August 31, 2018

thejewishpress AN AGENCY OF THE JEWISH FEDERATION OF OMAHA

this week

Challah Bake with a twist page 11

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Stacey and Brett Atlas and Jamie and ted Friedland he calls “Music Mind Reading” where he senses the exact tunes on people’s minds and then beautifully plays them on the piano. Known as the ‘mentalist to the stars’ (Chicago Tribune; Forbes) for his many celebrity clients, Friedman will read your mind, perform ESP,

Shirley Goldstein’s Immigrant Rights Legacy

Fighting hunger on Yom Kippur page 16

inside Viewpoint Synagogues Life cycles

JFO Community event AU G U ST 3 1 , 2 0 1 8 | 2 0 ELU L 5 7 7 8 | V O L. 9 8 | NO . 4 5 | C A Nd leli G h ti NG | FRID AY , AU G U ST 3 1 , 7 : 4 0 P. M.

GABBy BlAir Staff Writer, Jewish Press he Jewish Federation of Omaha is kicking off the 2019 Annual Campaign with a family friendly Community Event on Sunday Oct. 7 at 5:30 p.m. at the Downtown Omaha Hilton (1001 Cass Street).

Event chairs Stacey and Brett Atlas and Jamie and Ted Friedland announce this year’s special guest is America’s premier mentalist, Sidney Friedman.

Known for his “Mind Power Show” of intuitive telepathic feats and for his uncanny prognostication accuracy on numerous TV news and talk shows, Friedman is sure to blow your mind.

He is also a composer with a degree from the Eastman School of Music and a composer fellow at the Boston Symphony Orchestra’s Tanglewood Music Festival. He has scored music for commercials and television shows, along with orchestral works, songs, and recently, a musical.

Sidney combines his music and mental gifts with a demonstration of what

ADL-CRC event brings community together page 6

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WWW.JEWISHOMAHA.ORG

SpONSOred By the BeNJAmiN ANd ANNA e. WieSmAN FAmily eNdOWmeNt FuNd

JeANNette GABriel Resident Scholar, Schwalb Center for Israel & Jewish Studies, UNO There will be a special preview of an upcoming exhibit on Shirley Goldstein’s activist work on behalf of Russian Jewish refugees (refuseniks) on Sept. 24 at 7 p.m. The event, “Shirley Goldstein’s Immigrant Rights Legacy: Operation Exodus in Omaha,” is part of Human Rights Week, sponsored by the Goldstein Family Community Chair in Human Rights at University of NebraskaOmaha.

Jeannette Gabriel, curator of the exhibit, will be presenting materials from the upcoming exhibit along with a lecture analyzing the refuseniks’ human rights struggle within the context of heightened

telepathy and premonition.

Sidney is also highly regarded as a futurist and prognosticator. For 20 years, he has appeared on news and talk shows at New Year’s, each year with a set of 20 to 35 predictions.

See JFO Community event page 3

Major Donor Chairs

Amy Friedman

Cold War tensions. Gabriel’s presentation will be followed with comments from Dr. Danielle Battisti and Bob Wolfson. Dr. Battisti is an American historian who specializes in American immigration and ethnic history. Mr. Wolfson, owner of Bob Wolfson Consulting, was the associate national director of regional operations for the Anti Defamation League.

“This preview and lecture will be a great opportunity to highlight the contributions my mother and so See Shirley Goldstein page 2

ANNette vAN de kAmp Editor, Jewish Press The Jewish Federation of Omaha’s 2019 Annual Campaign is getting ready, with Amy Friedman and Brian Nogg agreeing to serve as this year’s Major Donor Chairs.

“Getting involved with JFO is a multigenerational family affair,” Amy said. “In addition to volunteering in various roles at different agencies, we are very conscious that each department has benefited us on a personal level at some point in our lives. Right now, our granddaughter Frankie is at the Pennie Z. Davis Childhood Development Center; my father is at the Rose Blumkin Jewish

Brian Nogg

Home. I regularly make that walk from where Frankie is at the CDC, after which I go to my Pilates class and then I visit my dad. It is a unique experience. Just think about it: how many different ways are there for the Jewish Federation to touch your life?”

Brian Nogg has deep ties to JFO as well; in 2016, he was Annual Campaign Chair, together with his wife Jaime.

Stepping up, once again, makes sense: “As someone who loves to participate in this Jewish Community and who attempts to brainstorm for and lead new initiatives, I want to say “Thank You” to the major donors of this Community for See major donor Chairs page 2

2 | The Jewish Press | August 31, 2018

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Welcoming Ron Lugasy

ANNette vAN de kAmp “Although it is a part of my job duties to take care of the well-being of our shlichim, I am happy to do it,” Nate said. “On Editor, Jewish Press he Jewish Federation of Omaha is excited to an- a more personal level, Ron’s Job in the army was as a welfare nounce the recent arrival of our new Community officer. These officers are important to the well-being of speShlicha, Ron Lugasy. As our emissary from Israel, she cial needs soldiers, especially lone soldiers. As a former lone will continue where Yoni Doron left off and bring soldier myself, it is an honor to give back in this capacity.” that much-needed Israeli flavor to our community.

In addition, Yoni Doron was part of the interview process, Ron hails from Had Ness, which is located in the Golan Heights. Had Ness is a Hebrew acronym of the names of three settlements, Holit, Dekla and Neot Sinai, which were evacuated from the Sinai Peninsula as a result of the Israel-Egypt Peace Treaty in 1979.

“I am eager to immerse myself in the Omaha community,” Ron said. “I’m bringing Israel here, but this Nate Shapiro, left, Ron Lugasy and Steve Levinger Ron Lugasy is also a great time for me to learn about and experience life in the Diaspora.” which, Ron said, was very helpful. “He knows the job inside Ron is the daughter of Hila and Eitan. Hila works in edu- and out, he was able to see things from my perspective and cation and Eitan is a business owner; she has an older brother, has been a great matchmaker!”

Koren and a younger one, Peleg. “I’m sandwiched right in the For a community such as ours, hosting a Shlicha is a twomiddle,” Ron said. way street. While Ron will arrange countless programs and She met up with Yoni right before traveling to Omaha and educational opportunities, we also need to do our best to welhe gave her the inside scoop on what to expect during her come her, by inviting her to Shabbat dinner (or during a regtime here. ular night, because we all eat the other six days, too, and by “Yoni is in love with Omaha,” Ron said. “Anytime he talks the way, she’s a vegetarian) and including her in social events. about this community, he smiles and his eyes light up. He told Oh, and she really likes pizza. me about the people and it is obvious he really loved it here.

“She really needs to see a Husker game,” Nate added. If you Listening to him describe what Jewish Omaha means to him are interested in finding out more about what she needs, simmade me much less nervous about coming here.” ply call Nate Shapiro at 402.334.6440 and he will point you in Enthusiasm is important, but bringing a Shlicha or Shaliach the right direction. to Omaha also takes an enormous amount of preparation.

“I’m dreaming big,” Ron said. “I look forward to having an That’s where JFO Director of Development Nate Shapiro impact and making connections. One of the goals of the came in. shlichim program is facilitating those Israeli experiences and “Nate has been so on top of things throughout this whole stories you don’t find in the Mainstream Media. You know, process,” Ron said. “It has taken care of all the details that the stories that don’t get told can be the greatest. I’m here to come with bringing someone like me to a new city, making tell those stories.” sure the apartment was ready .

Major Donor Chairs

Continued from page 1 your love, support, and generosity towards our special Jewish Omaha through the Jewish Federation Campaign,” he said. “You understand and care about our community needs and want to continue to see us overachieve.”

Amy explained how important it is that everyone, young and old, gets involved: “Our kids grew up in this building. Our daughter Andrea took ballet classes; our son Dusty always played sports. When he returned to Omaha, he told me about running into friends from pre-school, reminding him of his deep roots here. Nowadays, he serves on the JFO Budget and Allocations Committee while his wife Candice recently joined the Jewish Press Board. Frankie, in turn, will make her own memories here!”

The Jewish Federation, Amy said, is a place to connect.

“There are so many different programs to participate in. There is literally something for everyone. With the addition of the new waterpark, and through both the CDC and Friedel, you see kids getting to know each other; they become a part of the community while the parents create their own relationships.”

Continuing to build our vibrant Jewish Federation takes energy and enthusiasm. It also takes many, many volunteer lay leaders who are willing to go the extra mile and inspire other volunteers to step up.

“We are lucky to be in a Community where you can jump in and participate on any initiative you have a passion for and you can truly make a difference,” Brian said.

“We maintain excitement for each Campaign by brainstorming and strategizing which programs, changes and projects will further the success of our Community. The Campaign supports our vision each year to make each agency and entity better. These strategies create our unique Jewish Omaha experience. As Chairs, we take time with each major donor who wants to discuss our Community,” Brian said.

“We are here to listen first and then act accordingly.”

“As a family, we feel very lucky to have our Jewish community,” Amy said, “especially now that my father is at the Home. What has really impressed me is the level of support for spouses like my mother.

You can literally feel community happening all around. It only makes sense, when your life is impacted in so many ways, to pay it forward.”

She even credits the ADL for her marriage.

“I was working for KETV, covering a KKK rally in Memorial Park,” she said. “We had several people come up to us to explain they were there to protest the event, not support it. One of those people was Sandy, who at the time was President of the ADL-CRC Board and was there in that role. He introduced himself and that was how we met!”

“JFO has been a constant presence in our family,” Brian said. “All three of our children attended the CDC, as well as JCC Camp and sports; as a family we participate in holiday celebrations and Federation Campaign events like Campaign Cabaret. Our kids have seen their parents chair the 2017 Campaign and watched us make calls to donors every year. We speak to them often about all Omaha accomplishes!”

Amy and Brian, together with their families, truly live what the Jewish Federation stands for: ‘From Generation to Generation.’

Shirley Goldstein

Continued from page 1 many members of the Jewish community made to the struggle for human rights,” explains Don Goldstein. “The story of Operation Exodus in Omaha involved community activists working with local and national politicians to impact immigration policies. We look forward with anticipation to the full exhibit which will be launched in August 2019 through the Goldstein Center for Human Rights.”

Human Rights Week will take place from Sept. 24 through Oct. 2. It will include a panel discussion, “Human Rights, Asylum, and International Law” on Tuesday Oct. 2, as well as a series of films, lectures and workshops. A full schedule of the week’s activities can be found at: //cas.unomaha.edu/humanrightsweek.

The Jewish Press | August 31, 2018 | 3

JFO Community Event

Continued from page 1 Today Show host Hoda Kotb said: “Few people are better at seeing the future than mentalist Sidney Friedman. We love him!” The New York Post’s Carrie Seim writes Friedman is “eerily accurate,” with an astounding overall accuracy of 73%, predicting everything from news events, celebrity news, Oscars and science.

The Jewish Federation of Omaha gives a special thanks to event sponsors, Zoë and Carl Riekes and Margo and Steve Riekes, for generously underwriting this event.

Event chair Jamie Friedlander hopes for a great turn out at this family friendly campaign kickoff.

“I grew up in Omaha and was so excited to help plan this inclusive, multigenerational Community Event with my husband Ted and our good friends Stacey and Brett Atlas,” she said.

