September 7, 2018: Rosh Hashanah Edition by Jewish Press

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(Founded in 1920) Abby Kutler President Annette van de Kamp-Wright Editor Richard Busse Creative Director Susan Bernard Advertising Executive Lori Kooper-Schwarz Assistant Editor Gabby Blair Staff Writer Thierry Ndjike Accounting Jewish Press Board Abby Kutler, President; Eric Dunning, Ex Officio; Laura Dembitzer; Candice Friedman; Jill Idelman; Andy Isaacson; Michael Kaufman; David Kotok; Natasha Kraft; Debbie Kricsfeld; Eric Shapiro and Amy Tipp. The mission of the Jewish Federation of Omaha is to build and sustain a strong and vibrant Omaha Jewish Community and to support Jews in Israel and around the world. Agencies of the Federation are: Community Relations Committee, Jewish Community Center, Center for Jewish LIfe, Jewish Social Services, and the Jewish Press. Guidelines and highlights of the Jewish Press, including front page stories and announcements, can be found online at: wwwjewishomaha.org; click on ‘Jewish Press.’ Editorials express the view of the writer and are not necessarily representative of the views of the Jewish Press Board of Directors, the Jewish Federation of Omaha Board of Directors, or the Omaha Jewish community as a whole. The Jewish Press reserves the right to edit signed letters and articles for space and content. The Jewish Press is not responsible for the Kashrut of any product or establishment. Editorial The Jewish Press is an agency of the Jewish Federation of Omaha. Deadline for copy, ads and photos is: Thursday, 9 a.m., eight days prior to publication. E-mail editorial material and photos to: avandekamp@jew ishomaha.org; send ads (in TIF or PDF format) to: rbusse@jewishom aha.org. Letters to the Editor Guidelines The Jewish Press welcomes Letters to the Editor. They may be sent via regular mail to: The Jewish Press, 333 So. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68154; via fax: 1.402.334.5422 or via e-mail to the Editor at: avandekamp@jew ishomaha.org. Letters should be no longer than 250 words and must be single-spaced typed, not hand-written. Published letters should be confined to opinions and comments on articles or events. News items should not be submitted and printed as a “Letter to the Editor.” The Editor may edit letters for content and space restrictions. Letters may be published without giving an opposing view. Information shall be verified before printing. All letters must be signed by the writer. The Jewish Press will not publish letters that appear to be part of an organized campaign, nor letters copied from the Internet. No letters should be published from candidates running for office, but others may write on their behalf. Letters of thanks should be confined to commending an institution for a program, project or event, rather than personally thanking paid staff, unless the writer chooses to turn the “Letter to the Editor” into a paid personal ad or a news article about the event, project or program which the professional staff supervised. For information, contact Annette van de Kamp-Wright, Jewish Press Editor, 402.334.6450. Postal The Jewish Press (USPS 275620) is published weekly (except for the first week of January and July) on Friday for $40 per calendar year U.S.; $80 foreign, by the Jewish Federation of Omaha. Phone: 402.334.6448; FAX: 402.334.5422. Periodical postage paid at Omaha, NE. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The Jewish Press, 333 So. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68154-2198 or email to: jpress@jewishomaha.org.

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Happy New Year

hen we first began thinking about and planning for this Rosh Hashanah issue, the theme seemed a nobrainer. On the heels of the #MeToo movement, during a time when the narrative around the role of women seems to have taken on new life, doing an issue dedicated to Jewish women was simply too tempting. With Eishes Chayil as our anchor, we began talking to women around the community. In Jewish Omaha, we have endless women who inspire, who impress us with their passion and who show that to be a Woman of Valor can mean many different things. “She is the Eishet Chayil, the Woman of Valor,” Lori Palatnik wrote, “who sets the tone of love, spirituality, and personal growth for all those around her. To know her is to appreciate her strength and talents.” While I personally have always found the words of the song inspiring, I discovered not everyone feels that way. Especially when taken literally, the text leaves us with plenty of questions But then, Judaism is all about questioning the text, struggling with its meaning; it doesn’t mean the text itself has less value. “A woman of valor, who can find?” King Solomon asks. “Far beyond pearls is her value. Her husband's heart trusts in her and he shall lack no fortune.” Well, what about women who have no husband? What if they have a wife? What if they are single, or divorced? “She spreads out her palm to the poor and extends her hands to the destitute. She fears not snow for her household, for her entire household is clothed with scarlet wool.” Taking care of the poor is something that resonates to this day, but that, I think, is not specifically a job for women. We should all care, regardless of gender. He continues: “Bedspreads she makes herself; linen and purple wool are her clothing. Well-known at the gates is her husband as he sits with the elders of the land. Garments she makes and sells, and she delivers a belt to the peddler. Strength and splendor are her clothing, and smilingly she awaits her last day.” King Solomon has it all worked out. The thing is, if we, as Jewish women in 2018, want to find answers, we have to look not only at what a man (famous royalty he may be) thought we should stand for back in the day; we have to make our own decisions. We have to take the text and own it, mold it; we have to, most of all, ask ourselves the right questions. Who am I, as a Jewish woman? What does it mean in my daily life, in my relationships, with my family members? It has a lot more to do with my character and how I treat others than whether I make my own bedspreads or dress in purple. And perhaps therein lies the real value of both the text and the women who read it: self-reflection, asking what we can do to become the best versions of ourselves, asking what that means for every single one of us. In 2016, during the first Jewish Women’s Renaissance Project’s MOMentum trip, we had dinner with 400 women and someone said something that’s stayed with me ever since: “There are 400 different Jewish women in this dining hall, with one Jewish heart.” We are all different; we are all valuable in our own way. The answers to the question “what is a woman of valor?” are as diverse as we are and we all have to answer it in person. Many of the women who were interviewed for this edition took a stab at answering the question, either directly or indirectly. I want to thank everyone who agreed to be interviewed; as always, there are many more of you who could have been included but we only have so many pages. We’ll announce the Passover 2019 theme soon (really!) so if you’d like to tell us your story, keep an eye out. I want to thank my team, Creative Director Richard Busse, Assistant Editor Lori Kooper-Schwartz, Sales Manager Susan Bernard and Staff Writer Gabby Blair for all their hard work making this issue happen.

To our proof readers, Andi Goldstein, Margaret Kirkeby, Deborah Platt, Silvia Roffman and Dorothy Rosenblum: thank you for all your hard work catching the errors week after week. Any mistakes left behind are my responsibility.

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To my extremely kind and supportive Board of Directors: you are a uniquely positive force in my life. In addition, I want to say thank you to all my colleagues at the Jewish Federation of Omaha. One of the reasons I love my job so much is the people I work with. We all live in that grey area between colleagues and friends; most of all, we are a family and without that feeling of belonging, life wouldn’t be nearly as fulfilling. It’s almost a new year and I wish every single one of you nothing but the best. May it be a year of inspiration, love, passion and fulfillment. May we all continue to make this community better, in our own diverse ways. L’Shanah Tova,

Annette van de Kamp Editor, Jewish Press Abby Kutler President, Jewish Press Board

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Gratitude

Annette vAn de kAmp Editor, Jewish Press n 2010, during a flight from Tel Aviv to Newark, I sat a few seats away from Jan Goldstein. She spent most of her time writing feverishly, eager to hold on to her thoughts and impressions from her time in Israel. Over the years, she’s visited Israel more than 70 times; to say she loves it there is a massive understatement. A recent conversation we had about Eishes Chayil was quickly followed by a long email, because Jan is an active observer: always thinking, always processing and she never runs out of interesting things to say about the world around her. On July 1 this year, she retired from her position as the U.S. Communities Director for the Central Area Partnership Consortium. She retired from the Jewish Federation of Omaha in 2012: “I was asked to create the position at the Partnership that same year,” she said, “so it’s been about six years.” ‘Retirement’ is a fluid concept—everyone who knows Jan knows she can’t sit still. “I will continue working with Amiel,” she added, “together with Iris Ricks.” At Amiel, Jan is the North American Mission Director. And: she’s joining WeLaunch, where she will be working with Bob Wolfson and her son, Baruch HaLevi, in building relationships with innovators all over the Midwest. “I’ve been blessed,” she said. “There have been so many wonderful opportunities to travel, make an impact and work with extraordinary people. Change is always hard, but if you embrace it and figure out where to go next in order to stay relevant, you will find that everything you’ve learned up to this point guides you onward. My son reminded me that when we are faced with problems, we will eventually figure it out. There are problems in the world that will be solved someday in ways we haven’t discovered yet.” To hear Jan talk, retiring isn’t so much an end as a start to something else and learning a new skillset. “I am learning as much now from younger

Rosh Hashanah people as I previously learned from people who were my seniors,” she said. “And I think this is our lesson: we start out benefiting from the experienced elders, but as we age, we discover that we have to start listening to the next generation. That is what keeps us relevant and being relevant is important.”

Jan Goldstein Jan first arrived in Omaha in 1970 and it was then she discovered what Jewish Community life looked like, as well as her own place in it. “Looking back, I can’t imagine finding my Jewish identity or my strong connecting to Israel anywhere but here. This place has given me a very rich Jewish life and I am immensely grateful for that. It’s enabled me to continue doing what I’m passionate about: bringing education and awareness of Israel to America.” That education and awareness doesn’t stop with bringing visitors to Israel; it continues with the work WeLaunch is doing. Creating bonds between complementary industries, exchanging technology and the marriage of need and expertise between the Midwestern and Israeli Industry, builds on the notion that Israel is so much more than a place where political strife and rockets set the tone. “I want to believe that the positive voices are out there,” Jan said. “The everyday success stories that don’t make it into most media, all the many ways in which Israel contributes to a better world; all we can do is invest in that side of things, by

spreading the knowledge and building on relationships. When you realize everything that is quietly accomplished, the stuff nobody talks about, you are reminded there are so many good things happening in Israel. We cannot forget about it and we must believe in it.” She feels as if she’s evolving, which, she said, is something “we’ve always done. We continue to look for answers. It’s the history of us: our essence is to make the world a better place and we continually try to figure out how to accomplish that.” Being an Eishes Chayil, Jan said, “is a serious responsibility. This beautiful piece of writing clearly tells us which responsibilities we have, but what speaks to me most is that the Woman of Valor takes responsibility for both her family and for her community at large. She works to make the world a better place for all those around her. I always felt it, when I would sit down with someone and solicit Tzedaka there was a third person in the room: the one who didn’t have someone to take care of them. It’s why we as a community do what we do.” We can find one meaningful portion of the Eishes Chayil in Proverbs 31:20, “She stretches out her palms to the poor; she extends her hand to the needy.” It’s the one verse that almost everyone seems to agree continues to be relevant in 2018. “Being a good person is about trying to uphold Jewish values and live by them,” Jan said. “Chesed, kindness, is important because how we treat others matters. Do we show respect, do we care for the sick, are we concerned for others and do we give Tzedaka? I think it all comes down to having empathy and that’s something I want my grandchildren to learn above all else. We are the People of the Book, we have to educate ourselves about what that means and teaching others comes with the territory. We must stand up for others when those others can’t do so for themselves. ‘Extending our hands to the needy’ means walking the talk. We have to constantly be aware that there is always someone, somewhere who needs our help. And: not all Tzedaka is monetary; sometimes it comes in the form of emotional support.” “I have such tremendous respect for many of the younger women in our community,” Jan added. “Those women who See Jan Goldstein page A4

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Rosh Hashanah Woman of Valor: Amanda Ryan

brittany Hamor Intern, Jewish Press Amanda Ryan is an administrative assistant for the Jewish Federation. A Woman of Valor to Ryan means “a woman that through any and all odds creates a life of meaning, while remaining humble, kind, and giving. She is able to hold kindness and love in her heart for the stranger and children.” Her New Year’s wish is to be more like the Woman of Valor she described and “live my life even more purposefully with love and respect for all that I encounter.”

Jan Goldstein

Continued from page a3 take time away from their families when they have so little spare time to be with them; rather than spending it on themselves, they step up and give back to the community. They are the true Pearls. I think they embody the Jewish values we talk about. Isn’t that what we’ve been taught through the Torah?” As always, she said, Jan walked out of my office, still thinking. “What is it that keeps me from feeling kind of used up? And I guess I go back to learning from my kids, because my daughter Becky always talks to people about the word gratitude. In our family, we’ve come to use it as a mantra every single day. If you focus on gratitude, you don‘t have time to worry about anything else!”

Lunch with Sissy annette Van de kamp Editor, Jewish Press

In spite of her deep Council Bluffs roots (dad Louis Katelman, the oldest of ten, was born there, as were all his sibftentimes, interviews are lings), these days Sissy lives in Bellevue. We met recently over straightforward. You ask your lunch in West Omaha, because what’s better than food and questions, the subject answers good conversation? Passionate about travel and the Arts, it’s them and you type it all up in easy to get her talking about the many trips she took with an organized fashion. Those husband Howard, who she married in 1975. parts of the It’s a nice coincidence, she said, that she original intermarried a newspaperman. view that are “My father, although he had to leave school more converafter eighth grade, was adamant about always sational, those staying informed about the world around us. times you get off track and put your pen He read the Des Moines Register, every morndown don’t always make it onto the page. ing from beginning to end.” That, I have learned over the years, is a Howard asked her out, one night, just after shame. Getting to know someone through she’d come home from the Opera. They’d met the written word doesn’t begin and end with years before, but the attraction came later. the standard, “you were born, you grew up” “It was late at night when he called, close sort of answers. Sometimes, when you let to midnight. He was covering military affairs things flow, a deeper sense of the person you for the Omaha World Herald at the time, and are talking to comes through and you end up President Ford was flying in. Howard was Sissy Silber with a different kind of story. about to drive out to the Airbase and invited Were I to describe who Sissy Silber is, I me along to meet the President. I thought, wouldn’t focus on the lifetime cycles, the why not? So, that was our first date. The rest simchas or the dates. What-happened-when is history.” is much less interesting than who she is “About two years after we were married, today, how she makes you feel when you are Howard was diagnosed with cancer,” she in her presence, why it is that simply hearing said, “and started intense radiation treather voice brings a smile to my face. ment almost immediately. He continued Something curious happened the first working at the OWH and in the middle of time I met Sissy. I can’t tell you exactly when all that, we decided to visit Israel. After that, or where it was, although if I had to guess I’d we took many more trips: we sailed on the say probably B’nai Israel in Council Bluffs. QE II, flew the Concorde and took a helicopShe approached me as if she’d known me forter ride in Alaska. I though I was going to ever and I remember thinking: this is a throw up during that one.” Sissy and Howard Silber woman I want to get to know. Over the years He was 14 years older, an avid reader and we’ve run into each other at various occasions and she always “a lot of fun.” Before moving to Bellevue, they lived in Twin greets me like an old friend, a favorite family member. She’s Towers: “There was this great mix of educated people,” Sissy someone who has an extra dose of liveliness, charisma, a said, “sometimes it almost felt like a commune! But we made spark—take one look and you know she has many, many sto- some very, very good friends while we lived there.” ries to tell. And then there’s that million-dollar-smile that Sissy and Howard traveled all over the continent and, of See Sissy Silber page a6 never fails to light up the room.

Happy New Year

W I S H I N G T H E E N T I R E J E W I S H C O M M U N I T Y A

The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018 | A5

Reading, learning, teaching, and baking chocolate chip cookies

OzziE NOGG he novel, A Tree Grows in Brooklyn, gives this description of its young heroine. “On the day when she first knew she could read, she made a vow to read one book a day as long as she lived.” Gloria Kaslow could be described in almost the same terms. “There was a neighborhood library that I frequented as a kid,” Gloria said, “and I was happiest when I returned home with a stack of books, especially family stories like A Tree Grows In Brooklyn. It was one of my favorites.” Reading often begets writing. “When our grandkids were little, and said or did amusing things, Gloria kept track of them in a journal,” Howard said. “Now, whenever the grandkids visit Omaha, they can’t wait to have her read the journal out loud. They collapse in laughter, every time.” The youngest grandchild is nine-year old Rose. “My Grandma is great,” Rose said. “She is so funny, she is very sweet, she is very loving, she is very smart, she cares about other people and I am very grateful to have her as my Grandma.”

The Kaslow family, circa 2014, on a trip to Sicily. Lou, left, Rose, Joanna, Jennifer, Emilia, Aaron, David, Maya, in front of David, Sasha, Gloria, Howard, Ben, and Allison. Rose is the daughter of Howard and Gloria’s daughter, Joanna Kaslow, and her husband, Lou Bopp. The family lives in St. Louis. Gloria and Howard also have two sons. David Kaslow and his wife, Jennifer, live in St. Louis with their daughters Sasha, 14, and Maya, sixteen. Aaron and his wife Allison Zieve live in Washington, D.C. They have two children — Ben, 19 and Emilia, twenty-one. “We visit our kids and grandkids often,” Howard said, “and Gloria always fills our suitcases with chocolate-chip cookies and banana cake. The tinfoil wrapping causes great consternation for the TSA folks at Eppley. Many a coffee cake has been examined for radioactive contents.” Family sagas, including those in Genesis and Exodus, are among Gloria’s favorite reads. “I remember Rabbi Kripke saying that it doesn’t matter whether these ancient stories are history or idealized fiction. What matters is that those people and events shaped the beliefs, practices, goals and visions of the Israelites. He said, ‘Like all people, we are made of words, stories and memories.’ Stories, our own and others, are the best teachers.” As her actions demonstrate, Gloria follows the biblical instruction, ‘You shall love the stranger, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt.’ The recipient of Jewish Family Service Woman of the Century Award in 2011, Gloria practices one of Judaism’s fundamental principles — each of us is important, deserves respect, and shares the responsibility of caring for one another. Welcoming the stranger is a Gloria Kaslow hallmark. Twenty-five years ago she greeted Russian families when they arrived at Eppley on midnight flights. Two years ago she did the same for the young Syrian family sponsored by Beth El. “I tutor both the husband and wife twice a week. I know the challenges they face, but also the amazing prospects for their future. Fatema, the wife, feels such appreciation for the Jewish community. Ellie Batt took Fatema to a shiva house and she walked in, wearing her black hijab, carrying a plate of home-made baklavah, chattering confidently in English. Everyone was charmed. I love it.” In 2017, the Omaha Jewish Federation honored Gloria at a day of learning, Making Omaha Home: Over 150 Years of Welcoming Newcomers. Gloria currently tutors Ismayl, a Sudanese refugee. “Because Ismayl lived in Israel and speaks Hebrew, he went to Federation looking for an English tutor. How lucky I was to be chosen. He and I are now friends.” On the immigrant subject, Aaron Kaslow pulled no punches. “While many in our government today demonize those who seek to come to our country to make a better life or to provide for their families back home, sowing fear and hatred of those whose language, religion, and customs differ from the majority of Americans, my mother’s actions humanize these individuals. In her ESL classes and her one-on-one work with refugees, she connects on a personal level. Mom’s stories of the struggles that these individuals have endured inspire my children and help them understand the universality of the human condition, and how the hopes and dreams we share far surpass superficial differences in language, dress and custom.” In 4th grade, Gloria discovered the classic children’s novel, A Secret Garden, See Gloria Kaslow page A6

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Sissy Silber

Continued from page A4 course, there were the cruises. They traveled the continents and the evidence is all through her house. “The India trip was the most memorable,” Sissy said. “We started with a cruise and then traveled over land; when we stayed in Mumbai, we found out Yasser Arafat was staying in the same hotel! The disparity between rich and poor was incredible. This Rabbi and his wife were part of our group, so naturally we visited several synagogues in India. The town of Goa had this little area called ‘Jewtown’ with a ‘Jew Street,’ we went there during a holiday, I think it was Passover, and rather than being able to go inside the small synagogue, we found a note on the door: ‘Closed for Jewish Holiday.’ They wouldn’t let us in!” Back when Sissy was young, rabbis were always coming and going in Coun-

Gloria Kaslow

Conrinued from page A5 and was enthralled. The book contains this quote: At first people refuse to believe that a strange new thing can be done, then they begin to hope it can be done, then they see it can be done — then it is done and all the world wonders why it was not done centuries ago.” Getting things done. Another Gloria Kaslow hallmark. Together with the late Rabbi Isaac Nadoff and Stan Mitchell, Gloria helped lay the foundation for UTTO, the United Talmud Torah of Omaha, a combined high school for Beth Israel and Beth El students. She collaborated with “Mr. Mitchell” and Margo Reikes on Roots, a UTTO course that introduced kids to their Jewish roots in America. In 1988, the program won Federation’s Community Service Award. Teaming up with Stan, Steve Reikes, and Gary Javitch, Gloria introduced the annual Bible Quiz. She is permanent Quiz Master and admits, “It’s survived longer than anticipated.” Working alongside founder and first Director, Beth Dotan, Gloria saw the Institute for Holocaust Education become a reality. She has served as Chairperson of the IHE Governance Council since day one. “Gloria is one of the most capable people I know,” said Liz Feldstern, past IHE Executive Director. “Still, she never looks to do it alone or receive all the credit.” Reminiscing, Liz said, “My interview for the Director position included a sitdown with Gloria. She pointed to a budget line and I remember being mesmerized by her hands. The perfectly manicured nails. The artful jewelry. I thought. ‘Not only is she smart, she’s classy.’ Which makes her sometimes racy sense of humor even funnier.” According to Nancy Rips, “Gloria once opened a book review by saying, ‘I’ve spent more hours in bed with books than I’ve ever spent with any man.’ She’s the best.” The friendship between Gloria and Marti Rosen-Atherton began fifty-plus years ago. “We became sisters of the heart as new brides, Gloria from the East

cil Bluffs. Her father never missed a minyan; one time he even had to bail one of the visiting rabbis out of jail for

peeping in windows. “He received a phone call and went to take care of it; that rabbi didn’t stick around,” she remembers. “There were very few girls in my Hebrew School,” she said. “My father insisted I attend and I actually had the first Bat Mitzvah in Council Bluffs. The expectations of a Jewish girl were there,

but I think I’ve always identified as an ‘Iowa girl’ first. But then, every once in awhile, there are reminders that you are different. When I was in Kindergarten, the teacher asked us what we ate for lunch. Everybody answered the question, when it was my turn I told her I’d had kugel. She looks at me and says ‘What is a kugel?’ I remember that moment to this day.” These days, Sissy spends her time enjoying and supporting what Omaha has to offer in the way of the Arts. From the Chanticleer Theater to Bellevue’s Little Theater, she supports the Arts by being a season ticket holder. She’s a patron of the Henry Doorly Zoo, she supports Fontenelle Forest and the Durham Museum, as well as Lauritzen Gardens and the Joslyn. “Art is where it is,” she said. “I love going to the theater and I will never stop enjoying everything it has to offer.”

coast and I from the West coast, when we found ourselves at a Young Jewish Omaha party at Highland Country Club and entered what felt like a surreal world of non-belonging. When Gloria reached over to cut my chicken because I was too inebriated to do so, we bonded for life. Though she was a relative newcomer herself, Gloria instinctively opened her arms and her heart, welcoming new Omahans from across the world and as close as Modale, Iowa, when she made my husband, John, feel like family the moment she met him.” Joanna Kaslow said, “My Mom has always amazed me. She’s given so much to my dad, my brothers and me. She sewed most of my clothes I wore to synagogue every Shabbat. I took such pride in them. She made dinner, with dessert, every night for us, except Sunday when it was our dad’s turn to run out and pick something up. And through all of our growing pains, I only saw her display grace and patience. When I was pregnant with Rose, Mom was so nurturing to me. And when Rose was born, well, babies make both my parents melt. It’s the sweetest thing. Now, when my father is going through one of life’s biggest challenges, my mother shines like a rainbow over him, with her love, thoughtfulness and patience.” Joanna’s husband, Lou, added, Gloria defines dignity. I love her curiosity, thirst for knowledge, open mind, energy, giving spirit and wanderlust.” John Atherton insists Gloria has radar. Joanna agrees. “Every time I start to tell my mother something, she already knows. I’d sneak out of Yom Kippur services at the old Beth El building to run around with friends, come back an hour later and Mom would already know we’d gone to Cris’ Drug Store and gotten Twinkies.” Howard calls this, wisdom. “Gloria has a unique ability to know what’s real, and not be distracted by flim-flam. If folks who write TV commercials depended on her response, they’d be out of a job. She invariably comes up with the best solution, and I often rely on her guidance when making personal or family

decisions.” Gloria replied, “Never in our fifty-seven years has Howard pushed me to do something or questioned what I did. I’ve always looked to him for approval. I want him to be proud of me.” Magic is a recurring theme in The Secret Garden. So too, with Gloria. “My Grandma has this magical way of making me want to be a better person,” Maya Kaslow said, “solely by the stories she tells and the conversations we have about what’s going on in our lives. The greatest part is that with all the people she helps daily, she’s there to edit my English paper or guide me through research in Social Studies. She’s taught me about Judaism and made me want to become more involved in the community. I’m unbelievably lucky to call her my Grandma.” David Kaslow considers his mother’s desire to help others, the thread that has run throughout her entire adult life, without interruption “She’s one of those lifelong teachers who affects people of all ages. This quality defines her as a wife, mother and grandmother. The magic of this for all of us is that we never had to ask, ‘Mom, will you help us? Will you listen, offer advice, take interest in whatever major or trivial thing is happening in our lives? If there’s a metaphor in our family, it’s her chocolate chip cookies. We should just rename that cookie, Woman of Valor. My Mom’s cookie defines what’s important to her: tradition, a gift, a treat, a selfless act. And we never have to ask.” As a child, Gloria questioned her future. “I wondered how I could accomplish something important, that would make a difference. I felt like a blank slate, and had no idea what to draw on it. Now I wonder what’s ahead for me and Howard. How long can I be a contributing member of the community. I hope there’s a lot more to weather, if nothing else.” Frances Hodgson Burnett, author of A Secret Garden, wrote: If nature has made you for a giver, your hands are born open, and so is your heart; and though there may be times when your See Gloria Kaslow page A7

The whirlwind that is Manya Nogg aNNeTTe VaN de kaMp Editor, Jewish Press

ou might hear a few new fourletter-words today,” Manya Nogg tells me before we get started. I promise to write them all down. Lunch at Manya’s house is chocolate cake and pink Champagne. The timeline I so rely on when interviewing others goes out the window fast: the whirlwind that is Manya Nogg cannot be contained. All you can do is enjoy the flight. She almost died as a toddler, she says. “I had a bad case of appendicitis, there were no antibiotics in the 1930s and I was too young to be operated on. It took several years before they could perform surgery and I have a big scar to prove it.” She likes Omaha, she says: “There is something to it now, it’s more cosmopolitan, but when I was younger I couldn’t wait to leave. I graduated on Friday and was on my way out of town by Sunday.” ‘Out of town’ meant Hollywood, because Manya was in love with the movies. Her mother would play cards with her friends and Manya would escape to the movies. “When I arrived in June of 1945 at Los Angeles’ Beautiful train depot,” she wrote in her 2015 memoirs, Age is just a number and mine’s unlisted, “I thought I’d died and gone to heaven.” Manya was 17 years old. “Everything was different when I arrived in California,” she says. Together with high school friend Jeannie, they dealt with the challenges of the time. Finding a place to live during a severe housing crisis meant they lived with 13 people in one house. Rather than finding work in the movie industry, Manya ended up in Television, which was in its early stages.

“I noticed a sign above a doorway that read ‘Edgar Bergen Stage Eight Television Productions.’ Television! They had to be kidding. The local television station, Don Lee Broadcasting, was only on the air a few minutes each month with test patterns. Curious, I decided to check it out. I turned the door knob and walked into what would become the rest of my life.” During the summer of 1947, Manya found herself back in Omaha, but only temporarily. Next stop: Chicago, where she ended up as a writer for WBKB. Manya enjoyed her job and things were going well, until she received a phone call from her mother. Manya’s father was hurt and needed surgery. Within days, he was gone; eventually, Manya decided to return to Omaha to support her mother. She joined Universal Advertising as a writer (even though the job opening she applied for was ‘bookkeeper’) where a colleague introduced her to her future husband, Alvin Nogg. Soon after she left UA and went to work for a radio station, KBON, where she booked and schedManya Nogg uled commercials. Alvin and Manya added two children to their family: daughter Sharon and son Randy. “I had a lot of fun at that job when I occasionally filled in for the disc jockey,” she added. “I used my experience to volunteering at the local Veteran’s Hospital, which had an inhouse broadcasting system.” As a talent agent and casting director, make-up artist and sometime producer, Manya worked closely with Diane Casker: See Manya Nogg page a8

The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018 | a7

Rosh Hashanah Woman of Valor: Pam Monsky

briTTaNy haMor Intern, Jewish Press Pam Monsky has been the Community Development Liaison for Anti-Defamation League (ADL) since September of 2016. She studied at the University of Nebraska-Omaha and was in the class of 1985. Being a Woman of Valor means to always stick up for what you believe in, according to Monsky. Her New Year’s wish is for a national “no social media month” and for people to learn how to unplug from their devices.

Gloria Kaslow

Continued from page a6 hands are empty, your heart is always full, and you can give things out of that — warm things, kind things, sweet things — help and comfort and laughter. “Gloria gives me the gift of feeling known,” Marti said. “When I ended my first graduate class and read her, with disbelief, some of the positive things fellow students said about me, her response? ‘That is you. You just haven’t caught up with you yet.’ She believed in me even when I wasn’t so sure I believed in myself.” Teaching is still Gloria’s greatest pleasure. “I know how to do that. When you find something you can do pretty well, you keep doing it.”

Wishing the Omaha community

L’Shana Tova from

Pomegranates

a8 | The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018

Rosh Hashanah Manya nogg

Continued from page a7 “Diane and I realized we could rent space when needed and save on overhead costs; we would hire out for production jobs using our various skills. Our first job was for the company Diane had recently left. They were producing two films for a national anti-Alcoholism organization. One was about teenage drinking and the other was a dramatic film regarding an alcoholic father and the effects his drinking had on his family. An aside to this was a request to find the actors. Actors! I did not like working with actors; that was 1974 and so began yet another career path.” Manya has endless stories from the decades since, displaying a combination of the sharpest memory and endless humor. Her experiences are front and center in her aforementioned book; with that many anecdotes, it’s no surprise she had to write one. Like when, in 1978, Diane had left the company because of family obligations, and Manya was handling the work on her own and a Japanese ad agency contacted her to arrange cornfields and an old-fashioned chuck wagon so they could shoot a commercial. The cornfield needed to be unbroken for the miles-long vista they needed. “But it was late summer and most of the fields had been harvested. We had to search for an untouched field and found one that, due to rain damage, the farmer had been late in planting. And we would have to pay $1,000 for the entire field, as they had been ready to harvest it.” Next, Manya was expected to fill in the “little paths” so the field would have no breaks. After arranging the chuck wagon (not as easy as it sounds) she was informed it needed to hold 15 to 20 people. Next, the agency flew in Japanese food from Los Angeles because they didn’t trust that Omaha could provide

it. And there was the antique biplane they needed, somewhere near Grand Island, only to change the location without telling anyone. Then there were the Super Bowl commercials, when, during the shoot, the

cinematographer pulled her aside and asked her to pick up some Preparation H. Ever wondered how they make it rain while filming? You use a fire truck, including “gorgeous firemen,” of course. “A few years later, a call came in from New York. A producer from a nationally known production company called Hungry Man Productions had an unusual talent request. They needed a man and a woman, each of whom had to be be over 300 pounds. And of course, they needed to see audition tapes in three days. I realized it was too early in the day to take a drink. We put the word out, but we weren’t sure how many peo-

ple would show up for the audition. Keep in mind, this was long before reality TV where it seems everyone wants their chance at fame no matter how it makes them look.” From location scouting (find a completely dark farm land view!) to costume searching (sew it yourself if you can’t find it!), finding large bones for fakecavemen to gnaw on, hiring more fireman to manage the needed bonfire and arranging the actual food for everyone involved with the shoot, one thing is clear: Manya is the most versatile woman alive. About filming footage for Disney’s Epcot Center, she wrote: “What began as a star-studded night changed into an overcast one with a light shower toward the end of the shoot. And water and mud banks are not exactly compatible. Fortunately, we finished before it got too bad, and my little prop and costume station wagon and I headed up the road to home. And slipped back down. Then up again and down again. Thank goodness my firemen were still there and they pushed us up to the road.” She calls it “the nonsense of her life,” these stories that are vivid enough you think you’re watching a movie in your head. Manya added the following quote to the back cover of her book: “Life is like a long buffet line and too many folks are going away hungry.” Unlike those ‘folks,’ it seems Manya not only got her fill, she went back for seconds.

Credit: Barry Kaplan Sybil Kaplan On the second evening of Rosh Hashanah, it is customary to eat a new fruit not yet eaten in the season and say a shehecheyanu, the prayer of thanksgiving for things which are enjoyed for the first time. It is said that in Europe this fruit was often grapes. In Israel today, it is often the pomegranate, which is eaten to remind us that G-d should multiply our credit of good deeds like the seeds of the fruit. For many Jews, pomegranates are traditional for Rosh Hashanah. Some believe the dull and leathery skinned crimson fruit may have really been the tapuach, apple, of the Garden of Eden. The word pomegranate means “grained apple.” In Hebrew, it is called rimon (also the word for a hand grenade!). In fact, the English words, hand grenade, are said to come from this. Both the town of Granada in Spain and the stone, garnet, come from the name and color of the pomegranate. The juice can be made into the concentrated syrup, grenadine also. On the second night of Rosh Hashanah, when it is customary to eat a “new” fruit that has not been eaten during the year, many Sephardic Jews chose pomegranate. They recite the prayer “ken yechi ratzon—may it be thy will, O Creator, that our year be rich and replete with blessings as the pomegranate rich and replete with seeds.” In Israel today, it is often the pomegranate which is eaten to remind us that G-d should multiply our credit of good deeds like the seeds of the fruit. Some say each pomegranate has 613 seeds for the 613 mitzvot or good deeds we should observe. Count them and see if it’s true! In modern days, a study at the Technion Institute of Technology in Haifa a few years ago showed the power of the fruit. The cholesterol oxidation process, which creates lesions that narrow arteries and result in heart disease, was slowed by as much as 40 percent when health subjects drank two to three ounces of pomegranate juice a day for two weeks. The juice reduced the retention of LDL, the “bad” cholesterol that aggregates and forms lesions. When subjects stopped drinking the juice, the beneficial effects lasted about a month. Other studies showed that pomegranates fight inflammation and cancer and slow cellular aging. Pomegranates are also a good source of potassium, low in calories and low in sodium. Some say each pomegranate has 613 seeds for the 613 mitzvot or good deeds we should observe. I was once directing a Zionist youth group and as a project, the leader had the kids count the seeds in a pomegranate. When they reached 613, they stopped!

