October 5, 2018 by Jewish Press

thejewishpress AN AGENCY OF THE JEWISH FEDERATION OF OMAHA

this week

31st Annual Klutznick Symposium

LeonArD GreenSpoon Klutznick Chair in Jewish Civilization, Creighton University he 31st Annual Symposium on Jewish Civilization—Authority and Dissent in Jewish Life— takes place this year on Sunday, Oct. 28, and Monday, Oct. 29. A highlight of this event has always been the keynote presentation. This year is no exception, as we welcome Gil Graff PhD, JD, Executive Director of Builders of Jewish Education, who will speak on Jewish Law and the Law of the State: The Impact of Modernity and Its Echoes in the United States. He is scheduled for Sunday, Oct. 28, in the JCC Theater at 7:30 p.m. Like all Symposium events, this is free and open to the public. Graff has an earned PhD from UCLA and a law degree also from UCLA. At present he is Executive Director of Builders of Jewish Education (BJE). BJE is the only group in Los Angeles wholly dedicated to supporting and enriching Jewish educational experiences. To further its goals, this wide-ranging organization works with families and Jewish educational programs across the spectrum of religious movements. Beyond his leadership roles in the non-profit sector, Graff has also been active in the academic world. In addition to numerous scholarly articles, his publications include books on separation of church and state in Jewish law and a history of Jewish education in the United States. For his work in academia and the non-profit world, he has been the See klutznick Symposium page A3

Challah Bake rises to the occasion page A7

The 17th Annual Omaha Jewish Film Festival wants you

Russian Meatballs: The ultimate comfort food page A12

MArk kirChhoFF Community Engagement and Education, Jewish Federation of Omaha By now you have likely turned your calendar page from September to October. As you look at the month, if you have not already written in

inside Viewpoint Synagogues Life cycles

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WWW.JEWISHOMAHA.ORG

SponSoreD by The benJAMin AnD AnnA e. WieSMAn FAMiLy enDoWMenT FunD

Oct. 14 and 21 for the 17th Annual Omaha Jewish Film Festival showings in the JCC Theater at 7 p.m. each night, please do so now. And while you are at it, look ahead to November and do the same for Nov. 10, 11, and 18. I’ll wait. The festival begins with a double

feature on Sunday, Oct. 14 featuring Wendy’s Shabbat as the introductory short film. The film is in English, produced in the United States, directed by Rachel Myers and released in 2017. It is a documentary

featuring 88-year-old Roberta Mahler and other Jewish retirees who for the past eight years have been holding their Friday night Shabbat dinner at a Wendy’s fast-food restaurant in Palm Desert, California. There they say prayers and light candles over hamburgers and fries. The film is humorous, entertaining, and insightful about what Shabbat means to this group of people. The feature film for the evening is the comedy, Humor Me (English, United States, 93 minutes, directed by Sam Hoffman). The protagonist, Nate Kroll, (Jamaine Clement) is an award winning playwright who suddenly finds himself wifeless, jobless and homeless. With nothing else to lose, he moves in with his eccentric See omaha Jewish Film Festival page A3

keynote speaker Gil Graff

The Goldstein Family Aquatic Center

Don Goldstein

AnneTTe vAn De kAMp Editor, Jewish Press And some say: A father is also obligated to teach his son to swim. (Talmud, Kiddushin 29A) Don Goldstein has loved to swim since he was a little kid; it’s why he can be found in the Jewish Community Center’s pool on a regular basis. A pool that carries his family’s name: our outdoor waterpark is now known as the “Goldstein Family Aquatic Center.” “I had my first swimming lessons at

the old JCC and have been involved with swim meets since I was six years old,” he said. “I swam all through high school and in college. It was my sport, since my size didn’t really allow for a basketball or football career! Swimming is competitive, it’s clean and it forces you to have discipline. The goals and the time commitment it requires carry over to the rest of your life, especially in academics. What you learn in the pool is just as useful on dry land.” See Goldstein Aquatic Center page A2

A2 | The Jewish Press | October 5, 2018

community

Goldstein Family Aquatic Center Continued from page A1 When, approximately one year ago, Don heard about the plans for a brand new waterpark, he put out some feelers. “I can’t really remember who I talked to first, but I let it be known that if anything was being done aquatic-wise, I was interested in being involved,” he said. “Soon, I received a call from Tom Fellman, who explained about the various plans for campus improvement.” Don grew up spending countless hours at the “Old” JCC; located close enough that he and many of his friends could walk over from Central High School and hang out in the youth lounge. The current JCC youth lounge, located next to the canteen, was made possible because of Don’s late wife, Ann. Of course, they learned from the best: parents Shirley and Buddy Goldstein set a strong example about what it means to care. “Our interests in this community are wide,” Don said. “It is often what pops up at the right time. Ann was always very big on early childhood needs and the wish to update the youth lounge coincided with our need to honor her memory. I heard someone say recently: we are successful when passion meets philanthropy. When you have an opportunity to get involved with something you care about, you should answer the call.” He calls himself “no expert,” but knew the JCC pool was outdated. “What is so great about what we have built here is the many different features,” he said. “It’s so much more than a pool; it offers more room to get active, for parents to interact with their kids. There

is just so much more going on, the slides, the lazy river or the swim meets. Besides, the access for both the little ones at the Childhood Development Center and the Friedel students is phenomenal. The kids love coming here, so the parents and grandparents follow. I am very grateful the opportunity to help was there and Andi and I look forward to enjoying the new water park with our kids and grandkids.” There is a deeper purpose here, Don thinks. It’s not ‘just’ a pool; it’s a venue for family time, a place where different generations, family and friends can come together. After all, what is a community center if it doesn’t offer ways to grow and strengthen that community?

JCC Executive Director Mark Martin agrees: “It’s so much more than a pool; it’s a gathering place for people of every age to socialize as much as swim.” “The Goldstein family always finds a way to support the community,” JFO CEO Alan Potash said, “and there is an added benefit when it comes from their passion for something meaningful. Over the years that I have known the Goldstein family, I have had the pleasure of experiencing some of their passions first hand and this summer I enjoyed watching Donald take the first official swim in the new Goldstein Family Aquatic Complex pool. This pool is and will be a pool for future generations.” “We recently had a Rotary Club event,” Don said, “and we were able to show off the Aquatic Center, I

wouldn’t be surprised if we didn’t get some new members out of that. Once people see for themselves what we have, they are always surprised. It’s an impressive improvement to our JCC and something we should all be proud of.” Steve Levinger said: “I’d be hard pressed to name a more credible and committed gentleman in this town than Don. For decades, Don and his family have recognized Omaha as an amazing city to establish roots and raise a family. They have opened doors for many people and have helped build this community into what it is today. As we think about the JCC as the central hub in many of our family’s lives, what better investment than an awesome pool to bring parents, kids, friends and neighbors together.” Don has tried other sports throughout the years, he said, but he always comes back to the water. “Nothing hurts afterwards, I always feel better and I do my best thinking when I’m swimming,” he added. “The way we celebrated the last day of the summer pool season, when they brought in the band; the place was hopping! The reception we had this past June after the JFO’s Annual Meeting was a big success as well.” At the end of the day, it’s the people who make the place, Don said. “There may be nothing specifically Jewish about a pool (or a theater, or a playground, for that matter) but this building is our home. It’s where we come together as a community and that is always a worthwhile cause.”

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The Jewish Press | October 5, 2018 | A3

Building Sukkahs

steven riekes n Sunday morning, Sept. 23, volunteers from Henry Monsky Lodge of B’nai B’rith finished building sukkahs for the Rose Blumkin Home, the Friedel Jewish Academy, and the Child Development Center. The volunteers were joined by Jacob Geltzer, BBYO Teen Director, and Lauren Kugler, Abigail Kaufman, Isaac Kurtzman, and Adam McGauvran, all members of BBYO. Also joining them were families and staff from the Friedel. The activity was done under the supervision of David Jacobs, and assisted by members of his family. Mr. Jacobs and his family have traditionally undertaken this activity for many years. After the work was completed, volunteers were given pizza provided by the Lodge. Steven Riekes, as a trustee of the Lodge, thanked all of the volunteers, and especially Mr. Jacobs. He also noted that Gary Nachman provided the beautiful pine boughs that make these sukkahs very special. He concluded that he hopes that this sukkah building will continue as it has for over 30 years. Friedel students and guests enjoy the volunteers’ handiwork

Klutznick Symposium

Continued from page A1 recipient of numerous awards and honors, including a Fellowship in the California Senate, a Jerusalem Fellowship, a Visiting Professorship at the Oxford Centre for Hebrew and Jewish Studies, as well as adjunct professorships at American Jewish University, Hebrew Union College, Touro College, and Spertus Institute. Reminiscing on his life thus far, Graff recalls all the way back to his youth. He grew up in Los Angeles. When he reached the ninth grade, his parents enrolled him in the (residential) high school division of the Hebrew Theological College, otherwise known as the “Skokie Yeshiva.” He completed this school in three years, with a school day that ran 7:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m., before homework. As its name, the “Skokie Yeshiva,” suggests, it is in Chicago; Graff chose to remain there after graduation, attending both Roosevelt University and Spertus College (now known as Spertus Institute). For as long as he can remember, he had an interest in law and intended to go to law school; on that backdrop, he enrolled at UCLA School of Law. Though he briefly practiced law, Graff was drawn to Jewish education as a career and, with the support of his wife, embarked on further academic training. Already a credentialed teacher, Graff enrolled in a graduate program in educational administration as well as a PhD program in Jewish history at UCLA. During that period, in 1978, Graff and his wife, Robin, spent a memorable Passover in the former USSR, celebrating the holiday with Refuseniks, Jews who had been denied exit visas and suffered loss of employment as a consequence of having requested to leave. Following his “second phase” graduate programs, Graff was invited to serve as Director of Camp Ramah in New England. He and his family—including, by then, a two-year-old son— lived in Newton, Massachusetts. A second son was born during the family’s stay in the northeast. Both boys are today attorneys, living and working in New York City. In 1985, Graff was asked to serve as Assistant Director of the Bureau of Jewish Education (later renamed Builders of Jewish Education) of Greater Los Angeles. Their third child, a daughter, was born after their return “home.” She is today an Associate Director of Programs at Hadar Institute, a Center of Jewish Studies based in New York City. When BJE’s Executive Director retired in 1993, Graff was appointed his successor. His professional pursuits and academic research both focus on the encounter of Jews, Judaism, and modernity through successive generations. Now that we all know Gil Graff much better, we can appreciate what a treat is in store for us Sunday evening, Oct. 28. As we all also know, there are many other treats the Symposium offers. Graff ’s presentation caps off a full day of Symposium activities on Oct. 28. Sunday morning presentations, from 9 – 11:30 a.m., will take place on the campus of the University of Nebraska at Omaha. Three presenters will offer insights on topics related to the Symposium theme in room 132D at the College of Public Affairs and Community Service on the UNO campus. After a quick trip from the UNO campus to the campus of the Jewish Community Center, everyone is invited to a luncheon from noon to 1 p.m. Five additional papers, divided into two sessions, can be heard from 1 until 5 p.m. The presenters in these sessions come from Israel and a number of North American university campuses. The subject matter of their

presentations is equally wide-ranging. Seven additional papers are scheduled for Monday, Oct. 30, when the Symposium is reconvened in the ballroom of the Skutt Student Center on the campus of Creighton University. The first four presentations are scheduled in two sessions from 8:30 until 11:30 a.m. From 11:30 a.m. until 12:15 p.m., Symposium participants and members of the public are invited to another Symposium staple, a kosher deli luncheon. This event, as well as all other Symposium activities, is free and open to the public. The final three presentations at Creighton take place from 12:20 until 2:30 p.m. This extended afternoon schedule allows community members to hear even more speakers than usual. The annual Symposium on Jewish Civilization has been a fixture of the community’s fall schedule for more than three decades. This fall’s Symposium is the 31st in a series that is among the best-known annual conferences on Jewish Studies anywhere in the world. It is jointly organized and presented by the Klutznick Chair in Jewish Civilization (Creighton University), the Kripke Center for the Study of Religion and Society (Creighton University), the Harris Center for Judaic Studies (University of Nebraska-Lincoln), and the Schwalb Center for Israel and Jewish Studies (University of Nebraska at Omaha). The Symposium also benefits from the support of the Jewish Federation of Omaha, Creighton University, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and the University of Nebraska at Omaha. In addition, the Ike and Roz Friedman Foundation, the Riekes Family, and other supporters provide generous funding. For further details about the Symposium, please check out the Klutznick Chair website at www.creighton.edu/ klutznick or contact Colleen Hastings at 402.280.2303 or colleenhastings@creighton.edu.

