and this time, with all the care and organization in Yoav—including the third booster shot for people over 50—and the reintroduction of the green passport and speedy Corona testing, much of what is planned has been cancelled, or put on hold for the time being.

The government corona committee is determined not to introduce lockdown for the holidays, but if the number of affected and the pressure on our hospitals increases, there may be no choice. A very big problem is those who refuse to be vaccinated and also refuse to believe that they may be endangering others.

But life goes on and I'd like to share a few of the planned activities—if, if, IF!—allowed!

A variety of well-known singers are slated to perform before Yoav audiences.

Every year, the kibbutzim and moshavim are encouraged to present community projects, which in the past have produced amateur theatre, green parks, a pizzeria, a taboon where the people of Yoav get together and enjoy both the meeting and the food!

In October, Kibbutz Galon celebrates its 75th birthday, which by tradition includes members of Galon in the kibbutz and also former members living in Israel and sometimes

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abroad, also. Other communities are also preparing anniversary celebrations - but everything is overshadowed by the knowledge of the large Corona shadow hanging over us.

We are extremely proud that our Yoav Regional High School, Tsafit, has been chosen by the Israeli Ministry of Education as an outstanding school of excellence, for its high achievements in studies, social relations and values. The choice of Tsafit gives witness to the capabilities and quality of the educational teams under the guidance of the Principal Neta Peretz, during difficult and changing situations. The staff were flexible and able to work with and understand all their students at all times. This success is the fruit of all the factors in the school, and in the Yoav Regional Council, who understand that the educational framework is measured by the advanced pedagogic investment and methods. The school is proud of its students who are full partners in this wonderful achievement.

In Israel in general, this is holiday time, and if we can't go abroad, Israelis are determined to rediscover their own country! And what an amazing country we are discovering!

Tell you more about that another time!

Meanwhile, we do wish all of you peaceful and healthy holidays, to be spent with family and friends—and, of course—Corona-free.

Chag Sameach from all of us in Yoav to all of you, our partners and family in Lehigh Valley!

NEW YEAR 5782 | HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY | SEPTEMBER 2021 5

How to infuse honey for Rosh Hashanah

By Joanna O’Leary The Nosher On Rosh Hashanah, there is a custom to eat apples dipped in honey to bring a sweet new year.

As explained in “1001 Questions and Answers About Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur” by historian Jeffrey Cohen, honey is the preferred form of sweetness because it is tied to manna, which the Torah describes as “honey-like wafers,” as well as because bees are an apt symbol of God, given their ability to create beauty as well as punish (via a sharp sting).

Regular old honey will certainly satisfy tradition, but why not spruce up your nectar by infusing it with ginger, cloves, vanilla, or even rosemary. Not only will doing so give rise to added dimensions of flavor (which, in turn, can complement different species of apples), any surplus product also makes for a lovely New Year’s gift to send to loved ones celebrating Rosh Hashanah from afar.

If the idea of infusing honey has you fearing a sticky situation, rest assured the process is relatively simple and requires minimal planning.

1. Choose your honey When selecting a honey to infuse, focus on lighter varieties, which tend to be naturally mild and therefore are less likely to contribute other flavors that will “compete” with your infusion ingredients. Looking to make use of that jar that has been sitting in your pantry, since, um, the last millennium? Because honey is one of the few foods that does not spoil, you can probably get away with it, though you may need to remove the crystals that naturally occur over time.

2. Choose your infusion Select your herbs or spices to infuse. The combination of vanilla beans and cinnamon sticks will give rise to a comforting spread that is the perfect for baked goods (try it on babka!), while pairing ginger and nutmeg gives rise to a honey with autumnal notes that is a fitting sweetener for tea, coffee or milky chai. Consider lavender for a lovely floral essence or chili peppers for a honey that packs some hefty sweet heat. Finally,

earthier infusion ingredients, such as thyme, basil or rosemary, are great for nectars to use in savory meat dishes, such as honey roasted chicken breast or pork tenderloin.

3. Infuse Next measure out your honey and ingredients.

For every 1 cup of honey, use roughly 1 to 2 tablespoons of herbs or spices. Note that while fresh herbs will provide stronger flavors, dried versions are preferable as they are easier to measure.

Then, place the infusion ingredients in a glass jar with an air-tight lid along with your honey.

Mason jars or any jar with a tight seal and a wide mouth are ideal as they facilitate adding and eventually extracting the infusion elements.

Stir honey with a small wooden spoon in order to best distribute the spices or herbs. Secure the lid of the jar and leave rest for up to two weeks, and remember, the longer you keep the infusion, the stronger its flavor profile will be in the honey.

4. Finish and make it fancy Strain the infused spices/herbs from the honey into a clean container. And if you’re feeling extra festive, adorn with a bow or a colorful cover. As this tutorial demonstrates, the latter can be easily created by procuring quilting squares from your local craft store (or online), tracing the outline of the jar lid on fabric, and trimming any excess material with shears.

Finish with a label, and, sweet! You have your infused honey.

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a v o T a n a h S May your new year be filled with blessings. Happy Rosh Hashanah!

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This is a real treat to make for breaking the fast. Serve alongside your favorite noodle kugel and assorted bagels with whipped cream cheese. A cup of steaming hot coffee is essential.

Follow up with mini Danish and fruit salad to complete this meal.

INGREDIENTS: 1 large herring 1 sweet onion, finely chopped 3 hard-boiled eggs, chopped

1 1/2 slices of pumpernickel, cut into pieces 1/2 cup plain vinegar 3 1/2 Tbsp. sugar water to mix

TECHNIQUE: Soak herring in ice cold water for 6 hours.

Filet the herring. Soak pumpernickel in vinegar. Add all ingredients together in large Pyrex bowl. Add water for proper consistency. If necessary, add more sugar. Chill and serve.

Edible holiday craft:

New Year’s apple-bowl for honey

By Joanna Brichetto Kveller Apples and honey make a sweet start for the Jewish New Year, Rosh Hashanah.

They take no time to prepare, and even less time to eat: wash, slice, pour, dip, munch.

