Young Leadership Award
Sara Cowan
Idan Zaccai
is a passionate educator, social justice advocate, and community leader. She serves as the vocal music teacher and Chair of the Performing Arts Department at Central High School, where she inspires students with her talent, compassion, and dedication. Her excellence has been recognized with numerous honors, including Central High’s Teacher of the Year and the Country Music Association Foundation’s Music Teachers of Excellence Award.
TTHE JEWISH FEDERATION OF OMAHA is proud to honor Sara Cowan as the recipient of the 2024 Lois Jeanne Schrager Memorial Young Leadership Award. This award is given annually to honor a young woman who has demonstrated personal commitment, dedicated involvement, and exemplary leadership qualities in rendering service to both the Jewish and general community. The Federation, Foundation, Agencies, Jewish organizations, and synagogues are invited to nominate candidates. Recipients are provided with a stipend to participate in the Jewish Federations of North America General Assembly or Young Leadership Conference.
Nominated by Temple Israel, Sara
DIANE WALKER
JFO Foundation Fund & Scholarship Administrator
The Financial Aid Committee of the Jewish Federation of Omaha is pleased to announce Ryan Kugler has been selected as the 2025 recipient of the David Keiser and Lillian Keiser Stoms Foundation Education Endowment Fund for Academic Excellence Scholarship. The only merit-based scholarship granted by the Financial Aid Committee, this award is given in recognition of ex-
At Temple Israel,” Rabbi Deanna Berezin said, “Sara has taken on a variety of leadership roles. In 2020, she became the co-Chair of our Racial Justice Initiative, helping to create a vision and goals for our community's learning around discrimination, bias, and systemic racism. Soon after, she joined Temple Israel's Board of Trustees as our Social Justice Chair, guiding our congregation in engaging in a wide variety of tikkun olam opportunities, and helping to bring the leaders of our various programs together to be in conversation with one another. In the fall of 2022, when it became clear that Reproductive Rights would be a major issue in the upcoming Nebraska Legislative session, Sara became one of our cochairs for Temple's Reproductive Rights Task Force, leading our community in education and advocacy opportunities around the Jewish
See Sarah Cowan page 3
ceptional academic achievement and a demonstrated commitment to the Omaha Jewish community. Mary Sue Grossman, chair of the Financial Aid Committee shared “In my many years of working with the Federation’s scholarship program first as a professional and now as a volunteer, we continue to see a high caliber of academic performance coupled with involvement in Jewish activities of the graduating seniors. Seeing their many accomplishments provides me with a wonderful feeling about the future. Ryan is one more in a long line of de-
HE JEWISH FEDERATION OF OMAHA is proud to announce Idan Zaccai as the recipient of the 2024 Bruce Fellman Memorial Young Leadership Award. This honor is presented annually to a young man who has demonstrated personal commitment, dedicated involvement, and exemplary leadership qualities in rendering service to both the Jewish and general communities. Nominees are submitted by local Jewish organizations, synagogues, and agencies, and recipients receive a stipend to participate in the Jewish Federations of North America General Assembly or Young Leadership Conference.
Idan arrived in Omaha after escalating violence made it unsafe to remain in Israel. Despite the upheaval, he immediately immersed himself in community life. Married to Esther and father to Omri and Jordan, as well as stepfather to Jonah, Talia, and Elianna, Idan brought with him a deep sense of purpose and connection.
His ties to Omaha predate recent events, and upon his return, he quickly stepped into leadership roles. He helped organize a post-October 7th concert for our Partnership region and identified a need for greater youth engagement. In response, he developed a survey for the Jewish Community Relations Council to better connect with Jewish middle and high
school students. He also co-created an online tool for reporting antisemitism, specifically designed for young people.
Idan is a passionate advocate for Jewish representation in schools, working to address recurring challenges such as the scheduling of major events — like prom, standardized testing, and final exams — on Jewish holidays. These conflicts often force Jewish students to choose between observing their faith and participating fully in school life. Idan collaborates with school administrators and community leaders to raise awareness and promote more inclusive planning that respects religious observances. He is also deeply involved in the Student to Student program, a powerful initiative that empowers Jewish teens to speak authentically about See Idan Zaccai page 2
serving recipients.”
Ryan Kugler
Ryan will graduate from Westside High School where he has distinguished himself academically by taking on more than a dozen challenging AP courses over a wide range of subjects. His dedication and perseverance have awarded him numerous honors, including graduating Summa Cum Laude, being named a National Merit Scholarship Commended Student and achieving
AP Scholar of Distinction. Ryan’s teachers have described him as being driven, engaged, and eager to make the most of every opportunity.
Ryan also serves as the President of Westside’s DECA program – the largest DECA chapter in Nebraska. In this role, he oversees the coordination of fundraisers, meetings, social events, and competitions. Ryan counts this involvement as particularly valuable as DECA’s combination of real-world experiences challenged him both academically and socially. In addition to academics, Ryan has also been a resolute member of Westside’s cross country and track team throughout his high school career. He is a two-year team captain and leads by example, earning the respect of his teammates and helping guide the team to a historic victory as they captured their first-ever Boys Metro Championship title this past year. Within the Jewish community, Ryan is a committed leader in BBYO.
As Vice President of Recruitment, he was instrumental in increasing See Keiser Stoms page 7
ANNETTE VAN DE KAMP-WRIGHT Jewish Press Editor
Kinus
IHE Third Thursday Lunch & Learn
SCOTT LITTKY
IHE Executive Director
Idan Zaccai
Continued from page 1 their identities in schools with little or no Jewish presence. Through this program, small groups of students — typically representing the Conservative, Orthodox, and Reform movements — visit classrooms to share personal stories, explain Jewish traditions and holidays, and answer questions from their peers. These presentations help demystify Judaism, break down stereotypes, and foster mutual understanding. Through it all, Idan approaches his work — and life — with grace, resilience, and a deep commitment to tikkun olam. Even amid the emotional toll and uncertainty brought on by the war in Israel, he remained steadfast in his efforts to support others, never allowing stress or fear to deter his mission. His dedication to community has been unwavering, and his tenacity in the face of adversity is nothing short of inspiring. “The first word that comes to mind when I think of Omaha is community,” he said. “Growing up in a kibbutz taught me the value of community. Jewish Omaha is my extended family. The JCC became my second home, a place that I truly love to be. The community has supported me and my family when we needed it. Community means unconditional solidarity, reminding me I’m never alone.”
The second word, he says, is tradition: “I am excited to be a part of the traditions of Jewish Omaha,” he said. “Tradition is not just religion, it is everything that is instilled in the community, the celebrations, events and everything else. In the kibbutz, we didn’t go to synagogue, we had the ‘Culture House’ and we had Jewish traditions and customs in our community. Living outside of Israel makes you choose to be Jewish... For the first time in my life, I’m happy to go to synagogue and be a part of that tradition.”
Idan calls Jewish Omaha his “new home” — a place where tradition grounds him, community embraces him, and joy fills his heart. “I’m so grateful to be part of this incredible commu-
nity and excited to keep growing, give back, and celebrate with the community for years to come.”
Being passionate about many things is a blessing, he said. Family, of course, is top of the list:
“My wife, Esther, my sons Omri and Jordan, my stepchildren: Jonah, Talia and Elianna. They are my world! My parents, my one-of-a-kind grandmother, my sister, brother-in-law and my nieces and nephew, my extended family and best friends. They are truly all that I could ask for.”
Israel and Rosh Hanikra are a close second: Idan’s love for Israel and his kibbutz is in his blood. It’s why he loved being a tour guide, sharing his passion about the beauty and uniqueness of Israel.
“Holocaust Education is another passion,” he said. “Teaching everyone I can about the Holocaust, in the Ghetto Fighters House Museum, giving lectures or just talking to people about it. I always mention my grandparents’ story of heroic survival. This drives my mission to ensure that “Never Again" is not just a slogan, but a call for action. It is why fighting antisemitism and advocating for Jews is one of my life's missions, and I will do all I can to fight and protect my people.”
