The Chosen Blog

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2011-05-31T10:05:00.000-05:00

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Pop Judaica Joins The ModernTribe

2009-11-07T11:59:00.008-05:00

ModernTribe is very excited to add Pop Judaica and its funny Jewish gifts to ModernTribe's offering of modern design for Jewish lives. We have many exciting plans for our combined stores.

Early 2010 we will integrate the shopping carts so you can shop both stores and check out once.

Now, you can shop in both stores and pay for ground shipping once. Shop ModernTribe within 24 hours of placing your Pop Judaica order and use code SHOPPEDPJ during checkout (in the shopping cart before you click "checkout"). We will ship all your goods in one box! Welcome to ModernTribe: Reach us at 877-324-1818 or contact@moderntribe.com

Top 10 Things To Know About ModernTribe.com

ModernTribe launched in September, 2007 to bring the world No Limit Texas Dreidel
Our mission is to bring you the best and newest in Jewish gifts and modern Judaica while supporting young, Jewish and Israeli designers in bringing their innovative products to market.
ModernTribe is run by Jennie Rivlin Roberts, whose official company title is "Shopkeeper"
Our other team members are Tiffany our warehouse manager and Patrick our Personal Shopper and head of customer service.
We ship internationally and offer Express Shipping options
Gift-wrapping is available - $5 flat fee all items going to one address.
99% of our products are in stock and ship from our warehouse in Atlanta, GA.
We love to communicate with our customers and many of you do through our Twitter account: ModernTribe_Jew
We support the American Jewish culture with active involvement with Jewcy.com, JDub Records, Shemspeed Records, Jewlicious, and Heeb magazine. Hillels across the country, and many, many more organizations participate in our non-profit affiliate program and No Limit Texas Dreidel charity tournament program.
We have a lot of fun running ModernTribe while striving for complete satisfaction for you, our dear customers.
And one more... Enter our Matisyahu Sweepstakes for a chance to win tickets + $$500 shopping spree on ModernTribe.com:

We hope you visit us soon to shop for Modern Judaica and Jewish Gifts!

We've moved!

2009-07-21T13:03:00.002-05:00

Please note that if you are getting The Chosen Blog on your RSS Feed we have a new URL. Please bookmark us at our new home http://www.PopJudaica.com/Blog

Summer Reading Giveaway!

2009-06-23T10:28:00.008-05:00

PopJudaica.com is celebrating summer with a Summer Reading Giveaway - a prize packaged valued at over $100.00 which includes the following books and a Schlep tote bag to schlep them around in!

To enter to win, tell us your favorite Jewish author or Jewish themed book. Leave your answer in the comments section below by Midnight PT Thursday, June 25th. Be sure to also leave your email or twitter handle so we can contact you if you are the winner! Note: This contest is only open to residents of the US and Canada. Be sure to follow us on twitter - we'll be tweeting out the winner!

Cool Jew by Lisa Alcalay Klug. Cool Jew is a must read for every member of the Tribe! The book covers everything Hebraic from womb to tomb, finally putting an end to Christmas tree envy. Short essays, lists, instructional guides, photographs, and original illustrations celebrate Jewish cultural pride with love, enthusiasm, and irreverence.

Bar Mitzvah Disco Remember the year when you turned Lucky 13? The authors of Bar Mitzvah Disco take you on a journey to a parallel universe, where tall girls slow-danced with short boys at arm’s length, suburban break-dance pioneers vied with Lionel Richie fanatics for dance-floor space, and Aunt Edna came ready to mount an assault on the dessert buffet.

Modern Jewish Mom's Guide to Shabbat by Meredith Jacobs.
Written in conversational style from one modern Jewish mom to another, the MJM's Guide is funny and warm, brightly colored and easy to read book, filled with delicious, easy recipes and family art projects, suggested family discussion topics. No matter your level of religious observance, this book appeals to all.

Yom Kippur A Go-Go by Matthue Roth. Yom Kippur A Go-Go is a mind-blowing meeting of pop culture, Orthodox faith, and hipster poetics. With humor and insight, Roth describes the tension between contemporary life and the demands of his Orthodox faith.

My Jesus Year by Benyamin Cohen. Raised as an Orthodox Jew and the son of a rabbi, Benyamin Cohen grew up fascinated by the church across the street from his childhood home. Struck by a crisis of faith, and not long after marrying the converted daughter of a Baptist minister, he decided to see if Jesus could lead him back to Judaism by embarking on an Oz-like journey on which he visited a myriad of denominational churches. In the end, Cohen found that his yarmulke had similar powers as Dorothy's red shoes.

For some other great summer reading ideas, visit us here at Pop Judaica!

Mayim Bialik's Kosher Comeback!

2009-05-26T18:06:00.017-05:00

You probably remember Mayim Bialik for her lead role in the early-1990s NBC television sitcom Blossom. Wonder what she's been up to since? After starring in Blossom she earned a BS from UCLA in 2000 in Neuroscience and in Hebrew and Jewish Studies, and went on to earn a Ph.D. in Neuroscience, also from UCLA. Bialik was a dedicated student leader at UCLA Hillel, leading and starting a women's Rosh Chodesh group, chanting for High Holiday services, and conducting UCLA's Jewish a cappella group. She is currently a board member, co-founder, and chair of Jewish Free Loan Association's Genesis branch, and as an avid student of all things Jewish, she studies Torah on a weekly basis with a study mentor through Partners In Torah.

Lately, Mayim has been making what can best be described as a "Kosher Comeback." It seemed to have started with an innocent appearance of her Blossom doll in Pop Judaica's Passover segment on the Modern Jewish Mom show. Then there was this post on Jewcy, where she was interviewed about her growing level of religious observance. Today, her Jewish wedding is profiled on Jewish Wedding Network, and this Friday she'll be made over by the folks at What Not to Wear. (Shabbos observant Jews: Be sure to set your DVRs!) Word has it that they make sure to dress her modestly on the show. She'll also be playing a frum woman in an upcoming episode of Saving Grace, so stay tuned!

Mayim's interest in Judaism does not seem to be anything new though. We dug up this clip from 1989's Chabad Telethon which proves that even in her Blossom days, she was into mitzvot!

Mayim Bialik is schlepping the schlep tote from PopJudaica.com

Spock's Jewish Roots

2009-05-18T10:51:00.006-05:00

Greetings Trekkies! Did you know that actor Leonard Nimoy, who starred as Star Trek's Mr. Spock, modeled the the famous "Live Long and Prosper" hand salute after the the sign of the Kohen? Watch this interview where he explains the Jewish origins of this Vulcan salute:

Customer Spotlight: A Passover Invitation

2009-04-08T10:07:00.003-05:00

Every once in a while, a special PopJudaica.com customer comes to our attention, and we just have to kvell! That was the case with Meredith O. who contacted us to share the Passover Seder invitation that she had emailed to her friends. We loved it so much, we wanted to share it with you (Just don't go showing up at Meredith's Seder unannounced!)

From: Meredith O
Subject: Invitation: Passover Seder on April 9th
Date: Friday, March 27, 2009, 4:13 PM

Hi All,

The new housemate trio just happens to all be members of the tribe! And well, you know what that means... curly hair, Jewish humor and lots of good food (amongst other things)! And mostly importantly, an awesome Passover Seder.

Liz, Shaine and myself are hosting Passover Seder on the 2nd night of the holiday this year and we'd be delighted if you would join us in retelling the story of the exile from Egypt: our favorite superhero, stories of revenge and calls to action, oy vey and amen!

When: Thursday, April 9th
Time: 6:30pm
Where: Our new house, SF

Please RSVP to let us know if you're coming. Bringing a dish is appreciated, so let us know if you have something in mind or would like to be assigned something.

Lastly, significant others are invited as well, but also let us know if you're able to bring along any of these, should you know of any. Others are also appreciated, but we'll just use the breath spray.

The NJG's of SF --
Meredith, Liz and Shaine

Would you like to be featured in our next Customer Spotlight? Email us at Info(at)PopJudaica.com with customer spotlight in the subject line!

Barbie, Ken, and Moses!

2009-04-07T09:54:00.003-05:00

We were recently featured in Modern Jewish Mom's Passover segment on The Jewish Channel (TJC) It highlights some of our quirky Passover traditions. Do you have any special Passover traditions of your own? Share them with us in the comments section!

Manischewitz Cook-Off: And the winner is....

2009-03-04T14:10:00.008-05:00

A few weeks ago, we had the pleasure of attending the annual The Simply Manischewitz Cook-Off event in New York City where Amy Siegal of Clifton, New Jersey was proclaimed the winner for her Mediterranean Falafel Sliders. (Not to brag or anything, but we knew once we tasted them that she had the winning recipe. Her falafel sliders were SOOOO good!)

Well, we got a hold of the winning recipe and wanted to share it with you. Manischewitz has also agreed to give away their Manischewitz Falafel Mix (the secret ingredient!) and a bunch of other great Manischewitz products to one lucky Chosen Blog reader. All you have to do is leave the name of your favorite Manischewitz product in the comments section below by Midnight 3/16/09. And without further a do, here is the winning recipe:

Marvelous Mediterranean Falafel Sliders

1 envelope Manischewitz falafel mix
2 lb.Ground turkey*
1 cup Mint leaves, chopped
1 TBSP Extra Virgin Olive oil
1 Large Bermuda onion, thinly sliced
1 can Ready to serve Tehina
12 3-inch rolls
1 head Bibb lettuce, washed and patted dry
Manischewitz non-stick cooking spray
Ground black pepper Water

1.In a large mixing bowl, combine falafel mix, turkey, mint leaves, black pepper to taste and 3-4 tablespoons cold water to moisten. Shape mixture into 12 small patties. Heat a grill pan or large skillet over medium-high heat. Spray with nonstick cooking spray. Grill patties for 3-5 minutes per side, until no longer pink in center. Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium high heat. Add olive oil and Bermuda onion. Sauté for 10-12 minutes, until softened and golden. In a small bowl, stir together tehina with ¼ cup water. Add more water to make a thinner sauce, if desired, set aside. Heat rolls in a 250 degree F oven for 5 minutes or until warm.

2. To assemble slider; on a plate, place bottom of roll, lettuce leaf, cooked patty, onions, 1 tbsp tehina, and top of roll. Garnish with additional chopped mint leaves. Serve remaining tehina sauce on the side for dipping.
*You can use regular and light varieties of ground turkey however the regular variety works best in this recipe.

Enjoy!

One Kippah, Two Kippahs, Three Kippahs, Autograph!

2009-03-01T21:45:00.002-05:00

(photo credit: seattlepi.com)

It was Mae West who said "Too much of a good thing can be wonderful," and in the case of yarmulkes, for one man at least, this couldn't be more accurate.

