May 22, 2015

Sponsored by the Benjamin and Anna E. Wiesman Family Endowment Fund AN AGENCY OF THE JEWISH FEDERATION OF OMAHA

Humanitarian of the Year

May 22, 2015 4 Sivan 5775 Vol. 95 | No. 36

This Week

The Ted Seldin Family

June is abloom with Mainstreeters events Page 5

Salute to High School graduates Pages 6 & 7

Open pulpit: The Mitzvah of Shemita Page 12

by ANNETTE VAN DE KAMPWRIGHT Jewish Press Editor Sarah and Ted Seldin and their family will be honored as Humanitarian of the year at the Jewish Federation of Omaha’s 2015 Annual meeting, to be held on June 1 at 7 p.m.

Ted and Sarah have been married for 58 years and have been blessed withtwo daughters and are the proud grandparents of four grandchildren.

Stephanie and husband Rodger have two sons, Adam and Alex; Beth and husband Amnon Dotan have a daughter, Liatte and a son, Yonatan.

“Sarah and I, we’re practically newlyweds,” says Ted, who credits his family for what he has accomplished during his career. Those accomplishments are many; yet, when asked, he quickly changes the topic to his wife and daughters of whom he’s incredibly proud.

“All three have done so much for this community,” he says, “and it’s an honor to share this award with the whole family.”

Sarah is known for her ability to see the potential in previously abandoned spaces; in fact, she’s made a ca-

The Ted Seldin Family. Not pictured: Liatte Dotan (who was serving in the IDF when the picture was taken) reer of it. She is the President of restorers Inc., and in that role has revamped many buildings that had been terribly neglected.

“I like to take something filthy and dirty and turn it into something

beautiful,” she told the Omaha World-Herald.

Ted can’t praise her enough: “She was with the girls as they were growing up, constantly, and volunteered for Temple Israel and for the

Heart Association and other community activities. She also found time to travel with me, and so we were together when I became chairman of the National Association of HomeContinued on page 3

Gen Z? Yes, they are Young Leadership Leaders too. award winners

Inside Point of view Synagogues In memoriam

Next Month Father’s Day See Front Page stories and more at: www.jewishomaha.org, click on Jewish Press

9 10 11 Elissa Wiener

Max Gendler

Dana Kaufman

Jason Epstein

by SHERRIE SAAG Communications, Jewish Federation of Omaha Forget the buzzword “millennials”.

It’s so yesterday. Enter Generation Z, defined as those born after 1994.

They are digital natives; scooting, crawling and traveling in car seats with iPads, iPhones and Kindles in

their hands.

They are technologically savvy, view the world through a global lens and assume unlimited access to information that automatically makes things move very fast.

According to Forester Research, Generation Z is the second largest demographic owning an iPhone.

Being constantly “plugged in” makes them global information gatherers, and, hopefully, this gives today’s young people opportunities to better effect social change.

That is what’s happening locally, as Jewish Omaha teens use social media exclusively to meet, gather, plan events, and engage with each other on their own terms and in their own unique Jewish way.

Continued on page 2

by SHERRIE SAAG Communications, Jewish Federation of Omaha Our community’s young leaders exemplify L’Dor v’Dor, From Generation to Generation. Their generous gift of time and resources are essential to our mission. They serve to support our programs, services and ability to help Jews all around the world. Their work sets an important example for participation from their peers, and their continued involvement is critical to sustaining our community into the future.

Dana Kaufman will be honored this year with the Lois Jeanne Schrager Memorial Young Leadership Award, and Jason Epstein will be honored with the Bruce Fellman

Memorial Young Leadership Award at the June 1 Federation Annual Meeting and Awards Night.

In their own ways, Dana and Jason are helping to ensure the success of the Omaha Jewish community. By leading now, they are laying the groundwork for our next generation of communal lay leaders, a big undertaking, but one crucial to Jewish Omaha.

Dana Kaufman is an active and integral part of our community and a generous donor to the Annual Campaign and is a leadership example, first as a Ben Gurion Society donor and recently ascending to a Pomegranate level. Along with being in these Campaign leadership Continued on page 4

2 | The Jewish Press | May 22, 2015

Yale Richards Professional Education Seminar

Teen Leaders

by LINDA POLLARD Endowment Assistant/Staff Writer, Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation The 2015 Yale Richards Professional Education Seminar hosted over 80 attorneys, accountants, financial advisors, insurance professionals, and charitable fundraisers from throughout the area. The Seminar was held on Friday, May 1st, at the Boys Town Conference Center and was co-sponsored by the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation, Union Bank and Boys Town.

This year’s presenters were Jeremiah W. Doyle IV, Steven G. Siegel and Dr. Eric Weiner. The topics ranged from IRA planning to charitable giving tax planning to writing ethical wills. All three presenters are recognized experts in their respective fields and held the interest of the attendees.

“So much of estate and charitable planning is multidisciplinary. To gather for an educational seminar targeted at not just attorneys, but accountants, financial planners, insurance professionals and charitable fundraisers is a wonderful way to ensure a common understanding of the principles and techniques that we all need to utilize to best serve our clients. The added bonus is the ability to meet and network with the professionals from these other fields that we are undoubtedly going to be working with in the future. The premise of the Yale Richards Education Seminar, in bringing these groups together for the common good of the client, is so much appreciated by professionals eager to learn the best practices of the best practitioners,” commented Scott Berryman, an attorney with Legacy Design Strategies, LLC. Aaron Weiner, attorney with Abrahams, Kaslow and Cassman, LLP, remarked “The speakers were each expert and informative. I particularly enjoyed the course on Ethical

Continued from page 1 Two of Omaha’s Gen Z’s, Elissa Wiener and Max Gendler, will be honored with the Robert and Ellen Gordman Jewish Teen Leadership Award at the Jewish Federation of Omaha’s Annual Meeting on Monday, June 1. The Federation and Gordman family recognized their activities and achievements, as well as their commitment to the Jewish community.

Both young adults are exceptional high school seniors selected based on the following characteristics that are indicators of leadership: ability to develop leadership among peers, ability to interest peers in group activities, acceptance of major responsibilities, program innovator, positive role model and organizational impact. Elissa and Max will each receive a $1,000 stipend to participate in a Jewish convention, conclave or summer camp or a recognized Israel experience. Their names will be engraved on a plaque permanently displayed in the JCC lobby.

Elissa has been a student at Beth El Synagogue since third grade. Active in youth group programs from BESTT Chaverim through High School and USY, she has held multiple positions including USY President. She is also a proud member of BBYO. She was in charge of BESTT’s most important fundraiser, the Purim carnival, and when selected to go to “Song Leader Boot Camp”, a training program for young leaders, she returned to Beth El and immediately used her newfound skills in the classroom. Elissa developed programming for Shul-IN and the annual Shabbaton, a three-day weekend retreat.

Elissa works with all age groups at the Continued on page 3

Wills. I have always believed that estate planning attorneys can and should do more to counsel clients on the impact of estate planning on current family and business relationships. I like the focus of the Ethical Will on harmony overall, rather than just future property distribution.”

teachers... come into our state and talk about what is happening in other areas of the country.” He continued, “That is a rare experience for most Nebraska lawyers. Seeing different charitable strategies for the same federal tax code is a wonderful way to equip me to better serve my clients.”

Jim Farber, left, Jim Pollack, Howard Epstein, Steve Riekes and Jere Doyle, guest presenter Howard Kaslow, of Abrahams Kaslow & Cassman, LLP, stated, “The seminar was very useful to me as an estate planning practitioner, both in presenting new ideas and in refreshing my prior knowledge of various estate planning concepts. I was particularly impressed by the presentation skills of the three seminar presenters.”

Attorneys, accountants, financial advisors and insurance professionals had the opportunity to earn Nebraska Continuing Education Credits by attending the Seminar.

According to Scott Berryman, “Most Mandatory Continuing Legal Education (MCLE) for Nebraska credit comes from other Nebraska attorneys. It is so refreshing to have national caliber speakers... true

In recognition of Yale Richards’ valuable service to the Omaha Jewish community for over 50 years, the Livingston Foundation established the Yale Richards Professional Education Endowment Fund in 1998. The Fund, administered by the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation, provides financial support for periodic seminars for professional advisors and interested donors.

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

Thank you

It’s more than a donation.

t’s your legacy.

To those who have made a commitment to LIFE & LEGACY during the past year.

