May 7, 2021

A N AG E N C Y O F T H E J E W I S H F E D E R AT I O N O F O M A H A

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MAY 7, 2 02 1 | 2 5 IYA R 578 1 | VO L. 1 01 | NO. 2 9 | CANDLELIGHTING | FRIDAY, MAY 7, 8:10 P.M.

JFO Young Leadership Awards Meet Hazzan Joanna Dulkin, Star of Beth El’s Annual Cantors Concert Page 3

Abby Kutler

Shane Cohn

ANNETTE VAN DE KAMP-WRIGHT Jewish Press Editor onday, June 7, the Jewish Federation of Omaha’s Annual Meeting and Awards Night will celebrate two deserving volunteers. Abigail Kutler will receive the Lois Jeanne Schrager Memorial Young Leadership Award and Shane Cohn has been named as the recipient of the Bruce Fellman Memorial Young Leadership Award. Both awards are given annually to honor a young woman and man under the age of 45, who have demonstrated personal commitment, dedicated involvement, and exemplary leadership qualities in rendering service to the Jewish and general commu-

nity. The recipients are provided with a stipend to participate in the Jewish Federation of North America General Assembly or Young Leadership Conference.

Abigail Kutler has shown tremendous leadership in all she does at the JFO. She has given countless hours to the Annual Campaign and, together with her husband Adam, chaired the Kehilla Cup. For the past three years, she was President of the Jewish Press Board. She also served as the Young Adult Co-chair at Beth El Synagogue, served on the Pennie Z. Davis Parent Committee, was Super Sunday co-chair, Pearl Society co-chair and a JFO board member.

She has an extremely positive attitude, no matter what happens. She is dedicated to See JFO Young Leadership page 2

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Jewish Teen Leadership Awards REGULARS

Spotlight Voices Synagogues Life cycles

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Bennett G. Hornstein Memorial Scholarship DIANE WALKER Fund & Scholarship Administrator, JFO Foundation The Bennett G. Hornstein Memorial Scholarship for aspiring or current law students was awarded to Alejandra Ayotitla Cortez for the 2021-2022 academic year. From Lincoln, Ayotitla Cortez graduated from the University of Nebraska Lincoln, majoring in Psychology, with minors in Political Science and Spanish. She spent two summers studying abroad, one at the University of Granada, Spain, and one at Atatürk & Koc Universities in Turkey. She will graduate from the University of Nebraska College of Law in May 2022.

Green Up! Family Volunteer Day at the Park Page 5

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SPONSORED BY THE BENJAMIN AND ANNA E. WIESMAN FAMILY ENDOWMENT FUND

GABBY BLAIR Jewish Press Staff Writer The Robert and Ellen Gordman Jewish Teen Leadership Award annually honors two local teens who have demonstrated exceptional commitments to our community. Criteria for nomination includes active participation and demonstrated leadership ability in local youth groups, strengthening their organizations, developing future leadership and

Laura Kirshenbaum Credit: Daisy Friedman

community involvement.

This year’s recipients will each receive a one thousand dollar stipend for use towards a conclave, convention, Jewish summer camp, or Israel experience of their choice.

Jordan Raffel

The Jewish Federation of Omaha is pleased to announce that this year’s award winners are Laura Kirshenbaum and Jordan Raffel.

Award presentations will be made See Teen Leadership Awards page 4

Alejandra Ayotitla Cortez

While pursuing her undergraduate degree, she volunteered with Nebraska Appleseed, assisting in presenting workers’ rights and immigrants’ rights trainings, and advocating for positive immigration policies with legislators and community organizations. As a volunteer she was awarded the organization’s Milo Mumgaard Emerging Leader Award in 2016.

After receiving her BA, Cortez joined Nebraska Appleseed as a Community Organizer working with six rural communities to provide Immigration Rapid Response, Know Your Rights and Safety Planning training and resources. She also worked with immigrant leaders and community partners to build leadership capacity and organize teams in local communities.

Ayotitla Cortez spent last summer clerking at the Center for Legal Immigration Assistance (CLIA) assisting with asylum cases. Through this experience, she learned from clients whose stories were filled with hope and resilience. Her time at CLIA reaffirmed her goal of practicing immigration law. According to Max Graves, Executive Director of CLIA, “Alejandra’s work stood out in several areas. She demonstrated a diligent attitude toward research... she was extremely thorough and See Hornstein Scholarship page 3

2 | The Jewish Press | May 7, 2021

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Continued from page 1 this community and willing to take an active role in keeping it healthy and thriving. Abby works hard for our community because she truly believes in it. In addition, she has shown such kindness--always willing to listen and give advice when needed. She’s not only a good leader, she’s a very human leader, putting relationship building at the forefront. To the Jewish Press board, she has brought warmth and a caring attitude; she has been tremendously supportive throughout the pandemic. Even though meetings went online, she continues to communicate very well and is always responsive.

Abby is one of those lay leaders who gives her time and energy generously because she is really engaged--and she loves this community. The room becomes a little happier when she walks in.

“For the last five years, Shane has volunteered his time to our Annual Campaign,” Louri Sullivan said.

“He also served as Kehilla Cup team leader, Kehilla Cup chair and was the Builder/Sabra co-chair for the 2021 campaign.

In addition, he co-chaired the 2020 Community Event with Josh Malina, which was the most successful ever, as it raised over $1M in 24 hours. It is not unusual for Shane to make 300 solicitation calls for a campaign. And: Shane and his wife Jess have agreed to be Campaign co-chairs with Marty and Iris Ricks for 2022! Shane has been very involved in the past with Temple Israel as well. He is one of the most dependable volunteers I have encountered at our Federation. He does what he says he is going to do and will not say yes, unless he can give100%. He is thorough, deals with issues immediately, speaks his mind and is appreciative of all that the staff does at the JFO. He manages all of this on top of a very busy job with a family business and four small children. Shane traveled to Israel with the men’s Momentum group last year. He has been a very involved member of the Jewish community and I can’t think of anyone more deserving.”

Originally from from Algona, Iowa, Abby received her Bachelor’s degree in Social Work and Psychology from Dana College in Blair, NE. She and her husband Adam have two boys, eight-year-old Sam and five-year-old Henry.

“While in college, I met Adam through mutual friends,” she said. “I was interested in the Jewish community and able to get an internship at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. After completing my internship, I was fortunate enough to get hired at RBJH and Jewish Family Services. I then received my Masters degree in Social Work from UNO and went on to work at Methodist Hospital and Methodist Women’s Hospital.”

Abby works as a social worker at Methodist Physicians Clinic- Women’s Center.

“The simplest way to explain my job: I help people get connected to resources. I work with a wide range of patients, that can include young and expecting mothers, those affected by domestic violence, substance abuse and adoption. I help women who experience pregnancy- and postpartum depression and anxiety get connected to mental health resources.”

She considers herself “extremely lucky to have a great support system. Adam and I made a commitment to each other that, as we stepped up our volunteer endeavors, we would also need to help each other more on the home front. Both of our parents help with the boys, too!”

She has wonderful role models, she said: “My mom Judy Erpelding and mother-in-law Debi Kutler are both strong, hardworking women who have lead gracefully by example. They

have managed the balancing act of working hard, while putting their family first. My dad, Mark, is also extremely generous with his time and talent while never expecting anything in return. My father-in-law, David, continues to volunteer in the greater Omaha community.”

Shane Cohn went to Burke High School and attended Arizona State University, where he majored in Interdisciplinary Studies, Business and Economics.

“I work for my father at Industrial Packaging Corporation and Heartland Warehouse selling packaging materials, supplies, end-of-line equipment and I help operate our third party warehouse,” he said. “My wife Jess and I have been married 11 years this June, after meeting on a blind date.

We have four kids, Ben (8), Ellen (6), Mara (5), and Sam (2).”

Their children, Shane says, are taught “you get out what you put in.

I want them to know that being Jewish is more than just belonging to a synagogue. It is about volunteering your time and skills, investing in the broader Jewish community and living Jewish values in our everyday life.”

With his wife, he shares many of the same values and beliefs: “We encourage each other. It is also something we get to do together and show our kids to be proud they’re Jewish and part of this community.”

Leadership is important in volunteering, he said, “because it gives people a voice to advance causes that they are passionate about and where they can feel heard. I became involved in Jewish Omaha after many years of feeling like I no longer fit in with the community I loved. My Dad pushed me along to get more involved, but it was when my good friend Danny Cohn challenged me to look at things differently and to get involved as a way to share my passion for Judaism.

Through volunteer work, I’ve found the connection again.”

His biggest mentor is his dad.

“He taught me how to be a good husband, the value of hard work, how to do things on my own, and to never give less than 100%. He often challenges me to be better when he knows I can be great or to do more and he pushes me when I don’t think I can do something.”

Looking back on the big 2019 community event, the last one before the pandemic, Shane said: “The one thing I think is ‘the hard work paid off !’ Louri Sullivan encouraged Danny Cohn and Andrew Miller to partner with us to lead that event and each of us brought different strengths to ultimately make it a success. In reflection, I am very proud that the kickoff event was a success and hope to build on that in the future.”

What’s next: “With our Board work, committee involvement, and various events Jess and I have been a part of or led,” Shane said, “it was exciting to be asked to co-chair (together with Marty and Iris Ricks) the annual campaign for 2022. We are excited to start planning and to build off a record campaign year.”

Abby is looking forward to continuing to be an engaged Jewish Press board member as the past president. “I’ve been recruited at our sons’ elementary school to take on more of a leadership role for the PTO. I’m also looking forward to continuing to volunteer at Beth El,” she said. “We have a wonderful Omaha Jewish community that includes professionals and lay leadership. If you are interested in becoming more engaged, please reach out! There are so many opportunities available depending on your areas of interest.” Congratulations to Abby and Shane on these well-deserved honors!

PJ Library’s Women’s Conversation

A stronger Voice for South Omaha-District 4 Because action speaks louder than words! www.facebook.com/beckybarrientospatlan sobeckyccd4@yahoo.com Paid for by Friends for Becky Committee P.O. Box 45081, Omaha Ne 68137

PJ Library and National Women’s Philanthropy (NWP) invite you to join the second part of a discussion on Jewish women. The conversation continues Tuesday, May 11, 11 a.m.-noon central time. These meaningful conversations are moderated by journalist Abigail Pogrebin and offer learnings about the importance of stories from women who lead and who give Jewishly. If you missed the first part, it is available on YouTube.

How have the stories of Jewish women been told throughout time? How must that change in the wake of the pressure put on mothers during the pandemic? Meredith Lewis, PJ Library’s Director of Content, Education and Family Experience will lead a discussion with Annie Polland, the new executive director of of New York’s Tenement Museum. Ruth Behar, author of Lucky Broken Girl and Mara Rockliff, author

of Try it! How Frieda Caplan changed the way we eat, will both join the discussion.

Invite the women who inspire you most to join! Register a lunch group (two participants or more) and you will receive a $10 GrubHub lunch gift card. Following the event, Lunch Groups will receive invites to join private Zoom rooms to eat together and join the presentation. For more information and to receive the link to the previous conversation, please contact Jamie SkogBurke at jskogburke@jewishomaha.org.

The Jewish Press | May 7, 2021 | 3

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Hornstein Scholarship Continued from page 1 detailed. She also showed insightful logic. She demonstrated excellent kindness and gentleness towards the clients, many with no education. Alejandra was patient, kind and respectful to them.”

