January 13, 2012

Sponsored by the Benjamin and Anna E. Wiesman Family Endowment Fund AN AGENCY OF THE JEWISH FEDERATION OF OMAHA January 13, 2012 18 Tevet 5772 Vol. 92 | No. 17

Buddy Goldstein made a difference

This Week

by ANNETTE VAN DE KAMPWRIGHT Editor of the Jewish Press When in 2011 the Jewish Federation of Omaha named Leonard “Buddy” Goldstein Humanitarian of the Year, the accompanying Press article stated he was “more than deserving of the title, and made a difference in the lives of hundreds.” Buddy died Friday, Jan. 6, at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. He is survived by his wife, Shirley Goldstein; son, Donald Goldstein; daughter and son-in-law, Gail and Phil Raznick of Boulder, CO, and daughter Kathy Helm; 6 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren and many close friends. “Five years ago,” said Donald, “I had an opportunity to interview Dad for a StoryCorps oral history project. I asked him the most important lesson that he had learned from his own father. His answer was: “You don’t live for yourself alone. If you have an ability to help others, you have an obligation to do so.” It’s a lesson that he has ingrained in all of us, and a legacy that we hope to continue.” During his 90 years, Buddy was a philanthropist in the Omaha Jewish community and a role model to many. Not in the least to his children and grandchildren: “Most of you called him Buddy,” granddaughter

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Molly said at the memorial service, “but we called him Papa. The Omaha community, and beyond, knew of his commitment to human rights,” she said. “The Jewish com-

After the war, he returned to Omaha and joined his father and brothers in the family business, Capitol Rent-ACar. Whenever Buddy was mentioned, it was often in tandem with his wife Shirley, and often because of their tireless work on behalf of the Free Soviet Jewry movement beginning in the 1970s. When Leonard and Shirley Goldstein returned from a 1972 trip to the USSR, they felt frustrated by the limited access they had to the Soviet Jewish population. Shirley’s involvement deepened with subsequent trips behind the Iron Curtain. She organized Omaha’s Leonard “Buddy” Goldstein Free Soviet Jewry munity knew of his generosity and Committee, and served on the board leadership. But we knew the most of the National Union of Councils important thing to Papa was his for Soviet Jews. She led demonstrafamily.” tions, raised awareness and funds, A child of immigrants, Buddy met and through it all, Buddy was her his future wife, Shirley Gershun, in rock. Always by his wife’s side, he high school. They married in 1942 supported her every step of the way, when Buddy was 2nd Lieutenant in shared her concerns, and underthe United States Army Air Corps. wrote her activism.

Sharee and Murray Newman’s inspiring gift A Jewish skiing legacy at Taos Page 12

Inside Point of view Synagogues In memoriam

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by OZZIE NOGG The Rose Blumkin Jewish Home has an impressive new mezuzah outside it’s front door. The watertight, 5foot tall sculpture -- an over-sized representation of the Home’s logo -is a gift from Sharee and Murray Newman. “When given the opportunity to select a location to recognize our participation in the Rose Blumkin Home building project, Sharee and I chose without hesitation the Front Entryway Garden Mezuzah,” Murray said. “As we have been taught, the mezuzah fulfills the mitzvah to inscribe the words of the Shema ‘on the doorposts of your house’. These sacred words remind us all as we come and go what this amazing Omaha community can and does accomplish year-in and yearout. The Rose Blumkin Home is a testament to that vision and dream.” Rabbi Yaakov Weiss, RBJH Pastoral Services Coordinator, acted as sofer -- scribe -- for the scroll now housed inside the mezuzah

case. “The scroll is seven feet long and made out of special bleed-proof graffiti paper,” Weiss explained. “I set up shop in the Blumkin Home

The mezuzah is located at the front of the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. and outlined the Hebrew letters by hand, without tracing or photocopying. Many residents and staff watched and were engaged in the process.” During the three months it took to complete the scroll, Rabbi Weiss attended BBYO meetings and Omaha Jewish Chai School sessions where he taught students about the mitzvah of mezuzah and discussed with them the significance of the passages from Deuteronomy that make up the text. Eventually, each Continued on page 2

But Buddy was also a force to be reckoned with in his own right. From 1976 until 1978, he served as President of the Jewish Federation of Omaha. His philanthropy touched every agency on campus, and has always distinguished itself because it involved more than financial assistance. Buddy was adamant that much of his and Shirley’s support go to those causes that furthered educational opportunities and emphasized the importance of empowering others. That emphasis on education included his own family. Grandson Zak remembers: “All six of us [grandchildren] have experienced the sense of accomplishment (or fear) in getting the silent nod of approval from Papa when talking about our education or careers. He would sit in his chair with a newspaper or book, and ask what you were doing, and what your plans were. And as you talked, you kind of watched him and waited for the nod that said what you were doing was o.k. And if, instead, you got a raise of his eyebrows, you knew you’d better think hard about whether you were doing the right thing.” “Leonard and Shirley established two endowment funds prior to my arrival,” said Marty Ricks, Executive Continued on page 11

Expertise, passion, and determination by ANNETTE VAN DE KAMPWRIGHT Editor of the Jewish Press On Jan. 22, the Jewish Federation of Omaha will host a tribute to retiring Chief Development Officer Jan Goldstein. The entire community is invited to say thank you to one of the Federation’s most treasured professionals. Originally, Jan graduated with a BFA in Art History from UCLA. “I was certain I was on my way to working in the movie industry or would one day be the curator of a wonderful antiquities collection in some metropolitan art museum,” she says. “But that was 1970, and my sudden move to Omaha changed all those aspirations. Without an advanced degree in art history available at the time, my expectations soon changed.” Jan started working at the Barclay Gallery, located at Westroads Mall. The gallery didn’t stay open for long: “Volunteering at a few other galleries and selling commercial art put me on a path to nowhere, until the day I walked into the newly built Jewish Community Center on 132nd Street. I hoped I could per-

haps teach an art class; little did I know what was in store.” Jan met JCC Cultural Arts Director Mark Zalkin that day, and he just happened to be looking for an Assistant Director with an art

Jan Goldstein background. “From Mark, I learned about working with people, understanding the Jewish mission, and the division of responsibilities between lay leaders and professionals.” However, it was the Omaha community that taught Jan the importance of a strong and supportive Jewish community, “not so apparent to someone raised in Southern California’s San Fernando Continued on page 3

2 | The Jewish Press | January 13, 2012

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by SHERRIE SAAG Communications Specialist, Jewish Federation of Omaha This is the second in a series introducing Jewish Federation of Omaha Annual Campaign volunteers. As part of our One Campus, One Community initiative, we want to inform and educate our community about the Annual Campaign and in doing so showcase our greatest resource – our Campaign volunteers! Today we meet Sonia Tipp, wife and proud parent of two. Son Asher is a student at the Pennie Z. Davis Child Development Center and daughter, Adria, is in kindergarten at Bennington Elementary School. Sonia, who moved to Omaha 4 1/2 Sonia Tipp years ago to be closer to family, works part-time as an occupational therapist. For me, Jewish community means... A place where you feel connected to everything important in Judaism (religion, philanthropy, community, education and food!). I volunteer with the Annual Campaign because... I have seen how many lives are touched every day. From little ones attending preschool for the first time to my relatives lovingly cared for at the Blumkin Home; everyone from young to old and in between.

No one knows that I... ...did not grow up going to a JCC. The closest one was in Owings Mills, Maryland (about 25 minutes from my home in Columbia, Maryland). Something I’d put in a suggestion box... Expand Fit and Sit. I take my son there every week and the service needs a bigger space with more activities for kids. It’s great when they can run and play in the gym, but that isn’t always available. If you could give Mike Silverman one piece of advice, what would it be? Keep plugging away! Remain focused on the big picture and all the good change that is happening on this campus. The book I am currently recommending... I’m cooking my way through My Father’s Daughter, a cookbook written by Gwyneth Paltrow. I am trying to get more veggies into my kids and expand my dinner menus! Bagel Bin or Panera? I have to say Panera, but only because of their soups and salads. Sorry! What’s your favorite menu item at Star Deli? Definitely the whitefish salad. We’ve been on a hunt for this delicacy in Omaha for a long time now. Thanks to Star Deli for making it available. My son Asher is a HUGE fan!

Sharee and Murray Newman’s inspiring gift Continued from page 1 Blumkin Home’s front entrance convey the residential teen assisted by filling out one or two of the more than 700 quality one feels throughout the Home. “We’re a people letters and then decorating the scroll. “This was an oppor- place, a Jewish home in every sense of the word,” he said. tunity for the kids to see and participate in the process of “The door to each resident room bears a one-of-a-kind writing a mezuzah,” Weiss continued. “It was really neat to mezuzah, and now the Newman’s unique gift personalizes be able to engage them in the Home’s main entrance. It the work. It is really beautishows we’re a real home, not ful to see all the letters writsimply a location.” ten out before you in full The mezuzah project was a size, and the kids were fascilearning experience for Rick nated and amazed at the Dolphen. “I’m not Jewish,” process.” he said, “so Mike and Josh The mezuzah case was had to explain the signififabricated by Dolphens cance of the mezuzah to me. Design and Sign, with the Then I had to explain the cooperation of Signs by meaning to my crew and Tomorrow, the company also to my customers who responsible for much of the saw the case while we were signage at the Blumkin working on it. I told all of BBYO members (L. to R.) Jodi Levine, Veronica Dubov and Home. “We originally them that the mezuzah Cleo Rogers fill in the Hebrew text on the mezuzah scroll. planned to make the holds a prayer and is outside mezuzah from metal pipe,” Rick Dolphen said, “but that every Jewish Home. That the words inside the mezuzah are meant the piece would weigh about 350 pounds and be important teachings to pass on. I think of it as sort of a time heavy to move, so we made the mezuzah out of synthetic capsule.” PVC pipe instead. After the case was sanded and carved, Rabbi Weiss agreed. “A mezuzah is a capsule that conwe painted it to look like metal.” Mike Silverman, Omaha tains ancient writings of a selection of the Torah. The text Jewish Federation CEO and Josh Gurock, Blumkin Home includes important lessons for all generations including Facilities Coordinator, supervised the mezuzah case fabri- such concepts as belief in God, prayer, the importance of cation. “This was by far the most fun project for me,” Jewish education and teaching our children, the land of Gurock said. “A lot of time and energy went into getting Israel and other commandments central to the Jewish peothe vines around the rose just right, turning a flat two- ple. It was my pleasure to be part of this addition to the dimensional logo into a three-dimensional piece of art.” Blumkin Home, and I join the rest of the staff in thanking For Silverman, it was important that the mezuzah at the Murray and Sharee Newman for their beautiful gift.”

