November 25, 2011

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

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November 25, 2011 28 Cheshvan 5772 Vol. 92 | No. 11

This Week

Rabbi Telushkin visits Temple Israel

by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Temple Israel Communications Coordinator “God’s central demand of humans is to act ethically,” writes Rabbi Joseph Telushkin in his book, A Code of Jewish Ethics: You Shall Be Holy. Too often, he says, “the word religious is associated exclusively with ritual acts,

Prague Conservative Movement founder to speak at Beth El Page 3

Jordan “Toto” Raffel, left, Steve “Tin Man” Denenberg, Kendra “Dorothy” Holcomb, Director Fran Sillau, Jeremy “Scarecrow” Wright, Gary “Cowardly Lion” Nachman, and Kay “Wicked Witch” Parlor.

by ANNETTE VAN DE KAMPWRIGHT Editor of the Jewish Press On Thursday, Dec. 8 and Saturday, Dec. 10, at 7 p.m., the Jewish Community Center Theater will once again be the stage where Director Fran Sillau will work his magic. Fran and his dedicated band of actors have put in countless hours so that they can bring The Wizard of Oz to the stage.

“This is a classic story,” Fran says, “and it touches the hearts of many. It is a perfect way to begin the month of December! Also, this play is one of my favorites. We should all be

Holocaust exhibit opens at SAC Museum Page 6

Inside Next Month Celebrating Hanukkah See Front Page stories and more at: www.jewishomaha.org, click on Jewish Press

makes for a thriving community.”

Aaron Rosenfeld, Executive Director of the JCC agrees: “We are thrilled with all the excitement generated by the performing arts programs. The arts in general are extremely important to the vitality of our JCC, and of our community.

There is no better scene at the JCC than that of a parent and child participating together in a musical production, and learning from each other.”

Tickets to The Wizard of Oz cost $5. To order, please contact Esther Katz at ekatz@jccomaha.org or 402.334.6406.

Collaboration strengthens Holocaust education in Nebraska

Remembering Phyllis Friedel Page 12

Point of view Synagogues In memoriam

excited that theater is alive and well at the JCC.” The Community Theater Group is an initiative of the JCC Cultural Arts department, one of many programs that are designed to keep members of the community involved.

“It complements our other programs very well,” says Cultural Arts Director Esther Katz. “It is fantastic to see our department this busy.

Together with our dance programs, yoga classes, and the 92nd St. Y, it draws a very enthusiastic crowd.

The other great advantage is that the theater program engages people from very different age groups. It

8 10 11

by TIM KALDAHL A new partnership between the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO), a Holocaust survivor, and a World War II soldier who librated concentration camps will expand Holocaust and genocide education in Nebraska.

Omahans Louis Blumkin, a World War II liberator, and Sam Fried, a Holocaust survivor, both understand the need for society to be educated about genocide, so history does not repeat itself.

Their shared commitment now brings together a newly established professorship at UNO with a longstanding educational fund to provide exceptional teaching in Holocaust and genocide studies.

Sam Fried and Louis Blumkin The Louis and Frances Blumkin family of Omaha recently made a gift to create a professorship in Holocaust and genocide education in the department of history at UNO. The funding enables UNO to recruit a leading expert in Holocaust education. It also furthers the mission of the Heartland Holocaust and Genocide Educational Fund established through the work of Sam and Frances Fried.

The fund now carries the Frieds’ names to honor their advocacy of

Holocaust education.

The Sam and Frances Fried Holocaust and Genocide Educational Fund supports collegelevel courses in Holocaust and genocide education at UNO, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, University of Nebraska at Kearney, Creighton University and Wayne State College.

“UNO is sincerely appreciative to the Blumkins, Frieds and others for their commitment to educating students and the broader community Continued on page 3

Rabbi Joseph Telushkin measured by levels of observance.” Rabbi Telushkin, who will be a scholar-in-residence at Temple Israel from Friday, Dec. 9 through Sunday, Dec. 11, likes to associate holiness, leading an elevated life, with ethics. He quotes Hillel’s renowned advice as the essence of Judaism: “What is hateful to you, do not do to your neighbor.”

Named one of the 50 best public speakers in the United States

by Talk magazine, Rabbi Telushkin is a skilled conversationalist who has a reputation for being thoughtful, learned, funny, down-to-earth, and easily admitting his own struggles.

“There are some Jewish intellectuals in the United States that one shouldn’t miss hearing,” according to Temple Israel’s Rabbi Aryeh Azriel. “Rabbi Telushkin is one of them. This great opportunity, as the result of the Hermene Zweiback Center on Lifelong Jewish Learning, to bring a scholar and author of Rabbi Telushkin’s caliber, is an exciting event in the life of a community. He excels in responding to questions. He pays attention to every question, every nuance without being dismissive. He’s a good listener. I recommend going to the libraries to look at some of his writings before he arrives here. They’re fascinating.”

An alum of the Yeshiva of Flatbush, Rabbi Telushkin was ordained at Yeshiva University and studied Jewish history at Columbia University. “My career has always been primarily devoted to writing and lecturing,” he explained. Author of approximately 20 non-fiction as well as Continued on page 2

2 | The Jewish Press | November 25, 2011

The power of the family found in A Stranger on the Planet

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by MARY SUE GROSSMAN and MARK KIRCHHOFF Center for Jewish Education Adam Schwartz wanted to be a writer his entire life and in 1988, his short story The Grammar of Love was published in The New Yorker. He received a great deal of attention and was certain his literary career was on a “clear and accelerated track.” Schwartz next planned to publish a book of short stories; then, after two years, he would write a novel.

Schwartz found that books, just like life, don’t turn out the way you expect.

His book of stories turned into a novel and now, after twenty years, his debut novel A Stranger on the Planet was released in January. When Adam Schwartz asked why the project took so long, Schwartz replies he would likely need to write another book to fully answer the question. His brief answer is that he was figuring out how to write about his family -- a deeply complex and emotionally difficult subject.

On Tuesday evening, Nov. 29, Adam Schwartz will talk about his novel, telling about the adventures he experienced in reaching his goal and sharing more insights about the book. The first featured author during the Center for Jewish Education’s 38th Annual Jewish Book Month celebration, Schwartz will speak in the Kripke Jewish Federation Library beginning at 7 p.m. A dessert reception will follow his presentation.

Schwartz is a Senior Lecturer in the writing program at Wellesley College. He has previously taught writing at Harvard and is a graduate of the Iowa Writer’s Workshop.

The father of a 16-year old daughter, he takes great pride in following her softball endeavors plus he’s an avid fan of the Red Sox. In an interview with a Center for Jewish Education staff member, Schwartz related that he focused his novel on a family because families present the most powerful of dramas and the strongest of all human dilemmas. His own family served as the foundation for this book and for transforming what he learned from these relationships into art. Schwartz observed that “we are all strangers on the planet, but we are also connected. There is no stronger connection and no more powerful relationships than those which exist and evolve within the family.”

When asked what he best liked about his novel, Schwartz said he feels he accomplished his goal of finding a balance between humor and sadness. “People tell me that when they read my book, they both laugh and cry.”

A Stranger on the Planet begins in the summer of 1969 with twelve-year-old Seth living with his unstable mother, Ruth, and his brother and sister in a two-bedroom apartment in New Jersey. His father lives with his new wife in a ten-room house and has no interest in Seth and his siblings. Seth is dying to escape from his mother’s craziness and suffocating love, her marriage to a man she’s known for two weeks, and his father’s cold disregard.

Over the next four decades, Seth becomes the keeper of his family’s memories and secrets. At the same time, he emotionally isolates himself from all those who love him, especially his mother. But Ruth is also Seth’s muse, and this enables him to ultimately find redemption, for both himself and his family.

The book was the selection for this month’s meeting of the Dorothy Kaplan Kripke Library Book Discussion Group.

Harold Kosowsky, a book group member and a member of the Library Committee read Schwartz’s novel, commenting “he sure can write” and likened him to a type of Philip Roth writer.

Other Jewish Book Month events will include award-winning author Stephen Fried on Dec. 6, talking about his latest book, Appetite for America: Fred Harvey and the Business of Civilizing the Wild West—One Meal at a Time. Fried will talk about the rags-to-riches tale of Fred Harvey, an entrepreneur, whose spirit of cultural advancement and business-savvy attitude brought civility to the Wild West. The evening with Fried begins with wine and light refreshments at 6:30 p.m. followed by his talk at 7:15 p.m. The cost for this event is $8.

On Sunday afternoon, Dec. 11, at 2 p.m., join Gary Katz, as he reveals the magical world of author and illustrator, Maurice Sendak. Watch the film Where the Wild Things Are followed by a discussion of the book and the film.

For more details on any Jewish Book Month event and to make reservations for the Stephen Fried event, please call 402.334.6462.

Rabbi Telushkin visits Temple Israel

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Continued from page 1 fiction literary works, “it seemed to me,” he said, “that there were certain aspects of Judaism that needed to be taught, that weren’t getting proper attention. I was particularly interested in the laws of lashon hara and the other Jewish teachings on the ethics of speech including the principle of ona’at dvarim, of not oppressing others with words. The truth is that if you’d listen in at a therapist’s office, I think you’d learn that more people are hurt by things that people have said to them than by things that may have been said about them. In my book, Words that Hurt, Words that Heal, the subject of his 7 p.m.

Friday night Shabbat worship service sermon, “I tried to draw examples both from Jewish sources and from daily life to show how intensely important it is to guard our speech,” he said in an interview with Haaretz Daily Newspaper. The service will be followed by a congregational dinner.