Maybe this is why it’s so easy to take the custom for granted, to treat it like more of an appetizer than a minhag (custom). But how about if we slow things down and invite our kids or grandkids to help? Even toddlers can operate a two-handle apple slicer with supervision.

And what if we turned Rosh Hashanah apples and honey into an edible craft?

The kids get a hands-on reference point to the holiday and a chance to practice kitchen skills, plus the thrill of turning an apple into a bowl. They’ll enjoy using the bowl for dipping chunks of Rosh Hashanah challah, too.

A team effort takes a bit longer, but it can make the same old apples and honey way more fun and meaningful.

Even if you don’t have kids, this makes an easy and creative centerpiece to your holiday table.

Don’t forget the special apple and honey blessings.

Blessings— including the one we only use for Rosh Hashanah—turn a sweet treat into a mindful ritual.

You’ll need: Apples, small for slicing Apple, a big one for the bowl (plus a spare, in case you mess up) Lemon juice or quartered lemon Cutting board Apple slicer/corer with two handles Serving plate Paring knife (adults only) Melon scoop/baller (or grapefruit spoon or apple corer) Bowl for soaking apples slices in lemon water (optional) Honey

You may need to rock it a bit from side to side.

3. Once your child has helped operate the slicer, she can try to do it herself. You may need to start the cut by applying just enough pressure to make an indentation.

Make sure her hands are on the handles and nothing is underneath the slicer except that apple!

4. To keep cut apples white, your child can either wipe each piece with a lemon wedge or opt for the soak method: cover apple slices in lemon water (a few squeezes should do, but a typical ratio is one part lemon juice to three parts water). By the way, green apples don’t turn brown as quickly as red apples, and some varieties are slow to brown (like Cortland and Ginger Gold).

The Bowl: 1. Pretend an apple is a pumpkin and gut it in a similar fashion: cut out the top with a paring knife (adult) and scoop the insides with a melon baller (adult or kid). Try not to poke holes in the sides or bottom.

2. Kids can wipe the inside of the finished bowl with a lemon wedge to keep it from turning brown and yucky.

To Serve: 1. Let your child pour honey into the apple bowl and place it in the middle of a serving plate. Drain apple slices and arrange around the bowl.

2. Dip, bless, munch and enjoy.

The Apple Slices: 1. Place apple on cutting board. If child is helping, make sure the table surface is at a low working height.

Standing at a sturdy childsize table is ideal. Close supervision is needed with any cutting tool.

2. Center apple slicer over the apple with a hand on each handle. Ask your child to put her hands over yours (because you need “help”) and push down together.

NEW YEAR 5782 | HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY | SEPTEMBER 2021 7

FROM THE LEHIGH VALLEY CLERGY RABBI NISAN ANDREWS Congregation Sons of Israel

As 5781 comes to a close, it behooves us to look back and reflect on what will certainly go down in the history books as a year of unprecedented challenges. We have all experienced struggles personally, communally and nationally. Let us learn from these difficult times and notice how we have risen to the occasion, transforming our pain into positive energy. With this in mind we can look forward to a year where we know we can face whatever comes our way. May God give us all strength to support ourselves and each other, and may we all be inscribed in the book of life in 5782. On behalf of Congregation Sons of Israel, I wish you all a happy and healthy new year.

RABBI MELODY DAVIS Bnai Shalom

Hebrew is a fascinating language. It is based on a trilateral root system. From just three root letters of a word we can derive many different meanings. We usually associate the word shanah, vba at this time of year, with Rosh Hashanah, the New Year. These letters also lead us to the Hebrew word for change.

The primary difference between optimists and pessimists is that the former believe that change is possible, whereas the latter believe that attempts to change are futile. A fundamental teaching of Judaism is the following verse from Ecclesiastes: “For no righteous man is perfect on earth, doing only good and never sinning.” We all need to improve, we all need to change. This is the central message of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur for the Jew. Not only that: Jews believe that we can change. Is it easy? The nascent Brooklyn girl within me snarks: Fuhgeddaboutit. Change is never simple.

Even an attempt is worthwhile. Perhaps the first try isn’t totally successful. Feel 8 SEPTEMBER 2021 | HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY | NEW YEAR 5782

good that you tried and give it another shot. Try a different approach. Ask for help and support. Don’t do it alone.

Everybody fails. The difference is whether or not you continue to strive.

Robert Browning wrote: “Man’s reach should always exceed his grasp.”

Every time we wish each other a Happy and Sweet New Year, we are really saying, “I hope that you are successful in your attempts to change yourself and improve yourself in the coming year.” It is in that spirit that I wish each of you a Happy and Sweet New Year!

the year, but far beyond that, we bless you that the positive elements and experiences of this past year pale in comparison with the welcome material and spiritual growth that you achieve in the months to come.

I, along with my wife and children, wish each one of you best wishes for a meaningful, joyous holiday experience!

May you and yours be inscribed for a good and sweet year! L’Shana Tova U’metukah!

RABBI YAAKOV HALPERIN

Congregation Am Hasklalah

Chabad of Lehigh Valley

The Jewish New Year is almost here— sweet honey, kind wishes, sincere prayers, and an ancient plaintive sound that dissolves the deepest indifference. Rosh Hashanah begins at sunset on Monday, September 6, and its two days launch us into a fresh year with brighter, more meaningful goals.

Some communities welcome Rosh Hashanah eve by reciting “Achot Ketanah,” a thirteenth-century poem composed in Gerona. Its chorus implores, “May the year and its woes end!”—until its final stanza, which entreats, “May the year and its blessings commence!”

We can appreciate the unknown author’s message: We all endured some hardship during the past year—physical, emotional, financial or spiritual. But with Rosh Hashanah, we optimistically turn the page and await blessings in our path ahead.

Our teacher, the Rebbe—Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson—once commented about the shortcomings of this poem. In truth, we ought to carefully review the outgoing year and highlight the wonderful things it contained. We should delight in those, praise G-d for them, and then ask Him for even greater blessings in the future. Rather than focusing on woes to frame our dreams for the future, we should lovingly appeal, “May the year and its blessings end, so that the new year with its far greater blessings can commence!”

