October 12, 2018

thejewishpress AN AGENCY OF THE JEWISH FEDERATION OF OMAHA

this week

2019 Annual Campaign Major Donor Events pages 8 & 9

2018 Klutznick Symposium Two days of discussion about Authority and Dissent O CT O BER 1 2 , 2 0 1 8 | 3 CH ESH V AN 5 7 7 9 | V O L . 9 9 | NO . 1 | C A nd LELI G H TI nG | FRID AY , O CT O BER 1 2 , 6 : 3 0 P. M.

Eitan Abramovich

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Victoria Kitterer

Autumn at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home page 11

Wild things happen at Friedel Jewish Academy page 11

inside Viewpoint Synagogues Life cycles

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SpOnSOrEd bY THE bEnJAMIn And AnnA E. WIESMAn FAMILY EndOWMEnT Fund

Shlomo Abramovich

Theodore Albrecht

Joan Friedman

Joel Gereboff

Gil Graff

Lindsey Jackson

Mary Julia Jett

Chen Marx

Menahem Mor

Zachary Smith

Ori Soltes

Mark Trencher

Azzan Yadin-Israel

Motti Zalkin

LEOnArd GrEEnSpOOn Klutznick Chair in Jewish Civilization, Creighton University eligious leaders. Political leaders. Military leaders.

They have been among the most prominent members of the establishment, Jewish and non-Jewish, for millennia. From their positions (elected, appointed, or stolen) they have exercised authority, which has on occasion been met with dissent.

These are among the many themes that presenters will address at the 31st Annual Symposium on Jewish Civi-

lization, Authority and Dissent in Jewish Life. This year’s Symposium takes place on Sunday, Oct. 28, and Monday, Oct. 29.

With three venues—UNO on Sunday morning, the Omaha JCC on Sunday afternoon and evening, and Creighton University on Monday morning and afternoon—there are ample opportunities for members of the Jewish community to hear and interact with scholars from throughout the world. (A complete program of Symposium activities will appear as an insert in next week’s Jewish Press.)

Three of the presentations place

The Omaha Jewish Film Festival

rachel Myers

MArK KIrCHHOFF Community Engagement and Education, Jewish Federation of Omaha Sunday, Oct. 14 will be a special double-feature night in the Omaha Jewish Community Center Theater.

Sam Hoffman The opening short film will be Wendy’s Shabbat, a 14 minute comedy/documentary in English, produced in the United States and released in 2017. The film is a short documentary featuring 88-year-old Roberta Mahler. The film follows 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 directed by Rachel Myers who began her artistic career 20 years ago. She relates that being See Omaha Jewish Film Festival page 3

primary emphasis on the Bible and the ancient world. Mary Julia Jett, St. Francis College, will speak on The Trial of Joshua: Reestablishment and Reconciliation of Authority (Zechariah 3). Jett directs our attention to the prophet Zechariah, who narrates the accusations against the high priest Joshua that culminate in the re-establishment of the Temple cult. As Jett observes, Zechariah’s text at this point is vague and unclear. By close reading of various ancient texts, she uncovers the many ways in which authority was established, clarified, and reconciled.

The title of the presentation by

Menahem Mor, University of Haifa, is The Jews and the Pax Romana. Here the first holder of the Klutznick Chair identifies four major confrontations initiated by Jews against the Roman Empire during the period of the Pax Romana (27 BCE – 180 CE). He offers explanations for each one, centering on the role of rejection and dissent by the Jews of all the Romans offered. He concludes with the appraisal that all of the revolts/rejections turned into major catastrophes for the Jews.

Zachary B. Smith, Creighton University, covers much of the same See Klutznick Symposim page 2

Beth El’s Miriam Initiative

OZZIE nOGG The B Side of the Benson Theater will be the scene of The Opening Night Party -- a kick-off for the second season of The Miriam Initiative, a new concept in women’s programming at Beth El Synagogue. The party is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 23, from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Andi Goldstein and her daughter, Amy Isaacson, are cohostesses for the evening.

“The party is the perfect time for women to come together, have a glass of wine, great conversation and enjoy delicious appetizers,” Amy said.

“The food is being prepared by Cedric Young, Beth El’s amazing chef and catering manager, so we know it will be wonderfully creative.” During the evening, attendees will receive Opening Night Playbills listing the year’s scheduled programs. “We’ll also provide an opportunity for women to sign up to work on the scheduled projects,” Amy continued, “as well as a chance to suggest new pro-

gramming ideas. Two of last year’s programs were born at the 2017 Opening Night Party.”

Joanie Jacobson, one of the Initiative’s founders, added, “It’s 2018, and the old model for women’s auxiliary groups no longer works.

Assuming leadership roles, serving on a board, being a member of a working committee, attending monthly meetings -- especially for a year or more -- are commitments fewer and fewer women are willing to make. So, what can an organization do to attract volunteers? As we say at Beth El... ‘embrace change.’”

Enter The Miriam Initiative, a series of ongoing projects and programs created and presented by the women of Beth El Synagogue. “The possibilities for exciting, informative, timely, provocative and entertaining programming are endless,” Jacobson said. “The B Side of the See Miriam Initiative page 2

2 | The Jewish Press | October 12, 2018

Klutznick Symposium

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Continued from page 1 period from a different perspective in his paper, Authority, Dissent, and Social Formation in Late Antiquity. Here Smith samples some issues associated with written dissent in ancient Greek, Roman, and Christian texts. Dissent literature is a form of persuasive literature that attempts to mitigate the effects of authority in the process of social formation. In so doing, it employed a variety of tactics.

Another three speakers take the opportunity to look at these issues from the perspective of the classical rabbis: Chen Marx, the Max Stern Yezreel Valley College, on Rabbi Yehuda Ben-Baba; Azzan Yadin-Israel, Rutgers University, on rabbinic authority; and Joel Gereboff, Arizona State University, on King David.

Marx begins his paper, Figurative Language of Authority and Rebellion in the Story of the Death of Rabbi Yehuda BenBaba, by narrating accounts of the brutal murder of this rabbi after the Bar-Kokhba revolt during the 130s CE. He notes that these accounts deal primarily with how the rabbi’s memory should be preserved. Through this analysis, Marx draws attention to the ways in which the Jewish religion has faced and interpreted rebellion, failure, and victory.

Yadin-Israel’s presentation is titled, Midrash, Oral Law, and the Question of Rabbinic Authority. He initiates his discussion by demonstrating that the early rabbis were characterized in two ways: they were both masters of midrash and adherents of the Oral Law. Yadin-Israel then pinpoints the potential incompatibility of these claims, since each implies a different model of religious authority. He traces the contours of this generally overlooked foundational struggle between these two models, with the ultimate triumph of midrash over Oral Law as a source of authority.

Gereboff looks at When the Memory of David Is Not Enough to Authenticate the Temple in Jerusalem. As he acknowledges, the biblical connections of King David to the actual building of the Jerusalem Temple were not consistently described.

Rabbinic sources, he continues, used varying ways to construct a consistently greater role for David in connection with the Temple. Among these is the fascinating idea that even post-mortem, David’s power was unabated: he needed to be present either in his coffin or through his revival.

Another three Symposium participants feature developments in North America as a central focus of their presentations. Joan S. Friedman, College of Wooster, titles her presentation, When Authority Is a Form of Dissent: Postwar Guides to Reform Ritual Observation. She begins by pointing to a perpetual paradox of Reform Judaism: this Jewish movement, rooted in rejection of halachic authority, nonetheless requires some modes of communal religious behavior. The movement’s history reveals this ever-present tension between authoritative determinations of “correct” Reform practice and the desire for individual autonomy. In her presentation, Friedman deals with three post-World War II attempts to arrive at some sort of reconciliation that also took into account distinctive features of the American Jewish community.

Lindsey Jackson is from Concordia University. Her presentation, titled Ritual Rebellion, Non-Circumcision Jews, and the Creation of Non-Cutting Covenantal Ceremonies, looks at Jewish anti-circumcision activist groups within the larger societal context of the past decade. Jackson’s research focuses on an ethnographic study of Jewish parents and their reactions to brit milah [the traditional covenant of circumcision]. She concludes that here, as elsewhere, ritual can function to challenge the established power of authority.

Mark Trencher is associated with Nishma Research. His presentation is on Leaving the Fold: Dissent from Communal Authority in the Orthodox World? Like Jackson, Trencher’s research draws upon original field research, in this case a survey administered to almost a thousand people who have left the Orthodox movement. The survey sought to establish whether their prime motivating factor was attraction to the outside world or resentment against communal authority figures. As Trencher reports on the basis of the survey, it is clear that the decisive factor is dissent from communal leaders.

Europe is the main topic of three other Symposium presen-

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tations. In Thumbing Mendelssohn’s Nose at the Nazis: Hans Pfitzner’s Symphony in C, Op. 46 (1940), Theodore Albrecht, Kent State University, introduces us to two leading figures in German culture during the first half of the twentieth century: Paul Cossman and Hans Pfitzner. When the Nazis came to power in the 1930s, Cossman was arrested for his writings.

Pfitzner courageously spoke up in defense of his colleague.

Although not successful in his efforts, Pfitzner nonetheless continued in his support, culminating with his Symphony in C from 1940, which constituted a defiant gesture of dissent against the Nazi regime.

