Question:
I was just reading an article about “being green” (reducing, recycling, etc.) and it got me thinking about the carnival prizes we give out at our Purim carnival.  I’ve been to many events like this where the kids win all kinds of plastic toys that end up broken and in the trash within a few days.  Is there another prize idea we can offer that is more environmental, in keeping with our Jewish values?

Answer:
There are many environmentally sensitive prizes in keeping with Jewish values.  For example:

• Money – each dollar bill personally signed by the rabbi!
• A card that says “A donation has been made in your name to the Congregation Ahavas Israel endowment fund.”
• Books (a bit expensive, but what a statement it would be if every winner received a $70 Etz Hayim Humash)
• A FREE trip to Israel (the fine print says that they have to be 18-25, and apply via the Birthright Israel website …)
• A little piece of papers that says “Congratulations, success is its own reward!”
• An easily broken paper toy that ends up in the recycling instead of the trash.
• A kosher chicken.  For the vegetarians, a hard boiled egg.  For the vegans, a beet.

Any other suggestions?