November 7, 2014

Sponsored by the Benjamin and Anna E. Wiesman Family Endowment Fund AN AGENCY OF THE JEWISH FEDERATION OF OMAHA November 7, 2014 14 Cheshvan 5775 Vol. 95 | No. 8

Omaha’s Jewish day school This marks 50 years Week

41st Annual Jewish Book Month Page 5

Today, thanks to dozens of donors, Friedel Jewish Academy has a modern, attractive home of its own in the Dan and Esther Gordman Center on the campus of the Jewish Community Center on 132nd Street.

by CLAUDIA SHERMAN for Friedel Jewish Academy Descended from a citywide Talmud Torah that originally held classes at the old Jewish Community Center at 20th and Dodge Streets, Friedel Jewish Academy is celebrating the adoption of Omaha Hebrew Academy as the official corporate name of the school 50 years ago. Independent of the Jewish Federation and also separate from area synagogues, funding

Social Justice: Walking the walk Page 7

was provided privately. Eventually, a small school building and land at 127th and Pacific Streets became home to the school.

According to a report by a special committee saved by the Nebraska Jewish Historical Society and dated September 7, 1971, the school operated about seven years at the west location and had about 60 full-time students in grades kindergarten through six when it closed its doors due to financial and

Schwalb Center to tour Spain and Morocco

personnel problems and the relocation of many of its families.

However, a local physician, the late Dr. Irving Shapiro, was dedicated to establishing a Jewish day school in Omaha, noted in “The Friedel Jewish Academy Story” on file at the school.

Both Steve Riekes and Richard Fellman credited Dr. Shapiro’s dedication and determination for keeping the vision of a Jewish day school alive even after it closed in the late 1960s.

Along with others, Dr. Shapiro acquired the land with the understanding that Beth Israel would operate the school, explained Riekes. Along with Fellman, Cantor Chaim Najman, Dennis and Susan Paley, and Mike and Carol Katzman, Riekes looked into having the day school reopen as a community day school that would cater to all branches of Judaism.

“Shapiro made extraordinary Continued on page 3

Organ, eye and tissue donation: Think about it

The best WWII refuge for Jews in occupied Europe was...

Page 12

Inside Point of view Synagogues In memoriam

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

8 10 11

Lazama Synagogue in Marrakech, Morocco. One of the many sites to be visited on the Schwalb Center’s trip in May 2015.

by KASEY DAVIS Staff Assistance, Schwalb Center for Israel and Jewish Studies The Schwalb Center for Israel and Jewish Studies is pleased to announce a study tour to Southern Spain and Morocco taking place May 11-25, 2015, tracing Jewish Roots from Andalusia to Marrakech.

This will be the second study abroad trip organized by the Schwalb Cen-

ter. In May of 2014, a group of twelve community members and six UNO students toured Israel.

Participants of last year’s Israel trip unanimously agreed that, in addition to being educational and informative, it was full of many cultural experiences, unique opportunities, and the chance to create life-long memories of an exciting adventure. The projected tour of Southern Spain and Morocco promises to be as rich and exciting. Led by the Schwalb Center Director Dr. Moshe Gershovich, it is sure to provide more opportunities to expand your knowledge of Jewish history and heritage.

Starting in Granada, Spain, participants will be greeted by the beautiful Spanish countryside. After visiting the stunning palace of Alhambra, the tour will continue on to Cordoba Continued on page 2

by LYNDA MIRVISH National Donor Sabbath Weekend is an annual event observed two weeks before Thanksgiving, to remind people of all faiths of the need for organ, eye and tissue donation and the wonders that these gifts of life can achieve.

Most of us are aware of how aweinspiring the results of a sucessful heart or lung transplant can be. A living donor of a kidney or part of a liver can change the life for someone with a disease that is slowly killing them.

While solid organ donations are the stars in this world of life-saving miracles, donations of tissue and eyes are more than just supporting players. One donor can potenially save eight lives, and that same donor can also save or improve the lives of 50 people by donating eyes and tissues.

Here are some facts: The first corneal transplant was made in 1905. And today an average of 60,000 corneal transplants are performed each year in America. Last year, 204 Nebraskans received this gift of sight.

Almost anyone can be an eye and/or tissue donor; there is no age limit. Even if one has had cancer, has received chemotherapy, wears glasses, has glaucoma or has cataracts with surgery, eye tissue donation is a viable possibility.

We hardly ever think about tissue donation; however donated skin can save and improve the lives of burn victims; special grafts can help patients with spinal deformities live normal lives; musculo/skeletal tissue can save limbs from amputation and be used to replace bone, tendons and ligaments lost to cancer, Continued on page 2

2 | The Jewish Press | November 7, 2014

$1,000,000 challenge underway for Beth El’s Life & Legacy campaign

by LISA LIEB Beth El Publicity Beth El Synagogue is excited to announce an opportunity in the Life & Legacy campaign. Recently, an anonymous donor generously pledged a seven-figure legacy gift, on the condition that we as a congregation raise a minimum of $1,000,000 from other Life & Legacy donors by Dec. 31, 2014. A legacy pledge can be made now and does not require any money today. Legacy gifts are typically a percentage of an estate and can be made in the form of life insurance, retirement funds and/or other assets. This unique opportunity would mean the realization of a $2,000,000 total gift towards Beth El Synagogue’s endowment.

We are off to an amazing start. So far, Beth El has received a total of 15 gifts and more than $500,000 towards this million-dollar goal from the following donors: Rabbi Steven and Shira Abraham, Deborah Denenberg, H. Lee and Carol Gendler Charitable Fund, Marcel and Ilse Kahn, Gloria Kaslow, Howard Kaslow, Carol Parsow, Alan Parsow, Marty and Iris Ricks, Carl Riekes, Zoe Riekes, Margo Riekes, Steve Riekes, Lloyd and Debbie Roitstein, and Norman and Joodi Veitzer. We extend our deepest appreciation to everyone who has helped to ensure the future of Beth El Synagogue by leaving a legacy that will continue beyond their lifetime.

Donors Gloria and Howard Kaslow shared their thoughts on participating in this important initiative, “The most compelling reason for participating in the Life & Legacy campaign is stated quietly and unobtrusively at the top of the Foundation’s form letter-of-intent. It says: ‘In the tradition of our Jewish faith, I wish to share my blessings by declaring my intent to provide for the needs of future generations.’ That says it all: our Jewish values and traditions, our blessings, our lega-

cy. No matter how large or small the gift we can share, each one of us can demonstrate in an after-life gift that we care about our synagogue and/or the other Jewish institutions that have been a part of our extended community family. Most importantly, along with our children and our grandchildren (and, hopefully, our great grandchildren), we can continue to nurture and ensure the continuity of our Jewish community far into the future.”

In addition to our membership, we are extending an invitation to everyone who has fond memories or ties to our synagogue to participate in the Life & Legacy campaign. Your Life & Legacy gift is so much more than a donation. This is your legacy – an opportunity to pay it forward, and to help assure the future of our synagogue for the next generation.

Lloyd Roitstein, Beth El’s Life & Legacy Chairman explained why he wanted to head up this campaign for our synagogue. “A strong Jewish family and a strong Beth El Synagogue are both vital for the future of Omaha’s Jewish community. The Life & Legacy Campaign helps provide funds needed to support the Jewish life of our families in the future. By making a pledge to this campaign today, you will be helping secure Beth El’s needs for future generations.”

Life & Legacy is a partnership of the Harold Grinspoon Foundation and the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation that promotes after-lifetime giving to benefit the Omaha Jewish community. We hope you will consider making a gift to Beth El; your generosity will benefit our synagogue for generations to come.

To become a part of Beth El Synagogue’s Legacy L ‘Dor V’ Dor Society, contact either Lloyd Roitstein, Chair of our Life and Legacy Committee at lloyd.roitstein@gmail.com, or Larry DeBruin, Beth El’s Executive Director at exec@beth el-omaha.org.

Organ, eye and tissue donation Continued from page 1 severe trauma, degenerative joint disease, arthritis and other conditions.

Once in a while you may hear someone say, “I’m walking much better since I had donor bone implanted in my heel.”

Or, “My infant niece had a donated heart valve to correct her congenital defect... she’s fine today, thanks to that.”

Or, “I would lose/have lost my teeth and possibly suffered permanent disfigurement if something was not done to stop the periodontic disease that was eroding the support struc-

tures, including bone around my teeth. Thanks to donated bone tissue, this condition has been treated successfully.”

Our sages tell us that we should do everything possible to save the life of another, including donating body organs as long as it does not put the donor’s life at risk.

This year, Donor Shabbat falls on Nov. 15, a timely reminder to register to become an organ, eye or tissue donor or to say “yes” to the question when renewing a drivers’ license. Find out more about organ, eye and tissue donation and how to register at www.donatelifenebraska.com.

YOU’VE WORKED HARD FOR YOUR LIFESTYLE

Schwalb Center

Continued from page 1 and Seville with a tour of the Jewish synagogues in each city, while also witnessing the many Muslim and Christian sights of Andalusia. After crossing the Strait of Gibraltar, the tour in Morocco will begin in Tangier with an overview of its Moroccan, Islamic and Spanish Architecture and then continue to Tetouan, former capital of the Spanish protectorate zone. From there, we will move on to the Blue and White City of Chefchaouen, meandering through its colorful alleyways and a visit to the old Medina. Next day we will continue our journey and explore the archaeological site of Roman Volubilis on the way to the imperial city of Meknes. After touring Sultan Moulay Ismail’s mausoleum and mosque as well as his stables and granaries, the tour will journey to Fez, the oldest royal city in Morocco. There, our group will tour the old city (Medina), which is the biggest and most vibrant of its kind in the world. We will also visit the old Jewish quarter of Fez (Mellah), its old cemetery, and two newly restored 17th Century Synagogues.

The next spot on the tour will be the French Alpine-like town of Ifrane, where the group will tour Al-Akhawayn University and learn about higher education in Morocco.

