April 10, 2020

SPONSORED BY THE BENJAMIN AND ANNA E. WIESMAN FAMILY ENDOWMENT FUND C E L E B R AT I N G

1OO

YEARS

The Jewish Press AN AGENCY OF THE JEWISH FEDERATION OF OMAHA | WWW.JEWISHOMAHA.ORG

INSIDE

A PR I L 1 0, 2 020 | 1 6 NISA N 578 0 | VO L. 1 00 | NO. 2 5 | CANDLELIGHTING | FRIDAY, APRIL 10, 7:41 P.M.

The Jewish Federation of Omaha COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund RBJH Purim King and Queen Page 3

Spotlight: Photos from around the community Page 4

MEMBERS OF THE OMAHA JEWISH COMMUNITY: or decades, Omaha has been a vibrant Jewish Community with a strong history of stepping up to offer assistance to those in need during particularly difficult periods, often times in far reaching corners of the world. It is in our fabric and is a shared value we all believe in.

Today, the unprecedented impact of the Coronavirus requires we work together to protect and care for members of our own Omaha Jewish Community.

To address immediate needs, we are launching The Jewish Federation of Omaha COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund to provide emergency assistance where it’s needed most.

While our Annual Campaign adequately provides vital programming and services throughout the year, the COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund will fill the urgent shortfall brought on by the current crisis.

We estimate that at least $500,000 will be needed to help Omaha’s Jewish community.

We have already received several phone calls from donors asking how they can help. In addition, our JFO Senior Leadership along with JFO Board Members are committing their financial support to reflect their solidarity in this effort.

The Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation is also partnering with us by establishing a Challenge Match to encourage quick responses from our community.

The Foundation will match dollar for dollar any donation made to the Relief Fund up to $50,000 through the end of May, 2020. This will effectively DOUBLE the impact of your

F

Leta Levinger visits husband Chuck at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home.

donation!

The Jewish Federation of Omaha COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund will focus on these areas: See COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund page 2

Who we are: Essays on Jewish Identity: Passover Page 8

Nebraska Young Artist National Child Abuse Award: Leora McNamara Prevention and Awareness

REGULARS

Voices Synagogues Life cycles

5 6 7

GABBY BLAIR Staff writer, Jewish Press The University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts has selected Leora McNamara as one of this year’s Nebraska Young Artist Award recipients. This award recognizes 11th grade Nebraska students for talents in visual arts, dance, music, theatre and merging media.

Leora has been dancing at the JCC for the past 13 years. The Central High School junior is currently living abroad in Belgium, where she is taking part in an exchange program at a school that offers dance classes as part of their normal school day.

Leora McNamara

“My favorite styles of dance are ballet and improvisation,” Leora shared via WhatsApp. “Ballet, because you can strive for perfection, gorgeous technique, 180 turnout... something you will never quite get, but it is fun to work so hard and be able to come closer to it! Improvisation because you are totally free and I feel like I can go to another world when I am dancing and letting my body do what it wants.”

McNamara plans to major in dance once college starts, but is still working See Leora McNamara page 4

TERESA C. DRELICHARZ, MS, NCC, LIMHP, RPT Therapist & Adoption Specialist, Jewish Family Service Every April, Jewish Family Service and other organizations remember April as Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness month. We normally see many Pinwheels planted around the city, a long-running campaign known as Pinwheels for Prevention. This provides a visual reminder of the month’s significance in the lives of so many young people.

Although we may not see as many pinwheels this year due to the Covid-19 crisis, it is no less important to remember that we should

increase awareness and strive for prevention not only this month, but every month of every year.

Even in the best of times in any community, child abuse is present.

As we all struggle with the isolation, anxiety, financial upheaval and ongoing uncertainty we are currently experiencing, we must also be aware that risks for child abuse are heightened right now. According the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, among many risk factors for abuse, some are particularly relevant right now. Family Risk Factors include social isolation, family stress, separation or divorce, See Child abuse page 2

2 | The Jewish Press | April 10, 2020

Jade Garden Chinese Restaurant CARRY OUT AVAILABLE

402-498-8833

Beer and Wine Available 2068 N. 117 Ave. North Park (117th & Blondo) M-Th: 11-9:30 • Fri & Sat. 11-10:30 • Sun. Noon-9:30

COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund Continued from page 1 FOOD SECURITY Relief Funds will allow Jewish Senior Outreach and Jewish Family Service the ability to increase assistance to our most vulnerable populations. Ensuring access to nutritious meals is vital!

HOUSING SUPPORT We are closely following the actions banks, landlords, utility companies and the Federal Government’s CARES Act are taking to assist those in need. The Relief Fund will address financial shortfalls that will still exist in the community.

HEALTH & WELLNESS Our JFO agencies will provide essential services to ensure we remain safe and healthy. This may include assistance in receiving medicines, Telemental Health Therapy or other necessary services.

OPERATIONAL SUBSIDIES Our JFO Agencies, particularly the Jewish Community Center, have seen significant operational revenue shortfalls these past several weeks due to our campus closure. The Relief Fund

will sustain our Federation, our JCC and other agencies while necessary services can continue to be provided to the community, many of which are conducted virtually.

To make a gift to the Jewish Federation of Omaha COVID19 Relief Fund, please visit http://www.jewishomaha.org/ donate/.

As an added incentive, the CARES Act also provides a provision for an “above the line” Charitable Deduction of up to $300 for cash contributions made during 2020 for donors who elect not to itemize deductions on their tax return.

May the knowledge that this gift will aid others be an inspiration to you during this challenging time!

Should you have any questions or would prefer calling in your donation, please contact the Jewish Federation’s COVID19 Relief Fund hotline at 402.334.6430.

ALAN POTASH, JFO Chief Executive Officer JON MEYERS, JFO Board President HOWARD EPSTEIN, JFO Foundation Executive Director DAVID GILINSKY, JFO Foundation Board President

Child abuse

HIRO 88 WEST OMAHA

OLD MARKET

3655 N 129th St.

1308 Jackson St.

402.933.0091

402.933.5168

MILLARD

LINCOLN

17664 Welch Pl.

402.933.5168

601 R St. #100

402.261.9388

www.Hiro88.com S U S H I | J A PA N E S E | C H I N E S E

Continued from page 1 domestic violence, parental stress, poor parent-child relationships, and negative interactions. Community Risk Factors include violence, a high concentration of poverty or unemployment in a given area, extensive use of alcohol, and poor social connections.

For some children, home is not necessarily the safest place.

Many children rely on the connections they have at school for socialization, adequate nutrition, positive interaction, and a sense of security and belonging. Families who struggled before the Covid-19 crisis may now be stretched beyond their limits. Grandparents and other extended family members who have traditionally acted as caretakers and safety nets for these children are trying to keep themselves healthy during this difficult time.