Jonathan Challet, a Seattle kippah connoisseur, is known for his collection of unusual yarmulkes. We know what you're thinking, too many kippahs can be overwhelming -- you get them at bar mitzvahs, weddings, and a dozen other happy events in the Jewish calendar. But Challet has managed to make his kippah collection one that isn't meant to be stored away. No, he doesn't wear them, he keeps them in his car, on the off chance he might run into someone famous, and boy has he: the eclectic collection of signatures on the head coverings includes Barack Obama, Elvis Costello, Uma Thurman, Ray Allen and Annie Leibowitz.

As a result, 32 of his kippahs are now on display in Seattle at the University of Washington's Odegaard Undergraduate Library from through April 30. It's definitely a case of religion meeting culture meeting politics meeting art colliding with chutzpah!

I'm guessing Challet is probably going to start a trend. We have our Obamicas in hand just in case we happen to run into the man himself, but if that doesn't pan out there's always the Poker Yarmulke, which we might be able to get Jennifer Tilly (actress AND poker champ!) to sign, or maybe once the Obama girls settle on a dog, we can get the presidential pooch to put down a paw on the Dog Yarmulke and Tallis?

Mishloach Manot Twitter Exchange

2009-02-26T13:22:00.004-05:00

The conversation on Twitter turned to mischloach manot (aka Purim Baskets) today and we thought it would be fun to start a mishloach manot exchange with our Twitter friends! (Kind of like a chain mail letter)

Here's how it works: Leave your Twitter handle in the comments section below by Midnight, Tuesday, March 3rd. PopJudaica.com will send mishloach manot to the first person who leaves their twitter handle in the comments section. Everyone else will send mishloach manot to the person whose handle is directly below them on the list. Be sure to follow the person on Twitter who appears above and below your handle, so that you can exchange addresses via DM. Please make sure that the mishloach manot that you send to your Twitter recipient is certified kosher.

Read more about the tradition of Mishloach Manot here.

You must have a Twitter account to participate in this exchange. Sign up for Twitter here.

Have fun!

The Chicken Soup Challenge!

2009-02-25T12:32:00.005-05:00

The weather outside is frightful. Isn't the thought of chicken soup so delightful?!

PopJudaica.com is proud to be a sponsor of NJOP'S Better Than Your Bubbie's Chicken Soup Challenge - a search for the best chicken soup recipe in America!

The National Jewish Outreach Program (NJOP) is looking for both traditional and unusual formulas of this famous elixir. So whether it is your grandmother’s famous recipe or your version of chicken soup fusion, NJOP wants to taste your Jewish penicillin!

Cooks across America are invited to submit their original recipes for a chance to win great prizes including a $100 gift certificate to PopJudaica.com, a FREE trip to Israel, a kitchen décor consultation with Art de Triomphe interior design and other great prizes. Five finalists will be selected under the direction of celebrity chef Jeff Nathan, the executive chef of New York-based Abigael’s and their soups will be tasted and judged by a prestigious panel of judges!

For more information and to enter, visit the contest's official website.

The Brodway Purim Shpiel

2009-02-12T14:13:00.006-05:00

So nu? What are your plans for Purim?
We can't think of a more fun way to celebrate the holiday than the Broadway Purim Shpiel! This awesome event which benefits Taglit-Birthright Israel is in its 5th year of production. This year, the event is hosted by comedian Jackie Hoffman and stars the following Broadway notables:

Jordan Gelber, All My Sons
Mary Faber, Avenue Q
Lorin Lattaro, Guys & Dolls
Marc Kudish, 9 to 5
Logan Lipton, Wicked
Jared Gertner, 25th Annual Spelling Bee
Noah Wiesberg, South Pacific
Carly Jibson, Hairspray

Get 10% off your tickets to the show with the code "POPJ" when you order tickets.

Going Green For Tu B'Shvat!

2009-01-30T12:57:00.005-05:00

Tu B'Shvat, which falls on February 8th is know as the New Year for Trees. Many Jewish organizations, including Hazon are using Tu B'Shvat as an opportunity to spread the message of going green. If each one of us makes just a small change in our lives, we can contribute to making this world a better place. Isn't that what Tikkun Olam is all about?

In the comments section below, tell us what you've done or plan to do to be more green, or leave us a great tip on how to do it! Enter by Feb 8th, and one lucky winner will receive an eco-friendly Schlep Tote Bag from Popjudaica.com. (Be sure to leave a link to your blog or twitter, facebook, or myspace accounts so we can contact you if you are the winner!)

How to Get Wax Off Your Menorah

2008-12-29T18:53:00.005-05:00

Well, Chanukah is officially over. Which means it is time for the decorations to come down, and for all of us to focus on cleaning the wax off our menorahs! It's a task that we all seem to dread, which is why we love the product Wax-Off. With just a spritz, Wax-Off spray prevents the wax drippings from sticking to your menorah in the first place. Although it may be too late for this year, Wax-Off is now on sale at PopJudaica.com so now is the time to buy it for next year.

As for how to get the wax off this year's menorah? If you have any good tips, please share them in the comments section below!

8 Days of Giveaways: Nice Jewish Guys Calendar Giveaway!

2008-12-28T09:10:00.008-05:00

**ENTRY FOR THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED**

PopJudaica.com is celebrating Chanukah with 8 Days of Giveaways! Each day this week, we'll be gifting one lucky blog reader with a special Chanukah gift. As Chanukah ends tonight, this will be our last giveaway!

Today's prize is the Nice Jewish Guys Calendar. Firemen and Chippendale's have had their spotlight long enough! This Nice Jewish Guys Calendar turns the spotlight on the underrated characteristic that pecs and tight buns can't deliver...niceness. Featuring a different mensch for every month of the calendar year; meet Ira the businessman and Noah, who doesn't look Jewish, but is. The calendar is marked with the Jewish holidays too!

To enter to win the Nice Jewish Guys Calendar, tell us what "Nice Jewish Guy" you would nominate to appear in next year's version of the calendar. Leave your nomination in the comments section below by midnight PT tonight 12/28/08. Be sure to have your comment link to your twitter, blog, facebook profile, etc. so we can contact you if you are the winner!

**ENTRY FOR THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED**

8 Days of Giveaways:Say-a-Blessing Keychain Giveaway!

2008-12-27T17:08:00.001-05:00

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PopJudaica.com is celebrating Chanukah with 8 Days of Giveaways! Each day this week, we'll be gifting one lucky blog reader with a special Chanukah gift.

Today's prize is the Say-a-Blessing Keychain. With just a touch of the button, this pocket sized keychain recites one of 10 blessings of your choice including the blessings over challah, wine, and washing of the hands. Also included are the prayers of "Modeh Ani" and the "Shema." The blessing is first stated in Hebrew and then translated into English, leaving you enough time after each word to repeat the blessing.

To enter to win the Say-a-Blessing Keychain, tell us about something you consider to be a blessing in your life. So many of us focus on the negatives in life. Here's an opportunity to focus on what we are thankful for! Leave your comment below by midnight PT tonight 12/27/08.
**ENTRY FOR THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED**

8 Days of Giveaways: Kroc Kippah Giveaway!

2008-12-26T00:01:00.007-05:00

**ENTRY FOR THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED**

PopJudaica.com is celebrating Chanukah with 8 Days of Giveaways! Each day this week, we'll be gifting one lucky blog reader with a special Chanukah gift.

Today's prize is the Kroc Kippah. Now you can coordinate your shoes with your kippah! The Kroc Kippah is the coolest kippah we've ever come across. It comes with 4 sports charms which can be interchanged with "jibbitz" from your own collection.

To enter to win the Kroc Kippah, tell us - if you were to create your own kippah - what would it look like? Leave your idea in the comments section below by midnight PT tonight 12/26/08.

**ENTRY FOR THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED**

8 Days of Giveaways:Fan Favorite Giveaway!

2008-12-25T00:01:00.016-05:00

**ENTRY FOR THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED**

PopJudaica.com is celebrating Chanukah with 8 Days of Giveaways! Each day this week, we'll be gifting one lucky blog reader with a special Chanukah gift.

Today's prize is entirely up to you! That's right - we are allowing you to choose your own prize from PopJudaica.com! Take a look at the website, and tell us what your favorite product is from PopJudaica.com in the comments section below. Today's giveaway winner will win the prize of their choice! (How's that for a fifth night of Chanukah gift?)

**ENTRY FOR THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED**

Chanukah Craft Project: The Star Wars Dreidel

2008-12-24T11:00:00.000-05:00

Oh how we love a good craft project! When a customer of ours (Thanks Daniel B!) pointed out this DYI Star Wars Dreidel (aka "The Droidel") we couldn't resist sharing it with you! After all, wasn't George Lucas's Star Wars inspired by Biblical stories? And can't you already hear the song "Droidel, Droidel, Droidel" in your head?

Sure, you could make a dreidel out of clay, but this version (using a PDF printout, cardboard or paper, and a pencil) is a lot more fun and a bit less dirty. Click Here For Directions.

8 Days of Giveaways!Jewish Fortune Cookie Giveaway

2008-12-24T00:01:00.005-05:00

**ENTRY FOR THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED**

PopJudaica.com is celebrating Chanukah with 8 Days of Giveaways! Each day this week, we'll be gifting one lucky blog reader with a special Chanukah gift.

Today's prize is the Jewish Fortune Cookies in honor of our love of eating Chinese Food on Christmas! This Jewish Fortune Cookie "take out" box includes 8 individually wrapped fortune cookies filled with Jewish folk sayings, proverbs, and witticisms. Even if Bubbie doesn't make it to dinner, these cookies will provide words of wisdom in her absence.

The 4th night of Chanukah also falls on Christmas Eve. To enter to win the Jewish Fortune Cookies, tell us about your plans for tonight. Will you be attending an event, or having Chinese food dinner? Let us know your plans in the comments section below by midnight PT tonight 12/24/09.

**ENTRY FOR THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED**

8 Days of Giveaways! No Limit Texas Dreidel Giveaway

2008-12-23T00:01:00.007-05:00

**ENTRY FOR THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED**

PopJudaica.com is celebrating Chanukah with 8 Days of Giveaways! Each day this week, we'll be gifting one lucky blog reader with a special Chanukah gift.

Today's prize is the No Limit Texas Dreidel Game. This ain't your Bubbie's old dreidel game! This clever new version combines the traditional Chanukah game with No Limit Texas Hold Em. Enjoyable for both adults and children over the age of nine who love poker!

We want to know - if you were to combine two of your favorite games, which games would they be? To enter to win, leave your response in the comments section below by midnight PT tonight 12/23/09.

**ENTRY FOR THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED**

8 Days of Giveaways! Menorah Cork Giveaway

2008-12-22T00:01:00.009-05:00

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PopJudaica.com is celebrating Chanukah with 8 Days of Giveaways! Each day this week, we'll be gifting one lucky blog reader with a special Chanukah gift.