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Omaha Jewish Film Festival

Continued from page A1 father, Bob (Elliot Gould), and gets a job at an old folks home where he helps the elders put on a new play. The stage is set for some great humor. Additional films in the festival are The Testament (Oct. 21), Who Will Write Our History (Nov. 10), Sammy Davis Jr.: I’ve gotta be me (Nov. 11), and Heading Home: The Tale of Team Israel (Nov. 18). All films will be in the Jewish Community Center Theater beginning at 7 p.m. Tickets are $5 and may be purchased in advance at www.jewishomaha.org or at the door. The webpage also has additional information and links to trailers. We extend our thanks to the generous sponsors of this year’s film festival: The Henry Monsky Lodge of B’nai B’rith, and the following Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation funds: Klutznick/Creighton Custodial Fund, Lois Jeanne Schrager Memorial Fund, Kenneth Ray Tretiak Memorial Fund, Ruth Frisch & Oscar S. Belzer Endowment Fund and the Avy L. & Roberta L. Miller Film Fund. The screening of Who Will Write Our History is funded in part by the Murray H. & Sharee C. Newman Supporting Foundation in commemoration of the 80th anniversary of Kristallnacht.

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a4 | The Jewish Press | October 5, 2018

Upcoming BBYO events

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JaCOB Geltzer BBYO/Teen Program Director If you are a Jewish middle schooler in the Omaha area and are looking to participate in some fun and engaging activities with other Jewish teens your age, then look no further than attending any and all of these upcoming BBYO Connect events. BBYO Connect is a program for 68th grade teens designed to introduce 6-8th graders to pre-high school programming with other Jewish teens in the community. Save the date for these upcoming programs. Sunday Oct. 21 from 2-4 p.m.: Come hang with your friends as we eat, bowl, and play laser tag at The Mark to kick off the first BBYO Connect program of the year. Sunday Dec. 9 from 5-8 p.m.: Enjoy the 7th night of Hanukkah by winning prizes and playing games at Dave and Buster’s! We will have our own private party room with a Buffet, Pre-loaded game cards, and unlimited arcade games. Sunday Jan. 13 from 2-4 p.m.: Come create and eat with your friends as we compete in a Master Chef competition with a Jewish Food twist at the JCC. Sunday March 10 from 2-4 p.m.: Enjoy the afternoon with friends, pizza, and all the

Video games you can play as we have Game Truck of Omaha come to visit at the JCC. These programs are available to any Jewish teen in 6th-8th grade, regardless of religious/ synagogue affiliation and are FREE of charge!

To attend any of these programs, please register at https://bbyo.org/bbyo-near-you/regions/mid-america-region-omaha-council. If you are in 8th grade, you are eligible to attend both BBYO Connect and a majority of BBYO specific programs. For upcoming BBYO programs, go to http://www.jewish omaha.org/jcc/youth-and-teen-program ming/view/bbyo/ to view our 2018-19 program calendar. If you are interested, or know a teen who is interested in becoming a member of BBYO, please go to https://bbyo.org/ become-a-member to sign up and pay the one-time fee of $149 for a 4-year membership. If you have any questions, please feel free to email Jacob Geltzer, BBYO/Teen Program Director, at jgeltzer@jccomaha.org, or call at 402.334.6404.

B’nai Israel shabbat speaker series B’nai Israel Synagogue begins its post high holy days monthly Shabbat services on Friday, Oct. 12. Our services will again be led by Larry Blass. Our guest speaker for this service is Dr. Bob Bleicher of Eagle, Nebraska, a suburb of Lincoln. Bob has practiced medicine in Lincoln for over 30 years. His primary specialty was pulmonary care. He is board certified

in internal and pulmonary medicine as well as hospice and palliative care. Having become passionate about hospice care, Bob assumed the medical directorship of HoriSun Hospice in Lincoln. Bob will discuss the details surrounding hospice care and the reasons why he is a proponent of the care hospice patients receive. Dr. Bob Bleicher Our nov. 9 guest speaker will be Credit: Lincoln Journal Star Sarpy County Attorney, Lee Polikov.

Pilates Small Group Sessions at the JCC STOTT PILATES® is a contemporary approach to the original exercise method pioneered by the late Joseph Pilates. is refined method that took two decades to develop results in the inclusion of modern principles of exercise science and rehabilitation – making it one of the safest and most eﬀective methods available. STOTT PILATES® is recog-

nized as e Professional’s Choice by studios, fitness facilities, fitness professionals and the consumer market worldwide. For more information about doing Pilates at the Jewish Community Center, contact Member Services at 402.334.6426 or visit http://www.jew ishomaha.org/jcc/fitness-center/view/ small-group-reformer-sessions/.

Organizations

Bnai B’rith BreaDBreakerS

B’nai B’rith Breadbreakers meets weekly on Wednesdays at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home auditorium from noon to 1 p.m. For specific speaker information, please email Gary.Javitch@Gmail.com, Breadbreakers chairman. For more information or to be placed on the email list call 402.334.6443 or bnaibrith@jewishomaha.org.

Visit us at jewishomaha.org

The Jewish Press | October 5, 2018 | A5

Gone Fishing

community Friday Learning Series: Big cities and unusual places in Israel

JiLL ohLMAnn Activities Coordinator, RBJH Several residents of the rose Blumkin Jewish home recently had the opportunity to visit Lake Wanahoo for a morning of fishing on a pontoon. The outing was hosted by Live Well. Go Fish, a non-profit organization providing boating and fishing cruises to seniors and people with disabilities. Pictures are resident Steve Fischer, top, and resident Marty Siegel, bottom.

VOTE FOR LINDA DUCKWORTH

MArk kirchhoFF Community Engagement and Education, Jewish Federation of Omaha abbi Shlomo Abramovich has prepared two sessions of the Friday Learning Series for October. On Oct. 12 at noon he will present some interesting aspects of three large cities - Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Jerusalem. Travel brochures say of Tel Aviv (meaning ‘Hill of Spring’ in Hebrew) that it has an “air of perpetual renewal: flowers bloom, new restaurants open and there’s always a party somewhere.” Haifa is Israel’s third largest city, beautifully set on the slopes of Mount Carmel facing the Mediterranean Sea, likened by some to “Israel’s San Francisco.” In Haifa, tourists typically enjoy Bahai Gardens, German Colony, and a number of first-class museums. And what could be said about Jerusalem? One travel guide characterizes the city in the following way: “Destroyed and rebuilt over thousands of years, Jerusalem’s spiritual magnetism endures. With interlacing histories, clashing cultures and constant rein- Tel Aviv vention, the city is an intense, multisensory experience.” Rabbi Abramovich will add to these characterizations as he provides his own virtual travel experience to these cities. “I think this is a good time to look at these cities,” said Rabbi Shlomo, “In addition to being an interesting topic by itself, Israeli municipalities hold their elections in October, and these elections are important in people’s lives.” The Friday Learning Series will rest for a week, then return refreshed on Oct. 26. “After hearing about the large cities, I think people will really enjoy hearing about some unusual places,” said Rabbi Shlomo. He will discuss two villages - one

of those is half in Israel and half in Lebanon – half Israeli, half Arab. The other is a Hasidic, Halakhic village in which the people share a communal way of life. “I will let people speculate about which villages these are and hope they come to this session to learn if they are correct.” In addition to cities and villages, Rabbi Shlomo will inform you about some “unusual” places. He’s not revealing what those are until the class

Credit: Gilad Avidan via Wikimedia commons

either. Attend and find out. The Friday Learning Series is a joint program of Beth Israel Synagogue and the Community Engagement and Education arm of the Jewish Federation of Omaha. The series is open to the community free of charge thanks to the support of the Ann Goldstein Programming Endowment Fund. Reservations are not required. While you are encouraged to attend both sessions, each one will have a wealth of information and you will benefit from attending one or both. Contact Mark Kirchhoff at mkirchhoff@jewishomaha.org or 402.334.6463 for questions.

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School Break Specials at the JCC

a6 | The Jewish Press | October 5, 2018

community Mr. Sullivan

Somewhere between 1962 and the end of 1963, I phoned Bev Bloom, who I was dating oﬀ and on to ask her to dinner. e call weas made in mid-aernoon to her parents’ home where she lived at the richard FellMan time. She was a student at the University of Omaha; I was a young lawyer in a downtown firm. Bev’s maternal grandmother, Leah, lived with the Bloom family. Bev’s mother, Dina. was Leah’s step daughter and the two women were close. Leah came from Lodz, Poland, to America in the early 1920s. She had been married three or four times and each husband had died, leaving her a widow time and time again. She spoke English well, although she retained a dominant accent like most Jews who emigrated from Central Europe. She was an attractive older woman; although she had limited funds and lived extremely modestly, she dressed well and always seemed to have the latest fashions in her wardrobe. I liked her. When I was at Bev’s home, we always spoke. is particular aernoon, when I called, she answered. “Hello, may I help you?” she said. “”I’d like to speak with Bev,” I answered.

“Who is this calling?” “is is Dick Fellman.” I must point out that the word ‘Fellman’ is somewhat hard to distinguish over the phone. e letter ‘F’ oen becomes an ‘S,’ regardless of how clear one speaks. In fact, I’ve discovered throughout the years that everyone named Fellman, Feldman, Friedman or Forbes, usually adds: “Yes, with an ‘F,’ as in Frank.” I don’t think I went through all of this, but I did repeat my name to her. She was listening carefully, I could tell, because there was a rather long pause before she spoke again. en she said, quite clearly, “Mr. Sullivan?” And I answered: “Yes.” A bit dishonest on my part, but I couldn’t help myself. She repeated, “Mr. Sullivan, Mr. Sullivan” and I did not interrupt her. “Mr. Sullivan,” she repeated, “Mine Bebelah is not home. Goodbye, Mr. Sullivan.” And she slammed the phone down. It was clear to me that no Mr. Sullivan was ever going to leave a message with Bev’s grandmother that would be shared with Bev. e name ‘Sullivan’ wasn’t Jewish and Leah understood that quite well. From that moment, I had a new name for Beverly: Bebelah it was. And Leah saw that her granddaughter was protected from strange Mr. Sullivans with their non-Jewish name. I never asked what Leah thought of Mr. Fellman.

Leadership for District 20

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School Break Specials are full day programs for kids who are out of school for scheduled breaks or weather related closings. School Break Specials are a time for fun, food and friends! ere will be awesome projects, fun, and games. e mornings will be filled with either a field trip or special activity. Drop oﬀ and pick up are in the JCC Youth Lounge. For more information, please contact Allison Burger, Director of Youth Programs 402.334-6409 or aburger@jccomaha.org or Amanda Welsh, Assistant Director of Youth Programs 402.590.2152 or awelsh@jccomaha.org. You can also visit our website at http://www.jewishomaha. org/jcc/youthand-teen-programming/ view/upcomingschool-break-specials/ for additional dates and to register. Cost is $35 for members and $45 for non-members. Before and aercare is available for an additional fee.

