September 26, 2008: Rosh Hashanah Edition

Vol. LXXXVIII No. 3 Omaha, NE

Celebrating 88 Years of Service to Nebraska and Western Iowa

26 Elul, 5768 September 26, 2008 4 Sections

Page 2

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2008

Jews and politics AMERICA DECIDES 2008 We’re so fortunate to have the ability to participate in one of this country’s most cherished rights -- voting, and there is no lack of passion and persistence when it comes to politics and Jews in this area.

As readers already know, however, this newspaper endorses neither political parties nor candidates. But while this issue does seem weighted in favor of one party, it’s because the Jewish community nationally has tended to vote heavily for the Democrats ever since the days of FDR (that’s Franklin Delano Roosevelt for our younger readers!).

The political landscape has been changing, however. More and more Jews have voted Republican (at least in the presidential elections) since Ronald Reagan first ran in 1980.

John Kerry’s share of the Jewish vote in 2004 was 76%, but the latest polls show Sen. Barack Obama’s hovering around 60%.

We don’t claim to know why, but here are two reasons to think about: 1) the Jewish community is graying and the older one gets, the more conservative (generally) one becomes; and 2) the fastest growing segment of the Jewish community is Orthodox (their higher birth rate since the 1960s is evidenced by those big families having even larger families in the 1980s and ’90s, some of whom have voting age children of their own). Orthodox Jews tend to be more conservative socially and politically than the rest of the organized (and unaffiliated) Jewish community.

But, we digress. This issue isn’t really about

Republicans or Democrats, supporters of Sen. John McCain or Sen. Obama.

It’s about the rich and varied history we have in politics in the Heartland!

From the days of Harry Trustin and Johnny Rosenblatt to today’s college students working on campaigns, current and former Nebraskans have their fingers on the pulse of America.

Who knew there were so many dedicated and talented professional pols and volunteers in our midst? We just wish we could have covered even more, but like any issue of this size, we don’t claim that it’s a complete history. We hope that those we were not able to profile or who chose not to participate because of the pressing demands of their own political lives will someday be featured in these pages.

This theme -- “America Decides 2008: Jews and Politics” -- came about at a Jewish Press board discussion last spring. As Jim Simon (himself once a candidate for public office) drolly noted, “There are three things of interest to Nebraskans in the Fall: Husker football, back to school, and the elections.”

Our board wisely decided that a New Year’s issue on the Huskers would be rather thin as there have been only a few Jewish players (like Elmer Greenberg, profiled in a Passover issue six years ago: “Jews in Sports: Omaha Hosts the 2002 Maccabi Games”). Our back to school issue was already scheduled in August as The Learning Curve. So that left politics!

So our first “thank you” goes to the Press Board of Directors for continuing to exhibit good judgment, passion for the success of this newspaper, and the ability to carry out its goals and plans in an atmosphere of good natured give-and-take.

Among our fabulous freelance writers in this issue are Leo Adam Biga, Gary Javitch, Gloria

Shukert Jones, Bert Lewis, Joan K. Marcus, Ozzie Nogg, Claudia Sherman, and Annette Van de Kamp-Wright. We also welcome back a former Jewish Press intern, Tony Endelman, who has returned to Omaha and hopes to put his prolific writing talents to use!

Of course, our staff had a hand in producing this, our largest issue of the year. Kudos to Advertising Manager Allan Handleman and Sales Associate Robyn Belgrade for their hard work and persistence, especially in this tough economy, in soliciting enough ads to fill four sections -- and to Managing Editor Richard Busse for his eye-popping front cover and the daunting job of creating so many ads, as well as the layout of the entire paper.

To our Assistant Managing Editor Lori Kooper Schwarz: a big “thanks” for getting every article ready for production, including the complicated lists of boards, births, marriages and deaths. (Please forgive us if we omitted anyone; it was truly an oversight. If readers send us any information that was unintentionally excluded, we’ll print it in an upcoming issue.)

And now that the writing, production and publishing work is finally over, our hard working bookkeeper Barb Kirkpatrick has the unenviable duty of billing all our advertisers and keeping all our accounts straight!

One final note of appreciation goes to our office volunteers: Deborah Platt, Dottie Rosenblum and Suzanne Singer, whose help is invaluable. We couldn’t get a paper out each week without their devoted service!

To all our readers and advertisers, we wish a happy, healthy, prosperous, peaceful and politically exciting 5769! Shana Tova -- and remember to vote on Tuesday, Nov. 4!

Carol Katzman, Editor Bobbi Leibowitz, President

Front page photos, courtesy of JTA: Presidential nominees Sen. Barack Obama (D-IL), left, and Sen. John McCain (R-AZ) are running at the top of their tickets.

Credit: AIPAC

(Founded in 1920) Bobbi Leibowitz President Carol Katzman Editor Richard Busse Managing Editor Allan Handleman Advertising Manager Robyn Belgrade Sales Associate Lori Kooper-Schwarz Assistant Managing Editor Barbara Kirkpatrick Bookkeeper Jewish Press Board Michael Sigmond, Vice President; Stan Mitchell, Secretary; Michael Siegel, Treasurer; Howard K. Marcus, Immediate Past-chairman; Marc Brodkey; Andie Gordman; Michael Kaufman; Bette Kozlen; Susan Lehr; Jamie Meyerson; Andy Ruback; Jim Simon; Nancy Skid; and Dorothy Spizman.

The role of the Jewish Federation of Omaha is to involve Jews in meeting Jewish communal needs locally, nationally and in Israel. Agencies of the Federation are: Community Relations, Jewish Community Center, Center for Jewish Education, Jewish Family Service/Jewish Senior Services, and the Jewish Press .

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September 26, 2008

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 3

On the shoulders of giants: The Jewish political legacy in Omaha

by ANNETTE VAN DE KAMP-WRIGHT From San Francisco’s first Jewish Mayor Washington Bartlett to Cincinnati’s Jerry Springer, from Fiorello LaGuardia to Joseph Lieberman, from The Daily Show’s Jon Stewart to Al Franken, American Jews have left their mark on U.S. politics.

With approximately seven million people, Jewish Americans constitute only 2.5% of the general population, and yet during every election year the question comes up: what about the Jewish vote?

Figuring out which issues are most concerning to Jewish voters is a fulltime task for any campaign, and this year is no different. While it can be tricky to treat the “Jewish vote” as an immoveable voting block, with no room for individual disagreements, Jewish political involvement is strongly colored by a shared sense of civic responsibility.

“As Jews we bring a twofold experience, one of the spirit, and one of our history,” Joachim Prinz, President of the American Jewish Congress, told the crowd on Aug. 28, 1963. He was standing on the podium at the Lincoln Memorial during the famous March on Washington, and added: “From our Jewish historic experience of three and a half thousand years we say: Our ancient history began with slavery and the yearning for freedom.

“During the Middle Ages my people lived for a thousand years in the ghettos of Europe. It is for these reasons that it is not merely sympathy and compassion ...

It is a sense of complete identification and

Photographed at the Fire Department, May 27, 1957 were Al Veys (who would become mayor 20 yeas later), left, Harry Trustin, Johnny Rosenblatt and Omaha’s Fire Chief. solidarity born out of our own painful historic experience.”

It is certain that this ‘historic experience’ guided many Jews who arrived in America, especially those that came as impoverished immigrants. The need to create a better life for themselves, they found, could never be separated from the need to create a better life for the Jewish community as a whole. The Holocaust and the subsequent establishment of the State of Israel drove that point home even more, and it became extremely urgent for American Jews to be involved and active in politics and public service.

Today, there are 13 Jewish Americans in the Senate, and 30 in the House of Representatives. Jewish voters have the

biggest percentage voter turnout of any population segment, and 94% of American Jews live in 13 key Electoral College states. However, the focus of many Jewish voters, activists and politicians, goes far beyond current issues like high taxes and gas prices.

In the city of Omaha, several Jewish politicians stand out; some for what they did, some for why and when they did it.

When Harry Trustin began his political career, the Holocaust had not yet happened. In 1933, Alcatraz was made into a prison, the prohibition was repealed, Franklin D. Roosevelt took over the Presidency from Herbert Hoover, and Groucho Marx was busy filming Duck Swan. An eight-year-old Sammy Davis, Jr.

made his first movie; Frida Kahlo painted her “Self Portrait with Necklace”; Levi’s removed the infamous rivet from their jeans, and Albert Einstein renounced his German citizenship.

The annual average U.S. income was $1,048, and it was the birth year of Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Philip Roth. In Berlin, German university students were burning Freud’s books. Hitler’s National Socialist Party seized control of Germany, while in Omaha, Nebraska, Harry Trustin began his first term on the City Commission.

He would serve seven terms in total on what eventually would become the City Council. Initially he was Commissioner for public improvement, which was the predecessor of the Public Works Department. That form of city government was changed in 1957, and Trustin served as President of the City Council from 1961 until 1965.

He also served a term on the Omaha Municipal Dock Board; he was appointed to that position by then Mayor A.V. Sorensen. In 1965, after serving more than 25 years in city government, Harry Trustin was the recipient of the B’nai B’rith Americanism Award.

“Many community organizations have benefited by Mr. Trustin’s leadership,” the Jewish Press wrote on that occasion, “including the American Legion, Reserve Officers Association, and the Boy Scouts of America. The article goes on to mention 12 more organizations with which Trustin was associated.

Continued on page 4

V’Hadarta P’nai Zaken In Jewish tradition, every home is considered a small, sacred tabernacle.

A Mikdash Me’at.

A place of safety, comfort and peace where family is cared for with love.

Since 1982, the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home has been a Mikdash Me’at for the elders in our communal family.

This New Year, we continue to honor the presence of the aged among us as we continue to build the new Rose Blumkin Jewish Home.

This enhanced facility fulfills the biblical command to rise before the old and grant splendor to our elders.

During these Holy Days of cleansing and renewal, when we review past deeds and commit to change, let us remember those who came before us and join in the mitzvah of V’Hadarta P’Nai Zaken.

Respect the old.

Together let us build the new Rose Blumkin Jewish Home where the elderly may dwell in beauty and it is a pleasant thing for the eyes to see the sun.

Jewish Senior Services THE ROSE BLUMKIN JEWISH HOME

Page 4

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2008

The Jewish political legacy in Omaha

League of Women Voters, and was involved with multi- ments are only the tip of the iceberg; the sheer volume Continued from page 3 Omaha’s Alice “Ally” Milder worked for U.S. Senator ple organizations, including the United Way, the Jewish of work Mimi Waldbaum did during her lifetime would Charles Grassley of Iowa and for Union Pacific Railroad. Federation, the Nebraska Commission on Drugs, the inspire anybody.

“Mimi was one of the visionary She practiced as a free-lance political consultant and lob- Volunteer Bureau, and the women responsible for founding our byist, and was a two- time GOP candidate for Congress. National Conference of organization. She was a true pioneer in In spite of her rich political résumé, Milder credited Christians and Jews. advocating for the advancement of She was a founding memone woman for becoming politically active. That woman women. She paved the way for others was Shirley Goldstein, and the two went on a trip to the ber of the Nebraska Humanities Council, and by serving as a role model of female former Soviet Union in 1976. leadership in our community. She Although Milder initially went to research her own served on the Nebraska advinever wavered in her passion for social ancestry, Goldstein introduced her to several well-known sory committee to the U.S. Civil Rights Commission. justice,” said Ellie Archer, executive refuseniks, and in doing so redirected her focus. director of the Omaha Women’s Fund.

“The differences between the Soviet system and our She received the Torch of “I admired her achievements, system were quickly brought home to me, and this led Liberty award from the ADL applauded her spunk, and cherished to my serious involvement in politics,” Milder told the and the Hannah G. Solomon Award from the National her friendship. The Women’s Fund Jewish Press in a 1988 article.

After Milder graduated, her desire to be involved in Council of Jewish Womencontinues to honor her legacy every public service had landed her in Washington. She went Omaha Section, as well as year with a Woman Spirit grant to a to work for Iowa Senator Charles Grassley (R-IA) as a the Humanitarian of the Year local organization serving women and legal counsel. Once she joined Grassley’s staff, her influ- by the Jewish Federation of girls. We want her many contribuence was noticeable in several of Grassley’s policy deci- Omaha. tions to be remembered and her consions. He cast his first vote for foreign aid to Israel, voted cern for others to live on,” she added.

Yet, all these accomplishagainst arms sales to Arab nations not Continued on page 5 Ally Milder, below Mimi Waldbaum at peace with Israel, and became a prime sponsor for a bill to close United States PLO offices.

Milder would take two more trips to the Soviet Union. During her 1983 trip, she was accompanied by Senator Grassley, and she noticed the experience affected Grassley deeply. He subsequently sent her to Israel to attend a conference on Soviet Jewry, where she connected with parliamentarians from various countries.

Discussion led to action in the form of the International Parliamentary Group for Human Rights in the Soviet Union. Its purpose was consistent advocacy by Western governments on behalf of Soviet Jews and others who wished to leave the Soviet Union. Within months, the group grew to 700 members in 16 countries. Milder did not win the Second District Congressional seat, but she served as an example of what it means to look beyond one’s self and focus on the greater good.

Four years after a 25th anniversary dinner honoring behind-the-scenes political power Harry Miriam “Mimi” Waldbaum is another woman who has Lapidus and his wife, third and fourth from left, he was gunned down as he was getting out left her footprint both on the Jewish community, and the of his car. Henry Monsky, seated at the far right, was another power broker, who helped city of Omaha in general. Her résumé paints a picture of Father Flanagan found Boys Town and served as president of a number of organizations, someone who did not pass up a single opportunity to act including the Federation. The Lapidus murder was never solved, but his son-in-law, Irvin on behalf of others, and spent more than fifty years volSalmaster, left, who served as a Municipal Court Judge from 1928-29, was appointed to the unteering both on a local and a national level.

Nebraska State Supreme Court. Lapidus was a member of the Republican State Committee.

She served as Omaha and Nebraska President of the

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Jewish political legacy in Omaha Continued from page 4 Less than 10 years after the end of WW II, the city of Omaha was ready to embrace Johnny Rosenblatt as its first Jewish Mayor. To this day, everybody in Omaha knows his name, and not just because he has a baseball stadium named after him.

Russian immigrants, aimed to become a surgeon. He received his undergraduate degree in Chemistry and Zoology, but had to forego his dream when his father, Hymie Zorinsky, needed him in his business. He served for 14 years in the Military Police Corps Reserve, and worked as a Juvenile probation officer.

In 1968, he was elected to a six-year term on the Omaha Public Power District’s Board of Directors, before running successfully for Mayor in 1973. As mayor, he sought to institute the Affirmative Action hiring program, in order to provide equal opportunities for women and minorities.

When, in 1975, he looked towards the Senate, he was hoping to get his party’s nomination. However, the Republican Party did not Developer Gene Maenner, left, and Mayor Johnny Rosenblatt. nominate him as their candiWhen Rosenblatt was elected Mayor on date for Senate; in fact, sitting U.S. May 25, 1954, the Jewish Press jubilantly Senator Roman Hruska named U.S. wrote: “The Executive committee of the Representative John McCollister as his Federation for Jewish Service passed a successor. resolution extending congratulations to This did not sit well with Edward the mayor as the first of our people to be Zorinsky, who questioned whether the elected to this office in the history of our practice of personally appointing the next city.”

Senator belonged in a Democracy. He Rosenblatt would serve as Mayor from agreed to join the Democratic Party, and 1954 until 1961; during that time he managed to beat Republican nominee served as honorary chairman of the Israel McCollister by a 53% to 47% margin, 10th anniversary committee, among becoming the first Jewish Senator from other things. He was the son of immi- Nebraska, as well as the first Nebraska grants, and first gained fame through Democrat in the senate in 42 years. baseball, and then -- and more impor“I was taught to honor and respect my tantly -- through his public service. elders,” he told the Jewish Press in an He became sales director at Roberts October 1975 interview, “and to some Dairy in 1935, and was elected to the city extent, society has lost those qualities. I was also taught the quality of respecting my fellow man.”

Zorinsky felt his accessibility to voters was of the greatest importance. He said: “There’s always been the historical philosophy that says, ‘why go to City Hall?’

But people are coming to City Hall, to the Mayor’s office, because they see that we do attempt to right wrongs. I believe that an elected official is an extension of the people who elected him.”

In 1975, Zorinsky was one of five U.S Mayors selected by the State Department to be sent to Poland. While there, he had the opportunity to visit Auschwitz: “It was a grim reminder of the mentality that existed. It gives a grim sense of reality,” he told United States Senator Edward Zorinsky first served as the Jewish Press upon returning.

Mayor of Omaha. He died suddenly in 1987.

After an impressive career, commission, which appointed him as Edward Zorinsky died suddenly, in the Mayor after the previous Mayor had middle of the annual Press Club review, passed away before the end of his term. In on March 6, 1987.

For each of these Omahans, the path to 1957, he was elected again, this time by a direct vote. Rosenblatt was known as public service was different. Yet, what “Mr. Omaha” and often told people: “I they all had in common was the desire to serve, and to put the needs of others can’t turn you down, I want to help.”

Rosenblatt was adamant about helping before their own. Perhaps, we, as a commany Jewish causes, and was a great sup- munity, don’t have to limit ourselves to porter of Israel. He headed several Jewish the distant and not-so-distant historical Philanthropies, the United Jewish Appeal events and people to get inspired.

While it is true that the various tragic Emergency Campaign, and served in various Jewish Federation posts. It is this episodes, ranging from slavery in Egypt kind of legacy that will stand long after to the pogroms and the Holocaust, have the Rosenblatt Stadium is turned into a shaped who we are, at the same time history has shown us we can be inspired by parking lot.

When, in 1973, his son Steve success stories of leaders in our own comRosenblatt was elected to the City munity.

Joseph became Egypt’s second-in-comCouncil, he shared the headlines with another member of the Jewish communi- mand after overcoming many hardships, ty. Native Omahan Edward Zorinsky and many years later Hymie Zorinsky stood on the shoulders of Johnny escaped from Russia to see his son Rosenblatt, and won the Mayoral election become the first Jewish U.S. Senator to represent Nebraska. in a landslide victory.

There are lessons to be learned in this.

Initially, Zorinsky, who was the son of

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2008

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Political activist made her father proud

by JOAN K. MARCUS The postwar America years were good times for America, the economy and the Ratner family.

Babe and Phil Ratner made sure that their daughter Renee had a happy, secure childhood.

She went to Harrison Grade School, Lewis and Clark Junior High and graduated from Central High in 1967.

She “hung out” in the area of Omaha known as “Bagel Row” and had lots of friends and, according to her, “Had a great time!” But the one thing she recalls most was that her father had a great love of politics. Phil even ran for Omaha City Council in the early 1970s. “He was always involved in politics because he liked people. Whenever we went to vote together, Renee Ratner Corcoran worked he’d be in the booth next Mayor of Omaha. to me and tell me, through the booth, who to vote for!” she laughed.

“It was kind of a superstition that if the politicians came down and swept the showroom floor of his business --Bey-Ratner Motors -- they would win the election,” Renee continued. “One of his good friends was former governor and United States Senator Jim Exon. I remember my father recruited me and one of my girlfriends to make phone calls when he ran for governor.”

Renee’s first job, after attending the University of Oklahoma for a while, was working for then Mayor Eugene Leahy. She worked in “the complaint department” taking calls. She jokes that she listened to people complain if their trash hadn’t been picked up or if there was a junk car parked in their street.

“My father got me the job because Mayor Leahy had swept the showroom floor, won the election and he liked my dad. I was one of the youngest people at City Hall.

Some of the older women -- like Mary Cornett -- used to take me to coffee and tell me how to get along with the staff and constituents,” she explained.

But it was Helen Dineen, Clerk of the District Court, who told Renee that “if anyone came into my office and bothered me, I should jump under my desk!”

She stayed at City Hall until after Ed Zorinsky was elected mayor. And then in 1974, she was approached to work for United States Congressman John Y. McCollister. “I took requests from people who wanted information about legislation, did casework and anything that needed to be done. People in his office said that I was the ‘token Democrat’ in a Republican office, but it was really fun because I didn’t know anything about the national level,” she explained.

When she left McCollister’s office, she joined the Comprehensive Employment Training Agency (CETA) working in north Omaha signing up at risk children for summer programs. “That was a big awakening for me because I worked with kids who couldn’t even write,” she recalled. “I learned a lot from that summer and then I got a call to go back to work in the mayor’s office for Ed Zorinsky.”

In 1976, Zorinsky won the United States Senatorial Seat. (Did he sweep the showroom floor, too, we wondered?)

Renee had her choice of going to Washington, D.C. with the newly-elected Senator or staying here and running the Omaha office. Her response to him was, “I prefer to stay in Omaha because this is where the people live who elected you.” And she added, “I got to meet and help wonderful people.”

Her duties for Zorinsky included setting up and running the office and scheduling. She smiles as she says, “I traveled back and forth between Omaha and Washington and it was great. Ed Zorinsky wasn’t like other politicians. When he looked at you, he looked you right in the face. Most politicians don’t do that, but I went with him from the mayor’s office and I knew everything about him.”

United States Senator Roman Hruska had resigned a little early so that Omaha’s Mayor could get a head start.

“We had this little bitsy office in the old Federal Building,” Renee recalled, “and Ed, Bill Kranda and I worked hard to set up an office. It was a presidential election year, too, and Jimmy Carter had just been elected. We had to keep track of people who were going to the inauguration and we had to have Ed sworn in as well. Then, he went to Washington and I stayed in Omaha.”

Renee recalls a whirlwind life of representing Zorinsky at events and groundbreakings when the Senator wasn’t able to get back to Omaha. When he ran for reelection, she with Ed Zorinksy when he was worked on his campaign on her own time. He was elected twice and died suddenly at the Omaha Press Club Show in March of 1987.

“Ed always said that his heart was so bad that someday he would have ‘the big one’,” Renee said. “I told him I hoped he was lucky enough to have it happen that way.

He smoked three packs of cigarettes a day and he knew he had heart problems. And that’s what happened.”

Although Renee said she loved working for politicians, she admits that there was a lot of pressure because she was always on call. Getting calls at midnight that the senator’s luggage had gotten lost, for example, and other logistical issues took its toll.

In 1982, after Zorinsky’s re-election, Renee married Dan Corcoran whom she originally had met while working at City Hall. They became re-acquainted when he came to Renee for help on a grant. But Renee said, “We couldn’t get married until after the election!” Dan is now a fundraising consultant for non-profit organizations.

Renee quit working for Zorinsky before her daughter, Ashley, was born in 1987. She says, “I quit working before she was born because,working for a senator is so busy and such a hectic life that I didn’t want to be pregnant and keeping up with that kind of a life. I had loved what I was doing but I was anxious to move on and be a mother to a healthy child.”

Ashley is a student at the University of Nebraska at Omaha and aspires to be a physical therapist. According to Renee, “Ashley likes politics and she takes very seriously. However, she has no goals to have a political career.”

In 1997, Renee became the executive director of the Nebraska Jewish Historical Society. She succeeded Mary Fellman who was the co-founder of NJHS with Oliver B. Pollak. Fellman died just a few months ago, leaving a legacy Renee, her staff, and the NJHS board hope to preserve for future generations. The only politics now are helping writers from the Jewish Press research subjects for this New Year’s issue!

“When I was in politics, we were always very careful not to mention the name of our opponent. At that time, we didn’t want to give free publicity to our opponents.

Of course, now the advertising budgets are really big,” she explained.

“Last night, I heard the commentators asking John McCain about the rising price of gasoline. I didn’t even hear what McCain answered because he was too busy talking about Barack Obama. We never did that before.

Everybody focused on what they were going to do to make things better.”

Renee added, “If my father were alive now, he would probably be disappointed in politics. Everything is so negative. It was a different time and the people were kinder. We got things done back then.”

She feels very fortunate that she had those experiences, working with men the stature of Ed Zorinksy, John McCollister, and Jim Exon.

They don’t make them like that today.

September 26, 2008

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 7

Her choice is action

by OZZIE NOGG If you call Carol Bloch an activist, be prepared for a lively semantic debate.

“An activist,” says Bloch, “is defined as ‘an especially zealous worker’ which, unfortunately, can have a negative connotation these days. And even though I am passionate -- yes, even zealous -- about issues that are important to me, I prefer to describe myself as an ‘advocate’ -- someone who pleads for or on behalf of others who do not, or perceive they do not, have a voice.”

The issues nearest her Left: Carol Bloch, center, has been an activist for a woman’s right to choose. Right: Leading an NCJW deleheart include accurate and gation to visit Nebraska’s senators and congressmen, Bloch stops to change shoes. age-appropriate sexuality issue’ -- a charge she insists is unfair education in public schools, affordable “It’s just that all the candidates I’ve met reproductive health care for women and who are pro-choice and support the sepamen, supporting a woman’s choice of ration of church and state also agree with whether or not to have an abortion, sepme on other issues, such as stem cell aration of religion and state, anything research, gay rights, gun control, educataffecting the welfare of children, and ing judges about violence against women, Israeli security and safety. and the need for quality and affordable “When people ask me why I got Doing nothing tells politicians that it’s child care. To me, however, choice is a involved in politics, the question always okay for them to do as they please. Our basic human right. makes me smile,” she said. “Back in the staying out of the legislative and political “Abortion must remain safe, legal and late 70s and early 80s, the issues I was process does not mean that laws won’t available, and the decision to have an aborinvolved with --reproductive health care, get passed. Instead, it means that laws will tion or not should be private, religious and family planning, and separation of church get passed without reflecting our priori- medical, not political. Women should get and state -- became political issues. So I ties, wishes and beliefs. If we don’t advo- to make this decision for themselves withwas forced to become ‘involved in poli- cate for what is important to us, we can out government interference,” she says. tics’ in order to continue to defend and be certain that someone else will be there “Who should make the choice -- the protect the rights of women and fami- to take the opposing view.” woman or Lee Terry?” lies.”

Most people in the community recogBloch has volunteered on political camBloch continued, “I realized early on nize Bloch’s support of pro-choice candi- paigns and fundraisers for Nebraska state that doing nothing was a political act. dates, and she’s often labeled ‘single legislators Jesse Rassmussen and Deb

Most of the time, it’s not the legislation I helped to pass that was the reward, but the legislation I helped to stop.

Suttle, for Shelly Kiel, Nancy Thompson and Peter Hoagland when they ran for Congress, and for U.S. Senators Bob Kerrey and Ben Nelson.

“I worked for them because they are intelligent, caring people who supported the issues I supported. Senator Kerrey always took the time to meet with me and my National Council of Jewish Women colleagues. He almost always agreed with our positions and we could count on him and his staff to get the facts and actually follow-up with his vote.”

Kerrey scored particularly high marks with Bloch when he supported U.S. aid to Israel by stating, “I share your belief that a strong, friendly relationship between the U.S. and Israel is of the utmost importance and works to the mutual benefit of both countries.”

In case she wonders if her efforts make an impact, Bloch need only remind herself that Peter Hoagland once gave her credit, in a public setting, for changing his mind from a vote against, to a vote in favor of the Family and Medical Leave Act. “Peter said that his change of heart was a direct result of my conversations with him and my providing him with outstanding researched information which I received from NCJW.” Bloch believes it’s crucial to make sure our elected officials in Nebraska and Washington know that the folks back home are watching their votes.

“Just go to the Nebraska Legislature periodically and remind our state senators that we are not a Christian nation.

Remind them that the US Constitution was written to protect minorities, like the Continued on page 8

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September 26, 2008

Her choice is action Continued from page 7 Jewish people, and not necessarily the majority. Remind them that this nation was not founded to espouse any official religion. Quite the contrary,” she said.

She added, “Needless to say, the issue of a woman’s right to choose eventually became extremely political. It never should have been and should not be now. I really thought that if a politician voted against abortion rights,

today’s young people against complacency and urges them to “please take over where my generation left off.

We’ve worked very hard to give you the choices you take for granted today. Don’t take lightly the fact that you can choose to work outside the home, or stay at home with your children -- or both -- or not to have children at all. Remember that Roe v. Wade was passed in 1973.

That was 35 years ago. Your generation does not have

Carol Bloch, pictured with her husband Steve, recently helped host a fundraiser for presidential candidate Barack Obama, pictured with his wife, Michelle. “It was wonderful meeting him, his wife and his children,” Bloch said. “I believe Obama is the best hope at this time for our country’s future.” he or she would certainly be in favor of family planning, which does more to prevent unwanted pregnancy and the need for abortion than anything else. I was wrong.”

Is she frustrated with the system? “Almost always. I’m still fighting the same battles of reproductive choice and separation of religion and state that I did more than 25 years ago. Back then, those of us who served on the boards of pro-choice and women’s organizations were told to watch for ‘stealth candidates’ -- religious right extremists who wanted to impose their own political and religious views on the rest of society. Their strategy was to start with school boards and work their way up the political ladder,” Bloch said.

“That’s exactly what happened and it’s still happening today,” she added. “This group is very organized, very well-funded, and the promise of religious salvation for their work is very compelling to them.”

Motivated by her sense of history, Bloch cautions

Carol BLoch lobbies Sen. Chuck Hagel (R-NE) following a B’nai B’rith Breadbreakers presentation. any idea, no matter what your personal views, of what it was like when abortions were illegal. Nor do you fully understand how really close we are to losing that right today -- perhaps just one Supreme Court Justice away.”

She also challenges young families to meet the separation of church and state head on. “If public schools are allowing prayer in the classroom, religious programs, the teaching of creationism -- anything that favors one religion over another -- young parents should find out what is legal and then talk with the personnel involved to make necessary changes.”

And when it comes to the welfare of children, Bloch is -- yes -- zealous. “Children cannot speak for themselves and they do not vote. They, perhaps most of all, need advocates to help give them a voice in areas such as health insurance, child care, health care, education, foster care, child abuse and child neglect. It is imperative that we all work together for laws, policies and programs that protect our children.”

That the legislative wheels move slowly and fewer people seem to be listening add to Carol Bloch’s frustration.

“Even so, everyone should be involved with the political process in some way,” she said. “Each of us should educate ourselves about the issues we care about and then do something. Vote, make a phone call, write an email, join a coalition and become active. Better yet, be pro-active. Grumbling about the news after the fact accomplishes nothing.”

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President ... times five

by BERT LEWIS Do you know Steve Pitlor? It’s likely you do, but maybe you don’t remember in what context you’ve met him.

Was it when he was president of the Jewish Community Center Board of Directors, or the Jewish Federation? Or maybe you worked with him when he and his wife, Marcia, co-chaired the annual campaign?

Or you might know him if you’re a regular at Beth El, particularly if you go to daily minyan. He has served on Beth El’s board, too and now is the current president of the synagogue.

The fact is, Steve Pitlor is a busy man wearing many hats. He’s a family man who lights up when you ask about his children and his wife: Marcia is a mental health therapist in private practice; son David, who graduated from Boston University several years ago, has joined the family business; daughter Kim, a graduate of George Washington University, works for the American Israel Friendship League in New York City.

And then there’s Lisa, who this past summer experienced two special events: in early May she was married, right here at Beth El, and just a few short weeks later, in New York, she graduated from Medical School at the State University of New York in Stonybrook. (I haven’t had the opportunity to ask whether Mrs. or Doctor is the title she prefers but I suspect the occasion dictates the choice.)

Pitlor also speaks with pride about the family business, which is listed in the Yellow Pages as “Pitlor & Son, Inc.”, and is 100 years old this year. Family pride is also evident when Steve tells of his grandfather who started the business, as well as his late father, Norman who was the son in Pitlor & Son. With David now on the payroll, he smiles and answers “yes” when somebody asks, “A four-generation family business?” I don’t recall a sign saying President on his office door, but it would be approriate since that’s Steve’s title there as well.

Have you figured out yet exactly where you and Steve may have met? Maybe it was some time ago, as far back as 1990. That was an auspicious year in his life -- the year in which he decided it was time to get more involved in his children’s education. All three were in one OPS school or another and there were the beginnings of dissension regarding certain issues with which the school board members were grappling.

So this very busy young man decided to run for a seat on the school board of Omaha Public Schools.

Continued on page 9

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President ... times five

could at least be heard.

In a Nov. 4, 1994, article in the Jewish Press, Pitlor told a gathering at B’nai B’rith Breadbreakers that “votes for prayer at graduation, human growth and developmental subjects, and smilar issues” came up regularly at OPS school board meetings. “There are a number of ‘stealth’ candidates, not only running for school boards, but for other offices as well, and, if elected, they tend to succumb to pressures on these issues,” he added.

His opponent at the time, Nancy Kratky, chose not to accept Breadbreakers invitation to the weekly luncheon and Pitlor told the group that he “had found it difficult to debate his opponent face-to-face, and therefore was unable to determine her true position on the issues.”

Pitlor sounded as though he had regrets about losing the second election, but in retrospect felt strongly that it was for the best. He told Breadbreakers that he “brought a balance to the Above: Five-year-old Kim Pitlor looks up to her dad, Steve Pitlor, board in that he repreafter winning a seat on the OPS board in 1990. Pitlor served sented a businessman/ four years, two of them as president. Below: the Pitlor family at technical point of view the March, 2008, wedding of their daughter Lisa to Ian while others offered educational backgrounds.”

Abramson: Kim, left, Steve, Ian, Lisa, Marcia and David.

As it happened, the time was precisely when Norman Pitlor, Steve’s dad, was at the beginning of the illness which ultimately caused his death later that year. Steve needed his energy and concentration on this most vital family matter and realizes his attention could not have been divided. His place was at his father’s side and campaigning was far from the And if you’ve been counting the num- top of his priorities.

While this busy man appears to have left ber of times Pitlor has served as the prespolitics behind, conversation deonstrates ident of an organization, it’s five!

Pitlor says, “There’s no better way to clearly the topic is still of great importance understand and know what’s going on,” to him. He cares deeply about Israel and when speaking of service on this board. shows concern for the fact that too many He also notes that this was the time in our people lack enough information about the history when such a position became very country and its place in the world.

Pitlor was selected as a subject for this political.

It was, he relates, precisely when the issue as one of the many people in our “Ultra-conservative faction was gathering Jewish community who have or have had momentum” and working hard to affect some connection with politics. And, change in leadership positions in every while an old expression says, “Don’t disarea of government. Though frightening- cuss religion or politics,” I’d like to take ly powerful, they were only successful to a the liberty of a personal addendum.

I said to him, “Talk to me about Beth point, bringing down a senator here or a El,” and he did. He thought for a congressman there.

According to Pitlor, this is when they moment, then very simply said, “The syndecided to target school boards, and the agogue plays a very significant role in my OPS board was fairly evenly divided as life. It’s where all of our life cycle events half liberal, half conservative. With his lib- have occurred. It’s where my kids had eral views and willingness to speak out, their b’nai mitzvot, where they went to this was often what he called “a hot seat,” Sunday and Hebrew School, where everybut his philosophy remained intact. He thing of importance has taken place. felt it was a place to at least make inroads Where my daughter chose to be married, toward opening minds and to demon- even though she’s been away from strate the importance of public education. Omaha since college.”

He added, “I get a high level of satisfacPitlor was pleased to be one of the first Jews to serve on this board and although tion from my connection and involvehe lost his bid for a second term, he felt ment in the synagogue. Since my dad those four years were a positive experi- died 14 years ago, when I started saying ence. The extreme arguments and accusa- kaddish for him, I try to get to a minyan tions of the organized conservatives had at least once a week.” Then he thought some influence on the non-liberal mem- for a minute and said pleasantly, “That 30 bers of the board on “everything from sex minutes is like a tonic for my spirit.”

I thought those few words said more education” in schools to birth control, but it was an arena where both views about the man than I did.

September 26, 2008

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 9

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Continued from page 8 Thus began a very busy, interesting, informative period of time in Pitlor’s life.

He did, in fact, submit his name for election on the board. And he won that election and the seat, which he held for four years. Two of those years he was President of the Board, and also served as vice president under President Brenda Council.

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Page 10

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2008

A political animal never sleeps

by LEO ADAM BIGA Fellman-Zweiback were From great debater to permitted to go to nationals, on one condireporter to lawyer to tion -- J. Arthur would politician to college drive them to Denver. instructor, Dick Fellman’s The thought of being never met a public forum chaperoned by the impehe didn’t like. rious principal left the He’s done it all. boys cold.

Sparring in debates.

“He was an aloof figPosing questions as a urehead who walked journalist. Arguing cases around the halls. He was in court. Barking orders every place,” Fellman as an Army officer. said. “He petrified kids. I Making speeches on the was scared of him. campaign trail. Elocuting Zweiback was scared of on the floor of the him. The last thing either Nebraska Legislature. of us wanted was a car trip Voicing his opinion as a with him to Denver.”

Douglas County Board The stiff headmaster member. Chairing meet- Richard Fellman on the floor of the Nebraska Unicameral in proved a softie, however. ings of the many Jewish Lincoln, April 10, 1974. and non-Jewish organizations he’s served. Writing Op-Ed pieces for the Omaha World-Herald.

Now, at 73, he’s instructing students young enough to be his grandchildren as a University of Nebraska at Omaha political science lecturer.

Whatever the setting, from courtroom to boardroom to classroom, he enjoys the give-and-take of it all. It’s all politics, really, which he defines as problem-solving.

Gregarious by nature, the Omaha native found a vehicle for his verbal acquity in speech and debate at Central High School, activities that steered him toward law, which in turn fed into politics.

Before becoming formally involved as a politico, he was fascinated by the process. He said the only time he skipped school was to watch the 1953 EisenhowerNixon inauguration. Even as a child he said he supplemented reading young people’s classics by poring over Bev Fellman applauds her husband in February of 1980, shortly after he announced his intention of running again for biographies of great American political leaders. the Second Congressional Seat.

“I could picture myself giving speeches,” he said.

One of four children of educated parents, Frances and “It turned out the man was very nice,” Fellman said.

Dr. Leon Fellman, he grew up with high expectations set “He was as nice to the two of us as you could possibly by his elementary school teacher mother and dentist be. We did very well and we had a very nice time.” father. His flair for expressing himself brought him to the That didn’t stop J. Arthur from playing God. Fellman attention of Central debate coach Marian Mortensen, said the principal meddled in placing top students at elite whom, he termed “a total mentor to me.” Under her Ivy League schools. Fellman had designs on Harvard or guidance he won the state debate tournament as a junior Yale, only he didn’t tell J. Arthur. So he found himself accepted by two schools the old man deemed fitting -and went to Boys State. He was also an Eagle Scout.

As a senior he repeated as state debate champ, this Dartmouth and the Wharton School of Finance at the time with a new partner, future lawyer Warren Zweiback. University of Pennsylvania. Apparently, Fellman said, J. The previous year Fellman and his partner were denied Arthur didn’t feel he was Harvard or Yale material.

As things worked out Fellman bypassed Eastern attending the national scholastic debate tournament by the school’s autocratic principal, J. Arthur Nelson. schools to attend the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

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His plan was to study law.

“I had thought about being a lawyer as soon as I realized I could debate well. Teachers were telling me that’s what it takes to be a good lawyer, and so it just seemed very natural to be a lawyer.”

He continued honing his skills for argument-deliberation-discussion on the UNL debate team. But his law plans got sidetracked by a dalliance with journalism. It all happened by accident. A fraternity brother noted Fellman excelling in English composition courses and introduced him to the editor of the student newspaper, The Daily Nebraskan. Before Fellman knew it he’d entered journalism “through the back door” and “my life began to center with the rag.”

He soon got on staff at The Lincoln Star, the morning Democratic paper then separate editorially from the evening right wing Lincoln Journal. Despite only one journalism course -- albeit it from “an inspirational teacher,” Rhodes Scholar Nathan Blumberg, “who made being a reporter seem like it was next to God” -- he learned fast.

Dick Fellman met Vice President Hubert Humphrey in Washington, D.C., in 1966.

“I learned how to do it on the copy desk at ‘The Daily Nebraskan’,” said Fellman, who was befriended by another older Jew, Bernie Rothenberger, the Star’s editorial editor. On Rothenberger’s recommendation Fellman was named farm editor, even though the green city boy didn’t know one end of a cow from another.

Fellman recalled the time he was assigned to get a shot of the wheat harvest coming in on a southeast Nebraska farm. He left with his Speed Graphic camera, when halfway there, he said, he realized he didn’t know what a combine looked like. All he could think was how embarrassing it’d be for the farm editor to ask which machine was a combine. Luckily, he sorted it out and saved face.

Another time, he covered the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture’s visit to Nebraska City during a severe drought. Tensions ran high among farm families seeking federal relief and he said farmers’ wives pelted the Ag Secretary with rotten tomatoes. By now feeling his oats as a reporter, Fellman set out to impress an unfamiliar scribe covering the same story.

“I was kind of proud to say, ‘I’m Dick Fellman, farm editor of the ‘Lincoln Star’.’ The man said, ‘How do you do, Dave, I’m Seth Taylor, farm editor of ‘The New York Times’.’ My ego went back to zero,” he laughed.

Before getting the farm beat he had a kind of baptismby-fire when he went to file a story on a notorious burglar in custody at the Lincoln city jail. This was an era when reporters were allowed easy access to offenders.

Fellman interviewed and photographed the old codger right inside his cell. The cub reporter was still there talking to the guy when he heard the doors lock behind him.

Knowing what that sound meant, the jailbird informed Fellman, “Sonny, you’re going to spend the night here.”

“I started to yell and scream,” Fellman said.

“Sonny, nobody pays any attention to guys back here,” the old con said.

“I realized that was true,” said Fellman -- eventually rescued when his editor called the desk sergeant inquiring after him. It seems that during a shift change one cop going off duty told another cop coming on duty about a reporter inside, only the second cop forgot. Along about midnight Fellman was freed.

He then did a short stint with the Associated Press on the state capitol beat in Lincoln. But his mother influenced him to give up journalism for law. She saw a reporter’s life as insecure compared to the life of an attorney. “I would have been happy staying a journalist.

I know I would have liked that career because I really enjoyed it,” he said.

Continued on page 11

September 26, 2008

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 11

A political animal never sleeps

Continued from page 10 If nothing else his immersion in the Fourth Estate gave him a valuable perspective on the press and politics.

“What it taught me was how to look at politics from a little different angle,” he said. “A journalist looks at politicians with a little bit of a jaundiced eye, as if to say -- ‘Prove it’ or ‘Show me.’ I think I sense that more than many politicians do. I learned from that experience that the only way to deal with the press was to be friendly and to cooperate. If they really do something mean and wrong, than fine, cut out the reporter, but you have to take them back. You have to include them all.”

He learned something else, he added, “which is the hardest thing, and that’s when you have a problem and the story is going to be bad, the sooner you get the story out and the more factual you can be, the better it ends up. Then it’s over. The longer you let something simmer the worse it becomes. And that’s one of the hardest things to practice in politics. Time and again people make that mistake.”

Military service provided another avenue to gain leadership experience. He got his ROTC commission at UNL as a second lieutenant, infantry. He graduated from the Infantry School at Fort Benning, GA, and after seven years active and reserve Army duty he was honorably discharged with the rank of captain in 1966.

He was an associate at the firm of Marks, Clare, Hopkins & Rauth when he first dipped his feet in the political waters. Not as a candidate. Not even as a campaign worker. But using his oratory skills to deliver speeches on behalf of the Anti-Defamation League. The ADL used the trial of Nazi war criminal Adolf Eichmann to bring to light the evil and danger of anti-Semitism.

“I went around giving speeches about the Eichmann case and then I did a radio spot on KOIL every morning during the trial,” he recalled.

It was a way for Fellman to express himself on a subject he felt strongly about and to get his name out with, “This is Omaha attorney Richard Fellman.”

Following on the heels of that incident, he took his first real dip in the political pond through his friendship with Jim Green, the leader of an Omaha Democratic political machine. Green was gearing up for a mayoral bid and Fellman volunteered to help. The old political hand sent Fellman to see his campaign manager, future Congressman John Y. McCollister, who, “took me under his wing,” said Fellman. “He said, ‘If you’ve got the time, the front line where the action is is with the candidate.

How would you like to drive him around every evening?’”

Green and McCollister were among the first in a series

of movers and shakers with whom Fellman built political capital. What may have appeared grunt work -- carting Green around -- appealed to Fellman who said he figured, “If I don’t like politics I’ll get my fill of it right now and I’ll get out.” So he agreed. “Well, that was 1961,” he said, “and today is 2008. I never got out.”

What’s the pull for him?

“It involves a few elements,” Fellman said. “One is the excitement of the chase. One is being in the center of things. One involves being close to power. One involves being able to participate and make a difference. One involves just the connection with history, which for me is real. I know it isn’t for many people.”

He added, “I don’t have any difficulty feeling at one with the early stirrings of the Founding Fathers of Washington and Jefferson and Hamilton or feeling at one with what Lincoln went through in the campaign to become the President and seeing the connections between that and what (Barack) Obama is doing today.”

Then there’s the fact he’s a political animal at heart.

“I think it’s liking people. My wife tells me I like gossip and I do I suppose like the gossip of what people are doing. You read about (Franklin) Roosevelt -- he spent every late afternoon talking to a bunch of pals about what was going on. Politicians have to know what’s going on -- they have to keep their ear close to the ground.”

He can’t separate one facet of politics from another.

“To me, it’s all of these things put together,” he said.

With time his appreciation for it “has become deeper.”

He added, “I would like to think I’ve become a little more sophisticated and knowing.”

Despite scores of scandals involving elected officials he’s not cynical about the process or the system.

“In that whole time there have only been two or three people who ever approached me with any kind of illegal act, and maybe it’s because I was unapproachable,” he said. “To me, all this seamy side of politics is just the seamy side of human beings. The truth is this is more honest than almost any other activity. Do you know why? Because this has the press looking down your back.

Way more than business,” he noted.

“I was a (practicing) lawyer for 44 years and I think the inside operation of business is many times far more corrupt than the inside of politics because in business nobody’s worrying about the press. Everybody is worried about profit. Doing good isn’t an element on the table. In politics, profit is much reduced. Profit is winning. When you lose in politics, which you can do with 40 percent of the vote, you lose everything. In business

Former Vice President Walter Mondale speaks to Bev and Dick Fellman at a Fellman for Congress fundraiser in June, 1982.

Former Vice President Walter Mondale,right, speaks on behalf of Dick Fellman at a June, 1982, fundraiser at the home of Sid Wertheim.

President Lyndon B. Johnson, right, was in Omaha on July 7, 1966, to support Dick Fellman’s run for Congress. Fellman gave the President a cigar as that morning, Bev Fellman gave birth to the couple’s first daughter, Susan.

you always get something at the end.”

The media’s watchdog role keeps politics cleaner than it would be otherwise.

“In politics, you always have the press standing right beside you and that love-hate relationship between the politician and the press is real. They each need each other and because of that the average workings of the day-to-day politician are really pretty much above board.

What people don’t like is the element of compromise.

But from the inside the way it looks is, to get something done you have to give something away and it’s better to have a little bit of what’s good than to have nothing. The compromise has never bothered me.”

His experience on the stump with Jim Green, who lost the ’61 mayoral race, was enough to whet Fellman’s appetite for more. When Fellman’s next campaign opportunity came, in ’64, he was already wellentrenched in state Democratic politics -- active in the party’s Douglas County Central Committee.

Continued on page 15

Seated behind Dick Fellman at the fundraiser at the home of Sid Wertheim are Mike Boyle, who was then Mayor of Omaha, and former Vice President Walter Mondale.

Page 12

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2008

Politics and parenting

by ANNETTE VAN DE KAMP-WRIGHT teach them to think for themselves.

As the month of November comes closDanielle Gordman, married to Jeff er, many questions having to do with the Gordman and mother of Harper and Zev, upcoming election are chewed over by has given the issue a lot of thought, and the press corps.

What are the lingering effects of Jeremiah Wright’s sermons? How comfortable is John McCain setting an economically responsible course for the nation? Is Barack Obama really more famous than Paris Hilton?

Long forgotten scandals are dug up, wartime experiences are scrutinized, and nothing seems off-limits when it comes to covering the dayto-day political climate.

There is one issue, however, which to this day has not The Gordman family at last February’s Democratic caucus: been given an excessive Jeff and Danielle and children, Harper and Zev. Right: amount of attention, and it Harper and Zev admire the Liberty Bell on a family trip to involves our children. Sure, Philadelphia. babies get their pictures taken with candi- has come to the conclusion that personal dates all the time; New Hampshire-based responsibility, rather than blind faith in journalist Darren Garnick even made it any party, takes center stage when teachhis personal mission to have his daughter ing children about civic responsibility.

“As a parent,” she says, “I hope that my Dahlia photographed with every potential Presidential candidate during the primar- children will grow up to care about their ies. He recorded his findings -- starting Jewish community as well as their comwith Barack Obama when Dahlia was just munity at large. That means I wish for seven-weeks-old -- for Slate Magazine, them to be involved with helping others, illustrating how acceptable the ‘baby kiss- in any way they can. Caring about others comes in all shapes and sizes, and it goes ing’ phenomenon continues to be.

There is, however, a large gap between beyond party affiliation.” the cute baby that gets top billing at a During this year’s presidential election, campaign event, and the almost adult that parents’ party affiliation seems to be a hot enters the voting booth for the first time. topic. The internet offers a plethora of Somewhere during those roughly 18 years political products for parents who wish to parents will find themselves faced with the share their ideology with their children, question of what to teach their children from politically themed onesies and food about political involvement, and how to bowls, to bibs and even party affiliated

birth announcements; not to mention the avalanche of children’s books with a political message that have hit the shelves over the past few years. This year, there’s even a new term for it: parents are “Partytraining their children.”

Author Jeremy Zilber famously penned Why Mommy is a Democrat in 2005, and

Republican writer Katherine DeBrecht responded with the publication of Help!

Mom! There’s a Liberal under my Bed. None of these products, however, hit the spot when it comes to the most important teaching tool of all.

“I grew up with fantastic role models,” Gordman says, “and responsible role modeling is key when it comes to parenting.

My paternal grandfather was a devoted member to his family and his Conservative congregation, helping out in any way he could, and Grandma Berdie was the same.

Being the patriarch and matriarch of a huge family, they always welcomed large crowds to their Shabbat dinners. With 17 siblings between them, they never passed up an opportunity to help; and there were many opportunities to do so.”

She adds, “On my mother’s side, my

grandparents were both involved with public service -- my grandfather worked for the city of Detroit and my grandmother was an active member of the Democratic Party -- proudly having campaigned for Robert Kennedy. They taught me the value of hard work, and that hard work doesn’t need to be glamorous, but it is always meaningful.

Her parents were also active community volunteers. “My mom currently sits on three boards and several committees; the role modeling never ends,” she laughs.