Today's prize is the Menorah Cork. Wondering what to do with all those empty bottles of Manischwitz? Now you can turn it in to a menorah! It's possible with this Menorah Cork which fits into any standard wine bottle. (We also like to use He'brew Beer and Jones Soda bottles!)

**ENTRY FOR THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED**

Enter to win the Menorah Cork by telling us about your favorite holiday beverage! (It can be alcoholic, non-alcoholic - whatever gets you in to the holiday spirit. You can even share cocktail recipes!) Let us know your drink of choice in the comments section below by Midnight PT tonight 12/22/09.

Happy Chanukah!

2008-12-21T18:00:00.000-05:00

8 Days of Giveaways! First Prize: Schlep Tote

2008-12-21T00:01:00.005-05:00

**ENTRY FOR THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED**

PopJudaica.com is celebrating Chanukah with 8 Days of Giveaways! Each day this week, beginning today, we'll be gifting one lucky blog reader with a special Chanukah gift.

The first prize is a Schlep Tote bag. Eco-friendly and uber chic, this tote will have all your friends kvelling!

To enter to win, leave your favorite Yiddish word in the comments section below by midnight PT tonight 12/21/08. We'll pick a winner at random and notify the winning entry via email.

**ENTRY FOR THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED**

Planning a Chanukah Party Part II: Decorations, Drinks, Games & Nosh!

2008-12-13T00:38:00.007-05:00

Chanukah begins this Sunday! Have you got a Chanukah or Holiday Party in the works? In our last post we offered up some Chanukah jams to set the tone for your celebration. This time, we are focusing on all the other elements - decorations, drinks, games, and of course nosh!

We are LOVING Jones Soda's Chanukah 4 Pack featuring flavors like Latke, Apple Sauce, Chocolate Coins (yum!), and Jelly Doughnut. It is the perfect Chanukah party drink, and best yet, Jones Soda is Kosher!

For a fun alcoholic beverage, try The Manischewitz Sangria recipe by our friend and Schlep Tote designer Sari Victoria. This drink is always a huge hit at parties. Once you've emptied your Manischewitz bottle, pop in the Menorah Cork. Voila! You've got instant party decor, as well as a functioning menorah.

Speaking of decor, if you're planning to have non-Jewish folk at your Chanukah party, are planning a generic holiday party (or celebrate Chrismukkah) check out the Tree Menorah. It will make everyone feel included. Trim your Chanukah Bush with menorah string lights and Dreidel Hustler String Dolls.

This year, Chanukah coincides with Christmas. Are you planning to have the traditional Chinese food dinner on Christmas this year? Then our Jewish Fortune Cookies are a must. Filled with Yiddish proverbs and wittisisms, these cookies are always a party hit. As are Mashuga Nuts, the cinnamon sugar covered meringue pecans. YUM.

Lastly, you'll want to have games and favors! No Limit Texas Dreidel is the hottest Chanukah gift this year. This clever game combines the tradition of dreidel with No Limit Texas Poker. The Star of David Hologram Glasses are our favorite party favor. They turn any bright source of light (including menorah candles!) into glowing Jewish stars.

Have any other great party planning tips? Feel free to share in the comments section below!

Planning a Chanukah Party Part 1: Music

2008-12-10T13:02:00.007-05:00

Do you know what we love best about the holidays? All the parties! If you are throwing a Chanukah or holiday bash, we're here to help you with your planning! There are a million components to making your festival of lights a true festival -- food, drinks, decorations, and games, but first we'll start with the music. We're offering up some suggestions for making sure your party goers are moving and grooving like a life-size dreidel.

A (sort of) old standby is a disc by The LeeVees -- Hanukkah Rocks. The band is the work of Guster's Adam Gardner and some other indie-rock hipsters. You can't go wrong with "Latke Clan," "Goyim Friends," and "Applesauce vs. Sour Cream," an homage to the ages-old debate about what to pair with your latkes. Here's a taste, with "How Do You Spell Channukkahh."

If you're into some more kid-friendly songs, check out Mama Doni , who has a holiday EP available on her website with free downloads this month, including the songs "Latke Man" and "La Vida Dreidel." Mama Doni's tunes are definitely upbeat and good for making sure your party stays up and alive, no matter the age of your partiers. Mama Doni's "The Funky Gold Menorah," below, is a trippy-fun tune!

If you're looking for some variety in your Chanukah tunes, the new album by Erran Baron Cohen, famed brother of Borat (also known as Sascha Baron Cohen), might be just right. Erran's previous musical stylings appear in the work of the band Zohar, but this new CD -- Songs in the Key of Hanukkah -- is full of Chanukah toe-tappers. The stellar thing about Erran's new work is that he teams up with the likes of Y-Love and Idan Raichel. "Dreidel" (found below) is an intense, rock-out version of the classic song, and the tunes cover as many genres as there are options on how to spell Chanukah (or is it Hanukkah or Hanukah ...). "Look to the Light" reminds me of something out of the 1960s, "Rock of Ages" has a very light rock feel to it, and many of the tracks are superloaded with Hebrew and Yiddish lyrics. Basically, no matter the preferences of your guests, Erran Baron Cohen has made an album that anyone and everyone can jive to on Chanukah.

Of course, for those classic music lovers, there's the traditional favorite -- Adam Sandler singing the "Chanukah Song." After all, Sandler paved the way for the aforementioned musicians to belt love for the latke noshing holiday, right?

Whatever tunes you pick up for your Chanukah festivities, make sure you stay tuned for future installments on preparing for your party. And be sure to check out Erran Baron Cohen and Y-Love on Conan O'Brien tonight!

Chanukah Events in Your Hood!

2008-12-09T15:40:00.004-05:00

Chanukah is less than two weeks away, and we can already feel the excitement! Last year we posted about cool Chanukah events happening all across the country. This year, it's your turn! Know about a great public menorah lighting, or a cool Chanukah party? Leave a comment sharing the details of an exciting Chanukah event happening in your city. Note that these should be events that are open to the public so all can attend!

Chanukah VS. Hanukkah

2008-11-30T10:49:00.000-05:00

How do you spell Hanukkah?..or is it Chanukah? Each year we run in to the same dilemma at PopJudaica.com! How do we refer to "The Festival of Lights" on the website? Is it spelled "Hanukkah" or is it spelled "Chanukah"? While most Jewish organizations refer to it as "Chanukah," most retailers and Hallmark cards refer to the holiday as "Hanukkah." We want to know what you think!
Take our survey and cast your vote for the preferred spelling on the right sidebar.

Press! Bust Magazine

2008-11-28T13:48:00.003-05:00

It's a rare occasion when a mainstream magazine features Hanukkah gifts, so we were delighted to see our Happy Hanukkah card with woman spinning dreidel in Bust Magazine's holiday gift guide this month! Be sure to visit PopJudaica.com for more hip and modern Hanukkah cards. This is not the stuff you find in Hallmark!

Calling all Brooklyn Bubbelehs!

2008-11-25T16:00:00.002-05:00

PopJudaica.com is traveling offline this holiday season! If you are in the neighborhood, please stop by the Brooklyn Flea's Gifted Holiday Market where we'll be hawking PopJudaica.com's hip Hanukkah gifts! It's a great way to save on shipping and say "hello" to us in person!

Location:
Brooklyn Masonic Temple in Fort Greene, Brooklyn
317 Clermont Avenue (at Lafayette Avenue)
Sundays Nov. 30, Dec. 7, 14 & 21, from 11am to 6pm
Admission is free. Bring your gelt - it's cash only!

Light the menorah and pass the candle!

2008-11-24T12:20:00.001-05:00

Remember our awesome PopJudaica.com Chanukah video from last year? Well our friend William Levin of Shabot 6000 and The Jewish Robot has done it again! This year he and his partner-in-crime Michelle Citrin have come up with Pass The Candle. This participatory video project allows you to submit footage of yourself lighting a menorah. William and Michelle will then string the segment together to form a worldwide chain of menorah lightings! Cool, huh? Go ahead, pass the candle.

The results are in!

2008-11-04T15:57:00.007-05:00

The results are in and we have to say, it was a landslide! This election season, our customers cast their votes with their yarmulkes. Obamicas accounted for 80% of yarmulke sales, while McCippahs accounted for 20% of political yarmulke sales at PopJudaica.com.

There's still time to get your hands on the candidate kippahs! Come tomorrow, they'll be collectors' items!

Trick or Treif?

2008-10-31T11:32:00.004-05:00

After a month of three-day weeks, festive meals, and thoughtful fasts, the holidays are over and those of us at PopJudaica.com are recovering. We have nearly two months until the next Jewish holiday -- Chanukah -- and Thanksgiving is nearly a month away, so that means we're in the clear. No more thinking about what to wear or what to eat, visiting family or taking part in festive parties that knock us out for days, right?

Wrong! Thankfully (or not?) a JTA news story has reminded us that today, Halloween, is a whole different sort of enigma for the Jewish community, especially this year when the holiday falls on Shabbat. It's a debate of great proportion between traditions: "challah vs. candy, the Sabbath Queen vs. the Pumpkin King, blue homes vs. orange."

The bonuses to the holiday are the sales on candy the next day, which -- kosher or not -- can benefit us all. But trying to convince your kids or friends to do Shabbat instead of Halloween can prove difficult. So a Halloween-themed Shabbat dinner? For some of us, we'll just buy our Purim costumes at post-Halloween sales and anticipate the distant dressed-up holiday.

So whether you're staying in tonight for Shabbat dinner, going to synagogue, dressing up as your favorite politician or television personality, or if you're indifferent all around, there is an option outside toiling over the Great Pumpkin/Great Big Meal debate. The activity? Making a Pumpkin Challah! Martha Stewart, the Queen of "Good Things" has this recipe on her website, and we'd like to share it with you for this occasion:

PUMPKIN CHALLAH RECIPE

Makes 2 loaves

* 2 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast, (1 1/2 packages)
* 1 cup warm water (100 degrees to 110 degrees)
* 3/4 cup egg yolks, (11 to 12 large eggs), plus 1 large egg yolk for glaze
* 1 tablespoon salt
* 2 tablespoons canola oil, plus more for bowl
* 1/4 cup honey
* 2 cups homemade Pumpkin Puree, or one 15-ounce can
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
* 1/4 teaspoon allspice
* 8 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting

Directions

1. Proof the yeast: Place 1/2 cup warm water in a small bowl, and sprinkle yeast over it. Stir to combine, and let sit until mixture becomes foamy, about 10 minutes.
2. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine egg yolks with remaining 1/2 cup warm water. In a medium bowl, combine salt, canola oil, honey, pumpkin, cinnamon, ginger, and allspice. Replace paddle attachment with dough-hook attachment, and add the pumpkin mixture to the mixer bowl; combine. Add the yeast mixture, stirring until combined.
3. Slowly add flour, 1 cup at a time, until all the flour is incorporated into dough. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured work surface, and knead the dough by hand for 10 minutes. Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
4. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured work surface, punch down the dough, and then form it into two 8-inch loaves. Place the loaves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover with a kitchen towel, and let rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
5. While the dough is rising, heat the oven to 350º. Mix remaining egg yolk with 1 tablespoon water. Brush the loaves with the egg glaze, and bake until golden brown, about 50 minutes. Let cool on a wire rack, and serve.

