Sponsored by the Benjamin and Anna E. Wiesman Family Endowment Fund AN AGENCY OF THE JEWISH FEDERATION OF OMAHA
Aronson legacy continues to support scholarships
March 16, 2012 22 Adar 5772 Vol. 92 | No. 26
This Week
by MARY BORT Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation For many years, the late Bob Aronson had a dream to honor the memory of his mother, Lenore Aronson. He fulfilled that dream in 1997 when he established the Lenore Simon Aronson Educational Fund of the Jewish Federation of Omaha (JFO) Foundation, commemorating her college education and teaching career. Aronson wanted to provide an opportunity for Jewish women to pursue their dreams of becoming teachers, just as his mother had done later in life while raising her family. After earning teaching credentials from UNO, Lenore became a substitute teacher for District 66. She died in 1979. The Lenore Simon Aronson Educational Fund provides scholarships to female Jewish adults or young adults residing in the Omaha metropolitan area and pursuing a program at University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) leading to a degree and career in education, who have demonstrated financial need. Scholarships are administered through the Center for Jewish Education (CJE). A secondary purpose of the fund is to supplement CJE scholarship funds to enable Omaha metropolitan Jewish youth to attend summer
Is the Israeli home front ready for war with Iran? Page 6
Purim celebrations Page 7
Inside Point of view Synagogues In memoriam
This Month The Passover Issue See Front Page stories and more at: www.jewishomaha.org, click on Jewish Press
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by RON KAMPEAS WASHINGTON (JTA) -President Obama and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu agree, at least in principle: Keep the talk on what to do about Iran behind closed doors. But once they’re behind those doors, they can’t agree -- and they can’t seem to resist bringing their disagreements into the open. Within hours of a long and private Oval Office meeting on March 5 that aides to both leaders said was productive, Netanyahu suggested that Obama’s sanctions-focused approach to Iran’s nuclear program wasn’t producing results. The next day Obama was warning that the United States would suffer repercussions if Israel struck Iran prematurely. There also seems to have been some concessions from both sides. Netanyahu told Obama and congressional leaders that he had not yet decided to strike Iran. And Obama’s
by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Communications Coordinator An award-winning author, noted teacher, and frequent television and radio talk show guest, Rabbi Steve Greenberg has forged across boundaries as an openly gay Orthodox Jew in his
Bob Aronson, left; his mother, Lenore Aronson; and one of Bob’s sisters, Patti Aronson Kramish, on the day Lenore received her teaching credentials from UNO. camps sponsored by the Jewish Community Center or camping programs sponsored by other local or national Jewish organizations approved by the CJE. “Bob grew up in Omaha but was living in California by the time he established the fund,” said Marty Ricks, Foundation Executive Director. “He wanted to ensure that scholarships would be awarded in future years, so he made additional contributions to the fund until he passed away in 2006.” “I only met Bob once, at a restau-
rant near his home in Westlake Village, California, the general area I lived in before returning to Omaha,” recalled Ricks. “He loved talking about his children, his parents, his extended family in Omaha and the Huskers. It was clear that Bob’s Omaha roots were important to him. I came away from that lunch saying ‘this is a kind, gentle and generous man.’” Aronson’s children - Tom, Jon, and Molly - recently made a commitment to continue supporting the Continued on page 2
The Obama-Netanyahu summit Putin wins, what’s next for Russian Jews? Page 12
Temple Israel presents Rabbi Greenberg
Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu and US President Barak Obama Credit: ISRANET at their meeting at the White House. defense secretary, Leon Panetta, issued perhaps the most explicit warning yet of possible U.S. military action against Iran in his address Tuesday to the American Israel Public Affairs Committee’s annual policy conference. “Military action is the last alternative when all else fails,” he said on the conference’s last day in a round of morning addresses aimed at motivating the 13,000 activists in attendance before they visited Capitol Hill to lobby lawmakers. “But make no mistake, if all else fails, we will act.” That formulation is more acute
than the “no-options-off-the-table” language that has been the boilerplate for the Obama and Bush administrations. Much of Panetta’s speech appeared to be a bid to persuade Netanyahu to coordinate more closely with the U.S. “Cooperation is going to be essential to confronting the challenges of the 21st century,” Panetta said. “The United States must always have the unshakable trust of our ally Israel. We are stronger when we act as one.” Top Obama administration officials have tried to persuade Netanyahu that diplomatic options Continued on page 2
Rabbi Steve Greenberg battle to make Orthodox Judaism more open, inclusive and accepting of homosexual members. As a scholar-in-residence Thursday, March 29 - Sunday, April 1 at Temple Israel, he’ll share his personal story, talk about welcoming the stranger and homosexuality in the Jewish tradition, and lead an GLBT inclusion training for religious educators. Seated opposite four anti-gay Christian clergy on a Canadian talk show, called Test of Faith, Rabbi Greenberg said he “didn’t expect to be thrown to the lions this way, but it turned out to be quite interesting. Luckily, that day, I was quick on my feet so I think I did a fairly good job of responding to their religious challenges including: ‘Don’t ask don’t tell,’ ‘I’ve prayed my gay away,’ and ‘Homosexuality is tearing our community apart.’” Rabbi Greenberg is a senior teaching fellow at the National Jewish Center for Learning and Leadership (CLAL). Featured in the acclaimed 2001 film, Trembling Before God, about Orthodox gay Jews, Rabbi Greenberg has appeared in more than 500 post-screening community dialogues all over the world including the United States and Israel. The film will be shown at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 28, at Temple Israel. As educational coordinator for the film’s outreach project, he arranged for screenings in Israel’s religious school system, reaching more than 2,000 principals, educators, and school counselors. A popular speaker on issues of faith, sexuality, and tradition, he’s described by CLAL as helping organize the first Orthodox Mental Health Conference on homosexuality and working with families in reconciliation. On Thursday, March 29, Rabbi Greenberg will meet with Continued on page 3
2 | The Jewish Press | March 16, 2012
Obama-Netanyahu summit
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Continued from page 1 have not yet been exhausted in the bid to have Iran stand down from its suspected nuclear weapons program. Netanyahu did not seem as eager to cooperate in his hardhitting speech on Monday night, which repeatedly brought the AIPAC crowd to its feet for ovations. He stressed Israel’s right to act and expressed impatience with the pace of efforts to bring pressure to bear on Iran. “I appreciate President Obama’s recent efforts to impose even tougher sanctions against Iran, and these sanctions are hurting Iran’s economy, but unfortunately Iran’s nuclear program continues to march forward,” Netanyahu said. “We’ve waited for diplomacy to work, we’ve waited for sanctions to work, none of us can afford to wait much longer. As prime minister of Israel, I will never let my people live in the shadow of annihilation.” Responding to commentators who argue that military action against Iran would be ineffective or provoke a violent response, Netanyahu said, “I’ve heard these arguments before.” He then Prime Minister Binyamin dramatically held up corNetanyahu addressing the respondence from 1944 AIPAC conference in the between the World Jewish Washington DC Convention Congress and the U.S. War Credit: ISRANET Center. Department in which the latter rejected the WJC’s plea to bomb Auschwitz and the railways leading to the death camp. “2012 is not 1944, the American government today is different. You heard that in President Obama’s speech yesterday,” he said. “But here is my point: The Jewish people are also different today. We have a state of our own, and the purpose of a Jewish state is to defend Jewish lives and secure our future. Never again.” He repeated the line that he had told Obama at the outset of their meeting earlier Monday: “When it comes to Israel’s survival, we must always remain the masters of our fate.” Such talk appeared to frustrate Obama. The next day, in response to a question at a news conference, Obama pointedly said that military action against Iran could have consequences for the United States. “Israel is a sovereign nation that has to make its own decisions about how best to preserve its security,” he said. “And as I said over the last several days, I am deeply mindful of the historical precedents that weigh on any prime minister of Israel when they think about the potential threats to Israel and the Jewish homeland.” But then he added, “The argument that we’ve made to the Israelis is that we have made an unprecedented commitment to their security. There is an unbreakable bond between our two countries, but one of the functions of friends is to make sure that we provide honest and unvarnished advice in terms of what is the best approach to achieve a common goal, particularly one in which we have a stake. This is not just an issue of Israeli interests, this is an issue of U.S. interests. It’s also not just an issue of consequences for Israel, if action is taken prematurely. There are consequences to the United States as well.” Obama circled back to Republican critics who have accused him of not making it clear to Iran that a military strike would ensue from a failure to stand down from its suspected nuclear program.
