October 5, 2012

Sponsored by the Benjamin and Anna E. Wiesman Family Endowment Fund AN AGENCY OF THE JEWISH FEDERATION OF OMAHA October 5, 2012 19 Tishrei 5773 Vol. 93 | No. 3

Epstein succeeds Ricks at Foundation

This Week

by SHERRIE SAAG Communications Specialist, Jewish Federation of Omaha Howard N. Epstein has been named Executive Director of the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation. He succeeds Marty Ricks, who will join the Jewish Federation of Omaha as Chief Development Officer. Both positions are effective January 1, 2013.

Epstein is a partner in the law firm Marks, Clare, Richards L.L.C., where he practices general civil law and serves on the Executive Committee. He is a graduate of the University of Nebraska at Lincoln with a degree in business administration and earned his juris doctor degree at Creighton University.

Commenting on the announcement, Foundation Board President Jay Noddle said, “I am pleased that Howard will be our next Executive Director. I am confident he shares the same goals as the Board of Directors and will work diligently to

Apples, honey and cupcakes?

Page 6

We are Still a Nation of Immigrants Page 8

Howard N. Epstein help assure our continued vitality.”

Our community has created a combined total of almost 250 supporting foundations, endowments, permanent grants and donor advised funds. Last year, the Foundation disbursed almost $6

25th annual KlutznickHarris Symposium Israel’s baseball fans field dreams of growth Page 16

by DR. LEONARD GREENSPOON Creighton University, Klutznick Chair Oct. 28 and 29 mark the 25th annual Klutznick-Harris Symposium. To mark this milestone, this year’s Symposium has its most

who is the Littauer Professor of Hebrew Literature and Philosophy at Harvard University, a post he has held for more than a decade.

Professor Cohen’s presentation, titled “Who is a Jew? Who Decides?

Shaye J. D. Cohen

Menachem Mor

inclusive title ever: “Who Is A Jew? Reflections on History, Religion, and Culture.”

The keynote speaker is one of the preeminent scholars of Judaism and Jewish history, Shaye J. D. Cohen,

Who Cares?,” will take place in the theater at the Omaha Jewish Community Center on Sunday, Oct. 28, at 7:30 p.m.

Cohen received his BA from Yeshiva College, an MA and rabbinic ordination from the Jewish Theological Seminary (JTS), and another MA and his PhD from Columbia University. Upon graduation from Columbia, Cohen was on the faculty at JTS for almost two decades. In addition to his teaching, he was acting librarian for one year, and dean of the Graduate School for four years.

Thereafter, Cohen served on the Continued on page 2

Inside Point of view Synagogues In memoriam

This Month Jewish Camping See Front Page stories and more at: www.jewishomaha.org, click on Jewish Press

12 14 15

million to the Jewish Federation and its agencies, the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home, local synagogues, national organizations and to fund many scholarships and financial awards.

“As a community we are, by and large, exceptionally generous and philanthropic. I intend to reach out and acknowledge those who have already made our community a priority and, perhaps as importantly, present the Foundation’s story to those who will recognize its many benefits,” said Epstein.

He began his professional career when he joined his father, Sam Epstein and brother, Steve Epstein, in the family’s wholesale food service distribution business, E.L. Nogg Fruit Company, ultimately serving as president of the company. He enrolled in Creighton’s law school while working full time after the business sold in 1991.

Howard serves as Executive Director and Legal Counsel for The Milton S. and Corinne N. Livingston Foundation, Inc.; work he describes as

some of the most satisfying he’s ever done. As a private charitable foundation, it donated millions of dollars and is a major benefactor financing Jewish Omaha’s most well-known programs and building projects.

“In managing the Livingston Foundation’s day-to-day affairs, I have been a witness to all the good it does for our community. I have gained great insight from its board of directors and the charities with whom we work. It is exciting and rewarding to be able to help such worthy causes,” Epstein said.

He currently serves as President of the Board of Jewish Social Services (he will step down on December 31) and as a member of the Jewish Federation of Omaha Board of Directors (he served a first term from 1983 to 1990). He is a past president of Beth El Synagogue, the Henry Monsky Lodge of B’nai B’rith and Jewish Family Service. On June 30th of this year, he finished his term as president of the Suburban Rotary Club of Omaha, and remains on its board.

In 1982, he received the Jewish Federation’s Young Leadership Award and was the Phil and Terri Continued on page 2

NJHS celebrates 30th anniversary

by OZZIE NOGG founders of the Nebraska Jewish In 1995, the late Dr. Ben Historical Society, Mary Fellman, Nachman began an oral history Dr. Oliver Pollak, Lois (Buck) project for the Nebraska Jewish Friedman, Silvia Roffman and Joie Historical Society, interviewing Simon. members of the local Jewish comBen Nachman’s widow, Elaine, munity to preand their daughserve stories of ters, Carole parents, grandAronchick, parents and famMarilyn Colick ily members as a and Nancy legacy for future Silverman, curgenerations. rently live in Over time, Arizona, but hope N a c h m a n’s to attend the research skills Anniversary celegrew, his misb r a t i o n . sion became Reminiscing on i nte r nat i ona l, her husband’s and before his volunteer work death in 2010, with NJHS, Ben Nachman Elaine Nachman had documented said, “Ben’s dediBen Nachman and videotaped cation to the Oral the life narratives of over five hun- History Project was genuine. The dred individuals, including haunt- completion of each filming and ing interviews with Holocaust sur- editing was a triumph to him. He vivors for Steven Spielberg’s Shoah was a master of interviewing, and Foundation. In recognition of his his ability was admirable. Ben was humanitarian contributions and determined to reach everyone in generosity of spirit, Nachman will the Jewish Community to preserve be honored at the 30th their stories, not only for the Anniversary of the Nebraska Nebraska Jewish Historical Society, Jewish Historical Society on but for their families as well. His Sunday, Oct 14. The event runs knowledge was immeasurable, and from 3 p.m.-5 p.m. in the JCC he was always ready to give advice Theater. Other honorees are NJHS to our daughters -- but only when Past-President Midge Bowers, who asked -- which led to three very will receive the Shirley Berman confident, self sufficient, successful Volunteer Award, and the original Continued on page 2

2 | The Jewish Press | October 5, 2012

NJHS: The late Dr. Ben Nachman among honorees

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Continued from page 1 women. To this day they say, ‘WWDS -- what would dad say?’”

In anticipation of the honor being bestowed on their dad, the three Nachman sisters shared personal memories of their father. “Everyone thinks their dad is the greatest,” Carole said, “but mine truly was. People shared their life stories with him, and he often shared those stories with me, like the one about an airplane trip when he sat down next to a man and said, ‘Hi. How are you?’ And for the next two hours the man on the plane told my dad his life story. All my dad said to him was, ‘Tell me more,’ and ‘That’s interesting.’

When they landed, the man said it was the best flight he’d ever had and how he really enjoyed talking to him. My dad had the gift of getting people to talk about themselves. He made them feel important. He would be so embarrassed by all this recognition, and yet is so deserving of it. I miss him terribly every single day, and he will forever live on in my heart.”

Additional reflections came from Marilyn. “As a child growing up, I was always in awe of my hero, my dad. It wasn’t until later on, as an adult, that I realized how very much he touched the lives of so many others. He dedicated his life to his family and their lineage, but also left a legacy behind for so many other people. Not only will he not be forgotten, but through his work and commitment many other lives will forever be remembered, too.”

Nancy Nachman Silverman recalled the book that was her father’s dream -- Memories of the Jewish Midwest: Mom and Pop Grocery Stores. “From day one my dad told me how excited he was about this project. His father had owned a small grocery store on North 24th Street, so that inspired him to undertake this book for the Historical Society. When he’d give me updates on the book’s progress, I could always see the smile on his face and his enthusiasm. The stories he uncovered were like peeling back lots of covers to find the jewels underneath that had been hidden away and nearly forgotten. He had a way about him that got people to open up and feel comfortable telling their stories that my Dad found so important to chronicle. He worked tirelessly on the book and was devoted to seeing it through. He nearly made it to the finish line.” Ben Nachman passed away before the book was done, but the project was completed by Renee Ratner-Corcoran, NJHS Executive Director, and freelance writer Leo Adam Biga. The publication of the book is dedicated to Ben Nachman’s memory. “What a gift my dad gave to the community,” Nancy said. “One that will be treasured for generations to come. I am so proud of him. I miss him daily and always will. I’m bringing a large box of kleenex with me to the NJHS Anniversary in October.”

A video tribute to Ben Nachman from some of his many close friends will be part of the celebration program. In the film, two of those friends, Lois (Coke) Friedman and Alvin Abramson, speak of childhood days, family trips taken together, Rosh Hashanah feasts and simchas shared.

Friedman sometimes accompanied Ben to an interview. “If the interviewee gave permission, I’d go with Ben to watch him record those precious life stories. His incredible smile, twinkling eyes, great laugh, interest in whatever was going on. Ben was magic.

He is missed in so many ways.”

Abramson was close to Ben until his untimely death. “Ben was so charming,” Abramson said. “I’ve listened to a number of the interviews he did, which are maintained by the Historical Society, and it’s clear that Ben knew how to ask the right questions at the right time and put people at ease. He could walk into a crowded room and the room would seem to lighten up. His legacy is engrained in the Omaha Jewish community.” In addition to the video tribute, the celebration will feature a retrospective of the NJHS though the words of its founders, plus a time-line exhibit of photographs, documents and other memorabilia from the Carl Frohm Archive Collection.

A reception in the JCC Gallery, with Keefer Peterson providing old-time piano music, will follow the program. Sue Millward, current NJHS President, said, “We invite the community to join us as we celebrate the Nebraska Jewish Historical Society and honor Ben Nachman for his untiring pursuit to record the stories of so many people who created our local history.”

Joanie Bernstein is Chairman of the event. Working with her on arrangements are Bob Belgrade, Midge Bowers, Renee Corcoran, Doug Hartman and Sue Millward. Other Nebraska Jewish Historical Society officers are Beth Staenberg, Vice President; Rocky Stern, Secretary; Don Dandy, Treasurer; and Debbi Josephson, Past President.

Since its incorporation in 1982, the Nebraska Jewish Historical Society has helped preserve local Jewish history through the collection of artifacts and documents that show the impact Jews have had in Nebraska and Eastern Iowa since the 1850s. The NJHS is privately supported through donations made by families and individuals. Membership ensures the continuation of programs and exhibits, of preservation and education, l’dor v’dor. From generation to generation. Information on how you can support the Nebraska Jewish Historical Society is found on the organization’s newly designed website at Nebraskajhs.com or by calling the office at 402.334.6441.

Look for additional details regarding the NJHS Society’s 30th Anniversary Celebration in an upcoming edition of the Jewish Press.

Klutznick-Harris Symposium Continued from page 1 faculty at Brown University for almost a decade as the Ungerleider Professor of Judaic Studies. In addition, he has served as visiting professor at Columbia University, Williams College, and Hebrew University. Shaye’s wife, Miriam, is director of development at Harvard Hillel. They are the parents of four children.

Cohen is perhaps best known as the author of From the Maccabees to the Mishnah, a 1987 publication that is widely used as a textbook. In addition he has written a dozen other books, including Josephus in Galilee and Rome, The Beginnings of Jewishness, Why Aren’t Jewish Women Circumcised, and The Significance of Yavneh and Other Essays in Jewish Hellenism. He has lectured throughout the world and has made appearances on Frontine, Nova, and the History Channel.

He is one of the world’s leading authorities in the quest to determine what it means and has meant to be a Jew. As he writes in the Prologue to his Beginnings of Judaism, there are two questions that form the heart of much of his work: “First, what is it that makes us us and them them? That is, what is it that makes a Jew a Jew, and a non-Jew a non-Jew? The answer to this question will lead directly to the second question: can one of ‘them’ become one of ‘us’; that is, can a gentile become a Jew?” These are questions that are as relevant today as ever in the history of Judaism.

Another special feature of this fall’s Symposium is the appearance of Menachem Mor, who was the first holder of Creighton University’s Klutznick Chair and the founder of these symposia. Mor was Klutznick Chair from 1987-1992, during which time he organized a Symposium each fall.

With his PhD from Hebrew University, Mor has also been associated with the University of Haifa for almost four decades. At present, Mor is a Schusterman visiting Professor at the University of Denver, after serving a year in a similar

post at the University of Virginia. Mor and his wife Devora have three children and six grandchildren.

In Mor’s honor, there will be a luncheon at the JCC on Sunday, Oct. 28, from 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m. This lunch is free and open to everyone. After the lunch, Mor will make a presentation, titled “Who Is a Samaritan?”

Mor’s presentation is one of nine that will take place at the JCC on Sunday, from 9:15 a.m.-5 p.m. An additional six scholars will make presentations at Creighton’s Skutt Student Center on Monday, Oct. 29 from 8:30 a.m.-1:45 p.m. There will be a deli luncheon from 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m., also free and open to the public.

Those who have attended Klutznick-Harris Symposia in recent years will recognize that there are more presenters, sixteen in number, this year than in the past few years. This is due to the unprecedented number of strong proposals that were made in response to this year’s Call for Papers. It is especially noteworthy that two researchers are traveling from Israel to take part in this year’s event.

For further information about these activities, please contact Pam Yenko in the Klutznick Chair office at 402.280.2303 or pyenko@creighton.edu. A full program of Symposium activities, along with abstracts of each presentation, can be found on the Klutznick Chair website: www.creighton.edu/ ccas/klutznick. The annual Klutznick-Harris Symposium is a collaborative effort sponsored by the Philip M. and Ethel Klutznick Chair in Jewish Civilization at Creighton University and the Norman & Bernice Harris Center for Judaic Studies at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

Additional funding and support are provided by a number of foundations and organizations, including the Kripke Center for the Study of Religion and Society at Creighton University, the Jewish Federation of Omaha, the Ike and Roz Friedman Foundation, the Riekes Family, the Center for Jewish Life, and the Henry Monsky Lodge of B’nai B’rith.