How spending a year with Jesus made me a better Jew

2008-10-30T14:45:00.000-05:00

The following post is by guest blogger Benyamin Cohen, author of the new book, “My Jesus Year: A Rabbi's Son Wanders the Bible Belt in Search of His Own Faith”. We asked Benyamin to give The Chosen Blog readers a little taste of what we can expect from his book. Here's what he had to say...

I’m a rabbi’s son. Not just any rabbi’s son, but the rabbi’s son. Forgive me, father, for I have sinned. I took everything you taught me, flushed it down the toilet, and married a minister’s daughter. Wait, it gets better.

I’ve spent the past year going to a different church every Sunday. As if that wasn’t heresy enough, I threw in some monks, a Christian rock concert, missionizing with Mormons and, oh yeah, celebrating Christmas with my new in-laws. One year ago this month, on the day before Yom Kippur, I took my wife’s evangelical grandmother to a Christian archaeology exhibit. Repentance, atonement, the furthest things from my mind.

But a funny thing happened on my way to exploring Christianity. It made me a better Jew.

I obviously don't want to give away the whole story. And, of course, you can buy the book (subliminal message) right here at PopJudaica.com.

But to whet your appetite, I've compiled the following list: Five places you wouldn’t expect a rabbi’s son to go:

1. To a Christian wrestling match: To be fair, this was Ultimate Christian Wrestling where “good” wrestlers did battle against “evil” wrestlers. Fallen wrestlers, I kid you not, are actually resurrected at these matches. And you thought Rowdy Roddy Piper was weird.

2. In the mosh pit at a Christian rock concert: I’m not a concert kind of a guy. I don’t enjoy loud music, smoky joints, or – to be perfectly honest – any activity involving long periods of standing. But jamming with Jesus proved to be a pretty inspirational experience. Even if it did convince me to change all my car radio buttons to Christian rock stations. It gives Judas Priest a whole new meaning.

3. On Jesus’ JumboTron: While attending a Baptist megachurch in suburban Georgia, the camera operators thought it was a good idea to focus in on the one Jew in the house among the 15,000 dancing faithful – thereby ensuring my fate as the proverbial Wicked Son in the eyes of my rabbinic father.

4. At a monastery hanging out with 48 monks: Trying to clear my head from this holy headache spending 12-months church-hopping from denomination to denomination, I figured I should relax on 2,000 serene acres with a fraternity of men who have devoted themselves to peace, God, and loving kindness. If only I could pull myself away from my BlackBerry.

5. In a Confession booth: After a year of going to churches every Sunday, I did what any good Jewish boy would do – go to Confession. Riddled with guilt and curiosity, I told a Catholic priest my deepest, darkest secrets. Well, except for the small part about me being Jewish. I guess I’ll have to go back and confess for that sin another time. Maybe that’s the sequel...

For those of you who buy the book at PopJudaica.com, I would love to get some feedback and hear your thoughts. So please feel free to add your opinion to the comments section of this post!

***
Benyamin Cohen is the author of the new book “My Jesus Year” (HarperCollins, 2008). It was released the day before Yom Kippur. You can visit Benyamin's personal website at MyJesusYear.com and buy the book at PopJudaica.com.

Vote for PopJudaica.com!

2008-10-30T13:00:00.001-05:00

While the presidential election rages on, there's another election going on!

We'd like to ask our dear customers to take a moment to vote for PopJudaica.com! The site has been nominated in both the "Most Innovative" and "Wacky" business idea categories in a contest hosted by StartUp Nation. Please support us in the contest by voting here:

We appreciate your support!

Introducing G-dcast

2008-10-23T08:23:00.004-05:00

You've heard of a podcast, how about a G-dcast? Each week, G-dcast presents a cartoon depicting the story that Jews are reading in the Torah each week (aka the Parsha of the week) Check out a different 4 minute cartoon each week - some tell stories, some sing country songs...and then there's the hip hoppers, too. New G-dcast episodes drop on Mondays. Created by the designer of the Jews for Jeter and Yo Semite t-shirts, this is the most innovative Jewish site we've come by in a long time! Mazel Tov!

Learn Hebrew by Hanukkah!

2008-10-17T12:20:00.000-05:00

Were you sitting in synagogue this year thinking "boy, it would have been nice to be able to follow along." Well, if the High Holidays have sparked your interest in learning Hebrew, then you should take advantage of Read Hebrew America!

Read Hebrew America offers you the chance to learn Hebrew for FREE. Yes, FREE. In only five 1-1/2 hour weekly sessions, participants learn to read Hebrew in a friendly class setting. Just think, you'll be reading Hebrew by Hanukkah! Classes are offered all across the country, just visit the website to find a class near you. Sign up now, classes start soon!

For some other fun Hebrew learning tools, visit PopJudaica.com for the Alef Bet Magnets for kids and Alef Bet Flashcards for people of all ages.

Looking to learn the Hebrew prayers? We're gaga over the Say-a-blessing Keychain which recites the prayers in both Hebrew and English and offers you the chance to repeat and learn.

Won't it be nice to be able to follow along? You know it will :)

Happy Succot!

2008-10-13T16:08:00.000-05:00

Thinking Pink!Interview with Rochelle Shoretz of Sharsheret

2008-10-09T20:11:00.010-05:00

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, PopJudaica.com is doing a couple of special things in order to raise funds and provide information and raise awareness of the disease.

Continue reading for an interview with Rochelle Shoretz, who at age 28 was diagnosed with breast cancer. Her experience as an observant Jew afflicted by breast cancer led her to create Sharsheret, an organization that provides culturally sensitive support for Jewish women affected by the disease.

After you read the interview, head over to PopJudaica.com and pick up a pink item -- 20 percent of purchase proceeds will be donated to Sharsheret during the month of October!

To start off, we have to know: The idea for this organization arose when you were in the midst of treatment in 2001. Was there a specific event or instance that made something spark the idea to create Sharsheret? Or was it a building up of events?

Rochelle Shoretz: From the moment I was diagnosed, my goal was to find another young, Jewish woman living with breast cancer with whom I could speak. I had so many NON-medical questions that needed to be addressed: How would I care for my young boys during treatment? How best to prepare for the High Holy days that were soon approaching? And when I was finally connected to another young woman (her name is Lauryn, and she has served on Sharsheret's Board of Directors since its founding), it became clear that we somehow needed to let other young women know that we were out there and available to provide support. At the time, a very kind journalist from the Jewish Week was working on a story about my work in the legal field, and he offered to help publicize if I could get the ball rolling on this "organization" in time for the publication of his story. It was a race against the clock, but Sharsheret was founded in time to be included in that article.

CB: How did you manage to cope with everything while getting Sharsheret rolling? Were there others outside your family who helped? Or were you solo in the beginning?

RS: Sharsheret was a group effort from its inception. My then-husband encouraged its founding, reassuring me that he would get to heaven on my coattails. Lauryn was an inspiration, and then spent hours helping with all of the leg work required to get an organization off the ground -- making phone calls, stuffing envelopes, planning strategy. My friend Sara helped organized some of the very first Sharsheret outreach events. The community -- and particularly my own home town of Teaneck, NJ -- responded to the need and pitched in, offering their time, their networks, their contributions. Although I'm often seen as the face of Sharsheret, the reality is that there are thousands of Sharsheret angels who helped grow the organization.

CB: How did you come about the name for the organization? (Sharsheret is Hebrew for "chain.")

RS: This is going to sound "hokey" -- and I'm not generally a "hokey" person -- but the truth is, the name "Sharsheret" came to me in a dream. While we rushed to pull the organization together in time for the publication of the article I described, we were missing one key ingredient: a name! I think the last time I heard the word "Sharsheret" used before that dream was in a Yeshiva day school class. I woke up knowing that it was right. Our volunteers are called "Links" and our goal is to connect women with each other, like links in a chain.

CB: Is there something unique about the experience of breast cancer for the Jewish woman -- be she old or young?

RS: Yes! While women of all backgrounds share common experiences during breast cancer, we think it is critical to acknowledge some of the unique concerns of Jewish women. First, the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes responsible for hereditary breast cancer and ovarian cancer are much more common in Jewish women of Ashkenazi descent (it is estimated that 1 in 40 Jewish women of Ashkenazi descent carry mutations in these genes compared to 1 in 345 in the general population), making us a critical group for research studies and generating a series of questions for families affected by BRCA1 and 2 mutations. Wearing a wig, which is commonly associated with marriage in Orthodox communities, can make chemotherapy even more trying for women who are not married or of a different Jewish background. Jewish holidays, like Rosh Hashanah or Yom Kippur, can be challenging times to reflect on life and death. And the significance of fertility in a community that places tremendous emphasis on family and parenting becomes heightened when compromised by the effects of breast cancer treatment.

CB: Of your many outstanding programs -- outreach, education, etc -- which do you think has been the most successful or inspirational?

RS: It's difficult to identify one program that is the "most" successful or the "most" inspirational because every program at Sharsheret is borne of personal experience. We create each program in response to the needs of our callers, and therefore each breast cancer survivor or family member who finds Sharsheret praises the success of the program that meets his or her critical need. I would say that the most gratifying element of all of Sharsheret's programs is that the breast cancer survivor herself can become a source of support for others through the organization, turning what was once a devastating diagnosis into an empowering opportunity to help others.

CB: I think all of us know someone touched by breast cancer, so how can we become involved in Sharsheret or help out with the organization's efforts?

RS: During the past seven years, we have had a tremendous outpouring of offers to volunteer - so much so that we created a position at Sharsheret to help match volunteers with our programs. Our Volunteer Program Coordinator, who can be reached toll-free at 866-474-2774, will identify meaningful opportunities for anyone - men, women, and children - to become a part of Sharsheret's efforts. Whether it is organizing "Team Sharsheret" in a local breast cancer run, distributing brochures at local hospitals and cancer centers, or organizing a Bar or Bat Mitzvah project as part of a family celebration, there are so many ways those across the country are helping us share Sharsheret with others.

CB: It seems that Sharsheret is an ever-growing organization, what do you see as the future of the program?

RS: We are currently in the midst of a critical strategic planning process, working with an outside consultant, our staff, our constituents, and our Board of Directors to shape Sharsheret's growth over the next three to five years. Sharsheret has been such a success that we are asked often to expand in many directions. We're all as excited as the rest of the community to help identify the most meaningful path for growth in the years ahead.

