April 29, 2016

thejewishpress AN AGENCY OF THE JEWISH FEDERATION OF OMAHA

this week

What RESPECT is all about page 5

M is for the many ways she meddles.... page 7

Nebraska State Holocaust Memorial page 9

Spirit of Federation

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13 14 15

Amir Levine

APRIL 29, 2016 | 21 NISAN 5776 | VOL. 96 | NO. 33 | CAndLeLiGHTinG | FRIDAY, APRIL 29, 8:02 P.M.

ozzie noGG an Goldstein and Howard Kooper, recipients of the 2016 Phil and Terri Schrager Spirit of Federation Award, are poster kids for the word spirit. The dictionary defines spirit as an invisible force that can inspire, encourage, influence and motivate -- qualities Jan and Howard employed with enormous success during their leadership of the 2015 Jewish Federation of Omaha (JFO) Annual Campaign.

“But they didn’t stop there,” said Jay Noddle, President of JFO. “With their spirit and enthusiasm, Jan and Howard reinvigorated the Annual Campaign. They created a model of inclusion for younger community members and also brought back the beloved Campaign Cabaret, which ultimately saw the participation of over 500 community members.

From campaign workers to talented performers, the 2015 campaign was a special, collaborative effort that strengthened relationships between generations, united all of us, and celebrated being Jewish in Omaha.

Both Jan and Howard embody the character and sense of responsibility associated with the prestigious Spirit of Federation Award, which is given annually to honor a man and woman who have demonstrated personal commitment, dedication and leadership to the Federation and its agencies.” The presentation to Jan and Howard is part of the Federation

ozzie noGG On Oct. 11, 2015, the Jewish Federation of Omaha (JFO) staged a revival of Campaign Cabaret that brought back memories of the first production thirty years ago. The restaging of the show also brought original cast members together with a new generation of donors and participants, excited to be part of this meaningful community event.

From Dec. 21 to Dec. 31, 2015, thirty-five Jewish high school juniors and seniors representing Temple Israel, Beth El Synagogue and Beth Israel Synagogue, participated in the Teen Trip to Israel. When plans for the trip were first announced, many people asked,

ozzie noGG The Talmud tells us that marriages are preordained. Forty days before the birth of a child, a voice in heaven announces, “The daughter of so-and-so will marry the son of so-and so.” For those who prefer to make their own choices in the relationship department, Dr. Amir Levine (together with Rachel

Howard Kooper and Jan Goldstein Annual Meeting and Awards night on Monday, June 6, at 7 p.m. in the Jewish Community Center Theater.

Shortly after moving to Omaha in 1970 as a young wife and mother, Jan Goldstein was named Cultural Arts Director of the JCC. The role found her working with state-wide archaeological and art exhibitions with the University of Nebraska Omaha and other organizations.

Subsequently, Jan spent over a decade developing the Women’s Campaign as a JFO professional, and helped create a successful Missions to Israel program that brought nearly 15% of the Omaha Jewish community to Israel. In 1998, Jan was appointed Executive Director of

the Jewish Federation of Omaha and Chief Development Officer. In addition, she continued the missions program for the next two decades, traveling with groups and individuals to Israel over sixty times.

“I’ve loved this community since the day I first walked into the JCC forty-six years ago,” Jan said. “And how blessed I’ve been at every turn to find Jewish communal work that fed my passion for and belief in the Jewish people. Today, our existence is still being threatened and our survival depends on finding relevant ways to insure the continued existence of a strong, global Jewish people. And it begins here, at the See Spirit of Federation page 2

Community Service Awards

inside Viewpoint Synagogues Life cycles

WWW.JEWISHOMAHA.ORG

SponSored by THe benJAMin And AnnA e. WieSMAn FAMiLy endoWMenT Fund

Campaign Cabaret “Where else but in Omaha could three congregations join forces to give their kids this unique experience?” We’re sure the answer is, “Nowhere, but in Omaha.”

And so, because Campaign Cabaret 2015 and The Teen Trip to Israel made a significant impact on the Omaha Jewish community, both will receive this year’s Community Service Award from JFO. The award, which recognizes programs that are creative, innovative, and

foster Jewish cultural, religious, educational or social purposes, will be presented as part of the Jewish Federation of Omaha Annual Meeting scheduled for Monday, June 6, at 7 p.m. in the JCC Theater.

“Campaign Cabaret brought Jewish Omaha together on so many different levels,” said Louri Sullivan, Director of Community Impact and Special Projects. “From the children of the synagogues and the Friedel See Comunity Service page 3

Heller, M.A.) has, as they say, written the book: Attached: The new Science of Adult Attachment and How it Can Help you Find -- and Keep -- Love.

As one reviewer wrote, “Cinderella’s Prince passionately turned his kingdom upside down simply to find her perfectly shaped foot and they lived happily ever after. This book is for the rest of us.” Jewish Family Service brings Dr. Levine, a psychiatrist and neuroscientist, to the JCC Theater on Monday, May 9, at 7 p.m. During his presentation, Dr. Levine will explore the biology behind our relationship needs, and help attendees identify their own and loved ones’ attachment styles. “Sometimes, as the song goes, we look for love in all the wrong places,” said Karen Gustafson, JFS Executive Director. “Dr. Levine’s presentation can help you get a better idea of what it means to be in a relationship, and find the kind of person with the capacity to make you happy.”

Attachment research shows that our need to be close to our partner is essential. According to Dr. Levine, our individual attachment styles -- secure, anxious, or avoidant -are hardwired into our brains, and there is an emotional price to be paid when we connect to someone with drastically different intimacy needs. By learning communication skills to breach these differences, partners - or potential partners -- can build stronger, more fulfilling connections with the people they love and help ensure each other’s emotional well-being.

“We think the most important thing to look out for is this,” Levine writes. “Is this person able to make my well-being a priority? If the answer is yes, you’re home free.

If not, check for other tell-tale signs that you’re dating someone with an avoidant attachment style. There’s nothing wrong with wearing your heart on your sleeve by saying ‘I need someone who’s there for me and that I can rely on’ or ‘my parents were always very close to each other. That’s what I’m looking for in a relationship.’ The response will speak volumes as to your partner’s ability to address your needs now and in the future. Think about it. If you were interviewing See Amir Levine page 2

2 | The Jewish Press | April 29, 2016

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Amir Levine

Continued from page 1 people to fill a position at work, would you ask indirect questions and avoid asking crucial ones just so they will take the job? Now think about this position that you’re trying to fill. It’s probably the most crucial one in your life.

People usually say everything about themselves early on. You just need to know what to listen for and keep your eyes open.”

Amir Levine graduated from the residency program at New York Presbyterian Hospital/Columbia University and conducted neuroscience research at Columbia under the mentorship of Nobel Prize Laureate Eric Kandel. While working in a therapeutic nursery with mothers with post traumatic stress disorder and their toddlers, Levine witDr. Amir Levine nessed the power of attachment to heal and realized the importance of attachment principles in the daily lives of adults as well as children. “Our society is avoidant, in a way,” Levine says.

“We stigmatize dependence and put emphasis on independence. But dependence is a biological fact. Once we become attached, we’re dependent whether we want to be or not. You are only as needy and clingy as your unmet needs.

If your needs are met, you can just relax. If kids feel safe, they don’t cling to their mothers, they play with their toys. It’s the same with adults.”

The publication of Attached put Levine and Heller in the international spot-

Spirit of Federation

Continued from page 1 Omaha Jewish Federation, with purpose and action. Serving as Co-Chair of the Annual Campaign with my longtime friend and partner-in-Jewish-community work, Howard Kooper, was a huge honor. Howard’s extraordinary vision always fuels my energy. For Howard, nothing is ever out of reach -- not even bringing back the spirit and success of Campaign Cabaret from two decade ago.”

“I loved every minute of my tenure as Executive Director of Federation,” Jan continued. “When I retired from the position I was ready to hand over the reins to the next generation, and I vowed to never be the old lady who walks around muttering, ‘But we used to do it THAT way!’ Communities must grow and change in order to stay relevant. Still, some things don’t change -- the value of lay and professional leaders who ‘want to matter’; relationship building so progress can be made; love for our Jewish Homeland and the messages of Tikkun Olam and Am Yisrael Chai. Those fundamentals remain constant and steadfast. When we do this holy work together, we always get back more than we give.

I’m so grateful to the Omaha community for this award.”

Today, Jan Goldstein serves as both Director of North American Tours for Amiel Tours of Tel Aviv, and Stateside Director for the Central Area Partnership Consortium with the Western Galilee, a pillar program for the Jewish Agency for Israel. In these positions she promotes people-to-people connections and fosters greater mutual understanding between Israelis and Americans, both in the Jewish and nonJewish community.

“Jan has been passionate about every role she’s played in our Jewish community and is responsible for helping further develop the vibrant organization we have today,” said Zoe Riekes who, together with her husband, Carl, received the Spirit of Federation Award in 2013. “Jan has also contributed valuable programs and services in the larger Jewish world. Her love and commitment to the State of Israel and its people is admired by everyone who knows her.”

Howard Kooper’s friends describe him as a big-hearted guy who makes things happen, a guy whose fund-raising fingerprints are on many important building projects in our Jewish and non-Jewish community. “Howard has served in countless positions of leadership,” said Alan Potash, Jewish Federation of Omaha CEO, “but none have been as important to him as his role in the Omaha Jewish community. He held many offices on the JFO Board of Directors, and was Federation president from 1997 to 1999. Howard was instrumental in the late 90s -- together with his business partner, Tom Fellman -- in developing a major renovation on the JCC Campus. Next, Howard provided unparalleled leadership during the transformation of the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home, which created a treasure for this community. Over the years, Howard Kooper has remained an ardent patron of

light. Their book made the cover of Scientific American Mind and SaberViver, Portugal’s leading health and psychology magazine; was featured in Newsweek, Time, Women’s Health, marie claire, Elle and Glamour, and received press coverage in The Sunday Times, the Daily Mail and la Repubblica, Italy’s second largest daily newspaper. The pair have also been interviewed on NPR. When asked what advice they’d give to singles to help them improve their chances of finding, and keeping, love, the answer is not so much romantic as practical. “When you go out on a date, it’s not about ‘did they like me or not’ but ‘do they have what it takes to be a good partner for me?’ Get familiar with attachment styles, because they have the potential to change your life.”

For Dr. Levine, “The most important take-away message from Attached is that relationships should not be left to chance. We believe that every person deserves to experience the benefits of a secure bond. When our partner acts as our secure base and emotional anchor, we derive strength and encouragement to go out into the world and make the most of our selves. He or she is there to help us become the best person we can be as we are for them.

A relationship from an attachment perspective should make you feel more self-confident and give you peace of mind. If it doesn’t, this is a wake-up call.

Attached is the manual we wish we had when we were dating.”

Dr. Amir Levine’s appearance is brought by Jewish Family Service, with sponsorship provided by Special Donor-Advised Fund of the Jewish Federation of Omaha, the Sokolof Foundation, the Pennie Z. Davis Family Life Education Fund and the Paul and Joy Grossman Family Endowment. The event is free and open to the community.

For additional information on Dr. Levine’s May 9 presentation, please call Jewish Family Service at 402.330.2024.

Federation, always optimistic, realistic and far-sighted.”

Kooper discovered Federation at a very young age. “I got involved with Men’s Campaign when I was nine years old,” he said. “The kick-off event that year was at Highland, and Bob Epstein and I dressed up like newspaper boys and ran into the Club dining room shouting, ‘Extra, extra, read all about it.’ Believe me, this is a true story. I guess you could say I’m still shouting about Federation.” With his involvement in the 2015 Campaign, Howard realized a long-held dream.

“Bringing back Campaign Cabaret has been a pet project of mine since the curtain went down on the original show. Restaging the production created such an atmosphere of good will and comradeship between old and new. The bonus for me, this time around, was working with Jan. We think alike.”

In his acknowledgement of the Spirit Award, Kooper repeated a quote from a 2011 Jewish Press interview. “My dad, Bob Kooper, felt you had to give back to the community.”

Part of Howard’s ‘giving back’ includes the Robert H. & Dorothy G. Kooper Charitable Foundation Trust, established

by Howard and his wife, Sharon, in honor of his late parents.

The Trust awards scholarships, based on financial need, to Jewish undergraduate students with ties to the Omaha community who are pursuing their post-secondary education.

“Jan and Howard have been exceptional role models for their peers and for the young people in our community who they have engaged,” said Potash. “They both possess a deep commitment to grow and sustain a strong Omaha Jewish community, work tirelessly to share their vision for our future, and have created significant opportunities for community members of all ages to get involved. Jan and Howard have earned the respect and gratitude of the entire community. The Phil and Terri Schrager Spirit of Federation Award is a fitting tribute to their years of service.”