Finally, Idan emphasizes tikkun olam. Repairing the world is his calling. He loves volunteering and is happy to have been given chances to do so at the Jewish Federation of Omaha, several of its agencies, and with ADL Midwest, as he pursues a Master’s in Nonprofit Administration on a Development track.
“I hope to work in nonprofit, finish my Master’s, and do good in this world,” he said, “all while listening to some excellent music — because that’s something I can’t go without.”
The Jewish Federation of Omaha congratulates Idan on this well-deserved honor. Please join us on Thursday, June 5 at 6:30 p.m. for the Awards Night & Annual Meeting, where we will celebrate Idan and fellow honoree, Sara Cowan.
On June 19 at 11:30 a.m. by Zoom, Mark Wygoda will present the story of his father, Holocaust survivor, Hermann Wygoda, the only member of his family to have survived the Holocaust. Hermann Wygoda was born in Germany in 1906 to Polish parents, grew up fluent in both German and Polish, and was working as a civil engineer in Warsaw at the start of WWII. He survived the Holocaust by living a covert life posing as a Catholic Pole of German ancestry. In Poland he smuggled food into the Warsaw ghetto and worked at a German military camp. Later he worked in Berlin as a construction foreman, a translator, and an armed courier before he made his way to German-occupied Italy. There he became a partisan brigade commander who planned and directed attacks on enemy convoys and troops passing through the mountains west of the city of Savona. After the war he was awarded an American Bronze Star medal for valor in combat by a US general. He then immigrated to the United States where he married, raised a family, and founded the Wygoda Building Corporation in Chattanooga TN.
For more information on this program or to register to receive the Zoom link, please email Scott Littky at slittky@ ihene.org
The Rose Blumkin Jewish Home (RBJH) is a crown jewel of our campus and it belongs to all of us. By updating our existing facility and transitioning to all private rooms, we can ensure that the RBJH remains the facility of choice for the Jewish community and that its financial viability is preserved. The Rose Blumkin Jewish Home is our safety net. Let’s take care of it together.
Time! This match is available now until July 31, 2025!
Thanks to two amazing community champions, Tom Fellman and Howard Kooper, for this dollar-for-dollar matching gift opportunity!
Mark Wygoda
Sara Cowan
Continued from page 1
commitment to reproductive freedom.”
Sara is married to Brian Fahey, an attorney and county commissioner, and currently the Chair of the TriFaith board; they have two daughters, Miriam (9) and Clara (4).
In addition to her substantive and meaningful work in social justice, she also lends her voice to the Temple Israel community in worship. When Cantor Joanna Alexander is away from the bima, Sara helps to lead Shabbat services with tremendous beauty, intention, and meaning. Similarly, she is a co-leader of the Yom Kippur afternoon Healing Service. Outside of her Temple Israel involvement, Sara is an incredible vocal music teacher at Central High School: “Her passion and talent are unmatched,” Rabbi Berezin said, “and they are reflected in her genuine care for her students and her commitment to going above and beyond to help them pursue their goals and achieving their dreams. Sara's professional accolades speak to her tremendous work in the Omaha performing arts community. In 2016, she was named the Outstanding Young Choral Director of the Year by the Nebraska Choral Directors Association. In 2021, she was named Central High's Teacher of the Year for her exceptional work. In 2022, Sara was recognized nationally by the Country Music Association Foundation for her work both in the classroom, and in the community, selected as one of only 30 teachers nationwide (and the only one in Nebraska) to receive the coveted Country Music Association Foundation's Music Teachers of Excellence Award.” “ I've been singing for as long as I can remember,” Sara said, “but some of my earliest connections to music are from Shabbat dinners and services as a child. I believe intoning Hebrew chants week after week made me a better singer and musician and prepared me for a career in music. I'm lucky to have had wonderful cantors to listen to and learn from over the years, and eventually to sing duets with. I never seriously considered becoming a cantor, because my real musical passion is conducting choral music. However, my first real conducting job was with the Twin Cities Jewish Chorale — a community chorus of singers from several different congregations in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area. I really loved getting to approach and present Jewish music from the choral perspective, and I still enjoy teaching Jewish choral music to the choirs I work with at school.”
Celebrating YOEL
STACY FELDMAN
JFO Impact Leader
On Monday, May 12, 2025, Jewish professionals and lay leaders gathered to toast the third cohort of the Jewish Federation of Omaha’s Young Emerging Leaders (YOEL), as they near the end of their five months of leadership learning. This exciting program, which kicks off annually in January, exists to cultivate forward-thinking, highly effective, and solution-oriented young Jewish volunteer leaders for Jewish Omaha, and empowers participants with the tools and knowledge to better themselves and their capacities as leaders. At the end of the program, participants take on volunteer roles throughout the community, giving back to those agencies they’ve met and learned about along the way. Congratulations to this year’s cohort, including Joseph Abrahamson, Alena Baker, Leah Brookstein, Lillia Cherkasskiy, Amy
“There is something immensely powerful about bringing many voices together to produce something beautiful,” she said. “I think it's amazing that we can breathe life into works of art that were created 500 years ago, and give a voice to new pieces that have not yet been heard. I have seen how live musical performances can move people and bring us in touch with our humanity.”
Sara is equally passionate about teaching, especially in a diverse setting. “I love that my students at Central High School come from many different neighborhoods, cultural backgrounds, gender identities, and lived experiences. I love that I get to watch them grow, sometimes for four years, as musicians and as humans.”
Her commitment to social justice is deeply tied to her Jewish identity. Inspired by Rabbi Emeritus Aryeh Azriel, Sara has woven her values into every aspect of her life.
“I think my love for social justice is what first drove me to teach, and now my love for teaching and my students perpetually reignites this fire. For them, and for my own kids, I want to make the world more just, more safe, more welcoming and inclusive, and antiracist.”
Temple Israel has been a cornerstone of Sara’s life since her family moved to Omaha in 1999. “I was 12 years old and didn’t know a soul,” she recalled. “Temple not only welcomed the family into the congregation and prepared me for my Bat Mitzvah and became a touchstone for our family. Now, I get to raise my two kids here. I want Temple to continue to be a loving, inclusive, and progressive Jewish community for generations to come.”
Rabbi Deanna Berezin captured it best: “Sara’s greatest strengths are her passion, drive, compassion, empathy, integrity, her moral compass, her sense of justice, her sense of humor, and perhaps most importantly, her innate sense of kindness. She is generous and giving, always willing to go the extra mile in service to others—from her family and friends, to her students, to her Jewish community, and the broader Omaha community. She is humble, thoughtful, and so very deserving of this kind of recognition.”
The Jewish Federation of Omaha congratulates Sara on this well-deserved honor. Please join us on Thursday, June 5 at 6:30 p.m. for the Annual Meeting & Awards Night, where we will celebrate Sara and fellow honoree Idan Zaccai.
Dworin, Cory Epstein, Jacob Godwin, Francisco Guzman Jimerez, Tori Haussler, Nora James, Sara Rips, and Eric Shapiro. For more information about YOEL, please reach out to Stacy Feldman at SFeldman@jewishomaha.org
Krasne,Treasurer
Seldin Dotan, Mark Eveloff, Elyse Gallner, Michael Gallner, Larry Goldstrom, Jay Katelman, Joshua Katelman, Rick Katelman, Marti Nerenstone, Sissy Silber, and
Everyone knows his name
AMY BERNSTEIN SHIVVERS
JFO Foundation Executive Director
Bob Belgrade has left, and continues to leave, an indelible mark on our Jewish community through his unwavering commitment to the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation, Jewish Federation of Omaha, Beth El Synagogue, Nebraska Jewish Historical Society and numerous other organizations. His deep involvement spans decades, touching nearly every expansion or renovation project on the JCC campus, Beth El Synagogue, and Beth El Cemetery. Bob has served on almost every Federation Agency Board, often taking on the role of President, demonstrating his leadership and passion for strengthening Jewish life in Omaha.