CB: What to you has been the most rewarding part of founding Sharsheret? What would you like our readers to know about the organization that might pique their interest amid the High Holiday season?

RS: Personally, the most meaningful aspect of founding Sharsheret has been the impact it has had on my own children -- teaching them, firsthand, that we can use life's challenges as opportunities to help others. And I think that's the part that resonates with the rest of the Jewish community as well. Together, we've grown a small group of committed breast cancer survivors into a national organization helping thousands of women and their families, educating communities, providing critical resources to those who, before Sharsheret, did not have a meaningful avenue for support. I think the High Holiday season and Breast Cancer Awareness Month (October each year) couldn't be more perfectly timed. Both are opportunities for deep reflection and prayers for happiness and continued health. The entire Sharsheret community thanks you all -- the founders and supporters of PopJudaica.com -- for all that you have done since Sharsheret's founding to aid in our efforts to support Jewish women and families facing breast cancer, and we share our best wishes for happiness and health during this meaningful time.

To find out more about Sharsheret, visit Sharsheret.org and to support this incredible organization, and Shop for Sharsheret at PopJudaica.com!

Rochelle Shoretz was interviewed by Chavi Edwards.

The Chosen Shoe

2008-10-08T10:54:00.004-05:00

When you're in synagogue this Yom Kippur, be sure to check out your fellow worshipers' feet. Chances are you'll be seeing a lot of Crocs this year. They have literally become the chosen footwear. Why are Crocs all the rage? Some say that they're the perfect shoe for a holiday that prohibits wearing leather. Many like the fact that they're comfortable. Others feel that they're just "hole-y."

If you're looking to dress cool in shul and match your your yarmulke with your footwear, check out the Kroc Kippah at PopJudaica.com!

(Photo courtesy of Bangitout.com)

Getting Dazed for the Holy Days

2008-10-06T18:09:00.004-05:00

Well, we're in the midst of the High Holiday season, but we are never too busy to not keep you up to date on holiday happenings!

The Jewish Channel -- dubbed the "Jewish HBO" -- is airing an interview series with a veritable who's who of Jews among contemporary pop culture, dishing out brisket jokes and detailing clever High Holiday resolutions all in a style of something you might catch on VH1. The current incarnation of the series, "Holy Dazed," might shock with talk about sex and drugs, but it offers a chance to peek into the Jewish lives of some popular figures, including Huffington Post columnist Rachel Sklar, Hasidic musician Matisyahu, and former New York City mayor Ed Koch.

The channel will be airing segments from the interview series during various holidays throughout the year, and if they're all as good as the snippet where the interviewees do their best (and worst) to blow the shofar, we can't wait to tune in!

If you really want to shine like these hip and savvy Jews (okay, Ed Koch might not be that hip), then we suggest you head to the store and pick up "Cool Jew: The Ultimate Guide" to start the new year out with a bang of Jewish sweetness and savvy. Shana Tova!

Forgiveness 2.0

2008-09-22T12:48:00.001-05:00

Rosh Hashanah is fast approaching (September 29th to be exact!) One of the most important tenets of the Jewish New Year is to forgive and to ask for forgiveness. A new website brings this ancient tradition in to the modern age. It's called ProjectForgiveness.com

Log on to ProjectForgiveness.com where you can express your regret in multiple ways, whether it be by snail mail, email, or video. No matter the forum, we encourage you to say "I'm sorry" to those you have wronged and "I forgive you" to those who have wronged you. We promise, you'll both feel much better!

...and for a good chuckle, be sure to check out this video on the presidential candidates and forgiveness:

Chabad's Telethon Really a Dancing Rabbi Marathon!

2008-09-15T09:58:00.002-05:00

We were up far past our bedtimes last night, but it was definitely worth it -- what with the amazing dancing rabbis and fundraising efforts of the 28th annual Chabad Telethon live in Los Angeles which raised $8.1 million in a six-hour span!

The Chabad Telethon was hosted by actor/comedian Elon Gold, who was joined by actress Leslie Grossman and piano prodigy Ethan Bortnick. Actor Jon Voight -- who has been part of the fundraiser for years -- led a colorful array of celebrity personalities, including Martin Landau, James Cromwell, Tom Arnold, and Kellie Martin, not to mention pre-taped messages from Larry King, Howie Mandel, Regis Philbin, and Kelly Ripa. The show was peppered with musical numbers, from classic tunes to modern versions of classic Jewish melodies.

One of the most memorable bits of the evening was when L.A. Lakers point guard Jordan Farmar was given 90 seconds to shoot as many baskets as he could, with each shot amounting to $1,800 toward the telethon total. If we're not mistaken, it was nearly 30 baskets! We were also incredibly moved by a video segment about the efforts of Chabad in Running Springs, California, to feed, house, and offer comfort to firefighters during the blazing fires of late last year.

It's always exciting to see watch the telethon and see how many funds are raised for Chabad's substance abuse treatment centers, education and outreach, and other activities for benefitting people of all faiths and persuasions. But when it comes down to it, we know that the amazing dancing rabbis are really what really brings in the big bucks!

Be sure to check out the telethon's website, ToLife.com, for clips, information about donating, and more details about the Chabad Telethon.

Will you vote McKippah or Obamica?

2008-09-11T11:24:00.016-05:00

Who says you should never talk politics or religion?

Endorse your favorite presidential candidate with the McCippah or Obamica.
If there is one thing that Democrats and Republicans can agree on, it's that these are some pretty cool yarmulkes!

Come election day, we'll report on the winning yarmulke here at The Chosen Blog.

And while we are on the topic of voting, would you take a moment to vote for PopJudaica.com? The site has been nominated in both the "Most Innovative" and "Wacky" business idea categories in a contest hosted by StartUp Nation. We appreciate your support! Vote here:

What DOES it Take to Be a Cool Jew? Author Lisa Alcalay Klug Lets Us Know!

2008-09-04T09:00:00.001-05:00

Award-winning author Lisa Alcalay Klug's "Cool Jew: The Ultimate Guide for Every Member of the Tribe" was released to the eager masses this week and we thought, what better forum for a book on being a cool Jew than The Chosen Blog! So Sheebsters and Heebsters, if you're down with lox, know your Jewish geography, and can't start your day without a little Manischewitz, read on for a sneak peek at the book!

The Chosen Blog: Oy! This really is the whole megillah on being a Cool Jew! This must have been a progressive work over years and years! What, or maybe who, inspired you to write this book?

Lisa Alcalay Klug: First the what: a few articles I wrote in late 2005. One was for the San Francisco Chronicle on how cool it is to be Jew in the Bay Area. Another was for the Forward about eight nights of kitsch of Chanukah gifts. What these two articles shared was pride in Jewish culture, shmaltz and a reverent irreverence. Once I formulated that into the idea of a Heebster Handbook--Cool Jew's Hebrew name--I knew I had the makings of a book.

And here's the who: my parents. My dad is an Ashkenazi Holocaust survivor and my mom, who is from Panama and the daughter of Israelis, is a descendant of the Sephardic chief rabbi of Sarajevo. My parents' rich Jewish experiences took root in other countries and cultures. And Cool Jew grew out of all the ways I've sought to create meaningful Jewish experiences of my own. My father's legacy during my childhood, "never, ever be ashamed that you're a Jew," is infused into my book. It's a 250-page antidote for Jewish self-hatred.

CB: How did you go about researching the book?

LAK: You could say that some of it, I've always been researching because I love where Jewish and pop culture intersect. And there are tons of examples of things I've been noticing and collecting over the years. Once I started the book, I went to a lot of festivals, concerts, launch parties and other events. A barrage of new ideas, albums, kitsch and more hit me almost daily.

CB: Did you write "Cool Jew" with anyone in mind? Or is it for Jews of all streams and those of the honorary persuasion?

LAK: You could say I'm an Ashkefardic Neo-Chasidish Shomeret Shabbat Carlebachian Post-Labelficationist Sheebster. And my family includes many other types of Yidden. Just as we are so many different kinds of Jew, so is my book. In other words, it's for everyone, including Honorary Heebs, like Christine, my non-Jewish editor, who was the book's first buyer, and my sister-in-law, who is happy there is finally a fun and entertaining way to understand the mishegas.

CB: You cover a lot of classics like "Jewish Geography," but some of this stuff is completely off the wall! Where did you find it or how did you come up with the more unique stuff, like deciphering which vegetables and animals are of the Jewish variety?

LAK: Certain things in the universe just feel Jewish to me. Because it always expresses two opinions, I think of the Push-Me Pull-You from "Dr. Doolittle," for instance, as the "Tevye of the Jungle." All those National Geographic penguins suggest "The March of the Hasidim." And zebras are like living, breathing tallit stripes grazing on the African savannah. Maybe this is what happens to your mind when you grow up with a mom who speaks like Ricky Ricardo and a dad who speaks like Dr. Ruth.

CB: Will there be a Cool Jews II?

LAK: There will G-DASH-D willing, be something. For me, writing a book is like a Pringle, or as my father would say, a kosher pickle. Who can stop at just one?

CB: What was your favorite morsel in "Cool Jew"?

LAK: I have a bunch… One of my favorites is the "Certificut of Circumcision" at the end of the book. You literally give the book a bris by cutting out a specific page to represent the removal of all self-hatred from your Yiddishe neshama. (See p. 219.)

CB: Is this hipster Jew revolution merely a cultural fad or do you see this J-evolution sticking around?

LAK: Our world is blessed with so many amazing Jewish artists, activists, educators and entrepreneurs. They literally fill up the extensive "Heebster Jewke Box" guide to Jewish music and "Da Tribe Online" directory of community resources in the back of Cool Jew. I'd say it looks like this Adam & Eve-olution is going to be here for a while.

CB: With more than 200 pages to the guide, can you provide the lazy with a short sentence or two on what it really means to you to be a Cool Jew?

LAK: Being a cool Jew means being comfortable in your own skin, knowing where you come from and expressing pride in who you are. When you're a Heebster you don't have to work hard to be cool. You just have to be Jew!

CB: Any final words for our readers?

LAK: I'd love to hear what your readers think is cool, Jew. I'm also collecting images of the Cool Jew book found around the world. The best ones get posted on my blog! Please get in touch and send photos on to lisa (at) cooljewbook (dot) com ... Until then, a l'chaim in your punim!

Purchase Cool Jew: The Ultimate Guide for Every Member of the Tribe and all the kitsch featured in the book here at PopJudaica.com.

~Lisa Alcalay Klug was interviewed by Chavi Edwards (AKA The Chosen Blog's Kvetching-Editor-at-Large)

A Bark Mitzvah Celebration!