We’ve all seen the slogan advertised over and over again the past few weeks, “We’re all in this together.” We all have our own challenges to overcome right now, but we can still look out for the most vulnerable members of our communities, the children. Keep an eye out for children who may be isolated, hungry, stressed out, or in unsafe conditions. Help a struggling neighbor as much as you can given social distancing guidelines. Watch for signs of conflict, lack of supervision, and children in distress. If you see something, SAY something!

KRIPKE LIBRARY NOTICE With the JCC currently closed, any library books checked out from the Kripke Library will not be due until AFTER the JCC and Library reopen.

PARKWOOD T E R R A C E

APARTMENT HOMES

ORGANIZATIONS B’NAI B’RITH BREADBREAKERS Due to the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home temporarily being closed to the public, B’nai B’rith Breadbreakers will not meet until further notice. For specific speaker information, please email Gary.Javitch@Gmail.com, Breadbreakers chairman.

For more information or to be placed on the email list call 402.334.6443 or bnaibrith@jewishomaha.org.

If you suspect a child is in danger, make a call to the Child Abuse Hotline, 1.800.652.1999 in Nebraska, or 1.800.362.2178 in Iowa. You may also be able to help by making referrals to agencies who specialize in assisting people in emotional distress. Many mental health therapists across the country are still providing mental health sessions via tele-health during this emergency, including therapists at Jewish Family Service.

Our tele-health services are as secure and confidential as our in-office sessions. Sessions are held through real time videoconferencing, using Zoom, and clients can attend sessions from a smartphone/laptop, or using a webcam on their desktop computer. Services are available to clients across the state of Nebraska. For more information, please call JFS at 402.330.2024.

Save the Date: LIFE & LEGACY 2020 GABBY BLAIR Staff writer, Jewish Press LIFE & LEGACY presents its 2020 Vision: Seeing the Future of Tomorrow by Creating a Legacy Today. Please save the date for a community celebration scheduled for June 10 at 6:30 p.m. at Temple Israel, (13111 Sterling Ridge Drive).

Hors d’oeuvres and wine will be served 6:30-7 p.m. followed by this year’s Key Note Speaker, Arlene Cogen at 7:15 p.m. An inspirational speaker and best selling author of Give to Live, Cogen, a certified financial planner, can be heard on over 30 international and national podcasts.

A dessert reception will follow at 8 p.m.

9205 Western Avenue | Omaha 402.397.3994 | ParkwoodOmaha.com

Jackson Home Appliance

Managed by

“OMAHA’S MOST TRUSTED NAME IN APPLIANCE REPAIR” NOW BRINGS THAT SAME ATTENTION TO HEATING & COOLING

Jackson Heating & Cooling FEATURES CARRIER HOME HEATING & COOLING PRODUCTS CALL TODAY FOR YOUR FREE QUOTE FROM ONE OF OUR HVAC SPECIALISTS ON A NEW FURNACE, AIR CONDITIONER OR HEAT PUMP

402.393.6306

8827 Maple Street Omaha, NE 68134

402-391-4287 Carrier Factory Authorized Nate Certified Technicians

The Jewish Press | April 10, 2020 | 3

News

The King and Queen EMILY CLEMENT Activities Coordinator, Rose Blumkin Jewish Home On March 10, The Rose Blumkin Jewish Home held their annual Purim Party. Staff had to improvise due to the visitor restrictions, but the party went on! After some Purim trivia, a dance party, and a costume contest for both staff and Residents, the King and Queen were announced.

97-year-old Rose Rosenberg and 100-year-old Joe Kirshenbaum were crowned the 2020 Purim King and Queen of the Blumkin Home. They had received the most votes from staff and fellow Residents.

“There’s a story here,” Rose told me. In 1927, four-year-old Rose and her family moved out of her grandmother’s upstairs apartment on 21st St. and seven-year-old Joe and his family moved in. Rose and Joe never met each other over the years, but when Rose heard Top: Residents Joe Kirshenbaum and Rose Rosenberg were that a Joe Kirshenbaum was crowned the 2020 Purim King and Queen and above: Kevee celebrating his 100th Birthday Kirshenbaum congratulates his brother, Joe, on being at the Blumkin Home, she de- crowned Purim King. cided to stop by and ask if he was one of the was her former roommate, Jean Elkon, who Kirshenbaums who had moved into her recently passed away. Rose and Jean became grandmother’s house. He was. She showed like sisters. Rose still has the picture of her him a picture of her grandmother and he congratulating Jean when she was crowned Purim Queen last year. Rose knows that Jean said he remembered her.

About being crowned Purim Queen, Rose would have been so proud to see her crowned said, “It was one of the best things that hap- Queen this year. Rose joked, “If she were still pened to me in my whole life. They told me my here, I would call our room the throne room, picture was going to be hung on the wall with because we would have two queens!”

Joe voiced a similar sentiment about being past Kings and Queens. That’s such an honor to be on the wall with those illustrious people crowned Purim King. “It’s an honor because who came before me.” One of the queens who I know there are so many great people who came before her, one year before her in fact, were King and Queen before me,” he said.

Welcome to the Virtual JCC Our doors may be shut for the time being, but we want you to know that we are still working for you. We are committed to providing our members with new opportunities and resources as we navigate these unprecedented circumstances together.

With that in mind, we are proud to introduce the new Virtual J – online resources allowing for meaningful engagement opportunities. We realize that in these times of uncertainty, seeing a familiar face can be reassuring – especially for our smallest members. The JCC Staff is working hard to quickly create new content. As each day goes by, more content will be added. If you have a program or topic you would like to see featured please reach out to any program director via email at jcc@jccomaha.org.

Choose from a varied menu that includes Fitness, Youth Activities, Cultural Arts, Sports

and Rec, Aquatics, Early Childhood or Judaica. Go to https://www.jccomaha.org/ and click on the ‘Virtual Classes’ bar and the page will take you directly to the menu.

You can find nutrition information and trainer recipes (Heather makes black bean brownies) as well as ‘BBYO On Demand:’ a virtual experience for teens. Participate in the TikTok challenge, take a beginner’s dance class or an advanced one, or (my personal favorite) participate in a milk tie-dye experiment.

The Musical Theater section offers acting games, like ‘One Word Story’ and ‘Ships and Sailors.’ Or, you can play charades for kids.

From the same homepage, you can click on a link for the JCC YouTube channel, where you will find a series of videos that are instructive, entertaining, or both. Watch and hear CDC teacher Barb Giller sing or take a ‘dry-land’ swimming lesson. There is much to discover on the JCC website and we hope you’ll visit us soon!

