October 26, 2018

thejewishpress AN AGENCY OF THE JEWISH FEDERATION OF OMAHA

this week

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JBL Hall of Fame: Noddle Companies

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inside Viewpoint Synagogues Life cycles

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ANNette vAN de KAMP-wRigHt Editor, Jewish Press According to the Talmud, anyone who saves a single life is considered to have saved an entire world. While there are many ways to save lives, one necessary way is by donating blood. The recent weather-related disasters made the urgency obvious: blood was flown from donors all over the country to people hurt in the storms.

Jim Farber, left, Joe Kirshenbaum, Nancy and Jay Noddle

ANNette vAN de KAMP-wRigHt Editor, Jewish Press n Wednesday, Oct. 17, Noddle Companies was inducted into the Jewish Business Leaders Hall of Fame. More than 100 friends, colleagues and family members showed up to show support as Jay Noddle accepted the award on the company’s behalf.

JBL President Alex Epstein introduced a short video that told the story of Noddle Companies. Joel Jensen of First National Bank then introduced Jay, emphasizing the

High-tech comes to the Omaha Jewish Film Festival Page 8

Beth Israel Blood Drive

O CT O BER 2 6 , 2 0 1 8 | 1 7 CH ESH V AN 5 7 7 9 | V O L . 9 9 | NO . 3 | C A Nd LeLi g H ti Ng | FRID AY , O CT O BER 2 6 , 6 : 0 9 P. M.

Ambassador Ido Aharoni to speak at Beth El Page 5

Hanukkah in Auschwitz Page 6

SPoNSoRed BY tHe BeNJAMiN ANd ANNA e. wieSMAN FAMiLY eNdowMeNt FuNd

long and close relationship the bank and Noddle Companies have enjoyed for almost 50 years.

“First National Bank has committed to being a Platinum Sponsor of the Jewish Business Leaders,” JFO Chief Development Officer Steve Levinger said. “This is the highest of several levels of potential sponsorship and we are delighted to have their support.”

Jensen said: “Through their impactful projects, Noddle Companies has truly transformed the very face of Omaha. What is always at the forefront in their development See JBL Hall of Fame page 2

Yale Richards Professional Education Seminar

LiNdA PoLLARd Endowment Assistant, Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation On Thursday, Oct. 11, the tenth Yale Richards Professional Education Seminar was held at the Boys Town Conference Center. The seminar was attended by approximately 90 attorneys, accountants, financial advisors, insurance professionals, and charitable fundraisers from throughout the area. The Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation co-sponsored the event with Boys Town.

Yale Richards was a highly respected attorney who encouraged his clients to consider gifts to charity when preparing their wills. An avid volunteer who was generous to the Jewish Federation and other chari-

ties, he realized how important it is for attorneys, accountants and other professional advisors to talk with

munity for over 50 years, the Board of Directors of the Milton S. and Corinne N. Livingston Foundation established

Attorneys John Boyer, left, Joseph Meusey and Robert Freeman their clients about charitable giving.

Mr. Richards was a senior partner at the law firm of Marks, Clare and Richards, LLC, and also served as counsel and Executive Director of the Milton S. & Corinne N. Livingston Foundation for 28 years. The Livingston Foundation Fund is now a donor-advised fund at the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation.

In recognition of Yale Richards’ valuable service to the Omaha Jewish com-

the Yale Richards Professional Education Endowment Fund in 1998 at the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation. The fund provided financial support for the seminar.

Presenters at this year’s seminar were Jeremiah W. Doyle IV and Christopher Hoyt. Mr. Doyle is an estate planning strategist for BNY Mellon Wealth Management and a senior vice president of BNY Mellon. Mr. See Yale Richards Seminar page 2

Credit: Tony Webster/Wikimedia Commons

Beth Israel will host a Red Cross Blood Drive in its Social Hall Sunday, Nov. 18, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

“At Beth Israel,” organizer Faige Jeidel says, “we are extremely committed to helping those in need. We’re making it easy: you can schedule your appointment online by visiting redcrossblood. org (enter ‘BethIsrael’) and we will also host a lavish kosher breakfast and lunch on the day of the blood drive.”

Scheduling your time slot ahead of time is essential to help with planning; if you don’t have the ability to register online, you can contact Faige at 347.522.2668 or call the Beth Israel office at 402.556.6288.

In addition, Rabbi Ari Dembitzer will give a short class at 10 a.m. and noon focusing on this great Mitzvah. Don’t have that much time to spare? The donation process itself, from the time you arrive until you leave, takes about an hour.

That’s one hour to save a life.

To be eligible to donate blood, donors must be at least 17 years old (16 with guardian permission). If this is your first time donating blood and you’d like to read up on what it entails, the Red Cross website is a great place for that as well.

You can find out about eligibility, what the process looks like and how many different ways your blood helps others.

Tip: you can download the Blood Donor app today and get your digital donor card, schedule your next appointment and track lifetime donations. You can even follow your donation on its way to the hospital!

“Each year, thousands of lives are saved by this simple, selfless act. According to the American Red Cross, those who receive donated blood and blood products include people struggling with cancer and sickle cell disease, as well as accident victims,” the Jewish Standard wrote in 2011. And you can do this mitzvah right here, at Beth Israel Synagogue. Your help is needed; if you are able to donate blood, please sign up today.

Yale Richards Seminar

2 | The Jewish Press | October 26, 2018

community JBL Hall of Fame

Continued from page 1 is what’s in the best interest of Omaha.”

In a recent interview, Jay Noddle called the company “extremely blessed to be involved in major developments in Omaha. Many of the projects have been game changers, including the Riverfront, Aksarben Village and downtown.

Adding community assets is always our goal.” The current West Farm Development happening at 144th and Pacific is one more example of that attitude. The focus there is, as always, on what the community needs.

“Nothing is possible without a loyal team that acts with integrity,” Jay said. He was quick to share the accolades with Harlan Noddle and Joe Kirshenbaum, but also with Jeff Kirshenbaum, Susie Noddle and Ted Zetzman. “They have all had such significant roles in what Noddle Companies has accomplished throughout the decades.”

“Honoring Noddle Companies at this event allowed everyone present to see first-hand the rich history of one of the best developers in the country,” Alex Epstein added. “These events are great because it is not just our shared history we celebrate, but the very brilliant future as well. Everyone learns something new, and it provides such great networking opportunities.”

Alex, who founded JBL, says it’s been inspiring to watch the organization grow. “When an idea is born and the community embraces it, it’s fantastic,” he said. “There is obviously a need to come together, and it’s such a great mixture of friends, col-

leagues, employees, clients and family members. This group will last decades and it will be very special to see the connections and ideas that start here. We are blessed with the stakeholders of our community who give their time, advice and create opportunities to do business together with the younger generation.

These types of relationships with Jewish companies and people working together has been going on for decades, but now we are just doing it with intention. There is also a historical intention with each meeting as we are documenting a history of business stories from entrepreneurs and change-makers in the community. Decades from now we will reflect on all these speakers and stories we compiled and it will really be a special historical component we archived for the future stakeholders of our community.

Reflecting on the past year it has been a huge honor to have each member’s involvement, all the speakers we have had and the honor of inducting Nebraska Furniture, Borsheims and Noddle Companies into the JBL Hall of Fame.”

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. Member benefits include attendance at Bagel and Business speaker events, featuring local business leaders. You can register online at http://tinyurl.com/JBL-membership or contact Steve Levinger at slevinger@Jewishomaha.org.

Continued from page 1 Hoyt is a professor of law at the University of Missouri School of Law. Sessions included The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017: What Do I Tell My Clients Ten Months Later presented by Mr. Doyle, and Retirement Assets for First and Second Marriages: Let the Fun Begin and Income Tax Savings with the Charitable Use of Retirement Assets presented

by Mr. Hoyt.

Guest Presenter Christopher Hoyt and Professor Ronald Volkner The Yale Richards Professional Education Seminar is coordinated by the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation in cooperation with Boys Town and a ten member advisory committee. Myron Kaplan, a member of the advisory committee, is also a member of the Livingston Foundation Fund committee, a former executive director of the Livingston Foundation, and “of counsel” with the law firm of McGill Gotsdiner Workman and Lepp.

Said Mr. Kaplan, “Jere Doyle and Chris Hoyt are dynamic speakers who shared the depth and breadth of their knowledge at the seminar. The seminar provided us with a wealth of information, information which will be helpful to all the attorneys, accountants, financial advisors, insurance professionals, and charitable gift planners who attended as they meet with their clients over the next few months to do year-end estate and tax planning.”

Visit us at jewishomaha.org

‘AMERICAN JEWRY IN THE TIME OF TRUMP’

NORMAN ORNSTEIN Political commentator, contributor to the Washington Post and co-author of the bestselling book: One Nation After Trump: A Guide for the Perplexed, the Disillusioned, the Desperate, and the Not-Yet Deported.

Sunday, November 4, 2018 7:00 p.m. JCC Theater Free & Open to the Public

SPONSORS: The Jewish Federation of Omaha The Philip M. & Ethel Klutznick Chair in Jewish Civilization at Creighton University The Henry & Dorothy Riekes Donor Advised Fund

CO-SPONSORS: The Henry Monsky Lodge of B’nai B’rith The National Council of Jewish Women of Nebraska The Schwalb Center for Israel and Jewish Studies at University of Nebraska Omaha

The Jewish Press | October 26, 2018 | 3

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Scholar Dr. Joel M. Hoffman

Cassandra hiCks WeisenBurGer Director of Communications, Temple Israel emple Israel is looking forward to our weekend with Scholar-in-Residence Dr. Joel M. Hoffman, an engaging and energetic teacher who focuses on Jewish history and modern culture, Jewish education, the history of the Hebrew language, and the hidden meanings behind the Bible. A popular author and speaker who presents at synagogues and other venues around the country, Dr. Hoffman has an incredible way of bringing his topics to life with humor and great fun.

