Sponsored by the Benjamin and Anna E. Wiesman Family Endowment Fund AN AGENCY OF THE JEWISH FEDERATION OF OMAHA March 22, 2013 11 Nisan 5773 Vol. 93 | No. 27
Free concert to spotlight ‘3 BY 3’
This Week
by DIANE AXLER BAUM The Omaha Chamber Music Society will return to the JCC Theater on Sunday, April 7, at 7 p.m., to present 3 BY 3 -- three top professionals performing works that reflect the styles and national traditions of three European masters: Franz Joseph Haydn, Maurice Ravel, and Sergei Rachmaninoff. The concert, followed by a dessert reception, is free and open to the public thanks to support of the Sokolof Javitch Music Fund. Last year, the Music Fund underwrote the first OCMS concert at the JCC, Legacies: Extraordinary Chamber Music by Jewish Composers. The event drew a capacity audience from a cross-section of the Omaha community and received tremendously favorable responses. “We are grateful to the Sokolof Javitch Music Fund for another opportunity to give a musical gift to the entire community,” said Stacie Haneline, Executive Director of the Omaha Chamber Music Society. This concert, she said, features Haydn’s delightful Trio in G major; Ravel’s irresistible Trio for Piano, Violin and Cello; and the third movement of Rachmaninoff ’s emotional Sonata in
Federation Annual Campaign comes to a close Page 3
A Mission to the Jews of Cuba Page 7
Susanna Perry Gilmore, violin, left; Paul Ledwon, cello; and Yulia Kalashnikova, piano. G minor for Cello and Piano. The works on the program “epitomize the beauty, intimacy and expressiveness of chamber music,” Haneline added, “especially when played by three outstanding musicians.” Performers are Susanna Perry Gilmore, violin; Paul Ledwon, cello; and Yulia Kalashnikova, piano.
The Same Moon:
The Four Questions A Partnership2gether project through the eyes of JFS by MARK KIRCHHOFF Administrative Assistant, Center for Jewish Life On July 20, 1969, at precisely 4:18 pm EDT in the midst of a cold war there was a moment in time in
gazing upward were all sharing a glimpse at that same moon. That concept of people across the globe looking at the same moon was the basis of an exciting new project through Partnership2Gether. The
New pope has Jewish connections Page 12
Inside Point of view Synagogues In memoriam
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Next Week The Arts Issue See Front Page stories and more at: www.jewishomaha.org, click on Jewish Press
Gilmore, making her OCMS debut in 3 BY 3, is in her second season as concertmaster of the Omaha Symphony. She previously was concertmaster of the Memphis Symphony Orchestra for 15 years. She performs across the country as a solo artist and chamber musician. Ledwon, the Omaha Symphony’s
principal cellist since 1999, has become a favorite to OCMS audiences. He has performed with orchestras and chamber groups around the world. Kalashnikova studied with several preeminent piano teachers in Russia before immigrating to Omaha in 2001. An active free-lance musician, she is on the faculty of the Omaha Conservatory of Music. The Haydn Trio in G major, written in 1795, illustrates the Austrian Classicalism of the composer’s mature works. Its nickname, Gypsy, pays tribute to the Hungarian flavor of the exciting finale. Ravel’s music exemplifies shimmering French Impressionism, filled with melodic passages, tremolos, and harmonics. The Trio for Piano, Violin and Cello, composed in 1914, achieves unusually rich textures and colors by interweaving each instrument’s full range. Rachmaninoff’s Sonata in G minor for Cello and Piano, composed in 1901, resounds with the passion of Russian Romanticism. The third movement builds a partnership between the piano’s powerful themes and the cello’s brilliant embellishments. Continued on page 2
which the entire world was one. A man made a small step; mankind took “one giant leap.” Man had landed on the moon and those who were
Same Moon project was created in 2012 by Adi Shacham, the Israeli shlicha working with the Jewish Federation of Greater Indianapolis. Adi’s goal was to find a way for families to learn that despite distance, the worlds of Israeli and United States families are very similar. Through shared experiences, The Same Moon brought families from Indianapolis and from the Partnership area in the Western Galilee in Israel closer together and fostered greater knowledge and understanding of how Jewish Continued on page 2
The Third Question: How does Jewish Family Service help clients with developmental disabilities gain the freedom to become independent? by OZZIE NOGG The Four Questions are a familiar part of the Passover narrative. In this series we reframe the questions asked at our seder tables to reflect current issues in our community -- specifically those relating to Jewish Family Service -as well as our responses to those questions. Today, during this season that celebrates freedom, we ask: How does JFS help clients with developmental disabilities gain the freedom to become independent? Ancient rabbis -- as well as modern day educators -- consider the Haggadah a learning tool. They suggest that the narrative describes four types of children to make sure we remember that each of us is unique and brings something different to the seder table. The Haggadah reminds us to accept people as they are, and offers different answers for those with dif-
ferent abilities and different needs. At Jewish Family Service, this philosophy is exemplified in the Yachad program. The spirit of gemilut hasidim -the giving of loving-kindness -- is alive and well in our Yachad group. Yachad, which means togetherness, is made up of individuals with d e v e l o p m e nt a l disabilities. The group meets several times a month for a variety of spiritual, social and creative events. The goal of our staff and volunteers is to provide activities that will help every Yachad member maintain or improve their independence and social skills, become active participants in our Jewish and larger community and reach their full potential. The Jewish Family Service Yachad professional leaders -- Jan McCarthy and Mark Kazor -- with the help of long-time volunteer Karen Lepp, challenge Yachad Continued on page 2
2 | The Jewish Press | March 22, 2013
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The Same Moon Continued from page 1 families in different parts of the world live their lives. Adi, who developed the idea, worked with students from the Hasten Hebrew Academy of Indianapolis to create a book that would serve as the guide for those shared family experiences. The book, authored by Shacham and Patti Freeman Dorson, derives its name from the project itself, The Same Moon. It is illustrated by Indianapolis artist and associate of the Partnership2Gether program, Joani Rothenberg. Rothenberg is the Jewish Book Council’s 2012 award-winning illustrator in the category of “Illustrated Children’s Book� for her collaboration with The Shema in the Mezuzah: Listening to Each Other, authored by Rabbi Sandy Eisenberg Sasso. The program was such a success in Indianapolis, it has been expanded to other communities in the Partnership Central Consortium. In order to participate in The Same Moon, families were required to have children between the ages of three and ten years old and parents took the responsibility for participating in the program once a month for six months. Four Omaha families are currently participating in the project – Becca Ruesch-Finkelstein and David Finkelstein, Ethan, Ari and Asher; Gabby and Jason Blair, Noah, Moshe and Ezra; Karen and Michael Cohen, Lilly, Jack and Eva; and Carrie and Steve Fingold, Emma and Michael. While initial contact was made by email, future communication will be done via regular mail. The emphasis for the project is family participation and written correspondence. In an electronic era, the excitement of receiving something in the mail remains. The Same Moon book includes envelopes into which the families will retain the letters, pictures and other things their “across the ocean� family will share. “We decided to participate in the program for our kids� commented David Finkelstein. “Although they know people who have visited or lived in Israel at one time or another, we thought it would be exciting to correspond with people who
The Four Questions through the eyes of JFS
Continued from page 1 members at every turn. Challenges include sleeping in a tent for the first time during a summer camping experience at Mahoney State Park; participating in an Art Show where one’s work will be on display for the entire community to see; developing the courage to participate in a new Adaptive 888 8)*5&5"*-1301&35*&4 $0. Aquatics program at the JCC; joining in the Yachad Personal Training program initiated and funded by JFS and now WHITETAIL TROPHY PROPERTIES REAL ESTATE, LLC. | Dan Perez, Broker - Licensed in IL, MO, IA, KS, KY, NE & OK 121 S. Madison St - Pittsfield, IL 62363 | 217.285.9000 offered at the JCC. Attorney Myron Kaplan describes this new health and wellness activity as, “The best program you could do,� because it gives Yachad participants a greater feeling of well being, increased self-esteem and greater strength to perform additional activities that make for independent living. “All of us have desires and goals,� Jan McCarthy says, “and in order to achieve a goal we need a sense of independence. In order to thrive, each of us -- child or adult -- needs support, understanding and encouragement. When we fall we need someone to pick us up, dust us off and encourage us to continue. Unfortunately, many people with disabilities don’t have a cheering section. Instead, they have a protector who wants to spare them the negative, painful events of life. ‘Don’t use that knife, you may get cut. Don’t turn on the stove, you may get burned. Don’t walk by yourself, someone “Mom moved into Remington Heights may hurt you.’ These possibilities are part of life. When an in December of 2011. From the day she individual’s activities are limited because of low -- or no -moved in, the staff has been courteous and expectations, or because others fear they may suffer harm, respectful, and the card games, birthday that individual is denied any chance of success. When peoparties and daily events keep her active. ple with disabilities are surrounded by well-meaning loved Thanks for keeping Mom happy!� ones who want to shelter them from the real world, a secondary disability -- dependence -- is created. Happily, in the - Bob W. Son of Loretta W., a happy resident of Remington Heights past year two Yachad members have secured Independent Living, specific to meet their individual abilities and needs. Call today to schedule your personal tour.
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are living there now and see how similar, yet different, their day to day lives are compared to ours. In our first packet, we sent family pictures and a letter about ourselves, and we received the same from our Israeli family, along with some humorous stories about their family. It is a true learning experience.� The colorfully-illustrated The Same Moon book provides information and commentary to assist the families in preparing their letters and appreciating the concept of being apart yet being similar. The use of both Hebrew and English text further underscores the concept. “For our first packet, we sent a letter with a little information about each of our family members. We also sent a picture of our family,� reported Gabby Blair. “We emailed back and forth a few times before sending our letter, sharing pictures and ‘meeting’ each other. Our families have a lot in common; they have three kids, like to travel and be outdoors, and the boys like “football� (soccer), just like in our family!� Gabby added “It takes about two weeks to send and get mail from Israel. The boys were very anxious to check the mailbox every day while waiting for that first letter! So far, they have sent us a letter that was written in Hebrew by one of the boys, a nine year old, and translated into English by his grandmother. The envelope had a lot of really cool stamps on it.� In the months ahead, families will share holiday customs, leisure time activities, weather comparisons, and ways that they relate with the rest of society. In learning about others, families are sure to learn more about themselves and what it is like to share The Same Moon. Partnership2Gether is a program of the Center for Jewish Life promoting people-to-people relationships between Israel and communities throughout the world. Omaha is one of 12 cities in the U.S. partnering with the city of Akko and the Matte Asher region in northern Israel, sharing cultural, social, medical, educational and economic programs. For more information on Partnership, please call the Center for Jewish Life at 402.334.6445.