A dessert reception will follow the June 6 Jewish Federation of Omaha Annual meeting and award presentation.

The entire community is encouraged to attend.

In the news

Greenblatt & Seay’s Schoolhouse Performance Series on Sunday, May 8, at 2:30 p.m., features Greenblatt & Seay in The Feminist Manifesto. Through the songs and writings of heroic women (and some liberated men) through the centuries, issues of civil rights and stereotypes will be explored.

The concert will be downstairs, followed by light refreshments, and a chance to chat and jam with the performers.

Admission is $5 for adults, and $1 for children and students. For more information, call 402.275.3221, or e-mail g-s@greenblattand seay.com.

The Jewish Press | April 29, 2016 | 3

Community Service

Continued from page 1 Jewish Academy to cast members who had participated almost three decades ago, this production involved people from all parts of our community and created enthusiasm we haven’t seen in years. Over 500 people attended the performance at the Joslyn Art Museum, and all came away enthused and committed to sustaining and strengthening our Jewish community. The night celebrated our past, represented a vision of our future, and helped Federation Campaign leadership reinvigorate the essence of fundraising and attract a new cadre of young people to this important work.”

Sullivan applauded the driving forces behind Campaign Cabaret 2015: Andee Scioli, Event Chair, who teamed with Joanie Jacobson to co-produce the show; Beth Friedman, production assistant; and Stacey Rockman and Betsy Baker who chaired the pre-show dinner. “The purpose of Campaign Cabaret was to bring our community together, in a physical, participatory sense and in a spirited endorsement of Jewish Omaha,” Sullivan said. “The event met and exceeded all expectations.”

The Teen Trip to Israel also exceeded expectations. The sponsoring organizations -- Jewish Federation of Omaha, Temple Israel, Beth El Synagogue and Beth Israel Synagogue -- began with a hope of attracting twenty high school juniors and seniors to the project which coincided with the Partnership2Gether Mega Teen Mission and was incorporated from the beginning into the trip itinerary. Recruitment proved far more successful than anticipated, and by the June 1, 2015, deadline for applications, thirty-five students had signed on. Through the generosity of the Phil & Terri Schrager Supporting Foundation, The Shirley and Leonard Goldstein Supporting Foundation, the Herbert Goldsten Foundation, the Lois Jeanne Schrager Memorial Fund, and the Carl Frohm Memorial Foundation, enough funding was raised to cover a large portion of the trip costs,

Israel Teen Trip with families charged only $500.

A requirement of the trip was enrollment in the synagogue Hebrew Schools. Beginning with the start of the school year, the students met weekly, often under the leadership of community shaliach Eliad Eliyahu ben Shushan.

These sessions helped the teens begin their personal relationship with the people, land, and history of Israel, and

also gave them the opportunity to develop friendships with peers from congregations other than their own. During their weekly meetings, the kids each wrote personal statements that were subsequently presented to high schools in the Western Galilee. “By the time they departed on December 21, we knew this was an outstanding group of Omaha Jewish teens,” said Alan Potash, Jewish Federation of Omaha CEO. “We were fortunate that a member of the clergy from each congregation served as guides and chaperones for the trip — Cantor Wendy Shermet from Temple, Rabbi Steven Abraham from Beth El and Rabbi Ari Dembitzer from Beth Israel.” Under their collaborative leadership, the teens toured the Western Galilee, the Golan Heights, visited Tel Aviv, Akko, Jerusalem, Yad Vashem, the Sinai, and spent Shabbat with Israeli host families.

For many of the young participants, the impact of their visit to the Western Wall was visceral. “When I went up to the Wall, everything stopped,” one student wrote. “My heart, time. I said a prayer and even started tearing up.” Another commented, “The connection you feel when you actually touch the Wall is just indescribable.” All agreed the entire experience was life-changing. “Before my trip,” one teen admitted, “Israel was just another country I saw in the news. Sure, it was a Jewish homeland, but that didn’t mean anything to me. After ten days in Israel it became more than just a country. I was greeted like family. Now I realize Israel isn’t just a country. It’s ours. Never forget.”

“It’s evident that this program touched our youth and made a significant impact on their Jewish identity,” Potash said. “Because of the program’s tremendous success, JFO and our local synagogues are committed to offering this trip on a bi-annual basis.”

A dessert reception will follow the June 6 Jewish Federation of Omaha Annual meeting and award presentation.

The entire community is encouraged to attend.

Yom Ha’Atzmaut F E S T I V A L

Wednesday, May 11 Children’s Carnival 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. | JCC Pavilion !"#$%&#'()*#%$#+,,#+-.*/#0+&"(1+,#-+2.*3#4&(5.*3#("6+7+8,.*3#$ace pa("7("-3#+")# 8+,,%%"#+&7(*7/# %%)#$&%2#97+&#0+7.&("-#:(,,#8.#+1+(,+8,.#$%&#4!&;<+*.=#

16th Annual B’nai B’rith Jewish Trivia Contest 6:15 – 7:00 p.m. | Green Space Adjacent to Pavilion >?@#;+*<#4&(5.*#7%#4+&7(;(4+"7*#+")#7<.(&#$+1%&(7.#,%;+,#A.:(*<#;<+&(7B=# %&#).7+(,*#4,.+*.#.C2+(,#8"+(8&(7<DE.:(*<%2+<+=%&-#%&#;+,,#FGHIJ#KKGCLGGK=

Concert with Israeli Entertainer, Avi Dayan 7:00 – 8:00 p.m. | JCC Pavilion M<.#0."7.&#$%&#A.:(*<#N($.3#("#;%,,+8%&+7(%"#:(7<#OPQMRSQ9T?OI@SMTSQ3#(*#4&%!)# 7%#4&.*."7#P1(#U+B+"=#P1(#*4.;(+,(5.*#("#T.8&.:#*%"-*#$&%2#+,,#-.".&+7(%"*=#S1.&B# 4.&$%&2+";.#(*#+#2.2%&+8,.#+")#!"$%&-.77+8,.#.V4.&(.";.=#T.+&#+")#*("-#+,%"-#7%# *%"-*#*!;<#+*#Halleluya, Jerusalem of Gold, and Yidishe Mame=#M<.#;%";.&7#:(,,#%4."#:(7<# 4&.*;<%%,.&*#$&%2#7<.#O.""(.#W=#U+1(*#0<(,)#U.1.,%42."7#0."7.&#,.+)("-#!*#("#*%"-=

Av i Dayan

This program is made possible with the support of the following Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation Funds: Herbert Goldsten Trust, Special Donor-Advised Fund, & the Murray H. and Sharee C. Newman Supporting Foundation.

Voices of Beth El: The Lucoffs

4 | The Jewish Press | April 29, 2016

community LOVE Junior Volunteer Summer Program

The Rose Blumkin Jewish Home is currently seeking junior volunteers ages 12 and up to assist with summer activities and services. This is a wonderful opportunity to meet teens from other area schools, enjoy friendly interactions with residents and earn service hours in a Jewish environment. The Rose Blumkin Jewish Home is committed to caring, compassion and customer service. Last year’s participants made new friends and gained valuable experiences they are now applying in school and in the workplace.

If you are interested in becoming a Junior Volunteer, please contact Linda Cogen, Volunteer Coordinator at 402.334.6519 or email lcogen@rbjh.com.

Linda will guide you through the application process, which will include an interview, training and an orientation session. Remember: you can make a difference!

Remembering Sam

April 15, 2016 weekly luncheon meeting of Two-Man Rotary Local and a Boy. Sam Fried was a member of this group and a regular participant. Pictured are: Jim Farber, left, Murray Newman, Ted Friedland, Tom Bernstein, special guest Rabbi Aryeh Azriel, Steve Bloch, Sam’s son Ed Fried of Kansas City, Cliff Levitan, Allen Ross, Nelson Gordman, Ray Somberg and invited guest Dan Bohi.

ShERRiE SAAG southern Florida to work for BBYO as Erika says, “We have had a great for Beth El Synagogue the Assistant Youth Director in Gold time at every Shabbaton we have atNeither Erika Lucoff nor her husCoast Council. As happened to so tended. We spend time with all of our band, Phil, grew up in Omaha. Howmany others, Erika met Phil through friends who attend and it has given us ever, unlike many previous Voices of BBYO while he was the Associate the opportunity to get to know others Beth El participants, they do not share Youth Director in Minneapolis. who we were not as familiar with. I in a long, rich familial histhink we’ve been to all those tory at the synagogue; yet offered except for this very they joined Beth El upon last one.” moving to Omaha in 2008 Erika describes their inand now count Beth El as an volvement in the greater important part of their exOmaha Jewish community in tended family. this way, “We are members of Erika explains, “my the JCC and that seems to be brother, Josh Friedman, was our second home. We are a member of Beth El and there all the time. Phil is a that is what prompted us to long-standing member of start attending activities Chicken Basketball.” there. We were ‘frequent flyBoth Erika and Phil say ers’ at the Tot Shabbats and there is much to love about The Lucoff Family: Erika, left, Jake, Phil and Oliver other programs geared toliving in Omaha; first and wards families with young children. We Phil grew up in Milwaukee with his foremost there is family. Erika’s have developed a close group of friends formative years spent at both the orbrother had moved to Omaha just a at Beth El and chose to stay even when thodox day school and public school. few years before them. “We love that Josh switched synagogue affiliations.”

After graduating from the University we get to see him and his family on a “We decided to move to Omaha to of Minnesota, he became the Associregular basis, and my boys have a be closer to family. Phil began working ate Director of North Star Region solid connection to their cousin at First Data, where he still works BBYO. During this time, Phil explains, (Daisy),” Erika explains. “Then, Phil’s today,” Erika said. Educated and “I met Erika and, over the course of a brother Chuck and his family came to trained as a social worker, Erika’s proyear, somehow convinced her to move Omaha, and the boys are building a fessional life eventually led to a position from Ft. Lauderdale to Minneapolis.” relationship with their other cousins, with BBYO – and credits the organizaThey married In November, 2001.

Makayla and Kori Lucoff.” tion with introducing her and Phil!

Oldest son, Jake, was born in July As Voices of Beth El, Erika and Phil “I was born in Bronx, NY, and lived 2004 and Oliver, “Ollie”, was born in want the Jewish community to know in ‘co-op city’ until I was about two June 2006. Both boys are students are that Beth El is a very warm and welyears old when my parents move to Friedel Jewish Academy. coming place to be. “When we moved Larchmont, NY, in Westchester In March, 2016, Erika joined the here people welcomed us with open County. I grew up going to a reform Rose Blumkin Jewish Home as the Ad- arms and made us feel a part of their temple (Larchmont Temple). I went to missions Coordinator after five years community. After eight years, we cona small liberal arts college in Oneonta, working for Nebraska Families Collab- tinue to feel part of the Beth El commuNY, and completed graduate school at orative, an agency that provides onnity - whenever we are in the building Hunter College School of Social work going case management for families for any purpose - there is always a in NYC,” she said. Erika moved to involved in the child welfare system. friendly face and a warm welcome.”

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What resPeCt is all about

eMily neWMan ommunity service does, in many ways, get to the heart of what we consider most important as Jewish people. This is something that has always been important to Dr. Patricia Newman, and this is evident through the work she does through her non-profit educational theater organization, RESPECT, which has served nearly 450,000 students since it was founded in 2000. RESPECT is currently able to boast 14 interactive educational plays, artist in residency programs, and an annual conference and educational workshops utilizing forum theatre and role-play. The organization provides educational programming for grades preschool through college and adult workplace programming, programming that gets at the varying issues that people within those communities and classrooms face on a day-to-day basis. Some of the topics that RESPECT educates on are violence, cyber bullying and risks involved in social media, suicide, depression, drugs, alcohol, cutting, eating disorders and more. Currently, RESPECT employs seven actor educators, an artistic director, a training and education director, and associate executive director, Ilana Weiss.

However, RESPECT does not only operate on qualitative data, but also has been substantiated by statistical evidence for its programming and the positive effects it has on youth. It has been found that RESPECT helps in the prevention of child abuse, sexual abuse, negative peer pressure, bullying, and teen dating violence through research based, pre and post program evaluation conducted by various university departments. These findings include statistically significant decreases in anxiety about going to school, depression about going to school because of bullying, self-report ratings of being bullied and bullying others, and also statistically significant increases in knowledge about community resources, strategies to help self and peers, and unhealthy relationships. There was also a finding of increased social skills related to peer support -- and all of this after participating in just a single RESPECT program.