We are hosting three events that are open to the public and we hope you will join us for this fantastic weekend Nov. 2-4.

On Friday, Nov. 2, 6 p.m., during our First Friday service, Dr. Hoffman will give the D’var Torah entitled Four Exiles and Four Spiritual Revolutions. A whirlwind tour of 3,000 years of Judaism, focusing on three spiritual revolutions and the exiles that led to each. Then the most recent revolution: modern Judaism. How are we, today, like the prophets and like the authors of the Talmud? How is 21st-century Omaha like the Golden

originally meant.

Saturday afternoon we will meet from 4-6 p.m. at Temple Israel for havdalah, wine, and cheese and hear from Dr. Hoffman as he gives his talk, Ancient Answers to Good and Evil That Were Cut From the Bible.

We will study the second half of the Adam and Eve story missing from the Bible, Abraham’s formative childhood, the mysterious Enoch, and the way all three ancient scriptural texts explore the nature of our lives as they explain good and evil. This session is open to all ages and we will have sitter service provided.

Our Scholar-in-Residence dr. Joel M. hoffman weekend wouldn’t be possible without the generous support from the Hermene Zweiback Center for Jewish Lifelong Learning.

in an effort to help you get to know dr. hoffman better and to get a taste of what the weekend will entail, we did a short Q & a.

Q. What is your background in Biblical studies and linguistics? a. My path into biblical studies is through the original languages of the Bible. My PhD is in linguistics, and I use that background to better understand ancient Hebrew, ancient Greek, and translation. This uncommon approach of starting with language in general has given me a unique context that’s proven incredibly helpful in better understanding the ancient texts.

Q. Your father, Lawrence A. Hoffman, is a prominent Jewish scholar (who visited Temple Israel three years ago). What was it like to forge your own path and make a name for yourself? a. I’ve been very fortunate. My father and I have collaborated on some 20 books; and when we’re not working, we love to spend time together. Despite appearances, though, we’re not actually in the same field, which may be one reason that we’re not in competition.

In addition to specializing in different areas of research, he’s a rabbi who focuses on revitalizing communities for adults, while I invest my energy in making religious schools better for children.

Q. In your book, The Bible’s Cutting Room Floor: The Holy Scriptures Missing from Your Bible, you talk about what never made it into the Bible. Why are these holy scriptures important for us to better understand the Bible? a. The Bible was not originally meant to be a complete collection, but rather a sampling of holy scriptures. So the other writings are important for three reasons. They help us understand the context in which the Bible was written, the Bible assumes that people who read it have also read some of these other writings, and, thirdly, many of the writings that were cut are incredibly powerful in their own right.

Q. If someone were to call your differences in translations controversial,

Age of Spain? And what will we build for future generations?

Temple Israel is offering sitter service for the evening and we will have the First Friday band participating in services.

Dr. Hoffman will lead us in learning How Translations Conceal the Bible’s Original Meaning during Shabbat Morning Torah Study on Saturday, Nov. 3, from 9-10:15 a.m. The original Hebrew of the Ten Commandments doesn’t say, “don’t covet” or “don’t kill.” The translation “the Lord is my shepherd” is misleading, and the English phrase “with all your heart and all your soul” is just wrong. Come learn how modern translation techniques expose what the words of the Bible

what would you say to them? a. They are surprisingly uncontroversial in linguistics circles, which is to say, among people who specialize in translation. What I’ve done is applied the well-accepted science of translation to the Bible.

On the other hand, some people may not care about scientific translation, and I respect that.

Q. I’m currently reading your book, The Bible Doesn’t Say That: 40 Biblical Mistranslations, Misconceptions, and Other Misunderstandings, which challenges some long-held beliefs about what the Bible says. Some are subtle nuances, but some are a bit more divisive, like the chapter on keeping kosher and having milk and meat together. Do you get a lot of pushback to your writings? Of those who “agree to disagree” with you, do you find that many simply refuse to question what they grew up believing? a. I get surprisingly little pushback. In fact, the book-launch tour for the book brought me to a mostly conservative audience in the deep South, and we had a wonderful conversation. For me, the key is that I don’t tell people what they should or shouldn’t do in their religious communities. In that context, most people are eager to learn more about their sacred texts.

Q. We’re excited to have a Saturday afternoon session to discuss: Ancient Answers to Good and Evil That Were Cut From the Bible over wine and cheese. Can you tell us what to expect from this session? a. The denizens of ancient Jerusalem spent 1,000 years investigating the human condition, and then wrote about what they learned.

But the Bible doesn’t contain all of their discoveries. We’ll be talking about some life lessons --- based on 1,000 years of research --- that didn’t make it into the Bible. That is, we’ll be learning more about the nature of our lives from the people who understood it best.

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B’nai B’rith BreadBreakers

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

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calendar November 2018

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

FridAy, oCtober 26 Beth El Synagogue Teen Roots Trip thru Oct. 28 Beth El USY Kadima Kinnus at Sunstream Retreat Center (Ogden, IA) thru Oct. 28 Star Deli, 11:30 a.m. at RBJH

SAturdAy, oCtober 27 Torah Study, 9:15 a.m. at Temple Israel Junior Congregation, 10 a.m. at Beth El Grades 3-5 Program: Camp Overnight, 5:30 p.m. at Temple Israel SuNdAy, oCtober 28 Temple Israel Habitat Building Day, 8 a.m.

Prayer-Book Hebrew for Adults, 9 a.m. at Temple Israel BESTT Sunday School, 9:30 a.m. at Beth El Torah Study, 10 a.m. at Beth El Religious School, 10 a.m. at Temple Israel TED Talk, 10:30 a.m. at Temple Israel Teen Foundation Meeting, 12:30 p.m.

Performing Arts Academy, 2 p.m.

Temple Israel JYG Program, 2 p.m. at Vala’s Pumpkin Patch Musical Theater Rehearsals, 3 p.m.

Whiz Bang Super Science Show, 3:15 p.m. at the Omaha Children’s Museum Klutznick Symposium - Cocktail Reception, 5 p.m.

Klutznick Symposium - Dinner, 6 p.m.

Klutznick Symposium - Keynote Speaker, 6:30 p.m. moNdAy, oCtober 29 Exploring Judaism Class, 7 p.m. at RBJH

tueSdAy, oCtober 30 Talmudic Arguments Everyone Needs to Know Class, 11:30 a.m. at Beth El BBYO Chapter Meetings, 6 p.m.

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WedNeSdAy, oCtober 31 Breadbreakers and Speaker, noon at RBJH BESTT Hebrew School, 4:15 p.m. at Beth El BILU USY Membership Meeting & Lounge Nite, 5:15 p.m. at Beth El African American & Jewish Communities Class, 6 p.m. at Beth El BESTT Hebrew High, 6:30 p.m. at Beth El Talmudic Arguments Everyone Needs to Know Class, 7:15 p.m. at Beth El

thurSdAy, November 1 Hebrew Class, 10 a.m. at RBJH Thursday Symposium, 10 a.m. at Temple Israel Beth El Chesed Committee Visits Rose Blumkin Home, 2 p.m.

The Power of Water, Understanding Mikvah Class, 6 p.m. at Beth El FridAy, November 2 Star Deli, 11:30 a.m. at RBJH Scholar-in-Residence Dr. Joel Hoffman, 6 p.m. at Temple Israel First Friday Shabbat Service, 6 p.m. at Temple Israel

SAturdAy, November 3 Torah Study-Scholar-in-Residence Dr. Joel Hoffman, 9 a.m. at Temple Israel Junior Congregation, 10 a.m. at Beth El Scholar-in-Residence Dr. Joel Hoffman, 4 p.m. at Temple Israel BBYO Fall Fest, 5 p.m.

OTYG Kindergarten Night, 5 p.m. at Temple Israel SuNdAy, November 4 Prayer-Book Hebrew for Adults, 9 a.m. at Temple Israel BESTT Sunday School, 9:30 a.m. at Beth El Religious School, 10 a.m. at Temple Israel Torah Tots, 10:30 a.m. at Beth El Beth Israel Sisterhood Donor Luncheon, 11:30 a.m.

Performing Arts Academy, 2 p.m.

Musical Theater Rehearsals, 3 p.m.

Speaker - Norm Ornstein Dinner, 5 p.m.

Speaker - Norm Ornstein, 6 p.m. moNdAy, November 5 Eye on Israel, noon Intro to the In[heir]itance Project, 6:30 p.m. at Beth El Exploring Judaism Class, 7 p.m. at RBJH

tueSdAy, November 6 RBJH Intergenerational Program, 10:30 a.m.

Talmudic Arguments Everyone Needs to Know Class, 11:30 a.m. at Beth El BBYO Chapter Meetings, 6 p.m.

WedNeSdAy, November 7 RBJH Intergenerational Program, 10:30 a.m.

Breadbreakers and Speaker, noon at RBJH Religious School, 4 p.m. at Temple Israel BESTT Hebrew School, 4:15 p.m. at Beth El BESTT Hebrew High Dinner, 6 p.m. at Beth El African American & Jewish Communities Class, 6 p.m. at Beth El BESTT Hebrew High, 6:30 p.m. at Beth El Adult Education Class, 6:30 p.m. at Temple Israel Talmudic Arguments Everyone Needs to Know Class, 7:15 p.m. at Beth El thurSdAy, November 8 Hebrew Class, 10 a.m. at RBJH Thursday Symposium, 10 a.m. at Temple Israel RBJH Intergenerational Program, 10:30 a.m.

Beth El hosts Israeli Ambassador Ido Aharoni, 7 p.m. at Beth El FridAy, November 9 RBJH Intergenerational Program, 10:30 a.m.