To Submit Announcements to the Jewish Press: Announcements may be e-mailed to the Press with attached photos in .jpg or .tif files to jpress@jewish omaha.org or online at the Jewish Federation of Omaha website: www.jewishomaha.org. Click on Jewish Press and go to Submit Announcements; faxed to 402.334.5422, or mailed to 333 So. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68154 (with photos we will scan and return). Forms are available through Omaha and Lincoln synagogues, by contacting The Jewish Press at 402.334.6448, or by e-mailing: avandekamp@ jewishomaha.org.
Yachad programming helps members recognize that they can stand on their own two feet.� According to a Midrash, God created just one man, Adam, and one woman, Eve, to remind us that we are all descended from the same ancestors and part of the same human family; so that no person can say to another, “I am better than you, for my ancestors are better than yours.� The Yachad program reflects this teaching. This Passover, as we gather at our Seder tables, let us look at those who sit with us and recognize that though each of us is unique, we are all created in the image of God. Each of us has value and dignity. The late author and historian, Edward Everett Hale, might have been describing our Yachad members when he wrote, “I am only one, but still I am one. I cannot do everything, but still I can do something; And because I cannot do everything, I will not refuse to do the something that I can do.� The work of Jewish Family Service stands on the four pillars of Compassion, Caring, Connection and Commitment. We invite you to personally express these values by joining our 2013 Friends Campaign. Your gift makes a real difference. For further information on how you can support Jewish Family Service programs, including Yachad, call 402.330.2024.
Free concert Continued from page 1 The musicians will complement the April 7 concert with “music as community service,� one of the many goals of the Omaha Chamber Music Society. All three will perform for residents and staff of the Rose Blumkin Home, and Gilmore will present a session combining performance and music education to students in grades three to six at Friedel Jewish Academy. The Omaha Chamber Music Society was established in 2000 by a group of professional musicians. The organization presents a summer concert series performed by top musicians with local connections. In addition, OCMS collaborates with area schools on music education programs and undertakes a variety of service programs. More information on the Omaha Chamber Music Society and 3 BY 3 at the JCC is available at www.omahachambermusic.org or 402.960.6943.
March 22, 2013 | The Jewish Press | 3
Leaders reflect as campaign closes by SHERRIE SAAG Communications Specialist, Jewish Federation of Omaha A little over a year ago, Federation Board President Jody Malashock and Federation Chief Executive Officer Mike Silverman asked the Riekes family to chair the 2013 Annual Campaign. Brett Atlas was honest and forthright when he responded, “I don’t think you want Stacey and I involved because we’d want to do things differently.” To Atlas’ complete surprise, he was told that was exactly why he and wife Stacey (along with in-laws Carl and Zoë Riekes) were asked. Malashock and Silverman wanted to introduce new ideas and inject some fresh energy by thinking outside the box. The Campaign needed emerging leaders to bring a truly unique perspective to the table. Atlas recalled, “The unwavering support I felt at that lunch never faltered, and throughout the Campaign, our ideas and ways of doing things were embraced and accepted.” He presented a full report to the Federation Board recently, describing the family’s goals for Campaign, “From day one until now, Stacey and I focused on bringing the community together as our main priority, thus the promotional line, ‘Come Together... Right Now’ that’s been used so effectively this season. I speak for everyone in my family when I say that we care enough about the community and our Annual Campaign that we were willing to deal with the consequences of beginning to change the Campaign culture.” “We believed that if we were successful in community-
building, Campaign dollars would naturally increase over time as a result. We were clear and vocal about the fact that results shouldn’t be measured in a single Campaign; rather, the changes we were interested in would be more accurately reflected over time.” You’ve heard it said before, when someone is passionate about what they do, it is a joy, not a job. This comes to mind when Malashock describes the work of Carl and Zoë Riekes and Stacey and Brett Atlas. “Though they are volunteers, they immediately immersed themselves in event planning and donor solicitation and appeared to be enjoying every minute of it.” Their passion was contagious. “The family’s enthusiasm and ‘get it done’ attitude invigorated the professional staff and was a primary reason behind so many new aspects of Campaign,” Silverman said. “As professionals, Campaign is our job. To see volunteers so involved and exhibit so much care and concern was truly remarkable and only made us more determined to have a successful Campaign.” Atlas reported the most current Campaign numbers to the Board. The Campaign surpassed last year’s total and is now at $2.95 million dollars pledged with a 5% card for card increase. He is most proud that of the 1,480 gifts made, 176 of them are gifts pledged by new or reengaged donors. This was a real priority for the Campaign. “Think about it, 176 community members have joined or come back to campaign after a number of years. That’s a real tribute to the spirit of what we set out to do. We wanted to
bring the community together, and I think this measurement, more than any other, represents how the community feels about itself.” The Riekes and Atlas enjoyed being Campaign Chairs and encourage others to get involved. “My family poured our hearts and minds into this Campaign, along with many other event committee volunteers, division chairs, solicitors and professional staff. Everyone’s dedication made it really enjoyable. This was a truly meaningful experience for us and I hope others embrace the opportunity to lead a Campaign in the future,” said Atlas. For more information on how you can get involved, visit www.jewishomaha.org.
From generation to generation: L’dor V’dor by MAGGIE CONTI Director of Activities and Outreach Programs, The Rose Blumkin Jewish Home
Residents of the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home and the 4th grade students from Freidel Jewish Academy partnered together for an intergenerational art project. Students and residents helped make a plaster cast of their hands while sharing experiences and creating something fun and original. Pictured are Maton Shapiro and Reba Kuklin. The artwork will be on display on Main Street at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home for the month of March.
4 | The Jewish Press | March 22, 2013
Temple teens visit Washington D.C. by DAVID GOLBITZ women. The students met with staffers of Senators Deb Temple Israel Staff Writer Fischer and Mike Johanns, and got some face time with Temple Israel tenth graders visited Washington, D.C. Representative Lee Terry. recently to take part in the L’Taken Social Justice Seminar, The students together wrote two policy speeches, on during which they explored the American political process, LGBT rights in the workplace and stem-cell research, and including lobbying and speechwriting. took turns reading portions of the speeches to the politiThe students, Courtney and Madison Bierman, Madison cians or their aides. Eisenberg, Abby Schondelmeyer and Rachel Stoneking, “The LGBT bill we were talking about, they didn’t say flat spent the weekend with about 200 of their peers from across out no to that one,” Courtney said. “But they pretty much all the country, learning rejected the stem-cell about political issues and research. I didn’t have how to effectively advosuper high expectacate for their side. tion going in that we It wasn’t until they were going to change landed in Washington their minds, but it was that Rabbi Josh Brown frustrating.” told them they were going In between all the to get the opportunity to politics, the students, lobby Nebraska’s conaccompanied by gressmen. Rabbi Josh Brown and “Not a lot of kids who Religious School are 16 get a chance to Principal Ariella lobby Congress, so that Lowensohn, were able was very cool,” Courtney to do a little sightseesaid. ing as well. They visitOn Saturday, they pared the International ticipated in a lobbying Spy Museum and the simulation in which half Smithsonian, as well the students were proas the Holocaust mining and the other half Memorial Museum were against. They creatand the newly erected ed TV ads and wrote Martin Luther King speeches, and were gradJr. Memorial. ed on effectiveness by a Abby was particu“As part of the L’Taken weekend, Courtney Bierman, left, Madison larly touched by the panel of experts. They also learned a Eisenberg, Rachel Stoneking, Madison Bierman and Abby visit to the Holocaust valuable lesson in today’s Schondelmeyer visited Capitol Hill to lobby for LGBT equality and embry- museum. political landscape: onic stem-cell research.” “When I was money talks. The side that had the most cash to send out its younger, I would cry [about the Holocaust],” she said. “I message won the simulation, which led to a discussion about couldn’t go into a place like that. Now I can go in, but it campaign finance reform. makes me feel angry.” “Our downfall was, we didn’t give them enough money,” “It was really moving,” Courtney said. “I kind of walked Abby Schondelmeyer said of the anti-fracking team. “Our out of the building in a daze because it was just so powerful.” advocacy was good, but we didn’t have enough money. It’s all Courtney also enjoyed visiting the Smithsonian, especialabout money and it’s sad. It’s really sad.” ly the Museum of American History. Her teammate Courtney had a similar reaction. “There’s so much to see,” she said. “The last time I went, I “I didn’t know much about lobbying [before],” she said. really wanted to see the ruby slippers from The Wizard of “It’s kind of scary, that [money] has that much of an impact.” Oz, but we weren’t allowed in that section. But they were The next day the students were again split into groups, but there this time. It was very cool to see such an iconic piece this time each group represented one of Israel’s political par- of American movie history.” ties. They experienced this parliamentary style of governThey joined the rest of the L’Taken students at the Lincoln ment up close, learning how difficult it can be to form a Memorial Reflecting Pool for a Havdalah service. coalition when certain parties are intransigent in their L’Taken is a program designed by the Religious Action views. Center of Reform Judaism to expose students to a variety of “We had to go around and try to negotiate with the other public policy issues, explore the Jewish values surrounding political parties and try to create a peace plan with the these issues and teach the skills of an effective advocate. Palestinians,” Courtney said. “I didn’t know how hard it “We look forward to every one of our kids having this would be to come to an agreement. Every party had their opportunity when they reach tenth grade,” Rabbi Brown own agenda.” said. “I know a few politicians who became interested in There were also panel discussions and seminars the stu- advocacy work after going to L’Taken, and I look forward to dents could attend on topics ranging from LGBT rights in seeing which of our kids goes that route in the future.” the workplace, to stem-cell research, to energy efficiency. Tenth grade is the year Temple Israel Religious School stuThe culmination of the weekend’s activities came when dents are confirmed, which will take place this year on the group headed to Capitol Hill to visit its congressmen and Tuesday, May 14, during the Erev Shavuot service.