October 5, 2012 | The Jewish Press | 3

Omaha’s Shining Stars now hanging on Israel’s northern border

by MARY SUE GROSSMAN Associate Executive Director, The Center for Jewish Life The Partnership2Gether Shining Stars Project was conceived for participants to create a visual representation of their contribution to the world; a creative expression of their unique characteristics, talents and inner light. Any two-dimensional artist medium was welcome drawing, embroider y, printing, painting, etc.

Each of the 12 communities of the Par tnership 2Gether Central Area Consortium participated in the project.

Groups in Omaha sharing their creative talents included residents and staff of the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home, students from Friedel Jewish Academy, children from the Pennie Z. Davis Child Development Center, students from Beth El Synagogue and Beth Israel Synagogue, teens from BBYO, and several departments on the Jewish Federation of Omaha campus.

Omaha’s Shining Stars – some of which are shown in the above photo – were displayed in the JCC Gallery in May during Yom Hautzmaut celebrations.

The artwork was then sent to the Western Galilee. At the end of the school year, exhibitions of the stars were held at a number of centers in the region.

The culmination of the Shining Stars project occurred on Sept. 5, 2012, when the stars were hung on the northern border of Israel.

One of the first stars placed on the border was one made by the Jewish Federation of Omaha’s very own Accounting department.

It was hung by two teachers from Maaynot, the school with whom Friedel Jewish Academy has a twinning relationship. Edith

various local newspapers and reported on national radio programs. The Partnership “Tri Team” group - young adults from Indianapolis, Louisville, Budapest and the Western Galilee - helped decorate the border with the help of Western Galilee volunteers.

More than 100 volunteers participated in the event that included a gathering for the volunteers to celebrate the beginning of the New Year.

Thanks to all of you who participated in this project, helping to light the world and make the residents and soldiers in the

Western Galilee know of the support for them from the Partnership2Gether communities.

Partnership2Gether is a program of the Center for Jewish Life promoting people-topeople relationships between Israel and communities throughout the world. Omaha is one of 12 cities in the U.S. partnering with the city of Akko and the Matte Asher region in northern Israel, sharing cultural, social, medical, educational and economic programs. For more information on Partnership, please call the Center for Jewish Life at 402.334.6445.

Howard Epstein

Fuchs, one of the teachers, has visited Omaha, working directly with the teachers at Friedel.

The following summary was provided by Eliad Eliayahu, the Education Coordinator for Partnership, telling of the culminating event.

I am very happy to announce that last evening the northern border of Israel was decorated with the Shining Stars of our partnership groups. With the sounds of the waves and the colors of the sunset in Rosh Hanikra site, there was a strong feeling of excitement and unity.

A national newspaper, Israel Hayom, covered the event and articles were published in

Continued from page 1 Schrager Spirit of Federation award recipient in 2007. (Author’s Note: an impressive list of achievements for sure, but this is a favorite: Howard was the University of Nebraska team mascot; at the time known as Harry Husker!)

The Foundation’s principal objectives are to gather, safeguard and disburse funds in support of the Jewish Federation of Omaha and to further the charitable giving of members of our community. “The Foundation has grown in so many ways under Marty’s capable leadership. It has increased philanthropic giving, established new funds, and made us all more aware of its important role in our local Jewish institutions,” stated Noddle. “Marty Ricks has met and exceeded the Foundation’s objectives and I believe that Howard will do the same.”

Ricks said of Epstein’s appointment, “I have been in the same stock club with Howard for the last 12 years and he is always the best prepared. He is a thorough, conscientious and studious manager and I know

he will apply those traits to our Foundation’s assets. We are in very capable hands.”

Epstein further commented, “We are indebted to Marty and his predecessors, Jerry Rosen and Sheldon Bernstein, who built a Foundation with a current endowment of over $67 million. I fully intend to improve on our previous success; working with the Foundation’s very capable staff and Board of Directors to ensure ongoing funding for the continuity of Jewish life in Omaha.”

Epstein was born and raised Omaha. He and his wife of almost forty years, Sharon, have three children, Jason and Laurie Epstein of Omaha, Jennifer and Jon Benowitz of Minneapolis, and Emily and Nick Ray of Omaha, and 5 grandchildren.

The mission of the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation is to help assure the stability and continuity of Jewish life and to support communal services in the Omaha area by establishing and accumulating enduring assets for permanent funding resources.

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4 | The Jewish Press | October 5, 2012

Want to be a Chess Master?

by DAVID ATRI President of the Beth Israel Chess Club Every week at Beth Israel, where every Shabbat is a Shabbaton, the NCSY kids are excited to welcome in the Shabbat Queen, the Shabbat King, and even the shabbat bishop! Chess is a big part of the Shabbat culture at Beth Israel.

Shabbat is a day when we are supposed to unplug from the world and our daily problems and connect with God, family, and community on a higher level. We do that by coming to shul, davening, enjoying festive meals, and learning Torah. But we can’t do that for 25 hours straight--relaxation and physical rest is needed as well. Chess is a Shabbat-friendly activity that enhances all aspects of rest and relaxation of Shabbat.

Every Shabbat the NCSY members come to shul to learn Torah an hour before Minchah (afternoon prayer). After meaningful prayers, they enjoy a festive Seuda Shlishit (the third Shabbat meal) and they sit down for some intense chess matchups. Often older people join them to play.

“Playing together builds camaraderie, challenges our minds, and makes Shabbat a fun time that the kids look forward to all week,” says Rabbi Gross. “It is beautiful to see the young players playing with and learning from the older members. It is a great bonding activity for the Beth Israel community.”

We are proud to introduce a new addition to the Beth Israel Chess team. Ben Fabrikant has volunteered to lend his expertise and knowledge to be our main chess instructor and coach.

Thanks to the generosity of Rich and Fran Juro, we have now added a new feature to our Shabbat chess time. They donated ten tournament-style boards and six Shabbatfriendly chess clocks--an enormous contribution to the Beth

Israel community.

Ben is a class A player who has won numerous open tournaments throughout Nebraska. A four-time Lincoln champion and two-time state runner-up, he has studied with some of the strongest players in the world. He is a particular specialist in the Najdorf Sicilian, dragon Sicilian, Benoni, and King’s Indian Defense Systems. Also, in a previous event at our synagogue, he has played a simultaneous game, a type of chess where one man plays against many opponents at the same time. Dan Wolk, a great chess player, drew a stalemate.

Dan has also been instrumental in mentoring some of our kids.

Once a month, Ben will come and teach a chess concept. He will demonstrate the concept and then the kids will play each other, incorporating what they learned.

Dan Wolk, a long time Beth Israel member and a great chess player, has also volunteered to teach at future events. When Ben Fabrikant played a simultaneous game at Beth Israel against 25 opponents, Dan drew a stalemate, making him the only player Ben did not defeat.

The first event will be on Oct. 6 at 5 p.m. Everyone from ten years old and up interested in learning Torah and chess are welcome. There will be a quick introduction to a Judaic topic and then a chess class by one (or two!) of our instructors followed by matchups.

The class is geared to teenagers who have a basic knowledge of the game and are interested in learning tactics and strategy and bringing their game to the next level.

Membership in the club is free and it is open to all Jewish Omaha teens.

To sign up, contact Rabbi Gross at RabbiGross@ OrthodoxOmaha.org or Beth Israel Synagogue at Beth Israel@OrthodoxOmaha.org.

Omaha Jewish Artists’ Show a success

by BETH BROWN GERSHOVICH According to event co-chairs, Marge Bresel and Beth Brown Gershovich, the first annual Omaha Jewish Artists’ Gallery show was quite a success. Twelve artists from the Jewish community provided a nice blend of diverse visual art mediums that graced the walls of the Jewish Community Center’s Art Gallery. The exhibit’s Opening Reception was well attended and we received many favorable comments from the community throughout the month of the show. To top off such a good event, several pieces of artwork sold.

Mark your calendars for September 2013 for the second annual Omaha Jewish Artists’ Gallery Show. Artists who are interested can contact the Jewish Community Center’s Gallery office or email Beth Brown-Gershovich, at bbgartistry@gmail.com.

4th Annual Wine Tasting event

by MIMI ROGERS Southwest Omaha Rotary Night Club will be hosting their 4th Annual Wine Tasting event on Oct 11, and they invite you to join in this event to help raise money for the Boystown National Hotline.

The wine tasting will be held at Indian Creek Golf Course Club House and is scheduled for 6:30 pm. Each ticket is $45, with discounts for tables of four and 10. Sponsorships and donations are still being accepted! It is a fun, exciting, feel-good event that will feature fine wine and a silent auction. Every attendee will be able to enjoy different types of music, appetizers, desserts, wine, alcohol and non-alcohol beverages, all while benefiting the Boystown National Hotline.

The Southwest Omaha Rotary Night Club meets every Tuesday 5:15-6:15 p.m. at the Lone Star Steakhouse. For more information on the Southwest Omaha Rotary Night Club and their annual Wine tasting event, please visit www.omaharotarynight.org, call Mimi Rogers at 402.202.2523 or friend us on Facebook.

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October 5, 2012 | The Jewish Press | 5

Apples, honey and cupcakes?

by JULIE SADOFSKY South Street Temple Youth Group Director On Saturday, Sept. 15, Lincoln’s South Street Temple was filled with an array of brightly decorated cupcakes to prepare for a sweet New Year. The Lincoln Temple Youth Group (LTYG) hosted their first Cupcake Wars event, their second successful event of the fall, in the South Street Temple’s kitchen. With the help of expert cake decorators Sarah Sadofsky, Lashana Berstein, and Katie Higgins, TYG members baked and iced dozens of cupcakes that were then sold to Temple congregants and friends. The proceeds from the Cupcake Wars fundraiser went to LTYG. Rabbi Craig Lewis was enthusiastic about the way the event built community among the Youth Group members: “We are so fortunate at the South Street Temple to have such great teens and wonderful leadership from our youth group

Rachel and Madison Crable show off their artistic flair, participating in the South Street Temple Youth Group’s Cupcake Wars fundraiser. Under the leadership of Youth Group sponsor Julie Sadofsky, Youth Group members decorated and sold cupcakes to raise money for their activities.

director Julie Sadofsky. I loved watching them come together to sweeten our New Year celebration.�

The Lincoln Temple Youth Group is open to all South Street Temple youth in grades 9 through 12. This year, advisor Rabbi Craig Lewis and LTYG director Julie Sadofsky planned fun social events to get South Street teens in Lincoln more connected locally and nationally with Jewish teens across the US. Oct. 13 will bring both the Lincoln and Omaha Temple youth groups together for a special havdalah service at the farm of Temple Israel’s Cantor, Wendy Shermet.

There are social events planned for every month and a very special event in Omaha the first week of November, Fall Chavurah.

The LTYG is looking forward to these opportunities to strengthen their local youth community and to partner with their OTYG and national peers.

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A happy ending to the Omaha mikvah saga

by OZZIE NOGG The drought that hit the Midwest this summer affected more than crops and cattle. Though many people might not have noticed, the lack of rain brought a mikvah crisis to the Omaha Jewish community. No rain water, no functioning mikvah. Possibly for many months. When the seriousness of the situation was fully understood, the creativity and cooperation of volunteers and staff at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home -- where the mikvah is located -came into play.

According to Rabbi Yaakov Weiss, the RBJH Chaplain, “What makes the Omaha Jewish community so special is how so many people -- whether they use the mikvah on a regular basis or were learning about it for the first time -rallied together to make sure that this staple of a Jewish community is maintained even when it is more of a challenge than it normally would be.�

And the challenge was beyond great. If rain refuses to fall, what are the options? Believe it or not, ice.

At one point in the process, Rabbi Weiss sent out this progress report. “I am happy to announce that the Omaha mikvah is filled with ice! It will take some time to melt in order to be used, but we are just one step away from the Omaha mikvah being back in service. Special thanks to Matt Chadek and his crew, Mike Silverman and Mike Schop for their support, and to all the volunteers and staff who along the way helped make this happen. There are many details involved in filling a mikvah with ice, and while it is melting it is imperative that no one enter the mikvah area without my presence. Any breach could invalidate all of our work. Let the melting begin!�

But the heavens finally opened, and Rabbi Weiss wrote, “Many people have asked whether last night’s torrential rainfall managed to provide enough rainwater to fill the

mikvah naturally. As it turns out, the Bor Z’riah -- the place in which rainwater is collected -- was indeed naturally filled by the storm with the requisite amount for a kosher mikvah. Jewish tradition teaches that however much we as humans attempt to bring God into our lives, God reflects back the same amount of involvement in this world. I can see no better manifestation of this teaching than in the story of the Omaha mikvah. We as a community worked so hard together to ensure that a proper mikvah be available for our community. At times, it seemed like it may not be worth the effort, or perhaps there was just no way to do it, but we persevered and made it happen. While a mikvah filled with melted ice certainly would have been kosher for use and would have fulfilled the immediate needs of our community, it still would not have been a mikvah created in the ideal way -- with rainwater. An ice-filled mikvah requires many leniencies in Jewish law to be permitted for use that should only be employed in exceptional cases of great need. (The drought of 2012 qualifies as such a case.)

So I believe that God responded in kind to our community’s effort, and provided for us a magnificent rainfall enabling Omaha to have a top-tier mikvah that meets the highest qualifications that Jewish law demands.� Rabbi Weiss ended his report with these words. “As we come upon the Yomim Noraim -- High Holidays -- I wish for the Omaha Jewish community that we continue to put the maximum effort into our relationship with God and that He continues to rain upon us with the blessings of success.�

Today, the Omaha mikvah is once again open for business. The key can be obtained at the front desk of the Blumkin Home. For the Whole Omaha Mikvah Saga -Beginning to End -- go to: http://www.amerabbica.com/ 2012/09/the-whole-omaha-mikvah-sagabeginning.html.

HEY MOM, SOUND FAMILIAR? You can’t remember the last time you had a date night with your husband.

Weekend traveling/vacations are luxuries from the past.

You’re exhausted because of your kids and never ending chores.

Women are so hard on themselves

by JEANNE ANDERSON The other day I was in a dressing room, struggling to find a dress for an event. I could hear a gal and her friend, who were not 5’8� either, waging the same battle. Between the overzealous sales associate and our poor choices in undergarments that day, we were not doing well.