However, Dr. Newman’s work does not stop at RESPECT. She was trained as a special educator as well as a school and child psychologist, and attributes much of the organization’s success to the incorporation of collaboration of teamwork into their mission statement. When asked to elaborate on the need for collaboration, she stated that “no one can do it all and there is enough work for everyone. Plus, it is more fun to work together! We have an incredible board and extremely generous funders, and program sites that invite us back year after year who are generous with their feedback and expertise in making our programs even better! Anything we can do to empower kids with the information, skills and resources they need to keep themselves and their friends safe.

That is what is important to me and to RESPECT. Because that is what will ultimately keep our communities strong. That is what will help kids be resilient in the face of challenging relationship behaviors. And potentially prevent abusive interactions.”

Dr. Newman also wanted to emphasize the importance of having programming available for such a wide range of ages, especially for the younger audiences. “We have to start early. Kids need to know early how to manage impulsive behavior, be respectful of

Snowbirds

The Jewish Press | April 29, 2016 | 5

boundaries and how to be respectful of their own needs for power and control. If they don’t learn what is appropriate and not appropriate -- and if they are not given alternative acceptable ways to meet those needs.

There is no reason that they will not continue to use those behaviors -- and those same behaviors. Along the lifespan. Those

emily and dr. Patricia newman are bullying, child abuse, animal abuse, domestic violence, assault etc. Longitudinal research demonstrates that children as young as three, without intervention, can continue into the criminal justice system by their early 20s. The cost for individuals, families, society -- financially, for the workplace, for mental health. It is massive. It’s just not the right way to live if we can do something about it.”

As previously mentioned, the founding of RESPECT has had a vital impact on the youth of not only the Omaha community, but also that of many surrounding communities in Nebraska and Iowa. However, it has also had a healing impact for Dr. Newman as well, who has used this program as a way of preventing the abuse that she herself experienced as a child. She explained it further: “I grew up in a very ugly and abusive home environment. I think much of it was related to some of these kinds of behaviors, some that were truly abusive, related to serious mental illness, and some that were related to people just being mean and unkind because they had certain kinds of power and they just could. Both kinds hurt. When I went out to practice child psychology I saw that this happens very frequently in different degrees and like I said, it hurts. It can lead to depression, anxiety, suicide, school problems, social problems; the list is endless. Anything I can do through my work with RESPECT to help children understand how to prevent this hurt, handle it as it happens, make it less, get help for it, and still help the bullies in the world learn other ways to obtain and use their power. To have better mental health and relationships with others. It is also good to remember that a lot of the bullies are hurting too! Many of them were bullied and abused. And, many of the bystanders do want to help, but they do not know what to do. Help them all! That is what I want to do and what RESPECT tries to do.”

Organizations

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6 | The Jewish Press | April 29, 2016

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linDa PollaRD friends founded the Northern Federation of Temple Youth.

Sue Meyers has a wish to help area youth now and far into Referring to summer camp, Sue remarked, “I think that it rethe future. She desires to help ensure that all Jewish youth in ally helped build the foundation of my Jewish identity. My the Omaha metro area are able to attend summer camp and goal with these funds is to provide a similar opportunity to participate in Jewish youth activities. Through her LIFE & youth who might not be able to attend if not for the funds.”

LEGACY™ Letter of Intent, Sue was able to accomplish her Omaha has been home to the Meyers family since 1956, objective. She created two new funds; the David J. and Sue when Sue and David moved here from the Minneapolis/St. Meyers Jewish Experience Paul area. Once in Omaha, Scholarship Endowment Sue became very active on the Fund, and the David J. and Temple Israel Sisterhood Sue Meyers Jewish Youth ExBoard, focusing her work on perience Fund. Sue expressed the youth camp. She has alher motivation for this LIFE & ways had an interest in youth: LEGACY gift: “I learned of the related programs. “I believe it LIFE & LEGACY™ program, is critical to expose youth to and truly believe in the importhe many wonderful Jewish tance of making an after-lifeexperiences. The experience time contribution. I thought so often leads to the youth about how fortunate I have becoming active young adults been in my life, and decided and participating in leaderthat these two funds would be ship roles as they become a good fit for the program.” older,” Sue explained.

Sue established the David J. Sue’s generosity and planSue and David Meyers and Sue Meyers Jewish Expening will surely help fulfill rience Scholarship Endowment Fund at the Jewish Federadreams for many Omaha young people, and most certainly tion of Omaha Foundation. This Fund enables Jewish accomplish her goal. As she stated, “My hope is that these Omahans under the age of 21 years from families who are in funds will grow over the years, and continue to allow our need of financial assistance to attend an overnight summer youth to enjoy themselves, make special friendships and camp sponsored by a temple, synagogue or other Jewish orbuild a strong lifelong Jewish foundation.” ganization. The fund also helps qualified youth to attend naSue and David’s three sons, Jon, Joe and Bill, have foltional or regional youth group conventions, or take organized lowed the example set by their parents. They are all active trips to Israel that are sponsored by a Jewish organization. and involved in the Omaha and Minneapolis business, philThe David J. and Sue Meyers Jewish Youth Experience Fund anthropic and Jewish communities. In a joint statement, at Temple Israel was established to assist children of Temple the boys remarked, “Dad was always very generous with Israel to attend an overnight camp sponsored by Temple Israel both his time and money. He really loved it when his efforts or other Jewish organizations, attend national or regional had an impact, especially locally. Mom has continued that youth group conventions, or take organized trips to Israel tradition with these two funds. They both taught us the imsponsored by Temple Israel or another Jewish organization. portance of giving back to the community.”

Sue has many fond memories of attending overnight camp Sue has partially funded both endowments, with the rein Wisconsin during her high school years. By establishing mainder to be funded through Sue’s LIFE & LEGACY™ gifts these funds, Sue hopes to afford similar experiences to area to the Jewish Federation of Omaha and Temple Israel. The youth who might not otherwise have the opportunities. She two new Jewish experience funds will begin providing exgrew up in St. Paul, Minnesota, where she was very active in a periences for Jewish youth beginning in the 2017-2018 fisvibrant Jewish community. While in high school, Sue and two cal year.

Miriam’s Song Book Review

Miriam’s Song by Smadar Shir, Gefen Publishing House, $34.95 paperback, 350 pp., February 15, 2016 SyBil kaPlan Those of us who live and work in Israel as journalists and book reviewers often have to wait until an Israeli best seller is translated from the Hebrew into English. I, for one, am very excited when this occurs, as is the case with this biography.

The Shirat Miriam, The Song of Miriam, the story of Miriam Peretz, was published in 2011, was a bestseller in Israel and sold over 20,000 copies.

To read this book is to know and understand what it is like to be an exemplary mother in Israel.

Miriam was born in Casablanca where her family lived

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until she was 10 years old. In 1963, the family immigrated to Israel, was very poor, and initially lived in an immigrant camp in Beersheva. After graduating high school, Miriam went to Ben-Gurion University and became a teacher.

When she was 21, she met Eliezer, who was 31, also Moroccan. They married, and he returned to his work in Sharm el Sheikh. At some point, she moved there until Sharm was evacuated. Meanwhile she began teaching, and they started their family.

In November 1988, Uriel, their 22-year-old son, a Golani (special forces) officer was killed in Lebanon, while in the army. Miriam kept going.

“My husband was overcome with sadness and wouldn’t go to work, but I had no choice but to continue functioning.”

She subsequently sat for her Master’s degree in educational administration. Her second son joined the army, and she and her husband continued processing the grief for Uriel.

Miriam began to visit schools and military bases to talk about her son.

In 2005, her husband died. In March 2010, her son, Eliraz, married with four children, was killed while in the army. Now See Miriam’s Song page 8

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The Jewish Press | April 29, 2016 | 7

community

Y

M is for the many ways she meddles... ou know the old saying: God couldn’t be everywhere so he created mothers. Well, okay then. Since the Almighty is all powerful, all wise, a just and merciful lawgiver with eyes everywhere beholding the evil and the good, who knows all things past, present and future, does that mean that I, too, possess those attributes and thus have permission (nay, the obligation) to helicopter above my kids -- antennae aquiver -- and at the first sign of trouble barge in, advice blazing, to avert disaster, rescue the wounded, kiss their boo-boos and fix everything? You betcha.

To support the notion that moms are omnipotent, consider the quarterback who completes a miraculous lastgasp Hail Mary, or the NBA rookie who nails a game-winning 3-pointer at the buzzer. Invariably, the kid drops to his knees and praises his momma for her guidance, for sacrificing her own ambitions so she could always be there for him after school with milk and cookies or a slap upside the head so he’d stay on the straight and narrow and be rewarded with his picture on a Wheaties box. The grateful athletes generally thank the Lord in the same breath, so why shouldn’t we moms consider ourselves God’s doppleganger?

‘We moms’ means all mothers of every color in every country, culture and class. We’ve paced the floor, wrung our hands and scratched our heads in maternal angst ever since Eve birthed Cain, Abel, Seth and wailed, “What’s the matter with kids today?” So why -- among all the available candidates -- are Jewish mothers voted the most overanxious, overprotective, over controlling, overindulgent, over involved and overbearing? (I demand a recount.) When did the gentle, huggable Yiddishe Momma become, in Irving Howe’s words, “brassy-voiced,

smothering and shrewish.”

Joyce Antler, author of You Never Call, You Never Write, reminds us that Jewish mothers were once admired for their tenacity and nurturing. Then, POOF. Bighearted, lovingly meddlesome Molly Goldberg was replaced by OZZIE NOGG Sophie Portnoy, described by her creator, Philip Roth, as “the patron saint of self-sacrifice” and “one of the outstanding producers and packagers of guilt in our time.”

Antler blames the Molly-to-Sophie transformation on negative themes in film and TV: Woody Allen’s Oedipus Wrecks; Sylvia Fine of The Nanny; Kyle’s mom, Shelia Broflovski, on South Park. But Antler sees an emerging U-turn, where feminist scholars and stand-up comics recast the Jewish mother in a positive light. “Of course,” Antler writes, “both positive and negative aspects of the Jewish mother’s love and sacrifice are overblown. The child’s fundamental desire for independence and the mother’s love pulling her back, pits mother and child as antagonists in a necessary conflict over autonomy and separation. As such, it represents a universal cri de coeur.”

There’s the loaded word: separation. When must we cut the apron strings? Surely not before we’re done with diapers, orthodontia and maybe even the graduate degree. So how about when the son is fifty-two with a family of his own? Or when the daughter has an AARP card and grandchildren? The second-century wise woman, Bruriah, taught that our children do not belong to us. They are both a loan and gift from God, and at some point we

Most of the wise, mature, sensible women I know Have nothing but disdain for Mother’s Day, Which they rightfully declare to be a crass, commercial way Of getting guilty children to spend money.

Furthermore, I am hoping that I Will turn into one of those wise, mature, sensible women Long before this current decade is through.

But meanwhile, if you know what’s good for you, Send flowers.

Judith Viorst must detach. Really? Meet my role model, Bathsheba.

Bathsheba, as you know, was King David’s wife (then widow) and Solomon’s mother. By most Midrashic accounts she was always at his side, in his face, securing his ascension to the throne and guiding Solomon’s behavior even after he became king. Bathsheba complained about his life-style (700 wives, 300 concubines, and not one of them Jewish!). When Solomon drank too much, she slapped him silly with her shoe. She scolded. She noodged. She warned Solomon against lewd conduct that might embarrass her (her!) in front of the neighbors.

But along with tough love, Bathsheba provided effective

Class of 2016

LOST BOY FOUND IN WHOLE FOODS

MAY 6– JUNE 5, 2016

High School Seniors

By Tammy Ryan

High School Seniors and Parents

Gabriel, one of the Lost Boys of Sudan, has started a new life in America. While working in Whole Foods, he meets Christine, a middle-aged, single mother. Their connection, and Christine’s quest to help him, changes both of their lives. Lost Boy Found in Whole Foods is an impactful and heartbreaking play that spotlights social responsibility and compassion for humanity.

We will be publishing our annual High School Graduation Class pages on May 20, 2016. To be included, we need your graduation photo and the information below. You can also email the items to: jpress@jewishomaha.org.

High School Senior Information

Name _________________________________________________________________________ _ Parent(s)’ Name(s) _________________________________________________________________________ _ Current High School _________________________________________________________________________ _ College you plan to attend _________________________________________________________________________ Send by May 2 to: The Jewish Press | 333 So. 132 St. | Omaha, NE 68154

home-schooling. Solomon credits his wisdom to her teachings, and praises Bathsheba in Proverbs. “Listen, my son, to the Torah of your mother. She opens her mouth with wisdom. Do not forsake her, and she will guard you; Love her, and she will watch over you.” This is King Solomon, the most powerful man in the nation, talking.