Welcome to Jewish Omaha’s LEGACY SOCIETY! *As of May 12, 2015

Rabbi Steven & Shira Abraham Michael Albert Anonymous (16) Joyce Ashley John Atherton & Marti Rosen-Atherton Elyce & Aryeh Azriel Bob Belgrade Sandra Belgrade Mark & Jill Belmont Harry Berman & Beth Cohen Bonnie Rae Bloch Steven R. Bloch Carrie & Josh Brown Marla & Bob Cohen Drs. Michael & Karen Cohen & Family Pam Cohn Justin Cooper Ronald & Cheryl Cooper Hal & Mary Daub Deborah Denenberg Norman & Eunice Denenberg Pam & Dennis DePorte

Howard & Sharon Epstein Richard Evnen James & Judy Farber Yonatan & Liz Feldstern Toby Fellman Cantor Leo & Annette Fettman Alan J. Fredricks Joanne & Jerry Freeman Robyn & Bob Freeman Lois N. Friedman Lynne Friedel Gellman H. Lee & Carol Gendler Charitable Fund Donald Gerber Dan & Sarah Gilbert David Gilinsky & Katherine Finnegan Ronald Giller Darlene & Sherman Golbitz Alan Goodman David & Shirley Goodman Andie Gordman & Dan Fitzgerald Linda & Jerry Gordman

Steven Gottlieb Andy & Carole Greenberg Barton H. & Caryl B. Greenberg Joshua & Amanda Gurock Mendy & Michael Halsted M'Lee Hasslinger Bonnie Kuklin Horwich Randi Friedel Jablin Joan Sandler Jacobson Richard Jacobson Patrick Jensen Sylvia Jess Debbi Josephson Frances Juro Richard Juro Marcel & Ilse Kahn Gary & Sally Kaplan Myron Kaplan Beatrice Karp Gloria C. Kaslow Howard J. Kaslow Cookie Katskee Julee Katzman Donald S. & Delores Klein

Marsha A. Kleinberg Milton M. Kleinberg David & Janet Kohll Howard M. & Sharon Kooper Shane & David Kotok Jack Kozlen Alan & Deborah Kricsfeld Janie Fox Kulakofsky David and Deb Kutler Howard & Nancy Kutler K. Wayne & Carole A. Lainof Felicia & Scott Littky Jody & Neal “Buzz” Malashock Chaya Sarah Malkah Jon & Denise Meyers Tina & Joe Meyers Stanley & Evelyn Mitchell Eli & Ann Modenstein Ann Moscovits Janie & Allan Murow Murray & Sharee Newman Allan S. Noddle Patty Nogg Steve Nogg

Alan S. Parsow Carol Parsow Margo Frohman Parsow James & Susan Polack Alan E. Potash Mary & Joel Rich Philip & Diane Rich Marty & Iris Ricks Carl Riekes Zoë Riekes Margo Riekes Steven J. Riekes Debbie & Lloyd Roitstein Susan Rothholz Lynne-Carol Saltzman Rosalie & Milton Saylan Carol & Ed Schneider Jeff Schweid Aviva Segall & Patrick McNamara Mr. and Mrs. Ben Shapiro Gary & Liat Shyken Paul Shyken Susann Shyken

Esther Silver Gerald & Judy Simons Nancy B. Skid Laura Stastny Carolyn "Rocky" Stern David Keiser & Lillian Keiser Stoms Foundation Louri Sullivan Barry H. Summer Marilyn & Steven Tipp Irving & Gail Veitzer Norman & Joodi Veitzer John & Donna Walter Jim & Esther Wax Aaron Weiner & Therese Vaughn Harry M. Weiner Kathy Weiner Nancy L. Wolf Renee & Jeff Zacharia Charlotte & Morley Zipursky Sally & Jim Zipursky Rosie Zweiback & Mace Hack

Help secure the financial future of Omaha’s Jewish community through the LIFE & LEGACY™ initiative. LIFE & LEGACY is a collaboration between the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation, the Harold Grinspoon Foundation, and our local Jewish partner organizations: The Jewish Federation of Omaha and its Agencies, Beth El Synagogue, Beth Israel Synagogue, Temple Israel, Chabad House, Anti-Defamation League/CRC, Friedel Jewish Academy, Institute for Holocaust Education, and Nebraska Jewish Historical Society.

Howard N. Epstein, Executive Director 402-334-6466, hepstein@jewishomaha.org This is the year to make your LIFE & LEGACY commitment.

Contact the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation today!

Margo Parsow, LIFE & LEGACY Coordinator 402-334-6432, mparsow@jewishomaha.org

May 22, 2015 | The Jewish Press | 3

Humanitarian of the Year Continued from page 1 builders’ urban revitalization committee in the 1960s. For a long time, real estate development focused on the suburbs; but during the 1960s, many cities began to take a closer look at inner cities. We visited a number of cities to determine their approach to urban revitalization, and Sarah ended up starting her own firm when the girls were in Junior High.

During the 1980s, downtown Omaha began to start focusing on revitalization.

For over 25 years, she was active in renovating and preserving historical properties in downtown Omaha which we could have lost otherwise. I am very proud of all the work she has done for the city while caring for our family.”

He is equally proud of his daughters. Stephanie met her husband Rodger Howard while on assignment, as she was reporting for television and he was taking photographs.

Both Stephanie and Rodger have had impressive careers; Rodger was a news photographer for FOX News in Los Angeles, and Stephanie worked in Television production at NBC. She co-produced the documentary, Refusenik, which tells the story of Omahan Shirley Goldstein and the 40-year struggle to free Soviet Jews.

Beth and husband Amnon currently live on a Kibbutz in Israel, but she is a familiar face in our community; they still keep a home here in Omaha. When the Institute for Holocaust Education first opened its doors in 2000, Beth was there to lead the way; in her role as IHE Director, she created countless programs, exhibits, curricula and opportunities to teach people about the Holocaust. Dotan was previously involved with the Ghetto Fighters’ Museum in the Western Galilee, Israel, and returned there in 2013.

Ted himself was born and raised in Council Bluffs, where he went to public school. After that he attended the University of Iowa, where he obtained a BA in economics.

He followed that with a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Iowa Law School in June of 1955.

He joined the military promptly after graduation and spent two years on active duty in the U.S. Air Force where he was a Captain in the Judge Advocate General department. After his active time ended, he remained in the reserves for 16 years, until his honorable discharge in 1968.

Ted and Sarah moved to Omaha in 1959 and became involved in the Jewish Community. Seldin has been a member of the Iowa Bar Association for 60 years, and early on obtained his real estate license for both Iowa and Nebraska.

The Seldin Firm currently manages more than 10,000 apartments and over 1,250,000 square feet of mixed-use retail and office space. Some familiar locations the firm has developed include Royalwood Estates, Westwood Communities, Westwood Plaza and Montclair shopping centers as well as Valley View Terrace in Iowa.

From the beginning in 1984, Ted has been involved with the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation, serving as President from 1994-1996 and continuing his role as board member to this day.

Ted has served on the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce Housing Committee and its Board of Directors as well as on a variety of other boards, including Temple Israel where he was President and the Omaha Community Foundation, and his influence on the Omaha landscape

through both his company’s real estate development and his volunteer work cannot be overstated. We could mention them all, and this paper would double in size.

Seldin’s career has always been focused on much more than the work itself; community engagement is obviously a high priority. A lucky thing, too: in 1975, he was asked to joined the board of directors and co-chair the building and grounds committee with Syd Osten. He agreed, just in time to co-chair the reconstruction committee after Temple was hit by the famous tornado. Needless to say, he and many others were busy overseeing the reconstruction of the synagogue for a long time.

Maybe the most important real estate work Ted Seldin has been involved with is the development and management of low-income senior housing, including Livingston Plaza.

Early on, he saw the need for “decent places where seniors can live in dignity and security.”

Bert Lewis wrote in 2010: “I don’t know where the inspiration originated, but I do know that Ted went to Washington and talked, cajoled, argued and educated the people who had the power to help.

“I also know that when he was finished pleading his case, an FHA program was in place, which would provide assistance to seniors, assuring safe, clean and comfortable housing. It promised rent at no more than 30% of income, after deduction for medication. ‘If I have a legacy to leave, this is it,’ Ted says.”

From that, grew places like Livingston Plaza, the first of many and a great example of what such housing should look like. Livingston Plaza is owned by the Jewish Federation of Omaha; Seldin Company continues to manage it. The building is connected to the Jewish Community Center, seniors can walk down the hall and take advantage of programming in the building, access the gym and socialize without having to worry about the weather or where to find transportation.

In spite of all those accomplishments, Ted Seldin has remained humble and likes to point the spotlight away from himself. But, as Bert Lewis wrote in the Jewish press in 2010, Ted Seldin is “much more than a country boy.” In 2012, he was inducted in the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce.

When the University of Iowa Alumni Association in 2013 presented him with the Distinguised Alumni Award. they called him “an entrepreneur with a social conscience.”

Alan Potash, JFO CEO calls the Seldins “Strong community builders, not just in commercial and residential building but strong supporters of the Jewish community in Omaha and Council Bluffs and many other institutions.”

Potash added: “In conversations with people that know Ted and his family, one hears about the contributions they have made throughout the years.

“Their involvement ranges from supporting the Jewish Federation of Omaha and its agencies, the ADL and the Institute for Holocaust Education, Temple Israel, UNO to the cemetery in Council Bluffs. Ted has been a mentor for me in many different areas. Beth’s family and ours have been close for many years. I even had a chance to work with Stephanie years ago to bring the film Refusenik to Omaha.”

A heartfelt Mazal tov to the Ted Seldin family. May the blessings keep coming. Please join us in congratulating them at the Jewish Federation’s Annual Meeting on June 1, 2015.

Teen Leaders Continued from page 2 school and is considered a magnificent role model.

Elissa always volunteers to help younger students, and as such, has been an integral part of the Beth El Hebrew School. This year, she will co-teach a class of 15 third and fourth graders. She is the lead teacher for the Lifecycle events class and is in charge of preparing the annual 4th grade wedding ceremony. Elissa has participated for four years in Beth El’s Merit Scholarship program, volunteering hundreds of hours at the synagogue.

An honors student at Central High School, Elissa participates in Forensics Team, French Club and writes for the school newspaper. She will be attending UNO this fall. Her parents are Audrey and Richard Wiener.

