Cathy’s Whim Cathy’s Whim

As we stand on the edge of 2026, I can’t help but reflect on the last year. It has been filled with ups and downs for many of us on a personal level, and as a Jewish community. As an organization, the Jewish Federation of Greater Dayton and its Agencies have had a very busy year. Here are just a few highlights of what we accomplished in 2025: Since October 7, 2023, we have seen a significant increase in antisemitism throughout the world – including here in Ohio. What became evident in the wake of 10/7 was the need for...

When I awoke on Sunday morning and heard the news about the horrific antisemitic attack at Bondi Beach in Australia, I was immediately overcome with sadness. Chanukah is supposed to be a joyous holiday ~ one where we gather with family and friends, recite special prayers, and enjoy delicious food. And that is what the people who gathered at Bondi Beach were planning to do. Instead, two cowardly terrorists took the lives of 15 innocent people and injured many more ~ all for simply being Jewish. My heart has felt heavy in the subsequent days. It doesn’t matter that the...

Each year, Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) brings together people from across the globe ~ including Jewish communal professionals, lay leaders, and philanthropists ~ for an incredible three-day conference. The General Assembly (GA) focuses on several themes and goals, which include exploring best practices, examining key challenges facing the Jewish community today, and promoting collaboration. This is one of my absolute favorite conferences to attend. I always return home feeling inspired and ready to put the ideas I learned at the conference into action. This year was no different. I, along with three of our staff members and three...

For many of us, November 1st is nothing more than the start of a new month. Some people will be prompted to start making Thanksgiving plans. For others, it serves as a reminder that winter is around the corner. Sadly, this year, November 1st signifies a crucial date on the calendar for millions of people throughout the United States who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to feed their families. This is because the Department of Agriculture has said SNAP benefits will end on Saturday due to the government shutdown. Many people already experience food scarcity. If the...

We recently marked the long-awaited return of the 20 surviving hostages taken captive on 10/7. While this joyous occasion feels, in many ways, like we are closer to the end of the war, we know that is not necessarily the case. There are still many unknowns and questions that need to be answered. One question that has been broached to me several times since the hostages were released is “What’s next?” I realize there are probably many people in our community asking themselves the same question. It became evident that while we may not be able to come up with...

Today, the remaining 20 living hostages were released and will soon be reunited with their loved ones in Israel. These precious people, along with all of those affected by 10/7 and the war, must now embark on the difficult path to healing. I have no doubt each of the 20 released hostages have incredible stories of strength and perseverance, which I am confident we will hear about in the coming days and weeks. One of the men released, Bar Kupershtein, has a unique connection to our community. Bar is from Holon, Israel, which happens to be Dayton’s Sister City. We...

Another year has come to a close. As we prepare to celebrate the High Holidays, let us remember the hostages still in captivity, their grieving families and friends, and Jews throughout the world who are still affected by the events of October 7th. I am hopeful this will be the year the hostages finally come home, and that progress is made towards a path to peace. May the New Year bring you strength, happiness, and health. L’Shanah Tovah!

It is hard to believe that we are approaching the two-year anniversary of 10/7. I don’t think anyone could have imagined the impact it would continue to have on our lives and our world. Since that tragic day, a number of films focusing on 10/7 and the subsequent months have been released. Over the July 4th holiday, I previewed many of these films. I was looking for subject matter that told the story of 10/7 and its effect in different ways. Some films featured personal accounts of 10/7. Others gave a glimpse into its aftermath. Some gave me hope and...

Throughout my life, I have experienced personal trauma. It often takes a while for me to fully understand the emotional and mental impact trauma has on my life. However, when I take a step back, I am able to understand what happened and find the tools to process my emotions. In the almost two years since 10/7, the trauma and its impact on me have become much clearer. I’ve talked to many people who echo this same sentiment, including several people earlier this week. On Tuesday, I attended a philanthropy workshop in Columbus for Federation professionals. During the workshop we...