“For one thing,” he added, “though children may say, ‘sticks and stones may break my bones, but words can never hurt me,’ adults know or should know that throughout history, words have motivated people to pick up sticks and stones and inflect terrible hurt on people.”

Published in 2006, the first volume of Rabbi Telushkin’s monumental work, A Code of Jewish Ethics: You Shall Be Holy, is a comprehensive presentation of Jewish teachings on the vital topic of personal character and integrity.

Richard Joel, president of Yeshiva University, called the book, “a gift to humankind.” On Saturday, Dec. 10, Rabbi Telushkin will address Being a Good Person in a Complicated World, at a 9 a.m. conversation that precedes the 10:30 a.m.

Shabbat worship service.

“Telushkin’s writings have helped thousands of Jews to learn from a wide breadth of topics. His easy-to-read teachings are scholarly, interesting and most important, relevant,” said Rabbi Eric Linder of Temple Israel.

Wendy Vann recalled taking a class at Temple Israel some time ago that included discussion on Rabbi Telushkin’s book about Jewish values. “It’s a day-by-day guide to ethical living,

and so I bought it,” she said, “and read it aloud at dinner to my kids. What I loved about it was that he made Judaism relevant to today. I’m so excited he’s coming!”

At a brunch and learn at 10 a.m. on Sunday, Dec. 11, Rabbi Telushkin, who leads worship services every other month at the Synagogue for the Performing Arts in Los Angeles, will talk about The 50 Best Jewish Jokes and What They Tell Us about the Human Condition. Author of Mash and Tootsie, Larry Gelbart said “I don’t know if Jews are really the chosen people, but I think Joseph Telushkin’s book, Jewish Humor: What the Best Jewish Jokes Say about the Jews, makes a strong argument that we’re the funniest.”

With close friend Dennis Prager, who was brought to Temple Israel last year by Temple Israel’s Hermene Zweiback Center for Lifelong Jewish Learning, Rabbi Telushkin wrote Nine Questions People Ask about Judaism.

Diane and Larry Malashock attended a young leadership retreat, sponsored by the Omaha Jewish Federation, some years ago at Lake Okoboji. Rabbi Telushkin was the scholarin-residence. “He’s a great speaker,” according to Diane Malashock, who has collected a few of his books and also heard Rabbi Telushkin’s talk in Omaha. She recalled that humor was among his topics. “We enjoyed hearing him, and we look forward to hearing him when he’s in Omaha this time,” she emphasized.

Rabbi Telushkin lives in New York and shares an office with his wife, Dvorah Menashe Telushkin. They have three daughters and a son whose many notes and family photos are kept above their father’s desk. He keeps boxes filled with multicolored index cards covered with handwritten notes, many of which are incorporated into his work. A suitcase in his office attests to his frequent lectures and teachings on the road across the country. Inviting the entire community to Temple Israel the weekend of Dec. 9-11, Rabbi Azriel asserted, “Rabbi Telushkin brings a lot of energy to his audience.

He’s exciting and knowledgeable and very witty. Our community will have a treat.”

November 25, 2011 | The Jewish Press | 3

Founder of Conservative Movement in Prague to speak at Beth El

by JILL BELMONT Beth El Publicity Coordinator Rabbi Ron Hoffberg, an American spiritual leader who single-handedly created a Conservative Jewish presence in the Czech Republic’s capital city of Prague, will serve as Beth El’s first annual Beverly and Richard Fellman Presidential Scholar-inResidence during the weekend of Dec 3.

A Chicago native, Rabbi Hoffberg was ordained at the Jewish Theological Seminary and served for many years as the Rabbi of Temple Beth-El, in Cranford, New Jersey. He also taught for two decades at the Solomon Schechter Rabbi Ron Hoffberg Day School of Essex and Union County - Upper and Lower Schools, and founded and directed the Rabbinical Assembly’s Conversion Institute of northern New Jersey.

Ten years ago, Rabbi Hoffberg traveled to Prague as a visiting rabbi; he subsequently established the Conservative Movement there and has lived there ever since. He is widely known for his extensive experience and research, as an expert on Jewish life throughout central Europe, and is a sought-after guide to Jewish Prague. He is the only Conservative rabbi in the Czech Republic, and also serves as Professor of Jewish History in the Charles University Overseas Studies program.

“With his warm, dynamic personality, Rabbi Hoffberg is a consummate storyteller who shares with his audiences fascinating historical anecdotes and poignant tales of spiritual rebirth,” said Beth El’s Rabbi Mordechai Levin. “He has been able to make the rich Jewish history of Prague come alive for people who have never been there, as well as for those who had already visited the city many times.”

According to Rabbi Levin, Rabbi Hoffberg is known for teaching those with Jewish roots about their heritage. He explained that during World War II, thousands of Jews destroyed documents that would have identified them as Jews, in order to avoid being sent to concentration camps.

Also persecuted by Communists, many Jews renounced their Judaism completely. Rabbi Hoffberg has helped many to re-discover their roots and reconnect with their Jewish faith.

During 9:30 a.m. Shabbat services on Saturday, Dec. 3, the rabbi will speak about Jews in Central Europe: Legacies of the Past, sharing “interesting historical highlights and legends from the vast Jewish story in Prague, and the contemporary scene,” he said.

Afterward, a special Kiddush luncheon will be served, featuring Czech fare, borscht, schnitzel, Israeli salad and a variety of strudels. During the luncheon, Rabbi Hoffberg will explore Czech Files: Inspirational Stories of Jews Returning to Judaism. As part of this presentation, he will share stories of individuals who have rediscovered their Jewish identity or have chosen to connect with the Jewish people due to long past familial ties.

“I will speak of some of the individuals I am working with in our Masorti community and the roads that have brought them back to the Jewish people,” he said. “It is a reflection

of the strength of that Jewish spark that can rekindle itself even after Holocaust and communism -- the incredible and horrible last century in Central European Jewish Life -- Am Yisrael Chai.”

The luncheon is open to the community and free of charge, but for planning purposes, reservations are required by Nov. 30, and may be made by contacting the synagogue office (see below).

Finally, on Sunday, Dec. 4, 11 a.m., the rabbi will offer a multi-media presentation highlighting The Magic of Jewish Prague.

“I hope to show people the incredible beauty and mystery of this unique home to 1,100 years of Jewish life and history,” he said.

“When Dick and I were in the former Soviet Union two years ago, our daughter, Susie, and our granddaughter, Gabby, met us in Prague; and we spent a few days visiting that city,” said Beverly Fellman, president of Beth El’s Board of Trustees. “What a beautiful city it is, especially the Jewish quarter. Synagogues still majestically stand, some of them turned into memorials for those lost in the Holocaust.

Sadly, many of our people were sent from Prague to Terezin and subsequently murdered. But today, out from under the Iron Curtain and Communism, the city thrives. There is still a clock tower with Hebrew letters instead of numbers.

“We look forward to Rabbi Hoffberg’s presentations on Dec. 3 and 4, and to the special luncheon after Shabbat services, which will feature Eastern European cuisine.”

For more information about the scholar-in-residence weekend or to RSVP for the luncheon, contact Beth El Program Director Margie Gutnik in the synagogue office, 402.492.8550, or at programming@bethel-omaha.org.

Collaboration strengthens Holocaust, genocide education in Nebraska Continued from page 1 about genocide and particularly the Holocaust,” said UNO Chancellor John Christensen. “The creation of the Blumkin Professorship coupled with the support of the Sam and Frances Fried Holocaust and Genocide Educational Fund will add tremendous value to the university’s programs in these areas. Together, we will work to ensure that future generations will never have to experience these types of atrocities.”

The support provided through the Blumkins’ gift and the Fried Educational Fund will enable UNO to expand its course offerings, research and educational outreach efforts in the area of Holocaust and genocide education.

Currently UNO is recruiting a leading expert in Holocaust and genocide studies to the Blumkin Chair. This individual will work closely with the Sam and Frances Fried Holocaust and Genocide Educational Fund board to advance educational opportunities in the community and the state of Nebraska.

“The Blumkin/Fried relationship is a remarkable story

that demonstrates how a positive understanding of human experience can survive the worst human tragedy,” said David Boocker, dean, UNO College of Arts and Sciences.

“Together, the Blumkin Professorship and Fried Educational Fund will ensure that students at UNO and across Nebraska can learn from a dark past to make a brighter future for people all over the world.”

When Fried was a teenager he was taken from his hometown in Czechoslovakia to Auschwitz-Birkenau during World War II. He eventually escaped and made his way to the United States and then Omaha.

“Back in 1979 when I chaired the Society of Survivors of the Holocaust, we held a dinner to honor the 1945 liberators of the Nazi death and slave labor camps,” explained Sam Fried. “They saved our lives. Louis Blumkin was one of these men of valor. The Blumkins have been constant supporters of our efforts to educate; to ensure that we will never forget. We are grateful to the Blumkins, as well as UNO, for this unique

Holocaust and genocide education opportunity.”

Louis Blumkin, an Omaha native, served in the United States Army from 1939 to 1945. He helped liberate prisoners from several concentration camps and was awarded the Purple Heart.

After returning from the war Blumkin and his mother, Rose, built the family business into the nation’s largest furniture store -- the Nebraska Furniture Mart. He and his wife also helped Holocaust survivors settle in Omaha and make new lives for themselves.

“The Sam and Frances Fried Holocaust and Genocide Educational Fund, the Louis and Frances Blumkin Professorship and UNO have created a unique partnership that will impact the learning and lives of students across the state for generations to come,” said Ken Bird, chair of the Fried Educational Fund board. “Our community will be forever grateful to the Blumkins and Frieds for their leadership and commitment.”

