By Alex Hamilton I grew up in Oklahoma City as the son of an insurance claim representative, a Jewish educator, and two former diplomats (it’s a blended family). Growing up … Continued
Parashat Ki Teitzei (Deuteronomy 21:10-25:19)
“You must not hand over, to his master, a slave who has taken refuge with you from his master.” (Deuteronomy 23:16) The chuppah, or Jewish wedding canopy, represents the household … Continued
May We Find Relief and Respite, Cure and Blessings in the New Year
By Leah Garber Autumn’s wandering birds carry foreign scents and a touch of mystery. What secrets hide under their wings, carried like blowing leaves by cool winds? Exaltation is in … Continued
Parashat Shoftim (Deuteronomy 16:18-21:9)
“Then the Lord said to me, ‘“They have done well in speaking thus.’” (Deuteronomy 18:17) Parashat Shoftim focusses on the centrality of law in a just society. Each of the … Continued
Reopening Our Jewish Community Centers: A Case Study in the New Normal
by Jane E. Herman When the COVID-19 pandemic shut down our towns and cities—and our lives—in mid-March, many Jewish Community Centers (JCCs) shut their doors to regular members but remained … Continued
Philanthropists Carol and Michael Staenberg Provide Extraordinary Support to Midwest JCCs
Generosity creates state-of-the art facilities, enriches Jewish communities, and helps JCCs succeed NEW YORK —JCC Association of North America is proud and honored to recognize Carol and Michael Staenberg of … Continued
Amidst the Perfect Storm, a Peace Treaty
Late Thursday night, in the midst of a hot, steamy and extremely challenging summer for Israel, the country’s prime minister, Binyamin Netanyahu, broadcast a statement to the entire country. For … Continued
Parashat R’eih (Deuteronomy 11:26-16:12)
“For there will never cease to be needy ones in your land, which is why I command you: open your hand to the poor and needy kinsman in your land.” … Continued
Parashat Eikev (Deuteronomy 7:12-11:25)
“Do not be terrified of them, for God, your God in your midst, is a great and awesome God.” (Deuteronomy 7:21) Parashat Eikev commands “You will eat and you will … Continued
How the Power of Ritual Made Us Strong
by Annie Keith As the COVID-19 pandemic began to unfold, it became increasingly clear that the Hineni: 4-day JResponder training orientation scheduled for March 23-26 in Houston would be postponed. … Continued