“So, now and as a child I saw first-hand the value of public service, and I never imagined ‘not doing my part’. Standing on the sidelines was just not an option for me or my brother.”

(Danielle’s brother Leonard P. Stark is currently a Federal Magistrate Judge in Delaware.)

“We were taught that you have to care about what happens in your immediate community as well as what goes on in the nation at large. And now it is incumbent on us to teach that to our children. I’m not sure if it’s a Jewish thing, or an American thing, but I know it’s the right thing,” Gordman says.

Teaching children about politics may seem like a daunting task; especially when those children are grade school age, like Danielle’s. There are many issues they don’t yet understand; it is difficult to watch the evening news and explain why certain issues are important for them now and later.

Add to that the linguistic challenge of translating political jargon, and a parent can easily feel discouraged. Focusing on the concept of ‘helping others’ makes things easier for the Gordmans.

Continued on page 14

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Young man’s passion for social justice Dining eventually leads to Obama campaign September 26, 2008

Gutman reports meeting Obama in person, not in

by GLORIA SHUKERT JONES Dan Gutman was born and raised in Omaha, attended connection with the campaign, but while doing an Central High School and graduated in 2004. He then internship in Washington, D. C. , and spoke to him went to American University in Washington, D.C., and briefly. “I was heavily involved with Girls, Inc. in spent his college years in D.C., but came home every Omaha,” Gutman said, “working for them as a program summer and worked in the Omaha area. After gradua- facilitator during one of my summers, and he was one of tion from college, he came back and worked on Jim the speakers at a luncheon. But I don’t know him perEsch’s Congressional campaign. From there, he went to sonally.”

Michigan to work on the Obama campaign.

Gutman’s views on what he feels are Senator Obama’s Gutman’s interest in politics originally began in high best qualifications for the presidency are as follows: “I school. But he says, “It wasn’t as much politics, as it was think he has a deep, deep understanding of what’s going social justice. That was partly because of my involvement on, more than from a philosophical point of view, but with Temple Israel. I got very involved in social justice from his personal experience and understanding. and causes that I believed in. And from there, the passion Gutman added, “Take Michigan, for example. Here in for social justice turned me on to politics. So when I Michigan, the number one issue is the economy and job decided to go to school in D.C., it was less about my growth. I think he understands, not just from a policy interest in politics, policies, and the political process -- point of view, but from a personal point of view. He has more about my interest in pursuing social justice and the ability to understand both the big picture and the social justice causes. When I got there, I still had that pas- small picture, and that goes for a number of different sion, but I found a connection between politics, policies, issues. Also, his ability to engage people in the political the political process and process, which is not only social justice.” a positive in the camGutman is presently paign, but also a positive campaigning for Sen. as a president.”

Barack Obama in He continued, “He’s Muskegon, Michigan. engaging people in the The campaign structure of democratic process, and the Obama campaign, that makes us better as a according to Gutman, is country, getting more like nothing ever seen people involved. He also before. “We are running a recognizes that for every totally different kind of stance he has, there’s an campaign dedicated to the opposing stance. I think grassroots movement. he does a very good job Senator Obama is not of reaching across, and seeking states he needs to trying to get more than compete heavily in, and one viewpoint on every dropping millions of dolissue that’s important, lars from the top. He’s Omaha college student Dan Gutman, left, is working on the presi- and really kind of bring doing print and radio ads, dential campaign of Democrat Sen. Barack Obama. together various viewbut he’s really focused on hiring people on the ground to points, and coming to a conclusion based on those.” build the grassroots movement,” Gutman says.

Gutman’s plans for the future are indefinite, but he Essentially, Gutman’s job is to reach out to people in indicates he probably won’t stay in Michigan after the the community that he’s in, and talk with them, get election is over. He does have family in Detroit and chose them to help volunteer in the office, and to convey the Michigan for his work in the campaign. He said he would message that if they want Sen. Obama to win, they have probably look for some kind of work that will tie in with to have a stake in it, so they are doing house meetings all his passion for social justice and the political scene. over the country.

Gutman stated he doesn’t have much time to engage “And that’s something that I’m doing here in in many activities since he’s been working on the camMuskegon, Michigan,” Gutman explained ” He further paign, but he does enjoy travel. added, “To host a house meeting, people agree to reach “I was able to study abroad in college, and went to out to their social network -- their family, their friends, West Africa for five months. I really enjoyed seeing new their colleagues at work -- and bring them into their liv- places and meeting new people. For a mental break, I ing rooms. Then we come in, introduce ourselves and enjoy running,” he said, and added, “Maybe it’s part of talk about ways to get involved. We discuss issues, talk being young, but I liked being able to spend seven about Senator Obama, and it really starts a dialogue months in D.C., and then coming back to Omaha for within people’s living rooms. So not only are they seeing three months, and then I went and studied abroad, and an ad for Obama on their TV’s, but they’re talking went back to Michigan. That’s my lifestyle. I like movissues, and they’re talking about electing him.” ing around.”

While Gutman indicated he’s a resident of Nebraska, Gutman added, “Right now, I’m living out of my car. he stated he has been going through a five-year transi- I’m just not ready yet to be any place permanent.” tional phase, going from living in Washington, D.C., He explained that there are a lot of staff from out of while going to school, coming home for the summers, state working on the campaign, and one of the ways peogoing back to Omaha to work on Jim Esch’s campaign, ple can show their support for the campaign is to house and then returning to Michigan, where he will remain staff members. “Living out of his car” was more or less until November. After that, he says, “It’s up in the air.” an expression of a transient lifestyle. Actually, he is living Gutman is 22-years-old, single, and indicates his with someone who had a spare room, and that’s where lifestyle with all the campaign schedules and so forth, is he is temporarily staying. not exactly conducive to a relationship at the moment.

“I’m actually going to be traveling further up north in When asked if Gutman would be going to the Michigan, and I’m going to be the organizer for two Democratic Convention, he said, “No. We’re focusing counties in northwest Michigan. A lot of people have on what we’re doing here and of course, we’ll be paying summer homes or cabins in the area and I’ve arranged to pretty close attention to it, but none of the field organi- stay in one of those until November, “ Gutman said. zations here, or pretty much any of the staff from the According to Gutman, “The Obama campaign is planstates, other than Colorado, will be going to Denver.” ning to have a presence in Omaha, and a civil rights Gutman believes that Obama’s recent trip to the leader said at a conference, that Obama is staying in Middle East and Europe was an important one for him states where 40 years ago, he couldn’t have gotten a and could possibly have an impact on whether or not hotel room.” people vote for him.

“Omaha is definitely not one of those places,” Gutman “He’s a United States Senator and a presidential can- emphasized, “but still it goes to highlight the fact that didate and that’s an important thing to do as a world most Democrats would say, ‘Oh, Nebraska is a red state,’ leader. I think he wanted to get a closer and better but that’s not the mentality of this campaign. And the understanding of what’s going on in the Middle East organizing that we do in states is geared to last longer and that was something I think he’s accomplished by than the campaign. We want the organizing we do here being over there.” He further added, “He’s gotten a lot to outlive the campaign. So regardless of what happens of media attention, but behind all that, I think it’s a pas- in November, we hope the people we’re getting togethsion for him to learn more about what’s going on there, er will get together even after the campaign. That’s realand to meet face-to-face with those leaders, and also visit ly what our strategy is.” with the troops in Afghanistan.”

Continued on page 14

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 13

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Politics and parenting Continued from page 12 “I want to be a role model for my children and their friends. On Election Day, I make donkey and elephant cookies to spark interest. But to keep the purpose of my involvement understandable for them I actively participate in their activities. I love nothing more than reading in their classrooms, serving lunch and snacks at their schools, and doing any kind of behind the scenes work to help their teachers,” she says.

“We also love the open dialogue we have with our children about politics and the need to help others. I hope and believe that Harper and Zev, at the ages of six and five, already understand that what we as their parents do in the community is important, and will one day be their responsibility. Do I want them to actually go into politics? Maybe, if we can clean up our government and somehow get the money and undue influences on our elected officials out of our system.

Maybe their generation will make that happen!”

Gordman has been involved with Scott Kleeb’s campaign for the U.S. Senate, which has given her children a first-hand look at a small part of the political machine. She serves as the vice-chair of the finance committee responsible for assisting in raising money.

By introducing Scott to a myriad of people, making phone calls, sending emails, and attending fundraisers, Danielle is volunteering her time to help bring about change. Harper and Zev understand that Scott is running for Senate, but they are not so sure what that means.

“What it means to run for the Senate is hard to explain on their level, but what they understand is that Scott is a decent and quality man trying to make our country a better place. They have nick-named him ‘Senator Jungle Gym’ because he lets them climb all over his 6 foot 3 inches!” she laughs.

Beside politics, Danielle is currently the chairman of the Pennie Z. Davis Child Development Center committee at the Jewish Commuity Center, president of Women for Reform Judaism at Temple Israel, a member of the board of Nebraskans for Research, and she sits on several other committees as well. Danielle is the first to admit that teaching children civic responsibility is about more than board positions and big gestures, it’s about having a passion for each other, and the world we live in.

“My passion for everything political comes from my parents, grandparents and brother. When I was growing up, my family would debate current issues during dinner. Two of us would be taking the Democratic stance, and the other two would take the Republican stance,” she explains. “Possibly, the fact that I was born in Silver Spring, Maryland, which is a stone’s throw from Washington D.C., also has something to do with it.”

However, she thinks of her passion for politics as more of a passion for public service and patriotism. “In 1981, my parents let my brother and me miss school to stay home to watch Reagan’s inaugura-

tion. I can still see Len and me waving flags in our basement, being excited about the pomp and circumstance. I still cry when I get off a plane at Reagan National Airport and see the monuments.

The National Anthem never fails to touch me deeply,” she adds. “I was a weepy mess during the Olympics!”

On a political note, she can get energized by good ideas that can help our country, especially when these ideas have to do with evening out the playing field.

“Everybody should have equal access to quality education and health care. I don’t believe in taking from one group to benefit another. People can call me idealistic, but I believe it is possible for us to have it all. I believe we can use our tax dollars wiser, and replace our big bureaucracy with more effective government,” she says. “Many people probably think I’m a bit idealistic. Be that as it may, as a parent, I don’t want just my own children to have access to a good education and health care, I want that for all children.”

Children can learn from an early age about different ways to get involved.

Candidates may come and go, but the planet -- as well as those who populate it -- hopefully will be around for a little longer, and they need to be taken care of.

“You can be involved through political campaigns, support for a candidate or party, sure,” Gordman says, “but in order to make things real for children, you can start with small and practical things. We as Jews have the added advantage that tzedakah is a major concept in our community, and when Harper and Zev put a few coins in their tzedakah box they feel part of a bigger picture.”

Donating tzedakah is a meaningful way to get them involved. “We’ve had Harper ask for books to be donated in her honor in lieu of birthday presents and my friends make fun of me for my weekly toys and clothing drop-off to the Goodwill,” she adds. “When the kids were younger they would call it ‘do-na-nas’ instead of donations. The important part was getting them involved. I think their favorite was baking up a slew of goodies for our local fire station for the holidays. I’m not sure if it was the cookies or the fire engines they got to sit on, but making the firemen happy made a big impression on them.

The pay-off for me comes with the questions Harper and Zev ask. It shows that they are really grasping things.

Recently one of Zev’s friends said he was for McCain and asked whom Zev was for. Zev replied Obama.

“Quickly Zev turned to me and asked if it was okay that we wanted different people? I tried to explain that we need to respect people with different views and that we don’t pick our friends based on politics. He wasn’t convinced and thought he might want to be for McCain like his friend,” Gordman adds. “So much for party training!”

Gordman concludes with, “He hugged me and said, ‘so you help out at school to see me too -- not just to help others.’ My goal is for them to know that volunteerism and public service will enrich your own life in ways you never thought possible.”

Young man’s passion for social justice

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Continued from page 13 Dan is the son of Vic Gutman and Cathy Fogarty. Of his father, Gutman said, “He does a lot of community organizing work. He really became interested in organizing festivals and art fairs and farmer’s markets. His job is pretty much just to run them. While he has an appreciation for art, his passion is getting 200 artists together for a community festival.”

Gutman explained that was his father’s sole job when he first started the company, but now has expanded the business to

working for marketing projects, and raising money for non-profits, and said he’s really broadened his scope. His mom has been an educator for most of her career, has taught in different places, and is currently teaching at Kaplan University, formerly Hamilton College.

Dan is an enterprising young man with a promising future, whether it be in politics, social justice or anything else he decides to do. He has a great personality, is articulate and knowledgeable beyond his years. He is surely destined for success.

September 26, 2008

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 15

A political animal never sleeps

Continued from page 11 Jim Exon, a future Nebraska governor and U.S. Senator, tabbed Fellman to chair the state’s Young Citizens for Johnson-Humphrey campaign. Fellman ended up going to the Democratic National Convention in Atlantic City. Along the way, Fellman said, “Exon and I became good friends.”

With friends in high places Fellman was confident enough to make his first run at elected office in 1966, opposing Glen Cunningham in a Congressional race. He was only 31 but when it appeared the veteran Cunningham would run unopposed, he threw his hat in the ring. Besides, he said, “I wanted to get into politics.”

He lost soundly but he added another chit to his political war chest.

In 1969, Fellman displayed his growing base when nominated from a field of some 80 at-large candidates for an Omaha City Council seat. Again, he lost, but his name gained ever more currency. In ’71, he organized and chaired the Nebraska Democratic Reform Commission, which again put him front and center in state party politics. By 1973, ally Jim Exon was in his second year as governor when he appointed Fellman to a vacancy in the Legislature. Fellman served two years.

He loved it.

“It’s the best thing I’ve ever done in politics,” he said.

“Being a state senator was absolutely magnificent. I would love to do it again but I’m too old and it’s not situated for me to ever run again.”

Many factors explain why the Unicameral proved so satisfying.

“The Nebraska legislature is small,” he said. “There are only 49 people in it. It’s non-partisan. You’re free to maneuver in any direction. About a third of the people there are really bright, another third are not so bright and there’s a middle third that are nice guys. In a political body like that everybody is pretty nice. They don’t get elected unless there’s a certain charm to them.”

A quick study, Fellman said “after two or three weeks” he “kind of caught onto” the intricacies of the legislative process. A proud moment came when the senior state senator from Scottsbluff, the wild, brilliant Terry Carpenter, praised him as “half smart -- about as good a compliment as you could get from Carpenter.” Fellman counted Senators Carpenter, Gene Mahoney, Ernie Chambers, John Cavanaugh, Dick Marvel, Loren Schmidt and John DeCamp his closest allies.

At Carpenter’s funeral a few years later the pallbearers included Mahoney, Fellman and Chambers in fulfillment of Carpenter’s wish that he be carried to his eternal reward “by a Catholic, a Jew and a black man,” said Fellman.

Fellman said he and Mahoney, who ran the south Omaha political machine, had been “on the opposite

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In 1976 he won his first general election -- to the Douglas County Board of Commissioners, which he chaired in 1980.

He served a total of three terms. A helpful hand in his campaigns came from Mahoney and Exon. Those campaigns included failed Congressional bids against Hal Daub.

Fellman doesn’t view his unsuccessful election tries as losses. Instead, he chalks them up to bad timing.

“In politics there’s a principal called timing,” he said. “The timing is right this year for a Democrat running because the Republicans are in trouble and it looks like the Democrats, if they have any brains, will be able to win a bunch of open seats.”

He added, “When I ran for Congress in On a May, 1992 trip to Israel arranged by then director of the Plains States 1980, it looked like the timing was correct Region of the Anti-Defamation League Bob Wolfson, back row, third from but then it turned out to be bad because that left, Nebraska government officials and businessmen met with Israel lead- year there was a sea change. President Carter ers, including, front row: U.S. Ambassador William Harrep, left, Diane lost badly and Reagan won big time. I got Nelson, Israeli Prime Minister Yitzchak Shamir, Nebraska Governor Ben more votes in this Congressional district than Nelson (now a U.S. Senator), Dick Fellman, Larry Sitzman, director of the Carter did, which is not supposed to be. I Nebraska Department of Agriculture; and Bryce Neidig, president of the had some bad luck in not running in years Nebraska Farm Bureau; back row: James Weyer, managing director of the that were good for Democrats.”

Nebraska Soybean program; a Nebraska state trooper and member of the He does consider defeats lost opportunities governor’s staff, Kathy Wittler, Nebraska Corn Board; Wolfson; and Kathy that seemed within his grasp. If Jim Green Boellstorff, of the Grain Sorghum Board. had become mayor Fellman’s sure he would sides of things. We were not friends.” Ever the politician, have filled a key cabinet post and his career taken a difFellman said he sent “an intermediary” to the old polit- ferent course. Perhaps more frustrating was Exon invitical boss saying, “If Nixon can go to China, Dick ing Fellman to run for state attorney general. Fellman Fellman can come to Mahoney.” And with that, he said, agreed, even working up a campaign budget, when, a meeting was set and the ice broken. unexpectedly, former Nebraska governor Frank The lightning rod figure that was Chambers then, and Morrison entered the race. Fellman is sure had he made that is Chambers today, is one Fellman largely admires. attorney general, it would have been a steppingstone to He called the veteran Omaha District 11 representative higher political office. And so it goes ... “a good inside politician. He does everything a good He’s content how things have worked out. “I’ve had politician is supposed to do.” Fellman said whatever you three or four careers I really liked. An aborted career as think of Chambers, you must concede his intellect. a reporter. A 44-year career as a lawyer. A lifelong career “God blessed him with an excellent mind,” he said. in and out of politics. And now teaching, which is kind Fellman can also attest to how well Chambers “under- of a combination of everything I’ve done before.” stands the rules” that govern legislative proceedings.

The courses he teaches in government and politics As Chambers’ 38-year career in that governing body allow him to continue his “love affair” with the subject. draws to a close due to term limits, Fellman detects some He sprinkles in anecdotes from his career and draws on bitterness in his former colleague and expresses dismay his rich ties to host governors, senators and other politiat “some anti-Semitic stuff that’s surfaced a few times.” cos, from both sides of the aisle, as guest speakers. As a Drawing on his own experience and expertise, Fellman nod to his reporting career, he has journalists discuss served on the Legislature’s Judiciary Committee and First Amendment issues. He’s found his niche.

Government, Military and Veterans Affairs Committee.

“I always thought in the back of my mind I would During his law career Fellman variously practiced with a enjoy teaching. It’s extremely satisfying. I intend to do it partner, alone and as part of large firms. He worked in as long as they’ll let me. I can think of nothing better litigation in domestic relations, plaintiffs’ personal than to be teaching another 10 or 12 years. Every day is injury, workers’ compensation and criminal defense. He fun.” retired in 2003.

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Page 16

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2008

Leaving party politics gives former pol a pundit’s perspective

by GARY JAVITCH Even though he is no longer the Executive Director of the Nebraska Democratic Party, Barry Rubin has lost neither his interest nor his taste for the excitement of politics.

“There’s a strong possibility that Nebraskans will see something historic this November,” Barry hinted in an Aug. 6 interview. The national Democratic party and the Obama campaign will target Nebraska for the first time in 40 years because they see an opportunity to pick up (an historic) one electoral vote, if they win in the second congressional district (Omaha).

“Jim Esch has a significant chance to defeat Rep. Lee Terry due to the expected influx of resources from the Obama campaign and the DNC, and the great work the party has done to register and energize new voters in Douglas County.

If he conducts his campaign in a professional manner, and less like a campaign for Creighton Student Council president, he has a legitimate chance,” he said.

“Lee Terry is not taking the race for granted as he did two years ago, however,” Rubin cautioned, referring to the 2006 election, which turned out to be far closer than anyone had imagined. That was when rookie candidate Jim Esch came within 10 points of upsetting the then four-term Congressman Terry.

From Rubin’s perspective the hyperpartisanship in politics today does not serve the country well. “Both parties have been taken over by their respective wings,” Rubin lamented. That represents about 20% of the left and about 20% of the right. The remaining 60% make up the middle. That’s where the majority of Americans fall. We have a lot of problems

to solve and we are not going to do that by throwing grenades at one another.

“People are tired of all the bickering. I believe it will take moderate leadership to get things done. That’s why Ben Nelson (D-Neb.) has been so successful. I don’t think the Democrats or Republicans have ownership of the best ideas. That’s why it is so important to work together.

When asked about Obama and the Jews, Rubin said, “At this point, it appears that Obama is sustaining his momentum in the polls. It will be interesting to see how Jews will vote. The Democrats used to have a monopoly on Jewish voters. For six decades Jews have been loyal to Democrats. (In the KerryBush election, Kerry got about 75% of the Jewish vote). That trend has decreased over the past few elections.”

From his pundit position, Rubin observed that campaigns should really be about candidates and less about parties.

He noted that the Republicans have done a good job creating the perception that they are stronger on Israel.

“Obama is very inspiring, and McCain has strengths, too. McCain’s ads, for example, hit a vulnerable point tapping into the concern about the Obama ‘celebrity.’ I love the McCain ad: ‘Don’t hope for change, Vote for change.’”

Becoming a Democrat Barry Rubin was hired to revitalize a moribund Democratic party. He was recruited personally by no less a figure than the chairman of the Democratic National Committee, the legendary Terry McAuliffe, along with current state democratic party chairman, Steve Achelpohl.

Barry came to the chairman’s attention because of his earlier successful work in Maryland politics in the campaigns of

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“So at his urging, I went Gov. Parris Glendening to Nebraska and visited for whom he had served with Steve Achepohl, the from 1995 through 2003, state’s Democratic Party in various positions, most chairman, and other party notably as Assistant leaders. I fell in love with Secretary of Labor.

Omaha and decided to Ironically, at the give it a shot,” Barry University of Delaware, recalled. he started college as a pre“When I arrived,” Barry med student. He was not continued, “I found that that interested in politics. there were very few “Then came the Gulf Democratic candidates.

War and I got interested.

And where the party did I was a Republican at the have candidates, the party time,” he explained, “but Barry Rubin was not strong enough to not a hard-core Republican. But I was not that politically help them. In essence, we had no bench aware. I was following in my father’s strength -- and no minor leaguers to call up.

So Barry found young attractive, smart, footsteps: he was a strong Reaganite.

“My change in party affiliation came people to run for office. He also increased about because I got turned off by the the revenue the party received and was hard-right and the ‘Gingrich Revo- able to boost the party budget, by implelution.’” That was in 1994 when both menting The 93-County Strategy. “We Houses of Congress became Republican. did extremely well in the Unicameral, and Rubin, who by that time had changed his county and municipal races and overall, major, had graduated that year with a BA we did well on both the 2004 and 2006 election cycles that I was here. degree in poly sci.

His future in Nebraska Other events contributed to his chang“Those 15-hour days did take a toll. I ing his career path. “I had a relative who was a Democrat and a friend of Parris love my new job with InfoUSA, where I Glendening, who was going to run for serve as Director of Business Developgovernor of Maryland. That’s when I ment for political, government and nonreally fell in love with politics. Parris profit markets. I still get to work in poliGlendening turned out to be the only tics, so I feel I can help make a difference.

Democrat to be elected governor during I’m also privileged to call Omaha and the that election cycle. Barry worked for both State of Nebraska my home. the two-term governor’s campaigns.

Formerly married, he is the father of Coming to Nebraska two children. “I was probably the least Glendening’s Lt. Governor, Kathleen partisan party official you’ll have ever Kennedy Townsend, wanted to succeed met. My job was to find the best possible her boss and Barry worked on her people to serve, and provide them the (unsuccessful) campaign. Following that tools and resources to get elected,” he campaign, McAuliffe called on Barry. concluded.

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 17

Former Omaha attorney recalls highlights of two government careers

by GLORIA SHUKERT JONES Back in the 1970s and early ’80s, you may not have seen Arthur Raznick’s name in lights, but you certainly would have seen it in the media. He made a name for himself as head of the Consumer Fraud Division in the Douglas County Attorney’s office, and was instrumental in changing the face of consumer protection laws.

Raznick, now retired and a resident of Phoenix, was in Omaha, checking his late parents’ home for storm damage, and overseeing roof repairs to the home, which has stood vacant for several years.

He and his sister, Inalu Kaufman, a recently-retired teacher, also from Phoenix, were in the process of cleaning out accumulated items and sorting pictures and other memorabilia.

Raznick, looking well, but more silverhaired, quipped, “I’m old enough to pass as a senior citizen on the airlines –- but just barely!” He is still a bachelor at 66, but indicates he’s, “seriously looking for that special someone.” His criteria for ‘special’? “A woman who is physically fit, around 50 years of age, and must love anchovies!” He quickly added, “The anchovy part is negotiable.”

Raznick is the son of the late Harry and Toby Raznick. “Mom worked at the courthouse and dad was in the cattle business in Omaha with his three brothers.”

They owned and operated the Omaha Packing Company on 36th and ‘J’ Sts. Raznick graduated from Central High in 1959 and then went to the University of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana, and grad-

uated in 1963. He said the university is so large it encompasses both small, sister towns. From there, he went to Creighton Law School and graduated in 1966.

His first job was with the U.S. Government -- the Army Corps of Engineers in Omaha, where he worked for about four years. He reported some interesting times, like when he was sent into the field to negotiate claims, and also had the opportunity to go to an underground hydro-electric plant where the turbines are stored.

“It was the most eerie experience I ever had,” he recalled. “I saw an actual generator when it was watered down, and was hoping to see some fish at the bottom of those turbines, but unfortunately, they were nowhere to be seen.”

Raznick then went into private law practice for two or three years, and while it was thriving, an opportunity to start a new department in the County Attorney’s office came along. It was to be the Consumer Fraud Division, specializing in economic crime and would be a part of the then-County Attorney, Donald Knowles’ office.

Raznick was in that office from about 1972 to 1987, and during those years, he was the head of the Consumer Fraud Division and spearheaded many needed changes to protect the consumer against fraudulent business practices.

In 1974, a proposed amendment to the consumer protection legislation was introduced in the Unicameral, restricting the admissibility of “parol evidence,” which Raznick explains is a contract rep-

resenting the sole agreement between two parties. Anything else, such as a verbal agreement, which may have affected the signing of the contract, was at that time, inadmissible.

Raznick was a strong supporter of the provision and others in the proposed amendment to LB 327, the consumer protection bill. There were other provisions Raznick favored, among which, a section prohibiting unfair or deceptive acts by a businessman, and another, requiring a person alleged to have violated the act to prove it does not apply to him.

According to Raznick, the bill would reverse the burden of proof. Ordinarily it would have been the prosecutor who had to show that it does apply.

In general, what Raznick really needed then were the proper tools to take care of problems as they arose, indicating his office couldn’t remedy a situation without authority.

He cited a case where a blind woman had signed a contract containing an “exorbitant” interest rate, and her home furnishings taken as collateral. The woman was not aware of these provisions, and the salesman had not read her the contract. Raznick said the laws then did not give him authority to act in that case, but one of the proposed amendments would have given him that power. He said the bill would not be a threat to legitimate businesses, and the only thing required would be that the act be made responsive to consumer needs.

Eventually, LB327 came up for final reading in the Legislature in March of

1974, and Raznick described it as “half a step toward protecting the rights of the consumer.”

The bill was sponsored by then-State Senator John R. Murphy, of South Sioux City. The original sponsor, Senator J. James Waldron of Callaway, introduced the measure in 1973, but had withdrawn his name from it earlier in the session when the bill was amended. According to Raznick, “Waldron’s bill was more strongly consumer-oriented.”

But he characterized Murphy’s measure as providing better tools to fight fraud than were available at that time. “So we found it acceptable,” he concluded, “because you can’t always get all of what you want.” Raznick said when he testified at a hearing on the bill, he went away feeling that some legislators did not perceive the magnitude of problems involved in consumer protection.

In 1974, the County Board approved a request for a new deputy attorney to work in Raznick’s office. This was good news for the head of the Consumer Fraud Division, because up until this time, Raznick was a one-man consumer office.

Raznick had also applied to the State Crime Commission for a $70,000 grant to increase his forces, and enable him to hire at least two full-time investigators, and not have to rely on police officers whenever they were available. He actually was able to hire three attorneys, five investigators and two support personnel.

The grant also provided needed equipment for the office.

Continued on page 18

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2008

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Highlights of two government careers Continued from page 17 Because of the tremendous publicity the consumer movement had been given, Omaha taxpayers believed they had the legal machinery to battle fraud, which was not necessarily the case. But with that local action, they could have the legal means they needed.

In 1975, Raznick ordered four game booths closed at the Douglas County Fair. One had 11 illegal slot machines and he observed children as young as 10 playing the machines at the fairgrounds in Waterloo.

In another incident at the fairgrounds, Raznick and an investigator asked the show operator to post the odds of winning two games. In one game, it was discovered there were only four chances in 141 of winning any prizes other than small trinkets. If the signs were not kept posted during the fair, Raznick indicated the operator would be charged with obtaining money under false pretenses.

Following the tornado in 1975, Raznick’s office worked with the Omaha Home Builders Association in drafting an ordinance to present to the City Council, patterned after one used in Xenia, Ohio.

“The issue at stake was to prevent a situation whereby someone could go to a printer and get business cards, without knowing the first thing about being a contractor,” Raznick said. “The Art Raznick, left, and Judge proposed ordinance would event honoring the judge. list requirements for establishing a contractor’s credentials.”

He added, “If you’re going to undertake a job, you should be bonded and established.” His office, elected officials, and the city’s Housing and Community Development Department were quick to alert the public to possible post-tornado schemes involving home builders and insurance agents.

During Raznick’s tenure as chief of Consumer Fraud Division, he had encountered many situations of fraud reported by citizens, mostly dealing with repair shop problems, cars, furniture upholstering, and home repairs.

He described an instance where a person raises his price for a job over the original estimate, on the pretext that some unexpected problem may arise. The repairman, who has already received a down payment, may refuse to return the item being repaired until additional payments are made. Raznick’s advice to the public at that time was to check with the Better Business Bureau for complaints before assigning work.

Other areas of complaints included pyramid sales firms, in which emphasis is placed on signing up others, rather than selling the product ostensibly being offered.

He indicated several such firms were currently operating at that time.

Regarding used-car dealers, Raznick said there were cars being sold without safety stickers. Another complaint he received involved an oral guarantee which later was not honored.

Various types of installment sales in which consumers signed contracts and then decided they didn't want what they were purchasing, were also brought to Raznick's attention. While there was nothing misleading or fraudulent about such contracts, Raznick could only advise people to take their time when considering such purchases, and seek legal advice if needed. “A program to make consumers more aware of their legal commitments when they sign a contract might have been helpful,” he advised.

Raznick recalls one of the most significant cases of his career occurred back in 1982, when an Omaha businessman faced a stiff prison sentence on 27 counts of violating state securities laws. He was found guilty by a District Court jury of nine counts of each of three violations: failing to register securities, failing to register as a sales agent, and making “material representations or omissions” in dealing with investors. For each of the 27 counts, he was sentenced to 16 months to five years, with three of those terms being consecutive, and the rest to be served concurrently.

In 1976, the man sold stock at a nickel a share in Solar America, Inc., and Energy Company of America, Inc. Raznick, representing the state, alleged that the defendant didn't intend to produce, while his attorneys denied it. According to Raznick, nearly 500 investors lost a total of between $250,000 and $300,000, using the evidence of nine persons who allegedly lost $14,250.

The judge on the case called what the accussed did a “scheme” that showed “premeditation and a degree of sophistication.”

Defense attorneys said their client would appeal the verdicts, contending the registration of the stock, and of the person as an agent, had not been revoked, and that there was no fraud. Raznick indicated the case set a precedent in the number of counts, and said, “I don’t think there has been a securities case tried in Nebraska that’s gone to a jury in 20 years.”

A case that would be of special interest to today’s consumers concerns the infamous “Ken-Jet Gas Saver.” The proponents of the device claimed at the time that it would improve gas mileage by 35 to 40 percent. The judge determined after being shown testing results, that it “does not reduce fuel consumption by any significant or measurable amount.”

In addition to barring future claims by the company regarding gas mileage reduction, the judge also prohibited claims that it improved horsepower, reduced oil sludge, carbon buildup or the number of tuneups, and enabled use of regular gasoline in engines not designed for it. The judge acted on the request of the Consumer Fraud Division, which claimed the device as worthless.

Richard Robinson at a 1972 “I told them the device was not the panacea for the energy crisis blues,” Raznick said, “And peddling it would be like selling a pair of high-heeled shoes and claiming they are going to get you closer to the moon.”

The attorney for the company argued they had sold over 200 of the devices for $150 a piece and if this were the rip-off the state claimed, where are the dissatisfied customers? He conceded that advertising claims should be modified to indicate that the Ken-Jet doesn’t work on every car, but also stated he never said it would.

“If it doesn’t, we’ll give people their money back,” he told the court. Company officials described the Ken-Jet as a small box supplied continuously with water from a plastic reservoir, claiming that hydrogen gases in water vapor drawn into the engine’s cylinders burn gas in the cylinders more completely.

What at first may have sounded like a dream-cometrue, possibly turned out to be a rude awakening for some unsuspecting consumers.

Although the foregoing were pretty heavy topics, there were also incidents that took on a more humorous vein in the day-to-day activities of the Consumer Fraud Division.

“I had a complaint from one woman who reported her waffle iron lid was so heavy, it kept mashing the cheese on her grilled cheese sandwiches,” Raznick said.

“Then there was the guy who came in with a complaint about a fortune teller. He said he had headaches that were caused by evil spirits on his property, who threatened to burn his home and take all his money. He went to a fortune teller who said if he paid her the money instead, she promised to get rid of the evil spirits for him.”

Raznick added, “Well, I decided to play along, discerning that the guy must have been delusional. I then asked if she kept her promise to remove the evil spirits, and he said yes. So I asked him, ‘What are you doing here then?

What’s your complaint?’ He stared at me for a moment, as though I were the crazy person, and then said, ‘They all came back!’”

In another incident, Raznick described a man who was very upset when he was charged for freon, because there was no air conditioning put in his car. He said, “If they put air conditioning in my car, they must have put it in the tires!” And another motorist complained that the mechanic who worked on his car should have been called, “Mr. Monkey Wrench,” borrowing a popular slogan of that day, used by a different auto repair shop, “Mr. Good Wrench”.

There also was the “Kitchen Classics Case,” where the business went into foreclosure because customers complained they didn’t receive the cabinetry they had paid for. Another case involved eminent domain actions authorized by the County Board, back in 1973, against five property owners who refused purchase offers on the property within the Corrections Center site, bounded by 17th, 18th, Jackson and Leavenworth.

Continued on page 19

September 26, 2008

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 19

Highlights of two government careers Continued from page 18 Raznick said 78 percent of the 96-parcel site had been purchased, and without Board action, construction of the Corrections Center scheduled for opening in 1975, could have been delayed. These incidents and others too numerous to mention, were part and parcel of Raznick’s tenure with the County Attorney's Office.

When asked what initiated Raznick’s move to Phoenix, after being so instrumental in consumer advocacy for so many years, he said, “I went on vacation in December of ’88. I had never been to Phoenix before. I had fully intended to come back, and in fact, I had packed my suitcase for a two-week stay. While there, I fell in love with the city, the beauty of the surroundings, the weather -- everything about it, and I found opportunities there. I asked myself why I would want to come back to Omaha’s ice storm, and I ended up staying.”

Thus began a second career for Raznick, with the United States Immigration and Naturalization Service, as a trial attorney. INS has since been incorporated into the Department of Homeland Security.

It occurred to him he needed a change of pace, something entirely different from what he had done previously, and said: “The difference was, in Consumer Fraud there’s many different types of cases, and much contact with the public, and the ability to assist them in so many ways.”

Raznick explained, “With the United States Government, in the capacity of senior trial attorney, basically, I was in a situation where I was going to court four or five days every week, and participating in asylum cases, naturalization cases, and cases where, if the people qualify, and committed a crime while they were a legal permanent resident, they would still be allowed to stay if they could show certain things the law requires, such as a minimum criminal contact with law enforcement, the ability to maintain a job over the years, raise a family in the United States with their kids going to school, and if they come recommended by other people who would appear in court and testify to their character.”

He added, “There are many elements needed as proof, and then they would be allowed to stay, if they were subject to deportation at that time. But even so, they would only get one crack at it. The second time, the immigration judge might not be as lenient.”

I brought up the subject of immigration and border patrol, and how this appears to have changed from when INS seemed to have more stringent rules, insofar as allowing people into the country and letting them stay. I asked what changed and if the rules had been relaxed.

According to Raznick, “I don’t think anything has changed as far as people coming in without the proper documentation and papers allowing them to legally stay.

I think this is a situation where in the last few years, there has been more exposure in front of the public. There has

Rosh Hashanah Greetings

been more attention paid Homeland Security has its to the problem because own internal police force. it’s been increasing, and Advising them in the its impact has been more proper application of the noticeable. So it’s because law and their procedures of that, and the political was enjoyable,” he added. arena which it has been “But with the whiteoperating under. As you collar crime at the County recall, there was a vote on Attorney’s office in an immigration bill a year Omaha, we were very or so ago in Congress, proactive and didn’t have but nothing could be or to wait for complaints. would be passed, because There was a lot of oneof all the political implicaon-one dealing with the tions of getting a new public, and a great deal of law.” satisfaction putting peoRaznick continued, ple where they belong “It’s how, if and when it’s instead of being left in the going to be dealt with, positions they were in by and what that policy con artists. I’ve always might be.There might be enjoyed dealing with peosome type of amnesty. Former Omahan Art Raznick, who worked in the Consumer Fraud ple (that way).”

Again, it would be on a Division, worked for immigration and Naturalization in Phoenix.

Raznick looks back on criteria as to what the law is based on.” his amazing careers with pride, satisfaction and just a In response to another question regarding border touch of nostalgia. He’s only been retired for a year and patrol, Raznick added, “They’ve been pressed in the while he enjoys the freedom he has to pursue his intermanpower that’s been required but has not been there. est and time to do it, he misses the contacts and even the The beefing up of those forces, and that it’s been diffi- daily grind of working. cult to control, have played a part.”

He doesn’t regret moving to Phoenix, but still considHe further explained his stand on eligibility require- ers Omaha his home and tries to get back here. He says ments for legal immigration: “If there’s a change in the he fills his time with many activities. His hobby is restorlaw, it ought to be for a person who is a hard worker, ing cars, and presently owns seven, two of them being who is known and recognized in the community, who antique cars, and all in pristine condition. “That’s all has built up a family, is relied upon, and who exercises a right,” he says, “because I have a nine-car garage.” particular religion-- they should be looked at a lot more In his spare time, he also works out and feels better than sympathetically, than those who are legal permanent res- when he was working. Of his 12,000 square-foot home in idents, who commit crimes, or violate the law, and then Phoenix, he says there’s always something to do, fix or are given the opportunity to stay because they are per- take care of. He owns several collections which include manent residents. I respect legal permanent residents as bronze statues, swords and large-size train replicas. He they have earned the right to stay, but my sympathy goes has a woodworking workshop and attends synagogue. more to the person who is a non-criminal.”

Raznick wrote two books while with the Consumer I asked Raznick what he liked most about both of his Fraud Division: Fraudulent Schemes in Douglas County, jobs. He indicated there were different aspects about which details the many types of frauds that the public both positions that he enjoyed. With consumer fraud, it should be aware of, and another book dedicated to senior citizens, entitled Senior Citizen -- The Target Is You, was the court action on a regular basis.

“It keeps you at a certain keyed-up level all the time. apprising seniors of things they should be wary of, such It's like being on a treadmill. You keep going all the as scams, and also lists services available to them. He also wrote an article in The Daily Record and is past president time,” he observed.

“I enjoyed working for Homeland Security, in the of the Omaha Chapter, Federal Bar Association.

My final question: “In your lengthy career, what’s the capacity of legal advisor to the Border Patrol agents, and special agents involved in anti-smuggling, drug enforce- most important thing you’ve learned”?

He thought for a moment and replied: “I’ve learned a ment, and those who would have to serve search warrants. They would come to me for legal advice. It was lot just by listening to people. You can never learn by talklike working one-on-one with law enforcement. ing, but you can learn a lot by what others have to say.”

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Page 20

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2008

Making change in the state’s capitol

by JOAN K. MARCUS new group just beginning: the Lincoln resident Nancy American Association of Retired Lerner Intermill should Persons (AARP) and that’s how probably be living in another AARP got its start.” state. She is a liberal Nancy later entered a Ph.D. Democrat in a predominantprogram in Gerontology at Kansas ly Republican state and State University; she has completbelieves in protecting those ed all her work, except for her diswho are unable to speak for sertation. themselves. This is why she She wanted to be a counselor is a candidate for county for older people and applied to be commissioner in District 4 of an aging specialist at the Pawnee Lancaster County.

Comprehensive Mental Health Born in Los Angeles in Center in Manhattan, Kansas. She 1951, she is definitely a child admits that when she told her of the 1960s. She grew up in father she was moving to Kansas, the San Fernando Valley he did pull out the world atlas and with typical 60s parents, he said, “Now is that in the midBess and Jack Lerner. Her dle somewhere?” two much older brothers, She explained that “Manhattan Mike and Harvey taught her is home to Kansas State University to be tough and speak for and there are actually some Jews Nancy Lerner Intermill herself. Her father, a union there. They have a synagogue and worker, was always interested in politics and raised his a congregation. However, they don’t have a rabbi. They daughter to be aware and active in the political process. are very active culturally so they have lots of dinners and Nancy admits to having many friends while growing conduct their own services.” up in the “very Jewish” community. “In high school, I The stop in Manhattan proved to be beneficial because was very much interested in the civil rights and women’s within a few weeks of her move, Nancy met Mark movements. I was, from the beginning, a liberal Intermill, who worked for the area agency on aging. He Democrat. After high school, I went to UCLA because was a traditional Kansan who had grown up on a farm. my father said that I was going there. After two years as She jokes, “For me -- he was exotic and for him -- I a psychology major, I left and decided that I needed to was exotic. I wore large, purple-framed glasses with my see more than Los Angeles.” initials on the bottom. And he was this boy in a straw hat At UCLA, Nancy felt that students lacked diversity and overalls. Our interest in politics and gerontology and so she moved to northern California where she joined us and we were married in January of 1979. A attended San Francisco State University. She changed rabbi from Kansas City who would conduct interfaith her major to social work with an emphasis on death and ceremonies performed the wedding.” dying. “That was about the beginning of the hospice Their daughter, Jessica Intermill, 28, is an attorney movement, and I was interested in therapy with people who lives in Minneapolis with her husband, Tyler who were dying,” she said.

Candee. Their son, Micah, is 25 and a policy analyst In 1974, Nancy graduated with a BA in Social Work. with the Assisted Living Federation of America.

Then, she relates, “I was actually a cocktail waitress In 1983, the family moved to Topeka, where Nancy because jobs were hard to get at that point.” However, became Assistant Professor and Director of Gerontology her father was worried about her being a single woman at Washburn University. Her interest in older people without a job. He heard about a Master of Science again brought her to teach classes on death and dying, Program at the University of Southern California and aging and public policy and aging and mental health. encouraged her to come back home and enter the pro- After a stint at Kansas State University in Manhattan and gram. working as a research sociologist at the Colmery-O’Neill “I ended up being a graduate from the second group VA Medical Center in Topeka, she worked as a graduate in this brand new program when I got a Masters of assistant at Kansas State University.

Science in Gerontology. This was the first and the preIn 1991, the family moved to Lincoln, where Mark mier program of its kind. Ethel Percy Andrus was active took a job with the Nebraska Office on Aging. (He is in the program. As a retired teacher, she joined with a now Director of Advocacy for AARP in Nebraska.)

Nancy became a state mental health planner for the Nebraska Department of Public Institutions. She wrote and reported on the Nebraska Community Mental Health Block Grant for adults and children.

In addition she was a federal reviewer for community mental health block grants and rural health outreach grants. She was also a facilitator for the Nebraska Partnership Health and Human Services Redesign Team.

In addition to being a visiting professor at Nebraska Wesleyan University, Nancy owns and operators a business that offers decision support services, such as grant writing and review, project management, strategic planning, performance measurement and high-stakes meeting facilitation.

In January of this year, members of the Democratic Party approached Nancy to enter the election to be a Lancaster County Commissioner. She has never run for public office, but says, “I’m always looking for something new to do and I enjoy politics. I love meeting people!”

The current board is Republican; there hasn’t been a Democrat on it for a long time. “The man that I’m running against has been an incumbent for 10 years, and it’s time for a change! I did well in the primary, and I have a lot of support from a cross-section of the community,” Intermill explained.

“I’m very concerned about our current jail issue. The county runs the Lincoln-Lancaster County Jail and our building is overcrowded. The present group of county commissioners has decided to go ahead and build a new jail,” she said.

She has some ideas about reorganizing the mental health system, too. If, she says, “they could be kept in the community, they wouldn’t have to go into the prison system. We’re now looking at the technology that has come about during the past 20 years. Who ever thought about bracelets with computers. And, now there are drugs that can change behaviors.”

Another idea she proposes would be to have a house arrest program. These programs aren’t dissimilar to programs in Omaha and other cities.

“Rather than build bigger jails, we need to talk about ways to keep people out of prison. This present group of commissioners have already bought land, engaged the services of an architect (for four million dollars) and they’re going ahead with plans for a $65 million jail,” she asserted.

Nancy’s key word during her campaign is “change.”

She wants something besides old ideas and answers to the issues. “When we moved to Lincoln in 1991, it was a vibrant community. Now, it seems to be getting stodgy. I want that vibrancy and excitement back.”

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September 26, 2008

A woman for all seasons

by LEO ADAM BIGA Sylvia Wagner dreamed of acting under the lights. Emoting came naturally.

“I have always been a communicator.

As a little girl my friends and I would put on shows. My home was built so that the front porch was a little bit like a stage. I would direct the shows. I always wanted to be in theater,” Wagner said during an interview at her One Pacific Place apartment.

The Omaha native realized that dream through school speech-theater activities and acting in productions at the Omaha Community Playhouse, the Chanticleer Theatre and dinner theaters. She also did some radio announcing. More recently, she’s appeared in educational films and television commercials.

However, her primary stage became the political arena. That’s where her charisma and gift for gab found their true expression.

You see, she said, her father believed “a woman shouldn’t be so out in front.”

Her mother corrected her, Wagner recalled, saying, “You’re wrong, because he loved this city so much, and to think his daughter was elected to the City Council, he would be so proud.”

Dutiful Sylvia begrudgingly agreed.

“I realized he might have been embarrassed when I campaigned but when I got elected he’d be doggone proud.”

She might never have run for public office if not for the The League. The Central High graduate earned a bachelor of science degree in business at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. It was wartime. After the war she married the late Bob Wagner, a Brooklyn native she met while he was visiting a buddy and a cousin here. The couple lived in Norman, Oklahoma, while he completed his mechanical engineering degree at the University of Oklahoma. Upon graduat-

Sylvia Wagner was a member of the Omaha City Council from 1981-87.

In the 1950s the former Sylvia ing, they moved to Omaha.

Bernstein became politicized through She worked part-time and by the ’50s The League of Women Voters, an organ- she’d given birth to their three sons. ization whose Omaha chapter she got Being a housewife and mother occupied heavily involved with and that helped most of her time. But she burned to be a launch her own political career. more informed participant in civic affairs.

She served two terms on the Omaha She fulfilled her wish in The League, City Council from 1981 to 1987, an era which she joined on the eve of an elecwhen women were still a rare presence at tion. that level of city government.

“I thought, I am not going to go into Her immigrant father, Jacob Bernstein, that voting booth knowing nothing.” didn’t live to see her in office but this The organization proved a good fit for man who adored America would have her curious mind. busted his buttons seeing his daughter “I went to this meeting and I was just rise to such a position. At 17 the yeshiva- bowled over. I came home and my brain educated Jacob was “shipped off” to was just whirling with the fact that I had America to avoid “being fodder for the been in such a rarefied atmosphere of Russian army,” Wagner said. A skilled intelligence, open discussion, women metal worker, he achieved the classic knowing what they were talking about, immigrant-made-good success story here, women wanting to learn.” marrying the former Ida Gerelick, a The more meetings she attended the dressmaker and fellow emigre. Together, more passionate she became. they made a good life for themselves and “I never had met such a group of inteltheir family. ligent, bright women who believed in this Jacob had his own furnace company country. It allowed me an opportunity to and Ida ran a dress shop out of their learn constantly. It’s a really grassroots home. He was forever grateful for what organization and it’s work is based on they were able to achieve. knowledge. Their commitment to having “There was never a day that my father an informed voter is unbelievable.” didn’t say, ‘There’s nothing like America.’

She often delivered speeches as a feaYou could criticize the politicians but you tured presenter for its speakers bureau, never criticized the country. Ever. giving by her count as many as 42 talks Because here’s the place that not only one year. gave him a haven but an opportunity to “We knew what we were talking really succeed, to learn, to read, to raise about,” she said. “We would go out and his children and send them all to college. we would explain what the issue was and So when it came to government I was as if you voted this way what would happen passionate as he.” and if you voted that way what would That’s why Papa Bernstein would have happen, and then we sent people home to beamed at her accomplishment. make up their own minds.”

Wagner wasn’t so sure though. She said The organization embodies democracy at her swearing in ceremony she turned to in action for her in its tenant that an her mother to remark, “‘I don’t think informed electorate makes the best choicDaddy would be very happy about all es in deciding candidates and issues.

Continued on page 22 this.’”

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 21

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Page 22

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2008

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A woman for all seasons

Continued from page 21 How to get elected was another matter. “I didn’t know “The League of Women Voters does not take a position anything about campaigning,” she said. No worries on anything until it has been studied thoroughly and when you’re as well-connected as Wagner. Rouse openly discussed and until there becomes a consensus, became her political mentor. not a vote, on what position we should take,” she said.

“He gave me the budgets, everything I had to learn.

She led League studies. Her first study examined the He turned over his campaign lists to me. Tim was just Omaha Planning Board. It meant phone calls, meetings, wonderful,” she said. interviews, reading ordinances. She said The League’s Then she remembered a handbook or primer on camreputation gained the organization entree wherever they paigning she’d studied as part of a University of inquired.

Nebraska at Omaha workshop she’d taken some years “The League of Women before.