The presentation by Victoria Khiterer, Millersville University, is titled, Not So Silent: Jewish Religious Life in Kiev, 19451970s. Against the commonly held view that Jews in the Soviet Union were essentially silent, Khiterer demonstrates that Jewish religious life during this period was never completely silenced. She uses her research on the Jews of Kiev, numbering about 30,000, to support her argument. As she demonstrates, the Kiev synagogue became the place of dissent and spiritual resistance against the Soviet state. Understanding this well, the authorities sought, but never totally succeeded, to break Jewish resistance.

In his presentation, Motti Zalkin, Ben-Gurion University, provides a close analysis of ‘The Terrible Animal Known as the Masses’: The Status of the Community Rabbis at the end of Nineteenth Century Europe. In his research, Zalkin places greater emphasis than other scholars on the transformation of the masses from a passive group to their demands for active involvement. As a result, the traditional elites, including community rabbis, lost their exclusive status; middle and lower classes gained a voice in issues relating to halachic authority and spiritual leadership.

Two other Symposium speakers place special emphasis on developments within the State of Israel. Eitan Abramovitch, the Institute for the Advancement of Rav Shagar’s Writings, titles his paper, ‘Dispute for the Sake of Heaven’: Dissent and Multiplicity in Rav Shagar’s Thought. Abramovitch characterizes Rav Shagar as one of the most original thinkers in modern Orthodoxy. Especially noteworthy is the central place he gave to concepts like dissent and dispute. In striving for harmony, he preferred multiplicity and even dissent. This fundamental change of perspective has been widely influential.

Shlomo Abramovich, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, titles his presentation, Limiting the Authority of the Country: Disobedience in the IDF (Israel Defense Forces). Despite the demand for total obedience to military authorities, the history of the State of Israel is full of examples of disobedience and refusal of soldiers motivated morally and ideologically. In his paper, Abramovich focuses on refusals by those on the right to participate in evacuations of settlements. In the process, he deals with fundamental questions of modern Judaism in Israel, including the limitations of the State’s authority, contradictions between the State and Jewish values, and the coexistence of modern concepts of the nation and absolute commitment to religion.

Another two presentations, by Ori Soltes and Gil Graff, are broadly based. The title of the presentation by Ori Z. Soltes, Georgetown University, is From Spinoza to Arendt and Laurence to Aylon: Verbiage and Visual Art as Instruments of Dissent in Modern Jewish Thought. Soltes begins by observing that rabbinic Judaism’s openness to discussion, disagreement, and dissent set a precedent for subsequent Jewish communities.

Soltes then turns our attention to the examples of Baruch (Benedict) Spinoza, Hannah Arendt, and Helene Aylon. In the process, he asks, and answers, a series of relevant questions.

See Klutznick Symposium page 6

Miriam Initiative

Continued from page 1 Benson Theater is a great venue that will get season two off to a fun start.”

The Oct. 23 Opening Night Party for The Miriam Initiative is free of charge. The B Side at Benson Theatre is located at 6054 Maple St. Round trip bus transportation from Beth El to the theater is also available at no cost. However, because capacities for both the bus and the venue are limited, reservations are needed.

Please text Amy Isaacson at 818.605.2218 or email: amysgotmail@gmail.com. The bus will leave the Beth El parking lot at 7 p.m. and return by approximately 9:30 p.m.

The Miriam Initiative welcomes all women who want to participate at any level from leadership to fellowship. Call the Beth El office, 402.492.8550, for more information.

Sacred Spaces

In a few weeks, we will read Vayishlach, the Torah portion where Jacob is struggling with an angel and the Divine.

After the struggle, the angel gives him the name Israel. He then calls the place where he struggled Peniel – the face of the Divine. This story has played a significant role in my thinking about struggling with Judaism. One of the Torah’s central characters and stories teaches us that it AlAn PotASh is okay to struggle with G-d. It also Chief Executive Officer, teaches us to remain focused on our con- JFO nection and challenges with G-d. The idea that Jacob names this place Peniel affords us the opportunity to examine where we spend time connecting and/or struggling with our Divine relationship. I like to call these sacred spaces – places of struggle; places to spend time in thought, reflection, prayer and meditation; places to take our serious issues and relationships; places of awe.

Let me share a story about one of my sacred spaces: several years ago, Amy and I traveled the western United States, oftentimes camping in National Parks. One of our favorites is Zion National Park in Utah. If you have not been, you need to put it on your bucket list! This was our third visit. We wanted to hike a trail called Angels Landing (thinking of Jacob/Israel). For me, this is a quintessential sacred space. I can imagine Jacob wrestling with an angel here. You hike along a river and canyon bottom before heading up a switchback trail similar to the snake path on Masada (another classic sacred space) but higher and completely different from the earlier trail. As you reach the top of the ridge, you see another climb to reach the actual landing. Once there, you look out over the most beautiful part of the park. It is so memorable that you hardly reach the bottom before wanting to head back up. As with so much in life, the hike starts out easy and becomes more challenging. You realize at some point, you have become more cautious and then even fearful. Should you slip, it is a long steep dropoff. Balance is key.

As engaging Jewishly in America is ever-evolving, more and more people are discovering new spaces and new ways to connect.

Looking around the Jewish world these past High Holy Days, I discovered many alternatives to the traditional services – some take place in synagogues, others in gardens, parks and mountaintops.

With so many options, balance may be key here as well. Regardless of whether the space you choose is traditional or not, you have chosen to spend time strengthening your connection to Judaism.

Knowing that people are finding new and personal ways to connect to Judaism, how do you define sacred space and how did you enter it during Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur? I will be posting a survey soon to give the community an opportunity to respond and share their experiences.

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The Jewish Press | October 12, 2018 | 3

community

Omaha Jewish Film Festival Continued from page 1 involved with the arts is “about making work that makes people think and feel.” She believes that the artist has the responsibility to comment on the world and offer another perspective of its beauty and criticism. Ms. Myers says that cinema, theater and music have the magic of inviting viewers in - allowing them to engage emotionally and personally with people they may never meet.

Wendy’s Shabbat is timely. “Politically, I feel like we are in the moment in our country where we are so divided as a nation and people are angry. This chasm made me want to make something that would be positive, detailing the sweetness of an everyday life story and the minutia and connection between people,” said Rachel. Wendy’s Shabbat is charming and full of life. It gives that rare look to community, friendship, and care that seem to be at a premium.

The feature film for the evening is the comedy, Humor Me, produced in the United States and in English. This 93 minute film is a heartfelt father-son comedy. A once-acclaimed New York playwright, Nate (Jemaine Clement), is struggling to finish his new play when his wife (Maria Dizzia) leaves him, taking their son. Desolate, broke and unable to pay the rent, Nate begrudgingly moves in with his widowed father, Bob (Elliott Gould), in his New Jersey retirement golf community.

Thinking his son could benefit from some discipline, Bob sends Nate to work for Ellis (Willie Carpenter) an older exMarine who runs operations at the community. While at work, Nate stumbles on a senior citizen theater troupe staging a musical. Nate agrees to help but quickly realizes it won’t be easy to get these quirky women to cooperate. And one of them, Dee (Annie Potts) even invites him to dinner to notso-subtly set him up with her daughter, Allison (Ingrid Michaelson). Things reach a breaking point when a video of Nate’s earlier play surfaces, opening old wounds between him and Bob. Ultimately, the father and son realize they each have their own forms of storytelling and come to appreciate their differences.

Sam Hoffman is producer, director and writer of Humor Me. He currently produces and periodically directs the hit CBS drama Madam Secretary. Hoffman created the web series Old Jews Telling Jokes, which has been viewed over 50 million times, released on DVD, and broadcast on the BBC. In speaking about Humor Me, Mr. Hoffman says, “My intention with Humor Me was to tell a story both current and classic. The themes of the story are eternal: fathers and sons, the measuring of success and the inevitability of life’s challenges and how we approach them. Yet the scenario could not be more current. A man, on the cusp of middle age, adrift in his career and broke, abandoned by his more successful wife and forced to figure out his life in the home of his widower father.

Jokes are a lot like movies.

In both, the storyteller creates a familiar scenario, with characters we believe, in order to confound our expectations and bring us joy.

This is what I have attempted to do with Humor Me.” Additional films in the Omaha Jewish Film Festival are: The Testament (Oct. 21), Who Will Write Our History?

(Nov. 10), Sammy Davis Jr.: I’ve gotta be me (Nov. 11), Heading Home: The Tale of Team Israel (Nov. 18).

All films will be shown in the Jewish Community Center Theater beginning at 7 pm. Tickets are $5. Visit www.jewishomaha.org to purchase tickets in advance and to learn more about the festival.

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, Frederick J. Simon Memorial Endowment 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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4 | The Jewish Press | October 12, 2018

community

W

Agency Profile: The Institute for Holocaust Education

GAbby bLAiR Staff Writer, Jewish Press ith only three employees, The Institute for Holocaust Education (IHE) is amongst the smallest agencies on campus; the importance of IHE’s role, however, is immeasurable.