Bob’s Foundation Board service began 2017 – 2018 fiscal year. From 2021 to 2023 he served two terms as Board Chair. Bob currently serves on the Nominating, Marketing, Budget and Investment Committees.
As Myron Kaplan aptly describes, Bob is dedicated, a humanitarian, and a true mensch—but above all, he is a friend. Whether leading major initiatives or assisting behind the scenes, Bob’s humility and kindness shine through in everything he does. His ability to quietly assess where he can make a difference and then step up to ensure success is unparalleled.
Bob Kully echoes this sentiment, stating, “There is no one I respect more than Bob Belgrade.” Bob’s leadership in managing the Livingston Fund exemplifies his integrity, responsibility, and commitment to preserving and strengthening our community’s future.
Paul Epstein describes Bob’s ability to transform good ideas into great ones, emphasizing his keen listening skills and insightful perspective. His presence has strengthened countless committees, and his guidance has been instrumental in shaping the Federation’s long-term vision.
Cool, calm, and collected — these are the adjectives Don Goldstein used to describe Bob, whose leadership style and problem-solving abilities embody these traits. While Bob may feel otherwise on the inside, his steady and composed demeanor inspires those around him to tackle challenges with confidence. A great mentor for those refining their own management techniques, Bob is not only an exceptional leader but also a warm, wonderful person and a true friend to all.
Bob’s passion for Jewish history is evident in his long-standing leadership of the Nebraska Jewish Historical Society (NJHS). Renee Corcoran, former NJHS Executive Director, recalls working closely with Bob to curate exhibits that told the rich history of Omaha’s Jewish community. Bob was deeply invested in ensuring that these displays not only preserved history but also educated and inspired future generations.
In addition to his work with NJHS, Bob played a crucial role in the Living History Museum at B’nai Israel, where he worked tirelessly to bring historical stories to life. His creativity, dedication, and collaborative spirit have ensured that these important projects continue to thrive.
Bob has served in numerous leadership roles, but what truly sets him apart is the way he mentors and uplifts others. Susie Norton reflects on her experience serving with Bob on the Livingston Fund Committee and JFOF Board, where his leadership extended beyond formal titles — he naturally leads with wisdom, warmth, and conviction.
Murray Newman shares, “I interacted with Bob for many years as a co-trustee on the Livingston Foundation. I saw him energetically and sincerely tackle that role, transitioning as a new member and taking on increasing responsibilities, ultimately assuming the chairmanship in its move to JFOF from a private foundation to a donor-advised fund. Bob was passionate in his chairmanship of NJHS, singlehandedly advocating as a dedicated ambassador for that organization. As chairman of JFOF, he was a voice of reason — listening, synthesizing points of view, and overseeing transitional years. Bob is a calm, passionate, dedicated, seasoned listener — a leader who cares and can implement change.”
“My earliest memories of working with Bob were when he served as the chair of the Building and Grounds committee for several years, and he was always an amazing partner,” Phil Malcom shared. “He supported the staff, asked great questions, and helped us to make great decisions for the campus. The work of this committee can be somewhat dry, but Bob had an obvious passion for it, and that passion was infectious. Bob was an awesome mentor for me, and I continue to rely on his guidance to this day.” Bob’s impact goes far beyond the boards and committees he has served on. Shelly Fox highlights how Bob has been a devoted friend to those in need, providing support, companionship, and care to individuals who may not have had family to rely on. His kindness, patience, and attentiveness make him a quiet but profound force for good in the lives of so many.
“My first experience working with Bob was on the CEO selection committee many years ago,” shared Louri Sullivan. “I was so impressed by how Bob handled the entire process. There was so much involved, confidentiality, personalities and some drama. He handled all of it with grace, kindness and true professionalism.”
Stacey Rockman notes that Bob’s steadfast leadership and commitment were pivotal in the Foundation’s efforts to hire a new Executive Director, demonstrating his willingness to go above and beyond for the betterment of the community.
Annette van de Kamp-Wright, who interviewed Bob when he was named Humanitarian of the Year in 2016, describes him as “probably the kindest soul in all of Omaha.” Bob never seeks recognition for his work, always crediting others for collective success. However, his extraordinary contributions, both large and small, have made a lasting impact on Omaha’s Jewish community.
As Mary-Beth Muskin so beautifully puts it, “Bob is selfless and kind, donating his time, talent, and treasure.” Our community is beyond fortunate to have him, and it is only fitting that we recognize him for the countless ways he has strengthened and enriched Jewish life in Omaha.
Bob’s caring and companionship to Howard A. Kaiman, of blessed memory, secured one of the largest estate gifts to the Omaha Jewish Community. We have started to realize the impact of this gift with the Kaiman Family Camp Grant supporting 155 summer campers and 88 families in 2025.
We are grateful to know your name, your leadership, your kindness, and your unwavering commitment to our community!
Bob Belgrade
Kinus in Boise
This past Shabbat, Rabbi Mendel Katzman and Rabbi Eli Tenenbaum had the privilege of joining a group of 80 Chabad rabbis from across the Western region for a weekend of inspiration, connection, and camaraderie. This annual gathering was hosted this year by Rabbi Mendel and Esther Lifshitz and their family at Chabad of Boise, Idaho, who created a warm and welcoming atmosphere for everyone. Over the course of Shabbat, the rabbis shared ideas, strengthened friendships, and recharged with fresh energy to bring back to their communities.
Omaha had the special honor of hosting this gathering back in 2010—a memory that still brings a lot of pride and fondness to those who were part of it.
Temple Israel honors Joanie Lehr
STEFANIE BAGUIAN
Temple Israel Director of Communications
In the heart of Temple Israel’s 155-year legacy, few individuals embody the spirit of l’dor v’dor — from generation to generation — as fully as Joanie Lehr. This year, Temple Israel proudly bestows its highest honor, the Pillar Award, on Joanie, recognizing her as a steadfast foundation of the congregation and a guiding force in Omaha’s Jewish community.
A lifelong member of Temple Israel, Joanie’s journey with the synagogue began in early childhood. From fashioning curtains for her consecration Torah to assisting in the Temple Israel office as a teen, Joanie’s love for Judaism took root early and grew into a lifetime of leadership, service, and advocacy.
In 1977, she became Temple Israel’s first female president, breaking ground for generations of women leaders who followed. Her presidency came during one of the congregation’s most trying times — the devastating tornado of the late 1970s. With characteristic humility, Joanie credits her board for their critical support in restoring the building and sustaining the community. But it was Joanie’s poise, dedication, and collaborative spirit that held it all together.
Joanie’s leadership legacy is not only personal, it is also deeply familial. Her father, Alfred Mayer, served as president from 1952–54, a role she encouraged him to accept when she was just a young teen. Her husband, Martin Lehr, led from 1985–87. Their son, John Lehr, carried the torch into the next generation as president from 2009–2011. Today, her daughter Cindy Goldberg serves on the executive board, and her daughter
Susan Lehr is active in Women of Reform Judaism and active at Temple Israel. Together, the Lehr family has shaped Temple Israel through generations of service — with the next generation already beginning to bloom in Joanie’s great-grandchildren.
Joanie herself has served as Sisterhood President and continues to be a respected voice among past leaders. Her work helped establish both the Presidential Discretionary Fund, which was established by her children in her and Martin’s honor and the Cemetery Endowment Fund, ensuring future sustainability and care for sacred spaces. She also contributed her artistic talents to the intricate needlepoint on Temple’s Torah covers — a quiet but enduring expression of love for her congregation.