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by JTA NEWS STAFF JERUSALEM (JTA) -- The Israel Medical Association has barred its member physicians from participating in an infertility conference geared for haredi Orthodox men and women that did not invite female speakers. The annual Innovations in Gynecology and Halacha conference of the Puah Institute for Medicine and Halacha has been held for the last 12 years, but this marks the first time that the absence of female speakers has become an issue. Women do not serve as speakers, according to the organization, in order to ensure the participation of the haredi Orthodox. In response, the Institute announced that it would hold an event for women only in the summer. At least eight doctors reportedly had pulled out of the conference prior to the medical association’s announcement.

Puah has in the past received subsidies from the Ministry of Health, but not this year, The Jerusalem Post reported. “We are sorry that instead of appreciating the great advances we have merited to see in women’s health in general, and in particular within the religious sector, as a result of our conferences, there are cynical, aggressive elements who try to block us by using the prevailing public ambience,” the organization said on its website. “These elements are riding on the back of the Puah Institute in order to advance their personal agenda.” The Puah Institute, a non-profit organization, was founded in 1990 by former Sephardic Chief Rabbi Mordechai Eliyahu in an effort to help Orthodox couples overcome infertility.

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January 13, 2012 | The Jewish Press | 3

Jan Goldstein: Expertise, passion, and determination Continued from page 1 Valley.” Meanwhile, two major JCC events fueled Jan’s interest in Israel: the photography exhibit Jerusalem of Gold in the early 1970s, and the 1978 Festival of Biblical Art and Archeology. It was the beginning of a long and rich relationship with Israel and its citizens. Jan stayed for five years, and then spent the next 13 years taking care of her family. “I kept volunteering for the Federation Women’s Division,” she says. “In November of 1990, I applied for the position of Women’s Campaign Director. I distinctly remember what then Federation Director Howard Bloom told me: ‘If you take this position, it’s not play. It’s work, important work.’ And he was right. What we do here is serious, it’s holy, and it’s the most fulfilling work imaginable.” While working for the Women’s Campaign, Jan’s tasks included Missions to Israel as well as Leadership Development. She later became Assistant Director to Howard Bloom. When Howard Bloom announced he was leaving, she helped the lay leaders do a nationwide search for several months. “Eventually they asked me if I would be interested in the position, and the rest is history.” Howard Kooper was one lay leader who saw Executive Director material in Jan: “When we looked at Jan, we saw a dedicated and intelligent professional with a large Jewish heart,” he says. “She has always been equally devoted to the community, the donors, and the staff. She has given this community her very best, and has done so while caring as much about small donors as she does about the big ones. Whether a community member has been here for 40 years, or just arrived yesterday, she genuinely cares about everyone. On top of that, she takes real pride in her peers, her friends, and her colleagues. She is simply a class act.”

Above: Jan Goldstein with Shimon Peres and Joe Kirshenbaum during a mission trip to Minsk; right: Jan with a recipient of the JDC outside of Kiev. “It’s been a tremendous 14-year journey,” Jan says. “From the JCC Maccabi Games, to the dedication of the new Rose Blumkin Home, to our Partnership with Israel; from the numerous leadership awards to campaign events and impressive speakers, I have enjoyed every minute. I have been on visits to Israel, and witnessed camps in Poland. I’ve seen children’s summer camps in Budapest and I have been to Minsk with Shimon Peres. I was inspired by the soup kitchens and the elderly Jews in the Former Soviet Union, and experienced the gratitude of people living in Ukrainian shtetls. Every part of it made me want to do more. I took on this position for one simple reason: I wanted to make a difference in people’s lives. It was a privilege and a joy. And it was all made easier because of the wise leadership, the caring donors, and the great colleagues around me.” Jody Malashock, President of the Jewish Federation of Omaha, says: “One of the things about Jan that stands out in my mind

is her encouragement. When, in 2004, the Federation brought four IDF soldiers to Omaha to share their stories with the community, I realized it was time for my husband Buzz and I to go to Israel. Meeting those soldiers was my first personal connection to Israel, and Jan arranged for us to join a special Omaha Mission to Kiev and Israel in the fall of 2005. I knew this trip would change my life for a number of reasons: my grandparents emigrated from Kiev, and I wanted to see first-hand where they came from. I knew Jan had built a nationally rec-

ognized Missions program for our community, and I wanted to be a part of that.” The mission was life changing, Jody says. “Jan offered us the opportunity to understand and experience what life is like for poor, elderly Jews in the former Soviet Union. I will always feel such gratitude to Jan for her expertise, passion, and determination to teach us the responsibility we have for each other as Jews.” Jody is equally grateful to Jan for encouraging her to become more deeply involved in the welfare of Jews everywhere, and to assume greater leadership in the Omaha Jewish community. “Jan has devoted over 20 years to Jewish Omaha,” she says, “and has left a great legacy for us all.” Most of all, Jan feels fortunate: “Every day, I did something I loved doing. I am very aware that not everyone is privileged enough to say that. I developed relationships that will last a lifetime. For me, this was never difficult, and never just a job.” Jan may be retiring from her professional position with the Federation, but will stay involved: “I know how fortunate I was to be given this opportunity by some great lay leaders,” she says, “because they believed in me and in this community.” From this moment on, Jan herself will become such a lay leader, and as such, there is no doubt she will continue to believe in and inspire others. Her goal, in her words, is “to use the skills I have developed, and continue to make a difference in the lives of others, in our own Omaha community, and in our worldwide community.” The community can hardly wait to see what’s next. The Jan. 22 tribute will take place at the Jewish Community Center auditorium from 2-4 p.m. A special presentation will begin at 2:30 p.m.; refreshments will be served.

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Parade fuels excitement and pride by SHANI KATZMAN dozen new cartop Menorahs were designed and skillfully Education Director, Chabad Center crafted by the father-son team, Jim and Max Polack. Nora Amid all the hype and enthusiasm on either end of the Zoob, a former New Yorker, was a parade spectator. “Sitting political spectrum as America starts to select its next Chief in my car - I heard the music. I felt the spirit. I sensed it. It Executive, issues that affect our citizens are front and center. was jubilant. I felt like I was back at home”, she added. “It And there is lots of discussion and contention. was like a ‘big city’ event.” But the one thing we all agree on is that the United States Boys Town participated in this year’s event and built a of America is the most gracious, welcoming country that Menorah for the kindling adjacent to the “He Ain’t Heavy” continues to provide a safe haven and religious freedom and monument at the parade’s first stop. Mayor Jim Suttle who expression for all. The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island also decorated his car with a Menorah, kindled the were, for dozens of our own Shamash--servant candle--in relatives, the promise of a new the capacity of a ‘public serbeginning. vant’ and shared words of For Jews, especially at encouragement. Reverend Hanukkah time, the universal Boes of Boys Town warmly message of freedom rings welcomed the crowd. loud and clear. Hanukkah and Alexander Grossman, a Boys its Menorah, a nine branched Town employee and Chabad candelabra, are testament to supporter, was honored with the timeless values of “one the recitation of the brochot nation under G-d, indivisible, and the lighting of the oil with Liberty and Justice for Menorah. Singing, dancing all.” and warm latkes and sufganTuesday, Dec. 27, in a bold iot were enjoyed while Tuffy and exciting expression of Epstein regaled the group Mayor Suttle (right) assists with lighting of the Menorah. Jewish pride, a motorcade with heartfelt Klezmer. The thirty five vehicles strong - paraded through some of Rose Blumkin Jewish Home was the final stop and the venue Omaha’s main thoroughfares with Menorahs mounted atop for an outdoor Menorah kindling ceremony. The group then the cars. “I thought it was really fun!” said Nina Pfrenger, 11, joined the Star Deli’s Hanukkah brisket dinner. who participated with her father and sisters. “I want to do it Hanukkah Freedom Menorah parades are spreading like again next year,” she added. “I liked that there were a lot of wildfire in the United States. Throughout the country in people and the Menorah was lit in the open so everyone cities both large and small, Jews revel in this opportunity for could see it!” religious expression. Irv Goldenberg kvelled, “How exhilaHanukkah marks the 2nd century BCE victory of a small, rating! Our spirits were uplifted in this adventurous ride greatly outnumbered and out-armed army of Jews, known through town. How wonderful to exercise our rights in this as the “Maccabees,” over the mighty Greek army that occu- country to serve G-d according to OUR tradition. What a pied the Holy Land. The rebellion was in response to the tribute to Judaism and to America this was.” Greek attempt to force a Hellenistic G-dless lifestyle on the Excitement is already mounting for next year’s event, Jewish inhabitants of Israel. We celebrate by publicizing the although it will be a tough act to follow. Susan Polack said, miracle to the world and spreading the light outward. A “It was the best parade ever!”