Love and Logic returns to JFS by OZZIE NOGG Jewish Family Service will offer a new and improved Parenting: The Love and Logic Way on four successive Thursdays beginning April 4 and continuing on April 11, 18 and May 2. All sessions run from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the JCC Social Hall. Facilitators are JFS therapist Teresa Drelicharz, MS, NCC, LIMHP, RPT, and Amber Lawrence, LMHP, LMFT from Woodhaven Counseling Associates. Parenting: The Love and Logic Way is an approach to raising kids that provides loving support from parents, while at
the same time expecting kids to be respectful and responsible. The curriculum helps build character, compassion and problem-solving skills in young people while also helping parents change -- for the better -- their relationship with their children and take control of the home in loving ways. The four Parenting: The Love and Logic Way sessions cost $60 per couple. Childcare is available for kids ages 1-12 for $4.00 per child per session. For more information, please call Melissa at Jewish Family Service. 402.330.2024.
Snowbirds Please let the Jewish Press know in advance when you are leaving and when you are returning. Sometimes several papers are sent to your “old” address before we are notified by the Post Office. Every time they return a paper to us, you miss the Jewish Press and we are charged! Please call us at 402.334.6448 or email us at jpress@jewishomaha.org.
Experiencing Judaism through the five senses by MARK KIRCHHOFF Administrative Assistant, Center for Jewish Life In 1975 Lily Tomlin quipped, “Wouldn’t it be great if we all got to be what we wanted to be? The world would be full of nurses, fireman, cowboys, and ballerinas.” For Susi Frydman-Levin, her dream to teach has become a reality. “When I was a little girl, I played at being a teacher and I still enjoy it very much,” she shared. Beginning April 5 and continuing each Friday through April 26, Susi will bring her teaching skills to the Kripke Jewish Federation Library from 11 a.m.–noon as she presents “Experiencing Judaism Susi Frydman Levin through the Five Senses.” Frydman Levin was born and raised in Buenos Aires, Argentina. She has a Masters Degree in Education and Psychology and currently works as a bilingual mental health therapist. She has taught Judaism for many years to children and adults; elementary school and adult education programs; for children with special needs and for adults who wanted to get together to learn more. “Judaism is my passion,” she explains, “I am always looking for different ways to learn and teach. I aim to refresh knowledge and bring a sense of renewal to Jewish lives.” In a recent conversation, Frydman Levin pointed out that as adults we tend to think of learning as an intellectual exercise. We read books, listen to lectures, study scholarly works, and view movies – all as ways to learn. But some of our deepest memories and learning experiences are those that have come through our senses. These experiences begin at childhood and continue throughout our lives. They have become a part of us in ways that differ from intellectual learning. Becoming aware of these experiences can add richness to how we see ourselves as Jews. Through “Experiencing Judaism through the Five Senses” Frydman Levin will try to elicit the Jewish identity inside all of us that is present both in our memories and senses. “It can be interesting for Jews who were born Jewish and for Jews by choice. We all have an experiential Jewish identity,” says Frydman Levin. She went on to explain that our five senses (taste, smell, sight, touch, and hearing) can be an experiential way to enrich who we are. For some of us, being Jewish means eating Jewish food on a holiday, keeping the family recipes, or following dietary Jewish laws. For others, listening to Israeli music or remembering the voice of the hazan who prepared us for our Bar/Bat Mitzvah can be a way to reconnect with our history. Sometimes touching the Kotel can become a lifechanging experience. Other times smelling the etrog during Succot or the besamim during the Havdala can trigger memories. Judaism can be enriched in a variety of ways. “My goal for this class will be to revitalize our connection with the Jewish identity within us by participating, learning, and rediscovering who we are,” said Frydman Levin. “Experiencing Judaism through the Five Senses” is presented by the Center for Jewish Life as part of its mission to maximize involvement of Omaha’s Jewish community in imaginative, compelling and meaningful Jewish experiences. Classes will be on April 5, 12, 19, and 26 from 11 a.m.–noon in the Kripke Jewish Federation Library. The class fee is $36, reduced to $28 for those in good standing with the Annual Campaign of the Jewish Federation of Omaha. To register, contact Mark Kirchhoff, 402.334.6463 or mkirchhoff@jewishomaha.org.
March 22, 2013 | The Jewish Press | 5
Janine Oberrotman to speak at Omaha Holocaust Commemoration by HILLARY FLETCHER Communications Coordinator, Institute for Holocaust Education Yom HaShoah, Holocaust Remembrance Day, will be observed in Omaha on Wednesday, April 10. Events will include a community commemoration service and teen program, both taking place at Temple Israel. The teen Yom HaShoah program will begin at 5:30 p.m. and is open to all local, Jewish middle and high school students. The community commemoration will begin at 7 p.m. and is open to the public. Yom Hashoah programming is presented by the Institute for Holocaust Janine Oberrotman Education, the Jewish (photo was taken in the ‘90s) Federation of Omaha, Beth Israel, Beth El and Temple Israel synagogues. Guest speaker for the evening will be Holocaust survivor, Janine Oberrotman. Janine, born in Lvov, Poland, was fifteen years old when the Germans invaded her hometown and when the pogroms, random killings, and round-ups began. Her father found her a job in construction to avoid deportation. But soon, that job
could no longer secure her safety, and Janine was forced from hiding place to hiding place to avoid capture. She found shelter at the home of a kind Polish lady; hid at the German commandant’s villa, which was under construction; concealed herself in an armoire with a secret entrance to the underground; and covered up under a dirt road beneath a camouflaged area. After her escape from the ghetto, she lived in a Ukrainian village under an assumed name. Ultimately, Janine was denounced by a local woman, arrested, interrogated, and jailed. She was deported to forced labor in Stuttgart. Liberated in 1945, Janine went to Paris, where she lived until immigrating to the United States in 1953. Janine’s parents and nearly all of her extended family were murdered in the Holocaust. Janine will provide the details of her extraordinary survival at the commemoration ceremony. In addition to these events, the Nebraska State Yom HaShoah Commemoration will be held on Sunday, April 7 at 3 p.m. at the Capitol Rotunda. The IHE also encourages the public to visit the Nebraska Holocaust Memorial at Wyuka Cemetery in Lincoln, NE, and the exhibit, Searching for Humanity: Veterans, Victims and Survivors of World War II at the Strategic Air and Space Museum in Ashland, NE. These sites are open year round. For more information on any of these events, please contact the Institute for Holocaust Education at www.info@ihene.org or 402.334.6576.
Rescheduled NCJW-Omaha Section “Girls Night Out” membership event by SHARON HOUCHIN NCJW-Omaha Section Co-Vice President of Public Relations NCJW-Omaha Section, working with Project Harmony, has rescheduled their previously planned “Girls Night Out” to Thursday, Apr. 4, 7 p.m. at Project Harmony located at 11949 Q Street (SE corner of 120th and Q). All women in the Jewish community are invited to attend an evening of wine, women, and wisdom. There will be three presentations, a speaker and a VIP tour of Project Harmony with Diane Malashock, Development Specialist. Project Harmony is a non-profit organization that provides help to children who are victims of abuse and neglect. NCJW-Omaha Section has been a strong supporter of Project Harmony and its mission. The three presentations will include Katherine Finnegan and Judy Vann, Yoga Instructors; Silvia Herszkopf, Registered Dietitian; and Darlene Golbitz, Registered Nurse. All four women are members and supporters of NCJW. Katherine Finnegan began her first yoga class in 1988 in Southern California. For 20 years, she has worked with different types of yoga, from Bikram to “TV Yoga,” with a practice focused on “getting the kinks out” and reducing stress. Her teaching is influenced by Astanga and is constantly evolving to challenge her students’ practices. She includes a healthy dose of core and upper body work in her classes at every level, to encourage the development of strength required to operate on and off the mat. Judy Vann, who will be working with Katherine Finnegan, has been a Yoga instructor since 1972. Judy describes her style of yoga as “eclectic” and her mentors are Lillas Folan, Richard Hittleman, and Indra Debi. Judy earned a degree in Elementary Education at the University of Nebraska at Lincoln. She is the widow of Howard Vann. She has three
sons, a daughter-in-law, and four grandchildren. Silvia Herszkopf graduated as a dietitian in her native country of Costa Rica. She then moved to New York where she obtained her Masters of Science in Clinical Nutrition from New York University. Silvia and her family currently live in Omaha. She is a clinical and ambulatory dietitian at Lakeside Hospital. She also provides nutrition counseling services at the Jewish Community Center. Darlene Golbitz is a Registered Nurse at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. She graduated nursing school at Montefiore Hospital in Pittsburgh, PA, and started working for the Blumkin Home in 1982 when it opened. She completed her geriatric certification at the University of Nebraska-Omaha and went on to obtain her Bachelor’s degree with an emphasis on gerontology and public administration. In addition to the three presentations, Nancy Greenberg will share her personal story on her health experiences. She is truly a “survivor extra-ordinaire”, having overcome polio, injuries from a serious fall, and a heart attack. Nancy is married to Don Greenberg. She has two married children and five grandchildren. Chairing this year’s membership event are Bonnie Levinger and Jaime Nogg. RSVP to Jaime at jgoldf5375@aol.com or 402.991.6753. NCJW-Omaha Section membership information will be available to all who are not currently members. Donations from Project Harmony Wish List would be much appreciated. Immediate needs: natural bristle brushes and hair products for African Americans, infant boy’s NB clothes, infant girl’s clothes size NB-24 months, school age boy’s pajamas size 4-12. For health and safety, Project Harmony asks that all donations be new and unused. For more information, go to www.projectharmony.com.
Births Sarah and David Kotlyar of TelzStone, Israel, announced the Feb. 17 birth of their son, Avraham Shlomo. He is named for his great-grandfather, Stuart Simon. He has three brothers, Yosef, Moshe, and Aron. Grandparents are Judi Morrow of West Orange, NJ, Ken Morrow of New York City, and Joan and Natan Simon Kotlyar of Ramat Beit Shemesh, Israel. Great-grandparent are the late Esther and Stuart Simon. Cari and John Rabroker of Leawood, KS, announce the Jan. 31 birth of their daughter, Mable Jane. She is named for her paternal cousin, Mitchel Perlmeter. She has a sister, Ava, 5 1/2 and a brother, Jack, 3 1/2.
Grandparents are Vicki Perlmeter, Jeff Perlmeter of Scottsdale, AZ, Janae and Mike Hawkins of Dallas, and Toni and Steve Rabroker of Carrolton, TX. Great-grandparents are Bernie Meyers, Stan Perlmeter of Key Biscayne, FL, Jane Kemp of Dallas, and Roberta Rabroker of San Antonio, TX.
EARLY DEADLINE NOTICE The Jewish Press office is closed Tuesday, March 26, for Passover; the deadline for the April 5 issue is Monday, March 25, noon. Questions? Call 402.334.6448.