Led by Executive Director, Scott Littky, and with the help of his team, Education Coordinator Kael Sagheer and Amanda Ryan, Administrator, the IHE provides support to Holocaust survivors in our community and strives to provide quality Holocaust education across Nebraska and beyond.

The IHE offers training for educators, as well as events for students and the public in the form of educational resources, workshops, survivor testimony, and integrated arts programming. The goal of IHE is to “ensure that the tragedy and history of the Holocaust are remembered, that appropriate, fact-based instruction and materials are available to the general public, students, and educators, to enable them to learn the lessons of the Holocaust and that, as a result, we inspire our community to create a more just and equitable society.”

Each year, the Institute for Holocaust Education works with approximately 200 educators and provides several teacher workshops across Nebraska. The IHE creates and distributes age-appropriate resources for teaching the Holocaust that span multiple areas of study including social studies, literature, and art. After attending workshops, teachers leave with curricula and lesson plans, as well as guidelines for appropriate teaching of the Holocaust - and a network of like-minded professionals.

Littky took the helm at IHE this past summer after former Director, Liz Feldstern, returned to Israel. Mr. Littky holds an undergraduate degree in History from Wayne State University; his graduate work is in Education and Judaic Studies. Scott is also a trained Yad Vashem educator with a background in teacher training and Holocaust Studies curriculum writing. He has worked as a Jewish educator and education director for over 34 years and knows firsthand the important role the IHE plays in our community and

in our state.

The Institute for Holocaust Education has been instrumental in helping survivors share their stories with groups and school classes.

Bea Karp is one such survivor who has made it her mission to share her experience in an effort to educate people about the Holocaust by speaking at many local schools.

life as a standard for guiding behavior.”

In addition to providing educator training, survivor testimony and educational resources, IHE also sponsors a number of other important events across Nebraska and Iowa. This includes Holocaust essay and art contests for middle and high school students, theatre for young audience (TYA) performances of My Bro-

Kael Sagheer, left, Scott Littky and Amanda Ryan

In an article by Leo Adam Biga detailing one such visit to Omaha’s Lewis and Clark Middle School, “Karp tells the students about her experience as a child growing up during the Holocaust, first in her native Germany, and later in France. As Bea’s harrowing tale unfolds, the students listen with the stilled respect due the haunted figure standing before them. Not all survivors can speak about their experiences. Some want only to forget, but for Bea, and thousands like her, there is a need to speak out. To bear witness. Why?” In answer to this question, Karp explains to the students, “I tell this story in memory of my parents and the six million Jews who died.

I do not want the world to forget. It is a lesson to the future and the future is in your hands. And it is up to you to make sure nothing like that will ever happen again.”

“The programs and resources offered by the Institute for Holocaust Education helps people today to understand the political, social, and intellectual conditions that led to the Holocaust,” explains Littky. “It is our hope this will help our future generations recognize not only stereotypes, prejudices and racism today, but will also help them consider the moral dilemmas posed by the Holocaust and provide reflection upon the sanctity of human

ken Doll, a memoir of Bea Karp’s survival, and the Week of Understanding: an annual educational initiative created by the IHE and the Omaha Public Schools. IHE also co-hosts the Jewish Film Festival with The Jewish Federation of Omaha, which is set to begin this week, on Oct. 14 at 7 p.m. in the JCC Theatre.

Additionally, IHE organizes two annual Holocaust commemoration events; The Nebraska State Holocaust Commemoration, held in the Rotunda of the Nebraska State Capitol Building and the Omaha Community Holocaust Commemoration, which rotates among Omaha’s three synagogues. Open to all, participants in the commemorations benefit from joining together for a few thoughtfully selected readings and prayers, which create an atmosphere of reflection and contemplation.

Seeing the few remaining Holocaust survivors light their memorial candles each year and taking just a short amount of time to mark this occasion allows us to acknowledge our tremendous communal loss, and to move forward with a renewed sense of gratitude and a commitment to building a future without prejudice and genocide.

For more information about The Institute for Holocaust Education, please contact Scott Littky at slittky@ihene.org or 402.334.6575.

Beth Israel Sisterhood Luncheon

MARy Sue GROSSMAn Beth Israel Synagogue Beth Israel Sisterhood’s popular annual event, the Beth Israel Sisterhood Luncheon, Silent Auction, and Style Show takes place Sunday, Nov. 4. The event, which was enjoyed by nearly 200 people last year, will be a great afternoon to enjoy time with friends and family from the entire community. The action begins at 11:30 a.m. at Beth Israel Synagogue.

Helene Shrago and Helene Shrago and bette Kozlen Bette Kozlen have served as the event co-chairs for many years. “This is such a fun event,” shares Bette. “We love seeing so many friends attend and enjoy the afternoon together.” Helene agrees and added “The silent auction items will again be impressive and the delicious lunch, prepared by our wonderful caterer, Nancy Mattly, is always a treat.”

Fashions for this year’s style show will be provided by Soft Surroundings. Based in St. Louis, the Omaha store is located at Village Pointe. Soft Surroundings is dedicated to making their customers look and feel their best. The company goal is to ensure that their customers maintain a unique sense of style without sacrificing comfort. “Some of our wonderful volunteers will model again this year,” reports Helene. “It is always great to see the newest in fashions and the staff from Soft Surroundings is excited to be a part of our event.”

Bette and Helene are also excited to announce a new addition to this year’s event. “Thanks to the generosity of several donors, the raffle will give the opportunity to win $500 in cash” shares Bette. “Tickets are just $10 each and can be purchased in advance at orthodoxomaha.org, in the synagogue office, or the day of the event.” One need not be present to win.

The silent auction begins at 11:30 a.m. with lunch at approximately noon, followed by the style show. Beverages and appetizers will be served during the silent auction. The lunch menu includes tuna nicoise, blinzt casserole, fresh fruit, desserts, and beverages.

Over 200 offerings are expected for the silent auction including a wide variety of gift cards, jewelry, home furnishings, a fabulous selection of Kate Spade items, passes to local attractions, sporting events, and much, much more. The Sisterhood Gift Shop will also be open with a wide array of items for purchase.

Beth Israel Sisterhood’s Donor event, takes place each fall to raise funds for various Sisterhood’s projects. Attendees are encouraged to be donors at categories from $36 to $108, and each of those include one lunch. A reservation for lunch itself is $20. Reservations are needed by Oct. 24 and can be made by calling the synagogue office at 402.556.6288.

The Jewish Press | October 12, 2018 | 5

Mazel tov to the Temple Israel Consecration class of 2018/5779

CaSSaNdra HiCkS WeiSeNburger Director of Communications, Temple Israel Ti Consecration 2018.jpg: Front Row: Sarah ginsburg, left, addison Williams, greta Feinstein, Felix grau, aaron Sherman, and Jude Oles; Second Row: emelia Howell, left, benjamin Cohn, benyamin benton, elijah Oropeza, evan Poulos, and abigael Saylan. Not pictured: Miles Sudbeck.

Clergy and Religious School Team: abigail Friedland, left, Sharon Comisar-Langdon, rabbi deana Sussman berezin, Cantor Wendy Shermet, rabbi brian Stoller, Hannah goodman, and Hannah budwig.

Learn how Outlook Nebraska makes life better for people with vision loss Join us Nov. 2 for a night of inspiration at Outlook Nebraska’s Vision Beyond Sight event. Meet successfully employed visually impaired associates and hear their stories. Learn how our technology training, employment, recreation, cultural, and education programs impact clients of all ages living right here in Omaha. Hear from our motivational speaker, Coach Vera Jones. A single mother to a blind son, Vera will share her captivating story of discovering a greater purpose in the challenges of life.

The Vision Beyond Sight Fundraiser is Friday, Nov. 2, from 6-9 p.m. at Embassy Suites La Vista Conference Center. Registration and sponsorship opportunities available at outlookne.org/vbs.

The Event Program features a gourmet meal and Dessert in the Dark; meeting some of Outlook Nebraska’s visually impaired associates; hearing Coach Vera Jones, mother of a blind son, talk

about winning against adversity; and celebrating Outlook Nebraska’s award winners and nominees.

Our featured speaker is Coach Vera Jones, a Big Ten Network analyst, college basketball coach and single mother of a visually impaired son, will share what being the mother of a blind son has taught her about vision. While Vera still enjoys a career broadcasting sports, she passionately pursues her purpose by empowering individuals and teams to “Play Through the Foul” of adversity and win in this game of life! Her empathic leadership approach has been aided by working on the school improvement committee of the Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind. She is on a mission of fidelity to uplift people to overcome adversity with the power of faith, unity, perseverance and purpose.

All proceeds from the event support Outlook Nebraska’s Enrichment Programs.

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6 | The Jewish Press | October 12, 2018

Klutznick Symposium

continued from page 2 Gil Graff is this year’s Symposium keynoter. Graff, Builders of Jewish Education, has given this title to his presentation, Jewish Law and the Law of the State: The Impact of Modernity and Its Echoes in the United States. He first reviews the principle “the law of the kingdom is the law,” which has framed the relationship of Jews and Judaism to the ruling power.

Graft continues, the onset of modernity marked the extension of state jurisdiction to matters long left to religious authorities. This development gave rise to fundamental questions

about the very nature and expression of Judaism. In his keynote presentation, Graff explores these questions with special emphasis on the American environment.