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The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018 | a9

bridge builder: Cookie Hoberman

Gabby blair after turning 40, telling my husband it Staff Writer, Jewish Press was more ‘grown up.” He joked that if his past spring, The Jewish Press I’d have gone by Leslie, he’d have never put out a notice requesting nom- dated me; so, ‘Cookie’ it remains! inations of Jewish women in our com- Share a little bit about growing up in munity whose stories should be told. Omaha. I grew up off 52nd and Charles. My Readers were eager to give suggestions, sharing names, stories, and reasoning dad was born in Russia and came from behind their nominations. One of our a very strict Orthodox family. His fareaders, UNO Professor Emeritus in ther was a Scribe. My mom was born Psychology, Deana Liddy, wasted no in Omaha and was a pretty independtime putting forth the nomination of ent lady for her time; she did not get married until she longtime friend and was 26 and always local philanthroworked. pist, Leslie “Cookie” I attended school Hoberman. at Harrison and “Cookie and I Dundee and graduhave known each ated from Central other for 20-25 High School. Cenyears; I have lost tral is where I count! We met playlearned people have ing duplicate bridge more similarities and have been than differences bridge partners for and that associating at least the past 10 with people who years. Cookie was are different from also in a counseling you is the best way Psychology proto overcome those gram while I was a differences. This is faculty member in an important lesson the department.” that has served me Liddy goes on to Cookie Hoberman well in life. say “Cookie, and Until I was 14, I shared a room with her husband Jerry, are well known in the greater Omaha Community. I really my grandmother, who spoke Yiddishbelieve her to be an excellent Jewish I wish I could remember more of it! role model. She has 3 children, is an ex- Life seemed simple then. We had no cellent grandmother and is loving and TV, but would gather around the radio, supportive of her family and friends. as a family, to listen to Jack Benny. We On a personal note, I can say she has al- never worried about being on the ways been there for me when I needed streets in our neighborhood and rode a friend. For many years she hosted our bikes everywhere without fear; the large Passover Seders and invited com- only rule was to be home before dark. I took buses and streetcars by myself munity members to share and learn about our holiday. I remember my first to Hebrew school and was a Bat Mitzimpression of Cookie was that she was vah at Beth El. When I was 14, I, along such a classy and upscale dresser – I with 17 of my girlfriends, were inadmit I was initially surprised that such formed we could not all join BBYO toa lady was in fact a real human being gether. We were a pretty headstrong with a big heart and a good soul; she group, so we started our own group has always been dedicated to helping called ‘Ediar’ which I believe is still a BBG group today. I was always an inimprove the world around her.” Liddy enjoys playing bridge with her dependent thinker, challenging rules dear friend, who she describes as hav- that didn’t make sense to me. In those ing a “creative and visual mind,” and days we were not allowed to date nonan ability “to always see the possibili- Jewish boys; it sounds silly today, but ties,” in the hands she is dealt. Not only that is how it was. My senior year in does this description adequately de- high school, I met a very cute boy at scribe Cookie’s prowess at the card Creighton and my parents refused to let table, but also in life. I was fortunate me go on a date with him. I retorted enough to sit down with Cookie for an that I was going to meet him at home interview and can say first hand that or down the street! My mother told me she is a woman full of energy, inten- years later she agreed he was really cute. I earned a B.A. in Theater and sity, purpose and real joie de vivre. She loves biking, boating, water ski- Speech from The University of Neing and traveling. She appreciates the- braska-Omaha and worked at the Job atre and literature and enjoys editing Corps as a teacher before getting marand creating videos and catching fea- ried. Afterwards, I landed a job at a local radio station (KOWH) and was tures at Film Streams. She also loves playing bridge, al- working there when an advertising though as you will find out, she is position opened up. I don’t think I could have pulled this off in today’s amazing at building bridges as well. How did you come by the nickname world, but I told my boss I’d do the ad “Cookie?” job and my own, for no extra pay, if The nickname Cookie came from he’d teach me the ropes. He took the the Dagwood comic strip. My father, chance on me and it was an opportubrother (Bob Epstein), and all our nity of a lifetime! I learned TV profriends always called me ‘Cookie’ duction at Holland, Dreves, Poff and growing up; it was affectionate and fa- Reilly and I made a lifelong friend miliar. As I got older, using ‘Cookie’ with my boss, Dick Holland. professionally helped clients rememI took a break from work to raise ber my name. Leslie is my formal name our family and returned for a Masters and I did try to convert “back” to it See Cookie Hoberman page a10

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Cookie Hoberman

Continued from page A9 ciates were wary of our decision to move to the ‘inner city’ in Communications after the children were school aged. I and based on the location, we took the necessary precautions taught beginning Speech at UNO and then started a degree to protect the business. in Counseling and Psychotherapy. My husband started Tires After a while, the principal of nearby Belvedere school visInc., and I began producing radio and TV commercials for ited Jerry. He challenged us to consider how we could do the business; it was great fun to direct him! more to be part of the community, rather than just being anShare a little bit about your family other business with bars on the windows, saying “You are takJerry and I have been married over 52 years! He was also ing resources out of our community... what are you doing to raised at Beth El and his mother fixed us up. Our parents put anything back in it?” (Pauline & Dave Hoberman and Ann & Sam Epstein) were Jerry is a compassionate man and this question gnawed at very close friends and cardhim. He made it a point to playing buddies. I am a pretty visit the Belvedere school intense person and Jerry and this entire interaction brought laughter and humor became one of the most reinto my life! I fell in love with warding experiences of our him because he treated me lives, second only to raising with respect and made me our family. laugh... he still does! I remember when Jerry We have three beautiful came home that day and daughters and five wonderful asked me, “How can these grandchildren and they are children even compete in the truly amazing. Like any famworld? The school has no ily we have our ups and technology, no computers; downs... joys and sorrows, not even a playground.” but in general we all feel so From this moment on, we blessed to still have each became partners with other and the capacity to Belvedere school and the make each day count. We Winner's Circle was born. love being in touch with them The Winner’s Circle was and try to keep up with the patterned after a Tire’s Inc. grandkids and their interests. program designed to imShare a little bit about your prove employee relations and involvement in the Jewish & thus, business. In adapting it Greater Omaha Community. for school, the goal was to While we both grew up at improve not only the school Beth El, our religious views and academics, but morale, and life style aligned more life and relations within the with the reform perspective; community. we joined Temple Israel alI became a “goal buddy,” most 50 years ago. I was on meeting with each and every the search committee that child at Belvedere four times Jerry and Cookie Hoberman hired Rabbi Azriel; very a year. Together, we would proud of that one! We have chaired the Federation’s Annual identify and discuss their personal academic goals and we’d Campaign and served on the JFO board. We chaired one of shake hands on it. We held large celebrations for students and the largest-attended fundraising events, holding it in the gym their families in honor of goals reached. The impact was unof the “brand new” JCC. We stressed the importance of com- believable: the program helped to build bridges and made a munity participation in the drive, rather than donation difference in the lives of children. We are still close friends amount; it is important, to remember that every donation, no with some of these families; the children we befriended as matter the size, is important, as are the community members third graders are now grown adults. who choose to support our institutions. I produced a video I recall a mother coming up to me at one of the Winner’s Cirfor this event which won ‘The Addy’; a prize for coming in cle community celebrations, 3 or 4 years after we had started 1st place in a local state-wide advertising competition. the program. She told me “when you came to our school, I I was honored to win the very first Lois Jean Schrager wondered what these white folks were doing with our children! Young Leadership Award... this meant so much to me as Lois But you and your husband were genuine and you have proven and I were dear friends. yourselves. ...I apologize.” I responded that a good mother Additionally I have served on the ADL Board, produced would never turn her children over to anyone until they prove award winning videos on Anti-Semitism and hosted an in- themselves and demonstrate they can be trusted and that she terview show on WOW TV for the ADL. It was a volunteer must be a great mom, and that she owed me no apology. job and I really loved it. I interviewed Eli Wiesel, Zubin Over the next 12 years Winner's Circle grew to 12 schools. Mehta, Andrew Young, Sam and Magda Fried (survivors.) It We made many wonderful friends and learned so much. We was such an incredible opportunity. I was also a member of learned that parents in North Omaha love their kids and want ‘Black Jewish dialogue’ organized by Rabbi Azriel and David them to succeed just as much as parents in West Omaha. We Jacobson. learned that we could help level the playing field a little. We When Jerry and I visited Israel, there was an incredible con- also learned a lot about ourselves including that the moment nection that reminded us that if Jews were to survive, Israel we live in is all any of us really have and we have choice and “must survive.” duty to make the most of it. I have been active in our greater Omaha community as well. Years ago, someone asked me how I defined myself; Wife? I have enjoyed serving on various councils and boards for or- Mother? Professional? Volunteer? It made me pause because ganizations including Girl’s, Inc., the Mayor’s Committee for I do not define myself as “my role” as much as what I see in Injustice, The Ballet Board, Partnership for Kids and the Ne- the mirror. Before I can “be” a successful “anything,” I have braska Regional Bridge tournament. Jerry and I were the re- to like and believe in myself. This mindset is reflected in the cipients of the NCCJ Humanitarian of the Year and the City of motto I formulated for the kids in the Winner Circle that is Omaha Martin Luther King Award; we are still humbled to used to this day: “I Am What I think I am!” I give my parents have received these honors. One of the greatest endeavors we credit for having this perspective. They, especially my mom, embarked on, however, would be The Winner’s Circle Program. always told my brother and I that we could be whatever we What is The Winner’s Circle? wanted to be, and to not worry about what others think. To In the mid 1990’s, we made a life changing decision. know that this core message is still being passed down to chilJerry had moved Tires Inc. to 60th and Ames. This was dren who are part of the Partnership for Kids program, which purely an economic decision; rent was cheaper and that Winner’s Circle became a part of, is a reward far greater than would allow the business to make a profit. Many of our asso- I could have ever imagined.

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Deborah and the power of a woman’s voice OZZie NOgg

he concept of connection — the relationships, ties and interdependence between people and ideas — holds great significance for Debbi Levin Brown Zweiback. “I’m connected to many wonderful, religious, spiritual, faithful, kind, righteous men and women,” Debbi said. “Long story short, I was born Italian Catholic, adopted into an American Jewish family and raised by a black Southern Baptist. That’s the simple version of a complex story, but you get the gist.” Debbi never considered her background particularly interesting until a certain day in 1999 while working with Bob Wolfson as his assistant director of the ADL/CRC. “I was facilitating a workshop that provided anti-bias education and diversity training. I introduced myself to the group and, for the first time ever, I opened up about my past. The reaction surprised me. ‘Say that again? How can that be?’ So I explained the relationships: In 1950, a young Catholic girl in New York gave her baby — me — up for adoption. My birth mother’s OBGYN in New York and my adoptive mother’s OBGYN in Miami Beach were friends, and in these ‘unfortunate situations’ they helped each others' patients. My parents, Leo and Edith Levin, who’d been unable to conceive, got a healthy baby. I got a wonderful mom and dad and a loving home. So there’s my Italian Catholic connection.” Leo and Edith Levin are obviously Debbi’s American Jewish connection. She and her siblings, Jane (who passed away three years ago), Adrienne and Albert, grew up in a home with a focus on God, family, love, tzadakah, learning, laughter and music. “My paternal grandfather was a cantor, my maternal great-grandfather an orthodox rabbi. I never met them, but their genes created a family of faith where we all were comfortable in our Jewish identity. We observed Shabbat, kept kosher, and our holiday celebrations sparkled not only with silver candlesticks but with a feeling of holiness.” Both Debbi’s parents were musicians, talented vocalists and fluent in several languages. “At home they spoke primarily Yiddish, another connection to the past. The essence

of their ancestors was in my parents’ souls, which gave my folks an almost palpable relationship with God. From them, my siblings and I learned that we carry within us a pilot light, a spark of divinity. That knowledge is magically empowering, at least to me.” Enter Debbi’s black Southern Baptist connection. “My dad had a busy medical practice, my mom was a powerhouse volunteer, and with four children under the age of seven my folks needed help. So they hired a young black Southern Baptist woman, Vernell Watson, as our live-in housekeeper. Like my mom, Vernell was religious, but my parents saw nothing wrong with Vernell sharing her faith with us. The fact Debbi Zweiback that she worshipped differently, yet with the same blessings of Grace, enriched us.” Vernell became an expert kosher cook and learned Hebrew prayers. “At bedtime she recited the Sh’ma with us and shared her ‘now I lay me down to sleep.’ I was doubly blessed.” During these years Debbi, perhaps unconsciously, developed the sensibility which eventually led to her passion for human rights and social justice. ‘I remember my family in a Ford station wagon, driving from Miami to New York in 1960. Of course, Vernell came with us. At a motel in Georgia, we all waited in the car while my dad checked us in. He asked for a room around back so the office couldn’t see him escort Vernell to our rooms, a blanket covering her head. At dinner, we had to sneak food to her from the restaurant because Vernell wasn’t allowed to enter, let alone sit with white people. We kids couldn’t figure it out. To see this kind, young woman we loved so much, who was a second mother to us, suffer such indignity and discrimination was painful.” Debbi also remembers signs in Bal Harbor that read, Restricted. No Jews allowed. “I know how it feels to be marginalized. It hurts.” See Debbi Zweiback page A12

The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018 | A11

Rosh Hashanah Marlen Frost

ANNette vAN De kAMp Editor, Jewish Press he has been a familiar face around Temple Israel for many years: Marlen Frost, originally from Detroit, has called Omaha home since her husband Murray accepted a job here and announced they were moving. They had met while in college at Michigan State and had moved to the Los Angeles area and subsequently to Santa Barbara. Together, they have three children: Michael, who lives in Alexandria, VA where he handles IT for Human Resource Management; Mandy Becker, who lives in Omaha and is a technical writer and Marcy, an attorney, who lives Marlen Frost in Minneapolis. “Murray went to work as a Professor at the Center for Applied Urban Research at UNO,” Marlen said. “Back then, you followed your husband if the job was in another state. Murray lived for Social Science. He did the first demographic study. Later, he was the Research Director at United Way. I don’t think either of us ever worked in the for-profit sector.” It was 1974 when Marlen and Murray found themselves in Omaha and the Jewish Community Center was brand new. Marlen taught a class, became a full-time preschool teacher and subsequently the Director of the JCC preschool. She held that position from 1979 until 1990. “First, it was called the ‘JCC Preschool,’ and then it became the See Marlen Frost page A14

From my family to yours, we wish you a peaceful and prosperous new year.

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A12 | The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018

Rosh Hashanah the language of caring

AnnEttE vAn DE kAmp Besides, kids are surrounded by other kids who speak English constantly. Also, kids are a lot more tolerant when others their age strugEditor, Jewish Press elen Epstein doesn’t think her price is above ru- gle with the language. For adults, that tolerance isn’t always there.” bies. Or pearls, for that matter. Teaching others a new language is challenging because there isn’t “I don’t think my husband thinks of me in one single method that fits everybody, Helen admits. “You have to be those terms either,” she said. “I have heard flexible and be willing to abandon the textbook from time to time. It’s Proverbs 31 read at so many funerals for never cut-and-dry; if you are the kind of person that needs to be in women that I automatically stay away from it.” control, this is not for you!” Still, she admits, verse 20, She stretches out Helen has worked with people from a variety of countries and backher palms to the poor; she extends her hand to grounds, including Sudan and Vietnam. Teaching a language, she said, the needy, might be acceptable when talking about what drives her. demands additional cultural awareness. It’s much more than words: She started out as a teacher “You automatically are exat the CDC, where she spent 11 posed to different customs in difyears before making the move to ferent cultures. For instance, the public school. Karan use medical cupping (an “Back when I taught Kinderancient practice that is now congarten and second grade kids, sidered part of the complemensome of them didn’t speak Engtary and alternative medicine lish at all. I really loved the seccategory, along with acupuncture ond grade; when the English as a and aromatherapy. During a cupSecond Language teacher told ping therapy session, a therapist me about an opportunity to learn applies suction cups to various more at UNO, I jumped at it.” areas of the body. While the cup UNO had stipends available for is in place, suction stimulates teachers who wanted to go back blood flow and causes blood to to school themselves and be leak into the skin and produce a trained in teaching ESL. The rest, red or purple bruise. Reported as they say, is history. Helen benefits include joint and muscle found her passion. pain relief, increased blood flow, “I received my ESL endorseand reduced inflammation, Ed.) ment and since the school I and the marks left behind are worked at already had an ESL easy to misinterpret from an teacher, Indian Hills Elementary American point of view. Chinese hired me. At that time, they had a children are taught not to look large Sudanese population who I their elders directly in the eyes, Helen Epstein had the privilege to work with.” so if you don’t know that and inHelen stayed at Indian Hills Elementary until 2000, but didn’t stop sist on eye contact, you have a problem. There are many details like teaching after that. that you have to learn and be aware of when teaching the language.” “I kept my finger in the pie,” she said. “I continued to do some testIn addition, there is more to language than the words and their diing and someone talked to me about Adult Education at Omaha Public rect meanings. “The idioms,” Helen said, “are not always easy to masSchools. So I began working with adults, together with other volunter. What really helps with that is reading children’s books, so I have a teers like Ruthie Potash, Gloria Kaslow, Molline Cassman and Stanley massive children’s library at my home. Reading the words while lookMitchell.” ing at pictures is really so much more helpful than you’d expect.” There is a big difference between teaching English to adults and Over the years, Helen has worked with students at Creighton Univerteaching young children, she said. “Kids learn so much faster! It takes sity and Metro Community College, as well as Friedel Jewish Academy. adults a long time, because they literally hear the words differently. See Helen Epstein page A13

Debbi Zweiback

Continued from page A11 When Castro overthrew Batiste in Cuba, Debbi learned additional lessons in tolerance. “My 3rd grade teacher, Miss O’Neal, told us that new kids were coming to our school, to be our friends. So she taught us Spanish songs, numbers, the alphabet, and she labeled everything — pencils, desks, clock — in both English and Spanish. Mrs. O’Neal influenced our class of 8-year-old Miami Beach privileged white kids, which all of us were, in ways we’d do well to emulate today.” Debbi arrived in Omaha in 1976 with her boyfriend, Jonathan Brown, whose parents, Syd and Gigi, lived here. “We came for a visit and never left. I loved Omaha from the start.” Debbi and Jonathan married in 1977 and their daughters, Leigh-Anne and Lauren Brown, were born and raised here. The Yiddishkite Debbi grew up with in Miami, she duplicated in Omaha. Lauren and Leigh-Anne agree that God was always present in their childhood home. “The Ten Commandments were posted on our fridge, so you couldn’t miss them.” The girls describe Debbi’s way of making everyone feel included and important, no matter who they were. “There was always a seat at her Shabbat dinner table and an invitation into her heart with your name on it. Several of our non-Jewish friends were with us so often on Shabbat, they could recite the blessings in Hebrew. It was like a case of Vernell, revisited.” The girls participated as Jewish tradition was passed down from generation to generation, and grew up understanding the importance of family, of education, philanthropy and contributing to the community. “Our mom is a committed wife, mother and step-mother — wise, kind, loving, funny, philosophical and beautiful inside and out. She also likes to party and dance. Everyone thinks his or her mom is the best, but ours truly is.” Debbi is high on her mother, too. “She adored people and they adored her. She was a joyful, spiritual woman who recognized, because it was in her soul, that music enriched lives and brought people together effortlessly, naturally. Wherever she went, she brought music with her. Yiddish songs, show tunes, classical, popular, you name it. My mom used to sing me a verse from Judges in our Hebrew scriptures, Awake, awake Deborah. Awake, awake sing a song. And I was awakened, all right. I was awakened to Deborah, the Prophetess and Judge, the strong woman who saved Israel by raising her voice. And that’s what I’m drawn to. Strong women willing to advocate for others. I believe all of us have an obligation to speak out against the danger of hate. Fairness and truth are sacred to me. We’re living with a government that terrorizes families. It’s unjust, and just plain wrong. Don’t get me started. As I’ve tried to teach my daughters, ‘There’s no right way to do a wrong thing. Ever.’” Jonathan and Debbi divorced in 2000. She and Eugene (Speedy) Zweiback married in 2002. The couple feels it is their duty to bring people together and create community. See Debbi Zweiback page A13

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Woman of Valor: Erika Lucoff brittany hamor Intern, Jewish Press Erika Lucoff is the admissions coordinator for the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. She has worked as the admissions coordinator for two years. She has two children- Jake, who is 14, and Oliver, who is 12. In her freetime she loves to hang out with her children, workout, and be able to go outside when the weather is nice. Lucoff believes being a Woman of Valor is about being a good role model by being a positive influ-

Debbi Zweiback

Continued from page a12 –“We love the relationship we’ve developed with the Omaha Conservatory of Music and its Executive Director, Ruth Meints,” Debbi said. “The fact that OCM now occupies the old Temple building on Cass Street makes the relationship wonderfully symbiotic.” This past October, Debbi and Speedy sponsored In Harmony: Shabbat Worship with Music by Omaha Conservatory of Music — a weekend that saw Ruth Meints bring young Conservatory musicians to the new Temple for a mini-concert, followed by a visit by Temple congregants to the old Cass Street location so they could experience the thoughtful changes made by the Conservatory to Temple’s sacred space. “Building community through education, in this case musically, really appeals to both Speedy and me. We’re currently working with Ruth Meints on the second annual In Harmony event.” Ever the educator, Debbi Zweiback believes there are always lessons to be learned

helen Epstein

Continued from page a12 “Sometimes the kids at Friedel don’t need me, sometimes they do; I go when I can be helpful. I discovered the passion for this work later in life, and I know there will always be a need in Omaha for people to reach out to new Immigrants.” The work she has done in teaching ESL has changed her, she said: “I think I’ve become more empathic, more sensitive to other cultures and other people’s needs. Some people have such problems and it puts your own life in perspective. When someone comes here and doesn’t speak the language, it affects everything. How do you get your car fixed? How do you apply for a job? How do you pay your rent? How do you take a bus somewhere? Can you imagine being a new student, sitting in a classroom and you are immersed in a foreign tongue, not understanding anything? Everything you do becomes a challenge when you don’t know the language yet. Plus, had I not done this, I would have cheated myself out of meeting numerous wonderful people. It’s definitely taken me out of my cocoon. All the people I have taught over the years have taught me in return. People cannot be judged by the language they speak or by where they were born.” Helen’s grandparents and parents spoke Yiddish at home, but over time much of that was lost, she said. “I used to know a little Spanish, but I’m not really fluent in anything but English. I remember when Tuffy and I went to Paris with Bev and Dick Fellman and Bev spoke this gorgeous, beautiful French—I

ence in people’s lives and also making a difference in the community. She also said a Woman of Valor needs to be respectful, flexible, and able to not be narrowminded in order to see other people’s views. Her New Year’s Wish is for her family and friends to be happy, healthy, and able to lead positive, productive lives. On a larger scale, she wishes that people do not have to witness suffering and are able to achieve all they want to in life.

and lessons to be taught. “I love Robert Fulghum’s book, All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten. They’re such simple, practical, important lessons: Share, play fair, don’t hit people, put things back where you found them, clean up your own mess. When we join hands and work and play together, we’re connected. I was raised to believe we are not put on earth to see through one another, but to see one another through.” The circumstances of her birth, the mazel of being raised by parents whose moral compass was balanced and fair, in a home where the focus was on love, fairness and doing good, all make Debbi Zweiback... well, Debbi Zweiback. “To sum it up, I’m the woman I am because of who loved me, my own curiosity, and the values instilled in me by my family. My mother, Vernell, Mrs. O’Neal, all had a profound influence on me. Were they women of valor? Probably not by King Solomon’s standards, but I’ll bring them praise at the city gate any day of the week.

just hung on to her during that trip.” We decide to end our conversation by taking another look at the ‘Woman of Valor.’ “The text doesn’t read as equal as I think we are these days,” Helen noted. “We rely on each other, it is a two-way street. And for verse 15: She rises while it is still night, and supplies provisions for her household, the daily fare of her maids, I don’t think so. When you talk about women, though, I do think it is important to connect with each other. I have a group of women friends and there are things we share, conversations we have among each other we wouldn’t have with men in the room. I also know there are things we say and laugh about that would horrify the men if they could hear us. But, a sense of humor is important for women everywhere.” Verse 26, She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is upon her tongue, “sets the bar a little high,” Helen said. (That’s funny, because I think it describes Helen perfectly, ed.) “I mean, what is wisdom? On the other hand,” Helen joked, “I am always right, so there’s that.” As is so often the case when really looking closely at any text, there are more questions than answers. She oversees the activities of her household, and never eats bread of idleness, it states in verse 27. “But what does that mean, ‘Idleness?’ Can you sit down and watch TV for five seconds? Isn’t sitting still sometimes a good thing?” “A Woman of Valor,” she concludes, “does not sit idly by, but stands and marches for the rights of all humans.”

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My eshet Chayil baggage won’t fit in the overhead bin... Ozzie NOgg

cause they only know the idealized version of someone’s hose three little words — imagination. Driven by peer pressure into following this woman of valor — make me model, Christian women develop spiritual anorexia, not recringe. I mean, who is this alizing that the image shoved before them is just as fake as a eshet chayil of Proverbs 31, this computer-enhanced photograph on a magazine cover. It is no über housefrau who wakes at wonder that Christian wives experience an identity crisis dawn and burns her candle at when they read Proverbs 31. Their desire to be a godly both ends, 24/7, eager to spin, woman gets frustrated somewhere between the loom on weave, buy and trade, plant, which this woman weaves her family’s clothes and her lamp sew, manage servants, extend that never goes out.” Wow. You mean non-Jewish women charity, provide food for her carry this baggage, too? Who knew. household, prepare for each season, laugh at the future and So who composed this poem that praises not ‘everywoman’ act unfailingly even-tembut the ultimate fantasy pered toward her husband housewife? Scholars credit and kids like some biblical King Solomon with the June Cleaver? Honestly. words, and suggest he wrote Using this goody-two-shoes them as a tribute to his as a role-model can lower mother, Bathsheba. Others one’s self esteem or, at the say that eshet chayil is not a very least, heighten one’s real woman at all, but rather urge to up-chuck. a personification of Wisdom. My feeling of inadequacy is Various commentaries argue shared by Nancy Kennedy, that these verses in Psalm 31 author of, Help! I'm Being Indescribe the Torah, Shabbat, timidated by the Proverbs 31 and the soul, and can also be Woman: My Battles with a read as a description of the Role Model Who's Larger ideal Jewish nation – prosthan Life, wherein Kennedy Credit: JosephineRN28 via Wikimedia Commons perous, generous, beautiful sets out to emulate the flawand loyal. less Mrs. P. 31., only to learn that the search for perfection is Sarah Horn offers her own analysis. “What if this woman futile and that “God loves each of us, cellulite and all.” My that we’ve all idolized and try to emulate is just a concoction sense of guilt is shared by Sara Horn who wrote My So-Called from King Solomon and a group of his royal cronies who sat Life as a Proverbs 31 Wife in which she confesses, “The around one day drinking beers and decided to have an imProverbs 31 wife and I don’t get along very well. I don’t ap- promptu brainstorming session on what makes the perfect preciate how bad she makes me look.” wife. And some servant wrote all the ideas down on a big Keen observation during the nineteen years she spent as a Post-it note and it eventually made its way into Proverbs with missionary among the native peoples of Borneo (I’m serious) all the other wise things Solomon wrote, but it was a drinking inspired Carmen J. Bryant to publish a study titled, The game. And if this woman really did exist maybe she was like Proverbs 31 Wife: Fact or Fiction? In her report Bryant states, the Martha Stewart of her day and I’m sure the majority of “Some Christian women wince when reading Proverbs 31 be- See My eshet Chayil page A15

Marlen Frost

Contined from page A11 ‘Early Childhood Development Center,’” Marlen said. “It wasn’t yet the Pennie Z. Davis CDC.” Marlen’s next job was at the Omaha School Foundation, where she remained until retirement: “I was the Foundation’s first full-time employee,” she said. In that position, her focus remained on education, particularly early childhood and after-school programming. “I have always felt good about where I worked,” Marlen said. “It was never about making a profit; it was about feeling free to choose where to work, knowing you are helping others.” She also taught at Temple Israel’s religious school ever since she first arrived in Omaha. Then there is the Red Cross as well as Offutt Air Force Base where she teaches a class called ‘Home Alone,’ which is a required class for parents who want to leave their children home alone on base. “It keeps me off the street,” she laughed. “Actually, I also teach swimming at Prairie Life, so I take back what I said about non-profit work; although that is the only exception. Every other work I have ever done has been non-profit.” Marlen is similarly dedicated to volunteering in her synagogue, both at Temple Israel and at her daughter Marcy’s synagogue in Minneapolis, where she also maintains membership. “Back in Santa Barbara, I was the President of the Sisterhood,” she said, “so my Rabbi called ahead when we moved to Omaha. They knew we were coming and we hit the ground running. Back in the day, the Sisterhood was massive; it was vital to the synagogue. From the kitchen to fundraisers and religious school, it was all funneled through the Sisterhood.” Marlen served on both the National and International Sisterhood Board (which includes South Africa, Mexico, England, Canada and Israel); these days, she continues to serve on the Regional Board. The 100th anniversary of Women of Reform Judaism took place in 2013. Members of the International Board of Directors, Marlen included, made a trip to Israel. Her daughter came along as well; they were the first mother-daughter team to serve simultaneously. “During Shabbat, someone asked if there was anyone present who hadn’t had a Bat Mitzvah,” Marlen remembered. “I raised my hand im-

mediately. So there I was, in Israel, finally becoming Bat Mitzvah. I was surprised how meaningful it turned out to be.” The fact that Sisterhood is not what it once was doesn’t surprise her. “I see the same challenges at the National Council for Jewish Women,” she said. “Women are busier, there are more job responsibilities and the landscape has shifted. It used to be; there were opportunities that would open up through organizations like Sisterhood, which nowadays are available in the workplace. The Sisterhood’s necessity has changed.” She remembers a joke her father told: “The problem with the world today? We taught women how to read. Seriously, our family is highly educated, but sometimes having babies got in the way. So, in Santa Barbara I eventually attended UCSB and it took me 12 years total, but I finished. Education has always been tremendously important.” She calls Temple Israel the center of her Omaha life. “Teaching Sunday School,” she said, “is pure joy.” She’s not overly impressed with how women are described in the Book of Proverbs. “A real woman of Valor,” she said, “is not what I find described in that passage. I think we all are valuable, but I don’t want to be valued just because of what I can do for my husband and immediate family. I think we can be more than that, to the wider community, the bigger world out there. “I’d probably put the emphasis on being a good human being before being a good woman,” she continued. “For decades, the Sisterhood was part of my identity, but since that is no longer the case, I think of myself as a Jewish person before I think of myself as a Jewish woman. I’ve raised three kids who all identify as Jewish and I’ve continued to try to keep a Jewish home, but with the kids all grown up, I think my Jewish identity has to be broader.” Her favorite aspect of our Omaha community is being around the kids: “I’ve worked with children in preschool, I knew them as five-yearolds, and now they have kids of their own who are growing up, active in the community, getting married in turn. To watch children grow and continue to make an effort, stay in the community and contribute to it; I look at that and think I maybe had a little bit to do with that. I strive for that: continue to work, continue to make things better. It’s all about the service to others.”

My eshet chayil baggage continued from page a14 the women living in that time didn’t like her and didn’t appreciate her, and while they watched her television show and read her magazine — Housekeeping in the Holy Land — behind closed doors, they lived in fear and guilt that one day their husbands would come home and say, ‘Why can’t you be more like the Proverbs 31 wife?’” But what if you’re single? Should the words be interpreted as a one-size-fits-all job description for women everywhere, instructing them to get married, have children and lift weights to build their biceps? The only woman outside Proverbs of whom the words eshet chayil are used is Ruth. In her book, A Year of Biblical Womanhood, Rachel Held Evans writes, “Circumstantially, Ruth’s life looked nothing like the life of the woman depicted in Proverbs. She didn’t spend her days making clothes for her husband. She had no husband; she was widowed. Ruth's children didn’t rise up and call her blessed. She was childless. Ruth didn’t spend her days exchanging fine linens with the merchants and keeping an immaculate home. She worked all day in the sun, gleaning leftovers from other people's fields, which was a provision made for the

poorest of the poor in Israel. Eventually, Ruth does marry Boaz, but guess what Boaz says of Ruth before they marry, before she has a child, before she becomes a wealthy and influential woman: All the people of my town know that you are a woman of noble character. An eshet chayil.”

The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018 | a15

circumstance.” Years ago I was cast in the Harnick and Bock musical, The Apple Tree, at the Omaha Community Playhouse. The show is a series of three one-acts: Mark Twain’s The Diary of Adam and Eve; Frank R. Stockton’s The Lady or the Tiger; and Jules Feiffer’s Passionella. I was lucky enough to play all three female roles — Eve, the Princes Barbara, and Passionella, who starts out as Ella, a schlumpy chimney sweep. Ella dreams of becoming a GOR-jus, FA-mus MOOOvee star and ZAP (with some costuming slight-ofhand) she transforms right in front of the audience into a Jane Mansfield clone with peroxide-blond hair and silicone-breasts. The transformation delights Ella but moves her downto-earth boyfriend to sing, “How does it feel, to be the world's ideal, when you know an' I know, that you are not real? I'll tell you what's real. It’s the least I can do. Dirty fingernails is real, an’ strag-ga-ly hair, an’ slovenly clothes, an’ a air of despair. I long for a woman who’s real through and through. No goddess will ever get my heart to throb. For the girl of my dreams is a slob.” With that girl I can identify.

we’re all living in the shadow of that infamous icon, “the Proverbs 31 woman,” whose life is so busy i wonder, when does she have time for friendships, for taking walks, or reading good books? her light never goes out at night? when does she have sex? From The Proverbs 31 Woman: 10 Myths Explained by Gina Poirier Horn continues. “Ruth is identified as a woman of valor, not because she checked off some Proverbial to-do list by getting married, keeping a clean house and producing children, but because she lived her life with incredible bravery, wisdom and strength. Be careful of focusing on marriage, motherhood, and domesticity, when it is not our roles that define us, but the integrity and character we bring to those roles that transcends both gender and

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Rosh Hashanah New children’s book

Penny Schwartz BOSTON | JTA regina PerSiSted: an Untold Story Sandy Eisenberg Sasso; illustrated by Margeaux Lucas Apples & Honey Press; ages 7-12 These days, when Jewish-American kids attend synagogue during the High Holidays, it’s not that unusual to have a female rabbi leading the congregation. Older kids may be fascinated to learn about Regina Jonas, the German Jew who in 1935, against many odds and strict gender roles, became the first woman ordained as a rabbi. In this illustrated biography, which garnered a starred review from Kirkus, Sandy Eisenberg Sasso traces how Jonas persisted until religious authorities finally allowed her to take the exam to become a rabbi. Margeaux Lucas’ illustrations capture the period, with drawings of Berlin life. Several scenes convey the young Regina as a kind of Disney-like Belle, greeting peddlers at the market and clutching a book, daydreaming, as she crosses the street. The afterword tells of the tragic ending of Jonas’ life in 1944, where she was killed in the Nazi death camp at Auschwitz. It would be nearly 40 years later until another woman, the American Sally Priesand, is ordained, in the Reform movement. Today there are nearly 1,000 women rabbis around the world, among them the book’s author, who herself was a trailblazer as the first woman to be ordained as a rabbi in the Reconstructionist movement. Eisenberg Sasso also is the award-winning author of the best-selling children’s book God’s Paintbrush.