Patricia Newman keeps Beth Israel kids busy Dr. Patricia Newman is Beth Israel’s fearless leader of monthly children’s activities. She is pictured here with the kids during the Hanukkah activity. The next activity is the Tu B’Shevat activity on Sunday, Feb. 5 at 10:15 a.m. Dr. Newman’s monthly programs include crafts, stories, singing and snacks.

Beth El plans stellar Havdalah experience by JILL BELMONT Beth El Publicity Coordinator On Saturday, Jan. 21, Beth El promises an out-of-thisworld experience, as it sponsors “Havdalah Under the Stars,” at the UNO Mallory Kountze Planetarium. This unique family event will be presented in two sessions: At 6:30 p.m., a brief Havdalah service and special planetarium show will be geared especially for families with babies and young children (kids are encouraged to wear their pajamas); then, after a dessert reception for the entire congregation, another Havdalah service and private planetarium show at 7:30 p.m. will take place for individuals and families with older children. “Join us as we bid farewell to Shabbat with our Havdalah candle, wine and spice box in a very unique setting,” said Beth El Program Director Margie Gutnik. “Even if the night is cloudy, the stars at the planetarium will shine brightly. I’m very excited about what promises to be a memorable evening for the entire family. Don’t miss out!” There is limited seating for each show, and reservations are required to guarantee a seat. To RSVP, contact Gutnik in the synagogue office, 402.492-8550, or at programming@ bethel-omaha.org.

Engagement Back in 1994, best friends Leah Raful and Rebecca Murow served as the mothers of the bride and groom in the famous 4th grade wedding ceremony in Mrs. Riekes’ class. Mrs. Riekes did not think it appropriate for Leah to serve as the bride because she was unsure whether any boy would ever want to marry this troublemaker, who spent more than her fair share of time while at BESTT in Principal Scott Littky’s office! And to make matters worse, when they selected the cast for West Side Story at Camp Herzl, Leah was chosen to play the tomboy! But amazingly enough, some guy actually wants to marry her, and Dinah and Larry Raful are pleased (and somewhat surprised) to announce her engagement to Seth Goldberg, son of Robin and Neil Goldberg, of Syracuse, New York. If Seth does not change his mind once he gets to know her better, Leah and Seth will marry in April, 2012. Rebecca Murow will once again be alongside her, this time as a bridesmaid, but she is reluctant to offer Seth any more stories of Leah’s past.

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Agencies and the Annual Campaign

by SHERRIE SAAG Communication Specialist, Jewish Federation of Omaha The Jewish Community Center is, in many ways, the largest of the Federation agencies. We depend upon its fitness facilities, Child Development Center, Cultural Arts and Youth Programming to enrich our lives physically, educationally, and socially. In the second of our series, John Glazer, president of the Jewish Community Center Board, tells us about the new and wonderful changes at the “J” and how it all happens, in part because of the Annual Campaign of the Jewish Federation of Omaha. What is happening at the Jewish Community Center? The JCC has had quite a bit of change this year. In July, our new executive director, Aaron Rosenfeld, relocated with his family from Monmouth County, New Jersey. His children are students at Friedel Academy and his wife, Judy, a Jewish educator, has already taught a few classes through the Center for Jewish Education. We reorganized our staff into six departments and we refer to our directors as the “JCC Dream Team”. Our new structure gives the directors the chance to create and deliver exciting new programming. Additionally, we’ve made some significant investments from our building fund; all with an eye towards improving the JCC experience for our members. There are now individual television monitors mounted on every treadmill, new exercise equipment and ceiling fans. We have repainted the indoor pool area. This past summer patrons enjoyed food and towel service at the outdoor pool along with beautiful shade umbrellas. A sand volleyball court and gaga court were erected near the outdoor pavilion. Our members contribute to a building fund upon joining the JCC, and we feel it is

important to use these funds for improvements as well as upkeep. New cultural arts programming includes the Backyard Concert Series, stage performances of Willy Wonka and the Wizard of Oz and the reintroduction of Live at the 92nd Street Y. Describe the value your agency brings to the community. We serve our entire Omaha community, both Jewish and non-Jewish. From fitness to child development to youth programming and cultural arts, the JCC covers all age groups with a wide range of activities. Our goal is to continue strengthening our connection to our John Glazer members and the community. How does the Annual Campaign support the Jewish Community Center? We strive to achieve full funding through membership and program fees. The Annual Campaign enables us to provide community programming and scholarship opportunities for the CDC and youth and teen programming. As the One Campus One Community initiative evolves, the JCC will work in tandem with the Federation to assure further facilities enhancements and serve our members to the very best of our abilities. I Give to the Annual Campaign because... It benefits my community; my local community and my global community. Without the funds raised through the Annual Campaign many of the things we take for granted would simply not exist. It supports many initiatives vital to Jewish life as we know it.

Atara, Yael and Na’ama By special invitation from Na’ama Keren, Omaha’s Israeli Shlicha, you are invited to participate in a series of Israeli Cooking classes being held at Beth El Synagogue. The first session met on Dec. 19 with Na’ama’s grandmother, Atara, and mother, Yael, taking part in in a special Hanukkah cooking experience. In sharing her thoughts about the class, Debbie Roitstein commented, “I enjoy meeting others and making new friends. There is something about working alongside others in the kitchen that brings out warmth and friendship. It was really special having Na’ama’s mother and grandmother at the first session. It created a wonderful atmosphere. I’m looking forward to the next class.” Almost as an afterthought, Debbie remarked

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Recipes from Israel a la Na’ama by MARK KIRCHHOFF The Center for Jewish Education Do you like to eat authentic Israeli dishes? Do you like to have fun learning how to prepare Israeli dishes? Assuming your answer to each of these questions is “yes,” this is a program just for you!

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excitedly, “I like getting new recipes, too!” The remaining sessions will run from 78:30 p.m. and will meet Jan. 30, Feb. 27, March 26 and April 30. The cost per session is $10 and reservations are requested in advance to make sure enough ingredients are available for everyone. “When I was growing up, my entire family was involved with a grocery store business and a deli. My grandma was always making things for the deli -- salads, cakes, everything,” Na’ama said. She had such a great interest in cooking that she contemplated becoming a professional in the culinary service industry before deciding to pursue my degree in Education and Hebrew Literature. Na’ama would like to inspire others to cook more. “In Israel we are cooking all the time,” she says. “We fix everything from scratch. We do not eat out or use prepared foods very much. I would like to encourage others to discover the joy of preparing meals the traditional way. I hope even more people sign up for the classes.” There are only 20 slots available for this fun and informative activity, so call Na’ama at 402.590.2148 or email her at nkeren@jewishomaha.org. She will be happy to set a place at the table for you. The Community Shlicha program is through the Center for Jewish Education. For more information on other happenings with Na’ama, please call her directly or contact Diane Malashock at 402.334.6424 or dmalashock@jewish omaha.org. B’Teavon!

Join us Tuesday, January 17, 2012 11:30 a.m. for lunch and laughter at Remington Heights with Mary Maxwell, Omaha’s First Lady of Humor. Her quick wit and dry humor have made her a popular speaker. Mary shines a very funny light on aging. RSVP by January 13 to 402-493-5807

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6 | The Jewish Press | January 13, 2012

Beth El creates camaraderie and community

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by JILL BELMONT “Our Shabbat Tables is a perfect program for Beth El, Beth El Publicity Coordinator because we are first and foremost a family,” she added. For generations, Jews have come together to welcome “What better way to become closer than to spend Shabbat Shabbat; there’s a special sense of community that comes dinners together within our homes?” with sharing Shabbat dinners with friends and family. In the Another organizer, Holly Weill, recalled enjoying a spirit of making that special Shabbat dinner group after Shabbat connection among she graduated from college. families, couples and individ“A group of young adults -uals, Beth El is pleased to mostly Beth El congregants -announce the establishment formed a dinner group that of Our Shabbat Tables, an inimet at different people’s tiative that will bring together homes. “It was really nice to Beth El members of all ages be at someone’s house for and backgrounds for festive Shabbat,” she said, “and I Friday night dinners at fellow want to have other people in congregants’ homes. my home to carry on that traAccording to organizers, dition.” participants may sign up as A kick-off dinner for this guests or hosts; then, Beth El new program is planned for will match people -- based on Friday, Feb. 3, 7 p.m., at Beth shared demographics and El, where details will be prointerests -- for three dinners Margie Gutnik, left, Holly Weill, Caryn Scheer and Rabbi vided and group participants during a three-month period. Steven Abraham, met recently in Beth El’s kitchen to chat will have the opportunity to Three to four couples or fam- about menus for Our Shabbat Tables. meet each other. To RSVP for ilies will be matched up, or six to eight individuals. Groups the dinner, contact Program Director Margie Gutnik in the will be mixed up from month to month, to allow everyone synagogue office, 402.492.8550, or at programming@ to become acquainted with as many participants as possible. bethel-omaha.org. Gutnik noted that attending the kick-off The synagogue will provide kosher meals -- main dishes dinner is not a prerequisite to participating in the group. and sides -- and participants will pitch in with wine/juice, All Beth El members are encouraged to sign up to be part challah, salad, fruit and dessert, to be coordinated by the of Our Shabbat Tables, and may register online by visiting host family. www.bethel-omaha.org, or by picking up a form in the synThe Shabbat Tables initiative came about after two sepa- agogue office. rate Beth El committees – each unbeknownst to the other Our Shabbat Tables has been made possible by a generous - discussed the possibility of communal Shabbat dinners, grant from the Herbert Goldsten Trust of the Jewish said Caryn Scheer, Beth El’s Young Adult Committee co- Federation of Omaha. chairman and a Shabbat Tables organizer.

