Sponsored by the Benjamin and Anna E. Wiesman Family Endowment Fund AN AGENCY OF THE JEWISH FEDERATION OF OMAHA
Chocolate wins big with This Week Community Service Award May 4, 2012 12 Iyar 5772 Vol. 92 | No. 33
Beth El’s Tot Shabbat programs offer special family fun Page 6
Cookbooks for Mother’s Day gifts Page 7
by SHERRIE SAAG Communications Specialist, Jewish Federation of Omaha Called a “dream event for those with a sweet tooth,” the National Council of Jewish Women’s (NCJW) Great Omaha Chocolate Festival is this year’s recipient of the Jewish Federation of Omaha’s Community Service Award. Conceived, planned and executed by the Omaha section of NCJW, the Festival took place last September in the UNO Fieldhouse. The inaugural event drew over 2200 people and included chocolate-themed food and goodies available to sample, order and purchase. According to co-chairwoman Jan Fischer, the Festival was an affordable, fun, family event featuring chocolate in a myriad of delicious forms. “Children’s activities included making art with chocolate, and the Jewish teens helping out earned money for their respective youth groups.” Fischer added, “NCJW’s major focus is to work to improve the lives
Co-chairs Holly Weill, center left, and Jan Fischer, center right, flanked by assistant-chairs Sonia Tipp, left, and Melinda Graham, right. of those in need in our own community. The Festival raised about $10,000 with the proceeds going towards our many community projects including mini-grants for teachers’, Reading Pups, Women for
Partnership2Gether Concert kicks off Yom HaAtzmaut celebrations by MARY SUE GROSSMAN Associate Executive Director, The Center for Jewish Education Over 200 people were launched into the spirit of celebration of Yom
It’s a crumbling and sodden mess at the Schindler factory site Page 12
Bein Hameytarin, a performing group which visited Omaha as part of Partnership2Gether. On Sunday, April 22, the story of Israel was shared through music and dance,
Career Advancement (WCA), and the Adopt-a-School program.” The event certainly excited and motivated an already active NCJW group. “We need to acknowledge the amazing work of Sonia Tipp and
Fundraising Co-Chair, Melinda Graham, as well as all of our members for their support. Sonia and Melinda secured 29 vendors, and our publicity campaign included print, television, Facebook and a banner strung across Dodge at 60th Street.” Over 100 volunteers made it all possible, including the attendance of at least 14 past section presidents. Vendors included Art Chicks, the Bread Oven, Candyopolis, the Chocolate Bar, Chocolate Peacock Boutique, the Cookie Company, Cordial Cherry, Janicek’s Cake Box, Le Quartier Baking Co., Pettit’s Pastry, Purjava Coffee, Rocket Fizz, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Trader Joes and many more. Private Chef Karin Waggoner of Hy-Vee offered samples of chocolate chili and Petit’s Bakery introduced a new line of baked goods. Garbo’s squeezed dollops of body chocolate soufflé into outstretched hands, the Lithuanian Bakery sampled two new tortes and co-sponsor Baker’s Continued on page 2
Friedel hosts fifth Tribute Dinner by OZZIE NOGG Friedel Academy’s fifth annual Tribute Celebration Dinner is set for Sunday, May 20, from 5:30
“Next year we’ll welcome over sixty students, and much of our success and impact on the Jewish community is due to the involve-
Inside Point of view Synagogues In memoriam
8 10 11
This Month Senior Living See Front Page stories and more at: www.jewishomaha.org, click on Jewish Press
Joe Boin tells Lilah Eliash, Bein Maneytarin group member, about his experiences fighting in the Independence Day War. HaAtzmaut by the performance of
presented by six talented young adults, all from Akko, Israel. This special show was created for the communities in the Partnership 2Gether Central Consortium – a group of 14 U.S. cities of which Omaha is a part – and told the story of Israel, from its inception to the present day. The group also performed in Des Moines, Dallas and Austin. The group members - Nitzan Continued on page 2
FJA President Lloyd Roitstein surrounded by, clockwise: Daniel Rosenfeld, Gabby Witkowski, Phoenix Mavropoulos, Danny Denenberg, Yael Schuller and Brittney Clignett. p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Beth El Synagogue. Using the theme Look How We’ve Grown, the event honors Helen and Arnold “Tuffy” Epstein, Ron Giller and Debbie and Lloyd Roitstein. “Ten years ago, with our enrollment of 18 kids, Friedel was small but hopeful on the landscape of Omaha Jewish education,” said Debbie Denenberg, a dinner co-chair.
ment of our honorees.” According to Denenberg, “This group has given so much of themselves over the years. Helen as a valued hands-on teacher’s aid at Friedel and Tuffy as our volunteer music and instrumental instructor. Debbie Roitstein helped put together the Friedel database, and Lloyd is President of the Friedel Continued on page 2
2 | The Jewish Press | May 4, 2012
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Continued from page 1 dents from Beth El Synagogue and Beth Israel Synagogue, Lankry, Atalia Malka, Lilah Eliash, Ofir Hadad, Oded Sabag, teens from BBYO, and several departments on the Jewish Yahav Saban and Maor Asulin - are graduates of the drama Federation campus. program in “Ort-Akko� high school who have continued to “Seeing the wide range of creative talents used in creating create and perform together. They sing, compose music, the Stars was simply great� said Bette Kozlen, a member of dance, act, write and Omaha’s Partnership comdirect. Hosting the visitors mittee. “Ranging from were Patty and Steve Nogg, handprints of preschool Roni Reiter-Palmon and students to beautiful Ophir Palmon, and embroidery from residents Debbie Denenberg. at the Blumkin Home, “The group members each one was unique.� were simply delightful and Stars were also created the performance was wonby children in our derful� commented Zoe Partnership area in Israel Riekes, chairman of the and sent to Omaha as a Partnership2Gether gift. Omaha’s Shining Stars Central Consortium. “I am artwork will be on display so proud of Omaha’s in the JCC Gallery until strong involvement in mid-May and will then be Partnership. Presenting sent to the Western Galilee. this type of programming At the end of the school to our community highyear, exhibitions of the Omaha’s Partnership2Gether “Shining Stars� display, showcasing lights the talents found in Stars will be held at a numthe creativity of nearly 30 groups. the Partnership program ber of centers in the region. and continues to strengthen the personal relationships Additionally, a photo album representing all the Stars will be between the Western Galilee and Omaha.� created and distributed to all participating communities. Also highlighted during the day was the “Shining Stars� The Bein Hameytarim performance and the Shining Stars display, another Partnership project. Conceived for partici- exhibit were made possible through the efforts of Omaha’s pants to create a visual representation of their contribution Partnership 2Gether Committee whose goals are to promote to the world, the project was enthusiastically embraced by people-to-people understanding between of America and over 30 groups in Omaha sharing their creative talents Israel. Partnership 2Gether is presented through the Center included residents and staff of the Rose Blumkin Jewish for Jewish Education and the Jewish Federation of Omaha. Home, students from Friedel Jewish Academy, children For more information on Partnership, please call from the Pennie Z. Davis Child Development Center, stu- 402.334.6445.