From Ifrane, we will travel to Morocco’s political capital, Rabat, and visit the Roman site of Chellah (Sala Colonia) and the Kasbah of the Oudayyas, as well as the uncompleted 12th century Tour Hassan and the nearby mausoleum of King Mohamed V, considered the father of the modern Moroccan nation. It is said that he stood up to Vichy France and Hitler, refusing to segregate his Jewish subjects or allow their deportation.

From Rabat, the group will continue on to Morocco’s largest city, Casablanca, where we will tour the only Jewish Museum in any Arab-speaking country. Then on to Marrakech, which not only hosts a 15th Century Synagogue, but botanical gardens, many traditional markets (souks), and the most famous public square in Morocco (Djmaa elFna), known for its acrobats, storytellers and snake charmers. From Marrakech, the group will travel to the coastal town of Essaouria with its colorful markets, old fortresses and busy port. Finally, on the last day we will travel back to Casablanca where we will depart for home the following morning.

The Schwalb Center will be holding several meetings for potential participants in the months preceding the tour, beginning in mid-to-late November. At these meetings, we will discuss the cost of the trip, the itinerary, and address any questions that people may have regarding the trip. As in the previous year, we have a limited number of spaces (5-10 students, 10-20 community members). The trip list is already filling up quickly, so if you wish to join the Schwalb Center for this once-in-a-lifetime in-depth tour of Southern Spain and Morocco, please contact Dr. Moshe Gershovich at mgershovich@unomahe.edu or Kasey Davis at kaseydavis @unomaha.edu, or by phone at 402.554.3175.

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Continued from page 1 with the Nebraska Department of Education. Dr. Rockler efforts,” Riekes emphasized. “He paid off the debts of the old acted as principal of the school and hired Janet Rosenstein as Hebrew Academy and had some money and income that he the general studies teacher, said Fellman. An attorney, offered to use for a day school.” The “money” came from a Fellman was appointed to fill a vacancy in the Unicameral in BINGO business Shapiro ran 1973. He resigned from the at the Civic Auditorium. “It school Board in order to fulfill takes a lot of money to run a his other responsibilities and private school,” Riekes added. was succeeded by Riekes as Dr. Shapiro had created the chairman of the school Board.

Nebraska Jewish Education As for general studies, Society to acquire the properexplains the Friedel Story, a ty at 127th and Pacific. The Montessori school, privately non-profit entity immediately owned and run by LaVonne faced a legal challenge from a Plambeck, was located next few neighbors who didn’t door to the Jewish day school. want a school there. In 1971, The Montessori school needed though, the Supreme Court of room to expand and wished to Nebraska upheld the right of rent portions of the building In the years following World War II, the Jewish Community the Society to own the land owned by the Nebraska Jewish Center at 20th and Dodge Streets downtown, was home to and use it for a school.

Education Society. The fiscal Omaha’s Talmud Torah.

About that time, others, resources of the Hebrew notably the late Rabbi Isaac Nadoff of Beth Israel and his wife Academy were “severely” limited. So a marriage of convenJeanette, worked to re-establish a Jewish day school. Also in ience began in 1974. Montessori teachers taught the general 1971, the Jewish Federation appointed the Special Committee curriculum. During some portions of the day, Friedel children to Study the Question of a Jewish Day School in Omaha, would attend classes concentrating on Jewish curriculum. headed by Fellman, to explore the viability of a day school At the beginning, the arrangement worked satisfactorily. here. Rabbi Nadoff reported to the committee that he However, as the years passed, Jewish parents grew dissatisfied “believed that the question of intensive Jewish education is a with the general curriculum. After much controversy and dismatter of highest priority in Jewish life today. No other Jewish cussion, Margo Riekes, chairman of the day school at the time, activity can bring about the revival of Jewish life and the announced in 1982 that the Jewish Academy would part ways preservation of Jews and Judaism as can Jewish education in with Montessori. She explained that “the school has reached a its most intensive form.” state and level of achievement which the Board and parents feel He also believed “that it is entirely feasible and practical can best be helped to flourish in an independent atmosphere.” for Omaha to once again have a day school.” He continued, Separating from Montessori, however, dramatically “Federation is making a tremendous contribution to the increased the financial burdens on the Jewish school, pointpreservation of Jewish life and values. We need to return to ed out the Academy history. Turning to the Federation, an emphasis upon our uniqueness as a people in order to school supporters asked for an increase in funding to surovercome the dangers of assimilation and loss of spiritual vive. At a special meeting of the Federation Board in 1982, identity. This can most effectively be done through the insti- emotions ran high. After three hours of debate, the Board tution of the day school.” voted 40-3 to increase funding to the school.

Rabbi Myer Kripke, the late spiritual leader of Beth El Then in 1985, Leonard and Phyllis Friedel, former Omaha Synagogue, also supported the school, because it will pro- residents and business owners, donated $500,000 to the duce “the professional and non-professional Jewish spiritual Jewish school. Michael Katzman and Forrest Krutter, coleadership which alone can insure survival and development chairmen of the Academy then, as well as the Federation, felt of vital Jewish life in the United States.” He did add some some relief from the ongoing fiscal demands of the school “caveats” including not using any of the funds raised through which was renamed in honor of the Friedels. activities like BINGO to support the school. He also was in Another challenge was the old school building’s physical favor of “a school where children from homes of all Jewish condition. The decaying structure was loaded with asbestos, religious backgrounds would be comfortable and opinions and the windows and roof leaked. This issue was finally of their parents respected.” He added that he was “opposed resolved when, in 1989, Dan and Esther Gordman donated to using public funds for private schools of any kind.” one million dollars to establish an education center on the Rabbi Sidney Brooks of Temple Israel agreed that the campus of the Jewish Community Center which would school’s religious instruction “would give academic presen- house the Friedel Academy. tation of both traditional and liberal points of view without It took years of discussion, debate, and planning; but finaljudgmental persuasion toward either… and must…allow a ly, in 1995, the new Gordman Center was dedicated. Mary child to remain in harmony with the religious practice of his Fellman, a past Federation president, had secured additionhome and family.” The late rabbi also hoped “the school al funding. Henry and Dorothy Riekes, Steve’s parents, also would…be carefully financed in its initial planning so that contributed a substantial amount of funding. Maury and its funding (would) be managed with dignity.” Like Rabbi Madeline Katzman and family, as well as Gene and Charlotte Kripke, Rabbi Brooks was opposed to federal or state aid to Rich and family were major contributors. Jerry Gordman, private education. “But surely (the school) merits our sup- representing his family, guided the process of designing the port for those who do wish maximal Jewish education har- new Gordman Center. Marty Shukert was the architect. monized with superlative secular studies.”

From its early days, the school attempted not to turn away Upon surveying the Jewish community, the special com- any Jewish child due to financial need. Today, the Jewish mittee found that arguments in favor of a Jewish day school Federation of Omaha, through the Center for Jewish Life, education included that the school “was the best way to teach provides three scholarships to ensure that no child will be all of Judaism to a child. The average American child today is denied attendance due to economic concerns. already integrated in the general community. What he needs Today, “American Jews can participate in America without is a solid foundation in Judaism…(which) can best be saved sacrificing their identity,” insisted Steve Riekes. “They can and our children best kept Jews by strong early education.” have pride in their Jewish identity and also be proud Arguments against opening the day school took into con- Americans. When you’re proud of your own identity, you’ll sideration “the many needs pulling on the organized Jewish be respected by others as well. This maturation of American community for support and for funds,” that Omaha already Jews has been a long time coming,” he said. Friedel Jewish had an educational system through its synagogues, and that Academy demonstrates that “We’re now here.” “the Jewish community in America has grown and develFor more information, call the school at 402.334.0517. oped in large part by its support and belief in the public schools where all children are treated equally.”

After many months, Fellman was able to persuade the Federation that a Jewish day school was a necessity for comby LYNN BATTEN munal survival. The school opened in the fall of 1972, and the Publicity and Gallery Manager, Jewish Federation of Omaha Federation allocated $5000 in initial funds. Fellman assured The Bellevue Artists Association will hold their annual the Board that the school would operate as a community Silver Palette Show and sale during the month of November school, “open to and respectful of all the major strands of in the JCC Gallery. Members will exhibit a stunning array American Judaism” which remains a guiding principle today. of works ranging from watercolors, oils and acrylics, to In establishing the Jewish day school, Dick Fellman relied porcelain sculptures, encaustic and fiber art. The artists are heavily on the assistance of Dr. Michael Rockler, a professor local and many have won national and regional awards for at the University of Nebraska at Omaha. Fellman credits Dr. their works. The public is welcome to attend the opening Rockler with establishing the Jewish curriculum and also reception on Sunday, Nov. 9 from 3–5 p.m. making certain that the new school would be fully accredited

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Consider year-end gifts of appreciated stocks and securities $100,000 which they owned for more than one year. They originally paid $40,000 for the stock and they pay federal taxes at the highest marginal rates.

As the example below shows, Richard and Janice gifted the stock rather than the cash, so the HOWARD EPSTEIN, Executive Director, JFO Federation Foundation received an additional The end of the calendar year is an ideal $14,280 in value to fund services to Omaha’s time to review financial affairs and invest- Jewish community and Richard and Janice ment portfolios. Despite recent volatility, it’s saved almost $20,000 on their tax bill. been a banner year on Wall Street, and many Using this tax-savings strategy, you may publicly-traded stocks have increased signifi- want to consider establishing a new endowcantly in value. These gains present an oppor- ment fund or adding to an existing endowtunity to take advantage of tax laws that ment fund at the Foundation. Through encourage charitable gifts of appreciated December 31, 2014, the Foundation will add assets. Gifting appreciated stock directly to a $1,000 to an endowment contribution val-

From the Foundation Director

Sell Stock and Donate Stock Donate Cash Current Fair Market Value of Securities $100,000 $100,000 Capital Gains and 2013 Medicare surtax (23.8%) $0 $14,280 Amount available for Charitable Contribution $100,000 $85,720 Tax Savings: $39,600 $19,665 (contributions x 39.6% tax rate, less taxes paid) donor-advised fund or an endowment fund at the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation -- rather than selling the assets and donating the after-tax cash proceeds -- can significantly increase the amount of funds that you have available for charitable giving while providing you with a larger tax benefit.