LOCA L | N ATION AL | WORLD

Nissan and the Blessing of the Trees The Hebrew month of Nissan is the first month of Spring. Indeed, the entire Hebrew calendar is calibrated so that Nissan (which this year is from March 26 until April 24) will be the first Spring month, as TEDDY a second month of WEINBERGER Adar (which immediately precedes Nissan) is inserted whenever the lunar calendar slips too far behind the solar calendar. We always want to celebrate the Passover (which begins on the night of the 15th of Nissan) in the Spring.

Even though I had a very good Jewish education in America, it was only after I made aliyah that I found out about a blessing that is tied to the month of Nissan: “The Blessing of the Trees.” This Blessing, which as it turns out may be recited in any country, is only widely known and recited in Israel—a fact that speaks volumes to the Zionist project of returning to nature and to the Land.

Traditionally, one tries to say the Blessing of the Trees on the first day on which it is possible; i.e., the first day of Nissan (since there is a concept of enthusiastically performing a mitzvah as soon as one can). The Blessing is recited, ideally, over two flowering fruit trees of different species (in a pinch, it can be recited over a single flowering fruit tree). The Blessing is as follows: Blessed are You Lord our God, Ruler of the universe Who did not leave anything lacking in Your universe, and created in it good creatures and good trees to give pleasure to humankind.

One reason given for this Blessing’s obscurity is that in many parts of the diaspora trees are not in flower at the time when it is traditionally recited, in Nissan. But interestingly enough, we made aliyah from Miami, where it is common for people to have fruit trees in

their backyard (we had tangerine and lemon), and where it is warm enough for trees to flower in Nissan--yet we were not encouraged to bless the trees. Only when we made aliyah did we start to make the Blessing of the Trees. Our backyard in Givat Ze’ev, where we lived for our first 22 years in Israel, was full of fruit trees (may they rest in peace—the new owner tore them all out save for the olive in order to put in an addition; gone are the loquat, apple, pear, grapefruit, and, most tragically, the gorgeous lemon tree which provided us with many hundreds of fruit—who knew that lemons produce fruit twice a year?).

I find in the Blessing of the Trees beautiful expression of a sense of awe at a flowering tree. How is it possible that from this feathery, fluffy, wonderfully smelling thing there will grow tasty, juicy, sweet fruit? Standing before a flowering tree one does not have to be particularly religious or faithful to feel like expressing some kind of thanks and some kind of appreciation. And now that you know about the Blessing of the Trees, you can!

Endnote: Because Passover is the most important holiday in Judaism, it casts a festive glow over the whole month, and so Nissan is the only month in which no penitential prayers are recited. I cannot help but mention here that our second child was born on April 6, 1989, which that year was the very first day of Nissan (Rosh Hodesh). Even though Rebecca mainly celebrates her English birthday, I remind her every year of this rabbinic saying: “In Nissan we were redeemed and in Nissan we will be redeemed.”

Teddy Weinberger, Ph.D., made aliyah in 1997 with his wife, former Omahan Sarah Jane Ross, and their five children, Nathan, Rebecca, Ruthie, Ezra, and Elie, all of whom are veterans of the Israel Defense Forces; Weinberger can be reached at weinross@netvision.net.il.

Leora McNamara Continued from page 1 on her plans. She will return to finish her senior year at Central. In light of the current global situation with Covid-19, Leora is doing ballet barre in her host family’s kitchen every morning and is staying busy with conditioning. “We have lots of home workouts such as sit-ups, planks and push-ups. My dance teachers have been supplying us with dance videos and combinations to continue our learning at home.”

From their Omaha home, parents Aviva Segall and Patrick McNamara are keeping in touch with their daughter regularly and expressed relief over their decision to keep Leora in Belgium. Aviva said, “It was not an

easy decision but one that was ultimately made with her safety in mind. Her host family has been wonderful and has promised to keep her for as long as needed for her to be able to travel home safely which is obviously not possible now.”

Patrick added, “We are so proud of Leora being recognized for her dance as a 2020 Nebraska Young Artist Award winner. She has spent the past two summers at Kibbutz Contemporary Dance Company in our PARTNERSHIP2Gether region of Western Galilee.

We especially appreciate Miss Esther [Katz] and all the wonderful teachers at JCC Dance who have taught and inspired Leora over the years!”

FOR A LIMITED TIME!

nal o i t sa

n e

S

CD Rates Ask an Enterprise Banker about our latest CD Special and let us help put your money to work for you!

12800 West Center Road

330-0200 210 Regency Parkway

392-0400 N.A., MEMBER F.D.I.C. MEMBER F.D.I.C.

www.enterprise.bank

4 | The Jewish Press | April 10, 2020

Above: More window visits at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home, with Resident Ethel Lerner visiting her son and daughter-in-law and puppy!

Above: RBJH Resident Howie Martin celebrates his birthday with window visits from his family and puppy.

Above: Daniel Kohen did not let the quarantine stop him from celebrating his 3rd birthday. Happy Birthday, Daniel! Sorry you couldn't have any guests!

Below: Julia Utesch eating shakshuka, prepared with help from Ron Lugasy’s virtual cooking class.

Right: Izrail Aronchik, a Jigsaw Puzzle Maven.

SP O TLIGHT PHOTOS FROM RECENT JEWISH COMMUNITY EVENTS SUBMIT A PHOTO: Have a photo of a recent Jewish Community event you would like to submit? Email the image and a suggested caption to: avandekamp@jewishomaha.org.

Above: RBJH Residents are staying busy with a game of Shanghai.

Pictured are Rose Rosenberg, Helen Sweet, Bev Schizas and Tootie Simon.

Right: Is it ice cream time yet? Loiser Kyove, RBJH Dietary Aide, serving up a variety of ice cream treats as she wheels the ice cream cart daily at 2:30 p.m.

Below: It’s Coloring Time! Chrissy Caniglia-Nelson, Activities Coordinator with Yu Sun having an enjoyable time coloring in the messy Activities Room.

Above: Doniven Christensen is busy creating masks for health care workers.

GENEROUSLY SUPPORTED BY

The Jewish Press | April 10, 2020 | 5

Voices

The Jewish Press (Founded in 1920)

Abby Kutler President Annette van de Kamp-Wright Editor Richard Busse Creative Director Susan Bernard Advertising Executive Lori Kooper-Schwarz Assistant Editor Gabby Blair Staff Writer Michael Ivey Accounting Jewish Press Board Abby Kutler, President; Eric Dunning, Ex-Officio; Danni Christensen, Candice Friedman, Bracha Goldsweig, Jill Idelman, Andy Isaacson, Natasha Kraft, Andrew Miller, Eric Shapiro, Shoshy Susman and Amy Tipp.