Max is a senior at Papillion-La Vista High School and has been active in the Mother Chapter of BBYO for four years, including serving five terms on the board and holding the following positions: chapter president, convention coordinator, and summer international program board member. In addition, he participated on numerous convention steering committees, planning and allocating resources for hundreds of regional programs and events.

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Unearth the mysteries of Egypt in a one-of-a-kind exhibition!

Exhibit Opens May 23, 2015

Visit DurhamMuseum.org for a complete list of programming.

Lost Egypt: Ancient Secrets, Modern Science is supported locally by Valmont Industries, Inc., First National Bank, the Douglas County Commissioners, Peter Kiewit Sons, Inc, The Durham Society, Lynne and John Boyer, Susan and George Haddix, the Parker Family Foundation and The David Scott Foundation. Additional support provided by Dr. Jack and Kathy Lewis.

Media support provided by WOWT Channel 6.

Jeremy Friedman Senior Vice President – Investment Officer • Has served with Wells Fargo Advisors for 5 years

Most recently, Max was co-coordinator for the regional spring convention held in Omaha. He planned and managed the steering committee for months leading up to the weekend. According to BBYO Director Rachel Martin, “Max continuously takes on responsibilities and is respected by his peers.”

Martin continued, “Gendler’s impact on BBYO is strengthened with each interaction he has with peers and staff. He has planned countless brotherhood, fundraising and recruitment programs.” Martin has no doubt that when given a task, Max not only sees it through to completion, but follows through on his commitments. “He is an invaluable asset to BBYO, and I know he will be sorely missed by his BBYO brothers,” Martin said.

Max is involved in tennis, baseball and track and field in high school. He also plays guitar and is an accomplished BBYO song leader. The son of Larry Gendler and Tami Field, Max will attend the University of Kansas in the fall to study architecture and business.

Please join us in honoring all our community award winners on June 1 at 7 p.m. in the JCC Theater. For more information, call 402.334.6428.

Visit us on facebook: ps://www.facebook.com/ShalomahaPress

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• Holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer • Science and a minor in Entrepreneurial Studies • from Iowa State University • An active member of the Beth El Synagogue • Board of Trustees and the West Bay Springs • Homeowner’s Association

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4 | The Jewish Press | May 22, 2015

Shavuot and the future of Israel

Serving Generations…

ular families, it is standard -and even a point of pride—for at least one of the adult children to make their life abroad. In secular circles, this émigré child often provides the family with a certain cachet, making them feel more worldly and less provincial.

Israelis are still very much engaged in a fight for our right to exist within defensible borders, and our staying power for this fight is built on our Jewish identity. And here is where the Jewish content of my secular neighbor’s Shavuot does very much affect me. Because when I wonder about this content, it’s not like me worrying about Jewish assimilation in America, nor for that matter is it like a religious American Christian worrying about the lack of Christ in their neighbor’s Christmas. Because whether Jewish intermarriage rates fall or rise, and whether Christians religiously observe Christmas have nothing to do with the sovereign integrity of the United States of America.

But if your Shavuot in Israel is nothing more than a three-day weekend or a chance to eat cheesecake, then this holiday does not tie you to this particular land, then you have one less reason to be passionately committed to living here. After all, many countries offer their citizens an occasional three-day weekend; indeed, in the United States this year, Memorial Day weekend coincides exactly with Shavuot.

I’m not saying that everyone has to be religious, but I am arguing that the more a person is connected to Jewish tradition (however one defines this), the more intimately tied they will be to this particular State in this particular land. Food for thought as we sit down to our cheesecake on Shavuot. Happy Pentecost!

Journal entry from Israel

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Memorial Day Service Sunday, May 24 • 11 a.m.

Oak Hills/Bikhor Cholim Cemetery 1350 East Pierce Street, Council Bluffs, Iowa

For directions, call Marty Ricks, 402/334-6440 Cemetery Manager John O’Connor, 402/670-8913

Bob Kully, President; Patty Nogg,V.P. ; Sissy Silber, Secretary; Marty Ricks,Treasurer; Harold Bernstein, Mark Eveloff, Joel Finkel, Elyse Gallner, Mike Gallner, Dave Goodman, John Goldner, John Katelman, Rick Katelman, Gail Krasne Kenkel, and Ted Seldin

Father’s Day Coming in June

Publishing Date | 06.05.15 Space Reservation | 05.27.15 Camera Ready Deadline | 05.29.15 Promote your business in this special issue with an ad and a short article. Contact our advertising representative to advertise in this very special edition.

Jessie Wees 402.334.6559 jwees@jewishomaha.org

The celebration of Shavuot is an excellent occasion to reflect upon Jewish culture, Jewish identity, religious Judaism, and secular Judaism. What is the religious and/or ethnic import of Shavuot for secular Israelis? I would argue that the answer to this question is crucial for the future of the State of Israel.

I used to feel a bit sheepish in considering the Jewish lives of secular Israelis. Isn’t this more of a diaspora fixation? What is there to worry about on this score here in Israel? We all live in a Jewish state, where intermarriage is not a problem and where the religious-secular divide is so much more permeable than it is outside of Israel. Besides, I am certainly not privy to the complex weighting system concerning good deeds versus sins. Perhaps, unbeknownst to me, my neighbor who blares his television on the Sabbath also volunteers in a soup kitchen? Who am I to judge if his life contains enough Jewish content?

More and more, however, it is becoming obvious that without some kind of Jewish attachment to this land, we will not have a Jewish State. With the ideology of secular Zionism having run its course (it was basically all downhill after 1948), affinity for the Hebrew language (a key element to the identity of many secular Israelis) is proving inadequate to what must be said again and again to our enemies: This is our land and we are not going anywhere. Already, the situation is alarming. In many of the most educated sec-

Young Leadership Continued from page 1 categories, Dana has inspired her fellow young men and women to step up their contributions and hold leadership roles.

Dana’s community involvement extends much farther than just campaign participation. According to her nomination, Dana steps up when asked as an active and engaged member of the community. She spoke at the 2015 Annual Campaign community event and, together with Brett Atlas, spent hours this year working on an education program for young adults.

Since returning to Omaha in 2005, she has volunteered by making calls on Super Sundays, and, in 2009, participated in a young adult mission to Israel. She has also served on the boards of the National Council of Jewish Women-Omaha Section and Temple Israel’s Women of Reform Judaism.

Dana has served on the Child Savings Institute Guild Board of Directors and currently is a member of the Board at Girls, Inc. She will be installed as a new member of the Jewish Federation of Omaha Board of Directors at its Annual Meeting on June 1.

“My goal is to increase awareness and participation among young community members. We need to find ways for involvement in the long term. We need a community atmosphere for this group – more family, social and educational programming – to remind us that Federation is the lifeblood of our community,” she stated.

Jason Epstein has served on the JCC Board for several years and becomes the president of the JCC Board of Directors this summer. In this capacity, he also becomes a member of the Federation Board of Directors on June 1. He has helped the JCC in several leadership positions including annual budgeting and the CDC Committee.

He also was the JCC Board member in charge of remodeling the youth lounge.

Jason assisted with a number of special projects the past few years including the Benchmark Program and the Swimming Pool Project. Through these experiences, Jason gained familiarity with all aspects of JCC programming and services.

Because of his depth of understanding of the Federation campus, he is also involved in development of a campus master plan.

Those who work with Jason describe him as dependable, reliable and dedicated to our Jewish community. He is known as someone with a “good head on his shoulders” who “can always be counted on to step up when needed.”

Jason has served on the Jewish Press Board and is active at Beth El Synagogue.

Jason has said that his most meaningful community experience was his first year volunteering on the Budget and Allocation committee. “I was with many well-respected, thoughtful and philanthropic community members. Their passion and commitment made a long-standing impact on me. I realized the importance of engaging everyone. If you feel that connection, then you want to participate and donate to support every Jewish organization.”

These awards are given annually to a JFO volunteer, under the age of 45, who demonstrates personal commitment, dedicated involvement and exemplary leadership skills on behalf of the Jewish and general community.

The Jewish Federation of Omaha Annual Meeting, held in June each year, is one of the community’s most celebratory evenings and a yearly reminder of the power and impact of community service and volunteerism. Please join us on Monday, June 1 at 7 p.m. in the JCC Theater. A dessert reception will immediately follow the event, and the entire community is invited to attend.

May 22, 2015 | The Jewish Press | 5

June is abloom with Mainstreeters events

by OZZIE NOGG served with chicken noodle soup, wild Mainstreeters -- the fun-filled rice mushroom pilaf, fresh asparagus, organization for Jewish residents challah, pineapple of the Omaha area age 60 plus upside down - is keeping its promise: to offer cake dessert and programs and activities that give participants the chance to have fun with their friends.