Charitable contributions of long-term appreciated securities (those held for more than one year), including stocks, bonds, and mutual fund shares, remain one of the most tax-efficient ways to benefit a charity such as the Foundation. You are entitled to a tax deduction for the full fair market value of such gifts, up to 30% of your adjusted gross income in the current tax year, and you pay no capital gains tax on any appreciation. In effect, this tax savings goes directly to the Foundation in the form of a larger contribution and your lower tax bill leaves you with additional assets that could fund other charitable gifts!

Here’s an example of the increased contribution and tax savings generated by donating stock directly to a donor-advised fund at the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation: Richard and Janice, a couple with an adjusted gross income of $500,000, filing jointly, donate appreciated securities worth

ued at $10,000 or more.

You might also consider establishing a donor-advised fund (DAF). A DAF operates as a sort of permanent charitable planning tool as you benefit from an up-front deduction for the contribution of assets to the account and you can choose which qualifying charities receive distributions at a later date. Next time you consider rebalancing your investment portfolio, the DAF can be the repository for some or all of the appreciated securities. Another gifting strategy to consider is the creation of a charitable remainder trust (CRT) funded by appreciated stock. In addition to avoiding the capital gains tax, the CRT could provide you with a current charitable deduction as well as an income stream for a period of years.

For more information about gifts of appreciated property and other Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation giving opportunities, please contact me at the Foundation office, at 402-334-6466 or hep stein@jewishomaha.org.

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, tax or financial advice. When considering gift planning strategies, you should always consult with your own legal and tax advisors.

Central High School Hall of Fame 2014

by ANNETTE VAN DE KAMP-WRIGHT ing such brands as Avia, Turntec, Nevados, Editor, Jewish Press And1 and Ryka. He has been inducted into On Oct. 2, the Central High School the National Sporting Goods Hall of Fame Alumni Association inducted nine indi- (along with Phil Knight) and the Fashion viduals whose paths from the school led Footwear Hall of Fame. He has also continthem to the highest levels of achievement ued to support CHS by endowing a generous scholarship to be awarded to a CHS in business and community service. graduate who will attend the University of Jerome Turner, Class of 1953 A graduate of the University of Pennsylvania.

Also inducted this year Pennsylvania’s Wharton were Ramona (Thompson) School of Finance, Jerry Bartee, Class of 1963; Sam Turner became an innovative Beber, Class of 1919, Peter leader in the athletic footwear Buffett, Class of 1976, David industry. Jerry’s unique athJacobson, Class of 1966, Roy letic shoe design techniques Katskee, Class of 1960, Alan included using ethyl vinyl Marer, Class of 1951, Cory acetate (EVA), shock absorbL. Richards, Class of 1966 ing midsoles, removable sock and Rita Ryan, liners, Gore Tex, dual density Distinguished Educator.

EVA, and varus wedge -- all Editor’s note: Jerome innovations that became Turner’s name was inadverindustry standard. He and his Jerome Turner tently left off the list of wife combined their skills and marketing knowledge to become one of the Central High School inductees when we ran first foreign-owned Chinese manufacturing the story in our Oct. 31 edition. The Jewish companies to employ hundreds of workers Press very much regrets the error. in the U.S. and thousands in China, produc-

Visit us at jewishomaha.org

November 7, 2014 | The Jewish Press | 5

Omaha’s 41st Annual celebration of Jewish Book Month

by MARK KIRCHHOFF Administrative Assistant, Center for Jewish Life The Jewish community in Omaha will begin the celebration of the 41st year of the Jewish Book Month with a luncheon on Thursday, Nov. 20 at 11:45 a.m. in the JCC Auditorium. Guest author and speaker will be Susan Jane Gilman featuring her June 2014 novel, The Ice Cream Queen of Orchard Street. Gilman is the New York Times bestselling author of three additional nonfiction books: Undress Me in the Temple of Heaven (2009), Hypocrite in a Pouffy White Dress (2005), and Kiss My Tiara (2001).

Lillian Dunkle, protagonist in The Ice Cream Queen..., tells an epic tale of her rise from the squalor of the Lower East Side tenements as a new immigrant to become the greatest ice cream maker in America. Through this captivating story you come to know Lillian as a charming, hard-working ruthless businesswoman who’s overcome her disability to become America’s Ice Cream Queen. She is an anti-hero -- who verges on villain -- and you can’t help but love her.

Anne Korkeakivi, author of An Unexpected Guest, has described Gilman’s book in the following manner, “Gilman mixes two of the world’s best creations, ice cream and New York City, with brains, irreverence, panoramic historical research, and a huge heart. Set aside a chunk of time when you scoop this wonderful novel up, because you won’t be able to put it down.”

An author’s meet and greet will follow the luncheon.

Copies of The Ice Cream Queen will be available. The luncheon is open to the community. Meal cost is $12 per person.

Reservations must be made by Nov. 13 by calling 402.3346463 or emailing mkirchhoff@jewishomaha.org.

Author and scholar Assaf Gavron will be the featured author for the second event of the Jewish Book Month celebration taking place on Dec. 4 at 7 p.m. in the Kripke Jewish Federation Library. Gavron will focus on his life as an author and discuss his most recent novel, The Hilltop: A Novel.”

Gavron is the Schusterman Scholar at the Natan & Hannah Schwalb Center for Jewish and Israeli Studies at UNO. He has published five additional novels that have been translated into German, Russian, Italian, French, English, Dutch, Swedish, Greek and Bulgarian from the original Hebrew. He was the chief writer of the prize-winning computer game Peacemaker and has contributed to numerous newspapers and magazines, writing on subjects ranging from sports to politics, and from music to food. As the captain of Israel’s national writers’ and poets’ soccer team, he led it in several international matches. Watch for more details about this evening in an upcoming edition of the Jewish Press.

The final event of the Jewish Book Month will focus on

Organizations B’NAI B’RITH BREADBREAKERS Jeff Vanderloo, Creighton University, director of basketball operations in the upcoming season will speak on Wednesday, Nov. 12, noon, at the Rose Blumkin Jewish 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.

where reading begins – with the kids. A fun evening is planned through the PJ Library® Program at the Omaha Children’s Museum on Saturday, Dec. 13 from 6-9 p.m. The

Susan Jane Gilman event is geared toward children of PJ Library age – six months to eight years – with their parents. Older siblings and grandparents are welcome to attend. In addition to the fun of the museum, the evening will feature a special reading of a PJ Library book. Omaha’s PJ Library Program provides

age appropriate Jewish-content books on a monthly basis to Jewish children in Omaha. The national program is through the Harold Grinspoon Foundation. Omaha’s program is sponsored by the Dorothy and Myer S. Kripke Institute for Family Literacy. The Children’s Museum event is open to the community free of charge thanks to the generous support of the Special Donor-Advised Fund and the Esther K. Newman Memorial Fund, both of the Jewish Federation of Omaha. A light dinner is provided. Reservations must be made by Dec. 5 by phoning 402.334.6463 or emailing mkirchhoff@jewishomaha.org.

Jewish Book Month is promoted by the Jewish Book Council and is an annual event dedicated to the celebration of Jewish books. The roots of Jewish Book Month started in 1925 when Fanny Goldstein, a librarian at the West End Branch of the Boston Public Library, set up an exhibit of Judaic books and used it as a focus of what she called Jewish Book Week. The event was later adopted by communities around the country. It expanded to a onemonth celebration centered around Hanukkah to promote books of Jewish content as gifts. In Omaha, Jewish Book Month is promoted by the Center for Jewish Life, whose mission it is to maximize involvement of Omaha’s Jewish community in imaginative, compelling and meaningful Jewish experiences.

A different twist on an afternoon of Jewish Learning

by MARY SUE GROSSMAN Program Coordinator, Center for Jewish Life During this year’s Global Day of Jewish Learning, Sunday, Nov. 16, 1:30 - 5 p.m., the presentations and workshops will explore a unique line-up. The theme of Heroes, Villains, Saints and Fools: The People in the Book provides a variety of options for the session presenters. these The afternoon will kick off in lively fashion with a sessions and details on keynote presentation with the musical talents of Doni the remaining presenZasloff and Eric Lindberg presenting Judaism and the tors and sessions will be American Songbook. This workshop will be both an in next week’s Jewish entertaining and educational interactive musical expePress and on the Center rience, exploring tunes from the mid-1800s to current for Jewish Life page at day making a connection between some of America’s www.jewishomaha.org. most beloved songs and the Jewish tradition. Doni, the Omaha’s Global Day headliner for the “Mama Doni Band,” and Eric will event is open to the work their musical magic during this unqiue performcommunity, free of ance/workshop/presentation. charge, thanks to the Following the keynote, a variety of workshops and generous funding of the Eric Lindberg and Doni Zasloff performances will be held throughout the afternoon.

Klutznick Chair of Ophir Palmon, a well-known photographer, will show Jewish Civilization at Creighton University and the Sokolof ways in which the elements of the Global Day theme can be Javitch Music Fund. explored with an artistic interpretation. Hazzan Michael The Global Day of Jewish Learning is presented through Krausman will focus on the villain portion of the theme the Center for Jewish life whose mission it is to maximize with the topic The Presence of Satan in Our Liturgical involvement of Omaha’s Jewish community in imaginative, Tradition. Marty Shukert is looking forward to the chal- compelling and meaningful Jewish experiences. Questions lenge of leading an interactive session exploring the defini- about the event may be directed to Mark Kirchhoff at tions of the theme elements. Additional information on 402.334.6463 or mkirchhoff@jewishomaha.org.

