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Dancing in Israel

Celebrating Cantor Alexander

RoSIe ZweIbACk Finding a new cantor for your congregation is a process fraught with hope, worry, and a dose of good luck, or is it divine intervention? If all the stars align and you make a match, you seal the deal with a rocking celebration.

Family Hanukkah Extravaganza Page 3

eStheR kAtZ JCC Dance and Cultural Arts Director n 2008 a dream was born and in 2019 it finally came true. Sometimes we don’t realize how lucky we truly are. This community we live in and the community we are connected to are two incredibly special places. In 2008, Kibbutz Contemporary Dance Company, which is located in our Partnership2gether area in the Western Galilee of Israel on Kibbutz Ga’aton, came to Omaha to do some workshops with our JCC Dance department and

Final film of Omaha Jewish Film Festival Page 6

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SPonSoReD by the benJAMIn AnD AnnA e. wIeSMAn FAMIly enDowMent FunD

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gave a performance to our community. At that time I learned about the amazing dance program located in our partnership area and from that time on I have tried to get some of our dancers to go to their summer intensive. Last year Leora McNamara paved the way! She attended the Kibbutz Contemporary Dance Company’s Summer Dance intensive and loved it! Because of her amazing experience, this year we were able to convince three others to join her! Thanks to the amazing support of the Omaha Jewish See Dancing in Israel page 3

Mainstreeters plans delightful December doings

MAggIe ContI Director of Activities and Volunteer Services, RBJH Yes, December brings eight nights of Hanukkah. But for participants in Mainstreeters events, the entire month will be a festival of fun. Come join the activities. The days may be cold, but the atmosphere is always warm when you’re with friends. A Free Afternoon at the Movies: ROCKETMAN. Friday, Dec 6, 1 p.m.in the JCC Theater. Complimentary popcorn, warm and delicious, will be served. No reservations are necessary. Bring a pal. ROCKETMAN is an epic musical fantasy about the

incredible human story of Elton John’s breakthrough years. The film follows the fantastical journey of

transformation from shy piano prodigy Reginald Dwight into international superstar Elton John. This inspirational story -- set to Elton John’s most beloved songs and performed by star Taron Egerton -- tells the universally relatable story of how a small-town boy became one of the most iconic figures in pop culture. Please note this film is Rated R for language throughout, some drug use and sexual content. The running time is two hours. Don’t be late for the show! Bring a sweater. Have lunch at the STAR Deli at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home before the show. The STAR Deli is open for business at 11:30 a.m. See Mainstreeters page 2

Cantor Joanna Alexander

Temple Israel is pleased to announce that we have made a match, and we are making it official! We invite the entire community to formally welcome and install Cantor Joanna Alexander on Friday, Dec. 6 at Shabbat Services at 7 p.m. followed by a spectacular oneg. The celebration continues with a special Torah study Saturday morning at 9:15 a.m. and a Havdalah concert and reception at 4 p.m. on Saturday afternoon. Temple Israel is also hosting a celebratory Shabbat dinner on Friday evening. For more information on the dinner and to RSVP, please visit: templeisraeloma ha.com/Installation. Cantor Alexander has invited her mentor and previous clergy partner Rabbi Donald Weber and her dearest friend and classmate Cantor Rebecca Moses to participate in the installation ceremony. These special guests will add teaching and special music to this joyous occasion as they share their gifts with the community in honor of their beloved colleague. Right after her ordination in 2008, Cantor Alexander joined Rabbi Weber at Temple Rodeph Torah in Marlboro, NJ. Working together for 11 years, Cantor noted that Rabbi Weber “immediately treated me as a partner. He encouraged me to take risks and experiment. Together we breathed new life into the worship and the community.” Rabbi Weber will share remarks at the Shabbat service and lead Torah study on Saturday morning. Rabbi Weber has always been a supportive mentor to Cantor Alexander. Even when she was applying for jobs which meant she would be leaving him and his congregation, he wished her well and supported her choice. In his farewell letter to Cantor Alexander, Rabbi Weber wrote: “You helped people become Jewish. You created Jewish souls in those who See Cantor Alexander page 2

2 | The Jewish Press | November 22, 2019

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Continued from page 1 AARP Smart Driver Course: Monday, Dec. 9, noon to 4 p.m. in the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home Boardroom. It pays to refresh your driving skills! The AARP Smart Driver Course is the nation’s first and largest refresher course for drivers age 50 and older. It has given millions of drivers the skills and tools they need to drive safely on today’s roads, allowing them to remain independent for many years to come. There are no tests to pass -- just useful information to keep you safe. The course is designed to help you update driving skills and your knowledge of the rules and hazards of the road; learn about normal age-related physical changes and how to adjust your driving to compensate; reduce your chances of receiving a traffic violation, Daniel Reynolds getting into an accident, or becoming injured; important facts about the effects of medication on driving; how to reduce driver distraction; how to maintain the proper following distance behind another car; proper use of safety belts, airbags, anti-lock brakes and new technology found in cars today; techniques for handling left turns, right-of-way, and roundabouts. Get an insurance discount. Auto insurance companies in most states provide a multi-year discount to course graduates. (Some states may have restrictions on accepting an online driver improvement course for insurance discounts. Please consult your insurance agent for more information about discounts in your state). The cost is ONLY $5 for Mainstreeters. Please note the class will be subsidized by Jewish Social Outreach. AARP normally charges $15 for members and $20 for non-members. Send reservation with full payment to Mainstreeters, c/o Maggie Conti, 323 S. 132nd Street, Omaha, NE 68154. For questions, call Maggie Conti at 402.334.6521. Make check payable to Jewish Social Services.The deadline is Monday, Dec 2. The JCC Musical: The Addams Family – A New Musical Comedy on Sunday, Dec. 15, 2 p.m. in the Jewish Community Center Theater. Cost: $5 per person, a saving of 50% to

Cantor Alexander

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

Continued from page 1 were not born Jewish, and those who were. You helped people in their time of need by visiting, listening and counseling. You took risks and watched them bomb. You took risks and watched them pay off. You shared your pain with us and allowed us to see our own humanity as you showed us yours. You made us love Jewish music!” Cantor Alexander met Cantor Moses at their audition for Cantorial school in January of 2002. They have been fast friends ever since. Cantor Alexander explains the relationship this way: “Cantor Moses is who I call on for support on a bad day or for a celebration. She is my chosen family and I’m so grateful that because we also share a career, we know the ups and downs of each other’s lives: from temple politics to working motherhood, to High Holiday stress. I’m so grateful Cantor Moses will be here to install me as the cantor of Temple Israel.” Cantors Moses and Alexander will perform a Havdalah concert of their favorite music – both secular and religious – on Saturday afternoon. Everyone is invited! Cantor Alexander has had an excellent launch of her new life and cantorate in Omaha. Rabbi Stoller noted, “Cantor Alexander brings energy, joy and sincerity to her music and her spiritual leadership. She is a thoughtful, caring and wise clergy partner who is passionate about sharing her love of Judaism with others. In the few short months she has been with us, she has already made her mark on our community in

Mainstreeters only. Note: we have only a limited number of tickets. First come, first served. Pick up your tickets on the day of the show at Will Call. Make check payable to Jewish Social Services and send reservations with full payment to JSS, c/o MaggieConti, 323 S. 132nd Street, Omaha NE 68154. The deadline for reservations is Friday, Dec. 6. Sponsored by the Ruth Riekes Richards Fund of the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation. Chanukah Party! A Neil Diamond Tribute Concert with Daniel Reynolds on Thursday, Dec. 26, 1:30 p.m. in the Silverman Auditorium at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. No charge. Dan has always been an avid Neil Diamond fan and recognized the public's desire to hear Neil's songs in a live environment. Dan captures the real essence of Neil's unique sound, his deep, raspy voice, and the genuine soul true fans can appreciate. If you close your eyes, it's difficult to tell them apart. Dan's performances are a real tribute to one of the most popular singer-songwriters the world has ever known. Serving up hot delicious LATKES with all of the fixings following the show. Everyone is invited, so invite a friend. New Year’s Eve Party: Tuesday, Dec. 31, 1:30 p.m. in the Silverman Auditorium at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. No charge. Join us for the soulful band 37 Years. Omaha music veterans Tyler Smith and Sandy Cunningham Smith have reunited after 37 years (hence the name), and these days we play most often with our dear friend, Kyle Knapp--playing the music that takes you back--how far? Maybe... 37 Years! Specializing in fun and uplifting familiar songs from the ’60s and ’70s. There is no charge and the concert is open to the community. Come ring in the New Year together! A reception will follow the performance. Mainstreeters welcomes all Jewish residents of the Omaha area age 60 plus. The group offers a mixed-bag of social events and learning opportunities that give participants the chance to meet new people, exercise their brains, take part in new activities and continue enjoying life to the fullest. For information call Maggie Conti, Director of Activities and Volunteer Services at 402.334.6521 or email at mconti@rbjh.com.

a significant way. We are blessed to have her on our team.” Temple Israel president Andie Gordman who lived through the search process with hope, worry and perhaps a few prayers for divine intervention, is really looking forward to the celebration. She said, “When I met Cantor Alexander, I knew she would be a great addition to our clergy team. Cantor Alexander brings creativity and enthusiasm to everything she does. It has been wonderful to get to know Cantor and her family!” At Cantor Alexander’s suggestion, we are offering mitzvah opportunities to make the Installation celebration a gift to members of our community in need. We are collecting the following Hanukkah items to make gift baskets for the residents at the Livingston Apartments on the JCC campus: matzo ball soup mix, potato pancake mix, hot cocoa packets (box of 10), tea bags (boxes of 48), vegetable oil (48 oz), applesauce (24 oz), hanukkah candles, chocolate coins, and $25 grocery store gift cards. Please bring your donations to Temple Israel. If you don’t have time to shop, cash donations are always welcome! The gift baskets will be our centerpieces at the Shabbat dinner on Friday, Dec. 6. In addition, please consider bringing children’s new mittens, gloves, hats and scarves to the Installation service on Friday, Dec. 6 to donate to the Boys & Girls Club.