Friday, Oct. 12 | Out of This World 1…2…3…BLAST OFF! Join for a day of planets, rockets, UFOs and extraterrestrials. Remember to register for $5 Pizza Friday! Wednesday, Oct. 17 | Sweet Treats What is your favorite dessert or sweet snack? From sweet to sour, fruity to chocolatey, we will make and taste all sorts of tasty snacks! Thursday, Oct. 18 | Feels Like Fall Let’s take a trip to Vala’s Pumpkin Patch and enjoy the lovely fall weather. We will get to enjoy all that Vala’s has to offer and even get to take home a small pumpkin. Friday, Oct. 19 | J Olympics What’s better than a little friendly competition? All day our campers will be competing against each other in various competitions. Who is going to take the gold? Don’t forget to register for $5 Pizza Friday! Monday, Oct. 22 | Out of This World 1…2…3…BLAST OFF! Join for a day of planets, rockets, UFOs and extraterrestrials. Thursday, Oct. 25 | UnBirthday Party “A very merry birthday to you! To me? To you!” We will have a birthday party that will last all day, celebrating that it is everyone’s Unbirthday! Friday, Oct. 26 | Freaky Friday We will take a field trip to the Rose Theater to see Goosebumps: The Phantom of the Auditorium. In the afternoon we will have gym time, go swimming and do some freaky crafts! Don’t forget to register for $5 Pizza Friday.

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The Jewish Press | October 5, 2018 | A7

Challah bake rises to the occasion

gAbbY bLAir laughter and camaraderie, which served as the evening’s secret ingredients. Caryn Scheer, who attended with her 10Staff Writer, Jewish Press maha’s third annual Challah Bake is in the books, year old daughter Cadee, shares “I was amazed how many and everyone agrees: this year’s event was the best women came together to bake Challah. I enjoyed watching yet! Over 250 women- and a few sons and hus- my daughter have fun and get messy as she made her very bands as well- came together to knead, braid and own dough. It was a night of celebrating sisterhood, bonding learn at the Downtown Hilton on Sept. 6. Every- with other women and honoring some amazing ladies who thing about the evening was prepared with purpose and class. are great role models in our community.” “I wanted this year’s event to As the dough was rising, a be ‘extra’,” explains Shani Katztribute to Jewish women comman of Chabad. “To offer not menced with the announceonly a Challah Bake, but an elment that Mayor Jean Stothert egant and meaningful evening had proclaimed Sept. 6, 2018 as out for ladies of all ages. Every ‘Omaha Jewish Woman Day’. woman and girl in this comShani read the following exmunity should feel privileged cerpt from the proclamation: by the unique responsibilities “The sacred duty to ‘separate that G-d entrusted to us.” Challah’ is emblematic of the From the moment one enwomen’s ability to transform tered, it was obvious that a mundanity to sanctity... special evening was in store. women throughout the comAs attendees approached the munity have come together in ballroom, an elaborately-set a display of unity, a prerequisite Shabbat table greeted them, of G-d’s abundant blessings.” with candles setting off a Afterwards, Katzman recogwarm, inviting glow. nized three women for their Further in sat tables laden specific involvement in one aswith gifts representative of the pect of the three feminine three feminine mitzvahs for mitzvot and presented each every participant. Cylindrical with gifts; a copy of the matchboxes- to light Shabbat Mayor’s proclamation, a Chaland holiday candles. Hand lah board and a Challah cover. cream from Israel -symbolic of Those honored were: laws pertaining to family life Rhonda Saferstein – Nurand Mikvah. Lastly a signature turer Award: For her dedicated event apron- symbolic of Chalservice to the Chabad Food lah. In addition to these gifts, Pantry. everyone took home challah Louri Sullivan – Lamplighter dough to bake at home, recipes Award: For nearly two decades and rustic mason jars of of lighting the Shabbat candles freshly baked honey cake as a weekly. wish for a sweet New Year. Pam Friedlander – Architect Gluten-free participants were Award: For building her home additionally gifted silicon loaf and instilling her family with pans to help mitigate the trickJewish Values. iness of working with gluten After the presentation of the free dough. awards, a group of women led A pre-event reception feathe crowd in an original song, turing wine, refreshments, dewritten by Joanie Jacobson, to licious baked goods, a the tune of the Havdalah popcorn bar, humus veggie melody. Faige Jeidel led the cups and fruit was a big hit group in blessing the Challah with the crowd. Mendy Haland the braiding began. Andee sted shares, “this year’s proScioli loved every minute of gram was simply fantastic, and the event. “It was warm and each year improves from the inviting from start to finish!” last! I cannot wait to see what Diane Shandell agreed, you have in store for us next “Thanks for putting on such a year. The snacks were amazwonderful and beautiful ing- especially the old world event.” strudel. The way you em“I am humbled and grateful braced the young attendees that the event was a beautiful was magnificent... honoring success. Personally, I am them as our future homemakblessed that my husband, ers and challah bakers warmed Rabbi Mendel Katzman, aleveryone’s heart.” ways encourages my work on Carrie Fingold, event co- Photos from top: Shani Katzman, left, Louri Sullivan and Carrie behalf of women,” concludes chair, shares that hearing pos- Fingold; middle: clockwise from upper left, Charlie Yale, Jordan Shani. itive stories about the global Nogg, Alexander Nogg, Taylor Nogg and Cory Nogg; and bottom: This year’s Challah bake, cotrend of large Challah bakes Karen Cohen and Jane Cohen. hosted by Chabad and The inspired her to volunteer to chair the event. “I wanted our Jewish Federation of Omaha, was made possible by a Staencommunity to be a part of this movement and feel the unity berg Family Foundation Anything Grant and the generosity that others had experienced- connections to each other and of our sponsors. Platinum Sponsor: Sissy Silber; Event Sponour roots. When the event started, I was just in awe of the sors: Joanie Jacobson and Patty Nogg; Challah Queens: Maramount of people from all different parts of our Jewish com- lene Cohen, Debbie Denenberg, Tippi Denenberg, Maneva munity who came to participate in the mitzvah of making Edelman, Lisa Epstein, Pam Friedlander and Lourdes Secola. Challah. We are already talking about some new and exciting “It was refreshing and fun that dozens of volunteers came ideas for next year’s event!” forth to be a part of this evening,” says Miri Katzman, volunAs the dough making began, tables were full of smiles, teer coordinator, “and what a treat it was to work with you all!”

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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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Living in an empty field anneTTe van de KamP Editor, Jewish Press story in the Talmud (Moed Katan 17a) anticipates current events: Terrible rumors about a local rabbi reach Rav Yehuda, a leading rabbinic authority in Babylonia. Rav Yehuda deliberates about what to do: On the one hand, the accused rabbi offers valuable services to a local community; on the other, the rabbi’s tarnished reputation degrades his office (in Talmudic language, “profanes the name of God”). In the end, Rav Yehuda decides to act on the allegations and ostracize the accused. On his deathbed, Rav Yehuda expresses satisfaction that he did not bow to pressure to flatter an important man but was rather governed by principle.” (Rabbi Mira Wasserman, Director of the Center for Jewish Ethics and assistant professor of rabbinic literature at the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College.) Every once on a while, there is a narrative that so takes hold of the nation it becomes impossible to ignore. It feels like you can’t get away from it no matter where you look. Turn on the television or radio, open your phone or use your browser and there it is: the Kavanaugh hearing and all that comes with it. Sure, you can refuse to pay attention, but somebody somewhere will bring it up and unless you want to become a complete recluse, you’ll be forced to think about it. It’s hard, because you’d rather focus on something else, you weren’t there anyway, what do you know, right? Why do you have to have an opinion about it to begin with, why does every single person you run into feel the need to obsess over this? Does it really affect us that much? Welcome to the world of sexual assault. Just like an irritating news story, its effects never go away. The memories of where and how and by who stick around like pesky wasps on a balmy summer night. They pop up without warning, out of context and at the most awkward times, leaving us feeling like we’re playing a particularly hellish game of mental whack-a-mole.

I’m sure you don’t want to go into your weekend thinking about my personal experience. Coincidentally, I don’t want to think about it either. Yet the current discussion about ‘did-he-or-didn’t-he’ leaves me no choice. I’m angry and each time I see Brett Kavanaugh’s face, I get angrier.

christine blasey Ford prepares to testify before the senate Judiciary committee on capitol Hill, sept. 27, 2018. Credit: Win McNamee/Getty Images

When I hear the repetition of “why didn’t she report it?” I get angrier. When I hear Senator Lindsey Graham spit out how wonderful Kavanaugh’s character is, I get angrier. I’m becoming the living embodiment of the angry feminist these old conservative men are worried about. I watched Judge Kavanaugh’s face, his belligerent and entitled behavior on the stand last week, and I asked myself: how did we get here? Why is it that when a woman is sexually assaulted, it is her job to prove it? Why is her word never enough? And don’t talk to me about false reports because I’m sick and tired of that argument. If that were an actual thing, we’d be over-reporting, not underreporting. I believe that Dr. Christine Blasey Ford made this whole thing up for exactly zero seconds. So, now what? Now we wait, for the FBI to conclude its very short investigation and then we will potentially

watch a known abuser take a seat on the Supreme Court. It will be a new low when that happens; it will make many of us even angrier and more frustrated. Those memories that have their hooks in us and have made so many reappearances these past weeks aren’t just memories of the physical acts. It’s feeling powerless that, I think, most deeply affects us. Do you really want to know why so many of us don’t report? Because being assaulted makes one feel powerless; telling someone about it and having that person pooh-pooh it or flat out not believe it ever happened, makes that powerless feeling a thousand times worse. We simply can’t risk it. “The Bible makes a distinction between sex crimes in a city and a field,” Hadar faculty member Rabbi Aviva Richman writes. “The rabbis interpret the “city” not as a matter of population density but culture. A city is a place where people care about sexual assault and respond. In this context, the rabbis focus on the responsibility of the community and leadership to respond to and ideally prevent sexual violence. Under this rubric, one medieval Talmud scholar characterizes the entire Persian Empire under king Ahashverosh as a field. Since the supreme leader of the land was a womanizer, acting like he was sexually entitled to any woman he wanted, no one in his kingdom took sexual violence seriously. “When our national leaders dismiss accounts of sexual assault because “nothing happened,” or refuse to put in place and follow clear protocols to respond to these accounts, they are setting a tone that has ripple effects well beyond the bench of nine justices. “This is a moment where we have to ask ourselves, do we live in a city or a field? We must hold our leadership accountable to take sexual assault seriously. Otherwise, the most robust system of courts and justice is really just an empty field.” Holding our leadership accountable is not something we’re terribly good at, and that needs to change. Not putting a misogynist on the Supreme Court would be a great place to start.