This captures our wish for you and your loved ones: certainly, we pray that current difficulties cease with the turn of

STUDENT RABBI ARMIN LANGER We are entering a year of shmita, the sabbatical year. Every seventh year, the land is left to lie fallow.

The halacha forbids all agricultural activity. During shmita year, our tradition calls us to deprioritze production and ownership, and to return to a balanced relationship with the environment and each other. The shmita year established by the Torah is a force of change, it addresses core social and economic challenges that our societies face.

The ongoing novel coronavirus pandemic has exposed and exacerbated environmental and social injustices. The pandemic has demonstrated that human welfare is intertwined with the lives of other species and with the health of our planet. The crisis has uncovered racial inequalities in healthcare, food access and many other realms of everyday life. During lockdown, we realized the essential value of workers and their vulnerability.

On these High Holidays, we can take a moment to reflect on our role in maintaining these injustices, and to think about ways we can create a more just world in the coming shmita year. In this spirit, on behalf of myself, Rabbi Steve Nathan, who will also be leading services and teaching throughout the year, and the members of our community, I wish all of you a good new year. Shana tova!

RABBI SETH PHILLIPS Congregation Keneseth Israel

Getting into a Yuntif mindset this year was made much more difficult by falling down a rabbit hole of denial, anger and bargaining.

Like any other behavior, grief is easier spotted in someone else. But my Alfred E. Neuman “What, Me Worry?” I’m vaxxed, and my anger towards the willingly unvaxxed and their political influencers, and my belief that KI deserved a reward for good pandemic protocols had to be painfully and finally, knowingly, traversed before I could approach the Days of Awe. I had to accept that for all MY desire to party like it was 5780, ultimately, I was in sales, not Management. My 10th year on the bima and my final HiHos before retirement would not be “normal.”

As we say at a time of ultimate grief to kickstart the ascent from the pit, Baruch Dayan HaEmet, “Blessed is the True Judge.” Each of us was given a Life Sentence at birth, and we are confined by flesh and blood and time. Prisoners of an earthly reality, we can rail against the sentencing Judge or we can choose to mitigate “life with hard labor” into something better. And when forced by COVID to open my eyes to my small place in the vast universe, accepting (discovering) what IS in my control may be the first step towards a truly New Year.

At the time of this writing, I have 29 days to find the courage, the wisdom and the good teachers and companions to take that step forward. I am confident that I will see the smiles under the masks from

the bima and that I have never wanted “normal” holidaze, but an ever-changing shared journey into the Days of Awe. Look to the L-RD; be strong and of good courage! O look to the L-RD! (Psalm 27:14)

RABBI MOSHE RE’EM Temple Beth El

The shofar serves as a wake-up call, alerting us to the need for introspection, self-examination, and silence.

Introspection and self-examination might seem obvious, but why silence?

Rabbi Tzvi Hirsh Kaidanover (16481712), who authored one of the most popular works of mussar (didactic Jewish ethical literature), notes how many people in his time observed silence between the start of Elul and Rosh Hashanah in order to affect the purification of their souls. As a spiritual practice, silence helps facilitate the turn inward. In contrast to the shrill sound of the shofar, silence highlights the cacophony of sounds that surround us on a daily basis; the constant barrage of sound bites and mass media. A “sound” cleansing allows us to “wake up” in a way that is different from the shrill sound of the shofar. Both awaken us, but in different ways.

I would suggest that silence leads to inner wisdom. That is why Rabbi Akiva advised, “A fence around wisdom is silence” (Avot 5:17). As much as the spoken word might reveal, the silent word that emerges from the depths of our hearts may contain deeper truths. I like to think

of these silent spaces between shofar blasts as analogous to the “white letters” of the Torah.

Regarding these, Rabbi Levi Yitzchak (of Berdichev) said: “It is written in the Book of Isaiah, ‘For a Torah shall go forth from me.’ (51:4) To which Torah is the verse referring? Don’t we believe with a perfect faith that the Torah that Moses received from Sinai cannot be replaced, nor will there be another Torah (given) from the Holy Blessed One? It cannot be altered, and we are forbidden to touch its letters. But not only (are we forbidden to touch) the black letters of the Torah, but also the white spaces (of the parchment) which are also letters of the Torah, only as of yet we cannot read them. In the distant future, the Sages will reveal the white hidden secrets of the Torah.”

During this period of social distancing and prayer at home, let’s take advantage of the silence. Some of our deepest insights can be obtained through silence.

Maybe that is why the great Hassidic Rabbi Menachem Mendel of Vorki said, “Learn to be silent so that you may learn to speak.” Wishing all of you moments of tranquility, silence. L’shanna tova tikateivu!

RABBI MICHAEL P. SINGER Congregation Brith Sholom At the end of the Book of Lamentations (Eicha) the poet having stared into the horror of destruction and unspeakable suffering exclaims:

NEW YEAR 5782 | HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY | SEPTEMBER 2021 9

“Hashiveinu Adonai Alecha v’Nashuvah, Chadesh Yameinu Kedem. Take us back, Adonai, to Yourself, And let us come back; Renew our days as of old!” (Lamentations 5:21) This statement is repeated twice as we conclude the reading on Tisha B’Av yet most people are familiar with this verse as we sing it each time we replace the Torah into the ark. Therein lies the tremendous power of the indomitable Jewish spirit and a pivotal lesson we must again take to heart as we welcome the new year of 5782.

Namely that the bonds we have to God, our relationships with one another, and the driven purpose of our community of faith is one of hope, renewal, and return.

As a people, we have witnessed slavery and freedom, exile and redemption, destruction and creation. Throughout it all, we have continued to dream and hope, to create and renew, and to work towards return and redemption. The concept of teshuvah (return) which is at the heart of the Season of Repentance is the belief that as we welcome the new year - we refocus ourselves on repairing, renewing, and becoming better people and building a better world.

We now live in a moment in history that requires all of our courage, determination, and talents. The Coronavirus Pandemic is not over but as dangerous is the virus of ignorance, hate, and division which threatens to pull us apart. (Ironically this is the very moment we need to unite to tackle the pandemic, growing autocracy, racism, economic and spiritual poverty,

and climate change.) Yet just as the poet of Lamentations reminds us - we place our hope in a God who seeks our return (teshuvah), who gives us the ability to change and improve our lives, and is waiting for us with forgiveness, renewal, and life.