“You know, when I visit Walter Reed,” the military hospital in Washington, “when I sign letters to families that have -- whose loved ones have not come home -- I am reminded that there is a cost,” he said. “Sometimes we bear that cost. But we think it through. We don’t play politics with it. When we have in the past -- when we haven’t thought it through and it gets wrapped up in politics, we make mistakes. And typically it’s not the folks who are popping off who pay the price. It’s these incredible men and women in uniform and their families who pay the price.” Obama insisted there was still time for diplomacy to work, and in a subtle gibe at Netanyahu said that Israel’s intelligence establishment agreed. “It is my belief that we have a window of opportunity where this can still be resolved diplomatically,” he said. “That’s not just my view -- that’s the view of our top intelligence officials, it’s the view of top Israeli intelligence officials.” Both leaders appeared to be caught between wanting to make their case and keep some matters behind closed doors. Netanyahu started his Monday night speech to AIPAC’s policy conference by pledging, “I’m not going to talk to you about what Israel will do or not do -- I never talk about that.” A day earlier in his AIPAC address, Obama criticized what he called “loose talk of war.” “Over the last few weeks, such talk has only benefited the Iranian government by driving up the price of oil, which they depend on to fund their nuclear program,” he said. “For the sake of Israel’s security, America’s security, and the peace and security of the world, now is not the time for bluster.” The three Republican presidential candidates who addressed AIPAC on Tuesday used the opportunity to take aim at Obama’s Iran policy, accusing the president of being soft and hesitant on the issue. “I will bring the current policy of procrastination to an end,” Mitt Romney, the former Massachusetts governor, said via satellite. Newt Gingrich, the former speaker of the House of Representatives also speaking via satellite, said that as president he would not expect a warning from Israel should it decide to strike Iran. Rick Santorum, the ex-U.S. senator who was at the conference in person, despite it being Super Tuesday, said that differences between the U.S. and Israel over what should trigger a strike were emboldening Iran. “There is a clear and unfortunate and tragic disconnect between how the leaders of Israel and of the United States view the exigency of this situation,” Santorum said. He accused Obama of “turning his back” on Israel. The evening before, Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), the Senate minority leader, proposed from the podium that the U.S. should openly threaten Iran with the prospect of “overwhelming force” if its nuclear program progresses past certain thresholds. “If Iran at any time begins to enrich uranium to weaponsgrade levels, or decides to go forward with a weapons program, then the United States will use overwhelming force to end that program,” he said to applause, although his remarks do not reflect any AIPAC policy. In the president’s news conference, which was supposed to be about the housing crisis, Obama pushed back against hawkish talk from his Republican critics. “When I see the casualness with which some of these folks talk about war, I’m reminded of the costs involved in war,” he said. “I’m reminded of the decision that I have to make in terms of sending our young men and women into battle, and the impact that has on their lives, the impact it has on our national security, the impact it has on our economy. This is not a game, and there’s nothing casual about it.”
Lenore Simon Aronson Educational Fund Continued from page 1 Lenore Simon Aronson Educational Fund. “The three of us definitely share our dad’s passion for education,” explained Tom Aronson. “We know how much it meant to Dad to honor our grandmother’s legacy. We also want to encourage those in the community who knew Dad to make contributions.” “We weren’t fortunate enough to meet our grandmother, Lenore, as she passed away before we were born,” continued Tom. “However, we knew her from the stories Dad shared with us. He thought the world of her and was incredibly proud of her for earning her teaching credentials.” “Education was extremely important to Dad,” said Jon Aronson. “He was always more excited over an excellent report card than any sports accomplishment we ever had. Dad always pushed us to excel academically, which was a big factor in the graduate degrees we’ve received.”
Although Bob’s children were born and raised in California, Jon explained that they feel a connection to Omaha. “We took annual trips to Omaha to visit with family and attend a Husker football game,” he stated. “No trip was complete without dinner at Gorat’s. And our freezers are always stocked with Omaha Steaks. Our grandmother, Phyllis Aronson, still lives in Omaha, and we try to visit as often as possible.” Bob’s children emphasized the importance of supporting the legacy left by their father. “We miss Dad very much and know how proud he is of us for continuing this fund for him,” said Tom. If you are interested in honoring a loved one’s memory or in leaving a lasting legacy, it’s easy to set up an endowment fund to support a scholarship or other purpose. To learn more about establishing an endowment or other fund at the JFO Foundation, contact Marty Ricks at 402.334.6440 or mricks@jewishomaha.org.
March 16, 2012 | The Jewish Press | 3
AIPAC 2012: Partisan fireworks, a hero’s welcome, Gingrich goes panel-less by RON KAMPEAS WASHINGTON (JTA) -- The American Israel Public Affairs Committee likes to promote an image of bipartisan bonhomie at its annual policy conference. But that’s not always easy, especially in a presidential election year and with partisan passions running high over Middle East policy. The first session of the AIPAC conference, a foreign policy panel, produced some surprise fireworks. Liz Cheney, a top State Department Middle East official in the Bush administration and the daughter of former Vice President Dick Cheney, came out swinging against President Obama’s record. “Everyone in the room understands,” she said, “that Obama has made statements more focused on containing Israeli actions than they have been on containing Iran.” Fellow panelist Jane Harman, a former California congresswoman who was the longtime top Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee, did not take the swipe at her party’s standard-bearer sitting down. “This administration has done more than any in history to help Israel protect itself,” Harman said. She contrasted Obama’s efforts to keep Iran from going nuclear with what she depicted as the failures of the administration that employed both Cheneys. “We have paid dearly in treasure and lives, and the results in those countries are very unsettling,” Harman said, enduring Cheney’s withering glare in referring to the wars that Bush launched in Afghanistan and Iraq. The pro-Iranian tilt of the Iraqi government was “very, very troubling,” Harman added, leaving unsaid that Cheney had helped midwife the same government into existence. The parties that followed the Monday
night gala were off the record, but the political movers and shakers shouted so loud in their rented tents in the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, you could hear what they were saying out in the hall. Once I got past the barriers it was off the record. So what did I overhear from the hall? National Jewish Democratic Council President David Harris saying his party is
the natural home for the Democrats... And Republican Adam Hasner, running in Allen West’s old congressional seat in South Florida, joking about how the Republican Jewish Coalition could not so long ago meet in a phone booth... And from this we learn much of what is said off the record at these events is said on the record at other events. Daniel Hernandez, the congressional
intern who helped save Gabrielle Giffords’ life after she was shot, got a shout-out at the NJDC event. AIPAC showed a video interview with the college student, whose own political career is budding -- he was recently elected to the Phoenix school board. Hernandez described his interactions with a teacher who was a Holocaust survivor, and Continued on page 4
Rabbi Steve Greenberg Continued from page 1 Temple Israel’s Long Range Planning Committee and the Board of Trustees. He’ll also speak at Shabbat worship services the following evening and prior to worship services on March 31. That evening, he’ll discuss his own journey followed by havdalah and a movie. On Sunday morning, Rabbi Greenberg will conduct a training program, using the curriculum of the Keshet Hineini Education Program, for religious educators with Andrea Jacobs, Ph.D. and director of education with Keshet, a national grassroots organization, led and supported by GLBT Jews and straight allies, that works for the full inclusion of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender Jews in Jewish life. Dr. Jacobs has worked in the non-profit education and social justice sectors for more than 20 years addressing a wide range of issues including GLBT inclusion. For the past six years, she has led the development of Keshet’s national education and training programs. Her work focuses on building the capacity of individuals and organizations to implement sustainable change. She
THE RESIDENTS OF THE ROSE BLUMKIN JEWISH HOME EXTEND A CORDIAL INVITATION TO FAMILY AND FRIENDS TO SHARE THE SEDERS WITH THEM IN THE JCC AUDITORIUM
has also worked for the Kolot Center for Jewish Women and Gender Studies in Wyncote, Pennsylvania. Author of the groundbreaking, Wrestling with God and Men; Homosexuality in the Jewish Tradition, published in 2004, Rabbi Greenberg explores homosexuality and Jewish tradition in the book which won the prestigious Koret Book Award for Philosophy and Thought. The book presents readers with biblical interpretations of the creation story, the love of David and Jonathan, the destruction of Sodom, and the condemnatory verses of Leviticus. Drawing on an array of religious texts, Rabbi Greenberg introduces readers to occasions of same-sex love in Talmudic narratives, medieval Jewish poetry and prose, and traditional Jewish case law literature. He argues that the historical record is more diverse and the law is more open to reconsideration than has ever been admitted and that spiritual and moral integrity of religion in addition to the well-being and often the very lives of gay people are at stake. The Koret Award recognizes “recently published books on any aspect of Jewish
life in a number of categories and was established by the Koret Foundation in cooperation with the National Foundation for Jewish Culture. The book was also selected as a finalist for the Lambda Literary Awards presented yearly by the Lambda Literary Foundation to works that celebrate or explore GLBT themes. Rabbi Greenberg is also a founding member and educational advisor of Open House in Jerusalem, an organization that advances the cause of social tolerance. Rabbi Greenberg and his husband, Steven Goldstein, a professor at the University of Cincinnati College of Music, live in Cincinnati, Ohio, and are the parents of 16-month-old Amalia. Rabbi Greenberg is sponsored by Temple Israel’s Hermene Zweiback Center for Lifelong Jewish Learning, in partnership with Inclusive Communities, the AntiDefamation League, First United Methodist Church, the Men of Reform Judaism Congregational Interfaith Grant program (made possible by funding from the Jewish Chautauqua Society) and MRJ’s interfaith education project.