Stacey added: “We wanted an all-age event that people could attend together, with their families, because everyone benefits from the

Sidney Friedman purpose of the general campaign.”

Brett and Ted couldn’t agree with their wives more, saying that this year’s event is a “true celebration of our whole community.”

Be sure to join your friends and family for this unforgettable, one-night-only Campaign Kickoff event.

The event will feature a kosher dinner and a cash bar. RSVPs must be received by Sept.

28; $36/adult, $18/child; Free self-parking is available at the Downtown Omaha Hilton.

Reserve a 10-seat table for your friends and family for $360; Patron tickets available for $100 per person or $1000 for a table of 10, and includes free valet parking, premium seating and a special pre-event schmooze with Sidney Friedman at 5 p.m.

For more information about the 2019 Annual Campaign JFO Community Event, or to RSVP, please contact Senior Director of Community Impact and Special Projects, Louri Sullivan at lsullivan@jewishomaha.org or call 402.334.6458

Elisa Morera Benn Hot Shops Art Center Studio 310 3rd Floor artmorerabenn.com fb/Art Morera Benn

community Before We’re Gone opens at Hot Shops Artist Dori Settles invites you to view her most recent body of work, Before We’re Gone.

From North America to Australia, large continents to small islands, over one dozen endangered species from around the globe are presented in this exhibit of large scale paintings and unique art glass paintings and sculptures. Settles’ research reflects the impact humans have made on our world, and asks you to consider how small changes can make a big impact.

Settles began her art career purchasing clothing and other textiles from area thrift stores to turn into new products – tote bags, purses, art quilts and fabric paintings. She continues to seek ways to minimize her reliance on new materials to cre-

ate her artwork. For Settles, there was no question that she continue to incorporate re-using and recycling materials into her work as part of her effort to address the need for preserving natural resources.

Before We’re Gone hangs in the Hallway Gallery at Hot Shops Art Center, 1301 Nicholas Street, in North Downtown Omaha during the month of September. You are invited to the Opening Reception on Sunday, Sept. 9 from 2-4 p.m. to meet the artist and learn more about the inspiration behind the show and the art. If you are unable to attend the reception you may call or email to arrange a personal viewing with Dori, 402.660.2329 or dori@funkydori.com.

For 17 years, artist Elisa Morera Benn, whose exhibit currently hangs in the Jewish Community Center’s Gallery, studied with seven different Art Masters. She has extensive experience in portrait painting as well as still life, impressionist, expressionist, surrealism and abstract art. In addition, she enjoys sculpting and at times interweaves the unattractive with the ridiculous to produce whimsical and beautiful subjects.

Born in San Jose, Costa Rica, Elisa has a fascination for child portraits, from life as well as her own imagination. Combined with a specific location, the portraits of “Genocide’s Children’ tell a story of

deprivation, such as the Favelas in Brazil.

In 2015, Elisa had four of her paintings exhibited in the Louvre Gallery in Paris, under the title Holocaust Children.

Elisa’s current exhibit is titled The Children of the Giving Tree. Throughout the world, this exhibit shows, we can experience chaos and destruction.

We overcome it through hope and action. The portraits of the “Genocide Children” are dedicated to all our children in the hope of always overcoming what is before us.

For information about Elisa and to see more of her work, please visit www.artistamorera.com.

Elisa Morera Benn: The Children of the Giving Tree

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4 | The Jewish Press | August 31, 2018

Kathryn Pfeiffer: Jabez Jewelz

community Friedel has reason to celebrate

Thanks to our amazing donors, Friedel Jewish Academy has got a million reasons to celebrate the start of the school year! Friedel has surpassed its goal of raising $1 million dollars and has secured a matching challenge grant of an additional $100,000. In total, the Fund the Future Campaign has raised over $1,115,000. These funds will help ensure that Friedel will continue to brighten the future of Jewish Omaha for many years to come.

Music at RBJH

Jabez Jewelz is the product of a spiritual journey that evolved into a global adventure. I have always had a "passion for jewelry", stones and have been gifted with an "artsy eye". I began to have a desire to design a unique jewelry line for my existing style customers.

I started reading the book, The Prayer of Jabez: Breaking Thru To The Blessed Life by Bruce Wilkinson. Spiritually, the message I received from the book is there are so many people in the world who are afraid to ask for abundance and to have it align with God’s will. That's what it's really all about, asking the Lord to increase my territory, giving Him the honor for it and blessing others.

Within one month of faithfully saying this prayer each day, my "territory" was expanded.

Within a short period of time I began my company and named it in honor of the prayer that inspired my journey, "The Prayer of Jabez".

A country girl at heart, Kathol’s landscapes encompass the beauty of Nebraska. Tightly rolling hills, abundant groves of trees, twists and turns of creeks all speak of incredible scenery of our diverse state.

Her works are original compositions and one of a kind.

Having grown up in Northeast Nebraska, most of the scenery generates from Cedar and Knox counties. Smaller works tend to be plein air: crossing barbed wire fences around her farm and sitting amongst the cows in the meadows, painting truly pastoral scenes. For larger pieces, she utilizes her own photography as a basis for compositions and color. Even driving down a dirt road or a highway requires constant attention to the views left and right, off the beaten path.

Kathol’s favorite time to observe nature is early morning and evenings, when the light is softer and bends around the objects. The changes of Nebraska weather and seasons also make for constant

sources of inspirations.

Also available are close-ups of flowers and contemporary art. Once having completed a landscape, she needs to rebel a bit with a different style to keep her art fresh. Some of these are a result of being an art teacher and having tons of ideas and styles begging to be explored. Regardless of the subject matter, it is the element of color that most intrigues her and unifies her work.

Kathol has a BA in Fine Arts. Since 2013, her work has been in four solo shows in SD and NE, and exhibited at Hot Shops (Omaha), Soup ‘R Art (Norfolk), and at the NE Dept. of Tourism (Lincoln). Most recently she has displayed work at Cattlemen’s Ball and Rockbrook Art Fair. Commissions available.

You can contact Jane L. Kathol at Main Street Studios and Gallery, 2601 N. Main St., Elkhorn, NE 68022, 402.289.2131; email at jlkathol@cox.net; or on Facebook: Jane Kathol Fine art.

Jane l. Kathol: Fine art

Jill OHlMann Activities Coordinator, RBJH The Brits, a local British invasion tribute band, recently visited the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. Residents and community members enjoyed a concert of familiar songs from The Beatles, the Rolling Stones, and other 1960’s groups. Staff members dressed in hippie attire to add to the festivities. Pictured is Resident Joie Simon and band member Joe Buda.

Organizations

Machaela Cavanaugh will explain why she should be District #6’s new senator in the Nebraska Unicameral on Wednesday, Sept. 5, noon and Sen. Therese Thibodeau, the incumbent in the Unicameral’s 6th District, will tell you why she should remain in her seat on Wednesday, Sept. 12, noon. For more information or to be placed on the email list call 402.334.6443 or bnaibrith@jewishomaha.org.

Jane Kathol

F I N E

My first career was being a Registered Nurse.

After the birth of my twins, I wanted to explore the ‘creative area of my brain’. I trained to be an “Image/Style Consultant” and started my own business that I operated for 19 years. My mission in this business was to empower women to bring their “individual beauty to the outside”. This was easily achieved with the use of accessories. My training has proven to be an asset to my current costumers because I know immediately what will be the best choice for them based on their personality and coloring.

When designing, I choose stones based on their beauty, quality, and uniqueness. When my design work is complete, I travel to Bali, Indonesia to work directly with my team of silversmiths. These one of a kind pieces are hand made by combining faceted stones, drusy and other semi-precious stones and encasing them in .925 sterling silver.

A R T

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One Team for One Community: Volunteer for Kehilla today!

l

Gabby blaiR Staff Writer, Jewish Press ooking for a volunteer opportunity or mitzvah project? Want to become more involved in our community? Have what it takes to be an ambassador for The Jewish Federation of Omaha’s Annual Campaign? If so, contact Nate Shapiro, JFO Director of Development at 402.334-6440 or nshapiro@jew ishomaha.org today to find out more about this year’s Kehilla Cup! Shapiro explains that this year’s Kehilla Cup challenge will follow a different format than in years past. “We wanted to change it up a little and focus on a ‘one team for one community’ theme. Instead of a competition between separate teams headed by captains, this year we hope to focus more on the importance of each individual in our community and the impact we have when all pulling in the same direction.”

Switching formats will also take away the pressure and obligations captains have had in past years to organize meetings and coordinate volunteers. This year, volunteers should plan to attend just one meeting: the Kehilla Cup informational kickoff event on Wednesday Sept. 26, 6:30 p.m.-8 p.m. at the JCC (snacks provided).

“Between work and home, we recognize that folks want to help but are busy. This new design is a perfect way to step up individual impact while not being a huge time commitment.

We are looking for volunteers who are willing to make a minimum of just five calls over the month of October at their convenience, and enter responses onto an online spreadsheet.”

Shapiro continues, “While this format is a little different, the competitive nature of Kehilla Cup has not changed; special prizes are in store for our most active volunteers! I encourage anyone interested in volunteering for the Kehilla Cup to reach out to me today!”

RBJH celebrates Grandparents’ Day Jill Ohlmann Activities Coordinator, RBJH Grandparents’ Day is always a special occasion at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home, and this year was no exception. Residents, as well as seniors from the Omaha community, were treated to a Las Vegas themed celebration on Aug. 19. Blackjack, Craps, Roulette, and Slot Machines Resident Steve Fischer, the auwere spread out across Main- thor of When the Mob Ran Vegas.

street. Michael Gurciullo and his 4-piece band provided a concert featuring the music of the Rat Pack. Special snacks and cocktails were served, and raffle prizes were awarded. The event was hosted by League Offering Volunteers for the Elderly, and sponsored by the Sheldon A. and Lorrie Bernstein, Betty A. Studna and Seymour T. Lee, and Chester and Phyllis Lustgarten Endowment Funds.

The Jewish Press | August 31, 2018 | 5

4 Elements Designs: Carmen Zajicek and Mark Anderson A rare husband and wife team! Mark applies all the exciting and special finishes among many other things, Carmen has a degree in art, and away we go.

Together, we make these pieces that brighten up any space in your home. Each body of work is original, so you must stop by our booth and check us out. We are what mixed media should be and can guarantee we bring something different for you enjoy and show off in your beautiful home.

Each piece adds excitement and is a twist to how art is evolving in our world and is truly one of a

kind one at a time.

The craziness begins with an air-dried clay as a base, it’s light-weight! Then the magic happens: bark, grapevine, tiles, metals, rare earth stones, etc. are inlaid as it dries. Each piece must demonstrate texture, flow, movement, and depth.

We have created three different series Natural Nature, Colorful Copper, and Urban Industrial. All have the common theme of feeling organic.

Stop by and say hi and if you use the magic word “earthbowls” you will receive 10% off when you visit.

John and Kathy Winterburn, owners of J&K On The Rocks, personally dig some of the stones used in their one-of-a-kind jewelry.

Kathy grew up in Omaha and graduated from Burke High School and John is a native of Elkhorn.