This Rosh HaShanah will mark a return for many in our community to the sacred spaces of our synagogue. It will feel different and the same. As always we have changed and our world has changed but we will feel it all the more so. Let us not miss the opportunity of the hard lessons we have endured to add more love to our lives, more gratitude and forgiveness of each other, and more kindness, justice and peace in our community and world. May God renew our days, and inscribe us in the Book of Life!

CANTOR ELLEN SUSSMAN Temple Shirat Shalom

I was so excited to enter a store without a mask after getting fully vaccinated.

I was thankful for the wonders of science and the scientists who helped us take charge of the virus. Then the Delta variance unleashed itself, and I became

despondent all over again.

I happened to be vacationing on Cape Cod when the outbreak occurred in Provincetown. All our plans for eating at our favorite restaurants, going to concerts and window shopping were cancelled.

We replaced all those activities with hiking, swimming and cooking delicious fresh fish on the BBQ. All in all, it was a restorative vacation visiting with family and experiencing the beauty of Cape Cod. One hike in particular helped my mood turn around. We were walking around the marsh, and I saw thousands of little crabs scampering about. Immediately, the words of B’reishit, the first of our Torah Portions came to mind. It speaks of God’s creation of the world and the fact that, in God’s words, it was very good. The fullness and wonder of life surrounded us. As it says in our prayer book, “we walk sightless among miracles.” I stopped myself from my negative thoughts and let the miracle of creation infuse me with hope and optimism.

I cannot predict what the future holds for all of us. What I do know is that the world is still a beautiful place. We are entering the High Holydays season.

Through our prayers and our acts of loving kindness our slate is wiped clean and we can enter the New Year with the anticipation of a good year.

Let us take a moment during these High Holydays to feel grateful for the world that God created. I pray for my family, and our whole community that we have a year of joy, health and fulfillment of our dreams.

Shana Tovah u’metukah!

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High Holy Day Schedule of Services at area synagogues Allentown CHABAD OF THE LEHIGH VALLEY

Rabbi Yaacov Halperin, Chabad Lubavitch 4457 Crackersport Rd, Allentown RSVP at office@ chabadlehighvalley.com or 610.351.6511 At this time of the year the gates of Heaven are open to all – so are ours. We are committed to reaching out and welcoming all, regardless of affiliation, knowledge, or previous background.

Tent Outdoor Services will take place at the CHABAD CENTER 4457 Crackersport Rd. Allentown.

SPECIAL CHILDREN’S PROGRAM Traditional services blended with contemporary messages. HebrewEnglish prayer books provided.

Warm and friendly environment.

Delicious Kiddush Buffet following services All are welcome, no tickets or membership fee. Suggested donation of $50.00 per seat.

RSVP to chabadlehighvalley.com or 610.351.6511. For more information, please contact 610.351.6511 or Rabbi@chabadlehighvalley.com.

EREV ROSH HASHANAH Monday, September 6 7:08 p.m. Light Candles 7:30 p.m. Light Candles ROSH HASHANAH Tuesday, September 7 9:30 a.m. Morning Services 10:45 a.m. Children Service 11:15 a.m. Shofar Sounding 5:00 p.m. Tashlich Service 8:00 p.m. Evening Services Wednesday, September 8 9:30 a.m. Morning Services 10:45 a.m. Children Service 11:15 a.m. Shofar Sounding 7:42 p.m. Holiday Ends EREV YOM KIPPUR Wednesday, September 15 6:53 p.m. Light Candles & fast begins 7:00 p.m. Kol Nidre Services YOM KIPPUR Thursday, September 16 9:30 a.m. Morning Services 11:00 a.m. Children Service 11:30 a.m. Yizkor Memorial Service 5:30 p.m. Afternoon Service 6:45 p.m. Neilah Closing Service 7:50 p.m. Fast Ends, followed by a breakfast SUKKOT Monday, September 20 6:44 p.m. Light Candles

7:29 p.m. Light Candles* after

610.433.6089

SIMCHAT TORAH Wednesday, September 29 10:00 a.m. Morning Services Followed by Kiddush & Hakafot 7:27 p.m. Holiday Ends * Light only from a pre-existing flame

Contact April Daugherty at april2715@gmail.com or 610.433.6089 for information.

_______________________

CONGREGATION AM HASKALAH

Reconstructionist We are doing In-Person and Zoom High Holiday services (at the JCC, free and open to all). Led by Student Rabbi Armin Langer and Rabbi Steve Nathan. RSVP to AmHaskalahDirector@gmail.com.

EREV ROSH HASHANAH Monday, September 6 6:00 p.m. Evening Services ROSH HASHANAH Tuesday, September 7 10:00 a.m. Morning Services 1:00 p.m. Tashlich at Cedar Beach Park Wednesday, September 8 10:00 a.m. Morning Services EREV YOM KIPPUR Wednesday, September 15 6:30 p.m. Kol Nidre

Wednesday, September 8 8:30 a.m. Shacharis 10:00 a.m. Youth Programming 10:30 a.m. Shofar blowing 7:05 p.m. Mincha/Maariv 8:13 p.m. Yom Tov ends EREV YOM KIPPUR Wednesday, September 15 6:30 a.m. Selichos, Shacharis 3:00 p.m. Mincha 6:52 p.m. Latest candle lighting 6:55 p.m. Kol Nidrei 7:10 p.m. Fast begins YOM KIPPUR Thursday, September 16 9:00 a.m. Shacharis 10:00 a.m. Youth Programming 11:30 a.m. Sermon and Yizkor 5:10 p.m. Mincha 6:35 p.m. Neilah 7:59 p.m. Maariv

CONGREGATION KENESETH ISRAEL

EREV SUKKOT Monday, September 20 6:30 a.m. Shacharis 6:44 p.m. Candle lighting 6:45 p.m. Mincha/Maariv

_______________________

Rabbi Seth D. Phillips, Reform 2227 W. Chew St., Allentown

All are free and open to the community although donaitons are appreciated. Services are offered both in person and online. You must register for a link (streamed) or ticket (in person). Questions? Give us a call at 610.435.9074.