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Help secure the financial future of Omaha’s Jewish community through the LIFE & LEGACY™ initiative. LIFE & LEGACY is a collaboration between the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation, the Harold Grinspoon Foundation, and our local Jewish partner organizations: The Jewish Federation of Omaha and its Agencies, Beth El Synagogue, Beth Israel Synagogue, Temple Israel, Chabad House, Anti-Defamation League/CRC, Friedel Jewish Academy, Institute for Holocaust Education, and Nebraska Jewish Historical Society.

Howard N. Epstein, Executive Director 402-334-6466 | hepstein@jewishomaha.org

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Contact the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation today.

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The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018 | B1

Section 2 ROSH HASHANAH

The lady who lived in the house with the blue shutters Ozzie NOgg

o write a profile about the late Lillian Farber in her prime is to swan back to the 1930s, ‘40s and ‘50s, when women wore hats with veils and white kid gloves, not baseball caps and black lycra joggers; sipped Dubonnet cocktails, not kale smoothies; and left their infants home with the sitter and never took them to restaurants where the kids threw ear-splitting tantrums while mommy, oblivious, texted on her smart phone. No. Lillian Farber lived in more genteel times, and oh, how I wish we could return to those days, but we can’t, so let’s get on with the task at hand and finish this column before deadline. Which is how Lillian Farber faced projects that required attention: Size-up the situation, decide what needs doing, and do it, chop-chop. The lady was a dynamo. “Our mom was an intelligent, energetic, ambitious woman,” said Lillian’s son, Jim Farber. “She could easily have run a successful business, but back then, working outside the home was not an option — at least not in our family — so what was a capable woman to do with her time?” Lillian Farber found the answer in community service. She took her smarts, dipped into her natural reservoir of compassion, and set her sights on National Council of Jewish Women. “Mom joined Omaha Section NCJW in 1933 as a bride,” said Lillian’s daughter, Nancy Noddle, “and ten years later she was Section President. She remained President for four years, and then sailed through one chairman-

ship after another, always leaving success in her wake. In one year alone, she recruited 114 new members. Astonishing.” Lillian Farber, an equal-opportunity volunteer, resolutely marched from one board meeting to an-

lines in Woman of Valor about her lamp not going out at night? That was my mom.” During the early years of WWll, Lillian Farber acted as Council Chairman for the USO serviceman’s canteen at Union Station. “Even when Nancy and I were very young, Mom expected us to be in the mix,” Jim Farber said. “Passing out coffee, donuts, we helped as best we could. One morning we were with Mom when she spotted a forlorn looking GI. She went up to him, offered a cup of coffee, and the soldier said, ‘I don’t think you want to have anything to do with me. I’ve been dishonorably discharged.’ Mom sat him down and talked with him for a long Lillian and Harold (H.P.) Farber in 1975 at Jim and Judy Farber’s wedding. time. Later, mom other — NCJW, Temple Israel Sisterhood, Visiting told me how good she felt, giving that soldier some Nurses, Joslyn Museum, Friends of Children’s Me- support. That’s the compensation she received for morial Hospital. She twice Co-chaired the performing an act of loving kindness, and it’s part Women’s Division of Philanthropies, served as of what we learned from her.” President of the Federation of Jewish Women’s Lillian also supervised the New Americans Clubs and was a life member of B’nai B’rith Committee that resettled European Jewish Women, who honored her in 1962 as Woman of refugees in Omaha after the War. “That project the Year. “No doubt about it,” Nancy said. “Those See Lillian Farber page B2

b2 | The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018

Rosh Hashanah

Lillian Farber

Continued from page b1 gave mom some ‘teachable moments’ to pass on to me, Jimmy and even my dad,” Nancy said. “The three of us helped clean apartments, gather clothes, food, furniture. When we met the refugees, we saw they had no alternative but to accept what was given to them. Volunteering as a family was an eye-opening experience. It helped me and Jimmy understand the world we lived in, and was among our first lessons in giving back.” In 1979, Lillian Farber and Omaha’s other NCJW powerhouse, Lois (Buck) Friedman received the prestigious Hannah G Solomon Award, presented to a Section member who has changed the lives of others through her leadership efforts and service, and who motivated others to fight for change in the community. The award ceremony was held at the French Cafe, the elegant whitelinen-tablecloth restaurant in the Old Market, a venue that played a wonderful role in the Farber family’s lives over the years, and fit Lillian’s sensibilities like those white leather gloves. Because, you see, Lillian Farber was a stickler for manners. Her granddaughter, Jenny, explained. “My folks, Jim and Judy Farber, my sister Betsy and I would often go to dinner with Grandma and Grandpa H.P. — our Poppy. The Imperial Palace was a favorite, because not only was the food wonderful, they used white table cloths, real napkins and proper table settings. Plus, the staff did not stack the dishes. They cleared the table two plates at a time, one of Grandma’s household rules that she taught me and my sister at family dinners. It’s still a habit.” A gracious hostess, Lillian loved to entertain family and friends. Her niece, Carol Farber, re-

members, “Aunt Lillian’s impeccable table welcomed people of all faiths and occupations and was a particular treat

Lillian Farber on Shabbat and holidays. To have been a part of the life of this special lady enriches my life to this day.” Nancy Noddle’s son, Jay, said, “I had the privilege of living with my mom and my grandparents until I was seven, when my mother married Harlan Noddle. During those seven years, Grandma and Poppy and I became very close and we stayed that way for the balance of their lives. Lillian was a fantastic role model, a woman of grace with a can-do attitude that was in a word, remarkable. My children, all of us, have table manners that we learned from Lillian. Thanks to her, we don’t have to put newspaper under my chair at the dinner table any longer.” Betsy Farber also praised Lillian’s dedication to civility

and etiquette. “Sadly, those values are becoming things of the past in our culture today.” In pursuit of human interest anecdotes, one sometimes uncovers a tidbit just too delicious not to share. To wit: “Grandma consistently exhibited an unwavering sense of purpose,” Jenny said. “She knew what she wanted, and what she would or wouldn’t allow. I was a little kid, and from my perspective, this looked sort of like stubbornness, but who was I to say? Anyway, I have vivid memories of riding with my grandparents in their unforgettable, huge yellow Cadillac. I’d be in back, watching Grandma refuse to let Poppy make any left-hand turns. Five minute trips turned into ten minute trips. They were also examples, to me, of how a strong woman can be in the driver’s seat without being behind the wheel.” Betsy has her own analysis. “Yes, Grandma knew what she liked, but I sensed that Poppy put a lot of trust in his wife. It was okay with him if she ran the ship. Of course, I imagine it took a lot of chutzpah to say ‘no’ to Lillian.” To write a profile about the late Lillian Farber is to celebrate her love of family, to honor her respect for others, and recognize her open mind and open arms. “When I married Jimmy, Lillian welcomed me and my widowed mother, Lucille Bonner, whole-heartedly into the family,” Judy Farber said. “My mom enjoyed almost ten years with the Farbers and was part of every Passover seder and Thanksgiving dinner. I was raised in the Presbyterian church and converted to Judaism right after Jenny was born. I saw how much Lillian adored her grandchildren, and I appreciated the way she influenced our See Lillian Farber page b4

L.O.V.E. Board welcomes new leadership

Gabby bLaiR Staff Writer, Jewish Press he Board of L.O.V.E. (the League Offering Volunteers for the Elderly), is pleased to announce that Vicki Perlmeter and Ricki Skog have been named Co-Presidents for the next two years. These ladies, both of whom are long-term board members and dedicated volunteers with L.O.V.E., are eager to take the helm in fulfilling the organization’s mission of improving the quality of life for the residents and staff of the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home.

Vicki Perlmeter and Ricki Skog

Vicki Perlmeter, a mother of two daughters and grandmother of five, has been a member of the L.O.V.E. Board for the past six years, although her experience with L.O.V.E. started long before then. “My Grandma Ida lived at the Blumkin Home 30 years ago. I visited her quite often, and over time I got to know the caring staff and kind nurses at the Blumkin Home,” she explains. Years later, her parents, Roie and Bernie Meyers, became residents until their passing. Today, her aunt, Sue Meyers, is a resident. “Having many of my dear family members as residents of RBJH, I have had the opportunity to witness time and again, the loving care they receive. I wanted to give back for what my family has and does receive; what better way than through serving on the L.O.V.E board? This organization does such important work; from sponsoring and securing volunteers for various RBJH events and programming, to providing funding for gifts on the wish lists of RBJH staff and resident families.” Perlmeter says she always enjoys helping with Mother’s Day and Father’s Day programming as well as with the annual L.O.V.E. Game Day. “I am honored to serve as a Co-President of L.O.V.E. and am pleased to share the duties of the position with my friend, Ricki Skog. We hope to continue L.O.V.E.’s mission within our Jewish community: Giving back to the elderly.” See Vicki Perlmeter and Ricki Skog page b3

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The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018 | B3

Beth Cohen embodies a Woman of Valor

Brittany hamor o say that Beth Cohen, head of school, is hardworking is an understatement. Her passion for the school radiates with everything she does. Cohen spends many long hours evaluating all aspects of the school’s operations and working to ensure the best possible experience for Friedel families. “I do a lot of reading and research when deciding on ways to enhance the educational experience,” Cohen said. “I want to make sure I’m seeking out credible sources to see what improvements would be best for this age group and how it can be implemented in a school setting.” Some of these changes include adding a weekly music class and weekly art class, creating an Innovation Learning curriculum, and having healthy breakfast, lunch, and snack programs filled with fruits, vegetables and whole grains. “This past school year we introduced a new program called the “Monthly Middot”, which basically means character traits. It is a way for us to introduce character and values education to our students,” Cohen said. “It is important to look at the whole child when educating. Children need to learn all sorts of things. They need to learn how to read and how to add, but they also need to learn how to express empathy for someone, how to act with integrity, and, to raise their hands when they want to be called on, and as funny as it sounds, they need to learn how to say the Pledge of Allegiance and how to stand in line.” In order to teach outsidethe-classroom material like the Pledge of Allegiance, Cohen and the teachers break it down into steps. They use common vocabulary for the students to have a better understanding of what needs to be done. They Beth Cohen also have a sign posted in the room where they say the Pledge of Allegiance to remind students to do things like stand up and push in their chairs. Other programs that Cohen believes gives students an advantage in the years after Friedel is the immersion language program, the innovation lab, the fine arts program and the Modern Woodmen Speech Contest. The immersion language program teaches students an additional language. Starting in kindergarten, students are completely immersed into learning Hebrew See Beth Cohen page B4

Vicki Perlmeter and Ricki Skog Continued from page B2 Ricki Skog has been involved with L.O.V.E. for the past eight years, most recently serving as board secretary. “I became involved with L.O.V.E. after my father, Danny Goodman, of Blessed Memory, became a resident at the Blumkin Home. I wanted a chance to be involved in his well-being and care and L.O.V.E provided a way for me to do so.” Skog already has plans for her term as co-president, including a volunteer drive. “Simply put, L.O.V.E. needs more volunteers. Many of our most dedicated volunteers are growing older themselves and we really need some younger and middle aged folks.” She’d like people to know that “volunteering with L.O.V.E is not difficult, nor does it have to be a huge time commitment; the positive impact just a little bit of your time makes in the lives of our residents is so valuable.” Skog is also busy thinking up new projects for the residents and undertakings for the board. “Like most of our board members, I choose to continue on the board after my initial commitment and to stay in-

volved. It is satisfying to know that we, as volunteers, make a real difference to our residents, their families and staff.” The two women were welcomed and installed by the L.O.V.E Board and outgoing Co-presidents, Mark Kazor and Mike Shrago, at the group’s July meeting. Shrago, who intends to continue on the board as a past copresident, says that he has enjoyed getting to know and work with some great volunteers during his time as co-president and has the utmost confidence in the leadership of Ricki and Vicki. “Given their level of dedication and in-depth experience with L.O.V.E., we couldn’t have asked for a better set of leaders. I look forward to hearing about the fresh ideas they will bring to the board.” Interested in volunteering or learning more about L.O.V.E? Please contact Sabine Strong, RBJH Volunteer Coordinator at 402.334.6519 or via email at: sstrong@ rbjh.com. Background checks are required of all volunteers as the safety of our Residents is our number one priority. L.O.V.E. is a 501c3; all donations made to L.O.V.E. are 100% tax deductible.

B4 | The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018

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Beth Cohen

Continued from page B3 Cohen has seen how this contest affects the minds of chilfor 90 minutes a day. The teacher only speaks in Hebrew and dren first-hand. Her son, who has graduated from Friedel, everything in the room is written in Hebrew. By the time they said his middle school class had to prepare a two-minute graduate Friedel, students can read, write and speak Hebrew. speech. His entire class was extremely nervous for the pres“There’s a lot of research that talks about second language learning. Regardless of what the language is, learning a second language at a young age wires your brain to learn other languages in the future,” Cohen said. “Research also shows students tend to have higher executive functioning skills and they tend to do better academically in all subject areas when they have learned a second language.” The Innovation Lab sets Friedel apart from other elementary schools, Cohen said. There’s a designated space for the innovation learning program for all students to use for one hour per week. The instructor uses the Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) learning program in a handson way. Cohen/Berman Family in Jerusalem “The innovation learning program teaches students that we don’t always get things entation, except him. He knew he could do it based on right the first time and that you can learn a lot from failure,” preparing for the Modern Woodmen of America Speech Cohen said. “It teaches design thinking skills so students can Contest. take what they learn, and create and redesign to see where it “It’s easy to point to high test scores and say you are proud takes them.” of that, but the life skills we help students develop in public The fine arts program is also an important component to speaking is really something to be proud of,” Cohen said. the learning at Friedel. Cohen is working with other Heads of Schools from “Our fine arts program is dynamite. We have a really gifted schools in smaller Jewish Communities to create an alliance art teacher,” Cohen said. “I want to give our students the op- of learning. The students in six Jewish community day portunity to explore the arts and everything that means, like schools will learn together throughout this school year in a visual and performing arts.” virtual American history program, focused on Civil Rights A program that Cohen feels is very impactful for students education for 6th graders. This year-long shared learning is Friedel’s annual participation in the Modern Woodmen of program will culminate with a trip to Mobile, Selma and America Speech Contest. This Modern Woodmen of Amer- Birmingham, Alabama. ica Speech contest teaches the participating students how to “I want the students to feel connected to something so write a speech, convey their ideas and speak with their per- much bigger than Omaha, and I feel that this program will sonality. This contest is for 5th and 6th graders who ulti- do that,” Cohen said. Most importantly, the thing to take away mately write and perform a three to five-minute speech. It about Beth Cohen is she truly loves her job. begins as a school-wide contest and then the students can “I know, it sounds a little corny, but I feel like I’m doing holy move to district and state. The school has had five state win- work. I always have in my mind that the work I do is for chilners and, in 2015, the national winner was from Friedel. dren who are the next generation of leaders and thinkers,” ‘You have to be proud of those great accomplishments, but in Cohen said. “I love what I get to do. Sometimes, you are lucky addition to accomplishments that give us plaques to hang on enough to have a job where you feel like you are really doing the wall, it’s also about the experience all students are receiving.” something big and this is that kind of job.”

Lillian Farber

Continued from page B2 daughters by her proper etiquette, the way she maintained a lovely home. My girls had the best of both worlds — making cookies with my mother, Gammy Lucille, and going to lunch at Highland Country Club with Grandma Lillian.” According to Jim Farber, his mother’s strongest asset was her character. “I wouldn’t call her a perfectionist, but she felt that anything worth doing is worth doing right. That meant attention to detail down to the Nth degree, like her perfectly folded napkins. She taught by example. When you take on a job, you give it 100% and that’s what she did, Not for the recognition, but because ‘right’ was the only way to do it. When you’re a kid, you think, ‘Boy, is she strict and demanding’, but the distance of time helps you understand she was teaching us that success is ‘doing it right.’

That was the essence of her character. She was a great mother, wife and friend. We were, and are, lucky to have had her for our mentor and Mom.” Lillian Schiff Farber died in 1995 at the age of eightyeight. “She gave endlessly of her heart, soul, time and resources to help other people,” Nancy Noddle’s daughter, Susie said. “She was the first forward-looking woman I knew, so ahead of her time, or — as one of my friends describes my mom — she was ‘relevant.’ And with street smarts, too. Lillian showed me a tricky way to hang my purse on the back of the door in a ladies room stall so a thief couldn’t reach over the top or up from the bottom and steal my stuff. Even as a teenager I wanted to be like my grandmother, Lillian Farber. Today, at fifty-one, I still aspire to be like Lillian. She rocked!”

Seventeen and counting... Ozzie NOgg

he soooo loves Thanksgiving,” Sari Raizner said about her Grammy, aka Maxine Kirshenbaum. “She wakes up at dawn to make Thanksgiving dinner and won’t let anybody in her kitchen for fifteen hours straight, insisting on doing everything herself, like until three in the morning. The only help Grammy accepts is from me, tasting the mashed potatoes.” Maxine doesn’t argue the facts. “Yes, Thanksgiving’s my favorite holiday, but Joe and our kids think the preparation is too much. I admit, now that I’m getting older, what once took me three days to accomplish may take a week, but I’m going to do it as long as I’m able. I can get grumpy during the process, but when my whole family sits down at our dining room table, the pleasure I get makes the work worth it.” Even though she wakes while it is still night to provide food for her family, Maxine doesn’t consider herself an Eshet Chayil. “What I do is nothing special. Other women do the same. The ‘why’ we do what we do comes, I think, from a place inside us that I can’t identify.” Gathering around the dining room table is a time-honored practice that Maxine staunchly preserves. “Every Friday, when I was young, we’d have Shabbat dinner at our house with my maternal grandparents, my mom’s sisters and my cousins. On Sunday, we’d visit my dad's family. There were lots of Kaplans and lots of Zweibacks, and staying connected to both families was important to my folks.” Over time, Maxine elevated the Family Gathering to an art form. Just ask her husband, Joe, their kids and grandkids: Jeff and Sharon Kirshenbaum, their daughters, Alyssa and Lauren; Susie Kirshenbaum Raizner, her husband Jeff, and kids Kayla, Josh and Sari; Debbie Kirshenbaum Shonfeld, her husband, Ken and their twin sons Sam and Zach plus Jordan and Ben. Add Joe and Max to the mix, and you have seventeen people to wrangle. “Pulling her growing family together from different regions of the country wasn’t easy,” Ken Shonfeld said, “with kids in three different cities, sons-in-law with new business careers, and babies being born left and right. But Maxine over-

The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018 | B5

came all obstacles to get the kids and grandkids together for long chunks of time, so the cousins could create bonds with each other and beautiful relationships with their grandparents.”

Joe and Maxine Kirshenbaum Susie added details.“For the past twenty-three years, all seventeen of us have spent nearly every holiday together, plus summer and winter vacations. My mom has attended more Bar and Bat Mitzvahs, birthday parties, school grandparents’ days, dance recitals, violin and piano concerts and graduations than most in-town grandparents. She made sure her grandchildren 1,000 miles away knew her as well as her grandchildren down the street in Omaha. And that those grandchildren knew their far-away cousins as well as they knew their classmates at school. This became mom’s priority and eventually filtered down to the grandchildren as their priority. It was always, ‘When do we see Grammy and Poppy again?’ When do we see the cousins again?’ The next set of plans was being organized before the current time together ended.” Quoting Maxine, Joe said, “It’s not enough that they’re all cousins, but just as important that they all become friends, too.” Before her marriage, Maxine was not a “religious” person. “I never went to Sunday School or Hebrew School, and in see Maxine Kirshenbaum page B6

Rosh Hashanah Five new things to do at the New Year

AMy DeuTsch Kveller via JTA As the fall nears each year, the air gets cooler, the kids go back to school and Rosh Hashanah rolls around. The holiday itself celebrates the Jewish New Year, but also deals with more serious topics like renewal, forgiveness and thinking hard about how to be a better person. There are many ways to celebrate Rosh Hashanah, from huge family dinners to attending synagogue services to eating apples and honey. In the spirit of change, we’ve come up with a list of our favorite Rosh Hashanah-y activities that are great to do with young kids. Try out one: Take the kids to the nearest pickIf all goes well, you could your-own apple orchard and let have a new family tradition. them see where apples really Apple picking come from. It’s traditional to eat apCredit: Sean Gallup/Getty Images ples and honey on Rosh Hashanah to symbolize a sweet new year. Rather than just picking up apples at the grocery store, take the kids to the nearest pick-your-own apple orchard and let them see where apples really come from. When you bring home bushels of apples, find some recipes for a new take on Rosh Hashanah’s traditional apples and honey. Or use a few apples to make apple-print tablecloths or apple-print placemats for your Rosh Hashanah dinner. Even better, turn an apple into a honey bowl. Before see New things to do page B6

Wishing You

A Good & Sweet New Year

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B6 | The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018

Rosh Hashanah New things to do

Continued from page B5 you know it, apple picking and apple crafting will become an annual tradition – complete with many a great photo op! Honey tasting As it turns out, there are lots of different kinds of honey out there. Because bees suck nectar from all types of flowers, the honey can have a very different taste. Assemble your family for a taste test. Go to the local farmer’s market and buy two or three kinds of honey. (Not only are you supporting local agriculture, but you’re also showing your kids where food comes from.) At home, arrange a smorgasbord of foods to dip into the various kinds of honey—challah, apples, pretzels, bananas, etc. Which honey goes best with which foods? When you find your favorites, you can put them out at your Rosh Hashanah table. (Check with your pediatrician, but generally honey is not recommended for children under the age of 1.) New Year’s cards Rosh Hashanah is a great time to send cards to friends and family. Your kids can write about their summer adventures, their new teacher at school -- or even your trip to go apple picking. We love making appleprint New Year’s cards – just cut or fold construction paper to the size of your choice and follow these steps (https://www.kveller.com/ article/ apple-print-blessings-placemat/) to do apple prints. Your friends and family will love the personalized touch that the homemade apple prints bring to their cards. Challah baking On Rosh Hashanah, it’s traditional to make a round challah instead of the normal braided shape eaten throughout the rest of the year. Why round? Because the year is a circle. If you’ve never made challah before, it’s like many other bread recipes – you get to punch and knead the dough. That’s a great way to get out all of your frustrations before the new year begins! And kids love playing with dough, too – try breaking off a little bit and letting them make their own challah shapes. Nature walk Fall is a great time to be outdoors and appreciate the beauty of nature. Take advantage of the temperate weather (hopefully) and head to the nearest forest, reserve or park. Walk slowly with your kids, picking out animals, insects, flowers, plants and trees. Have your kids find their favorite rocks, plants, trees, flowers or insects along the way. Talk to them about the cycle of the year and the seasons. It’ll keep them engaged and help your simple walk feel like an adventure. Amy Deutsch is a Jewish educator and a mom.

Visit us at jewishomaha.org

Maxine Kirshenbaum

Continued from page B5 Sharon Kirshenbaum, a former Feder- Zweiback, who was living in Israel with my teens I didn’t even want to identify ation Campaign Director, said, “When his family, conducted the service. I as Jewish. Then Joe entered my life. My I moved to Omaha twenty-six years can’t begin to tell you the impact this family belonged to Beth Istrip made on me, Joe, our rael, just as Joe’s family did, kids and grandchildren.” but I knew nothing about Being with kids and Judaism other than Friday grandkids is not always fun night dinner, the High Holand games. “I had a diffiidays and Hanukkah.” Fast cult pregnancy with my forward. Joe and Maxine twins,” Debbie said. “I was marry, have Jeff, Susie and hospitalized for eight weeks Debbie. “Joe was very inbefore I delivered two volved with Beth Israel, I months early, and my mom joined Sisterhood, we’d take flew to Chicago every the kids to Friday night Wednesday and stayed services. We all adored through Sunday for all Rabbi and Jeanette Nadoff.” eight weeks. She never At that point, inspired by wanted me to sleep alone in the Nadoffs, Maxine’s Jewthe hospital, she wanted ish life took wing. “I Ken to be able to sleep in wanted to connect with Juhis own bed once in a daism and the community. while, so she put her life on I wanted to learn about hold for two months to be Jewish tradition and pass with me. Amazing.” Susie that knowledge on to our shared her own experikids. Joe and I made sure ences. “After each of my our children attended Sunkids’ births, mom spent day School, Hebrew two or more weeks with us, School, joined BBYO. I’d teaching me how to care for become very proud to be a newborn, doing laundry, Jewish, and I wanted our helping with housework children to feel the same.” and getting to know her As the Kirshenbaum kids new grandchild. Night grew older, Maxine volunnurses were never needed teered at the JCC, Federabecause we had Grammy.” tion and with Israel Bonds. According to Jeff Kirshen“Joe had been to Israel a Top: Kirshenbaum Thanksgiving dinner, bottom: the Kirshenbaum, “Not a day goes by number of times. Me, zero. baum’s grandchildren. when mom doesn’t talk to Now was my turn. On my at least one of us. She’s our first trip, I got off of the plane in Tel ago I didn’t know much about giving matriarch, 110% dedicated to her famAviv and the feeling I had was unbe- or volunteering. Maxine taught me ily. And for obvious reasons, United lievable. I still can’t describe it.” In what it means to be generous, and the Airlines loves her.” So do her grand1983, Maxine was named Omaha Is- importance of women’s gifts. She truly kids. “I’ve been lucky to grow up in rael Bond Chairman. In 1985 she opens her hands to the poor and Omaha and have the opportunity to see served as President of Women’s Cam- reaches out to the needy. She has been, Grammy whenever I wanted to,” Alyssa paign Cabinet, and in 2004 Joe and and continues to be, my role model for said. “While lots of opportunities lie Maxine co-chaired the Federation An- philanthropic causes.” ahead in my future, I think about how nual Campaign. That same year, she “For our family, supporting Israel is Grammy says she wishes time would received the Kipnis-Wilson/Friedland huge,” Maxine said. “Debbie and Ken’s slow down, so I could come over on Award at United Jewish Community’s twin sons observed their B’nai Mitzvah Sunday mornings and play dress-up International Lion of Judah Confer- in Israel, and all seventeen of us were like I did when I was young.” ence, in recognition of over forty years lucky enough to celebrate the simcha The Shonfeld twins chimed in. First, of extraordinary volunteer service. together. My cousin, Rabbi Yoshi See Maxine Kirshenbaum page B7

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Woman of Valor: Rachel Martin brittany hamor Intern, Jewish Press Rachel Martin was formerly the BBYO/Teen Director and has held various roles throughout her five years at the JCC. She has worked in seven of the nine departments. She received her undergraduate degree from Arizona State University and is currently working on her graduate degree in Occupational Therapy at

Maxine Kirshenbaum

College of Saint Mary in Omaha. She loves traveling and spending time with her family. Rachel believes a Woman of Valor is a woman who stands up for herself and others when others may not have a voice. “A Woman of Valor must also show kindness and compassion to all those around her,” she said. Her New Year’s wish is for health and happiness for her friends, family, and community.

HAPPY R OSH HASHANAH

Continued from page a6 appliances, empty alcohol bottles as decoraSam. “Those lines in Woman of Valor about tions and a white sheet substituting for the the spinning wheel and the spindle? I hon- closet door. When Grammy came to visit, the estly don’t know what a spinning wheel looks first thing she said was, ‘You know what haplike, or the function of a spindle. But for me, piness is? Never having to live in a dump like the wheel represents the spokes of the Kir- this.’ I still laugh over the wisdom in shenbaum family, and Grammy’s hand hold- Grammy’s words.” ing the spindle symbolizes her firm gasp on What connects youngest-grandchild Ben all the activity — the spinand his Grammy? Cookning, if you will — of each ies. “She makes the best member of each family chocolate chip cookies. I unit. In any case, I think get my love of baking my Grammy really defrom her. I think of her serves this recognition.” every time I make cookZach allowed that as a kid ies, and it feels really great he was a picky eater. “At to see how excited my Thanksgiving I ate very brothers are to eat them. little while everyone else When Grammy’s in devoured everything in Chicago we bake together, sight. So Grammy, rather and she always gives me than let me go hungry, tips.” Lauren appreciates made carrot cake for me, the lessons Maxine has on top of all the other taught her, both large and food she cooked. And small. “Last month I travevery Thanksgiving, as I eled to Tanzania to teach sat and ate at least half the English, and I thought my cake, I’d be reminded of grandparents would be how much Grammy cares skeptical of me traveling about each and every one across the world alone. of her grandkids, and the But Grammy was so exlengths she will go to cited about the trip and make them happy.” how the experience might “When we were young,” let me put my mark on Josh added, “Grammy the world. I was able to would organize an annual have special moments maxine Kirshenbaum vacation in Aspen and alwith my students because and Gussie Zweiback ways supplied one imporGrammy has worked dilitant commodity. Sour balls. But sour balls gently to show me the value of maintaining were only available after dinner. One night, and caring for people and relationships.” before dinner, I attempted to sneak a red sour Small lessons? “I represent myself better with ball. With one swoop of her powerful arm, a fresh manicure than with chipped polish.” Grammy pushed the bowl of candy out of my “Being ‘Grammy' and ‘Mom’ is at the core reach and created a teachable moment. ‘You’ll of who Maxine is,” Jeff Raizner said, "but enjoy that sour ball much more if you hold what everyone close to her knows is that it out until after dinner, Josh.’ I had little choice goes even deeper than that. Maxine’s love and but to swallow this lesson in patience and de- leadership is generational. It’s a tradition. layed reward.” When Maxine gathers her family together for Jordan likes the fact that he’s the only a trip or a dinner, you can see the wheels grandchild that has had Grammy at every spinning and you know she’s consciously setbirthday. “She hasn’t missed in sixteen years. ting a clear example that will last generations. She’s missed a few of the other grandkids’ She’s teaching her daughters and daughtersparties.” For Kayla, “There’s nothing like the in-law and granddaughters how to make comfort of sitting in the kitchen of the home their own families cohesive. She’s modeling base Grammy’s created for all seventeen of us the value of a strong and loving woman for in Omaha, eating or chatting. The feeling I her son and sons-in-law and grandsons. get in that space is something I hope to re- These traits and virtues will outlast all of us. create in my own home. But I’m not there They make Maxine a matriarch — and yes, a yet. My college apartment has thirty-year old woman of valor — in every sense.

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What does Eshet Chayil mean to me? GaBBy Blair Staff Writer, Jewish Press was caught off guard when our fabulous summer intern, Brittney, asked to interview me. Over the past four years, three as a freelancer and one as the staff writer for The Jewish Press, I have grown accustomed to researching topics and conducting interviews without really considering that I, myself, might one day be the subject of an article. Given the theme of our Rosh Hashanah issue, it was not quite so surprising that her final question to me was “What does Eshet Chayil mean to you?” I begged off the question, promising her a response via email as I found myself at a loss to adequately articulate an answer to this question in just a few offhand sentences. You see, I have been considering this very question over the past few months, ever since attending a forum on this exact topic. It was very enlightening to realize how varied opinions were on this particular blessing as I had never considered any alternative to my own interpretation. I admit I was a bit disheartened to hear that many women had gone as far to banish the

blessing from their family’s Shabbat rituals, although after hearing their perspectives and interpretations, I could reluctantly understand their reasoning. I have to believe that if I was shocked to hear such radically different perspectives on this blessing, it is quite possible that others, to whom this blessing is more of a burden, have also not considered it from the point of view of someone who appreciates it. As a counter to the argument against the recitation of this blessing on Shabbat, I offer the following; Eshet Chayil is not some celestial checklist whose purpose it is to make women feel inadequate and insecure. As a woman, I would venture to say we do a fine job of that, ourselves. We often times diminish our own accomplishments in addition to those of our fellow sisters. Even small victories (yes, like getting the kids to school on time with lunches and matching shoes!) are often minimized in self-depreciating humor. I would further say we tend to hold ourselves to a much higher, somewhat unattainable standard than Eshet Chayil ever would. See eshet Chayil page B9

HAPPY

Rosh Hashanah! From Senator Lou Ann Linehan

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recipe: Blueberry Honey Cake

emanuelle lee The Nosher via JTA Rosh Hashanah has a way of sneaking up on you, and it’s a bittersweet feeling when it does. Bitter because it means the summer is over, but sweet because the Jewish New Year is a sweet and delicious time of year to spend with family and friends. One other sweet spot of the Jewish New Year is honey cake — often baked, gifted and eaten in abundance during the holidays. The cake is quite sweet and usually spiked with autumnal spices, almost like a surrender to the season that is approaching. In this embrace of autumn and of the year to come, we often forget to make the most of what’s left of the summer produce. This honey cake recipe combines the best of both worlds: fresh blueberries, moist honey cake and a hint of spice. It’s the perfect sendoff for the last remaining blueberries of the season and the welcoming of a new year. Emanuelle Lee is a recipe developer, food writer and food stylist. The Nosher food blog offers a dazzling array of new and classic Jewish recipes and food news, from Europe to Yemen, from challah to shakshuka and beyond. Check it out at www.Thenosher.com.