Dancing in israel

The Jewish Press | November 22, 2019 | 3

community

Family Hanukkah Extravaganza Continued from page 1 Community we were able to have an experience of a lifetime. If you’ve never seen Kibbutz Contemporary Dance Company(KCDC) perform, I would highly recommend going to their website and checking them out. There is something about a company that is based in Israel that was founded by Holocaust survivor, Yehudit Arnon; the heart and soul in the choreography is so powerful, you can feel the depths of where the movement came from deep in your own body. Their summer intensive is for high schoolers through professional dancers, and it’s for everyone around the world. We met dancers from all over the United States and Germany, France, Switzerland, the Netherlands and more, and surprisingly to me, most of them weren’t Jewish. They weren’t there because of their deep connection to Israel like I was. They were there because this is a world-renowned dance company with amazing training. The girls spent two weeks in classes from morning until evening and kept busy at night with evening programs organized by the staff there. On the weekends they visited the local beach, had lunch in a nearby Arab Christian Village, Tarshicha, and walked to

their market. Our the second weekend we were able to go to Jerusalem for a walking tour with Partnership friend, Idan Zaccai. After our Jerusalem excursion, we made it back north. We were able to meet up with some of the Israeli teens who came to Omaha in December, revisit memories from their time in Omaha and make new ones in Israel. After home hospitality with Partnership friends for Shabbat, we explored Akko and ended with an amazing tour of Rosh HaNikra. During their busy days in classes, I was lucky enough to travel to our partnership area and meet key staff people who make all of these wonderful programs and partnerships happen. I feel so incredibly lucky to have been able to travel with my dancers to the most special place on earth. If you have any questions about Partnership, please feel free to reach out. If I don’t have an answer, I know where to get it. Support for this trip came from the Anything Grants supported by the Staenberg Family Foundation and the following Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation Grants: Albert and Eleanor Feldman Family Israeli Foundation, the Shirley and Leonard Goldstein Supporting Foundation, and the Special Donor-Advised Fund.

Gabby blair Staff Writer, Jewish Press he Jewish Federation of Omaha will host the 2019 Hanukkah Extravaganza on Sunday, Dec. 8 from 5-7 p.m. at the Omaha Children’s Museum (500 S. 20th St). While recommended for families and grandparents with children 12 and younger, older siblings are always welcome! Upon arriving to the event, families will first create a three-part save/spend/donate ‘Moon Jar’ provided by this year’s event sponsor, Lutz Financial, followed by a delicious kosher dinner by Star Catering at 6 p.m. on the 2nd floor. Afterwards, families are free to enjoy the exhibits at the Omaha Children’s Museum which will close to the public at 6 p.m. This community-wide celebration also includes components planned by Omaha’s PJ Library. Jennie Gates Beckman, JFO Director of Community Engagement & Education, shares, “We have two very

special PJ Library book selections that have to do with Tzedakah and Hanukkah which will be featured throughout the museum so families can browse while they play. A special invitation is extended to those families who have welcomed their little ones in the past year to join us for a baby meet-up in the Museum’s “wiggle room.” Finally, we will be setting up a little “book nook” where folks can explore more titles related to the themes of Hanukkah and giving back. I’m really looking forward to seeing everyone there!” The cost for this family friendly event is $5 per person, with a $20 maximum per household; children under age two are free. Price includes admission to museum, Moon Jar and a kosher meal. Please RSVP and submit payment online by Monday, Dec. 2 at www.tinyurl.com/hanukkah19. Contact Jennie Gates Beckman, JFO Director of Community Engagement and Education, at 402.334.6445 or via email at: jbeckman@jewish omaha.org with questions or for more information.

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4 | The Jewish Press | November 22, 2019

community Lincoln Jewish book month celebration

AndreA HAlpern Lincoln Jewish Community School Curriculum Director Congregation Tifereth Israel invites the community to the Jewish Book Month celebration, Saturday evening nov. 23, 6 p.m. at Tifereth Israel Synagogue in Lincoln. Author-in-Residence Nancy Churnin, award-winning author of eight picture book biographies, will join us for a special Havdalah service and book talk. Nancy will share her 2019 release, Martin & Anne: the Kindred Spirits of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Anne Frank. The event is sponsored by the Lincoln Jewish Community School. The Havdalah service will be led by our school students. A lovely Oneg will follow our short Havdalah service.

We’ll find you

ne afternoon in the spring of my third and final year in law school, a message was left on the “bulletin board,” a routine way to get information to a student in 1959, long before everyone had individual cell phones, and it had a name and phone number for me to call, which I did. It was Duane Lake, the director of ricHArd fellmAn the Student Union. I knew Mr. Lake well, for the offices of The Daily Nebraskan were in the Student Union building, and I spent more time there than I did anyplace else during my undergraduate years. “I’d like to visit with you, Dick,” he said. “Can you come over to my office in the next day or so?” We set a time, and I was there. I felt comfortable since he and I had always been friendly with each other, but I had no idea what he wanted, and I asked, “Have I done something wrong?” “No, not at all, quite the contrary,” he said. “Dick, I know you’ve seen me here in the building in my Naval officer’s uniform from time to time, but what you’ve never known is that I’m a Naval Intelligence Reserve officer. And I just received a directive from the Central Intelligence Agency telling me that they had an assignment they wanted me to fulfill. “For years, the CIA memo explained, they recruited exclusively from the East Coast, actually just from the Ivy League, and from a few major universities on the West Coast, and they’ve decided that they needed to expand and start hiring from the Midwest and the South. Since my connection with them and my position here at the University, they instructed me to attempt to find one or two possible recruits for the CIA. “They explained in some detail what they were seeking, and you fit their criteria almost exactly. “First, you’re from the Midwest, here in Nebraska. They want lawyers, engineers or accountants; they want men who have unusual writing abilities and you’ve been the editor here of The Daily Nebraskan and during the last few years you have been a reporter for the Lincoln Star and the Associated Press, and they want men who have demonstrated leadership, and you’ve been recognized for that also by being selected for the Innocents Society, the senior Men’s Honorary. “I sent them your background and they immediately re-

sponded and told me to talk to you. Do you have a job after your graduation this spring from Law School? Are you committed? Or are you available?” This came as a shock to me, and I said so to Mr. Lake. I told him I had a job offer with a firm I liked in Omaha, and I also said that I was under Army orders to report for active duty before I could take a civilian job. He liked the military connection and said he understood the job offer. “Can I set up an interview for you with the CIA? They’ll come to Lincoln to see you.” I said yes, and he said they would call me. They did, and we set a time, date and place, and in the call, they told me to meet them in the lobby of the Cornhusker Hotel. “Who should I look for? How will I know you?” I said. “We’ll find you,” the CIA recruiter said. I hung up the phone and took a deep breath. These guys from the CIA are something else, I said to myself. On the appointed day, I went to the Cornhusker lobby, which at noon was filled with people, and after being there for no more than a few seconds, I received a tap on the shoulder and a voice from behind me said, “Mr. Fellman, I’m with the CIA. Are you ready for lunch?” We met over a long lunch, and they explained the program... training in Washington at CIA headquarters, the Army language school in Monterrey, California; graduate work at one of America’s best universities; more graduate work at a leading university in the geographic area of the world I would be assigned to; more work at CIA headquarters; and finally a job, in the assigned part of the world, maybe in an embassy or more than likely in an international business, in my case as “lawyer” working for Coca Cola in their offices in San Salvador but in actuality reporting daily to CIA HQs in Washington. It was fascinating, exciting and totally different, and I thought a long time about it, spoke with my parents, and debated. Then I called the man who had interviewed me and thanked him. “You have a truly outstanding program, and at the end of my career with the CIA I know that jobs with international law firms and businesses as well as academic positions with universities will open up, but, I must tell you, I don’t think I want to spend my life as a spy. And I’m not sure I can keep everything I do a secret. But thanks.” After graduation I went to the Army and then to a fine law firm in Omaha where I spent the next five years.

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The Jewish Press | November 22, 2019 | 5

Story time with Rita Paskowitz

MaGGie COnti Director of Activities and Outreach Programs, RBJH Residents of the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home and students of Friedel Jewish Academy worked in pairs with a nationally-known storyteller and facilitator, Rita Paskowitz. Rita’s dynamic background as an actress, storyteller, writer and comedienne worked with both populations and a storysharing partnership was formed. This five-day the artist-in-residence program, was scheduled for Nov. 4-8 with a final performance on Friday, Nov. 8. At the end of this workshop, the student gave a presentation about their new friend and a memory book filled with photos and the Resident’s story. This intergenerational program will be a gateway for more projects in the future that will allow the Jewish youth and elderly in our community to interact and encourage friendships and team-building. This program was supported in part by a grant from the Anything Grants funded by the Staenberg Family Foundation and an anonymous donation from a Resident family member.

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B’nai B’rith Breadbreakers meets weekly on Wednesdays at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home auditorium from noon to 1 p.m. For specific speaker information, please email Gary.Javitch@Gmail.com, Breadbreakers chairman. For more information or to be placed on the email list call 402.334.6443 or bnaibrith@jewishomaha.org.

Countryside Village advertises record sales COUntRYSide ViLLaGe: SMALL BUSINESS INCUBATOR

No, these sales aren’t of the holiday or seasonal variety. Rather, they’re the gross kind: the total sales numbers that tenants report annually. “Last year gross sales in Countryside Village hit new highs across all business categories in the shopping center,” says Andrew Myers, a co-owner of Countryside Village, adding that restaurants boasted sales of over $320 per square foot; hair, beauty and wellness over $300 per square foot; women’s clothing, shoes and accessories over $700 per square foot, and other retail over $400 per square foot. “These are eye-popping numbers, and all the more because sales in each categorically have continued to grow this year as well,” he adds. Myers attributes the center’s sales figures to what he calls the dynamism and excellence of Countryside’s tenants. “They are small business owners committed to being the best in their categories,” he says. Myers also points to the center’s recent aesthetic and structural renovation, which concluded in 2017. “We replaced or refurbished everything from the

sidewalks to the roofs and everything in between on both 60,000 square foot buildings,” he says. Critical in the support and encouragement of local entrepreneurs, Myers further explains that many of the center’s largest bays were demised to create smaller bays measuring between 7001,200 square feet. “Our goal was to lower a tenant’s monthly rental expense while also increasing the density of businesses in the center, which adds to the Village’s long-term strength in foot traffic, ambiance and energy,” says Myers. “And speaking of ambiance, we’re just finishing up with lighting the deciduous trees in all three of the lawns surrounding the Village with eco-conscious LED bulbs, which will add to the magical and atmosphere year round, in 2020 and beyond!” What sort of entrepreneurs is Myers seeking most? “All visionaries are welcome,” he says. “But I do know the neighborhood is particularly hungry for another restaurant concept, as well as high quality ice cream and cold-pressed juice.”