Joanie reflected on her lifelong relationship with Temple Israel.
“Speak up,” she advises. “Say what you think — what you like and what you don’t like. Even if it’s not always followed. Help form the vision for going forward.”
Her spirit of engagement, honesty, and thoughtful leadership defines Joanie’s approach to community building.
When asked what she considers her greatest achievement, Joanie doesn’t cite a title or a fund or even her historic presidency. Instead, she says, “It’s the family I raised — a Jewish family that grew up at Temple Israel, and stayed involved. That’s what I’m most proud of.”
And Temple Israel, in turn, is proud — and profoundly grateful — for the love, energy, and wisdom Joanie has given over the course of nearly nine decades.
This year’s Pillar Award is more than recognition — it is a celebration of a life lived in service, a family dedicated to faith and community, and a woman whose fingerprints can be found across every corner of Temple Israel.
Other awards given out at Temple Israel’s Annual Meeting on May 20 were Terri Joy for Volunteer of the Year, Anna Sherman for Social Justice, Kalynn Stoner for Young Adult Service, Zach Smith for Torah, and Sophia Stern for Young Leadership.
2025-2026 GOVERNING BOARD & AGENCY ADVISORY BOARDS*
Ron Feldman, Chair
Nancy Schlessinger, Past Chair
Mike Abramson
Toba Cohen-Dunning
Shane Cohn
Laurie Epstein
David Finkelstein
Joe Fischer
Ally Freeman
Margie Gutnik
Jill Idelman
Sharon Kirshenbaum
Lisa Lucoff
Bruce Meyers
Michael Miller
Stacey Rockman
Seth Schuchman
Yosef Seigel
Norm Sheldon
Justin Spooner
Steven Wees
Jeff Zacharia
Steve Zalkin
Steven Wees, Chair
Gloria Kaslow, Past Chair
Alena Baker
Lindsay Behne
Toba Cohen-Dunning
JohnCarl Denkovich
Howard Epstein
Laurie Epstein
Fr. James Gilg
Jill Idelman
Howard Kaslow
Kelly Kirk
Ari Kohen
Paula Lenz
Sonia Tipp
Donna Walter
Seth Schuchman, Chair
Ben Justman, Past Chair
Sarah Abrahamson
Lori Feldman
Herb Friedman
Jeannette Gabriel
Nora James
Kelly Kirk
Kate Kirshenbaum
Mary Beth Muskin
Joseph Pinson
Marty Ricks
Beth Staenberg
Toba Cohen-Dunning, Chair
Zoë Riekes, Past Chair
Joe Fischer
Ally Freeman
Dusty Friedman
David Gilinsky
Ron Giller
Dana Gonzales
Tori Haussler
Hailey Krueger
Janie Kulakofsky
David Pitlor
Erin Porterfeld
Sara Rips
Ben Shapiro
Sonia Tipp
Ryan Welner
Steve Zalkin, Chair
Shane Cohn, Past Chair
Amanda Blumkin
Leah Brookstein
Marty Cohen
Carrie Epstein
Laurie Epstein
Candice Friedman
Jason Goosen
Jim Ludeman
Mike Norton
Linda Saltzman
Josh Sullivan
Bruce Meyers, Chair
Shayna Ray, PastChair
Marti Rosen Atherton
Amy Dworin
Rabbi Mordechai Geiger
Bruce Gutnik
Francisco Guzman-Jimerez
Gloria Kaslow
Dana Kaufman
Kate Kirshenbaum
Alan Kricsfeld
Susie Norton
Marti Finkel Poulos
Jonathan Rockman
Sara Slatkin
David Finkelstein, Chair
Margie Gutnik, Past Chair
Joseph Abrahamson
Marla Cohen
Helen Epstein
Andrea Erlich
Dana Gonzales
Mary Sue Grossman
Hailey Krueger
Chuck Lucoff
Sara Rips
Melissa Shrago
Stewart Winograd
Bob Yaffe
Norm Sheldon, Chair Jeff Kirshenbaum, PastChair
Jim Farber
Jake Godwin
Darlene Golbitz
Jan Goldstein Carlos Gomez
Kaplan
Susie Norton Gretchen Radler
Riekes
Yosef Seigel Eric Shapiro
Nancy Skid
Mark Sweet
Taxman
Stacey Erman Rockman, President
Susan Norton, Vice President
Bob Belgrade, Past President
Beth S. Dotan
Jason Epstein
Paul Epstein
Ted Friedland
David Gilinsky
Donald Goldstein
Jay Gordman
Kip Gordman
Myron Kaplan
Kirshenbaum
Howard M. Kooper
Steve Levinger
Troy Meyerson
Eric Phillips
Carl Riekes
Louri Sullivan
We invite the community to the Federation's Awards Night & Annual Meeting on Thursday, June 5th at 6:30 p.m. in the Alan J. Levine Performing Arts Theater for the installation of the Boards.
Joanie Lehr
Happy Birthday, Dick Fellman
JIM CROUNSE
In Judaism, the role of mentor is an honored one. It implies a unique bond between an experienced professional and a mentee, and to provide it is considered a mitzvah.
In my professional life, Dick Fellman has been a political mentor to me, and I feel gratitude for the opportunity and knowledge he gave me.
As I was growing up in Omaha in the 1950s and 60s, there were few Jewish politicians. My grandfather Jake Crounse, a Russian immigrant, was a Nebraska State Representative in the 1930s. He may have been the first Jewish state representative. Jake unfortunately died before I was born.
My parents, Paul and Bernice, were interested in politics and taught their three kids to be involved as well. Dad ran for the state legislature once, and they were both active in local Democratic politics. They were supporters of both President Kennedy and Robert F. Kennedy.
As a kid, I wanted to be a professional baseball player, but the first time I saw a real curve ball I quickly realized that was not a viable career path. I set my sights on my other major interest, politics.
In 1972, Dick Fellman, a young Jewish attorney, was appointed to the State Legislature by Governor Jim Exon. Dick spent years working on campaigns and becoming a trusted advisor to many elected officials, including the Governor. While I didn’t yet know Dick, my parents knew him. He has written beautiful stories in the Jewish Press about growing up in Omaha. One of his stories had a description of shopping with his mother in the fish market my grandparents owned at 24th and Paul St.
He made his mark in the state legislature and had a successful run for the Douglas County Board of Commissioners. His campaign was unique and known for a clever radio jingle with the lyrics “Dick Fellman for County Commissioner, Dick Fellman for County Commissioner, Dick Fellman for County Commissioner - we hope you’ll elect the right guy.”
By this time, I had a political science degree and was in law school at Creighton. My plan was to work with my dad who was a lawyer, and then at some point run for office. But in my junior year of law school, I decided to run for the state legislature. I spent the money I saved from my Bar Mitzvah on yard signs and mail pieces. I didn’t win that primary race. Peter Hoagland did. However, I ended up running his general election campaign and then working for him in the state legislature and later in Congress.
Continued from page 1 chapter membership by 50%, earning BBYO’s prestigious Tree of Life Recruitment Award. And his influence extends beyond numbers – Ryan is known for cultivating an inclusive atmosphere, mentoring new members, and sharing BBYO’s history and traditions. Ryan has a long family history of BBYO involvement including his parents, grandparents, older and younger siblings. His service continues at Temple Israel, where he has volunteered as a third-grade classroom aide, assisting with Hebrew instruction and forming bonds with younger members of the congregation. Ryan was also selected to serve on the JCRC’s inaugural Student-to-Student committee, developing educational presentations to promote understanding in Omaha-area schools.