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Temple Israel takes next step to build its new Synagogue

by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Temple Israel Communications Coordinator A motion to exercise its purchase option and close on the 14-acre site on the grounds of Sterling Heights, southeast of 132nd and Pacific Streets, was unanimously passed at the Temple Israel Board of Trustees meeting on Nov. 15. Temple Israel, Nebraska’s oldest and largest Jewish congregation, plans to build its fourth home at the location. The projected groundbreaking for the estimated 58,500 square foot building will take place in 2012 with completion expected to be sometime in 2013.

“This is a Shehecheyanu moment,” noted Cantor Wendy Shermet, who led the Board members in the prayer to celebrate the special occasion.

Jane Rips, a Board member and former Board president, called it “an historic moment.” Nearly ten years of searching for a suitable site, planning with the Boston architectural firm Finegold Alexander + Associates Inc., and hours upon hours of committee meetings led up to the vote. The land closing documents will likely be signed the last week in November.

“We are exceptionally proud of our congregants and other friends who have committed more than $22.5 million toward our New Building and Endowment Campaign,” announced Board President John Lehr the following day in a letter to the congregation. “But this endeavor is not yet complete,” he added. “In order to fully fund the building and sustain the programming we require, $2.5 million is still needed.” Confident that “this most ambitious effort in our history” will be accomplished, he encouraged those who have not yet made a pledge to do so in recognizing “the role that Temple plays in your own life and in the life of the Jewish community of Omaha.

“It’s been my honor and privilege to have had a hand in today’s announcement,” Lehr stated, “and to have worked with so many committed congregants and staff to help shape and almost make this dream our reality. I know you share my pride of being a part of the Reform Jewish congregation of Omaha.”

Beth El Women’s Rosh Hodesh Group to make fleece blankets for needy children

by JILL BELMONT Beth El Publicity Coordinator On Monday, Nov. 28, 7 p.m., Beth El’s Women’s Rosh Hodesh Group, along with women from throughout the Jewish community are invited to come together at the synagogue to make cozy fleece blankets for needy children, as part of Project Linus. Project Linus is a national organization with hundreds of chapters across the country, which,

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Aveva Shukert, left, Caryn Rifkin and Carol Parsow, work on Project Linus blankets during a past Rosh Hodesh Group meeting. according to its mission statement, “provides love, a sense of security, warmth and comfort to children who are seriously ill, traumatized, or otherwise in need through the gifts of new, handmade blankets and afghans, lovingly created by volunteer “blanketeers.”

All materials will be provided during the evening (extra pairs of scissors would be welcome), and no special skills are needed to create the blankets – just cutting and tying. The blankets will be completed by the end of the get-together; they will then be washed and donated to Project Linus representatives, who will deliver them to the children.

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wise,” said Caryn Rifkin, who is co-hosting the upcoming get-together with Jane Dreyfus. “I’d like to hope that the cute, soft, warm, fleece blankets will brighten the childrens’ spirits and rooms as they cuddle up in them.”

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November 25, 2011 | The Jewish Press | 5

The Israel experience DUSTIN GINSBURG Alexander Muss High School This past summer, I spent 7 weeks in Israel on the Alexander Muss High School in Israel Program.

During this trip, we took a class on Jewish history and learned from the times of the Matriarchs and Patriarchs up until the Gaza War in 2009.

Being able to learn the history of the Jewish people, in depth, taught by two of the best teachers I have ever had, greatly expanded my knowledge and interest in Jewish topics. In addition to the classes, we traveled all around Israel visiting many religious, historical and military affiliated sites that coincided with our learning.

Dustin Ginsburg on a camel One particular place we visited was Tzvat, which is recognized as one of the four holy cities of Judaism and is the center of Kabbalah, or Jewish mysticism. During our visit to Tzvat, we visited a Kabbalist named Abraham, who made aliyah to Israel in the early 1990s and opened an art studio.

However, his art wasn’t just normal art, they were his interpretations of the Tanach and other Jewish ideals in art form.

One of his paintings resembled a yin yang, where the upper half was white and the lower was black. On the top half, a black Hey was painted in the middle, and on the lower half, a white Hey was painted. The top half represented the body and the lower Hey represented the soul that needed to move back up to the top so that the body and soul could become a place of unconditional love.

Another place that we went to during the trip was the Western Wall for Friday night services. When we got there, thousands of people from all parts of Judaism were there praying. For part of the time I was there, a couple of friends and I joined a minyan of mostly IDF soldiers who were very energetic during their service, dancing and jumping around while singing the prayers. Being there seeing all these people praying, in addition to having learned about the history of the 2nd Temple struck a nerve with my Judaism in a good way. I never before felt such an emotional and spiritual connection to G-d than I did that Friday night, and because of that, not only do I feel more obligated to stay Jewish, but I have a greater pride of being a Jew than I ever have had before.

The Alexander Muss High School in Israel Program was a great experience for me because I got to spend nearly two months visiting and learning about all of the places and stories I have heard about my entire life. The teachers we had were very knowledgeable about the course and were enthusiastic about their job, which greatly enhanced my learning.

I made many memories and friends on this trip that I will never forget. If you want to ask me more about this trip and what it entails, feel free to contact me at dustinginsburg2@ yahoo.com.

KYLIE KIRSHENBAUM BBYO Israel Journey Five months ago, when someone would mention Israel to me, I would have never thought of new friendships, beautiful scenery, amazing adventures, awesome food and how much it would connect me to being Jewish. During my three-week experience there, I went on treacherous hikes, swam in stunning places and created a bond with so many new people. But, most of all, I have deepened the understanding of and connection to my religion.

The day that stood out to me the most was the first full day that we were in Israel. We spent that whole day in the beautiful city of Jerusalem. We started that day off early, around 6:30. Our bus dropped us off near the King David Water Tunnel. For being someone who gets claustrophobic easily, I was kind of afraid to go in. Once in the tunnel, it was completely dark. My shoulders were touching both sides of the tunnel with about a foot and a half of water near my feet. I had to rely on the person in front of me to tell me when I needed to step up, turn, and warn me when to duck. This was a great way to learn to trust everyone else on the trip. At some points, the water level got higher and at some points the water level got very low. After walking through the water tunnel, we walked up many stairs until we reached a lookout

point. From this point of view, I could see all of Jerusalem.

That is when I realized that I was actually there. While viewing the beauty of Jerusalem, we said a prayer and drank grape juice. Then we began a long walk to the Old City where we shopped and ate. Because I am very picky eater, I did not know what I was going to eat. I walked around for a while until I decided to try a falafel. I am so glad I did! This delicious food is combined with tomatoes, lettuce, hummus and French fries all in pita bread. After this tasty meal and after shopping for a little while, we began walking toward the Kotel. I was surprised to see so many people. The women were on the right side and the men were on the left side. I walked right up to it and placed my personal prewritten prayer into the Wall. It was amazing that my prayer was just one of thousands of papers inscribed into the Wall. In order to leave the Wall, I walked backwards so that I was always facing the Wall. In Hebrew School, I learned about the importance and significance of the Kotel, but actually touching it made me fully comprehend its impact. Next, we got the opportunity to see a part of the Wall that some people do not know about. We went underground and learned the history of the Kotel. Learning about the Wall when it is right in front of you is an amazing experience. Our bus picked us up from there and we ended our first day in Israel. At the end of this day, I knew that I was going to fall in love with the place.

Going to Israel changed my life. I made friends that I will truly never forget. Through all the hikes, long bus rides, and all the walking, everyone still had smiles on their faces and were just happy to be there. I wish I could have stayed longer than I did, but for the three weeks that I was there, it was incredible. I hope that everyone gets to have an experience like I did. Hopefully, I will go back to Israel very soon.

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ARI JUSTER JCC Maccabi Games/ArtsFest Israel I have been to Israel six times, most of the time to visit family. So you might think that I’ve seen everything there is to see. I did too, and so I thought that I might be bored during the JCC Maccabi Games in Israel. Now that I’m back in school and still thinking about Maccabi, I can tell you for sure that it was one of the best experiences of my life.

Every time I go to Israel, I have the opportunity to view it from a different perspective. As I have gotten older, my perspective has changed and allowed me to realize just how amazing and unique a place Israel is. I made friends at Maccabi that I still talk to every day. I’ve been to so many special places in Israel before, but it was the special people I met that made this trip so memorable.

The host family that I stayed with could Ari Juster at the Western Wall not have been kinder or more caring. They lived on a kibbutz, and it was so interesting to talk to them and observe the different way of life.

One of the best experiences for me on the whole trip was the visit to the City of David excavations in Jerusalem. Every time I come to Jerusalem I see something different, and I don’t think I will ever run out of things to see. It was fascinating to see the original capital city of my ancestors, and seeing the way they lived their lives. Overall, my trip to Israel this summer was an unforgettable experience.

Organizations B’NAI B’RITH BREADBREAKERS Patrick McNamara will discuss his recent experience as a Fulbright-NEHRU Senior Scholar teaching in India for the last six months on Wednesday, Nov. 30, noon at the Blumkin Home. An optional buffet lunch costs $10; beverage service only is $3. For more information or to be placed on the email list call 402.334.6443 or bnaibrith@jewishomaha.org.

LOMIR REDN YIDDISH To know Yiddish is to become an artist with words and a master at describing the foibles, the quirks, and the strengths of human character. Yiddish is the best way to understand the soul of the Jewish people. We meet every Thursday, from 1-3 p.m., at the Rose Blumkin Home Board Room. Come join us and enjoy meeting your soul mates.

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6 | The Jewish Press | November 25, 2011

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On Thursday Nov. 17, the exhibit “Searching for Humanity: Veterans, Victims, and Survivors of World War II” at the Strategic Air and Space Museum was officially opened with a reception and tours of the exhibit.