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6 | The Jewish Press | November 22, 2019

Final film of Omaha Jewish Film Festival

mark kircHHoff Community Engagement and Education he final film of the 18th Annual Omaha Jewish Film Festival will be The Samuel Project shown at the Majestic Cinema on 144th and West Maple Road, on Monday, Nov. 25, at 7 p.m. Trailers, information about the entire festival and ticket purchases for this film are available at www.jewishom aha.org (click on the festival slider in the middle of the page). Tickets will also be available at the theater. The Samuel Project, a Holocaust-themed film, was chosen by the Institute for Holocaust (IHE) staff and their film review committee. According to Scott Littky, Executive Director of the IHE, “We know that this is an important topic for Jews and non-Jews alike. We keep this in mind as we make our choice. We look very carefully to assure that there is both value and educational purpose in the message expressed in the film. The Samuel Project meets these requirements. We are confident that it is an excellent choice.” In the film, Eli (Ryan Ochoa) gets to know his grandfather Samuel (Hal Linden) for the first time when he makes him the subject of an animated art project for school. With dreams of becoming a professional artist, the high school senior discovers that his grandpa, a Jewish dry cleaner, was heroically saved from Nazi capture in Germany by a young woman when he was a boy. The Samuel Project is produced by Steve Weinberger of

Weinberger Productions. Steve’s mother-in-law is Jeanette Vensky who lives in Denison, Iowa. This connection was discovered when Kael Sagheer, IHE Education Director, was giving a presentation in Denison. Remember to bring your ticket stubs from the previous three films you attended. Those who attend all four movies may purchase their final ticket at a $3 discount. This year all four films were shown in different local theaters, including Tel Aviv on Fire at the Film Stream’s Ruth Sokolof Theater through a community partnership. We are looking forward to next year’s festival to be held in what will be the newly renovated and upgraded Jewish Community Center theater on the Staenberg Kooper Fellman Campus. We appreciate the feedback we have received from this year’s participants. This input is important for our future planning. For anyone interested in serving on next year’s film selection committee, contact Jennie Gates Beckman at jbeckman @jewishomaha.org or 402.334.6445. We extend our thanks to the generous sponsors of this year’s film festival. They are The Henry Monsky Lodge of B’nai B’rith, and the following Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation funds: Klutznick/Creighton Custodial Fund, Kenneth Ray Tretiak Memorial Fund, Ruth Frisch & Oscar S. Belzer Endowment Fund, Avy L. & Roberta L. Miller Film Fund, Samuel & Bess Rothenberg Memorial Endowment Fund and Special Donor-Advised Fund.

gaBe friedman JTA Two dozen prominent Brits — including Wikipedia founder Jimmy Wales, Spider-Man star Tom Holland, author Fay Weldon and actress Joanna Lumley — said Thursday that they will not be voting for the British Labour Party in elections next month because of the party’s ongoing anti-Semitism controversy. “The coming election is momentous for every voter, but for British Jews it contains a particular anguish: the prospect of a prime minister steeped in association with antisemitism,” a letter they signed in The Guardian reads. “Opposition to racism cannot include surrender in the fight against antisemitism. Yet that is what it would mean to back Labour and endorse [Jeremy] Corbyn for Downing Street.” Labour leader Jeremy Tom Holland arrives for the preCorbyn has been dogged miere of Spider-Man Far From for years by accusations Home in Hollywood, June 26, Credit: Albert L. Ortega/ that he allows anti-Semi- 2019. Getty Images tism in the party’s ranks, and some have argued that his past connections to anti-Israel figures and groups prove that he is anti-Semitic. Prime Minister Boris Johnson has the lowest approval rating of any British leader in over 40 years, but his Conservative Party is still projected to defeat Corbyn’s in the Dec. 12 balloting. “The path to a more tolerant society must encompass

Britain’s Jews with unwavering solidarity,” the letter continues. “We endorse no party. However, we cannot in all conscience urge others to support a political party we ourselves will not. We refuse to vote Labour on 12 December.” Observant Jew Yosef David registered recently as a candidate of the right-wing Brexit Party for the Islington North constituency in London, in what the Jewish News of London characterized as a “challenge.” In 2017, the district elected Corbyn, the Labour Party’s leader, with 73 percent of the vote. Only 0.8 percent went to UKIP, the party from which the Brexit Party splintered off. Labour has won in Islington North in every election since 1937. David acknowledges that he’s probably no match for Corbyn. “I am aware that overturning a 30,000-plus majority would be a miracle,” David told the Jewish News. So why run? David said it was a way of “highlighting the impact of the antiSemitism epidemic in the Labour Party on the community.” Meanwhile, over in the London constituency that Prime Minister Boris Johnson represents in Parliament — Uxbridge and South Ruislip — Labour is attempting a similar uphill fight with Ali Milani, an Iran-born politician. The district has voted for Johnson’s Conservative Party since the 1970s. Notwithstanding, Milani does have some Jewish supporters who call themselves Jews Against Boris. Johnson, they wrote in a statement Tuesday, “is embracing nationalism and normalizing the far-right in his efforts to keep hold of power, and Jews know how dangerous this is.” The mainstream leaders of the British Jewish community, however, have not sounded any alarms about Johnson. By contrast, they have warned that Labour, which had been the political home for British Jewry before Corbyn, would be an “existential threat” to that community if it takes power under him.

Prominent non-Jews in Britain say they will not vote for Labour over anti-Semitism controversy

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The Jewish Press | November 22, 2019 | 7

community In Ukraine, aid for needy Jews comes with a catch

cNAAN lipshiz ODESSA, Ukraine | JTA Alina Feoktistova always knew she was Jewish, but the first time she sought contact with the community was to see if it could pay her tuition. Feoktistova’s family couldn’t afford to send her to college, but the local Jewish community provides an alternative in the form of the Jewish University of Odessa, an accredited institution that offers tuition and room and board at no charge. Founded in 2003, the university features five-year programs in a number of fields, including foreign language, early childhood education, law, business and Jewish studies. “I was crying. I really didn’t want to do it,” said Feoktistova, 28, who studied literature at the school. “[My family had] no funds for college for me. The Jewish community was there for us.” After graduation, Feoktistova found work as an office administrator with Tikva, the Orthodox group that runs the Jewish University of Odessa along with a host of other identity-building and educational programs. And though she married a Jewish man and raises her two children in an observant home, Feoktistova does not fit the stereotype of an Orthodox Jewish woman. On a Saturday evening earlier this month, she wore a black leather biker jacket over a long dress with a matching studded kerchief in her hair as she smoked her first post-Shabbat cigarette. “I’ve accepted my fate,” Feoktistova joked. About 360,000 Jews are estimated to live in Ukraine, most of them in Odessa and other major cities, and Jewish groups have used their robust welfare systems not only to help those in need, but also to overcome the indifference and aversion to

Alina Feoktistova at the Tikva Jewish education complex in Odessa, Ukraine, Nov. 2, 2019. Credit: Cnaan Liphshiz

Judaism that was instilled here during the communist era. The American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee, or JDC, provides assistance to any Jewish applicant it deems needy, regardless of their participation in communal activities. But other Jewish organizations often require communal engagement, from enrolling children in Jewish educational programs to attending synagogue, in exchange for help. In Odessa, the estimated 30,000 Jews are eligible for free services through the Jewish community’s various institutions, which include two community centers, a dozen schools and two orphanages. Families and the elderly can get hundreds of dollars a month — a significant sum in a country

where the average monthly salary is about $300. The Federation of Jewish Communities of the CIS, a network affiliated with the Chabad Hasidic movement, also runs a Jewish university in Odessa, which it describes on its website as “a path out of poverty and into Jewish service.” The engagement-for-aid model has had a meaningful impact on “breathing life into the dry bones” of a moribund community, according to Rabbi Binyomin Jacobs, director of intergovernmental relations at the Chabad-affiliated Rabbinical Center of Europe.“Some might even call it a bribe, but it’s legitimate – and it works,” said Jacobs, citing the medieval Jewish philosopher Maimonides, who allowed parents to use candy to motivate children to study.