They moved to the O’Neill area in the early 1970s and continued to farm and ranch until 2008. At that time they moved into O’Neill and started on the road to their present work.

Kathy is a lapidary artist that cuts, grinds and polishes the stones using diamond grade wheels.

She designs each stone following the lead of where the stone’s natural color and movement shows. This past winter, Kathy worked with a master opal cutter learning the art of working with opals. No templates are used; she free-hands the design of the stone.

John is the metal smith who wire wraps each

piece in solid silver and 14k gold wire. He also uses silver, copper, bronze and brass in the pieces. He and Kathy also do commission work designing pieces for their customers who sometimes bring them rocks and minerals that they have collected themselves. Some of these stones have come from Scotland, Greece and Australia. All pieces are unique and made with a personal touch.

Their winters include time in the Southwest collecting rocks and minerals, and connecting with other rock lovers while they build their collection of rare and unique stones.

The couple travels through 17 states, selling and showing at art shows. They cut rocks from around the world including Africa, South America, Australia and the United States. What rocks they don’t dig themselves they trade or purchase from mine owners and geologists.

On the Rocks

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6 | The Jewish Press | August 31, 2018

ADL-CRC event brings community together

Some of the highlights included remarks from PAM Monsky Community Development Liaison, Elham Abdallah, a young woman who recently gradPlains State Region, ADL-CRC uated from Central High School. Elham is from The atmosphere was electric on Sunday, Aug. 19 Sudan, a country embroiled in near-constant civil strife for decades. Her mother died when she was as more than 160 people attended ADL-CRC’s first just six years old and fundraising event in many Elham’s father left the years. Be an Ally, Make a country for Ghana, leaving Difference, Raise a Glass her grandmother to raise featured a wine tasting her and her 13 siblings and sponsored by Yarden, Inc., cousins whose parents importer of quality Israeli have also been lost to war. wines from Golan Heights Elham told the crowd that Winery, Galil Mountain her grandmother had a Winery and Chiefton Disprofound influence on her. tribution. In addition, “She taught us to respect there was a spirited silent those who are older and auction. those who are younger The event, held at than us. That’s why No Gallery 1516, brought toPlace for Hate® made so gether people from all over Dr. Mary-Beth Muskin introduces Elham much sense to me,” she the community to enjoy Abdullah. said of the ADL program wine and good food and to that combats bullying, name-calling and other exstand up against intolerance of all kinds. pressions of bias at Central High and other metro “The level of community engagement and excitement evident during our event inspires us and suparea schools.

Thank you to all of our corporate sponsors: ports our continued crucial work towards fulfilling our mission at the ADL-CRC,” said Regional Director Fraser Stryker Law Firm, Toba Cohen-Dunning and Eric Dunning, Broadmoor Development, W.H. Ferer Mary-Beth Muskin. “We’d like to especially thank Corporation and Kohll’s Pharmacy. our honorary co-chairs Gary Nachman and Sheila “We definitely look forward to holding this event Fitzgerald and our event co-chairs Toba Cohen-Dunagain and watching it grow more!” said Mary-Beth ning and Eric Dunning for their hard work and commitment to the ADL-CRC and the entire community.” Muskin.

Commercial Real Estate Summit announces Alex Epstein as Vice Chairman

ALyCiA ZABRoCki ingful and relevant for all attendees through The Commercial Real Estate Summit wel- exceptional content, connections to be comes Alex Epstein who will serve as Vice made and influential speakers. Jerry created Chairman for the 2018-2019 something special for our replanning year, alongside Cogion and it’s an honor to help Chairmen Barry Zoob, Colshape this event and grow it liers International and Jerry into the future.”

Slusky, Smith Slusky Law. “I have observed Alex’s Jerry founded The Summit in growth in the commercial 1990 and the 2019 Summit real estate community over will celebrate its 30th year! the past five years, and have Currently Alex is an Execfound him to be creative, enutive Vice President at gaged and hard working. I OMNE Partners, a commerwelcome Alex to the CRE cial real estate brokerage and Summit Leadership Team property management firm. and look forward to his enAlex recently graduated from ergy and contributions over Alex Epstein the Greater Omaha Chamthe next several years.” ber’s Leadership Omaha Class 40. Alex also Also, the CRE Summit is pleased to anis the founder of Jewish Business Leaders of nounce the formation of an Executive ComOmaha and continues to chair its Board. mittee led by Alex Epstein and composed of “The opportunity over the last few years Kurt Cisar, Holland Basham Architects; to work with Jerry Slusky on the CRE Sum- Daniel Murow, Koley Jessen Attorneys: Josh mit has been an honor. This event is more Larsen, NorthMarq Capital, Connor Lund, meaningful to the cities of Omaha and Lin- Cushman&Wakefield/The Lund Company coln than ever before for commercial real and Scott Mausbach, CBRE Valuation and estate professionals across all sectors. For Advisory Services. each of the last five years, the Summit has “To have an Executive Committee comincreased attendance by 10% with 2018 posed of younger Commercial Real Estate achieving 925 registrants. With the Partner- Professionals has been a goal of mine for ship of the Greater Omaha Chamber bring- several years. Their insight will be invaluing in additional community leaders, it is able as we move the Summit to its 30th year anticipated that over 1000 will attend the and beyond.” The CRE Summit is an opporevent this year. Thirty years ago, Jerry saw tunity for professional networking and cona need in the real estate community and de- tinuing education credits for commercial livered. The same need is still here 30 years real estate professional across the Midwest. later stronger than ever. Jerry, Barry and I The 2019 CRE Summit will be held at CHI are planning for the decades to come. My Health Center, formerly known as the Cengoal is to continue to make this event mean- turyLink Center, on Friday, April 5, 2019.

A N N

Mind Works Robert Cornman

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JFS #Me Too/‫ינאםג‬# Program for teens and adults GAbby blAiR Staff Writer, Jewish Press aren Gustafson, Executive Director and Counselor at Jewish Family Service (JFS) explains that a goal of her agency is to “identify topics and current issues that can help improve lives in the community through outreach and education.” As such, JFS, in collaboration with the AntiDefamation League and Temple Israel, is pleased to announce a special one-night only program geared towards parents and teenagers in grades 7-12, and adults in the community. Topics that will be explored include the effect of the #Me Too/‫ינאםג‬# (Gam Ani) movement on our society and changes of cultural norms in regards to acceptable behavior towards others.

“Our guest speaker and program leader, Rabbi Daniel Brenner, has a presentation style that is so engaging and down to earth that I think every person in the room will be able to walk away with an increased knowledge of this topic and an increased ability for higher level self-reflection,” explains Gustafson.

Rabbi Daniel Brenner is Chief of Education and Program for Moving Traditions, an organization that focuses on training educators, clergy, and mentors to address the challenges facing today’s teens. In the wake of #Me Too/‫ינאםג‬# , Brenner

Robert Cornman: Mind Works

and his colleagues at Moving Traditions developed national training events in partnership with the Foundation for Jewish Camp to help professionals from over 90 Jewish summer camps to challenge sexism, sexual harassment, and sexual assault. Rabbi Brenner, who was named by Newsweek Magazine as one of America’s most influential rabbis, has been a driving force behind some of the most creative approaches to Jewish education over the last two decades, leading initiatives for the Birthright Israel Foundation and CLAL -– The National Jewish Center for Learning and Leadership.

Karen Gustafson hopes the program will help open a dialog between parents and their kids and within the community. “Knowledge is power and I believe the phrase is: Know better, do better. Let’s all begin to increase our knowledge, and consider other peoples’ perspectives... young and old, male and female, in order to help make the world a better place for our sons and daughters.”

Rabbi Brenner’s #Me Too/‫ינאםג‬# program will take place at Temple Israel (13111 Sterling Ridge Drive) on Wednesday Sept. 5 from 6:30-8 p.m. This program is free and open to the public. Due to the sensitive nature of the topic, this program is for adults and teenagers in grades 7-12 only.

Questions about the program should be directed to Karen Gustafson, Executive Director of Jewish Family Service at 402.330.2024 or kgustafson@jfsomaha.com.

The art is set with rich vibrant colors and evolves with multiple the physical act of painting unconsciously, creating a powerful arena layers of texture and patterns. A wash in color, depth and a collage of raw action and emotion in the moment. Abstract art is very much of mixed media is used in my abstracts to bring life to each piece. the expression of ideas, concerning the spiritual, the unconscious Buried personal meanings help some of the paintings take on visibiland the mind. I think of my work and look at the paintings as a ity and understanding by the viewer. process rather than a product.

I consider myself an abstract expressionist trying to touch the obI try and keep all my work very affordable so people can enjoy server with visual language. Being influenced with action painting having artwork in their home. and the spontaneous or smeared flow of color helps me focus on the For more information visit my website at rjc mindworks.com or actual brush stroke and use of canvas. The work often emphasizes call 636.357.0397.

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The Jewish Press | August 31, 2018 | 7

community Ann Rutar: Misty Sea Studio

Misty Sea Studio is owned by Ann Rutar, its Chief Visionary Officer, Jewelry Designer and Maker. Her signature bubble accents and the colored gemstones chosen for her one-of-a-kind sterling and fine silver jewelry are inspired by her love of the ocean and beaches she was blessed to visit regularly while spending the majority of her life in Southern California.

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Ann’s designs are intuitively based on the color, shape and texture of each semiprecious gemstone she chooses, allowing each one to tell its story through a unique setting. She incorporates unusual and intriguing cabochons and faceted stones in her designs, often combining the two to accent a special feature of a larger stone.

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8 | The Jewish Press | August 31, 2018

community

2018 JCC Maccabi Games and ArtsFest Team Omaha

Team Omaha member experiences

This would have to be my favorite year of participating in Maccabi.

Rather than competing in dance as I’ve done for the past two years, the other Omaha dancers and I decided to try out Maccabi ArtsFest. It was absolutely phenomenal! There were 16 girls from other delegations such as Alberta, Austin, Dallas, Houston, New York, South Jersey, Toronto, and Windsor who joined us in forming a dance company for the four days of Maccabi activities. All 19 of us worked together with outstanding choreographer, Jimmy Locust, and his assistant, Monica Richardson to put together three dances for our Final Showcase. This meant that we had to learn one dance per day in order to be ready for the show that took place on Thursday, Aug. 9. This took a lot dedication from everyone involved. The first day of dancing was by far the toughest. We had three hours to learn an entire Jazz/Funk dance. Coming from a mostly ballet background, this was exciting, new, and loads of fun to do! The next two days were filled with learning a Contemporary dance, learning an exciting and energetic dance to Open Up by Gad Elbaz, and perfecting all three dances. As much hard work as it took, I would gladly do it all again. In contrast to the competition dancing, the ArtsFest dancing opened up more opportunities for all the dancers to get to know each other and become friends. We spent most of our time together working hard, laughing, and having a good time. We are already discussing how excited we are to reunite at the Detroit Maccabi Games and ArtsFest in 2019!