She has experienced firsthand the uncertainty and instability that goes with a lack of immigration status. Being granted DACA alleviated these concerns for her but also sparked a desire to help families like her own. After graduating from law school, Ayotitla Cortez plans to practice immigration law to serve immigrant families navigating the complex immigration system, families who have made unimaginable sacrifices in hopes of obtaining a brighter future and who make valuable contributions to our community every day.

The late Bennett Hornstein, assistant Douglas County public defender for 20 years, was a passionate advocate of the rights of those who could not afford a lawyer. After his battle with cancer and untimely death at the age of 46, his family established the Bennett G. Hornstein Endowment Fund in partnership with the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation. This fund provides an annual scholarship for a law student who will carry on Hornstein’s commitment to working for those members of society whom no one else wants to help.

The criteria for selection are those qualities that Hornstein exemplified: a high standard of academic achievement, an adventurous spirit and a desire to take on an active role in service to the community. Applicants must also be attending law school at the University of Nebraska or Creighton University.

For more information about the annual Bennett G. Hornstein Memorial Scholarship, please visit www.bghendow ment.org. Scholarship applications are accepted each year, per instructions on the website.

The Foundation welcomes donations to the Bennett G. Hornstein Endowment Fund in support of the scholarship.

Donations may be made via the Foundation’s website, www.jfofoundation.org, or by mail to: Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation, 333 South 132nd Street, Omaha, NE 68154. For more information, call the Foundation at 402.334.6551.

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Meet Hazzan Joanna Dulkin, Star of Beth El’s Annual Cantors Concert HAZZAN MICHAEL KRAUSMAN Beth El Synagogue If you were to ask me what qualities I would ascribe to the ideal Cantor for the 21st century I would say that first on the list would be a passion for Jewish Music, Jewish liturgy and Jewish tradition. Also important is a warm and engaging personality with the ability to reach out and connect with people of all ages. Of course, a beautiful voice that can express the very soul of the texts that are dear to our people is essential. Embracing their role as Shaliach Tzibur, prayer emissary of the congregation, the Cantor should possess deep knowledge and understanding of our liturgical heritage, as well as the ability to communicate this to others. Cantors should be energetic and able to adapt to any situation with which they are confronted. Compassion and empathy are essential qualities, as the Cantor will accompany individual members of the community and families through both joyous and sad life passages. They must always continue to find new ways to connect to the community in which they serve. And above all, the ideal Cantor must love what they do! These qualities and many more describe our wonderful guest artist for this

year’s Cantor’s Concert to support the Seth Rich Memorial Camp Scholarship Fund: Hazzan Joanna Dulkin.

Hazzan Joanna Dulkin received her Masters of Sacred Music and Ordination from the Jewish Theological Seminary in 2004 and completed the Institute for Jewish Spirituality’s Cantorial Leadership Program in 2007. She is an honors graduate of Stanford University where she studied English, sang a cappella, and led community High Holy Days Services.

She describes how a background as a song leader, musician and educator

steered her toward the cantorate. “I became a cantor because I can bring people together with music.”

Today, Joanna Dulkin is one of the leading voices on the American Jewish music scene. As she states, “Jewish music has always been part of the fabric of my life.” In addition to being a gifted and beloved cantor, Dulkin is also an accomplished guitarist, a published writer, and an award-winning composer.

One of Hazzan Dulkins’s congregants made the following remark on a video See Beth El Cantors Concert page 4

As of April 22, 2021 Mike Siegel, President Jon Meyers, Past President Betsy Baker Ellie Batt Bob Belgrade Sharon Brodkey Toba Cohen-Dunning Ron Feldman Karen Flayhart Margie Gutnik

John Lehr Lisa Lucoff Brian Nogg Mike Norton Linda Saltzman Nancy Schlessinger Matt Shapiro Jeff Zacharia

Bob Belgrade, President David Gilinsky, Past President Mike Siegel, Ex-Officio Steven Bloch Paul Epstein Ted Friedland Donald Goldstein Kip Gordman Gloria Kaslow Howard M. Kooper Jody Malashock Murray H. Newman

Susan Lehr Steve Nogg Susan Norton Martin Ricks Carl Riekes Andrew Robinson Stacey Erman Rockman Harley D. Schrager

the

omaha

Toba Cohen-Dunning, Co-President Jeff Kirshenbaum, Co-President

Karen Flayhart, President John Glazer, Past President

Margie Gutnik, President Abigail Kutler, Past President

Ellie Batt, Co-President Ron Giller, Co-President

Mike Abramson Joanie Bernstein Sharon Brodkey Jim Farber Darlene Golbitz Larry Kelberg Kate Kirshenbaum Alan Kricsfeld Tina Meyers

Amanda Blumkin Marty Cohen Shane Cohn Laurie Epstein Mosah Goodman Janet Klein Tiffany Malone Terry Rush

Danni Christensen David Finkelstein Bracha Goldsweig Mary Sue Grossman Les Kay Natasha Kraft Chuck Lucoff Joseph Pinson Andy Shefsky Amy Tipp

Lindsey Belmont Bob Bleicher Carol Bloch Ted Friedland Herb Friedman David Gilinsky Nancy Jacobson Rich Juro Carmela Kramer Gary Lipshutz

Susie Norton Jeff Platt Jim Pollock Shayna Ray Dorothy Spizman Terri Zacharia

Mike Schmidt Meagan Spomer Joy Watanabe

Jamie Meyerson Bob Nefsky Alan Parsow Erin Porterfield David Radler Zoë Riekes Mark Singer Meagan Spomer Tom Vann Jim Wax

We invite the community to the Federation's Awards Night & Annual Meeting* on Monday, June 7th at 7:00 p.m. in the Alan J. Levine Performing Arts Theater for the installation of the Boards. *Face masks will be required. All state and local COVID guidelines will be observed. If you are not able to join us in person please join us virtually. This event will be available via live stream.

4 | The Jewish Press | May 7, 2021

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Beth El Cantors Concert

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Teen Leadership Awards

Continued from page 1 at the Jewish Federation of Omaha’s Awards Night and Annual Meeting, June 7 at 7 p.m. This year’s event will be held in the new Alan J. Levine Theater. A live stream will be available. More details to follow in the coming weeks!

Laura Kirshenbaum is a senior honor roll student at Burke High School and a member of Temple Israel. She is the daughter of Jennifer Tompkins and Matt Kirshenbaum.

A leader amongst her peers, Laura has served as OTYG president for the past two years and was social action vice president her sophomore year. A dedicated student at Hebrew High throughout her high school career, she has also given back to her community through working as a preschool madricha at Temple for the past two years.

Temple Israel Youth Engagement Coordinator, Ben Cohen, shares the following: “Laura works hard, manages her time well, and takes responsibility for her actions and decisions. As Temple Youth Group President, she supervises eight of her peers, creates programs and recruits new members. She is a selfstarter who takes the initiative, keeps track of her tasks, and follows up with her fellow board members and adult advisor frequently. She works as a teacher’s assistant for our pre-kindergarten kids in our religious school. She is an incredible role model and the children adore her and look up to her. Laura is a brilliant programmer. She creates both formal and informal Jewish educational opportunities. Through the youth group, she organized our High Holy Days Food Drive, which raised nearly $3,000 worth of food for the Omaha community. Laura created and taught a six-class course about Judaism and local politics for our teens. She taught about

policy issues on the city and state political levels. She led her peers to write their local representatives in the City of Omaha and the Nebraska unicameral. Laura not only seeks justice in our world, she strives to make sure justice and tikkun olam is at the forefront of whatever we do as a community. She embodies the spirit of thinking globally and acting locally.”

In addition to her Temple activities, Kirshenbaum is also an accomplished dancer and musician who is passionate about the arts. “I have been in dance for 15 years and have been with the JCC’s Dance Training Company for the past five years.” She has also worked as an assistant pre-ballet teacher for kindergarteners at the JCC for the past two years.

“Dance has the most supportive group of people I’ve ever met, and dance studios feel like home to me. While the COVID-19 pandemic reduced dance opportunities, I took classes in my kitchen for a while over Zoom, which I am grateful to have had but I am extremely glad to be back in the studios now!”

Kirshenbaum has also been a chamber orchestra representative on Burke’s instrumental music leadership team for the past two years and served as her school’s NHS Vice President for the last year. “In addition to volunteering with NHS, I am involved in the set crew at my school where I help build the sets for the drama productions. I am also active in math club, book club, French club, and Harry Potter club. I love to read and watch YouTube as well as baking cookies and doing puzzles. I have worked at Subway for almost 11 months and was a poll worker for the 2020 elections.”

While Kirshenbaum has certainly kept busy over the past year, the impact

of the pandemic certainly threw a wrench into the high school senior’s activities and schooling.

“There are many activities that I was looking forward to in my last year of high school that have not resumed. For example, I really love playing violin in the orchestra pit for our school musicals.

Unfortunately, our last scheduled show was cancelled a week before its performance last year and there is no pit this year.

As far as school, my living room suddenly morphed into a classroom (which I don’t think my mom was thrilled about),” she shares with a laugh before continuing.

“Almost all of my tests are taken online and although I began going back in person part time in late October and full time in January, we still have online students in almost all of my classes. For the most part, I feel that I still learn well online, but a lot of my classes have had to cut down the amount of content taught this year because our classes were shortened and we had lots of days off while See Teen Leadership Awards page 6

Continued from page 3 produced by the Cantors Assembly. “We really love her, she helps us connect to the congregation on a very personal level because her enthusiasm is completely contagious... she makes [the synagogue] a joyful place to come to.”

Hazzan Dulkin’s magnificent, sweet, melodic voice has delighted audiences around the globe. Her versatile repertoire ranges from Broadway, Pop and Folk to popular Israeli music and traditional Hazzanut. She has served as a Rosh (head of) Music for Ramah Camps, and she is extremely involved in the Ramah Movement. Hazzan Dulkin has also been on the faculty of the Song Leader Boot Camp and has served on the editorial committee of Siddur Lev Shalem. She is currently the vice president of the Cantors Assembly, the international professional organization for the cantorate.

Dulkin serves as the Hazzan of Adath Jeshurun Congregation in Minneapolis, MN. She and her husband, Rabbi Dr. Ryan Dulkin, are the proud parents of Zac, who will be on staff at Ramah Wisconsin, and Jesse, who will be a camper at Ramah in the Poconos.

When asked how she felt about starring in our event Hazzan Dulkin replied: “I am overjoyed to be joining Beth El and my dear colleague and friend Hazzan Krausman for the annual Cantor’s Concert! As I often mention, years of song leading at Jewish camps across the country paved my way to the cantorate, and I strive to bring the joy of summer music-making to the months away from camp. I can’t imagine a more worthy cause than to help raise money for camp scholarships.”

Beth El Synagogue’s annual Cantor’s Concert is entitled, A Singing and Swinging Celebration of Summer. The show will be live-streamed at 4 p.m., Sunday, May 16. Although there will be no charge to view the concert online, a variety of giving levels have been established on our website: www. bethel-omaha.org. You can also sample some of Hazzan Dulkin’s work on that page. All proceeds from the concert will support the Seth Rich Memorial Camp Scholarship Fund, which provides financial assistance to send our youth to Jewish summer camp and Israel. Joel & Mary Rich, and Bruce & Pam Friedlander serve as chairs of this annual program.

Those who support this most worthy cause will be listed in a future edition of the KOL – our synagogue newsletter.

Feel free to contact me, hazzankrausman@bethelomaha.org for more information.

A Singing and Swinging Celebration of Summer with Hazzan Joanna Dulkin promises to be a fabulous concert – people of all ages will have a wonderfully joyous and engaging experience!