“Of course, Russian-speaking Jews are not babies, they’re sophisticated people, but from a Jewish perspective they are like captured babies – people who know nothing about Judaism because of oppression,” Jacobs said. “It’s OK to offer them something they need as a way to acquaint them with Judaism so they can decide in an informed way if they want it in their lives.” Many young Ukrainians in this city and beyond seek a connection to Judaism without financial incentives. The Limmud FSU conference here last month attracted 600 participants who paid nearly $200 to attend the weekend event at a resort. One participant, Vlodymyr Zeev Vaksman, a 38year-old active in the Odessa Jewish community, said he sought out the Jewish community after suffering bullying in school. Connecting with his Jewish identity, Vaksman said, “helped restore my pride in it because it’s hard to be a proud Jew when you’re being beat up in school almost every day for being Jewish.” Others, however, are clearly induced to get involved out of necessity. Rivka Bendetskaya attended a Chabad school in the eastern city of Zaporizhzhia where she grew up. Her family was poor and not religious, but the Chabad school offered free meals and long hours. At 16, Bendetskaya came to Odessa to pursue a degree in business management at Chabad’s Jewish University. The five-year program would have cost about $17,000 at a regular university, an unaffordable sum for her family. Sergey and Elena Yarelchenko had little to do with the organized Jewish community before they see Aid for needy Jews page 8

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Restoring Jewish cemeteries

8 | The Jewish Press | November 22, 2019

us+worldnews Haim, Jack Black and more record songs for a Hanukkah album

gAbE FRiEDMAn î ˘e project is the brainchild of GrammyJTA winning music supervisor Randall Poster, dam Sandler is finally getting who was inspired by Yo La Tengoâ€™s annual some competition in the run of Hanukkah concerts. Hanukkah music world. â€œWhen our old friend Randy Poster asked Haim, Jack Black, the Flaming us to contribute to an album of Hanukkah Lips, Yo La Tengo and other songs he was putting together, we were kind prominent artists have recorded songs for a Hanukkah album titled Hanukkah+, the record label Verve Forecast has announced. î ˘e album is out Nov. 22 and also features contributions from folk singer Loudon Wainwright III, Adam Green (of the band Moldy Peaches), Alex Frankel (of the electronic group Holy Ghost and a founder of the Jewish deli Frankelâ€™s in Brook- The Haim sisters Alana, left, Danielle and Este, of the group Haim at Rodarte's fashion week show in San Marino, Calif., Feb. 5, 2019. lyn) and more. Credit: Presley Ann/Patrick McMullan via Getty Images Rolling Stone reported that the record is a mix of covers and original of stumped,â€? Yo La Tengo, which is led by songs. Haimâ€™s contribution is a cover of the singer Ira Kaplan, said in a statement. â€œAs nonlate Leonard Cohenâ€™s If It Be Your Will. Black practicing Jews (and non-Jews), truthfully the wrote two originals, and the Flaming Lips holiday has little meaning for us (thatâ€™s the and Wainwright also penned new songs for meta joke behind Yo La Tengoâ€™s Hanukkah the album. shows), but we were open to inspiration.â€?

CnAAn lipSHiz AMSTERDAM | JTA The Dutch government has allocated $2.76 million toward the maintenance and restoration of Jewish cemeteries in the Netherlands. Culture Minister Ingrid van Engelshoven announced the funding last week in a letter to the lower house of the Parliament. Local Jews have trouble maintaining the graves because the communityâ€™s numbers never recovered after the Holocaust. Dutch Jews suffered the highest death rate of any Western European country occupied by the Nazis, in part because of local collaboration. Fewer than 40,000 Jews survived in a population of some 140,000, and fewer still returned to the Netherlands. Today there are about 45,000 Jews living in the kingdom, including more than 5,000 Israelis, according to the Organization of Jewish Communities in the Netherlands, or NIK. Thus the small Dutch Jewish community is stretching its resources to maintain more commu-

nal property than it can handle. â€œJewish cemeteries are often the only remnant of Dutch-Jewish culture, which was largely destroyed in 1940-1945,â€? NIK said in a statement about the funding.

Continued from page 7 were forced to flee their home in Lugansk during the 2014 revolution. At a Jewish refugee camp set up outside Kyiv by Rabbi Moshe Azman, who named it Anatevka after the fictional hometown of Tevye from Fiddler on the Roof, the Yarelchenkos not only found shelter, but work and a sense of community. â€œI never thought Iâ€™d go to synagogue, much less live in a Jewish village,â€? Sergey told JTA. For other Ukrainian Jews, the community was a ticket to big city life. Haya Saphonchik, a 27-year-old kindergarten teacher, enrolled in a Jewish school in Odessa primarily to escape her impoverished hometown of Kremenchuk.

â€œMy mom had no money to send me to Odessa,â€? Saphonchik said. â€œShe asked me when I was 17: â€˜Do you want to stay in Kremenchuk in a regular school, or do you want to go a Jewish school in Odessa?â€™ Of course I went to Odessa.â€? After graduating from high school, Saphonchik went on to study at the Jewish University in Odessa, where she met her husband Uriel who came to study computer programming from his native Russia. Though she came initially for financial reasons, she stayed because the school offered her more than just an education. â€œI found great beauty,â€? Saphonchik said, â€œa great mutual responsibility for each other that I didnâ€™t know existed and which ended up giving me the best things that I have in life.â€?

Aid for needy Jews

Especially â€œforgotten cemeteries or ones with an unusual character will be treated in the coming five yearsâ€? with the new funding, NIK wrote. The organization said it was â€œdeeply satisfied with the minister and the Ministry of Education, Culture and Scienceâ€™s decision to address the issueâ€? of neglected Jewish burial places.

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The Jewish Press | November 22, 2019 | 9

Your sympathy isn’t enough to stop anti-semitism eleNa gorMleY This story originally appeared on Alma. Everything was going well until I checked my phone. I had just finished teaching Sunday school at a synagogue in Evanston, Illinois, and was on the bus that would take me back to my apartment on the far north side of Chicago. It was a beautiful day. Sukkot would start in the evening. And then I opened Facebook and found a succession of horrifying posts. Temple Emanuel, the synagogue I used to teach at in my hometown of Grand Rapids, Michigan, had been vandalized some time late Saturday night or Sunday morning. e posts from former co-workers were vague at first and referenced “messages of hate” that were posted on the main doors — the same doors children use when they come to religious school on Sunday mornings. I tried very hard not to throw up on the bus. I made it to the train station and took the train to the campus library.

Credit: Jack Taylor/Getty Images e Grand Rapids Jewish community is small, which has its challenges (especially when it’s time to do Passover shopping and families are split between traveling to kosher grocery stores in Detroit and Chicago). Fortunately it’s also extremely close-knit. e Reform and Conservative congregations and the Chabad House frequently collaborate on community events, and everyone goes to each other’s simchas. is also means that such a blatant display of overwhelming hatred is all the more devastating. Not many details had been released before it was time to turn off my phone for Sukkot. e transition from regular time to holiday time can be difficult in normal circumstances, let alone when you’re desperate to know if everyone in your hometown is doing OK. When I turned my phone back on Tuesday night, the story had gone viral. Local news showed the posters, which had disturbing images and Nazi slogans. ere was coverage on CNN and The Jerusalem Post. ere were well-meaning comments from people saying “this is not West Michigan.” ey are wrong. is is exactly what West Michigan is. Beyond the facade of “West Michigan Nice” lies a pernicious moral rot that anyone marked as an “other” has encountered. It can be found in the panicked texts that a friend sent me on a Saturday night because an angry driver was so focused on flipping them off on their walk to synagogue that he almost crashed his car. It can be found in how every single one of my queer and trans friends has lasting trauma from the hatred they experienced all through elementary, middle and high school. It can be found in a recent case where a local real estate company filed a restraining order against a black woman who le them a poor review on social media because her rental application was denied — despite following all their application requirements. It can be found in the fact that I didn’t feel comfortable putting a mezuzah on my door when I lived there because a Nazi-friendly bar was in my neighborhood. Each synagogue in Grand Rapids has had tight security for years, including cameras, locked doors and constant contact with police. We had Sunday school the day aer the Tree of Life shooting in Pittsburgh and the rabbi greeted every family with a team of squad cars parked in the parking lot. In the aermath, the synagogue began fundraising for changes to the building itself. I worried about how going to Sunday school in a locked building with security guards and infrequent patrols by police would impact students there. I worried about if we could trust local law enforcement to ac-

tually protect our community aer a string of high-profile cases of police misconduct, including an oﬃcer reporting a U.S. citizen and disabled veteran to ICE. I want my students to never have to feel scared of being Jewish, or feel that being Jewish is something they need to hide and minimize. I also don’t want to minimize the real threats facing the community. Being Jewish throughout history has always been a tricky balancing act between refusing to assimilate and being cowed by fear while also having one eye on the exits. I wish I had some nice positive thing to say at the end of this essay. I could cite the famous verse in Pirkei Avot (“You are not

required to finish the work, but neither are you free to abandon it”) or talk about how my students and classmates helped fix a broken part of the world by expressing their sympathy. But right now I just feel numb and hollow. My main request is for non-Jewish folks to do any concrete action beyond expressing how bad they feel about anti-Semitism. Buy your Jewish friends lunch. Oﬀer to walk someone to and from synagogue on Shabbat. Make an active eﬀort to learn more about anti-Semitism. Donate to a local Jewish organization. Pity and empty expressions of solidarity are patronizing and useless. Actions, no matter how small, are what keeps us safe.

Glamorous Dusk to Dawn

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The Jewish Press will be closed on thursday, Nov. 28 for Thanksgiving. The deadline for the Dec. 6 issue is Monday, Nov. 24, 4 p.m.; for the Dec. 13 Hanukkah issue it is Monday, Dec. 2, 4 p.m. Questions? Call 402.334.6448.

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10 | The Jewish Press | November 22, 2019

Health+ Wellness

Statements on Temple Cemetery From Temple Israel: As you know, on Tuesday, Nov. 5, it was discovered that numerous headstones had been toppled or dislodged from their foundation, and some of them had been irreparably broken. We have been working carefully and meticulously to account for each headstone. For a current list of names from the headstones impacted by this vandalism, please contact Temple Israel. Please take a moment to review the list, as we are working on locating and notifying family members. If you recognize a name and can help us in finding a living family, we would be grateful. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Executive Director Dennis DePorte, ddeporte@templeisraelomaha.com or 402.556.6536. It is our hope that the restoration will be completed sometime in the spring of 2020, at which time we will hold a communal ceremony of re-dedication and renewal of this sacred place, where our loved ones endure in

spirit and in our memories. If you are interested in donating to the repair eﬀorts, please visit our website, www.templeis raelomaha.com/donate, and select Cemetery Improvement Fund under the list of funds, or you can mail a check to Temple Israel, 13111 Sterling Ridge Drive, Omaha, NE, 68144. We are ever grateful for the outpouring of love and support for our community.

From the Partnership: We, the Friends of Partnership2Gether: Western Galilee and the Central Area Consortium ( including the Jewish Federation of Omaha) express our support and solidarity with the Jewish community of Omaha at this time of the desecration of the Jewish cemetery of Temple Israel. From Israel, we deplore such acts and feel the communal pain. ough thousands of miles separate us, we feel close and stand together with you. We extend our love and prayers to the Omaha Jewish community.