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Continued from page 1 cific areas, and are also caring and compassionate. It's one Board -- for the second time. Ron Giller, our retiring prin- thing to have all of the education courses down pat, but it's cipal, was with us for four years marked by impressive quite another to have the soul to be a teacher.� Tuffy growth. Today, Friedel is bursting out of our space, and Epstein introduced the instrumental music program to we’re working closely Friedel in 1996. “With with the Jewish the help of Marty Ricks Federation of Omaha on and the Jewish a plan to gain more classFederation of Omaha rooms and a larger comFoundation, we were able mon area. Soon we’ll to put together musical break ground on an instruments, books and expansion, and the stands to create a proReikes Museum -- a gem gram for 4th 5th, and 6th currently nestled beside grades,� Tuffy explained. Friedel -- will be moved “Now Friedel has a string near the front entrance of program in addition to the JCC for all to enjoy. the band instrument proThe May 20 dinner is our gram. The school intechance to celebrate fabugrates both general and lous Friedel and recogJudaic studies, and nize some of the commuOmaha is very fortunate nity members who to have such a wellhelped us reach this day.� rounded Day School.� Lloyd Roitstein became Principal Ron Giller with, from left: KIndergarten students Jacob Nancy Rips is emcee a Friedel booster in 2000, Kraim, Abby Stein, Oliver Lucoff, and Ilan Modrykamien. for the evening which after being recruited to sit on the Board of Trustees. “I kicks off with Spirits, Schmooze & Silent Auction from immediately fell in love with the school,� he said. “To watch 5:30 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. Auction proceeds will benefit Jewish children have fun while learning and to see the love Friedel students. “Delicious dinner service provided by they had for faculty and fellow students was -- and is -- so Star Catering and Chef Mike Aparo begins at 6:30 p.m.,� amazing. It fills my heart with such joy and hope for the Denenberg said, “followed by an engaging program. We future of our children. My wife Debbie has supported my promise to say ‘Shalom’ at 8:30 p.m.� efforts and was involved in the annual fundraising camServing with Debbie Denenberg as event Co-Chairs are paign for many years. To watch the school grow has been a Steve and Tippi Denenberg, Bob and Kim Goldberg, Les labor of love for both of us.� and Helen Kay, Alan and Debbie Kricsfeld, Phil and Erika According to Helen Epstein, “I'm not sure how many Lucoff, Eric and Julie Phillips, Bruce and Linda Potash, people in our community realize what a fantastic teaching Lloyd and Debbie Roitstein, Aaron and Judy Rosenfeld, staff Friedel has. You expect educators to have passed the Jack and Helene Shrago, Jeffrey and Sherry Taxman, required course work, but what impresses me about Friedel Jeremy and Annette Wright. For Reservations, contact is that the teachers are extremely competent in their spe- Debbie Kricsfeld at kricsfeld4@aol.com or 402-393-2714.
Community Service Award Continued from page 1 Candies of Greenwood, Nebraska debuted chocolate covered potato chips. Event co-chair Holly Weill said, “It was great to produce an event that made so many people happy while at the same time providing for so many worthy projects.� At the time, Tipp was amazed at the number of people who inquired about a second or “annual� Chocolate Festival. Well, Weill says they don’t have much longer to wait. The
2nd Annual Great Omaha Chocolate Festival is scheduled for Sept. 30, from noon – 5 p.m. at the UNO Fieldhouse. This year’s chairwomen, Joanie Jacobson and Beth Friedman, promise even greater Chocolate confectioniers and vendors7. The Community Service Award will be presented to the National Council of Jewish Women during a special Awards Night, June 4 at 7 p.m., in the Theatre. The entire community is invited to attend.
May 4, 2012 | The Jewish Press | 3
Lincoln Mayor’s Interfaith Prayer Breakfast by SARAH KELEN On Friday, April 20, about two hundred members of Lincoln’s diverse faith communities joined together at the Downtown Lincoln Embassy Suites hotel for the annual Mayor’s Interfaith Prayer Breakfast. The theme of the event was Music as a Bridge Between Cultures and Faiths. In most years, the Breakfast featured a keynote speaker, but this year the keynote was, in fact, key notes: the music of the Yuval Ron Ensemble. Founded in 1999 by Israeli composer and oud player Yuval Ron, the Ensemble features Jewish, Muslim, and Christian musicians, and draws influences from diverse spiritual and musical traditions, including Sufism, the Christian Armenian tradition, and Judaism. In his remarks at the Prayer Breakfast, Ron pointed out that words often divide people from one another, while music transcends language and culture. He noted that 1977’s Voyager spacecrafts carry phonographs of
music from different earth cultures, in hopes that some day an intelligent species some-
Marvin and Bunny Krout enjoying the Lincoln Mayor’s Interfaith Prayer Breakfast where in the galaxy will hear and understand this human communication. Ron also praised the Lincoln community’s work to improve interfaith partnerships,
noting that intellectual connections and mutual respect among medieval Spain’s
Jennifer Rosenblatt and Elaine Monnier are ready to go pick up some Yuval Ron Ensemble CDs after the Mayor’s Interfaith Prayer Breakfast in Lincoln, April 20th. Jewish, Muslim, and Christian communities
led to Spain’s cultural and economic flourishing in the centuries before Jews and Muslims were expelled in 1492. The Ensemble’s participation in the Prayer Breakfast was the first of several workshops, concerts, symposia, and other events during their several day “Transcendence in Mysticism & Music” residency in Lincoln, sponsored by the Arts for the Soul project of Lincoln’s First Presbyterian Church. Rabbi Craig Lewis of Lincoln’s South Street Temple gave the closing benediction offering a prayer of gratitude for the bond of fellowship that unites members of the different faith communities in a sacred purpose. He invoked the words of Rabbi Nachman of Bratslav: “The whole wide world is a very narrow bridge, but the main thing to recall is to have no fear.” Rabbi Lewis then urged those participating in the Breakfast to cross that bridge together as we seek to fulfill our shared purpose on our shared planet.
The teens of B’nai Tzedek – Contributors to the world by MARK KIRCHHOFF Administrative Assistant, Center for Jewish Education Sunday, April 15, marked the end of this year’s B’nai Tzedek program and the continuation of a life of philanthropy and “Tikun Olam” as the teen participants made their selections and contributed their individual funds to the non-profit organizations each had selected. The B’nai Tzedek Teen Philanthropy Program of Omaha has as its goal “To provide teen fund holders programming that will give them age appropriate skills and knowledge in the area of Jewish sources on giving, financial literacy and modern philanthropy.” Under the direction of Shiri Tene for the past year, the B’nai
• Rest
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Tzedek Program has provided learning opportunities through study, activities, and “hands-on” volunteering to develop a fuller understanding of how non-profit organizations meet people’s needs and what they require to provide services. Time, treasure, and talents are all necessary forms of donation that allow good work to continue. Participation is simple, and it all starts with desire. Any Bar/Bat Mitzvah teen is eligible to open an account with the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation. The account must be opened with $125, and unbelievably, the Foundation will add another $375 to that account. The program helps the participants learn about the needs of the Jewish Community, locally and in
Israel. Once the fund is established, the teens are encouraged to build the value of the fund by contributing to it at any time – special occasions such as birthdays, Chanukah, graduation, and other such events can often be times to set aside money for philanthropy. Teens experience the fulfilling experience of growing funds for noble purposes. Each year the participant grants up to 10% of the fund, or $50, whichever is greater, to a charity or charities of his or her choice. At least one of the designated charities must be Jewish. This year’s recipients include ADL, Bet Alazraki Home in Israel, Jewish Family Services, the Blumkin Home, Project Harmony, and many more. Each charity meant something special to those who
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granted their funds, and each of those organizations was that much better off for what these teens have done. Please join all of the community in encouraging and congratulating those who participate in this program to continue their good work and to establish a life-long commitment to philanthropy. Let us each ask ourselves, “If I do nothing to help, who will?” The teens of the B’nai Tzedek program are answering the question with a resounding, “I will help.” Allocations for this year may be made through May 18. To get information about starting a B’nai Tzedek account, or for teens who would like to make their annual allocation, contact Beth Cohen at 402.334.6446 or bcohen@jewishomaha.org.