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6 | The Jewish Press | November 7, 2014

Beth Israel Scholar-in-Residence: Gila Manolson

by RABBI YAAKOV WEISS speaking widely in Israel, she has given talks at schools, Interim Mashgiach Ruchani, Beth Israel Synagogue campuses, and other organizations in North America. Her “Engaging” and “amazing” are not words frequently used lecture tours have also taken her to Switzerland, the United to describe a presentation on modesty but those are the per- Kingdom, South Africa, Russia, Argentina, Chile, and the fect words to describe Gila Manolson’s talks. Gila’s unique Netherlands. style will be in focus during her time as Beth Israel’s ScholarBeth Israel’s Scholar-in-Residence weekend will include a in-Residence the weekend of Nov. 21-22.

Family Shabbat dinner on Friday night. Candle lighting and Gila was born into an assimilated Jewish family in the services are at 4:42 p.m. and dinner will follow Mincha and northeastern United States.

Kabbalat Shabbat. Gila’s talk following Considering herself an atheist, she dinner will be How to Have a expressed her idealism through social Relationship with God. Shabbat dinner causes, including vegetarianism, femis $12 for adults, $6 for children ages inism, and environmentalism. After 4-18 and free for those 3 and under. graduating Yale University and travAn alternative family rate of $30 is eling through Europe, she found heralso an option. Sponsorships are availself in Jerusalem, where she discovable at $36, which includes one dinered a “3,000-year-old counterculner; $54 including two dinners; $72 ture”—Torah Judaism. Intrigued by for up to three dinners; and $90 for up its teachings, she decided to stay and to four dinners. Call the synagogue study and she never left. Today she is office at 402.556.6288 for reservations. a practicing Orthodox Jew. Manolson will deliver the Shabbat The topic of male-female relationmorning sermon, Finding Yourself in ships has always held an interest for the Crowd: Judaism and Individuality.

Gila. Unimpressed by how relationIn the late afternoon, following the ships were conducted in the secular 4:25 p.m. Mincha service, a special world, she made it her goal to underWomen’s Suedah Shlishit will feature Gila Manolson stand the traditional Jewish approach. a round table discussion with She later adopted that approach in dating her husband. Today Manolson and presentations by Beth Israel’s youth. she is happily married to Avraham and the mother of seven.

The weekend will conclude with Girl’s Night Out beginShortly after marrying, she embarked upon a teaching and ning at 7 p.m. This is a special opportunity for the women speaking career, which developed into a writing career. The of Omaha to come join. Mothers and daughters are encourresult was a first-of-a-kind book in the Jewish world, which aged to attend this event together. A special Melava Malka, became a bestseller. The Magic Touch: A Jewish Approach to a unique meal to say farewell to Shabbat, will include Gila’s Relationships is a frank discussion of the controversial practice presentation of Who Am I? Self-Definition in Judaism. The of refraining from all physical involvement before marriage.

Saturday night program is free of charge but reservations are Gila subsequently published Outside/Inside: A Fresh appreciated.

Approach to Tzniut which examines modesty - better transThe Scholar-in-Residence weekend is being coordinated lated as internality – and a spiritual look at self-definition; by the committee members Tippi Denenberg, Debbie Head to Heart: What to Know before Dating and Marriage, a Kricsfeld, Aviva Segal, and Liat Shyken. “I am excited for series of essays on topics relevant to marriage preparation; this wonderful opportunity for my daughters to think about and Choosing to Love: Building a Deep Relationship with their relationship with God and how that relates to their Another Person—and with Yourself, a broader and deeper relationships with others,” notes Aviva Segal in anticipation exposition of love, touch, and tzniut. Her books have been of the weekend. translated into Hebrew, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Beth Israel’s Scholar-in-Residence weekend is open to the Russian, and Italian. As an author, Gila’s greatest gratifica- community. The mission of Beth Israel Synagogue is to pertion is being told -- as she has by countless people -- “Your petuate the legacy of Torah Judaism in the modern world book changed my life.” and provide a home for those who wish to learn about and Believing that her messages are universal, Gila recently observe halacha, Jewish law. Beth Israel Synagogue welembarked upon a new project, that of reaching out beyond the comes all persons of the Jewish faith to join and accepts the Jewish world. With this in mind, she has just released Hands diversity of practice and thought among its members. Beth Off! This May Be Love: God’s Gift for Establishing Enduring Israel offers a variety of religious, cultural and social proRelationships for a general, spiritually-oriented audience, grams throughout the year. For more information, please including religious Christians and other people of faith. contact Beth Israel Synagogue’s office at 402.556.6288, or eGila is also a popular international lecturer. In addition to mail BethIsrael@OrthodoxOmaha.org.

Bagels and Finance

by RUSS KAPLAN Russ Kaplan Investments The Stock Market can be a ponderous mystery to most of us. Yet, it does not have to be that way. Would you like to find out what is happening in the financial world, without having to pay for the advice? Do you enjoy discussing the happenings in the world of investing? This can be done when you stop by Russ Kaplan Investments, Inc. Bagels and Finance, held monthly on Friday, at the Bagel Bin, at 3:30 pm. Enjoy your late Friday afternoon, kibitzing, enjoying a delicious bagel, being with like-minded individuals, and keep up-to-date on the Stock Market. I am an independent financial adviser with thirty years of experience in the field. We always have current and interesting topics to discuss. We are happy to answer any of your financial questions. Bagels and Finance is an open discussion group to the public. Be sure to check the dates on the Russ Kaplan Investments Facebook Page or call Russ at 402.614.1321. We hope to see you there.

Rick Ray’s The Promised Land: Adventures in the Middle East Omaha World Adventurers brings writer and director, Rick Ray with his newest film, The Promised Land: Adventures in the Middle East to Village Pointe Theaters on Thursday, Nov. 16. There will be two 90 minute showing, 2 and 7:30 p.m. tickets at the door $14 cash or check.

This is the third show in a series of six travel adventure films that are produce for those who love travels and is in its 58 season.

Ray has produced more than twelve films on regions as diverse as Israel, Bali, Borneo, Lebanon, Ethiopia, Syria, Iceland, with titles that include Raise The Bamboo Curtain with Martin Sheen and the highly regarded The Soul of India.

His award-winning documentary, 10 Questions for the Dalai Lama is currently in worldwide distribution.

When you hear the words The Middle East, what images are conjured in your mind? Do you imagine unparalleled hospitality, dynamic people, breathtaking desert scenery and fascinating archeological sites dating back to the dawn of time? Or do you imagine instead terrorism, religious intolerance, and fanatic political figures?

In reality, the Middle East is a region of paradoxes. It`s a land where people go out of their way to make a stranger feel at home, but it is also a land where throughout history has witnessed acts of brutality between enemy tribes and clans.

This film represents a personal journey in words and images through several Middle Eastern countries including Israel, Jordan, Lebanon and Turkey. It will include wonders such as Petra, Jerusalem, the Cedars of Lebanon, and Cappadocia.

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Social Justice: Walking the walk

by SCOTT LITTKY ber of our community is important and creProgram Director, Temple Israel ated in the image of God. Pirkei Avot 1:2 teaches us - Simon The G’milut Chasadim is going the extra step Just taught, “The world is sustained by three and performing acts of loving kindness, things: by the Torah, by Avodah, and by G’milut Chasadim.” In the context of the modern world where everyone is going all the time in many directions, we often lose our way in fulfilling this teaching.

A dedication to Torah can be expressed in a number of different ways. For example, the students in Temple Israel’s religious school learn and study about what is taught in the Torah. Each Shabbat morning at 9:15 a.m. our adult community is invited to study the weekly Torah sedra with a member of our clergy, and many of our adult learning opportunities are centered on Torah. At Temple Israel we literally treat Torah as a Tree of Life.

Justin Cooper working at Habitat for Humanity In the Chai: Learning for Jewish Life curriculum used in many reli- doing what is right only for the sake of doing gious schools including Temple Israel, the right thing. In our society today, we all Avodah is taught as the enduring under- know special people who act as a Tzadik, a standing of the work we do to find sacred person who is righteous -- the person who is connections to God, Community and Self. always looking out for the other person or Each year our Eighth Grade class contacts helping the new member to feel welcomed members of the congregation who are 80 and appreciated. This person serves as a years old or older to wish them a happy new role model for all of us. year at Rosh Hashanah and again they call Finally this teaching is brought together in before Passover. Both the older members our outlook upon social justice. At Temple and the younger students have commented Israel, we are dedicated to creating a comover the years about how much they have munity committed to the teaching of Simon gotten out of these experiences. As a result, The Just: a community who by its belief in our students have aided in strengthening the Torah, its examples set by a commitment to bonds between our communities and have Avodah and by acts of G’milut Chasadim, assisted in helping to teach that every mem- improves the world we live in.

Noah’s Ark at the JCC

by OZZIE NOGG Noah’s Ark, a mini-musical, will be presented on Friday, Nov. 14, at 1:30 p.m. in the Jewish Community Center Theater.

The production is free and open to the entire community. Written and produced

by Deborah Greenblatt and David Seay, this original adaptation of the Flood and life on the Ark features Rose Blumkin Jewish Home Residents and students from the Friedel Jewish Academy singing selections in a variety of styles, inducing blues, Cajun, calypso and Klezmer.

“In preparing for the performance, students were paired with Residents as they learned to express themselves through creative dramatics with professional artists,” said Karen Menagh, RBJH Activities Director who chaired the project. “They became acting partners, friends and mentors to one another. Collaborating on this

mini-musical helped unify the diverse Jewish age groups who share the Jewish Federation of Omaha campus, and we know Residents and students have benefited from their exposure to and interactions with each other and the professional artists.”

The performance of Noah’s Ark is made possible with support of the Nebraska Arts Council, the Nebraska Cultural Endowment and the Esther K. Newman Memorial Fund of the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation. “We consider this intergenerational program to be a gateway for more projects in the future that will allow the Jewish youth and elderly in our community to interact,” said Maggie Conti, Director of Activities and Outreach Programs at the Blumkin Home. “Please join us on Nov. 14 for this delightful show.”