Star Deli, 11:30 a.m. at RBJH Temple Israel Shabbat Comes to You at Remington, 4 p.m. at Remington Heights Pre-Neg & Tot/Family Shabbat, 5:30 p.m. at Beth El SAturdAy, November 10 Torah Study, 9:15 a.m. at Temple Israel ‘Shabbat’s Cool’ K-7th, 10 a.m. at Beth El Jewish Film Festival, 6 p.m.

SuNdAy, November 11 Prayer-Book Hebrew for Adults, 9 a.m. at Temple Israel BESTT Sunday School, 9:30 a.m. at Beth El Religious School, 10 a.m. at Temple Israel Torah Tots, 10:30 a.m. at Beth El Temple Tots Sunday, 10:30 a.m. at Temple Israel Board of Trustees Workshop, noon at Temple Israel Super Sunday, 1 p.m.

Performing Arts Academy, 2 p.m.

Musical Theater Rehearsals, 3 p.m.

Keys to Kindergarten, 5:15 p.m. at Friedel Jewish Academy Jewish Film Festival, 6 p.m. moNdAy, November 12 Miriam Initiative Community Spirit Baking, 9 a.m. at Beth El Sigd with CDC, Friedel, RBJH, 9 a.m.

IHE Governance Council Meeting, 11:30 a.m.

YP Summit, 5:30 p.m.

Exploring Judaism Class, 7 p.m. at RBJH Friedel Board Meeting, 7 p.m. at FJA

tueSdAy, November 13 Talmudic Arguments Everyone Needs to Know Class, 11:30 a.m. at Beth El Beth El Chesed Committee Visits Remington Heights, 2 p.m.

BBYO Chapter Meetings, 6 p.m.

YJG High School Event, 6 p.m.

Board of Trustees Meeting, 7 p.m. at Temple Israel The Sensual and the Sacred, 7 p.m. at Chabad

WedNeSdAy, November 14 Moshe Gershovich Memorial Symposium and Workshop at UNO Community Engagement Center Breadbreakers and Speaker, noon at RBJH Miriam Initiative Community Spirit Baking, 4 p.m. at Beth El Religious School, 4 p.m. at Temple Israel BESTT Hebrew School, 4:15 p.m. at Beth El African American & Jewish Communities Class, 6 p.m. at Beth El BESTT Hebrew High, 6:30 p.m. at Beth El Adult Education Class, 6:30 p.m. at Temple Israel Talmudic Arguments Everyone Needs to Know Class, 7:15 p.m. at Beth El

thurSdAy, November 15 Hebrew Class, 10 a.m. at RBJH Thursday Symposium, 10 a.m. at Temple Israel Dorothy Kaplan Book Discussion Group, 1 p.m.

Temple Israel OTYG Paint Night, 5 p.m.

Temple Israel Rosh Chodesh Event, 6:30 p.m.

Love Board Meeting, 7 p.m. at RBJH

FridAy, November 16 Star Deli, 11:30 a.m. at RBJH Beth El Our Shabbat Tables, 6 p.m.

Kabbalat Six-String Shabbat, 6 p.m. at Beth El Chocolate Shabbat Service, 6 p.m. at Temple Israel SAturdAy, November 17 Torah Study, 9:15 a.m. at Temple Israel Junior Congregation, 10 a.m. at Beth El JCC Dance Party, 5:30 p.m.

SuNdAy, November 18 Prayer-Book Hebrew for Adults, 9 a.m. at Temple Israel BESTT Sunday School, 9:30 a.m. at Beth El Becoming A Soulful Parent, 10 am at Beth El Religious School, 10 a.m. at Temple Israel Book Club, 10:30 a.m. at Temple Israel TED Talk, 10:30 a.m. at Temple Israel Teen Foundation Meeting, 12:30 p.m.

Musical Theater Rehearsals, 3 p.m.

Temple Israel Interfaith Thanksgiving Service, 5 p.m. at Kountze Memorial Lutheran Church Jewish Film Festival, 6 p.m.

moNdAy, November 19 Exploring Judaism Class, 7 p.m. at RBJH

tueSdAy, November 20 Talmudic Arguments Everyone Needs to Know Class, 11:30 a.m. at Beth El BBYO Chapter Meetings, 6 p.m.

WedNeSdAy, November 21 Breadbreakers and Speaker, noon at RBJH BESTT Hebrew School, 4:15 p.m. at Beth El Talmudic Arguments Everyone Needs to Know Class, 7:15 p.m. at Beth El thurSdAy, November 22 Beth El BILU USY Kinnus

FridAy, November 23 Beth El BILU USY Kinnus Star Deli, 11:30 a.m. at RBJH Temple Israel TiYPE (18+) Shabbat & Hunan Fusion, 6 p.m.

SAturdAy, November 24 Beth El BILU USY Kinnus Torah Study, 9:15 a.m. at Temple Israel SuNdAy, November 25 Beth El BILU USY Kinnus Torah Study, 10 a.m. at Beth El Musical Theater Rehearsals, 3 p.m.

moNdAy, November 26 Exploring Judaism Class, 7 p.m. at RBJH

tueSdAy, November 27 Talmudic Arguments Everyone Needs to Know Class, 11:30 a.m. at Beth El BBYO Chapter Meetings, 6 p.m.

WedNeSdAy, November 28 Breadbreakers and Speaker, noon at RBJH Risk Management Meeting, 2 p.m. at RBJH Religious School, 4 p.m. at Temple Israel BESTT Hebrew School, 4:15 p.m. at Beth El BESTT Hebrew High, 6:30 p.m. at Beth El Adult Education Class, 6:30 p.m. at Temple Israel Talmudic Arguments Everyone Needs to Know Class, 7:15 p.m. at Beth El thurSdAy, November 29 Hebrew Class, 10 a.m. at RBJH Thursday Symposium, 10 a.m. at Temple Israel

FridAy, November 30 Echoes & Reflections Training Class, 8 a.m.

Star Deli, 11:30 a.m. at RBJH

A

Ambassador Ido Aharoni to speak at Beth El OzzIE NOgg mbassador Ido Aharoni, former Consul General of Israel in New York and current Professor at New York University’s program in International Relations, will speak at Beth El Synagogue on Thursday, Nov. 8 at 7 p.m. During his presentation, which is open to the entire community at no charge, Ambassador Aharoni will focus on Israel: The Can-Do Nation.

“Since stepping down as Israel’s longest serving consulgeneral in New York and joining the faculty at NYU,” Aharoni said, “I am being invited to address a wide range of issues relating to Israel’s standing in the world. As part Ambassador Ido Aharoni of my very long relationship with Israel Bonds, I tour the country educating audiences as to the importance of investing in Israel’s future.”

Before joining the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1991, Aharoni earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Tel Aviv University with a joint-major in Film and Television, Sociology and Anthropology. He then moved to the United States where he obtained a Master’s Degree in Mass Communications from Emerson College in Boston. In 1993, after attending Hebrew University’s special program for foreign service cadets in Government and Diplomacy, Aharoni was appointed to serve under then Foreign Minister Mr. Shimon Peres, as policy assistant to Israel’s chief negotiator with the Palestinians. In that capacity Aharoni took part in the backchannel negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians in Europe and in the middle-east that led to the signing of the Oslo Accords. Aharoni was a member of Israel’s official delegation to the signing ceremony at the White House in September of 1993. Since September 2007, Aharoni has served as his nation’s first head of brand management, a program designed to improve Israel’s positioning in the world by highlighting its relative advantages and increasing its relevance.

As Aharoni explains, “No place, no person, no organization, wishes to be solely defined by its problems. Every place has

a DNA, a personality, just like a human being.”

In a recent interview, Aharoni returned to this theme. “I would like people to know that Israel is a real place and not just a conflict. The real problem Israel is facing is not boycott, but rather the inability of people to relate to the narrow and one-dimensional message coming out of the country — the message that solely and constantly discusses Israel’s geo-political hardships and unhappy regional circumstances. The dominant conversation about Israel in the western world is about the conflict. As a result, people lost the ability to truly know Israel, its real value, contribution and relevance. This has devastating impact on the performance of Israel as a brand. So, my message is that Israel may not be as normal as the U.S.A. but it is far more normal than most people think.

Legendary investor Warren Buffet represents the kind of person that gets it. He saw in Israel a good place for his business.”

In May 2006, Buffett’s company, Berkshire Hathaway, purchased 80% of ISCAR Metalworking, an Israeli multinational metal cutting tools company, making it Berkshire Hathaway’s first acquisition outside the United States. Buffett called the acquisition a “dream deal.” Buffett’s strong affinity for Israel led to his enthusiastic participation in three Development Corporation for Israel/Israel Bonds events in a span of just 18 months. The first took place in November 2016 in Buffett’s hometown of Omaha, followed six months later by an event in New York. The third event was held this past June back in Omaha. Combined, the three events generated $290 million in Israel bond investments, including a $5 million investment from Buffett himself. He emphasized, “I’m delighted to own Israel Bonds,” adding that May 14, 1948, the date Israel announced independence, “was a good day for the world.”

The Bonds enterprise had its origins in a founding conference convened in September 1950 by Prime Minister David Ben-Gurion at Jerusalem’s King David Hotel. A plaque at the hotel marks the room where the historic conference was held.

Eight months later, Ben-Gurion traveled to New York’s Madison Square Garden to officially launch the Israel Bonds program. Since that momentous day, the Bonds effort has spread throughout the world, with a presence in North America, Latin America and Europe. Total worldwide sales since 1951 have surpassed $41 billion. In August, Finance Minister Moshe Kahlon visited Bonds corporate headquarters See Beth El speaker page 6

The Jewish Press | October 26, 2018 | 5

community Don Bacon for Congress

Washington doesn’t work the way it’s supposed to. Partisan grandstanding and constant bickering aren’t productive ways to get stuff done.

In my three decades of military experience, we didn’t care about things like political affiliation, race, or gender – we were all united under one common goal of defending this great nation, and I still consider everyone in uniform to be my brothers and sisters. Unfortunately, in Congress, none of that seems to apply.