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Volunteer Spotlight: Amanda Ament thankful for. The experience has made SABINE STRONG Amanda want to be more involved in the RBJH Volunteer Coordinator Amanda is the Rose Blumkin Jewish community and explore her Jewish herHome’s newest Volunteer. She currently itage. gives her time helping with the weekend Amanda was previously an on-call CNA Resident visitation schedule. for several retirement communities and worked for Children’s Hospital in HemaAmanda loves to make people laugh. tology & Oncology. She has dual degrees Most important to her was helping care in Chemistry and Biology from UNO and for her grandfather, Irving ‘Marty’ Siegel, Bellevue University and currently works who was very special to her. That experiin Infectious Disease, Vaccines and Onence not only brought them closer but it cology clinical research trials for Merck. taught her about herself, and gave her the Amanda is a former professional bodytools to better care for those in the elderly builder. Her husband is a pilot in the community, which has since grown into United States Air Force; they have two her passion. Her grandfather’s passing cats and a dog at home. Amanda loves the made her seek greater purpose and made her want to give her time to the RBJH. For Amanda Ament with her late grand fa- outdoors, gardening, hiking, snowboarding and crocheting. six years, the RBJH gave Marty exceptional ther Irving “Marty” Siegel Welcome to our team of wonderful volunteers, and thank care and treated him and all close to him like family. Several members of the Jewish community also reached out and you for everything you do!

Say “Hi” to Amanda when you see her around. helped her family through that time, which they are endlessly

Green Up! Family Volunteer Day at the Park JENNIE GATES BECKMAN JFO Director Community Engagement and Education As spring turns into summer, PJ Library Omaha, the Jewish Federation of Omaha and Friedel Jewish Academy are combining efforts to facilitate our “Green Up the Park!” On May 23, 2021, we will partner with Keep Omaha Beautiful to clean up Hefflinger Park. The experience will begin with families receiving special litter grabbers to clean up the park.

Next, participants will have an opportunity to try their hand at container gardening. The Friedel Innovation specialist will lead a plant demonstration and participants will receive Soil Dynamics organic compost and a vegetable plant from the Big Garden to cultivate in their felt grow bag and a simple drip water irrigation system. This is your chance to learn a little bit about gardening to “Green Up” your own yard.

To register please text “GreenUp” to 41444 before May 13.

This event is open to families with children of all ages. Fam-

ilies can register for one of three slots: 9:30 a.m., 10:15 a.m., and 11 a.m. Each shift will have a limit of 12 families and masks will be required within close proximity. For those who can’t make the event or are not quite ready to gather, sign

up for the “Drive Thru” option. Swing by to grab compost and a vegetable plant at 9:15 a.m. or 11:15 a.m. This is a great opportunity to enjoy the outdoors as a family and engage in an activity that benefits the city of Omaha.

For questions or clarification, please contact Jennie Gates Beckman at 402.334.6445 or jbeckman@jewishomaha.org.

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HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS AND PARENTS

We will be publishing our annual High School Graduation Class pages on May 21, 2021. To be included, send us an email with the student’s name, parents names, high school they are attending, the college they will be attending and photo to: jpress@jewishomaha.org by May 10, 2021.

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Continued from page 4 we were fully remote. I would say one of the most challenging parts of school this year was going through the college application process at the beginning of the year without being able to discuss it with my friends as much as I would have been able to otherwise.”

In the end though, Kirshenbaum is optimistic. “Thankfully, the pandemic hasn’t made much of an impact on my future plans. I plan to study Biochemistry at the University of NebraskaLincoln this fall and hope to continue dancing in college.”

Upon finding out that she had been selected for this year’s Teen Leadership award, Kirshenbaum shares that she was “beyond excited! I am incredibly honored to have been chosen and although I don’t have any specific plans on how I will use the award stipend yet, I know it will be extremely beneficial to helping me expand my understanding of Judaism and to help me stay connected to the Jewish community throughout college. I would like to extend a thank you to all of the adults in the Jewish community who have supported me through high school. I am looking forward to contributing further to grow our community.”

Jordan Raffel is the son of Wendy and Adam Raffel. The Millard North Senior has taken advantage of dual enrollment opportunities and is an honor roll student at his high school and on the dean’s list at Metropolitan Community College where he is enrolled in the Business and Entrepreneurship Academy.

With a jump start on his college career, Jordan, an avid Jayhawk basketball fan, will continue his studies next fall at the University of Kansas where he plans to major in Finance and International Business Leadership.

“I was excited and honored when I found out that I was selected to be a recipient of this community award. It means a lot to be recognized for the hard work I’ve put in over the past years. This award is also extra special to me because my mom was a recipient of the same award. I plan on using the award money towards a Birthright to Israel Trip the summer after my freshman or sophomore year of college.”

A member of Temple Israel, Raffel has been an active member of the community and has worked at the JCC in member services and as a lifeguard. He joined BBYO leadership in 2017 as local chapter secretary and over the years, served as BBYO local vice president of recruitment, for which he was recognized internationally; in 2019-20, he served as Regional President.

“Jordan has really grown as a leader these last few years and the impact he has on our fellow members is evident,” shares Jacob Geltzer, BBYO and Teen Program Director.

“Jordan’s passion for BBYO is unmatched and it shows through the many leadership roles he has held and the teens he has inspired. Having been the VP of Recruitment, Jordan set out to recruit new members for Omaha BBYO that will one day take our organization to new heights. Jordan received the Tree of Life Award which is given to members who have recruited eight or more Jewish teens into BBYO. Many of the teens who he helped recruit are now serving as board mem-

bers on the chapter/council level.”

Geltzer continues. “Being part of the first chapter in AZA and BBYO (Mother Chapter AZA), Jordan never shies away from educating new members about the rich history of Omaha BBYO. It’s because of that passion, he has attended and planned many chapter and regional programs. As a member of the Mid America Region Regional Coordinating Committee, Jordan has been able to work and collaborate with other council presidents from the region to plan engaging and meaningful regional programs.

As president of his chapter and council, Jordan worked hand in hand with his fellow board members to make sure the legacy of Mother chapter AZA and Omaha BBYO is a long and growing one. For AZA’s 96th Founder’s Day, Jordan planned and lead a discussion about AZA traditions with over 100 fellow brother Alephs from around the world. Talking with past BBYO Alumni and International board members, Jordan lead and facilitated a discussion about the differences and changes that have happened in AZA and BBYO over the past 96 years. Even when Jordan is not in an elected leadership position, he has been a great role model and a very active member in BBYO. He always attends meetings with a smile, excited to spend time with his Jewish friends and ready to talk about his day. Jordan has told me that BBYO is a place where he knows he is always welcome and only wants to pass that same experience off to current and future members. I am excited to see how he will take his time in BBYO and use it to make his future as successful as possible.”

Over the past two years, Raffel has also served on the JFO Young Jewish Giving Teen Foundation Board. In 2020, Raffel attended AIPAC as a teen delegate who lobbied politicians in Washington D.C. on behalf of the organization. His interest in civics led him to work as a data entry clerk for the Douglas County Election Commission in 2020, as well.

In addition to his work in Jewish organizations, Raffel played Varsity Lacrosse for Millard North throughout his high school career and was 2020 State Champion for Millard North DECA, an association of marketing students that encourages the development of business and leadership skills through academic conferences and competitions.

When asked to reflect on the impact BBYO has had on his life and why he stays involved, Raffel shares the following. “Through having an active roll in BBYO, I have learned many valuable leadership skills and have created many lifelong friendships. BBYO has also helped build and foster my Jewish Identity which I intend on carrying over into college by being active in KU Hillel and possibly joining a Jewish Fraternity. I stayed involved so I could be a leader, mentor, and teacher for the future leaders just as the members older than me did and would encourage all our community’s youth to get involved. When I graduate college and end up starting a life of my own, I plan on taking an active role in the Jewish community in whatever city I end up in.”

Congratulations to both the outstanding Robert and Ellen Gordman Jewish Teen Leadership Award recipients.

ORGANIZATIONS B’NAI B’RITH BREADBREAKERS The Monsky Lodge of B’nai B’rith is pleased to announce the resumption of its award-winning speaker program via ZOOM. Although the Home auditorium remains temporarily closed, we’ll continue presenting an outstanding lineup of thought-provoking keynoters. For specific speaker information and/or to be placed on the email list, please contact Breadbreakers chair Gary Javitch at breadbreakersomaha@gmail.com or leave a message at the B’nai B’rith JCC office 402.334.6443.

The Jewish Press | May 7, 2021 | 7

News

Getting settled?

One of the more exciting aspects of the new Learning Commons will be the ability for individuals and groups throughout the community to host events in the beautiful new space.

Among the pro- JENNIE GATESgrams we expect to BECKMAN host in this space JFO Director of (once our patrons are Community ready to come back Engagement & in person) include Education the Kaplan Book Discussion Group, Eye on Israel, Friday Learning Series, and aspects of the annual Symposium on Jewish Civilization.

Since it’s clear how much folks appreciate the ability to “Zoom in” from home, we are absolutely exploring the option to stream programming live.

Beyond the familiar - we are even more thrilled about the opportunities to welcome new programming and events.

The JFO and our agencies are interested in exploring how we might use the space for collaborative endeavors with other local non-profits and community interest groups.

Would you be interested in a session with a UNO Criss Library Archivist presenting on the rare books in the Kripke Collection? Or perhaps an evening salon led by local artists in conjunction with an exhibit in the gallery? Or even a class on integrating Jewish mindfulness and meditation into your life? Stay tuned!

See full digital issues https://issuu.com/jewishpress7

LOCA L | NAT IO NAL | WORLD

U.S. antisemitic incidents remained at historic high in 2020 New York, NY Antisemitic incidents remained at a historically high level across the United States in 2020, with a total of 2,024 incidents of assault, harassment and vandalism reported to ADL (the Anti-Defamation League). While antisemitic incidents declined by 4 percent after hitting an all-time high in 2019, last year was still the third-highest year for incidents against American Jews since ADL started tracking such data in 1979.

ADL’s annual Audit of Antisemitic Incidents, issued on the 2nd anniversary of the deadly white supremacist attack on the Chabad of Poway, California, recorded a total of 1,242 incidents of harassment, an increase of 10 percent from 2019. At the same time, reported acts of vandalism and assault declined by 18 percent and 49 percent, respectively, and there were no antisemitic fatalities reported in 2020.

“While any decline in the data is encouraging, we still experienced a year in which antisemitic acts remained at a disturbingly high level despite lockdowns and other significant changes in our daily lives and interactions with others,” said Jonathan A. Greenblatt, ADL CEO and National Director. “We can’t let our guard down. As communities begin to open up and people spend more time in person with others, we must remain vigilant.”

FATHER’S DAY

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The year was dramatically impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, which led in some cases to Jews and other marginalized communities being blamed or scapegoated for spreading the virus. After the pandemic became more

widespread starting in March, incidents of antisemitism at schools and colleges dropped precipitously as learning moved online.

This led to an increase in incidents of antisemitic “Zoombombing” – the intentional disruption of live videoconferences. In 2020, ADL recorded 196 incidents of antisemitic videoconferencing attacks. Of those incidents, 114 targeted Jewish institutions such as schools and synagogues.

In 2020, ADL counted a total of 2,024 antisemitic incidents across the U.S., a 4 percent decline from the 2,107 incidents recorded in 2019. ADL’s Audit classifies all incidents into three categories: assault, harassment, and vandalism.

