Pesach without wine

Published on March 21, 2013

How can we have Passover without wine? This is a question that is asked of me each year as Passover approaches. I always answer that the blessing is over the fruit of the vine and grape juice is perfectly acceptable. I then ask a different set of questions.

Sober seders spreading

Published on March 21, 2013

It’s rare that an Orthodox rabbi chooses to omit an important Jewish ritual in his holiday celebrations.

The Nimoys: A father and son, with space between them

Published on September 24, 2008

It's a glimpse of how Adam Nimoy grew up with a famous name, inherited his father's alcohol problem, met lots of interesting and famous people, and dabbled in law before becoming a successful TV director and starting a family, only to see his life come crashing down

Drug abuse debate: Legalization, medication or therapy?

By Roberto Loiederman
Published on April 24, 2008

On a wall at Beit T'Shuvah's sanctuary there are plaques with the names of those connected with Beit T'Shuvah who have passed away. One of those names is that of Josh Lowenthal, a former resident who died on June 11, 1995

Richard Lewis, comedian from heaven

By Jay Firestone
Published on March 13, 2008

The husband from hell. The uncle from hell. The comedian from hell. Richard Lewis is fully aware he has problems. And by the end of his set, his stand-up audiences know he has problems.

Orthodox Alcohol, Drug Abuse Rising

By Chanan Tigay
Published on March 16, 2006

Peter Gould had his last drink on Purim night seven years ago -- or, more accurately, his last drinks. "I drank more alcohol in a day than a human body can handle," he said, relaxing on a puffy couch in Baltimore in jeans, sneakers and a black knit kipah.

Parental Dishonor

Published on December 1, 2005

My Torah portion is the retelling and explanation of the Ten Commandments by Moses. A teacher of mine encouraged me to pick a commandment mentioned in my portion, and write about what it means to me. Five words instantly flew into my head: "Honor thy father and mother."

Just Say No, Even on Purim

By Kelly Hartog
Published on March 17, 2005

One is obligated to become intoxicated on Purim until one cannot distinguish between "cursed is Haman" and "blessed is Mordechai" (Talmud, Megillah 7b).