Voters is so well respect“I had been thinking I ed,” she said, “because might want to learn how they are known to be to run a campaign, never nonpartisan, honest, to thinking of being a candialways tell the truth, to be date myself. At the end of respectful. I could always the course, you had to call someone and say, ‘I’m give a speech on what Sylvia Wagner with The office you wanted to run League of Women Voters, for, so I stood up and could I please have a half said, ‘I’m Sylvia Wagner hour of your time?’ and and I would like to be the response would be, your mayor.’ I don’t ‘When would you like to know why this came out come in?’ And that’s true of my mouth,” she today. Now I’m not as laughed. involved today but I still Without knowing it, her support The League, and political aspirations were I still read my voter’s Sylvia Wagner meets with Rep. Lee Terry in October, 2002, prior to stirring deep inside. Once guide and, of course, I’m a candidates’ forum at the JCC, sponsored by National Council of the opportunity to seek very up on what’s hap- Jewish Women-Omaha Section, and B’nai B’rith. political office arose she pening. I still follow the creed.” did what any prospective candidate does -- she sought The more she delved into the political process the advice, she called in favors, she consolidated her support more steeped she was in the issues and in the way gov- base and she marshaled a staff and a campaign. ernment worked. After serving as the Omaha League’s But first she talked it over with her husband. vice president, she served two terms as president in the “When I came home and said, ‘How about my running late ’70s. Her duties made it incumbent on her to pay for the city council?’, Bob said, ‘Who’s better qualified?’ courtesy calls to newly elected political officials. Thus, He was so supportive of anything I wanted to do. He was she became a familiar figure to the men and women so proud of me. He built signs, he put signs in the holding the seats of power. ground, he went with me campaigning, shaking hands.”

In addition to this behind-the-scenes activity she mainAmong the first people she went to see for counsel was tained a visible public presence giving speeches and read- Dick Fellman. He identified her base as the business ing one-minute public service spots on KFAB before the community and told her to call on the Greater Omaha 10 a.m. newscast. Using prepared materials she’d intro- Chamber of Commerce. Several things made her a canduce herself with, ‘This is Sylvia Wagner speaking for didate the business bloc could get behind and support.

The League of Women Voters.”

First, she said, she had the advantage of having “never “People knew my name,” she said. “I was on the air been labeled as Republican or Democrat. I was a neufor I don’t know how many years. I would talk about tral.” Then there was the fact her family was wellgovernment and even lay out the results of our studies,” immersed in business. all in an effort, she said, to make citizens better Her husband was regional sales manager of the informed. “That’s what The League is all about.”

Freuhauf Corporation. A sibling and both parents She enjoyed the challenge of conveying a message in a owned solid reputations in the business world as well. few words.

“My brother was on the board of directors of the “Well, I’m a communicator. I love radio, I love televi- Omaha National Bank,” she said. “I had the benefit of sion. I’m still doing film. I do educational films and carrying the name of a very well known, very well commercials. I work with Actors Etc. Limited,” the respected man in Jacob Bernstein.”

Omaha talent agency of Manya Nogg and her son, Her father had done quite well. Not to be forgotten, Randy Nogg. her mother’s in-home dress shop made fancy outfits for The high profile position Wagner occupied with The high society women and their gala balls and cruises. “She League meant she had to be careful not to show any was very well known,” said Wagner, who owned a valufavoritism. able business background herself as a Jewish Press busi“As president I absolutely had to be free from any hint ness manager and a Borsheims clerk. of partisanship,” she said. “I’m not saying I wasn’t “We were known as being successful business people,” actively involved, because I was, but if I wanted to sup- she said of her family. port somebody Bob wrote the check. In no way could Wagner said her own education and experience made Sylvia Wagner’s name be seen.” her a candidate business could back and trust. Following Her own political persuasion is liberal Republican, Fellman’s advice she met with Chamber officials, who although she modified that to say, “I hate the word lib- referred her to Commercial Federal Bank President eral. I’m a centrist. I do vote for the candidate who car- William Fitzgerald. He endorsed her and led her to felries my views. It can be a Republican, it can be a low banker Ralph Palmer, who became her campaign Democrat, I don’t care.” She said her good friend Dick manager. Things fell into place.

Fellman, a former Nebraska state senator, Douglas “I actually had no problem raising money because of County Board of Commissioners member and state my background with The League and having been on Democratic Party leader, once teased her that she votes the air.” for more Democrats than Republicans.

Wagner won election to the District 6 seat by a nice Wagner replied, “Well, that might be true, but I margin. It was the first Omaha City Council election by haven’t counted.” district. Her six years on the Council, 1981 to 1987, With her League presidency nearing an end she was were a good time in her life. A centrist to the core, she looking forward to supporting the 1981 city council said she formed good working relationships with all her reelection campaign of her friend, Tim Rouse, only to fellow Council members.

Said Wagner, “There was none of this, If you don’t discover he was not going to run again.

Flippantly, she let it slip out she’d be interested in the vote for mine I’m not going to vote for yours.”

She also made close allies of veteran city hall politico spot. “I said, ‘Well, I guess I’ll just have to run myself.’”

She said while she soon forgot the notion, Rouse did Walt Peffer and former council member Betty Abbott. A not. He surprised her by asking, ‘Why don’t you run for fellow council member and future mayor she enjoyed a city council?’ My jaw dropped and I looked at him and particularly good relationship with was Bernie Simon.

Wagner said any number of measures or ordinances said, ‘You’re serious?’” Rouse assured her he was.

The idea intrigued Wagner, who was confident she she advanced were passed without her name on them. “I could do the job. She knew the landscape, the players didn’t have an ego about it. I couldn’t have cared less. and the rules, both written and unwritten, of the politi- They were things I wanted for the city.” cal game. She had the time as her kids were all grown. Continued on page 23

September 26, 2008

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 23

A woman for all seasons

Continued from page 21 Most satisfying about her years on the council, she said, “was serving people, helping people, helping direct the city in the way I thought it should go.” Watching over the city’s money -- where it was spent, how it was spent -- became her mission. She took the job seriously. “I worked there full time almost every day. Whenever there was a budget review every department would come down separately and I was at every single one of those meetings. The departments Never shy, Sylvia Wagner confronts Gov. Dave Heineman with and I got along fabulously a question at a gathering of B’nai B’rith Breadbreakers durbecause they knew I under- ing his run for the Nebraska Statehouse in 2006. stood their needs.”

Her council tenure included presiding ened out and get things right where they over all the usual routine legislative mat- should be.”

But he never got the chance to redeem ters as well as some controversial decisions that ushered in redevelopment. A himself once the recall’s mob mentality maxim she learned early on in her politi- built steam. The petition to recall Boyle cal life told her, “I don’t care what you carried the day and the subsequent recall vote on, you’re going to make somebody election resulted in his ouster. Wagner happy and somebody unhappy.” Looking didn’t like how the whole thing was hanback on those years, Wagner’s content dled and reserves sharp criticism for recall with everything that happened on her leader Jim Cleary.

“When Jim Cleary, who was the mouth watch, with one notable exception -- the of the recall, said, ‘I will never run for recall of Mayor Mike Boyle.

“It was so devastating to this communi- office,’ and the first thing he does is run ty. It was so unnecessary,” she said. “I for city council, well ...” said Wagner, her fought that recall as hard as I could. I voice trailing off in disgust.

Perhaps not as dramatic but every bit as knew it was going to cost the city a fortune. I knew it was going to tear the city tense were two projects that directly apart. But I was in a very minority situa- affected her district -- the widening of tion. Mike was a very good mayor. He 90th Street and the development of One needed some help, OK. Well, I knew the Pacific Place. What may seem slam dunks ‘big boys’ were helping Mike get straight- today were bitterly opposed at the time.

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She said the street widening “was terribly contentious.”

“I really worked hard on the 90th Street issue. I talked to people, I met with the neighbors, I did everything I could to allay any fears they might have. They went through it kicking and screaming.”

Residents, she said, voiced concerns the strip would turn into a raceway but mostly they rued losing some of their luxurious front lawns. “We had every right to do it because we had the easements,” she said. Besides, she said, “we desperately needed a north-south corridor.” The widening went through and she’s satisfied the Pacific to Dodge portion is “a beautiful stretch.”

One Pacific Place was among the first planned, mixed-use developments in Omaha. It’s a fixture today but 25 years ago its plans put people up in arms because it meant building on a farm that had been there generations and bringing the city to what was still the country.

Some people were concerned about flooding from the creek that runs through the property and others were sure the project would create traffic jams.

Where critics saw problems Wagner saw potential.

“I thought of the tax base and the lovely shops and restaurants and apartments that would be created.”

Despite compromises that resulted in too little green space and tight parking, she said the council “wanted the development done. I’m very proud of it.”

She was on the council when ConAgra was given tax breaks to build its campus headquarters near the riverfront, which resulted in the razing of the Jobbers Canyon warehouse buildings in the Old

Market. It was a classic conflict of new development versus historic preservation.

“They (ConAgra) had to grow and they needed a place to grow,” said Wagner, adding the site was ideal because it was cheap, already had utilities in place and was easily accessible to the Interstate and the airport. The project is credited as the linchpin for the downtown-riverfront development that followed. Losing ConAgra to the suburbs might have delayed that.

An issue not as sexy but no less important was the fire department’s deteriorated protective gear and the police department’s aging fleet of cruisers. She said the council approved replacing the protective fire gear and upgrading the cruisers.

On a smaller scale, she advanced an ordinance allowing restaurants/bars to serve patrons outdoor. Al fresco dining occurred to her one summer evening while she had a repast outdoors in the nation’s capital. “Why don’t we have this in Omaha?” she thought. The mayor and council agreed.

“That was my first baby,” she said of the legislation. “So when everybody is sitting outdoors on a warm day enjoying a meal and a drink at their favorite restaurant they should say, Sylvia Wagner done good.”

She lost her reelection bid in 1987, ending her public service career but not her political involvement. Her advice is still sought.

“Yes. I’m very involved. People seek me out. People come to me all the time and I advise them as best I can.” she said.

She has no regrets.

“I loved what I did. I’m proud of what I did.”

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2008

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2008

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by JOAN K. MARCUS Former Omahan Lee Calvin White has led an exciting life, however, his work is far from done. At age 85, he is presently a lawyer in private practice with Spiegel and McDiarmid in Washington, D. C. He has recently written his memoirs entitled, Government for the People: Reflections of a White House Counsel to Presidents Kennedy and Johnson. The book reflects White’s exciting career through political Washington of the 1950s and 60s.

White, who claims that he hasn’t been any smarter than anyone else, says, “I was just lucky with my life. I’ve always just been in the right place at the right time.

Before I was born, my mother had a dream and an angel asked her if she wanted her baby to be smart or lucky.

She said ‘lucky’ and that has been the story of my life.”

He was born in Omaha at the Swedish Mission Hospital on 24th and Pratt. After attending Saunders Grade School, where he had Ethel Kiewit for his third grade teacher, he went on to Central and Miller Park Grade Schools. In 1941, White graduated from North High School where he was a member of the Crack Squad and a “hussar” to the King of Ak-Sar-Ben. Many years later, he was inducted into the high school’s Hall of Fame.

He readily admits that after high school, he really didn’t know what he wanted to do with his life. So, he “just sort of drifted with the wind,” he said. At the University of Nebraska at Lincoln, he majored in electrical engineering and was a member of Sigma Alpha Mu, a Jewish fraternity.

“One of my friends was Ed Zorinsky, former mayor of Omaha, who became a United States Senator,” he added. White later married the senator’s widow, Cece Zorinsky in 1989; she died in 1996.

Before finishing college, Lee was called to serve in World War II. He was sent to Clearwater, Florida, for training for the Signal Corp and then received orders to be part of a unit developed in China to invade the Home Islands.

“I was lucky again because then President Harry Truman dropped the atomic bomb on Hiroshima in 1945. I didn’t have to go to China. I spent a year in Japan with the Army of Occupation and then came back to UNL and got my engineering degree in 1948,” he explained.

“During my senior year, I had taken a few law courses for electives. After I took an engineering job with Sylvania, I decided to go back to school to get my law degree,” he said. He was named editor of The Nebraska Law Review, and earned his law degree in 1950 after which he went to In Washington, Lee White meets work for the Tennessee Bea Karp, a friend from Omaha.

Valley Authority in that same year.

White moved to Washington, D.C. in 1954 because of his good friend and classmate, Theodore Sorenson of Nebraska, who was then Special Counsel to the President. From 1954 to 1955, White was assistant to Joseph P. Kennedy and a member of the Hoover Commission.

When Lee first met Senator John F. Kennedy, the future president wasn’t wearing any trousers. He had spilled ink on himself and his secretary was trying to get it out. Kennedy didn’t hire White at first because, he said, “You know, we have law schools in Massachusetts.”

It seems that Kennedy looked down on lawyers with degrees from UNL. White comments, “I never regretted having my law degree from UNL. The guys from Harvard, Yale and Columbia didn’t have better educations than I did.”

In May of 2008, White addressed the graduating law class and said, “I congratulate you for having earned a law degree but also for having earned it at Nebraska, an estimable institution, which I once described as the Yale of the Midwest because of its emphasis on public law.”

In 1954, White became a legislative assistant to Senator Kennedy. From 1957 to ’58, he served as counsel to the Senate Small Business Committee and later was an administrative assistant to Senator John S. Cooper. After Jack Kennedy’s election to the presidency in 1960, White

Lee White, who served as special counsel to President John F. Kennedy, is shown here with President Lyndon B. Joohnson in 1965. returned to the executive branch as special counsel.

White recalls that “in 1961, I was at a cocktail party for the new members of the Kennedy administration. I looked around the room -- there was Edward R. Murrow, Dean Rusk, and Douglas Dillon, Secretary of the Treasury. I couldn’t believe that I was there, too -a kid from North Omaha!”

As Assistant Special Counsel to the President, White worked directly under Special Counsel to the President, Ted Sorensen, and was responsible for a number of the administration’s programs. When Harris L. Wofford, Jr. left in 1962 for a position with the Peace Corps, White took over responsibility for coordinating civil rights policy for the White House.

White has a long list of anecdotes from his White House days, but one in particular stands out. “Kennedy made a speech in 1963 that Sorenson was dictating to a secretary. The police in Birmingham, Alabama, had attacked civil rights protesters with fire hoses and cattle prods. Kennedy went on the air and was reading the initial pages but Sorenson wasn’t keeping up,” White recalled. “The President finished the part Ted had already written and just went on to improvise.”

He remembers the day of the Kennedy assassination and trying to steer reporters away from the Oval Office.

He met Kennedy’s coffin at Andrews Air Force Base and helped to plan the funeral. Instead of having television trucks parked along Pennsylvania Avenue, he insisted that fixed cameras be installed so that vision of the funeral procession wouldn’t be obstructed.

White describes President Johnson’s press conferences as being “almost a work of art.” He was “Very shrewd and had a tremendous memory. He was also a little bit mean, vindictive and ornery,” White said. But Johnson kept him on staff. White served as associate special counsel to Johnson from 1963-65.

In 1966, White became chairman of the Federal Power Commission, a position that he held until ’69 when he left to return to private practice. He was campaign manager for Sargent Shriver during the ’72 campaign and from 1984-88, he was director of Central Hudson Gas and Electric Company.

In his address to the Nebraska Law School, White said, “Lucky breaks, as well as bad breaks, occur in life. There is no known procedure for becoming lucky -- although some have it in the gene package given them. But, it is most helpful to recognize a good break when it comes along and be prepared to move on it. Pay attention to what is going on around you and try to stay alert!”

Although White supported Hillary Clinton for president, he says of Barack Obama, “He is an extremely intelligent fellow and a great orator. He’s going to run into the Republican attack machine and I hope he withstands it. The Bush administration has been so bad that it looks like it should be a Democratic cakewalk. But guess what? I don’t think it is!”

September 26, 2008

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 27

Leadership and expertise go hand-in-hand on OPS Board

by GLORIA SHUKERT JONES What does it take for a girl from a small town in Iowa to become an elected official to the Omaha Public School Board of Education?

For Penny Sophir it took an interest in the schools her two daughters attended, and also in the educational system itself.

She took a chance, ran for this public office, and was elected. Since January of 1999, nearly 10 years, she has served three terms for OPS, sub-district 1, and chairs and/or serves on several of its committees. This is an unpaid, elected position, as school board members in Nebraska do not receive salaries.

“You do have to run for office; you have to campaign; you’re on the ballot and people elect you,” Sophir emphasized. “At Omaha Public Schools you are elected just for your district, whereas in other public school districts you are elected at large.” Sophir is the chairman of the Finance Legislation and Claims Committee.”

She graduated from Perry High School in Perry, Iowa, and attended Drake University in Des Moines. She then came to Omaha and worked as an executive secretary to the City Manager at United Airlines for 19 years. She was also a former administrative assistant for Howard Buffett when he had an office in Omaha.

She currently works for Ann Mactier, a former state school board member. This is an unrelated salaried position. Sophir’s other OPS involvement includes membership in the Curriculum, Americanism, Research and Evaluation committees.

She’s also a trustee on the OPS Retirement Board, which handles investments of over $1 billion for retired teach-

ers, and is a past vice president, and Director of the Nebraska Association of School Boards’ Legislation and Nominating Committees, a member of the Ponca Preservation Board and a former District Commissioner of the Ponca Pony Club.

When asked what her specific duties on the School Board are, Sophir noted, “We have Board of Education meetings every Monday, in the mornings and afternoons, and every other Monday we have evening meetings broadcast on TV. We usually give commencement addresses for graduations and we are invited to almost everything that every school in the OPS Districts has, as they appreciate our seeing what’s going on in their school.”

Sophir went on to say that what began as a part-time endeavor is almost a fulltime job. “I also represent Omaha Public Schools on the Nebraska Association of School Boards and I’m on their legislation and nominating committees. We write letters and call members of the Legislature, and sometimes go to Washington, D.C., to talk to them about issues involving education.” This goes on all year, even when school is out.

“When I first got on the Board, we passed a bond issue to redo our schools, and we did away with mandatory busing.

We gave our students the option to go to certain schools, as well as magnet schools that specialize in specific themes. This helps with diversity in our schools. That was quite a milestone for us. We’ve had people from all over the country visit our magnet schools and tell us how marvelous the schools are,” said Sophir.

“And of course now, we have the learning community coming into effect,” she

continued. “We’re very excited about the is an avid reader. They also have three dogs fact that we’ll have all the different school and three horses and are involved in a foxdistricts in one city, working together for hunting club. The Sophirs belong to all the kids.”

Temple Israel. Jess and She added, Lindsey attended Ponca “We discuss and Elementary, McMillan vote on absolMiddle School and North utely everything, High, prior to college. from what kind Sophir often goes into the of food the chilschools, and enjoys the plays dren are getting, and musical productions. the curriculum She noted the contrast going into the between the small schools schools, the disshe went to in Iowa and the cipline, extramuch larger schools her curricular actividaughters attended. ties, and of When asked if she ever course, you have Penny Sophir reads to children in OPS. watched election news proto be aware of what goes on in the Legis- grams, Sophir said she hardly ever watches lature and what is being mandated to you TV, except for the 10 o’ clock news. She on both state and Federal levels. It’s didn’t get involved in politics until she got involved and time-consuming.” on the Board of Education, and everyone I asked Sophir how she became inter- told her it was not a political office, per se. ested and she stated: “When I had chil“I think I disagree with them,” she said, dren, I got involved in their schools. I laughing. “It’s become very political; you served on the PTA, all kinds of commit- have to know what’s happening in state tees, was president at several schools, and and federal levels, and try to explain to spent a lot of time in the schools. When them what’s going on. It’s not intended the seat came up in my district, I wanted to be political, but I’m afraid it is!” to become even more involved and that’s Sophir takes a rather dim view of those when I decided to run for it.” who repeatedly seek a political office for Sophir and her husband, Jim, have been self-serving interests -- in other words to 31-year residents of Ponca Hills. “We “get a foot in the door”, or become love the hills, trees, land and wildlife,” she known. In her opinion, one must have a said. “It’s one of the best kept secrets in worthy goal or passion in order to pursue Omaha.” a seat on a Board of Education.

The Sophirs have two grown daughters; In Sophir’s case, it’s all about kids and Jess, married to Jeff Graunke, and Lindsey, enhancing their educational needs and who was married on Aug. 9 to Blaine opportunities. Her record indicates a proWestervelt. At the time of this interview, fessional life guided by these principles, Sophir was very busy planning the wed- which is undoubtedly her own secret to ding. She also does a lot of gardening and success.

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Page 28

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2008

Ask a busy person ...

Because Dr. Rennard travels often in his work, Barbara entity, certainly unheard of in their part of the world.

by BERT LEWIS The first time I heard about the organization called travels frequently with him. I understood her to say this And since the Rennards live just minutes away, she was League of Women Voters, I pictured mature ladies, means opportunities for Mom to pop in on the kids now able to host the Afghans, as well as students from other dressed in tailored suits, wearing “sensible” shoes and and then, while her husband is lecturing. When I parts of the world.

She loved telling me about the students from former large, unattractive hats. When I first met Barbara inquired about the doctor’s work, this is what she told Rennard I suddenly remembered an axiom that was me: “He is a world expert in COPD, which is Chronic Eastern Bloc countries who came to call and hear about taught to children in the past. It was: “don’t judge a Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. He is also an active the League. She said they sat and talked, but mostly lisbook by its cover.” Let me explain the story behind these researcher in smoking cessation, as well as emphysema tened in astonishment about the work a volunteer and asthma. He is a doctor, as well as the Larson organization does to educate citizens about their right remarks. (and duty) to vote.

Rennard had agreed to do an interview with me which Professor of Internal Medicine.”

Okay, back to Barbara, the girl originally from St. She speaks passionately about the importance of eduwould ultimately become this story. She graciously accepted an invitation to come to my house, where we Louis who was in college when she married in 1970, and cation and its future in the Omaha Public Schools. She managed to stay in one informed me the League of Women Voters was behind could first get acquainted, school or another until the two-year study examining all the possibilities, the then talk about her intershe graduated. Her hus- diverse ideas of the Learning Community, and also that esting community activiband was getting his edu- the League advocates at the state level. ties. At the appointed cation and they moved a I came away from our conversation knowing a great time on a warm July day, number of times, but she deal about the workings of the League -- more than I she pulled into my drivealways found a school that had ever imagined. Rennard could teach a class on the way in a red convertible, would allow her to fit in subject with her background of experience and enthusitop down, casually attired and continue studying asm. I’m certainly ready to become a member! in shorts and t-shirt.

At a later date, she confided to me that her favorite toward a degree.

My outdated mental In fact, it was in a city thing to do is quilting. Also, “puttering around” in her picture of the women in she didn’t recall, she first garden and studying piano, too. She didn’t explain suits and hats and sensible connected with the where she found the time for any of these pleasures, shoes faded instantly!

League. It was election since it appeared to me most of her time is taken with Suddenly, that old exprestime and she didn’t know working for the League and traveling with her husband; sion about judging a book maybe she’s the perfect where to go by its cover flashed on my example of that old adage exactly mental screen. I deleted it The entire Rennard family gathered recently in Omaha; Barbara is or seated second row left holding the youngest of seven grandchil- how to go that says when you want immediately. something done, give it about the Barbara Rennard was dren, while husband Steve is standing in the back at the left. to a busy person to do. unsure she had anything interesting enough to tell me business of voting. She learned there was an So when the National that could evolve into an article for the Jewish Press. She organization that could help her, contacted Council of Jewish Women told me, “I’ve read those stories about people; they’re it and read its Voter’s Guide along with needed a vice president of well known and do lots of things of interest.” She went some other valuable information.

Education and Programon to try to convince me she had nothing for that cateAfter that she always maintained a conming for Omaha Section, gory. nection with the League and after moving they asked Rennard and Gently I worked to change her mind and as we talked here to Omaha, she was invited to join the Nancy Jacobson to coand got acquainted, I found I was visiting with a very local chapter. Her great interest in the work bright, vivacious human dynamo. My plan had been to of the League has kept her faithful and in Barbara Rennard hosted students from chair the position. Last spring, the women make her work with the League of Women Voters the fact, she served two years as President plus Afghanistan recently. brought a group of politimain thrust of the story, since politics was the theme of some additional time in another board cal candidates together for a forum at the Jewish the issue. However, as we talked and she told me about capacity.

Barbara can talk for hours about the work of the Community Center prior to the May primary. herself, I came to understand that while the League is a Barbara Rennard is indeed, a very busy person. She has League and the importance of the role it plays , particubig part of her life, it’s only one part.

Her central role appears to be the wife of an extreme- larly in this or any election year. This non-partisan group arranged her priorities and obviously worked out an ly busy physician who also lectures, does research, sits on has been educating the public on issues affecting every- agenda that finds a time slot for each item. Clearly, she many boards and travels extensively. (More about Dr. one, since 1920. In fact, they will provide a program or believes whole heartedly in the principles outlined by the Steven Rennard later.) In addition to her partnership, speakers to address an organization or a club, at no cost. League of Women Voters. They are awe inspiring.

If, one day, there should be a contest seeking the most Barbara spoke about a visit from a group of young she’s the mom of eight grown children and seven grandchildren. The children range in age from 20 to 35, and people from Afghanistan who were at the University of exemplary citizen in the community, I would propose Rennard’s name without hesitation. And I’ll bet she’d as in many families these days, are scattered around the Nebraska-Omaha for a period of study.

They found the League to be an almost unbelievable win, hands down. country.

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 29

College student wants to repair world

by JOAN K. MARCUS Ronald Reagan, a Republican, was president of the United States when Shayna Kurland was born in 1987.

Shayna has wonderful memories of Friday nights at B’nai Israel Synagogue in Council Bluffs and Saturday mornings at Beth El in Omaha. Her Bat Mitzvah extended across the river, too, with Friday night in Iowa and Saturday morning in Omaha.

Her parents, Sandra and Above: Shayna Kurland helped organize the Ames office for Allen Kurland, made sure Sen. Hillary Clinton’s presidential campaign. Above right: that their family retained Kurland meets former President Bill Clinton, and right, works on their allegiance to Iowa Gov. Chet Culver’s campaign with former Governor Tom Vilsack. while keeping up their teenage social lives at BBYO and inspiring to hear her speak.

USY. Shayna’s two older brothers, Ruvane and Mendel, She is such a good role model for women,” Shayna were equally as active in Omaha.

“Judaism is and was very important to my family. I says.

“I need to find what I grew up in a traditional Jewish family. My father was a school principal and my mother was at home when she want to do and then figure wasn’t helping with synagogue activities. I was the only out how to make money from it. It isn’t just politics but Jewish person at Abraham Lincoln High School in it’s creating a difference and making change. By working on different campaigns and helping get people elected, Council Bluffs,” Shayna told the Jewish Press.

Because there were no Jewish teenagers at her high school, Shayna made a special effort to come to Omaha for, as she calls them, “Jewish things.”

She says, “My parents raised me to be caring and compassionate. Although they were politically informed, they didn’t tell me what to believe. When I was younger, they took me to every possible activity so that I had a very broad range of interests.

Shayna was disappointed she wasn’t old enough to vote in the Kerrey-Bush election. “The first election that I was eligible to vote in was the primary for the gubernatorial election in Iowa. It was a big event in our family because my mother took my picture out in front of the polling place,” she smiled. “It is so exciting to be able to vote.”

During high school, Shayna always tried to get her friends involved in politics. Although she wasn’t even old enough to vote, she held election parties during election years. She volunteered and worked on campaigns long before she was old enough to vote.

“The Iowa government has a shadowing program where high school students can follow politicians,” Shayna explained. “I loved being on the ‘floor’ of the legislature where I learned about various bills.”

Since being active in politics requires chutzpah or nerve, Shayna took matters into her own hands and spoke with Christy Vilsack, the former first lady of Iowa.

It was a simple request that Shayna made, “Can I meet with your husband, Tom, the governor?”

She was not only granted the meeting, but she went to the Iowa State Fair with Governor Vilsak. She says, “We visited on the car ride there and then we walked around to the various press conferences. I got to see, first hand, a day in the life of a governor and it was really exciting!”

In 2005, Shayna graduated from high school and went on to attend Iowa State University at Ames. During her freshman year, she worked as a volunteer for Chet Culver, the current governor of Iowa. “I want to just go where the wind blows me. With political science as my major, I figure that I can make a difference in the world by working on a campaign or doing non-profit work. I’ll do whatever it takes to accomplish my goal,” Shayna adds.

She is currently president of the Young Democrats organization at Iowa State and her activities extend to being president of her campus Hillel Chapter. She also worked as deputy field organizer for Curt Meyers, a candidate for the United States House of Representatives.

Her duties included recruitment of volunteers, strategy planning and voter outreach.

In 2007, Shayna helped to open the Ames office for Hillary Clinton. As an intern for credit, she worked about 20 hours each week to set up the office. During her time there, she personally met many times with the former First Lady and also met her husband, former President Bill Clinton.

Shayna says of the former First Lady, “At all of her events, she wanted to stay longer and meet with people.

Security had to keep pulling her away because they needed to get het to other events. She was always eager to stay and hear what the people had to say. It was always

I’ve reached out to thousands of people. I like to be able to talk to people about the issues that they’re interested in. Being able to take messages back to the candidates makes a difference,” she says.

She considers her political views to be liberal and progressive.

“Sometimes, when you label someone to be liberal, people think of you as a hippie. The most important issues to me are those that involve social justice -- things like welfare, gay marriage and a woman’s right to choose,” Shayna explains. “I don’t think it’s a good idea just to have one party in charge. You need compromise from both sides.”

She concludes by adding, “It’s kind of like tikun olam or repairing the world. It’s my upbringing that has taught me to try to fix so many problems in the world. Change has been the key word in this election but, to me, there‘s a lot of repairing that needs to be done. A lot of people are suffering because of poverty and lack of health care.”

According to this young college student, “There will be work to be done until all the suffering is gone!”

Page 30

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2008

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Veteran campaigner’s support of candidates goes from local to national

by GLORIA SHUKERT JONES worked on entitlement reform, immigraIn order to achieve permanent success tion and social services,” she said, describin one’s life pursuit, a key ingredient, ing the experience as “extraordinary.” aside from hard work and dedication, is At the same time, Cohen-Dunning was putting one’s heart and soul into it. That getting two masters: one in social work exactly describes Toba Cohen-Dunning, and the other in public administration. who has spent a major part of her life Then when Sen. Kerrey decided to retire, campaigning for Democratic candidates. she was offered a job at Boys Town It all began when Ted Kennedy’s cam- Research Hospital and traded the political paign for the presidency came to Omaha. arena for public administration. She also Cohen-Dunning was only in the eighth added there were a lot of smaller camgrade at that time.

She explains: “I remember the day my mother came after school and said, ‘No field hockey today. We’re going to Ted Kennedy’s campaign.’ She was very interested in getting the Jewish community involved, and that’s how it started. And after that, when Gary Hart ran for president, he had a small contingency here in Nebraska, and I got very involved in that.

She added, “But the Toba Cohen-Dunning worked for Bob Kerrey, left, on his gubernatocampaign I was most rial and senate campaigns. Dunning received an award for organexcited about and worked izing a White House conference on drugs and illegal immigration in on the hardest was that of Nebraska with Jerry Heinauer and Michael Went of INS (now incorGov. Mike Dukakis. I porated into the Department of Homeland Security). went to eight states over the course of a paigns she worked on concurrently duryear and a half, when I was a senior in col- ing her tenure with Sen. Kerrey. lege. The one condition my parents “My family worked on Ed Zorinsky’s insisted upon, in order to allow me to do campaigns when he ran for mayor and the all that traveling, was that I finish college U.S. Senate, and of course, every time on time and do well, which I did. It was Bob Kerrey ran for an office I worked on very interesting and lots of fun. And then his campaigns. When Cece Zorinsky ran Kitty Dukakis offered me a job in the for Congress, I was very passionate about governor’s office in Massachusetts, which her campaign, too. We have been so forof course I had to decline, but it was a tunate here in Nebraska to have had, and most amazing experience.” continue to have, so many incredible When she graduated from college Democrats, especially Ben Nelson and shortly thereafter, she got on a plane to Mike Fahey, both to whom I’ve devoted Washington, D.C. for a six-week intern- an enormous amount of time, and will ship in Senator James Exon’s office, continue to do so in one way or another,” which turned into a six-year position. she said.

“My starting salary when I finally got When asked if she has worked on the hired was $14,000 a year. And let me tell current presidential campaigns, Cohenyou, that didn’t go very far in 1989, but Dunning stated: “Well, I was a Hillary it changed my life forever,” she smiled. supporter. Actually, I was a John Edwards “I did everything from editing letters, to supporter first, and I was so hopeful that eventually becoming a legislative corre- Edwards would do better than he did. But spondent, and working on all sorts of leg- now I’m one of the Obama supporters.” islative issues such as the Federal Budget, She continued: “While we are generally taxation policy, social services and immi- conservative in this state, I think people gration,” she said. “Then I got a job offer on the whole are looking for a change. I in my sixth year, to come back to think this is a year you will see a lot Nebraska to work for Bob Kerrey on enti- change in Congress, and even in local tlement reform. He was really passionate government. From the lower-elected offiabout revising the Social Security system.” cials to the top, I think it’s a season of As a Democrat, Cohen-Dunning really change.” didn’t want to work for any House repreWhile acknowledging that Nebraska is sentatives, most of whom were traditionally a Republican state, CohenRepublican. At that time, Senators Exon Dunning did observe that in Douglas and Kerrey were together. “I chose Sen. County, Democrats are growing in strong Exon’s office, because he had the experi- numbers, and that the polls will see ence, and it was a wonderful learning younger voters and more women voters opportunity. When my daughter is ready, in the general election. She agreed that when she’s a sophomore in college some this is one of the most historic presidenday, she will be filling out those applica- tial elections in recent years. tions to go to Washington. You know, it Cohen-Dunning said: “Every Demoisn’t just the House and the Senate. Many cratic candidate was an agent for change. of the interns who went through Senator Hillary inspired women to break the glass Exon’s office, went on to internships at ceiling and get out there and really look the State Department, and all sorts of at issues that are important to them. government agencies.”

Barack Obama inspired young people, Cohen-Dunning then emphasized the and John Edwards inspired a diverse plight of the farmers in our state, which is group of people.” an important issue to Nebraskans.

All together, Cohen-Dunning has spent “Everyone thinks of entitlements as only over 25 years blazing campaign trails Social Security, but then you also have to while enduring hardships, traveling extenthink of what the farmers depend on. So sively, and doing all of this without pay. for six years after returning to Nebraska, I Continued on page 31

September 26, 2008

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 31

Veteran campaigner supports candidates

Continued from page 30 make changes, is to educate kids She remarked: “My father regardless of what political affiliation would have really appreciatthey choose. You have to tell them ed a paid position on the why current events are so important, Dukakis campaign. I traveled and how the government is run.” so much. But you know, She added, “That’s what is so great campaigns have to survive about the internships you can have on a volunteer basis. They with your congressional representahope that you’ll be so excittives and senators. These are real jobs ed about their message, that that make real differences. They are you’ll be willing to sleep on a not high-paying jobs, but they are floor. I slept on more floors essential. And you have to remember in more farm houses for that when you’re working for these Mike Dukakis -- all over the officials, you have to represent their country,” she laughed. views, and not necessarily your own.

“That’s what it takes -For example, Jim Exon and Ben supporters to open up their Nelson have a lot of Republican views, homes, and campaigners’ and that’s what the people of Nebraska willingness to go without want.” sleep, without showers, and In discussing Clinton’s close race for give their all to make a dif- Toba Cohen-Dunning traveled extensively during the Democratic nomination, Cohenthe 1980 presidential campaign, working for Gov. Dunning pondered on what it was that ference.”

Cohen-Dunning did agree Michael Dukakis (D-MA). brought voters out in record numbers, that all the travel took money, even before today’s econ- particularly women, who went from being ambivalent omy, but somehow she’s been able to manage it, as have about elections to becoming staunch, excited supporters. many others, in order to support their candidates. She She concurred that it wasn’t just because Senator remembered seeing new faces at the campaigns, people Clinton was a woman, but rather due to her enthusiasm that never were interested in politics before. in addressing women’s concerns-- long relegated to the A very important goal for Cohen-Dunning is to get back seat-- and health care reform issues, that produced her children involved in politics and current events. She her overwhelming votes. alluded to the time her mother got her working in the She also mentioned former President Bill Clinton’s Kennedy campaign, and stated: “We’ve done the same role in his wife’s campaign, and observed that although thing with our six- and-a half-year-old daughter, he was a great president, and had good intentions, he Eleanor. She knows who Hillary Clinton is. She handed didn’t show his best side in her campaign, and this may out leaflets at Tom Harkin’s steak fry!” have ultimately cast a shadow on her chances of winning.

In the Cohen-Dunning home, the political rhetoric Throughout my entire meeting with Cohen-Dunning, has not fallen on deaf ears. While her mother explained she spoke very highly of the Democratic candidates she to young Eleanor why she thought Hillary Clinton has worked for in the past. She had praise for Ben Nelson would be the best president, her father was telling her referring to him as, “a really great guy, a great represenwhy Barack Obama would be the best president. tative of Nebraska, and has served the state well.”

One day during primary season, and following a classShe added, “And Bob Kerrey-- it was magic working room discussion of current events, Eleanor raised her for him. The man stood on his own right and didn’t hand and told her teacher, “I come from a divided kowtow to public opinion. He voted for what he household. My mother is for Hillary Clinton, and my believed in. It was fantastic working for him. He is very, dad is for Obama.” very talented.”

“I don’t think you can ever start kids too young.

She recalled her days working for Sen. Exon. “His They’re the future. If you don’t get your kids involved, office director used to work for Vice President Hubert or children in general, how do you ever expect them to Humphrey, so she’d come from the White House. There want to make change?” Cohen Dunning posed. was a level of discipline I’d never seen in my life. It was “So if I have one message, it’s to get the younger gen- fantastic! It’s really extraordinary to be able to work for eration involved. I don’t mean just kids in college or your home state in a congressional office. There’s nothhigh school. I was president of the Young Democrats at ing like it! I loved it! I loved every minute of it!”

Creighton for four years, when it wasn’t very popular to While singing these praises, Cohen-Dunning’s eyes be a Democrat back in the ’80s. But the only way you would light up, and she radiated enthusiasm. Her love of

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campaigning has permeated every facet of her life. She went on to say, “I met my husband, Eric Dunning, at the Young Democrats. We named our daughter after Eleanor Roosevelt. We just had a baby boy six weeks ago, and we named him Teddy, even though Theodore Roosevelt was a Republican.”

When I asked if Cohen-Dunning ever aspired to run for a political office herself, she stated: “No, I was never really interested in that. But I love the excitement of helping a candidate or an elected official. I don’t think people realize that when an official has an effective staff, what a difference it makes. There’s excitement that’s unparalleled when you help a family that couldn’t get a visa, or that is losing their farm, or whatever else the case may be.”

While Cohen-Dunning’s priorities at this time are being a wife and mother, her interest in the political scene has not waned, but she says, “It was different when I was single, but now I’m married and have children. And the thing that differentiated me was that Sen. Exon always said our greatest export was our children. I never forgot this,” she insisted.

“So I returned to Nebraska after my six years of having had a wonderful opportunity. Then Kerrey’s office offered me the job here. I wouldn’t have changed anything, because in life, all these things lead up to what it is that makes you whole. So for me, it’s the Jewish community, my family, and my job. And I wouldn’t trade any of it,” she added.

Cohen-Dunning is presently employed by a non-profit organization, the Omaha Schools Foundation, “which raises money for things the tax dollars don’t pay for,” she says. “When kids get out of their neighborhood and go on field trips and see the outside world, there’s a change in the child’s life. So for me, everything about politics and education in the non-profit world is, how do you impart these important issues to the kids?”

At the time of this interview, she was on the countdown days of her six-week maternity leave.

“Six wonderful weeks,” she said, “to be with Teddy and Eleanor, but I go back to work on Monday.” She added, “We’re building playgrounds for elementary schools that don’t have the money, and we just gave out over $300,000 in scholarships for our OPS kids. That’s what makes a difference, that somebody can go to college, who wouldn’t be able to do so otherwise.”

When I commented on those humanitarian efforts, Cohen-Dunning replied: “I love what I do! I love it! You know, it’s really important to me that Teddy and Eleanor have some of the same opportunities that my husband, Eric, and I have had. He grew up a Democrat with very Democratic parents in a very Democratic family in Lincoln, and Eric converted to Judaism, finishing his Continued on page 33

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Page 32

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2008

Freedom road

by LEO ADAM BIGA Retired Douglas County Court Judge Samuel V. Cooper’s immigrant parents always told him anything is possible in America. They were living proof. Sam, too. Like them, he came from “the old country,” and like they did he’s taken what America’s offered and made the most of it.

His success as a lawyer, as a Democratic Party operative and as a judge fulfilled the family’s dream of becoming productive American citizens. His life became the embodiment of the Great American Ideal he once wrote a prize-winning essay about. None of it would have happened without his family having the courage of their convictions and leaving totalitarian Europe for freedom in the United States.

He said his father, Martin Cooper, made his way here after escaping the turmoil of war-torn Europe. Martin (Mayer) was a Russian Army conscript in World War I and was taken prisoner by the Austrian-Hungarian Army.

Once released, he yearned to follow his brother Harry to America. Harry ended up in Omaha, where he built his own successful construction company. His Cooper Construction Co. built the old Beth Israel and Beth El Synagogue buildings.

But before Martin made the leap he first settled in Chelm, Poland. That fateful move led to him meeting his future wife, Ida (Chaya), who operated a candy store. The couple married and began a family. Their two oldest children, Jack and Sam, were born in Chelm.

Memories of Chelm are still with Cooper. How, for instance, his family lived in an apartment complex with a central courtyard that contained a common

well from which residents drew water.

Cooper said his father could no longer ignore the itch to find something better and, so, in 1924 he embarked on a new start for the family by going on ahead of them to America. In classic immigrant tradition he planned to establish himself in some trade and then send for his wife and kids to join him. No one could have imagined how long it would take for the family to be reunited.

Martin worked for a time with his brother in the construction company but found his niche in the grocery business, said Cooper. One of the stores Cooper’s father worked for was Tuchman Brothers.

With $500 his father saved, Cooper said, the enterprising man opened his own grocery store at 21st and St. Mary’s Avenue. By 1929, nearly six years after leaving his family in Poland, Cooper’s father finally saved enough to buy passage for his wife and two sons.

The image of saying goodbye to friends and schoolmates at the seder he attended is still fresh in Cooper’s mind. He recalls sailing on the S.S. Leviathan, in steerage, and arriving in New York. After a few days there a train took him, Jack and their mother to Omaha. He recalls nobody was at Union Station to meet them. A taxi took them to the address Martin had sent. The reunited family was the subject of stories and photos in the Omaha World-Herald and the Omaha Bee News.

If they had stayed in Poland just a few more years they might well have become victims of the Holocaust. Family that remained behind were never heard from again.

Sam was only eight years old when he arrived in Omaha. He and his family lived

Judge Samuel Cooper in back of the store.

His parents had little formal education, he said, but were quite literate and wellinformed. He said his father was “very well read” and read The Forward religiously. The radio, of course, had news about world events and he was very up on that.” As his father “felt his foreignness,” he said his dad took pains to improve his English and thereby better assimilate.

Growing up, Cooper worked in his father’s store.

He said his mother was “a simple woman” who had small aspirations for him -- desiring only that he find some stable work, perhaps a store of his own. She spoke of nothing high falutin, such as the law.

Besides, where would the money come from to study a profession in college?

Cooper was a good student at Mason Grade School, where he received special help with his English language skills. He got so proficient so fast he became editor

of a mimeographed school newspaper. The oratory abilities that would help make him a lawyer and, later, a judge, found him serving as emcee during the dedication for a school addition. But it was at Central High School where he really shined.

Active in speech and debate, his coach encouraged Cooper to enter a national essay contest conducted by the Ladies Auxiliary of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

His entry, entitled “The Benefits of Democracy,” swept local, regional and national honors, earning Cooper a $1,000 grand prize that he used to pay his way through Omaha University. He wrote the essay at a pivotal, anxious time in world history.

It was 1940. Nazi Germany was on the march. Great Britain was under siege. The entire world would soon be at war. Most agonizingly for Cooper, Jews were being persecuted back in the country of his birth.

In a fervid paean to his adopted homeland, the young patriot expressed his love for America and its democratic ideals, contrasting the freedom he and his family enjoyed here with the tyranny they would have otherwise faced abroad.

“Democracy to me is not something abstract and far off. It is with me at home, on the street, at school ... It is like the very air I breathe. We do not have to sit on a special bench, nor wear a certain type of clothing ... None of us need fear that somebody will report us to a storm trooper. We can read any book, newspaper or magazine that is published and they are not censored. We can go to sleep at night and be assured that we will not Continued on page 33

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Freedom road

Continued from page 32 of $50 a month and office space.” He be awakened and be certainly wasn’t getting rich in law. dumped across a border.

Indeed, he was barely getting by.

We can awake in the Things were tight, especially after he morning and hear footmarried the former Judith Steinhorn of steps and know it is the Dallas and the couple started a family. milkman, not the Things weren’t much more lucrative gestapo.” after he, Norm Denenberg and Ed Clearly, for Cooper, the Mullery formed their own law firm. unfolding tragedy in “I think we took any type of law busiEurope was not an abstract ness we could get, including divorces, or remote problem. filings for bankruptcy, drunk driving Although his parents were cases,” Cooper said. not political, he said they, He first entered politics in the midtoo, followed what hap1950s. His abiding love for the demopened. He said his father cratic process and current events led “did get involved with him into that rarefied sphere. some of the newly arrived “I got interested in politics,” is how people. They met like on he simply puts it.

Saturdays and discussed Helping spur his interest were his things -- the news especialstruggles making ends meet as a lawyer.

Judge Sam Cooper in chambers. ly. He also helped a lot of “I had time on my hands,” he said. refugees after the Holocaust to get settled.”

“The law practice wasn’t going that great ...” The Economics intrigued Cooper while at Omaha U., but opportunity was there to give back to America and he the practical side of him ruled the field out when, he chose to take it. said, he discovered “you can’t make a living at it.” His “In the early years I ran for the original City Charter studies were soon disrupted by the war. Drafted in the Convention that we’re operating under now in Omaha,” Army in 1943 he ended up in the Quartermaster Corps, he said. “There must have been about 75 candidates serving in England and Belgium. After Germany’s defeat running for 15 positions. The idea was to write up a in early 1945 he and fellow servicemen were on a ship modern charter. We met several times. We hired an that sailed through the Panama Canal to the Philippines. expert who had done it in other places.”

They were en route to the South Pacific to supply troops One of the features, by the way, he added, was “we for the planned invasion of Japan. placed in the charter a provision requiring the mayor to When the atomic bombs were detonated over appoint a review committee at least once every 10 years Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the world’s bloodiest war final- to assess if any alterations were needed in the charter. ly came to an end. A few months later Cooper headed And I got appointed to two subsequent Omaha Charter home.

Study Conventions.”

Inspired by a friend from his youth who became a The first time around, in the ’50s, he said, “I guess I lawyer Cooper used the GI Bill of Rights to study law at was one of the younger members of the convention.” By Creighton University, where he completed an accelerat- his second time around, in the mid-’60s, he was a vetered program that saw him get his degree in two years. an politico who’d done his share of canvassing and camThis Jew delighted in the Jesuit rigor he found at paigning. “I worked for the Democratic Party on behalf Creighton. of Adlai Stevenson, who was sort of a hero of mine. He “I enjoyed the intellectual atmosphere. Most of the sounded so well in his oratory.” professors would stir up something in your mind.”

Cooper beat the bushes on voter registration drives To this day he feels indebted to the framers of the GI and getting people out to vote for the Democratic tickBill for giving him the opportunity to complete his high- et. Twice Stevenson opposed Dwight Eisenhower in the er education and enter a profession that became his presidential general election and twice he lost. The egg career. He takes offense to any suggestion that, for head couldn’t defeat the war hero. Cooper said the example, the Social Security Act was the greatest legisla- dichotomy of the candidates then reminds him of the tion ever passed. “The GI Bill is a little bit above that,” current presidential race that pits an intellectual dove in he’ll tell you.

Democrat Barack Obama against a war hero hawk in Upon passing the bar Cooper first practiced law with Republican John McCain.

Joe Friedenberg. As the courts’ Referee in Bankruptcy Election nights particularly appealed to Cooper.

Friedenberg appointed the young attorney Trustee, Whether his candidate won or lost, it was the culminawhich meant Cooper dealt with creditors and collected tion of the democratic process in action. Besides, he said, assets from those filing bankruptcy, netting him $5 for he enjoyed the party atmosphere on those electric nights each case he cleared. He applied his fee toward his office full of anticipation and excitement. The hopes and rental. Later, attorney Loyal Kaplan tabbed Cooper to efforts of weeks of work came to a head. join him in a practice dealing with interstate and Omaha lawyer and political boss Bernie Boyle introintrastate commerce applications for truckers’ routes. duced Cooper to then-Nebraska Governor Ralph Cooper next joined Jack Marer for “a whopping sum Continued on page 34

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 33

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America Decides 2008: JEWS AND POLITICS

Veteran campaigner

feel it’s no different than Continued from page 31 teaching our kids about the conversion about the first of rich traditions of Judaism. I this year with Rabbi Levin, also want to add how grateand Rabbi Kripke was there, ful I am for the support and too.” encouragement of my pheShe added that Eric was nomenal family throughout very excited about it. “He my campaign pursuits.” studied for several years, and She added, “My wonderful also took Hebrew lessons brother, Dr. Michael Cohen, from Rabbi Gross. So now was especially supportive, we both share the same reliand my mother, Jane Cohen, gious values, as well as politiis the one who got me startcal ones, even though during ed in all this, in the first the primaries, Eric leaned place. My father, of blessed toward Obama, while I supported Hillary. But when Eric Dunning and Toba Cohen-Dunning with daughter, memory, the late Jack E. Cohen, was always so proud Hillary got out of the race, Eleanor, and son, Teddy.

Eleanor came up to me, patted me on the arm and said, of me. I feel very fortunate to have had such an ongoing ‘It’s okay, mama. Now we all have to be for Obama.’ And support team. I could never have made it without I said jokingly, ‘Where is your father? I’m sure you’ve been them.”

Even though this inveterate Democratic supporter has brainwashed!’” she smiled.

“I wish all children would get as excited as Eleanor now shifted gears toward family obligations, she remains does,” Cohen-Dunning concluded, “She knows who steadfast in wanting her children to experience the joys George Bush is, and she knows how happy we are that of involvement in campaigns and politics -- the same we’ll be getting a new president. So for better or worse, legacy that has shaped her own life for many years, she’s going to have a very rich life in current events. I charging it full blast with energy and inspiration.