Rachel Kricsfeld, Dance My time at the Maccabi games this summer was absolutely incredible. I participated in the dance section of Artsfest with 18 other girls from around the world. Together we learned three full pieces in only three days. Our choreographer, Jimmy Locust, was extremely enthusiastic and I loved performing at the end of the week. I made so many friends in Artsfest who I’ve been able to keep in touch with even after Maccabi ended.

One of my favorite parts of Maccabi besides learning choreography was the night activities. The second night we went to Boomers, a local bowling alley with some amusement park rides outside. I loved playing mini golf there and enjoying the palm trees all around me. Another night my host family took us to In-N-Out, which I’d been greatly looking forward to. Maccabi was an amazing way to meet Jewish teens from around the world while also experiencing a new place and spending most of the day dancing. I am so excited to go back to Maccabi next year!

Laura Kirshenbaum, Dance

JCC Maccabi Games and ArtsFest was a meaningful, fun, and exciting week for me as I got to compete in lacrosse, help out my Jewish community, and catch up with my friends I have made through BBYO. I would 100% recommend it to any Jewish Teen on planet Earth.

Leo Kohll, Lacrosse

JacOb GeLTzeR BBYO/Teen Director Team Omaha had a great week at the 2018 JCC Maccabi Games and ArtsFest in Orange County and Long Beach, California, Aug. 5-10. Eleven Jewish teen athletes and three artists from Omaha trained, practiced, prepared for, and represented the Omaha delegation. More than 3,000 athletes from seven countries came together to compete, connect with Jewish teens, and give back to both the Jewish and greater communities of Orange County and Long Beach.

As you can expect with 3,000 plus competitors, things were a lot bigger in So Cal. The Opening Ceremonies for the event were some of the biggest in JCC Maccabi history, with around 12,000 attendees. Our evening activities included taking over an entire bowling alley and mini amusement park filled with a variety of rides and arcade games. We also took advantage of the oceans in California and took over Newport Beach dunes where we had an American-Israeli themed party on both sides of the beach. We ended the week at the Merage JCC with a Disneyland themed party and Closing Ceremonies called “Maccabi-Land”.

Team Omaha included Lev Denenberg (Flag Football), David Kay (Flag Football), Ethan Bargas (Basketball), Charlie Blum (Basketball), Brady Meyerson (Basketball), Leo Kohll (Lacrosse), Josh Rosenblatt (Table Tennis), Benjamin Kutler (Table Tennis), Zach Atlas (Table Tennis), Zev Gordman (Tennis), and Jack Scioli (Baseball). The Team Omaha artists who specialized in dance included Laura Kirshenbaum, Leora McNamara, and Rachel Kricsfeld.

Team Omaha received many medals on the final day of competition. Our mixed flag football team won the bronze medal as they competed with athletes from Denver, Birmingham, and Kansas City. Our table tennis players received medals in their doubles tournament. Benjamin Kutler and his partner, Ben from Oregon, won bronze, and Josh Rosenblatt and Zach Atlas won silver. Team Omaha’s tennis player,

Zev Gordman, won the bronze medal in his doubles tournament with his partner, Liam, from Orange County. Our very own Leo Kohll was awarded a Midot medal from Virginia Beach’s Delegation Head. Leo showed true grit and determination during his lacrosse matches, even though he never played before the JCC Maccabi Games. Leo decided to be a part of the mixed lacrosse team, and play an unfamiliar game, so it would allow his friends to join Team Omaha.

Midot medals are awarded to anyone (delegation heads, athletes, coaches, volunteers, chaperones) for exemplifying any of the six Midot values. Jewish Peoplehood, Joy, Pride, Respect, Tikkun Olam, and Big Heartedness.

Something different that Team Omaha did this year was sending a group of teens to participate in JCC Maccabi ArtsFest. ArtsFest features workshops in a variety of specialties with some of the leading artists in each field and incorporating community service, social activities, and themes of Jewish heritage, community, and Israel. This year, Team Omaha sent three talented girls to this program, Laura Kirshenbaum, Leora McNamara, and Rachel Kricsfeld. These girls spent all week learning three different types of dances, contemporary, hip hop/jazz, and Israeli-style, to be performed at the ArtsFest Final Showcase. This showcase is where all the artists presented and performed what they had been working/practicing on all week. The girls represented Omaha extremely well and performed beautifully.

Mark your calendars because we are recruiting for and building up Team Omaha for the 2019 JCC Maccabi Games and ArtsFest. The JCC Maccabi Games is an Olympic-style athletic competition for Jewish teens age 13-16. The JCC Maccabi ArtsFest is a week-long workshop and learning experience culminating into a Final Showcase of multiple specialties for Jewish teens age 13-17. JCC membership or synagogue affiliation are not required. For more information about Team Omaha, contact Jacob Geltzer at 402.334.6404.

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The high holidays from a different perspective

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perspective. “Rosh HaShanah is much more MARk kiRchhoff Community Engagement and Education, JFO than dipping an apple in honey. Yom Kippur he High Holidays are the most im- is more than a long fast. Sukkot has a lot more portant days of the Jewish calen- to offer than we ever thought,” Rabbi Shlomo dar. Rosh HaShanah is the first shared. In this three-part series he will go day of the new deeper into each of them year. Yom Kipand reveal more of the pur is a day set aside for inner meaning they hold. fasting, depriving oneself of Rabbi Shlomo continued, pleasures, and repenting for “In addition to providing the sins of the previous information, my goal is to year. Sukkot is a festival help those who attend to be ready to celebrate the High commemorating the wanHolidays with an added apdering in the desert and the preciation for their essence final harvest. Each one of and enable them to have a these holidays carries a rich holiday experience. depth of meaning with acThe Friday Learning Series companying activities and is a joint program of Beth prayers. Their observance is Israel Synagogue and the an integral part of Jewish Community Engagement households and communiRabbi Shlomo Abramovich, PhD and Education arm of the ties throughout the world.

Rabbi Shlomo Abramovich, PhD and Visiting Jewish Federation of Omaha. The series is Scholar at Beth Israel Synagogue, believes that open to the community free of charge thanks there is always an opportunity to study these to the support of the Ann Goldstein Proholidays in new ways in order to enhance gramming Endowment Fund. Reservations are not required. While you are encouraged one’s spiritual and intellectual experiences.

Next month’s Friday Learning Series will be to attend all the sessions, each one will have held on Sept. 7, 14, and 21 beginning at a wealth of information and you will benefit 11:15 a.m. in the Kripke Jewish Federation from attending one or all. For questions conLibrary. The sessions will focus on these tact Mark Kirchhoff at mkirchhoff@jew unique days and will do so from a different ishomaha.org or 402.334.6463.

Sinus headache

BoyS Town EAR, noSE & ThRoAT There are many different types of headaches with many different causes. Some of these include chronic daily headache, tension-type headache, cluster headache and migraine headache. One of the rarer types of headache is sinus headache.

Most commonly, sinus headache is related to a cold or a sinus infection. It can also be caused by repeated daily exposure to allergens, such as ragweed, dust or pollen. A less common cause is chronic inflammation in the sinuses, which may not be related to allergy or infection.

Symptoms of a Sinus headache A sinus headache can be difficult to diagnose because the symptoms it produces overlap with other types of headache. This is because the same nerves that become irritated in other types of headaches can become irritated in sinus headaches.

Sinus headaches related to upper respiratory infections, such as colds, influenza and bacterial sinus infections are easier to diagnose because of

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the presence of acute illness. Sinus headaches related to allergy or chronic sinusitis are more difficult to diagnose. They are usually characterized by some or all of the following: • Pain and/or pressure around, behind or • between the eyes • Pain and/or pressure around the forehead • and/or cheeks • Increased pain with bending over or head • motion • Decreased sense of smell and/or taste • Allergy symptoms • Itchy/watery eyes • Nasal congestion • Clear drainage from nose • Cough and sore throat • Fatigue If you think you may be experiencing sinus headache or another sinus condition, visit Boys Townhospital.org and take the Sinus SelfCheck. Or you can call 402.498.6540 to schedule a visit with Boys Town Ear, Nose & Throat.

Tri-faith initiative of omaha

The Tri-Faith Initiative of Omaha is moving forMuslim houses of worship to promote dialogue, ward with construction on the Tri-Faith Commons transcend differences, foster acceptance, and near 132nd & Pacific Streets. Temple Israel has build bridges of respect and trust.” As the “co-loprovided strong leadership as the founding Jewish cation” phase of this mission nears completion, partner in the initiative since its inception in Tri-Faith is looking forward to the future, and con2006, and was the first of the three faith buildtinuing to engage people of all faiths, traditions, ings to open on the shared parcel of land in the and backgrounds.

Sterling Ridge Development in 2013.

This past April, the Tri-Faith Initiative launched The American Muslim Institute opened its a new Membership Program as a way to further mosque and community center in July 2017, and connect with supporters throughout the Omaha Countryside Community Church is currently under community and beyond. Membership in the Triconstruction with plans to open in spring 2019.

Faith Initiative provides a way for you to connect Grading and structural work for a circular bridge more deeply with the Tri-Faith Initiative, and to with walking paths that will connect the three show your support for the Tri-Faith mission. More faith buildings is also in progress now, and the information on Tri-Faith Membership can be found fourth building, a Tri-Faith Center, will complete at trifaith.org/join-us. For a limited time, you can the Tri-Faith Commons in 2020. join at the “Believer” level (a $25 value) for FREE The Tri-Faith Initiative’s mission has been “Inusing the discount code JEWISHPRESS. tentionally co-locating Jewish, Christian, and PAID ADVERTISEMENTS

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10 | The Jewish Press | August 31, 2018

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All events held at the Jewish Community Center unless otherwise noted. This calendar does not include all community events. For a complete listing, visit the Federation’s website: www.jewishomaha.org (click on calendar). To keep calendar accurate, call Pat Anson at 402.334.8200. The Jewish Press is not responsible for the accuracy of the events.

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SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 1 Torah Study, 9:15 a.m. at Temple Israel S'lichot Service and Study, 7 p.m. at Temple Israel Sushi and Selichot, 7:45 p.m. at Beth El Selichot Services, 9:30 p.m. at Beth El SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 Torah Study, 10 a.m. at Beth El LOVE Grandparents Day, 1 p.m. at RBJH TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 4 Adult Ed. High Holy Days Class, 11:30 a.m. at Beth El BBYO Chapter Meeting, 6 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 Breadbreakers and Speaker, noon at RBJH Religious School, 4 p.m. at Temple Israel Adult Ed. The High Holy Days, 6 p.m. at Beth El #MeToo #Gam Ani: How are we ALL affected? with Rabbi Daniel Brenner, 6:30 p.m. at Temple Israel Adult Education Class attends #MeToo, 6:30 p.m. at Temple Israel THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 Hebrew Class, 10 a.m. at RBJH Beth El Chesed Committee visits Rose Blumkin Jewish Home, 2 p.m.

Mega Challah Bake, 7 p.m. at Hilton Omaha Jewish Women of the Midwest-UNO Class, 7 p.m.

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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7 Star Deli, 11:30 a.m. at RBJH Beth El Chesed Committee visits Sterling Ridge, 1:30 p.m.

Beth El Chesed Committee visits Remington Heights, 2:45 p.m.