Rabbi Gross accepted to prestigious delegation by BETH COHEN Executive Director, Beth Israel Synagogue Rabbi Jonathan Gross of Beth Israel Synagogue has been accepted as one of 15 rabbis world-wide to participate in the 2012 American Jewish World Service (AJWS) Young Rabbi Delegation to Ghana. This August, Rabbi Gross will travel to Africa with a pluralistic group of rabbinic colleagues for the unique opportunity to witness the challenges facing people in the developing world. As described on their website, “AJWS is an international development organization motivated by Judaism’s imperative to pursue justice. AJWS is dedicated to alleviating poverty, hunger and disease among the people of the developing world regardless of race, religion or nationality. Through grants to grassroots organizations, volunteer service, advocacy and education, AJWS fosters civil society, sustainable development and human rights for all people, while promoting the values and responsibilities of global citizenship within the Jewish community.” Since 2004, AJWS has sent delegations of rabbinical students to developing countries in order to work alongside human rights organizations and learn about global justice from the perspective of Jewish tradition. Over 200 students

YJO 80’s Matzo Ball The very exciting 80’s Matzo Ball Costume Bash took place on Dec. 24 with over 85 people in attendance. The event was a combined effort of Beth El, Beth Israel, Temple Israel and Young Jewish Omaha and was made possible by a grant from the Murray H. & Sharee C. Newman Supporting Foundation. Attending the YJO event were clockwise from right: Cari Green and Sarah Edelstein; Josh Gurock; Alan Tipp; Nanci Kavich; Harrison Tzvi Ellman; and Holly Weill, left, Shira Abraham and Caryn Scheer.

JAN. 20–FEB. 12, 2012

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have participated in these special service learning trips. For many, their trip has been life-changing and career defining, having a profound effect on how they learn and teach Torah, understand themselves and act in the world. Since 2009, this program has been extended to include a delegation of earlycareer rabbis (five to 15 years post-ordination). The Young Rabbis Delegation will experience first-hand the power of grassroots development and explore issues of social justice and global responsibility from the perspective of Jewish texts and tradition. “It was a great honor to be chosen for this delegation,” says Rabbi Gross. “I have spoken with other Rabbis who have participated in the past and they all said it was a life-changing event for them. I intend to take what I learn on this program and incorporate it into my role as Rabbi of Beth Israel. I am really excited for this great opportunity!” Upon their return, participants become part of a movement of professionals who are working in the Jewish community to transform the fractured world in which we live into the just world to which we aspire. Rabbi Gross will be joining a network of over 260 rabbis, students and Jewish communal leaders working towards a Judaism and a rabbinate with global justice at its core.

January 13, 2012 | The Jewish Press | 7

Jewish community savors the “Giftâ€? of Temple Israel Scholar Rabbi Telushkin by CLAUDIA SHERMAN hours without making a single complaint. “Complaining,â€? he Temple Israel Communications Coordinator pointed out, “is an addictive behavior.â€? Likened, by Rabbi Aryeh Azriel, to a weekend beginning “I thought his message was very positive and inspiring,â€? with the appetizer at Friday evening Shabbat worship serv- said Tanya Seina. “I think he’s a really great, dynamic, and ices, continuing with the main course on Saturday morning, charismatic speaker. What was really fun was his humor.â€? and concluding with dessert on Sunday morning, Rabbi She described his talks as “a different flavor, upbeat, lightJoseph Telushkin spent Dec. hearted.â€? 9-11 as a guest of Temple On Saturday morning, a Israel, educating and regaling good portion of Rabbi the Omaha Jewish communiTelushkin’s discussion, pepty. Judging by the crowds that pered with stories, was about sought out seats on all three forgiveness. There are times occasions, Rabbi Telushkin’s when forgiveness is mandatoreputation as a speaker and ry, optional, and forbidden, scholar enticed the packed according to Jewish teachings, gatherings, and his presentahe clarified. When asked by tions kept them returning for someone for forgiveness, and more. the damage is not irreversible, “What I enjoyed most was he said, would be an example Rabbi Telushkin’s ability to of forgiveness being mandatomake every story and every ry. If those two elements are big idea highly accessible,â€? absent, forgiveness is optional. remarked Rosie Zweiback. However, if a “crime wasn’t “He framed everything from against you,â€? then “it’s not the personal to the scholarly yours to forgive,â€? he indicated. so we could connect these He told a story about a Polish important Jewish concepts to Rabbi Joseph Telushkin signed copies of his book at the con- couple who took in a young clusion of his Sunday morning discussion. our own lives.â€? Jewish child during World “He definitely has a wonderful style in relating to people,â€? War II to save his life. The boy’s parents, who asked that reladded Paul Epstein, who also appreciated Rabbi Telushkin’s atives in North America be notified if necessary, didn’t “great sense of humor.â€? Epstein commented on how well return to retrieve him after the war, having obviously perRabbi Telushkin tied in “the wonderful expressions of ished. The Polish couple asked their parish priest what to do. Jewish life.â€? He told them to write to the relatives in North America, who Rabbi Telushkin, speaking at evening Shabbat worship eventually adopted the boy. The parish priest later became services, said, unless you’ve experienced physical abuse, Pope John Paul II who Telushkin admires. The first pope to “there’s a good chance that the most painâ€? you’ve encoun- pray in a synagogue in Rome, Pope John Paul was also the tered was in the form of gossip, an unflattering nickname, or first to go to the Kotel and establish diplomatic relations rumors. On the subject: Words that Hurt, Words that Heal, between Israel and the Vatican, said Telushkin. Rabbi Telushkin discounted the clichĂŠ, Sticks and stones can But after the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center break my bones, but words can never hurt me. Words have on Sept. 11, 2001, Pope John Paul said he would pray for the provoked people to pick up ‘sticks and stones,’ he continued. victims and those who carried out the attack. In the latter On the subject of anger, he explained that “to really hurt case, according to Judaism, “forgiveness is forbidden,â€? Rabbi someone, you have to know them well. Love is often eroded Telushkin insisted. through words.â€? The appropriate way to manage anger is “to Zweiback said she was “fascinated by Rabbi Telushkin’s tell the person you’re angry at why you’re angry,â€? he contin- discussion on Saturday morning.â€? ued, “but not in angry words.â€? He also advised apologizing Epstein described Rabbi Telushkin’s conversation that and restricting “your expression of anger to the incident that morning as “fabulous. As he talked about Being a Good provoked it at the moment.â€? Person in a Complicated World, Rabbi Telushkin also talked Another means of reducing anger is “to fine yourself,â€? about relationships and how not to hold a grudge. according to Rabbi Telushkin. “Whenever you lose your Sunday morning’s presentation focused on Jewish Jokes temper unfairly or your anger is disproportionate to the and What They Tell Us about the Human Condition. provocation, give over and above to your usual charity or Although all his talks were sprinkled with audience laughter, give to something you wouldn’t normally give to.â€? Lastly, Sunday morning’s crowd expressed increased delight. “declare a complaining fast,â€? he recommended. Spend 24 Rabbi Telushkin listed several “genres of Jewish humorâ€?

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including jokes about parent-child relationships, therapy, kids getting married, nachas, tzedakah, worrying, selfesteem, self-deprecation, and the absurd. He specifically didn’t include mother-in-law or Jewish American princess jokes. There’s even “a tendency of human beings when they’re suffering to tell jokes� such as during the Holocaust, he added. Noting that “Jews express their anger verbally,� rather than physically, the rabbi also described how “humor has been used as a weapon� against Jews. Rabbi Azriel asked Rabbi Telushkin if he discerned a distinction between American Jewish humor and Israeli humor. Rabbi Telushkin replied frankly, “I don’t find Israeli humor that humorous,� drawing an outburst of laughter from the crowd. Zweiback said, “It was a wonderful weekend of congregational study. I know it is precisely the kind of scholar weekend that my father (Speedy Zweiback) had in mind when he created the Hermene Zweiback Center for Lifelong Jewish Learning� which sponsored Rabbi Telushkin’s weekend at Temple Israel. “I felt it was a beautiful way to honor my mother’s memory by giving the gift of Rabbi Telushkin to our community.�

Organizations B’NAI B’RITH BREADBREAKERS Tristan Bonn, the former government watchdog for Omaha, will talk about what is still wrong with the way the City protects its citizens, union contracts and her controversial dismissal from her job. She will take questions on all three topics on Wednesday, Jan. 18, noon at the Blumkin Home. An optional buffet lunch costs $11; beverage service only is $3. For more information or to be placed on the email list call 402.334.6443 or bnaibrith@jewishomaha.org. LOMIR REDN YIDDISH 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. For information call Anne Skolkin at 402.343.1638.

Birth Sarah Raful Whinston and Rabbi Josh Whinston of Cheshire, CT announce the Dec. 19 birth of their daughter, Eva Waugh Whinston. She is named for beloved Aunt Eva and for Mary Waugh Taylor, the late JCC Dance Director. She has a sister, Mollie.

Join us for Sunday Brunch! Please join us for Omaha’s newest Sunday Brunch. Our menu includes Chef Archie’s famous fluffy omelette, eggs benedict, and chicken and waffles, which is a huge hit on the east and west coasts. We open at 10 a.m. and serve brunch until 2 p.m. We want to thank the Jewish community for their support, and we look forward to serving all of you in the future. The first week of every month we serve Matzo Ball as our soup special. If you need Matzo Ball soup for a gathering or a party, it is available upon request in gallon size. We do ask for a few days notice so we have time to prepare it. We hope to see you at brunch on Sunday.