Ryan will be attending the University of Michigan – Ann Arbor in the fall. With interests varying between biochemistry and political science, he remains undecided on a major although he may take a pre-law track. He likes that Michigan is a big school with a vibrant Jewish community and strong academics. For the first time, he and his twin brother, Evan – who will be attending the University of Wisconsin – will embark on separate paths, a new experience for the two. Ryan and Evan are the sons of Traci (Kutler) and Lance Ku-
In 1980, iconic Congressman John Cavanaugh decided not to run for re-election and Dick jumped into the race and became the Democratic nominee.
I heard Dick’s campaign was looking to hire staff, so I applied to be deputy campaign manager and interviewed with the manager Ron Withem.
The way Dick tells the story, when Ron met with Dick to go over the resumes he’d gathered, they got to mine and he told Withem “I know this guy’s family, I know what he’s done already, hire him immediately.”
It was a significant break in my career and one I’ve always been grateful for. Dick taught me more about big league politics in six months than I could ever imagine. His campaign was one of the most hotly contested races in the country that year. He was a stickler for good writing and details. He knew every part of Omaha and knew how to pronounce difficult ethnic names. He taught me about Catholic parishes all over Omaha, each one with a wonderful summer festival where candidates could meet thousands of people. Dick was a student of the issues and required his staff to be the same. He won and lost campaigns with class. And most importantly, in a profession that requires hard work and long hours, he always put his family first.
We were leading in the polls going into the last few weeks of the campaign. Unfortunately, it was the year that President Carter was running for re-election and lost to Ronald Reagan by a significant margin. That hurt every Democrat running for Congress and we eventually lost by a narrow margin. Dick ran for Congress again in 1982. I went on to other things and moved to Washington, D.C., where I worked for Rahm Emanuel at the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, and then became Congressman Peter Hoagland’s Chief of Staff and ultimately a national political consultant.
Throughout my career, I’ve worked for numerous candidates for the U.S. House and Senate, for Governors and six presidential races, including the 2008 and 2012 Obama campaigns. In every race, the knowledge I gained working for Dick helped me become a better political consultant.
It was no surprise to me that Dick finished his career as an adjunct professor at UNO teaching politics and government.
Happy 90th birthday Dick, and many more happy birthdays! I’m eternally grateful for the opportunity you gave me many years ago, along with the knowledge you shared. Your example has given me the honor of mentoring many talented young people seeking a career in politics, and extending your legacy.
gler. While Ryan will miss Omaha, his close-knit family, and cheering for the Huskers, he is excited for the opportunities that lie ahead: new friendships, personal growth, and the chance to continue making a difference.
Lillian Keiser Stoms and her brother David were native Omahans, and this fund was established in their memory by their niece, Sally Clayman, of blessed memory. In addition to the Academic Excellence award, there are two other scholarships established in their memory. The Lillian Keiser Stoms Educational Fund benefits and assists in the education of Jewish youth living in a single parent family or Jewish single parents who have custody of their children. The David Keiser and Lillian Keiser Stoms Foundation Education Endowment Fund was created to provide funding for university scholarships to Jewish youth who have earned a minimum 3.0 GPA. Both awards are based on financial need.
For information on scholarship programs, please contact Diane Walker, Fund & Scholarship Administrator at 402.334.6551 or dwalker@jewishomaha.org. Those interested in contributing to or endowing scholarship funds should contact Amy Bernstein Shivvers, Executive Director of the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation at 402.334.6466 or ashivvers@jewishomaha.org
Jim Crounse
Dick Fellman Love, Mom, Dad, Lauren, Alex, Evan,
Megan
SHABBAT
A few more photos from Chabad’s pop-up Shabbat during the Berkshire Hathaway meeting.
CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH
Thank you to everyone who attended our Yom HaShoah Commemoration. Each year, this meaningful event brings together members of our community to reflect, remember, and continue to stand up against antisemitism. A special thank you to all of our speakers and to Dr. Christine Erlander Beard from UNO for her presentation.
RBJH
Residents of RBJH had the unique opportunity to participate in the Tapestry of Jewish Learning with Dr. Yehuda Kurtzer, a renowned scholar and president of the Shalom Hartman Institute of North America. During his engaging talk, Dr. Kurtzer reflected on his remarkable upbringing as the son of a U.S. diplomat, offering personal stories that connected deeply with themes of Jewish identity, global citizenship, and cultural understanding. His insights sparked meaningful discussions among attendees and enriched the community's appreciation for Jewish learning and heritage.
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
BILU USY
BILU USY won chapter of the year.
AKSARBEN CINEMA
Trenton Magid, American Journalist and Podcaster Eli Lake, Dr. Ari Kohen, and Rabbi Steven Abraham at the October 8 showing at Aksarben Theater where they led a panel discussion and reflected on the themes of the film and the broader questions it raises about Jewish identity, memory, and our responsibilities — both as Jews and as global citizens — in the wake of trauma.
NEXTGEN OMAHA
Thanks, NextGen Omaha, for coming to the First Tuesday Trivia Night at B5 Brewing! We had a blast, and almost took home the win — so close! Hope to see you next month for some axe throwing.
FRIEDEL JEWISH ACADEMY
The state speech contest was today. Friedel students took home second- and third-place trophies! Congratulations!
Voices
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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 JFO are: Institute for Holocaust Education, Jewish Community Relations Council, Jewish Community Center, Jewish Social Services, Nebraska Jewish Historical Society and the Jewish Press Guidelines and highlights of the Jewish Press, including front page stories and announcements, can be found online at: www.jewishomaha.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.
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Axes and Books
ANNETTE VAN DE KAMP-WRIGHT
Jewish Press Editor
On May 8, the Associated Press reported a story I haven’t found anywhere else. A 50-year-old Jewish owner of a jewelry store in Djerba, Tunisia, was attacked with an axe. Djerba is the site of El-Ghriba, Africa’s oldest synagogue; the attack happened a week before Djerba expected thousands of Jewish pilgrims for Lag B’Omer.
These two things may not be related. Yet, the AP chose to link the victim’s Jewish identity to the festival, opening the door to this possibly being an act of antisemitism. There are a few different responses we can have to this.
1. Not every attack is antisemitism.
2. Every attack is probably antisemitism.
3. Are you joking? Of course it is antisemitism.
The journalist who did the write-up for the AP certainly considered the possibility, and that in and of itself is not a given these days. In fact, more often than not media outlets ignore the antisemitic elements in the news they report. Painting Jews as victims in any way, shape, or form is inconvenient. And let’s be honest, we don’t love it either. It’s much better to think of ourselves as strong, tenacious, unshakeable.
But the world has changed. We’ve gone from micro-aggressions to outright violence. Sure, the worst most of us encounter is still at the level of social media comments, stickers on light poles, events scheduled on a Jewish holiday. Being stuck behind a Nebraska driver with a free Palestine sticker on her car is irritating, but we’re not bleed-
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.
ing. Yet, at the same time, stories about physical harm are everywhere, on every continent. Rare enough we can ignore them if we choose, frequent enough that we shouldn’t.
May 14, at the Beachwood Public Library in Cleveland, a man checked out dozens of books on various Jewish and other marginalized topics, including Anne Frank’s diary. He then burned them, filmed himself and posted the video to X.
“According to local media descriptions of the police report,” Andrew Lapin wrote for the JTA, “the man burned around 100 books in total across multiple trips to the library in April, including other books “on topics including Jewish history, African American history and LGBTQ education,” which he obtained after telling librarians he had a son in the LGBTQ community.”
Jewish.”
We often look at the 2025 experience as divorced from the era where the real threat wore uniforms
There is still the familiar antisemitism too: Germany recently arrested four leaders of the “Kingdom of Germany,” the largest organizing group of the Reichsbürger, or “citizens of the Reich” movement. Members of this group believe the country’s Nazi-era 1937 borders still exist, and they deny that the Holocaust happened.” (JTA) You know, those Nazi-types who just won’t give up. They are the old “it never happened but they should have finished the job” kind. You can find the same sentiment in “I’m anti-Zionist, but some of my best friends are
and attached swastikas to every surface. Yet, the more I think about it, the more I feel these are all just different sides of the same ugly coin. If you hate me and want me gone, does it really matter whether you yell about genocide, or believe that Jews are subhuman? Why do those who hate us bend over backwards to invent different excuses, if the end result stays the same? And will it be somehow a relief if people stop lying about why they hate us?