When his mom enters the room he rises up and calls her blessed. He endures her censure and endless care taking. Ah, Solly. Forget your clever adjudication of the Two Mothers with One Baby case. It’s because of your restraint, your respect, your understanding and acceptance of Bathsheba’s 24/7 parenting that you’re considered the smartest guy, ever.

Maybe those thank-you-mom athletes were inspired by King Solomon.

Perhaps they turned to Proverbs, Psalms or the Song of Songs, read between the lines, and found the monarch’s words to his doting mother.

“You spared not your criticism and guided me in behavior fitting my station. You crowned me on my wedding days and gladdened my heart. Many women have done well, but you surpass them all.” Wow. To quote Sally Fields, “You like me. You really like me!” Maybe our children value us more than they let on.

So, what the heck. I’ll ignore the shrinks and continue to fret over our kids and grandkids and smother them with love. This is the way of moms, and dads, l’dor va dor. May our children continue the process.

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8 | The Jewish Press | April 29, 2016

community

Art as Remembrance

Miriam’s Song

Continued from page 6 Miriam, the widow, had had two sons killed in Israel’s wars.

In December 2010, IDF Chief of Staff Gabi Ashkenazi awarded her a medal of appreciation. He said: “Miriam’s ability to continue to express her deep pain and channel it into a contribution to the education and formation of future generations, serves as an example and model of inspiration for us all.”

The next group of chapters is narrated by the four younger siblings. Miriam left her principal position after 27 years to become a Jerusalem district supervisor of value education.

Miriam’s Song was published in Hebrew, and she began to travel to the US for Friends of the Israel Defense Forces.

In 2014, Miriam was a torch bearer for Israel Independence Day. For a feature for International Women’s Day, March 8, 2016, in the Jerusalem Post, Miriam was interviewed and photographed along with two other mothers who had each lost a son. In the article by Tal Ariel Amir, he writes, “these three courageous women have risen from the ashes of their despair.”

People ask what it is like to live in Israel. Although Miriam’s book is one replete with courage and faith and commitment, it is also a symbol of what living here can be like for some people, some women, some mothers, some wives. It is a book to read and understand what it means to be a woman, a wife, a mother in Israel today.

Smadar Shir is a prolific Israeli author who has published 400 children’s books as well as seven novels. She has also written hundreds of children’s songs which were composed and recorded for CDs and DVDs. Many of her stories are included in kindergarten and elementary school anthologies. Some of her other books are part of the annual curriculum in middle schools as well as high schools. Along with her personal work in writing, Smadar Shir works as a senior journalist at a daily newspaper, YediotAhronot.

liz feldstern Executive Director, IHE On April 14, more than 100 proud young artists and their families visited the JCC Gallery to see their original works of Holocaust-related art on display. this event is the culmination of students from 11 different Omaha middle schools studying art and its role during the Holocaust, as part of the iHe’s Art & the Holocaust program. Many of the students in attendance had the opportunity to meet the local Holocaust survivors who were the “subjects” of their

portrait projects. funding was provided by the shirley and leonard Goldstein supporting foundation and the sherwood foundation.

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The Jewish Press | April 29, 2016 | 9

Serving Generations…

Brandon Thomas Pursuit of Passion Scholarship, Senior celebration and OTYG installations

T

SCOTT LITTKy Budwig and the late Kirsten Budwig, Program Director, Temple Israel Jonathan Cohen, son of Martin Cohen, Elias he Second Annual Brandon Ginsberg, son of Julie and Bennett Ginsberg, Thomas Pursuit of Passion Jack Goldstein, son of Jill and Joseph GoldScholarship will be presented stein, Abby Hack, daughter of Rosie this year during Zweiback and Mace Hack, Shabbat Services Cole Horner, son of Angela on Friday, May 6. The and Paul Horner, Brandon scholarship is named in Idelman, son of Jill and memory of Brandon George Idelman, Sarah Thomas who was just shy of Krasno, daughter of Roxanne graduation from the Instiand Todd Krasno, Solomon tute for the Culinary Arts Marburg, son of Debra Marwhen he died at age 21 from burg and Daniel Marburg, injuries he sustained in a Michael Militzer, son of Ellie motorcycle accident. Branand Paul Militzer, Madelin don was passionate about his Miller, daughter of Jennifer career choice and was a lovand Paul Miller, Benjamin ing and caring friend to all Oyler, son Karen Oyler, who knew him. When asked Phoebe Placzek, daughter of to describe Brandon, his Kimberly and Matthew Brandon Thomas Mother, Andie Gordman, Placzek, Abby Reiss, daughsaid, “Brandon had a passion for culinary ter of Wendy and Robert Reiss, Brett Robinarts, he knew from a young age he always son, son of Kimberly and Andrew Robinson, wanted to be a chef. Thanksgiving was abGavin Rogers, son of Marcelyn and Charles solutely his favorite holiday and he couldn’t Rogers, Isaiah Schrier, son of Tracy Moore wait to help plan the menu and cook the and Jeff Schrier, Monica Siegel, daughter of meal.”

Andrea and Michael Siegel, Sierra Simpson, The Brandon Thomas Pursuit of Passion daughter of Deborah and James Simpson, Scholarship is being presented to Brandon Naomi Teetzel, daughter of Sarah Teetzel, Idelman, son of Jill and George Idelman. and Rachel Zetzman, daughter of Amee and Brandon will be attending the University of Ted Zetzman Nebraska at Lincoln this coming fall and Finally, during services the new board of will be studying business.

OTYG will be installed for next year.

Also during Shabbat evening services we The evening will conclude with an Oneg will be honoring our seniors as they prepare after services. The Oneg is sponsored by to graduate high school and enter their next Elly and Bob Gordman, Andie Gordman chapter. Seniors to be honored are: and Dan Fitzgerald and Lindsey Thomas in Ali Brehmer, daughter Barbara and Steve celebration of Brandon Thomas and all of Brehmer, Sophie Budwig, daughter of Larry the graduating seniors.

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Nebraska State Holocaust Memorial

GARy HILL The Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln has undertaken the responsibility of maintaining the Nebraska Holocaust Memorial. In addition to weekly inspections and general maintenance, the fraternity members will work with school and other groups volunteering at the Memorial and will be working with schools throughout the State of Nebraska which wish to visit the Memorial. The “Sammies” will serve as docents and provide administrative help for the Memorial.

Each year the Nebraska State Holocaust Memorial holds an annual cleanup maintenance day in conjunction with the Lincoln Jewish Community School. This year the event took place on Sunday, April 10.

14 students and five staff were joined by six members of the Sigma Alpha Mu fraternity in cleaning and polishing the Memorial, weeding the grounds and adding mulch to the landscape.

Top picture: LJCS students with Sigma Alpha Mu members. Top Row: Nico Ross, left, Zach Ostravich, Ari Bennett, Andrea Halpern, Tracy Gordon, Sofia Aguilar, Julia Hyten, Maggie Gordon, Eva Bloom, Neva Kushner, Steve Matzen, Mason Mabin, Kaynan Appelbaum, Evan Crawley; Bottom Row: Jeremy Paslawski, left, Johah Palawski, Ava Draper-Moore, Ariel Kohll, Danny Harris, Max Grossbart, Koby Bodner, Oren Trainin, Itai Trainin, Sara Aguilar, Jemma Cohen and Abby Coren; bottom and left picture: LJCS students and Sigma Alpha Mu members at work.

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10 | The Jewish Press | April 29, 2016

calendar May 2016

all events held at the Jewish Community Center unless otherwise noted. This calendar does not include all community events. For a complete listing, visit the Federation’s website: www.jewishomaha.org (click on calendar).

To keep calendar accurate, call Pat Anson at 402.334.8200. The Jewish Press is not responsible for the accuracy of the above events.

Friday, april 29 Temple Israel JYG/OTYG Lock In and Elections Alzheimer’s Support Group, 11 a.m. at RBJH

Saturday, april 30 JCC Closed for Pesach Temple Israel JYG/OTYG Lock In and Elections Tot Shabbat, 9 a.m. at Temple Israel Torah Study, 9:15 a.m. at Temple Israel Mini-Minyannaires, 10:45 a.m. at Beth El

Sunday, May 1 Babies, Bigger Kids & Bagels, 9:45 a.m. at Beth El BESTT Sunday Classes, 9:45 a.m. at Beth El Torah Study, 10 a.m. at Beth El Torah Tots, 10:30 a.m. at Beth El Shavua Tov Israel, 1 p.m. at Beth Israel Caffe Ivrit, 2:30 p.m. at Beth Israel Nebraska State Holocaust Commemoration, 3 p.m. at the Capitol Rotunda, Lincoln More Than A Joke: A Jew, A Christian, and a Muslim Walk Into A Pub, 5 p.m. at Sean O’Casey’s Irish Pub, 2523 S. 140th Ave

Monday, May 2 Dance Recital, 6:30 p.m.

tueSday, May 3 BBYO Meeting, 6 p.m.

Dance Recital, 6:30 p.m.

Renee Firestone - Live at the Durham, 6:30 p.m. at The Durham Museum, 801 S. 10th St. Birthright Israel Foundation speaker, Alumna Sophie Ambrose, 7 p.m.

WedneSday, May 4 Breadbreakers, noon at RBJH Monthly Kids Learning Chabura, 3:30 p.m. at Beth Israel BESTT Weekday Classes, 4:15 p.m. at Beth El Sports Banquet Committee, 5:15 p.m.

Yom HaShoah Youth Program, 5:30 p.m. at Temple Israel BESTT Hebrew High & Dinner, 6 p.m. at Beth El Israel Through Eyes of Shalom with Scott Littky, 6:30 p.m. at Temple Israel Yom HaShoah - Community Holocaust Commemoration, 7 p.m. at Temple Israel

thurSday, May 5 Friedel Jewish Academy’s Annual Plant Sale, 9 a.m.

Women’s Class, 9:30 a.m. at Beth Israel The Writings of Maimonides, 10 a.m. at Temple Israel Rabbi Dembitzer w/Friedel kids, 3:30 p.m.

Dance Recital, 6:30 p.m.

Avot U-Banim, 7 p.m. at Beth Israel Talmud Learning, 8 p.m. at Beth Israel Friday, May 6 Friedel Jewish Academy’s Annual Plant Sale, 9 a.m.

Star Deli, 11:30 a.m. at RBJH Tot Shabbat & Shabbat Dinner, 6 p.m. at Beth El First Friday Shabbat Service, 6 p.m. at Temple Israel Saturday, May 7 Torah Study, 9:15 a.m. at Temple Israel Mini-Minyannaires, 10:45 a.m. at Beth El Kids Night Out, 5:30 p.m.

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Sunday, May 8 Torah Study, 10 a.m. at Beth El Shavua Tov Israel, 1 p.m. at Beth Israel Caffe Ivrit, 2:30 p.m. at Beth Israel Musical Theater Rehearsals, 3 p.m.

Monday, May 9 Attached, 6 p.m.

NCJW Board Meeting, 6 p.m.

Jewish Press Board Meeting, 7 p.m. tueSday, May 10 CDC Graduation rehearsal, 10 a.m.

Eye on Israel with Eliad Eliyahu, noon BBYO Meeting, 6 p.m.

Yom HaZikaron, 7 p.m.

WedneSday, May 11 Breadbreakers, noon at RBJH BESTT Weekday Classes, 4:15 p.m. at Beth El Yom Ha’Atzmaut Community Celebration, 5:30 p.m.

Israel Through Eyes of Shalom with Scott Littky, 6:30 p.m. at Temple Israel BESTT Hebrew High, 6:45 p.m. at Beth El

thurSday, May 12 Women’s Class, 9:30 a.m. at Beth Israel The Writings of Maimonides, 10 a.m. at Temple Israel Center for Jewish Life Board Meeting, noon Rabbi Dembitzer w/Friedel kids, 3:30 p.m.

Yachad Yoga, 6:30 p.m.

Avot U-Banim, 7 p.m. at Beth Israel Sokolof Awards Night, 7 p.m. RBJH Talmud Learning, 8 p.m. at Beth Israel Friday, May 13 CDC Graduation, 9 a.m.

Alzheimer’s Support Group, 11 a.m. at RBJH Star Deli, 11:30 a.m. at RBJH Mainstreeters Movie: Bridge of Spies, 1 p.m.

Temple Israel Shabbat Comes to You, 4 p.m. at Remington Heights

Saturday, May 14 Torah Study, 9:15 a.m. at Temple Israel BESTT Shabbat’s Cool K-7, 10 a.m. at Beth El Mini-Minyannaires, 10:45 a.m. at Beth El TiYPE Program, 8:30 p.m. at Temple Israel

Sunday, May 15 Torah Study, 10 a.m. at Beth El Book Club with Scott Littky, 10 a.m. at Temple Israel Parent/Toddler Program, 10:30 a.m. at Temple Israel Shavua Tov Israel, 1 p.m. at Beth Israel Caffe Ivrit, 2:30 p.m. at Beth Israel Musical Theater Rehearsals, 3 p.m.