BlueBerry Honey Cake

Ingredients: 3 cups self-raising flour 1/2 tsp. salt 1 Tbsp. baking powder 3 tsp. cinnamon 1 tsp. ginger powder 1/4 tsp. all spice 1/2 cup brown sugar 2 large eggs 3/4 cup coconut or vegetable oil 1 cup honey 1 tsp. vanilla extract zest of 1 orange 1/4 cup orange juice 1 Tbsp. whiskey 1 Tbsp. almond milk 1/4 cup coffee, cooled down 2 cups blueberries (you can use frozen if you need to) For the topping: 1/4 cup toasted almonds, chopped 1 cup confectioners sugar juice of 2 lemons zest of 1 orange additional blueberries Directions: 1. Preheat the oven to 350 F. 2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, baking powder, spices and sugar; mix well. 3. In a separate bowl, combine the eggs, oil, honey, vanilla extract, orange juice, whisky, almond milk and coffee. Combine the ingredients thoroughly with whisk or a hand mixer until smooth. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the wet mixture into the well. Whisk until you have a smooth cake batter with no lumps, making sure there is no flour at the bottom of the bowl. Add the blueberries and mix well. 4. Grease a 9-inch cake pan with a little bit of vegetable or coconut oil. 5. Pour in the cake batter and allow it to settle and even out for a few minutes. 6. Bake for 40-50 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean when pressed into the middle of the cake. 7. Allow the cake to cool a little and then remove from the cake pan. Allow it to cool fully. 8. Meanwhile, make the glaze: Combine the confectioners sugar with the orange zest and the lemon juice. Mix well with a spoon until smooth with no lumps and it has reached a syrupy consistency. 9. When the cake has cooled, drizzle it with the glaze and sprinkle it with blueberries and the toasted almonds. Enjoy for up to 3 days and store it in the refrigerator, covered. Serves 8-10.

Helping her family and her garden grow OzziE NOgg

few days before I sat down with Rocky Stern for this interview, she had just returned from Paris and a Rhone River cruise through Provence, where her maternal grandmother, Martha Predmetzky Bordy, was born. Rocky made the trip with Roger Suess, her partner-in-fun for the past three years. He listened, quietly, while Rocky retraced their itinerary. “According to the story, my family in France had been in the clothing and chocolate business, so each time Roger and I walked around a village and saw a little dress shop or a Chocolatier sign, I imagined a great uncle or a cousin walking down the same street. It was a very powerful, emotional experience. More than once during the trip I realized how fortunate I was that my grandmother Bordy left France as a young girl.” Rocky has in her possession a letter sent from Vergèze, France, dated February 5, 1945. In part, the letter reads: My dear cousins, Esther and Eva. Have you kept the memory of a certain joyous day when at Le Havre on the maritime dock, I watched the arrival of a large boat from America? Where are the beautiful days wherein we visited Brussels, and our Aunt Noemie in her home in Paris? Do you often wear the black beads you bought on Rue de Rivoli? Where are the beautiful days when we were all so happy to have at last made the acquaintance of our two young American cousins whom we already loved before seeing them? “I have those black beads,” Rocky said. “They were handed down to my mother, Naomi Bordy Cohn, and she gave them to me.” Memories of her Bordy family run deep. Rocky’s mother was one of Omaha’s five Gabor-like Bordy sisters. “Each of them was an independent, self-sufficient woman. They used to invite me to go with them on their sister reunions. I’d drive, and then schlepp their luggage to their hotel rooms. Once, I threw my back out from carrying so many bags. But I felt lucky to be included. I’m an only child, so being in on the girl talk was such fun. I saw how my mother and her sisters had each other for support. To be honest, I sort of en-

vied them.” Anyone who remembers Naomi Cohn remembers her lovely figure and the elegant way she dressed. “I loved to go shopping with her,” Rocky said. “We’d hit the Aquila, Haviland-Swanson, sit on a sofa in the Designer De-

Rocky Stern on her flower-filled patio. partment and admire the clothes the salesgirls brought out. I looked up to my mother. She had energy and love and strength and courage.” “Sounds like you,” Roger said, smiling at Rocky. Rocky’s father, Tony Cohn, died when he was only sixty. “I watched my mom pick up the pieces and move on. She was my role model.” Rocky lost her husband, Arnie, when he was sixty-seven. Jeff Stern, Rocky’s youngest son, described how she modeled her own mother’s behavior during the tragedy. “Soon after our Dad’s funeral, mom gathered See Rocky Stern page B 10

The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018 | B9

Rosh Hashanah Eshet Chayil

Continued from page B8 So, what does Eshet Chayil mean to me? It means that in spite of being my own worst critic, I am loved. I am valued. I have an important role to fill, not only in my household and in the lives of my family, but at my job and in the world. Eshet Chayil means I need to stop and take a moment to love and appreciate myself. I need to feel good about the things I do accomplish, rather than focus on all the things I haven’t quite gotten to yet... and what a long and overwhelming list that is! It is important to realize that Eshet Chayil isn’t some dictate to be a subservient woman who needs to take up the loom in order to weave the flax and wool gathered by hand at dawn, but to enrich the fabric of our own lives and the lives we impact, in some way. Perhaps the literal interpretation of the ancient language that makes up this blessing is the turn-off for some. Looking through it I can confidently say that while I certainly do not make my family’s clothing or linens, I am usually the one buying and washing them. Not everything that comes out of my mouth is wise or kind (sorry, kids!), yet my kids know I love them and am always here for them. I surely enjoy some ‘bread of laziness’ on a fairly regular basis (delicious and carb free!)... but I also do a lot for my family, every day; in part because it’s my duty, but mostly because I love them. To me, it’s not about the literal definition of the words in this blessing; it’s about the intent and meaning of them, coming from a place of love and appreciation. Shabbat has two commandments: To remember and to observe. I have always been taught that Eshet Chayil, traditionally recited on Shabbat, is actually a reminder not only from our husbands and children, but from G-d, that each and every one of us is precious, unique, and built up from pure grit, determination and potential. A reminder that we are appreciated, even for those small accomplishments that no one else See Eshet Chayil page B12

B10 | The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018

Rosh Hashanah Shanah Tovah Rosh Hashanah, 5778 RichaRd Fellman

itting in the main sanctuary of Temple Concord in Syracuse, New York, about 15 minutes before the start of the Erev Rosh Hashanah service, the evening synagogue service before the first day of the Jewish New Year, my mind began to wander. I think that is what one is supposed to do. What tradition says should go through one’s thoughts in that process is a review of the past year with an emphasis on what mistakes one made so one can effectively atone in the ten days ahead and begin the new year with a clean slate. I sat there this year, but my mind kept focusing on where I was, in the present rather than the past. Temple Concord was starting to fill up, mostly older members since the younger ones tended to come to the morning service. They were all nicely dressed. They usually came in couples, but many were alone, as I was, though I was waiting for the rabbi’s wife to join me. The building is old, at least a hundred years old. The congregation was established in 1839, making it the ninth oldest Jewish congregation in the United States. At first it was Orthodox, formed by Jewish immigrants from Germany, but in the later part of the 19th century as the Reform movement began to grow, this congregation became one of the early members of what is now the largest group of affiliated Jews in North America. That explains the choir loft above the bimah, the dais on the east end of the sanctuary, with a large old fashioned pipe organ, now rarely used. The walls and ceiling are painted a light blue, almost white. Even so, the entire sanctuary seems to feel old. Stained glass windows with signs naming each donor, march dramatically down both outside aisles telling a bit of the history of the synagogue’s oldest and wealthiest early families. See Shanah Tovah page B12

Rocky Stern

continued from page B9 me and my brothers together to go through his belongings. Some may have thought it was too soon after his sudden death for such a task, but I found it an expression of her approach to life. Mom was simply being pragmatic. She’s practical, rational and wanted to take advantage of the opportunity while we were all still together in Omaha. Mom was clearly grieving and we were all in shock, but she felt there was no reason to be sentimental about material things. It had to be done, so why put it off? Actually, it turned out to be a time for us to share stories, laugh, cry a little, and it remains a positive memory for me from that difficult time. Mom always looks to the future and stays focused on the bright side. She’s a master lemonade maker.” The letter from France continues. Oh, how many events have transpired since we saw you. How many miseries, how many disasters, how many mournings. How many souls have departed this earth, and remain only in our affections. You who are far removed, thanks be to God, from the spectacle of the War — you cannot possibly imagine what all this has meant to us. Words are powerless to describe the blind and mad rage of our Hitlerian butchers. Rocky and Arnie Stern raised three boys. John, 58, lives in Omaha with his wife, Cynthia. Their children are Lydia, 27, and Cameron, 25. Richard, 56, lives in Colorado Springs with his partner, Pam Schultz. He has two daughters, Alice, 25, and Brooklyn, 22. Jeff, 52, lives in Portland with his wife, Karen Thurman. During their marriage, Rocky and Arnie were avid skiers, tennis players, bicyclists and ballroom dancers. They belonged to, raised funds for and sat on the boards of Jewish and non-Jewish organizations. “Arnie was president of just about everything,” Rocky said. One of their most meaningful affiliations was with the Nebraska Chapter of Variety Clubs International, which supports programs for developmentally challenged children. “I worked with young adults with cerebral palsy and spina bifida. Each time I left a therapy session at Munroe-Meyer Institute and walked through our front door, I felt so grateful, so blessed, that our sons were healthy.” In 2014, Richard Stern underwent proactive open-heart surgery to prevent the issue that killed his father. “After the procedure, my mom drove by herself to Colorado Springs to take care of me for two weeks so Pam could return to work. She made me feel like her little boy again. In Woman of Valor, I see my mother, the incredibly strong matriarch of our family. She understands that she is, and will continue to be, an example for my girls and for all her grandchildren.” Richard’s daughter Alice, adds, “When we have victories, Bubbe’s the first to congratulate us, and when we’re struggling, she’s there to show support and love. I suffered from agoraphobia and was terrified to travel, but Bubbe encouraged me, inspired me to stop making excuses and live the life I wanted to live. She convinced me to go on a Birthright trip to Israel with my sister Brooklyn, and my cousins, Lydia and

Cameron. That trip introduced me to Judaism, and I’m grateful to Bubbe for pushing me.” Rocky also helped shape Alice’s passion for music. “Bubbe introduced me to jazz, and I knew most standards by the time I was nine. Anytime I hear Duke or Louie or Ella, I think of my Bubbe.” Rocky’s kitchen and patio garden provide Lydia Stern with her fondest memories. “Bubbe is the best cook. I have the most fun times in her kitchen, munching on our favorite Vermont sharp cheddar cheese, helping make hamentashen, matzo ball soup, or just sipping tea and catching up. Bubbe also taught me how to tend her plants. I love watering, helping to pick weeds, smelling the flowers or sampling herbs. My Bubbe is truly a blessing in my life. She’s loving, she’s fun, she’s fun-loving. She’s always had a certain poise and beauty about her. She’s inspired me to be the best person I can be, simply by leading through example.” Rocky explained that many of her recipes come from her mother-in-law, Bess Stern. “I love to get together with my sister-in-law, Shelley — who I actually consider my sister — to make Bess’s gefilte fish and horseradish from scratch. Bess was a warm, lovely, kind and gracious lady. Generous with her time, willing to help out with the kids and always complimentary.” “Sounds like you,” Roger said, smiling at Rocky. The Nebraska Jewish Historical Society collects and saves the stories of Jewish families who settled in Nebraska and Council Bluffs, Iowa. Rocky has served as secretary for what seems like eternity. “I’m so attached to the NJHS. My mother and her Bordy family, including grandmother Martha Predmetzsky Bordy from France, lived in Walthill NE, near the Omaha Indian Reservation. My Cohn grandparents, Max and Esther, lived in Council Bluffs and owned the Ideal Grocery. I absolutely adored them. When I’d visit I could go to their store and have all the candy I wanted. I’d help Grandpa polish the apples. He was so proud of his fruit and vegetables. I had a great childhood, playing with all my cousins. Maybe that’s why the Historical Society is so close to my heart. I wouldn’t be telling this story if my grandmother Bordy hadn’t come to America.” The letter from France concludes: Oh, the efforts I had to make to preserve myself from the Germans after they seized my wife, my daughters, my son. For almost two years I managed to stay alive by hiding in a forest. We were only a handful of Jews, hiding together, and trembling each instant for fear of the Gestapo. I am sixty years old now. I have lost everything — my beloved wife, my children, the possessions that were dearest to me in this world. I have often thought of you in these terrible hours, and I hope with all my heart that you may never know such disaster. Now please receive from your cousin, Lucien Rosenfeld, so sorely tired, the assurance of his sincere affection. “When I was younger,” Rocky said, “I loved winning. As I’ve gotten older, I’m less competitive, except when I play gin with Roger, I play to win. Now I just like doing. I still golf, if you can call it that, but I don’t keep score any more. It’s all See Rocky Stern page B12

Happy New Year “

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brittany hamOr Intern, Jewish Press Lori Kooper-Schwarz has been with the Jewish Press for about 15 years. She has three children. Her and husband Wayne’s twins Courtney and Sabrina are 11-years-old and Melanie is 15. In her free time, she likes to watch movies. “I like all kinds — I don’t have a specific favorite genre. It all depends on the mood I am in at the moment,” she said. Lori also loves listening to music. With the holidays just around the corner, Lori looks forward to spending some downtime with her family and friends. A Woman of Valor to Lori is someone with high integrity, someone who has a moral compass and lives their life always trying to do the right thing. Her New Year’s wish is for people to stay healthy. Gabby blair has been a freelance writer for the Jewish Press for three years and has been the staff writer for one year. As a mom, many of her current hobbies and interests revolve around her children. “I love being a wrestling and football mom and all the things that come with that. In the little bit of time left over between practice schedules, competitions and work, I really enjoy cooking, reading, traveling, camping, and mushroom hunting in the early spring.” Gabby says it is “so fitting that Eshet Chayil is recited at Shabbat tables, because it reminds those gathered just how much the women at the table do

for the people in their lives. It also serves as a reminder to the women themselves that they are loved and valued by those at their table, and by G-d.” Her New Year’s wish is for peace and securityfor people ravaged by war, strife and pain worldwide, especially in Israel. “No country should be forced to constantly justify its existence or be admonished for defending themselves from those whose ultimate goal is their destruction. My wish is for peace and calm for the many people of all faiths who live in Israel and Israel’s continued ability to thwart those who wish to destroy them.” annette van de Kamp-Wright has been with the Jewish Press for eight years. In her free time, she likes reading and fixing up old furniture. She always has three books going at any time and her favorite genre is fiction. She is married to Jeremy; they have two children. Isabella,17, is a senior at Millard North High School, and Mendel,13, is in 8th grade at Millard North Middle School. “Being a Woman of Valor means asking yourself the right questions.” She said. “For example, am I doing the right thing? Am I treating others well?” “It isn’t a simple formula. You cannot do one thing and be a good person; it is a process. Being a Woman of Valor also means checking your ego. The minute you start thinking you have all the answers, you run the risk of thinking you’re better than everyone else, and that never ends well,” she said. Her New Year’s wish is to make it through her daughter’s high school graduation without tears. (Ed. note: Susan—you are not off the hook.)

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Continued from page B10 On the eastern wall, at the far end of the synagogue, stands the Ark which holds five Torah scrolls, each containing the Five Books of Moses, the Bible. They are each hand written in ancient Hebrew script, each hand-lettered on parchment scrolls and each covered in a beautiful white dressing with ornate silver shields and pieces of silver hanging from the front of each scroll. Over one handle of each scroll a yod, a Hebrew word meaning hand, is hung. The yod is a long silver pointer with a skinny finger at its end used to point each word out for the reader as the words of the Torah are sung to ancient melodies two times each week and on every Sabbath and Jewish holiday. Above the Ark hangs the Eternal Light, the light which is never extinguished. The bimah is not large. It is a bit crowded. There are steps which one must climb from the floor to the bimah making it clearly out of date and not in compliance with current rules for the disabled. But when this synagogue was built no one thought of such things. On each side of the bimah sit two majestic chairs, on one side chairs for the rabbi and the congregation’s president and on the other side chairs for the cantor, who leads the congregation in song and prayer, and one for a special guest.

Rocky Stern

Continued from page B10 about playing nine holes with friends and then having lunch. Next bowling season I’m going to be on a team with Roger and John, strictly for fun. And of course, being a member of the Omaha Dancing Grannies is a kick, excuse the pun. It’s such fun, bringing joy to the people in the nursing homes and senior centers where we entertain.” Rocky uses the word ‘fun’ a lot. “If you can’t have fun,” she said. “You might as well

Eshet Chayil

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Continued from page B9 seems to notice. A reminder that we are often braver and stronger than we think and that the work we do, whether that is running a business, a household, or most likely some combination of both, is important and valued. How often does your significant other read you love poems or sing you love songs? Would you want your sons to shower their wives with such sweet sentiments? If yes, then model this by singing Eshet Chayil at your Shabbat table. After all, it is our men who are charged with remembering, studying and reciting it. It serves as a reminder to appreciate all the things the women in their lives do for them. Would you want your daughters to be reminded that they are a priceless and important part of their family? Eshet Chayil is a

Even though I was looking at every part of the sanctuary I wasn’t there to describe the room to others or to inscribe it in my own memory. I was there to feel the room, to listen to its voice, to embrace it with love, to make it part of me because I knew what was to follow. Exactly at 8 o’clock from the far end of the Temple’s western entrance, the rabbi and the cantor appeared, each in long white robes, each wearing a small white skull cap, in Hebrew a kipah, with a white tallit, a prayer shawl, around their shoulders. At times the rabbi wears the long tallit, the one which folds up and over each shoulder, actually the type worn in the most traditional synagogues and not until recent years customarily worn in Reform Temples. This night he wore the narrower type. And the cantor had a tallit similar to the rabbi’s around her shoulders. Each tallit was in white, with delicate stripes in gold or silver. The two of them stood at the entrance on the main center aisle. Nothing was said. Slowly the congregation stood, and slowly the rabbi and cantor began walking towards the Bimah. This time they smiled at individuals as they walked, but they did not stop to greet and shake hands and exchange short comments, as the rabbi See Shanah Tovah page B14

hang it up.” Sitting outside on her patio, Rocky mused about the future. “Each year I can’t wait for spring, so I can plant my garden. I love going out early each morning to water my flowers and have a cup of tea. That letter from France really haunts me. My life is good. There’s so much left to do, I still don’t know what I’m going to be when I grow up. It’s like I’m still waiting for the inspiration. I don’t want it to end. I want it to go on forever.”

reminder for our daughters that they are to be treated with love and respect by her mate, her children and herself. In our home, I find comfort in having a special moment within the Shabbat tradition that is set aside to acknowledge my contributions to our family. After my husband sings to me, each one of our sons takes the time to thank me for something I have done to help them during the week; I am often surprised at what was important to them and always touched at this expression of love and gratitude. I am confident that when they grow into men with families of their own, they will sing to their wives and their children will remember to thank their mother for all the care she gives them. A Woman of Valor, who can find? Try looking in the mirror, sister; she is there!

She works hard and everyone has noticed Sam KricSfelD

The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018 | B13

Rosh Hashanah

t takes a special kind of teacher to leave an indelible mark on a student. Most people can’t remember more than a couple of their teacher’s names. But talk to any student of Mrs. Denise Bennett, past or present, and they will gush about how wonderful she is. She has just completed thirty years of teaching at Friedel Jewish Academy – thirty years of inspiring. Denise Bennett (nee Knapp) was born in Madison, Nebraska. She was raised on a farm with cattle, soy, and corn – a true Nebraskan. Along with her identical twin sister and three brothers, she was raised with the famous American work ethic, the importance of loyalty, and what she calls “stick-to-itiveness.” Her school only had two classrooms – one for the upper grades and one for the lower grades. The small size of the school and the low stuDenise Bennett dent-to-teacher ratio led to each pupil getting more personalized attention and eventually forming a bond with their teacher. Intending to major in psychology, Bennett went off to Hastings College. She switched majors, landed herself on the Dean’s List, and graduated with a double degree in Art and Elementary Education. Her love for art was inspired by her talent and her art teacher Penny Frazier, and for education See Denise Bennett page B14

The desire to help others caSSaNDra HicKS WeiSeNBurger Director of Communications, Temple Israel andy Nogg grew up in Palmer, NE, not far from Grand Island. Her father was a country doctor and her mother was a nurse. You could say taking care of others runs in her family. Sandy was raised Methodist in a small town where your church life was your social life. There were five churches in a town of 550 people. There were no Catholics, let alone Jews. Sandy went to Sunday school and assisted her mother teaching until she finally taught her own class. After leaving home to take classes at Duchesne Academy, Sandy realized something was missing from her religion. She explored Catholicism since she went with her friends to mass and loved listening to the Latin services. After meeting her first husband, Sandy also researched the Muslim faith. “I was on a search in general. I went to Catholic school, Duchesne, where nothing is shaky. My father was raised catholic in the Philippines because of the missionaries. When he came to the states, he became protestant. He and my mother didn’t have any trouble with my sliding one way or another when it came to religion. They were totally supportive of my search, both of them.” After a divorce and moving back to Omaha with her son, Phillip, Sandy knew where she was meant to be. After years of religious

searching, she found her home in Judaism: “Judaism is a thinking man’s religion.It made sense to me. But I felt a wonderful spirituality

Sandy Nogg

as well. The thinking part of it wasn’t enough and I looked into the real spirituality of it and it has a wonderful spirituality, even a certain mysticism.” Sandy converted to Judaism, “I converted because it felt right.” She married Alan Nogg and had a daughter, Courtney. Sandy quickly became involved in several aspects of temple life. “Hermene Zweiback was a very good friend and through her I became involved in the Sis-

terhood. This was during its height, when it was a large group and you worked your way up. I began with setting tables and eventually became president. I’ve been chair of the Temple gift shop for 25 years plus.” Dorothy Spizman remembers those days fondly: “Sandy was always willing to do the grunt work,” she said. “She never minded getting her hands dirty. She helped cook back when the Sisterhood made all the meals for temple. She was great at setting up oneg Shabbat tables because she is a fantastic baker and had an eye for making beautiful arrangements. She would even bring her own flowers from home for decorations for the table.” Dorothy has known Sandy for over 30 years, beginning when Dorothy was Executive Director at Temple Israel. “She’d come in my office and we’d visit a lot. She’d bring the kids in. Sandy was always at Temple, always working on something. You name it and she’s done it! “When we had the used book sale, Sandy would go and pick up the books people wanted to donate and bring them to Temple,” Dorothy continued. “It was always a big joke that her car would be filled with stuff she’s either picking up from someone or taking to someone. She takes care of people that many others may not care about. And she does so without any fanfare. She is a true example of Maimonides’ highest levels of tzedakah.” Lois Friedman and Sue Meyers ecouraged See Sandy Nogg page B15

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B14 | The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018

Rosh Hashanah Denise Bennett

Continued from page B13 a reassuring hand on the shoulder, while also recognizing that because of the impact her country school had on her. Now “some students just need space and would prefer not talking married, she and her husband began to search for jobs, with about it.” Bennett hoping to be a teacher in a rural school. Her teaching style is one that fosters a true love of learning, The couple’s job search led them to Omaha, where Bennett because she shows genuine interest and care in what she was afraid that in the suburbs she wouldn’t be able to work at teaches. Songs and videos are used not as a crutch, but as an the small school she imagined. But a fledgling private school embellishment. Mnemonics and other studying habits are inwith the low student-tostilled in students early, so teacher ratio, Friedel Jewthey are well prepared for ish Academy, was hiring. the world of middle Bennett took the job (her school and beyond. Her first out of college) and most famous ability may applied her instilled loybe how she can distill stualty and “stick-to-it-ivedents’ public speaking ness.” Her talents were skills. Ever since she was recognized as both the art hired, Friedel has particiand general studies pated in the Woodmen of teacher. America speech contest. Mrs. Bennett described Students are trained to beto me the building she come orators by both writworked at for seven years: ing and performing their “It was a small country speeches in response to a school where Beth Israel prompt. Despite only ever is now - an old building having around a dozen Former Friedel students singing their praise of Denise Bennett. with asbestos, bad heat, students per year, Mrs. and no air conditioning.” When Friedel’s current location at- Bennett has produced four state champions and one national tached to the Jewish Community Center was completed, it champion, making Friedel a fierce underdog and competitor. was a welcome upgrade and relief. Her classroom, named With an average 6th grade class of 10-12 students, Mrs. after the Israeli city of Tiberius, is an ever-changing yet ever- Bennett reckons she has taught over 300 lucky people. She welcome learning environment. Vibrant informative posters finds the most difficult thing to teach – other than science – and maps cover the walls. The whiteboard is covered in les- is encouraging students to show “effort and pride” in their sons written in every single Expo pen color known to man. work. In this world of instant gratification, many students are During work time, music from Beethoven to the Beatles to more intent on getting their work done rather than done the Harry Potter soundtrack can be heard to break up the in- properly. “If you work hard, everyone will notice,” she says, herent monotony of algebra. A student height chart is posted “and if you don’t, they’ll know.” by the door jamb, leaving records of physical growth in a Outside of school, Mrs. Bennett suffers from a strong case room fostering personal growth. of wanderlust. Her travels have led her from the banks of As with all good teachers, Mrs. Bennett plays the roles of Stratford-on-Avon and the ruins of Pompeii, to the deserts of mentor, disciplinarian, and friend. Regarding mentorship, her Baja California and the jungles of Malaysia. Prepare to be jealstudents’ grades and later success stand as a testament to her ous if ever you ask about her journeys. Her husband, Bob, is abilities. The volatile brains of sixth graders, however, can a scientist, while her son, Sam, recently graduated college and lead to excessive emotions. When anger or mischief rules a works in video production. She doesn’t mind her commute student, Mrs. Bennett avoids public shaming. She instead from Bellevue to West Omaha and faces every school day confronts the student one-on-one to pinpoint and solve what- with a smile. “I try to focus on the positives,” she says, “beever caused the disruptive behavior. When a student is sad or cause focusing on the negatives doesn’t do anything.” overwhelmed, Mrs. Bennett offers support, consolation, and See Denise Bennett page B15

Shanah Tovah Wishing you and your family a happy, peaceful, and prosperous New Year! – The Deavers

Shanah Tovah

Continued from page B12 does during ordinary services when the Torah is carried around both before and after it is read. This time they just slowly walked next to each other down the long aisle. Nothing was sung. Neither words nor melodies were needed. The rabbi came close to the row where I was seated and looked at me. He smiled. I looked back at him. But tears came to my eyes. The rabbi was my son, my youngest son, the youngest of my four grown children. I was not alone. Next to me were my daughter-in-law, the rabbi’s wife, and their two young sons. At that moment and in my mind I saw my wife of 52 years, the rabbi’s mother, now gone almost two years, and I knew what she would be feeling that moment. That moment seemed to me to fill a lifetime of memories, though it took only seconds for the rabbi to walk on to the front of the sanctuary and up the few stairs to the Bimah. He led the services. He spoke. He again smiled at me. I think he even caught me in an 82-year-olds short drifting off in sleep. He delivered a fine sermon, though to be honest my mind was on him and not so much on what he said. At the conclusion of the service, many in the congregation told me how much they appreciated what he said and how much they liked him. There’s a Yiddish word for my feelings. I “kvelled.” It means I was filled with joy and pride. In years past, my wife and I thought about attending this service. The first year our son was at Temple Concord it seemed better to wait and let the congregation get to know him before his parents came charging in on a visit. Then the next year we were in Ukraine and went to services there, then came two years when Bev was president of Beth El Synagogue in Omaha where we belonged and gave the president’s address on Rosh Hashanah, and then came the years when Bev was too ill to travel, and then I was there, that evening, feeling alone even though I was with family whom I adore. I attended services the next morning, and the second day, and on the Sabbath, both evening and morning, and for Tashlich, at a park with running water where one reads psalms and throws bits of bread to the ducks swimming around symbolizing the tossing away of past sins, and then before leaving to the Memorial Service on Sunday morning. After all, when you are the father of the rabbi and you know that he has a duty to lead each of these services, it isn’t hard to tell him you want to go along to watch him. As I rode to the airport that afternoon to fly back to Omaha I thought to myself, Shanah Tovah, it was a good year.

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The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018 | b15

New children’s books Penny Schwartz BOSTON | JTA Shani’S Shoebox Written and illustrated by Rinat Hoffman; translated (from Hebrew) by Noga Applebaum Green Bean Books; ages 4-8 Prepare to be enchanted! Shani’s Shoebox, a gently rhyming poem-story for Rosh Hashanah by the awardwinning Israeli illustrator and children’s author Rinat Hoffman, will kick off the Jewish New Year on the right foot. Shani’s “aba,” the Hebrew word for dad, surprises her with a pair of shiny new red shoes for Rosh Hashanah. Naturally she tosses aside the ordinary looking shoebox. “It was only a box after all, nothing more,” she says. But on Yom Kippur, Shani finds the box hidden behind stuffed animals and the next day crafts it into a sukkah. During Hanukkah, a cat discovers the discarded box and uses it to stay warm in the winter. Season to season, the box takes on a magical quality, turning up in new guises and with new uses throughout a year’s worth of Jewish holidays. The next Rosh Hashanah, when Shani’s father fills the box with a new pair of shoes -- this time they are blue -- Shani is reminded of the year’s adventures. Hoffman’s colorful, animated illustrations draw in readers with vibrant energy. In one scene, as the family prepares the house for Passover, Shani is on

Denise Bennett

continued from page b14 As a celebration of her thirty years, her alumni sent in short video clips of recollections of their most memorable lessons. It was shown, to her surprise, at Friedel’s end-ofyear ceremony, and was followed by dozens of her students, past and present, literally singing her praises. Mayor Jean Stothert declared May 24th, 2018 as “Denise Bennett Day,” and to top it off, Governor Pete Ricketts declared her an “Admiral in the Great Navy of the State of Nebraska” – Nebraska’s highest civilian honor. She shares this rank, deservingly, with the likes of Queen Eliza-

Sandy nogg

continued from page b13 Sandy to get involved with the National Council of Jewish Women’s thriftshop, where she spent over a decade as Chairman. Sandy earned the Hannah G. Solomon Award, which is a national NCJW award. It is presented to an individual who has helped to change and expand the role of others in vital areas of community life, and whose leadership in areas of NCJW concern — improving the quality of life for women, children, and families — has motivated others to fight for change and has resulted in progress and enlightenment in the community. Other awards Sandy has earned include the Heart and Hand Award from the Temple Israel Sisterhood, the Harriet Sperling Caring Award, the Lois Jean Schrager Young Leadership Award, and the Jody and Neal Malashock Award for Professional Excellence while Sandy was at Jewish Family Service (JFS). An experienced R.N., Sandy’s desire to help others may be most well-known for working as Assistance Coordinator for JFS for 9 years. She was the first point of contact for those who are searching for help in the Jewish community. Though she

a stool cleaning a mirror and her dad is sweeping. It’s refreshing to have a children’s story that depicts a father in everyday roles more commonly associated with moms, like buying shoes for his kids and cleaning the house. where’S the Potty on thiS ark? Kerry Olitzky; illustration by Abigail Tompkins Kar-Ben; ages 1-4 Even on Noah’s Ark, the animals need to use the potty. Young kids will be delightfully surprised with this inventive spin on the biblical story of Noah, from the Book of Genesis. As Noah and his wife, Naamah, greet each of the animals onto the ark, Naamah makes sure they are comfortable. “Be careful not to hit your head on the ceiling,” she warns. The ark comes well designed, with big potties for the elephants and little ones for smaller friends. When a baby raccoon needs to use the bathroom, Mother Hen patiently guides the young one to learn how. The animals offer an empathetic lesson in taking care of one’s body, complete with a prayer. And off they sail on the ark as the rains begin. Kerry Olitzky’s simple, lighthearted prose is paired well with Abigail Tompkins’ playful illustrations. The book makes a timely read during the High Holidays because the story of Noah is read in synagogues on the second Shabbat following Simchat Torah, when the cycle of reading the Torah begins anew.

beth, Bill Gates, and Franklin D. Roosevelt. Mrs. Bennett is an integral part of Friedel Jewish Academy and therefore the Jewish Community of Omaha. “I think Friedel will continue,” she says, “because it is necessary.” Her guidance and advice have stuck with her students – I should know. The entire time I was writing this article I was remembering her voice telling me to “vary my sentence length.” She has been deservedly recognized for her “stick-to-it-iveness,” and her effect on her students lasts far beyond the confines of elementary school. Three cheers for Admiral Bennett.

helped people of all ages, her work focused more on the older generations. From helping pay a bill to getting a ride to an interview, JFS received many requests. “I was always shocked at how many people didn’t realize the need in the Jewish community. They just don’t know it. They didn’t see it. They didn’t grow up in it. But it’s here; it’s all around us.” Sandy has worked hard in the Jewish community to help others, but she’s also worked in the Omaha community at large. She’s volunteered for the Zoo to the Omaha Symphony, Omaha Opera, and is in the Junior League of Omaha Hall of Fame. It’s been two years since Sandy retired from JFS and she’s looking forward to what comes next. “I’m just getting back into the volunteer sector. I thought I would do it within a week of my retirement; it’s taken me a little longer.” She currently volunteers as docent at the Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center at UNMC for the healing arts tour, docent at Kaneko, and plans to get more involved with Film Streams and Lauritzen Gardens.