In J.K. Rowling’s new novel, a villain is an Israel-hating anti-Semite

YveTTe aLT miLLeR JTA For months author J.K. Rowling has been warning about the dangers of anti-Semitism in England, sparring on Twitter with critics who either downplay the phenomenon or say its proponents are confusing criticism of Israel with Jew hatred. Now, in her newest book, she includes a character whose obsessive anti-Zionism morphs into anti-Semitism. Lethal White, the fourth series in Rowling’s Cormoran Strike mystery series, written under the pen name Robert Galbraith, features a pair of hard-left political activists who believe “Zionists” are evil and have a stranglehold on Western governments. Extortionist Jimmy Knight’s extreme hatred of Israel has led him to hate Jews. “I wouldn’t trust him if it was anything to do with Jews,” Knight’s ex-wife tells a detective. “He doesn’t like them. Israel’s the root of all evil, according to Jimmy. Zionism: I got sick of the bloody sound of the word. You’d think they’d suffered enough,” she says of Jews. Rowling’s depiction of a far-left anti-Semite comes at a time of record high anti-Semitism in Britain, where she lives. Britain’s Labour Party and its leader Jeremy Corbyn have been accused of insensitivity to Jews and condoning anti-Jewish sentiments within the party’s ranks. Corbyn previously defended a grotesquely anti-Semitic London mural depicting Jewish bankers, and referred to his “friends” in terror groups Hamas and Hezbollah, though he’s said he now regrets these positions. A September 2018 poll found that nearly 40 percent of British Jews would seriously consider emigrating if Corbyn became prime minister — as polls show he might. The latest novel isn’t the first time the author of the Harry Potter series has commented on the dan-

gers of anti-Semitism. “Most UK Jews in my timeline are currently having to field this kind of crap, so perhaps some of us non-Jews should start shouldering the burden,” she wrote in April, in response to a critic who said Judaism is a religion, not a race. “Antisemites thinks this is a clever argument, so tell us, do: were atheist Jews exempted from wearing the yellow star?” Rowling, who is not Jewish, also shared with her

J.K. Rowling at the british academy Film awards (baFTa) at Royal albert Hall in London, Feb. 12, 2017. Credit: John Phillips/Getty Images 14.4 million Twitter followers examples of posts she’d received that denied anti-Semitism was a problem. To a commenter who posted that Arabs cannot possibly be anti-Semitic because Arabs are Semites too, Rowling tweeted a photo of a dictionary definition of anti-Semitism: “hostility to or prejudice against Jews.” She also included a spirited defense of Jews: “Split hairs. Debate etymology. Gloss over the abuse of your fellow citizens by attacking the actions of another country’s government. Would your response to any other form of racism or bigotry be to squirm, deflect or justify?” When a Jewish mother tweeted Rowling to say her son had faced anti-Semitic bullies in school,

Rowling tweeted back “so sorry” and wrote “Know that you aren’t alone and that a lot of us stand with you xx.” A few months later, on Aug. 26, after a fellow mystery writer, Simon Maginn, tweeted that British Jews’ outrage over Corbyn’s views were “synthetic,” Rowling defended the Jews. “What other minority would you speak to this way?” she posted, before quoting from Jean-Paul Sartre’s essay Anti-Semite and Jew. In 2015, Rowling declined to endorse open letters calling for a cultural and academic boycott of Israel and signed by over 1,000 British authors and opinion leaders. Instead, she joined 150 other writers and artists in penning an alternative letter opposing singling out Israel for opprobrium. “Israelis will be right to ask why cultural boycotts are not also being proposed against... North Korea,” her Oct. 23, 2015 letter declared. Instead of boycotts, the letter said, “Cultural engagement builds bridges, nurtures freedom and positive movement for change.” Rowling has been critical of the government of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu but is adamant that Israel, its people and its supporters should not be subjected to a double standard by their opponents.

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a10 | The Jewish Press | October 5, 2018

synagogues B’nai iSrael Synagogue

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

BeTh el Synagogue

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

BeTh iSrael Synagogue

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

ChaBad houSe

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

CongregaTion B’nai JeShurun

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

offuTT air forCe BaSe

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

roSe BlumKin JewiSh home

323 South 132 Street Omaha, NE 68154

Temple iSrael

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

TifereTh iSrael

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

B’nai iSrael Synagogue

Join us for our monthly Shabbat Speakers Series on oct. 12, at 7:30 p.m. with guest speaker Bob Bleicher about his work with Hospice. Our service leader is Larry Blass, and as always, an oneg to follow service. Everyone is always welcome at B’nai Israel! 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.; Our Shabbat Tables at time varies. SaTurday: Morning Services, 9:30 a.m. B’nai mitzvah of alexander and Zachary rich; Junior Congregation, Grades 3-7, 10 a.m.; Mincha following Shabbat Morning Services. weeKday SerViCeS: Sundays, 9:30 a.m. & 5:30 p.m.; weekdays, 7 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. Sunday: BESTT Back to School Breakfast, 9 a.m.; BESTT Classes (Grades K-7), 9:30 a.m.; Morning Minyan, 9:30 a.m.; Torah Study, 10 a.m.; USY Board Meeting, 10 a.m.; Torah Tots, 10:30 a.m.; KEVAH Kindergarten Family Program, 11 a.m.; Merit Scholarship Meeting, noon; Evening Minyan, 5:30 p.m. monday: Interfaith Israel Trip Information Night, 7 p.m. TueSday: Talmudic Arguments Class, 11:30 a.m. with Rabbi Abraham; Mahjong, 1 p.m.; Chesed Committee visits Remington Heights, 2 p.m. wedneSday: BESTT Classes (Grades 3-7), 4:15 p.m.; USY Lounge Night, 5:15 p.m.; A Study of Omaha’s African American & Jewish Communities, 6 p.m. with Professor Jeanette Gabriel; BESTT Hebrew High, 6:30 p.m.; Talmudic Arguments Class, 7:15 p.m. with Rabbi Steve Abraham. ThurSday: Shanghai, 1 p.m.; The Power of Water Class, 6 p.m. with Shira Abraham. Tot Shabbat, friday, oct. 12, 6 p.m. Vala’s Pumpkin Patch, Sunday, oct. 14, 4-9 p.m. Dinner is $5 per person with an $18 max per family. Children five and under are free. Admission to Vala’s is on your own. RSVP by oct. 10 at www.bethel-omaha.org. Chesed Committee Visits Sterling Ridge, wednesday, oct. 17, 2 p.m. Join members of the Chesed Committee as we visit with residents of The Heritage at Sterling Ridge on the third Wednesday of the month.

BeTh iSrael Synagogue

Services conducted by Rabbi Ari Dembitzer. friday: Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Mincha, 6:42 p.m.; Candle Lighting, 6:42 p.m. SaTurday: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Insights into the Weekly Torah Portion, 5:40 p.m.; Mincha/Seudah Shlishit, 6:25 p.m.; Havdalah, 7:40 p.m. Sunday: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 6:40 p.m. at Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. monday: Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Jewish History — Your History, noon with Rabbi Shlomo; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 6:40 p.m. at Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. TueSday: Shacharit, 6:45 a.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 6:40 p.m. at Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. wedneSday: Shacharit, 6:45 a.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 6:40 p.m. at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. ThurSday: Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Connecting with Our Faith, 9:30 a.m. with Rabbi Ari; Board of Commissioners Meeting, 6:30 p.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 6:40 p.m. at Rose Blumkin Jewish Home.

ChaBad houSe

Office hours: Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. and Friday, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Services conducted by Rabbi Mendel Katzman. friday: Shacharit, 7 a.m. followed by coffee, treats, study and shmoozing. SaTurday: Shabbat Morning Service, 9:30 a.m. weeKdayS: Shacharit, 7 a.m. followed by coffee, treats, study and shmoozing. monday: Personal Parsha class, 9:30 a.m. with Shani. wedneSday: Mystical Thinking, 9:30 a.m. with Rabbi Katzman; Power Lunch with Shani, noon. Appreciating flaws - yours and others'. You will be served food for thought along

with lunch. Reserve at office@ochabad.com or 402.330.1800. ThurSday: Talmud Class, noon with Rabbi Katzman. All programs are open to the entire community. For more information call 402.330.1800 or visit www.ochabad.com.

CongregaTion B’nai JeShurun

Services conducted by Rabbi Teri Appleby. friday: Famiy Shabbat and Simchat Torah Celebration, 6:30 p.m. with the Star City Kochavim. We’ll dance with the Torahs, making the seven hakafot, unroll one of the scrolls in its entirety, and celebrate the end of one Torah-reading cycle and the beginning of another; Candlelighting, 6:43 p.m.; Oneg, 7:30 p.m. SaTurday: Shabbat Morning Service, 9:30 a.m.; Torah Study, 10:45 a.m. on Parashat Bereshit; Havdalah (72 minutes), 8:11 p.m. Sunday: LJCS Gan through Grade 7, 9:30 a.m.; LJCS Gesher, 10 a.m.; Adult Hebrew Class 2, 11:30 a.m.; Come learn and play Pickleball, 7-9 p.m. All equipment furnished. Wear comfortable clothing. For questions, call or text Miriam Wallick at miriam57@aol.com. TueSday: Star City Kochavim Rehearsal, 6:45 p.m. wedneSday: LJCS Hebrew School, 4 p.m. at Tifereth Israel.

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

Temple iSrael

friday: First Friday Shabbat Service, 6 p.m. featuring the First Friday Band. SaTurday: Torah Study, 9:15 a.m.; Shabbat Service, 10:30 a.m. Sunday: Kol Chokolad Kids Choir, 9:30 a.m.; Religious School for Grades K-6, 10 a.m.; Social Justice Committee Meeting, 10:30 a.m.; Nebraska Jewish Community Candidate Forum, 3 p.m. TueSday: Rosh Chodesh: Mindfulness and Light Yoga, 6:30 p.m. hosted by Susan Long and Ann Osborne. wedneSday: Religious School for Grades 3-6, 4 p.m.; School Dinner, 6 p.m.; Grades 7-12 and Family School, 6:30 p.m.; Love Your Neighbor as Yourself in the Jewish, Christian

and Muslim Traditions, 6:30 p.m. taught by Dr. Eric Elnes of Countryside Community Church. ThurSday: The History of the Jewish People: Kings and Prophets, 10 a.m. taught by Rabbi Berezin; OTYG Plugs into Israel Series: Taste of Israel, 5-7 p.m. Tish Bonfire and S’mores, Saturday, oct. 13, 6-9 p.m. at Vala’s Pumpkin Patch, 12102 S 180th St, Gretna. This is our season kick-off event hosted by our group “Tish,” a group for Temple-ish people who are in their 30’s-ish and 40’s-ish, single-ish or married-ish, Jewish and Jew-ish. We’ll meet by the bonfires at 6 p.m. Temple Israel will provide hot dogs, veggie dogs, and s’mores to roast on the fire for dessert. Please bring a side to share. Please note, you will need to purchase your Vala’s ticket online at valaspumpkinpatch. com or in person that evening. Please RSVP to Temple Israel, 402.556.6536, by Oct. 11. Temple Tots Sunday, Sunday, oct. 14, 10:30 a.m. Families with children ages 4 and under (unless enrolled in PreK) are invited to join us for singing, stories, crafts, snacks, and learning! This is a wonderful opportunity to meet other families with young children and connect with our clergy! Chocolate Shabbat Service and Dinner, friday, oct. 19, Dinner, 5:15 p.m., Services, 6 p.m. This is a multi-generational family service featuring our kids’ choir, Kol Chokolad, and everyone is invited! Chocolate Shabbat starts with a community dinner at 5:15 p.m., continues with friday evening Shabbat service at 6 p.m., followed by a delicious chocolate oneg. There is no cost for the dinner, it is sponsored by PJ Library! Please RSVP so we know how much macaroni and cheese to make. RSVP to Temple Israel, 402.556.6536, by Oct. 17. OTYG Haunted Havdalah, Saturday, oct. 20, 7:3010:30 p.m. OTYG, alongside our other community youth groups, will be getting our ghouls on at Bellevue Berry Farm with hayrides, haunted houses, and s’mores! Pick up and drop off will be at the JCC. Cost is $20! RSVP online today! Scholar-in-Residence Weekend with Dr. Joel M. Hoffman, nov. 2-4.

TifereTh iSrael

Services conducted by lay leader Nancy Coren. Office hours: monday-friday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. friday: Candlelighting, 6:55 p.m. SaTurday: Shabbat Morning service, 9:30 a.m. followed by a Kiddush luncheon; Got Shabbat, 11 a.m.; Havdalah (72 minutes), 7:53 p.m. Sunday: LJCS Gan through Grade 7, 9:30 a.m.; LJCS Gesher, 10 a.m.; Come learn and play Pickleball, 7-9 p.m. All equipment furnished. Wear comfortable clothing. For questions, call or text Miriam Wallick at miriam57@aol.com. wedneSday: LJCS Hebrew School, 4 p.m. at Tifereth Israel.

Soggy weather can’t stop Temple Sukkah Crawl Sarah Kelen Although Saturday, Sept. 29 started out rainy in Lincoln, by aernoon the weather was ready to cooperate, so hosts dried oﬀ chairs and readied their sukkahs for the second annual South Street Temple Sukkah Crawl. is event allows Temple families to show oﬀ their sukkah construction skills and to welcome friends to share the mitzvah of dwelling in the sukkah. Crawl participants each received a “passport” for hosts to mark at each “port,” and the event featured a progressive dinner: appetizers at the first port (the MullinDelserone sukkah), a main course at the second port (the Bloom-Kelen sukkah), and dessert and Havdalah at the final port (the Kaup sukkah).