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8 | The Jewish Press | January 13, 2012

Point of view

American Jewish Press Association Award Winner

Nebraska Press National Newspaper Association Association Award winner 2008

The next generation

by ANNETTE VAN DE KAMP-WRIGHT with some really solid answers about what we do. If you must seem unimpressive to a child. And so we, the parents, Editor of the Jewish Press think you can send a ten-year-old on her way with a “just better make sure that the concept of a campaign donation In our community, we talk a lot about purpose, mission, because” rationale, think again. They want to get to the bot- isn’t faceless. and values. We talk about what our responsibilities Luckily, it doesn’t have to be. After all, the most are, and how we can keep this community strong and important aspect of community is the social aspect. vibrant for many years to come. It’s not all about The people, professionals and lay leaders alike, who money; it’s also about conviction and feeling condo what they do every day, and who work tirelessly to nected, about passion, education, and helping Jews keep this community strong and fabulous. We can everywhere. About not resting on our laurels, but remind our kids of the swim teacher who taught always asking: what can we do next? them how to stay afloat, the basketball coach who But: in order for those things to happen, we, of finally helped them make that three-pointer. The course, need to raise that money. Lots of money. counselors they met at summer camp (you know, the A few months ago, my daughter turned ten. We ones who kept them so busy they fell asleep on the explained to her that ten is old enough to start learncar ride home), the teachers at the CDC who picked ing some additional things about her Jewish responthem up when they fell down, the librarian who forsibilities. When you benefit as much as she does gave them when they accidentally dropped that book from campaign dollars, it’s important to internalize in the lake. Their friends, their friends’ parents, the concept of shared responsibility. She may not be grandparents, aunts and uncles, and anyone else they old enough to vote or drive a car, but she’s old see around the building: together, we all make up the enough to give. And so she marched into Sharon face of this community. That should include the Kirshenbaum’s office, and filled out her pledge card times they look in the mirror. for the very first time. My kids go to school at Friedel, take dance and theI don’t say this to get credit: my husband and I did ater and Tae Kwon Do, and spend their after-school not come up with this idea. For that, we have Toba hours at the Kripke Library and at Kidz Inn. They and Eric Dunning to thank. For several years now, like to eat at the Star Deli, use the swimming pool their daughter has donated the contents of her Every year, Eleanor Dunning visits Federation President Jody Malashock to and attend summer camp. Their tiles are on the wall Tzedakah box to the campaign. This year, their son donate the contents of her Tzedakah box to the the Annual Campaign. This at the indoor playground. They practically live here. joined his older sister for the first time, and it year, for the first time, she was joined by younger brother Teddy. I may not be very good at explaining to my son why inspired us to follow suit. It’s not about the amount he has to do his homework (as I’m writing this, my so much as the habit: the earlier it is formed, the higher the tom of things, and they are sometimes harder to satisfy than husband is bribing him with iPhone usage). I’m equally bad chance it will stick. It’s much easier than trying to talk her adults. at convincing my daughter a room has to be cleaned more into it when she’s 25 and has more expensive hobbies, a car Besides, giving away anything doesn’t come naturally to than once a year. But showing them how much they benefit payment, and a mortgage. And maybe a partner who isn’t so young children. They have to be nudged a little to hand over from the annual campaign should be easy. They live it everyinto donating (although let’s all agree to not talk about that that birthday present at a friend’s party, or share that cup- day, as do many other Jewish kids in Omaha. I think, when possibility just yet). cake with their brother. Giving money (with which one can it comes to passing on these values, we have everything necWhy is it so important to teach the next generation to buy cool things like Barbies or random pieces of mega-shiny essary to be very successful. give? While teaching our children, we are forced to come up jewelry) to some anonymous, faceless thing like “Campaign”

The actually Jewish-controlled media tries to make its mark

Behind the headlines DAN KLEIN NEW YORK (JTA) -- It is a strange irony: Jews have been successful in the television business -- but Jewish TV, not so much. It’s not for lack of trying. Right now, no fewer than three Jewish-focused national cable channels are trying to carve out a viable niche within the already small niche for Jewish TV. It’s a road others have taken in the past, only to reach a dead end. Jay Sanderson, who served for 21 years as CEO of the Jewish Television Network, knows better than most. “There have been dozens of attempts and dozens of failures,” said Sanderson, now the president of the Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles. “It’s a cycle that’s been happening for 30-plus years. People want it to happen.” The current Jewish television channels -- The Jewish Channel, Shalom TV and Jewish Life Television -- have scored some successes. They all launched in the past five years. The Jewish Channel garnered national attention twice in the last two months with news broadcasts that ended up metastasizing into international stories. Launched in 2007 as a subscription video on-demand channel, TJC has been touted as “a Jewish film festival in your living room.” But it has been the channel’s news coverage, which makes up a small fraction of TJC’s overall programming and mostly is not original content -- that has

(Founded in 1920) Andrew Ruback President Annette van de Kamp-Wright Editor Richard Busse Creative Director Allan Handleman Advertising Manager Jessie Wees Advertising Executive 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-

thrust the channel into the public eye. A November news report on an Israeli government-sponsored ad campaign urging Israeli expatriates in the United States to return home sparked an uproar in the United States, with many suggesting that the ads were dismissive of American Judaism. The Israeli government ultimately apologized and ended the campaign. And in December, TJC landed a sit-down interview with Newt Gingrich in which the Republican presidential candidate suggested that the Palestinians are an “invented” people. Gingrich’s remarks drew headlines and criticism from GOP rivals, including Mitt Romney. Steven I. Weiss, the director of original programming and new media at TJC as well as its news anchor, credited the channel’s success to “hard work and good luck, and doing the hard work until you get lucky.” While TJC officials describe their channel as a Jewish HBO, Shalom TV at http://www.shalomtv.com/ -- a free on-demand channel launched in 2006 -- describes itself as a Jewish version of C-SPAN and PBS. Shalom TV features educational programming, including Hebrew lessons, as well as videos of Jewish events, lectures, debates and speeches. This month, the network will begin operating as a linear cable channel, with programming throughout the day, according to Mark Golub, Shalom TV’s founder and CEO. Golub said that five small cable systems across the country will carry the linear channel initially, while three larger cable systems have committed to picking it up once it is up and running. The programming also will be streamed online.

Jewish Life Television at http://www.jltv.tv/home.php, which launched in 2007, already is operating as a 24/7 linear channel. It airs a variety of programming, from music videos and cooking shows to religious services and entertainment news. JLTV appears on cable systems across the country, and recently joined DIRECTV to be broadcast in all 50 states. In December, JLTV broadcast and streamed online President Obama’s speech at the Union for Reform Judaism’s biennial conference. Officials at all three channels say there are distinct challenges in creating a television network aimed at a broader American Jewish audience. “If you’re reaching Russian, Chinese audiences, you can rely on language barrier to make people have to watch your material,” TJC’s Weiss said. “With the Jewish audience, everyone speaks English.” Golub said it was an uphill fight to sell cable companies on Shalom TV and the concept of a Jewish channel. “No one had ever been able to convince a major cable system to launch a Jewish network. There was every kind of ethnic, Haitian, Russian, Spanish television. There was Christian, but no Jewish,” Golub said. “No cable system would say that we’re going to devote server space to feature a Jewish channel in its own lineup of channels alongside MSNBC, the Cooking Channel. We convinced them.” In addition to Shalom TV, Golub is president of the Russian Media Group, which produces two of its own Russian-language channels and also distributes a package of satellite channels aimed at Russian speakers. Golub is a cocreator of the company’s flagship Russian Television Continued on page 9

ha.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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material and photos to: avandekamp @jewishomaha.org; send ads (in .TIF or .PDF format) to: rbusse@jew ishomaha.org. Letters to the Editor Guidelines The Jewish Press welcomes Letters to the Editor. They may be sent via regular mail to: The Jewish Press, 333 So. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68154; via fax: 1.402.334.5422 or via e-mail to the Editor at: avandekamp@jew ishomaha.org. Letters should be no longer than 250 words and must be single-spaced typed, not hand-written. Published letters should be confined to opinions and comments on articles or events. News items should not be submitted and printed as a “Letter to the Editor.” The Editor may edit letters for content

news article about the event, project or program which the professional staff supervised. For information, contact Annette van de Kamp-Wright, Jewish Press Editor, 402.334.6450. Postal The Jewish Press (USPS 275620) is published weekly (except for the first week of January and July) on Friday for $40 per calendar year U.S.; $80 foreign, by the Jewish Federation of Omaha. Phone: 402.334.6448; FAX: 402.334.5422. Periodical postage paid at Omaha, NE. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The Jewish Press, 333 So. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68154-2198 or email to: jpress@jewishomaha.org.