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B16 | The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018

The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018 | C1

Section 3 ROSH HASHANAH

New life, old synagogue: B’nai Israel

GaBBy BlaIr Staff Writer, Jewish Press hen I approached Nancy Wolf about an interview for the Rosh Hashanah issue of The Jewish Press, she reminded me that I had promised her an article about Council Bluff ’s only remaining Jewish institution, B’nai Israel, a few months back. Nancy is one of a small group of stubborn and passionate Jews whose dedication and determination to keep B’nai Israel running has helped to breathe new life into the old synagogue. She humbly and adamantly made it clear that she didn’t want this story to be about her, insisting it be about the synagogue; however, I argue that the account of any place is incomplete without considering the people whose life stories are interwoven into that history. People who pass down the history of places, of traditions and of details that can so easily be forgotten or lost during the passage of time. And so, we compromised on this; a story about B’nai Israel served with a side of her history of involvement with the synagogue. Let us start at the beginning, in 1833, when Alexander Levi became Iowa’s first naturalized citizen and Council Bluff ’s first Jewish settler. He was

soon followed by a smattering of Western European Jews, and then Eastern European and Russian Jews, all looking for safer havens as they fled instability, persecution and pogroms in their home

B’nai Israel Synagogue countries. By 1881, 25 charter members established Council Bluffs’ first congregation, Bikur Cholim, which was run by lay Orthodox leaders in rented spaces. According to The National Registry

of Historical Places website, it is “from these beginnings that the Chevra B’nai Yisroel Congregation was eventually organized and incorporated in 1903 with a membership of 14 men.” The following year, in 1904, the cornerstone of the synagogue was laid at 618 Mynster Street. The original wooden structure burned to the ground on March 5, 1930; miraculously, members of the congregation were able to save the Torah, sacred scrolls and other religious items from the blaze. The cornerstone from the 1904 synagogue was salvaged from the ruins, and an inscription for the new synagogue, which was completed in January 1931, was added to it. Today, The National Registry of Historical Places describes the synagogue, designed by local architect J. Chris Jensen, as a “well preserved representation of a diminishing number of buildings associated with the Jewish religious experience in the State of Iowa.” It further highlighted B’nai Israel’s “local historical importance within the Council Bluffs-Omaha vicinity for its association with the settlement and evolution of the Jewish religious and ethnic community” in the area. Following World War II, the congregation continued to grow, shedding some of its Orthodox See B’nai Israel page C2

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C2 | The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018

Rosh Hashanah

B’nai Israel

Continued from page C1 traditions. While services remained traditional, the synagogue began to see some significant changes, including the use of English in services, mixed gender seating, and an official name change to B’nai Israel in 1953. The growth of B’nai Israel, however, was short lived. Historical records show that the congregation began to decline in size by the mid1960s, due in part to the westward movement of Council Bluffs Jewry into neighboring Omaha. Soon after the 1969 departure of Rabbi Emil Klein, B’nai Israel closed its Talmud Torah and ended its Sunday school program. Plans to close and auction off the synagogue were being discussed in the early 1980s, but the congregation’s remaining members banded together, saving the building and recruiting young families and new members. Historical Registry details say “their objective was to embrace a more contemporary approach to religion by forming a congregation that was more progressive in religious and social philosophy. The result was an even further divergence from the congregation’s initial orthodox beliefs. Rabbi Sharon Steifel became the first Reconstructionist rabbi for the B’nai Israel congregation in 1989, albeit part-time. During this time the congregation experienced a rebirth. Rabbi Steifel was followed by Rabbi Sheryl Shulewitz, and later Rabbi Ruth Ehrenstein.” It was during Rabbi Ehrenstein’s tenure that Nancy and Phil Wolf began attending occasional services at B’nai Israel. Nancy’s family relocated to Omaha in 1989 for her husband’s job. The couple joined Temple Israel and became very involved in synagogue life there, attending services, serving on committees and boards and singing in the choir. “I felt very strongly about our faith being an

involved, hands-on, full family en- a lot.” This tiny act of kindness and indeavor,” explains Wolf, who found spir- clusion lead to a deeper connection to itual fulfillment in Judaism as an adult. B’nai Israel for Nancy and her family. As the couple’s chilOnce their children dren grew older, were grown, Nancy, Nancy searched out and husband Phil, ways to keep them inbegan regularly atvolved in Jewish activtending monthly Friities year round. day night services at “Once summer began, B’nai Israel in Council there was very little Bluffs. In 2012, they Jewish programming were recruited to the for children. When board, joining longmy youngest was 8, I time members Sissy discovered Chabad Silber, Mark Eveloff, and Camp Gan Israel. Rick Katelman and The kids loved it and Allen and Sandra Kurit was a great way to land. “Phil and I begin a relationship would never normally with Omaha Chabad.” choose to serve on a Nancy Wolf After that experience, board together,” she the Wolf family began exploring the prefaces, “however, by that time B’nai Ismany learning and spiritual opportuni- rael was struggling to pull even 10 peoties available throughout Jewish Omaha, ple together for a service and we felt it and contemplated how they could create was our duty to do something to help a deeper spiritual connection during the the synagogue.” Days of Awe. Allen and Sandra had dedicated years “As the High Holidays approached, to keeping B’nai Israel going and when our friends, Sherry and Jeff Taxman, they announced they would be stepping suggested we give B’nai Israel in Council down in 2014, Wolf explains “the reBluffs a try if we wanted to experience maining board members really had to a quiet, more intimate service. Jeff was step it up in order to make up for the inserving as B’nai Israel’s High Holiday credible amount of work the Kurlands Cantor, as he has for the past 18 years had always done, including leading servnow, so we gave it a shot! It was a very ices. Inspired by their commitment, Phil satisfying and meaningful service in and I rededicated ourselves to help this which we were able to participate as shul whose rich history and small, yet much as we wanted. We were invited to welcoming, congregation helped us to ‘break the fast’ after Yom Kippur that rekindle our sparks when we needed it.” year and it was really touching to be inThis was no easy task, and the remaincluded.” Wolf explains that, “as trans- ing board members had to ask some plants to Omaha, the lack of family is hard questions about B’nai Israel's future. most felt most during the holidays; at “We had two choices,” explains Wolf. that point, it was the first time we had “We could close B’nai Israel forever, or ever been invited to break the fast any- work very hard to try and keep it going. where. It was a small gesture that meant See B’nai Israel page C4

Happy New Year!

Five tips for making the snazziest Rosh Hashanah cards

StACeY IlYSe Kveller via JTA Growing up, I remember getting cards in the mail for Rosh Hashanah. They were always the normal, generic, Hallmark Happy New Year-type card. Nowadays, people are much more tech savvy and can create really fun cards that reflect and show off who they are and their adorable kids and family. If you want to give your Rosh Hashanah cards a personal touch this year, here are five tips, plus a few resources, for creating and producing the picture perfect photo card.

Apples and honey are a perfect fit for New Year’s cards if you don’t want to use family photos. Credit: Lilach Daniel/Flickr

1. type of photo It’s nice to have a photo of the whole family on a card, which is harder to do when you don’t have someone else taking the photo. If you have the luxury of having professional photos done, great! Not only will you be able to cherish the images you have taken, but you can use them for many different purposes besides a holiday card. I like the non-traditional type of image, the one that really shows off who the family is and what everyone’s personality is like, but at the same time allows you to see their faces and captures everyone in that moment of time. There is nothing written in stone that says you must have a full family photo for a holiday card. Many parents like to just show off their kids! Taking a photo of just the kids is pretty common. This is also great if you don’t have the time, money or desire to get professional family photos taken, since you can act as photographer. You can do a combination of things for a card. You could take one photo of each child alone, which is generally easier to photograph, or do a shot of your kids together. But remember, they do not have to be facing the camera. People appreciate the candid, true-to-life moments. See Rosh Hashanah cards page C6

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The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018 | C3

Autism Study: Updated

â&#x20AC;&#x153;She canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t load load a dishwasher worth a damn.â&#x20AC;? Ozzie NOgg

hen Alan Cohen drove off in a red Chevy convertible to begin his sophomore year at the University of Oklahoma in 1964, his mother waved after him, shouting, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bring home someone sweet and beautiful.â&#x20AC;? And thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exactly what Alan did. Smitten at first sight with an adorable, blue-eyed freshman from Des Moines named Anne Iris Bernstein, Alan brought her to Omaha in 1966 as his bride. Alan was twenty-two. Anne, twenty-one. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Alanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s parents, Dan and Ethel Cohen embraced me immediately,â&#x20AC;? Anne said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ethel treated me like a daughter.â&#x20AC;? At the time, Dan and Ethel owned the Fireside Restaurant where Alan worked alongside them. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d usually bring our meals home from the Fireside,â&#x20AC;? Anne said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I was so young. I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know how to cook anything. The first thing I learned to make was French Toast. Alan liked it, so I made French toast every day for weeks until he finally said, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;We need to branch out.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Ethel encouraged me to join her in her kitchen. She was an amazing cook and taught me a lot. Even so, today I still get an F in the culinary arts.â&#x20AC;? Happily, Anne Cohen gets a solid A when it comes to nurturing and taking care of her husband and family. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Anne is all about cultivating relationships,â&#x20AC;? said her friend, Joanie Jacobson. â&#x20AC;&#x153;She and Alan set the bar for a good marriage. Anne is the definition of loving wife, mother and grandmother. Their son, Marty, is the apple of her eye. Sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s crazy about all her boys -- Alan, Marty and Martyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sons Jack, Sam and Will. CRAZY about them.â&#x20AC;? Nora Zoob concurs. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Anne and Alan are best of friends and lovers. Her husband, their son, their grandsons are her world.â&#x20AC;? To which Anneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pal Iris Ricks adds, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know of a wife who is more devoted to her husband.â&#x20AC;? Anne accepts her friendsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; kudos without false modesty. She knows where she shines. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Yes. I do take very good care of my husband,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Maybe itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s because I had positive role models. My parents and Alanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s parents were very loving couples. Growing up, I never heard a cross word in my house. Alan and I worked together for forty years and we still enjoy being together. We have fun together. We go to Westroads and walk around, holding hands. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re really okay being just the two of us.â&#x20AC;? Anne helped Alan recover from three open heart surgeries, the first when he was only thirty-seven. Alan tended Anne during her fight with breast cancer, but neither likes to publicly discuss their health or their close bond. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Two equals one,â&#x20AC;? is how Anne sums it up. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Alan is my loving, caring, best friend. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m sorry for others who donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have that.â&#x20AC;? Though she lays

no claim to being a woman of valor, Anneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s relationship with Alan mirrors these lines in Proverb 31: She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life. Pointing to his very neat goatee, Alan said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;She even trims my beard.â&#x20AC;? Not long after earning a teaching degree from UNO, Anne decided the classroom wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t for her and jumped into the real estate business. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Houses have been my passion since Jr. High. In the beauty shop Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d look at House

* The Omaha-based non-profit Therapeutics Research Institute (TRI) is in its 3rd year of its Reversing Autism Study with results matching or exceeding the original Harvard/Hopkins-related clinical trial results.

* On average, 90% of participants are responding to the over-the-counter food supplement and are reversing about 75% of their autism behaviors. The government has funded five other trials nationwide. * TRIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s privately funded Study expands to 200 families August 6th.

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Anne Cohen

Continued from page C3 it comes to good,” Joanie continued, “but don’t kid yourself. Anne meets challenges head-on with strength, courage and positivity. She’s no shrinking violet. Deep inside, Anne is a fighter and a winner.” Alan sums Anne up in one word. “Spectacular.” The three pillars of Anne Cohen’s world are family, friends and work. No cards or Mah Jongg. No volunteering. “That life may not suit other women,” Anne said, “but it suits me. I’m comfortable in my own skin. Even in tough times I’m pretty solid. I don’t fight with people. I can overlook a lot. I’m not a scorekeeper. I’ve been nurtured all my life, by my parents, by Alan and his parents and his fabulous cousins, by my friends. I’ve never felt lonely. Life has always been good to me. Beautiful and

joyful. Life will become even more joyful in October, when Marty marries his wonderful fiance, Kathy Shudak.” Anne speaks lovingly of her “three fathers” — her biological father who died when she was twenty; her mother’s second husband who also passed away; and her mother’s marriage to Ted Livingston. “Ted was one of the most unique human beings I’ve ever known, with an amazing sense of family though he’d never raised children of his own. Ted was seventy-two when he married my mom and became a first-time dad. After my mother died, Ted legally adopted me. I was fifty years old. Ted would write me letters from Des Moines and always sign them, ‘Stay well and be kind to each other.’ I try.” According to Marty, “My mother has an exceptional ability to always be 100%

present and thrilled to be wherever she is.” Joanie Jacobson elaborated. “You could lock Anne in a closet all day, and when you let her out she’d say, ‘Well, that was cozy. And I saw some beautiful shoes in there.’” Again, according to Marty, “My mother is, without question, the most positive person on the planet. She always looks at the bright side of every situation, and finds the best in every person, even when no one else can. My sons are now 20, 17, and 16, and we still eat dinner at my folks house every Tuesday. It’s sort of a sacred family tradition. It’s where you’ll find mom at her happiest, surrounded by ‘her boys’. The menu is never too fancy or complicated, but that’s how we like it.” Sounds like Anne Cohen has upped her grade in cooking.

Continued from page C2 We had to prepare for both contingencies, but we didn’t give up hope. We issued a written plea for volunteers, explaining we needed help to save the synagogue. Two people answered that call: Carole Lainof and Marty Ricks.” The addition of Lainof and Ricks helped make a full board and they wasted no time getting to work. “There were a lot of decisions to be made and needs to be met.” Wolf outlined a whirlwind of activity that has occurred since joining the board six years ago. “We had boarded up doors and crumbling sidewalks and stairs that needed repairs. The lower level kitchen and social hall had cracks in the floor that were severe enough that they created trip hazards and there was an accessibility issue; there was no way to enter the synagogue without having to take stairs.” Then, in June 2015, heavy summer rainstorms wreaked even more havoc on the historic building. “It was devastating and disheartening... so much was ruined; our pews, floors, walls.” Most concerning of all was the partial collapse of the sanctuary’s ceiling. Wolf recalls receiving word of the catastrophe that day. The board quickly divvied up the many tasks that required immediate attention with Wolf responsible for finding a temporary home for B’nai Israel’s Torahs. “My son, Nathan, and I ran to the synagogue and managed to get all 7 of B’nai Israel’s Torah scrolls out safely. Once we loaded them into our vehicles, we brought them to the Jewish Federation where Alan Potash had kindly offered to house them for as long as necessary at the Riekes Museum and even in his office!” The board of B’nai Israel began apply-

ing for grants to help offset the cost of the synagogue’s extensive repairs. “We are so appreciative and honored to have had our application for The Staenberg Family Foundation Anything Grant accepted for two consecutive years. Additionally, the synagogue received funding from the Special Donor Advised Funds at the Jewish Federation of Omaha, plus the Goldstein Supporting Foundation for several years. The approval of these grants has been an answer to our prayers, allowing us to cover some much needed improvements, updates and repairs to the synagogue. It is great to know that they really believe in us and we certainly could not have done this without them- we are so grateful!” Wolf shares two other special stories that stand out in her mind: “Shirley Goldstein grew up at B’nai Israel and really loved this place. Not long after the ceiling collapse, I was chatting with Donald when he asked me, on her behalf, what we’d like, not need, for the synagogue. Off the cuff I said, ‘Oh! We’d love to get new chairs!’ You see, our chairs were from the long defunct Council Bluffs JCC. They were old and in various stages of disrepair; it was not uncommon to occasionally run out of chairs as many had broken over the years. This was something that was on our board’s ‘wish list’ but obviously not a priority as we had so many other more pressing repairs, like the roof! Thanks to their generosity, this wish was granted and what a delight it is today to have these brand new chairs in our renovated chapel!" Wolf and Marty Ricks had also begun a dialog with The Jewish Community Legacy Project (JCLP); an organization that helps small and struggling communities and synagogues with final legacy

planning and outreach. “We are growing, which is such a blessing, however, just like with the chairs, we were increasingly running out of Siddurs. It doesn't sound like such a terrible thing, especially when compared to all the other issues, but it was becoming a bit of an inconvenience. We couldn’t find more of the same books available and it was too cost prohibitive to replace all of our prayer books at once. Meanwhile the building itself had so many other needs; we found ourselves in a bit of a quandary and had to prioritize needs and wants.” Like an answer to a prayer, the JCLP representative assigned to B’nai Israel came to visit and was impressed with the synagogue’s history and viability. He put word out to his contacts that B’nai Israel was looking for specific Siddurs and shortly thereafter, Wolf and Ricks received word that a congregation in New Albany, Ohio had 30 copies they were willing to send for just the cost of shipping! “It was such a gift!”, Wolf exclaims. Aside from Nancy Wolf, today’s board members include Rick Katelman, Sissy Silber, Scott Friedman, Carole and Wayne Lainof and Marty Ricks. “This has truly been a labor of love and faith,” Wolf explains. “B’nai Israel is the last Jewish institution in southwest Iowa and we are determined to keep the doors open. Thankfully we have been blessed with the unwavering support of long term donors, a dedicated board and an increase in members, most of which also belong to at least one of the Omaha synagogues. In 2014, B’nai Israel was down to eighteen membership units; today that number is up to thirty-nine.” “There are many reasons people go to synagogue; to pray, to learn, to teach, to socialize. The people are important, but See B’nai Israel page C5

B’nai Israel

Continued from page C4 it’s not just about the people. It’s about having a stake in our community and working together for something bigger than ourselves; love for our shul and for Hashem.” Wolf goes on to say, “There is no way any of us board members could do this alone and I am honored to be a part of this synagogue and this inspirational group of people. Everyone who is part of B’nai Israel — the congregants, board members, volunteers, donors, participants... these people coming to services here, they make all the work we have done and will continue to do, worth it. At the end of the day, our synagogue is a holy place and we are all working together to keep it open for prayer to all Jews.” Wolf urges everyone to visit B’nai Israel in Council Bluffs. “We are not fancy; just earnest, respectful and always striving to be friendly! We welcome all and are always looking for volunteers and speakers.” B’nai Israel (618 Mynster Street, Council Bluffs) currently offers once-a-month Shabbat services at 7:30 p.m. on the 2nd Friday of the month, October-June. Each Kabbalat Shabbat service is led by lay leader, Larry Blass (USAF Ret.) and features a special guest speaker. B’nai Israel is pleased to offer the following 2018 High Holiday services, led by Cantorial Soloist, Jeff Taxman. This year’s High Holiday guest speakers include JFO Development Officer, Nate Shapiro; Community member and volunteer, Lloyd Roitstein; Creighton University Professor & Klutznick Chair of Jewish Civilizations, Leonard Greenspoon; and ADL-Plains States Chair, Jim Fried. • 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., • followed by Yizkor (memorial service). Concluding • services begin at 5:30 p.m. followed by a dairy ‘Break • the Fast’ potluck. Interested in volunteering, being a speaker or becoming a member? Dues are only $250 per year/$100 for those under 40 and are negotiable. For more information, contact Nancy Wolf at nancy wolf16620@gmail.com or Marty Ricks at omaharicks@ yahoo.com.

The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018 | C5

Rosh Hashanah Linda Fischer: A woman of valor

GaBBy BLaIr my daily routine. My role as a Staff Writer, Jewish Press teacher is not limited to teaching inda Fischer, a native of Miami academics. Performing mitzvahs Beach, Florida, moved to and being involved in Tikkun Omaha in July 2010 with husOlam are daily occurrences. I start band, Joe, and their sons each day by making sure basic Joseph, 12 and Jacob, 9. “We needs of my students are met. I relocated here for my make sure they ate breakfast before husband’s job. As sad they enter into class. If not, I send as I was to leave my them to go get some from the home of 39 years, I soon discovbreakfast program that is provided. ered it was a blessing in disguise. I make sure my students have the I’ve found that this is a great place proper clothing when the weather to raise a family and I am more ingets cold. I keep jackets, fleeces, volved in my Jewish community gloves, snow pants and snow boots here than I ever was, back home. I on hand so that they can play outhave met so many incredible peoside in the cold if they forgot their ple along the way.” own or if they just don’t have these Fischer, a Kindergarten teacher items. If they need school supplies, at Picotte Elementary, is one of I make sure they get them. If they those people who exudes the calm, need food for the weekend, I make patience and kindness you’d imagsure they have some. I always have The Fischer family ine a teacher of young children to an enormous amount of patience, Joe, top left, Linda, Joseph, and Jacob have. “I taught first grade for 14 especially when someone needs years in Florida and I have my master’s degree in early child- extra help learning new skills. I create a safe place for my stuhood. I love working with the younger age group. I love to dents to learn and grow. I treat my students with kindness, teach, influence and inspire young learners. I love to see how love and respect. The fact that I can help children and their excited they get when they master a new concept or when families each day makes my job so rewarding.” they are just having loads of fun learning. It is a blessing to Growing up, Fischer desired a more spiritually fulfilling be able to guide children on their learning journey. I like connection to her roots and faith, spurring her to take a more knowing that I am making a difference in the lives of my stu- active role in seeking this out as an adult. “I have had a very dents when I am helping them learn a new curriculum, reach blessed life and I feel it is my role as a Jewish person, a wife their goals and make exciting discoveries.” and a mother, to be involved whenever possible. If feels so Fischer has found that her faith is a great source of strength fulfilling to be involved in projects that help and benefit many and guidance in her work. “Our Jewish values transfer into See Linda Fischer page C6

Shanah Tova! We are all blessed to call Nebraska home, and we look forward to the boundless possibilities ahead. Susanne and I wish you a good year of health, prosperity, and happiness!

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C6 | The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018

Rosh Hashanah Linda Fischer

Continued from page C5 people. It feels good to give time, money, help and support to worthy causes. I was raised in a Jewish home, but I only went to Sunday school and celebrated some holidays. I never got to have a Bat-Mitzvah or be a part of the youth groups afterwards. My Bubbie always had a beautiful Shabbat dinner for us and I remember lighting candles and enjoying that special family time. When she passed away, that all ended. My parents didn’t have me very involved in Synagogue life. I always felt like I was missing out. I wanted to be in Beshty with my friends, but I wasn’t. I wanted to go to High School in Israel with my friends, but I didn’t. I always knew when I was an adult I would do things so differently. We enjoy Shabbat dinner on Fridays. I have my children involved in Sunday School, Hebrew School and the Shabbatons. My oldest son, Joseph will begin USY this year and his brother will follow in his footsteps. I love being a role model to my family. I love guiding my children and presenting them with the opportunities that I missed out on. The best part is watching them enjoy all of them. My hope is that they will pass these values and customs down to their families one day.” Since moving to Omaha, Linda has become increasingly involved in synagogue life at Beth El. She served as Sisterhood president and on

the BESTT Board in addition to helping with various baking events for holidays and simchas. She enjoys celebrating Shabbat, holidays and life events with her friends and her community and loves having the opportunity to enjoy these occasions: “It makes me feel like the pieces I was missing from my youth have been found and I get to share this joy with my husband, children and my friends.” When asked what Eshet Chayil, or being a woman of valor, meant to her, Fischer was thoughtful before answering. “Being a women of Valor means that I have accepted that I was created in G-d’s image and I am fulfilling my responsibility to live a meaningful life and be a kind, caring, helpful, giving human being. It means He has trusted me with many tasks and roles in life; some easy and many challenging. Both, which make me a strong woman and one who learns so much from these experiences. When I need strength, I ask for it. When I make mistakes, I learn from them and take accountability. When life feels peaceful, I know I have balanced out both sides and I have accomplished the goals that have been sent to me to carry out. I am fulfilling my responsibility to be an active, productive member of my community. I am living the life I was meant to live, whether it is with family and friends, at the synagogue or at work. This is a life worth living.”

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Woman of Valor: Julee Katzman brittany hamor Intern, Jewish Press Julee Katzman has worked for the Federation for 20 years in various positions. She is currently working part-time coordinating special projects. In her free time, she loves to do volunteer work for Beth Israel. A Woman of Valor to Julee is an expression of a position of a woman in the home. “It outlines her responsibilities to her home, children, and passing down the traditions to her family,” she said. Her New Year’s wish is for everyone to have the opportunity or the inclination to explore the beautiful traditions and the teachings of the Jewish faith.

Rosh Hashanah cards Continued from page C2 2. Where to go Make it fun. Maybe take the kids to the beach, a playground they love, go on a picnic. Or maybe play with imagery: Rosh Hashanah is known for its apples and honey, that’s how kids remember it, so perhaps take a shot of a child with a big apple! 3. What to wear Please don’t be all matchy-matchy; just work on coordinating. People look best, and are generally more comfortable, when you allow them to wear the clothes that reflect who they are. If your daughter only wants to be a princess or your son Batman, then maybe that is how you have to photograph them. I would take a happy kid in a costume over a grumpy one all dressed up anyday! Also, yes, a baby might not yet know who they are, but I know that my daughter wears the clothes that reflect me! I am not a white button down and jeans kinda gal, so neither is she. Make their outfits fun, festive and nice, but true to them. 4. Let there be light Do not take photos during midday (noon to 3 p.m.) unless it is overcast. Then you are in the clear (ironically enough). Overcast days – or what is called “open shade” – are the best light. Look for spots that have large blocks of shadow, like that of a large building. Stick your little one in the shadow and shoot!

Don’t shoot under a tree unless its leaves are thick enough to create a solid block, otherwise you will get spotted light all over them in the images. If you are shooting indoors, shoot during the daytime and use natural light – most likely it will be from a window. Lastly, remember if you are trying to capture someone’s face and expression, you will want them to be facing the window light, not with their back to the light. 5. online resources There are some resources for making already designed cards, where all you need to do is upload your image and tweak your text. Check out sites like minted.com, tinyPrints.com and even Shutterfly and Snapfish. I use Minted for almost all my own personal photo-related cards. For sites where you can design the entire card from scratch, check out Uprinting.com or Vistaprint.com. However, these sites usually require larger quantities of cards to be purchased. I know Uprinting offers 250 cards as its lowest amount. Thankfully the cost is not that high, it has great quality and gives you the envelopes as well. Now that you have some ideas swirling around in your head, some inspiration to get you going, tips on how to take a nice photo, and resources to get them printed, go for it! Stacey Ilyse is a photographer and blogger.

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The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018 | C7

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the number of lay leaders as a way to strengthen the bonds within our community. “Lay members are committed to the he Jewish Federation of Jewish Community Center. They work long hard hours to Omaha has been led by 45 of achieve goals and see things through,” she was quoted as sayour community’s most promi- ing in a Jewish Press article from September 1983. Gitnik was nent leaders; each of whom forward thinking and considered the need for updates and has strived to strengthen and future expansion on the JCC campus. Today, it is safe to say forward the legacy of Jewish that her wish for the JCC as a “marvelous facility and meeting Omaha. Their distinguished place for all Jews,” has come true. photo portraits line the FederZoë Riekes was installed as the 39th president of the Omaha ation hallway, keeping watch Jewish Federation in June 2004. Leading up to this time, she over what they, along with the was heavily involved in our community, notably serving as community they served, helped to build. Of this group, four JFO vice president, Israel/Overseas Committee co-chair and stand out uniquely; Mary Fellman, Saranne Gitnik, Zoë chair of a Partnership with Israel subcommittee. A Jewish Riekes, and Jody Malashock. Press article from 2006 notes These four are the sole that at the end of her term as women to have led the JFO, JFO president, Riekes did not thus far. While today the nohesitate in recommitting her tion of women in leadership time and energy to another roles is common place, it cerleadership position; this time tainly would have been far as the Chairwoman of the more unusual in 1978 when Western Galilee Partnership Mary Fellman became the with Israel. first female JFO president. According to Julee KatzFor Fellman, a lifelong comman, JFO Special Projects munity activist and leader, Coordinator, Zoë Riekes’ this was but one of many popassion, dedication and leadsitions she filled that helped ership is responsible for the shatter the glass ceiling as far special and thriving relationas local female leadership. ship Omaha has cultivated Fellman was the first woman with our partnership region editor at The Jewish Press, a in the Western Galilee. “By role she relinquished after bringing the needs of Israel her marriage in 1947. After and our Partnership Region taking time to raise her famin to the forefront of the ily and pursue other endeavcommunity, Zoë has ensured ors, she became the first the growth and success of woman to sit on the JFO exthis important and meaningecutive board; first as secreful program. She has repretary, then as vice president, sented Omaha with pride, before her tenure as the 26th formally and informally, in JFO President between the U.S. consortium cities 1978-1980. After her time as and in Israel, for over 20 JFO president, she coyears.” Katzman goes on to founded both The Nebraska say that in the past decade, Jewish Historical Society and Riekes has been a key leader The Jewish Cultural Arts and tremendous resource in Council. Her lifelong dedica- Clockwise from top left: Mary Fellman, Saranne Gitnik, Zoë work with the Western tion to Jewish causes, Israel Riekes and Jody Malashock Galilee Hospital and medical and Omaha, cannot be given center. “She has helped a adequate justice within this summary of women JFO presi- population in an area that was previously underserved. Today dents. Suffice it to say, her legacy is alive and our community Western Galilee Medical Center not only provides high qualis stronger because of her. ity care to Israelis in northern Israel, but to Syrian refugees Saranne Gitnik was the second woman to lead the Jewish who have sought medical assistance at the border. She conFederation of Omaha, serving as the 31st JFO president from tinues to lead our relationship with Israel and we are honored 1987-1990. Saranne was born to a long line of community that she represents our community.” While Riekes’ portfolio leaders; her great grandfather, Michel Kulakofsky, was a is stacked with national and international collaborations and trustee of the Jewish Community Center built at 20th & projects, she continues to carry on her family’s tradition and Dodge in the 1920s. Her grandfather, Harry Kulakofsky, was legacy of Jewish values in action at home as well, helping lead JFO president from 1953-1955. Her father, Loyal Kaplan, led the Federation’s annual campaign and the Women’s CamBeth El Synagogue in the late 1940s. Ms Gitnik was chair of paign numerous times. the JFO Campaign committee and was heavily involved in the No stranger to volunteering, action, and leadership, Jody Federation’s Women’s Division and Leadership and Develop- Malashock was installed as the Jewish Federation of Omaha’s ment Programs. Upon accepting the nomination to lead the 42nd president in 2010. Long before being elected, Jody’s love JFO, Saranne announced her goals were to “streamline the and dedication to Omaha, Israel and Jewish life were clearly committee process and procedures so they operate more ef- established. In 1986 she was recognized as an emerging leader ficiently and involve those leaders from the lay community by the National Council of Jewish Women. A few years later, that are so critical to the programs and services our agencies Saranne Gitnik presented Malashock with the JFO’s Lois offer.” In the years before serving as JFO President, Gitnick Jeanne Schrager Memorial Young Leadership Award for her was elected President of the JCC. In both of these leadership “continual leadership and for serving as an excellent role roles, she stressed the importance of involving and increasing See Madam President page C8

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Woman of valor: Mary Beth Muskin

brittAny hAmor Intern, Jewish Press Mary-Beth Muskin has been the Regional Director of the Plains States Region of the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) for four years. Before she became the Regional Director, she retired as the Director of Guidance at Omaha South Magnet School after 36 years.

Visiting the mikvah

Annette vAn de kAmp Editor, Jewish Press n 2016 and 2017, a number of Omaha women joined the Jewish Women’s Renaissance Project’s MOMentum trip to Israel. As part of that experience, all participants continue attending programs and education opportunities once they return. In June of this year, the group enjoyed a presentation by Temple Israel’s Rabbi Deanna Berezin about how to use the mikvah. After listening to Rabbi Berezin discuss the many different occasions during which a visit to the ritual bath can take place, the group toured the mikvah, which is located in the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. Rabbi Berezin called the Mikvah “part of our Jewish toolbox.” “Creating a Jewish moment any time adds meaning to our everyday life,” she added. Shoshanna Lockshin writes the following at myJewishLearning.com: “Jewish law requires that one immerse in a mikveh as part of the process of conversion to Judaism. It also requires women to immerse before getting married and when observing the laws of niddah (menstrual purity). There are also various other reasons — both traditional and modern — that women, as well as men and Jews who are gender-non-conforming, visit the mikveh. In recent years, some progressive Jews have also begun to use mikveh to mark various milestones, such as a graduation, a bar or or an important birthday, and to signify a new start after pain or loss. For example, immersion can mark the completion of a year of bereavement, or recovery from divorce, rape,

Madame President

Continued from page C7 model to others while dedicating herself to the causes of the Jewish Community.” Indeed, the list of leadership roles Malashock held not only within the Jewish community, but in the greater Omaha community, was extensive, comprising an entire column in a 1988 Jewish Press article announcing her honor. In the article, the nominating committee cited her dedication and welcoming nature, calling her a “one person welcome wagon, always the first to seek out and welcome new Jewish families to Omaha,” as just one of the many reasons for her nomination. Additionally, she, and husband Buzz, chaired Operation Promise, aiding in the resettlement of Russian and Ethiopian Jews. Julee Katzman recalls that Malashock was a

She also taught master-level and occasionally undergraduatelevel counseling courses at Creighton University. Muskin believes being a Woman of Valor is about following your heart and passion in an intellectual and professional manner. Her New Year’s wish is to live in a world with stability and for people to have compassion for one another.

abuse, or life-threatening illness. Often new prayers are composed to accompany these new rituals.” Those laws of menstrual purity have, at times, made women uncomfortable. Words like “purity” can have that effect. In the article, Take Back the Waters, Toronto Rabbi Elyse Goldstein writes: “As a feminist, I have struggled with the Jewish menstrual taboos for many years. [...] Why then was I, a Reform Rabbi and committed feminist, splashing around in the mikvah? [...] Why bother at all to take back the water? Because we have so little that is ours. We put on a tallis but in doing so we share a man’s ritual garb. The water is ours: it is the fluid of our own bodies and a deeply moving experience of connection to Mother Earth. We climb to the top of Masada in Israel and there we see a mikvah. It is our Jewish history.” (Source: Lilith Magazine) “To the uninitiated, a modern-day mikvah looks like a miniature swimming pool,” Rivkah Slonim writes for JewishWoman. org. “In a religion rich with detail, beauty and ornamentation—against the backdrop of the ancient Temple or even contemporary synagogues—the mikvah is surprisingly nondescript, a humble structure. Its ordinary appearance, however, belies its primary place in Jewish life and law. The mikvah offers the individual, the community and the nation of Israel the remarkable gift of purity and holiness. No other religious establishment, structure or rite can affect the Jew in this. The mikvah offers the individual, the community and the nation of Israel the remarkable gift of purity and holiness and, indeed, on such an essential level.” To learn more about modern interpretations of how to use the mikvah, visit www.mayyim hayyim.org.

“tremendous president during a period of transition” within the Federation. “Jody epitomized the importance of women in Jewish life and in leadership roles within the Federation.” Katzman goes on to say that these four women, who rose to the top as leaders in our community, “were not just housewives with time on their hands. These are women who were community leaders while raising families and working jobs. These are women of great strength, intellect and vision whose keen minds focused on the long-term, big picture and the short-term, small details. They had the drive, passion and understanding needed to do this job. These four are women of valor, true Eshet Chayil, and they have helped pave the way for future female leadership in our community.”