2008-08-28T11:42:00.007-05:00

You thought some Bar Mitzvahs were lavish, how about this Bark Mitzvah bash? Dog owner Dr. David Best recently threw a Bark Mitzvah to celebrate his pup Elvis's thirteenth birthday with special guests Patti Lupone and Dr. Ruth Westheimer. We imagine the Arf-Torah must have sounded a little something like "Baroof ata adonoi." The cost of the fete? $10,000!

Are you planning to throw a Bark Mitzvah party for your own dog? Check out PopJudaica.com's pet boutique including the Dog Yarmulke and Tallis and Kosher Bone and Bagel dog toys!

Shtetl Mentality

2008-08-27T10:47:00.005-05:00

All you need is a celebrity or politician to throw a Yiddish word around, and suddenly everyone is a buzz and kibbitzing. NY Times columnist Maureen Dowd recently quoted a top Democrat as saying "I'm telling you, man, it's something about our party, the shtetl mentality."

Of course, most people have no idea what "Shtetl" even means. Thanks to Maureen Dowd "Shtetl," a Yiddish word meaning "a 19th-century Eastern European Jewish village" is currently the #4 most searched word on the internet! Could you plotz?

Read Maureen Dowd's entire NY Times article here.

Feel free to kvetch or kvell in the comments section.

The Chosen Olympics!

2008-08-26T13:16:00.003-05:00

Just because the Beijing Olympics are over doesn't mean you can't continue to enjoy those special Tribe-inspired events that didn't get as much play on TV. Luckily, classic competitions such as the Yarmulke Toss, Gefilte Fish Wrestling, not to mention Disconnecta Yenta, were captured on video exclusively by Heeb Magazine.

Our personal favorite? The Penny Pick-Up event! Why? Well, after collecting all those pennies, you can treat yourself to Mashuga Nuts and then place the leftover pennies in the empty nut tin a.k.a. your very own tzedakah box. It's a win-win! (What, you thought we wouldn't throw some product placement in there?)

Hollywood Celebrities and Jewish Conversions

2008-08-25T10:32:00.002-05:00

The red string bracelet is not enough it seems, as more and more celebrities are bypassing the Kabbalah trend and opting for an all out conversion to Judaism.

Rumor has it that Lindsay Lohan, who was raised Catholic is thinking of converting to Judaism because of gal pal DJ Samantha Ronson. A source told Life & Style Magazine that “Sam’s family is Jewish. Lindsay has learned a lot about Judaism from Sam and admires its beliefs.”

Lindsay's Dad, who is a born-again-Christian told E! "She's exploring right now. She's explored the Church of Scientology, she tried Kabbalah, and now this. I think it's just another phase. But either way, she's involving God in her life, and I'm happy about that."

Donald Trump's daughter Ivanka is said to have promised Nice Jewish boyfriend Jared Kushner (who owns the New York Observer) that she would convert to Judaism if their relationship became more serious. The couple reportedly broke up earlier this year because Kushner's Orthodox family was upset that he was dating a "shiksa."

The wedding of Sasha Baron Cohen (of Borat fame!) and fiance Isla Fisher has reportedly been postponed, as Fisher's conversion process was put to a halt while she filmed the movie "Confessions of a Shopaholic."

We just hope that these celebrities realize, converting to Judaism is no easy task. It can sometimes be a very long process that involves tremendous amounts of dedication and study.

Our advice? If you're a celebrity whose looking for a quickie conversion with little or no commitment, check out the Convert to Judaism Breath Spray for a conversion that's as easy as a spritz!

"90210" Aims for Accuracy Second Time 'Round!

2008-08-21T19:16:00.006-05:00

The oft-used phrase "better luck next time" is probably ringing true for the writers of "Beverly Hills 90210" as the new and improved TV show "90210" is set to air next month. It seems that with a second try, the writers and creators of the 90's hit are getting the demographic of their fictional "West Beverly High School" a little closer to the actual Beverly Hills High. Yes, they'll be featuring Jewish and Iranian characters on the Beverley Hills campus!

The real Beverly Hills High student body is actually predominately Iranian and Jewish, and although there were Jewish students on the original program, there were no Iranians. So the new show will feature someone who is half-Jewish (a girl known as "Silver" played by Jessica Stroup), as well as an Iranian student -- Navid Shirazi, played by Michael Steger. And yes, you guessed it, Steger isn't Iranian.

On that note, everyone remembers brainy Andrea Zuckerman, but what most probably don't know is that the show's creators didn't know she was actually Jewish and that her outward Jewishness -- the actress, Gabrielle Carteris -- was reined in by the creators (they made her remove a Star of David necklace because "Middle America really doesn't want to see it."

The original show's executive story editor, Amy Spies, said that times have changed since the 1990s:

"Because of cable, there's been all kinds of diverse, ethnic shows," said Spies. "It's much more the norm to have more accurate representations of their world."

So set your TiVO to record the new "90210," pull out your old middle school or high school yearbooks, remember the dreamy Jason Priestley and Luke Perry, and while you're at it, wear that Star of David necklace with pride -- Andrea Zuckerman would have wanted you to!

Matisyahu Stars in Kenneth Cole Ad

2008-08-19T12:30:00.007-05:00

Kenneth Cole is know for his unconventional (and sometimes scandalous) ads. Always one to surprise us, this time he features "Hasidic Reggae Superstar" Matisyahu in his latest campaign.

Introducing our Kvetching-Editor-at-Large

2008-08-18T15:00:00.004-05:00

We'd like to introduce you all to The Chosen Blog's new Kvetching Editor-at-Large Chavi Edwards!

Chavi is a nice Jewish girl (by way of conversion!) from Missouri and Nebraska. Her impressive resume includes a Bachelor's of journalism as well as copy editing gigs at the Denver Post and Washington Post. Currently she's headed off to the University of Connecticut at Storrs to get her master's degree in Judaic studies. Her other blogging credits include her personal blog Mamaloshen as well as JewsByChoice.

If you're a nice Jewish Boy, pay attention! Chavi is an active Twitterer, an ocassional poet who used to do slam poetry, she enjoys photography (check out kvetchingeditor on flickr), and spends as much time reading nonfiction Judaica and the occasional fiction book (she just finished Kavalier and Clay by Michael Chabon). She's a middle child and only girl, and her family still lives back in Nebraska. She like dogs, not a huge fan of cats, and considers herself a grammar nut who likes to relax by editing.

Stay tuned! Chavi will be posting periodically here at the Chosen Blog about all things related to Judaism and pop culture. Be sure to read her entertaining first post below on Bar Mitzvah's Round the World!

Bar Mitzvahs 'Round the World!

2008-08-08T16:15:00.003-05:00

NBC is selling itself on having 24-hour, high-def coverage of the Olympic games in Beijing this summer, not to mention streaming video, but what we really want to know is whether they'll be airing live coverage of Isaac Shapiro's bar mitzvah at the Beijing Chabad House.

Yes, bubbelehs, it's the ultimate destination bar mitzvah!

Isaac and his family will be heading to China during the Olympic games thanks to a suggestion by Isaac's bar mitzvah tutor, who just happens to be a photographer for the games. And really, isn't this the perfect bar mitzvah plan for the family that doesn't want a "big American bar mitzvah?" Not to mention that with people schlepping in from all over the globe, his bar mitzvah will prove to be a lively, if not worldly, affair.

Isaac's dad has said that he thinks the trip will be good for Isaac, since China is playing such a major part in world politics and the economy, and we think he's on to something. A bar mitzvah trip can be a learning adventure, right? This explains why so many trek to Israel for b'nai mitzvah celebrations, not to mention the Caribbean, which has also become a hot spot for destination b'nai mitzvahs, with St. Thomas Synagogue in the Virgin Islands and a shul on Curacao seeing major spikes in the number of coming-of-age celebrations in recent years.

Start stashing your gelt now so when the celebratory wave of the future rolls around -- surely B'nai Mitzvahs in Space -- we can all afford to be a proud parents!

Are you attending a mitzvah or planning one? Be sure to check out the following at PopJudaica.com: Bar/Bat Mitzvah Favors, Bar Mitzvah Gifts, and Bat Mitzvah Gifts.

Press! Modern Jewish Mom

2008-08-07T12:01:00.001-05:00

ModernJewishMom.com just sited the Kroc Kippah in their "Stuff We Love" feature. Ditto! We just happen to love this site for Modern Jewish Mom's right back and even carry the Modern Jewish Mom book!

Press! Paper Magazine Blog

2008-08-05T12:21:00.001-05:00

Word Up! The cool kids over at Paper Magazine have featured "Pop Judaica" on their blog along with the poker yarmulke and dog yarmulke and tallis.

Customer Spotlight: Pop Judaica's Kitchen Timer Collector!

2008-07-31T13:03:00.007-05:00

Every once in a while we receive an order at PopJudaica.com with a really interesting story attached. Like the one week when we had two customers with the last name "Mensch" order the Mensch T-Shirts, or the time when the burlesque duo The Schlep Sisters ordered matching Schlep Totes.

Although we do not typically ship to the Netherlands, an email arrived in our inbox pleading to make an exception. This particular customer collects kitchen timers and just had to have our Matzoball Kitchen Timer to add to her collection of 1,200 kitchen timers. Of course, with a story like that, we had to make it happen! Our one request? To send a picture of the timer amongst her collection. Thank you Jolanda Nouwens for sharing!

Press! The Jewish Advocate

2008-07-24T11:56:00.002-05:00

The Jewish Advocate just ran a nice feature about PopJudaica.com in their Fashion Section. Read the full story here.

Thank you for being a friend....

2008-07-22T20:00:00.001-05:00

Today, the world mourns the loss of Estelle Getty, best known for her role as the lovable Sophia on the TV show The Golden Girls.

Did you know that Estelle Getty, born Estelle Scher, started out her career in the Yiddish theater?

Tune into the Lifetime channel this Friday, July 25th when they air ten of the best episodes of the Golden Girls featuring Sophia. Let's all enjoy one last cheese cake in her honor!

Baruch Yankel Obama!?

2008-07-22T14:56:00.000-05:00

In case you missed this segment from The Daily Show with Jon Stewart, we wanted to let you in on the laughs. Daily Show correspondent Wyatt Cenac heads to a senior community in Boca Raton to feel out what it will take for Barack Obama to win the elderly Jewish vote!

Think it's about time we had a member of the Tribe in the White House? Check out the Jon Stewart for President T-shirt for men and women. Let's get him elected!

Press! ChosenThings

2008-06-27T12:28:00.000-05:00

The Blog ChosenThings has shown us some more love, this time by featuring the Convert to Judaism Breath Spray.

Press! ChosenThings

2008-06-24T12:31:00.001-05:00

According to ChosenThings Christians don't have the market cornered on those little fish car plaques. They suggest putting our gefilte fish car plaque on your car and share your love of poached fish patties with the world!

Celebrate Summer with Pop Judaica!

2008-06-20T13:26:00.006-05:00

School is out, camp is in session! Summer is finally here, and boy are we glad! Lot's of new goods at PopJudaica.com to get the most out of our favorite season.