Fortunately, the rain held oﬀ until the guests made their way home aer the event, well-fed and happy, if a bit chilly. With a year to plan be-

fore Sukkot 5780, there is plenty of time to consider what new design features participants will borrow from one another and who will be inspired to open up their own sukkah to Crawl participants next year.

The Jewish Press | October 5, 2018 | a11

Pulverente MONUMENT CO.

lifecycles in memoriam

sylvia davis

Sylvia Davis passed away on Sept. 10 at age 96. Services were held Sept. 14 at Golden Hill Cemetery. Sh was preceded in death by parents, Rose and Isadore Goldstein and Louis Schwartz; husbands, Harry Siref and Irving Davis. She is survived by children Linda Siref Redler and Steve Redler, Judy Siref and Steve Fradkoff, Rick Siref and Gwen Gomez; grandchildren: Cindy and Brian Stoneking, Rob and Tonya Simons, Marcos Siref, Robin Siref, Heath and Lindsey Fradkoff; great grandchildren: Rachel and Harrison Stoneking, Jack and Ava Simons, Hugh Fradkoff.

jerry gereliCk

Jerry Gerelick passed away on Sept. 25 at age 68. As Jerry would say, he was “voted off the island” due to complications of diabetes. He is survived by Larraine, his wife of 40 years; sister and brother-inlaw, Marcia and Steve Pitlor; brother, Howard; brother-in-law and sisterin-law, Craig Lambert and Sara Greenberg; and beloved nieces and nephews. Jerry was born Oct. 30, 1949 in Omaha, and received a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Nebraska at Omaha and a Master of Arts degree from Vanderbilt University. He was employed by Metro Schools in special education student information and retired in 2013. Jerry loved traveling; he and Larraine visited 35 countries. A talented mosaic artist, he generously gifted his beautiful creations to family and friends. Jerry received a kidney from his sister Marcia in 2001. Memorials may be made to Pitlor Family Donor Advised Fund, the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation, 333 S. 132nd St., Omaha, NE 68154.

Charles (ChuCk) plotkin

Charles (Chuck) Plotkin, formerly of Hooper, NE and Omaha, passed away Sept. 16 at age 70 in Glendale, AZ. He was preceded in death in by parents, Dorothy and Bernie Plotkin. He is survived by his wife Shelly Joseph Plotkin, daughter, Melissa Plotkin, and son and daughter-in-law, Matthew and Kassie Plotkin; grandchild, Katie; all of Phoenix; and brother, Justin Plotkin of Richmond, TX. Chuck was a graduate of the University of Nebraska, Lincoln. Memorials may be made to MD Anderson Cancer Center or the organization of your choice.

renee wiseman

Renee Wiseman passed away in her sleep at the age of 65 on Sept. 23, due to complications from COPD and heart failure. She is survived by her husband of 45 years, Ken Wiseman. Memorials may be made to the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home.

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Credit: Andrew Shiva/Wikipedia/CC BY-SA 4.0 Upcoming at the Schwalb Center: e Middle East Forum is an initiative of the Middle East Project Fund, the UNO Schwalb Center for Israel & Jewish Studies and the UNO Islamic Studies Program. e Forum is held three times per semester where a panel of experts discusses current events in the Middle East. We encourage students, faculty and community members to bring their questions about the Middle East for an open and fascinating dialogue. Location is the Barbara Weitz Community Engagement Center | 6400 South, University Drive North (Parking available in lots D and E). Upcoming Forum Dates are ursday Oct. 18 from noon-1 p.m. and ursday Nov. 15 from noon-1 p.m. For more information contact Kasey De Goey at unosch walbcenter@unomaha.edu or 402.554.2788. Established in 2009, the Natan and Hannah Schwalb Center for Israel & Jewish Studies’ mission is to create, coordinate, and promote interdisciplinary programming focused on teaching and scholarship in: Israel Studies, Jewish Studies, and the history, politics, cultures and societies of the Middle East. Our primary goal is to expand knowledge about Israel, Judaism, and the Middle East on the university campus and beyond, while promoting and facilitating collaborative scholarship with institutions in Israel and around the worl. e UNO Department of Religious Studies currently offers eleven Jewish/Israeli courses, while the Department of History offers six such courses. e Center will provide funding to greatly expand these course offerings with the goal of creating a minor in Israel and/or Jewish Studies for UNO students.

CorreCtion

In our Sept. 21 edition, the date for the JFO Foundation Financial Literacy Program was erroneously given as Oct. 19. The correct date is Oct. 29. The Jewish Press regrets the error. In the April 27, 2018 edition of the Jewish Press, we published an article about the new website for Mt. Carmel cemetery, which wrongly indicated that the Goldstein Foundation had partially provided the funding. The Mt. Carmel Cemetery website was funded in part by a Staenberg Family Foundation Anything Grant. The Jewish Press regrets the error.

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a12 | The Jewish Press | October 5, 2018

food

Russian Meatballs: The ultimate comfort food sonya sanfoRD with chopped fresh parsley alongside mashed The Nosher via JTA potatoes, your favorite side or slices of good or the first five years of my life, we bread. lived in the apartment next door to Note: Meatballs can be made several days my grandparents. I still have vivid in advance, and they freeze and reheat well. memories of being in that home Sonya Sanford is a chef, food stylist and with its many house plants over- writer based out of Los Angeles. flowing in their pots, tchotchkes and art from The Nosher food blog oﬀers a dazzling array the former Soviet Union, menorahs and of new and classic Jewish recipes and food other Jewish objects on display, and a wel- news, from Europe to Yemen, from challah to coming coziness and warmth. shakshuka and beyond. Check it out at What I remember most about being at my www.eNosher.com. grandparents’ home was the food. Oen there was a pot of something simmering on the stove. On the best days, that pot was filled with teeli, otherwise known as Russian meatballs. I can still see myself sitting at my grandmother’s table in front of a steaming bowl of teeli, eagerly waiting for them to cool down so I could start eating. Every time I make teeli I try to replicate what my grandmother made for me. Yes, I’m biased, but her meatballs are the best I’ve ever tried. I suggest serving these meatballs with a generous Russian meatballs, or tefteli, can be prepared in many ways and are a Credit: Sonya Sanford ladle of sauce, topped meal by themselves.

Re-Elect

Russian Meatballs

Ingredients: For the sauce: 1 large yellow onion, diced small 3 tbsp. oil (sunflower, avocado, or canola) 1 large carrot, peeled and shredded 2-3 cloves garlic, minced fine 2 tbsp. tomato paste 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes 2 (15-ounce) cans plain tomato sauce/pureed tomatoes 2 tbsp. maple syrup or 1 tbsp. sugar, or to taste 2 tsp. dried oregano or thyme Pinch of red pepper flake, or to taste 1 (28-ounce) can filled with water (about 3 1/2 cups) salt and pepper, to taste For the meatballs: 2 pounds dark meat ground chicken or turkey 2 cups cooked basmati or Jasmine rice (about 3/4 cup uncooked) 1 large onion, minced very fine 1 large clove of garlic, finely grated or minced 1 large egg 2 1/2 tsp. kosher salt (Diamond brand) Ground pepper, to taste Chopped flat leaf parsley, for garnish Directions: To make the sauce: Add oil to a Dutch oven or large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion to the pot. Allow the onion to soften and caramelize until golden, stirring occasionally, about 15-20 minutes (you can go for longer

if you want the onion to caramelize more deeply). Add grated carrot, minced garlic and a big pinch of salt to the pot. Stir and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the carrot has softened and the garlic is aromatic. Add the tomato paste and stir until everything is coated, about 1 minute. Add the crushed tomato, tomato sauce, maple syrup, herbs and chili flake to the pot. Fill the empty 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes with water and add that water to the pot. Taste and season with salt and pepper. Let the mixture come up to a simmer. To make the meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, cooked rice and onion. I like to use a microplane to grate my garlic straight into the bowl. Add the salt, pepper and egg. Combine everything until well incorporated, but make sure not to overmix or the meat can become tough. Clean hands work best for this. Before I cook the meatballs, I like to take a spoonful of the mixture and cook it in a small pan to taste for seasoning. I add more salt or pepper accordingly. Form the ground meat mixture into even-sized balls. I prefer my tefteli slightly larger than a golf ball, but make them according to your own preferences. Drop the formed meatballs into the simmering sauce. Make sure the sauce returns to a simmer, then lower the heat and partially cover the pot with a lid. Simmer the meatballs for 35-45 minutes or until cooked through. If you find the sauce is too thick, you can add more water. If you want the sauce less thick, you can simmer it for longer to reduce and thicken. Serves 4-6.

Senator Bob Hilkemann Nebraska Legislature | District 4 Paid for by Hilkemann for Legislature Paid for by Friends of Lindstrom Committee, 14911 Lake Street, Omaha, Ne 68116

The Jewish Press | October 5, 2018 | b1

section2

CAND ID AT E ST AT EMENT S

The NE Jewish Community Candidate Forum CassaNdra HiCks WEisENburgEr Director of Communications, Temple Israel ne year ago, Rabbi Brian Stoller was inspired to create a Jewish political forum in Omaha. Previously hosting such a Forum in Chicago while he was at B’nai Jehoshua Beth Elohim, he felt it was something from which Omaha could greatly benefit. After months of planning, Temple Israel is excited to announce that it is hosting the Nebraska Jewish Community Candidate Forum this Sunday, Oct. 7, from 3-4:30 p.m. This bi-partisan event is an amazing opportunity for our community to meet and hear directly from the candidates for Governor, Senator, Congress, and the Nebraska Legislature. This Forum is the largest event of this kind in Jewish Omaha history. Over 50 past and present political figures will be joining us from both major political parties, coming together for this special event, providing you the opportunity to meet past mayors, the president of the Omaha Police Officers Association, the Douglas County Election Commissioner, Nebraska Attorney General, city council members, congressmen, and the list goes on! We are especially honored to announce that Omaha mayor Jean Stothert will be joining us. If you want to interact with some of the most important and influential people in Nebraska politics, this is the place you want to be. “This is one of the few opportunities in Nebraska to see both Governor Ricketts and his opponent State Senator Bob Krist in the same

venue. This will be a special opportunity for our entire community to show elected officials the high level of interest we have in the issues of our day,” said Dan Gilbert, member of the planning committee. The event will be unique, as it is an arena where you can learn directly from the candidates from both political parties all under the same roof. Are you on the fence about who to vote for? Is there a candidate you want to meet to simply tell them “Thank you”? Do you have questions about a particular candidate’s policy? Whether you’re liberal, conservative, libertarian or anything in-between, we invite you to our Forum to learn about what is happening in Nebraska politics. No matter where on the political spectrum you happen to be, there are important issues that affect us all in this fantastic Omaha community. The Forum begins at 3 p.m., leading off with Nebraska Governor Pete Ricketts and State Senator Bob Krist. The candidates will be asked several open-ended questions from the planning committee, pertaining to a variety of issues that affect us all, both locally and globally. Next, Congressman Don Bacon and Kara Eastman will tell you why they believe they should represent Nebraska in the United States Congress. The final candidate to speak and answer questions will be Council Member Jane Raybould who is currently running for U.S. Senate. The second half of this Forum will be dedicated to the candidates for Nebraska legislature, see Candidate Forum page b8

LIFELONG SUPPORTER OF ISRAEL: Member of the Anti-Defamation League “After spending almost 30 years in the Air Force, I knew there was more I could do for my country. We cut taxes and harmful regulations, funded CHIP and Community Health Centers, strengthened national security, and passed comprehensive childhood cancer legislation. There is much to do, and I’m just getting started!

Helped install Israel’s anti-missile defense Staunch supporter of anti-BDS legislation Co-Sponsor of two bills combating anti-semitism Believes Jerusalem is rightful place of US Embassy

This election is about you: Your job, your family, your

future. With your support, I know we can continue to bring Nebraska values like civility, common sense, and dedicated work ethic to Congress.”