The mission of the Jewish Federation of Omaha is to build and sustain a strong and vibrant Omaha Jewish Community and to support Jews in Israel and around the world. Agencies of the Federation are: Community Relations Committee, Jewish Community Center, Center for Jewish Life, Jewish Social Services, and the Jewish Press.

Guidelines and highlights of the Jewish Press, including front page stories and announcements, can be found online at: wwwjewishomaha. org; click on ‘Jewish Press.’

Editorials express the view of the writer and are not necessarily representative of the views of the Jewish Press Board of Directors, the Jewish Federation of Omaha Board of Directors, or the Omaha Jewish community as a whole. The Jewish Press reserves the right to edit signed letters and articles for space and content. The Jewish Press is not responsible for the Kashrut of any product or establishment.

Editorial The Jewish Press is an agency of the Jewish Federation of Omaha. Deadline for copy, ads and photos is: Thursday, 9 a.m., eight days prior to publication.

E-mail editorial material and photos to: avandekamp@jewishomaha.org; send ads (in TIF or PDF format) to: rbusse@jewishomaha.org.

Letters to the Editor Guidelines The Jewish Press welcomes Letters to the Editor. They may be sent via regular mail to: The Jewish Press, 333 So. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68154; via fax: 1.402.334.5422 or via e-mail to the Editor at: avandekamp@jewishomaha. org.

Letters should be no longer than 250 words and must be single-spaced typed, not hand-written. Published letters should be confined to opinions and comments on articles or events.

News items should not be submitted and printed as a “Letter to the Editor.”

The Editor may edit letters for content and space restrictions. Letters may be published without giving an opposing view. Information shall be verified before printing. All letters must be signed by the writer. The Jewish Press will not publish letters that appear to be part of an organized campaign, nor letters copied from the Internet. No letters should be published from candidates running for office, but others may write on their behalf.

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

American Jewish Press Association Award Winner

Nebraska Press Association Award winner 2008

National Newspaper Association

Editorials express the view of the writer and are not necessarily representative of the views of the Jewish Press Board of Directors, the Jewish Federation of Omaha Board of Directors, or the Omaha Jewish community as a whole.

We are stronger together ANNETTE VAN DE KAMP-WRIGHT Editor, Jewish Press At our house, we can’t complain. We have a roof over our heads, we have more than enough to eat, our bills are paid and in spite of being together more than we have ever been, we all still get along.

We are lucky and we know it; there are countless people for whom life at the moment is bleak. So what if our daily routine has been upended?

But we worry. If not about us, about the countless others who are lonely, depressed, at a loss as to where their next paycheck will come from. We worry about the people who don’t have relatives or friends nearby to help them out, or who are too afraid to ask. And what about the people who don’t have Internet access? It’s so easy for most of us to jump online, check our social media, make a FaceTime call from our smart phone or in rapid succession place an order for whatever-we-desire, attend yet another Zoom, stream services and share photographs with our loved ones. Take that away and suddenly the isolation can become unbearable.

Social distancing may save our lives, but those lives will look very different without face-to-face contact.

When in March, we ended up publishing two papers back-to-back, filled with stories about programs that were canceled before the ink had a chance to dry; we decided not to send out a paper March 27.

It was a tough decision, but it was the right one. We all needed to pause and rethink our response.

Since then, we’ve had a chance to watch things unfold. There are endless Zoom meetings; services are being streamed, as are various classes, both at the synagogues and at the JCC. People share, pray

and learn together. Ron Lugasy cooks and the clergy gives sermons, we can do yoga and take virtual tours of Israel. We are connecting, albeit in a different way, which only goes to show: this community is at its strongest when we come together, no matter the reason. We are still here.

And so, with this changing social landscape, we decided to go back to printing this paper. Yes, it is thin, and the content is very different. Bear with us, we are still figuring this out. But at the same time, there are remarkable stories unfolding in our community. Many people are tirelessly working behind the scenes and we need to talk about that. The staff at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home has risen to this challenge in ways that leave the rest of us dumbfounded. They truly are phenomenal people and no matter what happens, I think the way they take care of the Residents will leave an indelible impression.

I want to hug them all (but I can’t- social distancing!)

We want to hear from you, too. What are you filling your days with, how are you coping? What has changed, what has stayed the same? What are your fears, hopes, what has surprised you? Call us at 402.334.6450 if you want to share your story, or if you just want to talk—because we are here for that, too. Send us your photos—now more than ever, we need to see each other’s faces. Email me at avande kamp@jewishomaha.org if you don’t feel like calling. We are also hoping for some Quarantine

recipes- -which is not a concept I knew about a few months ago, but apparently, it’s a thing.

One more thing: we are hard at work updating our website. I know, our current one doesn’t look very good, but thanks to some very generous donors, we are building a totally new one, which will go live very soon.

Finally, we are glad to be back. We hope you enjoyed the Passover issue we sent out last week and we hope you’ll stay in touch. Our paper may be temporarily abridged, but we are still here, even if we are working mostly from home. We hope getting the Jewish Press in the mailbox will remind you all that, in the middle of all this craziness, some things don’t completely change. And some day, we will be back with a regular paper that is filled with stories about in-person programs. Let’s hope that day comes soon, because we miss you.

We need Shabbat now more than ever But I’ve never made it a part of my personal pracCAROLINE ROTHSTEIN tice at home or even hosted a Shabbat meal. There JTA is a long-standing tradition whereby the rabbis This story originally appeared on Alma.

Two Fridays ago, on a final grocery store run be- teach us that Shabbat is both a day of rest and also fore officially locking myself alone inside my Brook- a taste of “the world to come.” That’s how I’ve always lyn studio apartment, I purchased a box of 72 thought of the ritual and practice itself — a future, “Standard Shabbos Candles” for the first time in my an adulthood, a commandment to come. I’ll start life. I had recently reclaimed the candlestick holders doing Shabbat when I’m married. When I have kids.

Well, I’m 36 and single and spending this panI got for my bat mitzvah from a family storage unit outside Chicago, so as I stood in line at the grocery store looking into my basket — essentials for this pandemic programming — I felt grateful I’d somehow decided that Shabbat needed to be part of what will help me live through these unprecedented and dark times.

I grew up in a Reform Jewish household. We didn’t practice Shabbat in any consistent kind of way. There was a small stretch after I had already left home where my mom spearheaded lighting the candles many Friday nights. Other than my siblings’ and my b-mitzvahs, we didn’t at- Credit: Fabian Strauch/picture alliance via Getty Images tend synagogue on Friday nights or Saturday morn- demic alone, so if not now, when?

