Sunday, Oct. 5
Marking Oct. 7
Oct. 7, 2023 was a day of profound loss, as Hamas launched a brutal attack on Israel —taking lives, tearing families apart, and shaking communities worldwide. This year’s commemoration invites us to honor, support one another, and uplift our spirits through music, poetry, storytelling, text study, and meditation, culminating in a shared gathering in the Community Hall. Free. Oct. 5, 2 – 4 p.m. Harry & Rose Samson Jewish Community Center, Daniel M. Soref Community Hall, 6255 N. Santa Monica Blvd., Whitefish Bay. Learn more MilwaukeeJewish.org/OCT7.
Thursday, Oct. 9
Study in the Sukkah
Step into the sukkah for a special holiday Torah study led by Jody Hirsh. Surrounded by nature and the shelter of our sukkah, we’ll explore the themes of gratitude, vulnerability and joy that define this sacred season. Whether you’re a seasoned learner or new to Torah study, all are welcome to share in the conversation, reflection, and community connection. Please dress for the weather—this session takes place outdoors, rain or shine. Members $18. Community $36. Oct. 9, 5:30 p.m. Harry & Rose Samson Jewish Community Center, JCC Sukkah (located on West Patio), 6255 N. Santa Monica Blvd., Whitefish Bay. Learn more at jccmilwaukee.org/sukkah.
Sunday, Oct. 12
Sukkot Food Justice Farm Party
Tikkun Ha-Ir and Bonim Farms, a program of the Harry & Rose Samson Jewish Community Center, invite the community to a fun-filled afternoon of Sukkot celebrations, Jewish learning and ritual, and family-friendly activities. Food, music, art making, lawn games, food justice opportunities, a raffle, and more — all on the beautiful grounds of Bonim Farms at the Albert & Ann Deshur JCC Rainbow Day Camp. Suggested donation $18. Free & open to the community. Oct. 12, 1–4 p.m. Albert & Ann Deshur JCC Rainbow Day Camp, W3985 Trails End Rd., Fredonia. Learn more at thi-milwaukee.org.
Friday, Oct. 17
Challah & Community
Parents and children can enjoy quality time together while learning the tradition of making challah. After the braiding fun, kids can stay and enjoy open play, giving the grownups time to connect, schmooze, and build community with other young families. Whether you’re a challah pro or trying it for the first time, this can be your mix of tradition, creativity, and play. Members $14. Community $12. Oct. 17, 10:15 a.m. and Oct. 31, 10:15 a.m. Harry & Rose Samson Jewish Community Center, CAFA B DATA Seating Area, 6255 N. Santa Monica Blvd., Whitefish Bay. Learn more at jccmilwaukee.org/challah
Sunday, Oct. 19
PJ Library portraits
Hanoch Piven: Family Portraits with a Twist. Join PJ Library for a creative afternoon with internationally acclaimed Israeli artist Hanoch Piven! Famous for his unique portraits made from everyday objects, Piven will lead families through a hands-on workshop where you’ll explore your creativity, experiment with fun materials, and create a one-of-a-kind family keepsake. Members $10. Community $18. Oct. 19, 1 p.m. Harry & Rose Samson Jewish Community Center, 6255 N. Santa Monica Blvd., Whitefish Bay. Learn more at jccmilwaukee.org/familyportraits.
Wednesday, Oct. 22
Antisemitism and other hate
“We Have Been Lied To”: How Antisemitism, Anti-Black Racism, and Misogyny Are Linked. University of Toronto Professor Doris Bergen explores the historical and present-day connections between antisemitism, racism and misogyny, and what they reveal about white supremacy. Free in-person event and Zoom option. Oct. 22, 7 p.m. Golda Meir Library, 4th Floor, 2311 East Hartford Ave., Milwaukee. Learn more at bit.ly/2025Distinguished.
Raise healthy kids
“Raising Healthy Kids: An Evening with Doctors and Specialists. “JCC Family Programs and Gan Ami Early Childhood Education invite parents of young children to a relaxed and informative speaker series. Hear from certified professionals in Speech Pathology, Psychology, Pediatrics, ENT, and more while enjoying a glass of wine and the company of other parents who “get it.” Gain practical insights, ask questions, and connect with fellow parents in a supportive, judgment-free space. Members $10. Community $12. Oct. 22, 7:15 p.m. Harry & Rose Samson Jewish Community Center, Yeladim Playroom (1C15), 6255 N. Santa Monica Blvd., Whitefish Bay. Learn more at jccmilwaukee.org/healthykids.
Milwaukee Hebrew Club
Are you a fluent or semi-fluent Hebrew speaker? Are you looking for a place to engage in discussions on various topics in Hebrew? Join Milwaukee Hebrew Club. Oct. 22, 7:30 p.m. Location available after registration. RSVP by contacting Community Shlicha Noa Gerassi at 414-881-2124.
Make political change
The National Council of Jewish Women, in partnership with the Jewish Community Relations Council, invites the community to a free panel discussion titled “How to Effect Change: Behind the Scenes with Policy Makers.” The event will feature insights from State senators Julian Bradley (R-New Berlin) and LaTonya Johnson (D-Milwaukee); Andrew Davis, Vice President of Governmental Affairs at the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce, and Milwaukee County Supervisor Sheldon Wasserman, moderated by Barbara Beckert of the National Council of Jewish Women. The event will be an opportunity to learn how policy is shaped and how you can make a difference. Oct. 22, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Nicolet High School, 6701 Jean Nicolet Road. More info: ncjwmke@gmail.com Pre-register: tinyurl.com/howtoeffectchange
Sunday, Oct. 26
Israel coffee
Israel (No Sugar) Coffee with the Shlicha. Join Community Shlicha Noa Gerassi for an open, casual chat about the complexity of current events in Israel. This ongoing series offers space to learn, reflect, and connect. Free. Oct. 26, 9:30 a.m. Congregation Emanu-El B’ne Jeshurun, 2020 W. Brown Deer Rd., River Hills. RSVP to Noa Gerassi at 414-881-2124 or NoaG@milwaukeejewish.org.
Wednesday, Oct. 29
Israel origins lecture
Jewish Theological Seminary professor and author Benjamin Sommer explores the biblical, historical, and archaeological data surrounding the origins of the nation of Israel. Free. Oct. 29, 1–2:15 p.m. Lux Center at Sacred Heart Seminary and School of Theology, 7335 S. Lovers Lane Rd., Franklin. To learn more contact IsraelCenter@MilwaukeeJewish.org.
Sunday, Nov. 2
Jewish/Latino music
“Latkes Con Salsa Meets Ta’am Latino Live!” Celebrating Jewish & Latino musical heritage with Hazzan Jeremy Stein of Congregation Beth Israel Ner Tamid, Milwaukee’s Mitchell Shiner leading Latkes Con Salsa, and Rav Hazzan Gastón Bogomolni leading Ta’am Latino Live. Together they will present an “unforgettable, energizing concert combining traditional Jewish and Latin American music.” $18. Nov. 2, 4 p.m. Congregation Beth Israel Ner Tamid, 6880 N Green Bay Ave, Milwaukee. Tickets and more information, call 414-352-7310 or email aimeek@cbintmilwaukee.org.
Wednesday, Nov. 5
NextGen Cream City Schmooze
Join NextGen for an evening of connection and camaraderie, where young adults can unwind with a drink, enjoy lively conversation, and build new friendships. Free. Nov. 5, 5:30–7 p.m. Sugar Maple, 441 E. Lincoln Ave., Milwaukee.