Incidents were reported in 47 states as well as the District of Columbia. The states with the highest numbers of incidents were New

York: 336, New Jersey: 295, California: 289, Florida: 127 and Pennsylvania: 101. Combined, these states account for nearly 57 percent of the total number of incidents. Many other regions saw their numbers remain the same or drop slightly, but our region saw another significant uptick in reported antisemitic incidents.

While 2019 saw the most dramatic percentage increase in a single year (50%), 2020 bears the highest number of reported antisemitic incidents in the Plains States Region in one year at 33 incidents (an increase of 22% from the previous year.) This included 14 cases of harassment, 12 cases of vandalism and 7 instances of propaganda.

For more information, see the full story at www.omahajewishpress.com or visit www.adl.org.

TO SUBMIT ANNOUNCEMENTS Announcements may be e-mailed to the Press at jpress@jewishomaha.org or mailed to 333 So. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68154.

Readers can also submit announcements - births, b’nai mitzvahs, engagements, marriages, commitment ceremonies or obituaries -- www.omahajewishpress. com/site/forms/. Click on “Jewish Press” and go to Submit Announcements.

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Ben Gray for Omaha City Council Paid for by Ben Gray

8 | The Jewish Press | May 7, 2021

News

Wendy Goldberg to speak at B’nai Israel

LOC AL | N AT I O N A L | WO R L D

Racial Justice Spotlight In the latest issue of the Racial Justice Spotlight, members of Temple Israel’s Racial Justice Initiative Steering Team recommend books, podcasts, and films that have deepened our connection to racial justice. These pieces have shaped our understanding of the internal work and reflection we must do, as well as the vast inequity that exists in all facets of our society that we must work to dismantle. As you plan your summer reading/watching/listening lists, we hope you will include a few of these powerful works on race.

hoped they were leaving behind; paints a picture of how segregation took hold everywhere across the United States in an effort to keep Black people at arms length; the neighborhoods and cities we live in just didn’t appear and happen naturally... shows you how the booby trap has been laid for Black people in America decade by decade by decade. And how in spite of the cruelties and hardships, Black people have persevered.

BOOKS Racism Without the Racists

by Eduardo Bonilla Silva Recommended by Molly McVay

Of all the books I have read about systemic racism, fiction and nonfiction, none have given me the visceral understanding of its roots in America like Colson Whitehead’s The Underground Railroad. Railroad follows the journey of 16-year-old Cora as she lives the life of a slave on a Georgia plantation in the pre-Civil War era and her epic escape from inhuman conditions on the Underground Railroad, made real by Mr. Whitehead. NPR stated “(this book) is as much a searing document of a cruel history as it is a uniquely brilliant work of fiction”. If we are going to “fix” systemic racism I believe we have to start by changing our hearts; this book will change your heart!

“I don’t see color.” “I have Black friends.” These are well-intentioned phrases that white people use to distinguish ourselves as thoughtful, not-racist members of our community.

However, in the twenty-first century that is not enough. In Racism Without the Racists, Eduardo Bonilla Silva, explains that it isn’t overt racism, but the subtler, more nuanced ideas that permeate our society that actually impede our ability to make progress toward a more just world. Our inherent biases toward others makes us leery of the “that part of town” or “those people.” Bonilla Silva urges us to look past blatant racism and dig into our claims of “color blindness” in favor of a considering all the ways that we have built racism into ourselves and the institutions we hold dear. This book has transformed my own understanding of racism and the lens through which I observe institutions and practices. If we are not seeking to include, we may in fact be unintentionally, but clearly excluding. That is where our work begins.

The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson Recommended by Ellen Platt

I picked The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabela Wilkerson. It tells the story of the migration of Blacks out of the south during 1930s, 40s and 50s. It’s a review of history that is just not so far past as we think: explains how northern cities filled with Black people looking for a better life out of the Jim Crow south but are met with the same restrictions and attitudes they

The Underground Railroad

by Colson Whitehead Recommended by Sally Kaplan

CAROLE LAINOF Wendy Goldberg, Executive Director of the Tri-Faith Initiative will be the B’nai Israel speaker via ZOOM on May 14.

She will speak on “Building a model for peaceful co-existence that delivers on America’s promise of religious freedom.” Wendy Goldberg has spent 15 years working with various leaders... clergy, lay persons, nonprofits, educators and community leaders of diverse religious backgrounds to promote interfaith initiatives. She is pasWendy Goldberg sionate about her work with Tri-Faith and will talk about programming and the Mission of this one-of a-kind organization which we are so fortunate to have here in Omaha.

B’nai services will begin at 7:30 p.m. led by Larry Blass, followed by our speaker, Kiddush and then an informal question and answer period. Remember, everyone is welcome at B’nai so do join us for this informative evening. Contact hkutler@hotmail.com for the ZOOM connection.

Who Am I?

PODCASTS Nice White Parents reported by Chana Joffee-Walt Recommended by Sara Cowan

This 5-part mini-series explores segregation and integration in New York Public Schools and the unique role white parents play in shaping schools and education, for better or worse, for all students. Joffee-Walt focuses on a middle and high school in Brooklyn, a majority Black and Latino school called SIS. When a large proportion of white families start to choose SIS for their middle schoolers, things start to change dramatically for the students and families of color in the school, and not for the better. Joffee-Walt contextualizes the changes at SIS with historical background about decades of white flight, segregation, and inequity in the New York Public Schools. As a white parent and educator, I was captivated by this series, and See Racial Justice Spotlight page 9

The Nebraska Jewish Historical Society (NJHS) requests help from the community in identifying photographs from the archives. Please contact Kathy Weiner at 402.334.6441 or kweiner@jewishomaha.org if you are able to assist in the effort to preserve Jewish Omaha history.

VOTE MAY 11

DISTRICT 7 www.saraforomaha.com Paid for by Friends of Sara Kohen, 7602 Pacific St., LL103, Omaha, NE 68114

The Jewish Press | May 7, 2021 | 9

Racial Justice Spotlight Continued from page 8 had to grapple with a lot of difficult questions: is desegregation always the “end goal” that serves all students? How are white parents wielding their power in my school? In my children’s school? What does a more equitable framework for honoring all students and families look like? At the end of the series, in a bonus episode, Joffee-Walt gives a glimpse into what true equity might look like.

Pod Save the People hosted by DeRay Mckesson Recommended by Sara Cowan

This is my favorite weekly news podcast. In addition to fresh perspectives on the biggest stories of the week, DeRay and his team of reporters bring to light recent and even historical stories that are outside the mainstream.

Often, the contributors, who are activists themselves, examine the issues through a racial justice lens. Every episode is a different and refreshing take on current events with historical and cultural context.

FILMS Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom Recommended by Rosie Zweiback

Ma Rainy’s Black Bottom, a 2020 film based on an August Wilson play, takes place one afternoon in a Chicago recording studio. Viola Davis plays the real-life Blues pioneer Gertrude “Ma” Rainey, a formidable woman who knows her business and knows her power. Set in the 1920s when Blues was on the verge of discovering its white Northern

audience, the film explores themes of racism, exploitation, gender norms, and the fragility of big dreams. The complex relationship of the black musicians and the white record producers who will both promote their music and profit from it is riveting. Even more compelling are the stories of the talented men in Ma Rainey’s band whose pathos will stay with you long after the film’s painful ending. It is not an easy film, but it’s beauty and truth will move you.

weapon. The parties to the original agreeRON KAMPEAS ment, known formally as the Joint CompreWASHINGTON | JTA Top Israeli and U.S. officials dealing with the hensive Plan of Action, or JCPOA, are meeting Iran file met in a signal of the Biden adminis- in Vienna to work out a sequence. tration’s efforts to keep Israel in the loop as it Israel still opposes reentry to the deal and moves forward in reentering a nuclear deal wants Biden to maintain Trump’s policy of that Israel rejects.

Jake Sullivan, President Joe Biden’s national security adviser, met Tuesday with his Israeli counterpart Meir Ben-Shabbat at the Israeli Embassy in Washington D.C. The White House statement after the meeting emphasized areas of concern to Israel.

“The U.S. and Israeli officials discussed their serious concerns about advancements in Iran’s nuclear program in recent years,” the statement said. “The US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, sitting in the cenUnited States updated Israel on ter on the left, meets with Meir Ben-Shabbat, his Israeli counthe talks in Vienna and empha- terpart, facing him, at the Israeli Embassy in Washington, April sized strong U.S. interest in con- 27, 2021. Credit: Israeli Embassy sulting closely with Israel on the nuclear issue maximum economic and diplomatic pressure going forward. The United States and Israel on Iran. agreed on the significant threat posed by Iran’s At Tuesday’s meeting, the sides agreed to aggressive behavior in the region, and U.S. of- establish a working group to address Iran’s ficials underscored President Biden’s unwaver- missile program. Trump and Israel have said ing support for Israel’s right to defend itself.” a critical flaw in the 2015 deal is that it deals Biden and his top officials have acknowl- only with fissile material enrichment and not edged that keeping Israel sidelined ahead of with other issues, like its missile program. the 2015 deal, which traded sanctions relief Israel’s statement after the meeting was for a rollback in Iran’s nuclear activities, was also positive. a mistake and stoked distrust between the “Today, Israel’s National Security Advisor Netanyahu and Obama governments.

Meir Ben Shabbat and I had an excellent Former President Donald Trump quit the meeting with US National Security Advisor deal in 2018, saying it did not adequately con- Jake Sullivan,” Gilad Erdan, Israel’s ambassatain Iran, but failed to make good on his pledge dor to Washington and the United Nations, to coerce Iran into a more stringent deal. said on Twitter. “We discussed our shared Biden wants back into the deal as soon as goal of preventing Iran from developing nupossible, as he sees it as the best means of clear weapons and agreed to work together to keeping Iran from obtaining a nuclear strengthen our security ties.”

Israel and US consult on Iran nuclear talks

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SENIOR LIVING

The Hate U Give For parents to watch with teens Recommended by Sara Gilbert

The central event in The Hate U Give, based on the novel of the same name by Angie Thomas, is the shooting of a Black teen by police. The main character witnesses her friend’s death, which forces her to face personal grief and decisions on how to use her voice in the resulting protests. What provoked the most family discussions was the thoughtful portrayal of how race affected the characters’ lives in different ways, such as acting differently with school friends versus neighborhood friends. The scenes where Black characters navigate their mostly white school were fantastic openings to discuss what it takes to support peers beyond symbolic gestures, and themes of courage, finding and using one’s voice, and building community are valuable to consider in the context of anti-racism. The Hate U Give is rated PG-13.

Publishing date | 06.25.21

Space reservation | 06.15.21

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10 | The Jewish Press | May 7, 2021

Tritz Plumbing Inc. 402-894-0300 www.tritz.com repair • remodel

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family owned and operated since 1945

Open positions at Camp Sabra ANNETTE VAN DE KAMP-WRIGHT Jewish Press Editor Camp Sabra is a residential summer camp located on 3.5 miles of beautiful shoreline at Lake of the Ozarks. This resident camp operates from May 26 to August 3 (including staff orientation). Campers are entering third through tenth grades and come to a beautiful peninsula to enjoy music, drama, Israeli culture, Judaics, swimming, sailing, water skiing, arts and crafts, land sports, ropes course, hiking and the making of lifelong friendships.

The full camp community is welcomed back to Camp Sabra in 2021 for a magical (and safe) summer on the Staenberg Peninsula. The safety of campers and staff is the highest priority, and staff is committed to providing a safe, supportive and epic Sabra summer.