DON BACON IS ENDORSED BY: ◇ Omaha Police Ofﬁcers Association ◇ United States Chamber of Commerce ◇ National Federation of Independent Business ◇ Nebraska Farm Bureau ◇ Every Mayor in Nebraska’s Second District

PAID FOR BY DON BACON FOR CONGRESS

DONJBACON.COM

DON BACON SERVED I THE UNITED STATES AIR FORCE. USE OF HIS MILITARY RANK, TITLES, INSIGNIA, AND UNIFORM DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT BY THE AIR FORCE OR DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE.

B2 | The Jewish Press | October 5, 2018

candidatestatements Don Bacon District 2 US Representative

Don Bacon first ran for Congress in 2016 with a simple message: liberty, security, and prosperity for all. Don strongly supported the tax cuts that let more than 90% of Nebraskans keep more of their income, and he helped cut harmful regulations so small businesses could thrive. Consequently, we have 4.2% GDP growth, the best employment numbers in four decades, and the lowest unemployment in history for African-Americans and Hispanic Americans. With his unique experience, Don has been a leader on national security. By strengthening our cyber defense and rebuilding our depleted military, our nation is now more secure. Our children are precious, and Don has fought hard to defend them. He voted to fund CHIP and Community Health Centers like OneWorld in Omaha, where he made one of his first visits as a Congressman. He also helped pass the most comprehensive childhood cancer legislation to date. And, as Chairman of the School Safety Working Group, Don has met with community leaders, law enforcement officers, school officials, and parents to gather feedback that keeps our children safe at school. Since the day Don began helping set up Israeli missile defense, he has been a friend to Israel. As a member of the Anti-Defamation League, a co-sponsor of the Taylor Force Act, and a vocal opponent of the BDS movement, Don knows Israel is one of America’s strongest allies - and closest friends. Don has held many titles: General, Congressman, Chairman... But his favorite title is Grandpa. He and Angie, his wife of 35 years, have four children and

just welcomed their fourth grandchild. Don is a devoted family man, and that’s what this election is about: our families. With his leadership, we can continue to make a safer, more prosperous country to live, work, and raise our children.

Mary ann Borgeson District 6 Douglas County Commissioner

Commissioner Mary Ann Borgeson was first elected to the Douglas County Board of Commissioners in 1994. She was re-elected to her 6th term in 2014. In 1997, Mary Ann was the first woman elected to serve as chairwoman of the Douglas County Board and has served in this capacity numerous years. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for both Nebraska Association of County Officials (NACO) and the National Association of Counties (NACo.) Borgeson has served as Chair of the NACo Health Services and Cyber Security Committees. Currently, she serves as VP of Large Urban County Caucus, Healthy Counties, Health Services Committee, and a Member of the International Economic Development, Arts and Culture, Membership, and Programs and Services Committees. Commissioner Borgeson is past president of Women of NACo. Borgeson has an impressive list of awards and recognitions: 2000, 2003, 2006, 2010 - Recipient of Nebraska Association of Counties President’s Award for Leadership in Health and Human Services and Juvenile issues; 2003 - Hope Medical Outreach Champions Award; 2004 - Domestic Violence Coordinating Council Outstanding Leadership Award; 2008 - Recipient of Nebraska Chapter of the Ameri-

can Society for Public Administration (ASPA) for Outstanding Elected Official; 2012 - Recipient of National Alliance to End Homelessness Public Sector Award (1st Public Official to ever receive this award.); 2014 - DCHA Mary Ann Borgeson Housing and Services Advocacy Award (1st time an award like this has been established in honor of a County Commissioner); 2015 - Named one of 25 members of the Governing Institute’s Women in Government Leadership Program; and 2016 - National Association of County Behavioral Health & Developmental Disability Directors Outstanding Leadership & Service to health of the Nation Award. Commissioner Borgeson is on the Board of Directors of the following Community Organizations: Millard Business Community Foundation, Aksarben Future Trust, College World Series, R.E.S.P.E.C.T., Nebraska Innovation Zone Commission, Omaha Community Partnership, Nebraska Family Collaborative, Nebraska Safety Center, Heartland 2050, Nebraska Human Trafficking Task Force. A graduate of Daniel J. Gross High School and the University of Nebraska at Omaha, Commissioner Borgeson worked in the healthcare industry in addition to her county board service. Mary Ann and her husband Bob are the proud parents of four and grandparents of three.

Machaela cavanaugh District 6 State Legislature

Machaela Cavanaugh, an Omaha native with nearly 20 years’ experience in community engagement and public affairs is a candidate to represent the 6th District (Central, West-Central Omaha) in the Nebraska State Legislature.

An early childhood education advocate, Machaela Cavanaugh has built her career bringing people together to solve problems and make smart investments in our future. She will be a true problem solver who puts Omaha families first. Machaela believes we need to invest in our public schools and ensure that every child can get off to a great start. Machaela has earned the endorsement of Nebraska’s educators. Too many families can’t afford the health care they need. Machaela will work to help our families afford health coverage and lower prescription drug prices for our seniors. Machaela will put homeowners first – prioritizing real, meaningful property tax relief that helps families make ends meet. And she’ll ensure every family can feel safe in their homes by working with neighborhood groups and police to more efficiently and effectively fight crime. Machaela serves on the Board of Directors of Inclusive Communities and is a member of the Preschool Advisory Committee at Morning Star Preschool. She resides in the Peony Park Neighborhood with her husband Nick Brotzel and their children, Della, Harriet, and Barrett. Cavanaugh is the daughter of Kate and John Cavanaugh, and the fourth of their eight children. A graduate of Marian High School, Machaela obtained her Master’s Degree in Public Administration from the University of Nebraska at Omaha and a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology from the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota. see more cadidate statements page B3

all political candidates’ statements included in this paper are advertisements paid for by the candidates in question. The Jewish Press does not endorse any candidates for office.

Dan for Public Service Commission

District 1

Lancaster

Gage

Cass

Re-Elect

Otoe Johnson Nemaha Pawnee

Richardson

Paid for by Friends of Dan Watermeier Amy Emshoff, Treasurer

Merv Riepe D I ST R I C T 1 2 STAT E L E G I S L AT U R E Paid for by Riepe for Legislature, 6232 South 79th Circle, Omaha, NE 68127

The Jewish Press | October 5, 2018 | B3

Continued from page B2

HAl DAuB Universiy of Nebraska Board of Regents

There is no one more committed, positive and enthusiastic about Nebraska than Hal Daub. He has been a strong voice of reason for financial and policy issues that have faced the University. Fellow Regent and Board Chair Rob Schafer said, “Hal is a beacon of leadership. He is willing to stand there and willing to give his all regardless of the cost politically or financially. He is principled.” Hal Daub talks about his career. Much of my business and professional career has been spent in civic engagement, working for Nebraskans and our state: as congressman, then mayor of Omaha and the past six years a regent. The young people educated through our university system are crucial to the future of the state and our nation. My objectives are to have an affordable tuition structure, keep our well-prepared graduates in Nebraska and do so with the least financial burden to families and students. My background in both business and public service is demonstrated by conservative leadership with fiscal management experience and achieving positive results. Experience counts. I am a native Nebraskan. I grew up here, I was educated at Benson High School and received my law degree from the University of Nebraska. As a veteran and an Eagle Scout I learned to value our freedoms and to respect our nation. The University is a complex and very big business. I realize the energy and time commitment this work takes. My goals are to forge a welcoming educational environment for all of our students and faculty, to work towards creative solutions to insure we continue our momentum in research and teaching for the workforce of the future, and balance competing fiscal challenges for families and taxpayers.

During my tenure, we have made public safety more efficient by merging our communication technology with all public safety agencies in Douglas County. Now, all Public Safety agencies, Police & Fire, can communicate with each other on a daily basis and during critical incidents. We have taken steps to protect our children by developing a Cyber Crimes Task Force to track down individuals who use the Internet for crimes against our youth. I have also been a leader in addressing Human Trafficking in Douglas County and Nebraska with my involve-

ment in the Governor and Attorney General’s Task Forces on Human Trafficking as well as our local Coalition on Human Trafficking of which I am a board member. The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) currently subcontracts our Crime Lab services with a multi-county area to include many Federal Agencies. DCSO has received national accreditation through the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) and ANAB specifically for our Crime Lab and separately for our Crime see more cadidate statements page B4

All political candidates’ statements included in this paper are advertisements paid for by the candidates in question. The Jewish Press does not endorse any candidates for office.

MinA DAvis District 8 State Legislature

Mina Davis, 26 years old and the youngest Democrat running this cycle for state legislature is a data scientist and also works at Target in their food department. Her main focus this election cycle is to highlight the problems with economic inequity and making sure people are able to have the ability to live and work with dignity. The first focus is to ensure that education at all levels are strengthened, whether it be fighting for more opportunities for early childhood education, K-12 and also protecting our university and community colleges from further cuts. Mina also wants to fight for a living wage and work to ensure the passing of Medicaid expansion reaches those who need the services the most. She also supports expanding opportunities for economic growth and a common-sense budget that works to create a climate that supports local businesses, entrepreneurs and workforce development programs. Mina’s goal is to also promote a budget that supports and encourages economic well-being for all Nebraskans. Find out more at www.minadavis2018.com.

MAtt DeAver District 10 State Legislature

Shalom! I’m Matt Deaver, candidate for Legislature in District 10. I am a proud husband and father of three wonderful children. They are my motivation for running. I want to make Nebraska an even better place to live, work, raise a family, and retire. My top priorities are straight forward. First, we must prepare all our children to succeed in life by providing them with a high-quality education. I will fight to improve education funding and make sure that more of our education dollars go to support the classroom. I am a parent of three kids in the public school system. This is personal to me. Voters often bring up high premiums for health care coverage. I will work to make health care coverage more affordable by allowing businesses and groups to form associations to reduce cost. I will also work to allow the purchase of coverage across state lines. More options and competition will help improve coverage and reduce costs. The third major issue for me is public safety. I am proud to be endorsed by the Omaha Police Officer’s Association. Keeping our families safe is one of the most important things we do. I will fight to make sure those who are tasked with keeping us safe have all the tools they need to do their job. I will support common sense laws including ending the automatic “good time” early release of violent criminals. Any time off should be earned through education, jobs training, and improved life skills. I am the fiscally conservative candidate in this race and I would appreciate your vote!

tiM Dunning Douglas County Sheriff

In January 1995, I was sworn in as your Douglas County Sheriff and promised to serve in the best interest of our County.

• Nationally recognized leader on Next Generation 911 System upgrades • History of assuring affordable, quality public utilities and services • Supporter of America’s energy independence

“I support efforts to reduce our reliance on foreign energy. This helps take power away from those who wish harm on our friends in Israel.” - Tim Schram

Schram for Public Service Commission

Vote Tim Schram ffor NNebraska b k Public P bli SService i Commission Paid for by Nebraskans for Schram • 14602 S. 234th Street • Gretna, NE 68028

www.facebook.com/TimSchramPSC/ • Website: www.NebraskansForSchram.com

B4 | The Jewish Press | October 5, 2018

Continued from page B3 Scene Investigators. DCSO is the only Sheriff’s Office in the State of Nebraska to have received such recognition from both Accrediting bodies and one of six Crime Labs in the world to hold dual accreditation to international standards. Another important noteworthy accomplishment is that in my 23 years as your Sheriff, we have never been over budget. In the past seven years, we have been able to hold our budget requests to an average of no more than 2.4% annually. I have been honored to serve as your Sheriff and ask for your vote on Nov. 6. Please visit sherifftimdunning.com or my Facebook page to learn more.

