Satire: Dispatches from DC (Donelon’s Czardom)

The news emanating from Washington has been disconcerting. Although Americans narrowly elected Donald Trump, he has biologically merged with his far wealthier twin to emerge as Donelon Trusk. Trusk plans to rename the country the Uninformed Supporters of Authoritarianism. Here’s some news items about his latest efforts to accomplish this goal. [Laurie Baron]

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Lawrence Baron, Staff and Bylined Contributors, Trivia, Humor & Satire, USA

Memoir Describes Nasser’s Egypt from a Jewish Boy’s Perspective

Elio’s bitterly divorced parents were among those who lingered notwithstanding the hostile political climate.  His mother was a queen bee of a social circle that included prominent Muslims, Coptic Christians and Jews.  His father, a merchant, delayed his emigration decision and subsequently was unable to secure an exit permit even after paying bribes. [Donald H. Harrison]

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Antisemitism, Books, Poetry & Short Stories, Donald H. Harrison, International, Israel, Jewish History, Staff and Bylined Contributors, Travel and Food, USA

The Family Joy of Purim

I also like hearing or reading about the many different flavors of hamentachen. New ones I saw this year were salted caramel and a peanut butter and chocolate one.  Both sound interesting. [Cailin Acosta]

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Antisemitism, Cailin Acosta, Jewish Religion, Music, Dance, and Visual Arts, Obituaries & memorials, San Diego County, Science, Medicine, & Education, Sports & Competitions, Staff and Bylined Contributors, Travel and Food

In ‘Kugel,’ Nuchem Shtisel is a Must-Watch Haredi Version of Larry David

According to the worldview of Nuchem Shtisel, one of the lead characters in the newly released series Kugel, it’s important to distinguish between the important and petty matters in life — and always focus on the petty. [Jacob Kamaras]

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International, Israel, Jacob Kamaras, Staff and Bylined Contributors, Theatre, Film & Broadcast

California Court Strikes Down Prejudiced Ethnic Studies Courses

The Santa Ana decision came 18 months after a coalition of organizations sued the district in Sept. 2023, accusing it of violating California’s open meetings Brown Act and not protecting the public, including members of the Jewish community, from intimidation and harassment at board meetings. [Marsha Sutton, Times of San Diego]

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Antisemitism, California, Israel, Middle East, San Diego County, Science, Medicine, & Education, Times of San Diego

Children’s Literature: Havdalah Made Fun by Great-Grandma

Silas and his Great-Grandmother Faye keep in touch via Internet, always bidding each other goodbye with a silly rhyme. “See you soon, Macaroon,” is one. “See you soon, Tablespoon” is another. One day Faye tells her great-grandson that her favorite part of Shabbat is the Havdalah ceremony, particularly when she sniffs the spice box. She shows Silas the spice box that his great-grandfather made for her. [Donald H. Harrison]

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Books, Poetry & Short Stories, Donald H. Harrison, Jewish Fiction, Jewish Religion, Staff and Bylined Contributors