At the heart of Camp Sabra is great staff.

They love working at Sabra, and their joy shines through in the experiences they create for the campers. Michael Parsow has found a home at Camp Sabra for many years and is hoping some of you will join him.

“We are currently looking for a ropes course instructor” he said. “If anyone is interested and wants to apply, they can contact me, or go to Camp Sabra’s website.

Camp Sabra is currently accepting applications for all positions listed at www.campsabra.com.

If you wish to be considered for one of our other openings, please go to our website and apply today! Positions for which Sabra has openings include: Area Directors, Cabin Staff Counselors & Specialists, Unit Heads, an Office manager, a Logistics

Director and a Sail/Kayak Director.

Camp Sabra’s summer 2021 protocols and procedures are based on the established best practices of ACA guidelines, CDC recommendations, consultation with medical experts, the Sabra committee and our full-time team.

New Jersey town being sued again for discrimination against Orthodox Jews

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ASAF SHALEV JTA The state of New Jersey has sued one of its towns over alleged discrimination against Orthodox Jews — the second such lawsuit against the town in less than a year.

Jackson Township has been selectively applying local laws and drafting new ones as part of an attempt to push out Orthodox Jews New Jersey Attorney General and limit their religious ac- Gurbir Grewal, shown in Decemtivities, the lawsuit alleges, ber 2019, said “we will not allow according to a report by NJ some vocal residents’ intolerance to drive local government Advance Media.

“We’ve filed this lawsuit decisions.” Credit: Laura E. Adbecause bias and hate have kins/JTA no home in New Jersey, and we will not allow some vocal residents’ intolerance to drive local government decisions,” New Jersey Attorney General Gurbir Grewal said in a statement.

“Like all public servants, municipal officials have a duty to uphold the law, not weaponize it against specific groups because of what they believe or how they worship.”

The attorney general wants Jackson Township to overturn the allegedly discriminatory rules and pay a fine.

Terence Wall, the business administrator there, was quoted by local media as saying that he was “surprised” to learn of the lawsuit.

“Jackson Township is a community of over 60,000 residents, including members of nearly every faith, and the township will defend itself appropriately,” he said of the Jersey Shore community, which is located in what is considered the central part of the state.

The growth of the Orthodox community in Jackson and the adjacent town of Lakewood in recent years has come with complaints by non-Orthodox residents about the changing character of the area.

Last year, the U.S. Department of Justice accused Jackson of enacting discriminatory rules. The new lawsuit, filed Tuesday in Ocean County Superior Court, alleges that the negative reaction to Orthodox Jews among some residents led to an organized effort to catch Orthodox Jews violating esoteric ordinances.

The Jewish Press | May 7, 2021 | 11

Above: Omaha BBYO’s newly elected AZA and BBG Boards. Front Row: Eva Bloom (Sh’licha), left, Abbey Milder (Mazkirah/Gizborit), Lauren Dolson (S’ganit), and Abby Kaufman (N’siah). Not pictured: Ava Stoller (Aym Ha’Chaverot). Back Row: Benjamin Kutler (Shaliach), left, Evan Kugler (Mazkir), Sam Dowd (Gizbor), Zach Atlas (Moreh), Alex Kugler (S’gan), and Zev Gordman (Godol).

Above: Friedel fifth and sixth graders competed in the Modern Woodmen of America Speech contest. The top finishers will go on to the district competition on April 28.

Left and above: RBJH Residents and staff enjoyed root beer floats, onion rings, and some fried pickles to welcome the warmer weather, but the temperature didn’t want to cooperate with unseasonable cool temps. We all miss the STAR Deli’s fried yummy treats. We thank the Julius Froom & Phil and Minnie Freeman Endowment Fund of the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation.

SP O TLIGHT

GENEROUSLY SUPPORTED BY

PHOTOS FROM RECENT JEWISH COMMUNITY EVENTS Above. below and bottom: As part of the Jewish Federation’s goal to show appreciation to staff, the food truck made a visit to our campus and fed everyone during all different shifts.

SUBMIT A PHOTO: Have a photo of a recent Jewish Community event you would like to submit? Email the image and a suggested caption to: avandekamp@jewishomaha.org.

The JCC Eddie Belgrade 3 on 3 basketball tournament winners. Top row: Third and fourth grade boys, Warriors; third and fourth grade girls, Lady Mustangs Blue; middle row: fifth and sixth grade boys, Turk Elite; sixth grade girls Lady Mustangs Blue; bottom row: seventh grade girls, Crusaders; and adult, Tri State Rippers.

12 | The Jewish Press | May 7, 2021

Voices The Jewish Press (Founded in 1920) Abby Kutler President Annette van de Kamp-Wright Editor Richard Busse Creative Director Susan Bernard Advertising Executive Lori Kooper-Schwarz Assistant Editor Gabby Blair Staff Writer Mary Bachteler Accounting Jewish Press Board Abby Kutler, President; Eric Dunning, Ex-Officio; Danni Christensen, David Finkelstein, Candice Friedman, Bracha Goldsweig, Margie Gutnik, Natasha Kraft, Chuck Lucoff, Eric Shapiro, Andy Shefsky, Shoshy Susman and Amy Tipp.

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.

Guidelines and highlights of the Jewish Press, including front page stories and announcements, can be found online at: wwwjewishomaha.org; click on ‘Jewish Press.’

Editorials express the view of the writer and are not necessarily representative of the views of the Jewish Press Board of Directors, the Jewish Federation of Omaha Board of Directors, or the Omaha Jewish community as a whole. The Jewish Press reserves the right to edit signed letters and articles for space and content. The Jewish Press is not responsible for the Kashrut of any product or establishment.

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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. 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.

Letters of thanks should be confined to commending an institution for a program, project or event, rather than personally thanking paid staff, unless the writer chooses to turn the “Letter to the Editor” into a paid personal ad or a news article about the event, project or program which the professional staff supervised. For information, contact Annette van de KampWright, Jewish Press Editor, 402.334.6450.

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Legalizing hate

ANNETTE VAN DE KAMP-WRIGHT Jewish Press Editor “A top Quebec court mostly upheld a provincial law banning Jews and other religious minorities who work in public from wearing religious symbols such as yarmulkes, crucifixes and hijabs in their places of employ,” David Lazarus recently wrote for the JTA. “Bill 21 was passed by the province’s Coalition Avenir Québec government in June 2019, ostensibly to promote state neutrality, and the law remains popular among Québec citizens. But critics say the real aim of the law is to discourage Muslim women who are state employees from wearing hijabs to work.”

I know nothing about Canada, except that my cousin moved up there, gets five feet of snow every winter and once shot a moose. Plus, it’s a big country, so I really can’t say what this one law would mean. However, I have to ask: what would we do, were something like this to happen here in Nebraska?

There are many places where anti-Muslim sentiment has led lawmakers to suggest sweeping changes that affect the Jewish population as well.

Especially in Europe, where kashrut and circumcision are regularly under attack, it’s hard not to think of Jews as collateral damage. So many Muslim customs have a corresponding Jewish one. As in many of those places, Jews are a small community in Nebraska. I don’t know how we would approach it if these types of laws were suggested here.

There is something strange about the ban on head coverings in particular. Covering one’s head, in and of itself, can’t be problematic. People of all cultures have covered their heads for millennia, in

most cases it’s a sign of respect. Respect for one’s lims are like the unpopular kids on the playground, religion, for one’s community decency laws, respect they should and will be teased and mocked. And for each other. There is nothing particularly threat- just like those kids, we often take it out on each ening about someone wearing a hat, wig or wrap, other. regardless the reason. That is, unless that head covering signifies membership in a hateful organization, for instance when it holds certain insignia, or when it’s made out of a white bedsheet to match someone’s robe.

Some people might argue a hijab or a kippah fall within that category. Even if that line of thinking were justified (it isn’t), the hijab in and of itself is still just a piece of fabric, sitting there, doing nothing. The yarmulka does not believe, or act, or harm others. The outward signs of who we are are just that: signs. Removing them or telling us we can no longer wear them does exactly nothing to change who we are.

The proponents of these types of laws know this, just as they know outlawing kosher or halal slaughter will not change our fundamental beliefs. And maybe that’s not the objective. Perhaps the ob- Credit: Carsten Koall/Getty Images jective is not to change us, but to simply make life There is no fundamental difference between more difficult. A reminder that we are not in telling Muslims they can’t wear a hijab and telling charge, that the things we hold dear can be taken merchants they can’t sell Israeli products unless away at any given moment. A sign of things to they jump through impossible hoops. come: today, we take your kippah, tomorrow we’ll I don’t know if the atmosphere in Québec is like take your kosher brisket; who knows what we’ll that. I do know that when I see proposed bills bartake next week. Maybe your synagogues, your ring religious symbols it makes my skin crawl. It is mosques, maybe your freedom. a short route from barring hijabs and kippot to inAnti-semitism and Islamophobia in Europe have troducing other, more dangerous measures. always had an element of bullying. Jews and Mus-

Our Orthodox communities got COVID-19 early.

We led a study to turn tragedy into science.

AVI ROSENBERG, JONATHAN SILVERBERG, JASON ZIMMERMAN AND ISRAEL ZYSKIND JTA In May, as America reeled from the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, thousands of Orthodox Jews donated blood in a remarkable effort to speed scientific understanding of the deadly new coronavirus.

The pandemic had hit the Orthodox Jewish community particularly hard, especially in the early days when much was unknown, and the pain and suffering experienced was enormous. Living in Orthodox communities, we saw this firsthand. We still remember the frantic phone calls in the early days of the pandemic from worried patients with fever and breathing difficulties. We remember the nonstop Hatzolah calls for respiratory distress and the incessant sounds of sirens in the background.

We realized that the high rate of early infections left our communities with an invisible power: information in our bodies about this new and mysterious disease. So we set out to make a meaningful contribution to the world of science to study this new virus, working with Jewish organizations and others to create a plan to collect thousands of blood and saliva samples from members of the Orthodox Jewish community to be used for COVIDbased virology research.

Blood samples from recovering COVID-19 patients could shed light on vexing questions with sweeping public health implications: Who got sick and who remained asymptomatic? Why did some people quickly fight off the virus off while others struggled for weeks? What differentiated those who lived and the many who died?

Working with other doctors from this community, we reached out to the top virology labs in the world and formed a collaboration with 10 in the United States and Canada that would receive serum samples for scientific study. Over 10 days in May, 6,665 people donated blood that was sent to these labs. More than 2,000 of them gave saliva

samples as well, enabling a different kind of analysis. And they all quantified their COVID experience on a detailed questionnaire that contained questions about symptomology, severity of illness, oxygen requirement and hospitalization.

A man walks in Midwood, home to a large Orthodox Jewish community in Brooklyn, Sept. 27, 2020.

Credit: Daniel Moritz-Rabson

This was moving for us to behold. Hundreds of Jewish community members facilitated these blood drives, including doctors, nurses, phlebotomists, medical assistants and support staff spanning five states. At one point so many vials of blood were collected that Rabbi Yehuda Kasirer of Lakewood Bikur Cholim decided to fly to Rochester, Minnesota, to deliver thousands of blood specimens directly to the Mayo Clinic so these precious samples would remain fresh for analysis.

The Journal of the American Medical Association Network Open has just published the first of many scientific conclusions resulting from this remarkable academic-community partnership. The manuscript describes the “Multi-Institutional study analyzing anti-CoV-2 Antibodies” — or MITZVA cohort. Mitzvah means good deed in Hebrew, and

the study represents efforts by American Jews to return the favor of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness given to us over the centuries by our country.