Among the guests were, from top left: Dr. Lou and Rose Leviticus; Director of the Institute for Holocaust Education Beth Dotan, artist Matthew Placzek, Tom Williams, son of liberator U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Clarence Williams, and Sam Fried, founder (with his wife Frances, not pictured) of the Heartland Holocaust Education Fund; Mrs. Ellen Jaeger and Dr. Tom Jaeger. For more about this exhibit, which was curated by the Institute for Holocaust Education, see next week’s Jewish Press.

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Find great deals during Beth El’s annual Judaica Shop sale

by JILL BELMONT Beth El Publicity Coordinator From brightly-colored dreidels and graceful hanukkiyot to unique Judaica items for all occasions, Beth El’s Judaica Shop is the one stop for every holiday need. And, as a bonus for all lucky patrons, the shop will hold a special sale from Nov. 30 through Dec. 14; everyone in the Jewish community will want to take advantage of the unbeatable discounts.

According to the shop’s chairman, Caryn Rifkin, everything in the shop will be at least 10 percent off: all solid-gold jewelry will be 30 percent off, and a variety of items will be up to 75 percent off. Among the many artists whose works are exhibited at the shop include Gary Rosenthal, Tamara Baskin, IsArt, Ayala, BarSale, and Murano Judaica from Italy.

The shop features traditional and contemporary mezuzot, tallitot, Shabbat candlesticks, books and other distinctive offerings, and proceeds from each purchase go to support

Beth El and its programming.

As an added convenience, the Judaica Shop is also online, at www.bethelomaha.judaicabeautiful.com, so shoppers can browse and buy from the comfort of their own homes.

Sale hours are: Wednesdays, Nov. 30, Dec. 7 and 14, 2:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sundays, Dec. 4 and 11, 9:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Other times are available by appointment only.

Regular gift shop hours are Sundays from 10 a.m. to noon (when Talmud Torah classes are in session), and Wednesdays, 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

“Over the years, proceeds from the shop have underwritten a variety of synagogue programs, benefited our religious school, made possible our congregation’s membership directory, and supported the synagogue in countless other ways,” said Rifkin. “We’ve got the goods and the Judaica experts -volunteers and staff members alike -- to help you find the perfect gift. Stop in and take advantage of this great sale!”

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November 25, 2011 | The Jewish Press | 7

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Community Calendar FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 25 Beth El BILU USY Kinnus in St. Louis through Nov. 27 Birthday Blessings, 6 p.m. at Beth El SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 26 Torah Study, 9:15 a.m. at Temple Israel No Junior Congregation (Grades 2-7) at Beth El SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 27 No BESTT Classes PreK-7 at Beth El MONDAY, NOVEMBER 28 Latte & Learning for 8th-12th Graders, 7:30 p.m. at Starbucks, 114th & Dodge CJE Introduction to Judaism, 8 p.m.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 29 BBYO Night, 6 p.m.

Rabbi Mizrahi’s Weekly Class, 7 p.m. at Beth Israel Jewish Book Month Event with Adam Schwartz, 7 p.m.

The Guide of the Perplexed, 8 p.m. at Beth Israel WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 30 Partnership Committee Meeting, 11:30 a.m.

Scholars Club for 4th, 5th & 6th Graders, 4 p.m.

BESTT Classes, 4:15 p.m. at Beth El Omaha Jewish Chai School, 6:30 p.m.

BESTT 8th Grade Class, 6:45 p.m. at RBJH Rabbi Weiss’s Weekly Class, 7:30 p.m. at Beth Israel THURSDAY, DECEMBER 1 Women of the Torah, 9:30 a.m. at Beth Israel Adult Education with Rabbi Levin, noon at Beth El Lomir Redn Yiddish, 1 p.m.

Life after Death with Dr. Matalon, 7 p.m. at Beth El BILU USY Lounge Night, 7 p.m. at Beth El ADL/IHE Presents Emmanual Habimana, 7 p.m.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2 Friday Learning Series, noon with Judy Rosenfeld Say ‘Shalom!’ to Shabbat! & Tot Shabbat, 6 p.m. at Beth El SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3 Torah Study, 9:15 a.m. at Temple Israel Scholar in Residence, Rabbi Hoffberg, 9:30 a.m. at Beth El Junior Congregation (Grades 2-7), 10 a.m. at Beth El SUNDAY, DECEMBER 4 BBYO AZA & Beth El Red Cross Blood Drive, 9 a.m.

BESTT Classes PreK-7, 9:45 a.m. at Beth El Adult Education Classes, 10 a.m. at Beth El BESTT Sixth grade family program, 10:15 a.m. at Beth El Scholar in Residence, Rabbi Hoffberg, 11 a.m. at Beth El Pizza & Parasha with Cantor Beth, 12:30 p.m. at Bagel Bin Beth El Kadima Goes to Tranquility Ice Plex, 1 p.m.

Community Youth Retreat Meeting, 1 p.m.

Beth El Chaverim goes to Sempeck’s Bowling, 3 p.m.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 5 Monday Moadon, Grades 2-7, 4:15 p.m. at Beth El CJE Introduction to Judaism, 8 p.m.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 6 ADL Civil Rights Committee Meeting, 7:30 a.m.

Beth El Parent/Toddler Playgroup, 10:30 a.m. at Saddlebrook Comm. Center Eye on Israel with Dr. Matalon, noon BBYO Night, 6 p.m.

Rabbi Mizrahi’s Weekly Class, 7 p.m. at Beth Israel NCJW Board Meeting, 7 p.m.

Jewish Book Month Event with Stephen Fried, 7 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 7 ADL Educator Breakfast, 7:30 a.m.

Scholars Club for 4th, 5th & 6th Graders, 4 p.m.

BESTT Classes, 4:15 p.m. at Beth El B’nai B’rith Bible Quiz Dinner, 6 p.m.

Omaha Jewish Chai School, 6:30 p.m.

BESTT 8th Grade Class, 6:45 p.m. at RBJH B’nai B’rith Bible Quiz, 7 p.m.

Rabbi Weiss’s Weekly Class, 7:30 p.m. at Beth Israel THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8 Women of the Torah, 9:30 a.m. at Beth Israel Women’s Book Group, 1 p.m. at Beth El Lomir Redn Yiddish, 1 p.m.

BBYO March of the Living Interviews, 5 p.m.

Life after Death with Dr. Matalon, 7 p.m. at Beth El JCC Performance of The Wizard of Oz, 7 p.m.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9 Friday Learning Series, noon with Judy Rosenfeld Let’s Do Lunch with Beth El’s Rabbi Levin, noon at RBJH Star Deli USY Kabbalat Shabbat & Dinner, 6 p.m. at Beth El SATURDAY, DECEMBER 10 Torah Study, 9:15 a.m. at Temple Israel Junior Congregation (Grades 2-7), 10 a.m. at Beth El Shabbat Yoga, 10:30 a.m. at Beth El Shabbat is for Study, 12:15 p.m. at Beth El JCC Performance of The Wizard of Oz, 7 p.m.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 11 JCC Open House, 7:30 a.m. - 7 p.m.

JFS Project Tzedakah - Hanukah/Project Dreidel, 8 a.m.

BESTT Classes PreK-7, 9:45 a.m. at Beth El Sunday Scholar’s Series, 10 a.m. at Beth El Weekly Bible Study, 10 a.m. at Beth El WRJ Meeting, 10 a.m. at Temple Israel Community Youth Retreat Meeting, 1 p.m.

Jewish Omaha Youth Foundation Meeting, 1 p.m.

Jewish Book Month Film Discussion, 2 p.m.

B’nai Tzedek Teen Philanthropy Program, 3 p.m.

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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 17 Torah Study, 9:15 a.m. at Temple Israel BESTT Pre-K-7th Grade, Shabbat’s Cool!, 10 a.m. at Beth El 39 Forever Hanukkah Party, 6 p.m. at Parkwood Terrace Clubhouse BILU USY Hanukkah Program, 7 p.m. at Beth El SUNDAY, DECEMBER 18 No Beth El BESTT Classes PreK-7 Adult Education Classes begin, 10 a.m. at Beth El BESTT Chaverim Board Meeting, 12:30 p.m. at Beth El MONDAY, DECEMBER 19 Jewish Press Board Meeting, 7 p.m.

Mainstreeters Luncheon Program, 12:30 p.m.

No Beth El Monday Moadon, Grades 2-7 CJE Introduction to Judaism, 8 p.m.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 20 Beth El Parent/Toddler Playgroup, 10:30 a.m.

B’nai B’rith Board Meeting, 11:45 a.m.

Eye on Israel with Dr. Matalon, noon BBYO Night, 6 p.m.

Rabbi Mizrahi’s Weekly Class, 7 p.m. at Beth Israel Snow Date for Friedel Hanukkah Play, 7 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 21 Breadbreakers Lunch & Speaker: Nancy Rips, noon Scholars Club for 4th, 5th & 6th Graders, 4 p.m.

BESTT Classes, 4:15 p.m. at Beth El Omaha Jewish Chai School, 6:30 p.m.

BESTT 8th Grade Class, 6:45 p.m. at RBJH Rabbi Weiss’s Weekly Class, 7:30 p.m. at Beth Israel THURSDAY, DECEMBER 22 Women of the Torah, 9:30 a.m. at Beth Israel Lomir Redn Yiddish, 1 p.m.

JCC Hanukkah Extravaganza, 5:30 p.m.

Life after Death with Dr. Matalon, 7 p.m. at Beth El LOVE Board Meeting, 7 p.m.