January 13, 2012 | The Jewish Press | 9

James Baldwin’s Understanding of the Holocaust

Journal entry from Israel TEDDY WEINBERGER In November 1962, The New Yorker published an essay by James Baldwin (1924-1987) entitled Letter from a Region in My Mind (the following year, Baldwin added the title Down at the Cross to the essay and published it in a small book called The Fire Next Time, which sold over a million copies). In this essay Baldwin (briefly) mentions the Holocaust with a moral clarity that is astonishing. How was Baldwin able to do this in 1962--decades before there was such a thing as Holocaust Studies, decades before Christian theologians realized that the Holocaust posed a grave challenge to them, and many years before the massive outpouring of survivors’ testimony? The answer is both simple and heartbreaking: James Baldwin was a black man living in America. References to the Holocaust in Baldwin’s essay appear mainly in the section devoted to Elijah Muhammad, leader of the Nation of Islam. Baldwin argues that Elijah Muhammad’s Muslim teachings had only recently begun to find large-scale following because “the Christian world has revealed itself as morally bankrupt and politically unstable.” Indeed, Baldwin continues, “the terms ‘civilized’ and ‘Christian’ begin to have a very strange ring, particularly in the ears of those who have been judged to be neither civilized nor Christian, when a Christian nation surrenders to a foul and violent orgy, as Germany did during the Third Reich... The fact of the Third Reich alone makes obsolete forever any question of Christian superiority...” What Baldwin next says is quite chilling (forgive me for quoting at length, but Baldwin’s words here are exceptional): “White people were, and are, astounded by the holocaust in Germany. They did not know that they could act that way. But I very much doubt whether black people were astounded--at least, in the same way. For my part, the fate of the Jews, and the world’s indifference to it, frightened me very much. I could not but feel, in those sorrowful years, that this human indifference, concerning which I knew so much already, would be my portion on the day that the United States decided to murder its Negroes systematically instead of little by little and catch-as-catch-can. I was, of course, authoritatively assured that what had happened to

the Jews in Germany could not happen to the Negroes in America, but I thought, bleakly, that the German Jews had probably believed similar counsellors...” I knew that Baldwin had attended the mostly Jewish DeWitt Clinton high school in the Bronx (he even mentions in the essay that his best friend then was Jewish), but this does not explain how Baldwin could speak so insightfully about the Holocaust. I turned to my friend Dr. Barbara McCaskill (Associate Professor of English at the University of Georgia and a specialist in African American literature) for some input here. She reminded me that the Harlem of Baldwin’s youth contained proud black WWII veterans and that “Baldwin likely would have been privy to conversations among these former troops, conversations (to judge from the memoirs of these black vets) wherein America’s racial violence would not infrequently be compared to the Nazis’ genocide of the Jews. These wartime conversations about America’s ideals and realities, along with the black church’s historical emphasis on social action, would have informed Baldwin’s later insights about Christian indifference and the Holocaust.” I would like to close here with a troubling question. The last few decades have produced a huge amount of Holocaust-related materials, and every self-respecting Jewish community holds annual Holocaust commemoration ceremonies. Has James Baldwin ever been quoted or referred to in any of these materials or during any of these ceremonies? Pastor Martin Niemoller’s statement, for example, concerning the perils of apathy (which ends: “Then they came for me and there was no one left to speak out for me”) is quoted frequently and is prominently displayed at the United States Holocaust Museum in Washington, D.C. But now listen to what James Baldwin has to say (he is reflecting on what a black WWII veteran might conclude after risking his life and returning to a home still plagued by Jim Crow laws): “The subtle and deadly change of heart that might occur in you would be involved with the realization that a civilization is not destroyed by wicked people; it is not necessary that people be wicked but only that they be spineless.” Why do we hear Niemoller but not Baldwin? Perhaps we did not think to look to a black American for penetrating insight into the Holocaust? It’s time to give James Baldwin his due. 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.

Rosner’s eight takes on Iowa by RON KAMPEAS I had my own three takes on Iowa posted earlier today - “foreign policy matters, evangelicals matter and Ron Paul matters” -- Shmuel Rosner has eight. Rosner, whose indispensable blog is now at the LA Jewish Journal, is especially worth reading for his takeaway (point 3) on how disingenuous is the claim by Ron and Rand Paul to have Israeli intelligence chiefs on their side when they defend their do-nothing posture on Iran: Paul’s usage of [Mossad boss Tamir] Pardo’s and [former IDF chief of staff Gabby] Ashkenazi’s position is misleading. Both think that Iran is dangerous. Both think it is not just dangerous to Israel but to the region and to the world. Even if they oppose a military attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities, what they oppose is an Israeli attack – and would probably have a different view if asked about the possibility of an

American attack. Also, point 8 pithily encapsulates where the candidates are on Iran: Here’s how the candidates fare on Iran, from left to right: Paul (do nothing), Romney, Gingrich (sanction, attack as last resort), Bachmann, Perry (not much appreciation for sanctions), Santorum (attack – the 2012 version of John McCain’s “bomb bomb Iran”). Bottom line: On Iran, as on other issues, Romney seems to be thinking about his possible future role as President and doesn’t want to box himself into positions that he would later regret. Rosner, by the way, on Dec. 23 accurately forecasts the three-prong GOP Jewish strategy for explaining Paul and Iowa: Iowa is not relevant, Paul is not relevant because he won’t outlast the primaries, Democrats are just as loony as Paul.

Jewish-controlled media Continued from page 8 Network of America, a 20-year-old cable and satellite channel that targets immigrants from the former Soviet Union, most of whom are Jewish. Representatives of all three English-language channels cast their projects not as luxuries but as necessities in the Jewish community. “If the Jewish culture was not a rich culture, you could say there’s no place for Jewish television,” Weiss said. “But in a community that produces as many cultural pieces as we produce, as much fascinating political news discussion and as much fascination with Israel -- that culture needs a TV channel, it wants a TV channel and it deserves one.” Weiss told JTA that TJC has 50,000 subscribers who pay $5 to $7 a month. He said the channel expects to begin turning a profit sometime this year. Phil Blazer, the founder of JLTV, says his channel’s audience has grown on DIRECTV to nearly 2 million households monthly. Based on that figure, he estimates that an additional 1 million viewers are watching on other cable affiliates. Blazer attributed the relatively large viewership to the channel’s appeal to Christian audiences interested in Judaism and Jewish culture. Shalom TV says that its on-demand programming is accessed by 40,000 to 50,000 households monthly. Shalom TV says it tracks audience using the media organization RenTrak; JLTV uses Kantar Media. TJC declined to say how it tracks its numbers. None of the channels provided original tracking documents, and JTA was unable to independently verify their viewership claims. Blazer says that JLTV, which is a for-profit company, generated $2 million in gross advertising revenue in 2010. He also is the president of the Jewish Life Foundation, a nonprofit organization that supplies some of JLTV’s original content. According to IRS filings, Blazer draws no pay from the foundation. Blazer told JTA that he also does not receive a salary from the channel itself. Golub, Shalom TV’s CEO, also does not receive a salary, according to the channel’s IRS filings. The channel, Golub added, is a nonprofit that has been funded by him and his brother to the tune of “seven figures” over the past four years. Shalom TV raises additional funds through outside donations and by selling DVDs of its programming. Golub said he is starting to seek additional funding. “We wanted to prove that a Jewish television network was viable and could have an impact before we talked to the foundations about funding,” Golub said. Sanderson, however, was less optimistic. “I’m sure some of the programming has redeeming value,” he said. “The question is -- is it worth the cost and will it succeed and will it make an impact and will it penetrate the Jewish American community in ways that are successful? I think history doesn’t lie in this particular world.”

To Submit Announcements Announcements may be e-mailed to the Press with attached photos in .jpg or .tif files to jpress@jewish omaha.org; faxed to 402.334.5422, or mailed to 333 So. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68154. Forms are available through Omaha and Lincoln synagogues for B’nai Mitzvah announcements, 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.

10 | The Jewish Press | January 13, 2012

Synagogues

Candlelighting Friday, January 13, 5:00 p.m.

B’NAI ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE

CHABAD HOUSE

ROSE BLUMKIN JEWISH HOME

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

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. All programs are open to the entire community.

323 South 132 Street | Omaha, NE 68154 FRIDAY: Shabbat Comes to the Blumkin Home, 2:30 p.m. led by LOVE Members. SATURDAY: Services, 9 a.m. led by Andy Greenberg. Services will be held in the Chapel. Members of the community are invited to attend.

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: Let’s do lunch with Rabbi Levin, noon at Blumkin Home Star Deli. RSVP to the rabbi at rabbilevin@bethel-omaha.org; Kabbalat Shabbat Service, 6 p.m. SATURDAY: Morning service, 9:30 a.m.; Simchat Shabbat/Café Schmooze, 10:30 a.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 5:05 p.m. WEEKDAY SERVICES: Sundays, 9 a.m. & 5:30 p.m.; weekdays, 7 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. SUNDAY: No BESTT classes; Bible Study Discussion Group, 10 a.m.; Jewish Values in today’s world, 11 a.m. with Rabbi Levin; Parsha & Pizza, 12:30 p.m. at Bagel Bin, led by Cantor Schlossberg. MONDAY: No BESTT Monday Moadon. COMMUNITY-WIDE DECATHLON: Continues through Jan. 16, at the JCC. For more information, contact Margie in the synagogue office. HAVDALAH UNDER THE STARS: Saturday, Jan. 21, 6:30 p.m. at UNO’s Mallory Kountze Planetarium. HABITAT FOR HUMANITY: Informational meeting about congregational involvement with Habitat is planned for Sunday, Jan. 22, 10:30 a.m. Everyone is invited; brunch will be served. 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, 5 p.m.; Israel Advocacy Shabbat with AIPAC’s Callyn Weintraub. 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.; As part of the Israel Advocacy Shabbat, Callyn Weintrab will speak about the agenda for this year’s upcoming AIPAC Policy Conference; Kiddush is sponsored in honor of the January Birthdays and Anniversaries; The Laws of Shabbat, 2:45 p.m.; Rabbi Gross’s Twitter Topic Class, 3:45 p.m.; Advanced Parshah Study for Kids (ages 10 and up), 3:45 p.m.; Mincha, 4:45 p.m., followed by Seuda Shlishit; Havdalah, 6:05 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. WEDNESDAY: Scholars Club for fourth-sixth graders, 3:30 p.m. with Rabbi Mizrahi; Rabbi Weiss’s Weekly Class, 7:30 p.m. THURSDAY: Women of the Torah class, 9:30 a.m. with Rabbi Gross.

