Ancient Seeds, Modern Farmers, and a Hunt for the Biblical Cucumber Melon

Join two local Jewish farmers, Anna and Noah, as they share their journey cultivating the ancient Quishuim (cucumber melon), a fruit once grown by Mizrahi Jewish communities and now revived through the Jewish Seed Project. Through text study, reflection, and hands-on interaction with plants and fruits, they will facilitate an open space for exploring this question. Come ready to taste new fruits, new ideas and new connections.

Anna Pierce-Slive was deeply changed by working the earth over 12 years ago and hasn't stopped since. She has gotten her hands dirty as the Garden Manager at the Esalen Institute’s Farm & Garden, was an apprentice and then assistant teacher at the University of California's Center for Agroecology and Sustainable Food Systems and was most recently the farm manager at Haley House’s Thornton Street Farm in Boston for many years. Anna is the co-owner and co-founder of Revival Road Farm with her partner Siedric White. Revival Road Farm is a diversified, reparative agricultural enterprise that strives to re-awaken soil health, connection of people with earth and revive joy and celebration on the land.

Noah Weinberg is an educator, song leader, and farmer and serves as the Jewish Farmer Educator at Gann Academy. Noah grew up outside Chicago in a family of Jewish educators and came to Boston to attend Tufts University. Noah has refined his craft as a Jewish earth-based educator with a range of leading innovative Jewish organizations including Eden Village Camp, Adamah, and Kibbutz Lotan. Noah also serves as a member of the spiritual leadership team of Temple Beth Zion (TBZ) in Brookline, MA, bringing people together in songful prayer. Noah lives in Jamaica Plain where he can often be found wandering among the trees in the Arnold Arboretum.

Who are these classes for?

Our classes are for everyone—whether you’re brand new to the topic or have been engaging with it for years, we encourage participation from people of all backgrounds, identities, and experience levels. Unless otherwise noted, no prior knowledge or experience is needed. Not sure if a class is for you? Email us at Learning@Lehr.haus!

Why are there tickets at different prices?

Our tickets utilize a Pay-What-You-Can model so attendees can pay a range of prices based on what they are able to pay to allow for greater accessibility. Please select the price point that feels right for you.

Can I eat during class?

While we do not serve food in the study, you are welcome to order and enjoy drinks during class and join us for a meal before or after class. We highly recommend making a reservation if you know you'll be dining with us. Visit www.lehr.haus/reservation to check availability and book a table.