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MONDAY, DECEMBER 12 JFS Project Tzedakah - Hanukah/Project Dreidel, 8 a.m.

Monday Moadon, Grades 2-7, 4:15 p.m. at Beth El Planning & Community Engagement Meeting, 6:30 p.m.

Lets Wine About It! with Cantor Beth, 6:30 p.m. at Fox & Hound, 120th & Dodge Monday Night Women’s Class, 7:30 p.m. at Beth Israel CJE Introduction to Judaism, 8 p.m.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 23 Beth El Brings Shabbat to the Blumkin Home, 2:30 p.m.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 13 JFS Project Tzedakah - Hanukah/Project Dreidel, 8 a.m.

Eye on Israel with Dr. Matalon, noon BBYO Night, 6 p.m.

Open Arms Hanukkah Cooking class, 6:30 p.m. at Beth El Rabbi Mizrahi’s Weekly Class, 7 p.m. at Beth Israel JCC Board Meeting, 7 p.m.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 25 No Beth El BESTT Classes PreK-7 Men’s Club Congregational Hanukkah Dinner, 6 p.m. at Beth El

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MONDAY, DECEMBER 26 No Monday Moadon, Grades 2-7 at Beth El

How computers work • How to use programs like Word, Excel and PowerPoint How to e-mail friends and family • How to play games on the computer How to use SKYPE for free video-conferencing with your children and grandchildren How to organize your addresses, phone numbers & budget Shop, read newspapers & books and watch videos online

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 14 Breadbreakers Lunch & Speaker: Lee Terry, noon Rabbis & Presidents Meeting, noon Scholars Club for 4th, 5th & 6th Graders, 4 p.m.

BESTT Classes, 4:15 p.m. at Beth El JFO Executive Committee Meeting, 6:30 p.m.

Omaha Jewish Chai School, 6:30 p.m.

Board Meeting, 6:30 p.m. at Beth Israel BESTT 8th Grade Class, 6:45 p.m. at RBJH Rabbi Weiss’s Weekly Class, 7:30 p.m. at Beth Israel THURSDAY, DECEMBER 15 Women of the Torah, 9:30 a.m. at Beth Israel Dorothy Kaplan Book Discussion Group, 1 p.m.

Lomir Redn Yiddish, 1 p.m.

Life after Death with Dr. Matalon, 7 p.m. at Beth El Friedel Hanukkah Play and Reception, 7 p.m.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16 Friedel Annual Latke Lunch & Sales, 11:30 a.m.

Friday Learning Series, noon with Judy Rosenfeld Artist-in-Residence, 6 p.m. at Beth El

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 24 Torah Study, 9:15 a.m. at Temple Israel Shabbos Hanukkah Lunch at Beth Israel, 12:30 p.m.

5th Annual Hanukkah Carnival, 6:30 p.m. at Beth Israel YAC - What’s a Jew to do on Dec. 24?, 7 p.m. at Beth El

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 27 Eye on Israel with Dr. Matalon, noon BBYO Night, 6 p.m.

Rabbi Mizrahi’s Weekly Class, 7 p.m. at Beth Israel Women’s Rosh Hodesh Meeting, 7 p.m. at Beth El WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 28 Scholars Club for 4th, 5th & 6th Graders, 4 p.m.

BESTT Classes, 4:15 p.m. at Beth El Omaha Jewish Chai School, 6:30 p.m.

No BESTT 8th Grade Class Rabbi Weiss’s Weekly Class, 7:30 p.m. at Beth Israel THURSDAY, DECEMBER 29 Women of the Torah, 9:30 a.m. at Beth Israel Lomir Redn Yiddish, 1 p.m.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30 Birthday Blessings, 6 p.m. at Beth El

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All events held at the Jewish Community Center unless otherwise noted. This calendar does not include all community events. For a complete listing, visit the Federation’s website: www.jewishomaha.org (click on calendar). To keep calendar accurate, call Marlene Hert at 334-6437. The Jewish Press is not responsible for the accuracy of the above events.

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8 | The Jewish Press | November 25, 2011

Point of view

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Monsters under the bed

by ANNETTE VAN DE KAMP-WRIGHT Editor of the Jewish Press On Nov. 17, I attended the opening reception of the Institute for Holocaust Education’s current exhibit at the Strategic Air and Space Museum. It’s titled “Searching for Humanity: Veterans, Victims, and Survivors of World War II,” and I highly recommend it.

Reading the article below by Anti Defamation League’s Abraham Foxman the following morning reminded me that the issue of anti-Semitism is not as front and center as it maybe should be. Instead, we often treat it like some mythical creature; our grandparents still tell scary stories about it, but we secretly think it doesn’t exist.

We visit exhibits like the one I mentioned with a sense of relief: “Well,” we tell ourselves, “glad it’s 2011 and we don’t have to worry about that anymore.” Just as with the monsters under our bed, we have stopped believing. The past is the past, we think, and we don’t consider repetition of what happened then a real possibility.

Yet, we are confronted with anti-Semitism almost daily; one only has to open a random newspaper to know not much has changed. I don’t really need to make my case: Foxman did that for me, and much more eloquently than I ever could. So let me dive straight into the question: why do we not take it more seriously?

First of all, there is the issue of minimizing what we see on the news. So often these days, what we see are small, individual acts of hatred. Someone spray paints a swastika on a car, or leaves a nasty tag on a building. A teenager in a high school somewhere in another state is called an unacceptable name. Even the fact that several cars in Brooklyn were set on fire is no real cause for alarm. We’ve been conditioned to

believe that not until someone has us all arrested and locked away do we need to worry. But I think we’re taking this whole “never again” business completely the wrong way.

It’s true that the worst-case scenario, another Holocaust, should never happen again. It is, however, not true that it can’t. That sounds alarmist, true, and we cannot live our lives while constantly looking over our shoulder. At the same time, it is only when we are super-vigilant that we can keep the world safe. That means being aware of threats, no mater how small, no matter how far away from our personal bubble.

Yet, sometimes vandalism is just that, and an ugly incident is merely a blip on the radar. Not every teenager who uses a racial slur grows into a full-blown Nazi. Yes; I’m sort of arguing both sides.

The thing is, we can’t really know every time anti-Semitism occurs whether it’s going to grow into something more. I’m sure when Hitler first published Mein Kampf, there were plenty of people who thought he was just another nutcase, responding to the economic crisis Germany was experiencing. How do you predict such terrible escalation?

How do you know whether the people who leave hateful comments on some website are planning to act out, or are just bored? Are those who blame the current economic woes on the Jewish people really that delud-

ed, or are they simply repeating what they heard others say?

The truth is, every act of violence against Jews, every razzia, and every pogrom started somewhere. Someone at one point or another made it acceptable to speak hate out loud, and from there it is a small step to the justification of violence. That is why we need to stay vigilant, that is why we have to pay attention to every single anti-Semitic incident.

That’s why we support an organization like the Anti Defamation League. Not because we want to live in a perpetual state of panic, but so that we don’t have to, ever again.

The Resurgence of Anti-Semitism

Behind the headlines ABRAHAM H. FOXMAN, National Director of ADL Anti-Semitism has been resurging around the world over the last decade. The combination of anxiety over terrorism, concerns about financial stability, campaigns against Israel, and the diminution of the longfelt shame after Auschwitz about exhibiting anti-Semitism have led to this resurgence.

Even in the United States, where Jews feel so at home, there are several disturbing trends. In a new survey of American public opinion and anti-Semitic attitudes, conducted in mid-October, we found a 4 percent spike from two years ago in the number of Americans who hold antiSemitic attitudes. And our annual Audit of Anti-Semitic Incidents revealed that there were 1,239 incidents in 2010, including 64 anti-Semitic incidents in Massachusetts alone.

On American campuses, anti-Israel activity has sporadically spilled over into anti-Semitism, making life uncomfortable for Jewish students, albeit at a limited number of universities.

And while the usual extremists and racists such as the National Socialist Movement and Ku Klux Klan continue their anti-Semitic activity on the margins of society, manifestations of anti-Semitism surface as well in more respectable circles, most recently in the case of John Mearsheimer, professor at the University of Chicago and co-author of The Israel Lobby, who revealed his anti-Semitism in a recent endorsement of a racist book in the United Kingdom.

In other words, anti-Semitism is not a history lesson, it is a current event.

(Founded in 1920) Andrew Ruback President Annette van de Kamp-Wright Editor Richard Busse Creative Director Allan Handleman Advertising Manager Lori Kooper-Schwarz Assistant Editor Barbara Kirkpatrick Bookkeeper

Jewish Press Board Eric Dunning, Vice President; Jason Epstein, Treasurer; Bobbi Leibowitz, Past President; Marc Brodkey; Phyllis Brown; Daniel Christensen; Mel Epstein; Scott Farkas; Michael Kaufman; Paul Rabinowitz; Caryn Scheer; Mark Senal; Nancy Wolf.

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

Guidelines and highlights of the Jewish Press, including front page stories and announcements, can be found online at: www jewishoma-

That’s why I’m so pleased that Gov. Deval Patrick will be joining Elie Wiesel, the moral conscience of the Jewish world, Fred Lawrence, the president of Brandeis University and me tonight at Faneuil Hall to address the challenge of contemporary anti-Semitism. The governor’s appearance makes clear that this is an issue for all residents of Massachusetts, indeed of all Americans, not only for the Jewish community.

So what are the greatest threats and what can we do about them?

The main threat comes from the intersection of old, classical anti-Semitism with what is often called the “new antiSemitism.”