I unequivocally need to be more tech-free. I’ve ings. My mother regrets this, telling me now, “The sense of connection and continuity with our faith been feeling this for years. Of course now, amid soand Judaic heritage deserved more of a ritual in our cial distancing and the reality of COVID-19, my home, albeit our Judaism was cherished and hon- phone is my lifeline for connection (text messages, social media, FaceTime, calls) and my computer is ored in many other ways.”

Now, as an adult, while Judaism remains a cen- my livelihood (writing articles, facilitating virtual tering and important part of my life, I’ve still never workshops, performing virtual shows). I was alproperly kept Shabbat in my own home. I’ve had ready trying to unravel myself from feeling bestages where I’ve been social-media free from sun- holden to the noise. I have this hope that practicing down to sundown. And months where I posted Shabbat can help.

Even alone in my apartment, I am overwhelmed d’var Torahs on Facebook each Friday afternoon.

I’ve gone to Shabbat services on and off throughout by space. What I am craving is: time.

In his book The Sabbath, Abraham Joshua Hesmy 20s and 30s, and I’ve spent many Shabbat meals at friends’ homes. I’ve most honored Shabbat ritu- chel writes, “The meaning of the Sabbath is to celals at Jewish conferences at which I was a presen- ebrate time rather than space... It is a day on which ter, or summer camps and synagogues where I had we are called upon to share in what is eternal in time, to turn from the results of creation to the a weekend gig.

mystery of creation.”

That’s what I want to gain during this indefinite amount of time we are being asked to stay at home, to stay inside. I want to recalibrate the essence of my being so that my life — the way I navigate through space and experience time — feels as awesome as the mystery of creation.

This isn’t going to be easy for me. I spent last Saturday nonstop on the phone, on FaceTime, and even emceeing a 300-person-plus virtual Zoom campfire for my sleepaway camp. It was the busiest Saturday I’ve had in months. And I barely moved.

And while it was soul-giving — that’s all I’ve ever wanted Shabbat to be — it was still centered around technology. I don’t totally know what Shabbat is going to look like for me now, but I do know that I want to center it around stillness, even more so. Which means I’m probably going to have to make changes in my life.

Last Friday night, I participated in Lab/Shul’s first virtual Sabbath Queen by reading a poem of mine. As the service began, over 130 of us gathered from around the world were invited to light our own Shabbat candles. I kept myself in view of my laptop computer camera. I stood near candles three and four from my 72-candle box (I used the first two the prior Shabbat), and was so profoundly moved watching so many of us do this ritual collectively from the privacy of our homes — something without this pandemic we might not have otherwise done.

I’ve lit candles at home once or twice before. Tea lights handed out to me on the street corner by Chabad. But this was different. New. My own candlesticks. My own home. My own me.

The Torah portion, Vayakhel, highlighted the commandment to observe Shabbat, including the demand to do it — or risk death. During his sermon, Rabbi Amichai Lau-Lavie said the gist of this teaching was saying that “If you don’t stop to activate the essence of Shabbat, you will die... If we don’t remember how to stop, we will be almost dead.”

For me, this pandemic is an invitation to come home.

Synagogues

6 | The Jewish Press | April 10, 2020

B’NAI ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE

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

BETH EL SYNAGOGUE

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

BETH ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE

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

CHABAD HOUSE

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

CONGREGATION B’NAI JESHURUN

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

OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE

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

ROSE BLUMKIN JEWISH HOME

323 South 132 Street Omaha, NE 68154

TEMPLE ISRAEL

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

TIFERETH ISRAEL

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

B’NAI ISRAEL For information on our historic synagogue, please contact Howard Kutler at hkutler@hotmail.com or any of our other board members: Scott Friedman, Rick Katelman, Janie Kulakofsky, Carole and Wayne Lainof, MaryBeth Muskin and Sissy Silber.

Handicap Accessible.

BETH EL Services conducted by Rabbi Steven Abraham and Hazzan Michael Krausman.

FRIDAY: Virtual Shacharit - Passover Day 2, 10 a.m.; Kabbalat Shabbat Zoom Conferencing, 6 p.m.

SATURDAY: Chol HaMoed Shabbat Zoom Conferencing, 10 a.m.; Virtual Havdallah, 8:45 p.m.

WEDNESDAY: Chol HaMoed Shabbat Zoom Conferencing, 10 a.m.; Virtual Havdallah, 8:45 p.m.

THURSDAY: Virtual Shacharit - Passover Day 8, 10 a.m.

FRIDAY: Kabbalat Shabbat Zoom Conferencing, 6 p.m.

SATURDAY: Shabbat Morning Services Zoom Conferencing, 10 a.m.; Virtual Havdallah, 8:52 p.m.

VIRTUAL MINYAN SCHEDULE: Mornings on Mondays and Thursdays, 8 a.m.; Evenings on Sunday-Thursday, 5:30 p.m.

Please visit bethel-omaha.org for additional information and zoom service links.

BETH ISRAEL Services conducted by Rabbi Ari Dembitzer Due to Coronovirus, all classes have moved online.

Please visit www.orthodoxomaha.com for our schedule.

Minyanim are canceled indefinitely.

The office is open, but to protect the staff of Beth Israel and the larger Beth Israel Community, we are limiting access, by adopting an “appointment only visits” policy.

Please call the office 402.556.6288 to set up an appointment.

If you are having technical difficulties, please call the office and we will help you out as much as you can!

CHABAD HOUSE Services conducted by Rabbi Mendel Katzman. Due to Coronavirus, all services and classes have moved online.

For schedules and more information or to request help, please visit www.ochabad.org or call the office at 402.330.1800

B’NAI JESHURUN Services conducted by Rabbi Teri Appleby.

We want you to know that, during this time of physical distancing, we are still here for you and we are re-imagining what it means to be – and to feel – connected to one another. Here is an update on what we are currently doing. This is a rapidly-evolving situation, so stay tuned for further updates and innovations.

The office will be open during regular office hours, Monday–Friday from 1-5 p.m. Feel free to call 402.435.8004; you can also email office@southstreet temple.org.

Rabbi Appleby is available via email, telephone, FaceTime or Skype. Please email her at rabbi@southstreet temple.org or call her at 423.763.8007.

At this time, we feel that the best way to continue with our usual Temple activities, while minimizing the risk of exposure, is to offer our members and friends some updated alternatives to gathering in person: Friday Evening and Saturday Morning Services will be offered by live stream only. Service times are Fridays at 6:30 p.m. and Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. Access the Temple’s web stream at https://southstreettemple.org/ worship/streaming/.

To follow along from home, you can arrange to borrow a copy of our siddur, Mishkan T’filah from Temple office.

Rabbi Appleby has also developed special South Street Temple service booklets incorporating the most frequently used portions of our prayerbook for both Erev Shabbat and Shabbat Morning services. Contact the Temple office for copies.

THURSDAY: Passover. Candlelighting for Passover at 9:12 p.m.