‘Schindler’s List’ producer and Holocaust survivor Branko Lustig dead at 87

JTA Branko Lustig, the Oscar-winning producer of the Holocaust film “Schindler’s List,” has died. Lustig died ursday, Nov. 14, at his home in Croatia at the age of 87. His death was announced by the Festival of Tolerance, a Jewish film festival held in the Croatian capital of Zagreb for the last 13 years. Born to a Jewish family in 1932, Lustig was imprisoned in Auschwitz during the Holocaust. Much of his family was killed by the Nazis, including his father and grandmother. He began his film career in the Yugoslavian film industry in the 1950s and worked as a production supervisor on the 1982 Hollywood film Sophie’s Choice, part of which was shot in Yugoslavia. Lustig’s work on American films helped him move to Los Angeles in the 1980s, where he met Steven Spielberg, who directed Schindler’s List. e film won the Oscar for best picture in 1994. “My number was 83317,” Lustig said in an emotional speech at the award ceremony. “I’m a Holocaust survivor. It’s a long way from Auschwitz to this stage.” Lustig went on to recall the people he saw die in the camps, who urged him to be a witness to their murder. “By helping Steven to make this movie, I hope I fulfill my obligation to the innocent

victims of the Holocaust,” Lustig continued. “In the name of the 6 million Jews killed in the Shoah, and other Nazi’s victims, I want to thank everyone who acknowledge this movie.”

Branko Lustig at a gala dinner at the Beverly Wilshire Four Seasons Hotel in Beverly Hills, Calif., June 6, 2016. Credit: Emma McIntyre/Getty Images Lustig went on to work with other Hollywood luminaries. He produced the 1997 film e Peacemaker starring George Clooney and Nicole Kidman and served as executive producer of the 2001 Ridley Scott film Black Hawk Down. He won another Oscar for producing Scott’s 2000 film Gladiator, which also won best picture. A decade ago he returned to Croatia to become president of the Festival of Tolerance.

Australian Jews break world record for longest challah

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JTA A kosher bakery in Sydney, Australia, has broken the Guinness world record for longest challah. Grandma Moses Bakery, in partnership with the Jewish National Fund chapter in New South Wales, broke the record on urs-

Credit: The Australian Jewish News/Facebook

day, according to a Facebook post from the group. e record-setting challah clocked in at more than 32 feet long and required over 150 pounds of dough and ten hours to bake. e previous record, set in Brooklyn in 2015, was a 20-foot challah.

The Jewish Press | November 22, 2019 | 11

Above: The Men’s JWRP members had a chance meeting with the women’s group at a random rest stop. Bashert!

Above: Millie Altman celebrates five generations at 106. Pictured are: granddaughter Heather Bailen, left, Millie Altman with great grand puppy and Rena Bailen.

Above: Harry and Doris Alloy having dinner at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home during the Klutznick Symposium. Below: The RBJH received a donation of flowers from Baker's Supermarket and made flower arrangements for the Residents.

Above and below: Blessing of the animals at Beth El brought out young and old with their pets.

Above: Brian and Steve Nogg recently celebrated their 42nd birthday. With thanks to Patty Nogg for the photo share!

Above: Each month, pre-K students at the CDC attend a special STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) class in Friedel Jewish Academy’s innovation lab. In October, Friedel third and fourth graders helped their preschool friends create marble mazes.

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

Below: The Men’s JWRP trip departure.

GENEROUSLY SUPPORTED BY

12 | The Jewish Press | November 22, 2019

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(Founded in 1920) Abby Kutler President Annette van de Kamp-wright Editor Richard Busse Creative Director susan Bernard Advertising Executive lori Kooper-schwarz Assistant Editor gabby Blair Staff Writer

Jewish Press Board Abby Kutler, President; Eric Dunning, Ex-Officio; Danni Christensen, Candice Friedman, Bracha Goldsweig, Jill Idelman, Andy Isaacson, Natasha Kraft, Andrew Miller, Eric Shapiro, Shoshy Susman and Amy Tipp. The mission of the Jewish Federation of Omaha is to build and sustain a strong and vibrant Omaha Jewish Community and to support Jews in Israel and around the world. Agencies of the Federation are: Community Relations Committee, Jewish Community Center, Center for Jewish Life, Jewish Social Services, and the Jewish Press. Guidelines and highlights of the Jewish Press, including front page stories and announcements, can be found online at: wwwjewishomaha.org; click on ‘Jewish Press.’ Editorials express the view of the writer and are not necessarily representative of the views of the Jewish Press Board of Directors, the Jewish Federation of Omaha Board of Directors, or the Omaha Jewish community as a whole. The Jewish Press reserves the right to edit signed letters and articles for space and content. The Jewish Press is not responsible for the Kashrut of any product or establishment. editorial The Jewish Press is an agency of the Jewish Federation of Omaha. Deadline for copy, ads and photos is: Thursday, 9 a.m., eight days prior to publication. E-mail editorial material and photos to: avandekamp@jew ishomaha.org; send ads (in TIF or PDF format) to: rbusse@jewishom aha.org. letters to the editor guidelines The Jewish Press welcomes Letters to the Editor. They may be sent via regular mail to: The Jewish Press, 333 So. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68154; via fax: 1.402.334.5422 or via e-mail to the Editor at: avandekamp@jew ishomaha.org. Letters should be no longer than 250 words and must be single-spaced typed, not hand-written. Published letters should be confined to opinions and comments on articles or events. News items should not be submitted and printed as a “Letter to the Editor.” The Editor may edit letters for content and space restrictions. Letters may be published without giving an opposing view. Information shall be verified before printing. All letters must be signed by the writer. The Jewish Press will not publish letters that appear to be part of an organized campaign, nor letters copied from the Internet. No letters should be published from candidates running for office, but others may write on their behalf. Letters of thanks should be confined to commending an institution for a program, project or event, rather than personally thanking paid staff, unless the writer chooses to turn the “Letter to the Editor” into a paid personal ad or a news article about the event, project or program which the professional staff supervised. For information, contact Annette van de Kamp-Wright, Jewish Press Editor, 402.334.6450. Postal The Jewish Press (USPS 275620) is published weekly (except for the first week of January and July) on Friday for $40 per calendar year U.S.; $80 foreign, by the Jewish Federation of Omaha. Phone: 402.334.6448; FAX: 402.334.5422. Periodical postage paid at Omaha, NE. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The Jewish Press, 333 So. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68154-2198 or email to: jpress@jewishomaha.org.

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safe

ANNette vAN De KAmP-wRight where else? of Jews? Is it simply a ‘safety in numbers’ thing? Or does Editor, Jewish Press The problem with the question is there is a big differit go deeper than that? ere we go again: “34 Palestinians killed, 58 ence between ‘being safe’ and ‘feeling safe.’ Maybe safety is about not feeling alone. Maybe it is Israelis injured in rocket attacks from Gaza With rockets from Gaza, continuing civil war in Syria knowing the people that surround you are like you, people and Israel this week,” one headline screams. and conflicts at home, Israel is, objectively speaking, prob- who might differ in all the usual ways but for one thing: The Iranian Ayatollah declares he “has no ably not as safe as a Disney cruise (although, boats can they have a Jewish identity. They may dislike your poliproblem with Jews, just with the Jewish sink). Omaha could be considered ‘safe’ because exprestics, or your voice, or even your wardrobe. Maybe they State.” And in Denmark and Swedon’t laugh at your jokes and den, stickers shaped like the yellow maybe your parents didn’t get stars that Nazis made Jews wear along or perhaps they won’t sit during the Holocaust were placed near you because you wear too on multiple Jewish sites, including much perfume. But they are like cemeteries and Jewish businesses, you in one essential way: they are on the anniversary of the 1938 Jews. It’s why we are able to feel Kristallnacht pogrom. Here at home, safe at synagogue even when the we are dealing with the aftermath times dictate we have police proof the broken headstones at Temple tection at the door. Why so many Israel Cemetery, which is discourJewish professionals keep showing aging on a very personal level. up for work every day. And why, As I’m processing and re-posting when we get off the plane at Ben some of the images from two Gurion, we feel instantly at home. Omaha momentum trips to Israel It’s the people who surround us. (one women’s, one men’s), I read a The next logical step is: how do comment from someone saying we create that feeling of commuhow hard it is to answer the eternity with those who are not Jewnal question: “Is it safe to travel to A yellow star sticker on a Jewish grave in Denmark on Nov. 10, 2019. ish, beyond the obvious allies who Courtery of Rabbi Yitzi Loewenthal) choose to work at Jewish organiIsrael?” Simultaneously, I receive an update on the explosive situation in Southern Israel. sions of anti-Semitism, when they occur, are verbal. There zations, hospitals, day schools and so forth? How do we Most of us who have been there agree that there is no are flyers, seemingly distributed at random, writing on the avoid becoming more insular during times when anti-Semicontradiction in feeling safe in Israel, even while rockets wall in a bathroom stall. Slurs used by children, accusatism is becoming the norm? If we can help create that rain down on Ashkelon. Most of us also agree that there tory emails, inappropriate responses when people find out feeling of togetherness, that feeling of safety in the wider are plenty of incidents worldwide that make us feel less you’re Jewish. But even the swastika that was burned in Omaha community, right here at home, we would certainly safe. Placing a yellow star on a Jewish grave on the anthe grass at Elmwood Park does not physically harm us. A all benefit. niversary of Kristallnacht is perhaps not as dramatic as rocket, on the other hand, can do considerable damage. Editorials express the view of the writer and are not necrockets being fired, it may not be accompanied by sirens, Yet, in Israel, we feel safe. essarily representative of the views of the Jewish Press but it’s still an expression of hate. I’ve been trying to figure this out for years—and I know Board of Directors, the Jewish Federation of Omaha Board Are we safe when we travel to Israel? Are we safe any- I’m not alone. Is it because Israel has such a large number of Directors, or the Omaha Jewish community as a whole.