The co-hosts of the annual Symposium on Jewish Civilization are the Klutznick Chair in Jewish Civilization at Creighton University, the Kripke Center for the Study of Religion and Society at Creighton University, the Harris Center for Judaic Studies at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and the Schwalb Center for Israel & Jewish Studies at the University of Nebraska at Omaha. Along with them are the Jewish

Federation of Omaha and Creighton’s Committee on Lectures, Films, and Concerts. From within the Jewish community, the Ike and Roz Friedman Foundation, the Riekes Family, the Henry Monsky Lodge of B’nai B’rith, and the Drs. Bernard H. and Bruce S. Bloom Memorial Endowment are among those who also provide generous support.

For further information, contact Colleen Hastings: 402.280.2303, ColleenHastings@creighton.edu. Additional information can be viewed at http://www.creighton.edu/ klutznick.

BBYO Connect reminder

Jacob Geltzer BBYO Teen Director This is a reminder that on oct. 21, from 2-4 p.m., we will be having a BBYO Connect program at The Mark. Bowling, Laser Tag, Food, and Fun are all provided for Free! All you need to do is RSVP at https://bbyo.org/bbyo-near-you/regions/mid-america-regionomaha-council/omaha-bbyo-connect-the-mark and then show up for an awesome time.

Passover We’re Happy In The Neighborhood!

There’s something for everyone KHULWDJH FRPPXQLWLHV FRP 402-504-3111 | WK 3DFL¿F LQ 2PDKD

J K On The Rocks J O H N & K AT H Y W I N T E R B U R N

Mid-America Center Saturday, October 13 | 9-5 Sunday, October 14 | 10-4

Bring this ad for 10% off Hand-cut, beautifully designed rare natural colored stones from all over the world Always one of a kind pieces | Custom orders accepted

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This event is open to any and all Jewish 6th-8th graders in Omaha. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions, comments, or concerns by calling 402.334.6404, or send me an email at jgeltzer@jccomaha.org.

organizations

b’nai b’rith breadbreaKerS

Kara eastman, the challenger, will tell us why she deserves to be the next Democrat Representative (NE02) in the US House of Representatives on Wednesday, oct. 17, noon. For more information or to be placed on the email list call 402.334.6443 or bnaibrith@ jewishomaha.org.

on the rocks

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

Kathy grew up in Omaha and graduated from Burke High School and John is a native of Elkhorn. They moved to the O’Neill area in the early 1970s and continued to farm and ranch until 2008. At that time they moved into O’Neill and started on the road to their present work.

Kathy is a lapidary artist that cuts, grinds and polishes the stones using diamond grade wheels. She designs each stone following the lead of where the stone’s natural color and movement shows. Kathy has worked with a master opal cutter learning the art of working with opals. No templates are used; she free-hands the design of the stone.

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

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

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

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I

JCC Fitness and Wellness update

s your teen ready to use the fitness center? Teens, over the age of 13 who have passed the Teen Orientation are more than welcome to complete a workout on the fitness center floor. is program is a great way for your teen to learn proper technique, safety, and a routine that will help them grow into a healthy adult.

Orientations cover Workout Safety & Injury Prevention, Proper Fitness Center Etiquette, Introduction to Free Weight & Cardio Equipment and the Importance of Warm Ups & Stretching Fitness Center Orientations for Teens are offered by appointment. Call 402.334.6423 to schedule.

Teens ‘n Training is a speed, agility, and strength workout geared towards teens, ages 13–15. Participants will build strength, endurance, and stamina, while learning a variety of liing techniques. is once a week, 12week program is a great way to get in shape!

Times and Dates: Sunday Aernoons Sept. 30-Dec. 16, 3-3:45 p.m.

Instructor: Sam | code: 06-0930 Monday Evenings Oct. 1-Dec. 17, 5-5:45 p.m.

Instructor: Alyssa ursday Evenings Oct. 4-Dec. 27 (No class 11/22), 6:30 7:15 p.m. | Instructor: Josh Cost for members is $157 per person.

You can register by calling Member Services at 402.334.6426 or the JCC Registrar at 402.334.6419. Questions? Contact Breann Lundblad at 402.334.6580.

In addition, the Athletic Department and the Fitness Center are joining forces to pres-

ent Competitive Edge, a new 4 week athletic enhancement program. Participants will work on improving running mechanics, acceleration and deceleration, multidirectional agility, and body awareness. is class is the perfect way to gain speed, agility, and plyometric training for basketball and other sports. Class time is determined by age. Sessions will be led by Josh Dolph, CSCS certified Personal Trainer. Josh is a former collegiate athlete who interned for the University of Texas Football strength and conditioning program where he worked with top caliber Division 1 football players as well as a number of current NFL players.

Times and Dates: Wednesday Evenings Oct. 3-24 Grades 5-8 at 7:30-8:30 p.m.

Grades 9-12 at 8:30-9:30 p.m.

Nov. 7-28 Grades 5-8 at 7:30-8:30 p.m.

Grades 9-12 at 8:30-9:30 p.m.

Saturday Mornings Oct. 6-27 Grades 9-12 at 8-9 a.m.

Grades 5-8 at 11 a.m -noon Nov. 3 - Dec. 1 (No class 11/10) Grades 9-12 at 8-9 a.m.

Grades 5-8 11 a.m.-noon | code: 17-1113B Cost per session: Member: $80 | Non: $120 You can register online or by calling 402.334.6419.

Questions? Call the Athletic Department at 402.334.590.2144.

For more information about these and other programs and classes, please visit w w w. j e w i s h om a h a . or g / j c c / fi t n e s s center/view/teen-fitness/.

Visit us at jewishomaha.org

13007 Seward Street in Bryn Mawr

Saturday, Oct. 13 | 10-4 p.m.

Sunday, Oct. 14 | 10-4 p.m.

Monday, Oct. 15 | 4-7 p.m.

Fine jewelry, coins, furs Garden art - Furniture Unique Artwork & Collectables from Israel & all over the world Crystal & China - Lots of Serving pieces Original art - Folk Art - Art Deco - Vintage Copper & Brass metal sculptures Luggage - Crib, changing table & baby items Children’s items - Housewares Bathroom accessories Barware - Many small appliances.

For pictures and updates follow our Out of the Closet Estate Sales Facebook page or see the sale information on www.estatesales.net.

For questions please call Mark at 402-707-5823 or Brent at 402-649-2425.

The Jewish Press | October 12, 2018 | 7

community CDC Simchat Torah parade

Friends from Ms. Erin’s class from the CDC visited the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home with a parade celebrating Simchat Torah.

Diane Battiato

I’m Diane Battiato and I’m the first and only I have identified valuation problems created by woman to successfully lead two separate Douglas previous administrations in the Assessor’s office, County offices – the Register of Deeds, and now then created and implemented solutions that have the combined Assessor/Register of Deeds. I have resulted in a more efficient, effective, fair and eqbeen a Nebraska Real Estate Broker for more than uitable valuation process, and a successful 2018.

32 years; and I’m also a Certified Assessor and My goal is to continue my 4-term success as a Certified Public Official. proven, positive leader for the benefit of all DouFor more than 14 years, I have embraced techglas County property owners, nology in the Register of Deeds office by impleTWO Essential County Offices – ONE Proven menting a completely on-line electronic recording Leader system that is available to the public.

I appreciate your vote in November!

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8 | The Jewish Press | October 12, 2018

The Jewish Press | October 12, 2018 | 9

community 2 0 1 9

ANNU AL

CAMPAIG N

Annette vAn de kAmp Editor, Jewish Press

ednesday, Oct. 3, a number of women in our community came together at Mode de Vie restaurant to hear speaker Denise Albert. e event was chaired by Dana Kaufman and Marti Poulos.

Denise commented aerwards: “Here’s what I learned in Omaha. Everyone has one friend here. Everyone has a story about Warren Buffet and tells you how amazing he is. Everyone has a connection to Omaha Steaks and tells you how amazing they are.

Everyone in this incredible community is philanthropic and like family. ank you to this incredible community in Omaha for showing up to hear my story!” ursday, Oct. 4, it was the men’s turn. Speaker Mohammed Al Samawi talked about his flight from Yemen, as described in his book e Fox Hunt.

“As a Muslim peace activist who has been in the United States for three years,” Al Samawi said, “I never felt so emotional in a speaking event like yesterday. ank you to the Jewish community in Omaha for the great hospitality and all the amazing work you do. THANK YOU for welcoming everyone to the Jewish community center in Omaha. My family is far away from me, but I now have a family in Omaha, a family that cares about Interfaith, a family that cares about humanity more than anything else!

Location for the Men’s event was Kutak Rock in downtown Omaha; chair was Allan Murow.