The “old” are the series of dangerous stereotypes and conspiracy theories that have permeated civilization for centuries, which caused so much damage and eventually led to the Holocaust. The Jews are evil; the Jews have too much power and influence; the Jews only care about money; the Jews killed Christ; the Jews are not loyal citizens. These are some of the classical, pervasive notions that poisoned attitudes toward Jews from time immemorial.

And then there are the conspiracy theories about Jews that have exploded on the scene in the last decade. Millions of people around the world believe that Jews, not Al Qaeda, were responsible for the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Some people blame Jews for the financial collapse of 2008. And there is even a growth in denial of the Holocaust, based on the antiSemitic fantasy that Jews control all forms of communication and imposed the “lie” of the Holocaust on the world to win sympathy for Israel.

Together with all this is the new anti-Semitism, the campaigns against the legitimacy of the state of Israel as a vehicle to legitimize attacks on Jews.

Let me be clear: I’m not suggesting that any criticism of Israel is anti-Semitism. I am saying that the demonization of the Jewish state, blaming everything that goes wrong on it,

the comparison of Israel to the Nazis or the denial of the right of the Jewish people to a sovereign state in their historic homeland are indeed anti-Semitism and must be called that for what they are.

Unfortunately, many, though hardly all, of these attacks emanate from segments of the Muslim world. Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad proudly denies the Holocaust and proclaims that Israel will no longer exist in 20 years. Hamas, the Islamic Palestinian terrorist group, has a governing charter that not only rejects Israel’s right to exist but shamelessly blames all the evil in the world on the Jews.

And, when conflict breaks out in the Middle East, as in Lebanon in 2006 and Gaza in 2009, anti-Semitic incidents surged to unacceptable levels. This rise is attributable to the anti-Israel propaganda coming from Europeans seeking to isolate Israel and from Middle East television coverage -both of which incite Muslim residents of European countries.

Where it all comes together is when ideologues of different persuasions find common ground in blaming and criticizing Israel and spurring anti-Semitism. The left, the right and the Islamic world have little else in common but on Israel, a tacit coalition exists.

At the same time, we in the Jewish community have been and continue to be motivated by the theme of “Never Again.”

Fortunately, we have had a great partner in this effort: the US government. Over the years both Democratic and Republican administrations have taken many initiatives -- to help rescue Soviet, Syrian and Ethiopian Jews, to ensure that millions of diverse people around the world would be educated about the Holocaust, and to work tirelessly for Middle East peace and ensure Israel’s security.

This is not the 1930s all over again. It is, however, a time of its own dangers for the Jewish people.

This article originally appeared in The Boston Globe on Nov. 7, 2011.

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November 25, 2011 | The Jewish Press | 9

Where every Friday night is Thanksgiving

Journal entry from Israel TEDDY WEINBERGER I grew up thinking that my identity as an observant Jew was perfectly compatible with my identity as an American.

The wide spectrum of Americanness seemed easily to encompass my identity as an observant Jew. After all, there are all kinds of Americans--Irish, Italian, Hispanic, etc.--and just as the level of religiosity in each of these groups does not impinge on their Americanness, so I understood as a child that my being an observant Jew did not make me less American than anyone else. I knew that different Americans have their different customs and traditions but that they are united in wanting to contribute to the flourishing of the “grand experiment” that is America. This longing to play an integral part in my larger society was a formative component in my education as an American. Yet I ultimately came to feel that I as a religiously observant Jew would have to move to Israel in order to satisfy this American desire.

Yes, a key reason for my aliyah was my Americanness. I

had been taught to yearn to be part of something larger than myself and I concluded that this had to be in Israel.

Something ostensibly trivial was a key factor for me in reaching this conclusion: Because I am a Sabbath observer, I could not play in Columbia University’s Marching Band at my college’s football games. I did play clarinet for Columbia’s Wind Ensemble, and I played saxophone at some basketball games, but since all regularly scheduled college football games are on Saturdays, my religious observance prevented me from experiencing this crucial part of college life.

Perhaps what truly affected me was the fact that a large portion of the marching band was composed of Jewish students.

I eventually came to believe that a trade-off needed to take place in order for a Jew to really experience America.

Though, thankfully, America is a country that allows for complete religious freedom, I came to believe that traditional observance of Jewish customs is incompatible with full participation in American society.

On one day a year I felt that I was able to fully embrace both my Jewish and my American identities: Thanksgiving. The day, by definition -- the fourth Thursday in November -never conflicts with any Jewish religious practices. The traditional reason for the day (an ecumenical feast) openly encourages different religious faiths. And the main ritual of the day, Thanksgiving dinner, offers one the opportunity to partake of

all the traditional foods and fixings in a Jewish way -- by making sure that the turkey is kosher and that the cranberry sauce, sweet potatoes, green beans, and pumpkin pie are made only with pareve ingredients. On Thanksgiving I could be fully Jewish and fully American. I could be one with America. And that felt good. Very good. But this was just one day of the year.

I yearned for more. I yearned for more precisely because I was a good American. I yearned to be part of a country where my being an observant Jew would not prevent me from the key cultural moments, foods, and traditions of my society.

Every single Friday night I experience in Israel what I experienced in America once a year on Thanksgiving day.

Because every Friday night throughout Israel most families- secular and religious -- gather together for a meal. When I sit down with my family to my Shabbat dinner on Friday night, there is thus a union of my Jewishness and my Israeliness -- and this feels just perfect to my Americanness.

One can say, therefore, that as far as the importance of living in a country that fully embraces who I am, America made the sale and Israel supplied the goods. Happy Thanksgiving.

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

Return Torah to its place of glory

Focus on issues ELIE KAUNFER DENVER (JTA) -- I want to challenge one of the mainstay assumptions of organized Jewish life: Jewish continuity is the end goal, and everything is in service of that goal.

It’s been 20 years since the release of the 1990 National Jewish Population Study, which found an unprecedented rate of intermarriage. It launched 1,000 ships of Jewish identity efforts in the service of ensuring Jewish continuity.

Our theory: Strengthen Jewish identity and Judaism will continue.

But here’s the problem with that theory: In our zeal to ensure the Jewish future, we forgot to articulate why it matters for Judaism to continue.

Abraham Joshua Heschel already recognized this in 1965, when he addressed the 34th General Assembly in Montreal.

He said, “The significance of Judaism does not lie in its being conducive to the mere survival of a particular people, but rather in its being a source of spiritual wealth, a source of meaning relevant to all peoples.”

Jews, like all people, are searching for meaning, substance and connection. Our souls are calling out for engagement; our hearts are crying out to be opened.

Judaism, at its core, is a response to that yearning, an answer to that call. Why does Judaism need a future?

Because Judaism offers a system, a covenantal language, a heritage and tradition that responds to the human need for meaning, substance and connection. It is our system, our language, our heritage; it is relevant, and that is the reason that we need a Jewish future.

We Jews have a word for the pathway to meaning, substance and connection. It is called Torah. So often we sideline Torah in the culture of the organized Jewish community. It takes the form of a pithy quote at the top of a website; an icon on our iPad; a glazed d'var Torah at the beginning of a board meeting. It’s what we pay lip service to before we really get down to business. But real Torah is so much deeper.

Torah has the power to draw us into the conversation, and to push us to think more deeply about ourselves and our struggles. Torah gives us a language for clarifying our own life’s mission, and an entryway to express our deepest values.

So who is Torah for? Is the search for meaning and content reserved for a few motivated Jews? Is it stuck up in the heavens where no one can reach it? Or across the sea where no one can find it? (Deut. 20:12-13) When God spoke the word [on Sinai], God’s voice split into seven voices. Those seven voices split into the 70 lan-

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guages of the world So that everyone could understand.

What’s incredible about this Midrash? It means that Torah has something to say to everyone. Not just kids. Not just day school graduates. Not just synagogue goers. Not just rabbis. Not even just Jews!

Our task is twofold. First, we have to abandon the old paradigm of Jewish continuity as an end in itself instead. In the 21st century, Jews are not inspired to survive just to survive. We can be inspired to engage in the deepest questions of meaning and existence and do that through the wisdom of our heritage.

Second, we have to make Torah accessible to all. We have to stop imagining Torah as only for the clergy and the elite.

We suffer and Torah suffers when we short-sell its relevance.

We often have trouble articulating why Judaism matters, and we start casting about for the “next big idea.” Torah always has been the big idea. Let’s bring it back to its place of glory, and in so doing, remind ourselves why we care so much about our Jewish future.

Rabbi Elie Kaunfer is the executive director of Mechon Hadar, an egalitarian yeshiva and independent minyan organization. He adapted this Op-Ed from a speech he delivered Nov. 6 to the Jewish Federations of North America’s General Assembly.

This article was edited for length.

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Synagogues B’NAI ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE 618 Mynster Street | Council Bluffs, IA 51503-0766 | 402.322.4705 email: CBsynagogue@hotmail.com FRIDAY: Services followed by Oneg, 7:30 p.m.

BETH EL SYNAGOGUE Member of United Synagogues of Conservative Judaism 14506 California | Omaha, NE 68154-1980 | 402.492.8550 www.bethel-omaha.org Services conducted by Rabbi Mordechai Levin, Rabbi Steven Abraham and Cantor Beth Schlossberg.

FRIDAY: Kabbalat Shabbat Service, 6 p.m.

SATURDAY: Morning service, 9:30 a.m.; No Junior Congregation; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 4:45 p.m.

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

SUNDAY: No BESTT Classes.

MONDAY: Women’s Rosh Hodesh Group, 7 p.m. (see full story on page 4.)

THURSDAY: Rabbi Levin’s What Do Jews Believe, noon.

Newcomers welcome. No charge to attend; USY Lounge Night, 7 p.m. with dinner provided.