I have pledged to remain civil in the face of hate and anger, and to work with my colleagues in Congress to actually accomplish things for the American people.

As one example, Salud Carbajal, a Democratic Congressman from California, recently joined me in the Congressional Exchange Program. He came here to visit our district earlier this year, and I went to his district this fall. We both learned a great deal from this exchange of ideas, and we furthered our friendship. Salud and I disagree on some issues, but we come together when it counts despite being from opposite sides of the aisle. This kind of program has been suggested for decades, but Salud and I are the first to ever actually do it.

Working together to make life better for the communities we represent should be the norm in Congress, not the exception. You have my word that I will continue to vote in the best interests of the district, whether that means cutting taxes, giving record levels of funding to Community Health Centers, or passing comprehensive childhood cancer legislation – all things I’ve been doing during my first term.

It has been my honor to serve you, and I look forward to continuing to work hard for Nebraska’s Second District for another term.

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6 | The Jewish Press | October 26, 2018

community

Lincoln Interfaith Thanksgiving

nanCy CorEn The Seventh Annual Community Interfaith Thanksgiving Service will be held Sunday, nov. 18, 3 p.m., at Congregation Tifereth Israel, 3219 Sheridan Blvd., Lincoln.

This service of gratitude is open to everyone, and all faiths are welcome and encouraged to attend. In a world that serves up daily reminders of what divides us, this service brings together people of all faiths and reminds us of what binds us together in our shared expressions of gratitude and thanksgiving.

Following the service, a reception will be provided by the members of Congregation Tifereth Israel, allowing people of all faiths the opportunity to mingle and get to know one another. This year, instead of bringing desserts, please bring non-perishable items for the Food Bank of Lincoln.

Beth El speaker

Continued from page 5 in New York, where he declared Israel Bonds to be “Israel’s connection to the Jewish people and the global economy.”

“For too long, Israel Bonds were seen as a donation made by our grandparents when in reality they are a smart investment for many,” said Beth El’s Rabbi Steven Abraham. “Israel Bonds are a non-political way to support the people and the State of Israel. I am thrilled that after more than two decades, Israel Bonds are coming back to Omaha to educate our community on this important investment tool for us and the State of Israel.”

According to Ambassador Aharoni, “The State of Israel has proven itself as a formidable brand, in managing to thrive and prosper in a relatively short time, despite unmatched challenges. It truly is a Can-Do Nation. I look forward to discussing the topic further during my visit with the Omaha Jewish community.”

The invitation to the Nov. 8 evening with Ambassador Aharoni comes from Israel Bonds and Beth El Synagogue. A dessert reception follows the program. Dietary laws will be observed. Reservations are appreciated and can be made online at www.bethel-omaha.org, or through Israel Bonds at Chicago@IsraelBonds.com or 312.558.9400. All investment questions should be directed to Israel Bonds.

Visit us at jewishomaha.org

H

Hanukkah in Auschwitz

yaakoV JEidEl aving grown up in Brooklyn, NY, and then living in Jerusalem, I was used to the streets coming alive during Jewish holiday season. Whether it was Hanukkah, Purim, or Sukkot, tables were always lined up on the sidewalks with kids selling holiday paraphernalia. When Faige and I moved to Omaha, the one thing that took adjustment was the lack of excitement in the air. Don’t get me wrong, people here are excited. It’s just that when compared to what we were accustomed to, we didn’t really feel that holiday spirit.

A few weeks ago, I was thinking about how to create a joyous Sukkot atmosphere in Omaha when someone recommended that I gather pictures of families in their Sukkah’s and show people in and out of the community that, despite the size of Omaha’s Jewish population, we are a strong and vibrant community. It’s the quality of our community that stands out, not the quantity! This turned out to be a great success. I ended getting pictures of over 30 Sukkot throughout the neighborhood and hundreds of likes and comments on Facebook. I turned it into a mini competition with the Yellin family acquiring the most likes and winning the surprise prize of a $100 gift card to Amazon!

I knew that Hanukkah had to be bigger and better. Sukkot is limiting because building a Succah is a huge undertaking, but so many people light a Menorah. Imagine if 500 people join in on the fun – it would be colossal! I also wanted to make it more meaningful than just a family picture by the candles or eating some donuts. I’m happy to announce that anonymous donors have contacted me about underwriting the cost of a more significant prize, and that the competition will be expanded to include both Facebook and Instagram and once again be open to the entire Jewish community of Omaha. Anyone with an account can partake, even if they’re already in someone else’s post.

Here’s how it will work: Participants must, A- post a picture between the first night and fifth night of Hanukkah (Sunday evening, Dec. 2 – Friday, Dec. 7 any time before sundown) with them by the lit Menorah. B- Include in the post why Hanukkah is meaningful to them (and not just the Jewish version of Christmas). And, C- use the hashtag #OmahaIsLit18 when posting. Participants will have until the 8th day to acquire likes on their post. The one who receives the most likes on an individual post on their personal page wins. The winner will be announced on the 8th day at 11 a.m. CST on Beth Israel’s Facebook and Instagram pages.

Hanukkah is a special holiday with so many layers of deep spiritual meaning, and although my parents were never big on the gifts or the potato latkes, I still look forward to it every year. One story in particular sticks out for me. This story, for me, epitomizes a great part of what being a proud Jew means. It was the first night of Hanukkah in Auschwitz concentration camp. The holy Bluzhever Rebbe, Rabbi Yisroel Spira had lost his entire family. His wife, children and grandchildren had been murdered by the Nazis.

He risked his life countless times during the weeks prior to collect the necessary items to be able to light the Hanukkah Menorah that night. Sundown had come and some of his bunkmates watched by the windows to make sure nobody would catch them. The Rebbe cried for a few minutes before composing himself enough to say the blessings. After reciting the first two blessings of Lihadlik Ner and Sheasa Nisim, he was about to make the final blessing of Shehechiyanu (Who has Credit: DRG-fan kept us alive and preserved us, and enabled us to reach this time), and he paused. The crowd was confused, but waited in silence for their holy Rebbe to continue. A good 60 seconds passed and he was about to start saying the final blessing, but was stopped by a fellow inmate. “Even if you stubbornly said the first two blessings, what justification do you have in saying the third?” – he asked. “During a time in which millions of Jews, our brothers and sisters are dying terrible deaths, why would you say Shehechiyanu?” The place was dead silent; you could hear a pin drop. “I, too, asked myself this question,” the Rebbe replied.

“I looked for an answer and found one: When I was about to recite the blessing, I saw that a large crowd had gathered – risking their own lives in so doing – to watch the lighting of the candles. By the very fact that G-d has such loyal Jews – prepared to give their lives for the lighting of the candles – by that very fact alone we may recite Shehechiyanu.”

In Omaha, thankfully we are free from persecution. Let’s thank God that we are free and show Him that, just like Jews in the past were dedicated to the mitzvah of lighting candles, so too, we Jews in Omaha have that same dedication. This year let’s show our dedication to God and his Torah by lighting the Hanukkahh candles with passion.

May we all merit to light the Menorah this year with extra meaning and pass onto our children and grandchildren the passion to continue to do Mitzvas no matter what the circumstances. I hope both you and your family members (together or separate) will join in this year’s Hanukkah competition. Maybe they’ll even win a nice prize!

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STUDENTS WITH BETTER GRADES It all starts with Newspapers Statement of Ownership, Management and Circulation

1. Publication Title: Jewish Press. 2. Publication No. 275-620. 3. Filing Date: 10-5-17. 4. Issue Frequency: Weekly, since 1920. 5. No. of Issues Published Annually: 50. 6. Annual Subscription Rate: $40.00 US, $72.00 foreign. 7.

Complete Mailing Address of Known Office of Publication: 333 South 132nd St., Omaha, NE 68154-2198, 402-3346448; Contact Person: Lori Kooper-Schwarz, 402-334-6558. 8. Complete Mailing Address of Headquarters or General Business Office of Publisher: 333 South 132nd St., Omaha, NE 68154-2198. 9. Full Names and Complete Mailing Addresses of Publisher, Editor and Creative Director: Publisher--Jewish Federation of Omaha, 333 South 132nd St., Omaha, NE 68154-2198; Editor--Annette van de Kamp-Wright, 333 South 132nd St., Omaha, NE 68154-2198; Creative Director--Richard Busse, 333 South 132nd St., Omaha, NE 68154-2198. 10. Owner: Jewish Federation of Omaha, Inc., 333 South 132nd St., Omaha, NE 68154-2198. 11. Known Bondholders, Mortgages and Other Security Holders Owning or Holding 1 percent or More of Total Amount of Bonds, Mortgages or Other Securities: None. 12. For completion by nonprofit organizations authorized to mail at special rates. The purpose, function and non-profit status of this organization and the exempt for federal income tax purpose: Has Not Changed During Preceding 12 Months. 13. Publication Title: Jewish Press. 14. Issue Date for Circulation Data Below: 9-14-18. 15.