MEN’S MAJOR DONOR EVENT

WOMEN’S PHIL ANTHROPY

10 | The Jewish Press | October 12, 2018

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

commercial • residential

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From the Desk of Howard epstein

n Oct. 18, 2017, the finanbonds, and mutual fund shares, remain one of the most taxcial headlines screamed, efficient ways to benefit a charity such as the Jewish FederaThe Dow Reaches All-Time tion of Omaha Foundation. You are entitled to a tax High – Exceeds $23,000 for deduction for the full fair market value of such gifts, up to First Time Ever. For the past 30% of the your adjusted gross income in the current tax year, year, the stock market has been soaring and you pay no capital gains tax on any appreciation. In effect, even higher. A mere 49 weeks later, on this tax savings goes directly to the Jewish Federation of Oct. 1, 2018, the Dow closed at $26,651, Omaha Foundation in the form of a larger contribution and an increase of almost 16%. As an inyour lower tax bill leaves you with additional assets that could vestor and as a person who generously HowarD epSTeIN fund other charitable gifts or be put to other good uses! gives to charitable causes in Omaha’s Executive Director, Your gift can go towards an endowment fund at the Jewish Jewish community, what will you do JFO Foundation Federation of Omaha Foundation. With such an endowment, with these highly valued securities? the charitable causes and organizations in Omaha’s Jewish Many of the Foundation’s donors give gifts of appreciated community which are most meaningful to you will benefit publicly traded stock and other securities to fund endow- for years to come. You might want to consider establishing or ments, donor-advised funds, and LIFE & LEGACY commit- adding to an existing donor advised fund (“DAF”). A DAF is ments. Why gifts of appreciated Sell Stock and securities? Because you, as donor and Donate Stock Donate cash investor, will realize considerable tax current Fair Market Value of Securities $200,000 $200,000 savings and your gifts will go further to 100,000 100,000 support your favorite charitable causes. cost of Securities Gifting appreciated stock directly to appreciation in Value (capital Gain) 100,000 100,000 a donor-advised fund or an endowcapital Gains tax plus Medicare surtax (23.8%) $0 $23,800 ment fund at the Jewish Federation of amount available for charitable contribution $200,000 $176,200 Omaha Foundation — rather than sell$74,000 $65,194 ing the stock and donating the after-tax Income Tax Savings (contribution x 37% tax rate) cash proceeds —can significantly increase the amount of funds that you have available for chari- a charitable planning tool that allows you to benefit from an table giving while providing you with a larger tax benefit. up-front deduction for the contribution of assets to the acTax laws encourage charitable gifts of appreciated assets. Con- count and allows you to recommend which qualifying charsider this illustration to see the potential tax benefits of donating ities receive distributions at a later date. appreciated stock directly to the Jewish Federation of Omaha For more information about gifts of appreciated property Foundation instead of selling the stock, then later donating cash. and other Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation giving opAssume you purchased the stock for $100,000 and its current portunities including endowments, donor advised funds, and market value is $200,000. Also, assume you are a married couple charitable remainder trusts, please contact Howard Epstein filing jointly with $480,000 adjusted gross income. at the Foundation office, at 402.334.6466 or hepstein@jewish In the illustration, you will save almost $9,000 on your in- omaha.org. come tax bill and you will have an additional $23,800 to add This article is for informational purposes only and should not to your endowment or donor-advised fund at the Foundation. be construed as legal, tax or financial advice. When considering Charitable contributions of long-term appreciated securi- gift planning strategies, you should always consult with your ties (those held for more than one year), including stocks, own legal, tax and financial planning advisors.

Tour of Israel reunion at Tifereth Israel

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NaNcy coreN In June of 2017 and June of 2018, members of the Lincoln Jewish community experienced Israel in all of its glory. The tour also included former Lincolnites and out-of-state relatives of Tifereth Israel and South Street Temple members. The tours, organized by Nancy Coren of Tifereth Israel along with Kenes Tours of Tel Aviv, provided the participants with full days of travel, exploration, learning, and interactions not found on typical tours of Israel.

The 2017 tour was designed to coordinate with the 50th anniversary of Jerusalem as a unified city. The 2018 tour was designed to celebrate Israel’s 70th anniversary. Each of the multi-generational tours created a sense of camaraderie among the participants that has extended beyond the tour dates.

With that in mind, there will be a reunion of both tour groups on oct. 19 and 20. Highlights and memories of the tours will be shared during Shabbat meals and members will be able to reconnect with those who are joining us from out-of-town. The Lincoln Jewish Community is grateful for the support provided to the 2018 tour by the Albert and Eleanor Feldman Family Israel Foundation.

Fall arts & crafts Show at Mid-america center in council Bluffs

Make plans now to attend the annual Fall Arts and Crafts Show Exhibitors will also be selling coffee cakes, dips, salsa, soups, that will be held Saturday and Sunday, oct. 13-14 at the Midjams, jellies, cheese and sausage, wines, honey, food mixes and America Center in Council Bluffs, Iowa. roasted nuts. All items offered for sale to the public are handmade The show is billed as one of Iowa's largest shows, with over 150 by the exhibitor. exhibitors presenting and selling thousands of unique, handmade Hours of the show are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and products.

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday.

Among the various products being sold at the show are oak and Admission is $5 and children 10 and younger are free. Parking is pine furniture, paintings and prints, ceramics, kids teepees, wall free throughout the show. All patrons who attend the show on Sathangings, blankets, jewelry, pet products, etched and stained glass, urday will receive a two-day re-entry stamp. yard and garden art, pottery, candles, clothing, quilts, aprons, pilFor a chance to win one of four $50 gift certificates for the show, lows, doll clothes, rugs, placemats,table runners, purses, floral like us on facebook under Callahan Promotions, Inc. and for exhibitor arrangements and wreaths, wood and metal signs, soap and lotions, information on the show, please call us at 563.652.4529. and many more original products.

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Autumn is here

The Jewish Press | October 12, 2018 | 11

community Wild things happen at Friedel Jewish Academy

Rose Blumkin Jewish Home creating beautiful autumn decorations. Pictured from top: Elizabeth Faier (traveling from Sweden to visit her mother) and Estelle Faier paint a pumpkin; Lois Endelman and Cheryl Poulin, Activities Coordinator; and RBJH Lorraine Smith and Emily Clement, Activities Coordinator.

Throughout the year in art class, Friedel students will be studying facial features while they also explore a variety of art media. In this piece, students used oil pastels for the eyes, nose and mouth, and paint over the paper collage as the base for the animal’s face.

STATE LEGISLATURE DISTRICT 20 PAID FOR BY COLLETT FOR LEGISLATURE 7806 HICKORY CIR., OMAHA, NE 68124

12 | The Jewish Press | October 12, 2018

viewpoint thejewishpress

(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.

American Jewish Press Association Award Winner

Nebraska Press As- National Newspaper sociation Association Award winner 2008

Not us

“S

ANNETTE VAN DE KAMP Editor, Jewish Press ome 19 swastikas were spray painted on the walls of a Jewish Community Center in Virginia,” the Oct. 7 JTA headline read.

“The vandalism was discovered on Saturday morning at the Jewish Community Center of Northern Virginia, in Fairfax, Va. Surveillance video shows a man wearing dark clothes spraying the building at about 4:30 a.m., Fairfax police told the Washington Post. It is the second suspected hate crime against the Fairfax JCC in the last 18 months. In April 2017 “Hitler was right,” swastikas and the SS symbol were found spray-painted on the exterior of the JCC building.”

Whenever I see stories like these, I wonder how I would feel if this were our building. Of course, (all for one, one for all), we should pay attention when these types of things happen at any JCC anywhere, but I think we still find ourselves relieved it’s Fairfax, not Omaha. Because something like this, we tell ourselves, would never happen here. Probably, maybe. We hope.

“It’s the human condition,” someone told me the other day. “We never think it’s us, until it is.”

Maybe that’s true. And maybe that’s part of the problem: our empathy only takes us so far. A lack of empathy: it’s a refrain that pops up more and more around the country, a lack of being able to put ourselves in others’ shoes and act accordingly.

“If there is one command above all others that speaks of the power and significance of empathy it is the line in this week’s parsha: “You shall not oppress a stranger, for you know the heart of a stranger: You were strangers in the land of Egypt” (Ex. 23:9),” former Chief Rabbi Lord Sacks wrote in February of this year.

“Why this command? The need for empathy surely extends way beyond strangers. It applies to marriage partners, parents and children, neighbors, colleagues at work and so on. Empathy is essential to human interaction generally.”

But here’s the thing: when stories like the one about the Fairfax JCC hit the news, we are more likely to focus on the perpetrator’s lack of empathy than on our own. We imagine that person, sneaking around in the middle of the night, motivated by who-knows-what to deface a Jewish building. We hope he is caught and punished, we hope he learns his lesson, we hope others who have similar ideas will think twice before imitating his atrocious behavior and we hope it never happens again. All the while we are

for ourselves, help the victimized in the face of persecution, tell others why they are wrong and why their opinion is invalid.

Life is full of tricky moments like that and I surely don’t have the answer. Yet, it’s the questions we must ask: how would we respond if this happened here? What if we respond with empathy, each time we feel aggravated? What if each time someone made us angry, disagreed with us, was less-than-friendly, we responded with kindness?

Swastikas spray painted on the outside of the Jewish Community Center of Northern Virginia, in Fairfax, VA. on Oct. 6, 2018.

Credit: World Zionist Organization

relieved it isn’t us. And we don’t think for one second that maybe this perpetrator himself is that “stranger” Rabbi Sacks talks about.