Beyond pearls

SaM KricSfeld

businesswoman and her idea of a woman of valor. Miriam, ar beyond pearls is her value; who went as Mary in order to not appear Jewish, was very strength and splendor are her reserved. In addition to her full-time job of running the fur clothing. My Bubbie, Susie shop six days a week, she helped a local store sew baby Besser, is a woman of far clothes, cleaned the hallways of their apartment complex, more than valor. She has dealt and rented a room of the family’s apartment to a Finnish with all that life has thrown boarder. She was a great cook with what meat they could get her with poise and dignity. in Sweden, and her meatballs were so good that the smell of She has maintained and sus- them deterred Jacob from an attempt to run away from tained a family with unending home. “She wasn’t mushy,” said Susie, but made clear that delove and selfless dedication. spite her stoicism, her mother was abundantly loving. She She is the mother of my mother, my matriarch’s matriarch. died in 1969 of breast cancer when Susie was just 23. Susie Ceder was born July After her mother’s fu17th, 1946, in Modena, Italy, neral, Susie’s cousin asked if to Mauritz and Miriam Ceder she was seeing anyone and (z”hl). Her parents, both told her about Jakob Besser. Holocaust survivors, met in a He was in Brooklyn at the Czechoslovakian DP camp time, having returned from and moved to Modena, Italy, Vietnam, and pursuing a for work. Upon hearing that career in the Air Force. his father and two younger They exchanged letters for brothers were alive in Swealmost a year until Susie den, Mauritz and his family came to the US to visit her moved to Köping, Sweden, cousins. It was then she met Jakob, my Zaida, in person. when Susie was just eleven He proposed to her after months old. There they had a only a few days, having gotboy, Jacob Ceder. Susie and ten to know each other so Jacob grew up in Köping, and well in writing. “I rememeventually the family moved to Uppsala when Susie was ber his brown eyes,” she nine years old. says fondly. They married Susie went straight from in 1970 in Brooklyn. school into a job at the local Now an Air Force wife, Sam and his Bubbie at his Bar Mitzvah in 2012. airport drawing up weather she moved wherever my maps. She first rode a moped, and then drove a baby blue Zaida was assigned: Robins AFB in Georgia, McGuire AFB Volkswagen that she bought from a nun. Her dedication was in New Jersey, Mather AFB in California, RAF Lakenheath then as it is to this day - to her family. With her first paycheck in the UK, and finally Offutt AFB in Nebraska. “I liked it,” she came to New York to meet her cousins and see the 1964 she recalls about moving around so often, “I got rid of stuff World’s Fair. and moved to a new place.” “Everyone thought we were rich because we were so In New Jersey in 1971 they had a son, Michael. When thrifty,” Susie explains. While Mauritz earned some money Michael was only six months old, Jakob was deployed to as a handyman and roofer, Miriam ran a fur shop, Ceder’s South Korea for a year. This left Susie as a temporarily single Pälsateljé (Fur Studio). Susie describes her mother as a keen See Susie Besser page c10

The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018 | c9

Rosh Hashanah Woman of Valor: Shelly Fox

Brittany haMor Intern, Jewish Press Shelly Fox has worked with Jewish Social Services for the last 15 years. Her favorite way to spend her free time is with family, friends, and her dogs. She says it’s a blessing to have the opportunity to give and receive from those you love, and it is not taken for granted by her. For Fox, a Woman of Valor is a woman who “possesses Strength, Dignity, Courage and Care. I have been surrounded by Women of Valor throughout my life... my grandmothers, mother, mother-in-law, sister, daughter and special friends.” Her New Year’s wish is health and happiness for herself and those she cares about. She also prays for a more humane world. “I always strive for fun, laughter and appreciation... otherwise, what is the point?” Fox said.

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The Jewish Press will be closed on 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 was 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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C10 | The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018

Rosh Hashanah Must-know High Holidays words and phrases

MJL StAff My Jewish Learning via JTA Here are some important Hebrew words and terms you may encounter over the High Holiday season. Akedah â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Pronounced ah-keh-DAH. Literally â&#x20AC;&#x153;binding,â&#x20AC;? the Akedah refers to the biblical story of the binding of Isaac, which is traditionally read on the second day of Rosh Hashanah. Chag sameach â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Pronounced KHAG sah-MAY-akh. Literally â&#x20AC;&#x153;happy holiday,â&#x20AC;? a common greeting on Rosh Hashanah and other Jewish holidays.

A page from a Machzor dated from the beginning of the 14th century. Credit: Prisma/UIG via Getty Images

Elul â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Pronounced el-OOL (oo as in food). The final month of the Jewish calendar, it is designated as a time of reflection, introspection and repentance. Het (also chet) â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Pronounced KHEt (short e). Sin, or wrongdoing. Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;shana tovah uâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;metukah â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Pronounced lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;shah-NAH toe-VAH ooh-meh-too-KAH. A Hebrew greeting for the High Holidays season that means â&#x20AC;&#x153;For a good and sweet year.â&#x20AC;? Machzor â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Pronounced MAHKH-zohr. Literally â&#x20AC;&#x153;cycle,â&#x20AC;? the machzor is the special prayer book for the High Holidays containing all the special liturgy. Selichot â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Pronounced slee-KHOtE. Literally â&#x20AC;&#x153;forgivenesses,â&#x20AC;? selichot are prayers for forgiveness. Selichot refers to two related See High Holidays words and phrases page C12

Susie Besser

Continued from page C9 mother taking care of her first infant. While Jakob was in Korea, they stayed close to Jakobâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s family in Brookyln. Susie would make breakfast and lunch, and then would go to dinner at Jakobâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s parentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s house just four blocks away. My Bubbie brushed off any question of hardship during this time, claiming that being alone for a year-and-a-half with her son was no problem. She says all was fine then; she had a 16-foot-long Plymouth, a â&#x20AC;&#x153;nice apartment,â&#x20AC;? and her in-laws to help with Michael. Jakob would call weekly from Korea. Her nonchalance about this time is a testament to her strength and character. Upon Jakobâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s return, the whole family was relocated to Sacramento, CA, and in 1974, it was time for Susie to become an official U.S. citizen. The citizenship test at the time included a smattering of American history as well as an English proficiency test. My Bubbie was dead-set on becoming a citizen - to this day she still has the comprehensive notes she took while studying for the test. When she showed up for the test (with Michael in her lap), the proctor was impressed with her textbook knowledge. She easily passed the test, and the process of becoming a citizen was expedited due to Jakobâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s security clearance in the Air Force. She was given citizenship and sworn in soon after. Susie still has the California pin, copy of the Constitution, tiny American flag and the welcome letter from President Nixon given to all immigrants. By 1975, Jakob and Susie had another baby, my mother, Debbie. They moved to England (where their huge Plymouth caused some issues on the tiny European streets) and then to Bellevue at Offutt AFB. Jakob was deployed to Turkey for a year in 1983. Upon his return, he was gone every two weeks for a week on the spectacularly named â&#x20AC;&#x153;Doomsday Plane.â&#x20AC;? Susie was often alone taking care of the kids, but as her children testify, she never once faltered. â&#x20AC;&#x153;[My mom] took care of everything,â&#x20AC;? says Debbie, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Michael and I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have chores. We went to school and when we got home everything was ready. She always played with us and took Michael to his baseball and Bar Mitzvah practices. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m not even half of the mother she was.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m pretty fortunate to know her,â&#x20AC;? says Michael, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been many things to many people: immigrant, military wife, practicing Jew, and much, much more. To me sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s my mom and I wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be half the person I am today without her.â&#x20AC;? Once her children were grown, she went to work at the Bellevue University library. She kept her employee reports, each one showing perfect scores for organization, proficiency, and her special affinity to the foreign students. After Jakob retired in 1991, they were able to spend time together and travel. They enjoy yearly road trips and travel to Sweden and Israel often. Susie and Jakob have five grandchildren, are both retired and live in Omaha. Susie speaks Swedish to her brother, Yiddish to Jakob and anyone who can understand, and English to everyone else. She keeps a remarkable stamp and postcard collection going back over six decades, containing first edition Israeli stamps as well as stamps from countries that no

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longer exist. She is one of the best cooks and bakers Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve ever encountered, as she pours her love into her cooking. As I kept being a nudnick about this article, my Bubbie decided to let pictures say more than words. She took out shoeboxes and photo albums full of a lifetime of pictures. Hidden in various drawers and shoeboxes were a myriad of old movies in every format imaginable. 8-millimeter film reels, VHS tapes, and even the occasional 20-year old DVD opened my eyes to an intricate and nuanced life that my Bubbie dealt with so gracefully. The videos were astonishing. One video from 1965 shows my Bubbie on the trip to the New York Worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fair, while two others show her trips to Israel. The first Israel video, dated 1966, was the first time I ever saw video footage of my great-grandmother. The second Israel video was shot in 1967, only months after the Six-Day War, and showed a newly recaptured Kotel, up-close film of the Dome of the Rock, and a bus ride through the streets of Gaza. Next were videos taken in Sweden. But the best of all was seeing my grandparentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; wedding video and my uncle and mother as babies. I saw my Bubbie become who she is - from a loving daughter to a loving wife, mother, and grandmother. She means the world to her family, and I love her more than I can express in a simple newspaper article. Writing this was so difficult as it is hard to put into words how unfathomably wonderful she is. What can I say? Beyond pearls, sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a woman of valor.

Woman of Valor: Jennie Gates Beckman

brittANY HAMOr Intern, Jewish Press Jennie Gates Beckman is the director of community engagement and education at the Federation. She has been with the Federation for two years. Her hobbies include toddler wrangling, gardening, making and consuming interesting food, and working out. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a lot of baggage around the phrase Woman of Valor for Jennie. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s traditional and she sees a glimpse of beautiful imagery, but even though she considers herself someone who has done a significant amount of Jewish learning, she does not see herself as a Woman of Valor. Her New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wish is to spend more time with her family.

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A woman Cantor walks into a biker bar... Ozzie NOgg t’s true. Read on. Convincing Cantor Wendy Shermet to be part of this special edition wasn’t easy. In response to my email request, she replied, “I don’t think I at all deserve to be put in the Woman of Valor category. Not false modesty, just doin’ my job. If you want to talk, tho, I’m here.” I wanted to talk. “Driving to Temple this morning,” Wendy said on the phone a few days later, “I heard an NPR interview about jazz singer Sheila Jordan who grew up dirt poor, raised her daughter as a single mom on a typist’s salary, battled alcohol and drug addiction, got sober, got recognized and never compromised her style. A white woman singing jazz in the face of massive hos- Cantor Wendy Shermet in the Utah tility. That’s inspirational.” mountains. Then Wendy left for Azerbaijan without sharing her story. Others eagerly spilled the beans. “Everyone recognizes Cantor Shermet’s dry humor and seemingly tough outer shell,” said Rabbi Josh Brown, Wendy’s colleague at Temple Israel for four years. “But I don’t know if people realize that time and again students walked past my office, past Rabbi Azriel’s office, and headed straight to Cantor Shermet’s office to share their most intimate concerns. When a student wanted a shoulder to cry on, it was Wendy’s door they knocked on. And they were right to do so. That outer shell covers her tremendous heart. Wendy doesn’t refuse titles like Woman of Valor out of humility, although she is humble. She refuses them because she doesn’t need the spotlight. I suspect this article will make her uncomfortable, even though it’s much deserved.” Cantor Shermet joined Temple Israel’s clergy in 2001. She received a Master of Music Degree from the New England Conservatory of Music, and ordination with a Master of Sacred Music from Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion. “Wendy has a rich understanding of Jewish music,” Rabbi Aryeh Azriel said. “Hers is not Debbie Friedman-type camp tunes. On Shabbat and holidays, she selects motifs that fit the words and reflect who we are as liberal Jews, whether

through works of German-Jewish composers, hassidic niggunim or shtetl melodies.” Temple Past President Mike Halsted said, “Wendy has strong opinions about how the worship service is organized, plus a commitment to and a passion for the role of cantors. She doesn’t want them marginalized as song leaders. Wendy considers herself totally fortunate to have Tami Field as a cantorial sub.” Julie Sandene, Wendy’s accompanist for seventeen years, recalls Cantor Shermet’s audition. “It was a freezing winter night, and here’s this sophisticated woman with outstanding cantorial

credentials plus L.A. theater experience auditioning for a position in Omaha. I thought, ‘She’ll never accept this job,’ but she did. Then she bought a farm, another expression of the multi-faceted, free-thinker she is. When some congregants suggested Wendy learn to play guitar, she took lessons, but decided instead to secretly take up the banjo. She debuted her new skill at a Shabbat service and surprised everyone.” Periodically, Wendy takes off to countries most of us couldn’t locate on a map. She flies solo. “These aren’t casual vacations,” See Cantor Wendy Shermet page C12

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Cantor Wendy Shermet Continued from page C11 Rabbi Azriel said, “and she’s not a passive observer. Her trips involve an intense search for Jewish communities, their history, their music and folklore. Then Wendy develops curricula and shares her knowledge with students who are able to travel vicariously without leaving the classroom. Beautiful.” At HUC, Wendy studied Reform liturgical repertoire and traditional nusach plus courses in Jewish history and philosophy, all of which inform her work with adult education classes and Bar and Bat Mitzvah teens. Before Dorothy Spizman’s grandson, Max, met with Cantor for his first lesson, he was — in a word — scared. “But he left Wendy’s office all smiles,” Dorothy said. “He told me, ‘Grandma, Cantor Shermet likes basketball and knows who all those tall men are.’ After that, Max studied with Wendy, happily.” Cantor Shermet insists her students be well prepared. She offers no short cuts. “Her teaching comes from a deep, ethical place,” Rabbi Azriel said. “From her sense of knowing what is proper and good. Wendy makes sure the kids understand that the Bar and Bat Mitzvah ceremony is not a performance. She teaches what it means to be a responsible Jew.” Mike Halsted added, “Wendy has a sign in her office, ‘No Whining Zone.’ It’s meant humorously, but she

holds her ground.” This is no small feat, said Susie Norton. “Wendy molds sometimes rebellious, reluctant, even obnoxious teens into confident young men and women, ready to lead the congregation in Shabbat worship. As the parent of four sons who have been tutored by Wendy, I know how far these kids come once they begin their journey with her. First they’re nervous and maybe even a little afraid of her. Then, after months of candid conversations, stern admonishments and friendly banter, they emerge from Wendy’s office confident, ready to accept the responsibility of becoming a Bar or Bat Mitzvah. They’ve also taken their relationship with her to a more adult and more enriching level.” Wendy Shermet is married to Lenny Burrell, master carpenter and craftsman. The couple’s 24 year old son, Sam, is a science diver and marine biologist working for UC Santa Barbara. During Wendy’s first years in Omaha, she rode from the family’s acreage in Bennington to Temple on her motorcycle. “Wendy is the first Cantor I’ve worked with who rode a bike,” Rabbi Azriel said. “To arrive in the clergy parking lot and see a Suzuki in the Cantor’s slot was invigorating, but it scared the hell out of me. The bike is just one of Wendy’s unique aspects.” One of many. Wendy also rides

horses, raises goats and chickens; will eat the whipped cream off your plate; loves to ski; earned a Screen Actors’ Guild card from a soap opera gig; can pilot a plane; chaperones teens on trips to Israel; is crazy for chocolate bonbons which Scott Anderson, Temple’s building supervisor, keeps hidden from poachers. And she’s a vegetarian. “Mike and I have Wendy and Lenny over for what we call Hunk of Meat Night,” Mendy Halsted said. “We tell Wendy we’re going to cook her a piece of cardboard.” Or maybe something with cheese. “Wendy loves cheese,” explained Dennis Deporte, Temple Executive Director. “I do, too. When I open the cooler and find a half un-wrapped chunk of Cheddar, I know my ‘mouse’ has been there. While Wendy travels, my cheese is safe.” So what’s with the biker bar headline? “Wendy and Lenny and my husband Randy and I own motorcycles,” said Sharon Comisar-Langdon, Temple Religious School Director. “The four of us enjoy a relaxing ride to our favorite biker stops along the Platte River. We grab some beverages, sit on the deck and schmooze, just like everyone else there. Wendy fits in with anyone.” At Rosh Hashanah, Cantor Shermet sometimes gathers other Temple bikers, rides to the river and observes the custom of See Cantor Wendy Shermet page C13

which Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur and Sukkot all occur. Unetaneh tokef — Pronounced oohnuh-tah-neh toh-keff. Literally “we shall ascribe,” a religious poem recited during the Musaf (additional service ) Amidah that is meant to strike fear in us. yamim noraim — Pronounced yahmEEm nohr-ah-EEm. Literally “Days of

Awe,” a term that refers to the High Holidays season. Sometimes it is used to refer to the 10 days from Rosh Hashanah through Yom Kippur, which are also known as the Aseret Yimei Teshuvah, or the 10 Days of Repentance. yom tov — Pronounced yohm tohV or yon-tiff. This is a general term for the major Jewish festivals.

High Holidays words and phrases

Continued from page C10 types of penitential prayers: the prayers that customarily are recited daily at morning services during the month of Elul, as well as the name of the service late at night on the Saturday preceding Rosh Hashanah consisting of a longer series of these penitential prayers. Shofar — Pronounced shoh-Far or Shoh-far (rhymes with “so far”). The ram’s horn that is sounded during the month of Elul, on Rosh Hashanah and at the end of Yom Kippur. It is mentioned numerous times in the Bible in reference to its ceremonial use in the Temple and to its function as a signal horn of war. tashlich — Pronounced tahSh-likh. Literally “cast away,” Tashlich is a ceremony observed on the afternoon of the first day of Rosh Hashanah in which sins are symbolically cast away into a natural body of water. The term and custom are derived from a verse in the Book of Micah (7:19). teshuvah — Pronounced tih-Shoo-vuh. Literally “return,” teshuvah is often translated as “repentance.” It is one of the central themes and spiritual components of the High Holidays. tishrei — Pronounced tiSh-ray. The first month in the Hebrew calendar, during

Woman of Valor: Jennifer Tompkins Kirshenbaum brittany hamor Intern, Jewish Press Jennifer Tompkins Kirshenbaum is the Director of Human Resources. She has two children, Kathleen and Laura. “A woman who faces all difficulties with courage and determination,” she said. “She never doubts her judgment and is always the first to step up to a new challenge. I believe any woman who has the bravery to stand up for her opinions in the face of opposition is a Woman of Valor.” Her New Year’s wish is for students to continue their enthusiasm towards civic engagement.

Woman of Valor: Esther Katz

brittany hamor Intern, Jewish Press Esther Katz has been the JCC Dance and Cultural Arts Director for over 14 years. Esther enjoys making crafts for work or hanging out with kids at the new JCC outdoor pool. “A Women of Valor means someone who leads by example, in whatever they may be doing, whether that is social justice or something they are passionate about,” she said. “They should be a strong leader and do what they are doing not for themselves, but for the greater good.” Her New Year’s wish is for everyone to learn to be kind to others and treat others, just like the golden rule states, with respect and understanding for reach others differences.

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The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018 | C13

Rosh Hashanah Cantor Wendy Shermet

Continued from page C12 Tashlich. “Dennis calls Wendy the real deal,” Sharon said. “I agree with him.” Pirkei Avot teaches, ‘The world stands on three things: On Torah, on service of God, and upon acts of loving kindness.’ Wendy has all three covered. “Her kindness goes above and beyond,” Sharon said. “In times of grief and mourning, she offers each individual family a kindness you can’t replicate. Wendy doesn’t let her own feelings get in the way. She puts her focus on the other person, holds your hand through the pain and empowers you to make the right choices when you may not have the wherewithall.” A case in point. “My late husband, Sherm, and Wendy were dear friends,” Jeanie Neff said. “I think they bonded over a shared sense of humor. I’m not privy to much of what they talked about, but I know it centered on the spiritual, realistic, Jewish way of dealing with death. I think Wendy guided Sherm through the process of dying. He asked her to do his funeral and she was hesitant, but when the time came she captured his essence perfectly. I was totally immobilized when Sherm died, and Wendy helped me navigate. Her compassion toward me and our girls, Andrea and Jane, gave light to our path into the unknown. We’ll miss her dearly, but realize she’ll only be a phone call away. We’ll carry her inspiration with us forever.” Penny Endelman said, “I didn’t get to know Wendy until after my husband Randy died in 2013. She called and suggested we have

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lunch, when I was ready. Being one-on-one with Wendy is great. She’s direct. No gameplaying. It’s easy to have a relationship with her if you can deal with straight talk. I feel safe with Wendy. I can tell her anything, ask her anything, and trust it’s not going anywhere else. I don’t really think of Wendy as clergy but as a friend.” For Pam Deporte, “Wendy has an ability to know when you may need a friend to talk to, but she’s great at offering support without making you feel you need it. She just goes about helping, quietly.” This High Holiday season marks Jerry Brabec’s 23rd year singing with the Temple choir. He has conducted Kol Rina since Cantor Shermet arrived. Brabec, Minister of Worship at St. Paul United Methodist Church, considers Cantor Shermet more than a colleague. “It has been a privilege to call Wendy my friend for seventeen years. As clergy comrades, we share many work related experiences in common, and it is our joy to be entrusted with the life events of our congregations — weddings, baby namings, funerals, Consecration and Confirmation ceremonies, weekly services. The difference is, I don’t train Bar or Bat Mitzvah students and won’t be called on to say blessings at a Bris. Wendy’s absence, when she retires next year, will leave a deep and a true sense of loss to many, including me.” Recently returned from her adventure in Azerbaijan, Wendy Shermet finally spoke. “I meant it when I said I’m not ‘valorous’ in the least. A woman of valor is one who has

had to work with a boss who abuses her, emotionally or physically, or one who’s had the courage to leave an abusive home and raise her kids on bupkus. Also, our women in the military who have fought the system for job parity, and Third World women I’ve met who make do on pennies a month. Lucia, from Moldovia, whose husband was murdered right after the Soviet Union fell, became a doctor and raised her daughter on $300 a month. The Israeli women — and men — who served their country and send their kids into service. My great-grandmother, who raised eleven kids in Pittsburgh, went blind early from glaucoma and worked through all of it. Andie Gordman who, after her son Brandon died, continues to give to her community. And my mom. She lost my dad, a Naval Reserve pilot, when she was thirty-three. She remarried, raised two step-children in addition to her own three, lost my brother to cancer when he was twenty-four, yet somehow managed to get up every day, appreciate life, and celebrate her three grandsons. I can’t match any of this.” In an article titled, Music, Language of the Soul, Rabbi Jonathan Sacks wrote, “Words are the language of the mind. Music is the language of the soul. So, when we pray, we do not read; we sing. When we engage with sacred texts, we do not recite; we chant. The history of the Jewish spirit is written in its songs. The words do not change, but each generation needs its own melodies.” In this place, in this time, Cantor Wendy Shermet gives voice to those melodies.

C14 | The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018

Rosh Hashanah new children’s book

Penny sChwarTz BOSTON | JTA who’s GoT The eTroG? Jane Kohuth; illustrations by Elissambura Kar-Ben; ages 4-8 In this brightly illustrated story for Sukkot, Jane Kohuth weaves a playful folk-like tale told in simple poetic verse. In her rural village in Uganda, under a bright and full milkbowl moon, Auntie Sanyu is preparing for the fall harvest holiday when Jews build a hut called a sukkah where they eat, welcome guests and sometimes even sleep. Kids follow Auntie Sanyu as she decorates her sukkah and places a lulav, the bunch of green palm branches, and a bright yellow etrog, the lemon-like fruit, on a tray to be used in the holiday rituals by Auntie Sanyu’s animal guests. But Warthog loves the etrog so much, he doesn’t want to hand it over to the lion, parrots or giraffe. A young girl named Sara intervenes. The story comes to life in Elissambura’s boldly colored, striking collage-style illustrations. The back page explains the history of the Ugandan Jewish community called the Abayudaya, and a glossary explains about the sukkah and lulav and terms like “Oy,vey!”

This Israeli-Ethiopian woman brings the food of her cultures

journey took three years, passing through Sudan, Kenya, Uganda and EuJosefin DolsTen NEW YORK | JTA rope. They arrived in the Jewish state in 1983, in the early days of the At Tsion Café in Harlem, visitors can order a vegetable injera, an Ethiopian migration to Israel. Ethopian sourdough flatbread topped with vegetable, lentil and In Israel, the family initially lived in an immigrant absorption center in chickpea stews. There is traditional shakshuka, a dish common in Israel Pardes Hana, in the country’s north, later moving to the city of Ashkelon. and the Middle East where eggs are cooked in a hearty tomato sauce. At 13, Barhany decided to move to a kibbutz, where she lived until joining And then there’s the scrambled eggs with caramelized onions and lox. the army at 18. The assortment of menu items Barhany disputes what she sees as a common but dis— random as it may seem — tells torted narrative: that Ethiopian Jews were poor and suffering the story of the eatery’s owner, prior to moving to Israel. She said her family chose to leave Beejhy Barhany, an Ethiopian Jew Ethiopia because of a longstanding wish to return to the who moved here by way of Israel. Jewish homeland. Tsion Cafe, which is located in “[W]e voluntarily left Ethiopia because we wanted to be in the historic Sugar Hill district of Israel,” she said. “We had our land, we had our properties, we the Manhattan neighborhood, repdidn’t starve or anything like it. We were doing very well.” resents all of Barhany’s identities. Barhany opened Tsion Café in 2014 with her husband, “It’s a celebration of the Padmore John, a native of the Caribbean island republic DoEthiopian, Israeli and American minica. The pair wanted to start a restaurant that offered [cultures], so we are encompassBeejhy Barhany opened Tsion Cafe in 2014 both healthy food and culture. ing and celebrating all of these to- with her husband. Credit: Josefin Dolsten “I think it’s important that you eat healthy food, good gether,” she told JTA last month. products, and I wanted to have a venue where I can encomBarhany, 42, also wants the restaurant to serve as a cultural center of pass everything -- a little bit of culture, a little bit of food, and in a place sorts. On the wall hang paintings by local artists, and on the weekends where nobody did it before,” Barhany said. bands play jazz, a nod to the neighborhood’s influential role during the She wants Tsion Café to serve as a venue for people to connect. Harlem Renaissance, when African-American artists, musicians and writ“My bigger vision is for people from all backgrounds [to] come and talk ers converged in Harlem. and have a discussion, a dialogue, and to be more open minded, despite The restaurant’s venue is historic in itself. It previously was the home the political situation that we are in, to be more embracing and welcomof Jimmy’s Chicken Shack, a famous eatery and jazz spot frequented by ing one another,” she said. Malcolm X and comedian John Elroy Sanford, also known as Redd Foxx, Barhany is also the founder of Beta Israel of North America, a group for and where jazz saxophonist Charlie Parker, Jr. washed dishes before his Ethiopian Jews. She founded the group in 2000, so she could come tobig break. gether with others who shared her background. She estimates that some “A lot of inspirational people passed through, and we’re very happy to 1,000 Ethiopian Jews live in the New York area. continue that by playing music and celebrating the diversity within “I had nobody to reach out to so I said, ‘Let me create that, so whoever Harlem,” Barhany said. comes at least can be assisted,’” she said. Barhany came to New York in 2000: She was enamored with the city The organization hosts the annual Sheba Film Festival, now in its 15th on a trip here after completing her Israeli army service. year, which highlights the experiences of African Jews. In this city, she feels less defined by her race or status as an immigrant Her two children, a 12-year-old girl and 8-year-old boy, are part of the than she did in Israel. Ethiopian Jewish community here — and other communities as well. “Here you could be whomever you are and nobody knows who I am. “They are Ethiopian, Israeli, American, Caribbean,” she said. I’m Ethiopian, I’m a New Yorker, I’m here, but I’m not categorized as Barhany said she finds ways in Harlem to honor all the different parts Ethiopian, Russian, Yemenite,” she said, referring to immigrant groups to of her identity — and to incorporate them in the dishes at Tsion Cafe. Israel that have faced various types of discrimination. “I’m a proud Ethiopian, a proud Jew, a proud black female living in Barhany was four years old when her family left Ethiopia for Israel. The Harlem, so all of that is part of me,” she said. “I celebrate all of that.”

L’shanah Tovah!

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The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018 | C15

Women on the front page Annette vAn de kAmp Editor, Jewish Press

ere’s the question: back in the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s, women did not enter the work floor as a matter of course, but were (too) often expected to stay home and take care of domestic things if and when they got married: “In 1950 about one in three women participated in the labor force. By 1998, nearly three of every five women of working age were in the labor force. Among women age 16 and over, the labor force participation rate was 33.9 percent in 1950, compared with 59.8 percent in 1998.”(Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics) So, what did it take to make the front page of The Jewish Press? Philanthropy, tireless volunteerism, but also professional non-profit work, it turns out. The front page of the Jan. 13, 1950, edition tells us elections were held for Federation Officers for the coming year. The 1949 President, Mrs. Louis Kulakofsky, gave a report on the past year’s activities, newly elected members would be announced ‘in next week’s issue.’ The other 1949 officers were: Mrs. Robert H. Kooper, Mrs. Max Wolfson, vice-Presidents; Mrs. Joseph Dienstfrey, secretary and Miss Kalah Franklin, executive secretary. Eighteen women’s clubs are affiliated with the Federation, it says. Here’s a story from April 21, 1950: Mrs. Flo Brookstein and Mrs. David Shukert will be Chairman and Co-Chairman respectively of this year’s Business and Professional Section of the Women’s Division of the Jewish Philanthropies Campaign. Announcement of their selection was made this week by Mrs. Ernest A. Nogg, General Chairman of the Women’s Division. Neither Brookstein nor Shukert had their photo included, but that year’s speaker did: a French underground leader by the name of Mme. Paulette Oppert was scheduled to speak to the Jewish women of Omaha. A headline from June 6, 1952 stated: FJWC Elects ’52 President and was accompanied by a photo of Mrs. Harold P. Farber. FJWC stands for ‘Federation of Jewish Women’s Clubs’,’ its members met at the Jewish Community Center for their final luncheon of the year. Outgoing President Mrs. Ernest A. Nogg spoke about “A year of great satisfaction.” She continued: “It is through this Federation that all Jewish women of our community band together to accomplish the activities in which cooperative enterprise is required.” Sept. 2, 1960, the Press announced that Mrs. M.F. Levenson would Chair the Israel Bonds Campaign; in the Sept. 29, 1967, issue we find out (above the fold!) that Mrs. Alan Golkin was named Advisor to the Youth Council. Mr. Barton Greenberg will renew her role as Fashion Show Chairman for the forthcoming “All-Israel” Fashion Show and Luncheon, to be held Thursday, Nov. 11, at the Raddison-Blackstone Hotel. The date was October 15 and I can only imagine how the editor felt about that typo; we’ll assume they meant to add an ‘s’ to ‘Mr.’ It happens, and I’m glad I’m not the only one who sometimes lets mistakes slip through the cracks. The announcement is followed by an impressive list: “In addition to her activities in Israel Bonds, Mrs. Greenberg has been active in all Jewish organizations (all?), maintaining memberships in Beth El

Sisterhood, Hadassah, National Council of Jewish Women and Brandeis University National Women’s Committee. She has also been active in the Women’s Division of Jewish Philanthropies and served as chairman of the 1971 Newcomers Division.” Again, we find a woman who commands anabove-the-fold spot due to being offered a job: Marlene Solomon Is Appointed Director of Jewish High School. This article ran in 1977 (August 26, to be exact) and reminds us there have been some changes over the years when it comes to the education of our teens:

Announcement of the appointment was made by Dr. James Wax, Chairman of the board of the high school which is co-sponsored by Beth Israel Synagogue and Beth El Synagogue. [...] Presently attending a conference on alternatives in Jewish education in Rochester, NY, Mrs. Solomon said she hopes to bring back many new ideas to implement in the school. I find it fascinating that women were featured above the fold only on the occasions they were hired for paid positions. Was it because it was bigger ‘news?’ Things began to change in the 1980s, to the point that more and more women assumed professional leadership roles. By 1980, the average American male worked 43 hours per week, while women worked 36 hours on average. Approximately 14% of women had at least a Bachelor’s degree, as opposed to 22% of men (by 2000, that number was equal for both genders at 30% for those 25 years and older; however, for the 25-29 year-olds, the women left the men in the dust). It was also 1980 when the percentage of women with manager-level jobs began to rise rapidly. Who remembers what PIJCO stands for? It means “Professional Interns of the Jewish Communal Organizations” and covered the Jewish Federation of Omaha’s Summer Internships. On the June 24, 1983, front page, interns were announced, and some familiar names are included: “Naomi Mitchell, Jewish Press; Rosie Zweiback, Rose Blumkin Jewish Home; Gail Handleman, Jewish Press; Beth Seldin, B’nai B’rith Youth Organization; Cindi Anderson, Federation Library.” That is one story from the 1980s that probably wouldn’t have been possible 30 years earlier; the need for internships, on-the-job learning would have been much greater in 1983. Still, this paper runs countless stories of women philanthropists and volunteers each year. The fact that women are more represented in the workforce than we once were doesn’t change the need to get involved. It’s entirely possible that need has even increased.

C16 | The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018

Rosh Hashanah Nine things you didn’t know about Yom Kippur MJL Staff My Jewish Learning via JTA Yom Kippur, the Jewish Day of Atonement, starts at sundown on Tuesday, Sept. 18. Traditionally one of the most somber days on the Jewish calendar, it’s known for fasting and repentance – not to mention killer caffeine withdrawal headaches. However, the holiday has some lesser-known associations as well. 1. the word “scapegoat” originates in an ancient Yom Kippur ritual. Jews historically have been popular scapegoats — blamed for an array of ills not of their creation. But, and we’re not kidding, they really do deserve blame (or credit) for the term scapegoat. In Leviticus 16:8 (in the Torah portion Achrei Mot), the High Priest is instructed on Yom Kippur to lay his hands upon a goat while confessing the sins of the entire community — and then to throw the animal off a cliff. 2. another animal ritual, swinging a chicken around one’s head, has sparked considerable controversy, and not just from animal-rights activists. In 2015, the kapparot ritual, in which a chicken is symbolically invested with a person’s sins and then slaughtered, spurred two lawsuits in the United States: one by traditional Jews claiming their right to perform it was being abridged by the government and another by animal-rights activists. Centuries earlier, the ritual drew criticism from notable sages like the Ramban (13th century) and Rabbi Joseph Caro (16th century), whose objections had less to do with animal welfare than with religious integrity. 3. Yom Kippur once was a big matchmaking day.