Our paper describes how coronavirus spread in parallel through multiple culturally bound communities across the United States because of Purim, which began on March 9, and the noted lack of federal and local health guidance during this early part of the pandemic. The JAMA paper calls for local, statewide and national health agencies to tailor and customize health guidance for each specific ethnic and cultural group within the U.S. One-size-fits-all recommendations may be inadequate, as each ethnic group has different social and religious practices.

The pandemic took many turns in American Orthodox communities over the course of the past year. But what is clear is that the Orthodox Jewish population saw an opportunity during the darkest of hours to provide some solace and light to our American family, our national brothers and sisters.

Built into our DNA is the strong desire to give, help and contribute to American society, and to attempt to ameliorate the great pain we collectively experienced during this terrible pandemic year.

Just as one good deed begets another, so, too, will the MITZVA cohort generate many additional significant research discoveries that are soon to be published. We are very glad to be able to help.

Dr. Avi Z. Rosenberg is a physician-scientist and practicing renal pathologist at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine.

Dr. Jonathan Silverberg is an associate professor of dermatology at The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences.

Dr Jason Zimmerman is an emergency medicine physician in Brooklyn.

Dr. Israel Zyskind is a pediatrician in Brooklyn.

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of JTA or its parent company, 70 Faces Media.

The Jewish Press | May 7, 2021 | 13

A House bill on Israel is flawed, but our Jewish civil war is worse YEHUDA KURTZER JTA In the partisan changeover that resulted from the 2020 U.S. elections, there were bound to be some tests and challenges for those of us who identify within the broad spectrum of “proIsrael.” The first is now upon us: a proposed bill emerging in the House of Representatives that places a set of limitations on how U.S. aid to Israel is used.

The bill, introduced by Rep. Betty McCollum, D-Minn., and endorsed by a growing number of progressives, would prohibit American dollars from being used for actions by Israel that involve the detaining of Palestinian children, the appropriation or destruction of Palestinian property, the forcible removal of Palestinians or toward unilateral annexation. The measure would put in place a new level of oversight.

There is reason for the pro-Israel world to be concerned about this legislation. The bill’s principal authors and its first sponsors are lawmakers with a track record of outspoken criticism of the State of Israel that at times has trafficked in antiSemitism. Some of us who identify as progressive Zionists would support a good-faith attempt to criticize Israeli policy while genuinely supporting its security. This bill does not strike that balance.

Moreover, the bill takes some of the most extreme and egregious moral failures of the occupation – the detention of minors, for instance – and makes them emblematic of Israeli policy rather than exceptional.

In this context, some Israel advocates fear that even a bill with limited scope and no chance of passing represents a slippery slope — namely toward conditioning U.S. aid to Israel, as some lawmakers are proposing, or even eventually cutting the aid entirely. Israeli government policy has been shifting rightward, and American political attitudes are changing. The consensus bipartisan support that Israel enjoyed for two generations is eroding. If Congress is willing to question the historically sacrosanct commitment to Israeli military aid based on the question of home demolitions, will this pave the way toward more grievous sanctioning?

Meantime, on the other side of the aisle, some progressives view these legislative efforts as the only available lever. Frustrated with Israeli policy, and believing that the status quo entrenches unsustainable injustices, they are grasping at an obvious tool – even if this change in policy challenges a deeply held orthodoxy.

Now some of this divide – AIPAC opposes, J Street supports

– is just reflective of partisan instincts. Some of it is just good inverse of political rights for Jews. old politics, using legislation that is not likely to pass in order Every time you close down one pathway for dissent on a to plant a flag. Besides, the Jewish community likes a good communal orthodoxy, you need to open another. Dissent over public fight, especially as it relates to Israel. Our controversies Israeli policy is a legitimate expression of Jewish participation are witnesses to our values. and engagement with Israel. Pro-Israel voices sometimes acBut beyond the political theater, two separate issues about knowledge this with platitudes, but more often than not disthe future of support for Israel are being conflated. The first is miss political strategies associated with dissent as disloyalty. the importance of this particular legislation and the “red line” This is untenable. Not every issue that puts AIPAC on one side it appears to cross, and the second is whether or not we can brook legitimate dissent on Israeli policy within the framework of our community.

Unfortunately we give all our attention to the first, even as the second is more important for the future of our relationship with Israel.

Effective Jewish support for Israel depends on some notion of Jewish community. Without it, we are vulnerable on both sides of the political spectrum: The narrower your subcommunity, the less effective it will be in the long run at mobilizing wider support for its position, and the more dependent it becomes on building unwieldy coalitions. If the American Jewish community is going to remain broadly supportive of Israel, it must maintain within its big tent a Credit: Flickr Commons/JTA Montage wider range of policy positions than are currently tolerated and J Street on the other demands a knockdown fight. under the banner of “pro-Israel.” This means, in turn, that the Outspoken criticism of Israeli policy will remain a feature organized Jewish community has to open a wider lane than of the Jewish and American political conversation. Much of what now exists for political progressives to stay engaged with this criticism is becoming more shrill, and the days of biparIsraeli policy and for them to express their values. tisan support are behind us. We are going to be tested with Many of us who identify as Zionist or pro-Israel believe in new “slippery slopes.” But when you are on a slippery slope, the fundamental legitimacy of Palestinian self-determination sometimes the best thing is not to try to reach the top of the and advocating for Palestinian human rights as part and par- mountain but simply to gain secure footing. cel of our commitment to the State of Israel. These dual comI doubt this legislation will pass, and it should not. American mitments should find their home in our political discourse. military aid to Israel is vital for the long-term security interests To argue that any gesture toward Palestinian human rights of both countries. But not every disagreement calls for interand dignity constitutes a prima facie security risk to Israel — nal war. We need to notice how much we lose when we follow as many in the organized Jewish community do — is horrify- the belligerent instinct indiscriminately. All the wins, over ing, inaccurate and self-defeating to the objective of building time, may bring about a bigger loss. as big and broad a coalition as possible that supports the State Yehuda Kurtzer is the President of the Shalom Hartman of Israel.

Institute of North America, editor of the recently-pubWhen it shuts out progressive values – including, most im- lished The New Jewish Canon and host of the portantly, a concern for Palestinian human rights – the pro- Identity/Crisis podcast.

Israel camp may win the political fights in this generation and The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of lose the entire next generation. More important, we also will the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of JTA or its be complicit in turning human rights for Palestinians into the parent company, 70 Faces Media.

The Japanese Americans who helped liberate Dachau knew the shared history of anti-Jewish and anti-Asian hate he had thought. When the gates swung open, we got our first HANA RUDOLPH good look at the prisoners. Many of them were Jews. They were JTA April 29 marks the 76th anniversary of the liberation of wearing black and white striped prison suits and round caps. A Dachau, the longest-operating Nazi concentration camp. A few had blanket rags draped over their shoulders. It was cold lesser-known part of that day is that Japanese-American and the snow was two feet deep in some places. There were no troops played a key role in the liberation of Dachau and its German guards. They had taken off before we reached the camp. satellite camps. Japanese-American soldiers also rescued The prisoners struggled to their feet after the gates were thousands of survivors of a Nazi death march nearby, caring for them until medical personnel could arrive.

These troops were from the 522nd Field Artillery Battalion, a detachment of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, which consisted of second-generation Japanese Americans. Many of these soldiers enlisted directly from U.S. internment camps, where Japanese Americans were shamefully incarcerated. Ironically, the Japanese-American troops rescued and cared for Jewish victims of the Nazi death camps, even as their own families were still detained in U.S. internment camps.

The creation of the 442nd followed Japan’s attack on Pearl Harbor, when more than 110,000 Japanese Americans, two-thirds of them born in the United States, were Color guards and color bearers of the Japanese-American 442d Comdetained and relocated in the continental U.S. Over the bat Team stand at attention while their citations are read at a cerecourse of the war, an estimated 18,000 Japanese Ameri- mony in the Bruyeres area of France, where many of their comrades fell, Nov. 12, 1944. Credit: U.S. Army Signal Corps cans were enlisted and deployed to Europe.

Despite these circumstances, the Japanese-American sol- opened. They shuffled weakly out of the compound. They were diers were valorous. The 442nd became the most decorated like skeletons — all skin and bones. regiment in U.S. military history, earning 21 Medals of Honor, In addition to its role in the liberation of Dachau, the 442nd over 9,000 Purple Hearts, eight Presidential Unit Citations and is famous for its heroic rescue of the “Lost Battalion,” a group more – totaling more than 18,000 awards – for its actions dur- of more than 200 American soldiers encircled by Nazi forces. ing World War II. The 100th Battalion, a component of the The unit’s motto “Go for Broke” — gambler’s slang meaning to 442nd, had such a high casualty rate that it was nicknamed put it all on the line — reflected the intense patriotism and the “Purple Heart Battalion.” bravery of its soldiers.

On April 29, 1945, several scouts from the 522nd came upon Members of the 442nd included Daniel Inouye, who lost an some barracks encircled by barbed wire. Technician Fourth arm in combat and went on to serve in Congress, first as Grade Ichiro Imamura described what was likely the Dachau Hawaii’s sole representative and then as U.S. senator from subcamp of Kaufering IV in his diary: 1963 until his death in 2012, as well as president pro tempore I watched as one of the scouts used his carbine to shoot off of the U.S. Senate (third in the presidential line of succession). the chain that held the prison gates shut. He said he just had to Another member of the 442nd was Sus Ito, who later beopen the gates when he saw a couple of the 50 or so prisoners, came a renowned biologist at Harvard Medical School. sprawled on the ground, moving weakly. They weren’t dead, as “He risked his life in defense of freedom and the country that

had turned against his family,” Daniel Lubetzky, founder and CEO of Kind Snacks, wrote last year about Ito’s role in saving his father, uncle and grandfather. In 2015, Ito recounted his experience in the liberation of Dachau in an American Jewish Committee program jointly organized with the U.S.-Japan Council.

“You fought not only the enemy, but you fought prejudice — and you won,” President Harry Truman told members of the 442nd after the war.

In reality, however, Japanese-American troops and those returning from internment camps continued to face prejudice in the form of exclusion laws, housing discrimination and even violence.

Indiscriminate fear and senseless hatred toward Asian Americans have never fully waned and have spiked in the past year. Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the monitoring group Stop AAPI Hate has reported approximately 3,800 hate incidents against Asian Americans, including physical assault and verbal harassment.

At this time it is important to acknowledge the shared history of the Jewish-American and Asian-American communities. Our communities have been inextricably linked throughout U.S. history. For example, following the deadly shooting at Pittsburgh’s Tree of Life synagogue in 2018, the United Chinese Americans delivered a letter of support from more than 100 Asian-American organizations voicing solidarity with the Jewish community.

The month of May is both Jewish American Heritage Month and Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. This concurrent recognition of both peoples is an opportunity to celebrate not only the rich history and contributions of these two communities to the American experience, but also to note the deep history and friendship they share.

As we commemorate the liberation of Dachau on April 29, 1945, we should also remember the kindness and heroism of Japanese Americans in the 442nd Regimental Combat Team.

Hana Rudolph is Assistant Director of the American Jewish Committee’s Asia Pacific Institute.

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of JTA or its parent company, 70 Faces Media.