Happy Rosh Hashanah

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Fighting for education

by JOAN K. MARCUS Bob Evnen is a “big shot lawyer” in Lincoln but you’d never know it if you talked to him. He spends a lot of his time advocating for children and education. He was born in Sioux City in 1952 and, his parents, Elaine and Everett Evnen, moved to Lincoln when he was very young. His father founded Lincoln Poultry and Egg. The family became members of Tifereth Israel Synagogue in Robert B Evnen Lincoln, where they have always been very active. “My parents were never politically active in the community. They took an active role in the leadership of the synagogue, but didn’t care about politics,” he said.

Bob’s uncle, Stanley Kessler, a rabbi in West Hartford, Connecticut, became a role model for him. “I have a picture in my office of him marching, shoulder to shoulder, with Martin Luther King, Jr. in the 1960s,” he said.

At Southeast High School in Lincoln, Bob was mostly interested in journalism, drama and broadcast radio.

He worked at radio station KLIN in Lincoln as a newscaster, but decided that in order to make the world a better place, he needed to study law.

“In 1969 or so, the story was starvation in Biafra and as a high school student, I was concerned,” he recalled.

So he organized a fundraiser to contribute to food relief. He got the kids to donate during their lunchtime.

“I hung pictures of starving children and raised $300.

I wanted to improve things in some little way.”

In 1970, Evnen graduated from high school and went on to Michigan State University where he graduated with a bachelor of arts in social science in 1974. His areas of study were philosophy, political science and

psychology. “It was a real education living in Michigan after being brought up in Nebraska. The economy in Michigan is very industrial and heavily recession-sensitive. The economy in Nebraska is very steady,” he explained.

“When you move into a state where the economies are so immensely different, it is a great education. It exposed me to different attitudes, different ways of thinking and different ways of looking at the world.

When I was a junior, and trying to decide what I wanted to do next, I thought that I could either be a disc jockey,” he smiled, “or go to law school.”

During college, he campaigned for George McGovern and in 1971, he went to Washington, D.C., and marched against the war. He says, “I marched with hundreds of thousands of other kids.

My politics have changed since then.”

His law career began with school at the University of Southern California College of Law in Los Angeles. He was a member of Southern California Law Review and came back to Nebraska to be a clerk for Attorney General Paul Douglas.

Of that, Bob says, “It was an absolutely marvelous legal experience for me. He was a terrific leader, a fun guy to be around, a likeable man. The morale in the office was high; people loved working there and they loved working for him. As a law student and a clerk, I got to be a part of that.”

He described the state capitol as probably the most beautiful building in the state. “I had the sense I was doing something of value because I was contributing to the people of Nebraska. That was very satisfying!”

In 1977, Evnen graduated and went to work for a large downtown Los Angeles law firm as a labor and employment attorney representing management. At that time Jerry Brown was the governor of California.

According to Bob, “My politics through college and law school and as a young lawyer were those of a liberal Democrat. But Jerry Brown and Jimmy Carter changed all that for me. I felt that Brown betrayed the people who voted for him. I thought Carter would give us a fresh start. Instead, we got this horrible mess.”

Contnued on page 35

Freedom road Continued from page 33 Brooks, who was responsible for Cooper becoming further entrenched in the political apparatus when he appointed the up-and-comer Douglas County Election Commissioner.

“That was a fun job,” Cooper said. Again, he most fondly recalls the election night buzz that prevailed as ballot boxes came in and the results tallied. His wife made things homey by bringing in pans of baked chicken and all the fixings to tide Sam and his staff over as they worked into the wee hours.

Asked what he thinks of the ballot irregularities that have surfaced in recent U.S. general elections. he said, “We didn’t have any of those problems” under his watch at city hall. The controversy attending the disputed Florida results did not happen when Cooper presided over a recount here. When illness forced incumbent John Rosenblatt to retire in ’61, the mayoral race came down to a dead heat between Jim Green and James Dworak. Green lost by a slim margin -- a few hundred votes, Cooper recalled. The law required a recount. Cooper oversaw the process and he said the result “came pretty close to that same number.” End of story.

Cooper’s calm, cool demeanor and professionalism in that potentially volatile situation would become his trademark.

In 1964, Cooper once again took a leadership position within his party by serving as Douglas County Democratic Party Chairman, an experience he termed “great.” He said that year’s state convention “was one of the finest conventions we’ve seen here.” President John F. Kennedy had been assassinated the year before and as a memorial Cooper had printed “a sort of farewell” salute with photos and sayings of the slain leader of the free world.

By the fall of ’68 the nation was reeling from the assassinations of three more leaders who inspired hope -Malcolm X, Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert Kennedy. Civil unrest plagued many big cities. Anti-war protests mounted. Amid this incendiary backdrop the rancorous Democratic National Convention unfolded in Chicago, where youth demonstrators were brutally dispersed by city boss Mayor Richard Daley’s thug police force outside the convention hall.

Cooper was there as an alternate delegate -- not in the melee on the streets but inside the contentious, smokefilled convention that finally nominated Hubert Humphrey. Chicago wasn’t his first national convention but it was his most memorable. While he didn’t witness any overt violence with his own eyes, he said the wire mesh covering the windows of the bus that transported him and fellow delegates from the hotel to the hall was a stark symbol of the discord.

“We didn’t see much of the demonstrations going on,” he said. “We heard about it; speakers talked about it.”

Reform legislation in the Nebraska Unicameral aimed at modernizing the county court system resulted in Cooper throwing his hat in the ring with other lawyers vying for a spot on the bench. Cooper won election in ’72 and later was retained. He said James Moylan was “very helpful in my election.”

Wearing the judge’s robe seemed a good fit for Cooper. “When the opportunity came along,” he said, ‘it looked like steady money coming in and I thought I’d like the position. People said I had the temperament for it, and I think I did. I’d listen to both sides fairly and try to do the right thing in the case.

Did he enjoy the position as much as he thought he might? “Yes, very much so,” he said, adding he liked “the contact with lawyers and the contact with cases themselves.”

The country court’s “high volume” docket kept things humming. “I mean, we didn’t shy away from cases,” he said. “We had multiple jurisdictions. We had to get things done, which we did. We all kept busy. We had to be there at a certain time to start the court and to process the cases. On the other hand, we usually got through by 4:30 or something like that.”

He liked the variety of cases he presided over -- from criminal to civil to probate matters. Another judgeship, perhaps in a higher court, never interested him. After 32 years on the bench, he retired in 2005.

If his years on the bench taught him anything, he said, it’s that “it’s far more important to be fair than to be tough. It’s important not to lose patience, to listen and to give everybody a fair hearing.”

He still keeps his hand in the law by volunteering as a Continued on page 35

September 26, 2008

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 35

Freedom road

Fighting for education

Continued from page 33 mediator with the Douglas County Prosecutor’s office.

In a non-binding atmosphere he meets with parties embroiled in legal disputes to discuss their case, putting his skills for communication and deliberation to work, sometimes getting the two sides to settle out of court or to drop the matter all together.

One of his four children, son Justin Cooper, followed him into the profession. “It’s nice to have another lawyer in the family,” the proud papa said.

Some time ago Sam Cooper wrote down reflections about his life. The gratitude he expressed in middle-age is of a man who’s never grown cynical or bitter about the state of the nation that he loves.

“In looking back over those years I consider myself a very lucky person. Lucky to have missed the Holocaust in Poland. Lucky to have come to America, a country of great opportunity, a country that has been very good to me. Lucky to have missed being injured or killed in my Army years. Lucky to have been educated as a lawyer under the GI Bill ... Lucky to have become a judge, to have a loving wife, a happy marriage and four children who have grown into exceptional and successful adults and parents, and 11 grandchildren of whom I’m very proud to be my offspring,” he noted.

The man he’s become is very much what he imagined as a boy, when he wrote these words as a salute to the democratic ideals that offered him the opportunity to be whatever he wanted to be: “Democracy is much more than the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution and our laws ... It is beyond paper and ink. There is something about the American people that continually seeks freedom.

Perhaps it is our heritage and principles. Perhaps it is the ideals that have so long been embedded in our hearts.

Perhaps it is the realization that men can live together in peace and happiness. Whatever it is I am glad I might take part in these benefits ... I hope I can find my place in this American democracy.”

Sam Cooper found his place all right -- as a dedicated public servant and defender of liberty and justice for all.

At age 86, he lives the promise of America every day.

Continued from page 34 of labor and employment As he was driving cross law. He is a member of country to start law the Nebraska and school, Nixon had just California Bars and the resigned from the presiAmerican Bar Association. dency. “Here I was, tryHe also is a fellow of the ing to learn something Nebraska State Bar and become part of what Foundation, former chairI thought was an honorman of the Nebraska State able profession. And, one Bar Association Labor of the notable lawyers in and Employment Law the country was resigning Section. In addition, he is over improprieties in a former board member office. It was a disgrace,” of Nebraska Continuing he recalled.

Legal Education, Inc. Bob was discouraged Three years ago, Evnen when “Carter plunged us was appointed to the into more disaster.” It was Bob Evnen meets with Nebraska Gov. Dave Heineman, left.

Nebraska State Board of then that he became a Reagan Republican. Although his Education by Governor Dave Heineman. Now, he is on fundamental objectives had not changed, he came to a the ballot for reelection. He won the primary and hopes different understanding of how to arrive at his conclu- to be elected come November. sions.

That makes him “a constitutional officer of Nebraska” In 1979, Bob was flying from Los Angeles to Tucson and excited about events and trends in education. The for Thanksgiving. He was reading The Los Angeles Times position is non-paying. when a young woman walked up the aisle. “I noticed her “I believe that now is the time to examine our educabecause she was so pretty. As she walked by, she leaned tional standards and to develop a strategy that will preover as if to look at a headline on the paper. She sat pare today’s students to be competitive in the internadown in the seat in back of me and I turned around and tional world of commerce and science. America has been asked if she would like to borrow my paper. By the time successful in part due to the high value our society has we got off the plane, I had her phone number and things placed on education, and I am committed to continuing that tradition of excellence,” he explained. progressed from there,” he smiled.

“One of the things that we are working on in our state Evnen and the beautiful young woman, Debra Moss, were married in 1982 in Palos Verdes, California, over- is finding high ability learners in minority and underprivlooking the Pacific Ocean. Their son, Tom, was born in ileged populations. If we can identify them, and provide December of 1984. Today, Tom and his wife, Brittany, them with resources, we can help them excel. We can are teachers in Dallas. Julie, 20, is a junior at Kansas help support them and that word will go back to their University and Michael, 18, is a student at Corcoran communities and they can become role models.”

According to First District Congressman Jeff College of Art and Design in Washington, D.C. Debra and Bob decided that they needed to return to Fortenberry, “Bob Evnen’s command of the issues and Lincoln so that their children would be near family. Bob his commitment to education make him a great asset on is a partner in the law firm of Woods and Aitken. In his the Board. I hope that Nebraskans will join me in suppractice, he provides assistance to employers in all facets porting him.”

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From Our Family to Yours

Page 36

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2008

GOP delegate balances faith, family and frequent flying

the Darchai Menachem

by GLORIA SHUKERT JONES Yeshiva in Crown Though we are often Heights, “so now my admonished that politics and time is divided in two religion do not lend themselves to friendly discussions, places these days,” Dinah Abrahamson can do Abrahamson said, so with grace, respect and acknowledging that impartiality. She has the abilshe spends a lot of time ity to delve into sensitive traveling back and topics, such as mixed racial forth between Omaha concerns and bipartisan difand New York. ferences, with insight and “I’m an Omaha resirefreshing candor. dent, but I’m also keepFor example, Abrahamson ing house in New is often queried as to why York,” she explained, she is not a Barack Obama “and a few trips in supporter instead of a between to other places, Republican delegate, since with Washington, D.C., she and the Democratic thrown in.” presidential nominee have Dinah and Sarah Abrahamson meet First Lady Laura Bush and I asked Abrahamson somewhat similar back- President George Bush at the White House during Hanukkah, 2007. how she felt about havgrounds, both having had a black father, but raised by ing an almost constant itinerary, and always being on the white mothers and grandmothers who have had a major go for political and religious obligations, and to spend influence in their upbringing, and who are revered. time with her children.

Abrahamson merely laughs, and while acknowledging “Now that my children are older -- it didn’t happen those coincidental occurrences, points out major differ- when they were small,” she said, “I home-schooled both ences in their beliefs and values, which she considers to my children, so when they were young, we were more or be vital issues in this election. She indicates that people less Omaha-bound. And that’s probably what increased of biracial backgrounds generally choose the African- my political activities.”

American side of the coin.

Abrahamson then told how she got started in local Unlike the Illinois senator, Abrahamson is a Lubavitch politics which led to her present position as a delegate Jew, embracing both the ethnicity and faith of the mater- for the Republican party to its convention in St. Paul. nal aspect of the family into which she was born. And “I could jump on a campaign and take the kids. They according to Jewish tenets, if the mother is Jewish, so is actually grew up in the office of Hal Daub, who let them the child. She says, “Fortunately for me, I come from a have hands-on training even at three or four years old. warm Jewish background.”

His motto, which I share, is: ‘If you can’t do anything Abrahamson further noted, “We did an interview on but put paper in a shredder, you learn to do that.’ He July 4 at the NPR station about Lubavitch life and a lit- still remains my mentor today, a good family friend, and tle bit about politics. We covered our thoughts on hav- my closest confidante. He is called ‘Uncle Hal’ by my ing a biracial candidate for President, although I am sup- children, so he’s got the next generation to mentor,” porting John McCain.”

Abrahamson explained, referring to her daughter, Sarah, She added, “Until recently, I was a member of Beth and son, Yosef, who won a recent essay contest in New Israel for at least 15 years. Unfortunately, there is no York, entitled, “If I were Police Commissioner for a Lubavitch community here in Omaha. There is the Day”, and was featured in the New York Times.

Chabad House and Rabbi Katzman and his family, but Abrahamson went on to say that Daub had spoken to no Lubavitch community per se. My children actually Yosef about crime and proper procedures the police use grew up at Beth Israel. And now they’re both in Crown to control such situations, and feels that Daub was instrumental in helping Yosef win the contest. On the Heights, a Lubavitch enclave in Brooklyn, New York.”

Her daughter’s been there for six years. She went “Bring Your Daughter to Work” day, when he was through seminary, and now works at the Chabad Early mayor, Daub brought Sarah. She accompanied him to Learning Center in Manhattan. Dinah’s son studies at work and sat in on an interview with him.

Wishing You and Your Family a Happy & Joyous New Year!

Abrahamson remarked, “Being a single parent, I was very fortunate to have Hal and his wife, Mary, as my personal friends. He not only introduced me to the realm of politics, but also stepped up to the plate, and offered a lot of support there in helping me to raise my children.”

Abrahamson has been a Nebraska State seat holder for the Central Committee of the Republican Party, and a delegate for the last eight years. She further outlined some of her ideals, and what she considered important in choosing a presidential candidate.

“I guess it is really hard for the lay person to be able to discern and get through all the incidentals that are reported through the media, and get down to the real issues. Character, in my opinion, plays a huge part in who you’re going to put in your life, your family’s life, and in charge of the welfare of the country, usually that’s found by their voting records, and what they’ve actually done,” she said.

In referring to the Rev. Jeremiah Wright incident, Abrahamson reported being offended by any negative comments made against whites.

“I’m offended for myself, and for my mother, grandmother and great-grandmother’s sake. Being a Jew, when I go to the synagogue on Shabbat, I’m there to daven to Hashem, to G-d. That is not the place for a rabbi, whatever he may feel or believe, to bring out his personal agenda. If he is doing what he’s supposed to be doing, that’s leading me in prayer,” she said.

But she does remember the looks she, her grandmother and great-grandmother got when they were together.

“One of my favorite memories,” she recalled, “was getting on the bus and going downtown. We used to go to the tea room at Brandeis, my mother, grandmother and great-grandmother and I. I always had the hash with the Durkee sauce -- a real Jewish girl!”

She added, “I also remember at other times when we’d go places together, my great-grandmother would say to people, ‘This is my great-granddaughter. Isn’t she cute?’

And now as an adult, I wonder what people thought.

Here was this brown-skinned little girl with these three white women. Back then, it wasn’t a common sight. But it never occurred to me that I was any different. This was the family I was born into.”

Though Abrahamson has faced challenges, all other issues aside, it appeared that she was certainly raised with love.

“That’s the key,” she replied, “You get love and everything else disappears. You get down to the real issues.

My ethics, my values, the things I was raised with, and the things I was taught.”

Continued on page 45

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Kully helped develop campaigns from his Washington D.C. office until 2001, when he realized the importance of having a full time presence on the West Coast. He moved from one Washington to another, and founded the LKK Seattle Office, which he also directs.

Additionally, Kully acts as a producer, editor, cinematographer, and political strategist for his clients. To date, he has Dan Kully, left, directed a TV ad with Jon Tester in Judith Gap, Montana. Tester worked on campaigns in over 30 states went on to win the U.S. Senate seat in Montana.

Credit: Fran Dunaway for all types of positions. More than By the time he reached Westside High School, Kully’s anything, though, Kully wants to bring authenticity to interest in politics had developed into an undeniable pas- political races. sion. In 1992, during his senior year, Kully worked on “Voters are a lot smarter than most people give them Bob Kerrey’s presidential campaign. credit for”, he affirms. “My job is to tell the most real “I was just a lowly field volunteer,” recalls Kully. “But, story I can about my clients in a way that connects with they didn’t have any high-schoolers working on the cam- voters.” paign, and I was persuasive enough that they let me Kully admits that his proudest achievement was helphelp.” ing Jon Tester win the Senate seat in Montana. With Kully graduated from Westside with politics in mind, Tester’s victory, the Democrats reclaimed the United and left Omaha for Colgate University in Hamilton, States Senate to become the majority.

New York, declaring a double major in political science “It was phenomenal,” says Kully. “Just the opportuniand philosophy. Launching a campaign of his own, he ty to create award-winning ads for him, and knowing the ran for student body president, but ultimately lost in a work paid off.” Currently, Kully is working for Darcy hard fought battle. Offering insight into the experience, Burner, a Fremont, Nebraska native running for Kully explains that, quite simply, “losing is just no fun.” Congress in Washington State.

Attending Colgate, however, gave Kully the chance to In this monumental election year, Kully has been build upon his unique political experiences. He spent the busier than ever. He’s helped create several ads for a summer of 1994 in Washington D.C., as an intern in labor union in support of Barack Obama’s campaign. An Bob Kerrey’s Senate office. By fall of the same year, he’d Obama supporter himself, Kully hopes that November’s nabbed another internship, this time in London, work- election will bring a much needed change. ing for a member of Parliament in the House of “Obama has inspired people in every corner of the Commons. Shortly thereafter, upon returning to the country,” says Kully. Clearly, people are ready for a new States, Kully volunteered in New Hampshire for direction, and John McCain will just offer more of the President Clinton’s re-election campaign. same. This is a chance for a real break from a disastrous “Clinton wasn’t my first choice for President,” last eight years.” Unfortunately, predicts Kully, “McCain describes Kully. “Bob Kerrey was. But, with Clinton, I will carry Nebraska handily.” felt the country was moving in the right direction.

Though now a resident of Washington, Kully pays Somebody needed to stand up to the Republicans and close attention to what’s happening here in Nebraska, Newt Gingrich.” and has voiced his unwavering support for Scott Kleeb.

After graduating from Colgate, Kully found work in “Scott Kleeb is as authentic a Nebraskan as you can Texas as the finance manager for Victor Morales, a little- get”, offers Kully. “Nebraskans would be lucky to have known high school teacher running for Senate. Morales Kleeb representing them in the Senate. He will surprise sputtered across the state in his pick-up truck, capturing some folks because party labels are beginning to mean a lot of press attention for the David vs. Goliath nature less and less, and Kleeb can prevail in that environment. of his campaign.

He is authentic and real and understands what “When somebody came along and spent all the money Nebraskans are going though with high gas prices and a I’d raised in a matter of minutes,” remembers Kully, “I troubled economy.” realized how important television ads are. I found this While the country might be facing some considerable very exciting, and little did I know that within a year I’d challenges, Kully seems genuinely content. Now a husbe making political commercials for candidates across band and father, he has no plans to leave Seattle. And, it the nation.” seems that an interest in politics runs in the family. His Hoping to solidify a career in politics, Kully left Texas two-and-a-half year old daughter, Elena, was the first and returned to Washington D.C. “Washington was baby born in the 2005 Jewish New Year. exciting,” describes Kully, “and I knew that I wanted to “She has made it very clear that she’s for Barack be involved in politics in any way I could. Clearly, D.C. Obama too,” says Kully. And, who knows? In just a few was the place to do that.” years she might be delivering literature on her bicycle.

Armed with his previous internship experience, Kully (For more information on Dan’s company, visit was able to land a job as the receptionist in Bob Kerrey’s lkkpartners.com.)

by TONY ENDELMAN Amidst the debates and scandals, the media fury, and the endless mud-slinging, one of Omaha’s own is doing a world of good in politics. And, more likely than not, you’ve got no idea who he is. That’s because Dan Kully is not in the public eye. He’s not a talking head, a political lackey, or a politician, tirelessly campaigning for your vote. Rather, he’s a creative consultant, an architect of ads; sitting comfortably in his Seattle office, helping to deliver the right messages for the right people.

The son of Bob and Connie Kully, Dan was born and raised in Omaha, and discovered his interest in politics before most people know the Pledge of Allegiance. At six years old, Kully criss-crossed the neighborhood on his bicycle, fervently delivering literature on Peter Hoagland’s Senate campaign.

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

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by JOAN K. MARCUS Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be a Jew in Hastings, Nebraska?

Better yet, have you wondered what it would be like to be a Jew who is involved in politics there?

Fredric (Fred) Teller was born in 1926 in Columbus, Nebraska. His parents, Fred Sr. and Leah Blank Teller, owned and operated Teller’s General Merchandise and Book Store. They were also active in community affairs. Fred, Sr. was somewhat active in the Democratic Party but his interest wasn’t any more than others at the time. Since the store was open seven days a week, it was difficult for the family to attend a synagogue.

However, they did belong to Temple Israel in Omaha.

“It wasn’t difficult for me as a Jew to grow up in Columbus. I was in grade school during the depression years and I felt no discrimination because I was Jewish,” he said. “The nearest synagogues were in Omaha and Lincoln.

Although I didn’t have a Bar Mitzvah, I was confirmed at Temple Israel in Omaha in 1941.”

Fred, Jr. graduated from the University of Nebraska at Lincoln with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in 1947 after having been the junior class president and a member of Zeta Beta Tau, a Jewish fraternity. “I had many Jewish friends while I attended college: Kevee Kirshenbaum and Mike Milder. After graduation, I moved to Omaha and lived there from 1947 to ’52. I voted for Harry Truman in the first presidential election when I was able to vote,” he said.

By 1948, Teller was assistant manager and treasurer of the Orpheum Theatre.

From 1949 to 1952, he was the manager of the Omaha Theatre on 15th and Douglas, then, in 1984, he became a partner and managed theatres in Hastings.

While still a student at UNL, Fred had met Lorraine Davidson. They were married in 1949 and have two adult children: Ric M. Teller, a television audio engineer in Santa Clarita, California, and Beth, a flutist and teacher in Tucson, Arizona. They have one grandson, Jonah Horn, age 16.

Lorraine and Fred have been members of Tifereth Israel Synagogue in Lincoln for 50 or more years. Of course they attend services for the High Holy Days, but, according to Fred, “That 100-mile trip gets longer and longer as the years go by!”

He added, “Like many Jewish families in out state Nebraska, we invite many of our non-Jewish friends to our Passover Seders. When our kids were young and in Sunday school, we had it at the Naval Ammunition Center in Hastings. Years ago, we even had a combined B’nai Brith and Hadassah seder!”

In March of 1984, Fred had sold his theatres. The incumbent on the Adams County Board of Supervisors had announced that he would not be running for another term, so Fred made a decision. “I filed and ran unopposed. I didn’t come into office with any preconceived ideas. I just felt like I could do a good job representing the people.”

Fred later ran for a second term and was opposed by the incumbent from the term before his. According to Fred, “I didn’t win by a complete landslide, but by quite a bit, and served three terms. I just thought that I needed to serve the people.”

He added, “Jews have taken a leadership position here in Hastings and are respected. I didn’t address my terms as

political but as public service.”

Fred is currently a board member of the Hastings Chorus of the Plains which he helped to found 43 years ago. He also is a member of the boards of the Mary Lanning Healthcare Foundation and South Central Nebraska Children’s Chorale. He is the past president of the five organizations: the Hastings Area Chamber of Commerce, Hastings Jaycees, the Hastings Symphony Orchestra, Hastings Noon Lions Club and Central States Barbershop Harmony District.

He has also been a member of the Barbershop Harmony Society, performing in more than 25 Hastings Community Theatre productions. He is a

Lorraine and Fred Teller

past member of the Nebraska Arts Council, past exalted ruler of the Hastings Elk Lodge, volunteers at the Hastings Museum.

“Lorraine and I have worked actively for various organizations and causes in Hastings for 56 years,” Fred added. “We have worked together on many boards and separately on some.”

His wife, Lorraine has been a board member of the Hastings Community Theatre since 1971. She also is a member of the Hastings Museum Super Screen Premier and served on the Mary Lanning Hospital Auxiliary.

She is the past president of We-SoBraska Girl Scout Council which encompasses 16 counties, and helped to establish a camp and combined council. She is also a founding member of the original Hastings Art Council and a member of the board of the Hastings Symphony Orchestra.

The YMCA Tribute to Women Award was given to Lorraine and together, Lorraine and Fred founded Leadership Hastings where they both served on the board of directors for many years. They both helped with the restoration of Hastings Fisher Fountain and serve on the advisory council of Nebraska Cultural Endowment.

Other honors that they have both earned are the 2006 YMCA/Arthritis Foundation Humanitarian Award, the Arts Council Governor’s Award, 1994 Hastings Chamber of Commerce Community Service Award and the AkSarBen Good Neighbor Award.

Fred says, “I am not active with any political party, though I am a registered Republican. I have worked for Democrats, Republicans and Independents -- depending upon the candidate.

My only goal has been to be a representative of the people of Nebraska!”

September 26, 2008

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 39

Third generation of politically-involved Omaha family

by GLORIA SHUKERT JONES Jim Crounse, a name widely known in political circles, was born and raised in Omaha, attended Central High School, the University of Nebraska as an undergraduate, and then got a law degree at Creighton. He is presently a resident of Alexandria, Virginia, and has lived there for the past 21 years, actively engaged in the support and campaigns of Democratic candidates.

His grandfather, Jacob Crounse, after whom Crounse was named, was born in Russia and emigrated to the United States in the late 1800s. The family located in Omaha, and had a grocery store and fish market on the Near North Side.

The elder Crounse was a member of the Nebraska State Legislature in the early 1930s, having served a couple of terms, and according to Crounse, his grandfather may have been the first Jewish state representative in Nebraska’s history. Also, he indicated his parents, Paul and Bernice Crounse, were also very active in the Democratic party politics.

With that family background notwithstanding, Crounse described how he happened to get into politics himself.

“In 1978, I was in law school, and there was an open seat for the State Legislature in Omaha, District 6, “he said, and added, “I decided to run for that. There were 10 other people in the race. I came in fifth. I spent all the money I had saved from my Bar Mitzvah in this campaign, and the winner of that primary was Peter Hoagland. I didn’t know Peter before the campaign, but we got to know each other on the campaign trail. I called to congratulate him on the night he won the primary.

We went to lunch the next day, and I ended up helping him. We became very close friends. I was his chief of staff during his freshman year in Congress.”

Like many others, Crounse is still mourning the death of former Congressman Hoagland who died last fall of complications from Parkinsons. Crounse is working with the University of Nebraska, and has started an annual lecture series at the university in Hoagland’s memory, called the Peter J. Hoagland Integrity in Politics Lecture Series.

The first lecture will be at UNO in November, featuring Ted Sorenson, a native Nebraskan, speech writer, friend and counselor to President John F. Kennedy.

Crounse is presently working for the Obama campaign, as part of the direct mail team. He is doing this through his business, the Mack/Crounse group, a firm that does persuasion direct mail for Democratic candidates and progressive institutions.

“The Obama team has five direct mail firms, and we’re one of them,” he explained. “They assigned several states to us for direct mailing and then we have a broader strategic responsibility to suggest things to the campaign.”

Crounse also indicated he does a considerable amount

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of travel in the campaign. “I have clients all over the tion at the Israeli Embassy in Washington. We cooked up country,” he said, “that are running for congress, senate, an idea that we were going to invite the Israeli governor, state legislature -- every level. Our company Ambassador to the United States, Moshe Arad, to just represents Democrats, and we also do mail for some Omaha, because we wanted the people in the Jewish progressive institutions, such as AFL and the National community to have access to people like that. So Peter Education Association.” got up his courage and invited the Ambassador to come Other clients of Crounse include: Congressman Rahm to Omaha and much to our surprise, he agreed to Emanuel, Congressman Steny Hoyer, Congressman come!” Later in Omaha, Crounse helped arrange a Baron Hill, Senator Max Baucus, Senator Kent Conrad reception for the Ambassador and invited leaders of the and many other members of Jewish community. the House and Senate.

“Also on that same night, When asked why he thinks there was a retirement dinObama would be a better ner for Rabbi Isaac Nadoff, choice for president, a beloved rabbi who served Crounse made this observaBeth Israel Synagogue for tion: “I can tell you firstmany years. The dinner was hand from being in held at Peony Park, and we Washington for 21 years, were able to get the Israeli that we need some fundaAmbassador present Rabbi mental changes, especially Nadoff with a plaque,” he after the last eight years of added. the Bush administration His parents were very active when so much in our counat Beth Israel. “My father try is not going well.” was president of the synaHe added, “We have a war gogue,” he added, “My that’s incredibly costly, and I mother was president of the think it’s taken our focus off sisterhood, and my brother of what’s going on here at and sister and I were active home. The economy is very in the youth group. So it was difficult right now -- we’ve a very proud moment for me got a home mortgage crisis to be able to do that, and to Jim Crounse and health care costs that are be part of that.” out of control. John McCain has been in office for a When asked about his future plans, Crounse indicated long, long time, and has been very supportive of Bush he would remain in the political scene, at least for the policies. And so I just think we need some big changes. time being.

The only way that’s going to happen, is for Obama to “We’ve got a great business, and we represent a lot of get elected.” great clients, so I’ll be doing this for a while. And what Crounse also indicated he has met Sen. Obama in per- I might transition into down the road, is do some teachson, and describes him as, “A great guy, a people person, ing. I’ve been doing a little bit of that over the years, and and I have a lot of confidence in his ability to lead the hope to do a little bit more,” he said. country.” Crounse did not attend the Democratic Crounse is married, and he and his wife, Patsy, have a National Convention, saying he could go if he wanted to, home in Alexandria, VA. He has a stepson who lives in but that time of year is very busy just producing direct Scotland, where his wife is originally from. Patsy is a mail. “I’m just going to watch it on TV, and call my photographer, and while in Scotland, she managed the friends who are there.” At the time of this interview, clubhouse at St. Andrews, the ancestral home of golf, Crounse was uncertain and non-committal regarding where the game was first invented. speculation on who would be Obama’s running mate.

Despite his lengthy career as a supporter for While stating he has 30 years of campaign stories he Democratic candidates, an occupational field that has could relate, Crounse felt that one particular incident brought him a great deal of satisfaction, Crounse has not would be of most interest to the Omaha Jewish commu- forgotten his roots. nity: “One of my most memorable achievements “My heart is still in Omaha,” he says. “The values and occurred when I was Peter Hoagland’s chief of staff his lessons I’ve learned growing up there, and being a part freshman year,” he recalled. of the Omaha Jewish community, are still very near and “Peter and I had gotten invited one night to a recep- dear to me.”

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Page 40

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2008

Former State Supreme Court Chief Justice talks about a life in law

by LEO ADAM BIGA Norman Krivosha’s life is a classic case of the adage that behind every great man is a woman. The noted attorney and one time Nebraska Supreme Court Chief Justice and corporate counsel may not have been any of those things if the Detroit native had not met a certain woman at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln when he arrived as a brash but undisciplined undergrad in the early 1950s.

Krivosha came to UNL at the urging of a cousin who taught microbiology there.

The professor saw his cousin’s potential.

The young Krivosha was bright. He’d done well at a select college preparatory public school in Detroit. He’d shown industry as a top notch sales clerk for the Mary Jane Shoe Store. He’d displayed an avid interest in politics, handing out pamphlets on the street for a cousin running for public office.

Only when Krivosha got to Lincoln -having never been further west than Chicago -- he was the proverbial big city boy let loose in the sticks.

“I had to get out a map to see where Nebraska was,” Krivosha recalled. “I vividly recall walking downtown the first Sunday I was there and I was the only person on the street. It was such a great transition for me coming from Detroit, but a very valuable one.”

Studying was not a priority. The former Helene Sherman changed all that. The studious young woman from a traditionrich Lincoln family eventually became Mrs. Helene Krivosha, but long before marrying him she got him on track.

“The truth of the matter is -- had I not met my wife Helene when I did I would probably have retired as the general manager of the Mary Jane Shoe Store in Miami,” said Krivosha, who with his wife retired to Naples, Florida, three years ago.

“When I got to the university I was not very interested in worrying about studies.

But I met her and I’d go over to the library to take her for coffee and she’d say, ‘Well, we can go at 10 o’clock.’ And I’d say, ‘It’s 7 now -- what do I do for three hours?’ She’d say, ‘Bring some books.’ So I started studying. Then I started taking some classes she was in so I could see her during the day. And before I knew it I got a Regent’s Scholarship and I was on my way to law school.”

There would be more mentors in his life.

Before any of these guided him, however, his immigrant parents, neither of whom completed high school, stressed the importance of education to their only child. His mother was a homemaker and his father one in a long line of dry cleaners.

“Neither of them were well-educated,” Krivosha said. “Both of them were terribly literate. Going to college in my neighborhood was not a common sort of thing to do but my parents were determined that I should. We always talked about me going.”

The dutiful son attended Wayne State University in Detroit but didn’t exactly buckle down. Between going to school by day and working for the post office at night, he said, “I was running with my friends.” That’s when he took up his

Chief Justice Norman Krivosha egghead cousin’s offer to live with him in Lincoln and go to school there.

Krivosha carried his family’s hopes and dreams for a better life and finally applied himself. With the help of Helene, some veteran lawyers and an ambitious newcomer to the political scene, Krivosha enjoyed a fast ride up the political-legal ladder. He readily acknowledges the aid he received along the way.

“I’m a great believer that nobody gets where they get on their own. That they all have help. Quite frankly, I resent when people seem to want to take claim for having made it ‘on their own.’”

From a macro perspective, he knows the opportunities given him resulted from the sacrifices and generosity of folks, some of whom he’ll never meet. He views his achievements as the return on an

investment that others made in him.

“I did what I did because somebody in Scottsbluff, Nebraska, got up at 4 o’clock, in the morning and milked cows and paid his taxes so I could get a Regent Scholarship to go to law school. That’s what helped me become a lawyer and be successful.”

He believes fate has played a part in it all. “Things work out the way they’re supposed to,” he said. “I was supposed to go to law school, I was supposed to be a lawyer, and that’s where I wound up.”

Funny thing is, he initially only studied law “because some friends were going to law school and that just seemed like something to do.” At some point law became more than a way to pass the time.

“I did well in law school. I finished high in my class. I started clerking in my second year in law school with a firm I ultimately became senior partner of.”

It was soon apparent he’d found his niche.

“I immediately enjoyed it. For me, law has always been a challenge -- the ability to seek to analyze a situation, to design a solution. The practice of law was just something I loved to do. I never got up a single morning in my life not looking forward to going to work.”

Past tense notwithstanding, he still practices law. This marks his 50th year in the profession. He cut his legal teeth with twin lawyers Herman and Joe Ginsburg in their Lincoln firm. Krivosha had already clerked there three years by the time he finished law school. He became a Continued on page 41

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September 26, 2008

A life in law

state Democratic convention in Hastings (in the early ’60s), and that was really sort of the beginning of his political career,” said Krivosha.

Exon was elected Nebraska governor in ’71 and asked Krivosha to join his inner circle.

“When he became governor he asked me to come be his general counsel,” Krivosha explained. “I didn’t want to leave the practice. And so I made an agreement with him that I would be his general counsel at no pay and I would come to the capitol every morning, maybe till one-two o’clock, do whatever he needed done, and then I would go downtown and practice law for the rest of the day and evening. I did that for four years.

“And during all that time we (his firm) agreed not to take cases involving the state.”

No conflict of interest that way.

“I had really sort of gotten used to that because in 1969 I was loaned by my firm to be City Attorney of the City of Lincoln, and I did that for 20 months.”

By the time Krivosha’s general counsel duties for the governor ended, his next entree into state government presented itself when thenNebraska Supreme Court Chief Justice Paul White “unexpectedly resigned” in 1978. Krivosha inquired if Exon would be okay if he submitted his name for the seat, which for the first time was to be appointed rather than elected.

Exon gave his blessing and Krivosha said just to avoid any hint of impropriety he didn’t speak with the governor from that moment until In 1988, Chief Justice Norman Krivosha, third from left, was chairman of an Israel Bonds dinafter he got the nod. ner honoring Nebraska Attonrey General Robert M. Spire. Others present were: Gerald Grant, “There were 16 of us co-chairman, left, Consul General of Israel Moshe Fox (the evening’s speaker), Krivosha, Spire, whose names were submitElaine Spire, Senator-elect Robert Kerrey, and Andrew Gordman, co-chairman. ted and Jim (Exon) had an ground. incredible way of advising you you’d been appointed. He “I think what it did was it made me a better lawyer and sent a letter to everyone who had not been appointed, certainly made me a better judge ultimately because I but you, telling them who had been appointed and had had all that experience.” thanking them for applying,” Krivosha recounted.

As a comparison of just how different his experience “I was in Judge Dale Fahrnbruch’s court on a Friday was from young lawyers starting out today, he used his morning about to start trying a lawsuit before him. He daughter Terri Krivosha-Herring as an example. and I had both been candidates for chief justice. He was “My oldest daughter is a lawyer in Minneapolis. A very opening his mail on the bench as we were getting ready fine, wonderful lawyer whose practice is limited to merg- to begin the case and he stopped suddenly and said, “I ers and acquisitions. She’s great in her field but I don’t think we better take a recess.” He called me into his think lawyers today have the same broad background we chambers and said, “I suppose you’re not going to want used to have.” to try your case today?”

Terri is married to Rabbi Hayim Herring. Krivosha’s Krivosha didn’t know what the judge meant. It was left younger daughter, Rhonda Hauser, is married to lawyer up to Fahrnbruch to inform him he was the state’s new Adam Hauser. “In our family you must either be a chief justice. “That’s how I found put,” Krivosha said. lawyer or marry a lawyer,” Krivosha joked. “If you’re He made it to the highest judicial seat without prior smart, you marry a lawyer, if you’re not so smart you bench experience. become a lawyer.”

“Not unheard of,” he said. “You have to also rememThe Ginsburgs brought on a third partner, brother-in- ber I was the first appointed chief justice (of Nebraska). law Hyman Rosenberg, before Krivosha became a part- Up until then all the members of the Court had been ner with his name on the window. All the while he honed elected and we had just recently changed to the merit his legal skills he pursued a parallel interest in politics. selection system. It’s probably more common to have His law partner Joe Ginsburg was active in Nebraska people come from the District Court to the Supreme Democratic politics for years and became a political Court, but not unheard of. There were people elected mentor. before and certainly there were people appointed later “He sort of led me into it and it was sort of a natural who had not been judges before.” for me. I’d been involved in Democratic politics all of Not only was he serving his first judgeship on the state my life and certainly all of my adult life in Lincoln. I was supreme court, he was perhaps the youngest member of Lancaster Democratic Party County Chairman for a that august and senior body. number of years. And I was state vice chairman. I was an “Some of the members of the court called me ‘Sonny,’ alternate delegate for the 1968 National Democratic which they were entitled to. I mean, I was 44-years-old Convention in Chicago, although I never did wind up and some of them were in their 60s. But they were wongoing. I was (Nebraska) campaign manager for Henry derful. It was a great experience.”

‘Scoop’ Jackson’s presidential bid.”

He’d argued many cases before the Nebraska Supreme He also managed Clair Callan’s only successful Court prior to his appointment. After leaving the bench Congressional bid -- a rare instance of a Democrat being he argued cases before the court again, but only after all elected from the Republican stronghold First District. the members he’d served with had retired from the Political engagement was another way Krivosha hoped court. While admitted to the U.S. Supreme Court he to make a difference. never argued before it.

“I cared. I believed Democrats were providing the He said his becoming chief justice was dependent on answers to the country’s needs. Being involved in three key factors.

Democratic politics was a way of trying to make things “You have to work very hard in law school and gradubetter. I was never interested myself in holding public ate at or near the top of your class. You then have to office but in helping others.” spend the next 20 years as a lawyer gaining a reputation Krivosha’s political stock in the state grew when he of being a fine lawyer. And you need to become a close befriended a newcomer to the arena named Jim Exon, a friend of a governor. And if you can’t do all of them, you future governor and U.S. senator. must at least do the last one.

“I nominated him as national committee man at the Continued on page 41 Continued from page 40 lawyer with the firm as soon as he was admitted to the bar.

He said Herman Ginsburg “was extremely influential in my career. He was one of the best lawyers in the state if not the country -- a fine, wonderful trial lawyer. He taught me a great deal.”

The Ginsburgs operated a general practice.

“In the late ’50s-early ’60s in Lincoln, Nebraska lawyers were probably what today would be described as country lawyers,” he said. “That is, we did everything.

We did a great deal of trial litigation for other lawyers outstate who did not frequently go to court. We represented corporations, we probated estates, we did adoptions, we did divorces, we did personal injury cases. We did anything that came into the office. Our office was in Lincoln but we really practiced all over the state.”

That heavy, diverse case load made a good training

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 41

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A life in law

Continued from page 41 to feed his cattle.

“The fact of the matter is I guess I can “I dissented on the basis it interfered honestly say I did all three. I graduated with interstate commerce -- that he had a well in my class, I think I had a reputation perfect right to do that -- and the U.S. of being a good lawyer, and I was a close Supreme Court agreed. It was reversed friend of Jim Exon.” based on my dissent” What made he and Exon click?

He said it’s unusual the highest court in “We were both committed Democrats. the land opted to hear this water rights We both felt the same way about things. I case in the first place since the Nebraska think we got along so well because we Supreme Court is usually the last word. shared the same views about family, about He served eight years as Chief Justice, ethics, about integrity,” Krivosha said. stepping down in 1987.

“He would never ask you to do anything you’d be embarrassed to tell your mother ... He always did what was ethically and morally right even if it wasn’t politically right, but for him it always turned out to be politically right.

“Jim Exon in my view was one of the world’s greatest public figures.”

Krivosha was Exon’s last appointment before he left to serve in the U.S. Senate in 1979. For Krivosha, serving on the bench was another facet of a rich legal career.

“I’ve been a practitioner, I’ve been a trial lawyer, I’ve taught, I’ve been a judge and I’ve been a corporate counsel. All of it was satisfying. I enjoyed very much the collegiality with my colleagues on the bench. I disagreed with Chief Justice Norman Krivosha them occasionally but nonetheless had a very close relationship “I did not leave because of any unhapwith them.” piness. I delighted in being Chief Justice.

A fellow Nebraska Supreme Court jus- I was 53-years-old, about to turn 54, and tice, Judge Nick Caporale, was a class- somebody made me an offer I couldn’t mate of Krivosha’s at UNL and remains a refuse.” good friend.

Bankers Life Nebraska in Lincoln hired Being a judge suited Krivosha. “I him as senior vice president, administraenjoyed looking at the cases, trying to tion, and chief counsel and when the conclude an appropriate legal answer, but company became Ameritas Life Insurance even more than that I guess as executive Company he was executive vice president, head of the judicial branch of government secretary and corporate general counsel.

I enjoyed the administration of the court He later worked as general counsel for system.”

Kutak Rock. He retired a couple of years He introduced some innovations. “We ago. made some changes along the way,” he Reviewing his long legal career is not said, “many of which still exist today. We something that occupies much of his did away with the municipal courts in time.

Lincoln and Omaha -- merging them into “It’s not my style to look back,” he the County Court system. This was a said. more efficient way at a financial savings.

Still, he said, “I’ve been fortunate We instituted typewritten briefs in the enough to do almost everything a lawyer Supreme Court -- doing away with print- can do.” All his years trying and hearing ing the briefs -- which certainly was a sav- cases did not sour him on the system but ings to litigants.” rather reaffirmed his faith in it.

He also instituted measures to ease the “I’m just more convinced it’s as good a volume of cases heard. system as I always believed it to be. I “There was no Court of Appeals then, believe that courts by and large do a good so the Supreme Court was a court as a job. There are exceptions. The law is an matter of right. You could appeal to the art, it is not a science, and therefore the Nebraska Supreme Court from Small answer you get depends on the question Claims Court and we had to take the you see. The job of the lawyer, for case,” he said. “So we appointed two dis- instance, is not to convince the court trict judges and we sat in divisions of five what the law is but to convince the court instead of a court of seven, which the what the question is. Once that happens statute allowed, in an effort to try to cut the answer becomes obvious.” down the number of cases and to handle These days he does a bit of arbitration the volume in a more expeditious way.” work and sometimes litigates cases.

While presiding on the bench he wrote Mostly, though, he serves as an expert more than 600 opinions, meaning he witness in insurance fraud suits. His keen decided far too many cases to single out political mind is attuned to the presidenjust a few. Besides, he said, “once I fin- tial race. He reads The New York Times ished a case I finished it. It’s done, it’s and watches the Sunday public affairs done. I didn’t have any second thoughts programs. Barack Obama’s chances excite once I decided a case.” him.

He does take satisfaction, however, in “Obviously as a Democrat I’m a great knowing some of his dissents ultimately believer that we need to move in a differbecame the law. He was the lone dissenter ent direction,” he said.

Is he ever tempted to return to the when the court ruled a landowner with a ranch bisecting two states could not bench?

“No ... Remember, I never look back.” transfer water from Nebraska to Colorado

September 26, 2008

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 43

This county attorney packs heat

by JOAN K. MARCUS Sarpy County Attorney Lee Polikov presides over a department of 20 lawyers, three law clerks and over 60 support staff. His office is as large as a good-sized law firm. Additionally, Nebraska law designates the county attorney as coroner who has the responsibility to review all deaths in the county that are unattended by a physician. Polikov’s job is certainly varied, and he finds it easy to be absorbed in his work.

Polikov was born in Omaha in 1948. His parents, Berniece and Abe Polikov, taught their children, Marvin, Lee, Steven and Bernie, important ’50s values of honesty and accountability. (Steven and Bernie are deceased. Marvin is a metals broker in Omaha.)

Abe was a Republican and Berniece was a Democrat, which made for an interesting dinner conversation. But Lee registered as a Democrat when he was old enough to vote.

He graduated from Westside High School in 1966 and went on to the University of Nebraska at Lincoln, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in business. “I wanted to go into federal law enforcement,” he explained. “When I was in the seventh grade, we did a career placement unit and wrote letters -- I still have responses from the FBI! I had no political ambitions, although I did work on Dick Fellman’s campaign for Congress in 1966 while I was still in high school.”

In 1973, Lee graduated from UNL with a Juris Doctor degree. “Those were interesting times. I had an ROTC Commission and therefore had a United States Army commitment. I went into Intelligence and then the Viet Nam War ended. Everybody was being pushed out into reserve status, so I did my training and never served active duty,” he recalled.

“I still had aspirations of going into the FBI, but in 1973 there were a lot of guys just like me coming back from military commitments and the federal govern-

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ment had instituted a big 1999, I decided to take the hiring freeze.” job when I was appointed.”

When he was in law Polikov was fortunate to school, he participated in a be affiliated with Thomas, a program with the Lincoln very strong political figure.

Police Department and He had won eight succesworked with their detective sive elections with 54% of division. “I came to know a the electorate. In Sarpy detective named Jerry County, the race for sheriff Thomas and, as luck would is contested. have it, his brother Pat was But Lee doesn’t believe in appointed sheriff in “hard line” local politics.

September of 1973. I Although, he changed his returned in October and party affiliation to be a Jerry told me to see his Republican in 1978, he brother about a job. So, I endorsed two Democrats figured that I could do for the local county board. something for a year and “There are extremists on then go to Washington to both ends and most of us, get into federal enforceabout 80%, are in the midment.” dle. I consider myself a cenAt that time, Sarpy trist,” he insists.

Sarpy County Attorney Lee Polikov County was putting togeth“I’m also the first to tell er a whole new department and Polikov was the 23rd you that I’m proud to be a politician. My job is person to be hired as an administrative assistant; later dependent upon getting votes every four years. There he was named chief deputy. His plan to spend one year are 90,000 voters in Sarpy County and I’m the chief ended up being 26 years and when he left, there were law enforcement officer and prosecutor. Some know more than 200 people in the department. me as a district attorney. I was appointed for a three“It was unusual for anyone in the Jewish community year term and then I’ve been elected twice. If people to be part of law enforcement then,” Lee says, “and it are unhappy with my performance, they can vote me was even more unusual for them to be carrying a gun. out.”

Although I did go out on the streets, I was never in He lives in Sarpy County with his wife and companuniform.” ion of over 30 years, Terry Calek, who has an MBA. In many cases, law enforcement wasn’t a degreed She is a public relations consultant and, according to occupation in 1973. “We hired men who could handle Lee, “One of the smartest women I know!” themselves in physical confrontations. In order for men Recently, Polikov was elected president of the to be better prepared and trained, there was a theory Nebraska County Attorneys Association. Plans for the that they would need college degrees. Pat Thomas was future include emphasizing legislative issues and traina teacher and I was a lawyer.,” he says. The two helped ing. He thinks that the toughest part of his job is dealto design what is now the Nebraska Law Enforcement ing with the victims of drunken drivers and their famiTraining Center. lies -- especially underage victims.

Preparation and training to be officers became more He is saddened by a recent epidemic of shaken baby important with each passing year. During the time that syndrome, too, because those cases put a lot of pressure Polikov served, the departmental budget went from on the office. “We also see a lot of involuntary mental over one million to over 11 million dollars. Proper health commitments, issues in planning and zoning spending, administration and planning were all part of and land acquisitions,” he added. his job. “Hiring, personnel and those types of things “You don’t have to campaign very hard if you do became more and more important,” he noted. your job. I encourage people to consider politics as not “In the beginning, if we needed to hire someone and being a negative thing. As prosecutor, I am 100% there was somebody in the office, we just hired them. accountable to the electorate and I am not obligated to Now, it’s a whole process of 12-14 weeks of training, anyone or any one group,” he says. testing and screening. It was because of these changes, He is convinced that this is the best system to protect that when my predecessor was removed from office in individual rights and justice.