The Talmud states that both Yom Kippur and Tu b’Av (often described as the Jewish Valentine’s Day) were the most joyous days of the year, when women would wear white gowns and dance in the vineyards chanting “Young man, lift up your eyes and see what you choose for yourself. Do not set your eyes on beauty, but set your eyes on a good family.” Given the aforementioned caffeine headaches and the difficulty of making a decision on an empty stomach, we’re glad this particular tradition is no more. 4. food and drink are not the only things Jews abstain from on Yom Kippur. Other traditional no-nos on Yom Kippur include bathing, wearing perfume or lotions, having sexual relations and wearing leather shoes. The less-thanattractive aroma resulting from the first two restrictions (not to mention the romantic restrictions imposed by the third) may explain why the day ceased to be an occasion for finding true love. 5. In Israel, Yom Kippur is the most bike-friendly day of the year. Although many Israelis are secular, and there is no law on the books forbidding driving on Yom Kippur, virtually all the country’s Jews avoid their cars on this day. With only the occasional emergency vehicle on the road, bikers of all ages can be seen pedaling, even on major highways. 6. Eating a big meal before the holiday begins will make your fast harder rather than easier. Traditionally, the meal eaten before beginning the fast is supposed to be large and festive, following the Talmudic dictum that it is a mitzvah (commandment) to eat on the eve of Yom Kippur, just as it is a mitzvah to fast on Yom Kippur itself. However, eat-

shawl is worn for evening prayers. According to the late Rabbi Louis Jacobs, the tallit (prayer shawl) is worn during Kol Nidre as “a token of special reverence for the holy day.” It is traditional to wear a tallit or a white garment for the entire holiday, with the color white symbolizing both our spiritual purity and our removing ourselves from the vanities of the material world. Many people actually wear a white robe called a kittel. 9. a Virginia rabbi’s pro-civil rights movement sermon on Yom Kippur in 1958 riled up local segregationists and sparked fears of an anti-Semitic backlash. JTA reported that Virginia’s Defenders of State Sovereignty group demanded that local Jews Orthodox Jewish girls performing the kapparot ceremony in “move quickly to refute and conJerusalem, Oct. 10, 2016. Credit: Ilia Yefimovich/Getty Images demn” Rabbi Emmet Frank of 7. On Yom Kippur in 1940, London’s Jews kept Alexandria’s Temple Beth El for his sermon criticizing the state’s “massive resistance” to school decalm and carried on. In the midst of the Battle of Britain, the relentsegregation and said that if he had intended to less Nazi bombardment of London that began in destroy Christian-Jewish relations, “he could not September 1940, the city’s synagogues went on have been more effective.” While a “leading memwith their Yom Kippur services. According to JTA, ber” of the Reform temple reportedly said a “considwhile air raid warnings “twice disturbed” the mornerable” number of congregants worried Frank’s ing services on Oct. 12, 1940, “most synagogues stand “might result in increased anti-Semitism,” carried on regardless” and a “large proportion of the others “sided with the rabbi, holding that he held a men attending services wore uniforms of the varispiritual and moral duty to speak out for social jusous forces.” tice.” The congregation stood by Frank, and The 8. Yom Kippur’s Kol Nidre services are the only Washington Post published an editorial calling him a night of the entire Jewish calendar when a prayer “courageous clergyman.” ing extra food — particularly in one last-minute feast — does not help to keep you going for 24 hours, says Dr. Tzvi Dwolatzky of Israel’s Rambam Health Care Campus. He suggests eating small amounts of carbohydrates (bread, potato, rice, pasta), some protein (fish, chicken) and fruit.

The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018 | d1

Section 4 ROSH HASHANAH

A lesson of kindness is on her tongue Annette vAn de kAmp Editor, Jewish Press oyce Cohen was eight years old when she moved from St. Paul, Minnesota, to Omaha. It would become her permanent home. She has three sisters, Evelyn Katz, Gail Dinerstein and Dr. Tina Rander. Together with Sheldon, her husband of 51 years, she raised two sons, Bert and Mark. Also important in Joyce’s life are nephew Henry Davis and niece Beth Katz—who nominated her for this issue. “While there are many amazing Jewish women in our community to highlight,” Beth said, “I would like to nominate my aunt, Joyce Cohen, for such an honor. She is an exceptional and inspiring human being in so many ways. She is a talented and accomplished interior designer, a published writer and a tireless advocate for making our community more inclusive for individuals with disabilities and special needs. Most of all, she is a caring and proud mother and grandmother.” While in her 30’s, Beth added, Joyce was diagnosed with juvenile diabetes; several years later, she found out she had Multiple Sclerosis. “These conditions and the complications have caused her to lose much of her vision

Joyce and Sheldon Cohen and have necessitated the use of a wheelchair,” Beth said. “While this could have easily made her turn inward, she instead focused her energy on helping others.” ‘Helping others’ included writing for Momentum Magazine, the publication of the National MS Society, founding a line of allergen-free food and volunteering for the low vision support group at Nebraska Medicine’s Weigel Williamson Center for Visual Rehabilitation. She has been a stalwart supporter of the Jewish Federation of Omaha’s Annual Campaign and, together

with her husband, served for many years on the Jewish Federation’s welcoming committee. “My parents, Bert and Ruth Render, were very welcoming people,” Joyce said. “We always had a very welcoming home, and open house. It was important, because I remember coming here in third grade and feeling all the other kids had already established their friend groups. It was not easy to break in.” The experience stuck with her and she was determined to help others who were

new to our community. “I wanted my kids to learn the importance of reaching out, being considerate of new people. When Shirley Goldstein began to bring in Russian community members, we became a host family, which was a great experience for the entire family. We chaired the JFO Welcoming Committee and facilitated many of the necessities for newcomers.” She taught a Russian friend how to drive, found friends for the younger newcomers, made connections where they were needed and organized events. She hosted people for endless dinners and for holiday celebrations. “The benefit goes both ways,” she said. “While you are able to help, you open yourself up to new experiences. Whether newcomers hail from California or from a completely different country, you learn from each other. It’s a win-win and it gives you a wider perspective of the world.” In recent years, Joyce has found herself spending more time at home due to her health issues. However, she remains aware of the need that exists: “I used to volunteer at the Heart Ministry Center in North Omaha,” she said. “I would help with the food pantry and do whatever else was needed. There is so much need in the wider community, so many people who just need a helping hand. I am so grateful for the blessings in See Joyce Cohen page d2

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D2 | The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018

Rosh Hashanah MESSAGES

Preparing for Rosh Hashanah y favorite month in the Hebrew calendar is the month of Elul. Why? A simple connection to the shofar. Shortly after my bar mitzvah in the 1970s, I discovered a book in my room called The First Jewish Catalog. Similar to The Whole AlAn PotAsH Earth Catalog and The Moose- Chief Executive Officer, wood Cookbook, the catalog JFO was created as a do-it-yourself guide to Judaism. I am not advocating Judaism be observed in a vacuum; but if you grew up in the fifties and sixties, there was a definite need for a new look at how to engage Jewishly. Most of us who grew up in the synagogues at that time found ourselves caught between two worlds – the world of secular assimilated America and the world of Hebrew School a few days a week after a long day of public school (remember when public school was books, dissecting frogs, and gym class). For me, the most inspiring part of Hebrew School was sneaking out to Cris Rexall Drug store (if you went to Beth El). I am not sure what the kids at Temple Israel or Beth Israel did. I would guess the Temple kids found a way to have a cheese Frenchie down the hill at Kings. I digress. The Jewish Catalogs made learning about Jewish life easy, interesting and fun. After returning home from a summer in Israel, I dove into this book and began learning what I skipped out on in Hebrew School. One section quickly caught my eye – the shofar. In Israel, our group decided to buy a gift for the synagogue - a beautiful shofar that is still in use at Beth El. I remember our group trying to explain to the customs officer what the shofar was and that it had a religious purpose.

How do you learn to blow the shofar in the 70s when you do not have a great relationship with your hazzan or rabbi because you have skipped too much Hebrew school? You open up The First Jewish Catalog and read. And before you get to the how to blow, you read about when to blow. There is a built-in training period – the month of Elul! It is customary to blow the shofar every day during the month of Elul except Shabbat and the last day of the month. Elul is traditionally devoted to spiritual stock-taking and the shofar ties right in. Preparation for blowing the shofar, preparation leading up to Rosh Hashanah, preparation for asking for forgiveness. Yes, we do need to prepare ourselves when asking for forgiveness. We know how hard it is and having a built-in training period comes in handy. Back to the Shofar – I learned how to blow the shofar from a book and from listening to others. I was not a good musician growing up but figured the shofar is one note – I can handle that! Three specific sounds are blown on Rosh Hashanah: • the tekiah, the first unbroken blast to wake you up and get your attention • the shevarim, three broken short blasts equal in length to the tekiah • the teruah, the “alarm”, nine rapid blasts also equal in length to the tekiah • the tekiah gadolah, the one we all love, a single unbroken tekiah blast that lasts as long as your breath holds out The shofar is a huge part of what makes Elul my favorite month. But wait: there’s more! Elul can be seen as an acronym for the phrase “Ani L’dodi V’dodi Li” – “I am my beloved’s and my beloved is mine” (Song of Solomon 6:3). Think about the beauty of Elul as an embrace of the people you love. Shanah Tovah um’tukah.

Looking forward

want to wish everyone a healthy new year. This time every year, each of us has the opportunity to take a personal inventory of the important things and people in our lives. It’s a chance for reflection, introspection, and evaluation of how we used our time, resources, and skills this past year to make a difference for those things and Jon MeyeRs people. Your Jewish Federation of Omaha President, JFO has made an incredible impact in the lives of so many through the service of the agencies, committees, leaders, and volunteers. The senior staff and all employees of our organization have been doing a terrific job in advancing the mission of the JFO. The most outwardly visible and obvious success this past year was the construction and opening of the Goldstein Aquatic Center. This has created an excitement and buzz the likes of which our community has not experienced in a very long time. JCC membership has grown and along with it, a vibrancy that has created a trickle-down effect across the campus and agencies. Thanks to the vision of Michael Staenberg, Howard Kooper and Tom Fellman, this aquatic center and fitness center renovation is only the beginning of an amazing campus-wide renovation and revitalization. This brings me to the point of the holiday season I find more important than the look back. The look forward! This time every year allows us to plan, dream and commit ourselves to making a difference for the important things and people in our lives. Your JFO is already looking forward to providing enhanced services, improving facilities, adding programs, and actively seeking better ways to govern ourselves... all to improve everything we do, everything we have, and most important, to improve the experience for everyone we serve. Look Forward. Consider how you can commit yourself to making our community more vibrant and meaningful. Get involved. Enroll in programs. Travel to Israel on a mission trip. Volunteer. Invite your friends to join the JCC (Jewish or non-Jewish). Participate in both the Annual and Capital campaigns. Every person is responsible for our community and CAN make a difference. This year commit to make a difference. L’ Shana Tova.

Joyce Cohen

Continued from page D1 my own life. My family, a roof over my head, food every day; I wish every person who complains could step into someone else’s shoes. Walk the path of someone who is truly lonely or doesn’t know where their next meal will come from, can’t access a car, can’t find transportation or a place to live. If we could all just concentrate a little less on ourselves and pay attention to the person next to us, we’d learn so much!”

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The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018 | D3

Expect miracles

snowbirds

he High Holiday storm arrives at my place in its colorful fury. I try to be smart about it and strategize ahead of time with lists, streamlined shopping, baking and cleaning. Review my notes from years past. Remember what worked and what flopped. Like every homemaker, I have my own bag of tricks. And enough work to keep me busy until the cows come home. But more important and easy to overlook, I try to be on top of my game in the spiritual sense. To think about what I need to fix in me. Where my relationship with G-d has been lacking. What I still need to learn and perfect. Where I’ve been slacking off and how I can better serve my family, community and People. On the first day of Rosh Hashanah, in every Jewish community in the world, we will read in the Torah and Haftarah about two women- Sarah our Matriarch, the first Jewish woman, and Chana- mother of the Prophet Samuel. Their stories are powerful, emotional, and personal with many lessons to be learned and incorporated into our lives. Here are a few I’ve selected to think about myself. 1. miracles are Possible Sarah and Chana, both initially barren, end

up mothering sons who change the course of history. If something you attempt to do is deemed impossible by others or in your own mind, pay no attention. If you want it, work for it. You can do it. 2. Prayer Really Works Shani Katzman Chabad Chana’s unwavering, stubborn, heartfelt prayers earned her the child she prayed for. The Talmud tells us that even in the extreme case where a person is about to be decapitated and the sword is already touching his neck, he can still pray to G-d for intervention! So keep praying to G-d for help and blessings with the big and small things. He will certainly help you. 3. a mother’s impact Cannot be Overstated That Isaac and Samuel went on to be among the greatest men in our history is not happenstance. The influence of their mothers was obvious in the upstanding, remarkable lives they led. Mothers! Do not underestimate your influence on your child. Recognize the G-dly mission that is yours in tending and raising your precious family. The rest of us should be sensitive to step in to “mom” where a mother is unable, or to support mothers in their vital life’s work. Best wishes for a sweet, happy, healthy year. Expect miracles. Pray. Mother. For a better world!

Shanah Tova

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Inventory of the soul

d4 | The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018

nvolving oneself in self-reflection during this period of the High Holy Days is part of taking an inventory of one’s soul, or as Rabbi Naomi Levy has said, it is a matter of “taking a soul-fie.” You might ask, “Why is it important for us to take an accounting of our souls, to take a soulfie?” Proverbs 20:27 reminds us: “The life nancy coren breath of man is the lamp of the Lord, reSpiritual Lay Leader, vealing all his/her inmost parts.” It is the Congregation Tifereth lamp within us that reminds us of our pur- Israel pose in life. The light we harbor, should we pay attention to it, reminds us of who we are, what our potential is, and where we should be heading with our lives. Protecting that light means we must ask ourselves questions such as the ones that fol-

low: Are we needed by others and not stepping up to help? Are we self-consumed and not involved in our family’s life or the life of our community? Have we become stagnant or have we continued to pursue learning and spiritual growth? It’s true that one can take a self-inventory on any day of the year, but it is particularly important for us to do so prior to starting our new year. My suggestion is that we actually take out a piece of paper or a journal and write down our responses to the questions written above. But we shouldn’t stop there! We must not focus only on regrets. We must also focus on our strengths and successes during the past year. We should build upon those areas and set new goals for ourselves, remembering that the new year is a time for a fresh start. I wish all of us a meaningful new year as we turn inward so we can also turn outward with a sense of renewed purpose. May 5779 be filled with blessings for each of us as we fulfill the task of caring for our innermost light.

Happy Rosh Hashanah

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b”H hile the following Kabbalistic insight into Rosh Hashanah may appear to be a bit esoteric, please bear with me as I attempt to make it an easy read. Yiddish speakers may be familiar with the song, A Yiddishe Mammeh, (A Jewish Mother) which extols the rabbi Mendel virtues of the timeless Jewish mom. KatzMan Significant, perhaps unnoticed, the Chabad of Nebraska entire cosmos goes into feminine, mother mode on the eve of Rosh Hashanah. For the light of every year withdraws to its source in the Essence of the Ein Sof on the Eve of every Rosh Hashanah, “when the moon is covered”. (Tanya Igeret HaKodesh 14) Rosh Hashanah is the day when we mortals crown G-d as King of the Universe as Adam first did 5779 years ago. It’s when we ask G-d to be our King and we pledge to be His subjects. We commit to take care of G-d’s world. To do His work. To observe His commandments whereby we mend, heal, nurture and preserve. Uncharacteristically- you might think, this inauguration day of G-d as King- Rosh Hashanah is a day of G-d’s withdrawal. A day of self-nullification. A time of self-effacement and retreat. G-d`s and ours. What happens? Visibly, the moon is covered. Hidden. Barely visible. Being the first day of the Jewish month of Tishrei, the moon, recovering from its monthly wane has not yet begun its rebirth. In its obscure state, it is most obviously the Sefirah (G-dly emanation) of Malchut- Sovereignty and Kingship, which represents a humble, inward-focused energy. Malchut projects nothing of itself, only what it receives from another. As in the example of the moon, it reflects and projects the light received from the sun but radiates nothing of its own. And so, every year on the Eve of Rosh Hashanah, the energy with which G-d created the world and with which He continues to vivify it, reverts unto itself, and the world is left in a state of uncertainty- that is until the Shofar is sounded by Jews around the world. Less is more, minimalists like to say. And it’s true. That which is less complicated is often better understood and appreciated. We prefer brevity to wordiness. Less gaudy, more tasteful. But translated in an often ego-driven world, where money and fame are power, where we are taught and encouraged to go out and leave our mark, to slay those imposing dragons, bigger and more do seem to be better. The ability to step back in humility comes from Malchut, a feminine energy that is subtle and understated. Malchut gives us the ability to appreciate the greatness of the other. To see the depth, promise and innocence of a child not as a burden but a joy and privilege to nurture. To be receptive, to listen, receive, and absorb are not signs of weakness but strength. And it allows us to become part of G-d’s infinitude. Unlike her noisy brothers and sisters, Malchut— the last of the seven attributes, (and the last of the ten Sefirot)— is markedly quiet and nondescript. Malchut is a state of being rather than an activity. Nobility is a passive expression of human dignity which has nothing of its own except that which it receives from the other six emotions. On Pesach we celebrate our freedom, we drink four cups of wine. We recline, we expand ourselves. We exercise mastery over the world, control over our environment, aware of our freedom and independence. Even higher and greater, on Rosh Hashanah, when we set the tone for the year, we reach the pinnacle of greatness, through self-effacement. True leadership is the art of selflessness; it is only a reflection of a Higher will. Malchut manifests and actualizes the character and majesty of the human spirit. It is the very fiber of what makes us human. When the midot of love, discipline, compassion, endurance and humility are properly channeled by yesod into the psyche, the result is Malchut. I take this opportunity to wish everyone a year in which our collective royalty, nobility, dignity will shine. As we take our cue from G-d Himself who sets the tone of the year with Malchut, that we find it within ourselves to lead by example, to serve with selflessness, to nurture with strength and courage as we transform this world into a place teeming only with goodness and G-dliness. Shana Tova Umetukah

Community and friendship in Council Bluffs

he “Little Shul” off Broadway completed another exciting year. Our patriarch for many years, Doc Jerome Bleicher, would be proud of the congregation he supported and kept alive, along with the religious support of the Kurlands, Allen and Sandra, and their three kids. Our format has remained the same since Jerome passed away and the Kurland kids moved on: a short service and a terrific, informative speaker. In addition, we are the epitome of haimish. Why? Our Onegs last longer than the service! Our members and visitors love to hang around and schmooze while enjoying the Oneg spread organized by Board members Sissy Silber and Carole Lainof. We look forward to this fall and our High Holy Day services. The entire community is invited whether or not you are a member. As has been the case for 18 years, our services are organized and led by Jeff Taxman with informative local speakers giving the sermons. (See the end of this article for the list of speakers.) And, our Friday night, 7:30 p.m. (second Friday of the month) Shabbat services will begin Oct. 12. Service leader Larry Blass conducts our Friday night services. This former New Yorker who landed in Bellevue was an officer with the Air Force at SAC and is now retired. He leads our service with that New York accent he never lost. His wit, his preparation for the Torah portion of the week and his leadership makes for a lively service. We are quite sure he never gave his parents a bad time about attending religious school while living in Staten Island and then Sheepshead Bay in Brooklyn. Events of this last year required us to search the country to find more prayer books. Attendance at Friday night services increased significantly over the previous years. In fact, during two Fridays, we had a rabbi as our speaker, Rabbi Brian Stoller of Temple Israel, Omaha, and Rabbi Benjamin Sendrow of Shaarey Tefilla, Carmel, Indiana. (As a side note, during the recent weekend of July 27, an out-building of Shaarey Tefilla was desecrated with a swastika.) The increased following of these rabbis resulted in leaving the

Chapel and moving upstairs to the larger seating space in the Sanctuary. Many synagogues in Iowa have shut down in the last decade. Each year, we hear of another one that has closed its doors. With very few Jews in Council Bluffs, our loyal members come from Omaha and Bellevue. With their support through dues and contributions along with funding from the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation (especially the Goldstein Supporting Foundation and the Special donor Advised Fund) and other foundations, B’nai Israel is being rejuvenated. Many of our members belong to other Omaha congregations but still support us because of our very minimal dues and their desire to perpetuate Western Iowa Jewry. For many years, needed improvements to the 88 year old structure were ignored for lack of funds. In fact, in two places on the Oneg room floor, the concrete had two deep fissures. Concrete leading to the upstairs sanctuary as well as the steps had cracked in numerous places. The ornate doors had deteriorated and were covered with plywood. We invite you to visit this “Little Shul” off Broadway to view what has been done recently: new concrete and steps outside, five new doors on the front of the building, new carpeting and paint in the sanctuary, newly-repaired floor in the Oneg room with carpet instead of linoleum and new folding chairs, beautiful and comfortable new chairs in the chapel and, finally, a lift to provide help to people with mobility issues go downstairs to the chapel and Oneg room and upstairs to the main sanctuary. Please join us for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur services: 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 Sincerely, the board of trustees of b’nai israel Synagogue: Scott Friedman, Rick Katelman, Carole Lainof, Wayne Lainof, marty Ricks, Sissy Silber and Nancy Wolf

The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018 | D5

Rosh Hashanah

MESSAGES

The sound of the shofar, the Song of Creation

he rabbis tell us that on Rosh Hashana it is better to stay at home and hear the shofar sound than to go to synagogue if there is no kosher shofar being sounded. Although synagogues put in much effort and energy to attract congregants for the High Holidays, the only thing that truly matters is the shofar. The words of the prayers and the rabbi’s Rabbi aRi DembitzeR sermon are secondary. Beth Israel Synagogue What is so special about the ram’s horn that make it so important? The rabbis tell us that the shofar represents the point of creation. The Jewish people have one universal job, to reveal G-d’s presence in this world. More than the words and deeds that dominate our observant life is the tone underlying those words and actions. For example, if I would tell a small child softly not to cross the street in traffic, the child would not listen and understand the gravity of their actions. To get the message across to the child, I would have to speak in a stern voice. The words don’t matter as much as the sound that I make, the voice that carries the words. The shofar represents the sensitive tone that lies beneath creation. The rabbis tell us that true femininity represents intuition, the ability to sense what lies beneath. This is the ability to be sensitive and not just see actions and hear words but to truly listen to the tone underlying the thoughts and actions. This ability, this intuition, is a “price above rubies,” understanding that the value of the rubies is more than the monetary value. The true value of the rubies is what one can do with them, or the effort behind the gift. See Rabbi Dembitzer page D6

L’Shanah Tovah May you have a happy, sweet year, filled with many blessings.

To be an expert in things that matter

D6 | The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018

Rosh Hashanah

MESSAGES

“a Price above Rubies”

e sit in the midst of a societal Heshbon HaNefesh (accounting of our souls) regarding the treatment of women. Not merely the world outside our windows, but the Jewish Community as well, is coming to grips with the depth and breadth of the #MeToo movement. At such a time, there may be no more important words in our tradition than those found in the last chapter of the book of Proverbs. In the final chapter of this beautiful book of wisdom literature, the last 21 verses have come to be seen as one unit, comprising the poem Eishet Hayil. “A woman of valor, who can find? Far beyond rubies is her value.” It is easy to comment on our societal failing, as we approach Rosh Hashanah, our goal should be to looking inside, changing ourselves, knowing that our individual change will be reflected in the community at large. We must look inside our souls to account for our actions to make sure that the words of Eishet Hayil continue to ring true in 2018 and beyond. At the beginning of the Sefer Shemot (Book of Exodus), we learn that Moses killed an Egyptian Taskmaster after seeing him beat an elderly Israelite. Understanding the consequences of his actions, Moses fled to Midian. When he arrived, he sat down by a well to regain his strength and composure. As Moses sat by the well (Exodus 2:17-19), he observed seven young women, daughters of

the local priest, drawing water for themselves and their father’s flock. Moments later a group of shepherds came along and drove the young women away, “but Moses got up and came to their Rabbi Steven rescue and watered their flock.” When the abRaham Beth El young women recount the story, their father asks who rescued them, and they point to the Egyptian man named Moses. Where did Moses learn the appropriate way to treat women, not as a needed protector, but one who shows deference and respect? Where does he determine that we must treat everyone as equals no matter their religion or gender? It would appear that Moses did not need sensitivity training in this area to understand right from wrong. In a world where we struggle with the transition from boy to mensch, Moses can serve as a model of conduct for ourselves, our sons and our grandsons. While the movement may have started in Hollywood, it was a short jump to the tech industry, then onto large companies to startups and now, the misconduct, which has always been present but not communicated in the Jewish community, is coming to the forefront. As we journey through a world that continues to come to grips with the #MeToo Movement, we owe it to the women in our

own lives to create safe and respectful environments free from gender abuse and harassment. Only then will we have created a world where our mothers, sisters, wives, and daughters are genuinely seen as being more precious to us than rubies. As we welcome in a New Year, we must work to be a community that allows all our mothers, sisters, daughters and granddaughters to live out the words of Eishet Hayil and “look to the future cheerfully.” The #MeToo movement has caused us all to struggle and think about our own actions, to make sure our conduct is not the cause of someone else’s pain and suffering. We owe it to our daughters, that we teach our sons to see women as equals. We have an ideal role model in Moses and words to guide us in Eishet Hayil. Shanah Tova.

Rabbi Dembitzer

Continued from page D5 This is also the secret of the shofar. To understand and deepen the understanding of what it means to be a human being, to understand one’s responsibility as a Jew. To understand that the song of creation is that which is revealed through one’s actions. Let’s learn from all the feminine energy in this world to look beyond the surface and be sensitive to one another so we can make this a better world. May we internalize the sweet sound of the shofar and G-d’s subtle presence in this world. Blessings for a sweet New Year.

have always loved learning. In fact, I love learning so much that, in addition to serving as a congregational rabbi the last 10 years, I have also been working part-time on a Rabbi bRian doctorate in the field of StolleR Temple Israel Jewish law. Last summer, I was telling a friend about how important a priority it is for me to complete my studies and earn my Ph.D. “Why do you want a Ph.D.?” he asked, rather incredulous that, in my mid-40s, I still want to devote so much time and energy to being in school. My answer came easily and quickly. “Because I’ve always wanted to be an expert at something,” I said, “and this will make me an expert in halakhah.” My friend contemplated this for a moment. Then he responded with a simple question that has stuck with me all year: “What about being an expert father and husband?” An expert father and husband. This is what it is supposed to be all about, isn’t it? And yet how disappointing that I had not thought of it in those terms before! Like so many of us, I have been focused cultivating expertise in my profession by learning, growing, networking and working hard. Being a good husband to my wife and a good father to my children is of course very important to me and I work at them with dedication and intentionality; but when I think about developing an “expertise,” my mind automatically turns outward, away from my home and family. Why is that? After all, professional success and reputation are See Rabbi Stoller page D7

Happy New Year

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The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018 | D7

Here are some special gifts for your Rosh Hashanah hosts MJL Staff My Jewish Learning via JTA Invited to someone’s house for a Rosh Hashanah meal and looking for an appropriate gift? In addition to the always appreciated flowers or bottle of wine, here are some other must-have (or must-give) items for the Jewish New Year. If you’re drawn to the edible items on this list, we recommend you check ahead of time whether your host keeps kosher or has other dietary restrictions. Jewish calendars Rosh Hashanah is the Jewish New Year after all, and every year needs a calendar. While many, if not most, people rely on digital calendars for day-to-day scheduling, a pretty wall

calendar makes a nice decoration and can help keep the household organized. Most Jewish calendars sold in the United States list secular dates as well as Hebrew ones (including all the holidays, of course), and run through the end of the next Gregorian year. (So one that starts with Rosh Hashanah in 2017 will last you until December 2018.) You can find a wide selection online and in Judaica stores and bookstores. Someone with an artistic bent or who enjoys the stress relief that comes with coloring might enjoy this coloring-book cal-

endar featuring intricate Judaic motifs such as Jewish stars and Hanukkah menorahs. And this one from New York’s Jewish Museum showcases a variety of paintings, sculptures and ceremonial objects from its collection. Jewish cookbooks If your host invited you over for a home-cooked meal, he or she probably likes to cook. The four books listed here were published within the last couple of years, so there’s a good chance your host doesn’t yet own them — and what better See Special gifts for your Rosh Hashanah hosts page D8

Rabbi Stoller

Continued from page D6 important and quite valuable; but my wife and children – well, they are worth more to me than anything. They are my top priority (at least, that is what I tell myself). But the question is, do my actions line up with my values? A leadership coach taught me recently you can know what a person truly values by looking at how they spend their time and how they spend their money. I’ll leave the issue of money aside for the moment. But when I look honestly and critically at how I spend my time, I must confess that too many of my hours are consumed by work and related professional pursuits, and too few of them are dedicated to my family. To wit, my actions do not completely match the value-priorities I profess to hold – at least not as well as they should. I am certain that I am not alone in this. Many, if not most, of us devote far too much time and energy to things that are fleeting – like chasing after success, material wealth, and social prestige – and not enough time and energy to things that are lasting and truly matter – like nurturing relationships with family and friends, learning Torah, cultivating good character, and serving our fellow human beings. Standing here at the precipice of a new year, we must confess: our priorities are out of balance. As we prepare to begin again at Rosh Hashanah, I invite all of us to look carefully at what we say we value, and measure how well the ways we are spending our time and energy match with what we say we hold dear. As for me, I am eager to continue pursuing my graduate studies and someday earn that Ph.D. At the same time, I will commit myself to trying my best to become an expert father to my children and an expert husband to my wife. For, as my friend reminded me, professional and intellectual success is worth a great deal, but my family – well, their value to me far exceeds the value of rubies. Indeed, to me they are priceless.

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D8 | The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018

Special gifts for your Rosh Hashanah hosts

Continued from page D7 than a cookbook to subtly convey to your host that you’d love more holiday meal invitations? (Find more Jewish cookbook suggestions here.) Modern Jewish Baker: Challah, Babka, Bagels & More is written by Shannon Sarna, the editor of The Nosher food blog, part of the 70 Faces Media family that includes My Jewish Learning. In this gorgeous book, she pays homage to Jewish baking traditions while reinvigorating them with modern fla-

vors and new ideas. The mother-daughter team of Gabrielle Rossmer Gropman and Sonya Gropman in The German-Jewish Cookbook: Recipes and History of a Cuisine features recipes for GermanJewish cuisine as it existed in Germany prior to World War II, and as refugees later adapted it in the United States and elsewhere. The dishes are a departure from better-known Eastern European Jewish fare and focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients.

May 5779 be a year of health and happiness for you and your family.

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Israeli baker Uri Scheft’s Breaking Breads: A New World of Israeli Baking offers sweet and savory recipes for European, Israeli and Middle Eastern favorites. For vegan cooks — or those who often have a vegan family member or guest at their table — The Superfun Times Vegan Holiday Cookbook: Entertaining for Absolutely Every Occasion by Isa Chandra Moskowitz offers meat- and dairy- and egg-free recipes for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur (break-the-fast), as well as dishes for a variety of other Jewish and non-Jewish holidays. Food Why dip good apples and challah in mediocre honey? The Savannah Bee Company, a gourmet honey purveyor, sells a variety of beautifully packaged artisanal honeys, including several variety packs. Or encourage your host to sample some raw honeycomb. The company also sells numerous other honey-based products, like body lotions and soaps. All honey is KSA kosher-certified. For Rosh Hashanah, Zingerman’s, a Michigan deli and mail-order gourmet superstore, bakes its own honey cakes, round challahs, mandelbrot and rugelach, and sells an array of gourmet honeys from around the world. Love marzipan? Try Rosh Hashanah “Marzipops.” A gift set of these marzipan lollipops contains 10 lollipops: two each of a honeypot, a red apple, a challah, a pomegranate and a shofar. They are gluten-free and vegan, but are not certified kosher.

Births

eli alvin, son of Rachel and Andrew Adams; levi leb, son of Adrianna and Jay Benton; hayley sue, daughter of Amanda and Ryan Blumkin; elliott lev, son of Antonia and Jonathan Chester; Maya Jessica, daughter of Jennifer Cooper Brook and Erik Brook; aryeh, son of Sarah Beringer and Alex Clark; esther “esti” Miriam, daughter of Laura and Rabbi Ari Dembitzer; harry Marvin, son of Drs. Ali and Mark Doyle; ariella reese, daughter of Kathleen and Sam Dubrow; leo graham, son of Jessica and Andy Finkle; evelyn June and theodore samuel, twins of Jill and Jeff Fredricks; Jonah Morton, son of Sophie and Jimmy Friedlander; emmett Martin wilder, son of Carrie and John Gobel; Morgan danielle, daughter of Abby and Josh Haber; James vincent, son of Danielle and Bryan Howell; abe louis, son of Allison Pascal and Mark Javitch; ilana, daughter of Elizabeth Kaplan and Steven Christensen; sadie hinda, daughter of Rebecca (Murow) and Josh Klein; ethan Frederick, son of Michelle and Bryan Lawery; evan nathaniel, son of Marc Leibowitz and Janelle Jackson; atlas Mayhugh, son of Margaret and Catamount Mayhugh; Chen, daughter of Gal and John Moss; allison elizabeth, daughter of Laura and Joshua Needelman; leo wolfgang, son of Ellie and Don Novak; william (will) John, son of Claire and Robert Osborne; naomi eve, daughter of Drs. Sonia and Joel Passer; asher Max, son of Whitney and Barry Rubin; gabriella grace, daughter of Alexis Slutzky and Juan Carlos Ruvalcaba; daisy Mae, daughter of Sarah and Scott Saltzman; talia lee, daughter of Hannah and Michael Schmidt; skylar drew, daughter of Marissa and Rob Solls; eva, daughter of Dasha and Jeffrey Stein; Molly nora, daughter of Shoshy and Scott Susman; ori, son of Lauren and Tommy Tam; and abraham sidney, daughter of Brianna and Garrett Taub.

B’nai Mizvahs

noah, son of Gabriella and Jason Blair; isaac, son of Saundra and Kevin Clarke; Brittney, daughter of Eileen and Ed Clignett; Jack, son of Karen and Michael Cohen; vanessa, daughter of Joan and Justin Cooper; Marissa, daughter of Joan and Justin Cooper; Jemma, daughter of Abby Coren; Michael, son of Tippi and Steve Denenberg; lauren Judith, daughter of Racquel and Thomas Dolson; Camille ella, daughter of Angela and Paul Horner; Peyton, son of Heather and Mark Kelln; reagan anne, daughter of Jennifer and Brandon Koom; alex Michael, son of Traci and Lance Kugler; neva, daughter of Alisa Kushner and Benjamin Kushner; Jake, son of Erika and Phil Lucoff; Brady adam, son of Jenny and Scott Meyerson; ainsley June, daughter of Jamie and Troy Meyerson; abbey Michael, daughter of Emily Milder; Maxwell Joseph vitek, son of Edye Roffman; gregory Michael, son of Jamie and Scott Sacks; Kayla, daughter of Michael and Andreea Shnayder; noah, son of

Michael and Melissa Shrago and Lesli Shrago; ava rose, daughter of Tonya and Rob Simons; Max Phillip, son of Beth Spizman; Julia, daughter of Holly and David Weill; Frederic weiss (adult); Meir, son of David and Rocheli Wheeler; Julian, son of Susan and Isaac Witkowski; and Mendel salomon, son of Annette and Jeremy Wright.