Monday, May 16 Mainstreeters Lunch, 11 a.m. at RBJH Friedel Board Meeting, 7 p.m. at FJA tueSday, May 17 BBYO Meeting, 6 p.m.

Board of Trustees Meeting, 7 p.m. at Temple Israel Women’s Philanthropy Event, 7 p.m. featuring Author and Speaker, Dafna Michaelson Jenet

WedneSday, May 18 ADL Region 6 Debiasing Mental Illness Training, 8:30 a.m.

Breadbreakers, noon at RBJH BESTT Weekday Classes, 4:15 p.m. at Beth El Israel Through Eyes of Shalom with Scott Littky, 6:30 p.m. at Temple Israel BESTT Hebrew High, 6:45 p.m. at Beth El

thurSday, May 19 Women’s Class, 9:30 a.m. at Beth Israel School Directors Committee Meeting, 9:30 a.m.

The Writings of Maimonides, 10 a.m. at Temple Israel Dorothy Kaplan Book Discussion Group, 1 p.m.

Rabbi Dembitzer w/Friedel kids, 3:30 p.m.

Planning & Community Engagement Committee, 4:30 p.m.

62nd B’nai B’rith Omaha Charity Sports Banquet, 5:45 p.m. at CenturyLink Center Omaha Avot U-Banim, 7 p.m. at Beth Israel Talmud Learning, 8 p.m. at Beth Israel Friday, May 20 Star Deli, 11:30 a.m. at RBJH BESTT Graduation, 6 p.m. at Beth El Saturday, May 21 Torah Study, 9:15 a.m. at Temple Israel Mini-Minyannaires, 10:45 a.m. at Beth El

Sunday, May 22 BESTT Sunday Classes, 9:45 a.m. at Beth El Torah Study, 10 a.m. at Beth El Torah Tots, 10:30 a.m. at Beth El TED Talk, 11 a.m. at Temple Israel Sheimot Burial, 11:30 a.m. at Beth Israel Cemetery Shavua Tov Israel, 1 p.m. at Beth Israel Betty Bader’s Retirement Party, 2 p.m. at Beth Israel Mainstreeters Brownville Concert Series, 2 p.m. in Brownville, NE Caffe Ivrit, 2:30 p.m. at Beth Israel Musical Theater Rehearsals, 3 p.m.

Swim Team Parent Meeting, 6 p.m.

Monday, May 23 JFO Board of Directors, 11:30 a.m. at RBJH

FIRST CLASS

tueSday, May 24 JSS Board Meeting, 11:30 a.m. at RBJH BBYO Meeting, 6 p.m.

JCC Board of Directors Meeting, 7 p.m.

ENTERTAIN

WedneSday, May 25 Friedel Jewish Academy, 8:15 a.m.

ADL Region 6 Debiasing Mental Illness Training, 8:30 a.m.

Breadbreakers, noon at RBJH The Marty Party, 4-6 p.m.

Friedel Jewish Academy Graduation, 6:30 p.m. thurSday, May 26 Women’s Class, 9:30 a.m. at Beth Israel Friedel Last day of school picnic, 10 a.m.

Rabbi Dembitzer w/Friedel kids, 3:30 p.m.

Avot U-Banim, 7 p.m. at Beth Israel Talmud Learning, 8 p.m. at Beth Israel

Friday, May 27 Alzheimer’s Support Group, 11 a.m. at RBJH Beth El Serves Lunch at NE AIDS Coalition, 11:30 a.m., 2723 Q St. Star Deli, 11:30 a.m. at RBJH Farewell Kabbalat Shabbat for Rabbi Azriel, 6 p.m. at Temple Israel Saturday, May 28 Torah Study, 9:15 a.m. at Temple Israel Mini-Minyannaires, 10:45 a.m. at Beth El Honorary Dinner for Rabbi Azriel, 6 p.m. at Temple Israel

Sunday, May 29 Torah Study, 10 a.m. at Beth El Shavua Tov Israel, 1 p.m. at Beth Israel Caffe Ivrit, 2:30 p.m. at Beth Israel Beth El Cooking/Serving at Stephen Center, 5:30 p.m., 2723 Q St. Monday, May 30 Memorial Day Holiday JCC Health & Fitness Center, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

tueSday, May 31 Musical Theater Tech/Dress Rehearsal, 4:30 p.m.

BBYO Meeting, 6 p.m.

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Susan Bernard 402.334.6559 | sbernard@jewishomaha.org

emergingvoices

How to interpret the Iranian election

Iran held an election at the end of February. Now, ordinarily, when Iran holds an election, it follows the same pattern as those in the former Soviet Union: the results are pre-determined, with the only real question being by how much the ruling party wins and precisely how many token opposition candidates are elected. But this election, though still hardly free, was just different enough to be of more importance than it might otherwise have been.

What is the justification for making a statement like the above? After all, even though they suffered heavy losses, hard-liners are still more or less in control of the Iranian parliament. The more moderate conservatives (who made substantial gains in the parliament) are unlikely to be too interested in major reform, and only a very few ‘real’ reformers were elected. Other commentators have noted that the new government might be moderately less interested in getting Iran involved in various conflicts in the Middle East (Yemen, for instance), but that will only be important if it proves true – and there is, unsurprisingly, no guarantee of that yet. Rather, the importance of the election comes from the events to do with election itself.

The first point of importance is, in a perhaps bizarre way, simply that the vast majority of the more reform-minded candidates were banned from the election. Now, reform-minded is relative, as the majority were still fairly conservative, but compared to the hard-liners almost anything would seem reformist. This is no doubt part of the reason why so many reformers were prevented from running (a Washington Post editorial from March 2 quoted a figure of 99% kept off the ballots), but there is more of importance here. While, again, Iran’s ‘democracy’ is very much in quotes, the fact that a large number of reformers were kept off the ballot suggests that

The Jewish Press | April 29, 2016 | 11

they were proving more of a threat than the ruling hard-line Iranians wanted to risk. Clearly, the concern was that, if permitted to run, these marginally more logical and reasonable candidates might be victorious.

This in turn tells us that the Iranian public, in so much as they are permitted to express their opinions, Connor P. MullIn were probably inclining heavily away from the hard-liners, and so drastic actions needed to be taken to ensure the outcome the hard-liners wanted.

This brings us to our second notable point: despite the best efforts of the hard-liners, the Iranian populace still managed to elect a surprising number of reform-minded candidates. Now, because of the efforts undertaken to eliminate them from contention, many of these reformers had to run either masquerading as conservative candidates or via creative coalition-building with actual conservatives. The fact that conservatives were willing to go along with this implies that, gradually, the political situation in Iran might be moderating out, but again that is not the only important aspect of this point. Consider that, because we are discussing Iran, it seems reasonable to assume that there may well be repercussions against these more freethinkers, a fact that they were undoubtedly aware of. But enough reformers attempted to run despite this fact, apparently opting to put what they felt was the good of Iran above their own personal safety. And it was not solely the candidates who went to this risk – despite the fact that there are very limited opportunities to express opinions freely in Iran, and despite the fact that elections in Iran are hardly free, the populace still went to the lengths necessary to elect reformists to parliament. This indicates that not only is the mood of said populace clearly swinging against the hard-liners but also that the Iranians have enough of a set attitude against the hard-liners that they are willing to risk their personal security to achieve some degree of reform.

Finally, an ironic third sign of the positive results of the Iranian election was the recent launch of two Iranian ballistic missiles with anti-Israeli messages on them. How can this possibly be a good sign? you are no doubt wondering – after all, this hardly seems like it can be viewed in anything other than a

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negative light. However, we should recognize that it confirms that the hard-liners are discomforted and uneasy after the elections. On the surface, the missiles were meant to be a piece of propaganda, aimed not only at Israel but also the U.S. (the Iranian hard-liners are no fans of the recent deal dismantling their nuclear program). But this propaganda was clearly also directed at the seemingly burgeoning reform movement.

Remember, the rockets were launched not truly by the Iranian government but by the Revolutionary Guard -- essentially, the wing of the hard-liners that takes a lead in keeping the Iranian people in control. Considering that the hard-liners just got embarrassed in the elections by these very same Iranian people, it is difficult not to assume the Revolutionary Guard was also attempting to send a message to scare the Iranian population back into line -- roughly, that ‘the Revolutionary Guard holds the power, and that shouldn’t be forgotten’. Considering the afore-mentioned determination of the Iranian people, however, one has to doubt whether this will actually work, and to suspect that the rocket launch will prove a futile gesture.

Few of the new members of the Iranian parliament are friendly towards the U.S., and unsurprisingly, really none towards Israel. Thus, objectively, the elections in Iran seem unlikely to actually change much in the short term. But rather than write the elections off as completely meaningless, it seems as though it might be best to consider them evidence of a gradual shift towards a slightly less rabidly Islamist state, brought on by an Iranian populace beginning to turn against the hard-liners. In turn, we can hope that this election might ultimately be proven to be the point at which Iran started the extremely (and frustratingly) slow process to becoming a more reasonable state, and less of a major threat in the Middle East.

Connor Mullen is a student at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He shares his story as part of the Emerging Voices series. Emerging Voices invites Jewish writers between the ages of 13 and 25 to share their thoughts and opinions about any topic they choose. If you are interested in writing for this series, please email the editor at avandekamp@jewish omaha.org.

Emerging Voices is supported by the Joanie Jacobson Jewish Cultural Arts Fund at the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation.

AST CHANCE • LAST CHANCE • LAST CHANCE • LAST CHANCE • LAST CHAN 2x3 2 column

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We are so proud of your achievements – membership in NHS, varsity letter in tennis and a Merit Award from B.E.S.T.T. Love, Mom, Dad, brothers, sisters and grandparents

12 | The Jewish Press | April 29, 2016

community What do Warren Buffett Mainstreeters offers May merriment and the Torah have in common?

Annette vAn de KAMp-WRiGht Editor of the Jewish Press Rabbi Jonathan Gross’ newest book, Values Investing: An Omaha Rabbi Learns Torah from Warren Buffett, addresses Jewish values- wherever they are found.

“After having the privilege of meeting him,” Gross said, “I started paying attention to Buffett’s writings. I quickly noticed there are strong similarities between Buffett’s principles of investing, and Maimonides’ 13 Principles of Faith. I thought, someone should point this out, and who better than a former Omaha rabbi?”

Warren Buffett, left, Rabbi Myer Kripke and Rabbi Jonathan Gross in 2014.

After that realization, the book practically wrote itself, according to Gross.

“Warren Buffett repeatedly says that he does not give stock tips,” Gross writes. “Instead he gives out wisdom in the form of certain principles. His gift is his extraordinary ability to relate those principles in a manner that is succinct, entertaining, compelling, and easily understood, often employing the use of aphorisms and parables.”

Gross focuses on Proverbs 3:14, which deals with the business of Torah versus the business of money.

“When you deal with dollars, Rashi explains, money comes and goes once. Trade ideas and both participants are enriched. Financial transactions are always temporary, but Torah is eternal. Buffett also tells people that when you see a lucrative business you don’t like, versus one that makes less profit but makes you happy, you should choose the latter. That wisdom is more important than dollars.”

Rabbi Jonathan Gross lives with his wife Miriam and their four children in Baltimore, and works at Congregation Beth Tfiloh. Although he hasn’t forgotten Omaha, and misses doing his own talk show, he loves Baltimore and being close to Miriam’s family.

Values Investing can be purchased through Amazon, and will also be available at the Bookworm.

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Tuna Salad on Croissant or Egg Salad on Croissant, both served with potato leek soup, fresh fruit salad, challah rolls, lemon merengue pie for dessert and beverage of your choice. Cost is $10.00 a plate. Reservations are appreciated by Monday, May 9. Make checks payable to Jewish Social Services and send full payment to: Mainstreeters c/o Maggie Conti, 323 So. 132 Street, Omaha, NE 68154. For transportation call Maggie at 402.334.6521.

Sweet Charity. Sunday, July 10. 2 p.m. matinee at The Ralston Community Theater in Ralston High School.