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2008

A dream of life in politics

by OZZIE NOGG A funny thing happened on the way to the White House. Julie Rochman did not become President of the United States (her kindergarten plan) but, rather, CEO of The Institute for Business & Home Safety -- a research group that looks for ways to keep our houses (think Three Little Pigs, here) from blowing down around our heads.

“At IBHS,” Rochman said, “I get to lead the organization and build a unique facility where we’ll be able to test fullscale, two-story, 2,000 square foot houses, creating Category 3 hurricanes with Category 4 gusts right inside the lab.

We’ll also look at fire, hail and other causes of property loss with the goal of making new construction safer and more durable -- which is good for the environment, by the way -- and identifying effective means to retrofit existing buildings to make them more resilient.”

She added, “It’s an incredible job in public service, which is all I ever wanted.”

Her new position comes with a perk that Rochman -- a longtime District of Columbia resident -- finds irresistible.

“The IBHS is based in Florida, so we get to vote in a key state which is great because there’s not much to vote for when you live in D.C.” It’s no secret that Rochman is an unabashed Democrat. “When Bush was ‘elected’ in 2000, my partner Sandy Palmer and I were distraught that the election had been stolen from Gore. We talked to Sandy’s father, Earl -- a quiet but very strong, very liberal WWII vet -and we said, ‘We’re thinking of giving up and moving to Canada,’ and Earl said, ‘If you do that, Bush really wins. Is that what

you want? You need to stay and fight, not run away.’ Of course, he was right.”

Fight -- as in moxie, spunk -- is a Julie Rochman staple. She’s also equipped with a BA in International Relations, an MA in American Government, and experience roaming the back halls of Westminster while an intern in the British Parliament.

These credentials, she admits, stoked her ego and made her ‘a real pain’ at the beginning of her career.

“When I came to Washington 20 years ago, I was young and full of myself. I thought I knew everything and was single-handedly going to change the world,” she related. “Well, when I got out of grad school my dad gave me a picture of Albert Einstein and I’ve always hung it in my office in a place where I can see it easily, to remind myself that no matter how smart I think I am or may be, I’m no Einstein.”

Fine, no Einstein. But mighty savvy, with a resume to prove it.

As a Senior V.P. in the Public Affairs practice of the Glover Park Group -- a Washington-based strategic communication consulting firm -- Rochman created campaigns for banks, insurance companies, energy companies, and other groups looking to improve their image with federal lawmakers, the media, and with the public. Joe Lockhart, President Clinton’s former press secretary, was her boss.

While with the American Insurance Association, Rochman was a frequent TV ‘talking head’ for the property/casualty insurance industry.

“I did lots of national interviews, debating trial lawyers and consumer groups.

The best thing we accomplished at AIA was enactment of the Terrorism Risk

Insurance Act,” she said, out. To this day, I’m not a “which helped save the Nader fan. In my opinion economy from collapse he’s a hypocrite, and I after 9/11 -- and it’s hate hypocrisy.” reauthorization a couple Rochman grew up in a years later. I led all the politically minded family. media/communications “My paternal grandfather, for the industry and our Harry Rochman, was a allies, and will always be leftie-socialist. My matertremendously proud of nal grandfather, Eli the work I did to get the Zalkin, rubbed shoulders law in place. It’s one of with prominent local and my favorite times with state Democrats -respect to actually influJohnny Rosenblatt, Eddie encing public policy.”

Zorinsky, Jim Exon and -Of her years as V.P. of still most impressive to Julie Rochman Communications for the me -- he was friendly with Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, Yitzhak Rabin.”

Rochman says, “Getting to talk about Once, Rabin actually stayed at her highway safety and crashing vehicles in a Nanny and Grandpa Zalkin’s home, with lab is about as great a job as anyone could a Mossad agent sitting in a car in the ask for. It felt good to be doing good. We driveway all night. “According to my figured out why airbags were killing some Nanny Sara, she offered to make the short-statured women, and how to stop Prime Minister something to eat, but that. We determined how to prevent Rabin insisted he could do it himself, and airbags from killing children. We got then slapped together a salami sandwich in effective graduated driver licensing laws the kitchen. For years, Nanny retold that passed that save the lives of teen drivers story about how Prime Minister Rabin and teen passengers. Occasionally, I’d went into her kitchen and made himself a receive a note from someone who said sandwich, ‘just like anybody’, with our information saved them from injury emphasis on the anybody,” she added. or death. There’s no better feeling than It’s no surprise that a life in politics was to know your actions really make a differ- Rochman’s ‘little kid’ dream. If not ence. It was fabulous.”

President, she’d be a U.S. Senator from But there’s a flip side to the IIHS story. Nebraska. “That remained my goal until “Because we represented insurers, we after grad school. Then reality set in. often went toe-to-toe with consumer First, I would be a carpetbagger, which groups. Ralph Nader was one of our didn’t suit me. I was liberal, Nebraska was biggest critics. Once, when my boss and I conservative. And, most painfully, the fact crashed a Nader news conference -- he or that I’m gay would make me virtually one of his staffers always crashed ours -- unelectable in my home state.”

Nader called the police and had us tossed Continued on page 45

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Page 45

A dream of a life in politics Continued from page 44 Rochman’s senatorial ambitions didn’t pan out, so she chose the next best thing. “I played on the edges of politics, gave money to candidates, worked as a lobbyist, became a policy wonk. I’ve never really had to look for a job. They sort of find me. I’ve been very lucky.”

When asked to comment on Hurricane Katrina, FEMA, and the recent flooding in the Midwest, Rochman pitched her own storm. “From my perspective, the whole Bush Administration -- not just FEMA – was wholly unprepared to deal with Katrina or anything like it. They had very young, new staffers running around with no idea of what to do or which end was up,” she said.

“In my opinion they politicized everything. Mississippi Governor Barbour got whatever he wanted, and Louisiana suffered because they had a decidedly in-overher-head Democratic governor that the Bushies wanted to replace with a GOP governor. As it turns out, they won that game. It was shameful.”

On a roll, Rochman continued. “The recent Midwest flooding is tragic because it demonstrates that America simply doesn’t learn. We keep trying to ‘tame’ Mother

Nature -- channeling the rivers, trying to protect housing in a known flood plain -- and then we’re surprised and angry when Mother Nature takes back what was hers.” And then people say, she added, “‘Let’s make sure these human and financial tragedies don’t happen again.” But, she continued, “then those same people want to rebuild their flooded homes in exactly the same unsafe place, and we’ll continue looking for government money to rebuild again and again, instead of getting smarter about new construction so that catastrophes don’t have the same terrible outcomes every few years.”

The partisan wrangling in Washington makes this student of American history slightly nuts.

“Honestly, everything in D.C. is about Republican vs.

Democrat. Even war. The system itself works pretty damn well, given that it was created in the 1700s by people who never could have envisioned the things we’re dealing with. It’s astonishing just how resilient our system is. Even when Bush was ‘elected’ and there were protests, there were no tanks in the streets. Ours is an incredibly beautiful political system,” she said.

Contnued on page 46

“When we were discussing some congressional legislation, one of my bosses – a conservative Republican – jokingly referred to me as a ‘pinko.’

I told him my Grandpa Rochman would have been very proud to hear me described that way.”

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GOP delegate balances faith

Continued from page 36 She added, “Here’s where my yiddishkeit comes into play. First, who will be the best one for Israel-- first and foremost? And second, I live here in the United States, and also want a chief who will keep the country strong.

We live in a world where there are insane people who would like to kill us -- period! So I’m for keeping the nation secure.”

Immigration is right behind that for Abrahamson.

“The way we do immigration will determine whether or not we have a strong country. Those two things have got to concern everybody. We need to know who’s entering our country,” she noted.

“We also have serious domestic issues to contend with. I feel this upcoming election will be imperative to choose a steady, consistent and experienced Commander-in-Chief to lead our country through this very precarious time in our history.”

It’s easy to see that religion and politics are closely interwoven into Abrahamson’s life. It’s rare that she can talk about one of those things without including the other. In an attempt to keep her on the political track for a while longer, I asked her what a typical day in her career was like and her response was, “There is nothing typical. I also work on a few projects for some rabbis, so at times that’s thrown into the mix.”

Despite her multi-faceted activities, Abrahamson remains unflappable and calm. To her, extensive travel and juggling the issues of both politics and faith are a way of life for this vibrant and amazing woman. Now that her children are older, she has more flexibility to pursue these interests she’s had over the years.

She also indicated both her children are politically minded. “Sarah worked for Governor Mike Johanns, hopefully Senator-to-be, and Congressman Lee Terry,” and added, “My children have had a well-rounded political upbringing.”

According to Abrahamson, what she loves best about being a delegate is the opportunity to choose who’s going to be the representative of her party.

“It’s been an amazing opportunity to have even a smallest part in the making of history. I took my children to the inauguration of George W. Bush in 2004. There, as we stood in the cold, we were not only witnessing history in the making, but were actually a part of it. We were watching the president taking the Oath of Office.

That was truly amazing!”

Sarah was a page four years ago. Abrahamson added, “Yosef was too young, so he just hung around with me.

This year, Yosef is going to be a page, and Sarah’s going to be a volunteer. The thing I’m most proud of is that Sarah has been the first and only Hassidic Jewish girl to

hold the position of page in either party and Yosef will be the first Hassidic Jewish young man to have that same honor this year. And I am the first Hassidic Jewish woman delegate in either party. We made a first in our community, and what I would like to see very much, would be more young Jewish people getting involved in the political process.”

Dinah is a Nebraska delegate who will help cast the vote in Minneapolis to nominate John McCain as the official Republican Presidential candidate. So I asked if we were going to see her on television during the Republican National Convention. And she thought she was briefly caught by the sweep of the camera, during the previous convention in 2004.

Abrahamson again mentioned her Left: Abrahamson, her grandmother, interview on Wauneta Westbrook, and great-grandmoth- July 4 with the er, Ella Green; above: Abrahamson, center, N a t i o n a l works on Republican causes with Mary and Public Radio Hal Daub, former Mayor of Omaha.

Station, which was family-oriented, with her and her two children, and touched only briefly on the political part.

At the time of our interview, she was also slated to have another interview on WABC, a premier radio station for conservatives, featuring one of the longest running programs called, “Religion on the Line”, which focuses on religion and politics, a natural for Abrahamson. She indicated that interview would last about an hour, which she considered quite generous, as they are usually only about 20 minutes. The program aired last month.

As for future plans, Abrahamson was uncertain. “You never quite know what the future will bring.” She believes after the election, she will probably be contacted by people who will want her advice on the Faith-Based Initiative, which was established by George Bush, and will probably be continued by Sen. John McCain, if he is elected president. She thinks that Sen. Barack Obama would probably continue with it as well.

“My political life is yet to be known. And the religious part, of course, never leaves. Everything I do is a result of my being a Lubavitch woman. The Rebbe Menachem Schneerson set forth the mandate that we should at all times be doing good in order to bring forth the time we can all live in peace and harmony together. So whether it’s politics or whether it’s helping rabbis with projects, it’s all related to me trying to move forward with light from there,” she says.

In parting, I jokingly told Abrahamson I’d wave at her if I saw her on TV, and with a grin, she replied, “And I’ll be looking for the only Democrat watching the Republican convention, who’s waving at me!”

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

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When grass roots efforts get national attention

by OZZIE NOGG Weitz’s father, Frank When the late Tip O’Neill Matthews, held a seat on the -- longtime Speaker of the OPS Board for many years House -- was explaining how and worked with Bob the concerns of people Cunningham in his late around the country affect 1960s mayoral campaign. the actions of their elected Her grandfather, Francis P. representatives in Matthews, served as Secretary Washington, he declared, of the Navy in Harry “All politics is local.”

Truman’s cabinet.

That phrase hits home “Still,” she says, “I don’t with Anne Weitz. “What recall a conscious epiphany happens at the grass roots that got me interested in level is tangible and managepolitics or social issues.” She able,” she said. “And what is considers herself neither an accomplished locally may activist nor an advocate. just be the answer for other “I’m a person who enjoys communities.” For this Anne Weitz, Project Harmony Development Director, meets worthwhile work and a chalinterview, Weitz focused John Walsh, host of the nation’s number-one crime-fighting lenge,” she said. “If I were specifically on Omaha’s TV show, “America’s Most Wanted.” to advocate for anything, it Project Harmony, where she serves as Development would be to find the best use of your energies, someDirector. thing that inspires you to become the best you can be at “Back in the early 1990s, some far-sighted folks put what you do.” together an organization that works,” she said, “and While pursuing a political science degree in college, we’re finding that what has been accomplished here in Weitz took a practicum course that included surveying resOmaha is a ‘gold standard’ for the rest of the country.” idents of Boston’s housing projects. Over the years she has This past March, John Walsh, TV host and father of a given her time to various political campaigns. slain six-year old son, pronounced Project Harmony -“I volunteered for Thomas Atkins when he ran for the Omaha’s collaboration on behalf of abused children -- Boston City Council and worked on George McGovern’s the best he’s ever seen. presidential campaign when my husband Arnie and I lived “Every state legislature should send somebody to in Los Angeles. I stuffed envelopes for Bob Kerrey’s Omaha to visit Project Harmony,” Walsh said. “This is a gubernatorial bid, managed Jessie Rasmussen’s Nebraska real model for the country. Many bigger cities and states legislative campaigns -- she was our son Andy’s first don’t have anything like this.” teacher at the JCC preschool -- and also managed Del While she welcomes the kudos and national exposure, Weber’s first campaign for the OPPD Board,” she recalled.

Weitz recognizes that Project Harmony is still a secret to “Sometimes I volunteered because these people were many Omahans. As Development Director, her primary friends of mine, but in every case I knew the candidates’ role is to implement and support fundraising efforts, but character would serve them and the constituency well.”

Weitz is also one of the agency’s most articulate boosters, In what she refers to as “years back,” Weitz was presialways eager to explain Project Harmony’s work. dent of the Omaha Children’s Museum board, when the “Our purpose is to protect children by providing support facility underwent an extensive two year renovation, and to victims or suspected victims of abuse and neglect,” she also served on the Board of the Fontenelle Nature said. ”We operate out of a centralized location, and our Center during construction of the Katherine and Fred multidisciplinary team of law enforcement, investigative, Buffett Forest Learning Center. social service, medical and referral professionals are dedicat“Once our children were on their own and I had some ed to protecting children and prosecuting offenders.” serious time to devote, I was very lucky to be able to draw “In the beginning,” Weitz continued, “Project on my volunteer background -- as well as my political camHarmony was a small agency with a big mission and not paign management experience -- to convince Project much in the way of financial resources. It’s terrific to see Harmony to hire me for their new position of how the organization has grown to be not only a sensitive Development Director in 2000,” she said. responder to child abuse victims in eastern Nebraska and When asked what issues are dearest to her heart, southwest Iowa, but also a vital resource for education, Weitz’ response was immediate. “Kids, education and case coordination and advocacy.” the liberal application of common sense.” And she doesWeitz considers it a privilege to work with the Project n’t hesitate when asked to describe the most positive Harmony professionals and Board. “Each one is dedicated aspect of her job. “There’s great satisfaction that comes to the cause, and their exceptional leadership combined with the completion of a project, though I think the with efficient use of donor funds and resources makes my process of working with a group of like-minded people job a pleasure. Of course, there’s always more that needs is in many ways the most satisfying component. It’s great to be done, and I have the distinct honor of working with to see what a concerted effort can bring about -- certaina generous and caring community of donors and volun- ly much more than one individual working alone. I realteers. While Project Harmony is still a relatively small ly believe it’s the volunteer commitment that Boards and agency, its impact is far reaching.” community leadership make that puts any campaign -fundraising or political -- in the success column.”

Today, Project Harmony measures its success in multiple ways. Their 2003 Capital Campaign enabled the Continued from page 45 organization to purchase and renovate the building which “My frustration comes when people try to warp the sys- they had rented since 1996. The combined efforts of protem because they think they know what’s best for every- fessional staff and volunteers has helped inaugurate new one -- that everyone should do and think and believe just programs and increase the number of children served. as those in power do. That is not what the Founders “In our first year we saw 60 kids,” Weitz said. “Last wanted, nor would it in any way be good for America, year, the number grew to over 2,000. There is a constant Americans, or the world,” Rochman added. effort on the part of everyone here to make the lives of “Yes, I’m on my soapbox again, but politics affects the children who come to Project Harmony better, to everyone, whether they like it or not. People have died resolve the injustice done to them and help them find for thousands of years over the right to have participa- the tools to move on in their lives.” tive, representative government. At whatever level you She added, “Project Harmony is lucky to have the interest can get involved -- financial, volunteer, informed observ- and support of this very generous community. So many peoer -- do it. Use your right to vote,” she urged. ple have been there from the beginning to make this “Take your obligation to serve on a jury seriously. resource possible. If you looked through our Annual These are incredible gifts that too many Americans take Report, you’d see lots of familiar names from the Jewish for granted. I’ve loved being around politics. I can’t community among the donors, volunteers and in-kind conimagine I would have loved it more had I become an tributors. National Council of Jewish Women donated Packelected official. The frustrations, the anger, the disap- N-Plays to the kids. Bar and Bat Mitzvah teens come here to pointment with politicians are part of things, but you help clean toys, make copies and stuff envelopes. So much have to hang in there and work to make it better.” can be accomplished when we commit to do our part.”

Looking to the future, Julie Rochman says she’d like Weitz believes that each action counts. “Find what resto retire in 10, maybe 15 years. Don’t bet on it, at least onates with you and give yourself a chance to get involved. not until those three little pigs fly.

And don’t ever think that you won’t make a difference.”

A dream of a life in politics

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A young man recalls the words of his grandfather

by JOAN K. MARCUS Dan Morris may be young in years but he is quite mature and knowledgeable when it comes to politics. He was born in 1984 to Dr. Allen and Cindy Morris. For the first years of his life, he attended Beth Israel Synagogue. Later, the family joined Beth El, where he had his Bar Mitzvah.

His childhood wasn’t much different than most Omaha kids. He loved being active in AZA and BBYO and his passion was “hanging out” with his many Jewish friends. The Morris family wasn’t politically active, however voting was always a prerequisite.

“My parents and sisters, Alyssa and Jessica, were always aware of the elections but we didn’t necessarily work on campaigns,” he said. “I’ve always been interested because I love the idea of the competition and being able to make a difference.”

Morris became interested in political issues while a student at Millard North High School. “In the 2000 election, when Al Gore ran against George W. Bush, I was taking American History at the time; (the election) was a big topic of discussion,” he said. “There was constant conversation in class and then I went off to college at UNL and I had absolutely no idea what I wanted to do. I knew that I didn’t want to be a doctor like my dad and that I like mathematics and politics.

So, they became my majors.”

In 2006, Morris took time off from school to work with the Jim Esch for United States Congress campaign. He says, “I really wanted to get involved and I just called all of the candidates until one of them (Esch) gave up and hired me for

money! The pay would be fine if you only worked 40 hours on the campaign.

However, I had to work 16 hour days.

You really have to love what you’re doing,” he said, “and I did. It was my first real campaign.” He went back to school and finished his last semester when the campaign ended.

Dan’s next political job was for the John Edwards campaign for President.

Although he was saddened when Edwards dropped out of the race, Morris says that he is very happy with Barack Obama as the Democratic presidential candidate.

He was a “field organizer” for the Edwards campaign. “It was my job to make a certain number of calls and knock on doors. Other than that, I was in charge of a chunk of Iowa and it was my job to organize the people who put on the caucuses. Usually, your first job during a presidential campaign is at the bottom of the ladder. I got paid, but the rest of my workers were campaign interns and volunteers,” he explained.

“Those hours were harder and longer, but you get into a routine where it’s everyday business. You get into the flow of things where it seems commonplace to be working on a campaign for the presidency of the United States of America,” he grinned.

Morris was discouraged at first because he had put in the equivalent of 15 months of work in six months on the Edwards campign. “At the same time, I walked into my caucus and I had reached my goal for attendance. At that moment, I realized (hoped) that Barack Obama was going to be the next president.”

The Iowa caucuses historically have a

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turnout of around ed with the sta120,000 people. This tus quo in our year, it was more than country. There 220,000, according to are 47 million the young campaigner. people with no Rooms were overflowing. health care and “In my lifetime, Obama ‘no child left is the first person who has behind’ has really gotten people excitbeen a joke. ed about the process of “There are so politics. I’m a big Hillary many things Clinton fan, but I think that need to be that Obama will have a fixed and we are much better chance of lucky to have a beating John McCain,” charismatic and Morris said. optimistic canAfter the Edwards camdidate. I think paign, Dan met Richard that there’s a Carter, an opponent of good chance Jim Esch who was again that he will win Dan Morris running for the nominacomfortably.” tion for Congress. Carter, a professor of 7Noting that “Elections and choice are economics and a seven-year military vet- good,” Morris said, “Candidates need to eran, hired Dan to run his campaign. know that if they don’t beat their oppoMorris thought that the big issues of nents, they can at least scare them into the 2008 primary would be the economy doing a better job. Nebraska and Maine and the war and that Carter would be an are the only two states that split their excellent candidate. electoral votes. I’m excited to see what “Jim Esch had originally told us that he kinds of campaigns the Democratic canwasn’t going to run and Richard was hes- didates run.” itant about running against him. Then, At this point, Morris is very seriously after Richard got into the race, Jim considering law school. He remembers decided to run, too,” he explained. “I the words of his grandfather, Dr. Haskell knew it would be a very tough race and Morris, who told him, “Do something that it would be hard, but I said I would that will make a difference!” stick with it.”

Morris insists, “I can’t just go out to Carter lost to Esch in the May prin- change the world without having tools to mary, but Morris insists that, “Choice is do it. I’ve been lucky so far with having a always good and Lee Terry needs some- loving, supportive family and I’ve had one good to run against him. I think that everything that I’ve needed growing up this election will be extremely close.” as a privileged kid. Now it’s my turn to Morris added, “Americans are disgust- help.”

Page 48

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2008

Exciting life for young Jewish woman in nation’s capital

by CLAUDIA SHERMAN For Allyson Freeman, who works for Senator Chuck Hagel as a staff assistant in his Washington, D.C. office, it’s still exciting to see Senator Joe Lieberman (ICT) and his wife at the movies or meet and start talking to Senator Chris Dodd (D-CT) in an elevator. A 2005 graduate of Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism, in Evanston, Illinois, Freeman interned on Capitol Hill in the summer of 2004, prior to applying for her position with Senator Hagel.

Assisting with constituent service issues, Freeman has been a tour coordinator for Hagel’s office, arranging tours in Washington for Nebraskans who are visiting. “I don’t work directly with Senator Hagel,” she mentioned, “but see him most days he is in the office.”

She has also seen and met many foreign dignitaries, heads of state, and other elected officials who come through the office.

“Like anyone working on Capitol Hill, the hours are long,” she said. “A typical day while the Senate is in session is 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Being on the Hill is always exciting. You are literally in the middle of the policy discussions taking place that shape our country and surrounded by the elected officials and staff working towards those policies,” added the Central High School 2001 graduate.

“Political sightings both at work and in and around D.C ... are things that you can’t experience in just any city or in just any job. I think also, personally, the ability to be able to work for a senator from my home state makes the job that much more rewarding,” she said.

“I love Nebraska, loved growing up there, love our community and literally

Sen. Chuck Hagel (R-NE) will finish out his second term as U.S. Senator this year. count the days between my visits home, which are, unfortunately, infrequent these days. So it is especially motivating to come to work every day and interact with Nebraskans, be informed and in the know as to what’s going on back home, and know that the work our office is doing affects our state in immense ways.”

Growing up in Omaha with her two sisters, Lauren, 23, and Susan, 17, Allyson was a member of the varsity tennis team at Central for four years and worked on the high school newspaper for three years.

She was also active in Omaha Temple Youth Group throughout high school and served as co-president of the youth group her senior year. “I attended

Allyson Freeman, right, works for Sen. Hagel in constituent services. She’s pictured here with her mother, Robyn Freeman.

Temple Israel Religious School through graduation, and I remain very close to many of my Temple friends. Five of us had lunch together over Thanksgiving with our moms,” she added.

Oldest of Bob and Robyn Freeman’s three daughters, Allyson minored in political science at Northwestern. After she graduated, she moved to Philadelphia for a year before moving to Washington in the summer of 2006.

“I began my life in D.C. working in the Jewish community,” she explained, so “I was immediately exposed to many Jewish organizations in the city and met lots of other young Jews through my professional experience. Many of my close friends in

D.C. are Jewish, and we often celebrate Shabbat and other holidays together at each other’s houses. My first year in Washington, I taught fourth grade Sunday School at one of the local Reform congregations, Washington Hebrew Congregation. Even though I no longer work in the Jewish community, I am still involved. I attend Shabbat services and other Jewish cultural events regularly.”

About to begin a new assignment in the press office, Freeman said she’s “focusing on finding another job in Washington, hopefully still in government or politics.”

With Senator Hagel not seeking re-election, Allyson “would love to find another senator or congressperson to work for. I think it will be hard to find a boss and an office who is as passionate and works as hard as Senator Hagel and our staff do. It will be interesting to see what happens with the election in November and to see who is coming and leaving D.C. A lot could change,” she said.

“Longer term, I am eventually looking at grad school options in public or government administration or possibly communications,” Freeman said. “I, hopefully, will continue to find work to combine my journalism degree with my passion for government and politics with my interest in public service.”

Reflecting on her two years in Washington, Allyson noted that the question she is asked “more than anything” by visitors is: “‘Will you go back home to Nebraska?’”

“For now,” she thinks, “I’m content to stay in D.C. It’s a wonderful place for someone with a passion for politics and for young people in general. I think it’s a fun, exciting place to be.”

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A legacy of service

by LEO ADAM BIGA gations to take care of as an Legacy plays a big part in Steve elected official.”

Rosenblatt’s life.

The level of commitment The Omaha native and his wife, the required to be an effective, former Ann Hermen, live in Scottsdale, responsible public servant Arizona. was not enough to dissuade His late father, Johnny Rosenblatt, Rosenblatt from seeking a became an Omaha icon: first as a top seat on the city council and amateur baseball player; than as a sponlater on the county board. sor of youth athletic teams through the Even with the cachet of his Roberts Dairy company he managed; name, his strong base in the and finally as a popular Omaha city business community and a councilman and mayor. The elder groundswell of support to Rosenblatt, who served as mayor from make a mayoral bid he never 1954 to 1961, led efforts to build the seriously considered running South Omaha stadium that became the for that office. The same for a city’s home to professional baseball and Congressional seat. to the College World Series.

“I really was never interestThe city he loved paid tribute to one ed in it. It was not aspiring of its greatest boosters when Omaha to me. I’m as much a peopleMunicipal Stadium was renamed person as my dad was but at Johnny Rosenblatt Stadium in 1964. Steve Rosenblatt was a member of the Omaha the same time I’m much The venue and the name have become City Council from 1973-81 and served on the more private. You cannot in synonymous with the NCAA college Douglas County Board from 1981-95. my opinion be an elected baseball championship played continuously at the stadi- official at that level and be as private as I would have um since 1950. liked to be. I want to do the job I was elected to do and In a classic case of the apple not falling far from the when the day is over I want to go to the golf course, be tree, Steve Rosenblatt was a ballplayer in his own right with my family, watch a ballgame. You can’t do that in and served on the Omaha Chamber of Commerce certain areas because you’ve given up that right and that Sports Commission and the Omaha Royals Advisory time by your election to a particular office.”

Board. He followed his father’s footsteps into politics as He said it all comes with the territory. well, serving two terms on the city council and three “Make no mistake about it, when a person is elected to terms on the Douglas County Board of Commissioners. office, even at the city level, the county level, there’s a The stadium that’s forever associated with his father sacrifice to be made,” he said. “People may not realize it played a key role in Steve’s early life. He was a bat boy at the time they do get in but they will find out. I found for the inaugural Omaha Cardinals game played there, a out and I knew how much I wanted to give and how duty he performed the first years the CWS took up resi- much I didn’t.” dence. He regrets that the facility so closely tied to his He added, “People thought I should have run for family will be razed after the 2010 CWS, in line with the mayor. The thing that used to scare me about that planned construction of a new downtown stadium slat- thought was I might get elected. Then I’d have to go do ed to host the Series beginning in 2011. But the prag- it and, you see, I knew too much about what a mayor matic Rosenblatt knows the decision is driven by the had to give up and to do to be successful. I could have bottom line, which trumps nostalgia every time. done it. I think I could have done a good job at it but it Sports and politics are inheritances for Rosenblatt, was not appealing to me because my (golf) handicap who is an only child. Just as his father used sports and would have gone up.” charisma to forge a political career, the son used his own He never discussed with his father prospects for a pubpassion for athletics and way with people to become a lic life nor went to him for political advice. player on the local political scene and to find success as “Not really,” he said. “I first got elected in ’73 and he an entrepreneur. was stricken with Parkinson’s disease in the latter part of Bearing a name that has such major import in Omaha the ’50s, so he was really not able, but he didn’t have to could have been an issue for Rosenblatt, but he didn’t let because I learned from him when he was healthy, vigorit be. ous and in office, so I’d already got the lessons.”

“You can take that and make it a burden,” Rosenblatt Even though he never planned for it, Rosenblatt said said, “or you can take it and have it be an asset, and I he always assumed he would gravitate to public service. wished to take that route.”

“Well, I’d always thought that as a son of a former mayor Comparisons between he and his father were and as somebody who had learned that life, that perhaps inevitable. “That’s fine, because we weren’t the same. some day I might get involved. I knew how to operate, so First of all, he was a better ballplayer than I,” he said to speak. Actually, the way it happened is former Mayor with his dry wit. “I was a better golfer than he was. Eugene Leahy said to me one day, ‘Steve, you need to run Basketball might have been a toss-up, except he played for the city council -- we need to get some new blood in college basketball -- I didn’t.” there.’ I guess he kind of triggered the desire.”

Growing up, Rosenblatt couldn’t help but notice what At the time he declared his candidacy in 1972 made his father a strong mayor and the sacrifices that job Rosenblatt was a salesman with Sterling Distributing entailed.

Company, an alcoholic beverage distributor. He’d done “I was obviously aware of it and I learned as time went some college work at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln on how he operated and how he did things. Of course it and the University of Nebraska at Omaha. Only his mind was intriguing. He was a people-person who had an abil- was more on baseball than higher education. ity to communicate and to have relationships with his “I was only interested in athletics and still am to this constituency and to make the tough decisions and still day as a matter of fact. I really did not have the kind of maintain a tremendous popularity. He had what I would plan that I would hope my kids would have. I was not call a broad-based support. He was well liked all over the academically a good student but I think you could say I community and one of the things that contributed to was more attuned to the practicalities of life. You might that -- and it was what also helped me -- was the back- say I was street smart ...” ground he had in athletics. That benefited him as I think A three-year varsity letter-winner at Omaha Central, he it benefited me. tried to play ball at UNL, he said, “but academically I “He was well known as an athlete long before he was wasn’t taking care of business and physically I was too well known as a public official and his abilities as an ath- young to have an opportunity to be successful.” lete helped to project him into places.”

While school was hardly a home run, his experience Rosenblatt said his father epitomized the IT factor trying to cobble together a college baseball career gave politicos possess. “All the people you see serve in the him priceless insights. He also gained much from his public sector as elected officials have in my opinion an friendship with two coaching legends -- Eddie Sutton attribute that goes beyond the norm,” he said, “in that and the late Rod Dedeaux. they have the ability to speak and to be received in a “I’m fortunate to have been very close to two of the fashion that projects themselves as leaders.” greatest coaches in the history of sports.”

Being an accessible mayor means never really having Rosenblatt got to know Sutton when the thenany down time.

Creighton University head basketball coach and his fami“What was difficult about it was the fact you learned ly moved across the street from Steve and his folks. The early on there’s a price to be paid as well,” Rosenblatt families remain close to this day. He got to know Dedeaux said, “because obviously with my dad doing what he did when the University of Southern California head baseball he was not going to be with you doing the things you coach led his powerhouse clubs at the CWS. might like to be doing all the time. He had public obli- Continued on page 51

September 26, 2008

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 51

A legacy of service

Continued from page 50 “If I’d have known then what I learned from Rod I would have had a chance to have been a better baseball player,” he said, “but at the time I didn’t have that coaching-mentoring.”

The ability to evaluate talent and to weigh options has made Rosenblatt a kind of scout and adviser for promising young athletes, especially Jewish athletes.

“I’m helping kids to try to get situated within athletics. I had a young Jewish kid and his father from Scottsdale go to Omaha to try to help him get set up collegiately. I’m making calls to some baseball people trying to help a young Jewish kid in Omaha who’s a good ballplayer.

People call me. People know that I kind of understand. I try to offer guidance to both the parents and the youngsters as to what could be in their best interests.

That, to me, is fun.”

Rosenblatt said it’s not an accident he’s drawn to strong, charismatic men like his father. After losing Johnny in 1979 Rosenblatt drew even closer to Dedeaux.

“He also was a people-person and a great communicator,” Rosenblatt said of Dedeaux. “He learned the baseball business from one of the smartest men in the history of the game, a fella named Casey Stengel. That was his mentor. The two games he played in the major leagues Casey Stengel was the manager.”

By the time Rosenblatt owned his own business -- a sales and distribution outfit for corrugated package containers better known as boxes -- Dedeaux and he were like father and son. They were also business associates.

“He was not only a good friend but one of my biggest customers. He had a truck-

ing company with warehousing and distribution divisions. Multiple operations.

It was really big. Make no mistake, he was a baseball person, but he was also a phenomenon in the world of business.”

Rosenblatt parlayed his background in athletics by serving on the Chamber’s Sports Commission, which had a similar agenda as today’s Omaha Sports Commission.

“It was a matter of trying to do the things that make Omaha an attraction for new athletic environments,” he said.

He described his work on the Omaha Royals Advisory Board as “an opportunity for the Royals management to hear from people that are looking at the franchise from perhaps a different standpoint.” He’s still tight with the Royals today. “The general manager of the Royals, Martie Cordaro, is a good friend.

I meet with him literally every time I go back to Omaha to talk about what they“re doing and how we can help them be successful.”

Those enduring ties to the Royals keep Rosenblatt informed on the Triple AAA club’s uneasy status in town. Principal owner Alan Stein is in ongoing negotiations with the Omaha Sports Commission and the Metropolitan Entertainment Convention Authority that will determine if the Royals strike a deal to play in the new downtown stadium or go play ball somewhere else. La Vista and Sarpy County are among the Royals’ in-state suitors and Stein indicates out state communities are courting the team as well. Like any good businessman, he’s playing the field.

“Well, I think he has to have that attitude,” Rosenblatt said. “I’ve met with

Alan and Martie. I know what they’re as he still talks with Royals officials, he thinking is. I’ve offered them my opinion bends the ear of NCAA officials, acting as of the situation. It will be interesting to a kind of intermediary between the two. see what develIt all came to a ops.” head when the Steve’s personal political hot potaconnection to to of the new staRosenblatt Stadium proposed by dium and to the Mayor Mike pro and college Fahey, and subsebaseball tenants quently approved that have occupied by the city counit rather uneasily in cil, sealed the fate recent years have of Rosenblatt put him in a Stadium. The new Solomon-like posidowntown stadition. He loves the um is being built CWS and how it’s expressly for the grown to become NCAA and the a huge event garCWS. If the nering national Royals do play media coverage. there, they’d be His long associa- Years after moving from Omaha, Steve Rosenblatt the ugly step-child tion with the Series remains a supporter of the Royals and hopes the who has to accept and his deep affec- current stadium might be turned into a Hall of the leftovers from tion for the figures Fame for the College World Series. the favorite son. who made it special give him a unique Rosenblatt equates a Royals move from perspective. He knows players, coaches, Omaha a loss. local CWS organizers and NCAA offi“Well, I would because the original cials. concept of the stadium that has Johnny’s He sat in on negotiations between the name on it was not initially for the city and the NCAA as a city councilman. College World Series, it was for profes“The city was a cooperative partner with sional baseball,” he said, “Because of the private sector in the production, basi- what has transpired with the emergence cally, of the College World Series,” he of the College World Series, it’s now cresaid. He played a similar oversight role as ated what I would refer to as an unfrienda county board member. ly situation for professional baseball.

On the other hand he appreciates what There’s no other professional baseball the Royals offer the community and the team in America that has a competitor in compromises they’ve made to placate the town called the College World Series. So city and the NCAA and the proverbial it’s awkward.”

900-pound gorilla that is the CWS. Just Continued on page 53

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Page 52

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2008

Georgia senatorial campaign a mix of excitement and exhaustion

by GARY JAVITCH “I always had a certain level of interest in politics, but I was never an activist,” Sibby Wolfson explained in a phone interview from her apartment in Brooklyn.

But all that changed in the Summer of 2003, Sibby recounted, when powerhouse executive Herman Cain, the former CEO of Godfather’s Pizza, called her from Atlanta. He wanted Sibby to help him for his upcoming run for the U.S. senate seat being vacated by Zell Miller (D-GA.) An insider’s account “I had been working for Herman Cain for six years, beginning in September 1997 at T. H. E, Inc., which was a business-leadership consulting organization. The initials stood for The Hermanator Experience.

‘Hermanator’ is an affectionate appellation used to describe the charismatic choir-singing, entrepreneurial, extroverted personality of Herman Cain,” she explained.

“I assisted with his professional speaking engagements and his book-video-and audio sales. I also handled the liaison work for him for the corporate boards he sat on.”

She continued, “While Herman was well known in the restaurant world, he achieved a different kind of instantaneous national recognition following a Town Hall meeting which President Bill Clinton presided over.

Herman challenged the president on his healthcare calculations.”

Clinton encouraged him to send his office a letter detailing his disagreement. Cain did, according to Wolfson, and his numbers proved correct.

“Following that experience, he pondered running for president, but in the end dismissed that idea,” Wolfson said. “Still, not too much later an opportunity came up for him to run for senate and that’s when I got the call -- but I couldn’t start for him immediately,” the Iowa native explained. “I was still recovering from my June surgery for colon cancer. Then in August my mother passed away. I left from the funeral and went to Atlanta where he was setting up shop.

Sibby was going to be Herman’s scheduler and his lawyer sent her a contract. She soon learned that her job duties would encompass so much more.

Herman Cain, a unique and remarkable man Cain once said about himself that he was “Living proof of the American Dream.” He attended Morehouse College as a math major and then went on to earn an MS in Computer Science at Purdue.

But his academic credentials alone did not propel him to the top of the corporate world. He was most likely also aided by his strong work ethic. His dad set an exam-

Former Omahan Sibby Wolfson now lives in New York, where she works for Booz & Company, consulting with companies in the health and financial services fields. ple for Herman and his fatherly advice was detailed in one of his campaign commercials. Cain said, “My dad worked three jobs and taught me that you get what you earn. I took that lesson to heart.”

Cain had a spectacular rise in the corporate world.

Indeed, after only three years at the Pillsbury Company, Herman became a vice president at age 34. Pillsbury later appointed Cain president of the faltering Godfather’s Pizza in Omaha, and in just over a year, he returned the chain to profitability. A year later, he and his executive team bought the company from Pillsbury.

The Campaign Not discussed yet to this point is Cain’s political philosophy. He is extremely conservative. As a Georgia Republican, to make it to the general election, he had to surpass two veteran congressmen, one of whom had the party’s endorsement. And, oh yes, Herman Cain is black.

That he was an African-American competing in a southern state did not bother Cain.

“Herman never thought about the race issue, and never used it,” Wolfson noted. “He had so many successes in a white world that he just never gave it much thought. Although aware of the race issue, Herman always knew he’d have to work a little harder and a little longer.”

Still, in committing to the race, Wolfson also had to reconcile her Democratic and more liberal beliefs with

the candidate’s. “Yes, that was touchy,” she agreed.

“There were always things that I disagreed with him on.

What underlies the whole thing though was my faith in Herman and my belief that he would be able to perform miracles in the U.S. Senate. He was first and foremost a man of integrity, generosity, and honesty. And he always will be,” she declared.

“The campaign itself was really, really exciting. I was there right from the ground floor up. I helped get the campaign office set up,” she explained. “As part of my duties, we contacted many different groups, like the Veterans of Foreign Wars and business people to see if Herman could talk to their groups or to make a contribution. He spoke all over the state to any and every group.”

The hard life of politics did have some eye-opening moments for her. “With some groups you may not agree with fully, you had to downplay your differences and emphasize the areas of agreement. Sometimes you couldn’t be 100% forthright,” she said.

“Herman was attracting white people everywhere. The staff thought it amazing. The campaign did a survey and found that 15% of Georgians stated they would not vote for a black candidate. I thought the number incredibly high. But to my surprise, the experts expected it to be higher, so they were actually pleased with the figures.”

Towards the end of Wolfson’s year-long involvement, and as the July primary election date closed in, the campaign got even more intense. “We were working 16-20 hour days: We went door-to-door with information about Herman. We spent time on street corners with Herman Cain signs. We were so busy that often the young campaign volunteers and staff didn’t have time to go home.

They just slept in our campaign offices,” she said.

“And during the state party convention, we spent hours arranging for Herman to meet with everybody; just figuring out how to stage a campaign at the convention was almost overwhelming. As many hours as I put in, it was not even close to what Herman worked or the political director or finance director or even the press secretary,” she observed.

In the three-man primary, Herman beat congressman Mac Collins by five percentage points, but the eventual winner of the general election, Rep. Johnny Isakson, won the Republican primary with 53% of the vote.

“Herman put in a chunk of his own money. He never thought twice about all he put into the campaign, and he never had a moment of regret,” Wolfson said.

On reflection, she observed, “I am a hard worker, but I never, never want to work that hard again!”’

Continued on page 53

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A legacy of service Continued from page 51 Even though he now takes an indirect role in such matters, he’s keeping a wary eye on the downtown stadium project, whose estimated $140 million price tag he considers overly optimistic. He predicts it will end up costing $175-$200 million once all the dust settles.

Like many Omahans he’s concerned that if the Royals don’t play at the new stadium and no minor league franchise is secured in their place, the venue will sit empty 50 weeks a year and not be the economic catalyst or anchor for NoDo it’s intended to be. This longtime proponent of a CWS hall of fame said the stadium would be an apt home for it and an Omaha sports hall of fame.

A CWS hall would acknowledge those who’ve excelled as players or coaches or been responsible for the Series’ success.

While he doesn’t feel that venue would be much of a year-round draw he sees an Omaha sports museum as a turnstyle magnet “because so many great athletes have come out of Omaha. That would be very interesting, and if you could incorporate the two, that’s a helluva an idea.”

He also has a vested interest in seeing his father“s name live on in the new stadium.

“In my opinion that would be wise and appropriate given the lengthy association that that name has had with college and professional baseball in Omaha.

Hopefully the powers that be will have his name connected in some way,” he said.

The stakes are rarely as high as they are with the stadium issue but he makes a practice of using sports as an ice breaker with people.

“Almost everything I’ve done businesswise, athletics has been a tool of taking care of business. My involvement in athletics is an invitation. If I happen to be calling on new customers and if they’re knowledgeable in athletics, then I’m going to get their business, because I can talk it. If they’re interested in the opera and the theater, I’m in trouble. So athletics is a great tool in communicating.”

Athletics and business were not his only finishing schools for a political life. He gained valuable leadership experience as a Nebraska Air National Guardsman and as chairman of the Midlands Chapter of the Multiple Sclerosis Society.

“That was a very rewarding opportunity,” he said. “Hopefully we did some good there. I had learned, of course, with my dad being afflicted with Parkinson’s and my mother being afflicted with rheumatoid arthritis how devastating that can be. Being associated with the Multiple Sclerosis Society gave me an opportunity to contribute and to try to help people ...”

Community service motivated his entry into politics.

“You try to get elected in my opinion to help people who perhaps don“t have the ability to help themselves,” he said, “because everybody needs help. Having the ability to collectively help people is the thing that gives you the most pleasure.”

His political life has taught him some lessons. One is to be “leery” of any candidate who makes promises. “The fact of the matter is there’s very little individually they can do because it takes a collective effort to get something done,” he said.

Any rhetoric about reducing taxes is just that. “That’s folly,” he said. “They’ll be lucky if they don’t have to raise taxes.”

His action on some issues elicits satisfaction all these years later. One involved the Orpheum Theatre. Omaha’s thenmayor, Ed Zorinsky, wanted it razed.

Rosenblatt, a fellow Jew and key ally, went against Zorinsky to side with preservationists who wanted it restored. The conflict came down to a close city council vote.

“The Orpheum Theatre would not be around today if not for Steve Rosenblatt,” he said. “I felt an obligation to the people of the city of Omaha to ensure that it remained for the use down the road. I was the swing vote on that. If that vote goes the other way it’s gone.”

A controversial decision on his councilcounty board watch was demolishing Jobbers Canyon to make way for the downtown ConAgra campus. “It was an emotional issue,” he said. “I don’t make decisions based on much emotion. I try to make them based on what I think is right.”

He said the project “was an absolute must because we as a community could not afford for ConAgra to go to Lincoln or somewhere out in the suburbs -- one of the possibilities at the time. It needed to be downtown to be the initial thrust for the redevelopment of that area.”

He encouraged then-mayor Bernie Simon to have the city match a financial commitment the county was making for the project. The city did. He said, “One of the things I had going for me was having been on the city council I retained a great deal of working relationships with people at city hall. The ability to transcend the workings of city and county government was helpful on a variety of projects.”

He credits ex-mayors P.J. Morgan and Hal Daub with driving Omaha’s growth forward by continuing city-county cooperation and public-private sector synergy.

Under current Mayor Mike Fahey Omaha’s makeover has been “phenomenal.”

If Rosenblatt and his wife have their way, they’ll eventually live in Omaha half the year. The Rosenblatt name could once again be center stage in the political arena.

Campaign a mix of excitement and exhaustion

Continued from page 52 Post-campaign In Omaha, Wolfson served on the board of Friedel Jewish Academy and Beth El after the campaign. “I was always involved with the synagogue.”

Of Herman Cain, he recently celebrated his second anniversary being coloncancer free. He still does his consulting, writes about politics and economics and has a radio talk show on those topics from 7-10 p.m., Monday through Friday with a huge listening audience.

Long time residents of Omaha, Sibby and her husband Bob relocated to New

York two years ago so Bob could take a senior executive position with the national Anti-Defamation League office. She works for the global consulting company, Booz & Company in their Health and Financial Services sectors. The couple has two adult children, Alex, 27 and Rebecca, 30, also living in New York.

When asked about her current political activities, Wolfson replied, “I am not doing anything political today, but I am agonizing over who’s going to win the national elections. I can’t vote for McCain, but I do have some concerns about Obama.”

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 53

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 55

Values shared through one young woman’s work

Murow says the education process works both ways. Bluff, Murow skewered Senator John McCain by pointby OZZIE NOGG Q. What 24-year old Omahan has been privy to a pri- “We take the pulse of Jewish voters and pass on their ing out “interesting inconsistencies and a faux pas that concerns to Democratic party leaders -- and to candi- beg the question: just how polished is this presidential vate conversation between Hillary and Bill? dates -- about the need to address and support issues candidate’s foreign policy judgment?�

A. Rebecca Murow. “About a week before the first official primary debate that are important to the Jewish community.�

Murow used the word ‘shameful’ when describing synin South Carolina, the National Jewish Democratic One stated goal of The National Jewish Democratic dicated columnist Charles Krauthammer’s defense of Council held a conference at which all seven Democratic Council is to engage and cultivate a new generation of President Bush’s opposition to federal funding for presidential candidates presented their positions. I young Jewish Democratic leaders. Murow is certainly embryonic stem cell research. scheduled the speakers, did advance work with their one of those. A 2006 graduate of the University of The Pentagon earned Murow’s wrath when she staffers and handled publicity,� Murow said in a recent Michigan, she was awarded a double degree in Political weighed in against the DOD’s plan to distribute a video interview.

Science and Judaic Studies. She also spent a semester at game, created by a fundamentalist Christian ministry, “I was more stressed out than I could ever remember Hebrew University in Jerusalem. that glorified the killing of Jews and others who resist being. Part of my job was to make sure the candidates “My Jewish education and beliefs have motivated my becoming born-again Christians. (After interference didn’t pass each other backstage, but that didn’t always political involvement,� she said. “Participating in the from the Military Religious Freedom Foundation, the go as planned. Senator Hillary Clinton and Governor political process is a way I feel able to play my role in Pentagon did not ship the game). And on Flag Day, Bill Richardson were on the program back-to-back,� she tikun olam, repairing the world. My work with NJDC is 2006, Murow wagged her finger at various rightadded. “When Clinton finished speaking, I led her back- a perfect match.� wingers who claimed the stage and up the stairs, and there was Richardson, on his In late September, Murow Founding Fathers includway down. They greeted each other with a hug, a very will manage another NJDC ed the phrase ‘under God’ cordial ‘Hi, Hillary, Hi, Bill,’ and parted with, ‘See you conference whose theme -in the Pledge of in South Carolina!’�

Repairing the World One Allegiance. “Quick history Okay, okay, so Bill wasn’t that Bill. Still, Murow was Election at a Time -- reflects lesson,� wrote Murow. mighty impressed. “Some of my friends make fun of me her personal values. The “Our founding fathers did for referring to politicians as celebrities,� she said. “But speakers include Presidential no such thing. The phrase I confess I’m definitely star struck when I see an impor- candidate Barack Obama, ‘under God’ wasn’t added tant elected official.� along with Howard Dean, until 1954.�

Murow is blessed with Last fall, when conser“My favorite part of the convention week was enthusiasm and youthful vative commentator Ann energy, qualities necessary undoubtedly Senator Obama’s speech. Sitting in Coulter made her controfor her demanding job at the versial on-air statement National Jewish Democratic that stadium, watching history in the making -that “Jews (need) to be Council in Washington. perfected,� Murow and feeling history in the making -- was an incredible As Director of Chapter inspiration. The crowd’s cheers for Obama’s her colleagues at the Operations and Deputy National Jewish DemoCommunications Director, heartfelt policies of change paired with its utter cratic Council sent her responsibilities include silences during his most serious mentions of around a petition calling Rebecca Murow, right, meets Valerie Harper, star of the film, on networks to stop invitengaging national activists in American hardships fused a crowd of 80,000+ Golda’s Balcony, which was shown at the Democratic National ing Coulter as a guest to grassroots activities (such as Convention. A reception honoring Jewish members of Congress comment on politics. surrogate speaking and let- people into one unified entity. The atmosphere followed at the Golda Meir House where Harper, star of the film, ter-writing campaigns) and was unparalleled and the speech unforgettable.� “The petition remindheld a Q&A and handed out awards to the honorees. the oversight of chapter ed execs that Ms. Coulter operations that accommodate Jewish Democrats in com- Al Gore, Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid. Program topics takes liberties with the facts, and while she’s entitled to munities around the country. focus on ways to reach Jewish swing voters, handicap- freedom of speech, the networks have the freedom to She also schedules debates between the NJDC and its ping the Presidential and Congressional races, domestic exercise better judgment,� Murow blogged. republican counterpart (the Republican Jewish policy and panel discussions on Israel and the Middle Murow and other bloggers at NJDC welcome the Coalition), writes fact sheets on the differences between East. often hostile responses to their on-line postings. “We the two presidential candidates, and acts as the NJDC’s Rebecca began her association with the National have a joke in the office,� she said. “We actually congratliaison to the Democratic National Convention Jewish Democratic Council as an intern during the sum- ulate people the first time they are ‘bashed’ on another Committee. Last month, Murow coordinated and rode mer of 2004, when she joined the staff at the blog. It means we’ve struck a nerve and managed to creshotgun on all events hosted by NJDC at the Democratic National Convention in Boston. Back in ate debate and hit on an issue that’s clearly important.