Upcoming June programs include: The Iowa Western Community Band: Tuesday, June 2 at 7 p.m. in the JCC Auditorium. No admission fee. The Iowa Western Community Band is a concert band made up of volunteer musicians -- both students and members of the community -- from eastern Nebraska and southwestern Iowa. The band has delighted audia beverage of your ences with eclectic musical selecchoice. Cost is $10 a plate. (This tions in the Omaha and Council meal is subsidized by a generous Bluffs area for over 30 years. You’ll donor.) Make checks payable to enjoy this musical performance, Jewish Social Services and send sponsored by Iowa Western full payment to: Mainstreeters c/o Community Concert, the city of Pauline Landman Maggie Conti, 323 So. 132 Street, Council Bluffs and Jewish Social Services. Omaha, NE 68154. Reservations are appreciInvite a friend. Everyone is welcome. ated by Monday, June 1. For transportation Pauline Landman and the River City Life call Maggie Conti at 402.334.6521 Students from Critchett’s Lowrey Organ A Free Afternoon at the Movies: Into the entertain at Lunch: Monday, June 8, (note Woods, featuring Meryl Streep and Johnny date change) 12:30 p.m. in the Rose Depp on Friday, June 26, 1 p.m. in the JCC Blumkin Jewish Home Auditorium. The Theater. Complimentary popcorn -- warm folks at Critchett’s strongly believe that learn- and delicious -- will be served. No charge. ing to make music should be a fun, easy, and No reservations necessary. Invite a friend. stress-free experience. Their talented Into the Woods is a modern twist on several instructors are passionate about music and of the beloved Brothers Grimm fairy tales, even more passionate about making it fun intertwining the plots of a few choice stories and easy to play. Weekly classes are designed and exploring the consequences of the charto help you learn and continually develop acters’ wishes and quests. With music and your hobby in a social, friendly setting. lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, book by James It’s never too late to learn how to play an Lapine, this humorous and heartfelt film folinstrument. Let Pauline and the Critchett stu- lows the classic tales of Cinderella, Little Red dents prove it to you. For your entrée, choose Riding Hood, Jack and the Beanstalk and either Beef Brisket or Breaded Walleye, both Rapunzel -- all tied together by an original

story involving a baker and his wife, their wish to begin a family and their interaction with the witch who has put a curse on them.

Into the Woods also features Anna Kendrick and Emily Blunt. If you have any questions, or would like to enjoy a Star Deli lunch at the Blumkin Home before the show, call Maggie Conti at 402.334.6521 to reserve a table. Lunch is on your own. The Star Deli opens for business at 11:30 a.m.

Sunday, July 19, 2 p.m. matinee of Thoroughly Modern Millie at the Ralston Community Theater. Thoroughly Modern Millie tells the story of a small-town girl, Millie Dillmount, who comes to New York City to marry for money instead of love – a thoroughly modern aim in 1922, when women were just entering the workforce. Millie soon begins to take delight in the flapper lifestyle, but problems arise when she... well, we don’t want to spoil the story for you. The Broadway production won six Tony Awards in 2002, including Best Musical. You’ll want a front row seat, for sure. Cost per ticket: $12. Reservations must be made by June 30.

Make checks payable to Jewish Social Services and send full payment to: Mainstreeters c/o Maggie Conti, 323 So. 132 Street, Omaha, NE 68154. For information, call Maggie Conti at 402.334.6521. Note: The theater is located at Ralston High School, 8969 Park Street. Please be in the lobby by 1:30 p.m. to pick up your ticket at the box office.

Maggie Conti, Director of Activities and Outreach Programs at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home, said “Mainstreeters continues to offer diverse programs every month, both on and off Campus. We invite all of you to join the June fun.”

Mainstreeters programs are supported in part by grants from the United Way of the Midlands and the Jewish Federation of Omaha.

Investing 101 for Millennials

by RUSS KAPLAN Russ Kaplan Investments, Inc. Students are graduating from college at this time of year and a whole new crop of young people (Millennials) will be entering the labor force. How will they manage their money and get the best return on their savings? Not by putting it into a bank savings account, because there is virtually nothing given in interest.

What they can first do when securing a job is to sign up for their company’s 401-k retirement plan if it is offered; and also setting up an IRA account to make their annual contributions.

We have heard many times that Social Security will eventually be unable to sustain itself and each individual will be even more responsible for planning his or her financial future, without the small safety net of Social Security.

Besides, the financial benefits Millennials will reap by investing in the Stock Market over the long-term will be significantly greater, leaving fixed income savings in the dust.

Unfortunately a recent study by Bankrate found that only 26% of individuals under 30 are invested in the Market. Even more unfortunate is the main reason why Millennials don’t invest in the Stock Market, which is because they do not know or understand how it works. Personal money management and financial fitness are not taught in school, yet it is such a big part of anyone’s life. If you don’t know how to take care of your finances, you cannot care for your future.

PAID AVERTISEMENT

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Richard Jacobson, Co- President Steve Nogg, Co- President Jim Farber, Past President Jeff Kirshenbaum, Treasurer Sally Zipursky, Secretary Michael Shrago, L.O.V.E. President Joan Bernstein Toba Cohen-Dunning Justin Cooper Debbi Josephson Kate Kirshenbaum Nancy Noddle Susan Norton Jim Polack Dorothy Spizman Terri Zacharia

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6 | The Jewish Press | May 22, 2015

Salutes...

the Class of 2015 Rachel claire balter

Jacob baron

Wil beach

courtney bierman

madison bierman

thalia Jo chapelle

sara cohen

daniel Joseph coyle

tanner J. crable

ben dietrich

John eirinberg

madison eisenberg

alec epstein

max gendler

danny glazer

blair hannah goldstein

grant gordon

shaylie hollst

andrew klein

sarah kutler

Jacob levy

Jennifer ann libov

sam lieb

Rachele antonia merliss

leah miller

connor p. mullin

alex murray

spencer newman

Rachel claiRe balteR Stacy Waldron Balter

Lincoln Southeast Nebraska Wesleyan University

John eiRinbeRg Teresa and Lewis Eirinberg

Millard North University of Nebraska-Lincoln

saRah kutleR Nancy and Howard Kutler

Central Miami University of Ohio

Jacob baRon JIll and Dr. Bruce Baron

Millard North University of Michigan

madison eisenbeRg November and Steve Eisenberg

Jacob levy Deborah and Steven Levy

Millard North University of Nebraska-Omaha

Wil beach Mona Jones and Ron Beach

Harlan Community Schools Iowa Lakes Community College and Northwest Iowa School of Taxidermy

Millard North Will begin Nannying this summer and taking part time college courses Yutan North Central College

JennifeR ann libov Marina and Dmitriy Libov

Millard North University of Minnesota-Twin Cities

couRtney bieRman Mary Wampler and Philip Bierman

Millard South University of Kansas

alec epstein Laurie and Jeff Epstein and Ellie and Zander Fields

Millard North University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Papillion-La Vista University of Kansas

Burke Brandeis University

madison bieRman Mary Wampler and Philip Bierman

max gendleR Tami Field and Larry Gendler

sam lieb Lisa Lieb

thalia Jo chapelle Alicia and David Chapelle

Lincoln Southeast University of Nebraska-Lincoln

danny glazeR Jennifer and John Glazer

Creighton Prep TCU

saRa cohen Marla and Bob Cohen

Duchesne Academy University of Chicago

blaiR hannah goldstein Dr. Michael Goldstein and Dr. Debra Lyddon

Westside Skidmore College

daniel Joseph coyle Pamela Bloch and Michael Coyle

Westside Georgetown

gRant goRdon Tracy and Randy Gordon

tanneR J. cRable Jan and Abe Crable

Lincoln Southeast University of Nebraska-Lincoln

ben dietRich Sheri and Greg Dietrich

Elkhorn South University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Rachele antonia meRliss Lincoln Lori Raphael and Dr. Andrew Merliss Wesleyan University-Connecticut leah milleR Lori and Michael Miller

Westside University of Colorado

connoR p. mullin Leslie Delserone and Peter Mullin

University of Nebraska High School University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Lincoln University of Nebraska-Lincoln

alex muRRay Alisa and Tommy Murray

Lincoln East Colorado School of Mines

shaylie hollst Kerry and Mike Hollst

Elkhorn South University of Nebraska-Omaha

spenceR neWman Karli and Jody Newman

Central Arizona State University

andReW klein Janet and Harry Klein

The Knox School Ohio University

May 22, 2015 | The Jewish Press | 7

Jared Max polack

Ethan potash

Armand (Ari) Rauhauser

Issac Solomon Rogers

Tyler Chase Schneiderman

luke Schrager

Jessica Shandell

Gabby Simon

Max Slosburg

Rachel Stoneking

Jake Vann

Jacqueline Wax

Congratulations Max! Madison Weaver

Max A. Weiner

Elissa Wiener

Zane Zimmerman

JAREd MAx polACk Susan and James Polack

Burke University of Nebraska-Lincoln

MAx SloSbuRG Martha and David Slosburg

Westside University of Pennsylvania

EThAn poTASh Julie Potash

UNO Middle College Traveling Europe

RAChEl STonEkInG Cindy and Brian Stoneking

Millard North University of Nebraska-Lincoln

ARMAnd (ARI) RAuhAuSER Nancy Nogg

Canyon State Academy University of Nebraska

JAkE VAnn Wendy and Dr. John Vann

Brownell Talbot University of Puget Sound

ISSAC SoloMon RoGERS Mimi Rogers and Scott Farkas

Millard North University of Nebraska-Omaha

JACquElInE WAx Melissa Vile and Bill Wax

Elkhorn South University of Wisconsin

TylER ChASE SChnEIdERMAn Heidi and Scott Schneiderman

Westside University of Kansas

MAdISon WEAVER Felicia and Mark Weaver

Millard North Northwest Missouri State

MAx A. WEInER Kathy and Harry Weiner

Burke University of Nebraska-Omaha

ElISSA WIEnER Audrey and Richard Wiener

Central University of Minnesota-Twin Cities

ZAnE ZIMMERMAn Linda and Todd Zimmerman

Burke University of Nebraska-Lincoln

lukE SChRAGER Westside Jeffrey Schrager and Dr. Anne York, University of North Carolina and Lisa Schrager JESSICA ShAndEll Diane and Howard Shandell

Burke University of Kansas

GAbby SIMon Kim and Jim Simon

Westside University of Arizona

The Jewish Press regrets it if some graduating seniors are not included. If parents would like to submit an announcement for ‘In the News’, we will run it when space is available. Please send via e-mail (with photo of at least 100K, attached as a .jpg) to jpress@jewishomaha.org, or to the office at: Jewish Press, 333 So. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68154. Include: name of graduating senior, name(s) of parent(s), high school from which student graduated, and college which the student will attend.