Class of 2013 High School Seniors High School Seniors and Parents We will be publishing our annual High School Graduation Class pages on May 24, 2013. 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 1 to: The Jewish Press | 333 So. 132 St. | Omaha, NE 68154
6 | The Jewish Press | March 22, 2013
Positions Available
The Pennie Z. Davis Child Development Center, on the Jewish Federation of Omaha campus, provides an exceptional, highquality learning environment for children aged 6 weeks to 5 years. We are looking for experienced, loving professionals to join our team, so if you are looking for a full or part time position, or if you are interested in being a substitute, please call Jeanine Huntoon at 402-334-6415.
The Lion King has returned to the Orpheum
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Jelani Remy as “Simba” and the ensemble in He Lives in You from THE LION KING Credit: Joan Marcus National Tour. ©Disney. by ROSALEE ROBERTS The Lion King has returned to Omaha, and will be performed on the Orpheum Theater stage now through April 7. Shows will take place Tuesday through Thursday evenings at 7:30 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., and Sundays at 6:30 p.m. Matinees are scheduled for Saturdays at 2 p.m., and Sundays at 1 p.m. Among the most successful stage musicals in entertainment history, The Lion King has entered its 16th year. Since its Broadway debut in 1997, more than 66 million people have seen one of 20 global productions worldwide; the show has been translated into seven languages. The
show’s director, costume designer and mask co-designer Julie Taymor continues to play an integral part; the first woman to win a Tony Award for Direction of a musical, she has in recent years supervised new productions of the show in Madrid, Great Britain, and Sao Paulo, Brazil. Don’t miss this opportunity! Tickets start at $27.50 and can be purchased online at TicketOmaha.com, by phone at 402.345.0606 or at the box office in the Holland Performing Arts Center at 12th and Douglas. For groups of 15 or more, please call 402.661.8526. For additional information, visit TicketOmaha.com or LionKing.com.
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Passover at Temple Israel No charitable gift has a greater impact on the lives of Israelis.
There are many ways to support Israel, but none is more transformative than a gift to Magen David Adom, Israel’s emergency medical response and blood service agency. Your support isn’t just changing lives — it’s literally saving them — providing critical care and hospital transport for everyone from victims of heart attacks to casualties of rocket attacks. Save a life through a gift to Magen David Adom. And our best wishes for a joyous Pesach.
by DAVID GOLBITZ Temple Israel Staff Writer Passover at Temple Israel this year will be a celebration of the Israelite’s exodus from Egypt as its congregants prepare for an exodus of their own, from Cass Street to their new building at Sterling Ridge. “Every year, we need, each one of us, to experience our slavery and our redemption,” Rabbi Aryeh Azriel said. “Being aware of our degradation thousands of years ago under Egyptian servitude and our miraculous salvation helps us to recognize communities that are today under siege. The Second Seder is an opportunity to celebrate as a community this powerful narrative.” Following the Passover service on Tuesday, March 26 at 10:30 a.m., the congregation is invited to return to Temple Israel at 6 p.m. to enjoy a community seder on the second night of Passover, complete with all the fixin’s, including matzah ball soup, chicken, potato kugel and salad, with chocolate dipped macaroons for dessert, not to mention holiday favorites like charoses, gefilte fish and, of course, matzah. Temple Israel will also welcome guests from its partners in the Tri-Faith Initiative, who will be invited to attend the seder. “This year, as our tradition demands, we invite the stranger, the outsider, to share and learn about our deliverance,” Rabbi Azriel said. “We open our doors to small groups of participants from our Tri-Faith communities. The knowledge of freedom is a gift to be shared with our friends.” Reservations are required to attend the seder and can be made by contacting
Temple Israel at RSVP@templeisrael omaha.com or 402.556.6536. Dinner costs $23 for adults and $12 for children ages 612, with no charge for children 5 and under. Volunteers are also needed on Monday, March 25, to help set up for the seder. If you would like to help out, contact Program Director Wendy Goldberg at wgoldberg@ templeisraelomaha.com. Prior to the actual start of Passover, some of the younger students at the Temple Israel Religious School will be getting a head start on the festivities. On Sunday, March 24, both the Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten classes, and the second graders, will be holding their own special seders from 11 a.m. to noon. Cantor Wendy Shermet believes Passover is especially important for children to learn about and participate in. “They should be grateful that they live in a country where they’re free to be a Jew,” she said. “Children naturally take things for granted, their toys, their homes, and it’s good for them to be reminded of where they come from and where they live.” The families of Pre-K and kindergarten students are invited to join their children for a child-friendly seder and craft activity, while the second graders are asked to invite someone who is important to them, a family member, friend or teacher, to share their seder with. At the end of Passover, on Monday, April 1, Temple Israel is hosting a matzah brei breakfast at 9:30 a.m., followed by a Yizkor service at 10:30 a.m. Those who would like to have names of loved ones read are asked to contact the Temple Israel office by March 31.
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March 22, 2013 | The Jewish Press | 7
Camp Gan Israel registration opens by ROCHI KATZMAN for Chabad Center The melting snow makes it obvious that summer plans need to be made. Chabad’s renowned Camp Gan Israel will be in session this summer from June 3-June 7. Sonia Tipp raved about her daughter Adria’s experience last year. “Chabad camp drew out a sense of Jewish pride in my daughter by engaging in fun activities such as challah making, zoo visits, swimming, and cooking. Morals and values were discussed through each activity and lessons about Jewish stories and ways to observe.” She appreciated how the program has the feel of family. “I loved how the older campers were so actively involved with the younger ones, and the whole group seemed to enjoy being together”. The camp is for children ages 5-12 from 9-3 and includes hot lunches and healthful snacks each day. Cost is $180 with a 10% discount for registration received by March 31. To register go to ochabad.com/camp or call 402.330.1800.
Organizations B’NAI B’RITH BREADBREAKERS Dave Nabity continues our “Candidate Speaker Series” and will tell us why he wants to be Mayor of Omaha on Wednesday, March 27, 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 The Yiddish language is a wonderful source of rich expressions, especially terms of endearment (and, of course, complaints and insults!). Come join us for fun and laughter. We meet in the boardroom of the Blumkin Home, every Thursday from 1-3 p.m. For information, please call Anne Skolkin at 402.343.1638.
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A Mission to the Jews of Cuba by RICHARD FELLMAN Bev and Dick Fellman were among the 30 participants on the Mission to the Jewish community of Cuba sponsored by Temple Concord of Syracuse where their son, Daniel Fellman, is the Senior Rabbi. This is part three in a series of articles about their trip. The Patronato in Havana It’s called the Patronato, and without doubt it today occupies the center of Havana Judaism. In the States we might call it the JCC or the Federation, any term signifying the unity of the community. In Havana it includes the Bibloteca, the Farmacia, a Social Hall, meeting rooms, and the central offices of the community. Today, and since 2006, it is led by its president, Dr. Adela Dworin, a native of Havana born to a family from Minsk who came to Cuba hoping to obtain American visas. Raised in the Orthodox synagogue of Havana, she graduated from medical school, claims there is no anti-Semitism in Cuba and never has been, and since 2006 has led Havana’s Jewish community. We met her in a Fidel Castro meeting room of the Patronato. She sat at the head of a large conference table, as we gathered around the room; and after listening to her, it was evident that she could captivate and hold any audience with her charm, grace, facts, and humor. Asked if she knew Fidel, she began a long story. “Fidel had never visited the Jewish community nor the Patronato, and one day in early December a number of years ago I was at a formal gathering where Fidel was to speak, and I went over to meet him. He was cordial as I explained who I was and all about the Patronato. “You’ve never been to the Patronato,” I told Fidel. He smiled and replied, ‘that’s true. But you never invited me.’ I said to Fidel, “Well, you’re now invited.” ‘But you haven’t given me a date. Will you?’ I gave him a date about two weeks later for a Hanukkah celebration. Dworin continued, “Fidel looked at me somewhat quizzically and said ‘As a boy I studied the Old Testament in Catholic schools and I’ve never heard of a Jewish holiday from the Old Testament called Hanukah.’ I responded, “It’s not in the Old Testament, but it is sort of a
revolutionary holiday, you’ll like it. It celebrates an uprising of Jews against the Greeks and the re-dedication of the Temple. Fidel smiled, and I could tell he liked my explanation.” He came for the Hanukkah celebrate and gave a short speech saying, ‘In my studies of the Bible I learned about Judaism and I understand how it became the mother to the two other great religions of the West, Christianity and Islam. There are others in the East, of course, but Judaism remains at the center of Western thought. But I believe in another great religion, also founded by two great Jewish thinkers, Marx and Engels. Marxism is my religion.’ Dr. Dworin then began a sort of informal lecture. “In 1902 German Jews came to Cuba and founded the first
The Patronato Reform Congregation. Turks came starting in 1914 and began the Sephardic synagogue. The 1920s brought a big wave of Eastern European Jews. During the ‘60s and ‘70s, after the Revolution, 90 per cent of Cuba’s Jews left for the States.” “In 1959 we had five synagogues, two each of Sephardic and Ashkinasic background, and one German; six schools; one high school; and about 15,000 Jews in Cuba. In the ‘60s and ‘70s Conservative Judaism came to Cuba, led by the Seminario in Argentina and the American Rabbi, Marshall Meyer. Our congregation, Bet Shalom, is part of the Conservative movement, but today there are no rabbis in Cuba, none.” Dworin continued, “Cuba allows Jewish immigration to Israel. But we are still extremely poor. American Jews help us considerably with their visits and their contributions. Our pharmacy, led by Dr. Rosa Behar and her associate, Dr. Xiomara Tenenebaum, serves the needs of our community with the medicines and over-the-counter items you and other Americans bring us. Come visit us again, please, and stay for Shabbat.”