Should we have empathy, not just for the people in the Fairfax JCC, but also for the one who wielded the spray cans? How can we? It’s difficult to feel empathy towards people we fear, disagree with, those who are maybe too different from us and who hate us to begin with. The notion that perhaps it’s there that our empathy is most needed is an uncomfortable one, because it battles with our need for self-protection, the belief we must stand up

Would it make a difference, or would it just invite others to walk all over us? Have we come too far on the road of partisanship to turn back and try to understand each other? What if we had the opportunity to sit down with the person who vandalized that JCC and ask him, to his face, what we can do to make this better? Is there any common ground left?

Too many question marks, never enough answers. We better figure this out, one of these days. No, it wasn’t us, this time. But one of these days it might be. Will we know how to respond?

more difficult. Our costs are rising. Inflation in Ukraine is 9 percent, and wages for care workers have increased significantly.

We also face a major long-term challenge: the end of Holocaust restitution. This year, restitution covers approximately 80 percent of the program’s budget. But this funding is available only for Holocaust survivors. Even though restitution dollars increased in 2018 – since survivors need more care as they age – this funding level will decline inevitably over the coming decade as survivors pass away.

it in the same way that we have before.

So we have resolved to modernize and streamline our operations to get the most out of every dollar. For example, instead of delivering food, we provide bank cards to those who can buy food themselves.

We are consolidating welfare centers in places where the number of elderly we care for has declined significantly.

To be clear: Clients are continuing to receive the individual care that has sustained them all these years, but the supervisory and administrative functions are taken up by larger welfare centers in the region.

Heartbreakingly, the elderly we serve in these places have to adjust to changes that can take an emotional toll, ones we are trying to alleviate as best we can. Such changes have attracted attention in the media recently when we closed large buildings – expensive to maintain and often where community gatherings traditionally take place – to ensure ongoing care for those who remain.

To alleviate this stress on people who have already suffered so much, we are making accommodations where we can to continue the same or similar activities. Indeed, for Rosh Hashanah this year, thousands of elderly will still celebrate the holidays in a series of festive lectures and concerts, cooking workshops and cultural performances.

They will also be visited in their homes by volunteers delivering apples and honey.

By dispatching more volunteers like these around the region – especially young people – we will combat loneliness, a critical issue facing these elderly. In addition to comforting lonely seniors, this program builds a sense of obligation among the volunteers themselves. Over time, these future communal leaders will help shoulder more of the responsibility of providing care.

See Eastern Europe is changing page 13

Eastern Europe is changing. How we deliver care to Jewish elderly has to change with it.

DAViD SChizER NEW YORK | JTA As we look for opportunities to help others in the new year, we should remember a group that too often is forgotten: elderly Jews in the former Soviet Union.

They have lived unimaginably difficult lives.

Most endured the devastation of World War II, and nearly half survived the Holocaust. All lived under a communist regime that discriminated relentlessly against Jews and dismantled Jewish institutions. They are also the world’s poorest Jews, unable to buy basic necessities. Even retired engineers and doctors have government pensions as low as $2 per day.

While the elderly population of post-Soviet states generally rely on their children for care, elderly Jews often are alone. Many of their relatives left the region decades ago when more than 1.5 million Jews immigrated to Israel, Western Europe and the United States following the fall of communism.

For almost three decades, my organization has mounted a historic humanitarian effort to provide life-saving care to these elderly Jews. To save over 90,000 lives, we are spending approximately $115 million this year on food, medicine, winter relief and home care. The Claims Conference provides approximately $90 million for Holocaust survivors, and another $25 million comes from the Jewish Federations of North America, the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews, World Jewish Relief, the Maurice and Vivienne Wohl Charitable Foundation and other partners.

Although these sums are large in the aggregate, the cost per person is astonishingly low. On average, for clients who do not receive Holocaust restitution, $21 pays for food and medicine for an entire month. On average, $4 pays for an hour of home care.

Unfortunately, providing this care is becoming

A man in Kishinev, Moldova, receives honey from the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee.

Credit: JDC But after this funding is gone, elderly Jews who are not survivors will still need life-saving care, and we have over 45,000 of those clients today. Caring for them will be much more difficult, since restitution has helped fund our infrastructure: a network of welfare centers to provide supervision, training, financial oversight, and places for elderly and others to gather.

In the spirit of the High Holidays, my organization has responded to these challenges with an extended period of self-reflection and analysis over the past two years. We know we cannot abandon these elderly Jews. We are committed to maintaining life-saving care. But we cannot keep providing

The Jewish Press | October 12, 2018 | 13

an update from the desk of mary beth muskin

Following the news has become an overwhelming task as each day is filled with an astounding number of breaking news stories.

It was hard to tear myself away from the Senate Judiciary Committee Hearing and at mary-beth the end of the testi- muskin mony, I am still not Regional Director, ADLsure what was gained Plains States Region as those on both sides dug in without respect for the chaos caused to the individuals and their family’s lives. As someone who continually tries to find a glass half-full, I have scoured the news for some positive relief.

Each morning I wake early to catch up on the local and national news for a preview of what the day will hold. On Wednesday, as I sat at our table reading the Omaha World Herald, I came upon an article reporting that the Legislature had passed an immigration bill named for Officer Kerrie Orozco. The legislation, sponsored by Congressman Don Bacon, was approved by a voice vote and is important for many reasons—not the least of which is the support it provides for our First Responders.

Also of note is the manner in which the bill was passed and the thanks the Congressman shared with those who worked on the bill, including former Representative Brad Ashford,

who first introduced a similar bill last session.

This is a stark reminder of how lucky we are to live in Nebraska where our representatives can still cross party lines to tackle and support important issues.

As a non-profit organization ADL-CRC does not become involved in politics. We do not promote a political ideology. We work to advocate for, support and strengthen legislation that supports our mission of stopping the defamation of the Jewish people and promoting democratic ideals. To that end, we cherish and utilize our ability to call on ALL our congressmen and legislators to work with us on the initiatives we hold dear. It is vital to engage in dialogue in order to promote the ADL-CRC agenda and it is only through civilized discussion that we can understand other’s positions and make our positions known. in Other neWs: La Shana Tova! Hoping you had the best of holidays, we are starting the new year with the support of Dr. McCann, the Superintendent of Westside Community Schools. Annually, the ADL-CRC sends a letter to the school districts — superintendents and principals sharing the dates of Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and Sukkot with a reminder that it is our hope that staff will respect the Jewish holidays and that students and staff will be supported as they observe the Jewish Holidays.

Yet yearly this office continues to receive calls from concerned parents and staff members noting a laundry list of issues that took place during the absence of students and staff for the Jewish Holidays. This year Dr. McCann issued a statement to all staff prior to the holidays that there will be no testing or major projects on the Jewish Holidays. I have written him a formal thank you but if you have

children in the district please let him know how much you appreciate his support.

September was National Voter Registration Month and we were busy registering new voters and helping existing voters check and update their registration. To date during the month of September we have registered voters at St. Martin de Porres Church, UNO and have Central High School on the schedule in October.

Nationally, ADL celebrates recent victories on Capitol Hill for ADL-supported bills that can help to protect religious and civic institutions from bomb threats, fight global antiSemitism, and ensure that Israel can defend itself. Find more information below in the

Get inVOLVeD! section: We thank our supporters who signed our petitions, meet with their representatives, are involved in Courts Matter and otherwise helped us push for these important legislative victories.

Here is the bottom line — ADL is making a difference.

Eastern Europe is changing

Continued on page 13 In Ukraine recently, an elderly woman called the help she received from us “the sunshine in my window.”

In the coming years, there will be tens of thousands of seniors just like her, desperate for the warmth of that same sunshine. But it’s only together that we can provide this aid.

In doing so, we elevate our concept of community to a global scale. By helping those most in need, we’re being true to our best selves, not just in 5779 but for future generations.

David M. Schizer is the CEO of the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee [JDC].

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

14 | The Jewish Press | October 12, 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: Tot Shabbat Pre-Neg, 5:30 p.m.; Tot Shabbat, 6 p.m.; Kabbalat Shabbat, 6 p.m. with guest speaker Emmaline Sabin.

Saturday: Minyan in the Round, 9:30 a.m.; Shabbat’s Cool, Grades 3-7, 10 a.m.; Kiddush with Boys and Girls Clubs of the Midlands, following Shabbat Morning Services; Mincha following Kiddush. weekday SerViCeS: Sundays, 9:30 a.m. & 5:30 p.m.; weekdays, 7 a.m. & 5:30 p.m.

Sunday: BESTT Classes (Grades K-7), 9:30 a.m.; Morning Minyan, 9:30 a.m.; Torah Study, 10 a.m.; B’nai Mitzvah Meeting, 10:15 a.m.; Blessing of the Animals, 11:45 a.m.; Vala’s Pumpkin Patch, 4 p.m. tueSday: Mahjong, 1 p.m.; Board of Trustees Meeting, 7:30 p.m. wedneSday: Chesed Committee Visits Sterling Ridge, 2 p.m.; BESTT Classes (Grades 3-7), 4:15 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. thurSday: The Power of Water Class, 6 p.m. with Shira Abraham; Roots Student/Parent Meeting, 7 p.m.

Six String Shabbat, friday, Oct. 19, 6 p.m.