Extent and Nature of Circulation: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months--a. Total No. Copies (Net Press Run): 3600. b. Paid and/or requested Circulation: 2,900 (1) Paid/Requested Outside-County Mail Subscription (Include Advertiser’s Proof and exchange copies) 799 (2) Paid In-County Subscriptions (Include advertiser’s proof and exchange copies) 1942. (3) Sales through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales and Other Non-USPS Paid Distribution--150 (4) Other Classes Mailed Through the USPS--9. c. Total Paid and/or Requested Circulation (Sum of 15b (1), (2), (3) and (4)--2,900. d. Free Distribution by Mail: (Samples, Complimentary and Other Free)-0. (1) Outside-County as Stated on Form--3541-0. (2) In-County as Stated on Form 3541-0. (3) Other Classes Mailed Through the USPS--0 e. Free Distribution Outside the Mail (Carriers or Other Means)--130. f. Total Free Distribution (Sum of 15 d and 15e)--130. g. Total Distribution (Sum of 15c and 15f)--3,030. h. Copies Not Distributed--570. i. Total: (Sum of 15g and h)--3600 j. Percent Paid and/or Requested Circulation (15c divided by 15g times 100)--92%. No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date--3,600.a. Total No. Copies (Net Press Run): 3600. b. Paid and/or requested Circulation: (1) Paid/Requested Outside-County Mail Subscriptions (Include Advertiser’s Proof and exchange copies) - 802. (2) Paid In-County Subscriptions (Include advertiser’s proof and exchange copies)-1945. (3) Sales through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales and Other Non-USPS Paid Distribution--150. (4) Other Classes Mailed Through the USPS--2 c. Total Paid and/or Requested Circulation (Sum of 15b (1), (2), (3) and (4)--2,899. d. Free Distribution by Mail: (Samples, Complimentary and Other Free-0.. (1) Outside-County as Stated on Form 3541-0. (2) In-County as Stated on Form 3541-0. (3) Other Classes Mailed Through the USPS--0 e. Free Distribution Outside the Mail (Carriers or Other Means)--99. f. Total Free Distribution (Sum of 15 d and 15e)--99. g. Total Distribution (Sum of 15c and 15f)--2,998. h. Copies Not Distributed--602 i. Total: (Sum of 15g and h)--3600. j. Percent Paid and/or Requested Circulation (15c divided by 15g times 100)--92% 16.

Statement of Ownership will be printed in the Oct. 5, 2018, issue of this publication. 17. Signature and Title of Editor, Publisher, Business Manager or Owner. Annette van de Kamp, Editor, 9-14-2018.

I certify that all information furnished on this form is true and complete. I understand that anyone who furnishes false or misleading information on this form or who omits material or information requested on the form may be subject to criminal sanctions (including fines and imprisonment) and/or civil sanctions (including multiple damages and civil penalties).

The Jewish Press | October 26, 2018 | 7

Need a Ride?

Home Repairs Needed?

Jerusalem Post’s Herb Keinon visit

Mary Sue GroSSMan people in the community will join us and Executive Director, Beth Israel take advantage of hearing Mr. Keinon speak.

Beth Israel is pleased to announce its first Plan to attend one or all of the events.”

Scholar-in-Residence weekend of the year, Beth Israel’s Shabbat services begin Friday welcoming Herb Keinon, diplomatic corre- evening, Nov. 9, with Mincha at 4:53 p.m. A spondent for the Jerusalem traditional Shabbat dinner inPost. Many thanks to Debbie cluding salad, chicken, side and Lloyd Roitstein for chairdishes, challah, and desserts ing the weekend which will will begin at 6 p.m. The cost of begin Friday evening, Nov. 9 dinner is $18 for adults and $9 and continue through Shabages 3-12. Immediately followbat, Nov. 10. ing dinner, Mr. Keinon will Mr Keinon has been at the give his first presentation, Jerusalem Post for the last 32 Travels with Bibi: A Decade years. He assumed the diploCovering Prime Minister Nematic beat in August 2000, just tanyahu. A short Q&A session after the failed Camp David will follow his talk. summit, and just before the Saturday morning, Nov. Herb Keinon outbreak of the Palestinian vi10, Shacharit begins at 9 a.m. olence in September of that year. He is re- with a second talk by Mr. Keinon at approxisponsible for covering the prime minister and mately 10:15 a.m. His Shabbat morning topic the foreign minister, often traveling with the will be Is it as Bad as it Appears: A Non-SenPrime Minister on his trips abroad. sationalist Look at Israel’s Current State of AfHe has followed Ehud Barak to Paris, Ariel fairs, from Iran to Gaza, Netanyahu to Sharon to Crawford, Texas, Ehud Olmert to American Politics. Kiddush will immediately Annapolis, and Binyamin Netanyahu to Bei- follow services. jing, Entebbe and Mumbai. As such, Keinon Shabbat afternoon, Rabbi Ari Dembitzer’s has up-close knowledge and an intimate per- weekly class Insights into the Weekly Torah spective of the country’s political, diplomatic Reading will begin at 3:50 p.m. followed by and strategic challenges – from Hamas to Mincha and Seudah Shlishit at 4:35 p.m. Mr. Hezbullah, Lapid to Likud. During his years at Keinon will give his final talk at Seudah the Post, he has also covered a wide variety of Shlishit which is titled French Fries in Pita – A different beats, including Jerusalem, immigra- Personal Look at the Quirks and Charms of Life tion and absorption, religious parties, the ultra- in Israel. Havdalah will take place at 5:54 p.m.

Orthodox, and the settlements. Additionally, Beth Israel’s services and all presentations he has been a features writer at the paper. are open to the community, free of charge.

While his duties with the Post entail writing Reservations for dinner are required and the both news stories, features and analyses, Mr. reservation date is Nov. 5. The cost for dinner Keinon also writes a popular monthly “light” reservations made after the deadline will be column on life in Israel. A collection of these $28 for adults and $19 for children. For adcolumns, French Fries in Pita, was published ditional information, please visit orthodoxin October 2014. (The book is available from omaha.org or call the office at 402. 556.6288. the Kripke Jewish Federation Library.) He has also lectured widely in Israel, the US, Europe and Australia on the political and diplomatic situation in Israel and appears on a variety of radio and television programs around the is is a reminder that Monday Octoworld as a guest commentator on the subject. ber 29, from 7-9 p.m. the Jewish FederaOriginally from Denver, Keinon has a BA tion of Omaha and the JFO Foundation in political science from the University of will co-host a Financial Literacy workColorado, Boulder, and an MA in journalism shop, led by financial advisor Susan Wier. from the University of Illinois, ChampaignLocation is the Sans Souci Room at SwanUrbana. He has lived in Israel for some 35 son Towers, 8405 Indian Hills Drive; light years, is married with four children, and lives refreshments will be served. is event is in Ma’ale Adumim, just outside of Jerusalem. open to the public.

“Debbie and I are delighted to chair the is is the first in a series of workshops weekend featuring Herb Keinon” shares JFO and the Foundation will be co-hostLloyd Roitstein. “Mr. Keinon is a well-known ing and there is absolutely no charge to atand well-respected writer with great insight tend. To RSVP, contact Life and Legacy to the ever-changing picture in Israel and beCoordinator Margo Parsow at mparsow yond.” Scholar-in-residence committee mem@jewishomaha.org or 402.334.6432. ber Bruce Potash agrees. “We hope many

Jewish Senior Outreach Now offering Transportation and Handyman Services Contact Shelly Fox for more information

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hanukkah

Financial Literacy

Funky Dori Settles

Dori Settles creates tactile artwork. Her art glass allows for different narratives to be told detells stories which unfold during the creation pending on the lighting, location and even the posiprocess. The stories are tactile for the viewer tion of the piece. When she works with smooth glass, Settles often adds layers of glass and through their sense of touch and also visual in their viewing of the design. enamels to build up the imagery and texture. She Whether smooth, rough, loosely woven or carves, grinds and polishes to enhance the story. tightly knit, each fiber has a way of telling its Casting fabric artwork and other items into glass own story, and as she dyes, embroiders, sews or gives a new voice to existing objects.

Even when Settles creates a piece of jewelry, embellishes with beads, that story unfolds. Settles listen to the fabric and other materials with her fingers and hands run over the edges to ensure my fingers and hands. Sometimes the fabric flows they are smooth, while the eye is drawn to the easily under the needle, the threads and yarns way the light dances off the metals because of seeming to stitch themselves. At other times, the hammering and heat work. there is much more pushing and pulling, as the Settles invites you to see her latest work online story becomes heavier and more intense. through her website, FunkyDori.com or stop in The same is true for the glass pieces Settles the Loft at Gallery 92 West in downtown Fremont. creates. The nature of transparent and translucent PAID ADVERTISEMENT

publishing date | 11.30.18 space reservation | 11.14.18

Contact our advertising executive to advertise in this very special edition.

Susan Bernard 402.334.6559 | sbernard@jewishomaha.org

8 | The Jewish Press | October 26, 2018

community almost like Bubby’s

renee ratner corcoran Executive Director, Nebraska Jewish Historical Society Please join the Nebraska Jewish Historical Society for their annual meeting on Sunday, oct. 28 from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. There will be food to sample from our Jewish heritage -- almost like Bubee’s. Come and hear stories from our past when we all gathered around the family table.

At this meeting, we will present the Mary Fellman Award to Michael Staenberg for his generosity to the Society through the years. Also, Rocky Lewis will be presented with the Volunteer of the Year Award for her devotion and support to the NJHS. Please join us for a fun afternoon on Sunday, oct. 28 from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. in the JCC auditorium.

early deadline notice

The Jewish Press will be closed on thursday, nov. 22 for Thanksgiving. The deadline for all ads, articles and photos is Wednesday, nov. 14, 9 a.m. for the Nov. 30 Issue: Hannukkah Edition. Questions?

Call 402.334.6448

High-tech comes to the Omaha Jewish Film Festival Mark kirchhoff Program and Communications, Jewish Federation of Omaha With the showing of Wendy’s Shabbat, Humor Me, and The Testament, we have reached the half-way point of the 17th Annual Omaha Jewish Film Festival. Three more evenings of enjoyable entertainment are coming your way - the next two being on Nov. 10 and 11. These nights will be very special indeed. For these two evenings only, the films will be shown by “Dog and Pony Productions, Inc.,” a local company that has acquired an international reputation for producing extraordinary events through the use of state-of-the art audio/visual equipment and the professional expertise to use it well. You may recall that one of the films in last year’s series was also presented by “Dog and Pony” and the number of positive comments from theater-goers about the quantum improvement in production and enjoyment value was incredible. Thanks to our Film Festival sponsors this year, we are able to retain their services for these two nights. Movie-goers will experience the difference immediately and perhaps be inspired to support the efforts of the Jewish Federation of Omaha to raise the funds necessary to upgrade its own equipment.