EREV ROSH HASHANAH Monday, September 6 7:30 p.m. Evening Services ROSH HASHANAH Tuesday, September 7 9:30 a.m. Morning Services 9:30 a.m. Youth Service Taschlich - conclusion of morning service Wednesday, September 8 10:00 a.m. Rosh Hashanah Hike Call to register and get location Sunday, September 12 2:30 p.m. Cemetery Service EREV YOM KIPPUR Wednesday, September 15 7:30 p.m. Kol Nidre

Wednesday, September 22 10:00 a.m. Morning Services 7:49 p.m. Holiday Ends

YOM KIPPUR Thursday, September 16 9:30 a.m. Morning Services 9:30 a.m. Youth Service 1:00 p.m. Meditation Service 2:30 p.m. Afternoon Service 4:00 p.m. Yizkor/N'eilah Service

Tuesday, September 28 10:00 a.m. Morning Services 11:30 a.m. Yizkor Memorial Service 7:30 p.m. Evening Services Followed by Kiddush & Hakafot

ROSH HASHANAH Tuesday, September 7 8:30 a.m. Shacharis 10:00 a.m. Youth Programming 10:30 a.m. Shofar blowing 6:00 p.m. Mincha, followed by Tashlich 7:25 p.m. Maariv 8:14 p.m. Earliest candle lighting, Light candles from an existing flame

YOM KIPPUR Thursday, September 16 10:00 a.m. Morning Services 6:00 p.m. Mincha, Book of Jonah Reading & Discussion, Neilah & Break Fast

Tuesday, September 21 10:00 a.m. Morning Services 7:42 p.m. Light Candles* after

SHEMINI ATZERET Monday, September 27 6:32 p.m. Light Candles 7:00 p.m. Evening Services Followed by Kiddush & Hakafot

EREV ROSH HASHANAH Monday, September 6 8:00 a.m. Selichos/Shacharis 7:05 p.m. Mincha/Maariv 7:07 p.m. Candle lighting

_______________________

CONGREGATION SONS OF ISRAEL

Rabbi Nisan Andrews, Orthodox 2715 Tilghman St., Allentown

SUKKOT Tuesday, September 21 9:00 a.m. Shacharis 5:40 p.m. Daf Yomi 6:40 p.m. Mincha/Maariv 7:51 p.m. Candle lighting and preparation for second day. Light candles from an existing flame.

Wednesday, September 22 9:00 a.m. Shacharis 5:40 p.m. Daf Yomi 6:40 p.m. Mincha/Class/Maariv 7:49 p.m. Yom Tov ends SHEMINI ATZERET Tuesday, September 28 9:00 a.m. Shacharis 10:45 a.m. Yizkor at approx.

6:25 p.m. Mincha/Maariv/Hakafos 7:39 p.m. Candle lighting and preparation for second day. Light candles from an existing flame.

SIMCHAT TORAH Wednesday, September 29 9:00 a.m. Shacharis Hakafos, Torah readings, Kol Hane’arim Mincha after Mussaf 7:38 p.m. Yom Tov ends & Maariv

_______________________

TEMPLE BETH EL

Rabbi Moshe Re’em, Conservative 1305 Springhouse Rd., Allentown 610.435.3521 * In person & streaming EREV ROSH HASHANAH Monday, September 6 7:15 p.m. Memorial Plaques

Dedication 8:00 p.m. Service* ROSH HASHANAH Tuesday, September 7 10:00 a.m. Shacharit* Tashlich Following Service 10:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Children’s Services - Grades Pre-K - 6 10:30 a.m. Torah Service & Musaf* 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Children’s Services - Teen Talk 4:00 p.m. JFE Program @ Wehr’s Dam 8:00 p.m. Ma’ariv Service* Wednesday, September 8 10:00 a.m. Shacharit* 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. Bim Bom (Playgroup) 4:00 p.m./4:45 p.m. Drive-In Shofar Service @ TBE Parking Lot EREV YOM KIPPUR Wednesday, September 15 6:45 p.m. Kol Nidre* YOM KIPPUR Thursday, September 16 10:00 a.m. Shacharit* 10:00 a.m. Children’s Services Grades Pre-K - 6 10:30 a.m. Torah Service & Musaf* 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Children’s Services - Teen Talk 5:15 - 6:30 p.m. Yizkor & Mincha* 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. Ne’ilah* 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. Jewish Family Program 7:30 p.m. Ma’ariv, Havdalah & Shofar Blowing* SUKKOT Tuesday, September 21 9:30 a.m. Service* 10:00 a.m. DOR L’ DOR Program Wednesday, September 22 9:30 a.m. Service* SHEMINI ATZERET Tuesday, September 28 9:30 a.m. Service - Yizkor* SIMCHAT TORAH Wednesday, September 29 9:00 a.m. Service*

_______________________

TEMPLE SHIRAT SHALOM

Cantor Ellen Sussman, Reform cantorsussman@gmail.com YOM KIPPUR Thursday, September 16 Morning Service For service time, contact Cantor Sussman at cantorsussman@gmail.com

_______________________

Bethlehem CONGREGATION BETH AVRAHAM

Rabbi Yitzchok I. Yagod, Orthodox 610.905.2166 Contact Rabbi Yagod for service address and schedule.

_______________________

CONGREGATION BRITH SHOLOM

Rabbi Michael Singer, Conservative 1190 W. Macada Rd., Bethlehem 610.866.8009 Please visit www.brithsholom.net or call 610.866.8009 for details.

Services are In-Person & Streaming.