8969 Park Street. Cost per ticket: $15.

Reservations needed by June 23. Sweet Charity is the 1969 American musical directed and choreographed by Bob Fosse, written by Neil Simon, with music and lyrics by Cy Coleman and Dorothy Fields. In this musical, Charity Hope Valentine is an incurable optimist, despite her job at a seedy dance joint. Charity never stops looking for true love and never seems to look for it in the right places. Wonderful musical numbers include Big Spender, If My Friends Could See Me Now, Too Many Tomorrows, There’s Gotta Be Something Better Than This, I’m a Brass Band and Baby, Dream Your Dream. We’ll meet in the theater lobby at 1:30 p.m. to pick up our tickets. Make your check payable to Jewish Social Services and send reservation with full payment to: Mainstreeters c/o Maggie Conti, 323 South 132 Street, Omaha, NE 68154. For information call Harry Alloy at 402.697.8709 Mainstreeters welcomes all Jewish residents of the Omaha area age 60 plus. The group offers a variety of learning opportunities plus social and cultural events.

“We’re constantly thinking up new topics for classes and tracking down entertaining luncheon speakers,” said Maggie Conti, Director of Activities and Outreach Programs. “Be sure to join the good times.”

Mainstreeters programs are supported in part by grants from the United Way of the Midlands and the Jewish Federation of Omaha.

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ozzie noGG Ah, yes, the merry month of May brings activities to satisfy various interests.

Mark your calendars for these programs and join the action.

Monday, May 2: Learn More About Dementia and Associated Problems. 1:302:30 p.m. in the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home Boardroom. No Charge. Invite a friend. Jewish Social Services and the Visiting Nurse Association realize the importance of being proactive about your health, both physical and mental. Join Dennis Dunning, PhD., to learn more about the different types of dementia, their signs and symptoms, and treatments currently available. This educational workshop will be a specific interest to seniors who want to learn more about taking charge of their wellbeing. Refreshments will be served after the presentation. To RSVP, please call Maggie Conti at 402.334.6521 or email mconti@rbjh.com.

A Free Afternoon at the Movies: Bridge of Spies.

Friday, May 13 at 1 p.m. – JCC Theater. No Charge.

Complimentary popcorn, warm and delicious, will be served. No reservations necessary. Bring a pal. Directed

by Steven Spielberg, Bridge of Spies stars Tom Hanks as the American attorney tasked with negotiating the release of a U-2 spy plane pilot who was shot down over Russia at the height of the Cold War. This historical drama from DreamWorks Studios received six Academy Award nominations including Best Picture and Best Original Screenplay, and won Best Supporting Actor for Mark Rylance who plays Rudolf Abel, a Soviet intelligence officer. You’ll be on the edge of your seat. If you want to have lunch at the Star Deli before the show, call Maggie Conti at 402.334.6521 to reserve a table. Lunch is on your own. The Star Deli opens for business at 11:30 a.m.

The Two Clergy in Concert: Monday, May 16, at 12:30 p.m. in the RBJH Auditorium. You’ve heard of the Three Tenors? Well, we have the Two Clergy -- Cantor Wendy Shermet and Hazan Michael Krausman -- ready to entertain you with an afternoon of Jewish Music. It doesn’t get any better than this, folks. For your entree, choose either

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The Jewish Press | April 29, 2016 | 13

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(Founded in 1920) Eric Dunning President Annette van de Kamp-Wright Editor Richard Busse Creative Director Susan Bernard Advertising Executive Lori Kooper-Schwarz Assistant Editor Thierry Ndjike Accounting Jewish Press Board Eric Dunning, President; Andy Ruback, Past-President; Sandy Friedman, Treasurer; Andrew Boehm; Scott Farkas; Paul Gerber; Alex Grossman; David Kotok; Debbie Kricsfeld; Abby Kutler; Pam Monsky; Paul Rabinovitz; Nancy Wolf and Barry Zoob.

The mission of the Jewish Federation of Omaha is to build and sustain a strong and vibrant Omaha Jewish Community and to support Jews in Israel and around the world. Agencies of the Federation are: Community Relations Committee, Jewish Community Center, Center for Jewish LIfe, Jewish Social Services, and the Jewish Press.

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Letters should be no longer than 250 words and must be single-spaced typed, not hand-written. Published letters should be confined to opinions and comments on articles or events. News items should not be submitted and printed as a “Letter to the Editor.” The Editor may edit letters for content and space restrictions. Letters may be published without giving an opposing view.

Information shall be verified before printing. All letters must be signed by the writer, but the name can be withheld at the writer’s request. The Jewish Press will not publish letters that appear to be part of an organized campaign, nor letters copied from the Internet. No letters should be published from candidates running for office, but others may write on their behalf.

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M

Mothers and daughters

ANNETTE vAN DE KAMP-WRIGhT Editor of the Jewish Press ay 8 is Mother’s Day, and that always makes me feel a little guilty. Okay; a lot guilty. I moved 4,000 miles away from my mother (nothing personal) and so there is no stopping by for coffee and cake on that day. We have to use the phone, and she celebrates without me and I without her, which feels a little incomplete. As usual, I will forget to mail her a Mother’s Day card in time to battle the international post, which is okay; neither of us care much for the sentimental drivel that Hallmark tries to throw our way. On the other hand, at least I still have my mother. I know not everyone is that lucky.

She doesn’t read the Jewish Press (too much English--forget it), so she’s not going to see this page, but that’s okay. Maybe I’ll tell her later.

My favorite thing, on the rare occasions I do get to visit her, is to join in all the regular day-to-day things. Getting groceries, having real Dutch dinners with all the foods I can’t get my hands on in Omaha, sitting around and talking about anything and everything. Watching the news and discussing politics; solving all the world’s problems over endless cups of coffee. Just being together without needing an itinerary, it’s always a blessing.

There are, of course, her more aggravating habits. How her fridge is always too full because she packs it like it’s a Tetris game. How, rather than accept help, she insists on carrying both shopping bags because “It keeps me in balance.” How she expresses sadness by getting really crabby, and that she only picks up the phone to call me on my birthday and when someone dies. Although, she has recently gotten into the habit of emailing one or two sentences per week, so that is a win. The fact that she doesn’t like yellow flowers (what on earth is wrong with yellow flowers?). How after all these years, she still hasn’t figured out how to operate the DVD player. At the same time, if I want to know where my own neurotic tendencies and odd habits come from, I don’t have to look very far. I am the apple

and she is the tree.

It’s when we get older that we start to see our parents more as human beings, and less as ‘big people’ who know everything.

Growing up is an equalizer; the notion that today I am 17 years older than she was when I was born is a little surreal. It makes me wonder how my own children look at me, versus how they will see me ten, 20 years from now.

Parenting often means getting lost in the small things. The homework, the band-aids, the outgrown clothes and dental appointments. Bedtimes and playdates and birthday parties and Hebrew school attendance. School uniforms, theater practice, the hand-washing and room cleaning.

Those things all seem so important in the moment, but when I look back on my own childhood, it is the composite that counts. I am grateful to my mother, not because of any one thing, and not in spite of any one thing. I just am, and I hope my children will feel the same. Maybe they already, on some level, do; that would make me a lucky daughter and a lucky mother all at once.

To those of you have are lucky enough to celebrate this day with family, I wish you a happy Mother’s Day. Don’t forget to stop by the Friedel Jewish Academy’s plant and flower sale next week: Thursday May 5 and Friday May 6 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Jewish Community Center’s main entrance.

My mother and my daughter, Amersfoort, 2012

5 shocking things about having a baby in Israel Kveller via JTA This piece was originally published on Kveller, a 70 Faces Media property.

When I was seven months pregnant, my husband and I took the bus to Shilav, one of Israel’s premiere baby stores. Armed RACHEL SALES with “What to Expect When You’re Expecting” and my American brother and sister-in-law’s recommendations, we knew exactly what we needed. But, as it turned out, our saleswoman Racheli knew better than everyone.

With four kids of her own and a few grandchildren, Racheli asserted her expertise while whisking us through the store. When we wondered aloud if we really needed the most expensive mattress, Racheli piled on the Jewish guilt. When we thought we could live without the French baby bath, Racheli clucked her tongue. But when we asked where we could find a bookcase to complete our baby’s furniture set, Racheli raised her eyebrow.

“Why do you need that?” she asked. “Babies can’t read!”

In the land of milk and babies, this was the first of many times that our American sensibilities would clash with Israeli baby standards.

From prepping for our little boy to introducing him to the world, here are five Israeli conventions that shocked this American mom while preparing for a baby in Israel.

1. Infants should constantly be lying flat.

Choosing a stroller proved to be as intense a process as opening up a bank account in Israel.

Living in a Tel Aviv walk-up apartment, we knew we needed something light. But purchasing the City Mini was only the first step. Next: Should we get a bassinet for our infant or a car seat that snaps in? In the U.S., the car seat reigns,

but in Israel, you’ll get scolded if your baby isn’t lying flat.

In fact, during a later trip to Shilav, I was holding my baby in a sitting position on my lap when the salesperson paused, looking extremely disturbed.

“I’m sorry to interrupt you, but I really must say something,” she said. “Your infant should never be seated like that.”

2. Babies should be bundled up.

In America, the rule is to dress your baby as you dress yourself. But in the balmy Mediterranean winter, parents are urged to clothe their babies in an additional layer. This meant that while I wore a cardigan and jeans, my baby was in an undershirt, cotton onesie, a furry outerwear onesie and a woolen hat. I felt suffocated just looking at him.

Yet our Israeli doctor’s orders were apparently not universally accepted in Israel. While walking up Tel Aviv’s Ben Yehuda Street, a Russian woman admonished me.

“Your baby is overheating!" she exclaimed.

"Take off his hat and his socks.”

Was she a nurse? No idea. But I wasn’t alone in preferring American baby-dressing standards.

3. Crib standards are from the 1980s.

After selecting the best crib set from Shilav, our favorite saleswoman, Racheli, was horrified when we proceeded to put only two fitted sheets in our cart.

“What about bumpers and a blanket?” she cried. “Your baby is going to freeze!”

With few exceptions, Israeli stores sell dropside cribs. But the cribs are picture perfect, decked out in fluffy comforters and colorful bumpers. You won’t find one of those depressing images of a baby lying in a straitjacket -- I mean, sleep sack -- in the center of a massive crib.

Even in the hospital, our little baby was wrapped in a bulky blanket. Each time I returned him to the nursery, my heart lurched. I could not

believe I was colluding with the hospital to commit this cardinal sin. Of course, he looked nothing less than serene.

4. Babies aren’t measured for a whole month.

I delivered via planned C-section and only met my beautiful boy six hours later. My husband was the first family member to hold our baby, and he watched the nurses administer all of the initial tests and medications. But for some reason, he couldn’t recall our baby’s length. Nor was it written on any of his documents. So when family and friends asked his weight, we had an answer. How many inches was he? Awkward silence.

Turns out, Israelis don’t measure babies in the hospital because they don’t want to stretch their legs. Instead, they do so a month later during the first Well-Baby Clinic appointment.

5. It’s incredibly hard to book a mohel.

With a scheduled C-section in the Jewish state, we thought it would be a cinch to find a mohel -one who was a doctor, too. Turns out that if you want a mohel who will come to Tel Aviv, will perform at a Conservative synagogue and doesn’t do metzizah b’peh -- placing one’s mouth directly on the circumcision wound to draw blood away from the cut -- you’d better start researching months in advance. We contacted eight mohels before we found one who said he fit the bill -- all for the price of $700. As we learned, being a mohel is the most lucrative profession in Israel.

Two months in, I’m getting used to the constant advice from strangers everywhere I go -from the supermarket to Rothschild Boulevard.

And I’m even taking some of it, depending on my mood.

Rachel Sales is a co-founder and editor of Pink Pangea. She lives in Tel Aviv with her husband, Ben, and son, Dov. Kveller is a thriving community of women and parents who convene online to share, celebrate and commiserate their experiences of raising kids through a Jewish lens. Visit Kveller.com.

14 | The Jewish Press | April 29, 2016

synagogues b’nai iSRael Synagogue

618 Mynster Street Council Bluffs, IA 51503-0766 402.322.4705 email: CBsynagogue@hotmail.com

beTh el Synagogue

Member of United Synagogues of Conservative Judaism 14506 California Omaha, NE 68154-1980 402.492.8550 bethel-omaha.org

beTh iSRael Synagogue

Member of Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America 12604 Pacific Street Omaha, NE. 68154 402.556.6288 BethIsrael@OrthodoxOmaha.org

chabad houSe

An Affiliate of Chabad-Lubavitch 1866 South 120 Street Omaha, NE 68144-1646 402.330.1800 OChabad.com email: chabad@aol.com

congRegaTion b’nai JeShuRun

South Street Temple Union for Reform Judaism 2061 South 20th Street Lincoln, NE 68502-2797 402.435.8004 www.southstreettemple.org

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Capehart Chapel 2500 Capehart Road Offutt AFB, NE 68123 402.294.6244

RoSe blumKin JewiSh home

323 South 132 Street Omaha, NE 68154

TemPle iSRael

Union for Reform Judaism (URJ) 13111 Sterling Ridge Drive Omaha, NE 68144-1206 402.556.6536 templeisraelomaha.com

TifeReTh iSRael

Member of United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism 3219 Sheridan Boulevard Lincoln, NE 68502-5236 402.423.8569 tiferethisraellincoln.org

b’nai iSRael Synagogue

Join us for our monthly Shabbat Speakers Series on may 13, at 7:30 p.m. with guest speaker, Jeannette Gabriel of the University of Iowa Libraries on We did so much beyond the home: The history of Jewish Women’s Community Life in Iowa.