I sat there in silence wondering how to help us. I remembered my grandmother trying on dresses and cussing herself for all the cookies she ate at the daily 3:00 cookie time.

Women have so much to do: looking fabulous, making sure the family feels good, feeding everyone, setting up everyone’s appointments, keeping the house half clean, pet care, paying bills. Many of us have a career in or out of the home too. We feel the need to look like a healthy, modern specimen of the female form on top of it all. It is crazy, isn’t it, when you write it all down? I bet you have more to add to this list that you do

every week.

It is these moments that I know a place called Art Chicks is on the right track. It started over 10 years ago in Louisville, Nebraska, as a place where women can go to get away.

They can dress up, dance or shop if they want. They enjoy a fabulous, fresh meal and guilt-free dessert. When I work there and see the women enjoying themselves, I know it is magical.

I hear women sharing their stories of cancer survival, their stories of family past and present, their stories of traditions and friendships. Women just do not spend enough time together.

Find a woman right now and spend some time recharging your batteries. I know it is hard, but even if you can steal 60 minutes for some girl time-your list will not seem so daunting.

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A Summer experience to remember

by MARY SUE GROSSMAN one with a place, a culture, a people, a country - Israel. I Associate Executive Director, The Center for Jewish Life have never gone to a place and had it feel so much like home Again this summer, Partnership2Gether offered an excit- and that made me so happy being in. It was the first time I ing volunteering opportunity for young adults called fell in love but it also was the first time I have had my heart Kefiadah. The program included four weeks of working as broken over a place as well. counselors in summer camps in Acco and Matte Asher plus After my first time in Israel I made myself a promise that touring, spending time with Israeli families, hanging out one way or another I would return to this place that felt so with students their own age and more. much like home. I left a piece of myself in this place and I Participating this summer never felt completely whole from Omaha were Emily Katz again; there was always this and Cara Carson; they were longing in my soul. I was joined by Lyndsey Vogler being called back to from Youngstown, Ohio.

Israel…to the piece of me Partnership2Gether is a that I left there. So when a program of the Center for year and a half later I had the Jewish Life promoting peoopportunity to return to ple-to-people relationships Israel, the land that I never between Israel and communities throughout the world. stopped loving or longing for, as part of the Omaha is one of 12 cities in the U.S. partnering with the city Partnership2Gether Western Galilee’s Kefiada program, I of Akko and the Matte Asher region in northern Israel, jumped on it. It turned out to be one of the best decisions sharing cultural, that I have ever made social, medical, eduin my life. cational and economI feel like I should ic programs. tell you that I am not The following are Jewish and I have no reports from Emily family in Israel. I am and Cara, sharing just a girl who upon their thoughts about stepping foot into their participation.

Israel stepped foot Emily Katz – Emily into a relationship is the daughter of Amy that I would never be and Richard Katz and able to fully explain. is a sophomore at My first trip to Israel Loyola University in was related to my Chicago. involvement with the While boarding the Institute for plane to Tel Aviv on Holocaust Education.

June 22, I had countMy mother, Yvonne Camp counselors less number of Carson, is a teacher at thoughts of what was to come in the next five weeks. My Gross and has worked with Beth Seldin Dotan for many first time in Israel, two years ago, had been such a positive years in the Bearing Witness Program, which was designed one, I wonder if I had my expectations too high. I would to help teachers educate students about the Holocaust. As come to find in those next few weeks, that reality would their relationship grew, a trip to Israel was planned for a exceed expectations. group of students from both Gross and Skutt in the spring The last time I was in Israel was on a program through of 2011. I was fortunate to be a part of that trip, which NFTY (North American Federation of Temple Youth) opened my heart and mind to all that Israel has to offer. The called EIE (Eisendrath International Exchange). It was a first words from my mouth when seeing Beth on my return semester abroad for Jewish high school students. We spent were, ‘I have to go back!’ four months learning Hebrew, traveling the country, and Having the opportunity to return and work as a volunteer learning all about the rich culture and history that was was an extraordinary opportunity. Rather than being a encased by the borders of Israel. To say the least, it was an tourist, this second trip was one where I was able to build incredible experience. So, when I decided to participate in relationships. With the opportunity to be in this wonderful Kefiadah I was nervous that this time I would have not as place for five weeks, it allowed me to connect with people amazing an experience. Luckily, I did have a different expe- on such a deeper level. They are relationships that will forrience - and it was equally amazing. The five weeks I had in ever be a part of my heart and soul. We met so many amazIsrael were some of the best times of my life. I was joined by ing people and made lifelong friends that really made the two other girls, Cara and Lyndsey, and together we created experience special. I am so thankful for everyone from many new memories.

Maor, the program coordinator, to the staff at the The main reason we were in Israel was to be camp coun- Partnership office, to our host families, to Beit Kay, to the selors at a day camp in Akko. The day camp was 8 am to 1 other counselors, to our friends. Without them our lives in pm every day. The ages of the campers ranged from five to Nahariya wouldn’t have been the same. ten;I was with the five- and six-year-olds. As you can imagWalking into camp the first day speaking no Hebrew I ine, the level of English knowledge was very low, and was wondering what I was getting myself into, but that’s the although I learned some Hebrew on EIE, I would come to wonderful thing about children, there is no judgment by learn that it was not nearly enough. However, these children them. It doesn’t matter if you don’t speak their language; it were incredibly lovable and were willing to work with me on doesn’t matter if you don’t look like them; it doesn’t matter the communication front. Together, we made it work. While that you are from half a world away. All that matters to them I learned much more Hebrew than I could have ever imag- is that you are there to be with them, to spend time with ined, they learned a few English words and English songs, them, to play with them. Working at the camp with the kids which they loved. Every day I went to camp was a day full of has been an experience that has taught me so much challenges and accomplishments. Even with the struggles, patience, acceptance, and resourcefulness. I worked with we left every day smiling (and exhausted), ready for what- the seven- and eight-year-olds and so they spoke almost no ever surprises the next day would bring.

English. There was a lot of charades being played, words We stayed in Nahariyya, which is in the north of Israel being taught both in English and Hebrew, and a lot of nodand a guesthouse which was called Beit Key. The accommo- ding and smiling - on my part at least. I really miss them, dations were beautiful (and six blocks from the and the way they just lit up when you walked into a room.

Mediterranean Sea) and the people were so hospitable. That It makes you feel like you made a difference even if there was the thing I learned most from being on my own in was a language barrier. The personal connections I made Israel; how much we rely on the native population when with each child will forever draw my heart back to this traveling. Everyone in Nahariyya was so friendly to us and place. wanted to talk to us more and help us when they could. We Words cannot even start to describe how much this trip had a coordinator who would become more like a big broth- has meant to me and how amazing my time in Israel was. I er named Maor. We owe him, and the rest of the Partnership might have arrived as the same person, but after only five staff, a huge thank you for helping this summer be a success. weeks, I was different. With tears in my eyes and a smile on Cara Carson – Cara graduated in May from Southwest my face I boarded the plane knowing that even though I was Minnesota State University with a degree in Management and sad to be leaving, in my heart I knew that I would return.

Marketing and is hoping to work in Israel.

For more information on Partnership2Gether programA year and a half ago I fell in love for the first time. This ming, please contact the Center for Jewish Life at love affair was one I never thought I’d experience…it was 402.334.6445.

October 5, 2012 | The Jewish Press | 7

Upcoming IHE program uses art to teach history

by DONNA WALTER and subject matter children used during their imprison- watched the artwork come together. The students were surEducation Coordinator ment. Students listened to an excerpt from a diary written prised by their abilities.” The teacher also noted, “There Beginning in August, students from several non-profit by another child in Terezín. They began the creativity por- appeared to be an attempt by the students to try to gain after school programs in Omaha began meeting at the tion of the program by making a piece of art reflecting the understanding on how people can treat other people so Strategic Air and Space Museum to tour and discuss the diary excerpt. The artwork was executed with simplicity – badly.” exhibit Searching for Humanity: Veteran, Victims, and in the fashion of the children in the camp – by tearing paper Creativity continued in a teacher-lead writing workshop Survivors of WWII. These workshops marked the true which examined the secret newspapers Vedem and beginning of Remembrance, Creativity and Kamarad published by the youth of Terezín. The newsTransformation, the upcoming artist-in-residency and paper, coupled with a discussion about freedom, lead concert series sponsored by the Institute for Holocaust the students to create their own newspaper reflecting Education which will take place in Omaha from Oct. their ideas about freedom and new knowledge of ghet21 through Oct. 28. to life. One student, Uriel Reyes, a participant in the Education about the Holocaust is as much at the Completely Kids after-school program, began a poem heart of Remembrance, Creativity and Transformation on freedom with the following line, “If my freedom as is art and music. Workshops will continue through was taken away/Would I even want to stay?” He shared the end of the series with artist residencies at The the remainder of the poem with great feeling.

KANEKO, culminating in a family event where student Beth Dotan, Executive Director of the IHE, was taken art will be displayed at the Joslyn Art Museum. During with Uriel’s insight remarking, “This is what it’s all workshops with Westside, Carter Lake and Council about. We envisioned these workshops to be a preparaBluffs Boys and Girls Clubs, Completely Kids at Marrs tion for students prior to the Residencies with the Magnet, and Partnership for Our Kids at McMillian artists in October. We want the students to try to Magnet School, students have learned about key figunderstand the indescribable conditions people faced ures in the Holocaust – liberators and survivors. For but how there were moments, few and far between, many this is their first foray into this history. when individuals expressed themselves. This awakenTo date, local teachers and artists have met with ing of understanding by our own students is a great these students to provide details about the Terezín con- Students making collages after learning about the children of Terezín. testament to the passion of our facilitators. Uriel’s writcentration camp and to share the artwork of Ela into pieces, gluing it to a larger piece of paper and creating ing says it all. This is why this work, this program, is so Weissberger, then a young girl who was interred at the their own picture. Pam Conyers-Hinson, one of the artists important.” camp. Ela’s artwork, under the guidance of German artist facilitating a workshop commented, “One student stated, ‘I You can read the rest of Uriel’s poem at www.ihene.org.

Friedl Dicker Brandeis, was used during the workshops, in can’t make art without using scissors,’ and I told her that she For more information about Remembrance, Creativity and order for students to understand the variety of mediums would be amazed what she can create with just her hands. I Transformation, please visit www.ihevents.org.

B’nai B’rith Henry Monsky Lodge’s 27th Annual Edward Zorinsky Bible Quiz

by DEB MARBURG for B’nai B’rith Monsky Lodge The Twenty-Seventh Annual Edward Zorinsky B’nai B’rith Bible Quiz will be held Tuesday evening, Dec. 11, at 7 p.m. in the Auditorium of the Jewish Community Center, announced Gary Javitch, President Emeritus of Henry Monsky Lodge #3306 B’nai B’rith.

According to Mr. Javitch, the purpose of the Quiz is to encourage Jewish youth to become more familiar with their heritage, the Bible. It is also to honor the memory of the late Senator Edward Zorinsky, who had a special concern for educating Jewish young people about their religion and biblical history.

While the Lodge is the sponsor of the Quiz, the program has been developed in conjunction with Omaha’s synagogues, Jewish youth groups, and Omaha Jewish Connections (OJC) for high school students. “It adds a bit of fun to Jewish education,” Mr. Javitch said.

First place is $600.00, second place is $350.00, third place is $250.00 and fourth place is $125.00. The prize monies can be applied toward college tuition, a trip to Israel or an approved Jewish camp or educational program sponsored by a local or national Jewish organization. In addition to these prizes, any contestant who answers three questions correctly during the preliminary round will be given $20.00 cash at the end of the evening. The contest winner will receive $50.00 cash. The contest is open to all Jewish teenagers in the Omaha area who are in grades nine through twelve.

The subjects for this year’s annual contest are based on the Books of Leviticus, Numbers and Esther. Prior to the contest, the contestants will be asked to familiarize themselves with the assigned books by reading specific chapters.

“Any teenager, regardless of previous Jewish education, who thoroughly reads the required material, can compete,” said Mr. Steven Riekes, the Trustee of the Lodge who originated the Quiz concept. “The quiz is not hard,” he added. “Sample

questions will be given contestants in advance and practice sessions will be held.” He also said that, “Every teenager who enters the contest becomes a winner, because every educated person should be familiar with the Bible.”

Mr. Javitch said that the Lodge is extremely pleased with the cooperation it has received in putting on this event.

Also, as they have done for the past twenty-six years, each of the synagogues, their Hebrew School classes, their youth groups, the B’nai B’rith Youth Organization, and now Omaha Jewish Connections are all assisting in the contest.

Those interested in entering the contest may do so by submitting their name along with their parents’ names, address with zip code, email address, telephone number, high school and grade, to the B’nai B’rith Office, 333 S. 132nd Street, Omaha, NE 68154, or by calling Deb at 402.334.6443 or sending an email to bnaibrith@jewishomaha.org by Nov. 13. Additional information may be obtained by calling Mr. Riekes at 402.333-8498 or 402.492.9800.

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We are Still a Nation of Immigrants: Jack’s story Organizations

by JACK BANGERT Teacher for Omaha Public Schools For the last eight years I have worked for the Omaha Public Schools in South Omaha. I was recently given the opportunity to write about immigrant students I come in contact with. I will do my best to let you see this issue through my eyes, the eyes of a Nebraska-born educator. To fully understand my perspective, you must understand a little about where I come from and where I have been.

I grew up on a farm northeast of Falls City, Nebraska. I was educated K-12 at Falls City Sacred Heart School. I am white, and my upbringing occurred in a middle-class household. In my home, God came first, followed by family, farming and football. Hard work and taking care of your neighbors were the values by which we were measured. Many people reading this would consider these Nebraska values.

I received my degree from UNL and went home to work on the family farm. After my high school sweetheart and I married, we decided to join the Peace Corps. This changed the direction of our lives. We learned Spanish and switched our careers: I became a teacher and she a physician’s assistant. We looked for jobs where we could continue to use our Spanish and give back to the community and the state that had been so good to us. I went to work in South Omaha for OPS, and she took a job with One World Community Health Center also in South Omaha.