EREV ROSH HASHANAH Monday, September 6 7:00 p.m. Mincha/Ma’ariv 7:07 p.m. Candle Lighting ROSH HASHANAH Tuesday, September 7 9:00 a.m. Morning Services 6:00 p.m. Tashlikh at School Sisters property Monocacy Creek 7:00 p.m. Afternoon/Evening Services (Children 12 and under welcome) 8:05 p.m. Candle Lighting Wednesday, September 8 9:00 a.m. Morning Service (Children 12 and under welcome) 8:04 p.m. Havdalah EREV YOM KIPPUR Wednesday, September 15 6:00 p.m. Candle Lighting 6:15 p.m. Kol Nidre Services YOM KIPPUR Thursday, September 16 10:00 a.m. Morning Services 11:30 a.m. Yizkor #1 5:30 p.m. Yizkor #2/Afternoon Service (Children under 12 welcome) 6:45 p.m. Ne’eilah Service 7:50 p.m. Yom Kippur ends EREV SUKKOT Monday, September 20 6:43 p.m. Candle Lighting SUKKOT Tuesday, September 21 9:00 a.m. Sukkot Day 1 Morning Services 6:00 p.m. Pizza in the Hut (Children 12 and under welcome) 7:42 p.m. Candle Lighting Wednesday, September 22 9:00 a.m. Sukkot Day 2 Morning Services (Children 12 and under welcome) 7:40 p.m. Havdalah SHEMINI ATZERET Tuesday, September 28 9:00 a.m. Morning Services 11:00 a.m. Yizkor SIMCHAT TORAH Wednesday, September 29 9:00 a.m. Morning Services 7:28 p.m. Havdalah

_______________________

Easton CONGREGATION BNAI SHALOM Rabbi Melody Davis 1545 Bushkill St., Easton 610.258.5343

EREV ROSH HASHANAH Monday, September 6 7:30 p.m. Services ROSH HASHANAH Tuesday, September 7 9:00 a.m. Children’s Service 10:15 a.m. Morning Service 3:00 p.m. Tashlich Wednesday, September 8 10:15 a.m. Creative Service EREV YOM KIPPUR Wednesday, September 15 7:30 p.m. Kol Nidre YOM KIPPUR Thursday, September 16 9:00 a.m. Children’s Service 10:15 a.m. Morning Service 4:45 p.m. Mincha, & Ne’ila Service 7:48 p.m. Holiday Ends

NEW YEAR 5782 | HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY | SEPTEMBER 2021 11

(Another) Interesting Rosh Hashanah

By Yoni Glatt koshercrosswords@gmail.com Difficulty Level: Easy Find answers at www.jewishlehighvalley.org/ hakol/crossword

ACROSS 1. Trick 5. Basil or sage, e.g.

9. Adjust 14. Raven-colored, to Poe 15. Kind of code 16. Manager Joe in Cooperstown 17. What priests definitely have compared to rabbis or what a shul youth director might have to look after at synagogue (again) this year?

19. It can usually be seen coming out of Old Faithful 20. What Shemita is measure in: Abbr.

21. They might be docked at camp lakes 23. Bible book before Jer. 24. Yeshiva title 25. Sutherland who played Jack on "24" 28. Makes like a Baal Tokeah about to blow shofar this year (again)?

34. Baldwin of "Beetlejuice" 35. Problem 36. "Pride and Prejudice" teenager 38. Lighting unit 39. He loved (Lily) Potter 43. Trump, on many late nights before being banned 46. Blessing follower

47. What Orthodox as well as Reform services might be strictly enforcing (again) this year, in a way?

51. Onion-flavored rolls (Var.) 52. Fairy-tale giant's word 53. Org. for Nadal or Federer 54. Found a phone call's origin 58. Mich. neighbor 61. Butler who left Scarlett 64. Erev Pesach is one for family elders... or how some services might operate (again) this year?

66. Showed again 67. Barely worth mentioning 68. Thought 69. Notable Wells 70. There's one of Dogs and of Man 71. Seating section DOWN 1. Boldly oppose 2. One can pick you up 3. "Stalag 17" denizens 4. Jerusalem to Jericho Dir. 5. Kol ___ ("Well done!")

6. Secretary on "The Office" 7. Give a makeover 8. Safe place 9. Mentions directly on social media 10. Abraham's nephew in the Torah 11. The ___ Banquet, historic event that led to the creation of Conservative Judaism 12. Uses a Photoshop tool 13. Statement 18. TV alternatives to Sonys 22. 0% fat, say 24. Musical performance 26. Beliefs

12 SEPTEMBER 2021 | HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY | NEW YEAR 5782

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27. Spring (from) 28. It's "dew" in hebrew 29. 2012 gold-medal gymnast Raisman 30. Half a pair of casual sneakers?

31. Boned fish or meat 32. Champagne glass 33. Bewitches 37. Amiss 40. Journalist Horowitz known for his undercover videos 41. Place for ink or oink?

42. ___ Lit. 44. It's right on the map?

45. Foul caller

47. Italian eatery chain 48. "I don't care which" 49. Daily publications 50. Tony score for Elton (John) 55. Do followers, in music 56. Battle weapons 57. PC combination key 58. Israel's Silicon or Qelt 59. "Got it" 60. Trek or Wars 62. Yin/yang concept 63. Old cable inits.

65. What some try to get after Passover?

High Holiday Zoom services: How to get the most out of them a tapestry, put clutter in a drawer.

Jewish holidays are often divided into “home-based” holidays and “synagoguebased” holidays. Passover is a classic home-based holiday, when families and individuals host Seders at home.

On the other end of the spectrum are the High Holidays, which stand out as days observed almost entirely in synagogue, climaxing with five different services spanning the long day of Yom Kippur. The High Holidays are the epitome of a communal prayer experience.

Not only are more people in synagogue than on any other day of the year, even the Hebrew liturgy is in the plural: the Al Chet prayer asks for forgiveness for a full litany of “our sins.”

But this year, again, High Holiday services will take place both in-person and over Zoom. If you are choosing to experience “synagogue” as a screen in your living room again this year, you know this new model creates both challenges and opportunities for how to observe and celebrate.

Holidays that previously required of us simply to show up at a certain time and place now ask for a bit more.

If you’re attending High Holiday services over Zoom, here are seven suggestions to help you get the most out of this unusual holiday experience.

3. Stream video on a large screen If possible, stream services on a larger screen. Investigate what kind of cord is needed to connect your computer to your television, so that you won’t have to be so close to your computer screen. This will allow more space for your prayer experience. If you don’t have a television screen, close all other browsers on the device you’ll be using. Either way, create a small “worship space” at a distance from the screen.

