This Past Sunday

This past Sunday I went to the Waterfront Theatre for a "Tonight Show" type show called, "So...Jew Live in Vermont." It was the 2nd year that this fun, local, variety show was held and hosted by the ever amiable Vermont State Legislator and stand-up comedian, Jason Lorber. Jason's guests were Secretary of State Deb Markowitz, actress-activist Kathryn Blume; businessman Paul Millman, and film-maker Jeff Farber. All of them are Jews living and working in Vermont. And of each guest Jason asked them how their being Jewish affects what they do and how they do it.

For example, Paul Millman runs a business on a socialist-type system. He, being the CEO, makes only $20,000 more than the highest paid worker in the shipping department. All the employees share in the profits and in the running of the company and in decision making. When asked by Jason about how Mr. Millman came to this, he replied that all his life his parents and grandparents were socialists, activists and organizers. He always assumed it was the Jewish way to do things-- to look out for everyone. Each of the guests talked about their commitment to Tikkun Olam and how it colors the choices they make in life.

I bring this up for two reasons. One, as Jews the Torah tells us to take care of one another-- feed the hungry, clothe the naked, take care of widows and orphans, etc. and two, as Jews living in Vermont we should come out in huge numbers to support Jewish events in Vermont. This particular event was to benefit Hadassah. Tzedakah boxes were handed out to help fund Young Judaea, which has seen its funding greatly reduced. I know many of you parents in particular look for Jewish social activities outside Religious School. We're fortunate to have a Young Judaea youth group in town to provide a social and cultural milieu for our youth. I hope you will show your support through tzedakah but particularly by sending your child to their activities.