As the children of survivors, the Rohingya genocide reminds us of the Holocaust

susAN loweNBeRg AND howARD uNgeR JTA She was 16 years old and alone in a refugee camp in a foreign country when we met her. Sobbing, she told us how she hoped that her brother might be somewhere in this camp, “camp number 18.” She had heard that he might be alive — if so, he would be her only surviving family member. Or maybe he was in another of the many camps that have been established in Bangladesh for the Rohingya, a Burmese Muslim minority who fled genocide in Burma. We saw displacement on an unimaginable scale. An estimated 800,000 Rohingya have endured harrowing conditions to reach a country that cannot indefinitely host this many people. A tipping point — for the Rohingya and Bangladesh — is coming. If their plight is unaddressed, it will have long-lasting consequences for the region and beyond — and for people like the girl we met. Yet the Rohingya cannot return home, at least not now, as doing so would be to face the risk of genocide yet again. Although we visited the refugee camps as members of the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum’s governing board, we primarily viewed this unforgettable experience through our own identities as the children of Holocaust survivors. It’s unlikely that young girl had ever heard of the Holocaust, and she almost certainly had never met the children of people who survived Nazi Germany’s genocide. The Holocaust happened in a different time, in a different place and to different people. But the Rohingya can all too easily understand the sense of abandonment our parents felt. Our parents wouldn’t have needed to speak her language to instantly understand the fear, desperation and loneliness conveyed by her words. Few people spoke up for our families in the 1930s and ’40s. That’s why we went to Burma and Bangladesh today, and why we feel such a deep responsibility to tell the Rohingya’s stories. We hope to help move the international community to action and

“Mother Earth will not swallow another race to extinction, but another race will.” The Rohingya cannot forever remain in Bangladesh. But how can they return home to such sentiments? Stranded in one country and unwanted in their home country, they languish. Educational opportunities, including English language courses, are reasonably available to school-age children in the camps. But what good is an education if there’s no chance of using it to build a livelihood? Indeed, one of the remarkable aspects of life there is the absence of what makes life worth living: a future. Everywhere we saw people idling away the hours. A few small, odd jobs may arise to relieve some of the intense boredom, but there was nothing constructive for these people to do or strive toward. The Rohingya refugees would like nothing more than to return to their homes and support themselves. But the reality is that absent a concerted international effort to resolve this crisis, the Rohingyas’ Rohingya refugees are seen on the second anniversary of the future is grim. Rohingya crisis in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh. Aug. 25, 2019 The tragedy of the Rohingya is different Credit: Allison Joyce/Getty Images from the genocide of the Jews. What is the Rohingya. They are required to live in segre- not different is the danger of inaction and the regated areas and denied access to education, health sponsibility to promote our common humanity, care and the basic protections of the state. Anti- and for the victims, the sense of profound grief at Rohingya activity has waxed and waned, but the the loss. As the children of Holocaust survivors, persecution began accelerating in intensity two we will do what is in our power to ensure that their story does not end like those of our families. years ago. Susan Lowenberg is from San Francisco, Calif. Burma is a predominantly Buddhist country. Like many Westerners, we perceived Buddhism’s and serves on the US Holocaust Memorial Muadherents to be unwaveringly committed to non- seum's board. Howard Unger is from Chappaqua, N.Y. and violence. Certainly many of them are. But the Holocaust teaches us that all humans are suscepti- serves on the US Holocaust Memorial Museum's ble to hatred and persecution of “the other.” That board. The views and opinions expressed in this article is one of its timeless lessons. We were shocked at the blatant official racism are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect and nationalism that defines Burma’s government the views of JTA or its parent company, 70 Faces and especially its military. At least some Burmese Media. government immigration offices post signs saying do for them what wasn’t done for our families. The camps’ conditions are squalid, and physical depravations alone are more than enough for concern. But it is the potential long-term consequences of this human catastrophe that most concerned us. The Rohingya have lived in Burma for generations, but for decades, the government has treated them as second-class citizens or denied they were citizens at all. Today, the Burmese government has shown it is unwilling to restore full citizenship to

The Jewish Press | November 22, 2019 | 13

My son’s Orthodox Jewish school is 85 percent Muslim BIRMINGHAM, England | JTA Karen e. H. SKinazi My heart jumped when I saw the phone number of my oldest son’s school on the screen. “Hello?” “Is this Dr. Skinazi?” “Yes.” “Don’t worry, Lucas is fine. Only — I just wanted to let you know that there was a little anti-Semitic incident at school today.” Breathe in, breathe out. “What happened this time?” I asked. My husband and I grew up in insular Canadian Jewish communities. We attended Jewish day schools through high school, Jewish sleepaway camps and Shabbatons. We met on our year abroad in Israel. When we had kids, I wanted them to have the same strong sense and love of Yiddishkeit that I had. So we sent them to Jewish preschools and Jewish day schools. When my husband was oﬀered a job at the University of Warwick, in Coventry, England, a place with a negligible Jewish population, I realized our children would have upbringings very diﬀerent from our own. But in many ways I was excited about what that meant: friends from all kinds of backgrounds, worldliness, empathy across ethnic and religious lines. Also, who doesn’t love a British accent? We moved to Birmingham so that we could send our children — who were then all elementary school age — to King David Primary, the only Jewish school between London and Manchester. Small and heimish, academically solid in both secular and religious studies and located in a lovely, leafy area of this city, it was a no-brainer. My children would not only get a Jewish education, but they would also get the diversity I treasured and lacked in my own youth: the KD students and their families come from Britain, Israel, America, Canada and France — as well as Pakistan, India, Malaysia and Bosnia.

About 85 percent of the student body of King David Primary is Muslim. If you enter the schoolyard, you’ll see most mothers wearing headscarves; many wear a full niqab. Some of the girls wear headscarves, too, and the boys, who are required to cover their heads (it is an Orthodox Jewish school, aer all), wear the Muslim white knit caps that seem barely distinguishable from kippahs. e kids all participate in daily prayers, covering their eyes and reciting the Shema. ey do weekly school kiddushes, eat in a sukkah on Sukkot and perform a mock seder before Passover. In England, where there is no separation of church and state, a “collective act of daily worship” is required by all primary schools according to the School Standards and Framework Act of 1998. Unless the school is a specific faith school, that worship must be “wholly or mainly of a broadly Christian character.” In other words, as we and many other religious minority groups see it, all schools in England are faith schools — some are just more honest about it. At King David, Jewish children are given priority, but with a limited number of Jewish kids to fill the classrooms, the doors are opened wide to children of the neighborhood — and neighboring faiths. Some Muslim families choose King David because it oﬀers a good education. Others appreciate its kosher food, which many Muslims consider halal. And it is thought that a school that is intended for a religious minority is likely to be more sensitive to religious minorities. At its core, Islam has very close ties to Judaism, and grassroots organizations are popping up around the globe to remind us of our connections. So why should I be surprised that our Muslim friends make up some of our greatest allies? Let me return to the call from my oldest son’s school. Lucas is in secondary school, having graduated from King David a number of years ago. e secondary school has a diverse student body and tries to be sensitive to the diﬀerent needs of

the students, but we have our grievances. Every year we have to argue with the school to let Lucas take the Jewish High Holidays oﬀ (we’ve involved our rabbi and a religious education advisory committee). Still, things go smoothly for the most part. Lucas likes his school. e recent incident involved a boy who was new to the school. Every period, he was asked the same question by the teacher: “What brought you to our school?” and every period he gave the same answer: “My teacher at my last school was Jewish! And I hate Jews!” When he got to Lucas’ class, he repeated this behavior — and the person who stood up for my son was a Muslim student named Omar. “Hey, that’s rude,” Omar said. “And also kinda racist!” Omar and Lucas are not really “mates,” as they say here. I don’t think that’s why Omar stepped up when the situation arose. I think that in addition to having parents with good values, Omar is sensitive to racism, and particularly anti-Jewish racism, because he is a graduate of the King David Primary School. Maybe it’s a “funny thing” that Muslims say the Shema, as observers to the school have noted, and maybe the Jewish education does not have the depth it would have if all the students were Jewish. But it does seem to have a profound eﬀect on the children who go there, and these children carry with them a respect for Jews that they spread far and wide. Karen E. H. Skinazi, PhD, is a senior lecturer and Director of Liberal Arts at the University of Bristol in the UK. She is author of Women of Valor: Orthodox Jewish Troll Fighters, Crime Writers, and Rock Stars in Contemporary Literature and Culture (Rutgers University Press, 2018). e views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of JTA or its parent company, 70 Faces Media.

14 | The Jewish Press | November 22, 2019

synagogues b’Nai israel syNagogue

618 Mynster Street Council Bluffs, IA 51503-0766 712.322.4705

beth el syNagogue

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

beth israel syNagogue

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

chabaD house

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

coNgregatioN b’Nai jeshuruN

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

offutt air force base

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

rose bluMkiN jewish hoMe

323 South 132 Street Omaha, NE 68154

teMple israel

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

tifereth israel

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

b’Nai israel syNagogue

Join us for our monthly Shabbat Speakers Series on friday, Dec. 13, 7:30 p.m. with guest speaker Richard Fellman. Our service leader is Larry Blass, and as always, an Oneg wil follow service. Everyone is always welcome at B’nai Israel! For information on our historic synagogue, contact any of our board members: Scott Friedman, Rick Katelman, Howard Kutler, Carole Lainof, Wayne Lainof, Sissy Silber, Nancy Wolf, or email nancywolf16620@gmail.com. Handicap Accessible.