We don’t know much about Leo XIV and the Jews.
JOSIE STEMPEL-JUNG
JTA
As a Chicagoan who teaches at Villanova University, it was surreal for me to watch the election of Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as Pope Leo XIV. The new pontiff grew up in Chicago and graduated from Villanova, a Catholic school, in 1977. Amid general excitement over the first U.S.-born pope, my networks also erupted with Chicago and Villanova pride.
Yet as much as I loved the memes about deep dish pizza and basketball, I noticed that the most important part of my identity was absent from the pope’s profile: He didn’t seem to have a record on Jewish issues or any meaningful relationships with Jews. Jewish journalists searched for signs of what his election might mean for Jewish-Catholic relations. Little turned up.
The contrast with Leo’s predecessor is striking. Pope Francis collaborated closely with Argentine Jews during his years as a cardinal. When he was elected in 2013, some commentators charted possible directions for Jewish-Catholic dialogue. Leo’s record offers no such clarity.
However, Francis also shows that a pope’s personal connections with Jews are no perfect predictor. By the time he died last month, Jewish-Catholic dialogue was at its most tense since World War II due to what many Jews (and some Catholics) perceived as his lack of sympathy for Israel in its war against Hamas. One leading Catholic journalist even identified the “crisis” in Jewish-Catholic relations as the most underreported Vatican story of 2024.
It wasn’t just about Israel. Long before the war, Francis repeatedly echoed “old-fashioned” Christian anti-Judaism. This included disparaging comments about Jesus’ Jewish contemporaries and the Torah. By the time he cited the single most anti-Jewish New Testament verse on the first anniversary of the October 7 attack, the pattern was clear.
Tracking a new pope’s personal relationships with Jews only gets you so far. Their local context is just as important. Like all people, popes are products of their local context. Yet unlike all people, popes elevate that context to a global stage, bringing it to bear on the whole church — including its stance toward Jews.
To fully understand why Leo’s context matters, we need to compare it to his predecessor’s. The Argentine Francis was the first pope from what is often called the Global South: countries in South/Central America, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia that have been marginalized and exploited by Eurocentrism. This is where Catholicism is growing most rapidly. Francis’ work confronting poverty, violence, and colonialism in Latin America directly shaped his global purview and focus on social justice.
At the same time, Francis’ local context had complicated consequences for his approach to JewishCatholic relations. For one, there simply aren’t many Jews in the Global South. The Jewish population of Argentina is actually the region’s largest, but it’s small both percentage-wise and compared to other Jewish centers. In Francis’ world, the Jews that Catholics encounter most frequently are the villains in the New Testament. This surely impacted his religious education, perhaps explaining his habit of unreflectively invoking Christian anti-Judaism.
Moreover, Francis was the first postwar pope without direct connections to the Holocaust. This matters because the Holocaust has been the main motivator for Jewish-Catholic reconciliation, especially as reflected in the reforms of Vatican II. While Francis obviously deplored the Holocaust, he saw it as enjoining the church with a universal commitment to humanity rather than a special commitment to Jews. This is different from how European Catholics often see things. Tellingly, some of the harshest Catholic critics of Francis’ Israel statements were German.
Drawing on his local context, Pope Francis called for a church committed to justice for marginalized groups. U.S. Jews rightly admired this vision. Yet due to the very same context, Francis also didn’t intuitively count Jews among those marginalized groups—even though there has arguably been no single group more historically marginalized (to put it mildly) by the Catholic Church itself. In this way, Francis embodied an inconvenient truth: because progress in Jewish-Catholic relations has been so intertwined with the European experience, future progress is uncertain as the Catholic Church becomes less Eurocentric.
This is where Pope Leo XIV comes in.
Leo spent most of his pre-Vatican career in Peru, where he confronted the same issues that Francis did. As a naturalized Peruvian citizen, he’s been called the second Latin American pope in addition to the first U.S. one. There’s every reason to believe that he’ll continue his predecessor’s progressive focus on poverty, immigration justice, and climate change.
But this doesn’t mean that we should brace for similar Jewish-Catholic tensions. Although Leo left the United States, he did still grow up here. In contrast, the United States is perhaps the most flourishing Jewish diaspora in history. There are, in fact, almost twice as many Jews in Chicago alone as in all of Argentina. While they constitute a small percentage of the overall U.S. population, they play an outsized cultural role. Moreover, although the Holocaust doesn’t implicate U.S. Catholics in the same way as European ones, it casts a long shadow because World War II is so central to U.S. national identity.
These realities matter. Although U.S. Catholics are politically and culturally divided, they consistently report high opinions of Jews. This includes affirming Jews’ covenant with God, denying that the Jews killed Jesus, rejecting proselytization, and sympathizing with the state of Israel.
Institutionally, the U.S. church prioritizes JewishCatholic relations. Most Catholic universities support Jewish studies and/or Jewish student groups. Many — including the Chicago seminary where Leo studied — have centers for Jewish-Catholic dialogue. The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops even declares that the church’s “unique relationship with the Jewish people is grounded in a shared heritage, making it unlike any other dialogue with another religious tradition.”
This doesn’t mean anything definitive about Pope Leo’s own views. But my point is that his views aren’t the whole picture. Whether he wants to or not, he’s bringing U.S. Catholicism with him to Rome in an unprecedented way. A local Catholic culture with rich Jewish-Catholic engagement is gaining a global profile. Catholics with deep commitments to Jews have a new platform.
Ethan Schwartz is assistant professor of Hebrew Bible at Villanova University.
This story was edited for length.
El Ghriba Synagogue. Credit: Mohatatou, licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 International license.
Synagogues
B’NAI ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE
618 Mynster Street Council Bluffs, IA 51503-0766
712.322.4705 www.cblhs.org
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
LINCOLN JEWISH COMMUNITY:
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
TEMPLE ISRAEL
Union for Reform Judaism (URJ) 13111 Sterling Ridge Drive Omaha, NE 68144-1206
402.556.6536 templeisraelomaha.com
LINCOLN JEWISH COMMUNITY:
TIFERETH ISRAEL
Member of United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism 3219 Sheridan Boulevard Lincoln, NE 68502-5236 402.423.8569 tiferethisraellincoln.org
Monthly Speaker Series Service, Friday, June 10, 7:30 p.m. with our guest speaker, Steve Suvalsky. Our service leader is Jim Fried. Everyone is always welcome at B’nai Israel!
For information about our historic synagogue, please visit our website at www.cblhs.org or contact any of our other board members: Renee Corcoran, Scott Friedman, Rick Katelman, Janie Kulakofsky, Howard Kutler, Carole and Wayne Lainof, Ann Moshman, MaryBeth Muskin, Debbie Salomon and Sissy Silber. Handicap Accessible.
Services conducted by Rabbi Steven Abraham and Hazzan Michael Krausman.
IN-PERSON AND ZOOM MINYAN SCHEDULE:
Mornings on Sundays, 9:30 a.m.; Mondays and Thursdays, 7 a.m.; Evenings on Sunday-Thursday, 5:30 p.m.
FRIDAY: Nebraska AIDS Project Lunch, 11:30 a.m.; Kabbalat Shabbat Services 6 p.m. at Beth El & Live Stream.
SATURDAY: Shabbat Morning Services, 10 a.m. at Beth El and Live Stream; Kiddush Sponsored by the Fellman Family following services, 10 a.m.; Havdalah, 9:25 p.m. Zoom Only.
SUNDAY: Morning Minyan, 9 a.m. Zoom Only.