Reservation deadline is March 27. Please call Maggie Conti at 402-334-6521 with any questions. Make check payable to: Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. Mail this order form with payment to: Rose Blumkin Jewish Home c/o Maggie Conti, Director of Activities and Outreach Programs 323 South 132nd Street Omaha, NE 68154 Name: __________________________________________________
Seder 1 – Friday, April 6 at 6 p.m. Leaders Andy and Carole Greenberg
Address: ________________________________________________
Seder 1 Menu
__________________________________________________________
Matza Ball Soup Braised Beef Brisket Sweet Potato Tzimmes Seasoned Asparagus Hot Fruit Compote
Residents you would like to sit with: __________________________ ______________________________________________________
April 6 – Seder 1 Meal
April 7 – Seder 2 Meal
Number of Adults ($18.00) _____
Number of Adults ($18.00) _____
Children under 12 ($12.50) _____
Children under 12 ($12.50) _____
Seder 2 – Saturday, April 7 at 6 p.m. Leaders Polack Family Jim, Susan, Max and Josh
No charge for Residents
Seder 2 Menu
Total Amount Enclosed $ _________
Matzo Ball Soup Roast Turkey Garlic Mashed Potatoes Poultry Gravy
Matzo Dressing Mixed Vegetables Chocolate Cake
4 | The Jewish Press | March 16, 2012
RBJH/YJO Casino Night a winner by OZZIE NOGG It was a sure bet that everyone had fun at the Casino Night sponsored by Young Jewish Omaha and the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. The event, complete with disco ball and slot
Programs, along with RBJH Activity Directors Mary Heiman, Karen Menagh and Adrienne Kitagawa. “It was a festive evening,” Conti said, “and I was impressed with how YJO volunteers jumped right in and played the part of Las Vegas deal-
Top left photo: Cari Green, left, YJO volunteer, and Blumkin Home resident Gloria Friedman; top right photo: Creighton Law School student Katie Whitson, a YJO volunteer, left, and RBJH resident Paulette Flatowicz with her Casino Night prize; bottom left photo: Amy Radding, left, and Cari Green, YJO volunteers, Charney Rosinsky, a “visiting gambler” and Matt Seigel, YJO volunteer. ers. Mary Heiman shopped for a whole month to stock the prize store so every Blumkin Home resident could pick out a special prize. Residents are wondering when we’re going to have Casino Night again. Hopefully, this will be an annual event and we can partner again with Young Jewish Omaha.” machines, was held in the RBJH Auditorium on Main Street. YJO volunteers, wearing bright blue sequined vests acted as dealers and croupiers, while Blumkin Home residents played Black Jack, roulette, craps and other games. “I had such a great time helping the residents play craps,” said Matt Seigel, Young Jewish Omaha volunteer. “Who knew so many high rollers lived in the Blumkin Home.” Volunteers, residents and guests agreed that the intergenerational Casino Night exemplified the special nature of the Omaha Jewish community. Casino Night was chaired by YJO member Sophie Ambrose. The planning committee included Maggie Conti, Blumkin Home Director of Activities and Outreach
Birth Kimberly and Tim Veitzer of San Francisco announce the Jan. 27 birth of their son Samuel (Sammy) Martin. Grandparents are Liz and Karl Johansson of Green Bay, WI and Irv and Gail Veitzer.
Organizations B’NAI B’RITH BREADBREAKERS Speaker to be announced on Wednesday, March 21, noon at the Blumkin Home. An optional buffet lunch costs $11; beverage service only is $3. For more information or to be placed on the email list call 402.334.6443 or bnaibrith@ jewishomaha.org. LOMIR REDN YIDDISH How much Yiddish do you know? Probably more than you think. Some English words have made their way into Yiddish. Many Yiddish words are commonly used in English. Every 1st Thursday of the month, we will be playing Yiddish Bingo. This will give you a chance to show off the Yiddish you didn’t even know you knew. Everyone is invited! We meet every Thursday from 1-3 p.m., in the Rose Blumkin Home Board Room. For information call Anne Skolkin at 402.343.1638.
class of 2012 high school seniors
AIPAC 2012 Continued from page 3 then his introduction to working for the Democratic Party. “I started working for a lot of older Jewish women who called themselves my yentas,” he said. The last time he saw Giffords, Hernandez said, he told her he would attend the AIPAC conference. “When I said AIPAC she just lit up and had a really big smile,” he recalled. Her message? “Tell them I love Arizona and tell them I love AIPAC.” Rick Santorum was the first of three GOP candidates to speak at the AIPAC conference on Daniel Hernandez Tuesday, its last day -- and the only one there in the flesh. He wanted some love for actually flying in on Super Tuesday, when 10 primaries are being contested. “I wanted to come off the campaign trail to come here,” he said. Santorum also coined the catchy anti-Obama line of the day, saying that while Obama says he has Israel’s back, “from everything I’ve seen from the conduct of his administration, he has turned his back on the State of Israel.” Romney, speaking via satellite, got special treatment in two ways: First, AIPAC tweaked its tradition of having a home-state backer introduce the candidate by bringing on two AIPAC stalwarts -- one from Massachusetts (where he governed) and one from Michigan (where he was raised, and where his father governed). But won’t that contribute to the feckless image he is trying to shuck? Romney also had a panel ask him questions, and he even made a little news when one of the questioners asked him what he would do to advance Israeli-Palestinian peace. “Talking about a peace process right now is a bit like setting up a tent in the middle of a hurricane,” he said. “So there has to be some settling down of a number of questions I think before the peace process is going to get its legs again.” Newt Gingrich then spoke and delivered a quickie Israel platform in maybe a minute. His first day, he would move the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem, introduce an energy plan that would reduce the necessity of Saudi oil and launch a bid to unseat the Iranian government. Then he wanted his panel; some 10 seconds of dead silence: For Newt, there was no panel. Gingrich recovered, and AIPAC even came back with two questions.
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Saturday, March 17 9 a.m.–6 p.m.
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high school seniors and parents we will be publishing our annual high school graduation class pages on june 1, 2012. to be included, we need your graduation photo and the information below. you can also email the information and photo to: jpress@jewishomaha.org.
high school senior information name _______________________________________ parent(s)’ name(s) _______________________________________ current high school _______________________________________ college you plan to attend _______________________________________ send by may 7 to: the jewish press | 333 So. 132 St. | omaha, ne 68154
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March 16, 2012 | The Jewish Press | 5
Free concert at JCC to spotlight Jewish composers’ musical gifts by DIANE AXLER BAUM his Jewishness led to his identity as the first real creator of a Occasionally works by Jewish composers reach across Jewish nationalism in music. national borders and connect generations. More rarely they Tenebrae, for soprano, string quartet and clarinet, is one of also offer a creative way to share the Jewish experience with the most loved works of Golijov, who was born in 1960 in the wider world. These works are musical gifts, and they Argentina, where he grew up surrounded by classical chambecome legacies. ber, Jewish liturgical and klezmer music. He studied in The Omaha Chamber Music Society found four such Argentina, Israel and the U.S. and is currently on the faculpieces to present “Legacies: Outstanding Chamber Works by ty at Holy Cross University. He was inspired to write the Jewish Composers,� scheduled for Sunday, April 1, at 7 multi-layered Tenebrae in 2000, after he witnessed a new p.m., in the JCC Theater. wave of violence in Israel that The concert, featuring prohas not yet ended. fessional locally-based musiAs It Fell Upon a Day, for cians, will be followed by a soprano, flute and clarinet, dessert reception. Thanks to a was an early success by generous grant from the Copland, who was studying Sokolof Javitch Music Fund, in Paris when he decided to the event is free and open to use music to evoke the tenthe public. derness and simplicity he’d “We sincerely appreciate the noticed in a 17th Century opportunity to bring this conpoem. Born in 1900 to cert to the JCC, and we have Lithuanian Jewish parents, carefully selected music that Copland grew up in reflects the beauty, intimacy Brooklyn, where he was and unique expressiveness of introduced to music at synathe chamber form,� said Stacie gogue ceremonies and Haneline, Executive Director Yiddish theater. He wrote in of the Omaha Chamber many different styles, but is Music Society. best known for the slowly Included are Ernest Bloch’s changing harmonies of his Eight top professional musicians, many of them favorites of Baal Shem, Osvaldo Golijov’s “American sound.� Omaha area music lovers, are featured in “Legacies,� a free Tenebrae, Aaron Copland’s As In Suite Hebraique for flute, concert scheduled for April 1, at the JCC. (Back row): It Fell Upon a Day, and Suite clarinet, violin and cello, Glick Thomas Kluge, violin, left; Judy Divis, viola; John Hebraique, by Srul Irving uses an unusual chamber Klinghammer, clarinet; Shelby VanNordstrand, soprano; Glick. ensemble to create upbeat, Paul Ledwon, cello; (Bottom row): Anne Nagosky, violin, left; The four works are “both dance-like melodies in a richly Christi Zuniga, piano; Leslie Fagan, flute. interesting and approachable, folk-inflected style. This comto appeal to a wide audience,� Haneline said. All are ground- position gives expression to the importance he places on his ed in classical musical tradition, but each also draws on the Jewish faith and heritage. The son of a Cantor, he was born in religious and cultural heritage of its composer -- from 1934 in Toronto, Canada, where he served as a synagogue melodies that echo Jewish liturgical and folk music, to pas- composer-in-residence, music director and choir director. sages that evoke collective Jewish history. The Omaha Chamber Music Society, established in 2000 Baal Shem, for piano and violin, was inspired by the ecsta- by a group of professional musicians, undertakes educationsy and joy of Jewish mysticism. The piece premiered in 1923 al and outreach programs and presents outstanding concerts, in Cleveland, Ohio, where Bloch was serving as musical including a summer series every Sunday afternoon in June. director of the Cleveland Institute of Music. Born in More information on the Omaha Chamber Music Society Switzerland in 1880, he studied throughout Europe before and the Legacies concert is available at www.omahachamcoming to the U.S. During his life, a growing awareness of bermusic.org or 402.960.6943.
100th Birthday Celebration Join her great nieces and nephew Leslie Kully, Karen Meyer and Bruce Forbes Sunday, March 18 at 2 p.m. Cards can be sent to the The Rose Blumkin Jewish Home 323 S. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68154
Celebrating 40 Fabulous Years of being much more than an Art Gallery!
Hoping to serve you for many years to come.