KArA EAstmAn District 2 US Representative

Healthcare is a right––and it’s time for our government to treat it like one. I watched my mother fight cancer five different times. Every time she was diagnosed, I saw her struggle with outrageous prescription drug costs. After she passed, I collected piles of medical bills that she couldn’t afford to pay despite being insured. In talking to voters across the district, I’ve learned that her story is far from unique. Thanks to partisan politics in Washington, D.C., the cost of healthcare premiums is skyrocketing. Right here in the 2nd District, the average family of four is projected to pay $6,250 or more for their

Putting Nebraska Families First

BoB EvnEn Secretary of State

• Improving education to help all students succeed • Providing better health care options for all Nebraskans • Keeping our families safe by making sure first responders have the tools they need

Putting Nebraska Families First Paid for by Matt Deaver for Legislature • 18435 NORTHERN HILLS DRIVE – BENNINGTON, NE 68007

Facebook: www.facebook.com/MattDeaver10 • Website: www.MattDeaver.com

I am a life-long resident of Omaha. and have a Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice. I come from a long line of public servants. I spent 25 years on the Omaha Police Department. In 2007, I retired as police captain upon being elected to the office of the Clerk of the District Court. I was re-elected 2010, 2014 and am running for re-election in 2018. I have been married to my wife Karen for 31 years. Karen and I have two adult sons, both police officers. I started my membership to the JCC over 21 years ago. I am involved in several activities beyond the Clerk of the District Courts Office. I currently sit on a number of state and local technology related committees that has allowed me to have direct involvement in court policy both locally and at the state level. My main goal has been and continues to be to enhance the capabilities of the office by use of new technology and to bring the courts closer to the people it serves. I first pledged to bring the office on-line to limit visiting the courthouse. Now all court cases are on-line. We now have E-Filing, E-Payment of fines and fees, on-line qualification for jury duty. Those pledges have been kept, but there is more work to do. As new technology is developed, I will implement those to improve our capabilities and get you out of line and on-line. I want to tell the voters that it has been my honor and privilege to serve the citizens of Douglas County as their Clerk of the District Court. I love my job and stand ready to continue in their service if reelected on Nov. 6. I ask for your support and your vote.

on November 6 Leadership • Experience Professionalism • Integrity

• Over 45 consecutive years of progressive law • enforcement experience

roBErt hilKEmAnn District 4 State Legislature

• Leader in combating Human Trafficking • in Douglas County and Nebraska

Paid for by Dunning for Sheriff

On Nov. 6, I will appear on the ballot as a candidate for Secretary of State. The incumbent, John Gale, did not run for reelection. John has done a great job. He’s organized the office to run efficiently. Nebraskans are getting a lot of “bang for their buck” as a result of John Gale’s work, and I will carry that forward. I’ll also continue the process of modernization of the office. We’ll work on improving access via the Internet, making those functions more user friendly, and broadening what’s available online. The Secretary of State is the chief election officer of the state, and I’ll work to assure that our elections remain safe and secure. We’ll add security functions to address the challenges of today’s cyber world. As the “ambassador of Nebraska to the world,” I’ll use the status of the Secretary of State’s office to work with the Governor and others in expanding Nebraska’s export trade. My experience as an attorney negotiating deals for more than 40 years has prepared me for this very important opportunity. Nebraska businesses have repeatedly told me that having the support of an elected state official – like the Secretary of State – is very helpful in reaching agreements with foreign officials and business people. I will put the Office of Secretary of State to work for Nebraska business. My great-grandfather was a founder of Tifereth Israel in Lincoln. My grandfather, my father, my mother, and I, all have served as presidents of the congregation. I am a proud alumnus of Camp Esther K. Newman, and of Camp Ramah, where I met and became a life-long friend of Paul Drazen, z”l. I would appreciate your consideration and your vote for Nebraska Secretary of State on Nov. 6.

John FriEnd Douglas County Clerk of the District Court

Vote to Re-Elect

• The Sheriff’s Office continues to receive National • Accreditation under Sheriff Dunning’s guidance

healthcare next year, the third highest increase in the entire country, because of the reckless actions of politicians like Don Bacon. This is not the way things should be the richest country in the world. Every American should be able to get the healthcare they need, regardless of income level. Medicare for All would finally help us achieve this goal by keeping healthcare costs in check, allowing medical professionals to make healthcare decisions instead of insurance companies, and making it so families no longer need to deal with rising premiums, huge deductibles, or out-of-pocket costs. We have data to show that Medicare for All can work. Studies have shown that Medicare for All would even save the federal government money. Just last month, a study proved that such a system could save $2 trillion nationwide. We can get better results at a lower cost than the current broken system that Washington politicians put in place, all while saving lives. It is time to pass Medicare for All. You can be a part of the solution. Please vote for me, Kara Eastman, on Nov. 6.

It has been an honor to serve the people of District 4 and this state see more cadidate statements page B5

sherifftimdunning.com

All political candidates’ statements included in this paper are advertisements paid for by the candidates in question. The Jewish Press does not endorse any candidates for office.

The Jewish Press | October 5, 2018 | B5

candidatestatements Continued from page B4 in the Legislature. I have had the privilege to serve on the Appropriations Committee during a challenging period of revenue shortfalls. We have had to make hard choices and prioritize our state funds. I have championed health care, K-12 school funding, post-secondary education, and added funding to the property tax relief fund. We need to be constantly vigilant of our spending and make wise choices with the state’s limited funds. I am committed to that end. I have also championed public safety by passing legislation to transport children more safely and expanded our new born screening to include three more diseases. I led efforts to keep the helmets in place on our motorcyclists. I introduced the legislation for the new I-Excel Center at UNMC. We have more to do. I want to use the experience I have gained during my first term to work on meaningful property tax relief for ALL Nebraskans. We must continue to prioritize strong public school education, our university, state colleges and our Metro Community College. We must also not forget those who need assistance with a social safety net for health care, foster care, our elderly. I am retired from my podiatry practice. Serving as your state senator is my full time commitment. I have life experience in running my medical practice for 40 years. I am the father of three grown children, and the proud grandfather of 11. I believe my values reflect the majority of the citizens of district four. I hold regular monthly coffee and conversations to listen to the concerns of the citizens of this district. I also am readily available to meet with constituents upon request.

I humbly ask for your vote to return me to Lincoln on Nov. 6. Thank you.

BoB Krist Governor

Why Bob Krist instead of Pete ricketts? Governor Ricketts and I have two very different sets of priorities and attitude toward state government. I want tax reform that is fair to the working people of Nebraska. He is committed to carving out tax breaks for his billionaire friends and special interests. I want to fully fund education at all levels, while he wants to reduce even further state funding for K12, our colleges and flagship university, The University of Nebraska. I want to join Republican and Democratic governors across the country and expand access to health care and reduce health care costs. He seems determined to block these reforms because he thinks it will hurt him politically. I think I can bring strong and inclusive leadership back to the Governor’s office that will address the problems that we face in a nonpartisan fashion. He has a “my way or the highway” approach that has harmed Nebraska and set us back. I want to make Nebraska great again. I ask for your support. About Bob Bob Krist, 61, is a native of Omaha, graduating from Creighton Prep and then the University of St. Thomas. He receive a master’s degree in business administration from Webster University.

Bob served honorably in the United States Air Force from 1979 to 2000, retiring as Lt. Colonel having flown more than 100 combat sorties during his 21-year career. He was appointed to the Nebraska Legislature by Gov. Dave Heineman in 2009, was elected in 2010 and re-elected in 2014. Bob’s term will end due to term limits in January 2019. Bob is the former president of the Madonna School in Omaha, whose mission is to serve students and adults with cognitive and developmental disabilities to become as independent as possible. Bob has been married to his wife Peggy for 37 years, and they have two children: Justin and Courtney and one grandson, Lucas.

steve LAthroP District 12 State Legislature

“I’m running for Legislature because like you, I’m tired of all the partisan bickering that’s infected our State Legislature and federal government. Our leaders have lost sight of the fact that our democracy works best when its elected representatives set aside party, find common ground, and then get the job done. I’ll work hard to make our legislature more independent and more responsive to the needs of everyday people in Ralston, Millard and Southwest Omaha. I would appreciate your vote on Nov. 6.” – steve Lathrop Born and raised in Omaha, Steve attended Holy Name Elementary and Roncalli High School, and earned both a business and law degree from Creighton University. Growing up the fifth of nine children, family has always been integral in Steve’s life. He is the proud father of four daughters –

Nicole, Rachel, Alison, and Maureen – and enjoyed years of coaching Ralston Girls Softball and Mary Our Queen Mustangs Soccer teams. Steve is a partner with the law firm Hauptman, O’Brien, Wolf & Lathrop, PC. He’s a fierce advocate for workers, businesses, and consumers. To help Nebraskans keep up with the rising cost of living, Steve has brought business, civic and education leaders together to pass major reforms to job training programs, create new career education pathways, and develop sensible economic development incentives that attract new companies and create good-paying jobs. Steve has been a fiscally responsible leader for Millard and Ralston in the Legislature by balancing the budget, while providing meaningful property tax relief. Steve led the efforts in passing the two largest tax cuts in Nebraska history, while ensuring more funding for Millard and Ralston schools.

Brett Lindstrom District 18 State Legislature

“I have enjoyed serving as the Senator for Legislative District 18 for the past four years. I am a lifelong Nebraskan and I grew up in Omaha where I currently live with my wife of 11 years and our three children. During my time in the Legislature, I have been chosen for leadership roles by my colleagues. I currently serve as the Chairman of the Banking, Commerce and Insurance Committee and Vice Chairman of both the Nebraska Retirement Systems and State Tribal Relations Committees. see more cadidate statements page B6

All political candidates’ statements included in this paper are advertisements paid for by the candidates in question. The Jewish Press does not endorse any candidates for office.

I Love Public Schools

Paid for by Eastman for Congress

RE-ELECT Patrick McPherson District 8 Nebraska State Board of Education Paid for by Steve Lathrop for Legislature, 11818 Oakair Plaza, Omaha NE 68137

Paid for by McPherson for State Board of Education, 4720 South 102 Circle, Omaha, NE 68127

B6 | The Jewish Press | October 5, 2018

candidatestatements Continued from page B5 I have been able to successfully work across the aisle to pass important legislation such as lowering the tax burden on our seniors by decreasing the tax on social security, curbing opioid addiction, and protecting nurse whistleblowers when they report patient safety issues. For my strong support of our public safety officers, I have received the endorsements of both the Omaha Police Officers Association and the Omaha Firefighters Association. The Nebraska State Education Association has given me their endorsement for my work on saving Nebraska teacher pensions, and the Carpenters Union also endorsed me for my support for our working families. I was honored to be named Senator of the Year by the Nebraska Nurses Association in 2016 and as an emerging leader from multiple national organizations. I look forward to earning your vote and continuing to work for you in the Legislature as your Senator. My commitment is to continue to fight for you to reduce your property tax burden, fund public education, and support public safety. “

John MCCollister District 20 State Legislature

Independent Senator McCollister seeks re-election. This headline by Don Walton, the incisive observer of Nebraska politics, in the Lincoln Journal Star announced the start to my re-election campaign. I am quoted saying, “We need state senators now more than ever who mix common sense by creating broad coalitions to solve the problems facing our state.” Political grandstanding runs counter to

productive problem-solving through thoughtful, constructive debate. The problems are considerable. The situation will require setting priorities while accomplishing the state’s obligation to properly educate our children and provide other necessary services as we prepare Nebraska for a robust future. With 35 years in the business sector, five-terms on the MUD Board of Directors and four legislative sessions, I’m well prepared to make tough decisions. During our 2014 campaign, I pledged to communicate and maintain a close relationship with the residents of District 20. To fulfill that commitment I’ve met with numerous constituents, knocked on thousands of doors, numerous answered emails. As before, I will continue to be accessible. • Four years ago I stressed the need for a topnotch K-12 educational system and more accessible and effective vocational training programs. I am still committed to these goals. • In 2015 I sponsored and passed LB 824, which updated Nebraska’s antiquated renewable energy laws to better encourage renewable energy development. Since the passage of this bill, $2 billion in new wind energy development has occurred in rural Nebraska. • Another interest in my first term was criminal justice reform. I sponsored the creation of a Veterans Treatment Court in Douglas County to help reduce recidivism. I am sincerely grateful to the citizens in District 20 for the opportunity to serve in the Nebraska Unicameral and I pledge to work hard if I am re-elected.