It turned out that our professional lives brought us into close contact with the immigrant community. South Omaha has always been home to immigrants from all over the world. The packinghouses attracted workers, who made money and moved up the social ladder, affording them the opportunity to leave South Omaha to be replaced with new immigrants. Many Nebraskans have roots in South Omaha, and if you want to see the realities of immigration policy, South Omaha is a great place to start.

The DREAM Act (a proposed path to citizenship for undocumented students who have completed college or two years of military service) became real for me during my first year working at South High. I was having a conversation with a young lady at South about her future plans. She stated that she did not know if there was a reason for her to go to college. I was caught off guard. This student was ranked in the top six percent in a class of 350 students. She had an ACT score in the twenties and spoke perfect English. As a matter of fact, her English was far superior to her Spanish.

The young lady went on to explain that she wanted to be a teacher, but without a Social Security number there was no way for her to get a job upon college graduation. As a teacher, I knew this to be true. She explained that she just could not understand why she could not be treated like everyone else.

Her parents brought her to the United States at the age of six.

She had not been back to Mexico since. She listened to Lil Wayne and Adele. She dressed like all the other kids in the

school. She had never broken any laws and was a school leader. She was by all measures a typical American kid.

Our conversation started with the fear of revealing her secret.

It then transitioned to the sadness of her realization: she doesn’t fit in her country of origin and is not wanted in the country she claims as her home.

The mood of the conversation turned to anger. The anger was not focused at obvious targets like politicians or society as a whole.

Instead, it was focused at her fellow classmates. She watched the students who had the correct documentation. They had every chance to study and do well in school. They could get financial aid and a job to help pay for their education. With hard work, their dreams were attainable. However, many of them wasted the opportunity they were born into. They skipped school.

Some got into trouble with the law. Others dropped out.

Many just didn’t care. She explained through tears that it was not fair. She stated, “I am as American as they are. I would do anything to have the opportunities that they take for granted.”

I was ashamed. She and her family shared our Nebraska values, yet we had closed the door on them. I knew it was not right, and at first, I did not know what to say. I remember looking at her and saying the only thing that came to mind: “You have to go to college. Education is the only thing that no one can take away from you. It is about more than a job.

It is about learning what it is to be human and how to be a better human being. You have to have FAITH that we will get it right. You have to believe that someone will have the courage to stand against the vocal minority on this issue.

You have to believe that those of us who are on the front lines will do everything to make sure people know your story.”

Since that time I have often had this conversation with my students who are in similar situations. I have constantly come back to selling education as a way out of poverty and that we must have faith that our leaders will stay true to the values on which our nation was founded. As a farm kid, a Nebraskan, and as an American, I would like to thank President Obama for his action. I don’t care what his motivation was; I only care that these kids have a chance.

As educators we no longer have to rely on faith alone. We can help plot a course for our students that leads to the American dream, the same dream that all of our forefathers were able to chase. Maybe someday one of my students will be teaching my kids and inspiring them to fulfill their American dream. I continue to have faith that will happen.

ABOUT THIS SERIES: We Are Still a Nation of Immigrants is a project of the Anti-Defamation League – Plains States Region Civil Rights Committee. The series features personal stories from local immigrants, and people who work with Omaha’s immigrant community. Because of its commitment to justice, the Civil Rights Committee of the Plains States Regional Board of the ADL has made the issue of immigration a priority for study, research and education.

B’NAI B’RITH BREADBREAKERS John Ewing, candidate for Congress will speak on Wednesday, Oct. 10, noon at the Blumkin Home. An optional buffet lunch costs $11; beverage service only is $3.

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

LOMIR REDN YIDDISH It has been said that Yiddish doesn’t only have words, it also has an attitude. Leo Rosten wrote “Yiddish never takes its tongue out of its cheeks!” Come join us at the Rose Bumkin Home’s Boardroom, at 1-3 p.m., every Thursday.

Symphony presents Holocaust-related concert

by STEPHANIE LUDWIG Omaha Symphony The Omaha Symphony and the Institute for Holocaust Education will present Remembrance, Creativity, Transformation, held 2 p.m., Oct. 28, in the Joslyn Art Museum Witherspoon Concert Hall.

The concert is the culmination of a week-long concert and artist-in-residency program featuring the Terezin Music Foundation’s Hawthorne String Quartet and painter Jim Schantz, with music and painting bringing to life the music of European composers murdered in the Holocaust.

The concert will feature the Omaha Symphony Chamber Orchestra with the Hawthorne String Quartet, and conducted by symphony Music Director Thomas Wilkins.

The symphony and quartet will perform two Holocaustrelated works, including Concerto for String Quartet and Wind Orchestra by Erwin Schulhoff, a composer who died in the Wulzberg concentration camp. The orchestra will also debut award-winning composer Clint Needham’s Voices, a work commissioned by the Terezin Music Foundation, the Institute for Holocaust Education and the Holland Foundation.

“These are works of great poignancy and beauty. They are testaments to the power of music and art to inspire, heal and transform. Clint has composed a lyrical work that adds to the memory of the Holocaust,” said Mark Ludwig, Hawthorne String Quartet violist. “It is a unique and exciting moment to experience the world premiere of such a work that will no doubt find a special place in the classical music repertoire.”

The concert is the first in the symphony’s new Symphony Joslyn Series, featuring performances paired with discussion that examine the creative process by exploring the connections between the concert music and specific works of art at Joslyn.

Remembrance, Creativity, Transformation is also a part of Daniel Pearl World Music Days, an international network of concerts that use the power of music to reaffirm a commitment to tolerance and humanity.

Tickets to the concert are available at www.omahasymphony.org or 402.345.0606.

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Entertaining, educational meetings planned for Beth El’s Women’s Rosh Hodesh Group

by JILL BELMONT cantor, Hazzan Michael Krausman. Allison Gordman and Beth El Publicity Coordinator Carole Greenberg are serving as hosts of the 7 p.m. event. To For years Beth El’s Women’s Rosh Hodesh Group has cel- cap the 2012 programs, the group will host an evening of ebrated the beginning of each Jewish month by offering a “Hanukkah Memories” on Thursday, Dec. 13. variety of engaging getThe Jewish community’s togethers for all women in the new shlicha, Gili Gurwith, Jewish community. With topwill be the featured speaker ics ranging from spiritual during the Rosh Hodesh issues, Jewish humor and holGroup’s Jan. 14 meeting; then iday memories to cooking on Monday, Feb. 11, guest and community service projspeaker Marti Rosenects, the gatherings have Atherton will lead a discusserved to both enrich attension about “Jewish Stereodees and make a special contyping and Image.” nection among them.

Attendees at the Sunday, This year’s lineup of Rosh March 10 gathering will be Hodesh activities will include treated to a late-morning field a myriad of interesting subtrip to the Strategic Air and jects and programs, according Space Museum, for a tour of to the group’s organizer, the exhibit “Searching for Caryn Rifkin.

Humanity: Veterans, Victims To kick off the new year, a and Survivors of World War group of Rosh Hodesh Group II.” As a bonus, the exhibit’s participants, led by Sylvia Jess creator, artist Matthew and Alice Kosowsky, took it Placzek, will lead a guided upon themselves to call every tour and will answer quesBeth El congregant, wishing tions about his work. him or her a happy Rosh On Thursday, April 11, the Hashanah, a gesture apprecigroup’s focus will be on the ated by many. media, as Jewish Press Editor Rifkin was a part of the callAnnette Van de Kamping brigade and said that, Wright is welcomed by the “Everyone I called was surgroup as guest speaker, at the prised and very much apprehome of Joanie Jacobson. Van ciative of the holiday greeting. de Kamp-Wright’s presentaThe best reaction I got was tion will help attendees to from a congregant who “Get the Scoop on the Jewish received my Rosh Hashanah Press.” The last meetings of message on his answering the spring are planned for machine. When I talked to Thursday, May 9, when Beth him later on, he said that Over the years, Beth El’s Women’s Rosh Hodesh Group par- El congregants Sophie receiving that message was a ticipants have enjoyed programs such as, from top, Project Ambrose and Sara Kohen real upper, since he had just Linus blanket-making; Glass Ribbon Project, benefiting share their personal stories as come home after a particular- breast cancer research; and a menorah-filled Hanukkah cel- they address “My Path to ebration at Beth El. ly bad day.

Judaism”; and Monday, June “Even a small gesture can mean a lot,” she said.

10, when Beth El’s assistant rabbi, Steven Abraham, speaks The first Rosh Hodesh get-together of the year is sched- to the group about the history, the tradition and the symuled for Tuesday, Oct. 16, 7 p.m., when the group meets at bolism of Rosh Hodesh. the JCC to attend “Live at the 92nd Street Y,” a television “I’m so excited about this year’s meetings, and am looking simulcast, featuring Michael Oren, Israel’s Ambassador to forward to starting each month with our special guests and the United States. The program is free of charge for JCC speakers” Rifkin said. “We’ll share, we’ll learn and just enjoy members and Jewish Federation Campaign donors; admis- being together -- and all the women in our Jewish commusion for all others is $5. nity are invited to join in the fun!”

On Thursday, Nov. 15, a special evening is planned at the For more information about the Beth El’s Women’s Rosh One Pacific Place clubhouse, as the group enjoys a casual Hodesh Group, contact Rifkin at 402.334.7216, or meet and greet with Laurel Krausman, wife of Beth El’s new crgr6175@aol.com.

It’s the Beat! with Karen Sokolof Javitch & Jody Vinci www.Itsthebeat.net

Karen@Itsthebeat.net

It’s the Beat!

On the Mighty 1290 KOIL (am) Saturdays Noon-1 p.m.

A Variety Show highlighting singers, actors, artists, authors & the music of Karen Sokolof Javitch.

Call 402-393-3893 for bookings.

Basic computer skills made easy!

Whether it’s a one-time lesson or ongoing instruction and support, learn how to use the computer with Dr. David M. Cohen, Ph.D., an educator and innovator who specializes in teaching computer skills to persons with little or no experience.

Learn: How computers work • How to use programs like Word, Excel and PowerPoint How to e-mail friends and family • How to play games on the computer How to use SKYPE for free video-conferencing with your children and grandchildren How to organize your addresses, phone numbers & budget Shop, read newspapers & books and watch videos online Call today to see how we can tailor our services to meet your needs.

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Escape the cold

Snowbirds Please let the Jewish Press know in advance when you are leaving and when you are returning. Sometimes several papers are sent to your “old” address before we are notified by the Post Office. Every time they return a paper to us, you miss the Jewish Press and we are charged! Please call us at 402.334.6448 or email us at jpress@jewishomaha.org.

Home for Sale

Living in the Sandwich Generation: Caregiver respite

by KATHLEEN C. LANGDON Caring Senior Services Many Americans today are living in what we call the “Sandwich Generation.” They are sandwiched in between caring for an elderly parent and helping older children pay for college or who are just starting out in their careers, while still trying to fund their own retirement. One out of eight Americans between the ages of 40 to 60 is currently playing this juggling act. If you find yourself in this group, here are a few tips to manage the situation while still saving for retirement and maintaining your sanity.

• Plan ahead – While you are making financial plans or goals and projecting what you will need for retirement, keep the “sandwich generation” in mind. Make the plans realistic and consider the possibility you may end up in this type of situation.

You are the only person who can save for your retirement. Make sure your financial situation is in order before you help others.

• Evaluate and assess the situation – Talk to your parents or elderly loved ones about their financial situation, and plans.

Find out how they want to live as they age, health care, advanced directives, power of attorney, and financial assets.

This might be a difficult and uncomfortable conversation, however, in order to help avoid the sandwich generation, it’s necessary.

• Have your kids save – Talk to your children about saving for college, and have them start at an early age. Anything they can contribute will help your financial situation when they are ready for college.

• Insurance – Make sure your parents have viable insur-

ance. If not look into the viability of long-term care insurance for your parents and yourself. Determine if it is right for you and your family based on several factors, including the cost, length and benefits of coverage.

• Preserve your assets – Do NOT use your retirement savings to pay for children’s college or parents long-term care. Your kids can get financial assistance through grants, loans or scholarships. Furthermore, you should use the financial assets of your parents to finance care as long as possible.

• Choose yourself – Make sure that no matter who you are caring for, take some time for you. Put your own needs first.The added stress and worry of the sandwich generation can be hard on your physical as well as emotional health. Even though you may be caring for someone else, remember the number one rule is that your first responsibility is to care for yourself. Each day find one activity, or a moment that belongs only to you or refreshes you. You can also reach out to friends, family or professional organizations that will help care for your loved one.

This will help ease caregiver burnout and provide you with a much needed break. (Courtesy of Caring Senior Service Blog at http://www.caringseniorservice.com/caringviews/entry /living-in-the-sandwich-generation/).

Caring Senior Service understands caregiver burnout, and we can be there for you and your loved one to allow for time for yourself, to go do other activities that you enjoy just for yourself.

This respite time can help preserve your relationship with your loved one. Feel free to call us at 402.682.7326 or visit us at our website at CaringSeniorService.com.

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Mainstreeters take Indian summer mystery trip

by OZZIE NOGG the event, and all the Mainstreeters really enjoyed it.�

On Thursday morning, Sept. 6, an adventurous group of In addition to SCOLA, the Mystery Trip included stops at Mainstreeters boarded a bus in the JCC parking lot and set Ditmars Apple Orchard and Vineyard, and the Western out on a Magical, Marvelous Mystery Trip. “Our destina- Trail Center, both near Council Bluffs. “At Ditmars we took tions are always unknown,� said Harry Alloy who arranges tractor-pull wagon rides through the rhubarb and strawberthe annual excursions. “We try to not let the cat out of the ry fields and the orchards,� Alloy said. “Ditmars offered us bag before we arrive at our destination, and this year was no hot apple pie, but most of us passed since we’d had such a exception. All the participants were surprised and delighted hearty deli lunch.� At the Western Trail Center, the with the Mystery Trip choices.�

Mainstreeters enjoyed a hoe-down jam session of guitars, The first stop on the itinerary was a visit to fiddles and ukuleles. “The facility is very nice, the SCOLA in McClelland, Iowa. Mike Schop, music was fun, and the weather was perfect,� said currently the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home Maggie Conti, Director of Activities and Outreach Assistant Administrator, worked with SCOLA Programs for JSS and the Blumkin Home. “The when he was on staff at First Trail Center is National Technology Solutions, a famous for its subsidiary of First National Bank. homemade “SCOLA wanted to broadcast their bread, jelly and content via the Internet and I was the project manager for that effort,� Schop explained. “They are a great organization whose mission is to help the people of the world learn about one another, their cultures, their language and their ideologies.