Synagogues

14 | The Jewish Press | May 7, 2021

B’NAI ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE

618 Mynster Street Council Bluffs, IA 51503-0766 712.322.4705 email: CBsynagogue@hotmail.com

BETH EL SYNAGOGUE

Member of United Synagogues of Conservative Judaism 14506 California Street 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

LINCOLN JEWISH COMMUNITY: B’NAI JESHURUN

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

OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE

Capehart Chapel 2500 Capehart Road Offutt AFB, NE 68123 402.294.6244 email: oafbjsll@icloud.com

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

LINCOLN JEWISH COMMUNITY: TIFERETH ISRAEL

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

B’NAI ISRAEL Join us via Zoom on Friday, May 14, 7:30 p.m. for evening services with guest speaker, Wendy Goldberg, Executive Director of the Tri-Faith Initiative. Our service leader is Larry Blass. Everyone is always welcome at B’nai Israel!

For information on our historic synagogue, please contact Howard Kutler at hkutler@hotmail.com or any of our other board members: Scott Friedman, Rick Katelman, Janie Kulakofsky, Carole and Wayne Lainof, Mary-Beth Muskin, Debbie Salomon and Sissy Silber.

Handicap Accessible.

BETH EL Virtual services conducted by Rabbi Steven Abraham and Hazzan Michael Krausman.

VIRTUAL AND IN-PERSON MINYAN SCHEDULE: Mornings on Sundays, 9 a.m. and Mondays-Fridays, 7 a.m.; Evenings on Sunday-Thursday, 5:30 p.m.

FRIDAY: Shavuot To Go Orders Due, 5 p.m.; Graduation Shabbat, 6 p.m.

SATURDAY: Shabbat Morning Services, 10 a.m.; Havdalah, 9:10 p.m.

SUNDAY: Torah Study, 10 a.m.; BESTT (Grades K2), 9:30 a.m. at Beth El; BESTT (Grades 3-7), 10:45 a.m. at Beth El. MONDAY: Jewish Law with Rabbi Abraham, 8 p.m.

TUESDAY: Biblical Literacy with Rabbi Abraham, 11:30 a.m.; Board of Trustees Meeting, 7 p.m.

WEDNESDAY: Coffee & Conversation with Rabbi Abraham, 2 p.m.; BESTT (Grades 3-7), 4:30 p.m. at Beth El; BILU On Base, 6:30 p.m.; Beit Midrash — You Shall Surely Heal, 7 p.m.

THURSDAY: Pearls of Jewish Prayer with Hazzan Krausman, 7 p.m.; BESTT Committee Meeting, 7:30 p.m.

FRIDAY-May 14: Shavuot To Go Pick Up, 5 p.m.; Kabbalat Shabbat, 6 p.m.

SATURDAY-May 15: Shabbat Morning Services, 10 a.m.; Havdalah, 9:15 p.m.

Please visit bethel-omaha.org for additional information and service links.

BETH ISRAEL Virtual services conducted by Rabbi Ari Dembitzer.

Classes, Kabbalat Shabbat and Havdalah on Zoom, WhatsApp or Facebook Live. On site services held outside in Sukkah, weather permitting. Physical distancing and masks required.

FRIDAY: Nach Yomi — Daily Prophets, 6:45 a.m. with Rabbi Ari (WhatsApp); Shacharit, 7 am.; Deepening Our Prayer, 7:45 a.m. with Rabbi Ari (Zoom); Laws of Shabbos, 8 a.m. with Rabbi Ari (Zoom); Mincha/Kabbalat Shabbos, 7:30 p.m.; Candlelighting, 8:10 p.m.

SATURDAY: Shabbat Kollel, 8:30 a.m. with Rabbi Yoni; Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 8:10 p.m.; Havdalah, 9:16 p.m.

SUNDAY: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Yom Yerushalaym Scavenger Hunt, 11 a.m. at Beth Israel; Daf Yomi with Rabbi Yoni — 30 mins prior to Mincha; Mincha/ Ma’ariv, 8:10 p.m.

MONDAY: Nach Yomi — Daily Prophets, 6:45 a.m. with Rabbi Ari (WhatsApp); Shacharit, 7 am.; Deepening Our Prayer, 7:45 a.m. with Rabbi Ari (Zoom); Laws of Shabbos, 8 a.m. with Rabbi Ari (Zoom); Daf Yomi with Rabbi Yoni — 30 mins prior to Mincha; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 8:10 p.m.

TUESDAY: Nach Yomi — Daily Prophets, 6:45 a.m. with Rabbi Ari (WhatsApp); Shacharit, 7 am.; Deepening Our Prayer, 7:45 a.m. with Rabbi Ari (Zoom);

Laws of Shabbos, 8 a.m. with Rabbi Ari (Zoom); Daf Yomi with Rabbi Yoni — 30 mins prior to Mincha; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 8:10 p.m.

WEDNESDAY: Shacharit, 6:45 am.

THURSDAY: Nach Yomi — Daily Prophets, 6:45 a.m. with Rabbi Ari (WhatsApp); Shacharit, 7 am.; Deeping Our Prayer, 7:45 a.m. with Rabbi Ari (Zoom); Laws of Shabbos, 8 a.m. with Rabbi Ari (Zoom); Character Development, 9:30 am. with Rabbi Ari (Zoom); Daf Yomi with Rabbi Yoni — 30 mins prior to Mincha; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 8:10 p.m.

FRIDAY-May 14: Nach Yomi — Daily Prophets, 6:45 a.m. with Rabbi Ari (WhatsApp); Shacharit, 7 am.; Deepening Our Prayer, 7:45 a.m. with Rabbi Ari (Zoom); Laws of Shabbos, 8 a.m. with Rabbi Ari (Zoom); Mincha/Kabbalat Shabbos, 7:30 p.m.; Candlelighting, 8:17 p.m.

SATURDAY-May 15: Shabbat Kollel, 8:30 a.m. with Rabbi Yoni; Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 8:20 p.m.; Havdalah, 9:24 p.m.

Please visit orthodoxomaha.org for additional information and Zoom service links.

CHABAD HOUSE All services are in-person. All classes are being offered online at Ochabad.com/classroom. For more information or to request help, please visit www. ochabad.com or call the office at 402.330.1800.

FRIDAY: Shacharit, 8 a.m.; Inspirational Lechayim, 6 p.m. with Rabbi and friends: ochabad.com/Lecha yim; Light Candles, 8:10 p.m.; Count the Omer #41.

SATURDAY: Shacharit, 10:30 a.m.; Shabbat Ends, 9:15 p.m.; Count the Omer #42.

SUNDAY: Shacharit & Coffee Conversation, 9 am.; Count the Omer #43.

MONDAY: Shacharit, 8 a.m.; Personal Parsha class, 9:30 a.m. with Shani Katzman; Advanced Biblical Hebrew Grammar, 10:30 a.m. with Prof. David Cohen; Count the Omer #44.

TUESDAY: Shacharit, 8 a.m.; Virtual Pirkei Avot Women’s Class, 7 p.m.; Count the Omer #45.

WEDNESDAY: Shacharit, 8 a.m.; Mystical Thinking (Tanya), 9:30 a.m. with Rabbi Katzman; Introductory Biblical Hebrew Grammar, 10:30 a.m. with Prof. David Cohen; Introduction to Hebrew Reading, 11:30 a.m. with Prof. David Cohen; Count the Omer #46.

THURSDAY: Shacharit, 8 a.m.; Advanced Hebrew Class, 11 a.m. with Prof. David Cohen; Talmud Study, noon with Rabbi Katzman; Count the Omer #47.

FRIDAY-May 14: Shacharit, 8 a.m.; Inspirational Lechayim, 6 p.m. with Rabbi and friends: ochabad. com/Lechayim; Light Candles, 8:17 p.m.; Count the Omer #48.

SATURDAY-May 15: Shacharit, 10:30 a.m.; Shabbat Ends, 9:24 p.m.; Count the Omer #49.

LINCOLN JEWISH COMMUNITY: B’NAI JESHURUN & TIFERETH ISRAEL Services facilitated by Rabbi Alex Felch.

Note: Some of our services, but not all are now being offered in person.

FRIDAY: Kabbalat Shabbat Service, service leaders/music: Rabbi Alex, Nathaniel and Steve Kaup, 6:30 p.m.; Candlelighting, 8:11 p.m.

SATURDAY: Shabbat Morning Service, 9:30 a.m. led by Rabbi Felch; Torah Study on Parashat BeharBeccchukotai, 11:30 a.m. via Zoom; Havdalah, 9:17 p.m.

SUNDAY: LJCS Grades Gan-Gesher, 10 a.m. via Zoom; Men's Jewish Bike Group of Lincoln meets Sundays at 10 a.m. rain or shine to ride to one of The

Mill locations from Hanson Ct. (except we drive if its too wet, cold, cloudy, windy, hot or humid) followed by coffee and spirited discussions. No fee to join, no dues, no president, no board or minutes taken. If Interested please email Al Weiss at albertw801@ gmail.com to find out where to meet each week; Adult Ed: Intro to Judaism with Rabbi Alex, 11:30 a.m. via Zoom.

MONDAY: Makers of Jewish Things, 7 p.m. via Zoom.

TUESDAY: Synagogue Staff Meeting, 10 a.m.; Tea & Coffee with Pals, 1:30 p.m. via Zoom.

WEDNESDAY: LJCS Grades 3-7, 4:30 p.m. via Zoom.

THURSDAY: LJCS Committee Meeting, 7:30 p.m.

FRIDAY-May 14: Kabbalat Shabbat Service, service leaders/music: Rabbi Alex and TBD, 6:30 p.m. — Bar Mitzvah of Jack Brackhan; Candlelighting, 8:18 p.m.

SATURDAY-May 15: Shabbat Morning Service, 9:30 a.m. with Rabbi Alex; Torah Study on Behar-Bechukotai, 11:30 a.m. via Zoom; Havdalah, 9:25 p.m.

All Federation families with children participating in Jewish overnight camps or other Jewish youth programs this summer are eligible for Camp Incentive Grants of $300 per camper for the registration deposit. Additional camp scholarships are based on need and require a submitted scholarship application.

All campers who receive Federation support are expected to participate in a tzedakah activity of their choosing. Contact either synagogue office or the LJCS for an application if you have a 2021 camper!

OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE All services canceled until further notice.

ROSE BLUMKIN JEWISH HOME

The Rose Blumkin Jewish Home is currently closed to visitors.

TEMPLE ISRAEL

Virtual services conducted by Rabbi Brian Stoller, Rabbi Deana Sussman Berezin and Cantor Joanna Alexander.

DAILY VIRTUAL MINYAN: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.

Join us via Zoom.

FRIDAY: Teacher Appreciate Shabbat, 6 p.m. Join us via Zoom SATURDAY: Torah Study, 9:15 a.m. Join us via Zoom; Shabbat Service — Bar Mitzvah of Max Silverman, 10:30 a.m.

SUNDAY: No Youth Learning Programs; 2nd Sunday Breakfast Service at the Stephen Center, 8:30 a.m.

MONDAY: Jewish Law Class & the Quest for Meaning, 11 a.m. Join us via Zoom.

TUESDAY: Rosh Chodesh Conversation, 7 p.m. with Joanie Jacobson.

WEDNESDAY: Mindful Meditation with Margot Anderson, 9 a.m. Join us via Zoom; Youth Learning Programs: Grades 3-6, 4 p.m.; Grades 7-12, 6:30 p.m.; Community Beit Midrash — You Shall Surely Heal: Medicine and Health Care in the Jewish Tradition, 7 p.m.

THURSDAY: Thursday Morning Discussion, 9:30 a.m. with Rabbi Aryeh Azriel. Join us via Zoom.