FRIDAY: Passover; Pop-Up Shabbat Dinners, No Service at Temple, 1st Day of the Omer. Candlelighting for Shabbat at 7:43 p.m.; Pop-up Shabbat from Rabbi Appleby’s home via Zoom, 6:30 p.m.

SATURDAY: Intermediate Day, Passover, Omer 2. Havdalah (72 minutes) at 9:14 p.m.; Shabbat Morning Service via Zoom, 9:30 a.m.; Torah Study on the Song of Songs via Zoom, 10:45 a.m.

SUNDAY: Intermediate Day, No LJCS Classes, Omer 3;

Adult Hebrew via Zoom, 11:30 a.m.

MONDAY: Intermediate Day, Omer 4.

TUESDAY: Intermediate Day, Omer 5. Candlelighting for Passover at 7:48 p.m.; Intro to Judaism via Zoom, 6:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAY: Passover, No LJCS Classes, Omer 6.

Candlelighting for Passover at 9:19 p.m.

THURSDAY: Passover, Yizkor, Omer 7. Havdalah (72 minutes) at 9:20 p.m.

FRIDAY: Omer 8. Candlelighting for Shabbat at 7:51 p.m.; Virtual Mayor’s Interfaith Prayer Breakfast, 7:30 a.m.; Erev Shabbat Service via live stream, 6:30 p.m.

OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE All services canceled until further noticce.

ROSE BLUMKIN JEWISH HOME The Rose Blumkin Jewish Home is currently closed to visitors.

TEMPLE ISRAEL Temple Israel has closed our building for normal business operations, and will remain closed through Tuesday, March 31. While our building is closed, we will be shifting to a “Virtual Temple Israel” model. Our aim is to continue operating as usual and as fully as we can without being in our building. Many meetings and classes will be held virtually, in a way that you can participate from home or work. Please visit this page often to see what online programming we are offering, such as our daily 7 a.m. Morning Minyan and the Friday Evening Service which will live stream at 6 p.m.

For many of our online opportunities, you will need Zoom downloaded and installed on your computer/ phone/tablet. For our worship and learning schedule in-

cluding Zoom links and instructions on how to download, please visit templeisraelomaha.com. You can also find our online Passover guide there.

Services are canceled until further notice. For more information, please visit the website at or call 402.423.8569.

TIFERETH ISRAEL

We are going to offer a remote seder experience for anyone who would like to join the Coren family via computer on the first and/or second nights of Pesach. Nancy will take us through all the rituals of the seder and lead us in some thoughtful discussion about the core values of Pesach.

Don’t worry about having a copy of your own haggadah, the haggadah will be shared directly on to your computer screen.

This will be a night that is different from all other nights, yet we hope it will be a positive experience for all who choose to join the Coren’s remotely.

Nancy is also willing to share the haggadah for Zoom screen sharing with any individual who would like to use it for their own remote Seder with their own family members, please contact her with your request for the Powerpoint. Please see our website for the zoom links.

WEDNESDAY: First Seder, 6 p.m.

THURSDAY: Second Seder, 6 p.m.

Until further notice, our Friday evening and Saturday morning services will take place via zoom which can be reached by computer or telephone. Please see our website for the zoom links.

FRIDAY: Evening Kabbalat Shabbat, 6:30-7 p.m.

SATURDAY: Shabbat morning Service, 10 a.m.

FRIDAY: Virtual Mayor’s Interfaith Prayer Breakfast, April 17 at 7:30 a.m.

All LJCS grades remote learning classes via Zoom will resume on Sunday, April 19.

Words from Rabbi Abraham I have been inspired by the high level of participation in daily minyan, Shabbat services and adult education classes over the past two weeks.

While the davening is lovely and the classes are enlightening, it is the time spent before, during and after, watching people converse and joyful to see each other’s face that makes me realize the importance of community.

We are living through a time where it is all too easy to feel isolated and displaced. While inter-

acting online is not quite the same as interacting in person, it is a beautiful way to bring us together during this challenging time in all our lives.

I encourage you to check out the Beth El website for up to date service and adult education schedules. Or to create an opportunity for you and your friends, whether it be a book club or happy hour; the point is to stay connected.

Please do not hesitate to be in touch with questions or concerns. We are here for you.

Holocaust Remembrance Day

MARCY OSTER JERUSALEM | JTA Yad Vashem, Israel’s Holocaust memorial based in Jerusalem, is creating a global name-reading initiative to mark Yom Hashoah, or Holocaust Remembrance Day. Since gathering for the annual national Yom Hashoah ceremony, and smaller community ceremonies are impossible this year, Yad Vashem is working to ensure that the names of Holocaust members are read out and remembered, the institution announced Monday.

The campaign, #Re- Yad Vashem is asking the international public to record themselves reading m e m b e r i n g F r o m the names of Holocaust victims, and share the video on social media using Home #ShoahNames the campaign’s hashtags, #Remembering FromHome #ShoahNames. calls on the international Credit: Yad Vashem public to record themselves reciting the names of of Shoah Victims’ Names, enabling someone to Holocaust victims and share the video on social search for and recite family names.

Yad Vashem will collect videos from all over the media using the campaign’s hashtags. Videos world and create an online Holocaust Rememshould be no longer than 15 seconds.

Holocaust Remembrance Day is observed this brance Day Global Name Reading Ceremony.

“Join us and mark Holocaust Remembrance year on April 21.

Through its website, Yad Vashem is providing Day this year from your homes. Help us to restore access to a list of names of adult and child victims the memory of those killed during the Holocaust,” of the Holocaust; a link to names of Holocaust vic- Yad Vashem Chairman Avner Shalev said in a tims by country, and a link to the Central Database statement.

Life cycles IN MEMORIAM

SUSAN LIPP KENTOFF Susan Lipp Kentoff of Jupiter, FL, passed away peacefully on March 22. A celebration of life will take place at some point in the future.

She is survived by her husband of 56 years, David Richard Kentoff; sons, Michael of Washington, DC, and Eric of Jupiter, FL; granddaughter, Lucy; daughters-in-law, Maureen (Meharg) and Renee (Ellis); sister and brother-in-law, Myra Lipp Sanderman and Maurice Sanderman of Highland Park, IL; and faithful dog, Molly.

She was born on May 21, 1938 in Omaha to Louis Ellis Lipp and Dorothy Kropman Lipp. After graduating from Central High School in Omaha, she enrolled in the University of Illinois and then the University of Nebraska-Omaha where she graduated with a B.A. in English. After college, Susan worked as an advertising copywriter at Carson Pirie Scott in Chicago and, after having a family, worked as a freelance copywriter for a number of retail stores, a professional travel agent, an aerobics instructor, and a tour guide at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. She was an avid photographer and artist in paint, pottery, and other media. She will be remembered for her smile and laugh. She was very, very funny, as an adoring audience of family and friends can attest, and taught her boys the majesty of creativity and humor from the very start of their lives; her influence will not diminish with her passing.

