Cathy’s Whim Cathy’s Whim

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 this ongoing crisis. Almost immediately after October 7th, Federations across North America embarked on a campaign to raise funds to be used for a variety of critical needs in Israel. Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) established the Israel Emergency Fund and set a goal of over $775 million. Here in Dayton, we exceeded our...

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 of darkness over our world. The war in Israel has affected us in so many ways. Now, more than ever for many of us, Shabbat isn’t just a welcome reprieve from life, but a necessity. Jewish Federations of North America generously offered the opportunity for Federations to apply for grants to...

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 college campuses across the nation. Rather than helping the situation, the hearing ignited a firestorm. In fact, over the weekend, the president of the University of Pennsylvania resigned. Their board of trustees also resigned. And despite intense pressure, Harvard has since announced that its president will keep her job. What struck me most about the responses of the...

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 day I look at what actions are possible, both personally and professionally, in order to advocate for the safety and survival of the Jewish people. As a Jewish Federation, we have taken some impactful actions on a local and national level including an immediate solidarity rally, the launch of a successful Israel Emergency Campaign,...

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 only imagine the pain and heartache they are currently feeling. So, while I am excited to celebrate the upcoming holiday, I can’t help but feel a veil of grief lingering over me. Many of you may feel the same way. So, what can we do to honor the victims and...

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 be an Upstander and not a Bystander when someone else is threatened. Here are a few excerpts from their emails and texts: Thinking of you and hoping that if you have family and friends in Israel, hope they are safe. Praying for all the innocents.  My heart just hurts when I hear the...