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Beth El congregants to lend a hand with Habitat for Humanity by JILL BELMONT Beth El Publicity Coordinator Beth El congregants will roll up their sleeves on Sunday, March 25, to volunteer at a local construction site for Habitat for Humanity, a non-profit organization that builds or rehabilitates houses for individuals or families who otherwise would not be able to afford a home. Volunteers will meet on site (to be announced) at 8:30 a.m. for orientation; then the first shift will run from 8:45 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Following lunch at 11:30 a.m., the afternoon orientation session will begin at 12:15 p.m., and the afternoon shift will run until 3:30 p.m. According to Beth El member Scott Simon, who is helping to organize the effort, volunteers may work half a day or the full day, and no prior construction experience is necessary. He also noted that Habitat will provide all supplies, but participants may bring their own tools. Volunteers must be 18 years old; 16- and 17 year olds may participate only with parental consent. Under no circumstances will any children younger than 16 be allowed on site. “This is a great way for Beth El congregants to work
together to assist families in building their first home,� Simon said. “During an informational meeting at the synagogue in January, we had the opportunity to meet a future homeowner, and she was so excited and energized – not only about having a home for her family, but having the opportunity to be involved in all stages of her home’s construction.� Those who would like to help out but cannot participate at the construction site, are welcome to meet at the synagogue to help prepare, pack and deliver lunches to the volunteers – a great way for children and adults to volunteer their services. Those wishing to help prepare lunches are encouraged to contact Beth El Program Director Margie Gutnik, at 402.492.8550, or at programming@bethel-omaha.org. Whether at the construction site or in the synagogue kitchen, “We invite everyone to join the effort on the 25th, and look forward to participating in one of the highest levels of tzedakah!� Simon said. For more information or to sign up as a volunteer, visit www.bethel-omaha.org (enter “Habitat� in search box); or contact Gutnik in the synagogue office.
Mormons limit genealogical access to stop baptisms of Shoah victims by JTA NEWS STAFF (JTA) -- The Mormon Church is restricting access to its genealogical records relating to Holocaust victims in a move to protect their names from posthumous baptisms. “The church is committed to preventing the misguided practice of submitting the names of Holocaust victims and prominent individuals for proxy baptism,� church spokesman Michael Purdy said this week, according to The Associated Press. “In addition to reiterating its policy to members, the church has implemented a new technological
barrier to prevent abuse.� Access to names flagged as not eligible for proxy baptism would be denied, according to Purdy. The move comes amid embarrassing revelations that Holocaust victim Anne Frank and Nazi hunter Simon Wiesenthal had been baptized in Mormon temples. The baptisms fly in the face of a church policy prohibiting proxy baptisms of Holocaust victims unless requested by one of their descendants.
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6 | The Jewish Press | March 16, 2012
Is the Israeli home front ready for war with Iran?
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by EETTA PRINCE-GIBSON phase out public bomb shelters that date back to the 1950s. JERUSALEM (JTA) – Shira Morgenstein, a 38-year-old But some 1.7 million Israelis still have no access to any type secretary, rushed from her exercise class at the Hebrew of physical protection, according to Bielski. University swimming pool to pick up her daughter from In addition, some 40 percent of Israelis do not have gas preschool. masks, which are considered crucial in the event of a chem“Who has time to think about war with Iran?” she laughed ical or biological attack. Bielski says Israel has an additional as she tossed her wet bathing suit into her bag. “I don’t even 1 million masks in storage -- to be released if a state of emerhave a shelter to run to, but too much else is going on.” gency is declared -- but that would leave 2 million people With the drumbeat to war intensifying from Washington to without masks. The $330 million it would cost to get masks Jerusalem, security analysts seem to agree on what Iran’s and other provisions to everyone is not in the government’s response to an Israeli attack might look like: concentrated and prolonged missile attacks on Israel from the Islamic Republic and its proxies, Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas in the Gaza Strip, and a campaign of terrorist attacks on Israeli and Jewish targets overseas. Iran might even use chemical and biological weapons. With such a dire scenario, Israel is facing an urgent question: Is the home front ready for war? Haredi Orthodox volunteer paramedics wearing gas masks The joint U.S.-Israel Arrow Zeev Bielski, chairman during a home-front drill in Jerusalem, June 23, 2011. Weapon System successfully of the Knesset subcommitCredit: Nati Shohat/Flash90/JTA. intercepted a ballistic target tee on Israel’s home missile, Feb. 22, 2011. defense, says the answer is an unequivocal no. budget, according to Credit: U.S. Missile “The home front is not ready,” Bielski told JTA. “We have Bielsky. Defense Agency made improvements over the situation since the Second “It is the responsibility of Lebanon War in 2006, when the home front was completely the government to provide basic protection for its citizens, unprepared, but the situation is not good.” and the government is not fulfilling its responsibilities,” The first layer of defense is likely to be Israel’s missile Bielski said. defense systems. But one system, David’s Sling, which is The Prime Minister’s Office and the Finance Ministry meant to destroy incoming medium-range rockets, probably refused to respond to inquiries by JTA. won’t be operational at least until 2013. Another, the Arrow, In December, Defense Minister Ehud Barak in an interwhich was developed in conjunction with the United States view with Army Radio said the key element to preventing at a cost of more than $1 billion and was specifically casualties is for Israelis to stay home. designed with Iran’s Shehab missiles in mind, has never “War is not a picnic, but if Israel is forced to act, we won’t been tested in real-life combat. have 50,000, 5,000 or even 500 dead, so long as people stay A third, Iron Dome, has intercepted short-range rockets in their homes,” Barak said. from Gaza, but Israel only has three Iron Dome installations The advice might apply not just within Israel but to while experts say the country needs at least 12. Israelis and Jews overseas. Among the responses considered “The systems we have will cut down on the damage that likely by Iran are terrorist attacks like the bombings that the missiles can cause, but they cannot completely prevent destroyed the Israeli Embassy in Buenos Aires in 1992 and it,” Yiftah Shapir, director of the military balance project at the AMIA Jewish community center in the Argentine capiTel Aviv University’s Institute for National Security Studies, tal in 1994. The attacks combined to kill 114 people. told JTA. “Some of those missiles will make it to Israeli popBut Efraim Kam, deputy head of the Institute for National ulation centers. Israel should be ready for a long period of Security Studies, said Iran’s terrorist capability is not as effecattacks, perhaps even months, and this may bring commerce tive today because of its weakened terrorist infrastructure and other aspects of civilian life to a halt.” and global efforts against terrorism. As evidence, he pointed Iran has hundreds of Shehab-3 missiles, and Hezbollah is to the recent botched attacks on Israeli targets in Georgia, said to have at least 40,000 missiles and rockets, many of India and Thailand, for which Israel has fingered Iran. which are sophisticated, long-range weapons that can reach Israela Oron, a member of Israel’s National Security almost any part of Israel. Council and a retired brigadier general, said the lack of pub“Israel’s major cities have never come under attack,” lic discussion of homeland security is part and parcel of the Shapir said. “This will be a very different and difficult expe- country’s lack of preparedness. rience for Israeli civilians.” “How can we decide if 500 people is too many or ‘acceptA little more than a year ago, the Defense Ministry estab- able’ if these numbers are not discussed in the context of other lished the Civil Defense Ministry to take responsibility for possible alternatives? There is no discussion of the price that home-front defense. But the office has no budget, staffing or the home front will have to pay, and whether the homefront authority. A report in December by the state comptroller, the can tolerate it,” said Oron, who is also a member of the government’s internal watchdog agency, criticized local Inclusive Security Council, an organization that aims to bring authorities for failing to conduct home-front emergency drills. more women into national security decision-making. According to a 1992 law, all new residential buildings in “What will it mean if our cities are shut down for months? Israel must be built with a reinforced room that can with- How will the public respond? The government should weigh stand rocket and missile attacks. The rooms were meant to these questions as carefully as they do the military planning.”
Beth El’s Community Seder promises a special holiday celebration for the entire family by JILL BELMONT Beth El Publicity Coordinator From babies to bubbes, Beth El’s annual Community Seder is a warm and wonderful way to welcome the festival of Passover with the whole family. This year’s celebration is scheduled for Friday, April 6, beginning with 5:45 p.m. Kabbalat Shabbat services, and followed by the 6:30 p.m. Seder. Everyone in the Jewish community – regardless of synagogue affiliation or non-affiliation -- is invited to join Rabbi Mordechai Levin, Rabbi Steven Abraham and Cantor Beth Schlossberg as they lead the commemoration of the Exodus, celebrating the Jewish people’s journey from slavery to freedom. “A warm, joyful evening is being planned, filled with singing and meaningful concepts from the Haggadah to reflect modern slavery and freedom,” Rabbi Levin said. “We
look forward to sharing our celebration with the community.” Dinner selections will include brisket, salmon, and a vegan entrée. Special early-bird prices will be offered for reservations made (with payment) by March 27. Those prices, which reflect Beth El members/non-members, are: adults, $20/$25; children 7-12, $14/$18; children six and younger, free. After March 27, cost will be: adults, $25/$30; children 7-12, $18/$22. Be sure to make the synagogue office aware of any special seating requests or the need for high chairs or booster chairs. To make a reservation, send a check to “Community Seder,” Beth El Synagogue, 14506 California St., Omaha NE 68154. Reservations may also be made online at www. bethel-omaha.org (type ‘Passover’ in the search box). For more information, contact Program Director Margie Gutnik in the synagogue office, 402.492.8550, or programming@ bethel-omaha.org.