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4 | The Jewish Press | May 4, 2012
Tenth graders preparing for Confirmation at Temple Israel by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Temple Israel Communications Coordinator Nine sophomores will publicly acknowledge their dedication to Judaism at their Confirmation on Friday, May 11, at the 6 p.m. Shabbat worship service at Temple Israel. Each confirmand will participate in the worship service, and during it, share a private moment with Rabbi Aryeh Azriel on the bimah in front of the congregation. “I love that private moment when I face each of them individually,” commented Rabbi Azriel who has spoken to and embraced each confirmand on the bimah for the past 24 years. “It’s an authentic moment of connecting between the heritage and history of Temple Israel and belief in the possibilities for the future that exists within each one of them.” Mallory Rogers, daughter of Chuck and Marcee Rogers, said, “Through
Confirmation, I am verifying that I plan to continue a Jewish life and a Jewish education not just in my post Bat Mitzvah years but throughout life’s journey. I look forward to having more Jewish experiences, finding my place as a member of the Jewish community, and continuing to have a meaningful and personal relationship with Hashem.” She went on to talk about the past year when she “found parts of the Jewish community that I didn’t know existed before. I discovered what it means to be a leader of a Jewish youth group. I’ve traveled with clergy and met people from Jewish communities elsewhere, and I’ve met new friends and become closer to old ones through Hebrew Chai, Teens for Israel, and BBYO.” Josh Sullivan, son of Charles and Louri Sullivan, also recognized that Confirmation “is a significant part of being a Jewish teen.
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This is a huge step to continuing my Jewish experience as I become an adult. This also teaches me about being not only a good Jewish teen but a good Jewish adult as well.” “It’s so rewarding to watch as our Temple Israel kids mature from B’nai Mitzvah to Confirmation three years later,” pointed out Religious School Director Lori Bennett. “There is a realization there, that comes with age, of understanding the words they spoke and the commitment to Reform Judaism they made when they were 13 years old. Reaffirming that intention as tenth graders adds another layer to the foundation of their lifelong Jewish journeys.” Mallory thanked her parents and siblings “for all of your love, support, and mini-road trips to get from Geneva to Omaha so that I could have an early Jewish education.” She also thanked “my clergy and Religious
School educators for giving me the tools and knowledge to lead a Jewish life, and my Jewish friends for laughs, fun, learning, and being a part of something bigger. You are all daily reminders of the wonderful community of Jews that Omaha has. “Finally,” she added, “I would like to thank Hashem for blessing me with the wonderful people I just mentioned and for being there in every second of my day.” Other members of the Confirmation Class are Jacob Arnold, son of Barton and Brenda Arnold; Hannah Budwig, daughter of Larry Budwig; Brandon Friedman, son of Michael and Joan Friedman; Jack Gilinsky, son of David Gilinsky and Katherine Finnegan; Madison Jensen, daughter of Patrick and Lynne Jensen; Justin Norton, son of Michael and Susie Norton; and Rachel Sullivan, daughter of Charles and Louri Sullivan.
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Leah Raful and Seth Goldberg were married on April 1 at Temple Adath Yeshurun, Syracuse, NY. Rabbi Charles Sherman performed the ceremony. The bride is the daughter of former Omahans Dinah and Larry Raful of East Islip, NY. She earned her B.A. from the University of Kansas in 2006, and she is a recruiter for Atrium Staffing. Her attendants were siblings Sarah Raful Whinston and Josh Whinston, and Anna Raful and nieces Mollie and Eva Whinston. She is the granddaughter of Susy and Bob Raful of Santa Rosa, CA, and the late Abe and Roz Maurer.
The groom is the son of Robin and Neil Goldberg of Syracuse, NY. He graduated with a B.A. degree from Yale University in 2005, and earned his J.D. from the University of Pennsylvania in 2008. He is the Director of Sales for Raymour & Flanigan Furniture. His attendants were siblings Shira Goldberg and Jared Boschan, Adam Goldberg, and Miriam Goldberg. He is the grandson of Norma Goldberg of Syracuse NY, and the late Bernard Goldberg, and Joan and Bernard Shapiro of Del Ray, FL. The couple resides in New York.
by SARAH BRYAN had effectively instilled in her children the Life Captured Photography essence of what makes a family strong: deep Whatever you call her, she was probably the love and concern for one another. first person who snuggled you, fed you, and loved I was not prepared for the news received the you. Mothers are magical. Their kisses heal day after I sent the family their photo-proofs every scrape or bruise. Their hugs can make a less than a week following the session. ‘Mother’ rotten day all right. The reason your mother had unexpectedly passed away the night before makes the best meatloaf you’ve ever had? No and the family spent the evening comforting one else uses her brand of love in the recipe. one another and looking through the photos It’s no wonder that mothers and motherhood over and over – grateful for the impromptu phohold such a place of reverence. It’s the one job toshoot booked the week before. that never takes a break or from which a mothNow is the time to book a professional seser retires. It’s no wonder that we seek out a day sion or simply grab your own camera and to honor her. make cherished memories. Keep those memoWhat better way to honor mother and the ries forever by capturing those moments. role she’s played in your life than with a well- Whether your time together is an hour or sevcrafted photograph? This was really brought eral more decades, nothing sparks our emohome to me after a recent session. This family tional memories the way a photograph can. radiated love. It was clear that in spite of this Please visit our website at www.life-cap mother’s confinement to a wheelchair that she tured-photography.com. PAID ADVERTISEMENT
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May 4, 2012 | The Jewish Press | 5
Gwamma, Nana or Bubbie
Bert’s eye view BERT LEWIS Mother’s Day, 2012. Everybody who writes a column in any of the many publications is going to write or already has written about Mother this week. Except me. This time, just for a change, I’d like to talk about Grandma. Or Nana. Or Bubbie, or maybe sweetest of all, Gwamma. When I decided this would be just about Bubbie, I went through my files, looking for something I’d written some years ago. When I found and read the original column, I thought it said all that I still want to say. So why reinvent the wheel yet again? Here is the story I wrote for Mother’s Day, 2005: Those of us who love being called Grandma are not much like the special Bubbies we knew as kids. True, some of us knit (as they did), and some even still duplicate a few of the ethnic goodies like Bubbie made. Still more go to jobs outside the home, like Bubbie did when she went to her place behind the counter of the family store. There might even have been grandmothers who played golf or tennis back then, but I didn’t know any of them. Todays grandmothers are cut from a different pattern. Mostly they’re my contemporaries, and we aren’t easily mistaken for any of the grannies of my childhood. First of all, if hair is in a bun, it isn’t a bun, it’s a chignon; and secondly, she isn’t wearing a shapeless housedress. It’s more apt to be a workout stretch outfit. Plus, if today’s grandma is leaving the house to go to work, it’s not on a streetcar or on foot. It’s in some kind of new model car, SUV or even maybe a pickup truck! (I speak with the authority of a great-grandma who drives a sports car.) Oh yes, we’re certainly different from our own grandmas. I can recall paper money of modest denomination as gifts for graduation or special honors, handed shyly from my bubbie’s wrinkled hand to my greedy one. Today, I know graduates who have been treated to trips to far away places by Grandma. I know those who have introduced their
grandkids to theater, opera and classical music by simply ordering tickets and announcing “I’m taking you to see LaBoheme on Saturday,” for example. Aren’t we lucky today? We are free as the birds, compared to my grandma’s generation. We hop in the car, go where we want, do what pleases us and enjoy the grandkids on our terms. We aren’t tied to the house with endless chores, done with antiquated tools. Yes, lucky is the word. We feel like travel? Make reservations and go! Not exactly like Grandma who took one big trip in her life, and that was from “the old country”. Oh yes, the differences are almost too many to count, between “then and now.” But lest you think we have not much in common, let me correct that impression. A bubbie is a grandma is a nana is a gamma no matter what a child calls her - she’s a special person in a child’s life. If she’s lucky enough to have her family nearby, she can watch the kids grow and change and turn into good citizens. If distance is a problem between kids and Gram, she has to take her pleasure in other ways. Today’s gram can go to a computer, check the Skype and watch the new baby develop, even though she’s many miles away. Just as the bubbie of my childhood thought the long distance phone call was a major extravagance, today she picks up her smart phone just to hear the kids recite the alphabet! One thing remains constant, no matter the generation: the special feeling that suddenly comes over the mom who holds the first baby to make her a grandma. It’s indescribable. No matter how many babies a woman has had, no matter that she loves them all too much to measure, that grandchild is special beyond words. Nor does it matter if she came from a shtetl in Poland or from the Hamptons in New York, if English was her second language or if she has a law degree from Harvard, she’ll melt with the warmth of that grandchild in her arms. Ok. I said up front that I wanted to talk about Grandma today. That’s all I’ve got to say on the subject. If you aren’t yet a gram, I just want you to know the poet was right: the best is yet to come. If you know from experience what I’m trying to say, well then, you don’t need me to tell you more. Just enjoy a lovely Mother’s Day, surrounded by your kids, grandkids and great-grandkids! They’re the jewels in your crown. Bert Lewis can be reached at BertLewis39@aol.com.