We are so proud of you.

Love, Mom, Dad, Nate and Oscar

Mazal Tov to our beautiful Rachel Rose!

We are so proud of all your achievements, most of all your kind and gentle nature.

You are such a mensch.

Love, Mom, Dad, Harrison, Momo, Bubby & Steve, Piper & Sadie

Congrats, Alec!

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HOORAY FOR HOLLYWOOD! !Plan to attend Blair, Nebraska’s Annual

Gateway to the West Days Celebration!

We love you and are so proud!

Thursday, June 11 - Sunday, June 14, 2015 Activities include: June Jam • 1 mile & 5K walk/run • Arts & crafts show Car show • Parade • Carnival ALL WEEKEND • Street dance For more info, contact: Blair Area Chamber of Commerce

402-533-4455 • blairchamber.org

Love, Dad & Laurie, Mom & Zander Cali, Spencer, Sophie, Charlie, Lexi

8 | The Jewish Press | May 22, 2015

Josie Slovut’s D’var Torah at Temple Israel’s annual Confirmation Service

by SCOTT LITTKY Program Director, Temple Israel On Friday evening, May 8, Temple Israel held its annual Confirmation Service for the 10th Grade Class. Students participated in all aspects of the evening. They helped conduct services, read Torah and prepared a special booklet for the evening.

Josie Slovut, a member of the confirmation class, offered a beautiful D’var Torah on behalf of her class. The following are her remarks.

This day marks all the Wednesdays our class has come here, to Temple Israel. It marks all the time we have spent shaping our views on ethics and building our Jewish identities. Up until now, this has been enough.

Confirmation does not mean that we are done building, shaping, and re-enforcing our persons. These are processes that will never be complete. But now to do these things is no longer enough! It is not enough to have an identity that is well shaped but self-contained, that never interacts with the world.

Today we are confirming that we have a Jewish identity, yes; but also and, more importantly, we are confirming that it is time to go out into society and put our identity to good use.

But what kind of society are we talking about here? We are talking about a society where policemen can kill unarmed black men like Michael Brown, like Eric Garner, like Freddie Gray – and expect to get away with it. We are talking about a society where just two years ago the poverty rate for black people was nearly three times higher than the poverty rate for white people, where income inequality has been on the rise since the 1970’s, where one in five children lives in poverty.

Even that barely scratches the surface of the iceberg. The world our Confirmation class – no, not only us but our entire generation – will inherit is a world of xenophobia, racism, oppression, and exploitation of human beings, of extractivism and destruction of our Earth’s precious resources. It is a wold where companies can and do sue countries that try to protect their people and the environment. It happened with Mexico, Peru, and Australia, to name only a few cases.

Our generation is inheriting a world rife with these problems, and more that I do not have the time to list. Along with these things, we inherit the obligation to break them, and to build a world based on better principles.

This is not as impossible as I may have made it sound. There is a lot going wrong in the world rtoday, but there are also good things happening. Worldwide, the percentage of people living on less than US $1.25 a day was cut in half between 1990 and 2010. In our country, the Raise the Wage Act, which will raise the minimum wage to $12 an hour by 2020, index it to the median wage, and phase out the subminimum tipped wage – was introduced eight days ago. In Nebraska, immigrants who came illegally as children but now have legal presence through the DACA program – and are currently denied drivers licenses by our state – are awaiting the results of a lawsuit that could declare this policy unconstitutional. And, a widely-supported bill that would end this policy will soon be debated by state senators. These positive events do not excuse us from the need to break all of the negative cycles in our society, but the fact that they are happening shows us that there is no reason to sink into pessimism. It is completely possible to build a better world – pieces of this task are being achieved already.

What precisely is the burden on my generation? Our burden is to be aware of what is happening today, and to work to break the cycles of all the awful things that are occurring. We have to be open both to effective ways people in the past have achieved similar goals, and to new methods that we can use with the unique technology and social dynamics of today and tomorrow to succeed in breaking down cycles that people have been trying to end for centuries. Improved communication offers us possibilities not given to past generations. Changing the world today and tomorrow will be a bit different than what we read about in the history books, and most likely that is a good thing. We will be able to connect better with each other and get more to the heart of things than has been achieved in the past.

Unfortunately, this is far easier to say than to do. Our generation is going to have to leave not only our personal comfort zone but also our collective, historical comfort zone. We are going to go out in the world and do the unprecedented in history. We are going to break cycles that have never truly been broken, build a world on a unity never before dreamed of.

These words are nothing new, but the way we are going to translate them into action is. Confirmation means that our class has built enough of an ethical and religious foundation to know that our generation has the obligation to do what

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heretofore was impossible.

Our confirmation means that we have finished the stage of life where we only revolutionize our persons. Now it is time for our generation to go out and revolutionize the world.

Chicago Jewish families hire private security

by JTA NEWS STAFF (JTA) -- Jewish families in the West Rogers Park neighborhood of Chicago have hired off-duty Chicago police officers to patrol the neighborhood in the wake of several anti-Semitic incidents.

The armed officers were hired to patrol a 16-block area populated largely by Orthodox Jewish families on the Jewish sabbath and holidays, when residents walk to synagogue and do not carry cell phones, DNAinfo-Chicago reported.

More than 25 families pay $25 a month for the extra security.

The Chicago Police are not happy with the arrangement, according to the news website.

“It was brought to our attention there was a group of citizens in the area that don’t feel the police are serving the community the best we can,” Sgt. Shawn Sisk, who leads the district’s community policing office, told DNAinfo. “We can’t stop that from happening; however, we’re not going to support it. We don’t want that to send a false sense of security to the neighborhood.”

Incidents over the last six months include anti-Semitic graffiti, robbery at gunpoint and anonymous envelopes filled with white powder and Arabic writing sent to several Jewish organizations in the area.

Organizations B’NAI B’RITH BREADBREAKERS Speaker to be announced for Wednesday, May 27, noon.

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

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Why we celebrate Jerusalem Day

by ANNETTE VAN DE KAMP-WRIGHT Jewish Press Editor In 1967, after the six-day war ended and Israel established control over the old city, Jerusalem was reunified. It’s considered a minor religious holiday by the Chief Rabbinate of Israel, due to the fact that reunification gave Jews access to the Kotel. More often than not, Jerusalem Day is viewed as a day for religious Zionists. Parades and special services (but mostly the parades, because they come with flag waving) can be a lightning rod for Palestinian protesters.

Let’s go back a little. In 1920, there was the San Remo Resolution, which was adopted by allied powers Great Britain, France, Italy and Japan. It stated that “The administration of Palestine, within such boundaries as may be determined by the Principal Allied Powers, to a Mandatory, to be selected by the said Powers. The Mandatory will be responsible for putting into effect the declaration originally made on November 8, 1917, by the British Government, and adopted by the other Allied Powers, in favour of the establishment in Palestine of a national home for the Jewish people, it being clearly understood that nothing shall be done which may prejudice the civil and religious rights of existing non-Jewish communities in Palestine, or the rights and political status enjoyed by Jews in any other country.”

The Mandate for Palestine, which placed Israel under British rule, was based on this resolution.

Then, in 1947, the UN Partition Plan was introduced. It proposed the establishment of two states in the British Mandate of Palestine (one Jewish, one Arab) while Jerusalem would become an international city, neither exclusively Arab nor Jewish. After ten years, a referendum would be held by Jerusalem residents to determine which country to join. The Jewish leadership accepted the plan, including the internationalization of Jerusalem, but the Arabs rejected the proposal.

come to Jerusalem for the sake of other peoples' holy places, and not to interfere with the adherents of other faiths, but in order to safeguard its entirety, and to live there together with others, in unity.

Jerusalem Day, however, is not always a peaceful event.

The March of Flags in particular, especially when participants trek through the Muslim quarter, sees a variety of problematic behavior. There is racist chanting by ultranationalists; Muslims are advised to close their shops and stay out of sight, which is in and of itself a sad commentary on the holiday. Celebrations of any kind should never come with a warning.

In 2015, several organizations, both Jewish and Arab, attempted to have the flag parade rerouted in order to avoid the Muslim quarter, to no avail. The parade took place as planned, some rocks were thrown, one police officer was injured and a few people were arrested on both sides.