March 16, 2012 | The Jewish Press | 7
Purim celebrations
Purim was celebrated in a variety of places, left to right, top: First grade teacher Angie Gormley surrounded by Friedel Jewish Academy students; Yael Schuller and Leora McNamara; the Rose Blumkin Home
crowned Eugene and Lydia Linde as its King and Queen, with dog Bella in attendance; Middle: George Shafer; Beth El’s BESTT students performed a comical, entertaining Purim spiel; JCC Director Aaron “Popeye”
Rosenfeld; Vera Dobin and Basya Tsed glammed it up at Chabad’s Purim Party; Bottom: Steve Denenberg, flanked by niece Rebecca and son Danny, reads the Megillah; Eli Matalon; the Beth El costume parade;
Tracy Modra and Denise Ipock at the JCC member service desk. Note: because of the timing of this issue, we were not able to squeeze in as many photos as we wanted; look for part II in our March 23 edition.
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8 | The Jewish Press | March 16, 2012
Point of view
American Jewish Press Association Award Winner
Nebraska Press National Newspaper Association Association Award winner 2008
Relative calm
by ANNETTE VAN DE KAMP-WRIGHT Editor of the Jewish Press In the Sunday March 10 edition of the New York Times, Fares Akram and Isabel Kershner wrote: “Cross-border violence between Israel and militant groups in Gaza continued Saturday, as Israeli air strikes that began Friday afternoon killed several more Palestinian militants and militant groups fired scores of rockets into southern Israel, breaking months of relative calm.” Noam Bedein, Director of the Sderot Media Center, took issue with the choice of words: “It is wrong to say that there had been "months of relative calm." She’s got a point. To be honest, the first thought I have when seeing an article like this one in the NY Times is: at least someone in the American media pays attention. Because in recent years, rocket attacks in Israel have become an unfortunate after thought. A way to fill holes in the news cast, once all the “important” stuff has been covered, the way the local news cast pads its broadcast with stories of rescued puppies. Five minutes short for tonight’s show? Let’s put in some last minute fluff. Another rocket attack in Israel; why not. But: “Since Israel's self imposed cease fire on January 19th, 2009, the Gaza regime has launched 1188 aerial attacks on southern Israel. And the last two months have witnessed more than 100 such attacks,” according to the Sderot media Center. Would one rocket fall in the middle of Manhattan, the entire country would be talking about it for years. As would other countries; threats would ensue towards those responsible for such a heinous act. Yet, we don’t pay attention to what is going on in Israel, because we are used to it. It’s old
news; we’ve heard it before. And, of course, there are plenty of people who genuinely don’t care, period. Don’t get me started. At the same time, there have been plenty of boycotts and divestments, aimed at pressuring Israel to change its ways. What I want to know is, do the people who boycott Israeli products because they disagree with Israel’s treatment of Palestinians also pay attention when these attacks happen? Or do they think Israel had it coming? Many of us - Jews and non-Jews alike - have strong opinions about how the Israeli government should behave if they ever want to reach a true and lasting peace. That is okay; it means we are paying attention, and in the process we aim to hold the politicians accountable. That is a useful thing: politicians in any country, at the end of the day, are human beings who are just as prone to bad decisions as the rest of us. Public service is only worth anything if that public gets involved, and is invested. But, that also means we have to be honest when it comes to the threats that Israel faces, and that’s where non-Israelis often fall short. When we read about “relative calm” in Israel, we should hear alarm bells in the back of our heads. Relative calm? What, exactly, does that mean? Relative to what? I’m afraid that the Western media is not only under reporting as far as
how frequently it covers what’s happening in Israel, but also has adopted a certain type of discourse. “Good,” when speaking of safety in Israel, often means “good enough.” But by whose standards? Not the Israelis who watch the rockets come down in their backyards, that’s for sure. When the public needs to translate while it reads, watches and listens to the media, something is wrong. When we use news about yet another rocket attack in Israel as fluffy-lastminute-filler-news, we are saying that rockets from Gaza are an acceptable occurrence, an unavoidable status quo. And that would be doing Israel, and its inhabitants, an enormous disservice.
In Japan, pride in the Jewish response to tsunami
Focus on issues ANTONIO DI GESU TOKYO (JTA) -- As I sit here in Tokyo with the first anniversary of the tsunami fast approaching, I recall my surprise the first time a Japanese person thanked me, as a Jew, for Israel’s immediate response to the disaster. It was certainly not the time to instruct that well-meaning person that not all Jews are from Israel -- the average Japanese does not make a distinction between them -- so instead I proudly basked in the thought of Israel being the first country to come to Japan’s aid with its emergency field hospital. The second time, however, I was not caught off guard: I had prepared a little speech in which I told of what the Jewish Community of Japan, of which I am the rabbi, was doing together with the global Jewish community to help people in the face of crisis. I was able to report on stories of individual members of our community -- mostly made up of American, European and Israeli Jews -- who in the first hours after the disaster purchased tons of flour and food, and managed to deliver it to the displaced. I also told them about the many local Jews who organized food drives, raised money and took time from work to volunteer with the cleanup. Most especially, I told them the tale of the 11-year-old girl from our thriving Hebrew school who singlehandedly organized the first bicycle drive through which she collected nearly 100 pairs of shoes to distribute in a destitute town in the north of Japan. I have told these stories many times. But what really impresses the people here is the story of the almost instantaneous global Jewish response to the disaster. The effort came in many forms, such as Chabad, the Israeli field hospital or IsraAID. For us at the Jewish Community of Japan, the effort manifested itself in our partnership with the American
(Founded in 1920) Andrew Ruback President Annette van de Kamp-Wright Editor Richard Busse Creative Director Jessie Wees Advertising Executive Lori Kooper-Schwarz Assistant Editor Barbara Kirkpatrick Bookkeeper
Jewish Press Board Eric Dunning, Vice President; Jason Epstein, Treasurer; Bobbi Leibowitz, Past President; Marc Brodkey; Phyllis Brown; Daniel Christensen; Mel Epstein; Scott Farkas; Michael Kaufman; Paul Rabinowitz; Caryn Scheer; Mark Senal; Nancy Wolf. The role of the Jewish Federation of Omaha is to involve Jews in meeting Jewish communal needs locally, nationally and in Israel. Agencies of the Federation are: Community Relations, Jewish Community Center, Center for Jewish Education, Jewish Family Service/Jewish Senior Services, and the Jewish Press. Guidelines and highlights of the Jewish Press, including front page stories and announcements, can be found online at: www jewishoma-
Jewish Joint Distribution Committee, which reached out to us within 24 hours of the earthquake offering its support. In the first days after the disaster, those who remained in Japan felt the urgency to do something. This desire was combined with the fear and anxiety caused by the conflicting reports about the situation. It was a “time to act for the Lord,” but it was not clear what we could do. Some 2,000 Jews are living in Japan, and none of us had been affected irreversibly by the quake, thank God. However, the tragedy we faced as a nation was overwhelming. As such, it was deeply important that our individual efforts at the time were soon combined with the help of those from outside Japan. It represented a powerful vehicle for us to act quickly and collectively on our natural desire to help. After all, we wanted our country to know that we care for her and her people, as the Talmud says, “at a time when the community is in distress, none should say: I’ll go to the privacy of my home and have a party.” Since those early days, we have made a lasting impact on the life of tens of thousands of individuals. By combining the Jewish Community of Japan’s local guidance -- including accessing our friends and family, business relationships and closeness to Japanese society -- and the JDC’s expertise in disaster relief, we’ve put programs into action to support various groups in the disaster areas – for children, the deaf and hearing impaired, the elderly, the physically disabled and the displaced. Among our many achievements, we have brought in Israeli post-trauma specialists who have worked and trained the local social workers and teachers to help children suffering in fear, and found ways, in addition to our other work, to provide meals for those living in evacuation shelters and temporary housing. But what I believe is the biggest success yet is the establishment of 13 community cafes in Ishinomaki, the town hit the hardest by the tsunami. I knew full well about these cafes, a
venue for displaced people of the area to gather and receive informal psychological support while participating in activities, classes and programs, or plain, old-fashioned schmoozing. I was pleasantly surprised to have another moment of Jewish pride, when at one of the many interfaith meetings I attend, a church minister lauded the cafes as a successful example of outreach and support. At that moment I could not help myself and expressed with true satisfaction that these cafes had been possible thanks to the generosity and expertise of the Jewish community. Seeing the look of positive surprise on the faces of my fellow clergy, I couldn’t help but wonder, “Is this the bread coming back to us upon the water?” Perhaps no greater example of this connection between the Jews of Japan and our neighbors is our project to repair the Buddhist Komyogi Temple in Oshu. As part of the effort, we are creating a joint program to provide a respite for the beleaguered children of Rikuzentakata, a city devastated by the tsunami. Through children’s activities and numerous opportunities for exchange between our families and theirs, a dialogue between our communities will be built on the ideals of mutual responsibility and human compassion. All of this, of course, would not be possible without the support of Jews from abroad. A constant source of “naches” for me as a rabbi, this outpouring of help speaks to one of the Jewish values I cherish most, tikkun olam. It also highlights, perhaps better than anything I have ever seen, the strengthening of bridges existing between the Japanese people and Israel and the Jews. Despite my initial reaction to the compliment from my Japanese neighbor, I have seen in the last year that we are one people. And together we can save lives, wherever in the world we are needed. Antonio Di Gesu, a native of Italy and graduate of the Jewish Theological Seminary in New York, is the rabbi of the Jewish Community of Japan.