2. Create a beautiful space around your screen Set up your space in a different way than your typical work-at-home station. If you normally sit in your office for work-related or Zoom learning sessions, sit in your living room. If you live in a studio apartment, put your screen somewhere else in the space, or flip it in the other direction. Giving yourself a different background can make for a different experience. Try to create a miniature sanctuary in your own home: clean the space, hang

5. Choose a single service While it may be tempting to synagogue-hop, or wonder if there’s something better on another “channel,” it is better to choose one service ahead of time that you can commit to on the holiday.

Or, if you do feel the need to switch, switch early, not often. Being fully present in one virtual space can add to a sense of being part of a community, even if that community is virtual or temporary. Staying with one service gives the day form and rhythm, offering a more integrated experience.

6. Participate your full self to the service.

Participating can take many forms, but you’ll feel the 7. Make it holy, however you difference between being an can active participant and a pas- All of these suggestions are sive spectator. Chant along, based on the premise that hum along, sway along, say we, as participants in the the words, read the translaservice, can take active steps tion. Bow, stand and sit if to co-create both sacred you are able. Even if you space and sacred time. By can’t hear, see or touch doing this, we distinguish the other participants, you the holidays from other become part of a virtual con- days, just as Shabbat is disgregation when you bring tinguished (kodesh), hofreid_20_009_Hakol Newspaper_ads v2final.pdfas holy 3 2/25/21 10:42

from the other days of the week which are profane (chol). This Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, you have the opportunity to create an atmosphere in your home – a makeshift Temple – that can highlight the holiness of the days. Making your space and this unique moment in time holy, however you see fit, will add a new dimension to your holiday obserAM vance.

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1. Wear holiday clothing It may be tempting to stay in pajamas, but it’s a good idea to dress in a way that will help you feel that the day is special. While the spirit of the holiday does not lay in our clothing, outer garments can have an impact on our inner experience. Some people have a tradition to wear a new shirt on Rosh Hashanah, and a kittel on Yom Kippur. Even if your computer’s camera is turned off and no one else will see what you’re wearing, you will feel the difference.

4. Buy or print a mahzor Try to buy or print the mahzor, or holiday prayer book, that will be used in the service. A printed book or pamphlet will add texture to your experience. Plus, if you have a hard copy, you won’t need to minimize or split screens while you watch a prayer service. Alternatively, set up two screens: one for the text of the machzor, and one for the service itself.

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NEW YEAR 5782 | HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY | SEPTEMBER 2021 13

Couscous Continues from page 4

The vegetables in the recipe are only a suggestion — feel free to play around, just make sure you have a variety of textures and flavors.

Moroccan food is highly seasoned, but not spicy. So you will notice a wide range of spices in this dish, from paprika to cinnamon. I highly recommend seeking out the North African spice blend ras el-hanout. When added at the end of cooking, ras el-hanout adds sweet, earthy and even floral notes to your dish. That’s because it is a mix of many different ingredients including pepper, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, cumin, cardamom pods, rose petals, and grains of paradise. You can find ras el-hanout at a good spice shop, a grocery store with a good spice selection (like Whole Foods, which does carry their own) or online.

Ingredients 3 Tbsp. olive oil 1 large yellow onion, diced 2 garlic cloves, minced 1 Tbsp. tomato paste 2 tomatoes, seeded and diced 2 tsp. cumin 1 tsp. paprika 1 tsp. ground ginger 1 tsp. cinnamon 1/4 tsp. cayenne 2 red peppers, chopped 2 zucchini, halved and cut into wedges 2-3 small turnips, peeled and cut into wedges 1 bunch carrots, peeled and chopped 1 butternut squash, peeled and cubed 4 cups vegetable broth or water 15 oz. can chickpeas, rinsed and

drained 2 tsp. ras el-hanout 2 Tbsp. chopped flat-leaf parsley handful slivered almonds (optional) salt and pepper to taste 1 box instant couscous Directions 1. Heat the olive oil in a large, deep saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

2. Add the garlic and tomatoes and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

Add the tomato paste and spices, and stir to combine. Sauté the mixture for a few additional minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent scorching.

3. Add the red peppers, zucchini, turnips, carrots, and squash, as well as the broth or water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and cover. Simmer until vegetables are tender, about 10-15 minutes.

4. Remove cover and add chickpeas.

Simmer until chickpeas are heated through and stew is thickened, another 5-10 minutes. (May be done ahead up to this point.)

5. Meanwhile, make couscous according to package directions. Remove from heat and cover. Let stand 5 minutes. Remove cover and fluff couscous with a fork to break up any clumps.

6. Just before serving, add the ras el-hanout to the stew. Taste and adjust seasonings.

7. To serve, spread the couscous on a platter or shallow dish with a well in the middle. Spoon the vegetable stew over the couscous. Garnish with chopped parsley and slivered almonds, if using.

Book Review: ‘Not so fast, Max’

By Sean Boyle Special to HAKOL Annette Schottenfeld’s first picture book, “Not So Fast, Max: A Rosh Hashanah Visit with Grandma,” illustrated by Jennifer Kirkham, is about Max and Emily’s Savta, visiting from Israel, teaching them traditions from her childhood as they prepare for Rosh Hashanah.

As the title implies, Max has troubles with being patient, and is constantly asking when they are going to make the caramel apples as promised by Savta. He begins to calm down as he learns new tricks with apples from his Savta and begins to enjoy spending time out in an orchard with her and his sister.

Schottenfeld adds a smattering of Hebrew words and Rosh Hashanah traditions with a glossary and short explanation of Rosh Hashanah at the end of the book. This allows families to add their own stories of childhood traditions and, if desired, go into deeper explanations of Rosh Hashanah traditions.

Schottenfeld is a Master Baker and provides two delicious recipes at the end of the book, “Savta’s Apple Cake,” and “Max’s Caramel Apples.” Schottenfeld’s two children would go every fall with their visiting grandmother to the local apple orchards to select apples and then come home to bake together.

This book is based on those trips.

At her website, www.annetteschottenfeld.com, Schottenfeld has an educator guide and activity sheets for free download.

Recommended for ages 4-10, especially for families looking for new Rosh Hashanah traditions and delicious apple recipes.

