Telling the Story Through Dance
As a child, I went through a phase where I wanted to be a ballerina. I was in awe of their poise, beauty, and grace. My desire to be a ballerina was alas, just a dream, but my appreciation for dance remained. Dance is a universal language. Performers convey a...
There Is More to The Story
We have all heard the phrase, “There is more to the story.” Oftentimes, the stories we see in the news and online give us an overview at best, but what is missing is the human connection. So when a story includes first-hand accounts, it broadens our view, allowing us...
Let’s Talk About Antisemitism
Antisemitism has long been an issue in our world. It seemed, at least for a short time, that things were moving in the right direction. However, in recent years, we have seen an increase in antisemitic acts ~ including hate crimes, hate speech, vandalism, and targeted...
Our Work is Far from Over
Like many in our Jewish community, I am continually distressed by the events of October 7th and the heartbreak of the war in Israel. Over the past four months, supporters of Israel have followed the situation closely, hoping for a speedy and peaceful resolution to...
Shabbat of Love
Of all of the beautiful Jewish customs and practices, the one that I personally find the most magical is Shabbat. Having a day to focus on rest, prayer, and community is truly one of the great gifts in Judaism. Over the last several months, we have experienced a veil...
The Response We Were Hoping to Hear
Last week, a congressional hearing took place with the presidents of Harvard, MIT, and the University of Pennsylvania. The purpose of the hearing was to give the presidents an opportunity to address the recent increase in antisemitism that has been exploding on...
Bringing Light Into the Darkness
I am personally experiencing a plethora of emotions since October 7th that I haven’t really felt previously. If I’m feeling this way, then I would think many of you are as well. In reading the news I often feel despair, anger, fear, and hopelessness. However, each...
This Thanksgiving, Show Your Support for Israel
As we prepare to gather with family and friends on Thursday to celebrate Thanksgiving here in the U.S., I can’t help but think of our Jewish family in Israel. I mourn with those who have lost their loved ones. My heart breaks for the families of the hostages. I can...
Support, Resources, and Information
As the war in Israel continues, I have received many emails of support from a variety of our Christian and Muslim community partners. They have expressed their sorrow and prayers of support for those impacted by the crisis. They are truly examples of what it means to...
We Should Never Be Silent
You may have seen information in the news regarding Nazi references displayed by a Tipp City School Board member at their recent meeting. Words and actions matter. We must stand up when inappropriate and offensive actions and language are used. Please click here to...
Jewish Observer
By Marshall Weiss, The Dayton Jewish Observer For an hour on March 19, four Israelis shared their stories with members of Dayton’s Jewish community and allies about how each survived the Oct. 7 Hamas massacre. Halfway through the program, moderated by Jewish Federation President-Elect Dan Sweeny, Eitan Frankl of Kibbutz The post For Israeli survivors of Oct. 7, speaking tour becomes form of therapy appeared first on The Dayton Jewish Observer. [...]
Documentary celebrates lost world more marvelous than Mrs. Maisel ever knew By Dan Pine, J. The resorts are gone now, either demolished or rotting in the humid air of upstate New York. But for nearly a century, the Catskill Mountains served as a lush playground for America’s upwardly mobile Jews. The post The Catskills opens JCC Film Fest May 30 appeared first on The Dayton Jewish Observer. [...]
By Rabbi Haviva Horvitz, Temple Beth Sholom, Middletown Approximately one month prior to the deadline for this article, my husband, Ely David Spiegel, passed away of pancreatic cancer. In an effort to bring me comfort, a number of well-meaning friends tried to reassure me that “God only gives us what The post God is always by my side appeared first on The Dayton Jewish Observer. [...]