OJAA Rosh Hashana Tailgate, 4 p.m.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 8 Torah Study, 9:15 a.m. at Temple Israel Junior Congregation, 10 a.m. at Beth El SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 9 Torah Study, 10 a.m. at Beth El TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11 Second Day of Rosh Hashanah Lunch, 1 p.m. at Beth El WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 Breadbreakers and Speaker, noon at RBJH Adult Ed. The High Holy Days, 6 p.m. at Beth El

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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 Hebrew Class, 10 a.m. at RBJH FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 14 Star Deli, 11:30 a.m. at RBJH Shabbat Shuva and Tashlich, 6 p.m. at Temple Israel SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 15 Torah Study, 9:15 a.m. at Temple Israel Junior Congregation, 10 a.m. at Beth El

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 16 BESTT Service Grant Meeting, 10 a.m. at Beth El Torah Study, 10 a.m. at Beth El USY Board Meeting, 10 a.m. at Beth El Religious School, 10 a.m. at Temple Israel Book CLub, 10:30 a.m. at Temple Israel TED Talk, 10:30 a.m. at Temple Israel BILU on Base, noon Teen Foundation Meeting, 12:30 p.m.

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 17 IHE Governance Council Mtg, 11:30 a.m.

Eye on Israel, noon TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 BBYO Chapter Meeting, 6 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 Breadbreakers and Speaker, noon at RBJH Congregational Break the Fast, 8:15 p.m. at Beth El THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 Hebrew Class, 10 a.m. at RBJH Film Showing for Book Group, noon Dorothy Kaplan Book Discussion Group, 1 p.m.

Monthly Wellness Spotlight, 1 p.m.

Resident Council Meeting, 3 p.m. at RBJH Love Board Meeting, 7 p.m. at RBJH FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 Star Deli, 11:30 a.m. at RBJH SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 Torah Study, 9:15 a.m. at Temple Israel Junior Congregation, 10 a.m. at Beth El SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 Torah Study, 10 a.m. at Beth El Religious School, 5 p.m. at Temple Israel TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 Talmudic Arguments Everyone Needs to Know Class, 11:30 a.m. at Beth El Board of Trustees, 7 p.m. at Temple Israel WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 Breadbreakers and Speaker, noon at RBJH Adult Education Class, 6:30 p.m. at Temple Israel THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 Hebrew Class, 10 a.m. at RBJH Thursday Symposium, 10 a.m. at Temple Israel Fall Love and Logic Class, 6 p.m.

Chabad Annual Women’s Sukkot event, 6:30 p.m. at Hilton Omaha FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28 Star Deli, 11:30 a.m. at RBJH SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 29 Torah Study, 9:15 a.m. at Temple Israel BESTT Shabbat's Cool Grades K-7, 10 a.m. at Beth El BESTT Shul-In Grades 3-7, noon at Beth El Soup in the Sukkah, 1 p.m. at Beth El Sukkah Open House for Adults at the Krausman Sukkah, 7 p.m. at the home of Michael & Laurel Krausman SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 30 Temple Israel 5th Sunday at Stephen Center, 8:30 a.m.

Torah Study, 10 a.m. at Beth El Temple Israel JYG Event, 2 p.m.

Team Omaha Celebration Dinner, 5 p.m.

Religious School, 6 p.m. at Temple Israel

Challah Bake with a twist: A Tribute to Jewish Women

The Jewish Press | August 31, 2018 | 11

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community

Every participant will receive her very own Challah Bake GaBBY BlaiR Staff Writer, Jewish Press Apron, recipes, ingredients and of course, her own dough in here is still time to join Jewish Omaha’s most fun, pans to be baked at home. “Vegan and gluten-free challah interactive and spiritually fulfilling Challah mak- making options are available. Gluten-free participants will ing party on Thursday, Sept. 6, from 6:15 p.m.- receive their very own challah mold to ensure a beautiful 8:30 p.m. at the Downtown Omaha Hilton (1001 loaf,” explains Katzman who acknowledges that working with Cass Street). On-site parking will be provided for gluten-free flour can be challenging. “Just be sure to note speevent attendees who park at cial requests in the comment the Hilton; be sure to have section when RSVP’ing and your tickets validated! we will do our very best to acPresented by Chabad and commodate those needs!”

The Jewish Federation of Come, share in this evening Omaha, this year’s Challah of learning, levity and inspiBake is being served with a ration; discover the ancient twist: a new, upscale venue art and meaning behind and a theme: honoring making and braiding deliwomen in our community. cious challah with your com“We wanted to make the Showing off their freshly braided Challah loaves are Debbie De- munity sisters! evening extra special. We nenberg, left, Gabby Blair, Emily newman, Patricia newman and There are fun opportunities, know it will serve as a mean- Cheryl lerner. large and small, to volunteer ingful and much needed ‘ladies night out’ as we finish our for this event. Consider being a table hostess, help pre-meaRosh Hashanah preparations,” explains Shani Katzman, of suring ingredients, shop, prep refreshments or help with Chabad. “We also required a space that could accommodate event set up; don’t be shy call Shani (402.330.1800) or Carrie a larger group of women; over the past three years, Challah (402.980.8908) for more information or to volunteer today!

Bake attendance has tripled! What a marvelous testament Check-in and complimentary refreshments at the Downto women and the popularity of this one-night-only event!” town Omaha Hilton begins at 6:15 p.m.; program begins at Katzman goes on to say, “Even if you are not a baker, this 7 p.m. Free on-site parking provided! is going to be more than just making Challah…this event is Reservations must be received before the event either by about celebrating and uplifting our community’s women at secure online payment or by mailing check to Chabad, 1866 the onset of the New Year! Special honorees for this year’s South 120th Street, Omaha, NE 68144. Please note that payevent include Louri Sullivan, Rhonda Saferstein and Pam ments cannot be accepted at the door.

Friedlander; each representing one of the three mitzvot Cost is $25 Adults/$18 Students before Aug. 23 ($36 specifically dedicated to fulfillment by women.”

Adults/$25 Students thereafter); $250 Challah Queen SponChairing this year’s event together with Shani is Carrie sor. There will be no solicitation at the event. Special thanks Fingold who urges the community’s women to help make to The Staenberg Family Foundation for their generosity in this year’s event the most memorable yet. Shani shares, “Car- awarding an Anything Grant to help defray costs for this rie is a class act whose warmth and creative vision will help year’s event. take this year’s Challah Bake to a whole new level. I am deDon’t delay! Reserve your space today at: www.OChabad. lighted that Carrie has volunteered to chair this year’s event!” com/challah.

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P R I C E

R o s h

RBJH in the 1960s

Jill Ohlmann Activities Coordinator, RBJH The RBJh Silverman auditorium took on a 1960s ambiance recently. Oldies music was performed by 37 Years, while Residents and their guests enjoyed a special meal. Thanks to the generosity of the Julius Frohm and Phil & minnie Freeman of the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation, special theme dinners are held at RBJh throughout the year. Pictured are Resident Rose Rosenberg and her friend Kristine hawes.

in the news

Shir Palmon, daughter of Dr. Roni Reiter-Palmon and Ophir Palmon, received her Educational Specialist degree from the Department of Educational Psychology at the University of Nebraska, Lincoln. Shir accepted a position as a school psychologist at the North Kansas City School District, starting this school year. In her role, she works at two of the district’s elementary schools.

A B O V E

h a s h a n a h

2 0 1 8

Coming next week.

12 | The Jewish Press | August 31, 2018

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The Jewish response ANNETTE VAN DE KAmP Editor, Jewish Press f there were a typical Jewish response to mass shootings, it would probably include a reference to how we value life; maybe we’d remind ourselves that we have a responsibility beyond thoughts and prayers and the need to look for a deeper cause.

But if the shooter is Jewish, does that change our response? I’d like to think it wouldn’t; yet what I see happen again and again is that, as Jewish news media, we pay more attention to both victims and perpetrators when they are “one of us.”

It is no different with the tragedy that recently happened in Jacksonville. The young man who decided to pull out his gun, kill two, wound nine and then end his own life, happened to be Jewish. And so, the story is featured prominently in the Jewish media. He is suddenly not just an anonymous-but-troubled gunman, like on CNN or MSNBC. In the Jewish media, he is -in large font- a “Jewish video gamer.”

Apart from the reminder that in 2018 no community is so insular as to remain untouched by gun violence, both on the giving and receiving end, does it matter? Should we, just as we take pride in Jewish accomplishments, share his shame?

As a people, we are not responsible for the actions of a single individual. We can’t be; acting as if we are would give fodder to every anti-Semite who ever accused us of exactly that. At the same time, we continue to see acts like these as reflecting poorly on the rest of us. A shanda, we say. It’s jarring when “we” make the news for poor choices. The Madoff trial was extremely uncomfortable, many of us secretly wish Lawyer Michael Cohen wasn’t a member of the tribe. If only other Jews could stick to inspiring and altruistic acts exclusively; maybe then we can

finally relax. Do we perhaps report on the shooter’s JewWe don’t know much about the shooter, besides his ishness as a way to take the sting out? Because we’re name and the fact that he was from Baltimore. We don’t too worried someone else will report on it first and make know why he did what he did (losing a video game doesn’t us look bad? sound as a convincing reason), we don’t know what sort I struggle with the headline because it implies that the of troubles were swirling around his head when he arrived shooter’s Jewish identity is more important to report on at the venue, probably already planning to end his life. He than the victims.

And while I’m sure the journalist who wrote that headline didn’t intend it that way (at least, I hope he/she didn’t), it’s still very bothersome.

I struggle with the headline because his Jewish identity shouldn’t matter.

Most of all, I struggle with the headline because A view of police outside the GLHF Game Bar in Jacksonville, Fla., after the shooting there Aug. 27, 2018.

Credit: Joe Raedle/Getty Images we have absolutely zero idea what that ‘Jewish identity’ is. Was he was armed, and so he was prepared for something. practicing? Did he attend Jewish day school? Did he beWhat we do know is that his family is in pain. The familong to a synagogue, a youth group, did he attend summer lies of his victims are in pain. We don’t have to guess, we camp? Did he have a Bar Mitzvah? And if the answer to don’t have to wait for any media to report on that. We can any of these questions is ‘yes,’ does it make a difference? try to put ourselves in their shoes and feel empathy, even At the end of the day, we are in danger of doing what if we’ve never actually experienced their exact circumwe so often accuse others of: we see the word ‘Jewish,’ stances. And neither the pain nor the empathy should be and we try to draw conclusions. About him, about his dependent on whether someone is Jewish or not. family, about ourselves and our community.

PINcHAS GoLDScHmIDT MOSCOW | JTA Israel’s passage of the nation-state law brought another round of barrages across the Atlantic underlining the growing alienation of the world’s two largest Jewish communities. The issues are increasingly familiar: American pluralism versus Jewish exceptionalism, Orthodox versus Liberal, nationalism versus enlightenment.

Yes, we have a problem. Israel and American Jewry are growing apart from one other. It would be wrong to put the responsibility of this growing schism only on the Israeli government, or Israeli civil society, since Diaspora denominations have changed, too. The American Reform movement, for example, unilaterally introduced patrilineal descent, redefining Jewishness.