It struck me that a trip to SCOLA was a logical Participants in the Mainstreeters Mystery Trip visited SCOLA, Ditmars Apple Orchard, and the Western choice for Trail Center, where food and fun was the order of the day.

Mainstreeters.� cupcakes, but we were still too full from lunch to eat any of According to Alloy, the visit was a smash hit. “The name the treats. The Star Deli sandwiches really stick to the ribs.�

SCOLA was chosen because it’s the root word for ‘school’ in According to Alloy, “Everyone always says ‘thank you’ a number of languages. The employees work around the when we get back to the JCC. This time, one man who was clock, transmitting broadcasts in 180 different languages on his first Mainstreeters outing said, ‘Thank you, Harry, for from 130 countries to Internet, satellite, and cable TV sys- encouraging me to join the group. I had a really good time.’ tems around the world. SCOLA content reaches more than Positive comments like that, and knowing that our pro20 million viewers worldwide. All those TV dishes. All that grams are a success, makes it all worth while.� technology. The operation is mind boggling.� Mind bogMainstreeters welcomes all Jewish residents of the Omaha gling in a different way was the Kosher deli lunch area age 60 plus. The group offers a mixed-bag of social Mainstreeters enjoyed while at SCOLA. “Star Catering pro- events and learning opportunities that give participants the vided homemade matzoh ball soup along with corned beef, chance to meet new people, exercise their brains, take part pastrami and salami sandwiches on Jewish rye,� said Mike in new activities and continue enjoying life to the fullest.

Aparo, RBJH Director of Food Services. “We also brought “This Mystery Trip was outstanding,� Conti said. “The smoked turkey breast and egg salad on our sliced challah, group is so congenial and the bus ride itself gives us time to plus kosher half sour pickles, Israeli salad, coleslaw, and schmooze and get to know one another better. I want to rugelach for dessert. We set a new record for the Star Deli thank Harry Alloy for coordinating the day, and we’re also furthest from the RBJH, ever! We had a great time serving very grateful to Mike Schop and Mike Aparo for their help.�

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Statement of Ownership, Management and Circulation 1. Publication Title: Jewish Press. 2. Publication No. 275-620. 3. Filing Date: 10-05-12. 4. Issue Frequency: Weekly, since 1920. 5. No. of Issues Published Annually: 50. 6. Annual Subscription Rate: $40.00 US, $72 foreign. 7. Complete Mailing Address of Known Office of Publication: 333 South 132nd St., Omaha, NE 681542198, 402-334-6448; Contact Person: Lori Kooper-Schwarz, 402-334-6558. 8. Complete Mailing Address of Headquarters or General Business Office of Publisher: 333 South 132nd St., Omaha, NE 68154-2198. 9. Full Names and Complete Mailing Addresses of Publisher, Editor and Creative Director: Publisher--Jewish Federation of Omaha, 333 South 132nd St., Omaha, NE 68154-2198; Editor--Annette van de Kamp-Wright, 333 South 132nd St., Omaha, NE 68154-2198; Creative Director--Richard Busse, 333 South 132nd St., Omaha, NE 68154-2198. 10. Owner: Jewish Federation of Omaha, Inc., 333 South 132nd St., Omaha, NE 68154-2198. 11. Known Bondholders, Mortgages and Other Security Holders Owning or Holding 1 percent or More of Total Amount of Bonds, Mortgages or Other Securities: None. 12. For completion by nonprofit organizations authorized to mail at special rates. The purpose, function and non-profit status of this organization and the exempt for federal income tax purpose: Has Not Changed During Preceding 12 Months. 13.

Publication Title: Jewish Press. 14. Issue Date for Circulation Data Below: 9--7-11. 15. Extent and Nature of Circulation: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months--a. Total No. Copies (Net Press Run): 3600. b. Paid and/or requested Circulation: (1) Paid/Requested Outside-County Mail Subscriptions (Include Advertiser’s Proof and exchange copies) 868. (2) Paid In-County Subscriptions (Include advertiser’s proof and exchange copies) 1999. (3) Sales through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales and Other NonUSPS Paid Distribution--150 (4) Other Classes Mailed Through the USPS--10. c. Total Paid and/or Requested Circulation (Sum of 15b (1), (2), (3) and (4)--3027. d. Free Distribution by Mail: (Samples, Complimentary and Other Free). (1) Outside-County as Stated on Form--3541-0. (2) In-County as Stated on Form 3541-0. (3) Other Classes Mailed Through the USPS--10 e. Free Distribution Outside the Mail (Carriers or Other Means)--120. f.

Total Free Distribution (Sum of 15 d and 15e)--130. g. Total Distribution (Sum of 15c and 15f)--3157. h. Copies Not Distributed--443. i. Total: (Sum of 15g and h)--3600 j. Percent Paid and/or Requested Circulation (15c divided by 15g times 100)--95.8%. No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date--a. Total No. Copies (Net Press Run): 3600. b. Paid and/or requested Circulation: (1) Paid/Requested Outside-County Mail Subscriptions (Include Advertiser’s Proof and exchange copies) - 865. (2) Paid In-County Subscriptions (Include advertiser’s proof and exchange copies)-1996. (3) Sales through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales and Other Non-USPS Paid Distribution--150. (4) Other Classes Mailed Through the USPS--8 c. Total Paid and/or Requested Circulation (Sum of 15b (1), (2), (3) and (4)--3019. d. Free Distribution by Mail: (Samples, Complimentary and Other Free). (1) Outside-County as Stated on Form 3541-0. (2) In-County as Stated on Form 3541-0. (3) Other Classes Mailed Through the USPS--6 e. Free Distribution Outside the Mail (Carriers or Other Means)--124. f. Total Free Distribution (Sum of 15 d and 15e)--130. g. Total Distribution (Sum of 15c and 15f)--3149. h. Copies Not Distributed--451 i. Total: (Sum of 15g and h)--3600. j. Percent Paid and/or Requested Circulation (15c divided by 15g times 100)--95.8% 16. Statement of Ownership will be printed in the Oct. 5, 2011, issue of this publication. 17. Signature and Title of Editor, Publisher, Business Manager or Owner. Annette van de Kamp, Editor, 10-03-2008.

I certify that all information furnished on this form is true and complete. I understand that anyone who furnishes false or misleading information on this form or who omits material or information requested on the form may be subject to criminal sanctions (including fines and imprisonment) and/or civil sanctions (including multiple damages and civil penalties).

Full-time Sales Executive

The Jewish Press is looking for a full-time Sales Executive to sell advertising in our newspaper.

Qualifications and duties: • Excellent interpersonal and telephone skills. • Researching new businesses and making presentations to solicit ads. • Maintaining contact with current advertisers. • Join business networking groups to search for new clients. • Work with bookkeeper to ensure all accounts are correct. • Ability to function independently, have flexibility, maintain confidentiality, personal integrity and the ability to work • effectively and professionally with the staff of the Jewish Press, the Jewish Federation of Omaha and it’s agencies’ • employees. • Communicate in an understandable manner with staff and visitors to the Press, as well as with advertisers, subscribers • and staff in the building. • Ability to manage multiple tasks.

If interested, please send your resume and cover letter to: Annette va de Kamp Wright at avandekamp@jewish omaha.org or fax it to 402.334.6484. We are an equal opportunity employer; background check required.

October 5, 2012 | The Jewish Press | 11

It’s the Beat!

by NORMA JOHNSON “Thanks to those of you who stopped by the Nebraska Furniture Mart to say hello Saturday, Sept. 29, at our first live remote broadcast of It’s the Beat! Jody Vinci and I had didn’t know what to expect as we were doing the show ‘live’ outside the radio station.” Karen said. “With the support of the Mighty 1290 KOIL team, the staff at NFM and our awesome guests -- it was great fun!” NFM is selling two of Karen’s CD’s – her Tribute Album and Going Through the Big D! On the show, Chuck Penington, music director of the Grammy award-winning group Mannheim Steamroller, spoke of his iconic musical career nationally and in Nebraska. Grace Bydalek, a very talented young actress and singer, enlightened us about her recent Broadway audition and sang one of Karen’s songs, a cappella.

Turning to the written word, Leo Adam Biga, blogger, columnist and author, shared how he came to write his newly released book, Alexander Payne: His Journey in Film, A Reporter’s Perspective, 1998-2012. As always, if you missed the show, go to our website www.Itsthebeat.net. Or email us at Karen@itsthebeat.net if you have any questions or comments.

Coming up this month are interviews with Maya Taylor – Dance Teacher; Ruvane Kurland, musical director and independent rock musician, and Sandra Dallas, author of the Persian Pickle Club. Learn about the Terezin Music Foundation from guests Mark Ludwig and Beth Dotan. More guests being booked daily. Want to be a guest? Know someone in arts & entertainment you’d like to hear? Call Norma at 402.393.3893.

Financing a college education

by RUSS KAPLAN President, Russ Kaplan Investments Repaying student loans has become a serious financial issue with the bad economy resulting in a lack of jobs for college graduates. I believe if you are going to be going to college or have a loved one who will be attending in the future, it is necessary to consider costs when making a decision. Will the benefit of the degree be worth the cost to acquire the degree?

One misconception many seem to have is that an academic university/college degree is necessary for everyone, when it comes to finding a job. This is not necessarily true. There are many skilled jobs not requiring a college degree that pay more than a lot of academic university/college graduates are getting.

There are smaller colleges/technical universities (like DeVry) that specialize in educating and training students for these skilled jobs. The cost of tuition may also be lower.

It may be okay not to go to college, but it is NOT okay to not have a skill that someone is willing to pay you for. I would therefore recommend if you do go to college that you consider what you will be able to do with the degree and weigh it against the cost that going to college will require, and whether or not the career you want to work in requires an academic university education, as opposed to more specialized training at another educational institution.

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Unity Torah Celebration Close to 500 Omahans joined the Unity Torah Celebration at the JCC and Chabad Center on Thursday, Sep 20. Below: A portion of the children who welcomed the Torah to its new home at the Chabad Center. Jim Polack holds the Torah, escorted with candlelight by Elaine Urban. Credit: Shevi Katzman; right: Tommy Sullivan, grandson of Darlynn and Tom Fellman, sponsors of the evening's dinner, poses with the new Torah. Credit: Lynne Salzman.

In the news The Ak-Sar-Ben Royal Court has been announced for the 2012 Coronation and Scholarship Ball; the ball will take place Saturday, Oct. 13 at the CenturyLink Center.

Among the 2012 Pages are Leo Joseph Kohll, son of Janet and David Kohll; Ainsley June Meyerson, daughter of Jamie and Troy Meyerson.

Among the 2012 Princesses are Lauren Bethany Davis, daughter of Mary Kay Young and Henry Davis; Susan Lynne Freeman, daughter of Robyn and Robert Freeman; Avery Hannah Lehr, daughter of Sandy and John Lehr; Rebecca Claire Noddle, daughter of Kim and Jay Noddle. Steven Ryan Finkle, son of Judith and Dr. David Finkle, will serve as an escort. The event is a program of the Knights of Ak-SarBen Foundation.

Writing was always one of Lisa Shulman’s (1971-1990) passsions. So it is with much pleasure and pride that her mother, Barb Widman, announces that several of Lisa’s poems have been accepted for publication in Fine Lines. Fine Lines prints poetry and prose by writers of all ages hoping to add fervor and beauty to readers nationwide. The book is printed locally and supported by tax-deductible donations.

Lisa died of cancer at age 19.

On Thursday, Oct. 11, 11 a.m, author Brian Bogdanoff will discuss his Omaha-based story Three Bodies Burning. It is the true story of the investigation of a 2005 drug-related

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triple homicide in Omaha. The event is held at W. Clarke Swanson Branch, 9101 W. Dodge Rd. He is a Former Omaha Police detective.

Arts+Entertainment Under Pressure: Contemporary Prints from the Collections of Jordan D. Schnitzer and His Family Foundation will be featured at the Joslyn Art Museum from Oct. 6 to Jan. 6, 2013. The exhibit will showcase work by thirty-nine artists spanning the last five decades. For more information on this exhibit, please visit the Joslyn Art Museum Website, www.joslyn.org or call 402.342.3300.

Birth Erin and Aaron Berger of Kansas City, MO, announce the Sept. 10 birth of their son, Eli Finn. He is named for his great-grandmothers, Esther Rice and Frances Berger.

Grandparents are Jody and Neal (Buzz) Malashock and Margaret and Arthur Berger of Leawood, KS. Great-grandparents are Barbara and Stanley Malashock of Rancho Mirage, CA, the late Esther and David Rice, the late Frances and Moses Berger, and the late Ruth and James V. Gagne, Jr.

Tales of how we and our ancestors came to America.

Oct. 15 - Nov. 17 Washington County Historical Museum 102 N. 14th, Fort Calhoun, NE Journey Stories is part of Museum on Main Street, a collaboration between the Smithsonian Institution and the Nebraska Humanities Council.

Presented by: The Smithsonian Institution, the Nebraska Humanities Council and the Washington County Historical Association.

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12 | The Jewish Press | October 5, 2012

Point of view

American Jewish Press Association Award Winner

Nebraska Press National Newspaper Association Association Award winner 2008

Pay Up

ANNETTE VAN DE KAMP-WRIGHT Editor of the Jewish Press It seems, this election season, we are spending an inordinate amount of time talking about money. In and of itself, that is not such a strange phenomenon: the economy is a front-and-center type of issue. And maybe it’s like that every four years, and I just don’t remember.

There are the haves and have-nots, there’s the dreaded tax issue (who pays what?) and there is, of course, Citizens United. The number of millions poured into this election from private Americans seems endless; the rest of us can hardly imagine what it must feel like to pledge $100 million to the success of one candidate, or the defeat of another.