Nov. 10’s film will be the documentary, Who Will Write Our History. The film is set in November 1940, days after the Nazis sealed 450,000 Jews in the Warsaw Ghetto. At this time, a secret band of journalists, scholars and community leaders decided to fight back. Led by historian Emanuel Ringelblum and known by the code name Oyneg Shabes, this clandestine group vowed to defeat Nazi lies and propaganda not with guns or fists but with pen and paper. It is a fascinating story of what they did and how they did it.

What better type of movie for high-tech equipment could be on the slate than one that has singing and dancing as central to its story? Sammy Davis, Jr., I’ve gotta be me, is the film

for Nov. 11. Sammy Davis, Jr. had the kind of career that was indisputably legendary, so vast and multi-faceted that it was dizzying in its scope and scale. And yet, his life was complex, complicated and contradictory. Davis strove to achieve the American Dream in a time of racial prejudice and shifting political territory. Sammy Davis, Jr. I’ve gotta be me explores the life and art of a uniquely-gifted entertainer who blazed across the major flashpoints of American society from the Depression through the 1980s.

The final film of the 17th Annual Omaha Jewish Film Festival on Nov. 18 will be Heading Home: The Tale of Team Israel.

A stirring story of sports, patriotism and personal growth, Heading Home traces the underdog journey of Israel's national baseball team competing for the first time in the World Baseball Classic. You will soon come to realize, however, that there is more to this story than baseball. It is an entertaining tale of American Jews joining a team and rediscovering their Judaism along the way.

All films will be shown in the Jewish Community Center Theater beginning at 7 p.m. Tickets are $5. Visit www.jew ishomaha.org and click on the pull-down slider to purchase tickets in advance and to view trailers.

We extend our thanks to the generous sponsors of this year’s film festival: The Henry Monsky Lodge of B'nai B'rith, and the following Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation funds: Klutznick/Creighton Custodial Fund, 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.

The Jewish Press | October 26, 2018 | 9

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.

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Letters should be no longer than 250 words and must be single-spaced typed, not hand-written. Published letters should be confined to opinions and comments on articles or events. News items should not be submitted and printed as a “Letter to the Editor.” The Editor may edit letters for content and space restrictions. Letters may be published without giving an opposing view.

Information shall be verified before printing. All letters must be signed by the writer. The Jewish Press will not publish letters that appear to be part of an organized campaign, nor letters copied from the Internet. No letters should be published from candidates running for office, but others may write on their behalf.

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

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Consequences

GABBy BLAir Staff Writer, Jewish Press ast week, a friend expressed concern and ire over the detention of an American graduate student at Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion airport. Interest piqued, an hour of searching yielded only two short results- one from Fox, another from an Israeli news source.

In both, the details were sparse but solid. Israel refused entry to graduate student, Lana Alqasam, a Florida native.

Alqasam had obtained a student visa and enrolled in a graduate law program with a focus on Human Rights and Transitional Justice at Jerusalem’s Hebrew University.

Alqasam’s Palestinian grandparents immigrated to the U.S. long ago and the American born Lana desired to study in Jerusalem, according to her mother Karen. Officials stated Alqasam was ineligible to enter as she was in violation of a 2017 Israeli Law prohibiting foreign nationals who publicly promote BDS, the movement that actively works against the Israel in academic, economic and cultural sectors.

The law, regardless of one’s opinion of it, is very specific.

You actively work against the State of Israel; you do not get to visit. Period.

Alqasam was the 15th individual turned away at the port of entry since the law went into effect last year. Officials stated Alqasam was free to fly back to the U.S. on the next available flight; however, she refused to do so, choosing instead to appeal her deportation order from the airport.

What a difference 48 hours can make. The ‘barely-there’ story from yesterday was suddenly everywhere. News outlets across the globe decried the situation, flashing a picture of a friendly and smiling girl-next-door wearing a baseball cap. Articles with headline variations of “American student detained by Israel” yielded significantly more details.

Like a tide rolling in, concern rippled across my vacuum of social media with a majority of comments expressing disapproval and self-righteous condemnations of Israel’s actions.

It would be insulting to make excuses for a graduate level

law student in this particular field of study and with her background as being ignorant of the law. Instead, I have to wonder if this whole ‘baligan’ was orchestrated or if Ms. Alqasam truly had a change of heart or opinion.

You see, Alqasam has been a student member of The University of Florida’s Students for Justice in Palestine (UFSJP) since 2014 and served as President in 2016-17.

Another red flag, according to reports, was the recent deletion of all Ms. Alqasam’s social media accounts.

Her Israeli attorney, Yotam Ben-Hillel, points out that she

Lara Alqasem at the israeli Supreme Court in Jerusalem, oct. 17, 2018. Credit: Miriam Alster/Flash90

is no longer part of the group and claims she was active in only one protest/ boycott during her time with SJP. He further stated that she would not take part in any BDS activities in the future and that dumping social media does not necessarily mean she was hiding something.

Israel appeared to be empathetic to her plight and wary of the controversy this situation has whipped up. An offer to reconsider her entry made by Strategic Affairs Minister Gilad Erdan was contingent on a genuine statement- in her own voice — pledging to not work against Israel and condemning BDS. In other words, they want her to express sincere Teshuva.

In an editorial, Dr. Abend-David described Lana as having a positive attitude towards Judaism and Israel. Dr. Tamir Sorek of the Jewish Studies Center at the University of

Florida also defended Alqasem, claiming her decision to study in Israel garnered criticism from BDS activists, proof that she had changed opinions. Hebrew University has also pledged its support to Alqasam who was set to begin classes on Oct. 14.

So, did Ms. Alqasam hope to create some type of situation that would be in line with the agenda of the unabashedly anti-Israel group she was part of for the last four years or did she evolve to a decidedly less anti-Israel stance? If so, how will current circumstances influence her moving forward? I cannot imagine it would help cultivate the positive feelings towards Israel her UF professors claims she had.

Given Israel’s notoriously strict security and the fact that she was to study in a department of law, it is hard to believe that no one – be it herself, her law school advisors or the officials that processed her paperwork and visa applicationwould have considered her extracurricular activities as a possible red flag.

Either way, this situation could be a win-win for the BDS movement. Let her in and she beats the system as an academic martyr. Deport her and the world hardens its heart like Pharaoh, condemning Israel as cruel and racist - even though this is not about race or religion. This is about voluntary involvement in activities that are legal in one country but illegal in a different, sovereign country.

I have to speculate this experience, regardless of outcome, will provide perfect thesis material given her chosen field of graduate work and will set a precedent in laws, loopholes and exceptions moving forward. The whole situation, a trial of actions and consequences, is now messy, yet seems just a little too tidy to be an accident.

Editor’s note: Ms. Alqasam was permitted into the country after Israel’s Supreme Court ruled that she be allowed to stay and study there.

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.

Yes, I’m an observant Jew. But I’m not judging you if you’re not.

SArAh rudoLPh Kveller via JTA Growing up, I was often viewed as “religious” among my peers. You might think this is a compliment, but it rarely was because that label was often accompanied by another one: “judgmental.” Because I was more strict than others in some areas of observance, it was often assumed that I looked down on those who were less strict.

To counter that image, I learned to be as subtle as possible when it came to my Jewish practice. I learned to be self-deprecating. (Ha ha, you know me! I have this crazy idea that my skirts should cover my knees, so will you humor me when we shop together?)

Basically, I learned to keep my mouth shut. And while thinking before speaking is generally a great habit, it’s hard to develop a real friendship when you’re afraid to share anything about yourself without a million disclaimers. Even among those friends who did accept me without issues, I was always on edge.

Over the years, I’ve seen the same phenomenon all over the place: within and between religious denominations, and in realms that have nothing to do with religion. Maybe the problem is that a lot of people in the world actually are judgmental — and maybe the other problem is that a lot of people in the world jump to judge others as being judgmental.

In the interest of increasing the peace, here are a few things I may do that don’t necessarily mean I’m judging you.

1. doing my thing that’s different from your thing I pray twice a day from a set text. You don’t. But until and unless I tell you that you should be doing what I do, you have no reason to assume I think that. If you were to ask me, I would actually tell you there are lots of different opinions about the precise nature of the obligation to pray.

2. Noticing that you’re doing your thing Your thing may be different from my thing: I

may be wearing a long-sleeved shirt and you may be wearing a cropped tank top, and that will not escape my notice. But again, until I actually say something about it, you have no idea what I think of your outfit — or more to the point, of you for wearing it. Maybe I think it’s too revealing; maybe I think it’s too conservative. Maybe I think it’s beautiful; maybe I think it’s ugly. I likely have some thoughts because I’m human, and humans think (I hope) about what they observe. But what I think doesn’t matter, unless we decide together to engage in conversation about it.

3. Not eating your food If I decline a treat or meal that you offer me, it’s not because I think you’re evil or that you’re going to spit in it. But there are a lot of rules involved in keeping kosher, and I rely on those who have expertise about these intricacies. I eat at the homes of individuals whose approach I know to be similar to mine. If I don’t know enough about which viewpoints you rely on, I won’t eat the food you offer.

I’m not passing judgment on you or your food or how religious you are; I just don’t have enough information.

4. Believing that i’m right (and even that you’re wrong) I think there’s a difference between making a judgment and being judgmental, and that distinction might solve a lot of the misunderstandings described above.

If I believe G-d gave the Torah to the Jewish people and that those laws, as interpreted by certain rabbis, are binding on all Jews, then I’m basically saying everyone who disagrees, every Jew who does things differently from me, is wrong. And yes, you could call that judging;. I’d rather call it integrity, though, and being true to my beliefs.

Similarly, I hope that you are also true to your beliefs. So what cause could I possibly have to be judgmental? Why would I think badly of you for having the integrity to behave in accordance with your beliefs, just like I strive to follow mine? I

might think you’re wrong — but that doesn’t mean I think you’re bad or stupid. I just disagree, and I hope we can respect each other enough to allow for those disagreements.