In the news Ethan Finkelstein, 10, of Integrity ATA Martial Arts, competed this past weekend in the Heartland Championships held in Crete, NE. Ethan placed 3rd in form completion, 2nd in traditional sparring and 1st in combat sparring. He is a 2nd degree recommended black belt and attends Friedel Jewish Academy.

Sandy Gordon, owner of Integrity ATA

placed 1st in each of her competed divisions: form/traditional sparring/combat sparring.

Sandy is a 2nd degree black belt. She competed the previous weekend in Sioux Falls and again came in first place in the same divisions. Sandy attended ATA Fall Nationals in Orlando where she placed 3rd in form/sparring and 2nd in combat sparring. She competes in the 60 and over age catergory.

To submit announcements: Announcements may be e-mailed to the Press at jpress@jewishomaha.org; faxed to 402.334.5422, or mailed to 333 So. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68154.

Readers can also submit announcements -- births, b’nai mitzvahs, engagements, marriages, commitment ceremonies or obituaries -- online at the Jewish Federation of Omaha website: www.jewishomaha.org. Click on “Jewish Press” and go to Submit Announcements.

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8 | The Jewish Press | November 7, 2014

Point of view

American Jewish Press Association Award Winner

Nebraska Press National Newspaper Association Association Award winner 2008

Humility ANNETTE VAN DE KAMP-WRIGHT Jewish Press Editor Just when you think everything is going well and life is running more or less smoothly, something happens to make you realize: you are not in control. At all. There are times when the point is driven home in big ways, but also times when you mess up in smaller ways. Not necessarily earth shattering, but wrong nonetheless. When that happens, it’s time to acknowledge your mistake, apologize, and move on.

First, the acknowledgement: when, in the Oct. 31st issue, I included the list of people added to Central High’s Hall of Fame, I excluded one person. Not on purpose, not out of malicious intent; simply because I was distracted. And while being distracted is not something unheard of for a newspaper editor, it shouldn’t lead to such an omission. If you think it’s not such a big deal, imagine yourself in the shoes of the person omitted. It’s just not nice.

I want to take this opportunity to apologize for my mistake, and emphasize it was mine, and mine alone; my staff does not share in the blame. The buck stops with me (and if anyone can tell me the etymological origins of that expression, please do so).

When these types of mistakes happen, we are forced to take a look at our own behavior and learn from it.

Not only as Jews, but as human beings, period. After all, if we don’t learn from our mistakes, big or small, how will we learn?

I think the learning part is what ultimately makes the act of acknowledgement worthwhile; it is never fun to admit it when one is at fault, but when we do, we always grow from it. It is up to us to decide in which direction we want that growth to happen.

But there’s more, because we don’t live for ourselves alone.

When we realize our own personal limitations on a regular

basis, we also create room for empathy towards others. After all, when we are confronted with our own imperfections, we can gain more understanding for the people around us. It will make us less judgemental, if we allow it.

The woman who cut you off in traffic this morning may have a sick husband at home; the manager at the supermarket who took forever to check us out may be waiting to hear the results of his latest blood test. Maybe the woman we speak to on the phone just got yelled at by three other cus-

tomers, and she’s out of patience. Or, perhaps she has no excuse at all, but is simply busy and distracted. Maybe she’s had 100 perfectly nice interactions and simply slips up.

We’re all human, and none of us are perfect, and it’s tremendously important to remember that.

“We often make the mistake in our religious lives of thinking that unless we do everything perfectly, it's better not to do anything at all,” Lori Palatnik writes on Aish.com. “After all, we think, why be a hypocrite?”

She raises a valid point. We often look at our own behavior as if it is all-or-nothing. You can’t say one thing and do the opposite without being judged, whether it is by yourself or by others. It’s true in our religious lives, as Palatnik states, but it’s true in our secular lives as well.

“If you're on a diet.” Palatnik continues, “and you sneak a donut, is it right to say, I might as well eat the whole box?"

Don’t I wish.

Here’s the tricky part, though. We all make mistakes, we shouldn’t judge too harshly, but that doesn’t mean we blindly accept any and all mistakes. We still have to learn from them, whether they seem small and insignificant, or are larger than life. It is, as is so often the case, all about balance.

On PsychologyToday.com, John D. Mayer writes: “Judging personality involves moral and ethical concerns as well as the search for accuracy in judgments of an individual’s character.” He adds: “Biblical Judaism included laws and obligations that people judge one another fairly, and with loving-kindness.”

Maybe it’s because I am married to a therapist, but when I hit a bump (even a small one) I often am tempted to take my own mistakes very seriously.

Maybe I’m overreacting a little. I do have the capacity to move on quickly after a mess up (it’s necessary when putting out a weekly paper, since the opportunities for mistakes are virtually unlimited). Yet, at the same time, every once in a while I think it is okay to live with it for a few days, mull it over, and really embrace it as an opportunity to grow from it. And maybe, just maybe, the next time someone cuts me off in traffic, I will respond with loving kindness. Since we have established by now that I am definitely not perfect, I am not making any promises. But: I am going to try. I’ll let you know how it works out. I’m guessing I’ll be eating a few more boxes of donuts before I get there.

How Palestinian ‘lawfare’ could backfire

Focus on issues DANNY DANON (JTA) -- When it comes to a long-term solution for our conflict with the Palestinians, there is no unanimity among Israelis. Many feel that the two-state solution is the only realistic option, while others believe that a Palestinian state would endanger Israel and therefore a regional agreement is needed to address this complex issue.

Nevertheless, despite these divisions, there is widespread agreement in Israel opposing Palestinian diplomatic warfare, commonly referred to as “lawfare.”

Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas has again presented the United Nations with a unilateral plan for achieving Palestinian statehood. President Abbas’ statement at this year’s U.N. General Assembly, in which he rejected negotiating with Israel, is coupled with his repeated threats to use international forums against Israel if his demands are not met.

It appears that President Abbas is trying to achieve via international institutions what he was unable to accomplish at the negotiating table. He seems to be ignoring, however, that the Palestinians have a lot more to lose from such actions than Israel.

In March, as Israel and the American mediators were trying to hammer out an agreement extending the U.S.-sponsored talks, President Abbas decided to sign papers admitting the Palestinian Authority to 15 international treaties and conventions. Many experts in international law see little value in the move. If President Abbas goes ahead with his plans to use international institutions to force concessions from Israel, then Israel, the United States and other fair-

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minded countries should demand that the Palestinian Authority be held accountable to the treaties and conventions it has signed.

If he proceeds down this route, President Abbas will soon find that his own P.A. is in blatant violation of at least 11 of these 15 treaties and conventions. In April, just a few weeks after rejecting the American efforts to continue the peace talks, President Abbas announced that his Fatah faction was forming a unity government with the Hamas terrorist organization. It is well documented that during their battle with Israel this summer, Hamas regularly used areas inhabited by Palestinian civilians to launch attacks on Israeli civilians. This put them in direct violation of the Geneva Convention that the Palestinian Authority signed for both firing from civilian locations and purposely targeting civilian population centers.

Another treaty that the P.A. is likely to find itself in direct violation of is the International Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Racial Discrimination. President Abbas apparently signed this convention without closely examining the legal system of the Palestinian Authority, which includes a law forbidding selling land to Jews. Those who have broken this law have been sentenced to the death penalty. It is hard to see how President Abbas would defend such a law in international legal forums.

One more example of legal trouble President Abbas might find himself in relates to the U.N. Convention Against Corruption that he signed in March. Even the biggest financial supporters of the P.A. regularly report blatant irregularities regarding the funds they contribute. In September the European Union reported “significant shortcomings” in the P.A.’s management of the $2.5 billion in aid that was provided from 2008 to 2012. Close observers of the P.A.’s budget

know that this is merely the tip of the iceberg when it comes to mismanagement and outright corruption.

I raise these issues not to threaten the Palestinian Authority but to make clear that there is legal and diplomatic recourse for unilateral Palestinian action. Regardless of one’s positions on Palestinian statehood, it should be made clear that this 100-year-old conflict will not be resolved if President Abbas continues on his path of unilateral action and attempts to circumvent direct dialogue with Israel.

The latest conflict in Gaza and the new-found public awareness of the evils of Hamas have afforded the Palestinian leadership with the chance to improve the condition of its people.

Instead of once more validating Abba Eban’s statement that the “Arabs never miss an opportunity to miss an opportunity,” we can only hope that President Abbas will change course. Now is the time to disassociate himself and the P.A. from the terrorists of Hamas and join with the moderate forces in the region who are striving to end Islamic fundamentalism and move the entire region forward on a path of progress and hope.

Based on his most recent actions, it is doubtful that President Abbas will have the moral courage needed to make the hard choice and put his people on the right side of history. Personally, I am even more skeptical than many of my colleagues that President Abbas will make such a move.

What needs to be made clear, however, by the governments of Israel and the United States is that unilateral actions and diplomatic warfare by the Palestinians will no longer be met with defensive hesitation. There can be real tools that can be used against such actions and we should not shy away from using them.

Danny Danon, a Knesset member, has served as Israel’s deputy minister of defense.

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November 7, 2014 | The Jewish Press | 9

Hillel is an open forum

Focus on issues ERIC FINGERHUT WASHINGTON (JTA) — Once again the love affair between the Jewish people and higher education is back in full bloom. The start of a new school year and the Jewish New Year marked the beginning of robust programming for Jewish college students across the globe.

As students dig into their studies, the events in Israel and Gaza this past summer are a hot topic on many campuses. In response, Hillel International, the largest Jewish student organization in the world — its growing network now serves some 550 campuses in North and South America, Europe, Central Asia, Australia and Israel — is drawing on its expertise in promoting deep and thoughtful discussion.

Hillel is sponsoring a broad range of programs to help students understand the issues and how they will affect Israel and its neighbors in the future.

Hillel professionals have heard presentations from both the Israeli ambassador to the United States and the leader of the opposition in the Knesset. Hillel student leaders have organized interfaith gatherings and intercultural dialogues.

Hillel educators have offered seminars and discussions for students to learn about contemporary Israeli society and culture, to reflect on their own relationships with Israel and to develop skills as dialogue facilitators.

