The high cost of dying

By Jane Ulman
Published on August 6, 2008

A traditional Jewish funeral is simple and not ostentatious -- good news for people concerned about the high cost of dying. But while Jewish law doesn't require embalming, elaborate floral displays or 16-gauge metal caskets with tufted crepe interiors, it does require Jews to be buried in the ground. And that costs money.

All the time in the world

By Mrs. Shoshana F
Published on July 21, 2008

Help is here for planning a ceremony in Israel

By Judith Broder Sellner
Published on July 9, 2008

The unlikely candidate

By Dara Lehon
Published on March 15, 2007

To me, mere satisfaction -- in job or life -- has always meant stagnancy. But, as we all know, the interview process is exhausting. Besides being on your best behavior, you're subject to constant judgment. Confidence is imperative, and things are often not as they seem.

Affordable winter escapes are but a snowball’s throw away

By Adam Wills
Published on December 14, 2006

Now that the holiday season is upon us, it's time to do a little carving -- and we're not talking brisket.

B’nai Mitzvah: Ten ways to slash the cost of a big party

By Gail Anthony Greenberg
Published on November 16, 2006

Do you have to spend a king's ransom to have a fabulous bar or bat mitzvah for your child? Absolutely not, but remember that not all money-saving tips are created equal. This one -- which I've read in several places -- wins my top prize as the silliest: Have your party on a Monday and you'll get a slightly better price from the caterer.

Schools Give Prum-Hess High Marks

By Julie Gruenbaum Fax
Published on June 8, 2006

Miriam Prum-Hess, an experienced and admired Federation executive, took on a new role working on behalf of day schools last year, an effort to increase the level of professionalism and efficiency in all nonacademic areas. She has become the central address for day schools looking for expertise on operational issues -- fundraising strategies, legal advice, business decisions, purchasing, and human resources.

Avoid an Oops in Shooting Your Video

By David Notowitz
Published on April 13, 2006

Whether you're trying to capture a wedding, b'nai mitzvah or 50th anniversary celebration, the day will come and go whether you're ready for it or not. Unless you're prepared, the opportunity to capture family history can easily slip through your fingers.

Throw a Party With a Purpose

By Sharon Duke Estroff
Published on April 13, 2006

It's not that glitz, glamour and secular themes at b'nai mitzvah are inherently problematic, like in the soon-to-be-released one-upsmanship film, "Keeping Up With the Steins," but when they're inadequately balanced with Jewish values we can be left with an empty shell of a party that undermines the entire point of these meaningful milestones.

This Time They’re Ready for the Wave

By Peter Ephross
Published on December 29, 2005

Some 50 South Indian villagers are spread out along the sandy beach. Women clad in brightly colored saris converse in groups, while men repair fishing nets. Teenage boys playfully tackle each other.

Then, the residents of Vellakoil get some news from fellow clansmen: Dangerous weather is on the way.

A year ago, when the tsunami hit, 19 died in this village of less than 500; 14 were children. And everyone's house and belongings were washed away.

This time, they are ready.