8 | The Jewish Press | March 22, 2013
Your annual financial checkup
Passover Seder at the Home by OZZIE NOGG As is their yearly custom, the residents of the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home extend a cordial invitation to family and friends to share the Passover Seders with them in the Blumkin Home Auditorium. The first Seder, led by Andy and Carole Greenberg, begins at 6 p.m. on Monday, March 25. The festival meal features Matzah Ball Soup, Chicken Piccata, Herbed Vegetables, Garden Mixed Vegetables and Passover Honey Cake. The second Seder, on Tuesday, March 26, also begins at 6 p.m., and will be led by the Polack family -- Jim, Susan, Max and Josh. The menu includes Matzah Ball Soup, Beef Brisket, Sweet Potato Tzimmes, Seasoned Asparagus, Mixed Vegetables and Fudge Chocolate Cake. Both Seders are catered by the Star Catering staff. “The Blumkin Home Seders are a won-
derful way for families to celebrate the Passover holiday together,” said Mike Schop, RBJH Assistant Administrator. “We look forward to seeing community members with us as we retell the Exodus story.” If you have questions regarding the Seders, please call Maggie Conti, Blumkin Home Director of Activities and Outreach Programs, at 402.334.6521. And those who want to enjoy a week of carefree Passover meals in their own homes can rest easy. The Star Catering culinary crew offers Passover to Go. Choose from Charoset, Gefilte Fish Loaf, Matzah Ball Soup, Roast Brisket, Roasted Chicken, Sweet Potato Tzimmes, Matzah Dressing, Mashed Potatoes, Fresh Vegetables, Chocolate Cake and Apple Kugel -- all cooked and ready to pick up if you order 24 hours ahead. Call Mike Aparo, RBJH Director of Food Services, at 402.334.6522 and relax.
April First Friday at Temple by DAVID GOLBITZ Temple Israel Staff Writer The April First Friday service and meal at Temple Israel will be extra special this month as the congregation welcomes Cantor Ellen Dreskin to lead the evening service. Cantor Dreskin, the Coordinator of the Cantorial Certification Program at the Debbie Friedman School of Sacred Music at HUC-JIR in New York, will lead the congregation in song and musical prayer. The music will be a mix of contemporary and camp sing along, with accompaniment by the First Friday volunteer band--Jon Bleicher, Tom Friedman, George Walker, Alex Pachman and Julie Sandene--as well as some more spiritual songs that she will perform solo. Anyone interested in performing with the First Friday band is encouraged to contact Cantor Wendy Shermet. They usually practice two or three times during the week leading up to the First Friday, as well as before the service begins. “In the eight months that we’ve been doing this, the band has really gotten a feel for what we want our Friday night services to be,” Cantor Wendy Shermet said. After the service, congregants are invited into the Friedman Social Hall for a relaxed, family meal and schmoozing. “We have such a great mix of congregants attending,” Andie Gordman said. “It gives people who might not otherwise meet a chance to get to know each other better.” The First Friday program began in September 2012 as a way to bring the Temple Israel community together to celebrate Shabbat and spend time with each other. It has been generously underwritten
by members of the Gordman family in memory of Brandon Thomas. “It really warms my heart when people come up to me and tell me how much they enjoy the First Friday experience,” Gordman said. “I think it is so important that we provide many options for our families to celebrate Shabbat with our community, and this has proven to be a very popular way for congregants of all ages to come together to worship and enjoy a meal.” Traci Kugler and her family also enjoy attending First Fridays, because they “are a great opportunity to interact with other Temple families in a kid-friendly environment.” To RSVP for the April First Friday, email RSVP@templeisraelomaha.com or contact Program Director Wendy Goldberg at 402.556.6536. Cantor Dreskin’s visit to Temple Israel is sponsored by the Hermene Zweiback Center for Lifelong Jewish Learning. Cantor Dreskin is an innovative leader in today’s Reform Movement. Her expertise extends from music to synagogue transformation, from experiential education to enlivened liturgy and mysticism. She has worked with Jews of all denominations throughout the United States, both as a scholar-in-residence and in her capacity as past Director of Programs for Synagogue 2000, a national, not-for-profit institute dedicated to revitalizing and re-energizing synagogue life in North America. Cantor Dreskin has also created a program for teenagers called Shul House Rock that she runs twice a year as a way to encourage musical teenagers to become songleaders themselves.
by RUSS KAPLAN Russ Kaplan Investments Not only is it good to have a physical checkup, but also a financial checkup. Depending on your circumstances, your financial needs may have changed since last year. As your life changes, your financial strategy may also need to change as well. The first thing to do is to take an inventory of all of your assets and liabilities. A spreadsheet or a computer program such as Excel, Quicken, or QuickBooks can be very helpful and effectively simplify the process of doing your annual financial checkup. Do you have the appropriate mix of stocks versus fixed income, tailored to your current financial situation? Are you generating enough
income from your investments? Remember, we are at an unusual period of history when bonds are paying record low interest; and you may be better off with high-income stocks, depending on your financial needs. Are you taking the proper amount of risk for your particular situation? If you are staying awake at night worrying about your investments, you have too much financial risk. That is why it is not a good idea to invest solely for the sake of a tax break. Finally, are you saving enough? As I always recommend, that everyone save at least 15% of their net income. Financial advisers currently recommend that you will need to have one million dollars of net worth upon reaching retirement, in order to live comfortably.
Gallery 72: A new generation by SUZANNE SMITH ARNEY Gallery 72 salutes the Jewish Community Center, in its present location at 333 South 132 Street for forty years, as it celebrates its own forty-year history. Forty years, according to the Bible, is the span of a generation, and Gallery 72 celebrates a renaissance as John Rogers, son of the late founders, establishes a new generation of ownership. The gallery was opened in 1972 by Bob and Roberta Rogers, and soon became the venue for contemporary art in the region. The couple were honored with a Governor’s Arts Award in 1990. Bob continued the gallery after Roberta’s death in 2001 and received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Omaha Entertainment and Arts Board in 2007. Eventually, however, the gallery became more than even Bob’s tremendous spirit could maintain. Bob Rogers died Dec. 21, 2012, age 94. Forty years, a new generation. On Feb. 1, a revived Gallery 72 celebrated with a truly Grand Opening in its new location at 1806
Vinton. Mary Zicafoose’s vibrant tapestries and prints breathed fresh life into the elegant, Lshaped gallery. Long-time patrons mingled with newcomers to combine a respect for the past with excited anticipation of a well-stocked addition to Omaha’s growing art scene. Rogers will exhibit and sell work by recognized regional and national artists in a range of media; offer consultation and installation; and develop a secondary art market. He has retained many of the artists who’ve worked with the gallery previously, but he has also scheduled artists new to Gallery 72. One of the latter is sculptor Deborah Masuoka. Best known for her rabbit head series, her seemingly demure subjects reveal the power and complexity of life when made to colossal scale. She has held a number of visiting artist appointments, including Bezalel Academy of Arts and Design in Jerusalem. For more information, you can contact Gallery 72 at 402.578.1306 or visit www.gallery72.com.
March towards a healthier lifestyle Dietetics: by AMANDA CHAPMAN • Personalize your eating style – find & SHELBY HOSKINS healthy foods you enjoy VNA Registered Dietitians • Find foods that fit your lifestyle – whether The month of March reminds us of spring, cleaning and starting fresh – which can also it is athletic, vegetarian, vegan, corporate, fammean starting fresh with a healthier lifestyle. ily or other • Incorporate cultural and ethnic traditions Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) recognizes • Keep health concerns in mind – healthy the importance of a healthy diet in honor of eating can prevent and treat a variety of health National Nutrition Month. Maintaining a healthy diet ensures your body concerns • Make MyPlate your plate – half your plate is getting the nutrition it needs and will help maintain a healthy weight. A healthy diet will should be filled with fruits and veggies VNA specializes in assisting seniors with also reduce risk of acquiring weight-related health problems such as diabetes and obesity. developing diets to meet their specific needs. There are many small ways to make a signifi- The RDs work directly with patients in the VNA cant difference in your diet: eat plenty of fruits Skilled Home Care, Hospice and VNA and vegetables, vary protein choices, and eat Companion Care programs that may be dealat least three ounces of whole-grain and three ing with diabetes, pediatric obesity, infusion therapy, for example. They also are available to servings of low-fat or fat-free dairy daily. Working towards a healthy lifestyle, VNA educate the public about nutrition through the Registered Dietitians (RDs) also recommend Cooking Matters Program. For more information or assistance with a building a personalized eating plan rather than settling for a one-size-fits-all diet. VNA RDs sug- healthier lifestyle, call 402.342.5566 or visit gest these tips from the food and nutrition www.thevnacares.org. Spring forward and experts at the Academy of Nutrition and make March your start towards a healthier you. PAID ADVERTISEMENTS
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March 22, 2013 | The Jewish Press | 9
Point of view
American Jewish Press Association Award Winner
Nebraska Press National Newspaper Association Association Award winner 2008
Clean
ANNETTE VAN DE KAMP-WRIGHT Editor of the Jewish Press Passover is almost here; time for frantic last minute cleaning and shopping and cooking. Some of us do a little, some of us go all out; sales of aluminum foil and Murphy’s oil skyrocket. Some of you are probably panicking: there are only a few days left. Get to work! Keeping Chametz out of the house during Passover doesn’t have to be a total hardship. Sure, the cleaning itself isn’t always fun, especially if you have to combine it with a full time job. I am lucky in that I have an 11-year-old daughter now, and that’s a big help -- both in the cleaning and the complaining department. Everything is more fun when you do it together. Also, my son has outgrown the “I-only-eat-cookies-andnothing-else-” phase. That makes things go smoother - I no longer have to worry about all the places where he used to save his cookies for later, and he doesn’t go into a snit the minute Passover actually starts (What do you mean, I can’t have an Oreo?). At the time, it did teach me how important it is to dump out every single toy box, since that was a favorite hiding place. We often go about this all wrong. Getting ready for Passover is not a chore; it’s a privilege. Yes, that includes the scrubbing. The act of cleaning is so much more than just getting rid of the actual crumbs. It serves as a great reminder that we also need to clean our minds and (maybe our personalities) of unnecessary clutter. There’s a Chasidic philosophy that says Chametz puffs up its chest, and acts in an arrogant manner, while the matzah is flat, humble and modest. That’s a nice metaphor, and the act of cleaning itself to get ready for that matzah certainly is a humbling one. Scrub out your toilet and clean the litter box, spend half an hour getting every last crumb out of the toaster, and then tell me I’m wrong.