At the same time, the discourse surrounding who needs public assistance and why has taken a sharp turn. We no longer talk about the human angle; we instead focus on who deserves to get help. We wonder who is too lazy, who is too foreign, and who is too entitled. And that, I think, is a problem.

The concept, in a humane society, is straightforward: when one needs help, help should be given. When your house is on fire, the 911 operator doesn’t ask whether you deserve to have it doused. When two cars meet in a head-on collision, the ambulance gets there regardless of whose fault it is.

Emergencies are easy in that sense: there is immediacy, urgency; questions should be asked later. When it comes to other types of fire, however, things aren’t always that simple.

We have to argue about it first, and judgment must be passed.

The term used most often to deny assistance to those in need is ‘fiscal responsibility.’ When balancing the budget comes before saving lives, emotions are ruled by spreadsheets. The unavoidable consequence is that politicians, pundits, and the electorate itself have created an atmosphere in which it becomes acceptable to ignore real need, because “we just can’t afford to go soft.”

We have more than 700,000 unemployed U.S. veterans,

who need help now. According to the recently released USDA numbers, in 2011, 17.9 million U.S. households had trouble consistently putting food on the table (nokidhungry.org). And according to a report released by the National Alliance to end Homelessness, an estimated 643,067 people experienced homelessness in the U.S. on any given night in 2011. Between 130,000 and 200,000 of those are veterans, while roughly 1.5 million children will at some point during their life go without a roof over their heads.

And that’s just the tip of the iceberg; I admit, it’s a fairly simplistic explanation of the massive inequality that exists. So far, the above numbers don’t really surprise anyone. We know this is how things are; nobody can really deny that there are many people who are struggling. Inequality wasn’t news a century ago, and it isn’t news now. It’s not a sudden consequence of the Bush years, and it’s not Obama’s fault. In fact, it’s been going on for thousands of years. And anyway, talking about poverty in terms of whose fault it is, well, it’s time to stop that. While we are focusing on semantics, real people have real problems. Problems that can’t be solved by words

alone; problems that aren’t helped by pretty speeches or editorials in your local paper (yes, hand on bosom just then).

But here is the beautiful thing: in Judaism we have an answer, and it’s not difficult to find it and/or understand it.

It says it right in the Torah: "Thou shalt not stand idly by the blood of thy brother" (Lev. 19:16).

“The Hebrew prophets berated those who were content and comfortable while others were in great distress,” I read on www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org. “Tremble you women who are at ease, Shudder you complacent ones; Strip and make yourselves bare, gird sackcloth upon your loins. (Isaiah.

32:11) Woe to those who are at ease in Zion.... woe to those who lie upon beds of ivory and stretch themselves upon their couches.... who drink wine from bowls and anoint themselves with the finest oils but are not grieved at the ruin of Joseph (Amos 6:1,4,6).

I am not a Rabbi; everybody knows that. And the last thing I want to do is pretend I know anything about teaching bible studies, because that is not my place. But here’s the thing: I cannot read the above words and ignore the powerful message. I think it’s a message that should resonate with every Jew everywhere. It’s why we give Tzedakah, it’s a big part of who we are. And notice how the prophets don’t speak about who caused this ‘great distress,’ or about how some people deserve to be in great distress. They, instead, tell us we have the responsibility to reach out and help, and that we cannot be complacent and overly comfortable while others suffer.

Although it is very political, poverty should not be a partisan issue. Our response to hunger, pain, and poverty should not be dictated by which party we vote for or what newspaper we read. So let’s change the discourse, let’s change our language, and let’s make sure our actions follow our words.

It’s not only about money; it is just as much about attitude.

Let’s stop talking about why, and start talking about how we should help each other. Because when it comes to poverty, our house is definitely on fire, and burning down fast.

Sixty years later, recalling the historic agreement for German restitution

Focus on issues SAUL KAGAN NEW YORK (JTA) -- As the founding executive director of the Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany, I remember just how difficult the issue of negotiating with Germany was within the Jewish world 60 years ago. In Israel in particular, it was a subject of enormous controversy, political and moral. Yet as far as we in the negotiating delegation were concerned, we did not come just to seek financial help to assist the victims of the Shoah.

For the first time in the history of the Jewish people, we came forward to advance legal and moral claims on the country that had perpetrated crimes against us, in this case the successor state to the Third Reich.

For the Jewish people, persecuted and homeless for two millennia, this was indeed a unique moment in its history.

Our organization was formed in 1951 following a landmark speech by West German Chancellor Konrad Adenauer that signaled Germany’s readiness to address the responsibility for the acts of the Nazi regime. We chose our group’s name very deliberately. We wanted to ensure recognition that although material claims could be addressed, the moral claims of the survivors and indeed the entire Jewish people could never be resolved.

Negotiations among representatives of the Claims Conference, the State of Israel and West Germany began in March 1952. For these talks, the Dutch government gave us an old medieval castle called the Oudkasteel at the edge of The Hague.

Two anti-Nazis headed the German delegation: Franz

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Bohm, a Frankfurt University professor of civil law whom American forces had freed from a Gestapo jail, and lawyer Otto Koester, who had been a leader of the Protestant Resistance to the Nazis.

There were no handshakes, no banter that first day. The atmosphere was official and chilly. We somehow had the feeling that we were not alone in this room; somehow we felt that the spirits of those who could not be there were with us.

After that very solemn start, the talks engendered a proper working relationship in personal contact and discussions. The German delegation would meet mornings with the Israeli delegation and afternoons with Claims Conference representatives. The Claims Conference and Israeli representatives would meet at the end of each day and coordinate positions.

Among the three groups we created a foundation of friendly and civilized human relationships. We worked throughout the spring and summer, and you don’t spend all those months together, night and day, without developing a normal rapport and relationships.

At times we were deadlocked. Nachum Goldmann, representing the Claims Conference, would fly to Germany to meet with Adenauer and the two would resolve the dilemma.

For six months we wrestled with trying to create the basis both for compensation and for the principle of a small measure of justice that had to be the underpinning for all the efforts. Clearly we never believed that we could attain any sort of true justice, so any sort of payments, no matter the amount, would always be symbolic in nature.

In September 1952, we signed the agreements by which West Germany promised to enact legislation that would provide individual compensation to Holocaust survivors, pro-

vide funds to the Claims Conference to help Holocaust survivors outside of Israel rebuild their lives, and provide funds to the State of Israel.

Signed in Luxembourg by Adenauer, Goldmann and Foreign Minister Moshe Sharett on behalf of Israel, the agreements laid the foundation for the ensuing 60 years of seeking a small measure of justice for Jewish victims of Nazi persecution.

The agreement was for $821 million. Since then, Germany has paid $70 billion in compensation to Jewish victims of Nazism.

Adenauer and Goldmann remained in touch, periodically vacationing together in Switzerland.

From 1952 onward, the Claims Conference has worked with every German government to press its demands and to ensure that the commitment that the German government had undertaken in Luxembourg would not remain paper on the shelf of an archive.

After six decades of continuous, intense efforts to fulfill, expand and implement the basic principles that are contained in the Luxembourg Agreements, we should mark them. We don’t celebrate necessarily. We mark them, properly and appropriately.

When I look back now and think about being present at negotiations and the signing of the Luxembourg documents, I think not about writing history but about learning from experience to continue to energize our efforts going forward.

At the Claims Conference, we knew at all times that there cannot be full indemnification for the personal sufferings of the survivors. We also knew there was no way that the material losses could be fully compensated. So we had to focus on the optimum that could be attained while continuing to Continued on page 13

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October 5, 2012 | The Jewish Press | 13

An unforgettable experience

Focus on issues RABBI JONATHAN GROSS This past summer I visited Ghana as a participant of the American Jewish World Service (AJWS) Young Rabbis Delegation.

AJWS partners with over 400 grassroots organizations in 31 countries around the world that are working to provide people with access to prosperity, health care, food, education, and basic human rights, in places where none of those things are taken for granted.

What I love about AJWS is that they apply Warren Buffett’s investment strategies to providing grants. AJWS does not fund ideas, and they do not try to start new programs in foreign countries. Like Warren Buffett, they do their homework and find programs that are already successful. More accurately, Warren Buffett and AJWS look for extraordinary people who have already demonstrated that they and their company or organization are doing something special. They approach those people and say, “We will help you do what you are already doing -- and with our help and resources you can do it even better!”

In Ghana, I had the privilege of meeting one of these extraordinary people who is making a difference. His name is James Kofi Annan (no relation to the former U.N. Secretary), and his organization is called Challenging Heights.

The big problem that Ghana faces is child trafficking. In the coastal regions, where fishing is a big industry, children are sold into slavery to work on fishing ships. A fishing net is a valuable piece of equipment. If the net gets caught under the boat, pulling the net may cause it to tear. But child slaves are cheap. So the fisherman would rather risk losing a cheap child slave than risk tearing his precious net. He can easily purchase another child!

This evil, twisted, and perverse mindset is a tragic reality.

Parents with children that they cannot afford are talked into selling their children into slavery. Often they are coaxed with false promises that their children will be cared for and taught a viable trade. The reality is that they are abused, beaten, starved, tortured, sometimes disfigured, maimed, and even sent to certain death.

Mostly boys are sold as workers, but often young girls are used as sex slaves to occupy the male slaves.

James Kofi Annan was the youngest of 12 children. He was sold into slavery at the age of six years old. As a slave, he suffered all sorts of abuse and torture, often living on one small meal a day. He was deprived of education, human rights, and his very humanity.

At the age of 13, after seven years of slavery, he managed to escape. He somehow managed to return to his family, but found himself rejected by them.

With nowhere to go and no one to help him, he picked himself up and decided to make something of his life. His heroic story of how he did this, against impossible odds, is worthy of its own movie. He managed to somehow support himself and receive an education -- eventually earning a college degree. He was employed by a Barclays bank, and it was not long before he was promoted to manager. In 2003, he won a prize for being the best manager in the region. Now, for the first time with discretionary income, he had the ability to do what he had always wanted to do -- rescue children from slavery.

Rescuing a child from slavery is even harder than it sounds. First of all, you have to be able to prove that the child is a slave. Slavery was outlawed in Ghana in 2005(!!!) so slave owners will not readily admit that the children on their boats do not belong to them, and parents are not always quick to admit that they sold a child into slavery.

After you have identified the parents and can definitively identify the child, you have to find the boat that the child is on. Then you must somehow negotiate the child’s freedom with the slave owner, a dangerous, sometimes life-threatening ordeal.

The difficult process of rescuing a child takes time, resources, and skill. James managed to find all of these because he had the most important ingredient of all -- the determination to do what was right and to spare children from the hell that he went through.

In 2003, James successfully rescued two children, but for these children rescue is not the end of the journey towards freedom. It is only the beginning.

Like James’ parents, often parents who sold their children view them as a financial burden and are not ready to welcome them back. More often, the children have terrible resentment for the parents who sold them into a life of slavery. Both parents and children must go through a process of rehabilitation.

That is where Challenging Heights comes in. In 2005, James started Challenging Heights as a place where rescued children can find a home and receive an education while being slowly integrated back into their families and into lives of freedom. By 2005, over 50 children had been rescued from slavery because of James. In the last seven years, hundreds more have been rescued.

James is also responsible for starting a youth movement for local children that inspires them to value education, to strive for success, and educates them about their rights -specifically, that they have the right to freedom. The children are taught about resources they have that can prevent themselves and others from being sold into slavery.

James has also started parent groups that educate parents on the truth about slavery and that slavery is not an option.

The parents are taught about resources that are available to them, specifically how to access micro loans to help them start their own businesses that can raise them out of the poverty that precipitates childhood slavery.

Almost 8,000 families in the region have been affected by James’ work.

I, along with 16 other Rabbis from all over America, had the privilege of volunteering at Challenging Heights. We got to interact with the staff and with the children. Every child we met was at one time a slave, but at Challenging Heights it was hard to tell. These children are now being cared for, loved, educated, and given hope for a bright future.

On the last day, we had the honor of participating in the grand opening of the new technology center. We walked into a brand new building, funded by AJWS, with 30 brand new computers. At each computer was a child learning how to use Microsoft Word and Facebook. At the front of the room was a proud teacher looking out to a classroom of students who will one day grow up to make something of themselves and make a difference in the world.

Today Challenging Heights has a robust staff, mostly young people who were somehow inspired by James as children and aspire to make a difference as he did. James, who is still in his early 30s, is a consummate leader and is in the process of passing over the reins of leadership to a capable and devoted protégé so that he can move on to other projects, but he remains an inspiration to every child at Challenging Heights. One day we were playing soccer with some of the boys and there was one particular boy who was an exceptional athlete. One of the Rabbis asked him if he wanted to be a professional soccer player. “No,” said the boy.

“When I grow up, I want to be a bank manager!”

Thanks to Ruth Messinger, the director of AJWS, James Kofi Annan was brought to the attention of members of the faculty of Grinnell College and he was chosen as the recipient of the Frederick Douglass Freedom Award. The prize included $100,000 which James reinvested in Challenging Heights. Part of the award requires James to visit Grinnell a few times a year and teach a seminar. When I learned this, I contacted James and asked if he would be interested in speaking in Nebraska. He was. Thanks to Dr. Jean Cahan, Director of the Harris Center for Judaic Studies, the Harris Center will be sponsoring James as a speaker at the annual UNL conference on human trafficking. James will be speaking in the Centennial Room of the City Campus Union on Thursday, Oct. 11, 7:30 p.m. I urge everyone from Omaha to make the trip to Lincoln to hear the full story of this remarkable man.

I am grateful for AJWS for giving me this unforgettable experience. James is only one of over 400 grantees that they partner with. When I think about what James has accomplished with the help of AJWS, it is hard to imagine the impact that 400 people just like James are having on the world, thanks to AJWS.

Weather-Permitting Succot in Israel

Journal entry from Israel TEDDY WEINBERGER In the Book of Leviticus, Moses tells the Israelites that beginning on the fifteenth day of the seventh month (counting from the month of Passover), “You shall live in booths [succot] seven days; all citizens in Israel shall live in booths, in order that future generations may know that I made the Israelite people live in booths when I brought them out of the land of Egypt, I the Lord your God” (23.42-43). The most remarkable aspect of Succot in Israel, for someone who observed the holiday in a variety of locations in the States before making aliyah, is the fact that the idea of obeying Moses can seem like a pleasant one.