TOT SHABBAT/SAY SHALOM TO SHABBAT: Friday, Dec. 2, 6 p.m. Dinner follows both programs at 6:30 p.m.

RSVP to Margie Gutnik in the office, or at programming@ bethel-omaha.org.

SCHOLAR-IN-RESIDENCE: On Saturday, Dec. 3 and Sunday, Dec. 4, Beth El welcomes Rabbi Ron Hoffberg, leader of the Masorti Movement in Prague. (see full story on page 3.)

DIVERSITY IN MOVIES: EMBRACING THE WORLD WITH OPEN JEWISH EYES: Susi Frydman-Levin leads this new weekly adult-education class, beginning Sunday, Dec. 4, 10 a.m. to noon. Through movies, participants will discuss their perspectives about people and life issues. Each class offers a new discussion; newcomers are always welcome.

KADIMA: Youth group will meet at Tranquility Ice Plex on Sunday, Dec. 4, 1–2:30 p.m. Pick-up at skating rink.

Cost: $5 for admission; bring money for snacks. RSVP to Shiri Tene in the synagogue office or at youthdir@bethelomaha.org.

CHAVERIM: Sunday, Dec. 4, 3-4:40 p.m., kids will enjoy bowling at Sempeck’s Bowling Alley, 20902 Cumberland Dr. Drop-off and pick-off at the venue. Cost: $7. RSVP to Shiri Tene in the office or at youthdir@bethel-omaha.org.

YAC PLAYGROUP: Toddlers and parents will meet on Tuesday, Dec. 6, 10:30 a.m., at Saddlebrook Community Center, 14850 Laurel Ave. For more information, contact Caryn Scheer at carynscheer@yahoo.com.

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

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

FRIDAY: Kabbalat Shabbat, 4:40 p.m.

SATURDAY: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Free babysitting service begins at 9:30 a.m.; Children’s Classes begin with Torah Parade, 9:45 a.m.; Kiddush is sponsored by Sisterhood; The Laws of Shabbat, 2:30 p.m.; Advanced Parshah Study for Kids (ages 10 and up), 3:30 p.m.; Rabbi Gross’s Twitter Topic Class, 3:30 p.m.; Mincha, 4:30 p.m., followed by Seuda Shlishit; Havdalah, 5:43 p.m.

SUNDAY: Gemara class, 8 a.m., learning tractate Kiddushin; Shacharit, 9 a.m. followed by breakfast.

WEEKDAYS: Shacharit, 7 a.m.

MONDAY: Weekly Teleconference Mishnah Class, 10:30 a.m. with Rabbi Gross. Contact the office for information on how to call-in to the conference call.

TUESDAY: Rabbi Mizrahi’s Weekly Class, 7 p.m.; A Guided Tour of the Guide of the Perplexed, a six-week course on the work of Maimonides with Dr. Guy Matalon, 8 p.m.

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

THURSDAY: Women of the Torah class, 9:30 a.m. with Rabbi Gross.

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

FRIDAY: Services, 7 a.m.

SATURDAY: Shabbat Minyan, 10 a.m.; Youth Minyan, 10:30 a.m.; Mini Mensch title will be awarded. Kiddush luncheon will follow. Join Rabbi Katzman, noon-1 p.m.

SUNDAY: Service, 8:30 a.m. followed by breakfast at 9:30 a.m.

WEEKDAYS: Services, 7 a.m.

MONDAY: JLI class, Fascinating Facts: Exploring the Myths and Mysteries of Judaism will not take place this week.

All programs are open to the entire community.

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

FRIDAY: Shabbat Evening Service, 7:45 p.m. with oneg following hosted by Sara Friedman.

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

SUNDAY: No LJCS classes.

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

ADULT EDUCATION SUNDAY, Dec. 4, 4 p.m. Taste of Judaism. These classes are free, but reservations are required. Class the Temple office at 402.435.8004 or email stemple@neb.rr.com to add your name to the list.

TUESDAYS, 6:30 p.m. Intro to Judaism led by Rabbi Lewis. The cost is $50 to cover course materials. Register by calling the Temple office at 402.435.8004 or email stemple@neb.rr.com.

THURSDAYS, Beginning Hebrew, 6 p.m. and Intermediate

Tot Shabbat and Say Shalom! to Shabbat return to Beth El

Candlelighting Friday, November 25, 4:40 p.m.

Hebrew, 7 p.m. The cost is $50 to cover course materials. For more information call the Temple office at 402.435.8004 or email stemple@neb.rr.com.

Note: Please contact Rabbi Lewis if the cost for a class creates a financial hardship.

Book Club, Sunday, Dec. 11, 1 p.m. at Marcia Kushner’s home and will discuss Sarah’s Key by Tatiana de Rosnay and Ritual Bath by Fay Kellerman.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Breakfast on Friday, Jan. 13, 2012, 7 a.m. at the Embassy Suites Hotel, 1040 P Street. For more information, call Nancy Knapp at 402.472.1663.

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

NEIGHBORHOOD PRAYER GROUP 1317 North 57 Street | Omaha, NE 68132 | 402.551.6609 FRIDAY: Minyan, 4:40 p.m.

SATURDAY: Services, 9 a.m.

ROSE BLUMKIN JEWISH HOME 323 South 132 Street | Omaha, NE 68154 SATURDAY: Services, 9 a.m. led by David Herzog and Mark Kazor.

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

TEMPLE ISRAEL Union for Reform Judaism (URJ) 7023 Cass Street | Omaha, NE 68132-2651 | 402.556.6536 www.templeisrael-ne.org FRIDAY: Shabbat Service, 6 p.m. led by Cantor Shermet.

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

SUNDAY: No Religious School.

TUESDAY: New Building Focus Group, 7 p.m. at Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts WEDNESDAY: Grades 3-6, 4-6 p.m.; School Dinner, 6 p.m.; Family School, 6-8 p.m.; Grades 7-8, 6-8 p.m.; Judaism, a Word at a Time: Zachor, D’var and Emet, 6:30 p.m.

THURSDAY: Adult Study with the Clergy with Cantor Shermet, 10-11:30 a.m. Newcomes are always welcome. To register, contact Program Director Wendy Goldberg, wgoldberg@templeisraelomaha.com or 402.556.6536.

Scholar-in-Residence Joseph Telushkin, Friday, Dec. 9Sunday, Dec. 11. (see full story on page 1 & 2.)

TIFERETH ISRAEL Member of United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism 3219 Sheridan Boulevard | Lincoln, NE 68502-5236 | 402.423.8569 www.tiferethisraellincoln.org Services conducted by lay leader Nancy Coren. Office hours: Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

FRIDAY: Services, 6:30 p.m.

SATURDAY: Morning service, 10 a.m. when Jacob Ferrill wil be called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah. Services will be followed by Kiddush lunch in honor of Jacob sponsored by the Ferrill family.

SUNDAY: No LJCS classes.

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

Shabbat Services and Dinner, Friday, Dec. 9 beginning with services at 6:30 p.m. followed by a dairy potluck dinner at 7 p.m. at the home of Cindi and Marlon Weiss. Please RSVP to Nava in the office by Wednesday, Dec. 7.

Book Club, Sunday, Dec. 11, 1 p.m. at Marcia Kushner’s home and will discuss Sarah’s Key by Tatiana de Rosnay and Ritual Bath by Fay Kellerman.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Breakfast on Friday, Jan. 13, 2012, 7 a.m. at the Embassy Suites Hotel, 1040 P Street. For more

To Submit Announcements

by JILL BELMONT Beth El Publicity Coordinator A crowd of around 65 children, parents and grandparents came together on Sept. 23 at Beth El, as the synagogue hosted its first Tot Shabbat and “Say Shalom! to Shabbat” programs of the new year. At left, Tot Shabbat youngsters gather under a tallit for a special blessing; at right, Say Shalom! to Shabbat families join in a circle for a fun getting-toknow-you activity, led by facilitator Deborah Kronick.

The next Tot Shabbat and Say Shalom programs are scheduled for Friday, Dec. 2, at 6 p.m.; the service will be followed by a kid-friendly dinner for all participating families. Cost is $5 for everyone ages 7 and older; there is no charge for children six and younger. All families in the Jewish community are welcome. For more information or to make reservations, contact Beth El Program Director Margie Gutnik at 402.492.8550, or programming@bethelomaha.org.

Announcements may be e-mailed to the Press with attached photos in .jpg or .tif files to jpress@jewish omaha.org; faxed to 402.334.5422, or mailed to 333 So. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68154.

Forms are available through Omaha and Lincoln synagogues, by contacting The Jewish Press at 402.334.6448, by e-mailing the editor at: avandekamp@jewishomaha. org or online at: www.jewishomaha.org, click on ‘Jewish Press.’

Submit other announcements -- births engagements, marriages, commitment ceremonies or obituaries -- online at the Federation website: www.jewishomaha.org, click on ‘Jewish Press,’ scroll down to ‘Submit Announcements, complete form and click on “submit” twice.

Pulverente MONUMENT CO.

November 25, 2011 | The Jewish Press | 11

In memoriam

A Family Tree

BETTY (BORDY) CUTLER

Sparks from the word RABBI MYER S. KRIPKE Parsha Tol’dot Rebecca and Isaac had twin sons, Esau the elder, and Jacob the younger.

Esau is described as a man who loved the open fields and hunting, and Jacob is described as a stay-at-home.

Since they did not have movies and TV, staying at home meant reading and studying the Sacred Text.

Since we all know that the Sacred Text is trying to get to Joseph, whom I have characterized as “The Hero of Genesis,” we are waiting for his appearance.