So be it. If we expect, or hope, that a celebration of this kind will go off without some skirmishes, we are naïve. Would these problems be solved were the parade not to take place? I highly doubt it. Do we cancel the Fourth of July because someone someCredit: Edgar Asher where is dumb enough to start a fight? Because Olive were plundered and, eerily reminiscent of what the someone decided to mess with the fireworks and burned off Nazis had done 25 years earlier, used as building material. his hand? Because we don’t all agree on what we are celeAt the beginning of the six-day war, Israeli forces prom- brating? When do we ever? ised not to attack Jerusalem, as long as Jordan troops did not At the end of the day, it is not the boy who throws rocks get involved. Jordan didn’t listen, and Israel responded. On who matters. It isn’t the nationalist Jew who yells racist sloJune 7, 1967, Israeli forces took East Jerusalem back. gans who matters. What matters is the city itself, and the Moshe Dayan said this: millions of people who, since 1967, have touched their foreThis morning, the Israel Defense Forces liberated Jerusalem. heads to the Kotel and prayed. The countless B’nai Mitzvah, We have united Jerusalem, the divided capital of Israel. We Shabbat services, songs and holidays that have been marked have returned to the holiest of our holy places, never to part there matter. The fact that “next year in Jerusalem” is no holfrom it again. To our Arab neighbors we extend, also at this low phrase. That is what we celebrate on Yom Yerushalayim. hour—and with added emphasis at this hour—our hand in The next time you’re there, take a walk across the rooftops peace. And to our Christian and Muslim fellow citizens, we on Friday night and watch as the sun sets on the Western solemnly promise full religious freedom and rights. We did not Wall. You’ll see what I mean.

Of course, in 1948, all previous plans, mandates and resolutions became mute, as the State of Israel declared its independence. Jordan immediately attacked and took over East Jerusalem and the old city. Jewish residents were forced out, 29 synagogues were demolished, while gravestones on Mount

Where have all the freshmen gone?

by MARY SUE GROSSMAN Program Coordinator, Center for Jewish Life The Financial Aid Committee of the Center for Jewish Life recently awarded over $274,000 for youth group programs, summer camp, Israel programs, the Child Development Center, Friedel and college. I must admit that with a degree in finance and having spent 16 years of my working career in banking, I love this “money” part of my job. But in this case it is not the money I enjoy, but the pleasure of helping so many families in our community.

There is one area of the scholarship mix that puzzles me, however. That is the requests for college, vocational and technical school funding. There are a decreasing number of applications being submitted each year. And in particular there is a low number of applications submitted by high school seniors.

Everyone knows college has a high price tag. The UNO estimate for 2015-2016 for a full-time student is $14,300, even if living at home. The price bumps up to $20,400 when living on campus. UNL’s estimate is $23,400. Head out of state and the price tag skyrockets. This past year, a non-resident cost at Kansas University was around $30,000 and Indiana was a bit over $47,000. Those figures are real money.

Yet we received just four applications from high school seniors for the upcoming year.

Maybe your first thought is “Well, do they know about the scholarships?” This is a reasonable question and is one to which I’ll reply, “I would certainly think they do!”

Publicity on scholarship funding begins when the annual scholarship guide is distributed as an insert in this publica-

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Jewish Press Board Eric Dunning, President-Elect; Scott Farkas, Sandy Friedman, Paul Gerber, Debbie Kricsfeld, David Kotok, Paul Rabinovitz, and Nancy Wolf.

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.

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tion in January of each year. The guide includes information on the process, the deadlines, and contact information for questions, and also lists the many funds from which awards are made. For the past two years, this was followed by three quarter-page ads in other issues in January and February.

Information is sent to the guidance counselors in every high school in the metro Omaha area. A letter of explanation on the process, a supply of the guides, and, again, contact information for any and all questions was included in the packet. This is also sent to EducationQuest, the “go-to” entity for scholarship assistance.

There was also a mailing sent to nearly 80 Omaha Jewish high school seniors. The mailing, knowing the crazy schedules of the senior year, was addressed “To the parents of...” rather than the student name alone. The packet talked about different scholarships opportunities including a brief explanation of each. It included information on how to obtain applications and contact information for questions. A copy of the guide was also included.

There is a dedicated “Scholarship and Grants” page in the CJL section of the Federation website. For weeks, a one click panel was included on the banner section of the home page.

CJL sent email blasts and each synagogue repeatedly included information in its publicity.

Despite the various descriptions, perhaps there is confusion about the different scholarship “categories.”

Scholarships based on financial need are made by the CJL Financial Aid Committee. There are also the merit-based Sokolof scholarships which provide awards handled by a different committee. The Schriebman scholarship can poten-

tially cover the first year tuition, and that decision is also made outside of the CJL sphere. There are also the Kooper/Fellman scholarships which are handled by a different group. I can understand this can be a bit perplexing, but a quick phone call will answer any questions.

Are students too busy? Are parents unwilling to provide the first two pages of their federal tax return – a standard request for nearly all financial aid applications? Is the average award of $2,200 too little to meet expectations? Is a sixpage, easy to follow application - with no essay requirement – plus two references and a transcript too difficult? Is the taking out of student loans too easy?

I simply do not know why. I have asked for input on this challenge from a number of people and they are also puzzled. I do know this is a lost opportunity for families, and I am looking for ideas on how to encourage students to apply.

Please share your ideas on how we can further get the word out. Call me at 402.334.6445 or email your thoughts to mgrossman@jewishomaha.org.

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.

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

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Send a check for $25, made out to the Jewish Press and prorated for the year, to 333 So. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68154.

For more information on how to connect your out-oftown relatives and friends, call 402.334.6448. 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 | May 22, 2015

Synagogues B’NAI ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE 618 Mynster Street | Council Bluffs, IA 51503-0766 |712.322.4705 email: BnaiIsraelCouncilBluffs@gmail.com Memorial Day Service, Sunday, May 24, 11 a.m. at Oak Hills/Bikhor Cholim Cemetery.

Join us for our monthly Shabbat Speakers Series on June 12, at 7:30 p.m. when guest speaker, Marcia Kushner of Lincoln will visit and reminisce about growing up in Council Bluffs. Oneg to follow service. Everyone is always welcome at B’nai Israel!

Larry Blass will officiate at all of the Speaker Series Services.

For information on our historic synagogue, or to arrange a visit, please contact any of our board members: Mark Eveloff, Rick Katelman, Carole Lainof, Marty Ricks, Sissy Silber, Nancy Wolf and Phil Wolf.

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: Lunch at Nebraska AIDS Coalition, 11:30 a.m.; Tot Shavuot, 6 p.m.; Kabbalat Shabbat, 6 p.m., Blessing of New Babies, followed by an Oneg Shabbat.

SATURDAY: Morning Service, 9:30 a.m.; Mini Minyannaires, 10:45 a.m.; Mincha, 8:30 p.m.; Dessert Reception for Erev Shavuot, 9 p.m.

WEEKDAY SERVICES: Sundays, 9 a.m. & 5:30 p.m.; weekdays, 7 a.m. & 5:30 p.m.

SUNDAY: Shavuot Morning Service, 9:30 a.m.

TUESDAY: Wrestling with the Rabbis of the Talmud, 10 a.m.

Social Action Committee Cooking/Serving Dinner at Stephen Center, Sunday, May 31, 5:30 p.m.

Information Meeting on Mission Trip to Cuba, Wednesday, June 3, 7 p.m.

All classes and programs are open to everyone in the Jewish community.

free for 3 and younger; Mincha/Maariv, 6:55 p.m.; Candle Lighting and preparations for the second night are normally postponed until late in the evening. However, if the Yom Tov meal is started before sunset, preparations can be made during the day and candles can be lit in honor of the meal.

If the meal is not started before sunset, Candle Lighting and preparations must wait until after 9:33 p.m.

WEEKDAYS: Shacharit, 7 a.m.

MONDAY: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Yizkor, 10:30 a.m.; Session 6a: for adults-Shani Weis & Dovid Tauber, 7:30 p.m.; Session 6b: for kids (featuring ice cream)-Adina Weis: Holding onto Spirituality, 7:30 p.m.; Mincha, 8:20 p.m.; Session 7, 8:40 pm Moreh Binyanim Lerner; Maariv/Havdalah, 9:35 p.m.

TUESDAY: Wrestling with Rashi Class, 8 p.m. with Rabbi Weiss.

THURSDAY: Women’s Class, 9:30 a.m.; Avot U-BanimParent Child Learning, 7 p.m.; Jews and Brews Class, 8:30 p.m. at the Shtrobach home.

CHABAD HOUSE

BETH ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE

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.

SUNDAY: Minyan and Meditation, 8:30 a.m.

WEEKDAYS: Minyan and Meditation, 7 a.m.

TUESDAY: Dynamic Discovery with Shani Katzman, 10:15 a.m. A class for women based on traditional texts with practical insights and application. RSVP by calling the office.

WEDNESDAY: Personal Parsha class, 9:30 a.m. with Rochi Katzman. RSVP by calling the office; The Development of the Oral Tradition, 7 p.m. with Rabbi Katzman. RSVP by calling the office. In memory of Forrest Krutter -- Efrayim Menachem Ben Avraham Yitzchak.

THURSDAY: Women’s Study at UNMC with Shani Katzman, noon. RSVP by emailing Marlene Cohen at mzcohen@unmc.edu.

All programs are open to the entire community.

Member of Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America 12604 Pacific Street | Omaha, NE. 68154 | 402.556.6288 www.orthodoxomaha.org Office hours: Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. and Friday, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Services conducted by Rabbi Ari Dembitzer.

FRIDAY: Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv/Kabbalat Shabbat, 7 p.m.