Democratic National Convention in Denver.

Ann Arbor that fall, Murow worked with Senator John I’m flattered that people are reading what I’m writing “We held a private screening of the film, ‘Golda’s Kerry’s Jewish outreach team during the remainder of and have a strong opinion -- whether it’s for or against Balcony’,� Murow said, “after which we honored the the campaign season. In the summer of 2005, she what I believe. Conversation, and eventually debate, is Jewish members of Congress at the Golda Meir House. interned with Nebraska Senator Ben Nelson’s so important to the political process.�

We also co-hosted a luncheon with the Congressional Washington office.

She added, “The NJDC is informed by its commitBlack Caucus, held a panel on the Jewish vote, and pre“At the NJDC our main focus is on the U.S. - Israel ment to those values shared by the Democratic Party and sented a squaretable discussion -- Practicing Politics with relationship, separation of church and state, reproductive the vast majority of American Jews. I work for the Jewish Values -- during which more than a dozen Jewish rights. Senator Nelson’s office introduced me to a National Jewish Democratic Council because I believe and political leaders discussed the role Jewish ethics broader pool – agriculture, the Iraq War, health care, in the issues the organization supports. A strong U.S. -should play in politics.� judicial nominations -- and I really appreciated the Israel relationship is obviously important to me, but I’m According to its website, the NJDC is the voice for opportunity to work on a wider range of issues,� she also concerned with domestic issues like health care, Jewish Democrats. “We’re an issue advocacy organiza- explained. stem-cell research, environmental policy, poverty and tion,� Murow explained, “which means we educate A top priority of the NJDC is to fight the radical right education.�

Jewish voters on the issues and the differences between agenda at every turn. Clearly, Murow supports that She considers those issues “particularly essential to the the Democratic and Republican candidates for elected effort and her blog postings take no prisoners. Under idea of tikun olam -- repairing the world. That theme is office.� the headline, Foreign Policy Buff or Foreign Policy central to the work we do.�

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Page 56

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2008

Judge’s compassion shows in Juvenile Court

by GARY JAVITCH Larry Gendler is “looking out for you.” Especially if you’re a parent, and in particular, if you are a child.

For 30 years, Gender has been a strong advocate for children. He has played that role even before he began his 16-year tenure presiding over the Separate Juvenile Court of Sarpy County -- the court’s formal name --or serving as the Sarpy County deputy prosecutor for 14 years (seven as chief deputy).

During a lengthy interview in August, the judge spoke of some of his accomplishments and high-lighted some of the challenges families face today.

One achievement, Judge Gendler was quite proud of was his drug court. “It was the first juvenile drug court in the state. It’s a court-ordered intensive supervision of juveniles who have been found guilty of a drug-related offense,” he explained. “It’s a distinctly different court set up entirely under the jurisdiction of our juvenile court.”

The purpose of the program is to reduce repeat offenses by under-age youth, using the services of an early intervention treatment team (like psychologists and social workers), keeping the kids under intensive supervision, and by maintaining strict judicial oversight.

“The treatment of kids is so much different than that for adults. Unlike adults,

Judge Larry Gendler kids who get into trouble are not going to lose their career and relationships. At the same time, it is more difficult to treat youngster rather than adults,” he said.

“Still, with this special attention we give them, our kids are graduating from drug court and high school, some even making the honor roll at school, when previously they were not even earning passing grades. Also, with the supervision they receive, many are remaining sober.

How do the kids get into so much trouble and become addicts? “A lot of it is peer pressure. Some of it is mental illness, ‘self medicating’ and lack of parenting.

Peer pressure is enormous,” the judge observed. “Sometimes it’s even hard for me to understand how they got there. I see kids 12-13 using methamphetamines and addicted to drugs.”

He noted, “Parents are a key; it’s a big problem. A single parent can be terrific, but a parent alone has much more difficulty. In a simplified version, life is about relationships; when kids don’t have healthy relationships, they get into trouble. The problem for many youngsters is that they are unable to form relationships with adults, parents or their own peers.”

Then unfortunately, he added, “their best friend becomes someone they met in juvenile detention. Not everyone who marries young will be a bad parent; the older you are, however, the more life skills you may have. Another important thing, parents have got to know when to turn off the TV.” Accomplishments & Awards Appointed to the judiciary in 1992 by then Gov. Ben Nelson, Judge Gendler has received numerous awards over the years for his work, including being selected by the Jaycee’s as one of the top ten young Omahans (1991). The Bellevue Mayor’s Commission on Alcoholism also praised his work, as did the Metropolitan Child Advocacy Coalition.

Ultimately, the most prestigious commendation comes from one’s peers. Here again, Judge Gendler stands out among his colleagues. Two awards he received in the last few years exemplify this point.

Of special note is the award bestowed upon him by the Chief Justice of the Nebraska Supreme Court, who named him the state’s most “Outstanding

Judge” in 2006. The award is described as the highest honor given by the Chief Justice to honor members of the judiciary for meritorious projects and exemplary accomplishments that enhance the vision of justice within Nebraska communities.

The judge was also named a “Nebraska State Bar Foundation Fellow.” The Foundation grants this honor based on the integrity and character of the lawyer/judge. Its purpose: to recognize established legal professionals who are dedicated to improving the administration of justice.

Two more accomplishments Among many worthy accomplishments, two others jump out at any observer of the Gendler record. The first is his CASA program (Court Appointed Special Advocate); he worked on legislation to give the CASA representatives legal standing. The Sarpy program is the oldest in the state and their volunteers look out for the interests of children literally dumped into the court system because of abuse or neglect. At any one time there are about 5,000 such children in Nebraska, according to county’s website.

“Because of this program, frightened, abused and neglected kids do not have to stand alone as they go through the system,” the Creighton Law graduate noted.

(Judge Gendler also worked on a number of legislative issues to help kids.)

One other state program merits attention. It is called “Through the Eyes of the Child Initiative” and it establishes 25 community-based court teams around Nebraska. Each team is led by a judge of of either a county or juvenile court.

Continued on page 58

Wishing Your NisewYear illed F withPeace and Prosperity.

September 26, 2008

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 57

It’s always about the children, never politics

by ANNETTE VAN DE KAMP-WRIGHT and policy, selection of the district’s superintendent, It Takes a Village to Raise a Child -- Hillary Rodham- evaluation of educational programs, and fiscal responsiClinton famously wrote in 1996. The same can be said bility, to name but a few. for educating that child. From teachers to janitors, from It’s a busy job, but Zweiback does it with pleasure: involved parents, coaches, and counselors to lunch ladies “Being on the board is not for every parent,” she says, -- a virtual army of invested adults is needed to run each “it’s a lot of hard work, but it’s important to me, not just and every school district in the United States. as a parent, but as a community member. I don’t sit at Studies have shown that lack of parental involvement the meetings thinking like the mother of my own chilis the biggest problem the public school system faces in dren, but work for the betterment of all children in the the U.S. today. Since there are immense benefits to district. It is important that we have members who look parental involvement, many public schools make it a pri- at the big picture, at services that are needed, and who ority to pull parents in to become part of the school’s are great communicators.” “extended family”.

Communication in When parents become particular is key, when part of the fabric of the dealing with such a large school, students have beteducational body, ter grades, better test Zweiback finds: “A big scores, and better graduapart of what the board tion rates; school attendoes is listening to condance improves, suspencerns, and answering the sion rates drop, and stuquestions that may be out dents have a healthier selfthere. However, the peoesteem and increased ple on the board also need motivation. In schools to know how to ask the with parental involvement right questions. The disthere is also a decreased trict would be ill served use of drugs and alcohol, without good leadership. and a lower rate of violent We have had such excelbehavior. lent leaders in the past, When we think of and we very much want parental involvement in to build on that.” public schools, most often The Westside school direct, hands-on activities district is proud of its concome to mind first. nection to the surroundHelping with homework, ing community. monitoring children’s “All students comactivities outside of the plete the 80 required school setting, attending hours of community servparent-teacher confer- Mace Hack and Rozie Zweiback enjoy time with their children, Joe, ice before they graduate, ences and maybe chaper- left, Abby and Grace, on the beach in northern California.

Zweiback explains, “They oning a field trip here and there are things easily accessi- volunteer at various hospitals, and assist at the Special ble to a motivated parent.

Olympics, among other things. They also form environHowever, outcomes produced by parents’ involvement mental clubs, as part of their extra curricular activities.” in school governance are harder to measure, and are not Students at Westside enjoy the advantage of modular as extensively researched. ‘Governance’ refers to any scheduling, something Zweiback is very pleased with. activity that provides parents the opportunity to take “We don’t have a set eight hours for the students to part in the school’s decision-making process, such as attend, but give the students the opportunity to vary being a school board member, a participant on a parent their class hours. It teaches them an enormous amount advisory committee, or an active member of the PTA. of responsibility and time management. They of course, Still, although researchers seem to have a difficult time still do all the required work, but they can tailor their pinpointing a causal relationship between parental personal program, and enroll in more classes than in the involvement in these areas and student performance, the traditional model,” she adds. benefits are crystal clear in other areas.

Westside is one of several schools in the nation that Well functioning school boards, for example, eliminate uses the modular program. Each day is divided in 14 mistaken assumptions parents and school officials may periods, or ‘mods’, that are taken in varying order, so have about each other. Parents who are involved on this not every day has the same schedule. Students attend level also serve as better role models for their children small groups as well as larger classes and labs; they can over the long term, and the schools themselves benefit access help from teachers during their ‘independent from parents serving as advocates throughout the wider study mods.’ Another thing the Westside district has community. become known for is its laptop program.

Omahan Rosie Zweiback is one such parent. She has In 2004, Westside became the first high school in served on the Westside Community School Board for Nebraska to provide wireless laptops to all its students. the past four years, currently as Vice President, and Almost 2,000 iBooks were handed out to the students; hopes to continue her participation for another six. they can be used anywhere in the building and provide “We live in the Westside district, and I myself went to the students with instant access to the public library’s school here from second grade through high school,” computers.

Zweiback says. “I feel very committed to the school, “Programs like this put our schools at the forefront of both as a parent and as a community member.” technology,” Zweiback says, “and our students benefit When she left New Jersey in 2000, she knew she want- enormously.” ed to make a difference. Together with her husband Not all decisions the board is involved with, however, Mace Hack, and children Grace (15), Joe (13), and are that exciting, Zweiback adds. “Most of what we do Abby (9) she moved back to Omaha, where she has since isn’t very glamorous! When a state government passes made quite an impact. As Temple Israel’s Program any kind of law that is relevant to the school, such as Director, she heads the Adult Education program and is those having to do with bus contracts or hiring practices, involved in many special projects, such as the Torah we as a board have to make sure we fall in line. We restoration, outreach programs, and last year’s Temple research statutes and legislation, and we make sure we Israel exhibit on gays in Nazi Germany. are informed so we can be compliant.”

“I love working as part of a team, and really enjoy putShe adds, “When the government makes a decision ting events together that strengthen our community,” that applies to all the public school, we can have no Zweiback says. debate about whether we will toe the line or not. We also With approximately 6,000 students enrolled in its K- have to approve taxation issues and budgets, and worry 12 schools, Westside is an impressive district. It is the about building regulations and upkeep. Before those city’s third largest school district, and includes a high snazzy laptops or that shiny new playground arrive, the school, a middle school, 10 elementary schools, and an board has to do a lot of hard work.” alternative high school.

Currently, the school board is working with a foundaThe school board has six members, elected to six-year tion to create a new performing arts center for the terms. They volunteer their time and energy, and focus Westside district’s students. on such things as goal-setting, establishment of mission Continued on page 58

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Page 58

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2008

Mediterranean Fresh

Always about the children

by Joyce Goldstein (W.W. Norton, $30)

Continued from page 57 “The teaching space we have right now is quite antiquated,� Zweiback says, “so we would love to update classroom availability, and create a 700-seat art center at the middle school.�

The high school in particular has quite a few students who are very active in the performing arts, as evidenced by participation in many contests, annual performances for the public, and countless appearances on YouTube. “There is a vocal music program, an orchestra, a band, and a theater department, so the need for a bigger space is definitely there,� Zweiback explains. “Our goal is to have a private/public partnership; the space would be made available not only for the students, but for the community as well. If we can combine one great resource for both the school and for those in the wider community, we increase investment in that community, and that is a fantastic outcome.�

All in all, Westside is an exciting place to work, Zweiback finds. “The school has high standards, both for its students and its personnel. Teachers are expected to complete a master’s within 10 years after their hiring date, and there is a heavy emphasis on continued staff development and training. That also includes the six members of the school board. We as board members are expected to continue our own education, and as such we attend conferences on both the state and the national level.�

The nice thing about the school board, Zweiback continues, is “it has enormous stability. This is not a place that anybody uses as a springboard to run for another office, people stay on it for a long time. The job is definitely not political; it always continues to be about the well being of the children. There are many options out there for someone who wants to get involved; I have found this to be the place where, hopefully, my contribution to society really matters.�

READ IT AND E AT Reviewed by LOIS FRIEDMAN A Culinary Institute of America (CIA) at Greystone in the California Napa Valley project with 12 Mediterranean salad dressings and 24 platters of salads set under umbrellas in a great buffet that was oft repeated became the basis for this cookbook.

Short of attending the Salad Boot Camps Goldstein runs for professional chefs, you can develop your salad skills, learn to make a good salad with “a few carefully selected ingredients dressed perfectly with an appropriate, well-chosen dressing,� and to balance key ingredients such as salt and acidity (vinegar and citrus juice or a combination of the two).

She has written many cookbooks, taught cooking, run restaurants for years and calls on all this experience to select recipes for more than 40 dressings, 140 salads and a few hot dishes “to show the versatility of Mediterranean dressings as marinades and finishing sauces.�

Part 1 covers Mediterranean Salads and Small Plates with the chapters “It's Easy Being Green-Leafy Salads�, “Raw and Cooked Vegetable Salads�, “Fruit Salads�, “Classic and Modern Grain, Bread and Pasta Salads�, Bean Salads, From the Sea, Poultry and Meat Salads and Small Plates. Part 2 is Mediterranean Vinaigrettes, Salad Dressings and Sauces with the chapters: Vinaigrettes, Citrus Dressings or ‘Citronettes’, and Sauces With Multiple Personalities Pesto, Tapenade, Romesco, Charmoula and Harissa.

Also presented are five basic salads plus seafood and meat and poultry salads, and four general dressing categories: vinaigrettes, citrus, creamy and sauce-based; ingredients are described. The recipes include Notes, Variations and Alternate Dressings and Salad choices.

Goldstein’s thoughts and her vast knowledge of all things cooking and especially Mediterranean expertise come through so comfortably in the headnotes and in the clear details of preparations ... very user friendly and beautiful color photographs.

You’ll find Hummus, Falafel, Bazergan (Syrian Jewish version of tabbouleh) and Israeli Chopped Salad with Avocado among the salad recipes. Choose a composed salad to execute your creativity, careful thought and selection; master the basic green salad and dazzle your tastebuds with this taste sensation. In the headnotes directions are given for juicing the pomegranates yourself ... with the suggestion that you wear a plastic garbage bag over your clothes because they spray madly, reducing bottled juice or using thick, tart pomegranate molasses (she recommends either Carlo or Cortas brands). Combine with any of the seven salad suggestions .. from grilled eggplant to fig and greens -- and since pomegranates are generally used as the “new fruit� for the New Year, this is perfect topping!

POMEGRANATE CITRUS DRESSING 1/2 cup mild olive oil, plus more to taste 6 tablespoons pomegranate molasses 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice Sea Salt Whisk the olive oil, pomegranate molasses, and lemon juice together in a small bowl and add salt to taste. Makes about 1 cup.

Lois Friedman can be reached at ReadItAndEat@yahoo.com

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Continued from page 56 All of the teams are working hard to place abused and neglected children in permanent, safe, and stable homes as quickly as possible so they would not spend as much time in foster care.

To oversee those 25 teams, the Supreme Court of Nebraska appointed Judge Gendler and provided him with a full-time aide. “I travel around the state to meet with the teams, which are made up of case workers and foster parents,� the judge explained. “We have had success, but this initiative is still a work in progress.�

Since the initiative began, the number of kids in foster care dropped nearly 20%.

Other cautionary notes -- and benefits “Kids have really changed over the years,� the judge noted. “They are doing too many things all at once, like driving and text messaging, or working on the computer. They have all these distractions. Take Facebook, for example. I wish I could take it and MySpace and put it away. Those sites breed issues with kids, like name calling. They are also sources for sexual innuendoes and where and how to meet for drugs. For that reason, Sarpy County routinely monitors the accounts of kids on probation,� he said. “The Internet has made parenting more difficult. Even good parents have kids who get into trouble. Peer pressure is just phenomenal. “I have been incredibly fortunate to have this job and my wonderful family. Many people take a lot for granted,� he said. “A great many folks out there are struggling. We need to sit back and appreciate what we have.

This job constantly reminds me of that.�

Judge Gendler is married to Tami Fields, who holds a PhD in music therapy and sings in the Temple Israel choir. She is also a registered nurse and manages an intensive care and step-down unit in Midlands Hospital.

The couple has two children, Max, 11, and Nate, 9.

HIGH HOLIDAY CLOSING & EARLY DEADLINE NOTICE The Jewish Press will be closed on Tuesday and Wednesday, Sept. 30 and Oct. 1, for Rosh Hashannah; Thursday, Oct. 9 for Yom Kippur; and Tuesday and Wednesday, Oct. 14-15 for Sukkot and Oct. 21-22 for Shemini Azeret and Simchat Torah. The deadline for all ads, articles and photos is 9 a.m. as follows: Issue Deadline Oct 10 Thursday, Oct. 2 Wednesday, Oct. 8 Oct. 17 Oct. 24 Monday, Oct. 13 Questions? Call 402.334.6448

September 26, 2008

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 59

Serving as a member of governor’s cabinet a highlight of accountant’s life

by GARY JAVITCH Next January, Alvin Abramson will become an octogenarian, but age has never slowed this energetic man down.

Still active doing board work and volunteer activities, Al, 79 years old, recently reflected on his long working career. “I have had two work highlights in my life.

One was working with my son Mike in the practice of public accounting for over five years. The other was working for the people of Nebraska as Director of Motor Vehicles in the administration of then Gov. Ben Nelson.”

Getting into politics The University of Nebraska-Lincoln graduate (1950) got his first taste of politics working on the election campaigns of Ed Zorinsky (OPPD board) and Johnny Rosenblatt (mayor) as they launched their political careers.

With his background as a certified public account to bolster him, Al has aided a string of political candidates well-known to Omahans, including Jim Exon (senator), Mike Boyle (mayor), Dick Fellman (congress), and Ben Nelson (governor).

He also served as the finance chairman for both of Zorinsky’s successful runs for the senate.

Al got an opportunity to serve the city when Mayor Boyle took office in the early 80’s. He appointed Alvin to several terms on the Metro Area Transit’s Board of Authority. When that 10-year stint came to an end, Al found himself looking for another opportunity to serve. Boyle, no longer in office, did have a suggestion.

He knew that Gov. Ben Nelson was searching for a well-qualified person to take over the poorly-functioning department of motor vehicles (DMV).

“Mike called the governor and Ben, himself, set me up with an interview with his chief-of-staff Kim Robak. Shortly afterward, I was offered the job.

Al joined the Nelson administration on July 6, 1993, as Director of the Department of Motor Vehicles. He

remained in that position until shortly after incoming governor Mike Johanns replaced him with his own appointee in early 1999.

“During those five and a half years, I led a very, very interesting life and had some very interesting experiences,” Al said.

Job Challenges Before Al began his first day, he was aware that the DMV staff morale was very low. Compounding that situation was the state’s poor relationships with the county offices. “There were 93 of them, and almost every one had a separate title and registration system. Only a handful were on board with the new system that would unify operations and procedures statewide.

Indeed, so much frustration existed over the implementation of the new system that the governor briefly considered dropping the entire effort.

There were other problems, too. The DMV was always over budget and had a difficult relationship with the legislative appropriations committee. County officials were also resistant to change.

Despite the hostility toward the DMV, Al saw that to make the whole system more efficient and effective, he had to convince the county leaders that the new system would be better. “I also had to convince them of the feasibility of a statewide system and build up their sense of confidence in me that I would truly be able to complete the project.

“It took me four and a half years to get a uniform system installed in every county, and I talked to each county official who had to approve it. Once installed, the titles and registrations systems were streamlined. And among many other safety outcomes, the police had better access to the system and could get immediate results when they sought to trace a license.

“To turn things around, Al put in more than the requisite time. “I commuted to

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Lincoln Monday thru Friday, leaving at 6:15 a.m., arriving at 7:15 a.m. to prepare for the office opening at 8 a.m. I left at 4:15 p.m. and always took work home.

“I also developed a newsletter for the staff. By sharing with them the progress we were making, I was able to keep them better informed. They were then better able to see what an integral part of the process they were and how they contributed to the success of the agency.

“I also was able to turn Al Abramson, left, chats with Sen. Ben Nelson following a the three-year driver’s Breadbreakers discussion group. license into a five-year license. To do that that topic. We shared that information I visited all 49 senators, meeting them in with Mothers Against Drunk Driving and their offices, at coffee shops or inviting the legislature. We made people more aware of the problem and were able to them to visit me. give the governor a comprehensive study Sen. Ben Nelson’s thoughts So what did Al’s boss say about his of the situation.”

In this modern age, Al made an interefforts? “As Director of the Department of Motor Vehicles Al took over an agency esting observation when he noted, “I was that was having problems. Hep rovided the first Jew that 80-90% of my staff had the necessary leadership to turn it into a ever come in contact with. But, I never well-run department,” Sen. Ben Nelson had any trouble, although some may have told the Jewish Press in a written state- eyed me suspiciously.”

He also found that dealing with the ment. “Under his guidance, the DMV became problem free and one of the best public was not always all that easy. “My departments in state government. I’ll personal policy was to take any caller askalways be grateful to Al for his service to ing for the director. Some people were Nebraska and will always consider him a really irate. When one woman complained about an issue that statutorily, I good friend,” the statement concluded.

Al also took pride in the role he played could not do anything about, she ended as chair of the New and Used Car Dealer the call by vowing to complain about me Licensing Board that regulated the auto directly to the governor. Go ahead,” Al said calmly, “here’s his number.” And industry in the state.

The issue of highway safety, an integral when one irate driver couldn’t get Al to component of the department’s mission, renew her suspended driver’s license, she took on added focus after the drunken yelled at him, “I want God to strike you driving deaths of two underage Westside down.”

“So far,” Al noted, “he’s missed me.”

High School students. “A group of us toured the state, getting testimony on Continued on page 62

Page 60

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2008

Prosecuting Attorney’s main goal: “To protect society”

by GLORIA SHUKERT JONES “In 1990, I came back to Omaha and Her affable demeanor and spontaneous volunteered several hours a week for Jim laughter belies the fact that Attorney, Jansen, who was running for Douglas Susan Lehr, is a formidable presence in County Attorney,” she said. “He hadn’t the courtroom. However, forget about all been elected yet at the time I volunteered those courtroom dramas on TV, where for him. I talked to Jansen about being prosecutors are presented hired by him as vindictive, trying to if he got convince judges and juries elected. that all defendants Meanwhile, I deserve maximum penalb e c a m e ties. aware of an She indicates that is not opportunity how it is at all. While Lehr in Buffalo firmly believes in justice, County, as a she is also fair, and considd e p u t y ers the circumstances of county attoreach individual case prior ney.” to presenting her findings L e h r to the court. realled, “It Lehr’s official title is was October Assistant United States when I got Attorney, employed by the offer the United States from Buffalo Attorney’s Office for the County, and District of Nebraska. One Jansen’s of her primary responsielection wasbilities is that of Susan Lehr is Assistant United States Attorney, n’t until the OCDETF chief, which based in Omaha. next month. stands for Organized Crime Drug Therefore, he couldn’t promise me anyEnforcement Task Force. As such, she is thing, so I took the position in Buffalo head supervisor of the drug unit in the County as a deputy county attorney, and United States Attorney’s office for prosecuted cases involving everything Nebraska. Additionally, she tries cases and from speeding to murder and everything has her own case load. in-between,” she explained.

Lehr graduated from law school in “In 1994, I received a phone call from 1988 from the University of Denver. She Jansen, who said, ‘Once you were interthen worked for a civil law firm in Denver ested in the position in Omaha. Are you for about a year, but stated she found still?’ I went for an interview, and he hired doing a lot of municipal bond work me. I worked in the Douglas County unchallenging.

Attorney’s Office from 1994 until 1999,

and then moved to the U.S. Attorney’s office, and I’ve been there ever since.”

Out of curiosity, I asked Lehr about her relationship with the opposing defense attorneys, often depicted on TV programs as arch enemies of prosecutors.

She laughed and said, “You’d have to ask them!” She further added, “In my opinion, it’s not personal. They have their clients to represent, and I have my clients to represent. Without standing on a soapbox, if you’re honest in your dealings, if you’re forthright, and have integrity, which I try to do, they know when they talk to me, I’m dealing straight with them. So, I try not to take it personally, and hopefully, they don’t either. We each have our side that we need to represent.

Even in the courtroom, your emotions can run away with you, but you realize that it’s the case and not the person,” she noted.

“The people I prosecute are obviously involved in illegal activity, distributing drugs, transporting drugs, drug trafficking, and they don’t want to be stopped.

They’re doing it because they have a drug habit, or for monetary reasons, or both.

And when they’re off whatever drug they were addicted to, they realize they have hit rock-bottom,” she explained.

Lehr indicated there is a positive outcome in some of the cases she has prosecuted, wherein some of her clients, after having been released from incarceration, will sometimes write letters to her and/or the judge, stating how their lives have been changed for the better, and that they couldn’t have done it without the prosecutor’s intervention. According to Lehr, this is one of the most fulfilling

aspects of her job.

Lehr is the daughter of Martin and Joan Lehr, Omaha residents referred to by their friends as Marty and Joanie. Born and raised in Omaha, she has an older brother with two children, and a younger sister with three children.

Lehr is single, and delights in her niece and four nephews, with whom she is very close. “I’m at the school all the time, and go to their events,” she says. “They’re not my kids, but I’m very involved with them.”

In her leisure time, Lehr enjoys bike riding and golf, and states, “We’ve been going to Nebraska football games since I was 10, and basketball games since I was five. I love being outside, and doing things outdoors.”

Lehr is a life member of the National Council of Jewish Women-Omaha Section, a member of Temple’s Sisterhood, WRJ: Women of Reform Judaism, and is also a member of the Nebraska State Bar Association. She also serves on the board of the Jewish Press.

When asked if there was anything about her job she would want to change, Lehr quipped, “I’ve always said if I really did my job well, I’d be unemployed! I like the the courtroom aspect of the job.”

She added that she likes being OCDETF chief.

“I’ve also helped coordinate with other agencies to build stronger cases. I work for a supportive boss. I really like my job.

There are some things I can’t change, like I don’t always agree with the judges’ decisions, but there’s nothing I can do about that,” she said.

Continued on page 62

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More of Nebraska’s politicos Dining September 26, 2008

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 61

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Page 62

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2008

Main goal: “To protect society”

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Continued from page 60 Regarding future plans, Lehr observed, “I’m not a good career planner. When I was in Kearney, in Buffalo County, I told that boss I’d give him at least a year, because they were having trouble retaining people. I ended up staying three and a half years, because to leave for the sake of leaving, didn’t make sense.”

She added that “it was a good job. I left because a better offer came up in the Douglas County Attorney’s office. I could have stayed there forever. I stayed for five years, and then a better offer came up in the U.S. Attorney’s office.

And I have absolutely no plans to leave where I’m at right now, but who knows what the future will hold?”

Lehr also mentioned she had applied for a Douglas County District Judge position two years ago, and had an interview with the governor, but he eventually chose someone else. However, she doesn’t rule out the possibility of applying for a position on the bench again at some later date, should the opportunity present itself.

Lehr has had thus far, a fulfilling career in criminal prosecution, and exemplifies uniqueness not evident in the attorneys portrayed in the fictional world of television. Her agenda is entirely different, in that she conducts each case with objectivity and professionalism, and is not biased against the people she prosecutes. Her aim is solely to protect society.

She states: “You have to evaluate a person’s acts versus the person himself. If the person is out on probation, or in the Federal courts it’s called supervised

release. After they serve their prison terms, they have a period of supervised release afterwards, where they report to a probation officer.”

She added, “If a person violates their supervised release, I don’t take it personally, but if they break the law or get back into drugs again, the case gets back to me. That’s the choice they make.”

She further explained, “So my role as an advocate, is to present the evidence for the judge. And again, if the activities the person engaged in work against me, they work against society. So as a prosecutor, I must get to the truth, seek justice, and get that information to the judge.”

She added, “Frankly, I don’t think that everyone I prosecute deserves a long prison term. Some do, and then it’s my job to try and get them that. And if I don’t think they deserve a long prison term, then I advocate that to the judge as well.”

She emphasized that it’s the judge who makes the ultimate determinations of guilt or innocence, and sentences the offenders accordingly.

Lehr commented once again that she rarely watches legal-type shows in the entertainment media, because “it’s so not-reality”, and reiterated that the role of prosecutor is not to just seek a conviction, but to seek justice.

Lehr demonstrates a wonderful sense of humor and takes things at face value.

Regarding the success of her career, she says, “I’m not out to change the world, but I am committed to making positive changes in my own little corner of it.”

Governor’s cabinet a highlight

The Institute for Holocaust Education and the Omaha Community will commemorate the

70th Anniversary of Kristallnacht Sunday,November 9, 5 p.m.

» » » »

Joslyn Museum Witherspoon Concert Hall Commemoration and Multimedia Presentation Musical Expression

by Members of the Omaha Symphony Inaugural Display of “Omaha:Portraits of Survival” Exhibition

by Photographer David Radler at Joslyn Fountain Court Other commemorative events include “The Kristallnacht Pogrom in Germany,November 1938: Myths and Realities” Dr.Alan Steinweis Tuesday, October 28, 7:00 p.m.

UNO – Thompson Alumni Center “Remembering Kristallnacht after 70 Years” Mr.Bob Cohen Friday, November 7, 7:30 p.m.

Temple Israel “Good Neighbors,Bad Times: Echoes of My Father’s German Village” Dr. Mimi Schwartz Wednesday,November 19, 11:45 a.m.

Kripke Jewish Federation Library Library Ongoing Display of “Omaha:Portraits of Survival” November 10 – December 15, 2008 Jewish Community Center of Omaha For more information:334-6575/6 or www.ihene.org

the state employees, but I knew that others had the impression that government officials were overpaid and did that kind of job because they couldn’t work elsewhere. In practice, I found that the people who worked for the state were very intelligent and dedicated -- actually extremely dedicated, and they worked hard on a day-to-day basis providing good customer service.

Al Abramson, now semi-retired, spends much of his time vol- “I have come to believe unteering for the Nebraska Jewish Historical Society and that service in the public sector is truly a great callB’nai B’rith Henry Monsky Lodge. ing. When students visited, Continued from page 59 I told them what a great, fulfilling expeErnie Chambers rience it was. I suggested that after they One person who stood out in Al’s graduated college, they should consider mind is Ernie Chambers, the now- public service as a career. For me, my retired state senator renowned for his tenure in office was an experience I contentiousness. could not replicate.”

“I called him ‘the ombudsman for the The Lifetime member of the Nebraska state of Nebraska.’ I would get a call Society of CPA’s and The American from him periodically and would go to Institute of CPA is now a year away from his office to discuss various items. When that 80th birthday and “retirement” is I told my staff where I was going, they still not in his vocabulary. thought I was going to meet the ‘devil.’

Today, he consults for a couple friends They also thought I was going to purga- and since 2002, he has served on the tory.

Board of Directors for Ballantyne of “I always called him ‘Sen. Chambers,’ Omaha, Inc., a leading developer, manand he always called me ‘Mr. ufacturer, and distributor of commercial Abramson.’ We never addressed each motion picture equipment and lighting other with our first names.” If equipment in the United States and Chambers felt you were not BS’ing him, abroad. He is Chairman of its Audit he would not BS you. He was always Committee and a member of the very cordial.”

Nominating Committee.

On their first meeting, they talked on Among other organizations, Al does the long seat Ernie used for bench press- volunteer work for the Nebraska Jewish ing [weights]. The meetings must have Historical Society and B’nai B’rith, paid off because Ernie never blocked any where he also serves on the board. legislation that Al wanted passed.

Al and his wife, Doris will celebrate Myth busting their 52nd anniversary in midAs a private businessman going into December. They have two married chilpublic service, Al’s perspectives broad- dren, son, Mike, and daughter, Barbara ened. “I aways appreciated the work of Giller, and five grandchildren.

September 26, 2008

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 63

Successful businessman finds time for public service

by JOAN K. MARCUS At age 60, former city councilman Marc Kraft is looking healthier and thinner than he once did. The graduate of the famously successful Central High School Class of 1966 walks around his Dundee neighborhood to meetings and appointments. An old automobile accident injury has healed and he is pleased that he no longer walks with his once recognizeablecane.

And he’s back in politics, currently a candidate to be a county commissioner from District 5 on the County Board. He faces incumbent Chip Maxwell in the November election.

Also, results of a triple bypass heart operation have Kraft feeling full of energy. “I didn’t realize how badly I felt until after the operation,” he smiles. “A heart attack preceded the surgery but thankfully did no damage.”

Born in Omaha to Frances and Leo Kraft, Marc lauds a “fantastic and diverse” upbringing for him and his three sisters. He remembers an art gallery and art classes in their home which was always open to the public. His mother Frances, an artist, headed the art department at Creighton University.

“Mom took the department from being just drawing to encompassing all of the arts. Dad began our current business of selling new and used furniture in 1947,” Kraft said. “We discussed philosophy and social subjects and listened to diverse arguments from the artists. I was allowed at an early age to participate in these discussions.”

The family had a kosher home and attended services at Beth Israel every Shabbat. During Marc’s high school years, they joined Beth El. Leo had run for Omaha City Council, won the general election and served for four years.

However, he had a massive heart attack in 1981 and was unable to run again. He died in 1985.

Kraft says, “My first adventure into politics was either a planning board or city council meeting with my dad. They were talking about closing 16th Street when they built the Red Lion Hotel. As we walked out, he said to me, ‘This is going to devastate downtown Omaha and we need to look for a new location for our business.’ That was when I first became interested in politics.”

When Marc was nine-years-old, he began going to the store with his father.

He relates, “By the time I was 13, I was working a 40-hour week by going in after school and on Saturdays. And, when I was 15, I was playing drums in a band every Friday and Saturday nights. In addition to all of that, I was in the math and chess clubs and R.O.T.C. My high school class was very competitive and I even substitute taught when the teacher was gone.”

After graduation, he went to Grinnell College in Mount Vernon Iowa. He transferred to Creighton University after the first year and graduated with a degree in math and a minor in physics. “Even in college, I always knew that I wanted to go into business with my father. He was a very wise man, and he told me that I needed three ways to make a living and solve any problem,” he recalled.

“So, I had my music, I was a mathematician, so I could do research or teach.

And I was good in physics and computer programming. But, a month before I graduated, Dad asked me if I wanted to come into business with him. That had always been my goal and I was elated when he asked. We’ve been in business for 60 years and I’ve been in charge since 1977,” he explained.

“Our store, Kraft D.C., is very diverse because we sell new and used furniture, surplus and salvage. New furniture is very different from used. We used to deal with train wrecks and fires. We also used to handle salvage groceries. There you have to pay very close attention to what is happening on specials. Anybody who thinks that the consumer is dumb is not paying attention,” he added.

“We’ve been in business for 60 years so we must be doing something right!”

In 1968, at a college mixer, Kraft met Joan Tigges. “Toward the end of the evening, I spotted her. I asked her to dance and that dance became a lifetime commitment.”

Joan is a registered nurse who graduated from St. Catherine School of Nursing in Omaha. They were married in 1970.

Their children are Natasha, Chris, Alicia and Erika, and they have two grandchildren.

When Mayor P.J. Morgan resigned in 1995, Kraft remembers getting a phone call from someone who was crying. “The man said to me, ‘Marc, you’re going to have to throw your hat in the ring,’” Kraft recalled. “I didn’t know who it was so I kept asking, ‘What hat? What ring?’”

He smiled and added, “I couldn’t figKraft contends that when politicians ure out why I’d want to run for mayor, aren’t familiar with the issues before but, the man kept lobbying me because I them, they tend to table them to the next had been president of Downtown Omaha meeting. “Politicians undertake too many Inc. for five years and was successful in studies and hire too many consultants to getting things accomplished. He also told study the issues. They’ll pay a consultant me it was very unusual for someone to $500, but they won’t pay a person who walk into a planning board meeting and cleans the bathroom more than minimum ask questions about something that they wage. Nobody wants to take responsibilididn’t come to testify about.” ty!” he insisted.

It’s also unusual for someone to walk into a City Council meeting and have a council member ask you questions, something Kraft was known for. “He said that always happens when I walk into the room. These things just seemed natural to me because it was what I knew,” Kraft noted.

Mayor Morgan resigned on a Wednesday and Kraft kept getting calls from people asking him to run.

“They came into my store asking me to run. It wasn’t until I saw the slate of people who were going to run that I decided to become a candidate.”

Kraft ran and received just 3.5% of the vote. He thought it would end his political career before it Former Omaha City Councilman Marc Kraft enjoys spending started when Peony Park time with his grandson, Alex. became available.

“The people who clean the bathrooms “People perceive that anything named and shovel the snow are important to us. ‘park’ is public property, but Peony was Sometimes, politicians have a haughtiprivate property. I attended three meet- ness. When we fought for a living wage ings and then asked to speak. The City ordinance on the Council, I read it very Council member from the area became carefully to make sure it was legal and irate and slammed his hand on the table enforceable. The department heads came and told them not to call on me.” and argued for it because they found that In the end, Kraft decided to run for when you pay someone a living wage, you City Council from District 5 -- and he don’t have to retrain all the time. And won. In 2001, he ran again and won you don’t have to worry about people again. In 2005, he ran again and lost, he showing up for work,” he said. presumes because of the smoking ordi“I believe that the money should ‘tricknance. “That year, there was a low voter le up’ instead of down. You need to pay turnout. People become enthused when the people at the bottom and have the they are angry,” he added, but he lost by money ‘trickle up’ to pay the ones at the three or four votes per precinct. top. We can help our economy more by He’s always found time for everything. helping the bottom 10%!”

“In my career as both a politician and a Kraft added, “My belief in Judaism has businessman, I’ve only missed two of my taught me that we have to take care of children’s concerts and only one parent- our fellow man.” teacher conference. Successful people tend As a community activist, Marc Kraft to find time. In between customers, I gets things done. would read my Council agenda,” he said.

Happy New Year David M. Parsow Steven S. Parsow In Memorium

Larry Ginsburg

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September 26, 2008

Democratic candidate for Senate: “Trust is the essence of democracy” AMERICA DECIDES 2008

by ANNETTE VAN DE KAMP-WRIGHT

Last May, Scott Kleeb was elected as the Democratic nominee for U.S. Senate with nearly 70% of the vote. The Yale educated rancher will be vying with Republican candidate Mike Johanns for the seat being vacated by Chuck Hagel.

Kleeb first studied at the University of Colorado in Boulder, where he graduated summa cum laude; he then attended Yale University and earned a master’s in International Relations, and a Ph.D. in history. He currently serves as Director of Operations for Morgan Ranch, a Nebraska-based beef company that promotes locally grown food. He is married to youth voter expert Jane Kleeb, with whom he has two children, Kora and Maya.

Kleeb is a fourth generation Nebraskan; his great-grandfather started the Kleeb family homestead outside of Broken Bow in 1884. Kleeb’s campaign is based on strong Nebraska roots, and a sense of optimism about the future of the state.

“I have faith in Nebraskans, and in the rock-solid Nebraska values,” he says.

“Here, we have a tradition of helping each other; it’s what makes us survive in times of trouble, and helps us prosper in times of plenty.”

Regardless of what happens this November, Scott and his wife Jane Fleming-Kleeb know one thing for certain: they will not be moving to Washington. Cinching the Democratic nomination last May has made Kleeb, if

possible, even more determined to bring fresh ideas and a sense of rejuvenation to the political field.

“A big part of representing Nebraska would be staying in Nebraska,” Kleeb says. “Many people have the sense that what happens in Washington does not reflect their home state’s situation. There is a disconnect, and Washington oftentimes seems far away.

Although I have immense respect for those that have earned it, such as Senators Bob Kerrey and Ben Nelson, I do believe there are others for whom the self has become more important than public service. We can fix that with a much needed infusion of new blood, a new generation.

We need to show the voters the difference between the way things have been and the way things can be.”

Kleeb has a clear idea about the qualifications a U.S. Senator should bring to the job, and he responds passionately when he is asked about it. “Politicians should ask the right questions, always. We need to look at issues from all sides, and keep in mind the interests of the people we represent,” he says.

“There has been too much partisanship as of late, and the danger of polarization is always looming. We should not let ourselves be defined by party membership only; many of the most important issues transcend the division between Democrat and Republican. Furthermore, a candidate should surround him- or herself with the right people, people who work towards making the important decisions that go above and beyond party lines.

Then, and only then, can we bring communities together.,” Kleeb adds.

‘Public service’, to Kleeb, is more than a slogan on a bumper sticker; it is the umbrella under which any politician should work. That concept, however, sometimes gets lost when high profile politicians forget their focus. With the recent slew of high profile politicians ris-

“Unfortunately, some of these politicians think that once they are elected, they are above the law. Having said that, they, at the same time, motivate us to rebuild that trust. Since trust is the essence of democracy, we all need to work as hard as we can to regain it.”

Kleeb’s enthusiasm is infectious; however, it wouldn’t get him anywhere if there weren’t some very important issues to drive that enthusiasm.

The environment, as well as the continued growth and wellbeing of Nebraska’s agricultural communities are high on Kleeb’s list, and in this regard he has done more than talking.

“I was hired by the Natural Resources Defense Council to This photo of the Kleeb family was taken in 1887 in front of their new work on climate sod house. They moved to Nebraska originally in 1884 from change legislation,” Switzerland: Ernest, left, Fred, Mary, John, Lizzie, great-grandmoth- he says, “and in that er Anna Elisabeth holding Carl, and great-grandfather John holding context had to work Albert (Scott Kleeb’s grandfather). with two groups that ing high and falling fast, sometimes Kleeb don’t always see eye to eye. The agriculfinds it hard not to be disappointed when tural coalition, consisting of the Farmer’s Union, the soybean producers, and so he opens the morning paper.

“The Ted Stevens’ and David Vitters of forth, and the environmental groups had this world affect all of us negatively. There to somehow find common ground. have been many politicians lately who Working together and aligning everybody were caught in various scandals; they on issues such as methane digestion, destroy trust and diminish those politi- development of bio-fuels, and other cians that serve diligently. Politics should- forms of alternative energy, has been realn’t focus on one’s own needs, but on the ly successful.” needs of the people,” Kleeb says. Continued on page 65

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 65

Trust is the essence of democracy

Continued from page 64 production of food, but also the biopharmaceutical scientists will draw bigger salaries, and it will mean a When asked about balancing the needs of urban pop- growth that is being developed in farms around the boost to the economy in general.” ulations and the agricultural communities, Kleeb wants state. Nebraskans are taking a leading role in making In 2006, Kleeb ran for Congress in the Third to emphasize those issues Congressional District, and that affect all Nebraskans, came very close to winning, regardless of where or how even though traditionally they live: “You have to ask that District is easily won by yourself, what matters most a Republican candidate. It to all Nebraskans? The made him realize that the answer to that question lies party affiliation next to his in health care and energy name did not matter as costs. Those things will much as his policies. affect you no matter where “Nebraskans want leaders you come from, and looking who reach out to them, at them makes us realize we understand them and never have a lot more in common turn their back. Especially then we might think. The now, people need to be increases in both health care inspired. This race isn’t and energy costs have been about me or my opponent; phenomenal, and it’s drawit’s about the voters. We ing money away from all of need an end to the passivity, Jane and Scott Kleeb and daughters, Kora and Maya.

Jane and Scott Kleeb us.” we need new voters, new Naturally, Kleeb isn’t only interested in Nebraska pol- plastic, not from petroleum, but from biodegradable energy, and people in office who care enough to clean itics, but also has informed himself on issues pertaining materials. Businesses are finding new ways to develop all house and make the changes the people want,” he says. to the world stage. Regarding Israel and Middle East kinds of products, and in addition we have four major To facilitate that change, Kleeb will be busy traveling policies, Kleeb has made it clear he stands 100% behind medical research facilities in Nebraska.” the state until Nov. 4, speaking with farmers, visiting Israel. While he supports a two-state solution, he underHe adds, “Also, take the new science park in Lincoln: businesses, and reaching out to every Nebraskan who stands that we cannot expect Israel to unilaterally make it will most certainly lead to growth in the job market, wants a voice. concessions, and does not believe Israel should be expected to work with terrorist organizations like Hamas and Hezbollah.

“Israel is the true democracy in the Middle East, as well as our ally in the global fight against terrorism.

Because of this, Israel’s continued success and strength, as well as its right to defend itself, are important U.S. interests,” he says. When it comes to Israel’s self-defense, Kleeb doesn’t only focus on terrorist groups, but includes countries with an anti-Semitic agenda, like Iran.

“Iran threatens Israel’s very right to exist,” he says.

“Though it is strong and able, Israel’s continued security requires strong support from the United States, and I look forward to making good on America’s promises to With our best wishes for a happy this important ally. In addition, with Hamas in control of and prosperous New Year!

Gaza, and Egypt’s failure to prevent weapons smuggling at the border, Israel faces the perpetual risk of rocket attacks. Although a fragile truce is in place, I am committed to working with Egypt and the broader international community to prevent the smuggling of weapons as well as funding to terrorists.”

Kleeb supports sanctions against Iran, since its radical theocratic regime sponsors terrorism and supports Hamas and Hezbollah, noting, “President Ahmadinejad has openly called for Israel’s destruction, pursued www.OmahaSteaks.com nuclear weapons, and we should continue our economic sanctions against Iran. Furthermore, Iran, together with Syria has financially supported Hezbollah in its quest to gain a presence in the Lebanese government. While Israel must chart the peace-negotiating course, the United States should not pursue negotiations with nations that sponsor terrorist groups, or pressure Israel to do so.”

Kleeb’s commitment to Israel includes foreign aid, since “it is an important humanitarian and diplomatic tool to help allies around the world. Israel is no exception. If elected, I will vote for the full U.S. foreign aid package to Israel. Further, I will ensure that no foreign aid will fall into the hands of nations that harbor terrorists, or into the hands of the terrorists themselves.”

He believes Israel has something to offer in return, and thinks America’s policy makers can learn much from Israel’s experience and leadership in renewable energy.

“We can gain a great deal by working with Israel on its groundbreaking electric car program, and use of solar energy. At the same time, the U.S. can provide technical assistance with its own cutting edge energy programs; particularly cellulosic ethanol, which is a technology developed in the heartland.”

Finally, Kleeb sees an important need in the global combating of anti-Semitism. He says, “Although more than 60 years separate us from the indisputable horrors of the holocaust, anti-Semitism continues to exist around the world. What is even more disturbing, this trend of hatred seems to be growing, and it needs to be fought wherever it appears.”

In recent months, there has been national buzz about Omaha being the “next big thing”, giving the city much deserved publicity regarding its healthy job market and standard of living. How does Kleeb see the state of Nebraska as a whole build that type of reputation?

“Nebraska can and should be a leader,” he says,” and I am especially excited about the new agricultural industries that are developing. I am not only talking about the

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September 26, 2008

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This relationship dates back centuries and centuries. I feel a special bond to the country and the people.”

Johanns was asked if he would be interested in going on an agribusiness trip to Israel to promote relationships between Nebraska farmers and Israelis. “I would be thrilled to return there and invite businessmen to go with me. I see tremendous opportunities for cooperation, especially in areas of manufacturing and irrigation,” he responded.

“Yes, there are differences in viewpoints, but we link our arms together really as one people from a historical and religious standpoint. And from a standpoint of national security, Israel is such a good friend in a part of the world where we don’t count a lot of friends. They are a democracy where democracy is very difficult to find. This is a very special relationship between the U.S. and Israel.”

“Tested, proven, trusted” -- these three words are the three words former Secretary of Agriculture Mike Johanns emphasized to sum up his background. As a man with stellar credentials -- a twice-elected governor of Nebraska and two-time Mayor of Lincoln -- he came across as unpretentious and down-to-earth in a phone interview with the Jewish Press in mid-August.

During a 30-minute conversation, the Republican candidate elaborated on his campaign to succeed Chuck Hagel (R-Neb.) as the state’s next U.S. Senator. “I led the state through the difficult time after 9/11,” he said, “and when I was mayor I left the city in a financially better position than when I got there.

From ice storms to budget crises, I have handled all kinds of situations.”

The Osage, Iowa, native got his start in politics almost accidentally after he earned a diploma from the Creighton University School of Law in 1974. “I started practicing in O’Neil and Lincoln, and I did some legal work for a group of citizens with disabilities in the Lincoln area,” he recounted. Searching for a way to aid them further led to a brainstorming session with friends and ended with the friends urging him to run for the Lancaster County Board, which managed those disability programs.