FRIDAY-May 14: Shabbat, Service: Seven Texts all Reform Jews Should Know, 6 p.m. Join us via Zoom.

SATURDAY-May 15: Torah Study, 9:15 a.m. Join us via Zoom; Shabbat Service — Bat Mitzvah of Ruby Stoller, 10:30 a.m.

Please visit templeisraelomaha.com for additional information and Zoom service links.

At least 6 Americans among victims in Israeli stampede STEWART AIN New York Jewish Week via JTA Among the 45 people killed in the crush of bodies at a Lag b’Omer celebration in northern Israel were at least six Americans with ties to the New York area.

They included 19-year-old yeshiva students from northern New Jersey and Monsey, New York, as well as a 13-year-old boy who had moved to Israel with his family.

The New Jersey student, Nachman Doniel Morris, had flown to Israel in September to study at Yeshivat Shaalvim in central Israel, after the Israeli government made special provisions to allow yeshiva students to come to the country despite draconian restrictions on travel because of the pan-

demic.

Morris was in the crowd of tens of thousands that gathered at Mount Meron to mark the Lag B’Omer holiday Thursday night when a stampede on a crowded ramp led to the deadliest civilian disaster in Israel’s history.

“The Morris family are pillars of the BergenfieldTeaneck community,” said a neighbor. “I have known [Nachman] since he was six. He was a rising star as a student in the Jewish world. He was a sweet boy. No one had anything negative to say about him.”

Also killed was Yosef Amram Tauber, 19, of Monsey, a student at the Brisk yeshiva. A relative said that he left for Israel to attend the yeshiva “for the first time last week” — after the country again re-

laxed COVID-19 restrictions.

Also killed in the stampede was Shraga Gestetner, a 35-year-old singer from Monsey. Married and the father of five, he was in Israel visiting relatives.

His mother, Shoshana, was reportedly raised in Bnei Brak.

A spokesman for the Israeli Consulate in New York said his office had contacted all of the families of those killed in the tragedy and had made “special arrangements for families wanting to travel to Israel. We have made it easier for them to go … without having to go through all of the COVID-19 procedures.” Tickets will be provided to those who contact El Al’s service center and present a death certificate and a passport photo.

Life cycles

The Jewish Press | May 7, 2021 | 15

Pulverente MONUMENT CO. Over 60 Years Experience With Jewish Lettering and Memorials

1439 So. 13th 402-341-2452 Family Owned and Operated

IN MEMORIAM LAWRENCE (LARRY) STUART ALBERT Lawrence (Larry) Stuart Albert passed away on April 30, 2021 at age 88. Private memorial services were held in Omaha.

He is survived by his wife, Paula; sons and daughters-in-law, Jim and Lisa Albert and Steve and Linda Albert, and daughters and sons-in-law, Susie and Mark Greene and Marge and Marc Cohen; six grandchildren; two great-granddaughters; sister, Judy Albert, and sister-in-law, Betty Segell.

Larry was born in Omaha, Nebraska, the youngest of four children. He graduated from Central High School and Omaha University with a degree in Business Administration and served in the Air Force in 1955.

As a teenager, Larry became a partner with his father in Louis Albert & Son Foods Co. Through their efforts, they expanded the business selling salad dressing and other specialty sauces throughout the Midwest and even overseas. When the company was sold 50 years later, he found satisfaction by helping others develop their products from bottle design, recipe analysis to manufacturing and marketing their products.

During his life he served on the Douglas County Board of Health for 20 years, the Central High School Alumni Historical Committee, and was inducted into the Omaha Culinary Arts Hospitality Hall of Fame. By his help as a volunteer with the nonprofit program, SCORE, he was pleased to give back his time and business intellect to the community.

The special times spent with family and friends highlighted his life. Among these were the summer road trips, always celebrating family birthdays and anniversaries together and his annual Albert boys’ Vegas trips. Also, of note were the “Never On Sunday” bi-weekly poker games with lifelong friends.

Larry was an avid gardener, a noted history buff, especially regarding WWII, and a loyal Cornhusker football season ticket holder for over 40 years. He truly enjoyed life to the fullest with a keen sense of humor through it all.

Memorials may be made to the Visiting Nurse Association, Jewish Family Services, or the organization of your choice.

LILLIAN E. FELDMAN Lillian E. Feldman passed away on April 16, 2021 in Omaha.

Services were held April 20, 2021 at Golden Hill Cemetery and was officiated by Rabbi Steven Abraham and Hazzan Michael Krausman.

She was preceded in death by husband, Aaron Feldman; parents, Frank and Ella Katz; son, Steven Feldman; sister and brother-in-law, Marjorie and Bernard Weiss; and brother, Jack Katz.

She is survived by sons and daughters-in-law, Ronald and Pam Feldman, Howard and Lori Feldman; daughter, Marla Feldman; daughter-in-law, Sherry Feldman; 10 grandchildren; 13 greatgrandchildren; and many nephews and nieces.

Lillian was a member of Beth El Synagogue.

Memorials may be made to Beth El Synagogue or the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home.

JOSEPH C. “CHUCK” LEVINGER Joseph C. “Chuck” Levinger passed away April 18, 2021 at age 91. Graveside services were held April 20, 2021 at Temple Israel Cemetery.

He was preceded in death by parents, Harold and Lerena Levinger; brother, William Levinger.

He is survived by wife, Leta Levinger; sons and daughters-inlaw, Jeffrey and Terry Levinger, Steven and Bonnie Levinger, Jay and Michele Levinger; grandchildren: Allison and Adam Pechart, Jacob Levinger, Amy and Paul Springer, Jessica Levinger, Samuel Levinger, Andrew Levinger; great-grandson, Asher Pechart; and nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be made to Yankton (SD) College, Rose Blumkin Jewish Home, or Fantle Memorial Park/Huether Family Aquatic Center Guppy Fund Scholarships (Yankton, SD).

BIRTH TALIA KURLAND COHEN Shayna Kurland and Ben Cohen of Tustin, CA, announce the March 23 birth of their daughter, Talia Kurland Cohen.

Grandparents are Sandra and Allen Kurland of Council Bluffs, IA, and Fran and Harvey Cohen of Denver, CO. Great-grandmother is Josephine Berg Simes of Saint Paul, MN.

BAT MITZVAH RUBY GENEVIEVE STOLLER Ruby Genevieve Stoller, daughter of Sara and Asher Stoller, will celebrate her Bat Mitzvah on Saturday, May 15, 2021, at Temple Israel.

Ruby is a seventh-grade student at Westside Middle School. She is a member of National Junior Honors Society and is in honors math and English.

Ruby plays soccer with Sporting Omaha FC, basketball with Westside Middle School and Junior Warriors girls basketball feeder program. She is a member of Westside Connection (Westside Middle School Show Choir), and attends Herzl Camp in the summers.

For her mitzvah project, Ruby baked and sold toffee to raise $1,895 for St. Jude’s National Research Hospital to help prevent childhood cancer.

She has two sisters, Ava and Lola and a brother, Samuel.

Grandparents are Dr. Peter and Mrs. Genevieve Gordon of Omaha, and Drs. Herschel and Lilly Stoller of Omaha.

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16 | The Jewish Press | May 7, 2021

News LOC AL | N ATI O N A L | WO R L D

Shining a light on the intersection of sexuality and Judaism CALEB A. GUEDES-REED This article first appeared on Alma.

Brazil is a diverse and complex country. For 32-year-old Assucena Assucena, who is trans and Jewish (of Moroccan and Sephardic descent), that complexity is intensified.

To be Jewish in Brazil already means that you’re one of an estimated 120,000 Jews living in a predominantly Catholic country with a deep history of antisemitism. But to be trans can be outright dangerous. Not only does Brazil have a loud and proud homophobic and far-right president — Jair Bolsonaro claimed “homosexual fundamentalists” were brainwashing heterosexual children to “become gays and lesbians to satisfy them sexually in the future” in a 2013 interview — but also, in 2020, more trans people were killed in Brazil than anywhere else in the world for the 12th consecutive year.

In addition to the anti-LGBTQ sentiments expressed by the president and his family (including his son), just last month one of his senior aides was accused of making a white supremacist hand symbol during a legislative session. All of this makes the visibility that people like Assucena represent even more important.

Assucena Assucena is one of the three musicians in the Brazilian musical group As Baías. She met her fellow band members Raquel Virgínia (also a trans woman) and Rafael Acerbi while studying history at the University of Sao Paulo.

They have since risen within Brazil’s music scene: In 2019, the group’s album Tarântula was nominated for the Grammy Latino, making Assucena and Raquel the first trans women to have ever been nominated for the award. They were nominated again in 2020 for their album Enquanto Estamos Distantes (While We Were Distant).

I spoke with Assucena over Zoom to talk about the way she’s using her platform to advocate for both the LGBTQ and Jewish communities in Brazil.

This interview has been lightly edited and condensed for

clarity.

Alma: To start, tell us a little about the Jewish community in Brazil.

Assucena: Because of the history of antisemitism here, the community is very closed, very conservative and not always open to recognizing pluralism within the Jewish community.

The community is diverse, but they often represent themselves as homogenous, even when they aren’t. Here’s an exam-

Credit: Assucena Assucena; background via Getty Images

ple: When you arrive at a Brazilian synagogue, it’s almost impossible to enter without being invited. You need to say your family name and present documents. They are extremely closed, ever since the 1994 Jewish culture center bombing in Argentina that killed 85 Jews, though I believe that security in synagogues is more about class than security.

From outside the community, I’ve suffered antisemitism, of course. The perception of Jewish people in Brazil is very cruel because we’re often portrayed as conservative and capitalist instead of as revolutionaries or even academics, which represent a huge part of the Jewish community. That’s a perpetuation of a Nazi concept. The idea of who a Jew is in Brazil needs to change — both for non-Jews and Jews.

What is it like to be both Jewish and LGBTQ?

It’s hard for a lot of people to understand that I can be both trans and Jewish. I grew up in a small city in Bahia, and when I first moved to Sao Paulo I didn’t have any issues accessing the Jewish community. When I became trans, access to Jewish life became a problem and I left the community for eight years.

I didn’t see the possibility to be who I was in that environment.

It seems like you’ve found your way back, though. How did that happen?

While studying history, I discovered feminism, Marxism and other ideas in philosophy that made me think about the world in new ways. I was always a religious person and I always sought out spiritual connection. I was looking for a connection to God. I realized through all of this that I never left Judaism, especially the cultural aspect, which was always a part of who I am. Culture is how we think, how we eat and how we behave socially. I never truly left. Judaism is more about uncertainty than certainty. It is expressed through constant debate and questioning, and that’s what I was doing.

My Jewish identity grew even stronger during the recent political polarization in Brazil. It was presumed that Jews would support Bolsonaro, and many leftist Jews stood up and spoke out against him. This really showed pluralism because we as a community were publicly divided over this topic.

A lot of people see you as a public activist for LGBTQ and Jewish causes, especially the intersection of the two. What projects have you been working on?

So much has happened in the past few years. I was invited to serve as a collaborator for the Instituto Brasil-Israel (IBI), and in 2019 I hosted the first institutional LGBTQ Shabbat in Brazil alongside Fortuna, another Jewish musician here in Brazil. Fortuna is very well-known, politically and religiously, in the Jewish community and helped reignite the use of Ladino in music in Brazil. We’ve recorded three singles together.

This article was edited for length. Read the full article on our website at www.omahajewishpress.com.

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