SATURDAY: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Simcha and Graduation Kiddush following Services; Mincha/Seudah Shlishit, 8:10 p.m.; Special Seudah Shlishit with Avot U-Banim-Parent Child learning Maariv, Havdalah, 9:33 p.m.; Kiddush and Shavuot Seudah on the house! Hamotzi, Kiddush, Hamotzi, and Gefilte Fish, 9:45 p.m.; Session 1a: for adults-Rabbi Ari: Torah and Nature, 10 p.m.; Session 1b: for kids-Dovid Tauber: Torah of Kindness, 10 p.m.; Main Course, 10:30 p.m.

Grilled Cheese and Salad Bar sponsored by the Weiss Family; Session 2a: for adults-Tzvi Haber: 11 Names of Shavuot, 11 p.m.; Session 2b: for kids-Shani Weis: Ruth and Shavuot, 11 p.m.; Dairy Desert Reception and Ice Cream, 11:59 p.m.; Session 3, Chavruta Learning: Receiving the Torah One-on-One learning through the night, 12:30 a.m. We will find you a Chavruta (learning partner); Early Shacharit, 5:30 a.m.

SUNDAY: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Lunch along with Family Feud Menu: Lasagna, Pasta Primavera, Salmon, tossed salad, garlic bread, and dairy desserts! $12 adults; $6 children 4-12;

South Street Temple | Union for Reform Judaism 2061 South 20th Street | Lincoln, NE 68502-2797 | 402.435.8004 www.southstreettemple.org Services conducted by Rabbi Craig Lewis.

FRIDAY: Shabbat Evening Service, 7:45 p.m. with oneg following.

SATURDAY: Shabbat Morning Service, 9:30 a.m.; Torah Study, 10:30 a.m. on Parashat Bemidar.

SUNDAY: Shavuot, 3 p.m. This year for Leyl Tikkn Shavuot, Temple members and friends are invited to join with Congregation Tifereth Israel for a Sunday Sundae Party on the first day of Shavuot, followed by a mincha service and study sessions prepared by Rabbi Craig Lewis and Nancy Coren.

MONDAY: Temple office closed for Memorial Day. Confirmation Havdalah Service, Saturday, May 30, 7 p.m. led by members of the Confirmation Class, Rachel Balter, Tanner Crable, Grant Gordon, and Alex Murray, with reception following.

On Sunday, May 31, we will conclude our special anniversary project by doing the interior painting on a Lincoln/ Lancaster County Habitat for Humanity home. If you can help paint, be sure Alan Frank has your name. If you wish to make a monetary donation to Habitat for Humanity, please make a check payable to Lincoln/Lancaster Habitat for

CONGREGATION B’NAI JESHURUN

B’nai Mitzvah Jack Henry Kohll, son of David and Janet Kohll, will become a Bar Mitzvah on Saturday, May 30, at Beth Israel Synagogue.

Jack is a seventh-grade student at Beveridge Magnet Center, where he is a member of Junior National Honor Society and competes in cross country, track and wrestling.

For his mitzvah project, Jack has been volunteering at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home and he is donating books to the Boys & Girls Club.

He has a sister, Anna, and three brothers, Sam, Max and Leo. Grandparents are Sandra and Marvin Kohll, and Chester Stefanski and the late Virginia Stefanski.

Emma Miller, daughter of Lori and Michael Miller, will become a Bat Mitzvah on Saturday, May 30, at Temple Israel.

Emma is a seventh-grade student at Westside Middle School where she received the All Around Character Award.

Her interests include soccer, Camp Thunderbird and spending time with family and friends.

For her mitzvah project, Emma is making blankets for animals at the Humane Society.

She has two sisters, Hannah and Leah.

Grandparents are Jill and Mike Erman, the late Eileen Erman, and Marnie Miller and the late Jerald Miller.

Candlelighting Friday, May 22, 8:24 p.m.

Saturday, May 23, 9:33 p.m. | Sunday, May 24, 9:33 p.m.

Humanity and send it to the Temple office. Checks will be forwarded to Habitat on June 1. Thank you for considering this worthwhile project!

President’s Office Hours, Sunday Mornings, 10 a.m.–noon at SST. If you have any Temple business you would like to bring before the Board of Trustees, potential programs, or new ideas, please let us know! Call for an appointment at the Temple or just to chat any time at 402.513.7697. Or if you prefer, just email David Weisser at president@southstreet temple.org.

OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE Capehart Chapel 2500 Capehart Road | Offutt AFB, NE 68123 | 402.294.6244 FRIDAY: Services, 7:30 p.m. every first and third of the month.

ROSE BLUMKIN JEWISH HOME 323 South 132 Street | Omaha, NE 68154 FRIDAY: Shabbat Comes to the Blumkin Home, 2:30 p.m. led by Beth Israel.

SATURDAY: Erve Shavuot Service, 9:15 a.m. led by Andy Greenberg.

SUNDAY: Shavuot Service, 9:15 a.m. led by Alan Shulewitz.

MONDAY: Shavuot Service with Yizkor, 9:15 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) 13111 Sterling Ridge Drive | Omaha, NE 68144-1206 | 402.556.6536 http://templeisraelomaha.com FRIDAY: High School Senior Celebration Shabbat Service, 6 p.m. Temple Israel’s high school seniors will be given a celebratory blessing by the clergy as they prepare to begin the next phase of their lives. The Brandon Thomas Pursuit of Passion Scholarship will be awarded during the evening.

The Oneg is being sponsored by Elly and Bob Gordman, Andie Gordman and Dan Fitzgerald and Lindsey Thomas to celebrate Brandon Thomas and the graduating seniors.

SATURDAY: Torah Study, 9:15 a.m.; Shabbat Morning Service, 10:30 a.m.; Erev Shavuot Service, 6 p.m. followed by a dairy oneg.

SUNDAY: Shavuot Service and Yizkor, 10:30 a.m.

TUESDAY: Temple Israel’s 144th Annual Meeting, 7 p.m.

THURSDAY: What Makes a Value Jewish?, 10 a.m. with Debbie Massarano.

Shabbat Service/High School Senior Celebration, Friday, May 22, 6 p.m.

Erev Shavuot Service, Saturday, May 23, 6 p.m.

Shavuot Service and Yizkor, Sunday, May 24, 10:30 a.m.

Temple Israel Annual Meeting, Tuesday, May 26, 7 p.m.

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: Shabbat Services, 6:30 p.m.

SATURDAY: Morning service, 10 a.m. followed by a Kiddush Lunch.

SUNDAY: Leyl Tikkun Shavuot, 3 p.m. at Tifereth Israel for a Sunday Sundae party on the first day of Shavuot at 3 p.m., followed by a mincha service and study sessions prepared by Rabbi Craig Lewis and Nancy Coren.

MONDAY: The Tifereth Israel office will be closed.

Shavout services begin at 9:30 a.m. and Yizkor will take place at 11 a.m.

Annual Tifereth Israel Meeting, Sunday, June 7, 2 p.m.

Please plan to be with us for this not-lengthy, but important, meeting of the congregation.

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.

Pulverent e

May 22, 2015 | The Jewish Press | 11

In memoriam CHARLOTTE SLUTZKY KOOM Charlotte Slutzky Koom passed away on May 11. Services were held May 14 at Beth El Cemetary and officiated by Rabbi Steven Abraham.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Ben Slutzky and her husband, Morris Koom.

She is survived by her sons and daughters-in-law, Robert Slutzky and Jaynie Smeerin of Los Angeles, Richard and Alyson Slutzky of Maplewood, NJ, and daughter, Susan Silver of Chapel Hill, NC; grandchildren: Jon Silver and Diane Constantine of Seattle, WA, Gwen Silver of Durham, NC, Lisa and Peter Reitzes of Chapel Hill, NC, Lanie Sterling of Las Vegas, NV, Scott Slutzky of Los Angeles, Dane Slutzky and David Voeller of Coquile, OR, and Buzz Slutzky, Brooklyn, NY; and four great-grandchildren.

She volunteered for the Nebraska Jewish Historical Society, LOVE Group at Rose Blumkin Jewish Home and was a member of Hadassah and NCJW-Omaha Section.

Memorials may be made to the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home, 323 S. 132nd St, Omaha, NE 68154.

Two synagogues open in Rio de Janeiro

by JTA NEWS STAFF (JTA) -- Rio de Janeiro is set to open two new Orthodox synagogues ahead of the Brazilian city’s hosting of the 2016 Olympic Games.

One of the new synagogues will open in August in the neighborhood of Ipanema, the famed tourist destination known for its beach scene. The opening was announced May 13 on the website of CONIB, the umbrella group representing Brazil’s Jewish communities.

Additionally, the Chabad Lubavitch movement is preparing to open a kosher hotel with a synagogue ahead of the games.

Rio de Janeiro has approximately 20 synagogues serving 40,000 people, but receives many Jewish tourists. Many more are expected when Rio hosts the Olympic Games next year.

In Ipanema, the Edmond J. Safra Synagogue and community center will have 20,000 square feet of space, featuring study rooms, event halls and libraries in addition to the Sephardic-style shul, the institution’s rabbi, Gabriel Aboutboul, told JTA recently.

For Shavuot, try strawberry rhubarb trifle

by SHANNON SARNA lemon juice in a saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high NEW YORK (JTA) -- Forget fancy pastries, cakes or heat and then reduce to simmer for 10-15 minutes, until tarts: Trifles are the best dessert you can make for enter- pieces of rhubarb have broken down and the mixture is soft. taining. They are delicious and look beautiful and impresPlace rhubarb mixture into a food processor fitted with sive, but are actually one of the easiest desserts you can blade attachment. Pulse a few times to smooth out mixture make. or until it has reached your STRAWBERRY desired consistency.

