Yes, Virginia, there are Jews in North Idaho

When I first moved here over seventeen years ago, the Aryans were in full force and friends in Arizona were fearful for me. In my naivety, I said, “Don’t worry, I’ll be fine.”  Barbara Veraniam hosted a “Jewish Women’s Brunch” and there I met other wonderful Jewish women, and later, wonderful Jewish men, who have since become good friends.

I tend to go about my life in our great town not really focusing on racism and discrimination until the incidents with Aryans or anti-gay or bullying issues surface and I get all riled up.  Well, this time it was listening to a 24-year-old joke about swastikas at Thanksgiving dinner combined with not being able to find Chanukah candles at any of the local grocery stores!

 So, I just want people to know that there are Jews in North Idaho and if you want to meet some, come celebrate Chanukah with us Friday evening at the Presbyterian Church.  Years ago they graciously adopted the Jewish Community and let us use their hall for our Passover and Chanukah celebrations.

 And to religious community leaders, parents and teachers, please explain to your families about world religions.  Let us learn about and become tolerant of all different views and have a broader awareness of the world this holiday season.

 Happy Chrisolhanzadanterlucia!  (Christmas, Solstice, Hannukah, Kwanza, Ramadan, Winter, St. Lucia Day!)

ELLEN WEISSMAN

Sandpoint