This Just in! Camp Camp, a MUST READ for anyone who has attended summer Camp, especially in the 70's and 80's! Written by the same crew behind Bar Mitzvah Disco. Remember Tube socks up to your knees? the Benetton Craze? Drakkar Noir? Scrunchies? "Going With" someone? This book brings back all those great (and maybe not so great memories) with photos and interviews with some of your favorite celebs.

We also have a fun collection of camp supplies including stationery and autograph pillowcases, as well as bunk and counselor gifts which can be found here.

It's also time for BBQ's. Yay! Checkout the Barbecued Matzoballs Apron. A perfect gift for the host. Looking for a great summertime drink? We love He'Brew Beer. Manischewitz Sangria is also favorite. You can find the recipe here.

Press! Jewish Woman Magazine

2008-06-01T12:09:00.003-05:00

Jewish Woman Magazine's summer issue showcases our popular eco-friendly Schlep Tote in a feature titled "Ethnically Green."

Mah Jongg Madness!

2008-04-17T08:31:00.006-05:00

Watch out poker! You've heard it here first, we predict that Mah Jongg is going to be making a huge comeback. Just watch this hilarious video with the Jewish Journal's Jay Firestone as he tries to become the next "Intergenerational Mah Jongg Superstar."

Just in time for Mother's Day, we've opened a new Mah Jongg gift boutique at PopJudaica.com. Treat Mom and Grandmom to some unique gifts including Mah Jongg Print Oven Mitts, Mah Jongg Books, and much much more.

Matzah Videos

2008-04-17T08:12:00.007-05:00

With every Jewish holiday comes a slew of creative videos. Here are two of our Passover favorites:

From the duo who brought you the hilarious Rosh Hashana Girl, Michelle Citrin and William Levin (who also created Seda Club) strike again with 20 Things to do With Matzah. Watch out! This is a very catchy tune. Now we've got the song in our heads and can't seem to get it out!

Another favorite is Jay Firestone's Matzah Tast Test. Hunky and hilarious, we predict this talented guy is going to make it on to the Daily Show one of these days!

Happy Purim!

2008-03-20T22:17:00.002-05:00

Jewish + Juno = Juno

2008-03-17T10:07:00.000-05:00

So clever. This one really had us plotzing!

Mazel Tov Madonna!

2008-03-12T20:25:00.003-05:00

Mazel Tov to our favorite Jewanabee Madonna, who was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Listen as the Material Girl waxes poetic about writing her first song in an abandoned synagogue (4:45) and quotes from the Talmud (6:20) during her speech.

Taking the "J" out of Jdate

2008-02-20T18:52:00.003-05:00

Remember when Jdate was a dating site for Jews? Well times have changed! Word has it that 25% of those on Jdate are not even Jewish, including singer Jesse McCartney. McCartney told In Touch that he joined Jdate when a Jewish friend's sister met her boyfriend on the site.(got that?)

Well, we're sure there are a lot of girls who would like to bring Jesse Metcalf home to their Jewish mothers. Interested in dating a heartthrob? Look up profile jbagel07.

Jews for Jeter

2008-02-20T12:59:00.006-05:00

Here's a bit of news for all you Jeter fans out there: The New York Post is reporting that 24 Hour Fitness Clubs will be opening "Jeter-styled gyms" in New York this summer. Jeter is lending much more than his name to the sophisticated clubs. He has a hand in the design of the clubs and will also appear in advertising campaigns and make promotional appearances at the gyms.

Are you a Jew for Jeter? Get your Jews for Jeter t-shirt HERE!

Natalie's Directorial Debut

2008-02-19T13:09:00.004-05:00

A few weeks ago we reported that Natalie Portman was adding "Designer" to her resume with the debut of a line of shoes in conjunction with fashion house Te Casan. Well this renaissance woman will now be making her directorial debut with a screen adaptation of "A Tale of Love and Darkness," Amos Oz's memoir of growing up in Jerusalem in the '40s and '50s. Word has it that the film will be made in Hebrew, so you don't know Hebrew, now is a good time to learn!

Vote for Jerusalem Monopoly!

2008-02-13T20:39:00.005-05:00

The makers of Monopoly are inviting fans worldwide to vote in an online contest that will determine which 22 cities will be etched in the collective memory for a new global edition of the 75-year-old board game. The contest, which got under way this week and will continue through February 28, will allow Monopoly fans the world over to cast their ballots for the 10 best cities out of a pre-selected list of 68, including Jerusalem!

Make your vote count here!

Jews Who Rock

2008-02-11T16:07:00.002-05:00

Mazel Tov to Amy Winehouse, who won five Grammy Awards last night including Best New Artist, Song of the Year, and Album of the Year! Like a good Jewish girl, she had her mamaleh up on stage with her as she accepted her award. Now let's hope she quits the mishegas and sticks to rehab.

An Unconventional Bris

2008-02-05T22:43:00.000-05:00

Penis balloons at a bris? Now we've hear it all.
Read more about Christina Aguilera's son's bris here.

VOTE!

2008-02-04T22:48:00.000-05:00

It's Super Tuesday. Be sure to get out and vote!

The ban has been lifted!

2008-01-29T22:35:00.000-05:00

43 years after being banned from Israel, the Beatles' remaining members Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr have been invited back to The Holy Landl! The year was 1965 and the Fab 5 were set to play a gig in the Holy Land when government officials refused to let them play out of fear that they would corrupt Israeli youth. (Wonder what they would have thought about Britney Spears and Amy Whinehouse back then!)

The Israeli ambassador to London, Ron Prosor, has reportedly sent letters to the remaining Beatles and their widows saying "We should like to take this opportunity to correct the historic omission which to our great regret occurred in 1965, when you were invited to Israel"... "We should like to see you sing in Israel."

Well, better late than never. Read more here.

The Schlep Sisters

2008-01-29T16:00:00.001-05:00

Once in a while we receive an order at PopJudaica.com that just makes our day. We recently got two separate orders for Mensch tees from customers with the last name "Mensch" (We kid you not!) Last week we received an order for our new Schlep Tote from none other than the Schlep Sisters, a Jewish burlesque duo out of NYC. (We kid you not)

Darlinda Just Darlinda and Minnie Tonka bill themselves as long lost sisters who found each other while tracing the roots of Yiddish Theater and Vaudeville on the Lower East Side. Inspired by their Jewish heritage, kitsch, and the Barry Sisters, these ladies can cut a rug!

If you're interested in seeing The Schlep Sisters perform, these lovely ladies are putting on a special VALENTINE’S BURLESQUE SHOW Thursday, February 14, 2008 @ 8PM at The Slipper Room on The Lower East Side.
You can visit SlipperRoom.com for more information.

Want to get a Schlep Tote of your own? Click here to order.

Are you a Pop Judaica customer with a fun story to tell? We want to know! Email us at Info(at)Popjudaica.com with "customer story" in the subject line.

A Jewish Knockout

2008-01-25T15:00:00.002-05:00

A few years back we had the pleasure of meeting Dmitiry "Star of David" Salita, a religious Jew and undefeated Junior Welterweight boxing champion. (Talk about someone who defies stereotypes!) The story of Salita's life is a fascinating one, and is documented in the new film Orthodox Stance which opens today at the Cinema Village in NYC. Rumor has it that rapper M&M will also be playing Salita in a feature film version of the boxer's life story.

Soprano in the Holy Hand

2008-01-22T19:56:00.000-05:00

Did you think Soprano's star Jamie-Lynn Sigler was Italian? So did we! It turns out she's a nice Jewish girl from Long Island. Who nu? Jamie-Lynn just took her first trip to the Holy Land via Birthright Israel. You can see her interview with Israeli television here:

Pop Judaica goes Green for Tu B'Shvat!

2008-01-12T20:58:00.001-05:00

With Tu B'Shvat around the corner we thought it was the perfect time to introduce our Green Collection at Pop Judaica. During the month of January, proceeds from the sale of these specially featured items benefit Hazon, an organization whose mission it is to create a healthier and more sustainable Jewish community. For more information about Hazon, visit Hazon.org.

Yo Semite T-shirt
Made of 100% natural cotton, this clever play on words pays tribute to Yosemite National Park.

Tu B'Shvat Garden
Celebrate the New Year for trees by planting an apple tree!

Mitzvah Garden
Mark a special occasion such as a Bar or Bat Mitzvah by planting a special garden

Schlep Tote
Plastic bags? Feh! This eco-stylish tote is way better for carrying books and groceries.

1,001 Ways to Save the Earth
Practical, positive, and easy to use, 1,001 Ways to Save the Earth provides simple ideas and tips that can have major environmental impact.

Are you interested in learning more about the holiday of Tu B'Shvat?
Here are some of our favorite resources:

Ask Moses

My Jewish Learning

The Jew and the Carrot

Aish.com

He's baaaaack!

2008-01-07T16:28:00.000-05:00

After a long hiatus due to the writer's strike, Jon Stewart is finally back on the air tonight with a new episode of The Daily Show. We can't wait to hear what he has to say about recent politics and see how he fairs without his writers.

Oh, and if you believe like we do that Jon himself should run for president, be sure to pick up the "Jon Stewart for President T-shirt" here for men, and here for women.

Jdate on the Market

2008-01-04T15:45:00.000-05:00

Are you single, Jewish, and looking? Seems you're not the only one on the market. Jdate.com, the mother of all Jewish dating sites, is seeking a match too. Sparks Network, the parent company of Jdate is up for sale and looking for a buyer. Read more about it in the NY Times article here.

Natalie's Shoe Line

2008-01-03T19:34:00.000-05:00

Natalie Portman can now add designer to her resume. This Hebrew hottie will be launching a shoe line in conjunction with the company Te Casan. How is this shoe line different from all other shoe lines? Well, for one, The Natalie Portman Collection is a vegan-friendly, leather free shoe line. Shoes will retail around $200.00 with 5% of the collection's profits donated to charity. The fashion savvy will have to wait until February to get their hands on Natalie's line, but can get a sneak peak here on Te Casan's website.

Happy New Year!

2008-01-01T16:00:00.001-05:00

Did you know that January 1st is the busiest day of the year for sports clubs? Seems everyone wants to get a head start on their New Year's resolutions. Have you also made a resolution to go from Zaftig to Svelte? Pop Judaica can help you out! Here are our top picks for the gym:

Yiddish Phrase Gym Bag

Shvitz Workout Tank

Shvitz Sports Towel

Tush Sweatpants

Don't Mess with the Zohan?

2007-12-26T17:05:00.000-05:00

We're not sure what to make of the coming attraction for Adam Sandler's new movie Don't Mess with the Zohan, in which he plays a former Israeli Mossad agent who moves to NYC to become a hair dresser. (Who comes up with these things???) Jewschool describes the flick as Munich, Shampoo, and Exodus rolled into one. If you feel so inclined, you can even enter for a chance to become a character in the online animated series version of the movie here.