Teen Haunted Havdallah (Grades 8-12), Saturday, Oct. 20, 7:30-10:30 p.m. at Bellevue Berry Patch. Pick up and Drop off is at the JCC. Cost is $20 per person. Admission to Vala’s is on your own. RSVP to Amy. Become a Soulful Parent, Sundays, Oct. 21, nov. 18, Jan. 27, feb. 24 and march 31 at 10 a.m. Join us for an exploration of parenting challenges against the backdrop of Jewish ideas and texts.

Habonim (Grades K-2), Sunday, Oct. 21, noon-2 p.m. at Maplewood Lanes. Cost is $10. RSVP to Eadie at etsabari@ bethel-omaha.org.

USY/Kadima Apple Picking, Sunday, Oct. 21, noon-2 p.m. at Ditmar Orchards. Cost is $10 per teen and includes lunch and activities. RSVP to Amy.

Beth iSrael SynagOgue

Services conducted by Rabbi Ari Dembitzer. friday: Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Mincha, 6:31 p.m.; Candle Lighting, 6:31 p.m.

Saturday: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Bat Mitzvah of Abigail Stein, 9 a.m.; Insights into the Weekly Torah Portion, 5:25 p.m.; Mincha/Seudah Shlishit, 6:10 p.m.; Havdalah, 7:29 p.m.

Sunday: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Why Do We Pray, 10 a.m. with Rabbi Shlomo; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 6:30 p.m. at Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. mOnday: Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Jewish History — Your History, noon with Rabbi Shlomo; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 6:30 p.m. at Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. tueSday: Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 6:30 p.m. at Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. wedneSday: Shacharit, 6:45 a.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 6:30 p.m. at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. thurSday: Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Connecting with Our Faith, 9:30 a.m. with Rabbi Ari; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 6:30 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. 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: Erev Shabbat Service, 6:30 p.m.; Candlelighting, 6:32 p.m.; Oneg, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday: Shabbat Morning Service, 9:30 a.m.; Torah Study, 10:45 a.m. on Parashat Noach; Potluck Dinner and Game Night, 6 p.m.; Havdalah (72 minutes), 8 p.m.

Sunday: No LJCS Classes; 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: Ladies Lunch Group, noon at Korea House, 5601 S. 56th St. Let Deborah Swearingen (402.475.7528) know if you plan to attend and if you need a ride; Star City Kochavim Rehearsal, 6:45 p.m. wedneSday: LJCS Hebrew School, 4 p.m. at TI. South Street Temple is partnering with "We Can Do This" to provide weekend meals to the children of the F Street Community Center. Join us as we provide lunch on the third Sunday of every month. Food/monetary donations, meal preparation and assistance with setting up, serving, and clean-up are needed!

We will serve our next meal on Oct. 21 at 2:30 p.m. For more information, contact Aimee Hyten at aimee.hyten@gmail. com or Lupe Malcom at lupemalcom 65@gmail.com.

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 Stan Edelstein.

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

temple iSrael

friday: Shabbat Evening Service, 6 p.m.

Saturday: Torah Study, 9:15 a.m.; Shabbat Service, 10:30 a.m. Bar Mitzvah of harrison goldstrom, son of Yesenia and Brad Goldstrom; Tish Bonfire and S’mores, 6-9 p.m. at Vala’s Pumpkin Patch, 12102 S 180th St, Gretna.

We’ll meet by bonfires 6 & 7 at 6 p.m. Temple Israel will provide hot dogs and veggie dogs for dinner, and s’mores to toast on the fire for dessert. Please bring a side to share. This event is for adults only. 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 marriedish, Jewish and Jew-ish. Please RSVP to Temple Israel, 402.556.6536. Please note, you will need to purchase your Vala’s ticket online at valaspumpkinpatch.com or in person that evening.

Sunday: 2nd Sunday Breakfast Service, 9:30 a.m. at Stephen Center; Kol Chokolad Kids Choir, 9:30 a.m.; Madrichim Meeting, 9:30 a.m.; Religious School for Grades

PreK-6, 10 a.m.; Greade 6 Tie Dye Tallitot, 10:30 a.m. with Rabbi Berezin; Temple Tots, 10:30 a.m.; Book Club, 10:30 a.m.; Caring Committee Meeting, 10:30 a.m.; Bless the Pets, 11:45 a.m. We want to meet your pets! Bring your pets and receive a special blessing from our clergy. New this year, we will be awarding a prize for the most unique pet! tueSday: Board of Trustees Meeting, 7 p.m. 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.; Judaism and the 2018 Elections, 6:30 p.m. taught by Cantor Shermet. thurSday: The History of the Jewish People: Exile and Return, 10 a.m. taught by Rabbi Berezin.

Chocolate Shabbat Service and Dinner, friday, Oct. 19, Dinner, 5:15 p.m., Services, 6 p.m. Multi-generational service featuring our kids’ choir, Kol Chokolad; everyone is invited! We start with a community dinner at 5:15 p.m., continues with Friday evening Shabbat service at 6 p.m., followed by a chocolate oneg. There is no cost for the dinner, it is being generously sponsored by PJ Library! RSVP to Temple Israel, 402.556.6536, by wed., Oct. 17.

Habitat Building Day, Sundays, Oct. 21 & 28, 8 a.m.– 4 p.m. Join us as we work together to build a home for a family in need. No experience is necessary to volunteer, and you will be taught everything you need to know on the build site. There are a variety of tasks both indoors and outdoors to participate in that require all levels of skill and ability. To signup or if you have questions, please contact Justin Cooper, aj.cooper214@gmail.com.

Jewish Summer Camp Overnight for 3rd-5th Grade, Saturday, Oct. 27-Sunday, Oct. 28. featuring our Macabbia (color wars) themed overnight. We will spend the night at Temple Israel, have a starlight Havdalah, and compete in color wars. The overnight will lead into Religious School the following morning. Drop off is Saturday at 5:30 p.m. The cost is $36 but if you register before wed., Oct. 24, you receive an early bird discount cost of $18. RSVP: bit.ly/2ykldhi Jewish Summer Camp Fair, Sunday, Oct. 28, 11:45 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Check out what the Jewish summer camps in the region have to offer. Join us for the last 15 minutes of Religious School for a camp scholarship give away, followed by a BBQ lunch, camp activities, and an opportunity to talk with camp representatives.

Services conducted by lay leader Nancy Coren. Office hours: monday-friday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

tifereth iSrael

friday: Candlelighting, 6:35 p.m.

Saturday: Shabbat Morning service, 9:30 a.m. followed by a Kiddush luncheon; Got Shabbat, 11 a.m.; Bless the Animals Havdallah at the Lincoln Children's Zoo. Gather at entrance 4:45 p.m. and enter as group at 5 p.m. Touring followed by dinner and havdallah service; Havdalah (72 minutes), 7:33 p.m.

Sunday: No LJCS Classes; Board Meeting, 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 miriam 57@aol.com. tueSday: Ladies Lunch Group, noon at Korea House, 5601 S. 56th St. Please contact Deborah Swearingen (402.475.7528) with any questions.. wedneSday: LJCS Hebrew School, 4 p.m. at TI.

Sukkah building in Omaha Did you build a Sukkah this year?

Plenty of Jewish Omaha households did- and Yaakov Jeidel has the photos to prove it. He called on our community via social media and requested pictures; the one with the most ‘likes’ earned a $100 gi card, sponsored by an anonymous donor. Winner was the Yellin family with 40 likes (as of last count).

“I want people to get excited about Judaism,” Yaakov said. “And this is just one more way in which we can get engaged! Building a Sukkah is gratifying; even more so when you see others do the same.”

Mazal tov to the Yellin family and to all the other builders of beautiful Sukkahs in our city. Keep an eye out for the next announcement: Yaakov is planning something even bigger, better

and more meaningful for Hanukkah, so dust off your menorahs! We’ll let you know what he’s planning right here in the paper.

The Jewish Press | October 12, 2018 | 15

lifecycles baT miTzvah

Noemi gilberT

Noemi Gilbert, daughter of Sarah and Dan Gilbert, will celebrate her Bat Mitzvah on Saturday, Oct. 20, at Temple Israel.

Noemi is an eighth-grade student at Beveridge Magnet Middle School.

Noemi is interested in music, sports, art, reading, hiking and attending Shwayder Camp during summer. She is active in theater and quiz bowl. She received the Duke Tip Grand Recognition Award. She has a cat named Dia. For her mitzvah project, Noemi volunteered with the Omaha Public Library. She staffed a variety of arts and reading programs for younger children and she helped library staff with shelving and sorting returned books.

She has a brother, Micah.

Grandparents are Cathy and Steve Gilbert of Newport Beach, CA and Polly and Frank Partsch.

Join us in honoring Noddle Companies Oct. 17, from 7:30 to 9:00 a.m., Noddle Companies, Jay Noddle, President and CEO, will be inducted into the Jewish Business Leader's Hall of Fame at Happy Hollow Club. First National Bank has generously agreed to sponsor this event.

Jewish Business Leaders of Omaha brings together the Jewish business community to showcase the entrepreneurs, founders, and change-makers in our community while creating opportunity to connect, teach and leverage each relationship.

daNiel h. wolk

Daniel H. Wolk pased away on Oct. 7 at age 60. Services were held Oct 9 at Golden Hill Cemetery.