These tensions were aired in Ronald Lauder’s recent op-ed in The New York Times, in which the president of the World Jewish Congress argued that the nation-state law betrayed Israel’s universalist values and that the country’s religious establishment was alienating non-Orthodox Jews in the Diaspora. Reading between the lines, I sensed the anguish of a father and grandfather who sees his children distancing themselves from their people and ancestral homeland.

Naftali Bennett, Israel’s education and Diaspora minister, responded to Lauder’s op-ed with one of his own in the same newspaper, pushing back in defense of Israel’s right to pass such laws. Bennett seems uninterested in bettering relations with the Diaspora — in direct contradiction to his title and portfolio. He did not understand that the main question posed by Lauder was not “who is right and who is wrong,” but what can we do to minimize the divide between Israel and American Jewry.

As American Jews are grappling with the direction their country is taking, and struggling to identify with a non-utopian Israel, the search for fresh waters from the well of our Jewish sources is called for.

Liberal Diaspora denominations count fewer followers in the U.S., and the Jews there are being as-

What Lauder has achieved in Central and Eastern Europe should be applied now in the United States, where the continuity of the largest community outside of Israel is in danger.

Communities such as the United Kingdom, Australia and France have achieved great strides in recent years toward this goal. The great majority of their children receive a formal Jewish education; there is no reason why this should not be attainable in the U.S. Every Diaspora Jew is the carrier of dual identities -- the national one and the Jewish one -- trying to juggle and reconcile and build a symbiosis. Trying to strike the balance between enlightenment and tradition has not been easy.

Harvard psychologist Steven Pinker, in his latest book Enlightenment Now, argued that the Enlightenment improved humanity by replacing “dogma, tradition and authority with A first-grade classroom in the Vitkin School in Tel Aviv on Israeli reason, debate and institutions of Independence Day, 1973.

Credit: Wikimedia Commons truth-seeking.” Yoram Hazony of The In the beginning of the 1990s, when the Jewish Herzl Institute, in a response to Pinker, said that if Zionist establishment vehemently opposed the idea the response of the Jews to the Enlightenment had of establishing schools in the former Soviet Union, been absolute, then the Zionist movement -- which Lauder was among the first to understand that Jew- drew its passion and strength from the vast sources ish continuity, especially in the secularized post- of Jewish tradition and history -- would never have Soviet countries, can only be guaranteed by formal been born and we wouldn’t have had a Jewish state Jewish education. The establishment of two dozen today.

We as a people are out of balance. The world is schools in Eastern and Central Europe in the beginning of the ’90s by the Ronald S. Lauder Foun- out of balance. The climate is out of balance, and dation guaranteed a positive Jewish identity for geopolitics are increasingly shrill and simplistic, polarizing friends and family members. Let us try tens of thousands of children of Jewish families.

(Full disclosure: My wife, Dara, is the head of the to regain some balance and perspective for the sake Lauder Etz Chaim School in Moscow, the largest of our future, of our children — before it is too late.

Pinchas Goldschmidt has been the chief rabbi Jewish day school in the former Soviet Union with of Moscow since 1993, serving at the Moscow currently almost 600 children.)

Having the honor to meet and speak to many of Choral Synagogue and since 2011 as president of the thousands of graduates of our schools in the Conference of European Rabbis.

The views and opinions expressed in this article Moscow, I can attest to the impact on the identity and personal commitment to the Jewish cause of are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the students of the Lauder school. These children’s the views of JTA or its parent company, 70 Faces Media lives are forever changed.

Only Jewish education can help bridge the Israel-Diaspora divide similated into an increasingly secular country. The empty synagogues will have to be replaced with the classrooms of Jewish schools. The challenge of giving over 1 million Jewish children a minimal Jewish education can and should be tackled if the government of Israel will take a lead and major Jewish philanthropists will join.

Apples and honey

The Jewish Press | August 31, 2018 | 13

Dear rabbis: Take a stand in your High Holiday sermons JAn ZAuZmeR JTA Last year, I wrote an essay pleading with rabbis to deliver a High Holidays sermon that was relevant to the political moment.

“I understand the typical view that it is better for rabbis to speak to higher values than to take sides in the rough-andtumble over political issues,” I wrote. “But as we all know, this is no ordinary time.”

My essay, appearing shortly aer Charlottesville, was surprisingly controversial. Dozens of readers somehow compartmentalized politics and ethics, and commented that they preferred their religious services to be a haven from politics.

But we aren’t ostriches. We do not have that luxury in today’s grim world. Even if we could shield ourselves by burying our heads in the synagogue sand, we as Jews and as decent people are called upon to face the horrors around us and try to fix them. e majestic Mah Tovu prayer, “How goodly are your tents, O Jacob,” is reduced to a question rather than an exclamation if we hide from ills in our midst. As the Mother Abbess said about another house of worship in my favorite movie, “ese walls were not built to shut out problems.”

With the approach of 5779, I have a fresh concern: walking into a synagogue only to hear a sermon about civil discourse. e least offensive, most palatable political message is “Why can’t we all get along?”

In an age in which the president of the United States has ripped civil discourse to shreds and replaced it with rancorous divisions, Lord knows it would be nice to mend the societal fabric and patch up our differences.

Well-meaning people across the political spectrum share that wish. On my recent trip to the Texas Hill Country, a minister gave a lovely prayer at a celebration in honor of his machuten — his child’s Jewish father-in-law. Proud that their friendship has withstood their political differences, he bid the guests to model that example of civil discourse in a divided country. at’s a moving sentiment. It feels bad to unfriend friends, classmates and co-workers. We enjoy mixing with a diverse array of people.

But we can’t even chitchat about the weather or sports nowadays without bucking up against politics. A heat wave reminds us of climate change and the shanda of withdrawing from the Paris agreement. e Philadelphia Eagles won the Super Bowl but lost the invitation to the White House. And don’t get me started on kneeling for the national anthem.

Even neutral topics aren’t neutral anymore. We feel blue and they see red.

In these extraordinary circumstances, preaching only about “building bridges instead of walls” is the safe sermon. And it’s not wrong. Communication is worthwhile.

But please don’t stop there! All across America, people are witnessing destructive deeds and corrosive concepts pushed and protected by the current administration. We don’t have time to see whether civility alone will solve the slew of problems wrought by racism, greed and xenophobia.

For most congregants, speaking out is confined to rants to like-minded family members, chance conversations at the oneg, therapeutic Facebook posts that reach a few dozen friends, clever tweets and retweets that rack up single-digit likes.

Regardless of how polished our prose or heartfelt our appeal, our following is small. But you, rabbis — you have a big audience, you have a microphone, you have a bully pulpit, you have a bimah. What an opportunity to address your flock.

Right in the nick of time, too. e shofar in 5779 sounds exactly when we need it. Your largest annual attendance falls smack-dab in the lead-up to the midterm elections.

On the holiest of days, offer us the Jewish lens through which to view the midterms. Don’t tell us whom to vote for — tell us what to vote for.

While in normal times finding common ground is a noble Jewish value, these are not normal times. In an act of bimah

bravery, say that Jewish values share no common ground with policies and predilections that separate children from their parents at the border, denigrate the free press, befriend enemies and antagonize allies, cut back on health care, neglect the environment, dismantle protections for minorities, move backwards on LGBTQ rights, mistreat women, ride shotgun for the gun lobby, roll back safety nets for the poor, and so cruelly on and so painfully forth. In Tevye’s famous words, “ere is no other hand.”

Josefin DolsTen NEW YORK | JTA The truth is, there is no commandment in Judaism to dip an apple in honey on Rosh Hashanah. But what would the Jewish New Year be without it? It’s a question that bedevils vegans, many of whom won’t eat honey because it’s an animal product.

Jeffrey Cohan, the executive director of Jewish Veg, explains all the ways that honey production is problematic. In order to produce as much honey as possible, many honey producers manipulate the bees’ natural living patterns, including clipping the queen’s wings to prevent her from flying away, and replacing the honey produced with sugar water, which animal rights activists say is less nutritious.

Some vegans regard the whole process as cruel and exploitative.

The Rosh Hashanah custom of dipping apples in honey had its start among Ashkenazi Jews.

Credit: Liron Almog/Flash90

Credit: Illustration by Charles Dunst/JTA; photo by Ahuva At this uniquely ugly juncture, when the scales have tipped from reasonable minds can differ to no moral equivalence, command us to get to work, not just to get along. Inspire us to pursue acts of tikkun olam ranging from A to Z. When a politician blithely reads “e Art of the Deal” to his child in a campaign ad, tell us to read stories with Jewish values to our children. When frenzied crowds rally around anti-media chants, prod us to rally around Jewish advocacy organizations like the ADL, RAC and HIAS. When the current president finds “some very fine people on both sides” at a neo-Nazi rally, call our attention to the magnificent dictum of the first president in a letter to the Jews in 1790: “to bigotry no sanction, to persecution no assistance.”

Armed with Judaism’s ethical heritage, you can rouse us to take a stand at the polls against those who support, or who don’t prevent, today’s scandalously unethical practices.

Charge us to vote not as self-interested but as interested selves.

Give us a refresher course on why Jews in particular cherish the right to vote. Wax poetic about how our forebears fled lands where they didn’t have that right. Put in plain English, sprinkled with a bit of Hebrew, why it is intrinsically Jewish to oppose voter suppression in all its forms.

Better still, urge us not to go to the polls alone. Paint a picture of a voting booth filled to the brim with those who came before us, those who are in our midst and those who will succeed us. We have a crowd to schlep with us, figuratively for sure and literally when possible: our ancestral immigrants, who came here in pursuit of the blessings of democracy; our neighbors, who may need our support to vote in this democracy; and our children, who are the inheritors of whatever remains of our democracy.

Don’t aim not to offend anyone — offend us all. Boldly tell us to do better. Above all, counsel us that Trumpism finds no sanctuary in a Jewish sanctuary. e message from the bimah on this Jewish New Year must be to repair not only our broken relationships but also our broken world. Now is the time to hit the ground running, all the way from common ground to higher ground.

Todah rabah and shanah tovah!

Jan Zauzmer is a past president of a large Union of Reform Judaism congregation, and her writings on the intersection of politics and Jewish ethics have appeared in Kveller, Moment Magazine, ReformJudaism.org, Patheos, and Lilith. She can be found at janzauzmer@gmail.com and @JanZauzmer. e 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.

“’Tza’ar ba’alei chayim’ is a core Torah mandate, so to start the new year right away by violating tza’ar ba’alei chayim does not get the year off to the best start,” he said, using the Hebrew term for the prohibition against causing unnecessary harm to animals.

One of the more common substitutes is honey made from dates, according to Cohan. Date honey is not only vegetarian but has its roots in the Bible. Dates are one of the seven species of the land of Israel mentioned in the Bible. Scholars say that the description of “a land flowing with milk and honey” actually refers to date honey, not bee honey. “[B]ecause date syrup is actually in the Torah, it makes the most sense from a Jewish perspective,” Cohan said.

Proponents of eating date honey also cite its health benefits.

Brian Finkel, the co-founder of a company selling organic date honey, says the product has 25 percent less sugar and a lower glycemic index than bee honey and is a great source of antioxidants.