Hillel students have also modeled what respectful discourse looks like: At Cooper Union Hillel in New York City, students countered an effort to boycott a speech by the leader of the Palestinian Authority, Mahmoud Abbas, and encouraged Jewish students to attend and listen respectfully, which they did. And, of course, the tens of thousands of students who attended High Holiday services at Hillel joined Jews all over the world in praying for a year of peace for all people.

What all these activities have in common is they welcome and include students of all backgrounds, all political positions, and who have an exceptionally wide array of relationships with their Jewish identities and with Israel. They do so within an environment that is intellectually rigorous,

respectful of difference and committed to honest conversation. Hillel is among the most religiously, intellectually, culturally and politically pluralistic organizations in the Jewish world — a testament to both the diversity of Jewish experience and of the college campuses we serve.

Inclusivity and broad-mindedness are part of our core values. All students are always welcome at Hillel. And these values guide all of our work. That work includes listening to all student voices including those of the activists behind the

College student outreach leaders came to the Hillel Institute at Washington University in St. Louis to learn the ins and outs of engaging their less engaged peers, Aug. 2012.

Credit: Jonathan Pollack “Open Hillel” campaign and other campus groups.

At the same time, Hillel is deeply dedicated to Israel. From the tens of thousands we’ve led on Taglit-Birthright Israel trips, to the nearly 100 Israelis who serve as Israel Fellows on our campuses, to the many efforts of our professionals to engage and educate students, Israel is a vital part of our mission.

For some, those simultaneous commitments to openness and pluralism on the one hand and to passionate support of Israel on the other may seem contradictory. For Hillel, there is no contradiction. Our Standards for Partnership, which

were developed in close consultation with local Hillels, are designed to ensure that our efforts uphold these commitments to openness and pluralism and to Israel. Hillel will not partner with organizations that espouse anti-Semitism, apply a double standard to Israel, spout racism or promote Islamophobia. Such viewpoints do not represent the values of Hillel International nor the overwhelming number of Jewish students and professionals everywhere.

Hillel’s programming decisions are made by thousands of local student leaders, professionals and lay leaders who are dedicated to engaging the largest number of students in Jewish life on their campuses. In doing so, these leaders are guided by their knowledge of the local environment and by Hillel’s vision of encouraging students to build an enduring commitment to Jewish life, learning and Israel.

This weekend, a small group of activists who created the “Open Hillel” campaign are meeting at Harvard University.

The campaign calls on Hillel to eliminate its Standards of Partnership in order to provide a platform for organizations that promote the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement and other anti-Israel activities.

Several weeks ago, I met with some leaders of this campaign and listened to their concerns. They assured me that they consider themselves a part of Hillel and intend to continue their advocacy within Hillel International. In our meeting, I told the students present what they have already heard from their local Hillel directors: that every student is welcome at Hillel regardless of his or her personal views on Israel or any other topic in Jewish life.

At the same time, Hillel International stands by its Standards of Partnership. More importantly, Hillel International will always back the dedicated student leaders, professionals and lay leaders who are supporting vibrant Jewish life on campus. We work every day to help students find their connection to the Jewish people and live the Jewish values that make this a better world for all people. As we grow, Hillel will continue to hold firm to the values that define the Jewish community worldwide – peoplehood, nationhood and faith in the future.

Eric Fingerhut is the president and chief executive officer of Hillel International.

Open Hillel is a necessary intervention

Focus on issues EVAN GOLDSTEIN BOSTON (JTA) -- Four rabbis are engaged in an animated debate about Jewish law. Three of them agree, but the dissenter is adamant that he’s got it right. He cries out: “A sign, God, I beg You, a sign!”

It begins to rain, but the three in the majority are not swayed. “Another sign, please God!” The rain picks up and lightning strikes near the rabbis, but still the three refuse to budge. After another plea from the one rabbi, a voice thunders from Heaven: “Heeeee’s Riiiiight!” The three rabbis look at each other, not sure how to react. Finally, one responds: “Well, all right. So it’s three against two.”

This lighthearted parable -- an adapted version of the Talmud’s “Oven of Akhnai” story -- highlights one of the foundational truths of Judaism: We do not always agree on our foundational truths.

Our disagreements are not a hindrance to communal existence but rather the source of an intellectual diversity. No matter the subject, it is precisely in and through these disagreements that Judaism finds its richest expression.

Open Hillel -- a student-led campaign to change a Hillel International rule that, among other things, precludes it from partnering with groups that seek to change Israeli policies through nonviolent Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) efforts -- is hosting our first conference this week at Harvard. We are gathering because we believe that the principle of intellectual diversity ought to apply to our politics as well as our theology.

While our core demand is that Hillel International drop its so-called “Standards of Partnership” rules, our movement has much more to do with ensuring a Jewish future that recognizes the diversity of the Jewish people. Even among our organizers, there are many different opinions on Medinat Yisrael (the State of Israel). But we are united by our shared commitment to a vibrant am Yisrael, to a Jewish people that carries on the treasured communal, spiritual, prophetic and ethical values of Jewish tradition.

By enforcing standards that alienate a significant cohort of the Jewish student population, Hillel International has failed to foster an inclusive space for all members of the Jewish community. While this may please certain vocal and powerful elements of the American political establishment, it ulti-

mately amounts to an abandonment of many Jewish students and a weakening of the Jewish community.

Jews do not think with one mind about anything, least of all about Israel-Palestine. The notion that speakers who hold particular views are dangerous to the vitality of the Jewish community serves only to demonize the diversity that is central to our future.

Many Jews believe that BDS is wrong-headed; many do not. Open Hillel’s call is for a Jewish space in which that conversation can take place, along with the myriad other contentious conversations our people have engaged in from time immemorial.

Judith Butler, flanked by Steven M. Cohen, left, and David Harris Gershon, speaking at the inaugural Open Hillel conference at Harvard University in Cambridge, Mass., Oct. 12, Credit: Gili Getz 2014.

In his Oct. 8 JTA opinion piece, Hillel International’s president and CEO, Eric Fingerhut, inaccurately suggests that Open Hillel was founded “in order to provide a platform for organizations that promote the [BDS] movement.” In fact, our conference is designed to showcase the type of diversity and debate that Hillel’s “Standards of Partnership” do not allow for. We sent invitations to left-wingers, right-wingers, Zionists, one-staters, BDS supporters, Palestinians and Jews -- and the list goes on.

Some of our attendees passionately oppose all boycotts.

Others support a boycott of Israeli settlements in the West Bank, and still others support broader forms of BDS. There are bound to be heated disagreements, but these will only serve to stimulate our thinking and strengthen our core commitment to pluralism.

Our conference, where more than 300 participants are expected, models the kind of am Yisrael that we believe is

most conducive to a strong Jewish future: one in which everybody has a seat at the table, whether you’re an antiZionist who’s shomer Shabbos or an oleh [new immigrant to Israel] who eats on Yom Kippur.

Evan Goldstein is a senior at Boston College majoring in theology and minoring in philosophy. He is an Opinions staff writer for the BC Gavel and can be found on Twitter as @egoldstein93.

Conversion reform

by JTA NEWS STAFF JERUSALEM (JTA) -- Israel’s Cabinet approved a government regulation that will reform the conversion process.

The regulation, which echoes the controversial conversion bill that for the second time passed the Constitution, Law and Justice Committee, was approved on Sunday at the weekly Cabinet meeting. It will have the force of law but can be rescinded by the Cabinet.

Only the Jewish Home party’s Uri Ariel, who serves as housing minister, voted against the regulation, The Jerusalem Post reported.

The regulation that passed the Knesset committee last week was headed for the Knesset plenum as early as this week.

Under the measure, as many as 30 courts made up of municipal rabbis would be allowed for the purpose of conversion. Currently there are 33 rabbis and four conversion courts that can perform conversions throughout Israel.

After approving the bill in March, the committee was required to vote a second time due to the addition of 38 amendments proposed by the opposition; they were all voted down by the committee.

Sponsored by Elazar Stern of the Hatnua party, the bill already passed one reading in the Knesset this summer.

Israeli media reported last month that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had withdrawn his support for the bill in order to shore up his coalition base and not upset the haredi Orthodox Shas and United Torah Judaism parties, which he might need to form an alliance in future governments.

Israel’s chief rabbis last week said they would not recognize conversions performed by municipal chief rabbis.

10 | The Jewish Press | November 7, 2014

Synagogues B’NAI ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE 618 Mynster Street | Council Bluffs, IA 51503-0766 |712.322.4705 email: BnaiIsraelCouncilBluffs@gmail.com Join us for our monthly Shabbat Speakers Series on Nov. 14, 7:30 p.m. with guest speaker, Phil Wolf on Jews in Spain.

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

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

FRIDAY: Family Shabbat, 6 p.m. led by BESTT 7th grade students and followed by a Congregational Shabbat Dinner.

SATURDAY: Shabbat Service/Have a Cup of Coffee with God, 9:30 a.m.; Junior Congregation, 10 a.m.; Mini Minyannaires, 10:45 a.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 5 p.m.

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

SUNDAY: BESTT Classes, 9:45 a.m.; Babies, Bigger Kids & Bagels Playgroup, 9:45 a.m.; Torah Study Group, 10 a.m.; Strange Customs of the Modern Day Jew, 10 a.m.; Torah Tots, 10:15 a.m.; Adult B’nai Mitzvah Class, 11 a.m.; Sunday Scholar Series, 11 a.m., with Bea Karp on Kristallnacht.

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

WEDNESDAY: BESTT Classes, 4:15 p.m.; Hebrew High School, 6:45 p.m.

Sunday Scholar Series, Sunday, Nov. 14, 11 a.m. with Moshe Gershovitz on Moroccan Jews.

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

a.m.; Mincha/Seudah Shlishit, 4:35 p.m.; Havdalah, 5:55 p.m.

SUNDAY: Talmud Brachot, 8:30 a.m.; Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Bagels and Beit Medrash: Understanding Our Prayers, 9:45 a.m.; A Deeper Look at Talmud, 10:30 a.m.