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Beth El Sunday Scholars Series program to tackle What in the World is Conservative Judaism? by JILL BELMONT Beth El Publicity Coordinator What is the correct definition of Conservative Judaism – and is there a clear-cut definition? What are the many facets that make up this branch of Judaism? Beth El’s Rabbi Steven Abraham will explore these questions, among others, when he presents What in the World is Conservative Judaism? during the synagogue’s Sunday Scholars Series program on May 6, at 11 a.m. Saying that many people aren’t sure who Conservative Rabbi Steven Abraham Jews are or what they stand for, Rabbi Abraham said he plans to look at the history of the Conservative Movement, its current place in denomination-
al Judaism, and where he believes it is headed. “For a long time, Conservative Judaism has been defined by what we are not -- i.e., we are not Orthodox and we are not Reform -- which causes us to not have a true identity of our own,” he said. “I believe strongly that Conservative Judaism is a valuable entity that has its own identity, one that is necessary in a Jewish world that is all too often monopolized by the extremes.” Referring to his upcoming presentation, the rabbi said, “I hope people come away having learned about our history and the rationale for the movement’s founding. Yet more importantly, I want people to walk away knowing that the Conservative Movement holds modernity in one hand and tradition in the other and tries to live between these two worlds. It’s not easy... but the struggle is one that allows you to become closer to God.” The Sunday Scholars Series is open to everyone in the Jewish community, at no charge. For more information, contact the synagogue office, 402.492.8550, or program ming@bethel-omaha.org.
Births Amy and Andy Isaacson of Palo Alto, CA, announce the March 25 birth of their daughter, Maya Ruth, who is named for her maternal great-grandfather, Mickey Ross. Grandparents are Andi Willensky, David Willensky of Palm Springs, CA, and Susan and Michael Isaacson of Encino, CA. Great-grandparents are Lenore Ross of Los Angeles, and Evelyn and Bill Willensky of Scottsdale, AZ. Rabbi Yosef and Shanny Katzman of Cincinnati, OH, announce the Feb. 2 birth of their son, Yehudah Mendel, named for his great-grandfather, the late Marvin Levin. He has two sisters, Rena Bracha, 7 1/2, and Kochava Meira, 6, and a brother, Moshe, 3 1/2. Grandparents are Levana Kovo of San Antonio, TX, and former Omahans Carol and Mike Katzman of Overland Park, KS. Great-grandparents are Madeline Katzman and the late Maurice Katzman, and Janie Levin of Miami, FL.
Lina Kogan announces the Feb. 27 birth of her daughter, Anna Pitman-Kogan, named for Ruben Pitman-Kogan Grandparents are Galina and Greg Kogan. Kari and Brandon Tauber of Chicago announce the April 19 births of their identical twin daughters, Tori Jordan and Halle Maren. They have an older brother, Taylor Marcus, 22 months. Grandparents are Sandy and Paul Epstein, and Sue and Rhett Tauber of Highland, IN. Great grandparents are Etta and Harold Epstein, the late Helen and Morrie Lipp, and Claire and George Harveth and the late Evelyn and Lloyd Tauber, all of Highland, IN.
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Beth El’s upcoming Tot Shabbat programs offer special family fun by JILL BELMONT ituality at a level they can understand and feel - to heighten Beth El Publicity Coordinator their understanding of Shabbat in a different way.” Beth El’s last two Tot Shabbat programs (until Fall, that On Friday, June 1, 6 p.m., the synagogue will present a is) will offer special intergenerational celebrations and fun Grandparents and Special Persons Tot Shabbat. Singing, storytelling, and fun-filled Shabbat activifor all family members. On ties led by “Miss Patty” Nogg will Friday, May 11, 6 p.m., delight little ones, said Beth El Program youngsters will get movin’ Director Margie Gutnik. during the innovative Music “Our Tot Shabbat programs are pure & Movement Tot Shabbat, led fun for families, and this one will offer a by Jewish Community Center wonderful way for the young and dance instructor Cheryl Lerner. The evening will feayoung-at-heart to connect as they welture a combination of crecome Shabbat together.” ative movement using Kid-friendly dinners will follow each Shabbat themes, such as program. Dinner cost for the May 11 work/rest, candles burning Tot Shabbat is $5 for Beth El members and melting and the twisting and $7.50 for non-members; cost for the June 1 program is $5 for members and of challah, Lerner said, plus all their special guests. There is no simple dances to Jewish chilcharge for children ages six and dren’s music – “fun things “Miss Patty” Nogg, at left, leads Tot Shabbat attenyounger. RSVPs are required and may that kids and parents can do dees in the motzi during a recent program. The be made by contacting Gutnik in the together.” next Tot Shabbat is planned for Friday, May 11. synagogue office or at programming@ “Children are innate dancers,” she added. “They are always in motion, and it’s fun bethel-omaha.org, or by visiting Beth El’s website, to see how that can be channeled to experience Jewish spir- www.bethel-omaha.org.
Organizations B’NAI B’RITH BREADBREAKERS Their will be not be a Breadbreakers session this week due to the The 58th Omaha Sports Banquet, presented by B’nai B’rith Omaha on Wednesday, May 9, 7 p.m. Please buy a ticket for our great sports banquet featuring Washington State University Head football coach Mike Leach, the offensive leader for his new squad. Email Gary Javitch about ticket information at gjavitch@cox.net or check out our great website www.omahasportsbanquet.org. For more information or to be placed on the email list call 402.334.6443 or bnaibrith@ jewishomaha.org.
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LOMIR REDN YIDDISH How much Yiddish do you know? Probably more than you think. Some English words have made their way into Yiddish. Many Yiddish words are commonly used in English. Every first Thursday of the month, we will be playing Yiddish Bingo. This will give you a chance to show off the Yiddish you didn’t even know you knew. Everyone is invited! We meet every Thursday from 1-3 p.m., in the Rose Blumkin Home Board Room. For information call Anne Skolkin at 402.343.1638.