Whether Succot comes out at the end of September or sometime during October, the climate in Israel is perfect for being outdoors, especially at night. One never has to worry about rain, and even if the sun is still hot during the day, there is usually enough of a breeze to make a meal inside the succah (which by Jewish law must contain more shade than sun) seem more like a picnic than an onerous religious ritual.

Jews in the States are usually not that lucky. In Miami, for example, where I lived for six years before making aliyah, Succot occurs in the middle of summer-time (summer in Miami being from mid-April through early-November).

Daytime Succot meals in Miami leave one drenched in sweat, and many families eat part of these meals indoors. At the other extreme there are my cousins in Chicago, whose

most vivid memories of Succot are of eating soup with gloves on, hovering over their steaming bowls for warmth.

And it often happens that in many parts of the States the rabbi’s brief remarks on Succot eve sound more like “Notes From the Rain Bunker,” covering such topics as “kiddush in drizzle,” and “when to throw in the towel.”

In Israel, the weather is so nice (and perceived Succot danger from gentiles nonexistent) that it is indeed much more common to find people doing what Moses had intended: living in the succah. There are people who move their diningroom tables and chairs into the succah, along with their china-laden buffet, and at night, these people will not make do with sleeping on floor-mattresses and will move their whole beds outside to their succah.

There is just one problem with the pleasant weather in Israel on Succot: it ruins a popular rabbinical teaching.

Remember the reason given for the booths in Leviticus? The succot are reminders of the temporary booths used in the Exodus from Egypt. A classic rabbinical question therefore is: if so, if the booths are connected to the Exodus, then why was the Succot holiday not assigned to one of the months more immediately following Passover? Here is the traditional answer: Celebrating Succot in the late spring or early summer would not demonstrate a Jew’s commitment to Judaism.

After all, the whole world enjoys going outside at that time.

But when Jews build their temporary huts in the Fall and must fight the elements, they show that they are doing so not for pleasure but because they are following God’s commandment.

What are we to say, then, about Succot in Israel? Given that September and October are just as mild as May or June, perhaps we should move Succot in Israel to its proper historical place in the year? Aside from the fact that I believe

the Chief Rabbinate would tend to give a little more weight to centuries of Jewish custom than to the arguments of this column, I like to think of this situation as our chance in Israel to show solidarity with you in the Diaspora. Happy Succot!

Teddy Weinberger made aliyah in 1997 with his wife, former Omahan Sarah Ross, and their five children. Their oldest three, Nathan, Rebecca and Ruthie, are veterans of the Israel Defense Forces; Weinberger can be reached at weinross@net vision.net.il.

German restitution Continued from page 12 pursue expansions. We have done this now for 60 years.

But our mission and our responsibility are by no means finished.

They must continue for generations and generations to come because above and beyond our efforts to advance the demands of the survivors, there are lessons that have to be carried forward, beyond the Jewish world, in the hope that the more the world will learn what the Holocaust was all about, and how just prejudice can turn into hate and land in the crematoria of Auschwitz, the better it will be not only for the Jewish people but for the world at large.

So we must continue.

Saul Kagan was the founding executive director of the Claims Conference and served as the organization’s professional leader for 47 years. He remains a special consultant.

14 | The Jewish Press | October 5, 2012

Synagogues B’NAI ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE

Candlelighting Friday, October 5, 6:41 p.m.

Sunday, October 7, no earlier than 6:38 p.m. | Monday, October 8, no earlier than 7:35 p.m.

618 Mynster Street | Council Bluffs, IA 51503-0766 | 402.322.4705 email: CBsynagogue@hotmail.com For information on our historic synagogue – dates and times for Friday night services, please call 712.323.8885.

Women’s Rosh Hodesh Group meets at the JCC on Tuesday, Oct. 16, 7 p.m., for the broadcast of Live from the 92nd Street ‘Y.’ (see full story on page 9.)

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

BETH EL SYNAGOGUE

BETH ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE

Member of United Synagogues of Conservative Judaism 14506 California | Omaha, NE 68154-1980 | 402.492.8550 www.bethel-omaha.org Services conducted by Rabbi Mordechai Levin, Rabbi Steven Abraham and Hazzan Michael Krausman.

FRIDAY: Shacharit, 6:40 a.m.; Kabbalat Shabbat Service, 6 p.m.; Our Shabbat Tables, home-based Shabbat celebration, bringing congregants together to enjoy Shabbat with old and new friends. For more information about the program, contact Margie Gutnik in the office, or at programming@bethel-omaha.org.

SATURDAY: Morning Services, 9:30 a.m.; Shabbat’s Cool for BESTT Students, 10 a.m.-noon followed by lunch in the sukkah; Shabbat Storytime, 11:30 a.m. for toddlers and their parents led by Shira Abraham; Mincha-Ma’ariv, 6:45 p.m.; Jews n Brews/Drinks & Dames, special joint social event at 8:30 p.m., at the home of Hazzan and Laurel Krausman. All men and women of Beth El are invited. RSVP to HazzanKrausman@bethel-omaha.org.

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

SUNDAY: Hoshanna Rabbah, 9 a.m.; Torah Study Group, 10 a.m.; Hebrew Crash Course, 11 a.m. New eight-session, adult-education class for adults who want to learn to read Hebrew, led by Susi Frydman-Levin. Cost to attend: $36 for Beth El members, $45 for non-members; there is also a $20 fee for class materials. Register and pay online at www.bethel-omaha.org, or contact Margie Gutnik at programming@bethel-omaha.org.

MONDAY: Shemini Atzeret and Yizkor, 9:30 a.m.; Simchat Torah, Hakafot and Scroll Roll, 5:30 p.m.

TUESDAY: Service during which Jerry Gordman and Holly Weill will be honored, 9:30 a.m.; Mincha-Ma’ariv, 6:40 p.m.

Let’s Do Lunch, Friday, Oct. 12, noon, join Rabbi Levin for lunch at the Star Deli. RSVP by Thursday, Oct. 11, to rabbi levin@bethel-omaha.org.

Tot Shabbat & Oh Say Shalom to Shabbat, Friday, Oct. 12, 6 p.m. Dinner follows at 6:30 p.m. Dinner cost: Beth El members, $5; non-members, $7.50. No charge for children six and younger. RSVP online at www.bethel-omaha.org, or contact the office at 402.492.8550, or programming@bethel-omaha.org.

Blessing of the Animals to coincide with Parshat Noach, we will hold a special blessing of the animals on Sunday, Oct. 14, 11:30 a.m., in the synagogue parking lot. All congregants are invited to bring their pets.

USY/Kadima Apple Picking, Sunday Oct. 14, 12:30 p.m.

Daddy & Me, Sunday Oct. 14, 4-5 p.m., join Rabbi Abraham and Naama for a special afternoon for the six-andyounger crowd, at Standing Bear Lake, 6404 N 132nd St. Snacks will be served. In case of inclement weather, check Beth El’s website, www.bethel-omaha.org, for alternative plans.

Tai Chi Class Free demo class taught by certified Tai Chi instructor Beth Staenberg, on Monday, Oct. 15, 6 p.m., at the synagogue. Regular classes begin Monday, Oct. 22, 6 p.m., and run the following five weeks. Cost is $18 for Beth El members, $25 for non-members. Register online at www.bethel-omaha. org. For more information, contact Margie in the office.

Member of Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America 12604 Pacific Street | Omaha, NE. 68154 | 402.556.6288 www.BethIsrael@OrthodoxOmaha.org Office Hours: Mon.-Thurs., 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Fri., 8:30 a.m-2 p.m. Services conducted by Rabbi Jonathan Gross and Rabbi Yitzchak Mizrahi.

FRIDAY: Kabbalat Shabbat, 6:41 p.m.

SATURDAY: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Free babysitting service begins at 9:30 a.m.; Children’s Classes begin with Torah Parade, 9:45 a.m.; Kiddush is sponsored by Sisterhood; The Laws of Shabbat, 4:30 p.m.; Advanced Parshah Study for Boys (ages 10 and up), 5:30 p.m.; Rabbi Gross’s Twitter Topic class, 5:30 p.m.; Mincha, 6:30 p.m., followed by Seuda Shlishit; Havdalah, 7:39 p.m.

SUNDAY-Hoshana Rabbah/Erev Yom Tov: Gemara class, 8 a.m., learning tractate Kiddushin; Shacharit, 9 a.m. followed by breakfast; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 6:38 p.m.

WEEKDAYS: Shacharit, 7 a.m.

MONDAY-Shemini Atzeret: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Yizkor, 10:30 a.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 6:30 p.m.; Hakafot, 7:15 p.m., followed by a dairy dinner TUESDAY-Simchat Torah: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Mincha/ Ma’ariv, 6:40 p.m.; Havdalah, 7:34 p.m.

WEDNESDAY: Scholars Club for fourth-sixth graders, 3:30 p.m. at the Blumkin Home; Rabbi Weiss’s Weekly Class, 7:45 p.m.

THURSDAY: Women of the Torah class, 9:30 a.m. with Rabbi Gross; Weekly Med Center Class, 1 p.m.

Shoshanah Ruth Schreiber, daughter of Michelle Schreiber and Allen R. Schreiber, will become a Bat Mitzvah

OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE SAC Memorial Chapel 301 Lincoln Highway | Offutt AFB, NE 68113 | 402.294.6244 FRIDAY: Services, 7:30 p.m.

ROSE BLUMKIN JEWISH HOME 323 South 132 Street | Omaha, NE 68154 SATURDAY: Services, 9 a.m. led by Andy Greenberg.

MONDAY: Shemini Atzeret with Yizkor Services, 9 a.m. led by Andy Greenberg.

TUESDAY: Simchat Torah Services, 9 a.m. led by Andy Greenberg.

Services will be held in the Chapel. Members of the community are invited to attend.

CHABAD CENTER

TEMPLE ISRAEL

An Affiliate of Chabad-Lubavitch 1866 South 120 Street | Omaha, NE 68144-1646 | 402.330.1800 www.OChabad.com | email: chabad@aol.com Services conducted by Rabbi Mendel Katzman. Office hours: Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

FRIDAY, Chol Hamoed Sukkot: Minyan, 7 a.m.

SATURDAY: Minyan, 9:30 a.m.; Kiddush luncheon follows the service sponsored in honor of Rabbi and Mrs. Lipsker’s visit to Omaha by the Katzman family.

SUNDAY: Minyan, 9:30 a.m. followed by Breakfast Bonanza; Unity Torah celebration continues as we celebrate with the new Torah. Please join us for dinner and celebration, 6:30 p.m.

WEEKDAYS: Minyan, 7 a.m.

MONDAY: Minyan, 9:30 a.m. followed by a kiddush luncheon.

TUESDAY: Minyan, 9:30 a.m. followed by a hakafot, lunch and celebration with the Torah, 11:30 a.m.

WEDNESDAY: Torah Studies: A weekly journey in the soul of Torah, noon. RSVP to 402.417.2009; A Taste of YeshivaChevruta style Beit Midrash study, 6:30 p.m.

All programs are open to the entire community.

Union for Reform Judaism (URJ) 7023 Cass Street | Omaha, NE 68132-2651 | 402.556.6536 www.templeisrael-ne.org FRIDAY: First Friday Shabbat Service, 6 p.m. led by Rabbi Azriel and Cantor Shermet along with Grades 5 & 6; Tot Shabbat, 6 p.m. led by Rabbi Brown; Congregational Dinner, 7 p.m. Please contact the office, 402.556.6536 to make a reservation as they are required. No cost for the dinner.

SATURDAY: Torah Study, 9:15 a.m.; Shabbat Morning Service, 10:30 a.m.

SUNDAY: Teachers Meeting, 9:30 a.m.; Grades PreK-6, 10 a.m.; Grade 5 Field Trip, 10 a.m.; Simchat Torah and Consecration, 5 p.m.

MONDAY: Simchat Torah Morning Service and Yizkor, 10:30 a.m.

WEDNESDAY: Grades 3-6, 4-6 p.m.; School Dinner, 6 p.m.; Family School, 6-8 p.m.; Temple Teen Night, 6 p.m.; Grades 7-8, 6-8 p.m.; The Modern Middle East, 6:30 p.m. with Moshe Gershovich.

THURSDAY: The History of Judaism in Greece with Cantor Shermet, 10 a.m.

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

B’nai Mitzvahs Samuel Gabriel Kricsfeld, son of Debbie and Dr. Alan Kricsfeld, will become a Bar Mitzvah on Saturday, Oct. 13, at Beth Israel Synagogue.

Sam is an eighth-grade Superior Honor Roll student at Peter Kiewit Middle School.

His interests include cars, reading and playing piano.

He has a sister, Rachel Miriam, age 9.

Grandparents are Susan and Jakob Besser, and Cheryl Kricsfeld, and Barb and Barry Kricsfeld of Council Bluffs.

Great-grandparents are the late Rose and David Besser, the late Miriam and Mauritz Ceder, the late Florence and Joseph Kricsfeld, and the late Marjorie and Bernard Weiss.

FRIDAY: Kiddush, 6 p.m. hosted by Sue Schreiber in honor of the Bat Mitzvah of Shoshanah Schreiber; Early Family Shabbat Service, 6:15 p.m. with participation by Shoshanah Schreiber.

SATURDAY: Shabbat Morning Service, 10 a.m. celebrating the Bat Mitzvah of Shoshanah Schreiber, daughter of Michelle Schreiber and Allan Schreiber.

SUNDAY: LJCS Gan through Grade 7, 9:30 a.m.-noon at Tifereth Israel; Hallah High, 9:45 a.m.-noon at Tifereth Israel; Community Pizza in the Hut, noon in the Community Sukkah at Tifereth Israel. Cost is $5 for adults, and $3 for kids under 10 years of age.

MONDAY: Joint Simchat Torah Service, 6:30 p.m. at Tifereth Israel.

TUESDAY: Temple office closed for Simchat Torah WEDNESDAY: Hebrew classes (grades 3-7), 4-6 p.m. at Tifereth Israel.