WEEKDAYS: Shacharit, 7 a.m.

MONDAY: Current Events with Jack Kozlen and Rabbi Ari, 7:45 a.m.; Scholar’s Club with Boys, 3:30 p.m.

TUESDAY: Rabbi Weiss’s Weekly Class, 8 p.m.

THURSDAY: Women’s Class: Deepening our connection with God, 9:30 a.m.; Med Center Chaburah, 1 p.m.; Scholar’s Club for girls, 3:30 p.m.

CHABAD HOUSE 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: Shacharit, 7 a.m.

SATURDAY: Shacharit, 9:30 a.m.

SUNDAY: Shacharit, 8:30 a.m.

WEEKDAYS: Shacharit, 7 a.m.

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

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

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

All programs are open to the entire community.

CONGREGATION B’NAI JESHURUN BETH ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE Member of Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America 12604 Pacific Street | Omaha, NE. 68154 | 402.556.6288 www.orthodoxomaha.org Office hours: Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. and Friday, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

FRIDAY: Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Mincha/Kabbalat Shabbat, 4:54 p.m.

SATURDAY: Talmud Brachot, 8:30 a.m.; Shacharit, 9

B’nai Mitzvah Jack Rubin, son of Erica and Michael Parks and Whitney and Barry Rubin, will become a Bar Mitzvah on Saturday, Nov. 15, at Temple Israel.

Jack is an eighth-grade honor roll and HAL student at Kiewit Middle School.

His interests include tackle football, flag football, basketball and video games.

For his mitzvah project, Jack served meals at the Siena Francis house.

He has two brothers, Ethan Rubin and Camden Parks, and a sister, Adrianna Parks.

Grandparents are Saundra and Harvey Newman, Mark Rothstein, and Barbara and Alan Rubin.

Great-grandparents are Ferle Garland and Sylvia Rubin.

Ari Jack Saltzman, son of Linda and Kevin Saltzman, will become a Bar Mitzvah on Saturday, Nov. 15, at Beth El Synagogue.

Ari is a seventh-grade student at Buffett Magnet Middle School. He is a summa cum laude student and a participant in the Duke University Talent Identification Program.

His interests include playing golf on the Nebraska Junior Golf Tour, traveling, studying U.S. history and current events, and scrupulously following college football.

For his mitzvah project, Ari is participating in a ninemonth junior volunteer program at the Nebraska Humane Society. Upon completion of the program, Ari will be eligible to volunteer at NHS and become a counselor at NHS’s sumnmer camp.

He has a younger sister, Dina.

Grandparents are Rosalie and Ernest Saltzman, and Alice and Robert Lachin of Potomac, MD.

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

FRIDAY: Early Family Shabbat Service and Family Dinner, 6 p.m. hosted by the Weisser family. Please RSVP to the Temple office at 402.435.8004 or office@southstreettemple.org; Shabbat Evening Services, 7:45 p.m. with oneg following hosted by Pam Ganz.

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

SUNDAY: The Temple is participating in the Habitat for Humanity Faith Build as part of our celebration of the congregation’s 130th anniversary. Volunteers are needed to help run the “Good Life Halfsy,” a half marathon to be run.

Habitat will be paid for every volunteer, but they are having difficulty getting enough volunteers. Please consider going to www.lincolnhabitat.org and signing up either as an individual or small group; LJCS Gan through Grade 7, 9:30 a.m.noon at Tifereth Israel; Hallah High Lite, 9:45 a.m.-noon at South Street Temple; Hallah High, 9:45 a.m.-noon at

Shabbat Speakers Series

by NANCY WOLF B’nai Israel Synagogue in Council Bluffs is pleased to announce the start of the new year’s Shabbat Speaker series for Friday, Nov. 14 at 7:30 p.m.

During the 8 years the synagogue has hosted this series as part of our Friday evening Kabbalat Shabbat service, our friends and visitors have been able to hear from speakers on many varied topics.

The first in our Phil Wolf next to the statue of series will feature Maimonides, in Cordoba, Spain.

Phil Wolf, and his topic, “Jews in Spain.” Drawing on historical anecdotes, and some of the remaining evidence of Jewish presence in Spain, Phil hopes to share his reflections on the contributions Jews have had on, and from, the Iberian peninsula through the centuries.

Everyone is always welcome at B’nai Israel synagogue.

Please join us!

Candlelighting Friday, November 7, 4:54 p.m.

Tifereth Israel; Cantillation Class, 6 p.m.

WEDNESDAY: Hebrew classes, 4-6 p.m. at Tifereth Israel.

LJCS Shabbat Family Service and Meal, Friday, Nov.14, 6 p.m. at South Street Temple. Please join with the teachers and children of the Lincoln Jewish Community School as we usher in the Sabbath and celebrate the consecration of this year’s LJCS students.

Global Day of Jewish Learning, Sunday, Nov. 16, 10:30 a.m.–noon at Tifereth Israel.

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

ROSE BLUMKIN JEWISH HOME 323 South 132 Street | Omaha, NE 68154 SATURDAY: Services, 9:15 a.m. led by Alan Shulewitz.

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

TEMPLE ISRAEL Union for Reform Judaism (URJ) 13111 Sterling Ridge Drive | Omaha, NE 68144-1206 | 402.556.6536 http://templeisraelomaha.com FRIDAY: First Friday, with Candle lighting and Kiddush in the Community Court, 5:30 p.m. and Service, 6 p.m., dinner immediately following. Cost: $5/person, max of $20 per family. Reservations required.

SATURDAY: Torah Study, 9:15 a.m.; Shabbat Morning Service, 10:30 a.m. Adam McGauvran, son of Kathy and John McGauvran will celebrate his Bar Mitzvah.

SUNDAY: Grades PreK-6, 10 a.m.; Beginning Prayer Study, 11 a.m. with Elyce Azriel; Religious School Steering Committee Meeting, noon; JYG Bowling, 12:30 p.m. at the V Bowling, 3375 Oak View Drive. Bowling, shoe rental and lunch are included. Parents please drop your kids off at the V at 12:30 p.m. and you can pick them back up at 2:30 p.m.

Please RSVP to Director of Youth Engagement Nikki Flatowicz by Friday, Nov. 7; Gaga, Games and Snacks with Jerry Kaye, Director of OSRUI, 4 p.m.

TUESDAY: Kol Rina Rehearsal, 6:30 p.m.; Mah Jongg Mavens are Back!, 7 p.m. They invite anyone who is interested in coming for lessons and tips. Bring friends or make new friends (men welcome too!). $45 per person, includes a 2014 Mah Jongg card. Contact the Temple Israel office to RSVP, 402.556.6536.

WEDNESDAY: Grades 3-6, 4 p.m.; Grades 7-12, 6 p.m.; Family Night, 6 p.m.; School Dinner, 6 p.m.; Torah from the Beginning: Why Torah? Who wrote it? What is my Torah?, 6:30 p.m. with Rabbi Josh Brown and Dan Gilbert.

THURSDAY: Music in Transition, 10 a.m. with Cantor Shermet.

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

FRIDAY: Shabbat Potluck Dinner and Short Shabbat Service with UNL Hillel members, 6 p.m. at the UNL Multicultural Center. Please bring dairy or pareve dish with you.

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

SUNDAY: LJCS Gan through Grade 7, 9:30 a.m.-noon at Tifereth Israel; Hallah High Lite, 9:45 a.m.-noon at South Street Temple; Hallah High, 9:45 a.m.-noon at Tifereth Israel; Board Meeting, 2 p.m. at Tifereth Israel.

WEDNESDAY: Hebrew classes, 4-6 p.m. at Tifereth Israel.

Join with Jews around the world on the 2014 Global Day of Jewish Learning, Sunday, Nov. 16, 10:30 a.m. - noon as we study together about Heroes & Villains, Saints & Fools: The People in the Book at Tifereth Israel. Light refreshments will be served.

LJCS Hat and Mitten Drive: Join with the JLCS as we collect hats and mittens for the children of the Foster Care Closet. Donations can be dropped at the Synagogue through Sunday, Nov. 23.

JEWISH PRESS NOTICES The Jewish Press office is closed Thursday, Nov. 27, for Thanksgiving; the deadline for the Dec. 5 issue is Monday, Nov. 24, 9 a.m. Questions? Call 402.334.6448.

Pulverente MONUMENT CO.

November 7, 2014 | The Jewish Press | 11

In memoriam REVA B. CHAPMAN Reva B. Chapman passed away on Oct. 18 in Glenview, IL. Services were held on Oct. 22 at Beth El Cemetery and were performed by Rabbi Steven Abraham of Beth El Synagogue.

She was preceded in death by her husband, David Chapman and brother, Laurence Bordy.

She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Susan and Sheldon Schwartz; sons and daughters-in-law, Stuart and Hope Chapman and Robert and Sandra Chapman; grandson, Kenneth Schwartz; and step-grandchildren: Holly, Stephen, and James Kuperman; sister, Bernice Green; niece and nephew, Richard and Joan Green; cousins and many friends.

She was a graduate of Central High School and the University of Iowa and a member of Hadassah and Sigma

Delta Tau. Memorials may be made to the Beth El Synagogue Scholarship Fund.

Michael L. Lazer passed away on Oct. 28 at age 76.

Services were held Oct. 30 at Temple Israel.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy Milder Lazer; daughters and sons-in-law, Andrea and John Grafentin, and Jessica Lazer and Richard Waldman, and daughter, Rachel Roberts; three grandchildren: Ben and Grant Grafentin, Thomas Lazer Waldman; and sister, Judy Kaplan.