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May 4, 2012 | The Jewish Press | 7
Cookbooks for Mothers’ Day gifts
Read it and eat Reviewed by LOIS FRIEDMAN All varieties of moms out there! Some for diamonds and emeralds, these pearls of wisdom for cooking are for others. For beginning or experienced moms, check out the latest cookbooks with women in mind. The Mom 100 Cookbook by Katie Workman (Workman, $16.95) The founding editor of cookstr.com shares a user friendly collection of 100 straightforward recipes: five solutions for twenty dilemmas, predicaments or other situations with tips, make ahead, and picky eater suggestions. Lots of pictures, fun graphics, and menus, including Mothers’ Day Brunch with this taste of chocolate: BUTTERSCOTCH BROWNIES 3⁄4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, plus butter for greasing the baking pan (optional) Nonstick cooking spray (optional) 1 3⁄4 cups packed light or dark brown sugar 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract 2 large eggs 1 3⁄4 cups all-purpose flour 3⁄4 teaspoon baking soda 1⁄2 teaspoon kosher or coarse salt 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, or chopped nuts, such as walnuts or cashews (optional) 1. Preheat the oven to 350˚F. Butter a 13 by 9-inch baking pan or spray it with nonstick cooking spray. 2. Place the butter in a medium-size saucepan and melt it over low heat. Remove the saucepan from the heat, add the brown sugar, and stir until blended, then let cool for at least 5 minutes. Add the vanilla followed by the eggs, one at a time, stirring to mix quickly until well combined, so the eggs don’t cook in the still slightly warm brown sugar mixture. 3. Combine the flour, baking soda, and salt in a small bowl. Add the flour mixture to the saucepan and stir until combined. Stir in the chips or nuts, if using. Scrape the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake until a wooden skewer or a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean, 24 to 28 minutes. 4. Let the blondies cool in the pan on a wire rack. When cool, cut them into 12 or 24 squares. Makes 12 huge or 24 reasonable sized squares For moms who love Trader Joe’s, here is a pleaser: The I Love Trader Joe’s Around the World Cookbook By Cherie Mercer Twohy (Ulysses Press, $17.95) 140 international recipes using goodies from the shelves... like three suggestions for the jars of Hot Fudge Sauce: Hot Tin Roof Sundaes, Lightning Quick
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Almond Cake and Burgundy Poached Pears. Actually strolling up and down the aisles not only will you find a world of chocolate, including my current favorite, Dark Chocolate Almonds with Sea Salt, but lots of global ingredients. Check out the author’s list of “hoardables and pantry staples”. To add some pizzazz to your cooking, try adding a little cayenne to a jar of the Hot Fudge Sauce and pour!
Hazan Family Favorites by Giuliano Hazan (Abrams, $29.95) This “first family of Italian cooking” family recipes are from food memories of his mom, famous Marcella, and grandmother’s home cooking. Hazan includes 85 recipes with stories, traditions and culinary culture in four chapters, Appetizers to Dolci, and this chocolate dessert you and your
kids can make. CHOCOLATE MOUSSE 8 ounces semisweet chocolate 6 eggs 2 tablespoons sugar 1 tablespoon rum (optional) 1. Place a saucepan filled halfway with water over medium heat. Cut the chocolate into small pieces and put it in a small metal bowl that will fit over the saucepan. Place the bowl over the saucepan. Once the chocolate has melted, reduce the heat to the lowest setting. 2. While the chocolate is melting, separate the eggs, placing the yolks in one mixing bowl and the whites in another. Be very careful not to get any of the yolk in the bowl with the whites. Add the sugar to the yolks and whip at high speed until the yolks turn pale and form ribbons. Mix in the rum, if using. Add the melted chocolate and mix thoroughly. 3. Whip the egg whites until they form soft peaks. If using the same whisk that was used for beating the yolks, make sure to clean it thoroughly beforehand. Carefully fold the whites into the chocolate mixture. Once you obtain a homogeneous mixture, pour the mousse into 8 serving cups or goblets. Refrigerate, covered, overnight before serving. Jane’s Delicious Kitchen by Jane Griffiths (Sunbird) This South African author has tips and suggestions on buying and cooking ingredients and divides the recipes into seasons (although the dates don’t match those in Omaha... i.e. spring there is Sept. 22 - Dec. 21 – the food availability is similar). Lush with color photographs from Asparagus Pesto to ziploc bag strategies. Her influential mom taught her “never be afraid to experiment and make the most of surprise results.” Lois Friedman can be reached at ReadItAndEat@ yahoo.com.
Immanuel Communities Pacific Springs Village Expansion by CONNIE CHISHOLM Immanuel Communities Corporate Marketing Assistant With the expansion of Pacific Springs Village, the Immanuel Communities campus will add 101 state-of-the art apartment homes. The design and vision of the project reflect input from current residents and their families. A full continuum of care with independent, assisted living and memory support are included all on one campus. At Pacific Springs Village, the current residents serve on every expansion committee, including dining, lifelong learning and activities. “We listened to our residents, senior living experts and industry top designers,” explains Immanuel’s Roxann Rogers Meyer, Vice President of Marketing and Communications. “The result is a truly innovative, all-encompassing expansion of our community that includes every facet of retirement living, with multi-
ple dining options, lifestyle activities and a focus on wellness.” In addition, there are plans for a warm water pool, movie theater, performance hall and an interfaith worship chapel. “Seniors deserve and expect a great lifestyle,” Rogers notes. “We offer seven floor plans from which to choose and our residents are able to make their residence uniquely their own. With numerous social options, each person can decide how they spend their day.” Deb Marasco and Shannon Wallingford, Senior Living Consultants at Pacific Springs Village. commented: “This project is part of our vision to continue offering our residents with wonderful opportunities. We want to provide them with the freedom to choose.” To learn more about Immanuel Communities and the Pacific Springs Village expansion, contact 402.829.5686.
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8 | The Jewish Press | May 4, 2012
Point of view
American Jewish Press Association Award Winner
Nebraska Press National Newspaper Association Association Award winner 2008
Educate
by ANNETTE VAN DE KAMP-WRIGHT Editor of the Jewish Press It’s great when different organizations, synagogues and people in our community come together. It’s how, after a long day at work, many of us were able to relax and unwind at the Jewish Community Center’s Yom Ha’atzmaut celebration last week. It’s how we’re getting a community garden on our campus, why the decathlon was successful, and how we pulled off those JCC Maccabi Games. Would the annual Yom HaShoah commemoration be as powerful if it was spread out over several different synagogues? No, it wouldn’t. It’s when we do things together and stop worrying about who belongs where that we see the best this community has to offer. Remember that tired joke about the man who is stranded on the deserted island, with his two synagogues? Yes, it’s lame. And we don’t do lame. That’s why, when on May 20, Friedel Jewish Academy holds its annual dinner-fundraiser, people from all walks of Jewish Omaha life will attend, regardless of whether they ever have or ever will send their kids to Friedel. Of course, there’s the fact that having a great Jewish day school is good for our community. We want to support its continued success. We all want to say thank you to principal Ron Giller, who is retiring at the end of this school year. And, in addition, we want to pay tribute to the other honorees: Helen and Tuffy Epstein, Debbie and Lloyd Roitstein. Why is it so important for a healthy Jewish community to have a Jewish day school? In 2007, the Partnership for Excellence in Jewish Education conducted a review of studies relating to the impact of a Jewish education. The findings showed that the longer a child is educated Jewishly, the high-
er the chance is they will be involved Jewishly. 80% of adults who have had more than 6 years of Jewish education will marry someone Jewish. Extensive Jewish education contributes to a strong Jewish identity, and strengthens the connection to Israel as well as active participation in community building and Jewish philanthropy. That does not mean everyone has to attend a Jewish day school; it means Jewish education, whichever form it’s in, has an impact. Taking swimming lessons at the J, or dance lessons, or attending the Chai School is important. Going on Shabbatons where you meet students from other synagogues, and playing together at a holiday picnic. Acting in a play, attending a performance, sharing a meal at the Star Deli and hanging out at the Blumkin Home playground. Our community offers many different forms of Jewish education, and a day school is an integral part of that. Especially one that, as small as it is, is a home to a very diverse population. From almost completely secular to Orthodox, when children of various backgrounds share their experiences, they learn from a young age it is possible to get along. They are also
reminded that we have more in common than we think. When we, as a community, work together as often as we can, we will end up creating more opportunities for that Jewish education; not only for our children, but for all of us. One more thing: the Friedel dinner wouldn’t be possible without the fabulous food, supervised by Mike Aparo of Star Catering. Mike, can you bring any leftovers to the Press office? For reservations to the Friedel Tribute Dinner, please call Debbie Kricsfeld at 402.393.2714 or email kricsfeld4@aol.com.