Acknowledging and discussing our differences, without assuming the worst, is the only way we can truly get to know and respect each other. And I judge that to be a pretty worthy goal.

Sarah Rudolph lives in Cleveland with her family. She has been teaching Jewish text studies for over 10 years to students ranging from elementary school to retirement age.

Kveller is a thriving community of women and parents who convene online to share, celebrate and commiserate their experiences of raising kids through a Jewish lens. Visit Kveller.com.

Letter to the editor

Dear Editor: Various ideas and opposing viewpoints is what our nation is all about, and listening to each other and learning from each other is what we should be all about.

That is why I am happy that the Jewish Press is inviting people to share their view-points in the paper’s guest editorials.

It is sad that some people feel that anyone who doesn’t think the same way they do is not only wrong, but also inherently evil, and therefore does not deserve to be heard.

That is not the Jewish way to live or behave. We can debate ideas while still being respectful of the person with whom we are debating.

We can all learn to be more receptive to ideas other than our own and to be willing to give other viewpoints a fair and respectful hearing whether we agree or disagree with the ideas presented.

If the Jewish Press can serve as a “safe” place for each of us to share our opinions and viewpoints, we may all become more tolerant and better informed, and that would be a great benefit to our community.

Claire Blass

10 | The Jewish Press | October 26, 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 nov.

9, at 7:30 p.m. with guest speaker Sarpy County Attorney, Lee Polikov. 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: Nebraska AIDS Coalition Lunch, 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.; Six String Shabbat, 6 p.m. satUrday: Shabbat Morning Service, 9:30 a.m. Dvar Torah will be delivered by Dr. Leonard Greenspoon; Junior Congregation (Grades 3-7), 10 a.m.; Mincha following Shabbat Morning Services. weekday serViCes: Sundays, 9:30 a.m. & 5:30 p.m.; weekdays, 7 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. sUnday: BESTT Classes (Grades K-7), 9:30 a.m.; Morning Minyan, 9:30 a.m.; Torah Study, 10 a.m. tUesday: Talmudic Arguments Class, 11:30 a.m. with Rabbi Abraham; Mahjong, 1 p.m. wednesday: 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.; Talmudic Arguments Class, 7 p.m. with Rabbi Steve Abraham. thUrsday: Chesed Committee visits the Blumkin Home, 2 p.m.; The Power of Water Class — Understanding the meaning of the Mikveh class, 6 p.m. with Shira Abraham.

Pre-K Torah Tots, sunday, nov. 4, 10:30 a.m.–noon Students ages 4-5 and their parents will be introduced to our Talmud Torah program.

Become a Soulful Parent, sundays, 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.

beth israel synagogUe

Services conducted by Rabbi Ari Dembitzer. friday: Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Friday Learning Series — Big Citities and Unusual Places, 11:15 a.m. with Rabbi Shlomo at Kripke Library; Mincha, 6:10 p.m.; Candle Lighting, 6:10 p.m. satUrday: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Dr. Eitan Abramovich – An Introduction to Post-Modern Judaism, 10:15 a.m.; October Simcha Kiddush, 11:30 a.m.; Dr. Gil Graff – Jewish Education and the Jewish Future, 12:15 p.m.; Insights into the Weekly Torah Portion, 5:05 p.m.; Mincha/Seudah Shlishit, 5:50 p.m.; Havdalah, 7:09 p.m. sUnday: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 6:15 p.m. at Rose Blumkin Jewish Home.

Monday: Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Jewish History — Your History, noon with Rabbi Shlomo; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 6:15 p.m. at Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. tUesday: Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 6:15 p.m. at Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. wednesday: Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 6:15 p.m. at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. thUrsday: Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Connecting with Our Faith, 9:30 a.m. with Rabbi Ari; Jewish Ethics, noon with Rabbi Ari at UNMC; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 6:15 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: Candlelighting, 6:11 p.m.; Erev Shabbat Service, 6:30 p.m. with music by Elaine Monnier and Mark Miller; Oneg, 7:30 p.m. hosted by Ailyne Swartz Taylor. satUrday: Shabbat Morning Service, 9:30 a.m.; Torah Study, 10:45 a.m. on Parashat Vayera; Havdalah (72 minutes), 7:40 p.m. sUnday: LJCS Gan through Grade 7, 9:30 a.m.; LJCS Gesher, 10 a.m.; Adult Hebrew Class 2, 11:30 a.m.; Board of Trustees Meeting, 1:30 p.m.; URJ Leadership simulcast, 2 p.m.; The Federation of Lincoln Annual Meeting, 4:30 p.m. in the Enclosed Shelter at Antelope Park. After the meeting, we’ll enjoy a dairy potluck dinner; Come learn and play Pickleball, 7-9 p.m. All equipment furnished. Wear comfortable clothing. For questions, call or text Miriam Wallick at miriam57@aol.com. tUesday: Star City Kochavim Rehearsal, 6:45 p.m.; Adult Education: Mussar, 7 p.m. This is an orientation session. wednesday: LJCS Hebrew School, 4 p.m. at TI. LJCS Family Shabbat Service and Dinner, sunday, nov. 2 at 6 p.m. at SST. SST Annual Meeting, sunday, nov. 4 at 3 p.m.

Global Day of Jewish Learing, sunday, nov. 11 at 10 a.m.-noon at SST. This year’s theme is Extraordinary Passages: Texts and Travels. For more information go to www. theglobalday.org.

offUtt air forCe base

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

rose blUMkin Jewish hoMe

satUrday: Services, 9:15 a.m. led by Alan Shulewitz.

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.; 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. RSVP: bit.ly/2ykldhi sUnday: Habitat Building Day, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.; Caring Committee Baking Days, 8 a.m-1 p.m..; Kol Chokolad Kids Choir, 9:30 a.m.; Religious School Grades PreK-6, 10 a.m.; Fall into Fun with JYG, 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Hayrides, haunted houses, and corn mazes?! Our 6th-8th graders are invited to join JYG for the ultimate fall experience at Vala’s Pumpkin patch. Pick up and drop off will be at Temple Israel.

The cost is $30 per person and includes admission, transportation, and lunch. RSVP to Jacob Kahn, jkahn@temple israelomaha.com; Temple TED Talk, 10:30 a.m.; PreK Bagels and Blessings with Rabbi Berezin, 11 a.m.; Jewish Summer Camp Fair, 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; Tri-Faith Committee Meeting, noon. wednesday: No Religious School. thUrsday: The History of the Jewish People: Hellen ism, 10 a.m. taught by Leonard Greenspoon, Professor and Klutznick Chair in Jewish Civilization at Creighton University.

First Friday Shabbat Service, friday, nov. 2, 6 p.m. Join us for a fun and lively service featuring the First Friday band!

Scholar-in-Residence Dr. Joel M. Hoffman: friday, nov.

2-sunday, nov. 4. (see full story on page 3.)

OTYG: Good, Evil, Mocktails and Cheese, saturday, nov.

3, 3:15-6 p.m. Learn about good and evil from Torah Scholar, Dr. Joel M. Hoffman. Before his program, OTYG will meet to discuss how the concepts of good and evil play into teenage peer pressure. Following the OTYG time, we will be joining the larger Temple Israel community at the Scholar-inResidence Havdalah event from 4-6 p.m. RSVP to Jacob Kahn, jkahn@ templeisraelomaha.com.

Fall Chavurah, nov. 9-11 at Three Trails Camp. This is an opportunity to create lifelong connections and memories with other Jewish teens from Missouri, Colorado, Kansas, and Wyoming! Spend the weekend enjoying the outdoors and amazing programming put on by our teen leadership! NFTY registration cost is $175 and closes on Oct. 26. RSVP to Jacob Kahn, jkahn@templeisraelomaha.com.

tifereth israel

Services conducted by lay leader Nancy Coren. Office hours: Monday-friday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. friday: Services, 6:30 p.m.; Candlelighting, 6:21 p.m. satUrday: Shabbat Morning service, 9:30 a.m. followed by a Kiddush luncheon; Got Shabbat, 11 a.m.; Lunch and Learn, immediately following services with guest speaker Leah Rediger Schulte, the director of Religious & Spiritual Life at Doane University on Understanding rape culture through the story of Dina; Havdalah (72 minutes), 7:20 p.m. sUnday: LJCS Gan through Grade 7, 9:30 a.m.; LJCS Gesher, 10 a.m.; First Leadership Training, 2 p.m. for those wanting to increase their synagogue skills and be of service to our Congregation; The Federation of Lincoln Annual Meeting, 4:30 p.m. in the Enclosed Shelter at Antelope Park. After the meeting, we’ll enjoy a dairy potluck dinner; 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. wednesday: LJCS Hebrew School, 4 p.m. at TI. LJCS Family Shabbat Service and Dinner, sunday, nov. 2 at 6 p.m. at SST.

University of Michigan professors are disciplined Mary beth MUskin Regional Director, Anti Defamation League A tenured University of Michigan professor has been disciplined for refusing to write a letter of recommendation for a student who wanted to study in Israel, citing his support for the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement against the Jewish State.

He wrote, “As you may know, many university departments have pledged an academic boycott against Israel in support of Palestinians living in Palestine. The boycott includes writing letters of recommendation for students planning to study there.” The student’s father called on the university to fire the professor, calling his actions “anti-Semitic” and “manipulative.”

Incredibly, a second instructor at the university also refused to write a letter of recommendation for a student wanting to study in Tel Aviv and whose father is Israeli, citing the support for the BDS movement.

Anti-Defamation League CEO, Jonathan Greenblatt, responded promptly and said Michigan needs to take immediate action in the wake of both incidents.

“Boycotts such as these, refusing to recommend a student solely because they intended to study in Israel, have a chilling effect on Jewish and pro-Israel students on campus, who may feel isolated and vulnerable when authority figures or campus groups express hostility or shun them based on their views and associations,” Greenblatt said.