At the same time, our cleaning ritual ties us together. I love thinking about how, all over the world, there are people I have never met and never will meet doing the exact same thing. Getting ready weeks before Passover to start separating boxes of crackers and cereal, going through the kitchen cabinets one by one, making their Passover shopping lists. I imagine thousands of bottles of Pine-Sol being emptied in many different buckets by many different pairs of hands. All at the exact same time. There’s community in that, and tradition, and permanence. It reminds us we are part of something bigger. It’s something to think about while you’re on your knees cleaning the kitchen floor: you are not alone. Having said all that, there are a few things to learn as well. “Anything a dog wouldn’t eat doesn’t have to be removed or destroyed,” writes Tamar Grey in Jewcy. “I don’t know why you’d want to keep it in your kitchen if a dog wouldn’t eat it, but I won’t judge.” And: “We only have to get rid of edible Chametz, or Chametz that would count as food. A bagel crumb that has been sitting on your kitchen floor for a year doesn’t count as edible Chametz because you wouldn’t consider it food. So technically, an old bagel crumb is no problem. (Don’t worry about the possibility of a baby eating that bagel crumb—just because a baby eats it doesn’t mean it’s food. Babies try to eat all kinds of things that aren’t really food. The bagel crumb still isn’t Chametz). That said, why haven’t you swept your floor in a year?” One more thing: a few years ago, Hadassah University Hospital did a
study into poisoning-by-cleaning products. Apparently, during the two weeks before Passover, there is a 38% increase in emergency room admissions of children who suffered from cleaning substance poisoning. Those statistics give new meaning to the phrase ‘obsessive cleaning.’ So, if you didn’t really go overboard with the cleaning this year, stop feeling guilty. Enjoy your Seder in the knowledge that you did what you could and what you are comfortable with. All of us at the Jewish Press hope you liked our special issue last week (we’re pretty sure you’re not finished reading all of it yet), and we wish you a very happy Passover. In a few days, it’ll be time to put away your rubber gloves and recline at your Seder. Chag Sameach!
Catching the wave at Tulane Hillel
Focus on issues YONAH SCHILLER NEW ORLEANS (JTA) -- “Hillel’s not really my thing. That’s not me.” This is not what you want to hear as a first-year Hillel director acclimating to a new campus. Yet when I arrived at Tulane University four years ago, that’s the refrain I heard as I tried to figure out how a Jewish student population that comprised more than 30 percent of the school’s student body could barely turn out 100 students for its largest events. Hillel at Tulane had been built on Jewish communal best practices, but it was not actually reflective of the social and religious wants and needs of the school’s more than 2,000 Jews. It was out of touch with the real desires of the demographic Hillel wanted to reach, and the handful of students who participated was cloistered in its own insular Hillel community. We had to change the way we were thinking. Since then, we have been able to increase participation by 230 percent and boost our fundraising by 78 percent. We’ve quadrupled the number of students we send on Birthright Israel and more than tripled attendance at weekly Shabbat services. Students on their own have raised more than $25,000 for various Hillel causes. We’ve created a complete cultural shift, as now our participants are primarily students who wouldn’t typically participate in Jewish institutional life. All in just three years. How did we do it? We tore down everything and let the majority rule. Like many Jewish institutions, Tulane Hillel was built by Jewish professionals, not by the people it wanted to reach. It wasn’t Tulane students’ thing because they did not create it.
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In 2008 it was run by students who had made being Jewish central to their identities at college. Naturally they created Jewish programming based on their own interests. But this strongly identified group was a tiny Jewish minority on campus. Their social reach was limited because their circles extended primarily to students who already shared their passion for Judaism and their affinity for Hillel. This made it nearly impossible for Hillel’s student leadership, and the organization at large, to meaningfully address the broader campus population -- despite offering cash incentives -- or even compelling content. The same could be said of the staff. I realized this in the midst of my search to find an “engagement associate.” Candidate after candidate was well meaning and well qualified in terms of organizational experience and Jewish academic pedigree. Yet I realized I was talking with Jewish professionals like me. I realized that if I wanted staff who could easily relate to Jews of the Tulane diaspora, they would need to be from the diaspora. So I found in many cases that the more affiliated the candidate’s Jewish background, the less qualified he or she was for the job. We responded by dissolving the existing student leadership board and sought students who would have never been involved with organized Jewish life. And we gave them the keys to the car. We did not ask these new students how we could best leverage their social networks to benefit Hillel. Instead we made it clear that our interest was in them and not for the betterment of Hillel. We wanted to know how Hillel could best aid them in furthering their interests, passions and aspirations. They would redefine Jewish life at Tulane. Instead of
designing programs from the top down that we institutionally thought might work, we charged these new leaders with planning programs on their own, and we created a microgrant pool to fund their ideas. Instead of having an insular group trying to figure out how to reach the mainstream, we let the students of the mainstream reach out to their friends and natural social circles. They would lead Hillel, and their interests would determine Jewish life on campus. Over the past three years, our student leadership has grown from 35 Jewish insiders to 160 students. The new voices have brought to the table programming that was different from what we might have suggested. Some were truly unique: an urban farming collective set up in lower income neighborhoods; a university-wide open mic night; an architectural competition for sukkah design on campus. Others more closely resembled programs at other Jewish organizations: a Sunday bagel brunch, a bone marrow drive, sponsored Shabbat dinners. The new Hillel leaders created an organic recruitment process that altered the culture and perception of who can lead and be part of Jewish life. Their network became our network. Some of the core students felt initially that their Hillel had been taken from them. In the end the already affiliated found their place, and we still serve as their primary Jewish resource. But if we were to reach the broader population, the organization had to be re-created by the broader population. We brought the outside in -- and they aren’t our guests. They are our leaders. Rabbi Yonah Schiller is the executive director of the Tulane University Hillel and an adjunct professor of Jewish civilization and Jewish mysticism at the New Orleans school.
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sonal ad or a news article about the event, project or program which the professional staff supervised. For information, contact Annette van de KampWright, Jewish Press Editor, 402.334.6450. Postal The Jewish Press (USPS 275620) is published weekly (except for the first week of January and July) on Friday for $40 per calendar year U.S.; $80 foreign, by the Jewish Federation of Omaha. Phone: 402.334.6448; FAX: 402.334.5422. Periodical postage paid at Omaha, NE. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The Jewish Press, 333 So. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68154-2198 or email to: jpress@jewishomaha.org.
10 | The Jewish Press | March 22, 2013
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, call 712.323.8885. FRIDAY, April 12: Services, 7 p.m. followed by a potluck dinner with guest, Mark Kirchhoff, Center for Jewish Life Administrative Assistant will speak on Refugee Resettlement. The community is invited. Cantor Beth Schlossberg will officiate at all of the Speaker Series Services.
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 Steven Abraham and Hazzan Michael Krausman. FRIDAY: Kabbalat Shabbat Service, 6 p.m. SATURDAY: Shabbat Services, 9:30 a.m. Junior Congregation (3-7), 10 a.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 7:15 p.m. WEEKDAY SERVICES: Sundays, 9 a.m. & 5:30 p.m.; weekdays, 7 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. SUNDAY: Torah Study Group, 10 a.m.; Adult B’nai Mitzvah Class, 11 a.m., with Hazzan Krausman; Women’s Rosh Hodesh Group will meet at 10:15 a.m., at the Strategic Air & Space Museum to view the art exhibit “Searching for Humanity: Veterans, Victims and Survivors of World War II.” All women in the Jewish community are welcome. Admission is $11; reservations and payment MUST be received in advance of event. RSVP to Jill Belmont at BeanK2@aol.com, or 402.333.9202, and send checks made payable to Beth El -- to the synagogue. MONDAY: Shaharit/Siyyum B’khorim, 6:45 a.m.; Wrestling with Rabbis of the Talmud with Rabbi Abraham will not meet on March 25 and April 1; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 5:30 p.m. TUESDAY: Shacharit, 9:30 a.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 5:30 p.m.; Congregational Seder, 6 p.m. led by Rabbi Abraham and Hazzan Krausman. For more information, contact Program Director Margie Gutnik in the synagogue office, or at programming@bethel-omaha.org. WEDNESDAY, Second Day: Shacharit, 9:30 a.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 7:45 p.m. (Yom Tov ends at 8:25 p.m.) THURSDAY, Hal Hamoed: Shacharit, 6:45 a.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 5:30 p.m. YAC Playgroup, Friday, March 29, 10 a.m. at the Children’s Museum. 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: Please contact the synagogue for office hours. Services conducted by Rabbi Jonathan Gross. FRIDAY: Kabbalat Shabbat, 7:21 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 Sisterhood; The Laws of Shabbat, 5:15 p.m.; Advanced Parshah Study for Boys (ages 10 and up), 6:15 p.m.; Mincha, 7:15 p.m., followed by Seuda Shlishit; Havdalah, 8:21 p.m. SUNDAY: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Search for Chometz, 8:23 p.m. WEEKDAYS: Shacharit, 7 a.m. MONDAY: Taanit Bechorort Siyum, 7:30 a.m.; Daf Yomi: Week in Review, 7:45 a.m.; Last time to eat Chamets, 11:28
a.m.; Candle Lighting, 7:42 p.m.; First Seder Earliest Time, 8:24 p.m. TUESDAY: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Women’s Study Group, 6:30 p.m.; Earliest Candle Lighting, 8:25 p.m.; Second Seder. WEDNESDAY: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Rabbi Weiss’s Weekly Class, 7:30 p.m.; Havdalah, 8:26 p.m. THURSDAY: Sacred Grounds with Rabbi Gross, 9:30 a.m; Med Center Chabura, 1 p.m. at UNMC; Scholars Club for fourth-sixth graders, 3:30 p.m. with Rabbi Gross.
CHABAD CENTER 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: Minyan and Meditation, 7 a.m. SATURDAY: Minyan and Meditation, 9:30 a.m.; Kiddush lunch will follow. SUNDAY: Minyan, 8:30 a.m.; Breakfast Bonanza, 9:30 a.m. WEEKDAYS: Minyan and Meditation, 7 a.m. MONDAY: Seder for the whole family, 7 p.m. Call 402.330.1800 to reserve. All programs are open to the entire community.
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: Tot Shabbat with Ms. Jennifer, 6 p.m. at Tifereth Israel; Shabbat Evening Service, 7:45 p.m. with oneg following hosted by Leslie DelSerone and Peter Mullin. SATURDAY: Shabbat Morning Service, 9:30 a.m.; Torah Study, 10:30 a.m. on Parashat Tzav. SUNDAY: No LJCS Classes. TUESDAY: Temple office closed; Annual Community Passover Second Night Seder, 6:30 p.m. For more information please contact the office, 402.435.8004 or stemple@ neb.rr.com. WEDNESDAY: No LJCS Hebrew classes. ADULT EDUCATION THURSDAYS, Beginning Hebrew, 6 p.m. and Advanced Hebrew, 7 p.m.
OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE SAC Memorial Chapel 301 Lincoln Highway | Offutt AFB, NE 68113 | 402.294.6244 FRIDAY: Services, 7:30 p.m.