MONDAY: Shacharit 9 a.m. Zoom Only.
TUESDAY: Kamp Kef, 9 a.m.; Mishneh Torah, 10:30 a.m. with Rabbi Abraham; USY Mystery Bus Tour, 4:30 p.m.
WEDNESDAY: Kamp Kef, 9 a.m.
THURSDAY: Kamp Kef, 9 a.m.
FRIDAY-May 30: Kamp Kef, 9 a.m.; Kabbalat Shabbat Services, 6 p.m. at Beth El & Live Stream.
SATURDAY-May 31: Shabbat Morning Services, 10 a.m. at Beth El and Live Stream Please visit bethel-omaha.org for additional information and service links.
FRIDAY: Nach Yomi, 6:45 a.m.; Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Mincha/Kabbalat Shabbat, 7 p.m.; Candlelighting, 8:26 p.m.
SATURDAY: Shabbat Kollel, 8:30 a.m.; Shacharit, 9
a.m.; Tot Shabbat 10:30 a.m.; Youth Class 10:45
a.m.; Soulful Torah, 7:25 p.m. with Rabbi Geiger; Mincha, 8:10 p.m.; Kids Activity/Laws of Shabbos, 8:40 p.m.; Havdalah, 9:34 p.m.
SUNDAY: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 8:30 p.m.
MONDAY: Office Closed for Memorial Day; Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 8:30 p.m.
TUESDAY: Nach Yomi, 6:30 a.m.; Shacharit, 6:45
a.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 8:30 p.m.
WEDNESDAY: Nach Yomi, 6:30 a.m.; Shacharit, 6:45 a.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 8:30 p.m.
THURSDAY: Nach Yomi, 6:45 a.m.; Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Character Development, 9:30 a.m.; Mincha/ Ma’ariv, 8:30 p.m.
FRIDAY-May 30: Nach Yomi, 6:45 a.m.; Shacharit,
7 a.m.; Mincha/Kabbalat Shabbat, 7 p.m.; Candlelighting, 8:31 p.m.
SATURDAY-May 31: Shabbat Kollel, 8:30 a.m.; Shacharit 9 a.m.; Tot Shabbat 10:30 a.m.; Youth Class, 10:45 a.m.; Soulful Torah, 7:35 p.m. with Rabbi Geiger; Mincha 8:20 p.m.; Kids Activity/Laws of Shabbos 8:50 p.m.; Havdalah, 9:41 p.m.
Please visit orthodoxomaha.org for additional information and Zoom service links.
All services are in-person. All classes are being offered in-person and via Zoom (ochabad.com/academy). For more information or to request help, please visit www.ochabad.com or call the office at 402.330.1800.
FRIDAY: Shacharit, 8 a.m.; Lechayim, 5:30 p.m., go to ochabad.com/lechayim to join; Candlelighting, 8:26 p.m.
SATURDAY: Shacharit, 10 a.m. followed by Kiddush and Cholent; Shabbat Ends, 9:34 p.m.
SUNDAY: Sunday Morning Wraps, 9 a.m.
MONDAY: Shacharit, 8 a.m.; Personal Parsha, 9:30 a.m. with Shani Katzman; Intermediate Biblical Hebrew Grammar, 10:30 a.m. with Prof. David Cohen; Parsha Reading, 6 p.m. with Prof. David Cohen; Translating Words of Prayer, 7 p.m. with Prof. David Cohen.
TUESDAY: Shacharit, 8 a.m.; Aramaic Grammar, 10 a.m. with David Cohen; Translating Words of Prayer, 11 a.m. with David Cohen; Intermediate Biblical Hebrew Grammar, 6 p.m. with Prof. David Cohen; Introductory Biblical Hebrew Grammar, 7 p.m. with Prof. David Cohen
WEDNESDAY: Shacharit, 8 a.m.; Mystical Thinking (Tanya) 9:30 a.m. with Rabbi Katzman; Introductory Biblical Hebrew Grammar, 10:30 a.m. with Prof. David Cohen; Parsha Reading, 11:30 a.m. with Prof. David Cohen.
THURSDAY: Shacharit, 8 a.m.; Introduction to Alphabet, Vowels & Reading Hebrew, 10 a.m.; Advanced Biblical Hebrew Grammar, 11 a.m. with Prof. David Cohen; Talmud Study, noon-1 p.m.; Introduction to Alphabet, Vowels & Reading Hebrew, 6 p.m.; Code of Jewish Law Class, 7 p.m.
FRIDAY-May 30: Shacharit 8 a.m.; Lechayim, 5:30 p.m., go to ochabad.com/lechayim to join; Candlelighting, 8:31 p.m.
SATURDAY-May 31: Shacharit 10 a.m. followed by Kiddush and Cholent; Shabbat Ends, 9:40 p.m.
LINCOLN JEWISH COMMUNITY: B’NAI JESHURUN & TIFERETH ISRAEL
Services facilitated by Rabbi Alex Felch. All services offered in-person with live-stream or teleconferencing options.
FRIDAY: Rafi Massinter Bar Mitzvah, 6:30 p.m. led by Rabbi Alex at TI; No Shabbat Services at SST; Shabbat Candlelighting, 8:27 p.m.
SATURDAY: Shabbat Service and Rafi Massinter Bar Mitzvah, 9:30-11 a.m. led by Rabbi Alex at TI; No Torah Study this week; Havdalah, 9:34 p.m.
From the Archive: First JCC Summer Camp
ANNETTE VAN DE KAMP-WRIGHT
This article is reprinted from the March 24, 1935 edition of the Jewish Press.
The Jewish Community Center will inaugerate its first home camp this summer at the Center building. For six weeks, from July 8-August 16, camp will be conducted daily for all children 6-16 years of age at the Center building under the guidance and leadership of a group of trained counselors.
The summer home camp, though new to Omaha, has been tried and proven successful to various centers throughout the country and is becoming more popular each summer. It provides a complete summer of creative and constructive mental and physical activity for children under the best of supervision and guidance.
The program will feature the same type of activities as are conducted at an outdoor camp and will begin daily at 9 o’clock and continue until 5:00 each evening with lunch served at noon.
The plan now calls for a program which will include the following activities: a daily swim for each child, baseball, tennis, hiking, quiet games, story telling, reading, dancing classes, dramatics, arts and crafts classes, nature study groups, music,
camera clubs, aviation clubs, camp paper, and visits to places of interest such as newspapers, factories, etc. In addition, a series of evening camp fires and all-day outings have been planned.
SUNDAY: Men’s Bike/Coffee Group, 10:30 a.m. at The Mill on the Innovation Campus. For more information or questions please email Al Weiss at albertw801@gmail.com
WEDNESDAY: Men’s Lunch Group, 12:15 p.m. at HoriSun, 8055 O St. We meet every other Wednesday. Contact albertw801@gmail.com to join and receive updates. Bring your own lunch and beverage; Adult Ed Movie Night: Mr. Saturday Night, 6:30-8:30 p.m. at SST.
FRIDAY-May 30: Kabbalat Shabbat Service, 6:30 p.m. led by Rabbi Alex at SST; Shabbat Candlelighting, 8:32 p.m.
SATURDAY-May 31: Shabbat Service , 9:30-11 a.m. led by Rabbi Alex at TI; Torah Study noon on Parashat Bamidbar via Zoom; Havdalah, 9:41 p.m.
OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE
FRIDAYS: Virtual Shabbat Service, 7:30 p.m. every first and third of the month at Capehart Chapel. Contact TSgt Jason Rife at OAFBJSLL@icloud.com for more information.
TEMPLE ISRAEL
In-person and virtual services conducted by Rabbi Benjamin Sharff, Rabbi Deana Sussman Berezin, and Cantor Joanna Alexander.