Title VI should be used only on true hatemongers, not political opponents
Behind the headlines DAVID A.M. WILENSKY NEW YORK (JTA) – In the eyes of the Zionist Organization of America, the most depraved enemies of the Jewish people are obnoxious college campus loudmouths. As the editor of New Voices, a national magazine by and for Jewish college students, I have a different perspective. The ZOA led the campaign to have discrimination against Jewish students recognized as a violation of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, originally passed in 1964 to remedy racial discrimination in programs that receive federal funding. But in its charge to circle the Jewish communal wagons, the ZOA has overreached. ZOA President Morton Klein and Susan Tuchman, director of the group’s Center for Law and Justice, wrote in a JTA Op Ed that Jewish college students today face “harassment and discrimination at schools receiving federal funding.” The ZOA pitched a six-year fit about it, which the group credits with this triumph: “The U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights, or OCR, finally clarified in October 2010 that Jewish students finally would be afforded the same protection” that other minorities have under Title VI. The ZOA campaign capitalizes on and needlessly exacerbates the Jewish community’s already unwarranted paranoia about what’s happening to our young men and women on campus. As a member of the class of 2011 and as the editor of New Voices, I can say with confidence that there’s never been a better time to walk the halls and lawns of American academia as a Jew. Thankfully, the response from leading groups like the Anti-Defamation League to the ZOA’s call to steamroll colleges into submission with Title VI has been tepid at best.
(Founded in 1920) Andrew Ruback President Annette van de Kamp-Wright Editor Richard Busse Creative Director Shiri Tene Advertising Executive 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-
It’s good that Jews are covered by Title VI, but let’s make sure we use the coverage to protect ourselves from true hatemongers, not mere political opponents. That the ZOA is at the vanguard on this issue – instead of, say, the Jewish Council for Public Affairs, which has been unfairly pilloried by Title VI’s Jewish cheering section for cautioning restraint – should be the first clue that this push to sue universities under civil rights legislation is not just about protecting Jews. In the race to ferret out Israel’s on-campus detractors, ZOA leaders have conflated two unlike things: They wrongly act as though opposition to Zionism is always antiSemitism. It’s not so simple. As much as our rightmost flank would like for Zionism to be codified into the Jewish faith – perhaps a 14th for Maimonides’ 13 principles? – it is neither universal nor central. Rather, it is a political movement, one that gives expression to an ancient Jewish hope, but a political movement nonetheless. Zionism itself is no more at the essence of Jewish belief than is membership in large suburban synagogues. Klein and Tuchman tsk-tsk their critics, saying their detractors ignore “that the policy has already shown its value.” They are right that there have been Jewish Title VI victories, but in their rush to stoke our anxiety about Jewish life on campus they skip over the real wins, which have involved high schools, not colleges. Instead they cite statements issued by University of California President Mark Yudof and Rutgers University President Richard McCormick condemning behavior on campus that was downright nasty and might be seen as anti-Semitic as well. But Title VI is a federal law. Shouldn’t the real wins come in court or official rulings by the OCR? In fact, such outcomes have been mixed, at best. A case against the University of California, Berkeley, was dismissed by a feder-
al court. One complaint at the University of California, Irvine, was tossed out before Title VI covered Jews but is now being reconsidered. At Barnard College in New York, one was tossed out this year when it became clear that there was nothing more than dubious he said/she said evidence. The real successes have come at the high school level. A case regarding a bullied Virginia high school student was ruled in the complainant’s favor. The Forward recently reported that this is the only case so far to result in such a ruling. Most important, the incident did not involve Israel but classic swastika-laden anti-Semitic tropes. When less confrontational means fail, true anti-Semitism like this should certainly be fought under Title VI – wherever this filth rears its head, be it on a college campus, in a high school or, God forbid, in younger grades. Meanwhile, the ZOA-backed college cases -- attempts to use Title VI as a bludgeon to advance the ZOA’s far-right political viewpoints -- aren’t going anywhere. In at least one example, it has even led to the despicable targeting of fellow Jews. As Shani Chabansky, a Jewish student at the University of California, Santa Cruz, wrote in February in New Voices and the Forward, a Title VI complaint at UCSC has sparked a witch hunt within the Jewish community, hurting more than helping many Jewish students. Jewish students who subscribe to left-wing forms of Zionism. These students, Jews of the political left, have been shamefully accused of being anti-Israel. The ZOA’s intent is now clear: Its use of Title VI is a political tactic that targets valid, albeit distasteful and wrongheaded, political debate. Even as a transparent attempt to stifle legitimate discourse, the ZOA’s Title VI campaign is hardly the success that Klein and Tuchman make it out to be. David A.M. Wilensky is the editor of New Voices Magazine and executive director of the Jewish Student Press Service.
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.
and space restrictions, but it should be printed as soon as possible to ensure timeliness. Letters may be published without giving an opposing view. Information shall be verified before printing. All letters must be signed by the writer, but the name can be withheld at the writer’s request. The Jewish Press will not publish letters that appear to be part of an organized campaign, nor letters copied from the Internet. No letters should be published from candidates running for office, but others may write on their behalf. Letters of thanks should be confined to commending an institution for a program, project or event, rather than personally thanking paid staff, unless the writer chooses to turn the “Letter to the Editor” into a paid personal ad or a
Editorial The Jewish Press is an agency of the Jewish Federation of Omaha. Deadline for copy, ads and photos is: Thursday, 9 a.m., eight days prior to publication. E-mail editorial
material and photos to: avandekamp @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.
May 4, 2012 | The Jewish Press | 9
Monitor hate crimes, as promised
Behind the headlines GIDON VAN EMDEN WASHINGTON (JTA) -- How much homophobia is there? And how much anti-Semitism? How many Muslims are beaten up because of who they are? The only accurate answer today is, “We don’t know.� Organizations that combat hate and bigotry do not know how many crimes were committed with a hateful motive because such incidents are not being monitored properly. A recent study by CEJI-A Jewish Contribution to an Inclusive Europe shows that most hate crimes watchdogs in Europe do not know how many incidents there are. They are working with anecdotal data culled from the media and the occasional phone call. Such sources, while important for their illustrative value, are neither consistent nor usually as detailed as they should be. (Full disclosure: I used to work for CEJI and helped launch this study.) Indeed, the 56 participating states of the Organization for
Security and Cooperation in Europe, an international organization of which the United States is a founding member, promised in 2003 in Vienna to start gathering data on hate crimes, including anti-Semitic ones. Today, nearly a decade later, a meager five of those states submitted data on anti-Semitic incidents, according to the latest OSCE report. The United States was not one of them. To be sure, this reflects the situation in America, as noted in a report by the Anti-Defamation League: “Eighty of the largest cities in the United States -- all over 100,000 in population -- either did not report data to the FBI in 2010 or affirmatively reported zero hate crimes to the FBI in 2010.� This means that organizations such as the ADL do not have consistent usable data on hate crimes, including antiSemitic ones. Consistent, comparable, year-on-year, disaggregated data can only come from law enforcement and the judiciary. As long as our police forces and our departments of justice do not comply with their own promises and commitments, we do not – cannot – know what the state of affairs is and whether the trends are up or down.