ROSE BLUMKIN JEWISH HOME 323 South 132 Street | Omaha, NE 68154 SATURDAY: Services, 9 a.m. led by Marty Shukert. MONDAY: First Seder, 6 p.m., led by Carole and Andy Greenberg. TUESDAY: Services, 9 a.m. led by Andy Greenberg; Second Seder, 6 p.m., led by the Polack family: Susan, Jim, Josh and Max. WEDNESDAY: Second Day of Passover Services, 9 a.m. led by Andy Greenberg. 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 Comes to You at Rose Blumkin Home,
Chabad opens new center, synagogue in Antwerp by JTA NEWS STAFF THE HAGUE (JTA) -- Chabad has opened a new synagogue and Jewish community center in Antwerp. The Chabad-Lubavitch movement’s new building in the center of the Flemish region capital cost about $3 million and was dedicated last week. It has 43,000 square feet of floor space, a library with multimedia room, and a synagogue that can accommodate 250 people, according to Rabbi Shabtai Slavaticki, head of the Chabad operations in Antwerp. Slavaticki told JTA that the new building, which is adjacent to Chabad’s original headquarters in Antwerp -- will in the near future feature a museum about Judaism and about the Holocaust. Kris Peeters, prime minister of Belgium’s Flemish region,
attended the dedication ceremony and told the hundreds of guests that his government was “determined to combat antiSemitism, including through education.” The Flemish region is one of three autonomous regions that make up the federal Belgian state. Separately, the Jewish community of Edegem, a southern suburb of Antwerp, on Sunday introduced a new Torah scroll to its main synagogue in a procession attended by several dozen people. The scroll was made in Israel and took about one year to complete, Tali Goldstoff, the chairwoman of the Edegem synagogue, told the Gazet van Antwerpen. The synagogue was established in 2010 at the initiative of Menachem Hertz, another Chabad rabbi, for the 600 Jewish families living in the southern Antwerp suburbs of Edegem and Wilrijk.
Candlelighting Friday, March 22, 7:21 p.m.
2:30 p.m.; Shabbat Service, 6 p.m. SATURDAY: Torah Study, 9:15 a.m. Shabbat Morning Service, 10:30 a.m.; OTYG Lock-In, 10:30 a.m. thru Sunday, March 24, 10:30 a.m. Please RSVP to Amy Katz, amykatz9120@hotmail.com, by March 20. SUNDAY: Teachers Meeting, 9 a.m.; Grades PreK-6, 10 a.m.; Grade 3 Trip to the Zoo, 10 a.m.; Grade 2 VSP Seder, 11 a.m.; Grade PreK and Kindergarten Seder, 11 a.m.; OTYG Program, noon. TUESDAY: Passover Service, 10:30 a.m.; Congregational Seder, 6 p.m. Menu items for the seder include Matzah Ball Soup, Chicken, Kugel, Salad, Chocolate-dipped Macaroons for dessert and all the other traditional favorites such as charoses, gefilte fish and matzah, of course, according to Dennis DePorte, Executive Director. Reservations are required. For more information please contact the Temple Israel office, lsherrod@templeisraelomaha.com or 402.556.6536. WEDNESDAY: No Religious School; No Family School; No Grades 7&8. THURSDAY: No Adult Study with the Clergy with Rabbi Azriel.
TIFERETH ISRAEL 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, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. FRIDAY: Tot Shabbat with Ms. Jennifer, 6 p.m. at TI; Shabbat Services, 8 p.m. led by Daniel Neiden and his son Evan. SATURDAY: Morning service, 10 a.m. led by Daniel Neiden with Kiddush lunch to follow in honor of Max Neiden’s 90th Birthday; Kids Rule the Shul, 10:30 a.m. SUNDAY: No LJCS Classes; Max Neiden and his family will hold an Open House for his 90th Birthday, 1-4 p.m. at TI. MONDAY: Temple office closed; Candle Lighting, 7:25 p.m.; First Seder. TUESDAY, First Day: Temple office closed; Passover Services, 9 a.m.; Candle Lighting, 8:26 p.m.; Second Seder WEDNESDAY, Second Day: No LJCS Hebrew classes; Temple office closed; Mincha/Ma’ariv Service, 6:15 p.m.
B’nai Israel Speaker Series B’nai Israel Synagogue hosted a presentation by Nancy Wolf, Community Volunteer. She introduced Ikebana -Friendship through Flowers to those attending Friday Night services on March 8. Ikebana is a disciplined art form in which nature and humanity are brought together. It started in Japan and has become an international organization. As a member of the local organization, Nancy Wolf has arranged and shown her artful creations on many occasions including formal shows. She had an arrangement on display at the synagogue and even wore a Japanese kimono during her presentation. She told how the symbolism of heaven, earth, and people are portrayed in placing the flowers and other organic features in a simple display. The service was conducted by Cantor Beth Schlossberg. During the service, Cantor Beth teaches new prayer tunes and information about the prayers. The Cantor’s leadership will be provided at each Speaker Series Shabbat service. A special evening is planned for the final Speaker Series Service for this year on April 12. Mark Kirchhoff, Administrative Assistant for the Center for Jewish Life will present information on Refuge Resettlement. Services wil be earlier than normal, at 7 p.m. A potluck dinner will follow services. Please contact Sandra at 712.323.8885 to her know what you plan to bring.
Card of Thanks My heartfelt thanks to all who remembered me during my illness. I truly appreciate your thoughtfulness. Betty Sanford
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March 22, 2013 | The Jewish Press | 11
The Witness and Servant
Sparks from the word RABBI MYER S. KRIPKE Parsha Vayikra Leviticus, except for a few unusually luminous and influential passages, leaves American Jewish readers somewhat puzzled. For the book deals largely with the ancient system of worship by sacrificing animals. There is an elaborate system. But American Jews (indeed most Jews of recent centuries) are unhappy with this method of worship. Our Haftarah, from the wonderful book of DeuteroIsaiah, gives us some perspective on ancient forms of worship when the prophet turns his attention to the idol worship, which he saw as an exile in Babylonia. He is appalled at idolatry, and cannot penetrate the mind of the idol-worshiper. He permits himself to mock and deride the pagans about him for their unthinking practices. He describes how the craftsman chooses a good tree, choosing with great care; and the draftsman-artist develops a form for the figure that is to be created; and the carpenter meticulously cuts and planes the timber; and the artist sculpts the figure of a man, a god,
bows down to it and prays to it. Wait, the prophet says. Can he not recognize that this is the same wood he used for his fire? He warms himself, and bakes his bread and roasts his meat with it. And some of the wood he forms into an idol, and he cries: Save me! You are my god! The famous Israeli Bible scholar Ezekiel Kaufman suggests that the prophets, who were so derisive of idolatry, did not recognize that the idol-worshiper used the idol as a symbol, not as the god himself. In any case, the prophet will have none of it. He sees God as One only, Master of nature, and Master of history, Ruler of the physical universe as well as mankind. Further, the prophet holds out to the House of Israel a special role in history. You, he declares, are God’s witness and God’s servant. Thus he places on Israel’s shoulders the task of teaching and demonstrating, the task of exemplifying in group life the ways of peace and love that testify to God’s presence and rulership. Our people long ago eschewed idolatry. Their sacrificial system vanished with the destruction of the Temple almost 2,000 years ago. What remains? What remains is the religious system that replaced the Temple, and the role of Israel as God’s witness and servant. It’s no small responsibility to be a Jew. Due to staff vacation, there will be no new Parsha over the next few weeks. The above Parsha has been adapted from Rabbi Myer Kripke’s book, Insight and interpretation.
Sam Epstein passed away on March 12 at age 97. Services were held March 14 at Beth El Synagogue, followed by the Burial at Golden Hill Cemetery. He was preceded in death by wife Rosaline, his parents, David and Sonia Epstein, and brother Harold Epstein. He is survived by sons and daughters-in-law, Steve and Judy Epstein of Las Vegas, NV, and Howard and Sharon Epstein, and son Eddie; grandchildren: Andy, Laurie and David Epstein, Jason and Laurie Epstein, Jenny and Jon Benowitz, Emily and Nick Ray, Brad and Darcy Epstein, and Hayley and Brian Uerling; great-grandchildren: Tyler and Molly Epstein, Noah and Audrey Benowitz, and Samantha Ray. Sam was a life-long resident of Omaha and a friend to many. Sam was the retired president & CEO of Nogg Fruit Company, past president of the Omaha chapter of SCORE, and member of the Omaha Restaurant Hospitality Hall of Fame. Memorials may be made to the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation or Rose Blumkin Jewish Home.
JAY JOSEPH CHASEN Jay Joseph Chasen passed away on Feb. 24. Services were held on Feb. 27 at Golden Hill Cemetery by Rabbi Steven Abraham. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Peggy; son and daughter-in-law, Debbie and Steve Chasen; daughter and son-in-law, Diane and Rick Stein; son, Gary; grandchildren: Aaron and Rachel Stein, Mathew and Jeremy Chasen, and Danielle Tornkuist. He was a longtime Omaha resident, and a Central High and Omaha University graduate. Manager of Riekes Bottles for 30 years, and a member of Executive Club of Omaha. He loved to watch and play golf and was a Husker fan. Memorials may be made to Beth El Synagogue or the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home.
JEROME P. GROSSMAN Jerome P. Grossman passed away on March 18 at age 89. Services were held March 20 in the Chapel at Temple Israel Cemetery, 42 and Redick St. He was preceded in death by his parents, Phillip and Hannah Grossman. He is survived by his wife Betty J. Grossman; sons, Michael Grossman and Barry Grossman; daughter-in-law, Stephanie Grossman; grandchildren: Hannah Grossman and Noah Grossman. He entered World War II in 1944 and fought in Europe in the 12th Armored Division and would eventually help liberate prisoners from a Nazi slave labor camp, Landsberg. In June of 1948, he was the first civilian from Nebraska to be given a direct commission to the new Judge Advocate General’s Corps. He would remain with the JAG part-time until 1977. After the War, he attended Creighton Law School where he received his Juris Doctorate and then went on to New York University where he earned his L.L.M. Degree in tax law. He was a former Commander of the Jewish War Veterans
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for Iowa and Nebraska, President and National Councilman of the Nebraska Department of the Reserve Officers Association, First President of the Byron Reed Historical Society, President of the Omaha Coin Club, Coordinator of the Byron Reed Collection Cataloguing Commission for the City of Omaha as well as many other positions for numerous organizations. Memorials may be made to the Jewish War Veterans of the USA or the Retired Officers Association c/o Offutt Air Force Base.