Michigan University’s official stance is that it opposes any boycott of Israeli institutions of higher education. The position of the department and the professors are in direct opposition to the University policy. The University has taken action in response to the faculty members, and the tenured professor who will not get a merit increase for the next academic year and cannot go on his planned sabbatical in January or another one over the next two years. University officials have shared that each case is “being addressed with those involved through existing policies.” We continue to be concerned, so ADL has called on the University to adopt a formal policy ensuring students’ academic pursuits are not stymied by the political views of their professors.

The Jewish Press | October 26, 2018 | 11

lifecycles bar mitzVah

rYan mcGauVran

Ryan McGauvran, son of Kathy and John McGauvran, will become a Bar Mitzvah on Saturday Nov. 3, at Temple Israel.

Ryan is a seventh-grade student at Westside Middle School.

He enjoys basketball, golfing and lacrosse as well as attending Camp Sabra during the summer.

For his mitzvah project, Ryan volunteered at ALLPLAY Miracle Baseball League, a special non-competitive baseball league for children with special needs. During the 2018 season, ALLPLAY enrolled more than 400 players on 28 teams.

He has two older brothers, William, age 19 and Adam, age 17.

Grandparents are Linda and Harold Mann, Ron McGauvran and the late Sally McGauvran.

Great-grandparents are the late Sara and Eli Zalkin, the late Ada and Irving Mann, the late Dorothea and John McGauvran, and the late Charlotte and Spencer Green.

in memoriam

rose (kirshenbaum) cohen

Rose (Kirshenbaum) Cohen passed away on Oct. 16 at age 93. Services were held Oct. 18 at Mt. Sinai Cemetery.

She was preceded in death by parents Yetta and Abraham Kirshenbaum, husband Sam Cohen, and brothers Max and Kevee.

She is survived by daughter and son-in-law, Jeannie and Rick Gilinsky; sons and daughters-in-law, Marc and Kathleen Cohen, Steve and Judy Cohen; grandchildren: Sari, Eryk, Cory, Devon, Cameron, Jason, Patrick, Sarah, Seth, Micah, Sonja; great-grandchildren: Greyson, Nolan, and Jeremiah; sister and brother-in-law, Cindy and Mike Cohen; brother and sisterin-law, Joe and Maxine Kirshenbaum, and sister-in-law Joan Kirshenbaum.

Rose was a resident of Omaha, and she lived in Des Moines for 30 years.

Memorials may be made to the Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo for care of the giraffes or to Beth El Synagogue, 14506 California Street, Omaha, NE 68154.

ann rosen kaiman

Ann Rosen Kaiman passed away on Oct. 17 at age 97. Services were held Oct. 19 at Beth El Cemetery Chapel.

She was preceded in death by parents Fanny (Fayga) and Paul (Paltiel) Rosen and husband Irvin C. Kaiman.

She is survived by son Paul, sons and daughters-in-law, Barry and Toni and Frank and Laura; grandchildren: Sarah, Jeffrey, Daniel and Evan.

Memorials may be made to the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home.

omaha bbYo Fall Fest

robert osborne and raelYn cherrY Omaha Council BBYO Presidents BBYO each year promotes the Fall Fest initiative worldwide to engage Jewish teens with local Jewish programs and to make them feel like a part of the larger global movement.

Omaha Council will be hosting our Fall Fest on Nov. 3, from

6:30-10 p.m. at the JCC. We’ll be playing Bubble-Ball where we are in giant inflatable balls playing soccer and having fun, eating dinner, and getting to hang and talk with our friends and potential new members. This event is FREE and open to all Jewish teens in 8th-12th grade, regardless of religious affiliation. In order to attend this event, please register at tinyurl.com/OmahaFallFest. If there are any questions, please feel free to contact us at omahacouncilgodol@gmail. com, and raelyncherry1@gmail.com, or contact Omaha BBYO Director, Jacob Geltzer, at jgeltzer@jccomaha.org, or call at 402.334.6404. We can’t wait to see you there!

Omaha Council hosts Mid-America Region Fall Regional Convention

Jacob Geltzer BBYO/Teen Programming Director Wow, what an amazing weekend in Omaha! During the weekend of Oct. 12-14, Omaha Council hosted Mid America Region’s Fall Regional Convention at the Gene Eppley Camp and Retreat Center. The theme for the convention this year was “Keep MAR Weird”, and we did just that with all 95 par-

You are invited to SUPER SUNDAY

What: A short two hour intensive mini-fundraising drive to support the Federation’s Annual Campaign, chaired by Lisa and Chuck Lucoff and Abigail and Adam Kutler.

Who: You, your folks, your children, your friends… anyone willing to donate two hours of their time to help us keep Jewish Omaha strong!

When: Nov. 11, 1 p.m.–3 p.m. and Feb. 10, noon–2 p.m.

Where: JFO Campus Auditorium, 333 S. 132nd St. Omaha, NE, 68154 Why: To support our Jewish community here at home and our worldwide brothers and sisters. When everyone gives, everyone benefits!

Visit us at jewishomaha.org

Be a role model; the person you want your kid to be.

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ticipants who came from Omaha, Kansas City, St. Louis and Minneapolis. We had a variety of programs including Shabbat services, programs that allowed teens to get weird and feel comfortable doing so, an AZAA Basketball tournament, and so much more! We ended the weekend with a Silent Disco Dance that allowed teens to switch between and listen to three different stations with a flick of a switch. All the Omaha participants had a great time and were so glad to see all of their regional friends right in their hometown. Our next Regional convention will be Winter Convention in Kansas City the weekend of Jan. 18-20, 2019. This convention will be open to BBYO Members in 8th-12th grade. For questions or more information, please contact BBYO Director, Jacob Geltzer, at jgeltzer@jccomaha.org or call at 402.334.6404.

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12 | The Jewish Press | October 26, 2018

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Put these Mainstreeters events on your november calendar grams.

MaGGiE ConTi Director of Activities and Volunteer Services, RBJH Join Us at the Movies: Mamma Mia! Here We Go Financial Literacy Workshop – Don’t Be Again. Friday, Nov. 16 at 1 p.m. an Ostrich on Monday, Oct. 29 from 7in the JCC Theater. In 1979 9 p.m. at the Swanson Towers (8405 young Donna, Tanya and Rosie Indian Hills Drive): Please join us for graduate from Oxford Unithis enlightening and informversity -ative two-hour workshop presented by leaving Susan D. Wier, CFP, CHFC, RFC, First Donna American Advisory, LLC. This workshop is free to sponsored by the Jewish Federation of embark Omaha Foundation. For questions please on a secall Margo Parsow at 402.334.6432 or email ries of at mparsow@ jewishomaha.org. Free and advenopen to the public. tu re s Percussionist Michael Fitzsimmons & throughDrums of the World: Monday, Nov. 5 at 10 a.m. in the RBJH Auditorium. Michael is an award-winning composer and international touring artist who plays rare and unusual instruments from around the world.

His performances are both educational and entertaining. Michael inspires and connects with audiences of all ages. Percussion Conversations: Friday, Nov. 9 at 1:15 p.m. in the JCC Auditorium. Under Michael’s guidance, the artist-in-residence program will conclude with an intergenerational concert by the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home Counterclockwise from top left: Susan D. Wier, Michael Fitzsimmons, The Pacific Residents and Friedel Jewish Academy 5th Strings Ensemble, and Jordan Goldsmith. and 6th-grade students who will perform on a variety of percussion instruments. These two programs are supported in part by a grant from the Anything Grants, funded by the Staenberg Family Foundation and Friends of the Jewish Federation of Omaha. There is no admission fee for both pro-

out Europe. On her journeys, she makes the acquaintances of Harry, Bill, and Sam -- the latter whom she falls in love with, but he’s also the man who breaks her heart. In the present day, Donna’s pregnant daughter, Sophie, dreams of renovating a taverna while reuniting with her mother’s old friends and

boyfriends on the Greek island of Kalokairi. The running time is one hour and 54 minutes and it is rated PG-13. Have lunch at the STAR Deli (Rose Blumkin Jewish Home) before the show. The STAR Deli is open for business at 11:30 p.m.

Dinner for one: Adding Mealtime Appeal, Monday, Nov. 19, 1:30 p.m. in the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home Boardroom.

Jordan Goldsmith, MS, RD, LMNT. The presentation reviews nutrition and aging and tips for eating alone, such as: planning ahead, modifying recipes, enhancing variety and making mealtime enjoyable. Jewish Social Services and the Visiting Nurse Association realize the importance of being proactive about your health. This educational workshop will be a specific interest to seniors who want to learn more about taking charge of their well-being. To RSVP, please call Maggie Conti at 402.334.6521 or email mconti@rbjh.com by Monday, Nov. 12. Refreshments will be served. There is no charge!

Invite a friend.

The Pacific Strings Ensemble: Wednesday, Nov. 28 in the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home Auditorium at 1:45 p.m. The Maloley Family siblings have been playing together for over 10 years. All of the children play piano and each plays a string instrument and participate in the Intergeneration Orchestra and the Frontier Strings Ensemble. You may see them frequently at the local farmers’ markets entertaining visitors Their concert features popular oldies and fiddle tunes that will have your toes tapping. Absolutely not to be missed.

Enjoy an ice cream social following the show. There is no charge and all are welcome.

Mainstreeters main goal is to offer activities and programs that give area residents -- age 60-plus -- the chance to meet new people, exercise their brains, learn new skills and enjoy life to the fullest. We look forward to seeing many community seniors join in our November activities. For questions call Maggie Conti, Director of Activities and Volunteer Services at 402.334.6521 or email mconti@rbjh.com.

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Anniversary

ISRAEL BONDS AND BETH EL SYNAGOGUE INVITE YOU TO AN E VE NIN G WITH

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