He was preceded in death by parents Paul and Joanne Wolk.

Dan is 1976 graduate of Westside High School and 1980 graduate of Univ of Nebraska-Omaha. His passion was the game of chess and he was a long-time member of the Camelot Chess Club.

Memorials may be made to Beth Israel Synagogue.

Did you know...

Nov. 15, 1979 marked the debut of the Jewish Federation Library Book discussion group (renamed the Dorothy Kaplan Book Discussion Group). A team of dedicated women, including late “Library Diva” Dorothy Kaplan, were intent on beginning a book club at the Library. Their goal was to select books with Jewish content and/or authors which they hoped would appeal to women of different ages and taste. With the diversity of topics - everything from poetry and mysteries to science fiction and biographies – and guest facilitators, the Dorothy Kaplan Book Discussion Group offers something for everyone! You are welcome to join. There is no cost and there is always an insightful exchange of observations.

The group meets on the third Thursday of each month from 1-2 p.m. in the Kripke Jewish Federation Library. Contact Library Specialist, Shirly Banner, at sbanner@jewishomaha.org.

Piano lessons are now conveniently located at the J! Taught by experienced instructors that use internationally recognized methodologies, lessons can be scheduled at a time convenient for you. Students will be required to purchase music books that will be assigned according to their level. It is strongly recommended students have a piano or keyboard at home to practice. Students will also have the opportunity to participate in a music decathlon held in January at Grace University administered by the Independent Music Teachers Organization. Lessons typically are 45 minutes long. The JCC Member Price is $32.25 per 45 min. or $42 per hour and 6 hours for $24. For more information, please contact Esther Katz, Director of Performing Arts at 402.334.6406 or ekatz@jccomaha.org, or Jessica Westerlin, Assistant Director of Performing Arts at 402.334.6402 or jwesterlin@jccomaha.org.

The JCC offers numerous sports and aquatic programs to help kids lead happy, healthy lifestyles. Our classes focus on building and strengthening skills such as coordination, teamwork, and friendly play.

Call Member Services at 402.334-6426 for more.

To SubmiT obiTuarieS To The JewiSh PreSS:

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

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Terry and Sue Finkle of Omaha and Jim and Nancy Bellows of York, NE. announce the engagement of Alexander Chase Finkle to Rebecca Laurie Bellows.

Alexander is the grandson of the late Maynard and Barbara J. Finkle of Omaha, the late Robert and Fern Smalldon of Omaha, and Barbara B. Pierson of Plattsmouth, NE. He is the great-grandson of the late David and Jane Finkle of Omaha, and the late James and Grace Cheney of Loveland, CO. He works at Mitchell & Associates as a Certified Commercial Appraiser.

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Member benefits of the JBL include Bagels & Business speaker events featuring local business leaders, the opportunity to connect with successful Jewish business leaders and learn business trend insights. For more information about the Oct. 17 event or to become a member, please visit http://www.jewishomaha.org/about/community-programs-and-events/jewish-business-leaders/, or contact Chief Development Officer Steve Levinger at 402.334.6438 or slevinger@jewishomaha.org.

Israeli girl wins swimming gold at Youth Olympics

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina | JTA Israel started the first day of the Youth Olympic Games in Buenos Aires with a gold medal in swimming.

Anastasia Gorbenko, 15, won the women’s 200m individual medley on Sunday while setting an Israeli record of 2:12.88.

Israel’s national anthem, “Hatikvah,” was heard poolside during the medal ceremony with Gorbenko on the podium with silver medalist Anja Crevar of Serbia, who finished one second, and bronze medalist Cyrielle Duhamel of France. e Israeli is competing with swimmers who are up to three years older than her in the 18-and-under competition. She will participate in another three races. e 2018 Summer Youth Olympic Games, known as the III Summer Youth Olympic Games, are being held in Buenos Aires through Oct. 18.

Israel’s 19 athletes in the competition — 12 males and seven females — are scheduled to meet with local Jewish youth and visit the sites of terror attacks against the Jewish community in the Argentine capital. ey are participating in gymnastics, athletics, acrobatic gym, athletic gym, rhythmic gym, judo, taekwondo, swimming, triathlon and sailing.

Aer the first week of competition, the Israelis will share a day of activities at Hacoaj JCC and sport club being sponsored by the Jewish Argentine federation for sports and social community centers, or FACCMA. Hacoaj was founded in 1935 as the first Jewish rowing club in the country. e Israeli will remain in Argentina following the games to visit the rebuilt headquarters of the AMIA Buenos Aires Jewish community center that was bombed in 1994, killing 85 and injuring hundreds. e team also will join Israeli Ambassador Ilan Sztulman in a visit to the site of the Israeli Embassy attacked in 1992 that killed 29.

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16 | The Jewish Press | October 12, 2018

worldnews

Three little stars n the winter, the weather in Omaha gets pretty cold. And sometimes, it snows. Oen we have ice and wind. e winter of 1964 was just like every other

one. at was also the first winter Bev and I were married. We lived in an apartment at the Twin Towers at 30th and Farnam. e apartment was brand new RIChARD fELLMAn in an old building that had been completely renovated. It didn’t look anything like the days when Fords were assembled there, or when Sears and Roebuck had a multi-story department store in the building. e thick concrete floors were still present and absolutely no sound could be heard from the apartments above or below us and the appliances were brand-new. Although the rent was a little bit higher than I would have liked, we were extremely happy there.

We owned one car and parked it in the open lot behind the north entrance. It was cheaper than parking inside the building. Bev taught French at Central High, less than a mile down Dodge, and my office was five or six blocks from Central.

Every morning we drove to the high school together, le the car in the teacher’s lot aer which I would walk to work. In the evening, she’d drive downtown to pick me up. What could be better? For me, a beautiful wife, both of us employed, saving money for a downpayment on our first house which we planned to buy in a few years.

Bev seemed to enjoy keeping house, doing the shopping and everything else wives in those days were ‘supposed’ to do.

In a real sense, the year 1964 was still the 1950s.

One cold winter night, I went to the car to grab the groceries Bev had bought earlier that day, only to discover the groceries were gone.

When I came back to our apartment, I saw the sacks on the kitchen counter and asked Bev: “Weren’t they kind of heavy to carry up here by yourself?” “ey were,” she said, “But a soldier asked if he could help me and I told him yes. So he carried them all the way to the kitchen.”

“What color uniform was he wearing? Khaki or blue?”

“Oh,” she said, “it was blue and very handsome.”

“Did he have stripes on his sleeves?” I asked, because I had been in the Army and was at the time still in the Reserves. I knew what insignia looked like.

“No,” she said, “no stripes on his sleeves.”

“Was there anything on his shoulders, some sort of insignia, gold or silver bars or something small that looked like a flower?”

“No, nothing like that.” “en what was on his shoulder?”

“Oh, I didn’t pay that much attention. ere were three little silver stars. He seemed a bit older but he was very nice,” she said.

“Bev,” I said, “at soldier was General Francis Griswold.

He’s a three-star General and he has a temporary apartment in this building. he’s a former vice commander of the Strategic Air Command and one of the top generals in the Air Force. ...and he carried your groceries.”

Did you know...

PJ Library sends free Jewish children’s books to families across the world every month, sharing Jewish stories that can help your family talk together about values and traditions that are important to you.

A program of the Harold Grinspoon Foundation, PJ Library is made possible through partnerships with philanthropists and local Jewish organizations. PJ Library in Omaha is a program of the Jewish Federation of Omaha and is generously sponsored by the Dorothy and Myer S. Kripke Institute for Jewish Family Literacy. Families with kids ages six months through eight years old with Judaism as part of their lives, are welcome to sign up, regardless of their Jewish background, knowledge, or observance.

Children receiving books must reside at the address where the books are mailed. Different books are mailed to different aged children, and books are mailed individually in each child’s name so that each child may feel special - and there is no arguing about who opens the package.

Learn more about PJ Library and enroll your children here. The Jewish Federation of Omaha also offer activities for your family — because you’ve got to get out of the house and meet new people sometimes!

Your children are learning about the world around them through the stories they hear. PJ Library books can bring Jewish ideas and inspiration for you and your children to share together.

For any questions about subscriptions, or to get more involved in planning opportunities for Omaha families, please contact Director of Community Engagement & Education Jennie Gates Beckman at 402.334.6445 or jbeckman@jewishomaha.org.

In the news

The 2018 Annual Aksarben Coronation and Scholarship Ball will be held on Oct. 13.

The 2018 Pages include Marley Quinn Atlas, daughter of Stacey and Brett Atlas, Taylor Marcus Tauber, son of Kari and Brandon Tauber and Alexander Lawrence Yale, son of Sarah and Adam Yale. Daniel Joseph Coyle, son of Pamela Bloch and Michael Coyle, Tyler Chase Schneiderman, son of Heidi and Scott Schneiderman, and Max Barron Slosburg, son of Martha and D. David Slosburg are among this year’s Escorts. Gabrielle Elisabeth Simon, daughter of Kim and Jim Simon is a Princesses.

Ryan Blumkin, Rory Sudbeck and Brandon Tauber are Floor Committee Members.