Bar Mitzvah Joshua Michael Polack, son of Susan and James Polack, will become a Bar Mitzvah on Saturday, Jan. 21, at Beth Israel. Josh is a seventh-grade Honors student at Beveridge Magnet School where he is a member of the Chorus and also a member of of the Backbeat Show Choir. He has been volunteering at the Blumkin home for several years by helping his father lead Shabbat services and by volunteering at the deli. His interests include jazz guitar and sports. He has an older brother, Max. Grandmother is Lenore Polack.

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: Martin Luther King Freedom Breakfast, 7:30 a.m. Reservations required; Shabbat Evening Service, 7:45 p.m. with guest speaker, Teresa Harms, from Clinic With a Heart, oneg following hosted by Tracy and Randy Gordon. SATURDAY: Shabbat Morning Service, 9:30 a.m. at Tifereth Israel celebrating the Bar Mitzvah of Jonah Payne; Torah Study, 10:30 a.m. on Parashat Shemot. SUNDAY: No LJCS Classes; Temple Annual Meeting, 1-3 p.m. MONDAY: Temple Office closed for MLK Day TUESDAY: Ladies Lunch Group, noon at at Cheddars. WEDNESDAY: Hebrew classes (grades 3-7), 4-6 p.m. at Tifereth Israel. ADULT EDUCATION TUESDAYS, 6:30 p.m. Intro to Judaism, Session five 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 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. Joint Purim Celebration on March 7 at 6:30 p.m. Be part of the Musical Mellerdrama, The Megillah Goes Country! We Need Players of All Ages. For more information, contact Maria Cadwallader at 402.784.0321 or MariaCadwalla der@DirecTV.net.

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, 5 p.m. SATURDAY: Services, 9 a.m.

TEMPLE ISRAEL Union for Reform Judaism (URJ) 7023 Cass Street | Omaha, NE 68132-2651 | 402.556.6536 www.templeisrael-ne.org FRIDAY: Shabbat Comes to You at Remington Heights, 4:30 p.m. led by Rabbi Linder; Shabbat Service, 6 p.m. led by Rabbi Linder, Scott Goodman and Jeff Schweid. SATURDAY: Torah Study, 9:15 a.m. Shabbat Morning Service, 10:30 a.m.; Torah Reader: Jeff Schweid, and Haftorah Reader: Miles Remer. SUNDAY: Teachers Meeting, 9 a.m.; Grades PreK-6, 10 a.m.; Prayer Assembly, 10 a.m.; WRJ Book Sorting, 10 a.m.; Maimonides: Laws and Ethics, 10:30 a.m.; Family Lunch sponsored by MRJ and WRJ, noon; JCC DecathlonBasketball, 2 p.m. at the JCC. Compete in this event or come cheer on Team Temple Israel. TUESDAY: Executive Meeting, 6 p.m.; Board of Trustees, 7 p.m. WEDNESDAY: Grades 3-6, 4-6 p.m.; School Dinner, 6 p.m.; Family School, 6 p.m.; Grades 7-8, 6-8 p.m.; Survey of World Religions, 6:30 p.m. with UNO professor Gary Groff. THURSDAY: Jewish Responsa, 10-11:30 a.m. with Rabbi Azriel. He will use ancient Jewish text to provide answers to questions about modern Jewish living.

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: Martin Luther King Freedom Breakfast, 7:30 a.m. Reservations required; Shabbat Services, 7:30 p.m. when Jonah Payne is called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah followed by an dessert oneg. SATURDAY: Morning service, 9:30 a.m. with Jonah Payne to lead services followed by a Kiddush luncheon in honor of Jonah sponsored by the Payne/Stein family. SUNDAY: No LJCS Classes MONDAY: Temple Office closed for MLK Day TUESDAY: Ladies Lunch Group, noon at at Cheddars on O Street. Please contact Stephanie Dohner for questions. WEDNESDAY: Hebrew classes (grades 3-7), 4-6 p.m. at Tifereth Israel. THURSDAY: Board Meeting, 7 p.m. Tot Shabbat with Ms. Jennifer, Friday, Jan. 20, 6 p.m. Jewish Federation of Lincoln Annual Meeting, Sunday, Jan. 22, 9:30 a.m. at Tifereth Israel. Joint Purim Celebration on March 7 at 6:30 p.m. Be part of the Musical Mellerdrama, The Megillah Goes Country! We Need Players of All Ages. For more information, contact Maria Cadwallader at 402.784.0321 or MariaCadwalla der@DirecTV.net.

Parasha play, music highlight Beth El’s Simchat Shabbat by JILL BELMONT Beth El Publicity Coordinator Civil disobedience, biblical-style, will be the topic of the day during “Simchat Shabbat,” Beth El’s alternative Shabbat experience, on Saturday, Jan. 14, 10:30 a.m., in the synagogue’s chapel. Led by the effervescent Eadie Tsabari and an enthusiastic group of congregants, the morning will feature original readings, prayers and music, plus an entertaining parasha play dealing with the birth of Moses and the civil disobedience shown by the midwives, Puah and Shifra. “This will be the parasha as you’ve never heard it before!” said Joanie Jacobson, one of the creators and organizers of Simchat Shabbat. Inviting everyone in the Jewish community to experience this lively and touching program, Jacobson asked, “What better way to refuel, replenish and recall your blessings than with joy, music, prayer, a new thought, a good laugh and a dash of Torah thrown in for good measure? “Music is good for the soul. Learning something new is good for the mind. Sharing a Shabbat experience with others is good for a congregation. And finding yet another

personal connection to God is uplifting,” she added. “Simchat Shabbat is like our own little Tree of Life: ‘Its ways are ways of pleasantness, and all its paths are peace.’” This month’s Passionate Parasha Players include Jacobson, Ozzie Nogg, Helen and Tuffy Epstein, Gloria Kaslow and Patty Nogg. Guest participants will include Diane Baum, Marcie Spivack, Joanna Hochfelder and fiveyear-old Jordan Nogg. Beth El’s assistant rabbi, Steven Abraham, will deliver “his own brand of D’var Torah,” Jacobson said, “one that delights congregants, young and old.” Following the program (as well as the traditional service in the sanctuary), everyone is welcome to once again enjoy Café Schmooze, a festive luncheon in the synagogue’s social hall, prepared by guest chef Howard Shandell. The luncheon is free of charge, and service attendance is not required for those wishing to share a Shabbat meal with friends and loved ones at the synagogue. While there is no charge for lunch, for planning purposes reservations are required and may be made by contacting Program Director Margie Gutnik at 402.492.8550, or at programming@bethel-omaha.org.

Pulverente MONUMENT CO.

January 13, 2012 | The Jewish Press | 11

These are the names...

In memoriam LEONARD GOLDSTEIN

Sparks from the word RABBI MYER S. KRIPKE Parsha Sh’mot Joseph had become the Viceroy of Egypt, as we have explained. Now, the famine had left a whole world (that is, the Mediterranean Basin) without food and facing starvation. In Egypt, however, Joseph had commanded that food be stored up in the good years. There was food aplenty. Joseph provided places to live in Goshen, and invited his family to come down to Egypt, for there were still two years of total famine in the lands around the Mediterranean Sea. So they came. And here are the names of the families who came down from Canaan to Egypt: Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, Zebulon, Gad, Naphtali, and Asher. Thus the entire body of the children of Israel came down to Egypt. At first they were welcomed. But as they grew in number, the Egyptians feared they would take over the whole country. Therefore they burdened them with extraordinarily difficult tasks and virtually enslaved them. For 400 years, the Israelites were enslaved by the Egyptians; but they increased in number and eventually became a People of 600,000. It was now impossible for the Egyptians to enslave them, and the Israelites prepared to cut through the bonds of slavery and leave the land.

MSNBC and Pat Buchanan may be parting ways by JTA NEWS STAFF (JTA) -- Patrick Buchanan may lose his job as an MSNBC commentator because of statements in his new book that have been called racist and anti-Semitic. MSNBC President Phil Griffin told The New York Times over the weekend that because of the anti-Semitic nature of some of the arguments in Suicide of a Superpower, Buchanan might not be invited to return to his position at the station. Book chapter titles include The End of White America and The Death of Christian America. Griffin told the Times that he and Buchanan would meet to discuss his future with the network. Phil Griffin Buchanan has been off the air since he began a book tour in October. The Anti-Defamation League recently sent Griffin a letter urging the network to drop Buchanan as a commentator. “In spite of his continuing role as a political commentator for the mainstream media, former Presidential candidate Pat Buchanan now increasingly advances an antiSemitic, racist, and anti-immigrant ideology,” the ADL says in its information pamphlet Patrick Buchanan: Unrepentant Bigot. “Many of the views he holds are identical to those of self-declared ‘white nationalists.’ “Buchanan repeatedly demonizes Jews and minorities, and openly affiliates with white supremacists,” the pamphlet says. “Among his frequent claims is that the sovereignty of the United States is being undermined by Israeli control and Mexican incursion, a belief which he disseminates on mainstream cable and network television and in his prolific writings.” A former official of the Nixon and Reagan administrations, Buchanan ran in the Republican Party primaries in 1992 and 1996 and as a Reform Party candidate in 2000. He has been accused in the past of making racially insensitive and anti-Semitic comments.