Memorials may be made to Omaha Crime Stoppers, Nebraska Humane Society or Food Bank for the Heartland.

by BEN SALES 1993 Israeli-Palestinian Oslo Accords, and argues that Israeli TEL AVIV (JTA) -- SodaStream, the Israeli at-home industry there is thus not a violation of international law. seltzer machine company, announced last week that it would The company drew more criticism this summer after it be closing its West Bank factory and moving the facility’s fired 60 of its Muslim employees, claiming they refused to operations to southern Israel next year. Here’s what you work. The employees countered that SodaStream did not need to know about SodaStream, the controversy that has provide them with sufficient meals following the Ramadan bubbled up in its midst and what the actress Scarlett fast and therefore were unable to safely operate machinery.

Johansson has to do with it.

So what caused the move?

What is SodaStream?

SodaStream’s third-quarter revenue dropped 13 percent, SodaStream is an Israeli company that makes and sells and sales in the Americas dropped 41 percent -- numbers seltzer machines for home use. Since it was founded in 1991, the company says are unrelated to the boycotts. the company has sold more than 10 million machines in 39 Moving to Lehavim, a town in southern Israel, near countries. The foot-and-a-half-tall machines turn still water Beersheba, will yield savings of 2 percent, according to a brief into seltzer in 30 seconds. The company also markets dozens SodaStream statement about the move. The Israeli governof mix-in flavors, such as cola, ginger ale, lemon-lime and ment gave SodaStream a $20 million grant for the new facilfruit punch. ity, part of a larger govWhy is SodaStream ernment effort to incencontroversial? tivize business growth Until this week, in the country’s South.

SodaStream’s main factory The company claims was located in Mishor the motive for the move Adumim, an industrial is “purely commercial,” park in the Israeli West though Birnbaum told Bank settlement of Maale the Forward this year Adumim, east of that the Mishor Jerusalem. Because the setAdumim factory is a tlement is likely to be “pain in the ass.” included in Israel in any Birnbaum said in the future peace deal with the statement that he’s Palestinians, many Israelis working with the Israeli don’t view it as all that congovernment to obtain troversial. work permits that But groups that oppose would enable his Israel’s occupation of the Some of the hundreds of Palestinians who work at SodaStream’s Palestinian employees West Bank have called for West Bank factory that will be shut down. They could be put out of to work at the relocated boycotts of SodaStream work with the facility's relocation to southern Israel. plant. However, the new Credit: Nati Shohat/Flash90 facility is 60 miles away due to the factory’s location. The debate over SodaStream gained attention earlier from the Mishor Adumim workplace. this year when the actress Scarlett Johansson became the “While we are enthusiastic about our new Lehavim faciliface of the company, appearing in a SodaStream ad during ty and the exciting promise it brings to our company, we are the Super Bowl. Johansson ended up resigning as a spokes- committed to doing everything in our power to enable conwoman for Oxfam International, an anti-poverty group that tinuity of employment to our family of employees,” opposes the West Bank factory, after it criticized the actress’ Birnbaum said in the statement. involvement with the company.

What are protest groups saying about the move?

What is SodaStream’s position on its West Bank factory?

They have praised the decision... but they’re still boySodaStream CEO Daniel Birnbaum has touted the Mishor cotting SodaStream. Activists say that the Mishor Adumim Adumim factory, which has been in its current location factory’s closure is evidence that the BDS movement, which since 1997, as a successful example of Arab-Jewish coexis- aims to boycott, divest from and sanction Israel, is working. tence in the West Bank. Some 500 Palestinians work at the “Today’s news is just the latest sign that these global BDS factory alongside Israeli Jews, and Birnbaum says he pays campaigns are having an impact on changing the behavior them well and treats them as equals with their Jewish co- of companies that profit from Israeli occupation and workers, though pro-Palestinian groups allege that the apartheid,” said Ramah Kudaimi, membership and outreach Palestinian employees are treated poorly. The factory coordinator for the U.S. Campaign to End the Israeli includes a mosque for Muslim employees. Closing the fac- Occupation, which represents 400 organizations. tory, Birnbaum says, could mean putting hundreds of But Kudaimi’s group, as well as the Palestinian Boycott, Palestinians out of work.

Divestment and Sanctions National Committee, say they will Birnbaum is a proponent of a two-state solution to the continue to boycott SodaStream because they claim its new Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He has noted that Mishor factory abets dispossession of Bedouin land in Israel, even Adumim is defined as an area under Israeli control by the though the factory will be in an existing industrial park.

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AFFORDABLE PRESS Release service. Send your message to 175 newspapers across Nebraska for one low price! Call 1-800-369-2850 or www.nebpress.com for more details.

VINTAGE VILLAGE Antique Mall, 2425 O Street, Lincoln. 402-472-0063. 5th Anniversary Sale! Nov. 1-30, 10-7 Daily. 59 Dealers. New selections arrive daily!

Antiques, collectibles, jewelry.

RECOMMENDED READING: “I Will Fight Nevermore” by Lucas Jasso. Did the Vietnam era cause Luke Hustle confusion, anger, PTSD, and lastly romance?

Available at amazon.com.

HAVE A disability and want to work? Prepare for, find, and keep a job at Nebraska VR. Learn more at vr.nebraska.gov or call 877-637-3422.

INDUSTRIAL MAINTENANCE Technicians and Operator Positions open at Nebraska Energy, LLC in Aurora, NE. Competitive wages and benefits. For full job descriptions, visit www.aventinerei.com and click Careers for listings. Applications can be picked up on location or resumes can be mailed to 2103 Harvest Drive, Aurora, NE 68818, or e-mailed to Julie.Jensen@aventinerei.com.

WANTED: POST-frame Building Construction Crews and Sub Crews for Quality Structures, Inc. (QSI). Apply by e-mailing Josh Nowlin your resume or credentials at josh.nowlin@qualitystructures.com.

BUTLER TRANSPORT Your Partner in Excellence. Drivers Needed. Great hometime. $650.00 sign on bonus! All miles paid. 1-800-528-7825 or www.butlertrans port.com.

TANTARA TRANSPORTATION Corp. is hiring Flatbed Truck Drivers and Owner Operators. Regional and OTR Lanes Available. Call us @ 800-650-0292 or apply online at www.tantara.us.

12 | The Jewish Press | November 7, 2014

The best WWII refuge for Jews in occupied Europe was... Albania?

by RICH JURO Yes, the title statement is true. Here’s the story of the only Nazi-occupied land with a larger Jewish population at the end of WWII than at the beginning.

Albania is a small, mountainous, mostly Muslim country located just across the Adriatic Sea from Italy in Southern Europe.

There were Jews living in Albania for centuries. These included Romaniote Jews who came after the 70 C.E. expulsions from the Holy Land, and Sephardic Jews, who travelled to the Ottoman Empire after the Inquisition exiled them from Spain in 1492.

Most spoke Albanian rather than Yiddish, Hebrew or Ladino (the language of Sephardic Jews), and, for the most part, lived peacefully with their neighbors. Before World War II there were fewer than 200 Jews living in the Kingdom of Albania, and some of those had recently come from Germany and Austria when the Nazis gained power.

The Albanian Embassy in Berlin continued to issue visas to Jews until the end of 1938, even though all other European countries had ceased to do so.

In early 1939, King Zog (I love that name) was deposed, and Albania was recreated as a protectorate of Italy. Fascists took control and even expanded Albania’s territory to include parts of neighboring Kosovo and Macedonia. In the original borders of Albania, Jews were pretty much left alone.

Soon, hundreds of Jewish refugees from Yugoslavia, Greece, and even Central Europe made their way to the new safe haven.

Who protected them? Most of the Italian occupiers were not concerned about the Jews. More important, the Albanian people were not anti-Semitic and lived according to their long-established customs of hospitality

and besa (“word of honor”). The Albanians considered the safety of guests as an ancient and sacred tradition. Besa literally means “to keep the promise;” once a family, was hosted by Albanians, they could trust them with

Muslim and Christian neighbors, or joined the Resistance. When the Fascists asked for lists of Jews, the Albanian authorities refused to do so. Moreover, many Jews

their lives.

Once Italy surrendered and Albania became directly controlled by German Nazis, many Jews were quietly transported to Albanian ports from where they could travel to Italy. Many others hid in remote mountain villages, protected by their

w e r e given fake documents that allowed them to intermingle among the rest of the population. As a result, during the war the number of Jews in Albania increased tenfold, as nearly 2,000 Jews received refuge. The survival rate was close to 100%!

Jews were not so fortunate in Kosovo, the rest of Yugoslavia, Greece, or other conquered European nations, where many or most Jews were turned over to German authorities, and died either in local or Polish concentration camps. It should be noted that in nearby Bulgaria, although the nation became aligned with the Fascist powers, the local Jews were protected, primarily by the head of the Bulgarian (Christian) Orthodox Church, and most survived the war. However, Jews in areas of

other countries (Macedonia, Greece) controlled by Bulgaria, were not protected and mostly perished in the Holocaust. Denmark saved most of its Jews by arranging for their safe removal by ship to neutral Sweden. But Albania was the only country conquered

by Axis powers that protected its Jews, native or refugees, who were within its borders.

In late 1944, Enver Hoxha led the Communist forces to victory in Albania. He set up a Stalinist dictatorship that became closed to the outside world for 40 years.

Hoxha was not anti-Semitic, he was antireligion. He declared Albania an atheist state and destroyed churches and mosques.

Luckily, most Jews had already emigrated from the country as WWII was ending. In 1991, six years after Hoxha’s death, 350 Albanian Jews were airlifted to Israel in “Operation Flying Carpet”, and most of the remaining 60 Jews left in 1997 during a period of political unrest.

The Republic of Albania was recognized as Righteous Among the Nations at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in 1995. And at least 70 Albanian citizens are listed at Yad Vashem, the Holocaust Museum in Israel, for their role in saving the lives of their Jewish friends and neighbors.

Author’s Note: We recently visited Kosovo, and then drove through Albania and Montenegro to Bosnia and Herzegovina. 10 years ago, we spent a few days in Albania, but had no idea of the history of the Jews in Albania. Our host in Kosovo, former Omahan Rand Engel, mentioned the surprising story of the Albanian Jews to us. I was intrigued, did some research, and this article, with Rand’s help, is the result. I hope you found the topic as interesting as I did. R.J.

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