beth el syNagogue

Services conducted by Rabbi Steven Abraham and Hazzan Michael Krausman. friDay: USY Kinnus (Grades 9-12); NE AIDS Coalition Lunch, 11:30 a.m. — Offsite; Pre-Neg, 5:30 p.m.; Six String Shabbat, 6 p.m.; Our Shabbat Tables, 7 p.m. at Beth El. saturDay: USY Kinnus (Grades 9-12); Shabbat Morning Service, 9:30 a.m. Speaker from Table Grace; Junior Congregation (Grades 3-7), 10 a.m. weekDay serVices: Sundays, 9:30 a.m. & 5:30 p.m.; weekdays, 7 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. suNDay: USY Kinnus (Grades 9-12); BESTT (Grades K-7), 9:30 a.m.; Torah Study, 10 a.m.; Torah Tots, 10:30 a.m.; Yiddish Class, 11 a.m. with Hazzan Krausman; Interfaith Thanksgiving, 6 p.m. at St. Luke Methodist Church. tuesDay: Mahjong, 1 p.m.; The Book of Jewish Values, 11:30 a.m. with Rabbi Steven Abraham. weDNesDay: No BESTT Classes; No Hebrew High thursDay: Office Closed; Morning Minyan, 9 a.m. Chesed Committee Visits the Blumkin Home, thursday, Dec. 5, 2:30–3:30 p.m. Join members of the Chesed Committee as we visit with residents of the Blumkin Home on the first Thursday of the month. Tacky Holiday Sweater Party, thursday, Dec. 5, 6–8 p.m. at Urban Abbey, 1026 Jackson Street. BESTT Thanksgiving Break, wednesday, Nov. 27-sunday, Dec. 1. There will be no BESTT or Hebrew High classes or Jr. Congregation during Thanksgiving Break

beth israel syNagogue

Services conducted by Rabbi Ari Dembitzer friDay: Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Mincha/Candle Lighting, 4:42 p.m. saturDay: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Insights into the Weekly Torah Portion, 3:40 p.m.; Mincha/Seudah Shlishit, 4:25p.m.; Havdalah, 5:45 p.m. suNDay: Shacharit, 9 am.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 4:40 p.m. at RBJH. MoNDay: Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 4:40 p.m. at RBJH. tuesDay: Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 4:40 p.m. at RBJH. weDNesDay: Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 4:40 p.m. at RBJH. thursDay: Thanksgiving Day — Office Closed; Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Mincha/ Ma’ariv, 4:40 p.m. at RBJH.

chabaD house

Office hours: Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. and Friday, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Services conducted by Rabbi Mendel Katzman. friDay: Shacharit, 8 a.m. followed by coffee, treats, study and shmoozing. saturDay: Shabbat Morning Service, 9:30 a.m. weekDays: Shacharit, 7 a.m. followed by coffee, treats, study and shmoozing. suNDay: Service, 8:30 a.m.; Sunday Secrets, 9:15 p.m. following Minyan. MoNDay: Personal Parsha class, 9:30 a.m. with Shani; Biblical Hebrew Grammar, 10:30 a.m. weDNesDay: Mystical Thinking, 9:30 a.m. with Rabbi Katzman; Introduction to Reading Hebrew, 10:30 a.m. thursDay: Intermediate Hebrew Reading and Prayer, 11 a.m.; Talmud Class, noon with Rabbi Katzman. All programs are open to the entire community. For more information call 402.330.1800 or visit www.ochabad.com.

coNgregatioN b’Nai jeshuruN

Services conducted by Rabbi Teri Appleby. friDay: No Services at Temple; LJCS Family Shabbat Service and Dinner, 6 p.m. at Tifereth Israel. Services will be

followed by a meal prepared by the LJCS Gesher students; Candlelighting, 4:45 p.m. saturDay: Shabbat Morning Service, 9:30 a.m.; Torah Study, 10:45 a.m. on Parashat Chayei Sarah; Jewish Book Month Celebration Book Talk by Author in Residence-Nancy Churnin, 6 p.m. followed by an Oneg and a short havdalah service led by our school students at Tifereth Israel and sponsored by the LJCS; Havdalah (72 minutes), 6:14 p.m. suNDay: LJCS Gan through Grade 7, 9:30 a.m.; LJCS Gesher, 10 a.m.; Interfaith Thanksgiving Service, 3 p.m. at First Christian Church, 430 S. 16th Street in Lincoln. Following the service, a reception will be provided by the members of First Christian Church, allowing people of all faiths the opportunity to get to know one another. You are invited to bring a dessert to share if you would like. You may also bring a donation of non-perishable food items for the Food Bank of Lincoln. weDNesDay: No LJCS Classes. thursDay: Thanksgiving Day — Office Closed

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friDay: Services, 7:30 p.m. every first and third of the month.

rose bluMkiN jewish hoMe

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

friDay: Shabbat Evening Service, 6 p.m. saturDay: Torah Study, 9:15 a.m.; Shabbat Morning Service, 10:30 a.m. suNDay: Youth Learning Programs Grades K-6, 10 a.m.; Holidays at Home: Hanukkah, 10:30 a.m. Jewish experiences should happen as much in the home as in the synagogue, and we want to give parents the tools and skills to feel comfortable leading these experiences at home. These workshops will happen a few weeks ahead of holidays to help parents prepare and ask questions to feel comfortable doing the rituals at home. Holidays @ Home is open to all parents with children in our Youth Learning Programs. RSVP to Temple Israel, rsVp@templeisraelomaha.com, or via the ParentSquare app.; OTYG Board Meeting, noon; Interfaith Thanksgiving Service, 5 p.m. at Countryside Community Church. All are welcome to join the many participating Jewish, Christian, and Muslim faith communities to celebrate our diversity as well as our unity in a collaborative service of worship, song, and prayer. This year, Countryside Community Church is hosting the 24th annual Interfaith Thanksgiving

coming together

rabbi briaN stoller Temple Israel roughout these tense and diﬃcult days since the shameful desecration of our Temple Israel cemetery, the Jewish value of kavod ha-met – meaning, honoring the dignity of those who have died – has guided us to focus intently on ac-

counting for the extensive damage, notifying the families of those directly aﬀected, and putting a plan in place to restore the damaged gravestones. We can now report that, weather permitting, the restoration process will begin shortly aer anksgiving and may be completed as soon as the end of the year. is tremendous progress is a credit to the diligent and thorough work of our Temple Israel team, who have approached this from the start with calm, care, and a sense of sacred responsibility. e road toward healing is now illuminated for

jewish press Notices

service. The service begins at 5 p.m. All 7th-12th graders are invited beforehand, at 4 p.m., to a pizza party before the service. As always, there will be a free will offering that will be donated to Together Inc. weDNesDay: More Than a Joke - A Tri-Faith Symposium You’re Not the Boss of Me (Or Are You?): Law, Conscience and Community in Religious Decision-Making, Lunch and Learn, noon at Temple Israel; No Youth Learning Programs. Rosh Chodesh: Everything You’ve Wanted to Know about (and See at) the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, tuesday, Dec. 3, 6-8 p.m. The evening begins with a reception including light appetizers and an introduction to the FPBCC by Temple Israel’s own Dr. Ken Cowan, Director, FPBCC. We will have small-group tours of this groundbreaking patient care and research facility, including the amazing Healing Arts Program and Chihuly Sanctuary. RSVP to Temple Israel, 402.556.6536, by Friday, Nov. 22. Cost is $18 per person. Please make checks payable to Temple Israel. Questions? Please contact Susie, susie.norton@cox.net or 402.212.2614. Temple Israel Blood Drive, sunday, Dec. 15, 8:30 a.m.2:30 p.m. Every two seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood. Make your appointment now to donate your life saving gift! Register by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS. Questions? Contact Executive Director Dennis DePorte, 402-556-6536.

tifereth israel

Services conducted by lay leader Nancy Coren. Office hours: Monday-friday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. friDay: LJCS Family Shabbat Service and Dinner, 6 p.m. at Tifereth Israel. Services will be followed by a meal prepared by the LJCS Gesher students; Candlelighting, 4:45 p.m. saturDay: Shabbat Service, 10 a.m. followed by light a kiddush lunch; Junior Congregation, 11 a.m. followed by a snack; Jewish Book Month Celebration Book Talk by Author in Residence-Nancy Churnin, 6 p.m. followed by an Oneg and a short havdalah service led by our school students at Tifereth Israel and sponsored by the Lincoln Jewish Community School; Havdalah (72 minutes), 5:44 p.m. suNDay: LJCS Gan through Grade 7, 9:30 a.m.; LJCS Gesher, 10 a.m.; The Eighth Annual Community Interfaith Thanksgiving Service, 3 p.m., at First Christian Church, 430 S. 16th St., Lincoln. Following the service, a reception will be provided by the members of First Christian Church, allowing people of all faiths the opportunity to get to know one another. You are invited to bring a dessert to share if you would like. You may also bring a donation of non-perishable food items for the Food Bank of Lincoln; Come learn and play Pickleball, 7-9 p.m. weDNesDay: No LJCS Classes. thursDay: Thanksgiving Day — Office Closed

us, but we know that walking down that road means confronting our grief and feelings of brokenness. Sunday Nov. 17, clergy and congregants visited the cemetery to place stones on the desecrated graves and say Kaddish for all who lie in rest there. It was a quiet and gentle opportunity to pay our respects to those whose memories

were desecrated and to honor this holy place with our presence and our love. We will continue to keep you updated on our progress in restoring the damaged gravestones. Once the restoration process is complete, we will hold a communal service of re-dedication to mark our transition from brokenness to renewal. We are grateful to all of you and so many others around the country for your generous oﬀers of help, support, and love as we continue to navigate this challenging time for our congregation.

The Jewish Press | November 22, 2019 | 15

lifecycles baR mitzvah

GRaYson asheR seLdin

Grayson Asher Seldin, son of Beth and Scott Seldin, will celebrate his Bar Mitzvah on Saturday, Nov. 30, at Congregation Beth Israel in Scottsdale, AZ. Grayson is a seventh-grade student at Cocopah Middle School in Scottsdale, AZ His favorite classes are English Language Arts (ELA) and Computer Science and his hobbies include playing basketball and Xbox Sports. For his mitzvah project, Grayson volunteered at several organizations through Boys Team Charity. He has an older brother, Ben, who is a 9th grade student at Chaparral High School in Scottsdale, AZ. Grandparents are Millard and the late Beverly Seldin of Scottsdale, AZ, and Omaha and John and the late Alice Hook of Kansasville, WI.

in memoRiam

Rose schupack

Rose Schupack, of Chevy Chase, MD, and formerly of Omaha and Chicago passed away Nov. 10 at age 96. The burial was private and a memorial service was held on Nov. 14 at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home Chapel. She was preceded in death by her husband Eli Schupack, daughter Rae Schupack Nathan (Gib), and daughter Jan Schupack. She is survived by her son Mark, daughter and son-in-law, Kim and Douglas Farrow; grandchildren: Julia and Charlie Nathan, and Ian Farrow. Rose was born on Aug. 2, 1923, to Rabbi Jacob and Mary Bogot in the city of Kiev in the former Soviet Union. She immigrated with her family to this country in 1930 and they settled in Chicago. Rose married Eli Schupack and they had four children. In 1965 the family moved to Omaha. She graduated from the University of Nebraska with a degree in Interior Design. In addition to her career as an Interior Designer, Rose was an avid painter, museum docent, tennis and yoga enthusiast, and volunteer. In 2003 Rose relocated to Chevy Chase, MD. Memorials may be made to the organization of your choice.