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STEVE SOKOLOF Steve Sokolof passed away Monday, March 11 in Miami, FL. Services will be held Sunday, March 24 at Temple Israel at 1 p.m. He is predeceased by his parents, Phil and Ruth Sokolof. He is survived by wife Chrissie; son, Phil; sister and brother-in-law, Karen and Gary Javitch; nephew, Mark Javitch; nieces, Jenny and Rachel Javitch; aunts and uncles, Jerry and Charney Rosinsky, Phyllis Aronson, Soralee and Jerry Cohn, special friends David Jacobson, Dale Weinstein, Steve Goodman, many loving cousins and other friends. He was a spiritual leader in the Hare Krishna movement for more than 40 years. Memorials may be made to Temple Israel or the Nebraska Foundation for Visually Impaired Children, PO Box 31758, Omaha 68131-0758.
ROZA L. ZLOTNIK Roza L. Zlotnik of Lincoln passed away on March 15 at age 96 at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. Services were March 17 at Mt. Carmel Cemetery in Lincoln. She was preceded in death by her parents; and husband, Antzel Zlotnik. She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Vitaly and Sofia Zlotnik; daughter, Bella Matveyeva; grandchildren: Anatoly Zlotnik and Ann Tarasova; and great-granddaughter, Olga Tarasova. She was born on May 5, 1916 in Petrikov, Belarus. She was a member of Congregation Tifereth Israel in Lincoln. Condolences may be left at www.bmlfh.com.
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Nebraska STATEWIDE CLASSIFIEDS BANKRUPTCY: FREE initial consultation. Fast relief from creditors. Low rates. Statewide filing. No office appointment necessary. Call Steffens Law Office, 308-8728327. steffensbankruptcylaw.com. We are a debt relief agency, which helps people file bankruptcy under the bankruptcy code. CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING works! Place your 25 word ad into thousands of Nebraska homes for $225. Contact the Jewish Press at 402-334-6449 or call 1-800369-2850. LOOKING FOR the classic car, truck or motorcycle of your dreams? Midwest Classic Cars website is your Midwest connection to classic vehicles for sale. Need to sell a classic vehicle? For only $25, your ad with photos will run until sold! Call this newspaper today for more information or call 1-800-369-2850. AFFORDABLE PRESS Release service. Send your message to 175 newspapers across Nebraska for one low price! Call 1-800-369-2850 or www.nebpress.com for more details. HAPPY JACK® Skin Balm™: Stops scratching & gnawing. Promotes healing & hair growth on dogs & cats suffering from grass & flea allergies without steroids! Orscheln Farm & Home. www.happyjackinc.com. USED CENTER pivots for sale. (3) ten Tower Zimmatics. (2) seven Tower Zimmatics. (1) eight Tower T-HL. Good condition. Call 701-742-3223. HELP WANTED: Immediate opening for experienced ag equipment technician in Loup City, Nebraska. Call Diane at Ken’s Equipment, Inc., 308-745-0321. EARN $500 a day. Insurance Agents needed; leads, no cold calls; commissions paid daily; lifetime renewals; complete training; health & dental insurance; life license required. Call 1-888-713-6020. QC SUPPLY, a leading distributor of Ag products is looking for a Swine Equipment Sales Professional. Swine experience is a must. Basic computer and good communication skills required. Send resume to careers@qcsupply.com or PO Box 581, Schuyler, NE 68661.
To Submit obituaries to the Jewish Press: Email to the Press at jpress@jewish omaha.org; fax to 402.334.5422, or mailed to 333 So. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68154, or online at the Jewish Federation of Omaha website: www.jewishomaha.org. Click on Jewish Press and go to Submit Announcements.
CASH WA Distributing is seeking an experienced diesel tech. Minimum of 2 years experience in diesel technology/medium heavy-duty truck trailer repair. Must understand inspection criteria and DOT regulations. Must be knowledgeable of methods and procedures used in performing repairs and inspections. Cash Wa offers competitive wages and benefit package. Qualified applicants may obtain information or apply by calling 1800-652-0010, 308-237-3151, 401 W. 4th St., Kearney. YOU GOT the drive, we have the direction. OTR Drivers, APU equipped pre-pass EZ-pass passenger policy. Newer equipment. 100% No Touch. 1-800-528-7825. ENDECOTT TRUCKING looking for OTR drivers. Must have minimum 2 years experience. Must be able to pass drug testing. Call Donny at 308-227-9906. OTR TRUCK driver for flatbed operation. Norfolk area based company. 2 years experience and good MVR. Call for details, 402-582-4791.
12 | The Jewish Press | March 22, 2013
Hebrew language learning continues by MARK KIRCHHOFF Administrative Assistant, Center for Jewish Life Shalom! For the second year in a row, the Hebrew 101 class with Mor Sheinbein has been so popular that it has progressed to Hebrew 102. The Center for Jewish Life is excited to announce that Hebrew 102 will meet Thursday evenings from April 4 through May 9. Classes will be in the Kripke Jewish Federation Library from 6-7:15 p.m. For the past seven years Sheinbein has taught Hebrew 101 to adults who have had some or no previous instruction in the language. Thanks to her energetic, upbeat, and varied approaches, participants report that they have achieved a knowledge of Hebrew that has either met or exceeded their expectations.
Hebrew 101 class Hebrew 102 is open to all who have a solid foundation in the basics of Hebrew. It provides a great opportunity to advance abilities and to brush up on what you already know. This is an active learning class. You will enjoy challenging yourself, practicing greetings, using basic phrases, and building a vocabulary. Participants should come with a willingness to “try on” the language through speech and written communication. Last year’s participants highly endorsed the class. One student stated, “Mor is a great teacher, moving us along quickly but never making the pace too fast. I made great strides last year.” There are a limited number of slots available, so check your schedule and register soon. The fee for the course is $53, discounted to $41 for those who are members in good standing with the Annual Campaign of the Jewish Federation of Omaha. Hebrew 102 is presented by the Center for Jewish Life as part of its mission to maximize involvement of Omaha’s Jewish community in imaginative, compelling and meaningful Jewish experiences. To register, contact Mark Kirchhoff, 402.334.6463 or mkirchhoff@jewish omaha.org.
Summer Intern The Jewish Press is looking for a summer intern. If you are currently attending college, are between the ages of 18 and 24, and want to become more involved in our community, this is your chance. If you are interested, please send your resume and cover letter to avandekamp@jewishomaha.org. We can’t wait to meet you!
New pope, Jorge Mario Bergogli of Argentina, has Jewish connections by JTA NEWS STAFF the early 2000s, part of a joint Jewish-Catholic program (JTA) – Jorge Mario Bergoglio, the Argentinian cardinal called Tzedaka. who was elected pope late on March 13 and will take the “We went out to the barrios where Jews and Catholics were name Francis I, is said to have a good relationship with suffering togeher,” Singer told JTA. “If everyone sat in chairs Argentinian Jews. with handles, he would sit in Bergoglio, 76, a Jesuit, was the one without. He was always the choice of the College of looking to be more modest. Cardinals following two days He’s going to find it hard to of voting in Vatican City. He wear all these uniforms.” is the first pope to come from Bergoglio also wrote the outside Europe in more than foreward of a book by Rabbi a millennium; reflecting the Sergio Bergman and referred changing demographics of to him as “one of my teachers.” Catholics, he comes from Last November, Bergoglio Latin America. hosted a Kristallnacht memoAs archbishop of Buenos rial event at the Buenos Aires Aires, Bergoglio attended Metropolitan Cathedral with Rosh Hashanah services at Rabbi Alejandro Avruj from the Benei Tikva Slijot synathe NCI-Emanuel World gogue in September 2007. Masorti congregation. Rabbi David Rosen, the He also has worked with the director of interfaith affairs Latin American Jewish for the American Jewish Congress and held meetings Newly elected Pope Francis I waving to the crowds on the Committee, told JTA that the with Jewish youth who parcentral balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, March new pope is a “warm and ticipate in its New 13, 2013. Credit: Peter Macdiarmid/Getty sweet and modest man” Generations program. known in Buenos Aires for doing his own cooking and per“The Latin American Jewish Congress has had a close relasonally answering his phone. tionship with Jorge Bergoglio for several years,” Claudio After the bombing of the AMIA Jewish community center Epelman, executive director of the Latin American Jewish in 1994, he “showed solidarity with the Jewish community,” Congress, told JTA. “We know his values and strengths. We Rosen said. have no doubt he will do a great job leading the Catholic In 2005, Bergoglio was the first public personality to sign Church.” a petition for justice in the AMIA bombing case. He also was In his visit to the Buenos Aires synagogue, according to one of the signatories on a document called “85 victims, 85 the Catholic Zenit news agency, Bergoglio told the congresignatures” as part of the bombing’s 11th anniversary. In gation that he was there to examine his heart “like a pilgrim, June 2010, he visited the rebuilt AMIA building to talk with together with you, my elder brothers.” Jewish leaders. “Today, here in this synagogue, we are made newly aware “Those who said Benedict was the last pope who would be of the fact that we are a people on a journey, and we place a pope who lived through the Shoah, or who said there ourselves in God’s presence,” Zenit quoted the then-archwould not be another pope who had a personal connection bishop as saying. “We must look at him and let him look at to the Jewish people, they were wrong,” Rosen said. us, to examine our heart in his presence and to ask ourselves Soon after the chimney of the Sistine Chapel sent up a puff if we are walking blamelessly.” of white smoke signifying that the cardinals had selected a Renzo Gattegna, the president of the Union of Italian successor to Pope Benedict XVI, Francis addressed thou- Jewish Communities, offered Italian Jewry’s congratulations sands of faithful from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. to the new pope with the “most fervent wishes” that his pon“Buonasera,” he told them, saying “Good evening” in tificate could bring “peace and brotherhood to all humaniItalian, and thanked his fellow cardinals for going “almost to ty.” the ends of the earth” to find him. In particular, Gattegna voiced the hope that there would Benedict was the first pontiff to step down since 1415. be a continuation “with reciprocal satisfaction” of “the Israel Singer, the former head of the World Jewish intense course of dialogue that the Jews have always hoped Congress, said he spent time working with Bergoglio when for and that has been also realized through the work of the the two were distributing aid to the poor in Buenos Aires in popes who have led the church in the recent past.”
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