There will an Oneg to follow service. All community members are invited to attend.

Larry Blass will officiate at all of the Speaker Series Services.

For information on our historic synagogue, please contact any of our board members: Mark Eveloff, Rick Katelman, Carole Lainof, Marty Ricks, Sissy Silber, Nancy Wolf and Phil Wolf.

beTh el Synagogue

Services conducted by Rabbi Steven Abraham and Hazzan Michael Krausman. fRiday: Synagogue Office Closed; Morning Service, 9:30 a.m.; Kabbalat Shabbat/Ma’ariv, 6 p.m.

SaTuRday: Morning Service with Yizkor, 9:30 a.m. followed by Multi-Generational Lunch; Junior Congregation, 10 a.m.; Mini-Minyannaires, 10:45 a.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 8 p.m. weeKday SeRviceS: Sundays, 9 a.m. & 5:30 p.m.; weekdays, 7 a.m. & 5:30 p.m.

Sunday: BESTT Classes, 9:45 a.m.; Torah Study, 10 a.m.; Learn to Read Hebrew with Hazzan, 10 a.m.; Torah Tots, 10:30 a.m.; Adult B’nai Mitzvah Class, 11 a.m. wedneSday: BESTT Classes, 4:15 p.m.; Hebrew High Dinner & Program, 5:30 p.m. at Temple Israel; Yom HaShoah Community Observance, 7 p.m. at Temple Israel.

ThuRSday: Minyan & More, 6:15 p.m. with Rabbi Abraham.

Tot Shabbat, friday, may 6, 6 p.m. followed by dinner, led by “Miss Patty” Nogg.

BESTT & Hebrew High go to Yom Ha’atzmaut, wednesday, may 11, 4:15 p.m. at the JCC. All classes and programs are open to everyone in the Jewish community.

beTh iSRael Synagogue

Office hours: Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. and Friday, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Services conducted by Rabbi Ari Dembitzer. fRiday: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Splitting the Sea vs. Surfing the Sea, 6 p.m.; Mincha-Ma’ariv, 7 p.m.; Candle Lighting before, 8:02 p.m.

SaTuRday: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Yizkor, 10:45 a.m.; Youth Class for Kids, 6:45 p.m.; Mincha/Seudah Shlishit “Close of Pesach Banquet, 7:45 p.m.; Havdalah, 9:07 p.m.

Sunday: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Bagels and Beit Medrash, 9:45 a.m.; Shavua Tov Israel, 1 p.m.; Caffe Ivrit, 2:30 p.m. weeKdayS: Shacharit, 7 a.m. wedneSday: Monthly Kids Learning Chabura (Grades K2), 3:30 p.m.

ThuRSday: Women’s Class, 9:30 a.m.; Scholar’s Club for 6th Grade, 3:30 p.m.; Avot U-Banim, 7 p.m.; Talmud Learning, 8 p.m.

chabad houSe

Services conducted by Rabbi Mendel Katzman. Office hours: Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-4:30 p.m. fRiday: Minyan and Meditation, 7 a.m.; Shacharit, 9:30 a.m..; Mincha, 7:30 p.m.; Candle Lighting, 8:02 p.m.

SaTuRday: Shacharit, 9:30 a.m..; Yizkor, 11 a.m.; Mincha, 7 p.m.; Moshiach Fesast, 7:30 p.m.; Passover Ends, 9:06 p.m.

Sunday: Minyan, 8:30 a.m. weeKdayS: Minyan and Meditation, 7 a.m.

TueSday: Dynamic Discovery with Shani Katzman, 10:15 a.m. A class for women based on traditional texts with practical insights and application. RSVP by calling the office. wedneSday: Personal Parsha class, 9:30 a.m. with Rochi Katzman. RSVP by calling the office; The Development of the Oral Tradition, 7 p.m. with Rabbi Katzman. RSVP by calling the office. In memory of Forrest Krutter -- Efrayim Menachem Ben Avraham Yitzchak.

ThuRSday: Women’s Study at UNMC with Shani Katzman, noon. RSVP by emailing Marlene Cohen at mzcohen@unmc.edu.

All programs are open to the entire community.

congRegaTion b’nai JeShuRun

Services conducted by Rabbi Craig Lewis. fRiday: Pre-neg and Sha-ba-ba-bat Family DInner, 6 p.m.; Sha-ba-ba-bat family-friendly service, 6:30 p.m.; Shabbat

Evening Service, 6:30 p.m.

SaTuRday: Shabbat Morning Service, 9:30 a.m.; Torah Study, 10:30 a.m. on a Passover topic; Havdalah (72 minutes), 9:35 p.m.

Sunday: LJCS Gan through Grade 7, 9:30 a.m.-noon at Tifereth Israel; Hallah High, 9:45 a.m.-noon at Tifereth Israel; LJCS Teachers Meeting, 12:15 p.m. at Tifereth Israel; LJCS Board Meeting, 1 p.m.; Holocaust Commemoration in the State Capitol Rotunda, 3 p.m. wedneSday: LJCS classes (grades 3-7), 4-6 p.m. at Tifereth Israel.

ThuRSday: Mayor’s Interfaith Prayer Breakfast, 7 a.m. at the Cornhusker Hotel; Yom HaShoah Memorial Service, 5:30 p.m. at Wyuka Cemetery. adulT educaTion TueSday: Intro to Judaism, 6:30 p.m. led by Rabbi Lewis.

No LJCS Classes, Sunday, may 8 The music committee is forming a year-round choir to sing a song or two at services. Whether you normally sing in High Holy Day choir or you've always wanted to learn the Jewish melodies, this is a great opportunity to learn, laugh and grow. Experience not required. If you have any interest in our music, stop by our first meeting on Thursday april 28 at 7 p.m. at the Temple.

Lincoln Jewish Community School CAMP ISRAEL, July 11– July 22, 9 a.m.–2 p.m. at Tifereth Israel. Kosher lunch and snack provided. LJCS enrolled students entering Kindergarten through 7th grade are eligible to attend Camp Israel. Those in 8th grade and up can participate as Counselors in Training. Contact Andrea Halpern or Tracy Gordon if you are interested!

offuTT aiR foRce baSe

fRiday: Services, 7:30 p.m. every first and third of the month.

RoSe blumKin JewiSh home

fRiday: Services, 9:15 a.m. led by Alan Shulewitz.

SaTuRday: Services with Yizkor, 9:15 a.m. led by Marty Shukert.

Services will be held in the Chapel. Members of the community are invited to attend.

TemPle iSRael

fRiday: Concluding Passover Service and Yizkor, 10:30 a.m. If you would like to have the names of your loved ones read at the concluding service, please contact Temple Israel, 402.556.6536 or mweidner@templeisraelomaha. com, with the names.; OTYG and 8th Grade Lock in, 5 p.m. OTYG will be leading Shabbat Services and followed by a social activity and OTYG Elections! Cost is $20 and includes dinner. Remember to bring your sleeping bag, pillow, toiletries, pjs, etc. Please RSVP to Director of Youth and Young Adult Engagement Aliyah Lasky, 402.556.6536 or alasky@templeisraelomaha.com.; Shabbat Service, 6 p.m.

SaTuRday: Tot Shabbat, 9 a.m.; Torah Study, 9:15 a.m.; Shabbat Morning Service/Confirmation, 10:30 a.m. Our tenth graders will share a private moment with Rabbi Azriel, Rabbi Brown, and Cantor Shermet to affirm their commitment to the Jewish people. Everyone is invited to share in this rite of passage as we wish our students well in their continuing Jewish

education. Tenth graders are Benjamin Brodkey, Aleia Budwig, Adam Cooper-Kahn, Kathleen Kirshenbaum, Benjamin LeathersArnold, Simon Murphy, Madeleine Rauhauser, and Eliana Reiss.

Sunday: Grades K-6, 10 a.m.; More Than A Joke: A Jew, A Christian, and a Muslim Walk Into A Pub, 5 p.m. with Tri-Faith Initiative leaders Rabbi Aryeh Azriel, Rev. Dr. Eric Elnes, Dr. Syed Mohiuddin and others at Sean O”Casey’s Irish Pub, 2523 S 140 Avenue. wedneSday: Grades 3-6, 4 p.m.; Chapel for School, 4:30 p.m.; Grades 9-12 Yom HaShoah Youth Dinner and Program, 5:30 p.m.; Grades 7-8, 6 p.m.; Israel through the Eyes of the Shalom Hartman Institute, 6:30 p.m. with Scott Littky; Yom HaShoah Service, 7 p.m.

ThuRSday: The Writings of Maimonides, 10 a.m. with Rabbi Azriel.

May First Friday Shabbat Service/High School Senior Celebration/OTYG Installations, friday, may 6. Candle lighting and kiddush in the Simon Community Court, 5:30 p.m., Service, 6 p.m., dinner following services. Cost is $5 per person, max of $20 per family. Please RSVP to Temple Israel, 402.556.6536 or RSvP@templeisraelomaha.com, by may 4.

TifeReTh iSRael

Services conducted by lay leader Nancy Coren. Office hours: monday-friday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. fRiday: The synagogue office is closed for Pesach; Mincha/ Ma’ariv, 6:30 p.m.; Candle Lighting, 8:04 p.m.

SaTuRday: Shabbat Pesach Services and Yizkor, 9 a.m.

Please note there will be no Kiddush lunch following services as the kitchen is closed for Passover; Pesach Ends, 9:04 p.m.

Sunday: LJCS Gan through Grade 7, 9:30 a.m.-noon at Tifereth Israel; Hallah High, 9:45 a.m.-noon at Tifereth Israel; LJCS Teachers Meeting, 12:15 p.m. at Tifereth Israel; LJCS Board Meeting, 1 p.m.; Nebraska State Holocaust Commemoration, 3 p.m. in the State Capitol Rotunda with keynote speaker, Sam Passer. For questions or information, visit Jewishlincoln. org or contact IHE at info@ihene.org or 402.334.6576. wedneSday: LJCS classes (grades 3-7), 4-6 p.m. at Tifereth Israel.

ThuRSday: Mayor’s Interfaith Prayer Breakfast, 7:30 a.m. with guest speaker, Terry Taylor at the Cornhusker Hotel (333 S. 13 St.); Yom HaShoah Memorial Service, 5:30 p.m. at Wyuka Cemetery.

Lincoln Jewish Community School CAMP ISRAEL, July 11– July 22, 9 a.m.–2 p.m. at Tifereth Israel. Kosher lunch and snack provided. LJCS enrolled students entering Kindergarten through 7th grade are eligible to attend Camp Israel. Contact Andrea Halpern or Tracy Gordon if you are interested!

To SubmiT b’nai miTzvah announcemenTS

Announcements should be e-mailed to the Press with attached photos in .jpg or .tif files to jpress@jewish omaha.org; or mailed to 333 So. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68154 two weeks in advance of the B’nai Mitzvah.

Forms are available through Omaha and Lincoln synagogues, by contacting The Jewish Press at 402.334.6448, by e-mailing the editor at: avande kamp@jewishomaha.org or online at: www.jewish omaha.org, click on ‘Jewish Press.’

bRKers Shabbat/Passover in omaha bRiTTa TolleSfRud Chabad of Nebraska Chabad welcomes all Berkshire attendants to Omaha.

Buffet enthusiasts converge on Omaha from as far as Australia, eager for inspiration and guidance for monetary pursuits. While the Berkshire Hathaway expert enlightens his fans, Chabad offers its signature warm, joyous and engaging dinners and Farbrengens which many from far and wide have come to rely on and deeply appreciate.

Nourishment for the soul in tandem with tasteful nutritious food are staples at every Chabad event and each participant gets a heavy dose of each.

This year, Berkshire Hathaway has landed squarely on the final days of Passover. To answer the call of many who want to have their Passover cake and eat it too, Chabad has prepared a Passover party to remember during the april 28-may 1 business weekend. Amenities including Matzah, chicken soup and Matzah balls in addition to some Passover gourmet selections will be included during the celebrations.