We cannot know whether America is becoming more or less tolerant -- not only in attitude, but also in action -toward LGBT people, toward Muslims. We cannot know whether life is safer for Jews around the globe. So in practice, we cannot know whether such excellent programs as CEJI’s Belieforama or the ADL’s A World of Difference Institute actually have the impact they are intended to have. Without knowing whether there is less or more anti-Semitism today than a year ago, we cannot know how worried we should be about our future -- for worry we will in any case. Just as businesses measure their success by collecting data on how many hamburgers or sneakers they have sold, by comparing this year’s data to last year’s and their sales to those of their competitors, so too should hate crimes be properly monitored. The U.S. government, with its 55 partners in the OSCE, has committed itself to doing this. We must press our governments to keep their promises. Gidon van Emden is a consultant in the fields of human rights, international affairs and anti-Semitism.
Israel’s educational system needs a fresh start
Focus on issues CHAIM PERI YEMIN ORDE, Israel (JTA) -- The wildfire that raged through Mount Carmel near Haifa in December 2010 was devastating for northern Israel. At Yemin Orde, the educational village for at-risk and immigrant youth that I ran for many years, the fire destroyed nearly half of our facilities. But when it came time to rebuild our cloistered safe haven for 500 youths, we had the opportunity for a fresh start. On the eve of Israel’s 64th birthday, the nation’s whole educational system could use a fresh start. The utopian ideals of Israel’s early days have been replaced by post-modern confusion, namely the worship of school scores and OECD rankings, while basic human values lag behind. Contemporary Israel struggles to piece together a fragmented social puzzle of extremes, with a staggering 15 percent of its children and youth physically and socially at risk, mentally impoverished and alienated. Undoubtedly this situation forebodes ill for the social fabric of a country. There is an urgent need to “restart� the concept of education, to re-examine the connection between scholastic scores and the school culture. It is time to go back to the basics -- to educational environments motivated by human values, not comparisons and numbers, but rather to healthy “sanctuaries� for children and youth. At the Yemin Orde Youth Village, education transforms survivors into leaders. It is a microcosm of what the State of Israel had inscribed on its banner from its very onset -inclusiveness, tolerance, spirituality and benevolence. Its
mentschen graduates from Ethiopia, the former Soviet Union or the most impoverished neighborhoods of Israel are a living testimony to the validity of the village’s educational philosophy and methodology. Graduates find comfort knowing that the Yemin Orde community will always be there for them, much like in a functional family. Current U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, when she was the first lady, made famous the African proverb, “It takes a village to raise a child.� The Youth Village educational concept as applied in Israel has been one of the building blocks of the Zionist ethos. It gave birth to the Village Way, which was designed to introduce wholeness and coherence to young lives that otherwise are bombarded by the chaotic onslaught of 21st century stimuli. The Village Way is a blueprint that allows teachers to recreate their own version of the plan for their children, which incorporates cultural identity, pride, and having a sense of direction and security about the future. The children’s personal abilities and strengths are reinforced. They learn life skills that enable them to grow into successful, compassionate members of society, and they begin to heal wounds of the past and learn to give of themselves. Celebrating cultural holidays geared toward a diverse population, community service, individual attention, positive role models and mentors as educators, and ongoing graduate support are core elements of the Village Way blueprint. Education will be empowered to provide an antidote to social alienation and helplessness among children and youth. The Village Way can lead Israel back on track in terms of scholastic achievement in literacy and science -- as in the days when learning and educating joined forces to
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Livni resigns from Knesset JERUSALEM (JTA) -- Former opposition leader Tzipi Livni resigned from Israel’s Knesset. Livni announced her departure from the legislature prior to a meeting with Knesset Speaker Reuven Rivlin. “I shall continue to work for a different Israel, our children deserve no less,� she told Rivlin upon submitting her resignation. Livni said that although she was leaving the Knesset, she was not going to absent herself from public life. She said in her speech that she was “not sorry for refusing to sell out the government to the haredi Orthodox in order to form a government,� a swipe at current Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
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produce Israel’s foremost leaders. The Village Way allows Israel’s educators to again assume their rightful place in society -- the status of nation builders (not unlike contemporary “educational stars� in Finland and South Korea, or America’s Teach for America and charter school movement). In laying out a distinct blueprint for education, the Village Way offers the State of Israel not only a beacon of hope in the aftermath of flames, but also the means to achieve an educational environment or homeland in which every child deserves to grow. Chaim Peri, who served as director of the Yemin Orde Youth Village (www.yeminorde.org) for three decades beginning in 1978, is the author of Teenagers Educated the Village Way.
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Synagogues B’NAI ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE 618 Mynster Street | Council Bluffs, IA 51503-0766 | 402.322.4705 email: CBsynagogue@hotmail.com For information on our historic synagogue – dates and times for Friday night services, please call 712.323.8885.
BETH EL SYNAGOGUE Member of United Synagogues of Conservative Judaism 14506 California | Omaha, NE 68154-1980 | 402.492.8550 www.bethel-omaha.org Services conducted by Rabbi Mordechai Levin, Rabbi Steven Abraham and Cantor Beth Schlossberg. FRIDAY: Kabbalat Shabbat Service, 6 p.m. SATURDAY: Shabbat Services, 9:30 a.m.; Junior Congregation (2-7), 10 a.m.; Bat Mitzvah of Eliana Schuller, daughter of Drs. Dan and Yaffa Schuller; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 8:05 p.m. WEEKDAY SERVICES: Sundays, 9 a.m. & 5:30 p.m.; weekdays, 7 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. SUNDAY: Torah Study Discussion Group, 10 a.m.; Sunday Scholar Series, 11 a.m. featuring Rabbi Steven Abraham (see full story on page 4.); USY Scavenger Hunt and Elections, 1:30 p.m. For more information, contact Shiri Tene at youth dir@bethel-omaha.org. MONDAY: Wrestling with Rabbis of the Talmud, 10 a.m. with Rabbi Abraham. TUESDAY: YAC Playgroup at 10:30 a.m., toddlers will enjoy “Gettin’ Messy Outdoors.” For more information, contact Caryn Scheer at carynscheer@yahoo.com; Musar – Jewish Ethics class, 7 p.m. mini course led by Professor Guy Matalon. Let’s Do Lunch on Friday, May 11, noon, with Rabbi Levin at Blumkin Home’s Star Deli. RSVP to the rabbi at rabbilevin@bethel-omaha.org. Tot Shabbat on Friday, May 11, 6 p.m., we’ll present a special Music & Movement Tot Shabbat, led by JCC dance instructor Cheryl Lerner and Say Shalom to Shabbat also on Friday, May 11, 6 p.m. for children in first grade and older. Dinner follows at 6:30 p.m.; for reservations made by May 9, dinner cost is $5 for Beth El members, $7.50 for nonmembers. After that date, the cost doubles. No charge for children ages 6 and younger. RSVP online at www.bethelomaha.org, or email programming@bethel-omaha.org. Dinner and Drash on Friday, May 11, 7 p.m., following services, stay for dinner and a study session led by a Beth El clergy member. Cost: $8. RSVP to the synagogue office, or at www.bethel-omaha.org. 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, 7:30 p.m. SATURDAY: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Free babysitting service begins at 9:30 a.m.; Children’s Classes begin with Torah Parade, 9:45 a.m.; Kiddush lunch is sponsored by Jordana Kurtzman in honor of Joshua’s Bar Mitzvah; The Laws of Shabbat, 6 p.m.; Advanced Parshah Study for Kids (ages 10
and up), 7 p.m.; Rabbi Gross’s Twitter Topic class, 7 p.m.; Mincha, 8 p.m., followed by Seuda Shlishit; Havdalah, 9:13 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, 6:30 p.m. WEDNESDAY: Scholars Club for fourth-sixth graders, 3:30 p.m. with Rabbi Mizrahi; Board of Commissioners Meeting, 6:30 p.m.; Rabbi Weiss’s Weekly Class, 7:45 p.m. THURSDAY: Women of the Torah class, 9:30 a.m. with Rabbi Gross.