Sean Boyle is Congregation Keneseth Israel’s librarian and is also serving as President of the Schools, Synagogues, Centers, and Public Libraries Division of the Association of Jewish Libraries.

Not so fast, Max: A Rosh Hashanah visit with Grandma. (Schottenfeld, Annette & Kirkham, Jennifer, Moosic, PA, Kalaniot Books , 2021, 32p.)

From my family to yours, L’Shana Tova!

Looking forward to serving you in the New Year.

mattformayor.com

14 SEPTEMBER 2021 | HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY | NEW YEAR 5782

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BOOK COVERS COURTESY OF THE PUBLISHERS, KAR-BEN AND APPLES & HONEY PRESS

4 new children’s books to brighten up the Jewish New Year

By Penny Schwartz Jewish Telegraphic Agency Sparkling stars and the light of the full harvest moon comfort a young boy and his older sister as they fall asleep in their family sukkah.

That’s a scene in “Night Lights,” an endearing new illustrated children’s book by Barbara Diamond Goldin, one of the country’s most highly acclaimed Jewish children’s book authors.

It’s one of four new engaging books for kids to usher in the Jewish New Year at a time when holiday traditions are still being challenged due to the coronavirus pandemic. Having to deal with the ongoing stress of COVID uncertainties, families can take pleasure turning the pages of these crisp new reads.

“Night Lights” was published originally over 25 years ago. The characters of the mother and sister are featured more prominently in the new shorter, refreshed text, Diamond Goldin told the Jewish Telegraphic Agency in a phone conversation. Amberin Huq’s brightly colored illustrations are new, too.

This crop of newcomers also features the latest in the popular Sammy Spider series that has delighted kids for years.

The Rosh Hashanah middle grade novel “Rachel’s Roses,” by Ferida Wolff and illustrated by Margeaux Lucas, was named a notable middle grade novel in the Sydney Taylor Book Award for Jewish children’s books. The heartwarming immigrant story, set in the early 20th century, is perfect for ages 7 to 10.

Rosh Hashanah begins on the night of Sept.

6. Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, starts on the evening of Sept. 15.

Up next is Sukkot, the seven-day fall harvest festival, when Jews build small huts at their homes to recall the ancient Israelites who wandered through the desert for 40 years after the exodus from Egypt. The fall holidays wrap up with the celebration of Simchat Torah, when the cycle of reading the Torah begins anew.

A holiday with ancient roots, Sukkot resonates with many issues of the day, Diamond Goldin observed, from its environmental and nature themes to a reminder of the plight of those who live in temporary shelters today, including refugees, a point she makes in her author’s note.

“Sammy Spider’s First Book of Prayers” Sylvia A. Rouss; illustrated by Katherine Janus Kahn Kar-Ben Publishing; ages 3 to 8 Young kids are introduced to daily prayers like the Shema for going to sleep, to blessings for Shabbat and special occasions. Each blessing, explained in lively rhyming verse from the point of view of the friendly Sammy Spider, is written in Hebrew, transliteration and a simple English translation. The blessings recited over Shabbat candles, wine and challah are perfect for Rosh Hashanah, which begins this year on Shabbat. Kids will enjoy spotting Sammy Spider dangling from his web on the brightly colored pages that embellish the book.

“Hillel Builds a House” Shoshana Lepon; illustrated by Angeles Ruiz Kar-Ben Publishing; ages 4-8 Meet Hillel, an enterprising young boy who loves building houses — in trees and even under the basement stairs. But on Jewish holidays, his inventive houses seem to get in everyone’s way. Finally, as Sukkot approaches, Hillel finds his groove. In his orange overalls, standing on a ladder, Hillel is gleeful as he helps his family build a sukkah, where they will eat their meals for seven days.

“Sukkot means hammers and nails and branches and fruits and lots of decorations,” Hillel said happily.

HAPPY

“Night Lights: A Sukkot Story” Barbara Diamond Goldin; illustrated by Amberin Huq Apples & Honey Press; ages 4-8 At the beginning of Sukkot, a young boy named Daniel and his older sister, Naomi, get ready to camp out overnight in the family sukkah for the first time without their grandpa, who has a cold. Readers will soon figure out that Daniel is a little anxious. There’s no electricity, his sister teases him, so he can’t have his night light. He brings his teddy bear, but in the shadows, Daniel imagines scary faces in the squashes that hang as decorations.

As the night grows darker, Naomi realizes she needs a little reassurance, too. Looking up through the sukkah’s branches, the siblings see the glow of the star-filled sky and the bright full moon that coincides with Sukkot. Maybe their ancestors did have night lights in the desert, after all.

The sweet story will strike a chord with many kids who fear the dark. Amberin Huq’s expressive illustrations glow with the golden hues of fall and glisten with the lights of the night.

ROSH HASHANAH! Provident Bank wishes you a happy and prosperous New Year.

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“Worse and Worse on Noah’s Ark” Leslie Kimmelman; illustrated by Vivian Mineker Apples & Honey Press; ages 4 to 8 In this upbeat spin on the biblical story of Noah’s Ark, award-winning author Leslie Kimmelman infuses a kid-friendly Jewish sense of humor. The story imagines how bad things can get when Noah and his family shelter through 40 days of the biblical flood in the ark’s crowded quarters along with pairs of all their animal friends. The story of Noah is read aloud from the Torah in the synagogue two weeks after Simchat Torah.

In “Worse and Worse,” the animals get seasick, peacocks bicker with the zebras and the skunks make quite a stink. As the troubles amass, Noah’s wife and sons complain, “Could things get any worse?” — a refrain that kids can repeat page after page.

Just when readers think the kvetching will never stop, Noah gets the crew working together to fix a leak that threatens them all. They begin to cooperate and care for each other.

Kids will dive in to Mineker’s cartoon-like illustrations of zebras, parrots, growling lions and sloths hanging upside down. An author’s note prompts conversation about empathy.

NEW YEAR 5782 | HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY | SEPTEMBER 2021 15

ROSH HASHANAH sweeter

A new year together.

Ring in the new year with Kosher favorites for your family, including our Kosher Certified Bakery – at GIANT in Tilghman Square

2021