FRIDAY: Drop-In Mah Jongg, 9 a.m. In-Person; Village Walking Group, 10 a.m. In-Person; Shabbat B’yachad Service, 6 p.m. In-Person & Zoom
SATURDAY: Torah Study, 9:15 a.m. In-Person & Zoom; Shabbat Morning Service, 10:30 a.m. In-Person & Zoom.
WEDNESDAY: Yarn It, 9 a.m. In-Person.
THURSDAY: The Zohar: Thursday Morning Class, 11 a.m. with Rabbi Sharff — In-Person & Zoom.
FRIDAY-May 30: Drop-In Mah Jongg, 9 a.m. InPerson; Village Walking Group, 10 a.m. In-Person; Classic Shabbat Service, 6 p.m. In-Person & Zoom
SATURDAY-May 31: Torah Study, 9:15 a.m. In-Person & Zoom; Shabbat Morning Service, 10:30 a.m. InPerson & Zoom.
Please visit templeisraelomaha.com for additional information and Zoom service links.
OBITUARY CHANGES
As of January 1, 2025, the Jewish Press will charge $180 for the inclusion of standard obituaries, up to 400 words. Photos may be included if the family so wishes. For many years, we have held off on making this decision. However, it is no longer financially responsible for us to include obituaries at no charge. For questions, please email avandekamp@ jewishomaha.org. Obituaries in the Jewish Press are included in our print edition as well as our website at www.omahajewishpress.com
The Center is going to sponsor a training course for counselors sometime in June. Each child will be thoroughly examined by a physician upon entrance into the camp, and will
The schedule has been so arranged that the children will be out-of-doors during the morning and indoors during the afternoon when the sun is the hottest.
Mrs. Arthur Cohn, chairman of the Home Camp committee, is now selecting her committee of helpers. Counselors will be selected according to their qualifications and experience in the handling of children, and their knowledge of arts and crafts.
from then on be periodically examined and weighed. The meals are going to be planned by an expert dietician.
Because of the limited capacity of the camp and the number of registrations already received, it will be necessary to register now at the Jewish Community Center. There will be a fee of $2.50 per week for each child.
B’NAI ISRAEL
BETH EL
BETH ISRAEL
CHABAD HOUSE
Eurovision’s Popular Vote
PHILISSA CRAMER
JTA
Israel’s Yuval Raphael defied expectations to come in second in the annual Eurovision song contest on Saturday May 17, narrowly losing out to Austria after being buoyed by the popular vote but also drawing points from the juries in 14 countries.
“Thank you, Europe! Am Yisrael chai!” Raphael shouted from the stage after her performance.
Azerbaijan awarded Israel all 12 of the points its jury could give, in a departure from last year, when Israel did not win any country’s full jury points. Azerbaijan is a key oil, weapons and intelligence trading partner with Israel.
For many Israelis, Eurovision is seen as something of a barometer of their country’s status on the international stage. This year, the second contest during the war in Gaza, Raphael’s participation drew some pro-Palestinian protests, including an unsuccessful attempt to storm the stage during the final, but the climate in Basel, Switzerland, was less volatile than in Sweden last year, according to reports from the scene.
The popular vote, in which audience members can vote up to 20 times each, suggested both strong mobilization by Jewish voters abroad but also widespread support for Raphael from other viewers. Israel won the full points from 12 countries — including Spain, whose official broadcaster showed a statement of opposition to the war before Raphael’s performance — as well as in a category for voters not associated with any of the Eurovision competitors. It also won partial points from another 22 countries. Only Armenia, Croatia and Poland awarded no audience points to Israel.
Raphael, who survived Hamas’ Oct. 7, 2023, attack on Israel by lying under bodies at the Nova music festival massacre, performed the anthemic “New Day Will Rise.” She said prior to the finals that she was prepared to tune out any boos and was solely focused on representing her country on stage.
Her outfit for the final was a black dress whose arms, when lifted, gave the appearance of bat wings — a symbol associated with the young Bibas brothers who were abducted from Israel on Oct. 7 and killed in Gaza. The designer said the symbolism had been unintentional, saying, “Sometimes the universe does its own styling.”
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Additions to the Kripke-Veret Collection
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YOUNG ADULT:
So That Happened … But Maybe You Already Knew
That by Tami Sussman
Natalie (Nutty to her friends) knows turning 12 is a big deal, and even though she doesn’t like change AT ALL, she’s prepping for:
a) having the best bat mitzvah party anyone has ever been to
b) graduating from primary school and
c) hopefully getting a boyfriend.
But there’s even more headed Nutty’s way that might change everything, like her parents running out of money and selling her childhood home, along with the reassuring family smell. Or when her best friend no longer feels like a girl and wants to leave the bat mitzvah group altogether. It seems only Natalie can keep her family, her friendships and her party from falling apart.
ADULT:
The Forgotten Names: A Novel by Mario Escobar
part of a committee dedicated to saving those most vulnerable innocents.
insightful author notes.
asked to make the ultimate sacrifice of abandoning them forever.
In August 1942, French parents were faced with a horrible choice: watch their children die, or abandon them forever. Fifty years later, it becomes one woman’s mission to match the abandoned names with the people they belong to.
Five years after the highly publicized trial of Klaus Barbie, the “Butcher of Lyon,” law student Valérie Portheret began her doctoral research into the 108 children who disappeared from Vénissieux fifty years earlier, children who somehow managed to escape deportation and certain death in the German concentration camps. She soon discovers that their rescue was no unexplainable miracle. It was the result of a coordinated effort by clergy, civilians, the French Resistance, and members of other humanitarian organizations who risked their lives as
Here All Along: Finding Meaning, Spirituality, and a Deeper Connection to Life…In Judaism (after Finally Choosing to Look There) by Sarah Hurwitz
Theirs was a heroic act without precedent in Nazi-occupied Europe, made possible due to a loophole in the Nazi agenda to deport all Jewish immigrants from the country: a legally recognized exemption for unaccompanied minors. Therefore, to save their children, the Jewish mothers of Vénissieux were
Told in dual timelines, The Forgotten Names is a reimagined account of the true stories of the French men and women who have since been named Righteous Among the Nations, the children they rescued, the stifled cries of shattered mothers, and a law student, whose twenty-five-year journey allowed those children to reclaim their heritage and remember their forgotten names. With its gripping narrative and thought-provoking themes, The Forgotten Names is a must-read for history enthusiasts and book clubs alike. Dive deeper into the novel with included discussion questions, a historical timeline, and
After a decade as a political speechwriter — serving as head speechwriter for First Lady Michelle Obama, a senior speechwriter for President Barack Obama, and chief speechwriter for Hillary Clinton on her 2008 presidential campaign — Sarah Hurwitz decided to apply her skills as a communicator to writing a book... about Judaism. And no one is more surprised than she is.
Hurwitz was the quintessential lapsed Jew—until, at age thirty-six, after a tough breakup, she happened upon an advertisement for an introductory class on Judaism. She attended on a whim, but was blown away by what she found: beautiful rituals, helpful guidance on living an ethical life, conceptions of God beyond the judgy bearded man in the sky— none of which she had learned in Hebrew school or during the two synagogue services she grudgingly attended each year. That class led to a years-long journey during which Hurwitz visited the offices of rabbis, attended Jewish meditation retreats, sat at the Shabbat tables of Orthodox families, and read hundreds of books about Judaism—all in dogged pursuit of answers to her biggest questions. What she found transformed her life, and she wondered: How could there be such a gap between the richness of what Judaism offers and the way so many Jews like her understand and experience it?
Sarah Hurwitz is on a mission to close this gap by sharing the profound insights she discovered on everything from Jewish holidays, ethics, and prayer to Jewish conceptions of God, death, and social justice. In this entertaining and accessible book, she shows us why Judaism matters and how its message is more relevant than ever, and she inspires Jews to do the learning, questioning, and debating required to make this religion their own.
The Jewish Press Club