ADULT EDUCATION THURSDAYS, Beginning Hebrew, 6 p.m. and Intermediate Hebrew, 7 p.m.

on Saturday, Oct. 6, at Congregation B’nai Jeshurun in Lincoln.

Shoshanah is an eighth-grade Honor Roll student at Park Middle School. She is a Duke Scholar.

Her interests include playing cello in orchestra, trombone in band, middle school volleyball team, Y league volleyball and volunteering as a member of Zoo Crew at the Lincoln Children’s zoo.

For her mitzvah project, Shoshanah will be volunteering with Hearts United for Animals of Auburn, NE. She has two brothers, Benjamin Arthur and Louis Reuben.

Grandparents are Sue Goldhammer Schreiber of Lincoln, Ira Schreiber of Aurora, CO, and the late Marlene and Peter Thompson. continued from page 14

Member of United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism 3219 Sheridan Boulevard | Lincoln, NE 68502-5236 | 402.423.8569 www.tiferethisraellincoln.org Services conducted by lay leader Nancy Coren. Office hours: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

FRIDAY: Services, 6:30 p.m.

SATURDAY: Learners Minyan, 9:30 a.m.; Morning service, 10 a.m. followed by Kiddush lunch.

SUNDAY: LJCS Gan through Grade 7, 9:30 a.m.-noon at Tifereth Israel; Hallah High, 9:45 a.m.-noon at Tifereth Israel; Community Pizza in the Hut, noon in the Community Sukkah at Tifereth Israel. Cost is $5 for adults, and $3 for kids under 10 years of age.

MONDAY: Joint Simchat Torah Service, 6:30 p.m. at Tifereth Israel.

WEDNESDAY: Hebrew classes (grades 3-7), 4-6 p.m. at Tifereth Israel.

To Submit B’nai Mitzvah Announcements Announcements may be e-mailed to the Press with attached photos in .jpg or .tif files to jpress@jewish omaha.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, by e-mailing the editor at: avandekamp@jewishomaha.org or online at: www.jewishomaha.org, click on ‘Jewish Press.’

Pulverent e

October 5, 2012 | The Jewish Press | 15

A Theological Endurance Contest

Sparks from the word RABBI MYER S. KRIPKE Shemini Atzeret I once discussed the fall Holy Days with a Reform rabbi in a neighboring city. He told me that in his congregation Sukkot was omitted, since his congregants had had quite enough of Yom Tov. Sukkot, he said, was relegated to a mere mention on Shabbat.

I am quite aware that that cavalier attitude to one of the three Pilgrimage Festivals is long since gone from even the most left-wing of Reform congregations.

But if we may whisper the truth, the seven days of Sukkot and two days of Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah are a bit much for even “Orthodox” and “Conservative” Jews, following Rosh HaShanah and Yom Kippur. Someone goofed in arranging the schedule of the Holy Days.

But God is not like men. The Midrash has a fetching interpretation of the addition of the 8th day - a “closing festival” (Shemini Atzeret) to end Sukkot. It suggests that the proliferation of sacrifices offered in the Jerusalem Temple on the seven days of Sukkot was meant not only for Israel, but for all the nations of the world. You may recall that the confessions on Yom Kippur were not only for Jewish - but indeed for human, that is, for all people’s sins. So too the sacrifices of Sukkot. All mankind was involved. (This implies, theologically, that “you don’t have to be present to win!”)

But this left God somewhat unsatisfied, the Midrash goes on to say. He was perfectly satisfied that the House of Israel should pray for everyone, not only for itself. But then the Holy Days had lost their intimacy.

So God thought of a way out. Just as a child at his birthday party may ask a special friend to stay a bit after everyone else has left, He asked Israel to have another day, a Shemini Atzeret, just for God and Israel alone.

But that didn’t end the matter. The House of Israel took up the challenge and carried it even farther. All right, Lord, You want an eighth day? Well, how about a ninth?

And (outside of Israel) Jews began to give special character to the extra day they had imposed on themselves for living away from the Holy Land ... and Simchat Torah was born.

This last day took on a character of lightheadedness that rivals Purim in its levity and spirit of abandon. And this is the day when the last words of Torah are read in the annual cycle, followed immediately by the first words, as the cycle begins anew. The study of Torah never ends.

B’nai Mitzvahs continued from page 14 Benjamin Morris Warren, son of Barbara Benenson Warren and Marc Warren, will become a Bar Mitzvah on Saturday, Oct. 13, at Apella party space in New York City.

Benjamin is an eighth-grade student at Leman Manhattan Prepatory School in New York City.

His interests include competitive tennis, music and summer camp at Androscoggin in Maine.

For his mitzvah project, Benjamin will be raising money for children in a remote part of Peru who he met on a trip and was touched by.

He has a sister, Rachel.

Grandparents are Madeleine Benenson, the late Alvin Benenson, and Marilyn and Marty Warren of Chesterfield, MO. Great-grandfather is Dave Dvorkin.

In memoriam MURIEL ISRAEL FREIFELD Muriel Israel Freifeld passed away on Sept. 30 at age 89.

Memorial Services will be held at a later date in October.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Milton.

She is survived by her daughters and sons-in-law, Dr. Alison Freifeld and Dr. Ken Cowan, Nina Giles and Tim of Georgia, and son and daughter-in-law, Dr. Martin and Lora Freifeld of PA; grandchildren: Sara, Eliza, Anna, Andrew and Perry.

Muriel was a loving wife, mother and grandmother. She was an outstanding teacher, had a passion for early childhood education and was one of the early promoters of Head Start.

Memorials may be made to Educare of Omaha or Jewish Family Services.

Questions regarding this position may be directed to the e-mail address: rschinstock@valmont.com.

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Romney, Obama speak with Netanyahu by phone (JTA) -- President Obama and Republican presidential nominee Mitt Romney spoke by phone with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu about recent developments in the Middle East.

The conversation with Romney last Friday came about 10 minutes after Netanyahu spoke for 20 minutes with Obama.

“The Prime Minister and the Governor agreed that an Iran with nuclear weapons capability is unacceptable,” Romney traveling press secretary Rick Gorka told CNN. “They also discussed recent developments in the Middle East and North Africa generally. Governor Romney reiterated his belief that the United States has no greater friend and ally in the region than Israel.”

The press secretary also said that Romney and Netanyahu agreed that “the largest security threat to Israel and the entire world is a nuclear-capable Iran.”

Romney met with Netanyahu when he visited Israel in the summer.

Following last Friday’s conversation between Obama and Netanyahu, the White House released a statement saying that “The two leaders discussed a range of security issues, and the President reaffirmed his and our country’s unshakeable commitment to Israel’s security. The two leaders underscored that they are in full agreement on the shared goal of preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon.”

Obama and Netanyahu had addressed the United Nations General Assembly earlier in the week.

The confusing red line

by DANIEL TREIMAN Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu drew a red line last week for all the world to see. He drew it on a display showing a bomb with a lit fuse, symbolizing Iran’s nuclear program. But it’s not clear how the red line on his diagram translates into the real world.

The New York Times reports that there is some confusion in Israel: “Mr. Netanyahu’s bomb was divided into sections marked 70 percent and 90 percent, representing the amount of progress Iran has made, or will make, toward amassing enough enriched uranium for a bomb. Mr. Netanyahu drew his red line at the 90 percent mark, suggesting that the Iranians would be 90 percent along the way — a point he asserted they will reach by next spring, or summer at the latest.”

But on Friday, Israel’s leading weekend paper, Yediot Aharonot, interpreted the diagram differently, assuming that Mr. Netanyahu was referring not to progress made, but to actual percentages of uranium enrichment.

Public Affairs, said that Netanyahu was not talking about enrichment levels: “Netanyahu cannot draw a line at 90 percent enrichment. If you get to 90 percent enrichment, the whole of the West is in big trouble.”

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16 | The Jewish Press | October 5, 2012

Israel’s baseball fans field dreams of growth

by BEN SALES have won premier European competitions, while soccer 1,000. Kurz expects the growth to accelerate should Team BAPTISTS’ VILLAGE, Israel (JTA) -- The 14- and 15- rivalries arouse passion in bars and living rooms nationwide. Israel qualify for the WBC. year-old boys pat their gloves and stand alert across the And while a professional baseball league, the Israel “The only reason we’re playing in this tournament is to infield, their knees bent and eyes shifting between home promote baseball in Israel,” he said. “The only reason the plate and the pitcher’s mound.

WBC invited us to compete in this tournament is all the Coaches yell out the familiar phrases: “Nice play!” hard work our senior national team has done over the past “Throw to first!” “Easy out!”

20 years.”

Then, from the dugout, a player shouts, “Yala, Uriah!

The WBC bid is not the first time Israel has fielded a Kadima!” -- “Let’s go, Uriah. Forward.” Then in English, national team in international competition. It regularly “Eyes on the ball!” and turns to his teammate to chat in sends teams to tournaments in Europe and the United Hebrew.

States, and recently Israel hosted the qualifying tournament “When I started playing baseball I started understanding for the European Championship, where it placed second. more English,” said Tal Degani, 14, a reserve right fielder Kurz also is counting on a proposed baseball stadium in for the Misgav Pythons, a youth team from northern Israel. the Tel Aviv suburb of Raanana to jump-start the sport’s An Israeli native, Tal “found baseball on the Internet” popularity in Israel. The $4 million project would include and from there connected with the Israel Association of a gym, “a clubhouse, a place where guys want to come.

Baseball, which has organized youth and amateur compeYou’ve got to have a place where guys can hang out, talk to tition across the country for 20 years. each other, learn,” he said.

Six hours later, in Jupiter, Fla., Israel’s national baseball Unlike Kurz, Robbins doesn’t see success in the WBC as team won its second qualifying game for the World a catalyst for growth here. Rather he envisions a program Baseball Classic, defeating Spain, 4-2. Coupled with its 7-3 that would bring baseball to schools through a team of Teens from the Misgav and Jerusalem teams of the Israel victory over South Africa in the qualifying round opener coaches. The league will “start to snowball” if a couple thouAssociation of Baseball’s Junior League squaring off in Baptists’ on Sept. 19, Team Israel needed one more victory in the sand children nationwide get a taste of baseball, he said.

Credit: Ben Sales “It’s getting out there and showing those kids how fun it Village, Israel, Sept. 21, 2012. modified double-elimination tournament to advance to the WBC in March.

Baseball League, existed for one season in 2007, it folded in is,” Robbins said. “You’re not going to do it by having them Israel, however, was unable to pick up the victory, losing bankruptcy after a championship run by the Beit Shemesh see the game. They have to feel what it’s like to catch a ball, 9-7 to Spain in 10 innings on Sunday in the final game of the Blue Sox from a heavily American suburb of Jerusalem. to hit a ball.” qualifying round. Israel and Spain finished with the same “Baseball cannot survive in the Anglo population by Watching games can help, though, said Arye Zacks, who record in the tournament, but Spain advanced to the WBC. itself,” said Leo Robbins, who coached youth teams for more coaches two teams in central Israel’s Modiin, because it exposWith just three Israeli members, Team Israel’s core is pro- than a decade and now umpires games. “Our base for the es young fans to the array of possible scenarios in baseball. fessional Jewish players, active and retired. They include for- last 20 years has been immigrants who just came over. Their “There are a lot of baseball situations that the kids don’t recmer outfielders Shawn Green and Gabe Kapler, who had to friends, they don’t come to play baseball because they ognize because it hasn’t happened to them in a game before,” withdraw from the roster due to injury and is now the bench haven’t been exposed to it.” he said. “A kid growing up surrounded by baseball, they’re coach for manager Brad Ausmus, an ex-Major League catchThe Israel Association of Baseball runs on a budget of familiar with it because they’ve seen so many games on TV.” er primarily for the Houston Astros. approximately $380,000 per year, and even though baseball But for all the talk of televised games, professional faciliTeam Israel’s Major League makeup is a far cry from Israeli is traditionally a summer sport, games here are played in the ties and international championships, Pythons coach Yaniv baseball, which is played mostly on sandlots and converted cooler months of September through June. Kids aged 5 to 18 Rosenfeld said his top priority is what he calls “Zionist basesoccer fields by teenagers and about 75 diehard adults, most- can play, and teams generally include 12 to 20 members. The ball,” giving as many Israeli kids as possible a chance to play. ly American immigrants and their children. The Baptists’ IAB also includes a small league for adults.

Turning to the field again, Rosenfeld shouts at his pitcher, Village facilities, located in central Israel near Petach Tikvah, Still, IAB secretary general Peter Kurz is optimistic about “Ktzat ricuz!” A little concentration! “It’s all about pitching are some of the country’s only regulation fields. baseball’s chances here. He notes that since the Israel the strikes!”

The game remains far less popular than soccer and bas- Baseball League’s one season, the number of kids playing Behind him, waiting on the bench, Tal said, “I love this ketball, Israel’s two staple sports. Israeli basketball teams baseball in Israel has grown 30 percent, to approximately game. I love to bat, and I love the team’s unity.”

New Series!

Joslyn

Remembrance, Creativity, Transformation

SYMPHONY

Sunday, October 28, 2012 at 2 p.m.

Presented in partnership with

Joslyn Art Museum Witherspoon Hall Thomas Wilkins, conductor Hawthorne String Quartet RAWSTHORNE Divertimento for Chamber Orchestra

Spend Sunday afternoons immersed in music and art with the Omaha Symphony Chamber Orchestra at the Joslyn Art Museum. This exciting new series explores the connection between the musical pieces and specific works of art from the Joslyn Art Museum.

ADLER Elegy for String Orchestra

Pre-concert conversations begin at 1:00 and 1:25 p.m. in the pavilion gallery.

NEEDHAM Voices

SCHULHOFF Concerto for String Quartet and Wind Orchestra

This first concert in the Symphony Joslyn Series is the culmination of a week-long concert and artistin-residency program featuring the Terezin Music Foundation’s Hawthorne String Quartet and painter Jim Schantz, with music and painting bringing to life the music of European composers murdered in the Holocaust.

HAYDN Symphony No. 44 in E Minor, “Trauer”

Tickets $30

General Admission Seating

402.345.0606

omahasymphony.org

Witherspoon Concert Hall