Guest Rabbinic interns, Mendy and Yossi, will lead the program in close proximity to the CenturyLink and Hilton Omaha. Davening, mitzvah opportunities, and munchies will be available to all throughout the weekend. Guests are encouraged to share the excitement of Passover, the season of freedom, make international Jewish connections and make their Omaha experience more meaningful than they can imagine.

Saturday night, may 1, the group will join Chabad in West Omaha for a moving Passover finale known as the Moshiach feast which concludes with a musical havdalah.

Look out for the Mitzvah Mobile to grab a kosher snack, and schmooze.

For reservations, email britta@ochabad.com with your contact information, or call 402.330.1800.

Chabad welcomes all Jews regardless of affiliation or observance. A schedule of events can be found on our website: www.ochabad.com/brk.

The program was initiated by Rabbi Mendel Katzman, with the help of Forrest Krutter OBM.

lifecycles b’NaI mItzVah

Isabella delrogh persky

Isabella Delrogh Persky, daughter of Cindy and Joshua Persky, will become a Bat Mitzvah on Saturday, May 7, at Temple Israel.

Isabella is a seventh-grade student at Westside Middle School. She is a member of the Westside Connection Show Choir and Westside Middle School Volleyball team.

Her interests include photography and attending Camp Shwayder.

For her mitzvah project, Isabella volunteered at the Westside Boys and Girls Club, helping young students with art projects and homework.

She has a brother, Isaac.

Grandparents are Gail and Jerry Kohll, Maram Schuster and the late Robert Persky.

Great-grandparents are the late Selma and Is Tretiak, Leona and Jerry Cohn and Louis Kohll.

huNter tam

Hunter Tam, son of Lauren and Tommy Tam, will become a Bar Mitzvah on Saturday, May 7, at Beth El. Hunter is a seventh grade student and is homeschooled.

His interests include reading and socializing with friends and he enjoys his role in Kadima.

For his mitzvah project, Hunter is going to be doing a toy drive and raising money for the Chaiyanu toy drive for sick kids in Israel for Hanukkah.

He has three sisters, Lily, Ilana and Sadie.

Great-grandparents are Allan and Gerda Samuels.

eNgagemeNt

buCher/belmoNt

Michelle and Ron Bucher are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Amanda Elizabeth, to Colin Joseph Belmont, son of Jill and Mark Belmont.

The bride-to-be will graduate from Creighton University with a B.S. in Health Sciences and a Doctor of Pharmacy degree. Following graduation, she will be a pharmacist with CVS in Kansas City, MO. She is the granddaughter of Joan Kaiman and the late Ben Kaiman, and Shirley and Gerald Bucher.

Her fiancé is a 2014 graduate of the William Allen White School of Journalism at the University of Kansas, and is an account manager with VML in Kansas City. He is the grandson of Barbara and Marshall Kushner, and the late Florence and Joseph Belmont.

A wedding is planned for May 2017 in Omaha.

raNjItkar/CohN

asmita ranjitkar and michael j. Cohn announce their engagement.

The bride-to-be is a graduate of Manipal University (Manipal Academy of Higher Education) in India. She earned her Bachelors of Dental Surgery from the University of Alabama, Birmingham and her Masters in Clinical Dentistry from the University of Colorado, Denver - Doctor of Dentistry. She works for A Smile For Kids.

She is the daughter of Arun and Heri Ranjitkar of Kathmandu, Nepal.

Her fiancé graduated from Bellevue University with a BS in Marketing Managment. He is an Independent Luxury Automotive Consultant.

He is the son of Pam and Jeff Cohn, and the grandson of Rose Perelman and the late Lyman Cohn, Julie Anon and the late Norman Anon of Cheyenne, WY. Dual weddings are planned in Nepal and Omaha in late Autumn 2016.

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IN memorIam

mIkhaIl “mIke” etus

Mikhail “Mike” Etus passed away on April 6 at age 68 in Omaha. Services were held on April 8 at Beth El Cemetery.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Mira and Leonid Etus.

He is survived by his caring wife, Valentina Etus; son Igor Etus; daughter and son-in-law, Lucy and Timur Muinov; grandson, Allan Muinov; sister, Mary Etus; and brother, Greg Etus and his family.

Mikhail was born in 1947, Gagry, in the former USSR. His father Leonid returned from World War II and in 1947 the new family settled in a small town of Parichi in Belarus. Mikhail finished secondary school and continued his education at the Foreign Language Institute in Minsk, graduating in 1970. He worked for many years as an English language teacher in several secondary schools in the town of Svetlogorsk, and later he worked at the city’s Department of Education as an Inspector and Quality Manager, and eventually as a school principal.

Mikhail and his family immigrated to the United States in 1993 and came directly to Omaha, joining his extended family. Mikhail started a new life and career in Omaha, first studying computer science at the Skills Plus Training program and then accepting a position as a salesperson and consultant at the Nebraska Furniture Mart, where he continued to work for 22 years.

Memorials may be made to the organization of your choice.

World NeWs

Far-right candidate wins 1st round of Austrian elections

JTA NEWS STAFF A member of the far-right Freedom Party in Austria won the first round of presidential elections, clinching the movement’s best electoral showing ever.

Norbert Hofer of the Freedom Party, or FPO, took 36 percent of the vote in Sunday’s election, with the runner-up -an independent, le-leaning candidate -- taking 20 percent.

Hofer, whose campaign focused on keeping migrants from Syria and Iraq out of Austria, and Alexander van der Bellen, an environmentalist with a pro-refugee agenda, will face off in the final vote on May 22 for the largely ceremonial post.

Hundreds of thousands of the refugees have passed through Austria in recent months. Popular opposition to their arrival offers only a partial explanation to the FPO’s successes, according to Karl Pfeifer, a veteran journalist and anti-fascist activist who formerly edited the official publication of Vienna’s Jewish community of 8,000 people. e Jewish Community of Vienna has shunned FPO, which it regards as having problematic ties to neo-Nazis.

FPO Chairman Heinz-Christian Strache has denied the allegations and recently visited Israel, where he met with Likud party officials. In 2012, Strache apologized for posting on Facebook a caricature depicting an obese, hooknosed banker wearing star-shaped cufflinks. “e success of the FPO reflects the political center’s failure to provide an alternative,” Pfeifer told JTA on Monday. “Instead of confronting the FPO, the political establishment either ignored it or shied rightward to steal would-be FPO voters, but the voters went to the source and cut out the middleman.”

Another independent candidate, the right-of-center former judge Irmgard Griss, garnered 19 percent of the vote.

She has not yet endorsed either candidate in the final round. In France, mainstream rival parties put aside their differences and endorsed one another to keep the far-right National Front from winning.

“But this sort of behavior does not occur in Austria,” Pfeifer said.

If Hofer wins, Pfeifer said, “It is my opinion that the Jewish community will have no choice but to cooperate with him, as it is bound to work with Austria’s elected leadership.”

He added: “I fear for what this victory means for Austria and for Europe in general because it signals a slide into a restrictive democracy of the kind that exists in Hungary.”

Pulverent e

The Jewish Press | April 29, 2016 | 15

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16 | The Jewish Press | April 29, 2016

sports

B’nai B’rith announces its top student-honorees for the Dave Feherty Sports Banquet

“F

GAry JAvitCh And hOwArd BOrden Henry Monsky Lodge or the first time in our 62-year banquet history, both the male and female honorees come from the same school,” said B’nai B’rith banquet chair Howard Shandell.

“That talent-rich school is Bellevue West High School (BW), and the star athletes are Jadyn Kowalski, a stellar prostyle quarterback and Chloe Akin-Otiko, a phenomenal basketball and track competitor.

“Our Henry Monsky Lodge will recognize the two BW seniors as top achievers in both athletics and academics.

These are qualities the Henry Monsky Lodge strives to promote,” Shandell added.

The BW athletes will be honored at The 62nd Annual Charity Sports Banquet, presented by B’nai B’rith on May 19 at the CenturyLink Omaha Center. The charity dinner raises funds that benefit the entire Jewish community with scholarships and subventions distributed through the synagogues, the Federation, and the JCC. In addition, the Lodge chose Dave Feherty, the humorous host of the Golf TV Channel and a huge best-selling author, as their featured speaker to help honor the student award winners. The popular Sklar Brothers, known for their comedy and HBO TV appearances will reprise their role as MC’s for a third time at the dinner.

Ari Riekes, Henry Monsky Lodge president continued, “We are proud to recognize Jadyn Kowalski as the recipient of the Lodge’s prestigious Bert Render Award for the top male scholar-athlete in the Omaha Metro area.”

Gatorade selected the 6-foot-4 passer as a 2016 State Football Player of the Year, noting that he connected on 46 touchdown passes, amassing a total of 3,146 yards with a nearly astounding 70% completion rate.

In early April, Jadyn received “The Over The Top Award” at the annual Jet award banquet, being named the top player in Eastern Nebraska. He also holds numerous Nebraska State Activities Association (NSAA) and school records.

These include most passing TDs, most passing yards and total yards in a high school career. Among many other awards, Jason was also named the 2016 Captain of the Omaha World-Herald and Lincoln Journal Star all-Nebraska and “Super State” teams.

“On the girl’s side,” Riekes stated, “Chloe garnered the Lodge’s Earl Siegel award, the Lodge’s top honor for female scholar-athletes in the Omaha Metro area.

Jadyn Kowalski

Chloe Akin-Otiko

Chloe is a two-sport standout. In track, she is a threetime 100 and 200-meter Gold Medal Winning athlete. She also won Gold in the 400 meter Long Jump and 4 X 100 Relay.

Nebraska’s two-time Gatorade Girls Track & Field Athlete of the Year, Chloe earned a #29 ranking among the nation’s top 100 prep competitors in 2015 with her state title time.

In Basketball, Chloe, at 5 ft. 8 in., was All Metro 1st team (2014 – 2016) and 1st Team All Nebraska (2015-2016). In addition, she is both a season point record holder and a career scoring record holder in her school.

In the classroom, Chloe Akin-Otiko has maintained a 5.35 GPA on a five-point scale. “Outside of sports, Chloe is a member of National Honor Society and the freshman mentor program at BW. She helps with the Cornhusker Shutzhund Club, a dog training club, and she is active in her church,” stated Leigh Officer, a well-known local sports advocate for youth. She added, “Chloe serves our community just by being in it. Her smile is contagious. Her work ethic is inspiring. Her grace is overflowing. She is remarkable.”

“A basketball standout as well, academically, Jadyn has maintained a 4.44 GPA on a 5.0 scale. A member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and a member of his church’s youth group, Jadyn has volunteered for the Open Door Mission, Kids Against Hunger and the Bellevue Food Pantry.

He has also donated his time at a retirement home and as part of several service projects, benefiting his school’s athletic department,” according to USA Today.

Larry Goldstrom, the banquet athletic chair added, “Both Jadyn and Chloe accumulated so many records, we couldn’t even begin to note all their accomplishments.

“There is no doubt that this year the top two award winners truly represent the highest level of student athletes in the classroom, community, and in sports,” said Goldstrom.

Besides receiving the Render and Siegel awards, the student honorees will split $5000 in scholarship money funded from the Adam Jacobs Memorial Tribute Fund. That is a 25% increase over the previous scholarship awards. Henry Monsky Lodge President Ari Riekes and Shandell will hand out the awards and grants at the banquet.

As in last year’s voting, Chloe, the female Earl Siegel candidate was a “runaway” selection. The boys vote was quite different, though, according to Goldstrom. The male lead changed hands several times. The high-quality competition was so stiff this year that in the end, the vote difference between Kowalski and the other two young men was only a few points, said Goldstrom.

“The Omaha Metro area has a great number of outstanding star scholar-athletes,” said Goldstrom. “The Lodge presents nominees to Metro area high school Athletic Directors (ADs). Each high school AD and two other voters within the school then vote Heisman-style for three males and three females, ranking them with 1, 2, or 3 points. The voters return their ballots electronically, via email over the course of about a week.”

TICKETS: For more information, please visit www.oma hasportsbanquet.org; call PlanitOmaha at 402.333.3062 or email bnaibrith@planitomaha.com.

Cquence Health Group is our top sponsor this year.

Broadmoor Development Company is also a major sponsor.

Other sponsorships are available by calling Howard Shandell at 402.861.0565 or emailing him at Hms@mbainc.us.

The banquet typically attracts around 800 - 1000 attendees drawn from the business and non-profit community.

Over its storied 62-year banquet history, the Jewish service organization, has included among their many high-profile featured speakers, Howard Cosell, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Urban Meyer, Peyton Manning, and last year UNL Husker Coach Mike Riley, to name just a few of the high-profile past guests.

B’nai B’rith is a prominent financial supporter of youth programming and a sponsor of numerous educational and current event programs, like their weekly Wednesday lunch program, Breadbreakers – all open to the public.

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