From the CEO

One-Time Screening of OCTOBER 8

The documentary OCTOBER 8 explores the global surge of antisemitism that followed the atrocities of October 7, 2023. The film had a limited U.S. theatrical release and was shown in our community for just a couple of weeks.

 

In partnership with our friends at the Capital District Jewish…

Shul-Hopping and the Gift of Feeling Welcome

I attended Shabbat morning services in my daughter’s modern Orthodox synagogue in Skokie, IL, two weeks ago to celebrate the naming (Shir Yona) of our new granddaughter.

As I sat in the sanctuary, I found myself reflecting on the many different Jewish communities I’ve encountered over t…

Shabbat Shalom

This Shabbat, Shabbat Nachamu—the “Shabbat of Comfort”—falls on Tu B’Av, the joyful Jewish day of love. In the Haftarah, we hear the words “Nachamu, nachamu ami” (“Comfort, comfort My people,” Isaiah 40:1), beginning seven weeks of consolation after Tisha B’Av. These week…

Call Me Rob

I received a call this morning from an unknown Israeli number.

“Hello Robbie,” the caller said.

I wasn’t sure yet who it was, but by calling me “Robbie,” I could narrow her identity down to someone who has known me since the ’60s, ’70s, or ’80s. By the ’90s, I had switche…

Current Events

The National Education Association (NEA) has cut ties with the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), a move that has drawn sharp criticism from Jewish organizations concerned about rising antisemitism. In New York, mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani’s anti-Israel positions continue to stir controver…