No, we shall have to wait. It is in the next Sidrah that Jacob becomes the father of 12 sons, Rueben and Simeon, et al.

Therefore, be patient. The Sacred Text wants the reader to see how the Family Tree grows and flourishes.

Although we have read these Sidrot and chapters many times, even so it is like the unfolding and page-turning of a large tome, to that favored son of Jacob whose life-career dominates the rest of the book of Genesis.

Increased activity at suspected Iranian nuke site

by JTA NEWS STAFF (JTA) -- Satellite pictures reportedly are showing increased activity at an Iranian site suspected of housing secret work on the country’s nuclear weapons program. The disclosure was made Monday by The Associated Press, which cited officials from member countries of the United Nations nuclear watchdog organization, the International Atomic Energy Agency.

Iran is trying to hide its actions, the report said, by removing evidence of nuclear research and development. The increased activity includes many vehicles coming and going which is viewed as evidence that Iran is trying to sanitize the area.

Iran has said it is only producing nuclear power. Earlier this month, the IAEA issued a report saying there was “credible” evidence that Iran was working on a nuclear weapon.

B’nai Israel Speaker Series On Nov. 11 at B’nai Israel Synaogue, Hannah Schmidt, Omaha Teacher, described the popular Maccabi games and her personal experiences as a basketball player in her presentation of Maccabi Around the World. Her exceptional basketball skills, and those of her teammates, made possible the opportunity to compete with other young athletes.

Hannah’s first experiences with the Maccabi games allowed her to play basketball in Omaha, Texas, and Arizona. She met others who loved the game of basketball and who felt the strong Jewish connection.

She explained how both have been connected in her life.

While playing basketball in college, she was asked to play in the adult Maccabi games in Australia and Israel.

Her love of basketball still finds her playing each week at the JCC with her husband, Mike, and father, Phil Wolf.

She continues to stay in contact with friends she made across the country and throughout the world.

The Speaker Series continues on Dec. 9 at 7:30 p.m., when Emily Giller, Jewish Press Intern will be the guest speaker. The title of her presentation is Experience at the Jewish Press and Jewish Community. Everyone is invited to attend.

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Betty (Bordy) Cutler, age 86, passed away on Nov. 17 at home. A gathering of family and friends was held in Omaha on Nov. 20.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Allan in 1963, sisters, Ruth Fiedler, Naomi Cohn, Judy Swiskay, Frances Bernstein; and brother, Norman Bordy.

She is survived by daughters, Carolyn Cutler of Lafayette, CO, Jana Cutler; daughter and son-in-law, JoAnn and Bob Russell of Washington DC; son and daughter-in-law, David and Rebecca Cutler of Bellingham, WA; grandchildren: Zachary Cutler, Hannah and Ellice Russell, Addie Cutler; and many nieces and nephews including Rocky (Cohn) Stern.

She was born on May 13, 1925, in Fremont, NE, to Reuben and Martha (Predmetsky) Bordy. She attended Omaha Central High School and received her masters degree from UNO. Memorials may be made to VNA Hospice of Omaha, 12565 West Center Road, Suite 100, Omaha, NE, 68144 or to the charity of donor’s choice.

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CHARLES SLUTZKY Charles Slutzky passed away on Oct. 20 at the age of 82.

Services were held at Beth El Cemetery followed by a luncheon. Shiva was said at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home.

He was preceded in death by wife, Adele Slutzky.

He is survived by son and daughter-in-law, Jeff and Lesley Slutzky; daughter and son-in-law, Debbie and Steve Chasen; grandchildren: Alexis, Danielle, Justin, Jordan, Mathew and Jeremy; and many beloved nieces, nephews and cousins.

Memorials may be made to the Red Cross or the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home.

Jewish groups join fight

by JTA NEWS STAFF (JTA) -- Jewish groups joined prayer rallies and demonstrations across America to urge Congress to preserve federal programs for the poor. The rallies called on members of the Joint Select Committee on Deficit Reduction, also known as the congressional budget super committee, not to reduce the deficit by cutting programs that assist poor families and children in the United States and abroad.

The rallies are part of the Faithful Budget campaign organized by religious denominations and faith-based organizations to urge the Obama administration and Congress to remain committed to domestic and international poverty assistance programs.

“When the Torah tells us that ‘the poor will never cease from the land,’ we are not to read those words as an excuse for neglect," said Rabbi Jack Moline, director of public policy for the Rabbinical Assembly at a prayer rally in Lafayette Park in Washington on Sunday. “Throughout the history of the Jews, whether in their own land or on distant shores, the commandment to lift our neighbors from a life of want to a place of security has animated our engagement with government and community.”

The super committee, created several months ago during congressional debate on the debt ceiling, has until Nov. 23 to propose a package to cut $1.2 trillion from the federal deficit.

B’nai B’rith International on Monday called on the committee to work to meet the deadline, before “deep, automatic spending cuts kick in that could put our nation’s most vulnerable at greater risk.”

“B’nai B’rith urges committee members and the entire Congress to work aggressively in the coming days to find solutions that are good for the country’s long-term economic outlook, and good for all Americans,” read the statement.

“Deficit reduction can and should be done without breaking the promises of Medicare and Social Security, or shaving more from already thin budgets for programs like lowincome housing and other services for the elderly.”

The statement recommended modest tax increases on the wealthy, saying that cutting benefits to the elderly and poor shifts costs to states, individuals and families.

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JOB ANNOUNCEMENT: The City of Chadron is accepting letters of application for the position of City Manager. For additional information, check www.chadron-nebraska.com. EOE HELP WANTED: Full-time technician, experience preferred. Gateway Motors, Inc., in Broken Bow, NE. Call Tony at 308-872-6881.

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THEDFORD PUBLIC Schools is seeking applications for a 7-12 Social Studies teacher with Assistant coaching (Basketball & Track) for 2012-2013 School year. Please send letter of application, resume and transcripts to: Henry Eggert, Supt., Thedford Public Schools, PO Box 248, Thedford, NE 69166.

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12 | The Jewish Press | November 25, 2011

Remembering Phyllis Friedel

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On Wednesday November 16, over 50 guests joined Friedel Jewish AcademyPrincipal Ron Giller, students and staff at the Rose Blumkin Auditorium.

Together they celebrated the life of Phyllis Joy Friedel, who, with husband Leonard, endowed the day school in 1986. Phyllis passed away this past September in Los Angeles.

Phyllis’ daughters, Randi Sherman (Scottsdale Az.) and Lynne Gellman (Austin Tx., pictured together on the right) attended the celebration. Speakers included Rabbi Gross, Rabbi Levin and Rabbi Azriel, as well as former principal Cookie Katskee, President of the Jewish Federation of Omaha Jody Malashock, and FJA board President Lloyd Roitstein.

Bemis Center to facilitate art focus group for Temple Israel’s new building

by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Temple Israel Communications Coordinator To create a shared vision for the environment of their new synagogue, all adult members of Temple Israel have been invited to the Bemis Center for Contemporary Art, 724 South 12th Street, at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 29, to articulate their objectives and develop a comprehensive plan for art.

Having already facilitated similar work-

ever visited.

Designed to facilitate an open exchange among those who attend, the discussions that night are intended to identify a common design objective or goal by building consensus. The Bemis team is experienced in the process and will use their expertise to assist the Temple team in prioritizing Temple Israel’s member input and values in order to develop an attractive, economically sound, and viable art, design and interior plan that will reflect the values of the community and be consistent with the quality and scale of this inspiring project.

Todd Simon, a member of Temple Israel’s New Building Capital and Endowment Campaign Committee, will assist in facilitating the focus group. “I’ve done this before, but the Bemis Center people are the experts. They have designed a great process, and I am privileged to be able to How to respectfully display archives such as the ones cur- help out,” he said. “The Bemis rently displayed at Temple Israel in order to preserve their has become the go-to organibeauty and value will be part of the exchange at the Bemis zation for intelligent incorpoCenter when Temple Israel congregants meet there Nov. 29. ration of art in new buildings. shops with the Qwest Center (now the It makes sense to have a purposeful vision CenturyLink Center), Project Harmony, for the environment so you can be sensitive and public libraries, Mark Masuoka, execu- to the historical aspects of the current coltive director of the Bemis Center, said such lection of Temple as well as provide intefocus groups are “common practice in the grated concepts for new art and memorials, planning process” of a new building. as well as a tasteful way to help people find “Critical to getting feedback and reactions,” their way around the new building.” Simon Masuoka added, “members will have owner- also said that “artifacts, current collections, ship of what their new building looks like and things that are historically meaningful to how it functions. Art plays a role in that.”

Temple, and making the new building feel Every person who attends will be asked to like what the members want it to feel” will share his or her values. Openly document- all be valuable aspects of the workshop at ing and publishing this input will achieve the Bemis Center. maximum awareness and ownership among “This gives us an opportunity to use the those in attendance. Keeping the process Bemis process while engaging a greater segopen establishes trust and credibility. The ment of the congregation,” said Simon. He resulting vision and recommendations are feels strongly that this is a professional based predominately upon the issues partic- approach to a critical process in construcipants feel are most crucial. tion of a new synagogue. At this time, Bemis Over the past several weeks, Temple Israel fees will be part of the overall project costs. members have been given the opportunity Members of the Building Coordinating to submit an online survey in anticipation of Committee and the Board of Trustees the Nov. 29 meeting. The survey asks them Executive Committee are in favor of this to indicate the feelings and experiences they approach and are excited about the partnerwant to encounter in their new building, ship. what traditions or activities are most meanAll adult members of the congregation are ingful to them, and what was memorable invited to attend. Cocktails and refreshabout the most amazing building they’ve ments will be served.

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