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March 16, 2012 | The Jewish Press | 9
The importance of every human being
On domestic violence front, more work is needed
Behind the headlines LORI WEINSTEIN AND LEE SHERMAN
A Guy’s view GUY MATALON, Jewish Federation of Omaha Scholar in Residence My least favorite holiday was just here. Even as a child I could never connect to Purim through the costumes and the grogers and the carnivals. This year, however, I came to see the Story of Purim and why it is so important in a different light. Thanks to Rabbi Gross’ invitation of his friend, Rabbi Gelman of Hoveve Tzion in Chicago, I came to have a better appreciation of the Book of Esther. The book begins by describing a party that included drinking and other things that I am sure you can imagine. All limits, so it appears, were tossed to the wind. Since the King had the party for the men, the Queen threw a party for the women along the same lines. The king decided to invite Vashti the Queen to his party and she refused. The first crisis occurs here because at this stage, we have two individuals who have conflicting wills. If the guiding concept of the party is each according to his/her will, what happens now? One of the advisers of the King, Memochan, presents the personal conflict between the Queen and the King as a societal conflict that would lead to the destruction of marital bliss throughout the kingdom. The Talmud (Megillah 21a) tells us that this is no other than Haman. Later in the book, Haman takes a personal conflict he has with one Jew, Mordechai, and presents it as an imperial crisis that threatens the very existence of the empire. In both cases, the conflict of wills is decided by completely dehumanizing one side of the conflict. In the case of Vashti, the decision is made that each according to his will applies only to men and not women. Young women are collected in the streets for the pleasure of the King without a thought of their own will. In the case of Mordechai’s refusal to bow down before Haman, the decision is made to murder every Jew throughout the kingdom - they do not count, they cannot have a will. The message and importance of Purim focus on what happens when one society devalues one group. That to me is extremely relevant. Behind the festivities, we are celebrating the affirmation of the importance of every human being. I Hope you had a happy Purim. Guy Matalon is the Jewish Federation of Omaha’s Scholar in residence, and as such aims to educate and inform the community about matters pertaining to Judaism and Israeli politics. A Guy’s View can also be found online at www.jewishomah.org.
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LOCATE IN 48 UPDATE The nationwide framework for interstate movement of livestock is the Animal Disease Traceability System. This system will only apply to livestock when moved across a state line. Rules for cattle moving across state lines will be very similar to existing regulations which have been in place for years. Official metal tags we have used for decades will be recognized as an official form of ID for interstate movement of cattle. For more information call Nebraska Department of Agriculture
Locate In 48 at
(JTA) -- Thirty years ago, a Jewish woman experiencing domestic violence had few places to turn. Community leaders strongly resisted acknowledging violence for fear that it would harm marriages and break up families. Few services existed for women seeking support in a Jewish setting. Prior to 1994, the U.S. government did not even recognize domestic violence as a federal crime. Since then, we have witnessed a bold transformation in national and Jewish communal responses to violence against women. Today, more Jewish women experiencing domestic violence are coming forward than ever before. Approximately 175 Jewish programs and organizations are in place to respond to their complex needs with lifesaving services. Jewish clergy have recognized that in times of crisis, survivors often turn to them for support, guidance and refuge, and they are working together to promote awareness and share best practices when counseling families experience abuse. Jewish domestic violence organizations also are engaging in political advocacy, leading prevention programs for young people and working with other faith groups to accomplish their goals. The coordinated community approach to eradicating violence has successfully addressed the needs of thousands of Jewish families. Now the Jewish community serves as a model for other religious communities trying to make their faith a resource, not a barrier, to addressing violence. But there is still work to be done. According to Jewish Women International’s 2011 survey of Jewish domestic violence organizations, 90 percent of respondents believe their clients face a gap in services, citing a lack of legal services and affordable housing as the two largest areas of unmet need. Some 76 percent of respondents also see elder abuse as a growing problem, but few programs are in place to offer services to older Jewish individuals affected by abuse. Despite great strides, too many among us still live in fear of violence and do not have access to a full range of services. We must do more to ensure that every Jewish person can lead a healthy, safe and stable life. Domestic and sexual violence are persistent crises. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s 2010 National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey, one in four women and one in seven men have been the victim of severe physical violence by an intimate partner, while one in five women will be raped in her lifetime. Clearly there is still work to be done. Every Jewish individual and organization that cares about tikkun olam, repairing the world, must take a stand. More rabbis must speak from the bimah about this issue and receive training so they can effectively respond to cases of abuse within their congregations. With one in 10 adoles-
cents experiencing physical dating violence, all Jewish youth should be exposed to healthy relationship programming as part of their Jewish education. Finally, we must all become advocates for this cause by promoting legislation and community action that supports domestic violence programs and services. Congress is considering legislation to reauthorize the historic, bipartisan Violence Against Women Act, or VAWA, for another five years. VAWA, our nation’s most critical tool in responding to domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking, supports law enforcement responses and direct services for victims of these crimes. Since its passage in 1994, VAWA has unquestionably improved our nation’s response to violence: All states have strengthened rape laws, and the number of individuals killed by an intimate partner has decreased by 34 percent for women and 57 percent for men. VAWA has been a bipartisan effort of Congress since it was passed. But in this political and economic climate, VAWA’s reauthorization cannot be assumed. As the Senate considers S. 1925 -- the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2011 introduced by Sens. Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) and Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) -- we urge everyone to become an advocate for the legislation. The bill would continue the federal government’s response to violence against women for another five years and provide more gateways for victims to access services. It emphasizes the important work of the faith community by providing more opportunities for faith groups to access VAWA funding. Forty-five national faith organizations, including a broad array of prominent Jewish organizations from the American Jewish Committee to the Orthodox Union, have signed on to a letter urging Congress to swiftly reauthorize VAWA. The organized Jewish community is playing a critical role in this effort, but we need your help. We should be contacting our senators to co-sponsor S. 1925 and urge our representatives to introduce similar bipartisan legislation in the House of Representatives. Domestic violence is an issue that deserves the dedication, passion and attention of the Jewish community. By working together to reauthorize VAWA and address violence against women and families, we will continue to build a foundation for healthier homes and safer communities. Lori Weinstein is the executive director of Jewish Women International. Lee Sherman is the president and CEO of the Association of Jewish Family & Children’s Agencies.
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10 | The Jewish Press | March 16, 2012
Synagogues B’NAI ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE 618 Mynster Street | Council Bluffs, IA 51503-0766 | 402.322.4705 email: CBsynagogue@hotmail.com For information on our historic synagogue – dates and times for Friday night services, please call 712.323.8885.
BETH EL SYNAGOGUE Member of United Synagogues of Conservative Judaism 14506 California | Omaha, NE 68154-1980 | 402.492.8550 www.bethel-omaha.org Services conducted by Rabbi Mordechai Levin, Rabbi Steven Abraham and Cantor Beth Schlossberg. FRIDAY: Kabbalat Shabbat Service, 6 p.m. SATURDAY: Shabbat Services, 9:30 a.m.; Family Shabbat Service, 10:30 a.m.; lunch with follow. After lunch, secondfifth graders will participate in a Mini-Shabbaton until 3 p.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 7:20 p.m. Cantorial candidate Shoshana Abrams will visit Beth El from March 16-18. Cantor Abrams will participate in Friday and Saturday Shabbat services, and will conduct a question/answer session during Kiddush luncheon. She will also facilitate a study session Saturday afternoon prior to Minha/Ma’ariv, and will lead Shacharit services on Sunday morning. WEEKDAY SERVICES: Sundays, 9 a.m. & 5:30 p.m.; weekdays, 7 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. SUNDAY: Torah Study Discussion Group, 10 a.m.; Sunday Scholars Series, 11 a.m. featuring family therapist Glen Fineman; Chaverim, 3:30-4:30 p.m. at Defying Gravity, 10421 Portal Road. No charge to attend. Drop-off and pickup at venue. To RSVP, contact Shiri in the office, or at youth dir@bethel-omaha.org. MONDAY: Wrestling with Rabbis of the Talmud, 10 a.m. with Rabbi Abraham. Shabbat Story Time, a new Shabbat program for toddlers and parents, led by Shira Abraham, beginning Saturday, March 24, 11:30 a.m. How to enrich your seder Passover class led by Rabbi Levin, on Sunday, March 25, 11 a.m. During this class, learn more about leading or attending a Seder; attendees are encouraged to bring questions for discussion. No charge to attend; open to all adults in the Jewish community. To RSVP, contact the office. Habitat for Humanity Volunteer Day, Sunday March 25, 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. For more information or to sign up, visit www.bethel-omaha.org (type ‘Habitat’ in search box), or call the office. (see full story on pages 5.) Congregational Seder, Friday, April 6, beginning with 5:45 p.m. Shabbat services, and followed by the 6:30 p.m. Seder. (see full story on pages 6.) YAC Playgroup will meet on Tuesday, March 27, 10:30 a.m., at PE 101. For more information, contact Caryn Scheer at carynscheer@yahoo.com. All classes and programs are open to everyone in the Jewish community.