Finkel, who grew up outside Chicago but moved to Israel in 2013, first tasted date honey while studying at a yeshiva in the Jewish state after finishing high school. Silan, as the product is known there, is a popular ingredient in cooking and baking, and as a dip.

The entrepreneur had a self-described “eureka moment” when he thought to introduce it to American consumers.

Last year, Finkel and his business partner, David Czinn, launched D’Vash Organics. Since then, Finkel said, they have sold hundreds of thousands of bottles of date honey, in stores across the United States and through the company’s website.

The product is produced in a U.S. factory that is not certified kosher, but Finkel said he is looking to produce a kosher version so that observant Jews can have it around the holidays — and year round.

Making the new year sweeter is the whole point of the custom.

Some trace it to Nehemiah 8:10, where the Jews of the Second Temple period celebrating what would eventually become Rosh Hashanah are told to “Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet.”

As for the apple, the custom was started among Ashkenazi Jews in medieval Europe, when the apple as we know it had become more accessible due to cultivation, said Jordan Rosenblum, an associate professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison who studies food and Judaism.

Dates did not grow in Europe, but honey made by bees was available, so that became the topping of choice, said Leah Hochman, an associate professor at the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion who researches religion and food.

The custom traveled with European Jews when many of them left for the United States in the 19th century. Many settled in the Northeast, a region where apples grow well.

Hochman said that as apples and honey became associated with Rosh Hashanah, the combination gained a symbolic meaning.

It also helped that bee honey is kosher, even thought the bee itself is not. Rabbis explain that unlike milk from a nonkosher animal, which may not be consumed, bee honey is derived from the nectar of a flower and not from something that’s part of the bee’s body.

14 | The Jewish Press | August 31, 2018

synagogues 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

congregation B’nai Jeshurun

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

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

tifereth israel

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

B’nai israel synagogue

Please join us for upcoming events: Young Jewish Omaha Shabbat Event, friday, sept. 7, 7:30 p.m. For information conctact Nate Shapiro at nshap iro@jewishomaha@org.

Erev Rosh Hashanah, sunday, sept. 9, 7:30 p.m.

Rosh Hashanah, Monday, sept. 10, 10:30 a.m.

Kol Nidre, tuesday, sept. 18, 7:30 p.m.

Yom Kippur, Wednesday, sept. 19, 10:30 a.m. and Concluding service and Break-the-fast, 5:30 p.m.

Our High Holiday services are led by guest Cantorial soloist Jeff Taxman.

For information on our historic synagogue, contact any of our board members: Scott Friedman, Rick Katelman, Carole Lainof, Wayne Lainof, Marty Ricks, Sissy Silber, Nancy Wolf, or email nancywolf16620@gmail.com.

Beth el synagogue

Services conducted by Rabbi Steven Abraham and Hazzan Michael Krausman. friday: Kabbalat Shabbat, 6 p.m. saturday: Shabbat Morning Services, 9:30 a.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 7:45 p.m.; Havdallah, 8:30 p.m.; Sushi Making, 8:45 p.m.; Selichot Services, following sushi making, 9:30 p.m. (approximately) Weekday services: Sundays, 9:30 a.m. & 5:30 p.m.; weekdays, 7 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. sunday: Morning Minyan, 9:30 a.m.

Monday: Offices closed for Labor Day; Morning Minyan, 9 a.m. tuesday: High Holidays are Coming and I’m not Ready, 11:30 a.m. with Rabbi Abraham; Mahjong, 1 p.m.

Wednesday: High Holidays are Coming and I’m not Ready, 6 p.m. with Rabbi Abraham. thursday: Chesed Committee visits the Blumkin Home, 2 p.m.

Rosh Hashanah Lunch, tuesday, sept. 11, 12:45 p.m.

Please register online at www.bethel-omaha.org by sept. 4. Cost is $25 for 13 and older, $18 for ages 6-12 and no charge for 5 and under.

Shanghai, thursday, sept. 13, 1 p.m. We’ve had fun playing, so we’re making it a regular event meeting on the second Thursday of each month. This is an open afternoon of playing cards with friends. To register, contact Allen Ostravich if you would like to play. We’ll provide the cards, snacks and drinks.

Beth israel synagogue

Services conducted by Rabbi Ari Dembitzer. friday: Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 7:30 p.m.; Candle Lighting, 7:41 p.m. saturday: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Insights into the Weekly Torah Portion, 6:35 p.m.; Mincha/Seudah Shlishit, 7:20 p.m.; Havdalah, 8:40 p.m. sunday: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Bagels and Beit Medrash, 10 a.m.

Monday: Shacharit, 9 a.m. tuesday: Shacharit, 7 a.m.

Wednesday: Shacharit, 7 a.m.. thursday: Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Connecting with Our Faith, 9:30 a.m. with Rabbi Ari.

chaBad house

Office hours: Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. and Friday, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Services conducted by Rabbi Mendel Katzman. friday: Shacharit, 7 a.m. followed by coffee, treats, study and shmoozing. saturday: Shabbat Morning Service, 9:30 a.m.

Weekdays: Shacharit, 7 a.m. followed by coffee, treats, study and shmoozing.

Monday: Personal Parsha class, 9:30 a.m. with Shani.

Wednesday: Mystical Thinking, 9:30 a.m. with Rabbi Katzman; Challah Bake with a Twist, 7 p.m. at Hilton Omaha 1001 Cass St. Girls and women are gathering for mega challah bakes in communities across the globe in a show of solidarity, strength and in great numbers. thursday: Talmud Class, noon with Rabbi Katzman.

All programs are open to the entire community.

congregation B’nai Jeshurun

Services conducted by Rabbi Teri Appleby. friday: Erev Shabbat Evening Service, 6:30 p.m. featur-

ing music by Leslie Delserone and Peter Mullin; Oneg, 7:30 p.m.; Candlelighting, 7:41 p.m. saturday: Shabbat Morning Service, 9:30 a.m.; Torah Study on Parashat Ki Tetze, 10:45 a.m.; S’Lichot Program: Dessert, Study, Havdalah and Service, 7:30 p.m.; Havdalah (72 minutes), 9:10 p.m. sunday: No LJCS Classes; PJ Library: Apple Picking, 10 a.m. at Martin’s Hillside Orchard. RSVP to the synagogue or temple office; Adult Hebrew Class 2, 11:30 a.m.; Come learn and play Pickleball, 7-9 p.m. All equipment furnished.

Wear comfortable clothing. For questions, call or text Miriam Wallick at miriam57@aol.com.

Monday: Offices closed for Labor Day. tuesday: Star City Kochavim, 6:45 p.m.

Wednesday: LJCS Hebrew School, 4 p.m. at TI. thursday: High Holidays Choir Rehearsal, 7 p.m.

Jewish Book Club, sunday, sept. 16, 1:30 p.m. at Gere Branch Library, 2400 S 56th St in room #1 and will discuss the writings of Amos Oz. Please contact Laura French with any questions.

offutt air force Base

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

rose BluMkin JeWish hoMe

saturday: Services, 9:15 a.m. led by Alan Shulewitz; S’lichot Services, 4 p.m. led by Marti Nerenstone.

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

teMple israel

friday: Shabbat Service, 6 p.m. saturday: Torah Study, 9:15 a.m.; Shabbat Service, 10:30 a.m. Torah Reader: Scott Goodman and Haftarah Reader: Miles Remer; S’lichot Service and Study, 7 p.m. We will study text together, change our Torah covers to the High Holiday white, and pray in a service led by our clergy and choir. The evening will conclude with a wine and cheese oneg. sunday: No Religious School. tuesday: Kol Rina Rehearsal, 6 p.m.

Wednesday: Religious School for Grades 3-6, 4 p.m.; School Dinner, 6 p.m.; Grades 7-12, 6:30 p.m.; #MeToo ‫גםאני‬# — How We Are All Affected, 6:30 p.m. taught by Rabbi Daniel Brenner. thursday: No Thursday Symposium.

JYG’s Great Rosh Hashanah Bake-Off, sunday, sept. 9, 1-3 pm. Food is central to Jewish holidays and we are excited to offer a holiday baking experience for our 7th-8th grade students. Students will come home with a Rosh Hashanah inspired dessert that they can share at the family holiday table.

Erev Rosh Hashanah Service, sunday, sept. 9, 7:30 p.m. Remember to pick-up a grocery bag for the High Holiday Food Drive: Fill a Bag, Feed a Family.

Rosh Hashanah Children’s Service (Tots - 4th Grade), Monday, sept. 10, 9 a.m. Children’s service will be creative, musical, and fun, as Rabbi Stoller, Cantor Shermet, and Rabbi Berezin lead the kids in singing and conversation about the meaning of the High Holidays.

Rosh Hashanah Morning Service, Monday, sept. 10, 10:15 a.m.

Rosh Hashanah Children’s Programming (1st - 4th Grade), Monday, sept. 10, 10:15 a.m. Children in 1st-4th Grade should meet Hannah Budwig in the Simon Community Court at 10:15 a.m. They will then head downstairs for Rosh Hashanah Programming.

tifereth israel

Services conducted by lay leader Nancy Coren. Office hours: Monday-friday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. friday: No Services; Candlelighting, 7:41 p.m. saturday: Shabbat Morning service, 10 a.m followed by a Kiddush luncheon; Selichot Program and Services, 8:30 p.m.; Havdalah (72 minutes), 8:40 p.m. sunday: No LJCS Classes; PJ Library: Apple Picking, 10 a.m. at Martin’s Hillside Orchard. Alll children will be attending with an adult from their family. Please RSVP to Nancy Coren if your family is able to attend; Come learn and play Pickleball, 7-9 p.m. All equipment furnished. Wear comfortable clothing. For questions, call or text Miriam Wallick at miriam57@aol.com.

Monday: Offices closed for Labor Day. Wednesday: LJCS Hebrew School, 4 p.m. at TI. Volunteer Opportunity: Three volunteers needed for Pizza in the Hut joint synagogue/temple gathering on Wednesday, sept. 26 at 6 p.m. If you are able and interested in helping with any of these activities please let Nancy Coren know as soon as possible. Thank you.

Jewish Book Club, sunday, sept. 16, 1:30 p.m. at Gere Branch Library, 2400 S 56th St in room #1 and will discuss the writings of Amos Oz. Please contact Laura French with any questions.

MeMorial services

sunday, september 2 Mount Carmel Cemetery in Lincoln, 10:30 a.m.

Golden Hill Cemetery, 5025 N. 42nd St., noon Beth Israel/Mt. Sinai, 78th & Crown Point, 1 p.m.

Fisher Farms, 8900 S. 42nd Street, 2 p.m. sunday, september 16 Oak Hills/Bikhor Cholim, Council Bluffs, 11 a.m.

Beth El Cemetery, 84th and ‘L’ Sts., 11 a.m.

Temple Israel Cemetery, 6412 No. 42 St., 1 p.m.

the community is invited to B’nai israel for high holiday services

nancy Wolf Please join us for our meaningful and participatory High Holiday services at B’nai Israel in Council Bluffs! Once again we are pleased to welcome Jeff Taxman as our Cantorial Soloist, a role he has served with inspiration and great heart for 18 years. As always, we will enjoy the participation of all who wish to join in as readers.