Before officially announcing his candidacy, former Agriculture Secretary Mike Other political positions followed, Johanns, third from left, paid a courtesy call to the Chabad House last January to including mayor, governor, and a cabdiscuss political issues with Mark Javitch, left, Rabbi Mendel Katzman, Phil Wolf, inet position in the current Bush Milt Kleinberg, and Gary Javitch. administration. He resigned at the end of last year to return to the Cornhusker state to run for senate.

In launching his run, Johanns opened a website that detailed his positions in a 14-page paper entitled “Here’s Where I Stand: A Plan For Our Future.”

The issues Mike supports searching for alternative sources of energy to decrease America’s dependence on foreign oil, including drilling. When asked if it was a mistake to rely on corn-based ethanol because it caused food prices to skyrocket, he replied, “Some of the high prices you see are based on added costs from fuel. Also driving those cost increases were a tight supply of corn due to bad weather and the high energy costs to transport food. The food on your breakfast table had to be shipped from somewhere and diesel fuel for those trucks Leonard Goldstein, left, and Kenneth Weiner discuss current literally doubled overnight.” issues with then-Governor Mike Johanns at a 2002 (For a complete outline of his positions, see Breadbreakers meeting. www.mikejohanns2008.com, then click “On the Issues.”)

Economy “The market,” he stated, “is going through an adjustOn the economy, Johanns has a four-pronged plan: ment period. Prices were high because of bad weather, keep jobs in America, work with labor to train workers but settled back down again. With the weather situation for new opportunities, invest in research and rural develimproving, the price of corn dropped from $7 to $4.50 opment and offer small and medium-sized businesses an per bushel, with a high yield crop expected by year end. opportunity to expense their capital equipment investUnfortunately, you won’t see a drop that quickly in the ments up to $200,000 per year (maximum $800,000) to food prices. upgrade machinery and compete.

He added, “Also, you’ll soon see a transition from just The idea behind this plan, he noted, was to grow small corn-based ethanol to the use of cellulosic ethanol, businesses -- the employer for most Americans -- and switch grass or sweet sorghum. Research in this area is encourage the mom and pop start up to hire five more incredible. We are within a few years of having commer- people, then 10 more and so on. The goal: create jobs cially viable cellulosic ethanol plants. This will take pres- with good benefits. sure off feed grains like corn.”

War on terror Israel “There is an actual war on terror and we experienced Johanns and his wife Stephanie went to Israel in the it first hand on 9/11. That was many years ago. There mid-90’s when he was Lincoln’s mayor. “Our visit to have been no attacks since. In reality, these terror attacks Israel changed our lives,” he remarked. “Israel is power- continue non-stop around the world. They just haven’t ful historically, culturally and from a religious stand- figured out a way to hit us at home again. This cannot point. Three major religions point to Israel as the place be handled as a police action,” he asserted. where their holiest places reside.”

“Make no mistake: there are people that would love to He recalled, “On a personal level, this trip had a huge do great damage to the U.S. This war in the Middle East impact on our lives. I grew up in a very, very Catholic is literally about the future of our nation. It is necessary family. I was educated in Catholic schools, colleges and for us to step up, fight back and push back. It is imporuniversities. But it really came home to me in tant to do the right things from a military standpoint Capernaum, Israel when I was standing on the site and support our allies.” where Christ began teaching in the synagogue. We trace He added, “At the same time, now that Iraq is reaping our faith to that very, very strong Jewish background. I profits from their oil operations, they should pay for see a kinship in this link between us. It is very important. Continued on page 67

September 26, 2008

“Tested, proven, trusted”

Continued from page 66 more of their own reconstruction.” In noting the success in Iraq, he said “Iraq is doing what we hoped they would do: Acting more and more like a sovereign nation,” Johanns noted.

“In doing so, they need to step up with oil revenues to build their nation and their economy.

Nations invest in their own security and economic growth. They build their own infrastructure. That time has arrived for Iraq to move into that and take over responsibility personally and economically. We have to support them in that effort.”

Reaching across the aisle Mike Johanns currently Steve Riekes, right, introduces then Gov. Mike Johanns to a enjoys a big lead in the gathering of B’nai B’rith Breadbreakers in 2002. public polls over his Democratic oppo- that when I was mayor. During most of nent Scott Kleeb. Still, he proclaims, “I my administration, our seven-person city am not taking the race for granted.” He council had five Democrats on it. I never cites his own experience and notes that had a majority of Republicans until the the senate is not “a training ground,” last segment of my term. I also did it as adding, “I want to use this opportunity governor. And as a cabinet member, I effectively. I would like to take all my didn’t care what stripe you were -- if experience and put it to use for our state, you’re willing to work with me, then I was willing to work with you,” Johanns our country and our world.”

The Republican contender says, “I will concluded.

“In my ‘Plan for the Future,’ I took the give it everything I have, not only to get through the campaign, but to work for best ideas from both sides. I have no pride of authorship. I am working to the people of our great state.”

He will also work across the aisle. “I did solve problems.”

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Page 67

Political science: no -Opinions: you bet!

BERT’S EYE VIEW

by BERT LEWIS As I sit down to write this story today, I’m not at all certain what I plan to say, if I’m writing about politics, that is.

And since I always try to be consistent with the theme of a special issue of the Press, politics ought to be my topic.

Okay, I can live with that. So let’s talk about politics.

To begin, it was never my favorite subject. Within the list of choices in higher education, political science didn’t grab me, but presidential elections did.

I am old enough to remember quite a few elections, (never mind how many) and I had strong feelings about the various candidates. Since all my votes for president have been cast in Nebraska, not all my choices won! You can figure that one out.

I have a vague memory of going with an aunt of mine when she went to vote for president. I’m not sure I recall who was running, but I do remember her pride because it was her very first opportunity to vote.

When I finally reached legal age and went to register, I learned we hadn’t established residency for the required length of time. I was terribly disappointed, especially when it turned out that Harry Truman had caused many newspaper headlines to be incorrect the next day!

Remember that? Thomas Dewey was,

according to all the newspapers, the new president.

Except it turned out he wasn’t. And I missed all the fun because I hadn’t been able to vote for anybody.

I remember many of the odd things that marked the presidents and many of the important “firsts.” Remember FDR’s fireside chats?

It’s funny now, to think of him sitting in a cozy room at the White House, speaking into a radio microphone, but people took it seriously. The evening meal was served, eaten and cleaned up in plenty of time for my parents to be in the living room, next to the radio to hear what Mr. Roosevelt said.

I remember too, how the nation mourned when the news came that FDR had died while in Georgia. The newspapers were covered with photos; the radio news was constant, and in movie houses, the news reels were full of details. I’m not so sure about this part, but I think it was some years later before we learned a lady other than Eleanor had been with him.

Of course those were the days when discretion was both recognized and practiced.

I remember in later years when some idiot took a shot at Ronald Reagan, and I recall all the times Gerald Ford looked like a fool on the golf course when he hit somebody with a ball. Or worse yet, was the victim. Poor Ford -- he was a natural born klutz.

If I knew those guys, you understand I certainly knew Nixon, but I don’t have Continued on page 71

Page 68

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2008

With energy on his mind, Congressman runs again as opposed to land and taxes. It had never been done in Omaha and our lawyers told us that it would never work.

And, here it still sits!”

In 1997, Terry decided to run for the second congressional seat. He remained on the City Council and ran against incumbent, Jon Christensen, who had decided to run for governor. Terry recalls a hard primary against television anchorman Michael Scott, running as a Democrat in the 1998 general election.

interests that run counter to ours. It greatly affects our foreign policy and then we have to answer to countries that want to do us harm as opposed to being able to more fully engage with them -- and, I don’t mean militarily,” Terry said.

by JOAN K. MARCUS The congressman gave an example about Venezuela to make his point. “I met with a pizza maker here in town who was upset with the price of wheat. He told me that The United States Congressman the wheat they want to purchase is sent to Venezuela from the second district, Lee instead,” Terry said, “and we have to continue to sell it Terry, has been in Congress to Venezuela for 10 years, but he still because if we retains his boyish look. don’t, they While his mop of brown hair won’t send continues to cover his foreus their oil! head, there are now just a So, that’s few gray hairs sneaking just one through. small examWhen he was first elected ple of what is to Congress in 1998, he was going on.” the 11th youngest in the delWhen Terry egation. Now, he’s “right in first was the middle.” Terry, 46, was appointed to raised in Omaha. He graduthe Energy ated from Northwest High and Comin 1980, did his undergradumerce, it was ate work at UNL and an “all oil” received his degree in politicommittee. cal science. He went to He went on Creighton for his law Lee Terry greets Zach Kahn when the Boy Scouts who survived the Group shot of the Boy Scouts and congressional leaders from Iowa as an “alterdegree.

“I grew up in a family that Little Sioux tornado visited Washington, D.C. in July and met and Nebraska; Rep. Lee Terry is third from right, third row; Sen. Ben native fuel Nelson is third from left, third row. guy” and was very active, not only in President George Bush.

When he was elected, Lee said that he would stay for a admits to being very lonely. Ethanol was already known the community, but in politics as well. My dad, Lee Terry, Sr., always told us that the best way to help peo- maximum of six terms. However, after he was elected, he but Terry began speaking about using hydrogen as fuel, ple is in government because you can affect a lot of peo- signed an affidavit saying that he would only run for too. After speaking with experts, researchers and the ple at one time. That stuck with me and then, Dad ran three terms. “When I got to D.C., I was asked if I had Department of Energy, he discovered that hydrogen is a for Congress in 1976. I was really hooked on politics. signed the pledge. And I was told I would never get on very viable, but complicated energy source.

“When I first began talking about hydrogen to my He lost to John Cavanaugh but I was intrigued with the a good committee if I didn’t pledge to run for more terms,” he said. committee, they snickered like I was a far-out crazy. But, whole process,” he said.

“It seems that it takes years to develop expertise in when we finally got an energy bill passed in 2005, I had “I was taught by Dad that government, when it tries to interfere, can end up hurting small businesses. Instead order to manage special projects and I wouldn’t be there written the hydrogen section of it -- including the of rebelling against his conservative philosophy, I long enough to see them through. So it seems I was research,” he said. declared a ‘lame duck’ before I ever started! That’s when The Energy Bill of 2005 was a very comprehensive bill. embraced it and became a Republican.”

Terry practiced law for seven years with the Schrempp I came out publicly and announced that I wouldn’t be “It was the first time that the United States had set down and Salerno Law firm. In 1994, he broke off and started beholden to the paper I had signed. It would hinder me a real policy to move us forward on using hydrogen. We brought all of the research together with stated goals his own firm. In 1991, he was elected to the Omaha City from doing anything” for my constituents, he added.

Terry is proud to be serving on the Energy and and dollar amounts. We doubled the amount of research Council and remained until 1999. Two of the achievements that he boasts of while serving on the Council Commerce Committee. His two areas of interest are funding and people who are very active in this field say include the controlling of Dodge Street cruisers and the telecommunications and energy. His focus is one goal: that the only reason that they’ve been able to move forfor the United States to be energy independent. He ward in the last few years is because of that section of the Moylan Tranquility Ice Arena.

“The arena was a great experiment of a public and pri- hopes that eventually, the country does not have to be bill,” he said proudly.

Another section will allow tax breaks for commercial vate partnership. We used a public park and invited dependent upon foreign states such as Venezuela, Iraq, businesses when they purchase energy efficient products somebody to set up a private business,” he esplained, Iran, Russia or Saudi Arabia for energy products.

“We shouldn’t have to kowtow to countries that have Continued on page 69 “so, every one of their dollars could go into the building

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 69

Congressman runs again

Continued from page 68 “Citizens visiting are for their buildings.“I have safe, but I don’t think found out that owners of Israel is safe as a country. commercial buildings go Anytime you have Iran -for the bottom line. With a country that has picked some incentives, we are up (behavior) from able to rewrite the tax Saddam Hussein -- you’re code and include comgoing to have to do a betmercial buildings. In ter job of working with other words, if you build other countries to get a house for yourself, you Iran to stand down on will make it energy effitheir nuclear developcient and that’s what we ment,” he added. want businesses to do,” “That is a real immedihe said. ate and direct threat to In December of 2007, Israel. There’s no doubt Terry played a major part in my mind that some of Rep. Lee Terry in a bill that will force the those people will try to automobile industry to produce more ‘eliminate Israel from the face of the energy efficient cars. (It calls for 40% fuel earth!’ They seem crazy enough to do it efficiency over the next 10 years, includ- and I think that Iran is our number one ed in a comprehensive bill that recently security issue in the world today.” passed.) “The automobile and the enviPressure needs to be applied to the ronmental communities both fought State Department and the next president against it,” he laughed, suggesting that it to continue a diplomatic response, must be a good bill if opposing parties according to the Congressman. That were against it! means getting Russia involved because In July of 2008, Terry introduced H.R. “Russia and Iran have such a symbiotic6692, the Renewable Pipeline Act, which economic relationship,” Terry said. will help improve the infrastructure for “Russia is probably the only nation that moving ethanol from the Midwest to the can tell Iran to stand down. Our relationEast Coast. In August, he returned to ship with Russia has certainly become Washington to continue to push House more and more adversarial and, certainly, Speaker Nancy Pelosi to reconvene the their invasion of Georgia has complicated House and allow a vote on a comprehen- that relationship. What we have to do sive energy plan that Nebraskans want now is work with the United Nations and and America deserves. make sure that we have worldwide Rep. Terry is proud that he has done enforcement of our economic sanctions,” research on cellulosic energy -- the Terry said. process of breaking down plants and conIt’s been suggested that “we need to verting it into ethanol. He has researched take the military option off the table,” conservation, worked on alternatives, and Terry added. “I don’t want to use it and now he wants to open up other resources frankly, I’m not sure that we’re in a posito be energy independent. He suggested tion to even follow through. But, if we take it off the table, you’ve really eliminated part of your leverage and weakened diplomatic efforts.”

On whether or not another 9/11 is being planned, Terry responded, “There is no doubt in my mind that several groups are planning another attack. It starts with good information.

That’s why I get very frustrated with those who want to restrict our ability to gather intelligence, to infiltrate these organizaGary Javitch, right, a member of the American Israel Public tions that want to do us Affairs Committee, greets Rep. Lee Terry at the group’s 2003 harm. In order to infilconference in the nation’s capitol. trate, we have to become that the United States can be energy one of them. We don’t have (all the inforindependent in seven to 10 years. mation) now but we’re going in the right As to the “commerce” portion of his direction.” committee, Terry sees it as being the He will “cross over the aisle” in order movement of information quickly around to work with congressmen from opposing the world. “Every part of our country parties. “We all work together. I want to needs to be part of the 21st century econ- be known as a guy you can work with and omy. We have major pockets, particularly not as a partisan hack,” Terry said. rural, that don’t have access to broadband The Congressman suggested that he -- therefore they are left out when they will win the election because he has could be significant contributors. We worked hard and people trust him. need to get broadband into rural areas. I Energy is the number one issue in the wrote the Universal Service Reform Bill race and he has established himself in that that allowed already existing government area with legislative successes. subsidies to be used to roll out broadTerry’s wife, Robyn, remains in Omaha band.” with their three sons, Nolan, 14, Ryan, The Middle East and Israel also have 10 and Jack, 8. They attend Millard been of great interest to Terry. He visited Public Schools while their father goes Israel during his first year in Congress and back and forth to Washington. he would like to go back with his family.

Jack recently asked his father, “Will you “In Israel -- especially Jerusalem -- you still be in Congress when I’m old enough feel safe. I have become an advocate for to vote?”

Israel and their safety and future, and will Lee asked him, “Why?” Jack answered, continue my efforts to make sure that “Because I want to run against you!”

Israel remains the great country it is,” Guess if Lee Terry can follow his father Terry insisted. into politics, so can Jack!

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Page 70

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2008

Esch challenges incumbent for House seat again

Left: Democratic candidates Richard Carter, left, and Jim Esch faced off at last April’s Candidates’ Forum at the JCC; Esch beat Carter in the primary and now faces Rep. Lee

Terry in the general election on Nov. 4. Right: At B’nai B’rith Breadbreakers, Jim Esch discusses issues with local attorney Aaron Weiner.

School of Law, after which he joined the Steier Group, a group that manages capital campaigns for schools and churches. In 2003, he went to work for the Omaha Chamber of Commerce to raise money for economic development. Esch said, “While I was working for the Chamber, we raised over 15 million dollars to bring new jobs and investment into the community.”

Esch is the oldest of a family of six and his family has been running his campaigns. Two brothers work full time and his father works everyday in the office. The tall, slender bachelor readily admits there is now a “special lady” in his life. He met Sarah Johnson during the 2006 campaign when she worked for the company that developed his website.

After being a registered Independent, Esch joined the Democratic Party because, “I like to think that the Democratic Party represents the little guy and that’s who we fight for. But, like everyone else, I’ve been frustrated with our political process. That’s probably the reason I’ve never been involved because I tend to be the kind of person who has to be passionate about something before I can get involved.”

He looked at other races and actually applied for the City Council position that Lee Terry vacated. “Now, I don’t see any sort of leadership in Washington, D.C. I feel that our country is in desperate need of leaders. And I think I have skills and abilities and firmly believe that a freshman congressman from Nebraska can make an immediate impact,” he said.

“Unfortunately, the bar isn’t very high in terms of people being effective. We have polarized our politics in this country to such a degree and there are so few people who work across party lines, especially in the House.

I think that there’s a real opportunity for somebody who builds bridges and finds solutions.”

He doesn’t think that we can continue to work from the “far right” and “far left.” And, he says that when we’ve had leadership in this country, we’ve been able to accomplish great goals. “I think that I’m a lot like your classic independent voters. I never vote party lines and I know that I’ve voted for both of our United States Senators,” he said.

What we need are politicians who get to Washington and don’t worry about getting reelected, Esch insisted, adding that most people want leaders and will reward

This legislation is not from the perspective that it would solve the short term needs but it would fund long term renewable sources. According to Esch, “The market is going to determine price and there’s little we can do to affect the global market. We’ve had total gridlock.

Yet, the price of oil has dropped -- which has nothing to do with any of our policies. It is truly a global market and the fighting between Russia and Georgia, for example, is going to have more to do with the price of oil than anything they do in the House today.”

Esch continued, “My opponent has good ideas in his current energy plan. It’s just a question of whether or not we can get something done. But my opponent is supporting the solidly Republican plan which will go nowhere. It’s just pointing fingers at the other side.

We’ve been in the same situation for the last 10 years.”

About the question of the Middle East, Esch thinks we need to put more pressure on our “so called allies” to root out terrorism. He traveled to Afghanistan last summer to get a first hand perspective of the situation on the ground. He spent a week in the country and met with Afghans, Americans and others who are dealing day-today with the delicate situation in the volatile region.

“We should assume that the next 9/11 is being plotted; and the border -- which is 1500 milies long -between Afghanistan and Pakistan is uncontrolled. We’re completely ignoring the situation and security has gotten significantly worse,” he noted.

“We need to have a planned withdrawal from Iraq and to refocus some of those efforts. The military solutions are exhausted and this is political. In my opinion, it was a terrible idea to go there from day one, and now we have to figure out how to make the best of the situation,” he added. “We have probably strengthened Iran and allowed them to gain power when they didn’t have as much.”

He also says we’ve allowed Pakistan to dictate our foreign policy in the region -- especially with regard to Afghanistan. In his opinion, the U.S. was ignoring the area. “What we’re doing right now is allowing a terrorist to hijack a region. We need to put tremendous pressure on Pakistan to root out the terrorists camped there.

Most people can probably tell you where Osama bin Laden is right now,” Esch insisted.

Continued on page 71

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At age 32, Jim Esch will challenge incumbent Lee Terry in the Nov. 4 election. In 2006, Esch surprised everyone by taking 45% of the vote. But, the only poll that really counts is the one on election day and the young Democrat has high hopes of finally obtaining the Second District Congressional Seat.

Esch has lived in Omaha all his life and thanks the influence of the Jesuit priests for his political aspirations. He attended Catholic schools and graduated from Creighton Prep in 2000. “I think that Catholic education tries to instill the idea of service to others,” Esch noted. “I’ve always thought I’d run for political office, but I’ve never been a Young Democrat or volunteered for political campaigns. My family has never been involved in politics, so the 2006 campaign was a first for us.”

He went on to Creighton University and then its

leadership. “I’m not going to pander to the people,” he said, “just to get re-elected.”

When asked about the energy problem, Esch answered, “None of the ideas out there are new or innovative. We haven’t had a real energy policy in decades and it’s just a question of leadership to solve the problem. There’s actually a very good piece of legislation in the House right now that was introduced by Neil Abercrombie, a Democrat, and John Peterson, a Republican. It pretty much puts every option on the table. It has funding mechanisms to address some of the short term needs. But, more importantly, it is truly focused on becoming energy independent,” Esch explained.

This comprehensive bill addresses the energy issue head on and Esch says it meets the demands of the American people and crosses party lines. Called “The National Conservation, Environment and Energy Independence Act,” Esch thinks it would open up some of the off shore drilling that is environmentally sound.

According to Rep. Abercrombie, the plan makes it clear that if we’re going to be using oil, we should at least be using domestic sources of energy.

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Esch challenges incumbent

Political science: no

Continued from page 71 nomic development.

“If we don’t start focusing on that area, “The other huge issue in the eastern my fear is that we’ll be allowing another part of Omaha is that we’re facing a $1.5 9/11. And, we need to rebuild million sewer separation project that is Afghanistan. If we can give those people completely unfunded and mandated by opportunity and hope, our foreign policy the Federal government. Yes, it will create would reflect our best nature. The area real jobs for the next 20 years, but we was bleak and desolate; three out of four have to have a plan in place by October of people don’t have jobs and life expectan- 2009. Right now, the only option that cy is only 44 years of age. We need to cre- Omaha has is to raise sewer fees. If a porate opportunity for those folks to have a tion could be funded by the federal govbetter life.” ernment, we could put Esch listed a number of people to work,” Esch “should haves” on his to insisted. do list if he gets to “We need to focus on Congress. “We should how to get new jobs. We have leveraged, when we need an educational and had the opportunity, for vocational system. And I peace in the Middle East. do think we need to have We should have focused a true energy program on the Arab-Israeli conthat is focused on indeflict. It is of the utmost pendence. If we rebuild importance and there are our energy infrastructure, so many players there that it would create a huge do not want to see Israel number of jobs in this remain a state. We have to country.”

Jim Esch be able to have a soverLastly, Esch continued, eign, secure state of Israel,” he said.

“The other thing is that we have to invest “I’ve spent a lot of time looking at the heavily in is our children and the future.

AIPAC position on things and Israel is We aren’t serving our kids well and our one true friend. It is the only true preparing them. The investment we make democracy in the region. But at the same in kids ages one to six doesn’t cost very time, we’ve got to broker the deal to have much -- especially when you look at what peace in the region. If we don’t continue it costs later to keep someone in jail for a to focus on the Arab-Israeli conflict, it lifetime.” will be difficult to have peace in the whole Esch said he is running again because region.” he thinks that he is ready. “I’m an idealIf elected, Esch wants to champion ist, but I’m realistic enough to know what change in his own district and fight for I can do,” he added. “We have to put money to come back to greater Omaha. aside a lot of differences and work togethHe sites research, at both UNMC and er. I can work hard and I will cross party Creighton, that would impact on eco- lines.”

Continued from page 67 too much to say about him. I am, however, still amazed he managed to change his persona from a disgraced, impeached president to a squeaky clean elder statesman by the time he died. Wow. We all remember President “call me Jimmy” Carter. He didn’t do too much damage while in office, and it took all those years after before it turned out he didn’t appear to be such a friend to Israel after all.

I’m not being careful about the proper order of service, but I can honestly say I remember most all of the terrible details that followed the assassination of John Kennedy. Who could ever forget that open car, the sunny day in Texas, Jackie in her pink outfit and the terrible sound of gunfire?

Oh my yes -- if you remember all that too, you and I have lived through an amazing time of American history. So many different men at the helm of this country, many who did their best for the good of all citizens, and some who have been disgracefully bad.

We’ve seen and heard stories come out of the White House that wouldn’t have been spoken above a whisper five decades ago, and we’ve recently watched campaigning that involved race and gender for the first time. What next? One wonders.

I won’t bring us up to the present as I name elected leaders. We all have our opinions and feelings about those who will be moving to a new address in January. Some of us feel more strongly than others, but I think we all agree it’s a good thing the White House will soon have new occupants.

&

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

I hope that among our younger generation, those who have been the most unhappy with either or both political parties and their loyal followers, will remember one thing. If you don’t like what we’ve had, work to change it for the better.

If you think a law or a practice is unfair, work to change it. Pay attention to what’s going on around you, to the people who are making the most noise about important issues. Don’t stand there and just complain. That won’t change anything.

Learn everything you can about the person running for whatever office; find out his or her views and whether or not he (or she!) truly wants to represent fellow citizens or if he just wants to look important.

Then vote!

Remember how many places there are in this world where the average Joe has nothing to say about the way things influence his life and that of his family. We are so lucky to have a voice and a vote and nothing should stop us from using both.

If you don’t think that’s true, go find somebody who’s new to this country, who comes from a place where open elections were a farce. Ask them about living under a government that thinks the population should just do as it’s told and be quiet.

Okay, I told you I don’t know much about politics. I didn’t say I was without opinions though, did I? And I didn’t say anything terrible about any elected official, even though I’d like to.

Make your own judgements, and remember what to do on that special Tuesday, Nov. 4: VOTE. Bert Lewis can be reached at BertLewis39@aol.com.

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Page 71

Page 72

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2008

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2008

Nebraska rabbis’ messages for 5769 Arise from your slumber ...

A time to forgive

by RABBI ILAN EMANUEL B’nai Jeshurun, Lincoln These words are how Maimonides, the medieval Jewish philosopher, explains the purpose of the Shofar on Rosh Hashanah. The sound of the Shofar is a wake-up call to rouse us from our sinful lives, seek forgiveness, and atone for our misdeeds.

For Maimonides, the reason for our sinfulness is that we are essentially sleep walking through life, neglecting or ignoring our moral responsibilities. The Shofar call wakes us from our blissful reverie to face the awful truth of our bad behavior and seek to do better in the year ahead.

But the Shofar’s call can wake us from more than our sins. When we sleep walk through life we miss so much. And most of us, in some way or another, do sleep walk through our lives, falling into routine and complacency unless events or the call of the Shofar shocks us into action.

On Rosh Hashanah the Shofar calls us to arise from our slumber on a personal level. During the rest of the year we lose track not just of what we have done wrong, but of what we hoped to do right.

We all have in our minds an image of ourselves as we want to be -- a kind, wise, and just person -- that fulfills our ideal vision of our better nature. We all fall short of that vision. During the High Holy Days we have the opportunity to shake off the complacency of the rest of the year and face the gap between ourselves as we are and the better person we hope to be.

by RABBI MORDECHAI LEVIN Beth El Synagogue, Omaha Rosh Hashanah marks the beginning of a 10-day period of prayer, self-examination and repentance, which culminates on Yom Kippur. These 10 days are referred to as Yamim Noraim, the Days of Awe, or Aseret Yemei Teshuvah, the Ten Days of Repentance.

The High Holidays - as they are frequently called in English - are a time for self-examination, consideration of our ethical responsibilities, resolve to do better, and an opportunity to restore relationships with other human beings and with God. It is a time for the sometimes difficult process of asking for and granting forgiveness.

Maimonides wrote (Yad, Hilchot Teshuvah 2:6) “Despite the fact that teshuvah (repentance) and crying out to God are always timely, during the ten days between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur it is exceedingly appropriate, and is accepted immediately, as it says, ‘Seek God when He is to be found’ (Isaiah 55:6).”

Judaism teaches us to seek forgiveness.

God’s forgiveness encompasses only those sins which man commits directly against Him, “bein adam la-Makom.”

But those wrongdoings in which damage is caused to one’s fellow man, “bein adam le-havero”, are not forgiven until the injured party has himself forgiven the offender. Hence the custom of seeking

The sound of the Shofar also calls us to arise from our slumber and to awake to the real and serious problems of our country and our world today. On a global level we face serious threats from terrorism, the environment, and a possible resurgence of the cold war with Russia and China. Domestically we face rising oil prices and crises in healthcare and housing. It is easy to ignore these problems when they do not affect us or affect us minimally. But the Shofar calls us to see the world around us and wake up to our responsibility to make a difference, to do justice, and to make the world better for our having been in it.

And the sound of the Shofar calls us to awake to the reality of G-d’s presence in the world around us. In the famous story of Jacob’s ladder from the Torah, Jacob wakes up from a divine vision and declares, “Surely G-d was in this place, and I did not know it.” As Jews, we believe that G-d is everywhere and in everything, but the mundane in our lives overwhelms us, crowding out the divine.

While we can experience G-d’s presence anywhere and anytime, we rarely do. A Chassidic story tells of a rabbi who asked his students where G-d can be found. The answer was: “G-d can be found wherever we let G-d in.” The Shofar reminds us to let G-d in. It calls us to open our eyes to see G-d’s presence in the world, to be more aware of the holy and sacred we can Continued on page 75

forgiveness and correcting the wrongs we have committed.

In the Talmud (Taanit 20a-b) we read the following story about forgiveness.

Once Rabbi Elazar the son of Rabbi Shimon, was coming from his teacher’s house, riding on a donkey. He was traveling with a feeling of great joy and a sense of arrogance, because he had learned a great deal of Torah.

An ugly man happened upon him. The man said: “How are you rabbi?”

Rabbi Elazar did not respond. Rather, he said: “Empty one - how ugly this fellow is! Are all the people of your town as ugly as you?”

The man responded: “I don’t know, but you should go to the Craftsman who made me and tell him how ugly is the vessel that he made.”

Rabbi Elazar knew that he had sinned.

He got off the donkey, prostrated himself before the man and said: “I have pained you. Forgive me.”

The man said: “I will not forgive you until you go to the Craftsman who made me and tell him how ugly is the vessel he made.”

Rabbi Elazar followed him until they came to his town. All the townspeople came out to greet the rabbi and they said: “Welcome, our rabbi and teacher.”

The ugly fellow said: “Who are you referring to as your rabbi?”

Continued on page 76

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September 26, 2008

Politics!

Chasing shadows

by RABBI ERIC LINDER Temple Israel It’s such a loaded word!

In today’s climate, it makes us think of conventions, television ads, debates, hanging chads, CNN, and so forth.

Politics means much more than this, however. When I think of politics, I think about how Hillel defined all of Judaism: “Do not do what is hateful to your neighbor.” At its core, politics is speaks to the relationship of the individual to the community. Politics is concerned (solely concerned, in fact) with how we treat each other. Taking Hillel’s famous dictum, it can then be argued that Judaism is mostly about politics!

Of our 613 mitzvot, most are concerned not with our relationship to God, but with our relationship to others.

Sometimes I like to think that God cares more about how we treat others than how we treat God. The Talmud attributes a quote to God: “Better they forget me than forget my laws.” God’s laws are laws that ask us to get involved with politics; they demand us to care, to take action, and to take responsibility.

As we continue to follow this very exciting presidential race, let us also re-commit ourselves to our own political process -- that we might heed Hillel’s words, and that we might do God’s will.

by RABBI ARYEH AZRIEL Temple Israel Harry Golden, the late Jewish humorist, one related an insight that came to him one day when dining out. At the next table he heard a man giving the waitress a hard time, because she mixed up his order. Golden, pondered the lasting significance of the issue at hand.

“When you think,” he writes, “that there are at least four billion suns in the Milky Way, which is just one of the billions of galaxies spaced about one million light years apart, and that the further you go into space the thicker the galaxies become. When you think of all this, isn’t it kind of silly to worry whether the waitress brought you string beans instead of limas?”

But we do worry.

Such concerns occupy, and sometimes even dictate, our lives. Unlike the great philosopher, Spinoza, we are not accustomed to see things sub specie aeternitatis, from the aspect of eternity. We are not philosophers with the leisure to reflect. We are too busy with the rush and crush of the everyday, the fleeting moments that somehow accumulate into our lifetimes.

To keep one’s eye on eternity is not an easy thing. But as our Machzor reminds us, things which seem foolish in the light of eternity are probably foolish in themselves.

To pass each day occupied only with the niggling details of life, ignoring its purpose, seems a little like chasing shadows with our backs to the light.

According to the Torah, our ancestor Moses longed to see the light, to look upon the face of the Eternal.

Having served God so faithfully in Egypt and at Sinai, Moses asked God for this reward: “If I have favor in Thy sight, show me now Thy ways, that I may know Thee.”

God replies: “Thou cannot see My face, for men shall not see Me and live. But behold, there is a place next to Me; station thyself on the rock.”

Now what happened at this point is a subject of dispute among the commentators.

Just what did Moses see? The great German rabbi, Samuel Raphael Hirsch, explains it this way: Moses did not actually see God; rather he was permitted to see as God sees. It is the difference between looking into God’s eyes, so to speak, and looking out of them. Moses

Arise from slumber Continued from page 74 experience every day, and to recognize the spark of the divine in our fellow human beings.

May we heed the call of the Shofar this Rosh Hashanah. May that call drive us to strive for personal and moral self-improvement, a better and more just world, and a deeper and more fulfilling spiritual life in the year to come.

Made possible by JNF.

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

was empowered for a celestial moment, to see from a divine elevation, sub specie aeternitatis, from the aspect of eternity. As a reward for his loyal service to God, he was granted a rare vision of what truly matters and what – like the difference between string beans and limas – does not matter at all.

Judaism may be defined as the aspiration to see what Moses saw; that is, to see our lives from the higher altitude.

There are moments when we are granted such a vision.

It might happen at those watershed moments of a lifetime: perhaps a wedding when two lives are hallowed on earth and in heaven; or in the house of mourning where the sorrow of bereavement may also confer the blessing of perspective. Yet it is not only at these milestones of life that we may glimpse the Eternal.

Such moments of vision can come to us at the most prosaic times.

It happens to all of us. One day you gaze at your son and realize that while you were not looking he has grown taller than you are. Or you see your daughter in her first prom dress and suddenly realize that while you were not looking she has blossomed into a woman. What we call time, Abraham Joshua Heschel once said is merely eternity in disguise.

Glimpses of eternity are all we get. But as Moses learned, that is enough. To behold even a glimpse of light, is to know that there is a light. To see a deep impression on the anvil is to know that a mighty hand tends the forge.

May the days ahead give us such moments of vision!

HIGH HOLIDAY CLOSING The Jewish Press will be closed on Tuesday and Wednesday, Sept. 30 and Oct. 1, for Rosh Hashanah; the deadline for the Oct. 10 issue is Thursday Oct. 2.

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Page 76

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2008

Have the power

Worthy of leadership

by RABBI JONATHAN GROSS Beth Israel Synagogue Choosing a leader is as difficult as it is important. The barrage of up-to-the-minute, real time, and in depth coverage that we are bombarded with in the information age in many ways makes our election decisions more educated. The more we know about a candidate prior to an election the more confident we can be in our choice when we go in to booth to pull the lever.

There are those who argue, however, that we have come to a point where we know too much about the private lives of the candidates. There are those who eschew any correlation between a candidate’s personal conduct and his ability to be the president of the United States.

They contend that a ballet should be cast strictly based on the candidate’s credentials and political acumen.

Whereas it may be preferable to have a president of a high moral caliber, they say, it should not be a determining factor. The belief that personal morality is less than paramount in determining a qualified leader is in stark contrast with our American political tradition as well as with our sacred and timeless Jewish values.

In the book Revolutionary Characters, Pulitzer Prize winning author Gordon S Wood asserts that what separated the Founding Fathers from other men was not their learning, or even their public achievements in warfare or politics. What made them great were their moral

character and their conduct during times of temptation.

As Edmund Burke wrote in his Reflections on the French Revolution, “Wisdom without virtue is folly.”

This ethic that demands personal moral integrity from leaders was undoubtedly influenced by the Torah. In the section of the Torah that deals with leaders, one does not find written a list of public policies that the king must follow. There is only a list of personal strictures that the king must maintain; strictures to ensure that he curbs his temptations for lust, greed, and personal honor.

Most notably, whoever is the supreme ruler of the Jewish people must write for himself his own copy of the Torah that he must keep on his person at all times in order that, “he should read from it all the days of his life, so that he will learn to fear Hashem, his God.” It is taken for granted that the king will establish a public policy that is based on justice and righteousness, but the Torah specifically demands that his personal character be one that is consistent with the divine ethic as well.

Only a leader who holds himself up to the highest personal moral standard can be trusted to lead those with whom he is charged in a fair manner devoid of any corruption, and to recognize that it is only God who is the true supreme leader. In his farewell address, George Washington was unequivocal in espousing his devout belief that God’s Divine providence is really what looks after the affairs of man and we are simply his stewards.

This is the true political tradition of the Jewish people.

May it be God’s will that, through our own moral conduct on this election-day, we as a people are worthy of a leadership that governs themselves and our country in a way that is consistent with the ways of the Torah, and pleasing in the eyes of God and man.

A time to forgive Continued from page 74 They said: “The one who is walking behind you.”

He said to them: “If this is a rabbi, let there not be more like him in Israel.”

They said: “Why?” He said to them: “This is what he did to me.”

They said to him: “Nevertheless, forgive him because he is a great Torah scholar.”

He said to them: “For your sake I forgive him, but on condition that he not become accustomed to act this way.”

Rabbi Elazar internalized the lesson and asked for forgiveness. We have to do the same.

On this Rosh Hashanah, as we begin the Ten Days of Repentance, let us examine our relationships with members of our family and friends, with people we work or study with. How do we treat them? Do we have any forgiveness work to do in relation to them?

My best wishes for a year of life, health, fulfillment, justice and peace. Shana Tovah!

BEYT SHALOM RECONSTRUCTIONIST SYNAGOGUE B’NAI MITZVAH Lila Ferber sons of Helene and Mike Lohman daughter of Dr. Jenni Schlossman and Jeff Ferber Sam Munzesheimer Ben Lohman and Lee Lohman son of Alice Weiss and Ken Munzesheimer

by RABBI MENDEL KATZMAN Chabad of Nebraska Rosh Hashanah, the head of the year, the day on which we mark the world’s birthday, actually commemorates the creation of the first man.

Adam, formed by G-d with a mixture of earth and water had a living soul infused through his nostrils and became a composite of body and soul.

Our Rosh Hashanah liturgy is replete with references to this experience- the creation of mankind and with man’s subsequent coronation of G-d as Creator and King of the Universe.

Rosh Hashanah celebrates this relationship of G-d as King, humans as subjects, and Mitzvahs as Divine decrees. On Rosh Hashanah we affirm the significance of these Mitzvahs as being the fulfillment of our King’s desire. We pledge to be loyal subjects as G-d inscribes each one of us in The Books of Life, Health, Success, and Sustenance. While each of G-d’s creations came into being in multiples, Adam was created alone. A single entity. Fish came in schools. Cattle in herds. Sheep in flocks. Stars in galaxies. Trees in groves.

Why? What was the message that G-d was embedding into His creation by bringing one, lone individual into existence? Our sages ponder this thought and conclude with a discussion of the power of the individual. Perhaps to ‘make waves’ numerous drops of water must be in an ocean. But to effect cosmic change, a single human can do one mitzvah.

Each human being has the power to radically change the world for the better with each individual act performed. Every deed is fraught with Divine energy that can harness blessings and redemption to our world.

Imagine what we can accomplish together.

My family and I offer our prayerful wishes to the entire community for a meaningful year filled with all of our hearts’ desires, both in the spiritual and material realms.

May we merit the fulfillment of the prophecy: “and they will beat their swords into plowshares” with the ultimate blessing of peace here at home, in Israel and throughout the world through the coming of Moshiach now. Amen.

B’NAI ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE COUNCIL BLUFFS President: Allen Kurland, Vice President: Mark Eveloff, Secretary: Ruth Edelman, Treasurer: Karen Turpen; Board members: Sandra Kurland, Flora Telpner, and Barry Kricsfeld.

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BETH EL SYNAGOGUE President: Steve Pitlor; Vice Presidents: Eric BILU USY Phillips, Toby Schonfeld, Norman Sheldon; President: Dayna Cohen; Executive/Israeli Secretary: Michael Sigmond; Treasurer: Allan Affairs Vice President: Yonatan Dotan; MemNoddle; Past President: Sally Zipursky; BESTT: bership/Kadima Vice President: Ryan Beverly Fellman; board: Sharon Brodkey, Dayna Kirshenbaum; Religious Education Co-Vice Cohen, Cary Grossman, Jon Jabenis, Mark Kelln, Presidents: Adeev and Ezra Potash; Social Jeffrey Kirshenbaum, Shane Kotok, Bruce Kutler, Action/Tikun Olam Vice President: Noam Gabe Meyer, Amy Nachman, Helen Rifkin, Linda Margolit; Communications Vice President: Shir Saltzman, Ed Schneider, Alan Shulewitz, Scott Palmon; Freshman Representative: Brad Simon, Marcie Spivack, Jan Wayne; Executive Kutler.

Director: Larry DeBruin.

B’NAI MITZVAH SISTERHOOD Zachary Bram President: Marcie Spivack; Vice president: son of Ross and Devra Bram Caryn Rifkin; Treasurer: Jori Kravitz.

Conner Dietrich MEN’S CLUB son of Greg and Sheri Dietrich President: Scott Simon; Treasurer: Les Kay; Aaron Eckles Secretary: Mike Schop; Fundraising: Gabe son of Daniel and Diane Eckles Meyer; Membership: Mark Kelln; Social: James Melissa Epstein Blassingame; Religious: Glen Fineman; board daughter of Gary A. and Jodi members: Andy Raffel, Kevin Saltzman, and Zachary Finkle Matt Shapiro. son of Terry and Sue Finkle HAZAK Zachary Kahn President: Helen Rifkin; Secretary: Harriet son of Marc and Kim Kahn Marcus; Treasurer: Frances Gottlieb; Advisor: Kylie Kirshenbaum Dr. James Wax; Program: Tootie Simon and Sol daughter of Corey Kirshenbaum Schwartz; Publicity: Peggy Chasen; Memberand Marcy Noodell ship: Gloria Goodman; Historian: Leah Grunkin; Gabe Levin Members at Large: Jane Dreyfus, Audrey son of Rabbi Mordechai and Susi Levin Epstein, Ilse and Marcel Kahn, Betty Kolnick, Alex Preston Joan Marcus, Harriet Marko, Natalie Rubin, son of Michael and Sherri Preston and Phyllis Schwartz.

Samantha Wiener BESTT CHAVERIM daughter of Richard and Audrey President: Sarah Kutler; Vice President: Maddison Skolkin Debbie Turetsky; Treasurer: Tomer Palmon; daughter of Michael and Andrea Skolkin Secretaries: Jacob Spivack & Samantha Mathew Wiesman Nahimov; Sergeant at Arms: Daniel Levy; son of David Wiesman and Cynthia Epstein Historian: Elissa Wiener; Members at Large: Aaron and Naomi Zipursky Ben Snyder and Jacob Levy son and daughter of James and Sally Zipursky

BETH ISRAEL President: Alan Kricsfeld; Vice Presidents: Sharon Kirshenbaum, Joe Shyken, Ann Moskovits; Treasurer: Mary Sue Grossman; Secretary: Lesley Gendelman; Board Members: Joshua Follick, Bob Gass, Howard Gendelman, Joshua Gurock, Julee Katzman, Bette Kozlen, Bruce Potash, Zoe Riekes, Dani Shrago, Michael Shrago, Susie Shyken, Jeff Stein and Harry Weiner; Executive Director: Beth Cohen.

All past presidents who are members in good standing are on the board.

SISTERHOOD President, Debbie Kricsfeld; Vice President, Gift Shop: Bette Kozlen; Vice President, Programming: Andreea Shnayder; Recording

SYNAGOGUE Secretary: Janet Kohll; Financial Secretary: Shirley Goodman; Treasurer: Susie Shyken. All past Sisterhood presidents are members of the Board.

NCSY, OMAHA CHAPTER President: Kevin Adler; Vice-President: Sam Kohll; Board Members: Daniel Grossman, Anna Kohll, Jordan Kohll, and Lilly Phillips.

TEMPLE President: Jon Meyers; President elect: Jan Schneiderman; Vice Presidents: John Lehr and John Waldbaum; Secretary: Katherine Finnegan; Treasurer: Jeff Schweid; Past President: Wendy Goldberg; Board Members: Jon Bleicher, Edward Friedland, John Glazer, Cindy Goldberg, Danielle Gordman, Jill Idelman, Judy Josephson, Gary Kaplan, Sally Kaplan, Adam Kirshenbaum, Dan Marburg, Lois Milder, Michael Norton, Magda Peck, Vicki Perlmeter, Rob Reiss, Jane Rips, Stacey Rockman, Susan Rothholz, Dorothy Spizman; Executive Director: Dennis DePorte.

WOMEN OF REFORM JUDAISMOMAHA President: Danielle Gordman; Past President: Cindy Goldberg; Membership Vice President: Susie Norton; Caring Vice President: Bonnie Pfrenger; Development Vice President: Jennifer Miller; Religious Action Vice President: Stacie Brodkey; Programming Vice Presidents: Mary Wampler and Rosie Zweiback; Vice President of Finance/Treasurer: Susan Lehr;

ISRAEL Public Relations Vice Presidents: Patty Gilinsky and Heidi Schneiderman; Young Family Programs Vice Presidents: Annette VanDeKamp-Wright and Sarah Wiseman; Religious Living Vice Presidents: Nikki Kirshenbaum and Mimi Silverman; and Recording Secretary: Sharon Bargas.

MEN’S CLUB President: Adam Kirshenbaum; Treasurer: Alan Fredricks; Community Service/Social: Patrick Jensen and Dan Marburg; Competition/Athletics: John Glazer; Education/Speakers: Larry Gendler.

OMAHA TEMPLE YOUTH GROUP President: Susan Freeman; Programming Vice President: Haley Burns; Social Action Vice President: Emily Katz; Religious/Cultural Vice President: Grace Hack; Membership Vice President: Hannah Ferer; Communications Vice President: Adam Goldberg; JYG Liasion: Jordan Jensen; Mascot: Sam Burrell.

Continued on page 78

B’NAI MITZVAH Sarah Potash daughter of Bruce and Linda Potash Aaron Kurtzman son of Jordana Kurtzman

TIFERETH ISRAEL-LINCOLN President: Cindi Weiss; Vice President:Alan Jennifer Rosenblatt, Executive Director: Hersch; Treasurer: Howard Feldman; Jennifer Rosenblatt; Lay Leader: Nancy Coren.

Secretary: Debra Evnen; Immediate Past President: Julie Brockman; Ritual Chairman: B’NAI MITZVAH Avi Knecht Ken Bloom; Membership Chairman: Jeffrey son of Jennifer Rosenblatt and Kurt Knecht Payne; Fair Share Dues Chairman: Richard Jack Pred Evnen; Members at Large: Lucy Bowers, Joyce son of Michael and Tracey Pred Davidson, Bob Evnen, Dan Friedman, Cece Jeremy Payne Hill, Dennis Kornbluh, Marcia Kushner, son of Jeffrey Payne and Jodie Stein Sheldon Kushner, Tracey Pred, Harlan Alex Kornbluh Priesman, and Julie Widman; Trustees: David son of Dennis and Cindy Kornbluh Brockman, Rifka Keilson, and Marlon Weiss;

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 77

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September 26, 2008

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Yaniv Azriel son of Elyce and Rabbi Aryeh Azriel Madison Baron daughter of Jill and Dr. Bruce Baron Dru Beach daughter of Mona Jones and Ron Beach Megan Bucher daughter of Michelle and Ronald Bucher Lauren Cooper daughter of Joan and Justin Cooper Zane Fletcher son of Hillary and John Fletcher Grant Glazer son of Jennifer and John Glazer Sophia Goldberg daughter of Wendy and David Goldberg Dustin Ginsburg son of Cheri and Larry Ginsburg Joseph Hack son of Rosie Zweiback and Mace Hack Morissa Miller daughter of Jennifer and Paul Miller Alexander Pachman son of Allison Latenser and Louis Pachman

Hannah Perry daughter of Beth and Jay Perry Noah Placzek son of Kimberly and Matthew Placzek Hannah Radler daughter of Gretchen and David Radler Sydney Robinson daughter of Kimberly and Andrew Robinson Cleo Rogers daughter of Mimi Rogers-Farkas and Scott Farkas Mallory Rogers daughter of Marcelyn and Dr. Charles Rogers Talia Simon daughter of Stacy and Bruce Simon Libby Slosburg daughter of Martha and D. David Slosburg Alexis Slutzky daughter of Lesley and Jeff Slutzky Emma Workman daughter of Keri and Tom Workman Rylee Zimmerman daughter of Linda and Todd Zimmerman

CONGREGATION B’NAI JESHURUN - LINCOLN President: Lori Merliss; Vice President: Marc B’NAI MITZVAH Shkolnick; Treasurer: Dave Rosenbaum; Secretary: Joshua Calidonna son of Barbara Barron & Mark Calidonna Maureen Lobb; Immediate Past President: Barb Aaron Zlotsky Hoagland Straus; Trustees: Christie Emler, Tracy Gordon, son of Amy Zlotsky and Kyle Hoagland Maureen Lobb, Nathaniel McHargue, John Mosow, Sue Schreiber, Dottie Shapiro.

September 26, 2008

Why I back Barack Obama

by ROBERT WEXLER DELRAY BEACH, Fla. (JTA) -- Rarely do Americans have the chance to vote for a truly transformational leader as our next president, but this year we do: Sen. Barack Obama.

There are many reasons why I support Barack Obama for president. He offers an opportunity to end the divisive politics of the past and reconnect Americans to the political process by bringing all voices to the table on contentious issues and working out common sense solutions.

He is committed to making sure every American has access to quality health care and to ending our dependence on foreign oil, and he has a proven ability to develop bipartisan coalitions to achieve his goals.

He had the judgment to oppose the Iraq war from the beginning -- and he has a sound plan to end it.

But as a Jewish member of Congress who is passionate about strengthening and protecting America’s historic relationship with our ally Israel, I could not support Barack Obama if I were not completely convinced of his own commitment to supporting Israel. In fact, my long conversations with Sen. Obama about his travels in Israel and his views on the importance of the American-Israeli alliance factored greatly in my decision to support him.