BETH ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE Member of Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America 12604 Pacific Street | Omaha, NE. 68154 | 402.556.6288 www.BethIsrael@OrthodoxOmaha.org Office Hours: Mon.-Thurs., 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Fri., 8:30 a.m-2 p.m. Services conducted by Rabbi Jonathan Gross and Rabbi Yitzchak Mizrahi. FRIDAY: Kabbalat Shabbat, 7:15 p.m. SATURDAY: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Free babysitting service begins at 9:30 a.m.; Children’s Classes begin with Torah Parade, 9:45 a.m.; Kiddush is sponsored by those celebrating birthdays, anniversaries and simchas in March; The Laws of Shabbat, 5 p.m.; Advanced Parshah Study for Kids
(ages 10 and up), 6 p.m.; Veshinantam, 6 p.m.; Mincha, 7 p.m., followed by Seuda Shlishit; Havdalah, 8:15 p.m. SUNDAY: Gemara class, 8 a.m., learning tractate Kiddushin; Shacharit, 9 a.m. followed by breakfast; Sunday Night Dinner, 6 p.m. WEEKDAYS: Shacharit, 7 a.m. MONDAY: Weekly Teleconference Mishnah Class, 10:30 a.m. with Rabbi Gross. Contact the office for information on how to call-in to the conference call. TUESDAY: Sisterhood Lunch with BINGO, 11:30 a.m.; Rabbi Mizrahi’s Weekly Class, 7 p.m. WEDNESDAY: Scholars Club for fourth-sixth graders, 3:30 p.m. with Rabbi Mizrahi; Rabbi Weiss’s Weekly Class, 7:30 p.m. THURSDAY: Women of the Torah class, 9:30 a.m. with Rabbi Gross.
SATURDAY: Torah Study, 9:15 a.m.; Shabbat Morning Service, 10:30 a.m. Isiah and Ian Schrier, sons of Tracy Peetz and Jeff Schrier, will celebrate their B’nai Mitzvah. SUNDAY: No Religious School; Religious School Steering Committee Meeting, 12:15 p.m. TUESDAY: Executive Committee Meeting, 6 p.m.; Board of Trustees Meeting, 7 p.m. WEDNESDAY: No Religious School; No Family School; No Grades 7-8; Social Justice Hosting Family Night, 5 p.m. at Bancroft School. THURSDAY: God was in this place and I did not know, 1011:30 a.m. with Rabbi Linder. He will be looking at what our tradition says about the normal moments ... Maybe they’re not so normal? Scholar-in-Residence: Rabbi Steve Greenberg, Friday, March 30-Sunday, April 1. (see full story on pages 1 & 3.)
CHABAD CENTER
TIFERETH ISRAEL
An Affiliate of Chabad-Lubavitch 1866 South 120 Street | Omaha, NE 68144-1646 | 402.330.1800 www.OChabad.com | email: chabad@aol.com Services conducted by Rabbi Mendel Katzman. Office hours: Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-4:30 p.m. FRIDAY: Services, 7 a.m. SATURDAY: Minyan, 10 a.m.; Youth Minyan, 10:30 a.m.; Special Kiddush luncheon will follow sponsored by Drs. David and Marlene Cohen. Join Rabbi Katzman, noon-1 p.m.; New feature: Parsha Patrol. SUNDAY: Service, 8:30 a.m. followed by breakfast at 9:30 a.m. WEEKDAYS: Services, 7 a.m. All programs are open to the entire community.
Member of United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism 3219 Sheridan Boulevard | Lincoln, NE 68502-5236 | 402.423.8569 www.tiferethisraellincoln.org Services conducted by lay leader Nancy Coren. Office hours: Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. FRIDAY: Shabbat Services, 6:30 p.m. SATURDAY: Study Session on Pirkei Avot, 9:30 a.m.; Morning service, 10 a.m. followed by Kiddush lunch. SUNDAY: LJCS Gan through Grade 7, 9:30 a.m.-noon at Tifereth Israel; Hallah High, 10 a.m.-noon at South Street Temple. TUESDAY: Ladies Lunch Group, noon at Parthenon, 5500 South 56th Street. Please contacrt Stephanie Dohner with any questions. WEDNESDAY: Hebrew classes (grades 3-7), 4-6 p.m. at Tifereth Israel. Tot Shabbat with Ms. Jennifer, Friday, Mach 23, 6 p.m. at Tifereth.
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 Services conducted by Rabbi Craig Lewis. FRIDAY: Shabbat Evening Service, 7:45 p.m. with oneg following hosted by Sarah Kelen and Ken Bloom. SATURDAY: Shabbat Morning Service, 9 a.m.; Torah Study, 10:30 a.m. on Parashat Vayakhel-Pekude; Game Night/Potluck, 6 p.m. SUNDAY: LJCS Gan through Grade 7, 9:30 a.m.-noon at Tifereth Israel; Hallah High, 10 a.m.-noon at South Street Temple. TUESDAY: Ladies Lunch Group, noon at Parthenon, 5500 South 56th Street. WEDNESDAY: Hebrew classes (grades 3-7), 4-6 p.m. at Tifereth Israel. Tot Shabbat with Ms. Jennifer, Friday, Mach 23, 6 p.m. at Tifereth. ADULT EDUCATION TUESDAY, 6:30 p.m. Intro to Judaism, Session #11 led by Rabbi Lewis. The cost is $50 to cover course materials. Register by calling the Temple office at 402.435.8004 or email stemple@neb.rr.com. THURSDAYS, Beginning Hebrew, 6 p.m. and Intermediate Hebrew, 7 p.m. The cost is $50 to cover course materials. For more information call the Temple office at 402.435.8004 or email stemple@neb.rr.com. Note: Please contact Rabbi Lewis if the cost for a class creates a financial hardship.
OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE SAC Memorial Chapel 301 Lincoln Highway | Offutt AFB, NE 68113 | 402.294.6244 FRIDAY: Services, 7:30 p.m.
NEIGHBORHOOD PRAYER GROUP
Bat Mitzvah Josephine Slovut, daughter of Beth and Mitchell Slovut, will become a Bat Mitzvah on Saturday, March 24, at Beth El. Josephine is a seventh-grade student at Kiewit Middle School. Her interests include skiing, swimming, cross country, kayaking and playing violin. For her mitzvah project, Josephine entertained residents at the Blumkin Home with her violin music. She has a sister, Heather, and a brother, Simon. Grandparents are Maureen and Bernard Slovut of San Diego, CA, and Abbey Kuller of St. Paul, MN and the late Lawrence Kuller.
Candlelighting Friday, March 16, 7:15 p.m.
1317 North 57 Street | Omaha, NE 68132 | 402.551.6609 FRIDAY: Minyan, 6:07 p.m. SATURDAY: Services, 9 a.m.
ROSE BLUMKIN JEWISH HOME 323 South 132 Street | Omaha, NE 68154 SATURDAY: Services, 9 a.m. led by Marty Shukert. Services will be held in the Chapel. Members of the community are invited to attend.
TEMPLE ISRAEL Union for Reform Judaism (URJ) 7023 Cass Street | Omaha, NE 68132-2651 | 402.556.6536 www.templeisrael-ne.org FRIDAY: Shabbat Service, 6 p.m. led by Rabbi Linder and Cantor Shermet. We will honor everyone who celebrates a birthday or anniversary in March with a special blessing.
Writer Akos Kertesz seeking political asylum in Canada by JTA NEWS STAFF (JTA) -- Award-winning Hungarian-Jewish writer Akos Kertesz has confirmed that he has applied for political asylum in Canada. Harassment and threats following the author‚s controversial statements last summer about Hungary’s role in the Holocaust have led him to seek asylum in Canada, the Hungarian News Agency reported. Kertesz, 80, the winner of the Hungary’s most prestigious literary prize, the Kossuth, left for Canada last week. Kertesz’s news service said in a statement released to the media that “a political campaign was mounted against him, not only by the Budapest city hall but also from within the government and parliament.” Writing in the American Hungarian-language newspaper Amerikai Nepszava, Kertesz said that Hungarians alone can now be blamed for the Holocaust because they, unlike the Germans, have failed to admit to and to repent for their crimes. He also referred to Hungarians as “genetically subservient” because they “do not feel the slightest remorse for the gravest of historical crimes, they shift their responsibility to others and always put the blame on others.” Kertesz later cut the phrase “genetically subservient” from the article, but it did not prevent the Budapest City Council from stripping the writer of his honorary citizenship. His statement also said that the current rightwing government has “launched a witch hunt and fueled the extremists,” and that he has been “subject to constant harassment and threats; he was attacked in the street and he thought his life was in jeopardy.”
Personal I would like to thank my family and friends for the flowers, donations, cards and gifts. A special thank you goes out to the therapist at the Rose Blumkin Home. Sincerely, Reva Oruch
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March 16, 2012 | The Jewish Press | 11
“Temple” and “Synagogue”
In memoriam DAVID KATZ
Sparks from the word RABBI MYER S. KRIPKE Parsha Vayakhel Our Sidrah describes how Moses assembled the Israelites in the wilderness and asked them to bring gifts. The gifts were meant to be the materials for the construction of the Sanctuary. A Sanctuary that could be movable, since the Israelites had to keep moving in the wilderness, with a view to enter the Promised Land one day. The gifts that the people were asked to bring included an astonishing list: gold, silver, copper and brass, semi precious stones, and especially fine timber for the construction of the Sanctuary. We are expected to believe that all of these were carried by our ancestors escaping from Egypt, to have at hand in the wilderness for the construction of the movable Sanctuary. It also included pure olive oil, for lighting the Sanctuary. It is not surprising that many biblical scholars assumed that we have here a reading backward from the Temple of Solomon. All of this leads to a discussion of the difference between “Temple” and “Synagogue.” A Temple was one, and only one, and settled in a particular place. The worship in the ancient Temple was by animal sacrifice upon an altar, the edible parts given to the Priests (Kohanim) for their own use, and for distribution to the people. The “Synagogue” could be anywhere wherever Israelites (later Jews) assembled for worship. The “Synagogue” could be as many as needed and in as many places as Jews wished to have them. By these words I do not mean to criticize unpleasantly the use of the word “Temple” in modern America. The word “Temple” is shunned by Orthodox synagogues, is used by almost all reform synagogues, and is used by some Conservative synagogues, particularly within the scope of the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. The descriptions in the Bible, in our Sidrah, do not apply here, for animal sacrifice is not used here at all. “Synagogue” implies reading of scripture, together with all Jews around the world. They will be reading, for example, the paragraphs included in Vayakhel, wherever Jews may be. The word “Vayakhel” itself implies a call to be together, to gather in response, by all Jews around the world. It would be wonderful, but alas, it has been impossible to produce a spiritual gathering of all the Jews in the world. Perhaps, perhaps, it may one day come to pass.