There is a great lineup of speakers: • Erev Rosh Hashanah: Nate Shapiro; Rosh Hashanah: The OS Update for the Soul • Rosh Hashanah morning: Lloyd Roitstein; Finding Your Mitzvah in Life • Kol Nidre: Dr. Leonard Greenspoon; The Book of Joshua: How Biblical Accounts of War Offer a Way to Achieve Peace • Yom Kippur morning: Jim Fried; Yom Kippur:

Memories and Meaning Services begin at 7:30 p.m. for evening, and 10:30 a.m. for morning, with the Memorial service following the Yom Kippur morning service. The Yom Kippur Concluding service is held at 5:30 p.m., with a dairy Break-the-Fast community potluck to follow.

B’nai Israel is not affiliated with any specific Jewish denomination, and we welcome all who wish to worship with us. We strive to provide a comfortable, friendly service, in a traditional setting. We are a short drive from Omaha, just a block north of Broadway. Hope to see you!

Contact any of our board members for more information: Scott Friedman, Rick Katelman, Carole Lainof, Wayne Lainof, Marty Ricks, Sissy Silber, Nancy Wolf.

The Jewish Press | August 31, 2018 | 15

lifecycles birth

Skylar dreW SollS

Marissa and Rob Solls of Dallas, TX announce the June 26 birth of their daughter, Skylar Drew.

She is named for her maternal great-grandfather, Nathan Naftali Wald and for her paternal great aunt, Diane Hofner.

She has a big brother, Connor Joseph.

Grandparents are Harriet and Ron Epstein of Omaha and Nancy and Mark Solls of Dallas, TX.

in MeMoriaM

PhylliS M. bittner

Phyllis M. Bittner passed away on Aug. 22 at age 91. Services were held on Aug. 27 in the Chapel at Beth El Cemetery, 84th and “L” Street.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Max Bittner.

She is survived by her son, David M. Bittner.

Memorials may be made to the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home.

Neil Simon dies at 91

JTA Playwright Neil Simon, known for such Broadway hits as The Odd Couple, Barefoot in the Park, and Lost in Yonkers, has died.

Simon, who earned a Pulitzer Prize and a Tony Award, died overnight Aug. 25 at New York-Presbyterian Hospital in New York City from complications with pneumonia at the age of 91.

Simon began his career in television, on the writing staff for Sid Caesar for Your Show of Shows, working with Mel Brooks, Carl Reiner and Larry Gelbart, and later wrote for The Phil Silvers Show.

In 1961, his first play Come Blow Your Horn, hit Broadway. In 1966 he had four plays running on Broadway at the same time. During his career he wrote more than 30 plays and about the same amount of movie screenplays, some original and most adaptions of his plays.

Playwright neil Simon on The Tonight Show starring Johnny Carson, June 26, 1980.

Credit: Joseph Del Valle/NBC/ NBCU Photo Bank via Getty Images

Most of his plays revolved around middle-class Jews from New York, and the family issues that plagued them. The themes of his plays include romance, adultery, divorce, sibling rivalry, cancer and fear of aging.

He gained additional fame in the 1980s with his semi-autobiographical trilogy: Brighton Beach Memoirs (1983), Biloxi Blues (1985), and Broadway Bound (1986).

In 1991 he won both the Tony Award and the Pulitzer Prize for Lost in Yonkers, another autobiographical comedy.

Simon was born in New York to Irving Simon, a garment salesman, and Mamie (Levy) Simon, a homemaker. His parents had what he described as a “tempestuous marriage,” in which his father left the family at least eight times, and he said took refuge in movie theaters to escape his troubles at home. Those troubles also inspired him to become a writer, which he said helped him to become independent of emotional family issues.

He was married five times: to dancer Joan Baim, who died of cancer (1953–1973), actress Marsha Mason (1973–1983), twice to actress Diane Lander (1987–1988 and 1990–1998), and to actress Elaine Joyce (1999-2018).

Parsha ki tavo We are taught this week about the mitzvah of the first fruit, which we give back to our creator in Jerusalem as gratitude. By instilling in us gratitude, we won’t be limited by all of the blessings and material wealth we amass in our lives. We connect through the material and rise above it.

May we merit to receive much blessrabbi ari ing and be able to appreciate it, deMbitzer Shabbat Shalom.

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Candidates speak to Jewish Community

caSSandra hickS WeiSenburger Director of Communications, Temple Israel We are very excited to announce the 2018 Nebraska Jewish Community Candidate Forum will be held on Sunday, Oct. 7, 3-4:30 p.m. in Temple Israel’s sanctuary. The exciting and engaging Forum is free and open to the public. The entire Jewish community is invited to hear from and visit with candidates for Governor, Senator, Congress, and the Nebraska Legislature.

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“The Forum is designed first and foremost as an opportunity for members of the Jewish community to meet and hear from candidates running for offices,” said Rabbi Brian Stoller, who will moderate this event. “This event is not a debate; it is an opportunity for candidates to make a positive case for why they should be elected.”

Dan Gilbert, a member of the planning committee said “It is special for so many candidates to be at the same place at the same time. Their presence acknowledges that our community matters in Nebraska. I am looking forward to an engaging and important experience where we hear directly from them about critical issues.”

The planning committee includes representatives from all of the synagogues and is formulating questions about issues important to our community. Attendees will have a chance to visit with candidates before and after the Forum in the Community Court and the Social Hall.

Watch for more announcements about the Forum in the coming weeks. We look forward to seeing you there!

to SubMit obituarieS to the JeWiSh PreSS:

Email the Press at jpress@jewishomaha.org; mail to 333 So. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68154; or online at the Jewish Federation of Omaha website: www.jewishomaha.org. Click on Jewish Press and go to Submit Announcements.

early deadline notice

The Jewish Press will be closed on Monday, Sept. 3 for Labor Day, Monday and tuesday, Sept. 10-11 for Rosh Hashanah, Wednesday, Sept. 19, for Yom Kippur, and Monday, Sept. 24 for Sukkot. The deadline for the Sept. 14 issue is tuesday, Sept. 4, noon; for the Sept. 28 issue it is tuesday, Sept. 18, 4 p.m. Questions? Call 402.334.6448

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16 | The Jewish Press | August 31, 2018

community

S

Fighting hunger on yom kippur

CaSSaNdRa HiCkS WeiSeNBuRGeR family can participate in. We will have four stations with assembly lines Director of Communications, Temple Israel for each and the Food Bank will bring all the supplies we need. At each eptember is Hunger Action Month and this year for our station, a volunteer captain will make sure everything runs smoothly. annual High Holy Day Food Drive we are going a step Rabbi Berezin said this work is particularly important on Yom Kipfurther to help those pur: “On Yom Kippur, we read from struggling with food the prophet Isaiah, who asks the insecurity. We are people ‘Is not the fast I desire to still handing out grocery bags on break the bonds of injustice, to let Rosh Hashanah for you to fill and the oppressed go free, to share bring back on Yom Kippur, but this your bread with the hungry?’ He year, on yom kippur afternoon reminds us that God does not want from 1-2 p.m., in lieu of a study us to fast without intention, to ensession, Rabbi Deana Sussman gage in the ritual without underBerezin will lead the congregation standing the true meaning behind in sorting and packing the items it. As we collect the food, sort it, we collect for the Food Bank for pack it, and send it to the Food the Heartland. Usually, we fill the Maggie Schill, left, Food Sourcing Coordinator, gave Rabbi Bank where it will then feed the blue bins at Temple, and the Food Berezin and Geoff a tour of the Food Bank for the Heartland hungry among us, we help to make Bank picks them up; but this year warehouse facility and Lee Sandhoefner, Volunteer Center Lead, this Yom Kippur, this fast day, a demonstrated how the packing process will work. we want to take this Yom Kippur day of true holiness.” afternoon opportunity to do even more social action together.

Not only will this be a great experience for Temple Israel, it is also “Last year on Yom Kippur we hosted a phenomenal panel of experts something new for the Food Bank. “This is the first time doing both a who came and shared their wisdom with our congregation about food drive and packing event together on-location. This will save us a hunger and food insecurity in Omaha. This year, we wanted to provide lot of time!” explained Maggie Schill, Food Sourcing Coordinator. Join a hands-on opportunity to engage with this issue which continues to us for this great opportunity and know that it will be a sort of trial run plague our community,” explained Rabbi Berezin. “Each year, Temple Is- for the Food Bank and if it goes well, they may expand this model to rael collects thousands of pounds of food. This year, we will have an other groups to make a difference in our community. opportunity to take the next step as we sort and pack the food before This year we are urging congregants to bring canned fruits and vegwe deliver it to the Food Bank for the Heartland.” etables. These are items specifically needed for the Food Bank and Rabbi Berezin and Geoff Silverstein visited the Food Bank warehouse will make our packing more efficient. “We reached out to Foodbank for where Lee Sandhoefner, Volunteer Center Lead, explained how everythe Heartland to see if there were opportunities to expand our impact thing would work. The process will be fairly simple: fold boxes, sort the this year, which led to narrowing our focus to collect canned fruits and canned items checking the expiration dates (many food items are still vegetables and devoting time to pack boxes and crates,” added Geoff. good past the printed date), pack the cans in boxes, tape shut, and then “Staying after services as a family to help pack boxes is a quick and set on the pallet. This will be a social justice activity that the entire easy way to extend our impact and make for a more-meaningful fast.”

September 27th – October 21st, 2018

November 23rd – December 16th, 2018

January 31st – February 24th, 2019

March 21st – April 14th , 2019

May 16th – June 16th, 2019

Jeff Taxman to guide High Holiday services

NaNCy WoLF The B’nai Israel community is pleased to welcome Jeffrey Taxman once again to guide the services for Rosh HaShanah and Yom Kippur.

Jeffrey has been the spiritual leader at the Council Bluffs synagogue for 18 years, ever since Sissy Silber and Jerome “Doc” Bleicher recruited him in 2000. With the help of family and members of the congregation, Jeffrey brings much joy and great heart to these very special holiday services.

Jeffrey has a life-long love of music and participation in the Jewish community. Jeffrey’s career as a Cantorial Jeff Taxman Soloist began in 1973 filling in over December holidays with Rabbi Sidney Brooks at Temple Israel in Omaha. He taught music at Temple Israel in San Antonio, Texas during college and again in New York City during graduate school. After returning to Omaha in 1980, Cantor Firestone asked him to sing tenor in the High Holiday Quartet at Temple Israel. Jeffrey also sang High Holidays for three years for the Jewish Chaplin at Ouffut Air Force Base in Bellevue.

Jeffrey taught music in the Temple Israel Sunday school for 20 years and filled in when the Cantors were away for vacation, illness, maternity leave and conferences.

He enjoys singing with Rabbi Ari Dembitzer and friends on Shabbos at Beth Israel as well as at the Blumkin Home for Hanukkah.

Jeffrey and Sherry Taxman have four children and five grandchildren.

Jeffrey is President of Physicians Financial Services.

We hope you will join us for some or all of our High Holiday services. You’re always welcome at B’nai Israel!