As a legislator in Illinois and now as a United States senator, Sen. Obama has been an ironclad supporter of the U.S.Israel relationship and repeatedly has been at the forefront ensuring Israel's security in the face of Palestinian terrorism, Hezbollah rocket attacks, threats from Syria and a burgeoning Iranian nuclear threat. Obama emphatically stated while giving a March 2007 speech to AIPAC members in Chicago that he has a “clear and strong commitment to the security of Israel, our strongest ally in the region and its only established democracy.”

Sen. Obama has been vocal in condemning Hamas and Islamic Jihad rocket attacks into the southern Israeli city of Sderot, and stood shoulder to shoulder with Israelis in 2006 during Israel’s war with Hezbollah.

“When Israel is attacked,” he said, “we must stand up for Israel's right to defend itself.”

But like the vast majority of the American Jewish community, he believes that a comprehensive settlement -including Israel and a peaceful Palestinian state living side by side -is the best way to ensure Israel’s security and guarantee that Israel will always be a Jewish state. Presidential nominees Barack As president, McCain (R-AZ) Barack Obama will make a personal commitment and a sustained effort to help the parties succeed in their negotiations.

He has no illusions about the difficulty of resolving the core issues of the conflict.

For example, he has stated clearly that the Palestinians must “reinterpret the notion of right of return in a way that would preserve Israel as a Jewish state.” Nor does he underestimate the determination of rejectionists like Hamas, who he believes must remain isolated until it renounces violence, recognizes Israel and abides by all agreements signed by the Palestinian Authority. But he will not be deterred, and he will make resolving this conflict an important priority of his foreign policy.

No one has been more resolute than Obama in addressing the most serious security threat facing the United States and Israel -- a nuclear Iran. He has stated that 'the world must work to stop Iran’s uranium enrichment program and prevent Iran from acquiring weapons. It is far too dangerous to have nuclear weapons in the hands of a “radical theocracy.”

The American Jewish community could not have a better friend and supporter in Washington than Barack Obama.

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Page 79

Why I back John McCain

by JOE LIEBERMAN WASHINGTON (JTA) - All across the nation over the next two weeks, the American people will be voting in a tightly contested election that will help determine who will be the next president.

In this election, however, we are not Obama (D-IL) left, and John just choosing Credit: Unites States Senate our next president. We are also choosing our commander-in-chief -- the person whose No. 1 job will be to defend our nation at a time of war.

And have no doubt: We are at war.

Although much of this war unfolds in the shadows, it remains deadly real. Every day, in fact, our terrorist enemies are working feverishly to strike at us and our allies around the world, from the deserts of Iraq to the mountains of Afghanistan and -- if given the chance -- right here at home in America. From the moment the next president steps into the Oval Office, he or she will be confronted with life-and-death decisions that will make the difference between victory and defeat in this war.

That is why I believe we need a president who is ready to be commander-inchief from day one -- a president who won’t need on-the-job training. And that is why I have decided to cross party lines to endorse U.S. Sen. John McCain.

I know that it is unusual for someone who is not a Republican to support a GOP candidate for president. But the dangers we face as a nation are too profound and the challenges we face too real, for us to play partisan politics with the presidency.

After all, the Islamist extremists we are fighting in this war do not distinguish between Democrats and Republicans.

AMERICA DECIDES 2008

Robert Wexler, a member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Florida, is the chairman of Obama’s Florida campaign.

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

They want to kill all of us, irrespective of our political differences, because we are all Americans.

I have worked with Sen. McCain on just about every major national security issue over the past 20 years -- from stopping the genocide in the Balkans, to reducing our dependence on foreign oil, to creating the 9/11 Commission and enacting its recommendations into law. I have seen him, time and again, rise above the negativism and pettiness of our politics to get things done for the country he loves so much.

Sen. McCain has quite literally dedicated his life in service to America. He has fought in uniform on the front lines against America’s enemies, and has been tested under fire like no other candidate in this race. It is more than his unrivaled experience that makes Sen. McCain so qualified to become president, however.

It is character and leadership.

Throughout his career, John McCain has proven that we can trust him to do what is right for our country, not only when it is easy, but when it is hard -- and to do what is necessary, not only when it is popular, but when it means standing against the tide.

When others were silent, John had the courage and the conviction to sound the alarm about the mistakes we were making in Iraq, and to call for more troops and a new strategy there. And when others wavered, and were ready to flee the field of battle, John had the courage and the conviction to stand against public opinion and fight for the surge in Iraq -- where at last today the forces of Islamist extremism are on the run, and we are winning.

This is the kind of leadership we as a nation desperately need in the years ahead -- and it is the kind of leadership that you can expect when John McCain is in the White House.

When it comes to keeping America safe and solving our most important problems, I firmly believe that John McCain is the candidate who has the experience, the strength and the character to bring our country together and lead us forward.

John McCain is just that person and I would urge you to vote for him.

Lieberman is a U.S. senator from Connecticut.

Page 80

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2008

Births in 5768 Eliyahu, son of Aviva and Yosi Applebaum Ethan Rafael, son of Robin and Brandon Becker Jameson Wayne, son of Shannon and Russell Bennett Moses Ephraim, son of Ken Bloom and Sarah Kelen Jack Ferris, son of Nicholette and Mike Brackhan Elizabeth Jane, daughter of Stacie and Marc Brodkey Riley Morgan, daughter of Robyn and Adam Burck William Theodore, son of Toba Cohen-Dunning and Eric Dunning Eva Miriam, daughter of Karen and Michael Cohen Gabriella Skye, daughter of Suzanne Horwich and Darren Cowan Henry William, son of Suzanne and Tracy Daw Malcolm Charles Sebastien, son of Frances and Chris Edwards Emma Elizabeth, daughter of Lesley Gendelman and Miles Ehrenkranz Tyler Joseph, son of Laurie and Jason Epstein Isabelle Sarah, daughter of Stephanie and David Eshel Joshua Aaron, son of Alicia and Dan Feldman Zachary Charles, son of Melissa and Rabbi Daniel Fellman Andrew Henry, son of Michelle and Jon Fellman Annika Hazel, daughter of Naomi and Michal Gaca Shoshana Lev, daughter of Ariela and Rabbi Baruch HaLevi Dar Shalev, son of Nicole and Raziel Hertel Ayden Michael, son of Kerry and Michael Hollst Shayna Parker, daughter of Stacy and Greg Horwitz

Marriages in 5768 Levi Benjamin, son of Heather and Eric Jagher Issac Matthew, son of Robyn and Jason Jensen Alexander Philip, son of Rachel Toker and Richard Katskee Jonah Samuel, son of Esther and Philip Katz Moshe, son of Rabbi Yosef and Shanny Katzman Zachary Maddox, son of Michelle and Stuart Kazor Yosef, son of Sarah and David Kotlyar Frances Riker, daughter of Ruth and Eric Konigsberg Lilianna Luz, daughter of Maritza and Dan Kully Madison Christine, daughter of Denise and Tim Kully Lyric Samson, son of Naomi and Ruvane Kurland Sebastian Jay and Jonah Austin, twin sons of Jennifer and Michael Lerner Paulina Madaline, daughter Andrea and Brian Lewis Jacob Michael Dean, son of Paula and John Malone Edella Pauline and Owen Allen daughter and son of Emily and Gabe Meyer Kaden James, son of Lisa and Nic Miller Eli Micah, son of Erin and Ben Nathan Calvin James Puckett Newman, son of Jennifer K. Puckett and James F. Newman Elisheva Meira, daughter of Jean and Phillip Paley Sydney Nathan, daughter of Carin and Andrew Parcel Jonas David, son of Bonnie and Jochen Pfrenger Lila Jill, daughter of Katy and Joe Platt Lucy Jaye, daughter of Suzanne and Hap Pocras Jaikob Josef, son of Marianna and Aaron Pollak

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Aliyah Rose, daughter of Nicole Abrahamson Racette and Jeff Racette Yonaton David, son of Jessica and Adam Rich Hinda Leah, daughter of Shani and Yosef Richtman Margaret Emma, daughter of Julie and Arnold Robinson Renatta Rose, daughter of Marcelyn and Dr. Charles Rogers Noah William, son of Kate Koester and Daniel Rosen Zachary James, son of Lara and Mark Rosenblum Jeremy Jonas, son of Karen and Rustin Ross Issac Carl, son of Jenifer and Boyd Ruff Molly Elizabeth, daughter of Andrea and Scott Saylan Sam Dylan, son of Debra and Trey Schillie Solomon Joseph, son of Rachel and Michael Schneider William Martin, son of Toni and Andy Schroeder Shane Matthew, son of Sarah and Shawn Schroeder Meirav Hagit, daughter of Amichai and Ronit Schwab Max Glenn, son of Laura and Glenn Scott Joshua Lewis, son of Melissa and Matt Shapiro Eliezer Binyomin, son of Liat and Gary Shyken Ruby Genevieve, daughter of Sara and Asher Stoller Asher Samuel, son of Sonia and Alan Tipp Isla Reese, daughter of Dana and David Wear Elise Safarik Weisser, daughter of David and Jenny Weisser Henry Jacob, son of Sarah and Adam Yale Shmuel Yekusiel, son of Jessica and David Zalkin

Lisa Pitlor and Ian Abramson Tracy Belluck and Aaron Baum Sarah Cotton and Steve DeBruin Andrea Kramer and Robbie Epstein Laynie Ginsburg and Joshua Heller Jessica Kreiger and Jamie Feinstein Pamela Weisner and Jordan Feinstein Andrea Gordman and Dan Fitzgerald Shoshana Wees and Corey Friedman Cindy Bogdanoff and Morris Friedman Erin Wochos and Joseph Hornstein Sarah Wiseman and Jeff Howard Amy Willensky and Andy Isaacson Brigitte Mimran and Alan Kohll Ruby Littman and Charles Landow Amy Katzman and Scott Levine Susan Long and Dr. Alan Langnas Adrianne Graham and Matt Lehrman Lisa Sheldon and Charles Lucoff Hayley Epstein and Gabe Maislos Elizabeth Roach and James Meyers Claire Fredricks and Rob Osborne Julie Egermayer and Ari Rabin-Havt Elisa Strauss and Marc Ricks Zoe Meyer and Jeffrey Robinson Paige Levy and Jeffrey Shyken Jennifer Kully and Matthew Skarperud Tamara Schneiderman and Adam Sohn Karen Loggia and David Spizman Sandra Lipsman and Stuart Sweetow Kari Epstein and Brandon Tauber Marilyn Laves and William Wiesman

Prayerbooks Available for Visually Impaired The Jewish Heritage for the Blind announced the availability of the High Holiday Machzor in large print and in Braille free of charge for those who need them. A doctor’s note stating necessity is required. To receive a complimentary Machzor, contact our office at 718.338.4999; or fax 718.338.0653; or e-mail to Jewishheritage@gmail.com.

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Please let the Jewish Press know in advance when you are leaving and when you are returning. Sometimes several papers are sent to your “old”address before we are notified by the Post Office. Every time they return a paper to us, you miss the Jewish Press and we are charged 70¢! Please call us at 402.334.6448 or email us at jpress@jewishomaha.org.

September 26, 2008

Jewish Federation of Omaha

President: Robert Lepp; Vice President/President Elect: David Gilinsky; Vice President: Jody Malashock; Treasurer: Mike Abramson; Secretary: Jay Gordman; Immediate Past President: Norm Sheldon; Past President: Zoë Riekes; Budget and Allocations Chairman: Myron Kaplan; Overseas/Partnership for Israel Chairman: Stacey Rockman; Board members: Joel Alperson, Brett Atlas, Rabbi Aryeh Azriel, Bob Belgrade,

Steve Bloch, Richard Evnen, Bruce Friedlander, Bob Goldberg, Rabbi Jonathan Gross, Joe Kirshenbaum, John Lehr, Bobbi Leibowitz, Rabbi Mordechai Levin, Mark Martin, Michael Miller, Wendy Raffel, Carl Riekes, Kimberly Robinson, Nancy Schlessinger, Jan Schneiderman, and Anthony Scioli; Executive Direcotr: Jan Goldstein.

Agencies of the Jewish Federation

ANTI-DEFAMATION LEAGUE/ COMMUNITY RELATIONS COMMITTEE President: Richard Evnen; Vice President: Jonathan Rockman; Past President: David Gilinsky; Executive Board members: Carol Bloch, Rich Juro, Michael Levine, Jan Lund, and Dan Marburg, Allan Murow, Aaron Weiner, Irv Yaffe; Board Members: Michael Alley, Ellie Batt, Bob Bleicher, Laura Crosby, Katherine Finnegan, Herb Friedman, Bruce Goldberg, Yale Gotsdiner, Gary Javitch, Patrick Jensen, Sara Juster, Jack Kozlen, Gary Nachman, Bob Nefsky, Brian Nogg, Alan Parsow, Shayna Ray, Susan Rothholz, Jan Schneiderman, Melissa Schop, Sue Schreiber, Ray Somberg, Charlie Sullivan, Tom Vann, Sylvia Wagner, Adam Yale, and Jim Zipursky; Advisory Committee: Bucky Greenberg; Executive Director: Alan Potash.

CENTER FOR JEWISH EDUCATION President: Bob Goldberg; Vice Presidents: Toba Cohen and Stacey Rockman, Treasurer: Susan Long; Board members: Bonnie Bloch, Cheryl Cooper, Ann Goldstein, Patrick Jensen, Debbi Josephson, Bruce Kutler, Michael Shrago, Annette Van de Kamp-Wright; Executive Director: Dr. Guy Matalon.

JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER President: Kimberly Robinson; Immediate Past President: Michael W. Miller; Past President: Gary D. Epstein; and Vice President: John Glazer; Board members: Harry Alloy, Jason Epstein, Jill Folsom, Sheldon Gallner, Bob Goldberg, Cindy Goldberg, Danielle Gordman, Mark Javitch, Jody Malashock, Mark Martin, Scott Meyerson, Jeff Platt, Stacey Rockman, Michael Siegel, and

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 81

NORM’S DOOR SERVICE

Joyous New Year’s Greetings

NORM KERR

Eitan Tsabari; Executive Director: Jeffrey Aizenberg.

JEWISH PRESS President: Bobbi Leibowitz; Vice President: Michael Sigmond; Secretary: Stan Mitchell; Treasurer: Michael Siegel; Immediate Past Chairman: Howard K. Marcus; Board members: Marc Brodkey, Andie Gordman, Michael Kaufman, Bette Kozlen, Susan Lehr, Jamie Meyerson, Andy Ruback, Jim Simon, Nancy Skid, and Dorothy Spizman; Editor: Carol Katzman.

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JEWISH SENIOR SERVICES President: Bob Belgrade; Past President: Joan Bernstein; Vice Presidents: Jim Farber, Harold Mann, and Larry Roffman; Treasurer: Howard Epstein; Secretary: Suzanne Singer; Directors: Mike Abramson, Carol Bloch, Judy Brookstein, Justin Cooper, Paul Epstein, Jeff Itkin, Jeff Kirshenbaum, Joe Kirshenbaum, Angie Krieger, John Lehr, Lisa Lewis, Nancy Noddle, Steve Nogg, Mike Platt, Anthony Scioli, Stan Silverman, Harriet Singer, Norman Veitzer, and Andi Willensky; Executive Director: Michael Silverman.

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JEWISH FEDERATION OF OMAHA FOUNDATION President: Steven Bloch; Vice President: Jay Noddle; Secretary: Donald Goldstein; Treasurer: Andrew Robinson; Board members: Henry Davis, Michael M. Erman, Jordana M. Glazer, Joseph Kirshenbaum, Murray H. Newman, Carl Riekes, Larry E. Roffman, Harley D. Schrager, Ted M. Seldin, Frederick J. Simon, Suzanne Richards Singer, Norman Veitzer, and ExOfficio: Robert Lepp; Executive Director: Marty Ricks.

Deaths in 5768

Laverna A. Anderson, Dena Altman, Norman S. Anon, Peter Astor, Richard Baer, Harry L. Berenson, Sherry Stoller Biesell, Harold Bowen, Aron Blyakher, Harold B. Brodkey, Gertrude Rothkop Brodkey, Donald E. Brody, Sanford I. Brophy, Mae Sokol Burger, Josephine Burman, Sandye Carter, Jackie Lynn Roffman Christensen, David Chorney, Fannie Sherman Chunovic, Arnold Citron, Robert Cohen, Sam Cohen, Selma Hill Cohen, Ralph Cooper, Sheldon Coren, John T. Dacey, Theresa Diamond, Bertha “Babe” Dobrofsky, Jaque Dolgoff, Rabbi Dr. A. Stanley Dreyfus, James Earp, George W. Egermayer, Richard A. Eggers, Aileen Eisenstatt, Dr. Robert Julian Engel, Richard B. Epstein, Liberty Faier, Max Falk, Janice Fedje, Betty Fellman, Mary Fellman, Laura Felt, Donald Fiedler, Muriel Finkel, Roni Fisher, Syma (Sonia) Fraidenraich, Mollie Franklin, David Friedland, Willard I. Friedman, Rosalie “Roz” Friedman, Ronald David Garber, Adeline Gendler, Jean Gendler, Norman B. Gendler, Sheldon Glass, Stuart Goldberg, Dr. Debra Lyddon Goldstein, Ethel Goldston, Kathryn A. (Kathi) Goldstrom, Helen Gould, Lee Tenenbaum Greenbaum, Lena Greenbaum, Rose Gross, Scott M. Grossman, Kathryn A. Goldstrom, Richard Graham, Deborah Greene, Joseph S. Guss, Sara L. Harding, Estelle Wintroub Harris, Marie Herbert, David J. Hirsch, Bernard Hockenberg, Stephen M. Hoberman, John Hoffman, Robert Horwitz, Adam Jacobs, Alexander “Al” Jacoby, Margarita Jaen, Bernarr Jonisch, Arnold Garth Kaiman, Charlotte Kaplan, Dorothy Kaplan, Susan “Susie” Kaplan, Bernice Kass,

Abraham David Katz, Ralph Katz, Lawrence Kaufman, Edythe Kavich, Frances Kimmel, Sophia Kimmel, Henriette Kiss, Mollie Kohn, Sam Kohn, Molly Chodak Kosowsky, June “Peggy” Krasne, Paul Kravitz, Frieda Krizelman, Leonard G. Kulakofsky, Jennie Lederman, Rachel Lea Leiserowitz, Betty Levy, Teresa Lilly, Harriett R. Lobel, Sarah Lohrman, Philip Lubman, Gwenn Milder Mallin, Paula J. Mandell, Lila “Louise” Martin, Martin “Marty” Meyers, Esther Mazvinsky, Etta Sugarman Mehlinger, Sally Ann McGauvran, Dorothea McGauvran, Frances Osoff Milder, Bernice “Trickle” Milder, Bernice Miller, Julius Misle, Leonard Muskin, Lucy Muskin, Sarah Nixon, Steven S. Parsow, Myron Perry, John Edwin Perry, Harold D. Petersen, Janice Marie Pollack, Max Prostok, Alyce Radman, Toby Mendell Raznick, Mollye Rimerman, Charlene Rips, Marjorie Hiller Rosen, Helen Brown Rosenberg, Hubert I. Rosenblum, Judith Levenson Ruston, Benjamin Saag, Beatrice Schneider, Ben Schneider, David Schondelmeyer, Lee Schwartz, Esther Segel, Jean Priesman Selo, Dr. Rudolf Selo, Morris J. “Morrie” Shapiro, Miriam Sheldon, Michael Shukert, Rose Siegman, Gladys Sigala, Sylvia Singer, Yankel Sirota, Jerry Smith, Mary Smith, Lester A. Sobel, Marvin Stein, Robert Steinkraus, Jack Stiss, Marion Strauss, John Sutin, Marvin Suvalsky, Ruvim Turetsky, June Walker, Jerome “Jerry” Wasserman, Dr. Sam Weinstein, George Jack Weise, Bernard David Weinstein, Betty Rae Weiser, Harl M. Weiss, Norman Whitman, Isabel Young, Stanley Zack, Dorothy Zevitz, Rose Ziegman, and Igor Zinkov.

MEMORIAL SERVICES SUNDAY, OCT. 5 Beth El Cemetery 84th and ‘L’ Sts., 10:30 a.m.

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Page 82

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2008

Candlelighting Friday, Sept. 26, 6:54 p.m.

Monday, Sept. 29, 6:50 p.m.

Tuesday, Sept. 30, no earlier than 7:49 p.m.

Synagogue Listings B’nai Israel Synagogue 618 Mynster St. Council Bluffs, IA 51503-0766 322.4705 email: CBsynagogue@hotmail.com

Beth El Synagogue Member of United Synagogues of Conservative Judaism 14506 California Omaha, NE 68154-1980 492.8550 www.bethel-omaha.org

Beth Israel Synagogue Member of Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America 12604 Pacific St. Omaha, NE. 68154 556.6288 BethIsrael@OrthodoxOmaha.org

Chabad House An Affiliate of Chabad-Lubavitch 1866 S. 120th St. Omaha, NE 68144-1646 330.1800 www.OChabad.com email: chabad@aol.com

Congregation B’nai Jeshurun South Street Temple Union for Reform Judaism 2061 S. 20th St. Lincoln, NE 68502-2797 435.8004 southstreettemple.org

Offutt Air Force Base SAC Memorial Chapel 301 Lincoln Highway Offutt AFB, NE 68113 294.6244

Rose Blumkin Jewish Home 323 S. 132 St. Omaha, NE 68154

Temple Israel Union for Reform Judaism (URJ) 7023 Cass Street Omaha, NE 68132-2651 556.6536 templeisrael-ne.org

The Neighborhood Minyan 1317 No. 57 St. Omaha, NE 68132 551.6609

Tifereth Israel Member of United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism 3219 Sheridan Blvd., Lincoln, NE 68502-5236 423.8569 www.tiferethisraellincoln.org

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B’NAI ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE FRIDAY: Services followed by Oneg, 7:30 p.m.

ROSH HASHANAH MONDAY: Services, 7:30 p.m., Sara Juster speaks about “Medical Ethics: Jewish Views on the Beginnings and Ending of Life.” Apples, honey and sweets to follow.

TUESDAY:, Services, 10:30 a.m., Lucille Saunders addresses “Storytelling.”

All services led by Jeffrey Taxman.

Thursday, Oct. 9, 5:30 p.m., Yom Kippur concluding service and Break-the-fast potluck. Please call 323.8885 to RSVP and let us know what dish you’d like to bring.

BETH EL SYNAGOGUE Services conducted by Rabbi Mordechai Levin and Cantor Beth Schlossberg.

FRIDAY: Musical Kabbalat Service, 6 p.m.

SATURDAY: Shacharit, 9:30 a.m.; Kiddush sponsored by Beth El; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 7:05 p.m.

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

APPLETINIS & APPLE TASTING SATURDAY, 7:30 p.m., at the synagogue. Open to all 20s and 30s, married and single, in the Jewish community. To RSVP, call the office.

SUNDAY: BESTT Sixth and seventh grade minyan, 9 a.m.; Bible Study Discussion Group, 10 a.m.; Men’s Club Brunch, 10 a.m.-11:30 a.m. The Jewish community is invited for brunch with Dr. Keith Lutz, superintendent of the Millard Public Schools.

ROSH HASHANAH MONDAY: Ma’ariv, 6 p.m.

TUESDAY: Morning Service, 9 a.m.; Alternative Service, 9:45 a.m.; Tashlikh, 4:45 p.m.; Mincha-Ma’ariv, 6 p.m.

WEDNESDAY: Morning Service, 9 a.m.; Mincha-Ma’ariv, 7 p.m.

Note: Rose Hashanah morning services end at about 12:15 p.m.

THURSDAY: Women’s Book Club, 1:15 p.m.

TOT SHABBAT: Friday, Oct. 3, 6 p.m. service, 6:30 p.m. dinner. For reservations made by Oct. 1, dinner cost is $5 for those 7 and older; no charge for children six and younger. After Oct. 1, cost is $10 per person. Call office for reservations.

I AM A JEW: Yearlong adult education course led by Andy Greenberg, begins Sunday, Oct. 5, 10 a.m. Free pastries will be

served. All adults in the Jewish community are welcome. Cost: $36. To register or for more information, contact the office.

BETH ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE Office Hours: MondayThursday, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Friday, 8:30 a.m-2 p.m. Services conducted by Rabbi Jonathan Gross and Rabbi Yitzchak Mizrahi.

FRIDAY: Kabbalat Shabbat, 7 p.m.

SATURDAY: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Free Babysitting, 9:30 a.m.; Classes for children age two through Bar/Bat Mitzvah, 9:45 a.m. with Torah Parade; Kiddush luncheon sponsored by Beth Israel in honor of Rabbi Yitzchak and Talia Mizrahi; Mincha, 6:30 p.m. followed by Suedat Shlishit; Havdalah, 7:54 p.m.

SUNDAY: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Ma’ariv, 8:30 p.m.

ROSH HASHANAH MONDAY: Shacharit, 6:30 a.m. The office will close at noon; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 6:45 p.m.

TUESDAY: Shacharit, 8 a.m.; free babysitting, 9:30 a.m.; Torah Reading, 9:45 a.m.; Junior Congregation, 9:45 a.m.; Sermon, 10 a.m., followed by shofar blowing; Kiddush sponsored by Sisterhood; Mincha, 7:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAY: Shacharit, 8 a.m.; free babysitting, 9:30 a.m.; Torah Reading, 9:45 a.m.; Junior Congregation, 9:45 a.m.; Sermon, 10 a.m. followed by shofar blowing; Kiddush sponsored by Jean Cahan in honor of family birthdays; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 7 p.m.

THURSDAY: Fast of Gedaliah; Fast begins, 6:01 a.m.; Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Women of the Torah class, 9:30 a.m.; Fast ends, 7:45 p.m.; Ma’ariv, 8:30 p.m.

CHABAD HOUSE Services conducted by Rabbi Mendel Katzman.

FRIDAY: Service, 7 a.m.

SATURDAY: Maamar class, 9 a.m.; Service, 9:30 a.m.; ; Youth Minyan, where the Mini-Mensch title will be awarded, 10:30 a.m.; Kiddush luncheon follows; join Rabbi Katzman from 12-1 p.m.

SUNDAY: Service, 8:30 a.m.; Heading Somewhere, studying the book of Numbers, 9:30 a.m.; Parsha study, 10 a.m.; Mishpacha Mornings, 10:15 a.m.

ROSH HASHANAH MONDAY: Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Mincha/Ma’-ariv, 6:45 p.m.

TUESDAY: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Youth minyan, 10:45 a.m.; Shofar Service, 11 a.m.; luncheon to follow services; Tashlich on the water,

To Submit B’nai Mitzvah Announcements Announcements may be e-mailed to the Press with attached photos in .jpg or .tif files to jpress@jewishomaha.org; faxed to 402.334.5422, or mailed to 333 So. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68154.

Forms are available through Omaha and Lincoln synagogues, by contacting The Jewish Press at 402.334.6448, or by e-mailing the Editor at: ckatzman@jewishomaha.org.

You can also submit other announcements -- births 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.

4 p.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 7 p.m.

WEDNESDAY: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Youth minyan, 10:45 a.m.; Shofar Service, 11 a.m.; luncheon to follow services; Mincha/ Ma’ariv, 7 p.m.

THURSDAY: Fast of Gedalia; Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Fast ends, 7:31 p.m.

CONGREGATION B’NAI JESHURUN Services conducted by Rabbi Ilan Emanuel.

FRIDAY: Peaceful Shabbat Service, 7:45 p.m. led by Rabbi Emanuel, with oneg hosted by Sarah Kelen and Ken Bloom.

SATURDAY: Shabbat morning service, 9:30 a.m.; Torah study, 10:30 a.m.

SUNDAY: LJCS Grades 1-7, 9:30-10 a.m. at Tifereth Israel; LJCS Community Seder for Rosh Hashanah, 10 a.m.-noon at Tifereth Israel; Hallah High, 10 a.m.-noon at South Street Temple.

ROSH HASHANAH MONDAY: Evening Service, 8 p.m.

TUESDAY: Morning Service, 10 a.m.; Children’s Service, 11:15 a.m. led by youth (concurrent with sermon); Tashlich service, 3 p.m. at Wilderness Park.

THURSDAY: Board of Trustees, 7 p.m.; Choir Rehersal, 7:30 p.m.

OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE FRIDAY: Services, 7:30 p.m.

ROSE BLUMKIN JEWISH HOME FRIDAY: Shabbat Comes to the Blumkin Home, 2:30 p.m. led by Beth Israel members.

SATURDAY: Services, 9 a.m. led by Andy Greenberg.

ROSH HASHANAH MONDAY: Evening Service, 7 p.m., led by Andrew Greenberg.

TUESDAY: Morning Service, 9 a.m., led by Andrew Greenberg.

WEDNESDAY: Morning service, 9 a.m., led by Phyllis Hoffman.

Services will be held at the Blumkin Home Herbert Goldsten Chapel, open to the community.

TEMPLE ISRAEL FRIDAY: Tot Shabbat Service and dinner, 6 p.m. led by Rabbi Aryeh Azriel. Cost for dinner is $5 for adults; no charge for children. Please contact the office or mkube@templeisraelomaha.com to reserve; Shabbat Service, 7:30 p.m. led by Rabbi Eric Linder and Cantor Wendy Shermet.

SATURDAY: Sparks Beneath the Surface, 9:15 a.m., Shabbat

Service, 10:30 a.m.

SUNDAY: Teacher meeting, 9:30 a.m.; Card Making Party, 10 a.m.; Classes K-6, 10 a.m.; OTYG Board Meeting, 11 a.m.; OTYG Yom Kippur Service rehearsal, noon; Children’s Choir rehearsal, noon and lunch provided for choir members and younger siblings; Kol Rina Rehearsal, 1 p.m.

ROSH HASHANAH Monday: Evening Service, 7:30 p.m.

Tuesday: Tot Service, (for ages five and under) and Children’s service, 9 a.m. (suitable for K-4) led by clergy; Child program, 9:45 a.m.-12:15 p.m.; Morning service, 10:15 a.m.; Sitter service, 10:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Please contact the Temple office to register. There is a $5 fee per child.

Wednesday: Religious School grades 3-6, 4 p.m.; OTYG Yom Kippur Service rehearsal, 5 p.m.; all school dinner/Family School/Grades 7-12, 6 p.m.; Brundibar performance, 7 p.m.

THE NEIGHBORHOOD MINYAN FRIDAY: Minyan, 7 p.m.

SATURDAY: Services, 9 a.m.

No services will be held during the month of October.

TIFERETH ISRAEL Services conducted by Nancy Coren, Lay Leader. Office hours: Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

MONDAY and THURSDAY: Minyan, 9 a.m.

FRIDAY: Services, 6:30 p.m.

SATURDAY: Morning service, 9:30 a.m. followed by Kiddush lunch and Talmud study.

SUNDAY: LJCS Grades 1-7, 9:30-10 a.m. at Tifereth Israel; LJCS Community Seder for Rosh Hashanah, 10 a.m.-noon at Tifereth Israel; Hallah High, 10 a.m.-noon at South Street Temple; LJCS Teachers, 12:30 p.m. at South Street Temple.

ROSH HASHANAH MONDAY: Ma’ariv Services, 8 p.m.

TUESDAY: Morning Service, 9 a.m.; Mincha/Maariv, 7 p.m.

WEDNESDAY: Morning Service, 9 a.m.; Tashlich & Mincha, 5 p.m.

MEMORIAL SERVICES Sunday, Oct. 5 Beth El Cemetery 84th and ‘L’ Sts., 10:30 a.m.

Oak Hills/Bikhor Cholim Council Bluffs, 11 a.m.

Temple Israel Cemetery 6412 No. 42 St., 1 p.m.

Wyuka Cemetery Lincoln, 3 p.m.

HIGH HOLIDAY CLOSING & EARLY DEADLINE NOTICE The Jewish Press will be closed on Tuesday and Wednesday, Sept. 30 and Oct. 1, for Rosh Hashanah; Thursday, Oct. 9 for Yom Kippur; and Tuesday and Wednesday, Oct. 14-15 for Sukkot and Oct. 21-22 for Shemini Azeret and Simchat Torah. The deadline for all ads, articles and photos is 9 a.m. as follows: Issue Deadline Oct 10 Thursday, Oct. 2 Wednesday, Oct. 8 Oct. 17 Oct. 24 Monday, Oct. 13 Questions? Call 402.334.6448

September 26, 2008

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 83

Index of Advertisers Advertiser Page Abacus Consulting .................................................... 35 Abraham Catering .................................................... 70 Abrahams Kaslow & Cassman LLP .......................... 28 Action Financial ........................................................ 63 Acura of Omaha ....................................................... 14 Adam Whitney Gallery ............................................... 73 Alegent Health .......................................................... 29 All Makes Office Equipment Co. ................................ 55 All Seasons Home Improvement Co. ........................ 76 Allens ........................................................................ 26 American Friends of Magen David Adom (ARMDI) .... 48 American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) .... 20 American Tile and Marble Co. ................................... 66 AMIT Women ............................................................ 72 AmSan ...................................................................... 81 Anti-Defamation League ........................................... 72 Arnold Weitz & Co. .................................................... 59 Associated Counseling Professionals ........................ 43 Associated Tax Relief ................................................. 59 B’nai B’rith Henry Monsky Lodge ............................. 72 B’nai B’rith Youth Organization .................................. 24 B’nai Israel Synagogue ............................................. 72 B’nai Jeshurun ......................................................... 43 Badger Body/Isuzu Truck ......................................... 15 Bag ’N Save ................................................................ 7 Bagel Bin .................................................................. 70 Bergman Incentives/Bergman Jewelers ................... 26 Bernina Sewing Centers ............................................ 42 Beth El Synagogue .................................................... 72 Beth Israel Sisterhood ............................................... 72 Beth Israel Synagogue .............................................. 72 BILU USY .................................................................. 24 Body Basics .............................................................. 54 Boys Town ................................................................. 12 Brandeis Catering ....................................................... 9 Bresel Family ............................................................ 34 Broadmoor ............................................................... 51 Broadmoor Market ................................................... 73 Brodkey’s .................................................................. 46 Brownell Talbot ......................................................... 58 Business Printing ...................................................... 66 Canfield’s Sporting Goods ........................................ 33 Care Consultants for the Aging .................................. 31 CB Richard Ellis/MEGA .............................................. 9 Center for Jewish Education ..................................... 72 Chabad .................................................................... 72 Charleston’s .............................................................. 61 China Road ............................................................... 78 Christel’s ................................................................... 18 Clinical Cosmetics, Angela Bell ................................. 38 Cohen Family ........................................................... 50 Country Inns & Suites ................................................. 7 Countryside Village ................................................... 73 Creighton University .................................................. 47 Crowne Plaza ............................................................ 39 Culligan .................................................................... 80 Custom Care .............................................................. 8 Dance Shoppe .......................................................... 73 David Morton Food Marketing ................................... 50 Edward Jones-Mike Sigmond .................................... 67 Emanuel Contracting, Inc. ........................................ 30 Enterprise Bank ........................................................ 44 Expressions .............................................................. 52 Eye Essentials ............................................................. 8 Faces ........................................................................ 73 Family Enrichment, Inc. ............................................ 39 Frankel Zacharia, LLC ....................................................... 4 Fraser Stryker PC LLO ............................................... 58 Friedel Jewish Academy ............................................ 22 Genzyme .................................................................. 32 Goldberg & Shrier ...................................................... 14 Gordmans ................................................................ 84 Grace/Mayer Insurance ............................................ 65 Grubb & Ellis/Pacific Realty ...................................... 16 Hadassah ................................................................. 72 Hadassah Upper Midwest Region ............................. 74 Harry A Koch Co. ...................................................... 23 Hiller Electric ............................................................. 10 Hiro Sushi/Imperial Palace ....................................... 70

Advertiser Page Hockenbergs ............................................................ 30 Holland Lecture Series .............................................. 69 Honeyman Rent-All ................................................... 26 Horizon Dental Center ................................................ 5 Hy-Vee ...................................................................... 25 I-Go Van & Storage .................................................... 34 Ideal Pure Water ....................................................... 28 Industrial Packaging Corporation .............................. 69 Interim Homestyle Services ...................................... 44 Institute for Holocaust Education .............................. 62 Jacobson Family ......................................................... 6 Jacobson Fish Co., Inc. ............................................ 39 Jaipur ....................................................................... 54 Jams ........................................................................ 13 Janine McClintock Studios ........................................ 51 Java ’N Ice ................................................................ 54 Javitch, Gary Family .................................................. 66 Jetlinx ........................................................................ 11 Jewish Community Center .......................................... 5 Jewish Family Service ............................................... 38 Jewish Federation of Lincoln ..................................... 23 Jewish Federation of Omaha .................................... 64 Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation .................. 21 Jewish National Fund ................................................ 75 Jewish Press ................................................... 2, 24, 79 Jewish Senior Services ................................................ 3 Jewish War Veterans ................................................. 72 Jewish Women International ..................................... 72 Johanns, Mike for Senate ......................................... 53 John A. Gentleman Mortuaries ................................. 77 Julio’s ....................................................................... 13 Katelman Company Antiques ................................... 20 Kazmarek, Linda Pet/House Sitting .......................... 20 Keller Williams-Fred Tichauer .................................... 81 King Fong Cafe ......................................................... 61 Kleeb, Scott for Senate .............................................. 17 Kohll’s Pharmacy & Homecare ................................. 42 KPTM ....................................................................... 79 Kutak Rock ............................................................... 35 Lakeside Dentistry .................................................... 52 Lauritzen Gardens .................................................... 59 League Offering Volunteers for the Elderly ................. 72 Leisure Life Sports .................................................... 45 Lerner Company ....................................................... 30 Lexus of Omaha ....................................................... 19 LifeLock .................................................................... 77 Lion’s Automotive Upholstery .................................... 22 Louie M’s Burger Lust ............................................... 70 Lynn Roberts International ........................................ 14 Malashock Jewelry ................................................... 52 Malbar Vision Centers ............................................... 45 Marathon Realty Corporation .................................... 80 Margarita Magic .................................................... 6, 57 Mark Sanford Group ................................................. 36 Marks Clare & Richards ............................................ 50 Marriott Regency Hotel .............................................. 16 Max I. Walker Cleaners ................................................ 7 McGill, Gotsdiner, Workman & Lepp, P.C., L.L.O. .... 31 McGrath, North ......................................................... 71 MDK & Associates .................................................... 33 Meehan Drywall .......................................................... 4 Mid Con Systems Inc. ............................................... 66 Mid-City Jewelry & Loan ............................................ 62 Midwest Box Co. ....................................................... 27 Midwest Ear, Nose & Throat, PC ............................... 80 Midwest Woodworkers .............................................. 41 Mount Sinai Cemetery .............................................. 72 Mulhall’s ..................................................................... 6 N. Pitlor & Son, Inc. .................................................. 23 Nan C. ...................................................................... 41 National Council of Jewish Women ........................... 72 NCSY of Beth Israel Synagogue ................................. 24 Nebraska Children’s Home Society ........................... 28 Nebraska Democratic Party ...................................... 62 Nebraska Furniture Mart ........................................... 15 Nebraska Jewish Historical Society ........................... 72 Nebraska Press Statewide Classifieds ....................... 83 Nebraska Warehouse & Cannonball Express ............ 77 Nelson, US Senator Ben ............................................. 5

Advertiser Page No Frills .................................................................... 35 Nobbies .................................................................... 22 Noddle Companies ................................................... 14 Norm’s Door Service ................................................. 81 Northwestern Mutual-Robert Randels ....................... 42 O Dining .................................................................... 78 Oak Hills/Bikhor Cholim Cemetery ........................... 68 Omaha Compound Company .................................... 9 Omaha Conservatory of Music ................................. 78 Omaha Steaks .......................................................... 65 Omaha Surgical Center ............................................ 43 Omaha Symphony ................................................... 49 Omaha Temple Youth Group ..................................... 24 Omaha Temporary Services ..................................... 50 Omaha Trans Video .................................................. 31 One Drake Place ....................................................... 60 Parkwood Terrace Apartments .................................. 46 Parsow’s ................................................................... 63 Pasta Amore ............................................................. 54 Pear’s Gourmet Coffee .............................................. 41 Peterson Brothers Realty Co. ..................................... 43 Pharmacy Express .................................................... 46 Pirsch, State Senator Pete ......................................... 26 Pollak & Hicks, P.C. ................................................... 57 Pulverente Monument Co. ........................................ 68 Quality Dental Care L.L.C. ......................................... 18 Regency Lodge ......................................................... 27 Remington Heights Retirement Community .............. 56 Republic National Distributing Company ................... 46 Residential Mortgage Services, Inc. .......................... 34 RLN Financial ........................................................... 38 Roberts Dairy ............................................................ 51 Rockbrook Floors ...................................................... 16 Rockbrook Village ...................................................... 54 Rolling Hills Ranch Independent Retirement Living ... 60 Rosenbaum Family ................................................... 19 Rossi ......................................................................... 54 Rotella’s Italian Bakery .............................................. 45 Russell’s ................................................................... 73 Schwalb Realty .......................................................... 41 Scott Conference Center ........................................... 44 Security Equipment, Inc. ........................................... 67 Security National Bank ............................................... 6 Seim Johnson ........................................................... 74 Senor Matias ............................................................ 37 Sir Speedy ................................................................ 66 Sol’s Jewelry & Loan ................................................. 33 Sole Cleanse LLC ...................................................... 57 Sonny Gerber Auto Sales ........................................... 18 Sound Environment .................................................. 54 Sparks Computerized Car Care ................................... 8 Spirit World ............................................................... 37 St. Joseph Villa .......................................................... 27 Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP ................................... 76 Stoddard, Jay Family ................................................ 52 String of Purls ........................................................... 73 Suburban Newspapers Inc. ...................................... 33 Superior Pools, Spas, Etc. ......................................... 22 Swartzbaugh Farber .................................................. 15 Sweet & Associates ................................................... 77 Taxi’s ......................................................................... 61 Temple Israel ............................................................ 72 Terry, US Congressman Lee ..................................... 67 Tifereth Israel ............................................................ 43 Trocadéro .................................................................. 69 University of Nebraska Medical Center ...................... 40 University of Nebraska-Omaha Sports ....................... 19 University of Nebraska-Omaha Theatre ..................... 60 V. Mertz .................................................................... 13 Valentino’s ................................................................ 61 Vann Realty ............................................................... 45 Village Pointe Pediatrics .............................................. 4 Vincenzo’s ................................................................ 78 Visions ...................................................................... 72 Wells Blue Bunny ......................................................36 Winery ...................................................................... 13 Wolf Bros. Western Store ........................................... 18 Wolfson Used Cars ................................................... 34 Zio’s Pizzeria ............................................................. 37

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Parties target VP picks Continued from page 84 Israel to white colonialists.

Within hours of Obama naming Biden on Aug. 23, the RJC fired off an e-mail describing Biden as making the ticket even “riskier” on Israel. The e-mail is now appearing in the form of an ad in Jewish newspapers.

“He has voted against significant legislation that would pressure Iran to stop pursuing nuclear weapons,” Matt Brooks, the RJC’s director, said in a statement. “Biden has failed to recognize the serious threat that Iran poses to Israel and the U.S. and its allies in the Middle East.”

Pulling out sin lists from thousands of votes is typical when lawmakers with long legislative histories run for office.

One McCain supporter circulating an anti-Biden attack letter that listed the pro-Israel initiatives Biden refused to join even began the missive: “My G-d, I hope McCain signed these.”

Most recently, Biden and Obama refused to back a nonbinding amendment last year initiated by Sens. John Kyl (R-AZ) and Joe Lieberman (I-CT) that would have urged President Bush to designate the Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps a terrorist group. (The amendment passed, and Bush did so.)

Biden and Obama objected to including attacks on U.S. troops in Iraq, allegedly backed by Iran, as a rationale for the designation, fearing Bush could claim con-

gressional backing if he attacked Iran.

In a Sept. 3 conference call with members of the Jewish media, Biden said the amendment was “gratuitous,” as Bush already had the power to take such a step. The amendment, he said, “opened the door to an attack on Iran at a time when I didn’t trust this administration,” noting claims that the president had gone well beyond congressional authorization in invading Iraq in 2003.

McCain also is vulnerable when it comes to Senate votes. The Arizona senator has yet to endorse Obama's Iran Sanctions Enabling Act, which would protect organizations divesting from the Islamic Republic from lawsuits and facilitate such steps. Pro-Israel insiders attribute GOP lethargy on the bill in part to not wanting to give Obama a legislative victory during an election in which Republicans are trying to paint the Democratic candidate as thin in accomplishments.

Biden’s defenders in the Jewish community say lumping him with lawmakers who have consistently been cool on Israel is a calumny.

“I have known and worked closely with Senator Biden for more than 36 years, and the caricature that is being painted of him by some who value partisanship over truth is truly astounding,” Michael Adler, who chaired Biden’s abortive presidential campaign last year, wrote in an op-ed. “Perhaps even more distressing than the attacks on a good friend of the Jewish community is the

use of the U.S.-Israel relationship as a partisan wedge issue.”

Another Biden backer, Peter Joseph, the incoming president of the dovish Israel Policy Forum, says judging a candidate by his votes does not do justice to someone committed to helping the sides come to an agreement.

“It’s easy to stand back and not understand the granularities,” Joseph told JTA. “He understands where the Israelis and Palestinians can play a role, and where the United States can help.

Still, Biden has a short temper and has not hesitated to tussle with the AIPAC when he thinks the pro-Israel powerhouse has crossed a line.

“AIPAC does not speak for the entire American Jewish community. There are other organizations as strong and as consequential,” he said in the conference call when asked about the RJC statement noting that he had failed to support several AIPAC-backed measures.

Insiders at the lobby were more bemused than offended by the outburst, saying they regarded Biden as essentially pro-Israel. Sources familiar with the situation said the Obama camp’s explanation was that Biden had mistakenly thought it was AIPAC who had criticized him, as opposed to the RJC. In an apparent effort to patch things quickly, AIPAC issued a statement praising Biden and the Obama campaign returned the favor.

Page 84

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2008

Vying for Jewish votes, parties target VP picks AMERICA DECIDES 2008

by RON KAMPEAS WASHINGTON (JTA) -- Joe Biden, all wrong on Israel? Sarah Palin, a Jewish woman’s worst nightmare?

Republicans and Democrats campaigning for the Jewish vote have flipped the traditional role of the vice-presidential candidate from “attack dog” to fresh meat.

Campaign attacks typically focus on the top of the other side’s ticket, with the vice-presidential pick often leading the charge while the presidential candidates remain above the fray. But this year, judging at least from this reporter’s inbox, about half the Jewish-themed campaign attacks are aimed at the VP choices instead of U.S. Sens. John McCain (RAriz.) and Barack Obama (D-Ill.).

During the Democratic convention in Denver last month, Republicans attempted to paint Biden, a longtime Delaware senator, as soft when it comes to defending Israel. Democrats struck back last week during the GOP parley in St. PaulMinneapolis by taking potshots at Palin, the governor of Alaska, for her conservative domestic beliefs.

“Sarah Palin is a plucky, exciting candidate, but when her record is examined, she fails miserably with respect to her views on the domestic issues that are so important to the people of the U.S., and to me,” said Ed Koch, the former Democratic mayor of New York who endorsed Bush in 2004. “Frankly it would scare me if she were to succeed John McCain in the presidency.”

In an interview with Buchanan, the Holocaust diminisher who Politico, Koch cited reports had run for president in 1992, 1996 and that early in her term as 2000. In fact, Palin had backed Steve mayor of Wasilla, Palin Forbes. asked the town librarian The NJDC noted that on Aug. 17 her about banning books. church in Wasilla hosted an appearance by “Anytime someone goes a Jews for Jesus leader to preach, who to the library and says ‘I blamed terrorism in Israel on the failure want to ban books,’ and the librarian says to accept Jesus. Palin, according to the ‘no,’ and she threatens to fire them -- McCain campaign, had not been aware of that’s scary,” Koch was quoted as saying. the invitation and does not sanction the (That accusagroup’s tion has since views. been deThe RJC, bunked.) mir roring A few days an Obama after Palin’s campaign selection, the tactic, is National soliciting Jewish Dems u c h ocratic Counsmears cil fired off a from its fund-raising followers appeal built in order to around the debunk argument them. that McCain Jewish surrogates of the two campaigns are taking respective “The RJC had tapped a aim at Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin and Sen. Joe Biden (D-Del.) is deterCredit: RNC/Obama for America mined to running mate who “is totally out of step with public set the record straight in the face of frenopinion in the Jewish community.” zied attacks on Gov. Palin and Sen. The NJDC noted that she opposes gay McCain,” the Jewish GOP group said in marriage and abortion even in cases of an e-mail. rape and incest, and believes creationism In response to the domestic-themed could fairly be taught alongside evolu- attacks against Palin, RJC pointed to tion. Those views led a gleeful NJDC to news accounts suggesting that as goverdeclare that McCain was “kissing the nor, she has largely abjured these social Jewish vote goodbye.” issues in favor of an emphasis on fiscal Some of the Democrats’ first shots at responsibility.

Palin were misfires. Within a day of her Democrats counter that as a potential nomination, U.S. Rep. Robert Wexler president -- McCain is 72 and has sur(D-Fla.) -- Obama’s chief Jewish surro- vived four bouts of cancer -- she would be gate -- had accused her of backing Pat at the center of such initiatives in a way

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that governors never are. They stressed the potential for her to appoint Supreme Court justices if she ends up as president.

Top Jewish Republicans were quick to defend her, including Virginia Rep. Eric Cantor, the deputy whip in the House and its only Jewish GOPer, and Hawaii Gov. Linda Lingle. In a colorful column praising Palin, Susan Froman -- the only Jew and just the second woman to lead the National Rifle Association -- said that the GOP running mate was more “rugged” than Obama, noting he has “never hunted wild game or field-dressed an animal.”

While Jewish Democrats have focused on Palin’s domestic positions, Jewish Republicans are hitting Biden on foreign policy.

The attacks on Biden, led by the Republican Jewish Coalition, appear to be based on a strategy often attributed to master GOP strategist Karl Rove: Attack a candidate on his perceived strength.

Biden, 65, a senator for 35 years and the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, was brought on to supplement Obama’s relative greenness on foreign matters. He also has worked the Jewish circuit up and down the East Coast for decades, peppering discursions on peacemaking with memories of his bantering with Golda Meir, whom he met on his first trip overseas as a senator, in 1973.

That reputation -- U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-Fla.), who as a college student in 1987 worked on Biden’s presidential campaign that year, calls him “mishpocha” -- was meant to address lingering concerns among Jewish voters who have been put off by Obama’s relationship with a pastor who has likened Continued on page 83