From the other side of the bench by David Seidemann Issue of November 20, 2009/ 3 Cheshvan 5770 When I was a child, I collected baseball cards. In addition to my soda bottle cap … more

Issue of October 15, 2010, 7 Cheshvan 5771 “You have arrived at your destiny.” — Naftali Fertig, as he tried to imitate the voice on the GPS in his father’s car. About four and a half … more

Dear Aviva, I have one married son who lives out of town. My relationship with my daughter-in-law was rocky from the beginning. But over the years we have been able to have a solid relationship and be cordial with each other. Recently, I feel that she isn’t calling me enough. more

The prophet Malachi presents a scenario when the G-d-fearing public presents its goodness to G-d, in contrast to the wicked who felt it was worthless to serve G-d. “At that time, the God-fearing people spoke to one another. G-d listened and heard, and a scroll of remembrance was written at His command concerning those who fear God and those who meditate on His Name.” (Malachi 3:16) more

Among all Jewish holidays perhaps the most festive is Purim. In just about every aspect an atmosphere of joy envelops every activity, from liturgy to culinary. more

Last week NYC Mayor Bloomberg, announced his plans to implement a ban on large sodas (more than 16- ounces) and other sugary drinks in virtually every place but the home. Bloomberg has already implemented a ban on trans fats in NYC restaurants, and a rule that fast food and other chain restaurants publicly post the number of calories in their meals. more

Sukkot is related to the way the Jewish people lived while wandering in the desert for 40 years. As they moved from one place to another they built tents called sukkot that sheltered them. more

The Talmud in Niddah (31a) records that there are three partners in the creation of every human being: the Holy One, a father, and a mother. Scientific advancement has allowed the process to include what some might call an “assist” by medical professionals, but everyone’s genetic makeup comes from one male and one female, while G-d’s contribution makes it all come together. more

This Shabbat we commemorate the start of the Pesach holiday season with Parshat Hachodesh. Next Tuesday marks Rosh Chodesh Nissan. Recently, the Orthodox Union released an interesting book on this subject, “Yerach Tov: Birkat Hachodesh in Jewish Law and Liturgy,” by Rabbi Elchanan Adler of Yeshiva University. more

Some time ago, at a Rosh Chodesh prayer service at the Kotel, things got ugly. more