PatriCk MCPherson District 8 State Board of Education

I am seeking re-election to the Nebraska State Board of Education for District 8. Elected in 2014, with your vote, I hope to continue representing you. My most important goal is to support local control of our great Nebraska public schools. As a graduate of Central High School, Norris Middle School and Field Club Elementary School here in Omaha I can attest to the great education I received. As the expression goes, “I love Public Schools”! I have served in the military, graduated from Creighton University and been involved in many community and national non-profit organizations. We need to provide true equity for every student regardless of religion, race, sex or social-economic status. I believe we must strive to involve parents in their children’s education and get their input on school policies. Too often, parents aren’t included in important decisions and don’t have a voice. I have fought to bring a business orientation to the board. As a retired banker I believe the State Board has a fiduciary duty to every Nebraskan to make sure each taxpayer dollar is well spent. Since being elected, I’ve been instrumental in establishing a Budget and Finance Committee. Surprisingly, there was none before—for an entity that spends more than a billion dollars of your taxes annually! I’ve also been instrumental in developing a measurable 10 year strategic plan for the organization. There was none before. While being a watchdog for the taxpayer is important, my most important obligation on the State Board of Education is to ensure that every child has an opportunity for a great education regardless of what

part of town or where in the state he or she lives. I promise to continue to fight for quality and equitable education for all. I would appreciate your vote on Nov. 6.

P.J. Morgan Douglas County Board

P.J. Morgan’s life’s work has been dedicated to progressing Omaha and empowering leadership in the community. For nearly 50 years, his mentorship and service have touched many lives, through his commitment to community and public service, and the growth of his real estate business. P.J. is a former Nebraska State Senator, Mayor of the City of Omaha and current Douglas County Commissioner. His dedication to the community includes serving on boards for United Way, American Cancer Society, United Cerebral Palsy, Omaha Chamber of Commerce, Omaha Airport Authority, MECA Advisory Board, Nebraska Motor Vehicles, University Hospital (now Nebraska Medicine) and Salvation Army, where he worked with Terry Moore on the development of the Kroc Center. P.J.’s list of accolades are numerous, but he is proudest of being selected the Omaha Jaycees’ Outstanding Young Omahan and Outstanding Young Nebraskan. He is also a member of the Commercial Real Estate Summit and Midwest Real Estate News halls of fame. In 1967, P.J. founded the P.J. Morgan Company and developed it into one of the largest real estate management firms in Nebraska. P.J. sold the company in 1987 as he prepared to run for Mayor of Omaha, of which he was elected in 1989 and reelected in 1993. see more cadidate statements page B7

all political candidates’ statements included in this paper are advertisements paid for by the candidates in question. The Jewish Press does not endorse any candidates for office.

John Friend Douglas County Clerk of the District Court Paid for by Friend for Clerk of the District Court

The Jewish Press | October 5, 2018 | B7

Continued from page B6 P.J.’s strong leadership extended to the national level when former President George H.W. Bush invited him to the White House for numerous meetings, and requested P.J. speak at the Republican National Convention. He also appeared on Meet the Press with David Brinkley. In 1996, P.J. started a new company, P.J. Morgan Real Estate, with only one employee. Today, he has grown this full service real estate firm to over 70 people who share his dedication to the community and are proudly working to lead it into the future.

Merv riepe District 12 State Legislature

After my service in the U.S. Navy as a hospital corpsman, I went to work in Nebraska with a passion for serving others in the health care field. Over decades as a husband, father, respiratory therapist, and health care administrator, I picked up the common-sense principles that guide my work as a senator in the Nebraska Legislature. It’s not complex: Work together to find real solutions, not talking points. Spend taxpayers’ money like it’s your own. Trust the people of Nebraska to spend their own money. And finally, put our families first. Guided by these principles, we’ve successfully cut the growth of government spending by over 90 percent, reduced taxes on senior citizens, prioritized K-12 education funding without raising taxes, and provided over $840 million in direct property tax relief. I’ve worked hard to introduce innovations in our health care system, like Direct Primary Care, that reduce costs for our families. Though we’ve made progress over the last four years, there’s still plenty of work to be done. Nebraska has a high tax burden, much of it driven by property taxes. It means less money in the pockets of Nebraskans that could otherwise be used for retirement, investing in their kids’ futures, or just paying day-to-day expenses. We need a sustainable solution for property taxes now, which is why I joined 13 of my colleagues in demanding a special session to address property tax relief immediately. Our state must address this issue, and that’s a battle I’m proud to fight every day as your voice in Lincoln. It’s been an honor serving the people of Ralston and Millard, and I’m asking for your vote to continue our progress. With your help, we’ll continue moving Nebraska forward, providing property tax relief, and reducing health care costs.

Theresa Thibodeau is committed to ensuring quality educational opportunities for all Nebraska children regardless of race or income. This past legislative session Theresa voted to make reading a classroom priority, ensure testing and support for children with dyslexia, and for more social workers in schools to address mental health needs. Theresa also voted to protect state funding for K-12 education and she voted against deeper spending cuts to the University of Nebraska. Theresa recognizes access to affordable, quality health care remains a concern for too many Nebraskans. In the Legislature, she has supported innovative Direct Primary Care to lower health care costs and improve access. Theresa serves on a special legislative committee reviewing oversight of state-licensed assisted-living facilities that serve Nebraskans with mental illness to ensure they receive the care they

need and deserve. This past session Theresa voted for a bipartisan compromise that protected funding for health care services for low income women and men. Voters in Legislative District 6 (central and west central Omaha) can vote in this year’s election to keep Senator Theresa Thibodeau working for families, seniors and small business.

dAn WATerMeier Public Service Commission

On Nov. 6 we have an important decision to make. The Public Service Commission is the agency that assures Nebraskans receive high See more cadidate statements page B8

“The University of Nebraska is important to me because my career in business and public service was launched from my time in law school at UNL. Once a Husker, always a Husker! Our land grant university is the catalyst for inclusion, diversity, and jobs. We have momentum, with dynamic plans to help grow business and industry. We are looking to the future and to educating a workforce to fill the changing job landscape and keep our young people here. Our University of Nebraska system is the backbone for a growing and financially strong state.”

Re-Elect

TiM SChrAM Public Service Commission

Shalom! I’m Tim Schram and I am currently serving as a member of the Public Service Commission. Prior to serving on the Public Service Commission I served on the Sarpy County Board. In each position I have always believed in be open and transparent, and I have always taken time to be in the community talking directly with those who we serve. This is our duty. The Public Service Commission fills a vital role in assuring that we have affordable, well regulated, safe and reliable public services. We do not create law, that is the job of the Legislature. We take the laws and regulations they pass and make sure that those who provide the services do so appropriately. Safety is always at the top of the list. I have been a national leader on 911 systems, and I represented state regulators from across the country on the FCC Task Force for Public Safety Answering Points. As technology has advanced, we are in the process of upgrading to the Next Generation of 911 systems. We have been preparing for this upgrade for several years, and just this past spring we received authority from the Legislature to move forward. Once fully implemented, this will be a great tool for Nebraskans across the state. I am a strong supporter of assuring the United States’ energy independence. An energy independent America means we will have to rely less on oil from the Middle East. This not only helps us, it means less power for those who threaten our friends in Israel. Thank you for taking the time to learn a little about me, and I would appreciate your vote!

ThereSA ThiBodeAu District 6 State Legislature

When Theresa Thibodeau was appointed to the Nebraska Legislature last year she made a commitment to advocate for Omaha’s families, seniors and small business. These were natural areas of emphasis for Theresa given her close-knit family and the experience she’s gained as a small business owner. In the Legislature, Theresa understands that good-paying jobs and a growing economy help support strong and stable families. She supports investments in job training including vocational education to help young people find and keep quality jobs and retrain experienced workers who need to adapt to a changing economy. Theresa knows Nebraska’s tax burden is too high – especially property taxes – and she’s determined to find solutions that are more than just a band-aid. All political candidates’ statements included in this paper are advertisements paid for by the candidates in question. The Jewish Press does not endorse any candidates for office.

Paid for by Daub for Regent . 314 N. 97th Court, Omaha, NE 68114 Vern Dolleck, Treasurer

I would appreciate your vote on Tuesday, November 6

Paid for by Bob Evnen for Nebraska, 3145 S. 31st Street, Lincoln, NE 68502

B8 | The Jewish Press | October 5, 2018

candidatestatements Candidate Forum Continued from page B1 explaining their platforms and key issues important to them. You will have the opportunity to speak one-on-one with the candidates after the event concludes.

they should be elected.” This exciting and engaging event is free and open to the public. The Forum is sponsored by Temple Israel, Beth El, Beth Israel, B’nai B’rith, and the Jewish Federation of Omaha.

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

We hope you will join us for this exciting opportunity to engage those who represent our community. After the Forum, we invite you to join us for the Jewish Federation of Omaha Community Event at the Hilton Omaha downtown at 5:30 p.m.

Visit us at jewishomaha.org

Continued from page B7 quality, safe and reliable public services at fair and affordable rates. The PSC plays an important role in public safety, overseeing the 911 emergency communication system. Senator Dan Watermeier is the best choice for Public Service Commissioner! Dan is a lifelong Nebraskan, born in Lincoln, and graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Dan worked as a Grain Logistician for Cargill, Inc. and is a farmer. Dan and his wife of 32 years, Jean Ann, have three children and four grandchildren. Trusted by his colleagues, Senator Dan Watermeier was elected Executive Committee Chair and served as a member of the Appropriations Committee in the Legislature. Dan has the experience working with colleagues on both sides of the political aisle. He has fought for property tax relief, supported our veterans, and has been a consistent advocate for Nebraska business owners. Dan Watermeier is a trusted leader for the Public Service Commission. Senator Dan Watermeier has a proven leadership record in the Nebraska Legislature for the past six years. Senator Watermeier has continually been a supporter and advocate for Nebraska based businesses in a global economy. As a life-long Nebraskan, Senator Dan Watermeier knows how to be effective for his constituents and for Nebraska! As a State Senator, Dan Watermeier has a proven record as a thoughtful leader... experience he will take to the Public Service Commission. Senator Watermeier has been active in his community, representing causes which are near and dear to his heart, Syracuse TeamMates Mentoring Program – helping young people, Syracuse Rescue Squad – protecting the community, Nebraska Natural Resources Commission and Nemaha NRD – supporting the best interests of Nebraska. On Nov. 6, Vote for Dan Watermeier for Public Service Commission!

SCott Winkler District 18 State Legislature

My name is Scott Winkler, and I am running for the State Legislature in District 18. I share your vision for a more prosperous and equitable Nebraska, and I hope you will consider donating to my campaign. Our state needs representatives who are independent and forward-thinking. Every hardworking Nebraskan deserves a good job, strong education, and affordable healthcare. Rising property taxes are a drain on our economic viability, and we need urgent relief before it’s too late. I grew up in Loomis, Nebraska. After graduating from UNO with degrees in Accounting and Management, I spent 25 years working as a public servant in Omaha. We need senators like myself who can bridge the gap between rural and urban Nebraskans. Working for the City of Omaha’s Finance Department, I earned a solid reputation for being fiscally responsible as I managed recurring budget surpluses. I have also been recognized as a community leader for my activism promoting anti-discrimination policies. It has been an honor to serve my community in both capacities, and I hope to bring both my critical analysis and passion to the legislature. State senators cannot continue defunding our schools and expecting property taxes to solve the problem. I believe Nebraska can do better, and I am the guy to make it happen. But I can’t do that without your support. If you agree that District 18 deserves a more responsive legislature, consider contributing to my campaign. Every gift counts. Please visit my website at www.WinklerFornebraska.com. Together, I hope we can work as neighbors to defend Nebraska’s promise of the “Good Life.”

All political candidates’ statements included in this paper are advertisements paid for by the candidates in question. The Jewish Press does not endorse any candidates for office.

VOTE ON NOVEMBER 6

Paid for by Mary Ann Borgeson for County Board, 12503 Anne Street, Omaha, NE 68137, Treasurer Linda Love