How we spent our Christmas vacation....

2007-12-25T18:32:00.001-05:00

We spent Christmas Eve checking out the newly re-opened 2nd Avenue Deli, which is now located in the shadow of the Empire State Building on 33rd and 3rd Avenue in Manhattan. Those familiar with this New York institution will not be disappointed. The hour we spent waiting on line in the winter cold was well worth the matzo ball soup and pastrami sandwich we chowed down on one we were inside! (Slate accurately described the opening as the "Jewish Woodstock" and Save the Deli had a wonderful post about the opening here.) Can't make it down to the deli in person? Be sure to check out the 2nd Avenue Deli Cookbook at PopJudaica.com.

What's a Jew to do on Christmas?

2007-12-14T11:00:00.000-05:00

Sure you can go to the movies and eat Chinese food, but we've come up with some more creative ideas for you. Here's our list of the top things to do around the country on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day:

Project Ezra Christmas Day Volunteer Program in Boston
Here's your opportunity to do a mitzvah! The Synagogue Council of Massachusetts sponsors this Christmas Day volunteer program when thousands of volunteers spend Christmas Day staffing Greater Boston shelters, soup kitchens, nursing homes and hospitals. Don't miss your opportunity to volunteer for the 21st year of Project Ezra on Tuesday, December 25, 2007. Contact Ellen Michelson at ellen@synagoguecouncil.org or 617-244-6506 ext.17

Voices of Lombard Street - Family Fun Day at the Jewish Museum of Maryland
Experience life along Lombard Street over the past hundred years through the exhibition Voices of Lombard Street: A Century of Change in East Baltimore. During this fun family day at the museum, you can explore the exhibition with interactive scavenger hunts, design your own neckties, create necklaces with spools of thread, play old-fashioned games, and much more!

The Jewish Museum, New York City
It's one of the few places in New York that is actually opened on Christmas, and word has it they will be offering up some free nosh (Godiva hot chocolate!) with entry. They'll be having special museum events throughout the day.

Heebonism in NY, LA, DENVER, CHICAGO, AND PORTLAND
The mother of all Jewish magazines puts on their annual Christmas Eve bash, including music, live performances, and Manishevitz cocktails. It's the party your Hebrew school teacher always warned you about!

Knishmas in Chicago
The KFAR Jewish Arts Center in Chicago is throwing a Knishmas bash with the jams of Even Sh’siyah, who infuse the southern rock grooves ala Allman Brothers with Jewish flavor and RavShmuel, a Rosh Yeshiva by day and beer-drinking, Phish-following singer/songwriter by night. Several local singer/songwriters will also perform original Jewy tunes, including Alan Sufrin, Miriam Brosseau, Moshe Averick, Evan Jacover, Rachel Kohl Feingold and Adam Davis.

Jewltide in Brooklyn, New York
Now in its 5th year, JDub Record's Jewltide kicks off the night with FREE Chinese food (eggrolls & wantons) and a screening of "Wet Hot American Summer". Afterwards, prepare yourself for a dance party of epic proportions, featuring DJ's Rheka, Anaan and Cosmo Baker of the Rub. Drink specials throughout the night and the first 100 people through the door get a FREE copy of Michael Showalter's Sandwiches & Cats.

Latkepalooza in Seattle
Latkepalooza is the annual party sponsored by the Young Leadership Division of the Jewish Federation of Greater Seattle, held on December 24th, from 9pm-2am. This year's Latkepalooza includes music, dancing, karaoke, and a comedy line-up with comedians Brad Brake, Toby Holzman, Simon Kaufman and Ron Reid.

Latke Ball in San Francisco
This December 23rd party thrown by the Young Adults Division of the JCF has a latin flavor. Join over a thousand young Jewish adults in the Bay Area for music and an extensive silent auction until 2:00 a.m. This year they're kicking off the night with a cocktail hour featuring live Brazilian jazz trio, Boca do Rio, playing downtempo, and chill bossa grooves. Then DJ Solomon takes over for the rest of the night with an all-out dance party.

Okay, if you still insist on eating Chinese food and going to the movies, then
head over to The JCC in Manhattan,where they'll be serving up glatt-kosher Chinese food from Gan Asia and showing two of Rob Reiner's funniest films - The Princess Bride and When Harry Met Sally!.

How to make the perfect latkes

2007-12-05T13:24:00.000-05:00

What is Chanukah without latkes? Meredith Jacobs, author of The Modern Jewish Mom's Guide to Shabbat appeared on iVillage TV yesterday and demonstrated the way it's done! Watch the segment here and see how Meredith attempts to teach Kim Coles how to pronounce "Shabbat."

A Nice Jewish Boy?

2007-12-05T12:00:00.000-05:00

It seems JR Rotem, one of Britney Spears old flames, is just like every other single Jew out there looking for love on Jdate! If you're a "hot Jewish girl with good values," then JR just might be your bashert. (via Dlisted)

Press! Kosher Plates in Time Out New York

2007-12-05T11:34:00.000-05:00

Our Kosher Plates be designer Mark Moskovitz were featured in this week's issue of Time Out New York Magazine in a feature titled "As Good As it Gelts." When we first came across these clever plates our reaction was "Finally - an easy AND stylish way to keep kosher!" When you look closely at the pattern on these dinner size plates you'll notice that the patterns spell out "meat" and "dairy." There's no confusing the dairy and meat plates anymore with these awesome dishes in your cubbard!

If you're looking for some fun ways to celebrate Chanukah in New York City, Time Out also offers some great suggestions here..

Happy Chanukah!

2007-12-04T20:00:00.000-05:00

The view from our Pop Judaica office window. Pretty nice, huh?

Menorah Lighting 101

2007-12-02T13:21:00.000-05:00

It's hard to believe, but Tuesday night is the first night of Chanukah! Chanukah is so early this year, that many people have not even realized that the holiday is just days away.

While we are on the subject of Chanukah, do you know how to light your menorah properly? Yes, it is true, there is a right and a wrong way to light.

Here are some tips:

1- There is always a candle that is higher than all other candles and is usually located in the center of the menorah. This candle is called the shamash and is the candle used to light all other candles.

2- The candles are always PLACED on the menorah from right to left. On the first night, the candle will be placed on the menorah in the spot farthest to your right as you are facing the menorah.

3- The candles are always LIT from the candle farthest to the left all the way down to the candle farthest to the right.

Got it? Good! Enjoy the holiday!

Press! The New York Times

2007-11-29T07:40:00.000-05:00

Each year The New York Times features a handful of menorahs, and we were thrilled that they chose to feature our Tree Menorah this year! The tree menorah is perfect for holiday parties and for those who celebrate Chrismukkah (remember the holiday from the OC?) The Times also featured two other products we carry - the dreidel menorah, designed by Israeli artist Avner Agayof and wax-off, one of the greatest inventions ever!

A Handmade Hanukkah

2007-11-28T12:39:00.000-05:00

One of our favorite products on the site this year are the handmade Hanukkah cards by Sari Victoria. Sari is a multi-talented graphic designer based New York who was dismayed at the lack of cool Hanukkah cards on the market. (Have you noticed how card shops devote a whole aisle to Christmas cards but barely have anything for Hanukkah?!) Not one to sit around on her tuchus, Sari came up with her own line of fabulous Hanukkah cards. The cards are all handmade using scraps of felt and paper from Sari's own craft bin. Her cards currently come in two styles the 8 Nights and the Festival of Lights.

Another favorite site of ours is Etsy.com. Etsy is a virtual marketplace filled with handmade goods. Look and you might find some other cool handmade Jewish items. Esty also recently posted this fun interview with Heeb Magazine's editorial director.

Celebrity Sighting!

2007-11-23T09:40:00.001-05:00

It's always exciting to spot celebrities in products from Pop Judaica! We almost plotzed when Zach Braff showed up on an episode of Scrubs wearing the Kosher Beef T-shirt. He're little Sadie Sandler, daughter of Adam Sandler wearing the Tush pants a few weeks ago at a fundraiser in LA.

Did you know that Adam's dog is named Matzoball? Yep, and Adam's other dog Meatball even wore a dog yarmulke to Adam's wedding.

Being that Chanukah is just around the corner, and we're on the subject of Adam Sandler it seems apropos to link to one of the all time greatest songs EVER.

Best in Show!

2007-11-22T12:41:00.000-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

We're home watching TV enjoying the Thanksgiving Parade and The National Dog Show,which got us thinking about our very own certified Kosher Dog and all the new fun stuff we're carrying for pets.

Is your dog a shmendrick? A putz? A goniff? If you're looking for that perfect gift for the dog lover, check out the new book Yiddish for Dogs.

Perhaps pooch is celebrating turning 13? The dog yarmulke and tallis is essential for any Bark Mitzvah celebration!

While you're noshing on latkes this Chanukah, give pooch a little something to nosh on too. The Kosher bone and bagel toys make the perfect gift for man's best friend.

See these and many more great gifts for pets here.

Press! Real Simple Magazine

2007-11-21T12:56:00.000-05:00

We were delighted to find out that PopJudaica.com (formally Chosen Couture.com) was featured in this month's Real Simple magazine!
Special thanks to Real Simple for offering something for the tribe, while other magazines focus entirely on Christmas. The December issue also includes a great article on guilt, as well as a very thoughtful article called "Choosing my Religion" about different faiths. Purchase Real Simple Magazine

Jones Soda does Chanukah

2007-11-15T11:52:00.000-05:00

He'Brew Beer has always been a favorite beverage of ours, but for those under 21, Jones Soda just came out with this awesome limited edition Jones Soda 2007 Chanukah Pack with flavors Latke Soda, Apple Sauce Soda, Chocolate Coins Soda and Jelly Doughnut Soda. YUM. More great news - it's kosher. Seems like the perfect beverage for a Chanukah party to us!

We came, we saw, we ate!

2007-11-11T18:33:00.001-05:00

Today we headed over to Kosherfest at the Javitz Center in NYC, where kosher food companies "exhibit" their products. Kedem, Manischewitz, Streitz's, you name it, they were all there.

We were on the prowl for new products for our
nosh section, and although we did not find anything new for the site, we did fill up quite a bit. It was such a huge show, and naturally, we wanted to try everything. We were very tactful, and careful to take kashrus into consideration. WE first hit all the dairy booths, waited the customary time period, and then hit the meat booths. Needless to say, we were stuffed!

FYI - if you're interested in learning more about keeping Kosher, we just got in this terrific book at Pop Judaica called Kosher for the Clueless but Curious.

Here are some of Kosherfest's highlights:

Kedem Grape juice celebrated their 50th anniversary with a giant cake of grape juice.

The new kosher vending machines. Coming to a Yeshiva and sports stadium near you.

Kosher Beef Jerky. What will they think of next?