CLEVELAND, Ohio --I grew up Catholic — 12 years in Catholic schools. I know about bread and wine traditions of the Catholic Mass. When it comes to the food traditions of other religions, I turn to the experts to understand the meaning.

For Rosh Hashanah, I chatted with Chef Michael Herschman, who has owned and operated several restaurants in Northeast Ohio. He helped remove the intimidation of celebrating the Jewish New Year (Sept. 22- 24).

PARIS WOLFE : What foods are “required” for celebrating Rosh Hashanah?

MICHAEL HERSCHMAN: The Jewish Holidays endure incredible tradition through the foods we eat and prepare that have significant symbolism. There are no required foods to prepare and eat on Rosh Hashanah, as on other holidays like Passover.

The traditional foods are apples and ho

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