Memorials may be made to The Parkinson's Foundation.

Dayenu

There has rarely, if ever, been a time that has been easier to welcome the stranger into our homes... On the other hand: It would have been enough had we sympathized with those suffering in the world.

It would have been enough to feel for those first afflicted

by Covid-19.

It would have been enough to morn for the loss of life where this all began.

It would have been enough to admit we weren’t prepared for the transmission of this pandemic.

It would have been enough to recognize the first responders and medical personnel who have put their lives at risk to save the sick and vulnerable.

It would have been enough to recognize and acknowledge that it is not about the first born afflicted. There is no particular gender, sexual orientation, race or heritage that is immune.

It would have been enough to admit that while we try to be the best provider, parent, partner and friend, there are things beyond our control that truly measure the value of those relationships.

A note from Mark Martin and the JCC We have some exciting new features coming at Virtual J this week! Starting on Sunday, April 5 some of our programs, classes and events have been broadcast on Facebook Live! If you haven’t already, be sure to follow us on Facebook to partake in these great live events. Also watch for exciting new changes coming to the Virtual J. PROGRAM STATUS • All April programming has either been cancelled or rescheduled. Credits will be issued to those registered for programming that has been cancelled. Credits can be applied to future JCC programs.

• The status of May programming will be determined in the coming weeks.

REGISTRATION PROCESS • At this time only Summer Camp and Summer Swim & Dive Team registration is open.

• The April 6 Early Bird registration deadline for camp is still in effect and will not be extended. Camp registration can be done or by emailing jberkey@jccomaha.org.

• If any camp is cancelled and not able to be rescheduled refunds will be issued.

• Virtual Personal Training can be purchased through Johanna at jberkey@jccomaha.org.

CORRECTION

In the April 3 article about Jewish Omahans in the 1920s, a picture of Morrie Epstein was incorrectly identified as one of Morris Epstein. The two are not one and the same--and we placed the wrong photo with the article. The Jewish Press regrets the error and will, once the building reopens and we can access the NJHS archives, try to find a photo of the correct Morris Epstein. Thank you for your patience, and thank you Nancy Epstein for clarifying!

CONNECTING WITH US During the campus closure, staff may not be in their offices or at the desk to receive your call or voicemail. The best way to get in touch with our staff during this time is via email.

Membership or business representatives can be reached by emailing jccmembership@jccomaha.org.

We will continue to email updates and information as needed. Past updates can be found on the page of the JCC website.

I also want to take this opportunity to wish all of our members a very happy Passover. Please continue to stay safe and healthy. We look forward to welcoming you back to the JCC as soon as we can. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to reach out to me or any member of the JCC staff.

We’re here for you.Social distancing but united. The JCC staff is working hard for you!

See full digital issues https://issuu.com/jewishpress7 TO SUBMIT ANNOUNCEMENTS Announcements may be e-mailed to the Press at jpress@jewishomaha.org; faxed to 402.334.5422, or mailed to 333 So. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68154.

Readers can also submit announcements -- births, b’nai mitzvahs, engagements, marriages, commitment ceremonies or obituaries -- online at the Jewish Federation of Omaha website: www.jewishomaha.org. Click on “Jewish Press” and go to Submit Announcements. Deadlines are normally eight days prior to publication, on Thursdays, 9 a.m.

Please check the Jewish Press, for notices of early deadlines.

Executive Director Do you want to make a difference? Do you want to be part of a growing, vibrant and exciting modern orthodox community?

Beth Israel Synagogue in Omaha, Nebraska is seeking a dynamic, customer-service focused individual to fill the position of Executive Director, responsible for managing all operations of the synagogue. The optimal candidate will have excellent organizational, communication and project management skills and Fundraising experience. The Executive Director partners with the rabbinic staff to manage the logistics of their vision for the synagogue.

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite required, and QuickBooks Online a plus. Full-time salaried position with great benefits. Submit letter of interest and resume to BethIsrael@OrthodoxOmaha.org.

The Jewish Press | April 10, 2020 | 7

Pulverente MONUMENT CO. 60 Years Experience With Jewish Lettering and Memorials

1439 So. 13th 402-341-2452 Frank L. Ciciulla, Jr.

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

commercial • residential

family owned and operated since 1945

NEBRASKA STATEWIDE CLASSIFIEDS CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING works! Place your 25 word ad into thousands of Nebraska homes for $225. Contact the Jewish Press or call 1-800-369-2850.

BANKRUPTCY: FREE consultation. Lowest rates. No office visit required. As Nebraska’s #1 bankruptcy firm, we have helped thousands of clients file bankruptcy in all 93 Nebraska counties. We can Stop garnishments and foreclosures fast. www.SamTurcoLaw.net. Call 402-965-0424 or send e-mail to info@SamTurcoLawOffices.com.

SOCIAL SECURITY Disability Benefits. Unable to work? Denied benefits? We Can Help! Strong, recent work history needed. Call to start your application or appeal today! 877-583-3559 [Steppacher Law Offices LLC Principal Office: 224 Adams Ave Scranton PA 18503]

AFFORDABLE PRESS Release service. Send your message to 157 newspapers across Nebraska for one low price! Call 1-800-369-2850 or www.nebpress.com for more details.

PROTECT YOUR yield from soybean white mold and SDS! Ask your seed dealer for Heads Up® Seed Treatment. Cost effective, Proven results. headsupST.com/plant 20 or 866-368-9306.

HALE GROVES Spring Basket Box, oranges fresh from the grove, delicious cookies and candies delivered to your door! Only $29.99 plus Free Shipping! Great gift for Easter and Mother’s Day! Call 1-844254-5859 to order item 836 or visit halegroves.com/MB00084 (Mention promo code SPG20 for free shipping.)

DENTAL INSURANCE. Call Physicians Mutual Insurance Company for details. Not just a discount plan, Real coverage for 350 procedures. 855-490-4149 or http://www.dental50plus.com/81 Ad#6118.

UP TO $15,000.00 of Guaranteed Life Insurance! No medical exam or health questions. Cash to help pay funeral and other final expenses. Call Physicians Life Insurance Company, 866-982-2256 or visit www.Life55plus.info/ne

ENJOY 100% perfectly tender and guaranteed! 20 Main Courses Plus get 4 Free Burgers. Order The Butcher’s Bundle - Only $69.99. 1-855993-6208, mention code 61086ZSR or visit www.OmahaSteaks. com/dinner38.