Marriages

Shannon Behm and Aaron Bleicher; Brooke Shulewitz and and DreChaun Brown; Shayna Kurland and Ben Cohen; Lindsay Keuck and Alex Epstein; Jennifer Hadad and Adam Goldberg; Matt Blodgett and Yousef Hazimeh; Jessica Hasslinger and Mike laney; Shira Kronick and Joshua Offenhartz; Sara Edelstein and David Palay; Taylor Jackson and Michael Vann; and Wanling Sun and Nathan Wolf.

in MeMoriaM

Bruce Abrams, Bernard Altsuler, Alexandra Astor, Norman Becker, George Richard Bisacca, Phyllis M. Bittner, Shirley Brody, Lillian Anna Brodkey, Paul I. Burman, Fina M. D’Agosta, Rabbi Paul Drazen, Vicki Edwards, Fern (Hirsch) Eisner, Ira S. Epstein, Esther Erlich, Ruth Ellie Erman, Warren Fales, Shirley (Lincoln) Falk, Mildred G. Feidman, Donald Foster, Eunice Fox, Brad Frohner, Janet L. (Thomas) Glass, Don Glaser, Milton Glazer, Betty Ruth Goldstrom, Danny Goodman, Barton (Bucky) Greenberg, Gerald Seamon Gross, Myrna Grumer, Irvin Joseph Harris, Eve Heisler, Cathy Henderson, Steve Hilgenfeld, Judy Itkin, David A. Jacobson, Jerry Katleman, Stanley R. Katelman, Marilyn Ann Katz, Nan Rae Katz, Madeline Rose Katzman, Murray Kitner, Simon Kominsky, Sue Kwasman, Lillian Weise Lerman, Jerome (Jerry) Lerner, Harry Leon Lewis, Lydia Linde, Shirley Jean Lipsey, Maurice Lipton, Miriam Kimelman Meyerson, Adrienne R. Milder, Lyra Ann Halper Monasee, Connie Mullineaux, Max Neiden, Dave Nelson, Katherine Pangiota Nicholson, Reva (Rimmerman) Oruch, Ronald Osborne, Ilene Toby (Morris) Pachman, Rabbi Aaron Panken, Phillip “Phil’ Patterson, Floyd J. Perlmeter, Harvey M. Pickel, Saralyn Judd Pinson, Merle Bernard Potash, Louise Radler, Carolyn “Kiki” Kutner Ratner, Eileen Remer, Alan Rice, Carol Roffman, Phyllis Anne Roffman, Sydney Herschel Rodin, Regina (Ginger) Rothenberg, Herbert Chaim Rubin, Rosalie Saylan, Lillian B. (Friedlander) Schrager, Ira Philip Schreiber, Maram Schuster, James Sherman, Stanley Shmuger, Myrna Grumer, Josephine “Josie” Shrago, Pearl Simon, Dr. Milton Simons, Anne Ruth Skolkin, Alison E. Slosburg, Aaron Smith, Michael Smith, Shirlee Elaine Belgrade Solotorovsky, Alan G. Stoler, Barbara Taxman, Brian Thompson, George (Bruce) Tuttle, Shirley Waters, Phyliss Milder Weinberg, Bonnie Ann Weinstein, Wyman White, Pauline Jeanette Wine, Marvin M. “Art” Weiner, Hanne Wolf, Vincent Alan Wright, Sandra Kay Yudelson, Susan Flaxer Zalkin, Rebecca Zeiderman, Michael Zeman, and Morley Zipursky.

The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018 | d9

Rosh Hashanah

LIFE CYCLES 5778+BOARDS

Jewish Federation oF oMaha

anti-deFaMation league/ CoMMunity relations CoMMittee executive Board Members: President, Jim Fried; ex-officio, Gary Nachman; Board Members: Ellie Batt, LIndsay Belmont, Bob Bleicher, Carol Bloch, Becki Brenner, Shirley Cemaj, Toba Cohen-Dunning, Danny Cohn, Ted Friedland, Herb Friedman, David Gilinsky, Ron Giller, Steve Hogan, Nancy Jocobson, Rich Juro, Bea Karp, Jeff Kirshenbaum, Gary Lipshutz, Bob Nefsky, Andrea Olsen, Alan Parsow, David Radler, Mark, Tom Vann and Aaron Weiner. institute For holoCaust eduCation Chairperson, Gloria Kaslow; Board Members: Stacey Atlas, Robert Cohen, Shami Jacobs, Bea Karp, Howard Kaslow, Ari Kohen, Paula Lenz, Jamie Meyerson, Lori Miller, Jama Samiev, Jill Sideris, Paul Smith, Steven Wees, and executive director, Scott Littky. Jewish CoMMunity Center President, John Glazer; Past-President, Jason Epstein; Board Members: Shira Abraham, Shane Cohn, Dan Epstein, Karen Flayhart, Jason Franklin, Dusty Friedman, Mosah Goodman, Howard Kutler, Chuck Lucoff, Jamie Meyerson, Dorothy Spizman and Linda Zimmerman. Jewish Federation oF oMaha President, Jon Meyers; Past-President, Bruce Friedlander; Board Members: Toba Cohen-Dunning, Jim Fried, Ted Friedland, John Glazer, Richard Heyman, Abby Kutler, Lisa Lucoff, Scott Meyerson, Mike Norton, Nancy Schlessinger, Mike Siegel and Phil Wolf.

Jewish Federation oF oMaha Foundation President, Ted Friedland; ex-offico, Jon Meyers; Board Members: Bob Belgrade, Steven Bloch, Paul Epstein, Michael Erman, David Gilinsky, Donald Goldstein, Gloria Kaslow, Howard Kooper, Jody Malashock, Murray Newman, Steve Nogg, Marty Ricks, Carl Riekes, Andrew Robinson, Harley Schrager, Jeffrey Schrager, Ted Seldin, Emeritus, and Norman Veitzer. see Jewish Federation of omaha page d10

D10 | The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018

Rosh Hashanah

BOARDS

SynagogueS

B’nai iSrael Board of Directors: Scott Friedman, Rick Katelman, Carole Lainof, Wayne Lainof, Marty Ricks, Sissy Silber and Nancy Wolf.

Beth el Synagogue President, Jay Gordman; Vice Presidents: Bob Belgrade, Adam Kutler and Ari Riekes; treasurer, Robert Yaffe; Secretary, Susan Witkowski; BeStt Chair, Linda Saltzman; religious life Chair, Ari Kohen; Past President, Jim Zipursky; Rabbi Steven Abraham; hazzan, Michael Krausman; executive Director, Allison Newfeld; Director of Congregational learning, Edith Tsabari; Director of youth engagement, Amy Dworin; Senior executive assistant, Becky Kahn; executive assistant, Adrianna Donaldson; Minyan Coordinator, Michael Gerson; Chef and Catering Manager, Cedric Young; Board members: Michael Christensen, Gary D. Epstein, Hollie Fineman, Jim Fried, Bruce Kutler, Cheryl Lerner, Scott Littky, Lou Lukas, Allan Murow, Amy Nachman, Ellie Novak, Melissa Shaprio and Barry Zoob. Bilu-uSy: President, Lauren Kirk; Vice President, Spencer Gordman; Social action/tikkun olam, Amanda Simon; Membership/Kadima, Ethan Finkelstein; BeStt Chair, Hannah Stein; Communications, Melanie Schwarz; religious education, Tristan Newman; israel affairs, Josh Stein; treasurer, Zach Krausman; Freshman representative, Benjamin Kutler; Sophomore representative, David Kay and Jewish Press liaison, Ari Saltzman.

Beth iSrael Synagogue President, Toba Cohen-Dunning; administration Vice President, Julee Katzman; Financial Vice

President, Bruce Goldberg; Membership Vice President, Bruce Potash; treasurer, Jeff Kirshenbaum; Secretary, Susie Shyken; Board members: Joel Alperson, Janet Kohll, Jonathan Rockman, Lynne Saltzman, Adina Schuller, Yosef Seigel, Helene Shrago, Lauren Tam, Sherry Taxman and Harry Weiner.

Congregation B’nai JeShurun (South Street teMPle) President, Nathaniel Kaup; Secretary, Julie Moore; treasurer, Leslie Delserone; Board members: Maria Cadwallader, Aimee Hyten, Elaine Monnier, Anne Rickover, Nicholette Seigfreid, Dan Senft, Art Zygielbaum.

teMPle iSrael President, Andie Gordman; Presidential appointees: Dan Marburg and Jeff Platt; President elect, Dan Gilbert; Vice Presidents: Justin Cooper and Troy Meyerson; Secretary, Susie Norton; treasurer, Jeff Smedlund; Past President, Rosie Zweiback; Board Members: Brooklyn Armstrong, Mindi Armstrong, Denise Blake, Jessica Cohn, Dani Howell, Lester Katz, Brandon Koom, Stan Krieger, Traci Kugler, Lisa Lewis, Ann Osborne, Joseph Pinson and Geoff Silverstein. omaha temple youth group: President, Brooklyn Armstrong; Social action Vice President, Laura Kirshenbaum; religious and Cultural Vice President, Brandon Wigodsky; Membership Vice President, Ruby Platt; Co-Communications Vice President, Alex Kraft and Lauren Marshall; Special Projects Coordinator, McKenna Blake; Freshman liaison, Abby Friedland. See SynagogueS Page B11

JewiSh organizationS

B’nai B’rith henry MonSKy loDge President, Ari Riekes; Board Members: Steve Riekes, Gary Javitch, Marty Ricks, Howard Shandell, Mike Abramson and Aaron Weiner.

FrieDel JewiSh aCaDeMy Co-Presidents, Ari Kohen and Jeff Zacharia; treasurer, Ron Giller; Secretary, Danny Cohn; immediate Past President, Lloyd Roitstein; Board Members: Rabbi Steven Abraham, Joel Alperson, Shervin Ansari, Rabbi Deanna Berezin, Toni Chester, Rabbi Ari Dembitzer, Amy Friedman, Margie Gutnik, Joe Hoffman, Philip Katz, Lisa Marcus, Patrick McNamara, Mary-Beth Muskin, Shiri Phillips, Linda Neumann-Potash, Anna Priluck, Ben Shapiro, Helene Shrago, Lauren Tam (PTO Chair), and Jeremy Wright.

l.o.V.e. Co-Presidents, Ricki Skog and Vicki Perlmeter; treasurer, Les Kay; Secretary, Lois Wine; immediate Past Presidents, Mike Shrago and Mark Kazor; Board Members: Larry DeBruin, Gabby Blair, Karen Cohen, Marcel Kahn, Gretchen Radler, Crystal Smith, Shelley Stern; Staff, Sabine Strong. MainStreeterS Committee Chairs: advisor, Harry Alloy; luncheon Chair, Shelley Stern; Menu Chair, Tootie Simon; Communications, Jim Wax; education,

JewiSh FeDeration oF oMaha Continued from page D9 JewiSh PreSS President, Abby Kutler; Past President, Eric Dunning; Board Members: Laura Dembitzer, Candice Friedman, Jill Idelman, Andy Isaacson, Michael Kaufman, David Kotok, Natasha Kraft, Debbie Kricsfeld, Eric Shapiro and Amy Tipp.

Rocky Stern; and Staff Director, Maggie Conti.

national CounCil oF JewiSh woMen neBraSKa President, Becki Brenner; Vice-President Community Service, Pam DePorte and Janie Kulakofsky; Vice-President Membership, Jen Koom; Vice-President Public affairs/education, Ann Moshman; treasurer, Alice Klein; Financial Secretary, Patty Nogg; Corresponding/recording Secretary, Darlene Golbitz; Parliamentarian/Bylaws, Deb Marburg; Directors: Marlen Frost, Tippi Denenberg, Debbie Solomon, Pam Friedlander, Melissa Shrago; nominating Committee: general membership, Shelly Stern, Linda Patton, Diane Malashock; nominating alternates, Melinda Graham and Sarah Spooner. neBraSKa JewiSh hiStoriCal SoCiety President, Bob Belgrade; Vice President, Beth Staenberg; Secretary, Rocky Stern; Board of Directors: Larry Albert, Ellie Batt, Jill Belmont, Judy Brookstein, Danny Cohn, Michael Gendler, Dora Goldstrom, Janie Kulakofsky, Rocky Lewis, Vicki Perlmeter; Past Presidents: Joanie Bernstein, Midge Bowers, Helen Epstein, Debbi Josephson, Ira Nathan, Helen Rifkin; executive Director, Renee Ratner Corcoran.

JewiSh SoCial SerViCeS Co-Presidents, Toba Cohen-Dunning and Jeff Kirshenbaum; treasurer, Kate Kirshenbaum; Secretary, Susan Norton; ex-officio, James Farber; Board Members: Joanie Bernstein, Sharon Brodkey, Darlene Golbitz, Dr. Alan Kricsfeld, Tina Meyers, Jeff Platt, James Polack, Mike Shrago, Dorothy Spizman and Terri Zacharia

Visit us at jewishomaha.org

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A T

L A W

New Year. New Opportunities. Best wishes. 402.492.9200 | mgwl.com

The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018 | d11

rosh hashanah food trivia SyBil Kaplan On Rosh Hashanah, we are supposed to feast. Why? This is said to come from the passage in the book of Nehemiah (8: l0): “Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto him for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy unto our lord.” Challah The most common custom for Ashkenazic Jews for Rosh Hashanah is the making of sweet challah primarily round in shape to symbolize a long life or the unbroken circle of the full New Year to come. Some people place a ladder made of dough on top, so our prayers may ascend to heaven, or because on Rosh Hashanah, it is decided “who shall be exalted and who shall be brought low.” Some place a bird made of dough on top, derived from the phrase in Isaiah: “as birds hovering so will the Lord of Hosts protect Jerusalem.” According to John Cooper in Eat and Be Satisfied--A Social History of Jewish Food, the tradition of baking fresh loaves of bread on a Friday morning among disparate Jewish communities... was a tradition that had its roots in the Talmudic era; strangely, this custom was ignored by medieval rabbinic commentators and was revived by the Austrian author of Leket Yosher (a student of a 15th century Rabbi Yisrael Isserlin) and by Rabbi Moses Isserles (the 16th century Polish scholar of halachah) at the end of the Middle Ages According to Jewish tradition, the three Sabbath meals (Friday night, Saturday lunch, and Saturday late afternoon) and two holiday meals (one at night and lunch the following day) each begin with two complete loaves of bread. This “double loaf ” (in Hebrew: lechem mishneh) commemorates the manna that fell from the heavens when the Israelites wandered in the desert after the Exodus. The manna did not fall on Sabbath or holidays; instead, a double portion would fall the day before the holiday or Sabbath. pomegranates On the second evening of Rosh Hashanah, it is customary

to eat a new fruit not yet eaten in the season and say a shehecheyanu, the prayer of thanksgiving for things which are enjoyed for the first time. It is said that in Europe this fruit was often grapes. In Israel today, it is often the pomegranate, which is eaten to remind us that G-d should multiply our credit of good deeds like the seeds of the fruit. For many Jews, pomegranates are traditional for Rosh Hashanah. Some be-

lieve the dull and leathery skinned crimson fruit may have really been the tapuach, apple, of the Garden of Eden. The word pomegranate means “grained apple.” In Hebrew, it is called rimon (also the word for a hand grenade!). In fact, the English words, hand grenade, are said to come from this. Both the See food triva page d12

A WISH FOR THE NEW YEAR AND ALWAYS...SHALOM!

SynagogueS

Continued from page B10 tifereth iSrael president, Seth Harris; Vice president, Marlon Weiss; treasurer, Howard Feldman; Secretary, Ken Bloom; immediate past president, Marcia Kushner; fair Shares dues Chair, David Brockman; trustees: Kirk Bowers and Jay Slevin; lay leader, Nancy Coren; administrator, Nava Halpern.

10050 Regency Circle, Suite 300 | Omaha, NE 68114 402.397.5050 | www.ajg.com 33347B

Happy New Year

from

City Councilman Rich Pahls Paid for by Friends of Rich Pahls, 15422 Holmes Plaza, Omha, NE 68137

D12 | The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018

Food trivia

Continued from page D11 town of Granada in Spain and the stone, garnet, come from the name and color of the pomegranate. The juice can be made into the concentrated syrup, grenadine, also. Some say each pomegranate has 613 seeds for the 613 mitzvot or good deeds we should observe. Count them and see if it’s true! Fish The first course of the Rosh Hashanah holiday meal is often fish. Fish is symbolic of fruitfulness-”may we be fruitful and

multiply like fish.” Fish is also a symbol of immortality, a good theme for the New Year. Another reason for serving fish might be that the numerical value of the letters of the Hebrew word for fish, dag, adds up to seven and Rosh Hashanah begins on the seventh month of the year. Tzimmes Tzmmes is a stew made with or without meat and usually with prunes and carrots. It is common among Ashkenazic Jews, particularly those from Eastern Europe and Poland, and its origins date back to Medieval times. It became associated

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with Rosh Hashanah because the Yiddish word for carrot is mehren which is similar to mehrn which means to increase. The idea was to increase one’s merits at this time of year. Another explanation for eating tzimmes with carrots for Rosh Hashanah was that the German word for carrot was a pun on the Hebrew word, which meant to increase. Tzimmes also came into the vernacular as meaning to make a fuss or big deal. He’s making such a tzimmes out of everything. Lekach and Other Sweets Among Ashkenazim, sweet desserts for Rosh Hashanah are customary, particularly lekach or honey cake and teiglach, the hard, doughy, honey and nut cookie. Some say the origin of the sweets comes from the passage in the book of Hosea (3: 1): “love cakes of raisins.” There is also a passage in Samuel II (6: 10) which talks about the multitude of Israel, men and women, “to every one a cake of bread and a cake made in a pan and a sweet cake.” Ezra was the fifth century BCE religious leader who was commissioned by the Persian king to direct Jewish affairs in Judea; Nehemiah was a political leader and cup bearer of the king in the fifth century BC. They are credited with telling the returned exiles to eat and drink sweet things. Among Ashkenazim, sweet desserts for Rosh Hashanah are customary, particularly lekach or gingerbread, was also mentioned as early as the 12th century. According to John Cooper in Eat and Be Satisfied, a Social History of Jewish Food, references to honey cake were made in the 12th century by a French sage, Simcha of Vitry, author of the Machzor Vitry, and by the 12th century German rabbi, Eleazar Judah ben Kalonymos. By the 16th century, lekach was known as a Rosh Hashanah sweet. Among the Lubavitch Chassidim, it was customary for the rebbe to distribute lekach to his followers, and others would request a piece of honey cake from one another on Erev Yom Kippur. This transaction symbolized a substitute for any charity the person might choose to receive, as a substitute for charity, like the traditional kapparot ceremony, where before Yom Kippur, one transfers their sins to a chicken. Sephardic Rosh Hashanah Food Customs Food customs differ among Jews whose ancestors came from Spain and Portugal, the Mediterranean area and those who came from primarily Moslem Arab countries. Whereas Ashkenazim dip apple in honey, some Sephardim traditionally serve mansanada, a Sephardic apple compote, as See Food Triva page D14

It’s a new year. Why not swap in these recipes for old favorites? ShAnnon SArnA NEW YORK | JTA The sweetest time of year is upon us, quite literally: It’s Rosh Hashanah. And while I know most families have their standard holiday dishes they make year after year, sometimes it’s nice to swap in a new appetizer, alternating main dish or quick but

delicious new dessert to serve. Trade in your beet and apple salad for some sweet beet latkes. Instead of a brisket, try a slow-cooked pomegranate lamb stew. And if you want the easiest, cutest apple dessert, you’ve got to try my friend Sheri Silver’s easy as apple pie cookies. Wishing you and your family a sweet and delicious new year.

The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018 | D13

Rosh Hashanah Appetizer: Beet + Sweet potAto LAtkeS

MAin DiSh: LAMB Stew with poMegrAnAte

Brisket is the quintessential American Jewish dish for holidays. But in Israel and for Sephardi Jews, lamb is a far more common main dish to serve for special occasions. This lamb is sweet and savory, and actually takes less time to cook than a brisket. It’s perfect to serve on top of fluffy couscous or rice, and it’s particularly striking due to the jewel-toned pomegranate seeds and fresh herbs on top. Ingredients: 3 pounds lamb stew meat, cut into 2- to 4-inch pieces 1 large onion, sliced 3 garlic cloves, minced 1-2 tsp. salt 1 tsp. pepper 3 cinnamon sticks 2 1/2-3 cups water or stock 3 tbsp. pomegranate molasses, plus extra for drizzling 1 cup pomegranate seeds, divided Fresh parsley, mint and/or cilantro for serving Directions: Heat a heavy casserole with a little oil over medium-high heat. Sear lamb pieces on each side until lightly golden. Remove lamb. Add onion and saute until translucent. Add garlic and saute for an-

Credit: Shannon Sarna

Credit: Shannon Sarna other 3 minutes. Place lamb back into the pot and add salt, pepper, cinnamon stick, pomegranate molasses and half the pomegranate seeds. Add 2 to 2 1/2 cups water or stock, until meat is covered. Bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low-medium, cover and continue to cook over low heat for about 2 hours. Check on stew periodically, and add more water if needed. Lamb should be fork tender when it is done. Serve stew over couscous or rice. Drizzle top of stew with additional pomegranate molasses (around 1-2 Tbsp.), the remaining pomegranate seeds and freshly chopped herbs such as parsley, mint and/or cilantro.

See Swap in recipes for old favorites page D15

There’s no reason to save latkes for Hanukkah. And beets are actually a traditional food to enjoy for the New Year, which makes these appetizers the perfect symbolic, sweet and satisfying dish to serve at the holidays. Ingredients: 2 medium beets 1 small sweet potato (can also use two carrots) 1 medium idaho potato 2 eggs 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 1 tsp. fresh thyme 1 tsp. salt Additional sea salt for sprinkling Directions: Peel beets, sweet potato and potato. Cut each in half. In 3 or 4 batches, place vegetables through food processor for a coarse grate (you can also grate coarsely by hand). Place mixture in a large bowl. Add eggs, flour, thyme and salt. Heat around 1/4 cup vegetable oil in a large sauté pan over mediumhigh heat. Form bite-size mounds of latkes, taking care not to squeeze too much liquid out of the latkes. Fry until brown and crispy on each side, then place on a wire rack on top of a baking sheet to cool. Immediately sprinkle with an additional pinch of salt while they are still hot. Serve warm with applesauce, if desired.

The Tri-Faith Initiative wishes you and your family a blessed 10 Days of Awe from Rosh Hashanah to Yom Kippur

Shanah Tovah Umetukah and G’mar Hatimah Tovah trifaith.org

D14 | The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018

Synagogues b’nai israel synagogue

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

beth el synagogue

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

beth israel synagogue

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

ChabaD house

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

Congregation b’nai Jeshurun

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

oFFutt air ForCe base

Capehart Chapel 2500 Capehart Road Offutt AFB, NE 68123 402.294.6244

rose bluMkin Jewish hoMe

323 South 132 Street Omaha, NE 68154

teMple israel

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

tiFereth israel

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

b’nai israel synagogue

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. rosh hashanah sunDay: Erev Rosh Hashanah Services, 7:30 p.m., Nate Shapiro will speak on Rosh Hashanah: The OS Update for the Soul. MonDay: Rosh Hashanah Morning Services, 10:30 a.m., Lloyd Roitstein will speak on Finding Your Mitzvah in Life. 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.; Junior Congregation (Grades 3-7), 10 a.m.; Mincha, following Shabbat Morning Services. weekDay serviCes: Sundays, 9 a.m. & 5:30 p.m.; weekdays, 7 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. sunDay: Morning Minyan, 10 a.m.; Torah Study, 10 a.m.; Erev Rosh Hashanah Ma’ariv Service, 6 p.m.; Candle Lighting, 7:26 p.m. rosh hashanah MonDay: Rosh Hashanah Family Service, 9 a.m.; Morning Service, 10 a.m.; Babysitting,10 a.m.; Youth Service Grades K2, 10 a.m.; Youth Programming Grades 3-7, 10 a.m.; Tot Service, 10:30 a.m.; Torah Service, 10:30 a.m. led by B’nai Mitzvah Class; Youth Programming Grades K-2, 11 a.m.; Junior Congregation Grades 3-7, 11 a.m.; Shofar Service, 11:15 a.m.; Sermon, 11:30 a.m.; Musaf, 11:45 a.m.; Final Shofar Blasts, 12:45 p.m.; Tashlich, 4:45 p.m.; Refreshments and Mincha-Ma’ariv, 6 p.m.; Candle Lighting, 8:24 p.m. tuesDay: Morning Service, 9 a.m.; Babysitting, 9 a.m.; Youth Programming Grades K-2, 9 a.m.; Torah Service, 9:45 a.m.; Story Time, 10 a.m.; Youth Programming Grades 3-7, 10 a.m.; Shofar Service, 10:30 a.m.; Sermon, 10:45 a.m.; Junior Congregation, 11 a.m.; Musaf, 11 a.m.; Final Shofar Blasts, 12:45 p.m.; Lunch (by RSVP only), 12:45 p.m. weDnesDay: High Holidays are Coming and I’m not Ready, 6 p.m. with Rabbi Abraham. thursDay: Shanghai, 1 p.m. All classes and programs are open to everyone in the Jewish community.

beth israel synagogue

Office hours: Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. and Friday, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Services conducted by Rabbi Ari Dembitzer. FriDay: Shacharit, 6:45 a.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 7:30 p.m.; Candle Lighting, 7:30 p.m. saturDay: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Insights into the Torah Reading, 6:25 p.m.; Mincha/Seudah Shlishit, 7:10 p.m.; Havdalah, 8:28 p.m. sunDay: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Return to Who You Are: A Guide to Prayer for the High Holidays, 10 a.m. with Rabbi Ari; Mincha/Ma’ariv/Candle Lighting, 7:25 p.m. rosh hashanah MonDay: Shacharit, 8 a.m.; Kiddush in honor of Beth Israel’s Life and Legacy Donors, 12:45 p.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 7:25 p.m.; Earliest Candle Lighting, 8:25 p.m. tuesDay: Shacharit, 8 a.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 7:25 p.m. weDnesDay: Fast Begins, 5:30 a.m.; Shacharit, 6:45 a.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 7:10 p.m.; Fast Ends, 8:30 p.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. sunDay: Candle Lighting, 7:26 p.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv Service, 7:30 p.m.; Family Dinner, 8 p.m. rosh hashanah MonDay: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Shofar Service, 11:15 a.m.; Musaf, 11:45 a.m.; Kiddush luncheon follows service; Tashlich Service, 7 p.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 7:30 p.m.; Light Candles after 8:24 p.m. tuesDay: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Shofar Service, 11:15 a.m.; Musaf, 11:45 a.m.; Kiddush luncheon follows service. All programs are open to the entire community.

Congregation b’nai Jeshurun

Services conducted by Rabbi Teri Appleby. FriDay: Frist Friday Family Shabbat Service, 6:30 p.m. featuring music by Jonathan Leo; Oneg, 7:30 p.m. hosted by Rabbi Appleby and Jon Leo; Candlelighting, 7:30 p.m. saturDay: Shabbat Morning Service, 9:30 a.m.; Torah Study on Parashat Nitzavim, 10:45 a.m.; Havdalah (72 minutes), 8:58 p.m. sunDay: No LJCS Classes; Choir Potluck Supper, 5:30 p.m. at Barb Barron’s home; Choir Call, 7:20 p.m.; Candlelighting, 7:27 p.m.; Rosh Hashanah Evening Services, 8 p.m. rosh hashanah MonDay: Choir Call, 9:30 a.m.; Morning Service, 10 a.m.; Children’s Service, 2 p.m. (for Third graders and under); Tashlich Service and Dairy Potluck Picnic, 4 p.m. at Antelope Park; Candlelighting, 8:55 p.m. tuesDay: Havdalah (72 minutes), 8:55 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. Pizza in the Hut, wednesdy, sept. 26, 6 p.m. at Tifereth Israel. Cost is $6 for adults 13 and up and $4 for children 2-12. Please RSVP no later than Sept. 17. Break-the-fast Potluck, wednesdy, sept. 19. Please join the congregation after Yom Kippur concluding services for a Break-the-Fast Potluck. I CAN. YOU CAN. LINCOLN CAN. Throughout the month of September, the South Street Temple will collect food and funds to donate to the Food Bank of Lincoln. Look for the blue barrels in the Temple vestibule and help us fill them up! On Friday, Sept. 28, we will bring our donations to the Lincoln CAN event at Gateway Mall.

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 Jim Polack. rosh hashanah sunDay: Erev Evening Service, 6:45 p.m., led by Marti Nerenstone. MonDay: Morning Service, 9:15 a.m., led by Marti Nerenstone. tuesDay: Morning service, 9:15 a.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 Morning Service, 10:30 a.m. sunDay: No Religious School; JYG’s Great Rosh Hashanah Bake Off, 1-3 p.m. 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, 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 MonDay: Children’s Service (Tots-4th Grade), 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, 10:15 a.m.; Rosh Hashanah Children’s Programming (Grades 1-4), 10:15 a.m. Children in 1st4th Grade should meet Hannah Budwig in the Simon Community

Court at 10:15 a.m. They will then head downstairs for Rosh Hashanah Programming. weDnesDay: No Religious School thursDay: No Thursday Symposium Tashlich Shabbat & Picnic at Lake Zorinsky, Friday, sept. 14, 6 p.m. at Lake Zorinksy, 3808 S. 154th Street, Shelter #4. Break-The-Fast with Temple Israel for a Sweet New Year, wednesday, sept. 19, 6:30 p.m. Menu: Matzah Ball Soup, Egg Salad, Tuna Salad, Fruit, Vegetable Salad, Sweet Kugel, Plain Kugel, Bagels and Cream Cheese, Desserts, Root Beer Floats, and Kid Friendly Food (pizza, chicken nuggets, etc.) EARLY BIRD Reservations are due by thursday, sept. 13. Adults and 13 and older are $12.50, Children 6-12 years old are $5.25, Children 5 and younger are no charge. Your payment is your reservation. Please visit templeisraelomaha.com to RSVP and pay online. Reservations made aFter thursday, sept. 13: Adults and 13 and older are $17.50, Children 6-12 years old are $10.50, Children 5 and younger are no charge.

tiFereth israel

Services conducted by lay leader Nancy Coren. Office hours: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. FriDay: No Services; Candlelighting, 7:30 p.m. saturDay: Shabbat Morning service, 10 a.m followed by a Kiddush luncheon; Havdalah (72 minutes), 8:28 p.m. sunDay: No LJCS Classes; Ma’ariv, 8 p.m. rosh hashanah MonDay: Synagogue office closed; Services, 9 a.m.; Youth Service, 11 a.m.; Tashlich, 5 p.m. at Antelope Park. tuesDay: Synagogue office closed; Services, 9 a.m.; Youth Service, 11 a.m. weDnesDay: LJCS Hebrew School, 4 p.m. at TI. 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. Annual Congregation Break-the-fast at the end of Yom Kippur. Havdalah service and meal, wednesday, sept. 19 at 7:50 p.m. There is no charge for this meal. We hope to see you there. We will have a uniformed officer present and babysitting available during Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur Services/Activities. Tifereth Israel will once again be participating in food collection for the Lincoln Food Bank's I CAN, YOU CAN, LINCOLN CAN project. We will have two barrels available for canned food donations between Aug. 27 and Sept. 27. Your donations may be brought on any day except Shabbat. It is very appropriate to bring them just prior to our Kol Nidrei service.

Food trivia

Continued from page D12 an appetizer and dessert, according to Gil Marks (z”l) in The World of Jewish Desserts. Just as gefilte fish became a classic dish for the Ashkenazic Jews, baked sheep’s head became a symbol for many Sephardic Jews for Rosh Hashanah, dating back to the Middle Ages. Some groups merely serve sheep brains or tongue or a fish with head, probably for the same reason, for fruitfulness and prosperity and new wishes for the New Year for knowledge or leadership. The Talmud mentions the foods to be eaten on Rosh Hashanah as fenugreek, leeks, beets, dates and gourds although various Jewish communities interpret these differently. According to Rabbi Robert Sternberg in The Sephardic Kitchen, Sephardic Jews have this special ceremony called the Yechi Ratsones (Hebrew for “May it be thy will”) where each food is blessed with a blessing beginning Yechi ratson coming from a passage in the Talmud, listing seven foods to eat as a good sign to G-d that we recognize his sovereignty and hope he will hear our pleas for a good and prosperous year. As you plan your Rosh Hashanah meals, consider any traditions of your family.

MeMorial serviCes

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. Wyuka Cemetery in Lincoln, 3 p.m.

The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018 | D15

Swap in recipes for old favorites

sheri silver This recipe comes straight from a dear friend and colleague who always knows just how to make dessert super easy, super adorable and super delicious. The secret to these cookies is a rich crumble topping and store-bought pie crust. Ingredients: For the streusel: 4 tbsp. unsalted butter, melted 3/4 cup flour 1/4 cup light brown sugar 1/4 cup white sugar 1/2 tsp. cinnamon pinch of kosher salt For the filling: 2 Granny smith apples, peeled, cored and diced 2 tbsp. brown sugar 2 tbsp. unsalted butter juice from one lemon pinch of kosher salt 1/2 tsp. cinnamon 1 store-bought refrigerated pie crust, at room temperature Directions: Make the streusel: Line a small baking sheet with parchment paper. Combine the streusel ingredients in a bowl, breaking up any large clumps, and spread onto your baking sheet. Set aside to dry (can be made a day ahead; store covered at room temperature). Make the filling: Combine the filling ingredients in a saucepan and cook over medium

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Dessert: easy apple pie Cookies

Nebraska statewiDe ClassiFieDs

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D16 | The Jewish Press | September 7, 2018

Have a happy and healthy New Year!

National Council of Jewish Women Nebraska

NCJW extends its warmest wishes to the Jewish community for a Joyous New Year.

The Natan and Hannah Schwalb Center for Israel and Jewish Studies at the University of Nebraska-Omaha wishes all our Friends and supporters a

Happy New Year

JEWISH WAR VETERANS of AMERICA Epstein Morgan Post 260

Best Wishes for a Happy New Year

Henry Monsky Lodge

Best wishes for a happy, healthy and peaceful Rosh Hashanah.

B’nai B’rith

Best wishes for a Happy, Healthy New Year Beth Israel Synagogue Beth Israel Sisterhood JYE BI

Jewish Youth Experience at Beth Israel

FREE membership to all active-duty personnel Contact: Jay Benton, Commander 402-250-6133 We welcome any and all new members

With Your Help We’ll Have A Great Past Ahead Of Us

B’nai Israel Synagogue You’re always welcome at B’nai Israel!

Happy Rosh Hashanah

Best wishes for a Happy, Healthy New Year!

Join us and give a gift for future generations.

A Century of Tradition

Gold $250 | Patron-1 Year $100 | Sponsor $72 | Regular $36

618 Mynster Street, Council Bluffs 51503

National Register of Historic Places

Happy New Year From the staff of From the Staff and Governance Council of the Institute for Holocaust Education

League Offering Volunteers for the Elderly The Rose Blumkin Jewish Home Auxiliary

L’Shana Tovah Sabine Strong Volunteer Coordinator 402.330.4272 Ext. 6519 sstrong@rbjh.com

Best wishes to our wonderful community for a sweet, healthy, happy year. May this year bring the fulfillment of our most fervent wishes and dreams. Rabbi Mendel and Shani Katzman and Family Chabad Board Members and Volunteers