RHUBARB TRIFLE To make the whipped Ingredients: cream, place the heavy 2 pounds rhubarb, chopped cream in a large chilled bowl into 1 inch pieces and mix on low speed using 1 pint strawberries, cut in a hand mixer or stand mixer half and stems removed for 2 minutes. Increase 1 cup sugar speed to high and add vanilJuice of half lemon plus la. Add 2 tablespoons sugar zest and mix until you have stiff peaks.

1/2 cup water To assemble, crumble the 2 cups heavy whipping pound cake on the bottom of cream a trifle dish or large glass 2 tbsp. sugar bowl. Add 1/2 to 1 cup 1 tsp. vanilla rhubarb compote on top.

Store-bought pound cake Strawberry rhubarb trifle requires no baking and only miniCover with whipped cream.

Additional strawberries Credit: Shannon Sarna mal cooking.

Repeat layers until you have and mint for garnish reached the top. (optional) Add fresh strawberries and mint on top if desired.

Preparation: Shannon Sarna is editor of The Nosher blog on To make the strawberry rhubarb compote, combine the chopped rhubarb, hulled strawberries, sugar, water and MyJewishLearning.com.

Director of Nursing Services D Full time | Excellent benefits | RN degree required For more information, call (402) 376-1260 or apply online at www.good-sam.com.

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Full-time Electrical Mechanical Coordinator/Trainer Central Community College, Columbus, Nebraska. Qualifications: Requires an Associate degree with three years related occupational experience in a manufacturing or processing facility. Responsibilities: Develop and teach short term Industrial training programs to Business and Industry. www.cccneb.edu/employment

Full-time Precision Agriculture Instructor Central Community College, Columbus, Nebraska. Qualifications: Requires a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture or a related field with 2 years of related work experience. A complete understanding of precision technology and a commitment to teach and utilize technology is required.

Responsibilities: Develop and teach precision agriculture and related agriculture courses. THIS IS A GRANT FUNDED POSITION. www.cccneb.edu/employment

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JUNIOR VOLUNTEER SUMMER PROGRAM The Rose Blumkin Jewish Home is currently seeking junior volunteers (ages 12 and up) to assist with summer activities and services at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home! This is a wonderful opportunity to meet teens from other area schools, enjoy friendly interactions with Residents, and earn service hours in a Jewish environment committed to caring, compassion and customer service. Last year’s participants made new friends and gained valuable experiences they are now applying in school and the workplace.

If you’re interesting in becoming a Junior Volunteer, please contact Linda Cogen, Volunteer Coordinator, at 402-334-6519 or lcogen@ rbjh.com. Linda will guide you through the application process, which will include an interview, training, and an orientation session.

Remember: You can make a difference!

Occupational Therapist

Spearfish Regional Hospital has an excellent opportunity for an Occupational Therapist to join our team providing care and treatment to clients of all age groups with developmental deficits, physical injury or illness, or psychological disability with primary focus on pediatrics. Travel in the surrounding area will be required to serve clients as needed. If this job interests you, go to www.regionalhealth.com for more information and apply online. We offer excellent benefits and competitive pay. It’s a great place to work and beautiful place to live!

Spearfish Regional Hospital 1440 North Main, Spearfish, SD 57783 Phone: (605) 644-4086; fax (605) 644-4089 Equal Opportunity Employer

Nebraska STATEWIDE CLASSIFIEDS ADVERTISE STATEWIDE for $225/25 word classified ad. Over 165 newspapers with circulation of more than 365,000. Contact the Jewish Press at 402-334-6449 or call 1-800-369-2850.

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MEDICAL BILLING Trainees Needed! Train at home to process medical billing & insurance claims! No experience needed! Online training at Bryan University! HS Diploma/GED & Computer/Internet needed. 1-877-259-3880.

THE MINDEN Courier is seeking a full-time editor. The editor would be responsible for covering all city, county and school board meetings, feature stories, photography along with local sporting events and assisting in managing an office setting. Strong writing skills a must, along with a background in community journalism and social media skills beneficial. Candidate must be outgoing, motivated and dependable. Please send resumes to mindencourier@gtmc.net or mail them to The Minden Courier, PO Box 379, Minden, NE 68959.

LAYNE SEEKING pump installers, laborers. Travel requirement and clean driving record. Layne offers benefits and wages $15 to $18 per hour. E-mail 1072@layne.com or 402-359-2042.

WANT A career operating heavy equipment? Bulldozers, Backhoes, Excavators.

Receive hands on training! Certifications offered. National average 18-22hr.

Lifetime Job Placement. VA Benefits Eligible! 1-866-362-6497.

BUTLER TRANSPORT Your Partner in Excellence. CDL Class A drivers needed.

Sign on bonus! All miles paid. 1-800-528-7825 or www.butlertransport.com.

NAVAJO HIRING CDL-A Truck Drivers. Plenty of miles! No-Touch Freight, new equipment, great benefits! 6 months recent tractor/trailer experience in last 3 years. Call 866-913-3701.

12 | The Jewish Press | May 22, 2015

The Mitzvah of Shemita

Open pulpit RABBI MENDEL KATZMAN, Chabad hen you come to the land that I am giving you, the land shall rest a Sabbath to the L-rd.

You may sow your field for six years, and for six years you may prune your vineyard, and gather in its produce, But in the seventh year, the land shall have a complete rest, a Sabbath to the L-rd; you shall not sow your field, nor shall you prune your vineyard.

The Mitzvah of Shemita observed now, halts agricultural activity in the Land of Israel for an entire year. The simplicity of the above instructions belies the depth of their message and application. To sum it up: Have faith. Treat every creation, even the inanimate, with dignity.

Every Mitzvah is a spiritual workout to strengthen and target specific “muscles” in addition, of course, to its said role. For example, we offer hospitality to wayfarers. This gives them support, comfort, and amenities while they are traveling. But what does our hospitality do for us?

Hospitality hones our sensitivity muscles. It strengthens our make-room-for-others core and the it’s-not-all-about-you muscle group.

The Mitzvah of Shemita, central and pivotal, gives us a high-impact spiritual workout: Many of us are quite successful at what we do. I’ve worked hard to build my business, we might say. My wit and dedication paid off. My efforts in college were worthwhile. Look at what I’ve accomplished. Others attribute their good fortune to having “lucked out”.

Truth is, it all boils down to faith. Oodles of folks work strenuously. Invest time, energy, resources, and they don’t come out ahead. Graduates of the finest schools struggle to put bread on their table. And vice versa. The unskilled,

W

unlearned and lazy, can be prosperous. It’s not always an exact science.

And if you should say, “What will we eat in the seventh year? We will not sow, and we will not gather in our produce!”

[Know then, that] I will command My blessing for you in the sixth year, and it will yield produce for three years.

You may have heard about Jill who brings home her fiancé to meet her parents: “What are your plans?” Dad asks Jill’s fiancé.

“I am a scholar”.

“Admirable. How will you provide a nice house for my daughter?”

“G-d will provide.”

“How will you buy a beautiful ring?”

“G-d will provide.”

“And children? How will you support them?”

“G-d will provide.”

Mom wants to know, “Nu? How did it go?”

Dad chuckles, “He has no job and no plans, but the good news is he thinks I’m G-d.”

G-d expects us to go to work. To make an honest living. To

invest. You may sow your field for six years, and for six years you may prune your vineyard, and gather in its produce. You may. And you have the obligation to do so. The pattern is work six years. Give it all you have. Then step back for a year of Shabbat to acknowledge the blessing and from Whence it comes. Will we trust enough in the seventh year to watch the miracle unfold? Is this faith strong enough to allow us to relinquish control of the economy for the duration of a year?

To let G-d?

It’s a serious workout!

Before the advent of Keurig and Starbucks, back in the day when I was a kid, it was said that Maxwell House Coffee was good to the last drop. The coffee’s flavor would meet exacting standards in each Maxwell molecule.

The notion of squeezing every last penny from an employee’s work is evident in the minimum wage discussions across the country. To maximize or get the ‘most bang for our buck’ can be seen as frugal, efficient, and, on the flip side, exploitation. There is a morality margin at which people decide where efficiency ends and abuse begins.

Torah commands and demands respect and dignity for every creation. Even the inanimate. The Priests in the Holy Temple took pains to assure they would not expose themselves immodestly on the ramp which led to the Altar. To show regard for the stone ramp. We are expected to honor food and to dispose of unused bread with regard. We must avoid violation of stuff. Anything and everything. And every one. Especially. Notwithstanding what it does for them, it makes us humane. It refines us. We learn to sense the dignity in G-d’s every creation.

It may be easy for us to recognize when we need a vacation. But the land? Yes. The land. The land needs to lie fallow after six years. It needs a break. And we need to be aware and considerate.

As we acknowledge G-d’s Providence and blessing in our own lives and are attentive to the needs of others, we invoke G-d’s Shining Countenance and abundance here and now.

May we merit to celebrate the Shabbat of all Shabbats “yom shekulo Shabbat”, a time of tranquility, peace and bounty, the time of that is completely Shabbat. This is how we refer to the times of Moshiach. It will be a wondrous time when we will have the luxury to step back from our work and see how G-d sustains the world. May it be speedily in our days.

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