DIRECTV - SWITCH and Save! $39.99/month. Select All-Included Package. 155 Channels. 1000s of Shows/Movies On Demand. Free Genie HD DVR Upgrade. Premium movie channels, Free for 3 months! Call 1-855-977-3794.

DIRECTV NOW. No Satellite needed. $40/month. 65 Channels.

Stream Breaking News, Live Events, Sports & On Demand Titles. No Annual Contract. No Commitment. Call 1-855-417-4299.

DISH NETWORK $59.99 for 190 Channels. Blazing Fast Internet, $19.99/month (where available). Switch & Get a Free $100 Visa Gift Card. Free Voice Remote. Free HD DVR. Free Streaming on All Devices. Call today! 1-877-688-4784.

MEDICAL-GRADE Hearing Aids for less than $200! FDA-Registered.

Crisp, clear sound, state-of-the-art features & no audiologist needed.

Try it risk free for 45 days! Call 1-855-753-6493.

STAY IN your home longer with an American Standard Walk-in Bathtub. Receive up to $1,500 off, including a free toilet, and a lifetime warranty on the tub and installation! Call us at 1-888-332-9560.

INVENTORS: FREE information package. Have your product idea developed affordably by the Research & Development pros and presented to manufacturers. Call 1-877-581-2504 for a Free Idea Starter Guide. Submit your idea for a free consultation.

HAVE 10K in Debt? National Debt Relief is rated A-Plus with the BBB. You could be debt free in 24-48 months. Call 1-866-834-5927 now for a free debt evaluation.

BECOME A Published Author. We want to read your book! Dorrance Publishing - trusted by authors since 1920. Book manuscript submissions currently being reviewed. Comprehensive Services: Consultation, Production, Promotion and Distribution. Call for your free Author’s Guide, 1-877-858-2822 or visit http://dorranceinfo.com/Nebraska.

A-1 DONATE your car to United Breast Cancer Foundation! Your donation helps education, prevention & support programs. Fast free pickup - 24 hour response - tax deduction. 888-981-7797.

DONATE YOUR car, truck or van. Help veterans find jobs or start a business. Call Patriotic Hearts Foundation. Fast, Free pick up. Max tax-deduction. Operators are standing by! Call 1-877-312-2360.

8 | The Jewish Press | April 10, 2020

News LOC AL | N AT I O N A L | WO R L D

Who we are: Essays on Jewish Identity Passover

At the time of the Passover, God gave us a new year. Although Nissan is not the first month of the year, because our new year begins in autumn with Rosh Hashanah, God tells us in Exodus 12 that Nissan is the first month of “a new year” for the Jewish people. The first year of the Jewish people. The exodus and the imparting of the commandments is the beginning of the Jewish people. God KATE MURPHY recognized that, and we should, too.

The beginning of a new month gives us the opportunity to reconnect with our community. The beginning of a new year to us is the greatest opportunity to do so. Nissan is the commencement of a beginning of renewals; the next new year of renewals.

Passover is a distinct time of specialness and identity. My children have been the only Jews in their school system for their entire lives. They are the only ones who bring matzo for lunch for the Passover week. It was always a great treat when Passover and Spring Break ran together so that I did not have to pack lunches. My children tell me that the Passover week for them was not difficult. Their friends wanted to try their matzo.

That was it for impact. My children’s specialness was defined from a much earlier time: from Hanukkah presentations in grade school complete with little plastic dreidels for everyone.

Nissan is a month of renewal and rededication. We clean our houses and, I for one, look at all of my expiration dates and throw out old food that we haven’t used during the year.

We get new food for Passover and then new food for the regular year. Our cupboards are renewed.

As a family, we attend the second seder at Temple. More than Hebrew School or Torah Study, the second seder is a com-

ing together. The combination of ritual, food, prayer and community is a holistic experience of belonging and sameness. We have our Jewish community where friends don’t need to taste our food because it is their food. They don’t need to learn about our traditions because they are their traditions. Passover is a time of renewing our bond to these people. Our people.

This year we will not be attending the second seder. We won’t be attending any seder. We are the people of Israel, isolating in our homes and waiting for God to pass over. Waiting for God to distinguish us from others and be our savior. We are living the Passover edict: This is what God did for ME in the land of Egypt. This is what God did for me in the land of Iowa.

We need to rededicate ourselves to our people.

Family isolation can breed disaster; it can also breed closeness... with our own families. Working from home with our children at home, sharing family meals and political viewpoints; I don’t think my family has been closer. With Zoom meet-ups to attend services and Torah study, I may feel like I have not been closer to my Jewish community, but I am mistaken. At the conclusion of this pandemic, I will need to dedicate myself to the renewal of my bonds with my Jewish community.

Rabbi Stoller described the journey onward from the first

Congratulate your graduate

The annual Graduation Issue will publish this year on May 15, 2020. Senior photos will run in that issue and we know you’ll want to highlight the achievements of your high school graduate! Congratulatory ads are available in two sizes.

Limit of 25 words.

CONGRATULATE YOUR GRADUATE ORDER FORM _____________________________________________________

A

2x3 2 column

by 3 inches

$36

B

3x4 3 column

month of Nissan as “an aspirational journey from isolation to community”. This is the journey we will all be on – to renew and to rediscover who we are as members of our community when we have the opportunity to do so. Whenever we can, THAT will be the first day of the first month of our people.

Since our calendar is a lunar calendar, the new month was marked by individual observations of the new moon. The new moon is hard to see. It is merely a shadow in the dark sky. Individuals in the Jewish community would gather to sanctify the new moon and the new month and the new beginning. Individuals becoming a community and declaring that it is time to renew. It can be time to renew our relationship with God, if that is what we feel; and it is time to renew our relationship with our people, who are what it is to be a Jew. When our family hears that it is safe again to gather, we will be looking towards the night sky.

We will be squinting up to see the bare edge of the new moon.

Can we see it? Can WE see that it is safe to gather? We will each as individuals need to sanctify the new beginning and feel safe outside our homes to renew our connection to our Jewish community. I look forward to seeing you.

Mazal Tov, Aaron!

We are so proud of your achievements – membership in NHS, varsity letter in tennis and a Merit Award from the Band.

ere Photo h

Love, Mom, Dad, brothers and sisters

by 4 inches

$99

Congrats, Rachel!

_____________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ Name ___________________________________________________________

ere Photo h

Address _________________________________________________________ City, State and Zip _________________________________________________ Phone __________________________________________________________ Ad A O Ad B O Photo enclosed O Check enclosed for $ _________ Send check and photo to The Jewish Press, 333 So. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68154 by May 1.

We are so proud of your achievements – membership in NHS, varsity letter in tennis and a Merit Award from B.E.S.T.T.

Love, Mom, Dad, brothers, sisters and grandparents