Goodbye to Dennis Kucinich, the other would-be kosher president by AMI EDEN There are so many reasons to love E.J. Kessler. And Dennis Kucinich's primary defeat reminded me of one of my favorites: Back in 2004, when most reporters were stuck on the religious habits and dietary habits of Joe Lieberman, Kessler -- then at the Forward -- broke the real news... Dennis Kucinich was (is still?) a kosher vegan: It turns out that Kucinich is actually the second entrant in this yea’s Democratic presidential field, following Connecticut Senator Joseph Lieberman, who observes kashrut. The reason: his eight-year “friendship” with Yelena Boxer, a Croatian-born Jewish employment lawyer whom he describes as his “best friend.” And that’s not all ... the guy loves matzah. And we’re talking hardcore -- shmurah matzah: She said that she and Kucinich don’t attend the Reform synagogue in his district much because she was raised Conservative and prefers a more traditional service. They have attended a Passover Seder at the home of the local Aish Hatorah rabbi. Kucinich also likes to light Chanukah candles and “knows all the kashrut laws.” “I keep kosher,” she said. “He changed his diet to mine -it’s a vegan diet, with no dairy and no meat” Kucinich loves to nibble on matzo, particularly the handmade “shmurah” kind, Boxer said. “I told him, Matzo is the bread of oppression. You shouldn’t like it so much. But this man likes matzo.” Not sure what Kucintch is doing next. But perhaps he can, um, take a page from Lieberman’s new book and write an ode to the beauty of being a kosher vegan.
Former Omahan David Katz passed away March 6 in San Diego. Services are pending. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lou and Harriet Shafer Katz. He is survived by his children; grandchildren; sisters, Susie Katz, Marilyn Hirsch and Mindy Marantz; brother, Steve Marantz; an aunt and uncle, nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends. Memorials may be made to Beth El Synagogue.
SALLIE KAY MARKOVITZ SIEGEL Sallie Kay Markovitz Siegel passed away on Feb.17 at the age of 72. Rabbi Bernard Gerson of Congregation Rodef Shalom officiated at graveside services held on Feb.19 at Mt. Nebo Cemetery in Denver. She is survived by her son Tod, daughter Rhonda of Denver, and son Darren, and daughter-in-law Peijun Zhu; grandchildren: Yael and Liam of Portland, OR; sister and brother–in-law, Deanne and David Raffel of Great Neck, N.Y.; brother and sister-in-law Michael and Diane Marks of Denver; and an aunt, nieces, nephews, and cousins. Sallie moved to Denver after she graduated from UNL. She volunteered for Habitat Interfaith Alliance, a coalition of congregations of various faiths working within Habitat for Humanity. Memorials may be made to Habitat Interfaith Alliance, Habitat for Humanity of Metro Denver, 3245 Eliot St., Denver, CO., 80221.
Beth El Sunday Scholars Series program to examine work/family balance by JILL BELMONT Beth El Publicity Coordinator Beth El’s monthly Sunday Scholars Series continues on Sunday, March 18, 11 a.m., as the synagogue welcomes family therapist Glen Fineman, LICSW, LIMHP, as the morning’s guest speaker. Fineman will share advice about “Work and Worth,” the balancing act between work and family life. Among the questions he will examine are, ‘What is your personal worth; what is your professional worth?’ and Glen Fineman ‘How do we find balance in our lives with all the different facets, and how do we integrate them?’ “Over the years, in my professional work and through friends, I’ve seen many examples where people get so stressed out about life and about work,” Fineman said. “During my talk, I’ll present materials that will hopefully lead to some discussion about how to balance work and family life, within the context of Jewish values and the value of family. “So many of us base our worth on our work, and I want to help people realize how important life is with family and friends, and emphasize how valuable that is. I’d like people to leave the presentation re-thinking what their priorities are, ways to manage their stress level and seeing the value and importance of what it is they’re really doing every day and what should be a priority.” All Sunday Scholars Series programs will be held at Beth El, 14506 California St.; everyone in the Jewish community is invited to attend, at no charge. For more information about the presentations, call the office, 402.492.8550.
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12 | The Jewish Press | March 16, 2012
No surprises in Putin victory, but what comes next for Russian Jews? by URIEL HEILMAN regime that has used deadly force to put down protests -“Every voter has Jewish interests and Russian interests,” (JTA) -- With Vladimir Putin’s re-election as president of they are generally satisfied with how Putin has treated the said Michael Chlenov, secretary general of the Euro-Asian Russia pretty much a foregone conclusion, the question fac- Jewish community at home. Jewish Congress. “For the Russian interests, there are many ing Russia was never what would result from last weekcomplaints, not specifically Jewish: eradication of democend’s election but what would happen after the vote. racy, anti-Americanism, etc.” Thousands of protesters turned out Monday in a The question for Russia going forward is whether Putin Moscow saturated with police and soldiers to protest an will crack down on the demonstrations or whether this election that European observers criticized as unfair newly empowered opposition will be able to wring some due to the Kremlin’s domination of Russian media outconcessions from their old-new president. lets and voter intimidation. “There’s no map for this. The protesters don’t know how The demonstration was yet another sign that Putin, he’s going to react,” said one Jewish observer who lives in who took 64 percent of the vote, is returning to the Russia and insisted on anonymity. helm of a different Russia than the one he left in the “There’s no question that December was a game changhands of his handpicked successor, Dmitry Medvedev, er,” the observer said. “This term will be different than prein 2008. The two swapped roles in what essentially vious terms. There’s more accountability, people know how amounted to a power-sharing arrangement between the to organize, there’s more self-confidence in an opposition president and prime minister. community whose voice has been heard.” The key turn came in December, when protests What the opposition lacks is a clear political leader. against Russian parliamentary elections that month While analysts said most of the Jewish votes against Putin coalesced into a mass movement. Unlike previous were cast for independent Mikhail Prokhorov, the billionDemonstrators in Moscow protest Vladimir Putin’s re-election, includattempts at challenging the regime, these protests were aire owner of the NBA’s New Jersey Nets who has Jewish ing one carrying a sign reading “We are not an opposition, we are not snuffed out immediately by the Kremlin, and their roots, none of the opposition candidates -- including your employers!” with the word “fired” over a drawing of Putin’s face, staying power has captured international attention. Gennady Zyuganov of the Communist Party, Vladimir Credit: Freedom House via CC March 5, 2012. They also have divided Russian Jews. Zhirinovsky of the nationalist Liberal Democratic party “On the one hand, I have young people coming to me and “Jews lived in Russia by czar, by Stalin, by all situations,” and Sergey Mironov of the Just Russia party -- were considasking me why aren’t you taking part,” Moscow Chief Rabbi said Yuri Kanner, head of the Russian Jewish Congress. ered serious threats to Putin. Pinchas Goldschmidt told JTA. “On the other hand, I have “This situation that we have today is the best in Russia in the During the campaign, “the Jewish issue,” as Russian Jews older-generation Russian Jews coming to me and saying, past 200 to 300 years.” call it, hardly emerged at all -- welcome news for a communi‘Speak to our children that they should not join the demonOf course, public criticism of the Kremlin is ill advised in ty that remains concerned about its safety in a society with a strations.’” Putin’s Russia, and no Jewish community leader interviewed long history of anti-Semitism and xenophobia. In the end, The divide is generational and demographic -- between by JTA was willing to go on the record criticizing the regime. Zyuganov finished second with 17 percent of the vote, younger, more liberal, freedom-hungry urban Jews who But many young Jews are among those turning out in Prokhorov captured 8 percent and Zhirinovsky had 6 percent. came of age after the fall of the Soviet Union, and older, Moscow to protest Putin’s re-election. While election monitors highlighted voter irregularities in more conservative Jews from smaller cities and towns who “We deal with a number of young people who were actu- various parts of the country, their primary criticism wasn’t are wary of trading the stability that Putin has brought for a ally participating in the demonstrations,” said Mark Levin, about how the votes were tallied but the inability of opposimore uncertain future. the executive director of NCSJ, a Washington-based organi- tion candidates to gain any traction because of the Kremlin’s In the 12 years since Putin first ascended to power, public zation that advocates for the welfare of Jews in the former near-total control over the Russian media. In addition, anti-Semitism has been all but silenced in Russia, Jews have Soviet Union. “They want a different future. They want a Russian voters reported being compelled by their employers not found themselves special targets of the regime and the more open and free society. They want greater opportunities. to cast votes for Putin. Jewish community has built strong ties to the Kremlin. They’re much like their counterparts in other countries.” “The basic question now is: Who are going to be the key While many Jews remain concerned about Putin’s Middle Jewish opposition to Putin is centered more on what his people in the government?” Goldschmidt said. “People are East policies -- Russia has been more of a hindrance than a re-election means for Russia than what it might mean for going to decide how they feel based on these choices.” help on Iran sanctions and has been supportive of a Syrian Israel or Jews in particular.