You: reading this in December. Me: writing this in November, right after the Intergenerational Family Art Workshop. Talmud Torah kids joined with other young artists to create lots of beautiful Hanukkah and Judaic-inspired art. It was a lovely afternoon of hands-on creative learning.

Thanks to everyone who participated and to all the volunteers. First and foremost, I especially want to note the deep, generous energy and contributions of Stephanie Kaner. Our other great helpers were David Adelin, Elaine Adelin, Bella Berliner, Joanne Honigman, Beth Jacobs, Steven Kaner, David Kaner, Miryom Kass, Luna Poplausky, Marjorie Sanua, Jacob Sanua, Debbie Schechtman, and Dan Goldberg.

If you were there, your nose also told you it was Hanukkah time. Latkes! Just before the workshop, Talmud Torah high school students discovered new culinary skills and shared the delicious results with the students in the lower school. The Talmud Torah is in full Hanukkah mode, and we’re looking forward to more festivities on December 9th.

Many kids say Hanukkah is their favorite Jewish holiday, and it’s usually about the gifts they receive. Giving, however, is the other side of getting. Hanukkah provides another opportunity for Jewish kids (and all of us) to give, help, and repair. I think it’s especially important as kids are dazzled by the frenzy of consumer culture. The Talmud Torah is collecting toys and books for others, and we invite you to join our December campaign. Please consider contributing an inexpensive ($10.00 and under) unwrapped toy or book. Gifts can be brought to the EMJC office. Thanks so much!

Audrey