Judge Ginsburg returns to bench

JTA Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg returned to the bench on Monday aer missing courtroom arguments last week due to illness. Ginsburg was in court in a session to grant new admissions to the bar, CNN reported. e court will not return to the bench until Dec. 2. A court spokesman told reporters on Wednesday that Ginsburg was home with a stomach virus and would read the briefs and transcripts of the oral arguments in the cases. at came aer Chief Justice John Roberts announced from the bench that Ginsburg was “indisposed due to illness.” She, underwent treatment in August for “a localized malignant tumor” on her pancreas. She had surgery last year to remove a cancerous growth from her le lung, her third bout with cancer. She is one of three Jewish justices on the court and leads its liberal minority. She is the high court’s oldest justice.

LetteR to the editoR

to the editor, I wanted to add comments to last week’s cover story regarding the acts of vandalism at the section of cemetery that was taken over by Temple Israel. In addition to an act of vandalism, it is indeed an act of anti-semitism. As Jews, we are encouraged to disagree and that’s the beauty of our relationships with each other. We can have different political views, interpret the Torah differently and through each we grow from understanding opposite viewpoints. However, as Jews and a community we must be on the same page about the definition of anti-semitism. Anti-semitism is defined as hostility or prejudice against Jews. Vandals didn’t hit any non-Jewish cemeteries - and it took work to purposefully desecrate our Jewish cemetery. Now is not the time to sugarcoat our words or become complacent; in my opinion that further gives permission for this intolerable behavior. While I can appreciate the want to soften language as not to encourage copycats, now is not the time to set a precedent of complacency from our community. I don’t sign this as board president of ADL, as these views are my own. I sign it as a concerned member of a community setting an example for my child. danny cohn

coRRection

In our Nov. 15 edition, we reported Michelle Simon had obtained her PhD in Physical Education. That information was incorrect; Michelle‘s degree is a Doctorate of Physical Therapy. The Jewish Press regrets the error.

NJ man accused of ordering vandalism of two synagogues using neo-Nazi network

maRcY osteR JTA A New Jersey man, 18, was arrested and held without bond for allegedly ordering the vandalism of two synagogues in other states. Richard Tobin is accused of using a neo-Nazi social network called “e Base” to find volunteers to for the September graﬃti attacks on synagogues in Michigan and Wisconsin, the Philadelphia Inquirer reported. Tobin also allegedly said he planned the attacks as part of nationwide campaign he called “Operation Kristallnacht,” a reference to the 1938 pogrom against Jewish homes, synagogues and Jewish owned-owned businesses in Germany and Austria. Tobin also confessed to driving to a New Jersey mall with a machete that he planned to use to kill black shoppers. A complaint filed by the FBI charges Tobin with conspiring with a hate group against the rights of minorities, including Jews, NJ.com reported. e group calls itself a “white protection league” and advocates for a country populated only by white people. Its members practice “doomsday prepping,” or preparing for the end of the world, and participate in military training. e group’s symbol references a failed 1923 German coup led by Adolf Hitler, according to the FBI. e court filings have not named the people who attacked the two synagogues. Tobin appeared in federal court in Camden, New Jersey last week. U.S. Magistrate Judge Karen M. Williams ordered Tobin held pending a mental health evaluation and scheduled a detention hearing scheduled for next month.

Rabbi Yisroel Goldstein retires as leader of Chabad of Poway

maRcY osteR JTA e rabbi of the Chabad of Poway, who lost his finger in the April 27 attack that killed one, has retired as the congregation’s leader. Rabbi Yisroel Goldstein, 58, who founded the Chabad of Poway in 1996, retired this week, the synagogue announced. His son, Rabbi Mendel Goldstein, will assume the leadership of the synagogue and its religious school, the Los Angeles Times reported. “We are grateful for Rabbi Yisroel Gold- Rabbi Ysrael Goldstein Credit: Sandy Huffaker/AFP/Getty Images stein’s thirty-plus years of leadership, especially in the aermath of the terror attack, and he will forever be a part of our community’s story,” the synagogue said in a statement. “As a community we have suﬀered a great deal, more than any community should know of,” the statement also said. “We are working hard to heal and get back on our feet, and now, under the leadership of Rabbi Mendel Goldstein, we look forward to continue to grow and create more light and goodness around us.” Since the attack, the rabbi has given speeches around the world about the attack and its aermath, while spreading the Lubavitcher Rebbe Menachem Mendel Schneerson’s teachings about light and love. His activities have taken him to the White House and the United Nations, and to other countries such as Brazil and Poland. He reportedly declined the chief rabbi of Israel’s invitation to speak in Jerusalem. In September he received a life-like prosthetic finger and has undergone physical therapy, while also suﬀering from phantom pains. e accused gunman in the Poway shooting, John Earnest, 20, has pleaded not guilty to charges of murder and attempted murder. e murder charge has been classified as a hate crime, making Earnest eligible for the death penalty.

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16 | The Jewish Press | November 22, 2019

Absolutely Fresh Seafood Market

What’s new and fresh at Absolutely Fresh Seafood Market? The better question might be “What isn’t? 2018 was a banner year for our business which is entering its 40th year of operation, and we are looking to continue our growth into 2019. For starters, we completed the installation of a brand new, state-of-the-art smokehouse for the production of our smoked fish, along with other items used for our expanding catering services, including smoked prime rib, turkeys and more. In addition, we are producing items such as briskets, pastrami and roast beef for the other restaurants in the Absolutely Fresh Family. As prepared food items have been our largest-growing sector, we have decided to continue our focus on this area. Not to worry though: there is still plenty of new fresh and frozen seafood coming to our door daily! We are now featuring some second-to-none wildcaught gulf shrimp from Louisiana that has been very popular amongst our customers. Also, Omaha’s “addiction” to our Faroe Islands Salmon continues to set new benchmarks for sales, and we couldn’t be happier that so many people are enjoying it on a regular basis. We hope that anyone who has not yet visited our store takes a moment to stop in and see what we have to offer. And, anyone who has not been in for a while might be surprised at all of the new tasty offerings we have. Thanks again for all of your support over the years.

Shucks Fish House & Oyster Bar All three of our Shucks locations had a very prosperous 2018 and continue to develop their own distinct identities. From a business standpoint, it fascinates us what a difference six miles can make in what customers are looking for in their dining choices. Nevertheless, it’s a fun challenge for us to “Keep it Fresh” for Downtown, Midtown and West Omaha. New menu items like the Angry Crab Pasta and the return of Shrimp & Grits have been very popular amongst our new and long-time customers.

In the upcoming year, we plan on continuing to provide a consistent and top-notch variety of the best seafood in Omaha. We are also placing renewed emphasis on our daily and weekend specials thanks to the exceptionally talented culinary team working in the kitchens of all of our locations. We encourage everyone wanting to know “What’s Fresh Today?” to sign up for our weekly email newsletter at shucksfish house.com where we also post our specials daily. Not to mention, we have very active

social media profiles on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Finally, we also look forward to being able to utilize the smokehouse purchased by our fish market to expand our smoked offerings, both surf and turf. We also have been getting a little more creative behind the bar with our drink specials and continue to find new varieties of oysters to appease the masses. Thanks to everyone who helped get us to this point, and we enjoy being your neighborhood fish shack.

rant, we have brought on a new head chef, Josh MacDonald, to provide some new ideas and some superb culinary skills to our kitchen. His house-smoked pastrami that goes on our Big Easy sandwich is like nothing you’ve ever had, and he also has been instrumental in incorporating more Absolutely Fresh Seafood into the specials and core menu. How do you find out what Chef Josh has planned for lunch today? Visit our

newly updated website at dundeedell.com. Plus, he does a fantastic job catering in one of our two party rooms. Our Skye Room is great for groups of up to 12, the ultimate back room experience, and our Pine Room can accommodate up to 60 guest for sit-down dinners or casual gatherings with appetizers and drinks. Stop in and see what’s new with your old neigborhood friend, The Dundee Dell, at 50th and Underwood.

Marys, have been gaining popularity with an increasingly younger crowd that enjoys the ability to have breakfast into the afternoon. We also have had great success in our Dinner After Dark and Dinner With The Market events in partnership with Absolutely Fresh Seafood Market and Shucks Fish House. These reservation-only, fivecourse meals are unlike anything else in Omaha, and have gained quite the regular

following. Plus, we encourage everyone to check out our catering menu for delicious breakfast and lunch options. Not to mention our restaurant is available to rent every evening after 4 p.m. for dinner events and parties. Take a moment and visit our website at baileysbreakfast.com to see what we offer, and what we might be able to do for you for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It’s always a great day with Bailey’s!

The Dundee Dell Finding a balance between the old and the new has been our quest since The Dundee Dell joined the Absolutely Fresh Family a few years ago. We have found that subtle changes are the best - a little brighter lighting, a few new colors and a handful of new friendly faces on our staff. But some things at The Dell will never change like our famous fish & chips and our Wall of Scotch. In our effort to add a little “freshness” to Omaha’s second oldest operating restau-

Bailey’s Breakfast & Lunch

It’s getting competitive in the Breakfast scene in Omaha, so we are constantly working to stay on the top of the list of best places to enjoy a nice homestyle breakfast with a little flair. In the past year, we added a few “South of the Border” items to our menu including Breakfast Enchiladas and Barbacoa Tostadas which have been extremely popular amongst our guests. And, our featured flavored coffees and signature drinks, including Mimosas and Bloody

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