Continued from page 1 Director of the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation. “Working with me, they set up the Shirley and Leonard Supporting Foundation, and a charitable remainder trust which someday will become part of their Supporting Foundation. It often helps fill in the gaps when funding is needed for special projects, for areas such as scholarships, and for Russian resettlement organizations that Shirley and Buddy stayed close to. Buddy was the president of the Supporting Foundation, and took great pride in its accomplishments. He always came to the meetings well prepared, including the last meeting held right after Thanksgiving 2011. Shirley, Buddy, Donald, Gail and Kathy always left those meetings with big smiles on their faces, feeling good about what their Foundation accomplished.” Buddy’s love for education carried over into other areas when the Shirley and Leonard Goldstein Lecture on Human Rights was established at the University of Nebraska at Omaha. Each year it presents a distinguished scholar or leading expert on human rights, with all presentations open to the entire community. William Blizek is Professor of Philosophy and Religion at UNO, and a longtime friend of Shirley and Buddy. “Thanks to Buddy and Shirley,” he said, “the University has been able to bring many wonderful guest speakers we otherwise would not have had. It’s been a great experience for our students.” According to Blizek, Buddy was so well known as the ultimate nice guy, sometimes people would not realize how incredibly smart he was. “He was really well-read and informed about current events, and conversations with him were always interesting. In 2003, Shirley and Leonard established the New Frontiers in Transplant Medicine Fund at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Always with Shirley by his side, Leonard served on the Board of Directors for the National Conference of Community and Justice, the Jewish Federation of Omaha, the Plains States Regional Office of the Anti-Defamation League, the Nebraska Council of the American-Israel Public Affairs Committee, and the Union of Councils for Soviet Jewry in Washington D.C. “Buddy taught me how to engage in changing the world,” said Bob Wolfson, ADL’s Associate National Director of Regional Operations. “He showed us all how to combine generosity, investment, patience, collaboration and deep faith; and that we can and do make a difference.” “I will miss Buddy’s kindness, support, and wisdom,” Marty Ricks said. “However, with Shirley and Buddy’s foresight, their generosity will live on forever.” Buddy’s legacy is a lesson about the difference one person can make in the lives of so many others. By focusing attention on the causes of freedom and human rights, he set the stage for many years to come, and presented this community with an example worth following. May his memory be blessed. A memorial service was held Monday Jan. 9 at Beth El Synagogue. Memorials may be sent to the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation, the University of Nebraska Foundation-Goldstein Human Rights Lecture, 2285 South 67th Street, Omaha 68106, or the charity of your choice.

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To Submit obituaries to the Jewish Press: Email to the Press at jpress@jewishomaha.org; fax to 402.334.5422, or mailed to 333 So. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68154, or online at the Jewish Federation of Omaha website: www.jewishomaha.org. Click on Jewish Press and go to Submit Announcements.

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12 | The Jewish Press | January 13, 2012

In a remote New Mexican valley, a Jewish skiing legacy at Taos by URIEL HEILMAN in to be on the German ice hockey team in the 1936 him change it to Blake. TAOS, N.M. (JTA) – One of the most wonderful things Olympics, which also happened to be the first Games to Blake flew to Europe on the day of the Normandy invaabout skiing is the sense of seclusion, the incomparable include alpine skiing. sion and joined Gen. George Patton on the front. He was quietude and serenity of standing atop a 12,000-foot peak Blake actually met Hitler once, in January 1933, when with Patton when the U.S. Army encountered the first Nazi surveying miles and miles of snow-covered emptiness. Blake, then a pilot in the Swiss Air Force, went to hear concentration camp in 1945. The experience, Blake’s son Somehow the prosaic concerns of the everyday world seem Hitler give a speech in Frankfurt shortly before his appoint- Mickey said, always haunted his father. far away. ment as German chancellor. Nevertheless, Blake never felt comfortable identifying So when I scheduled a few days off outwardly as Jewish – though it’s said last winter to go to Taos Ski Valley in that he gave generously to the local a remote corner of New Mexico, I New Mexico UJA -- and Blake kept was looking forward to being comhis new name after the war. pletely disconnected from my work “I feel it’s not fair to be marked, to life. BlackBerries don’t work on wave a flag and allow others to make black-diamond slopes. judgments before they know who But one evening apres ski, I made a and what you are,” Blake said in an rather unexpected discovery while interview for Richards’ book. flipping through the local coffee By 1949, Blake and his wife had settable book on the history of Taos. tled in Santa Fe, where his ski career The ski area’s legendary founder, took off. Blake helped run both the Ernie Blake, whose family still owns Santa Fe ski area and Glenwood Taos, immigrated to America from Springs ski basin in Colorado, travelGermany in 1938. My parochial ing between the two in a small plane instincts immediately perked up. he piloted himself. It was on these It turns out the timing was no trips that he spotted the remote mere coincidence. Blake’s original peaks about 20 miles northeast of the name was Ernst Hermann Bloch, town of Taos. He decided to start his Taos Ski Valley, New Mexico’s largest ski area, was started by a Jewish refugee from Germany whose family and the family left Nazi Germany on own ski area there. Credit: Taos Ski Valley still owns the resort. the eve of World War II because he Taos gradually took shape, from a was Jewish. His remarkable journey took him not just from “We were not impressed,” Blake recalled years later in an ski hill with little more than a rope tow and a couple of the Alps to the Rockies, but from a life as an Olympics-cal- interview with Rick Richards, author of Ski Pioneers: Ernie steep runs to the world-class ski area it is today. The area, iber German athlete to an interrogator of Nazis in the U.S. Blake, his Friends and the Making of Taos Ski Valley. in the Sangre de Cristo range of the Rocky Mountains, Army to founder of a world-class ski area in a state better Blake’s family had never been religious, but that didn’t averages about 300 inches of snow per year. known for its deserts. make any difference in Nazi Germany. In 1938, after a visit Blake’s legacy is still palpable on the mountain. Four ski Like so many other Jewish refugee families from Europe, by the Gestapo to the family home, Blake’s father made the trails are named after the German officers who tried to the Blakes assimilated in America. Though he married a fateful decision to move the family to the United States. assassinate Hitler in July 1944. And, of course, the mounJewish woman and had a bar mitzvah, Blake didn’t talk The 25-year-old Blake ended up in New York, where he tain is still filled with Blake family members, whom you much with his family about his Judaism, and his descen- took a job in the winter department of Saks Fifth Avenue. might spot working the register at the cafeteria, as Stagg dants no longer really consider themselves members of the On weekends he’d ride the so-called snow train to the does, or leading a ski lesson for kids. Until Blake’s death, he tribe. Adirondack Mountains to teach skiing. was doing some of those things himself. “We didn’t know we were Jewish, essentially; we didn’t It was in December 1940 at the top of a chairlift on “It’s a family business,” Stagg says. pay any attention,” one of Blake’s daughters, Wendy Stagg, Mount Mansfield in Stowe, Vt., that Blake met the woman One instructor I had recalled the radio spots Blake used told me. who would become his wife: Rhoda Limburg, a Jewish to run late in the season, when the spring thaw already had But if not for Blake’s religion, he may never have come to World War I orphan from England who had been adopted begun. The skiing might not be so good, he would America and there would have been no Taos Ski Valley, one by a Jewish New York State Supreme Court justice. acknowledge in his thick German accent, “but ‘dere are still of the last family-run ski areas in the country. It wasn’t quite love at first sight, but by summer Blake plenty of girls and ‘dere is still plenty to drink.” The way I saw it, I owed my ski trip to Blake. So between would follow Rhoda to Santa Fe, where Rhoda was taking “People here have very vivid memories of him,” said Sam rides up Kachina Peak (elev. 12,481) and runs down Upper art classes. The trip afforded Blake his first glimpse of the Sokolove, executive director of the Jewish Federation of Totemoff, I resolved to find out more about this Jewish Taos area. That summer the couple decided both to marry New Mexico. “He was a larger-than-life character.” man behind New Mexico’s largest ski mountain. and make New Mexico their home. Rhoda, 93, still lives Despite the absence of a Jewish Blake legacy, there’s still Born in Frankfurt in 1913 to a Swiss mother and a there. Blake died in 1989. some Yiddishkeit at Taos. Last Rosh Hashanah, when German father, Blake spent most of his childhood in With war raging in Europe, Blake soon joined the U.S. Sokolove was looking to put together a spiritual retreat, Switzerland, where his athletic prowess bloomed on the Army as an intelligence officer, interrogating top Nazis, they chose Taos. They brought prayerbooks, hired a rabbi slopes of St. Moritz and as a hockey player on the ice ponds including Hermann Goering, in his native German. and davened in the shadow of Ernie Blake’s magnificent nearby. If not for his religion, he would have been a shoo- Concerned about his Jewish-sounding name, the Army had mountain.

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Contact your local newspaper for more information or call 1-800-369-2850. www.nebpress.com Through 43 period costumes, created by and borrowed from the London costume house of Cosprop Ltd., CUT! Costume and the Cinema takes an in-depth look at the art of making costumes that set the scene and establish authenticity in period Þlms. The Þlms represented in the exhibition depict Þve centuries of history, drama, comedy, fantasy, and adventure through period costumes worn by such famous Þlm stars as Johnny Depp, Keira Knightley, Ralph Fiennes, Kate Winslet, Sandra Bullock, and many others. In all, more than 30 actors are represented from 27 Þlms, including Sherlock Holmes, Academy Award winner The Duchess, Pirates of the Caribbean, Sense and Sensibility and The Phantom of the Opera. The exhibition is presented by Exhibits Development Group in cooperation with Cosprop Ltd., London, England. CUT! Costume and the Cinema is generously sponsored by the On Track Guild, Mutual of Omaha, Douglas County Commissioners, the Suzanne and Walter Scott Foundation, Parker Family Foundation, Mary J. and John C. Mitchell, the Gilbert M. and Martha H. Hitchcock Foundation, and KETV.

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