CHABAD CENTER 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: Minyan, 7 a.m. SATURDAY: Minyan, 7 a.m.; Kiddush lunch follows the service. SUNDAY: Service at 8:30 a.m. followed by breakfast at 9:30 a.m. WEEKDAYS: Minyan, 7 a.m. MONDAY: JLI Course, The Art of Marriage, 7 p.m. Register online at ochabad.com. WEDNESDAY: A Taste of Yeshiva-Chevruta style Beit Midrash study, 6:30 p.m. THURSDAY: Lag B’omer Family BBQ, 6 p.m. RSVP at rsvp@ochabad.com. All programs are open to the entire community.
CONGREGATION B’NAI JESHURUN South Street Temple | Union for Reform Judaism 2061 South 20th Street | Lincoln, NE 68502-2797 | 402.435.8004 www.southstreettemple.org Services conducted by Rabbi Craig Lewis. FRIDAY: Family Shabbat Mac ‘n’ Cheese dinner, 6 p.m. followed by special camp-style service. SATURDAY: Shabbat Morning Service, 9:30 a.m.; Torah Study, 10:30 a.m. on Parashat Acharei Mt-Kedoshim; Lincoln Temple Youth Group Scavenger Hunt, 6:30 p.m. meet at Panda Express in the Gateway Mall food court. RSVP to the Temple office, 402.435.8004 or stemple@neb.rr.com. SUNDAY: LJCS Gan through Grade 7, 9:30 a.m.-noon at Tifereth Israel; Hallah High, 10 a.m.-noon at South Street Temple; Hallah High Rummage Sale, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at South Street Temple parking lot; Board of Trustees Meeting, 1 p.m. WEDNESDAY: Hebrew classes (grades 3-7), 4-6 p.m. at Tifereth Israel. ADULT EDUCATION TUESDAY, 7:15 p.m. Israel Update Part 2, led by Rabbi Lewis and Nancy Coren at Tifereth Israel. 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.
B’nai Mitzvah Joshua David Kurtzman, son of Jordana Kurtzman, will become a Bar Mitzvah on Saturday, May 5, at Beth Israel. Joshua is a sixth-grade student at Columbian Elementary School. His interests include studying sharks and astronomy, visting national monuments and museums, and attending summer camp. He has two brothers, Aaron and Isaac. Grandparents are the late Eleanor and Stanley Kurtzman. Great-grandparents are the late Fay and Nathan Kurtzman, and the late Helen and Frank Pinckney. Emily Hannah Kazor, daughter of Michelle and Stu Kazor, will become a Bat Mitzvah on Saturday, May 12, at Temple Israel. Emily is a seventh-grade Honor Roll student at Alice Buffett Magnet Middle School. She is a Duke University Talent Identification participant. She received the Buffett
Student of Distinction Award. Her interests include musical theater, dance, violin, horseback riding, volleyball, and swimming. For her mitzvah project, Emily made blankets for Project Linus, a non-profit organization that provides love, security, warmth, and comfort to children who are seriously ill or traumatized by providing them with handmade blankets. She also volunteered for the Make-a-Wish Foundation by helping with office duties and organizing donations. Make-a-Wish grants the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy. She has a sister, Elizabeth (9), and a brother, Zachary (4). Grandparents are Louie and Renee Kazor, and Bill and Peggy Kolm. Great-grandparents are Alice Kwapiszeski of Panama, IA, and the late Mollie Franklin.
Candlelighting Friday, May 4, 8:07 p.m.
OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE SAC Memorial Chapel 301 Lincoln Highway | Offutt AFB, NE 68113 | 402.294.6244 FRIDAY: Services, 7:30 p.m.
ROSE BLUMKIN JEWISH HOME 323 South 132 Street | Omaha, NE 68154 SATURDAY: Services, 9 a.m. led by Alan Shulewitz. Services will be held in the Chapel. Members of the community are invited to attend.
TEMPLE ISRAEL Union for Reform Judaism (URJ) 7023 Cass Street | Omaha, NE 68132-2651 | 402.556.6536 www.templeisrael-ne.org FRIDAY: Shabbat Service, 6 p.m. led by Rabbi Azriel and Cantor Shermet. SATURDAY: Torah Study, 9:15 a.m.; WRJ Retreat - It’s Your Life, Whatever It Takes, 10 a.m. - 10 p.m., 2005 South 91 Street. Join us for a relaxed, meditative and musical Shabbat. Reservations were required; Shabbat Morning Service, 10:30 a.m. Miles Remer will chant Torah and Haftarah. SUNDAY: Teacher Meeting, 9 a.m.; Challah Baking 101, 10 a.m.; Grades PreK-6, 10 a.m.; Grade 6 Genizah Service, 10 a.m. at Temple Israel Cemetery; Kindergarten Roundup, 11 a.m.; Confirmation Rehearsal, 12:15 p.m. WEDNESDAY: Grades 3-6, 4-6 p.m.; School Dinner, 6 p.m.; Family School, 6-8 p.m.; Grades 7-8, 6-8 p.m.; Contemporary Jewish Artists, 6:30 p.m. THURSDAY: God was in this place and I did not know, 1011:30 a.m. with Rabbi Linder. He will be looking at what our tradition says about the normal moments ... Maybe they’re not so normal?
TIFERETH ISRAEL Member of United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism 3219 Sheridan Boulevard | Lincoln, NE 68502-5236 | 402.423.8569 www.tiferethisraellincoln.org Services conducted by lay leader Nancy Coren. Office hours: Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. FRIDAY: Services, 6:30 p.m. SATURDAY: Morning service, 10 a.m. with an interactive learning session followed by Kiddush lunch. SUNDAY: LJCS Gan through Grade 7, 9:30 a.m.-noon at Tifereth Israel; Hallah High, 10 a.m.-noon at South Street Temple; Hallah High Rummage Sale, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at South Street Temple parking lot; Annual Meeting, 4 p.m. at TI. WEDNESDAY: Hebrew classes (grades 3-7), 4-6 p.m. at Tifereth Israel ADULT EDUCATION TUESDAY, 7:15 p.m. Israel Update Part 2, led by Rabbi Lewis and Nancy Coren at Tifereth Israel.
Israel blasts inclusion on U.N. list by JTA NEWS STAFF WASHINGTON (JTA) -- Israel’s Foreign Ministry criticized as “absurd,” the country’s inclusion on a list of countries that restricts the activities of human rights and advocacy groups. The response came after the United Nations’ high commissioner for human rights placed Israel on a list that includes Egypt, Belarus, Venezuela, Algeria and Ethiopia. Israel is the only democratic country to appear on the list; the rest are either dictatorships or developing countries. Navi Pillay, the U.N. high commissioner, said the listing was due to the potential bill in the Knesset that would restrict the funding by foreign governments of nonprofit organizations. The bill was approved by a ministerial committee but never reached the full Knesset for a vote. “The recently adopted Foreign Funding Law could have a major impact on human rights organizations, subjecting them to rigorous reporting requirements, forcing them to declare foreign financial support in all public communications, and threatening heavy penalties for non-compliance,” Pillay said.
Personal Many thanks to all of my dear friends, co-workers and residents who allowed me to spend a wonderful 29 years working with you all. Love, Pat Inserra
Pulverent e
May 4, 2012 | The Jewish Press | 11
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PEOPLE WHO READ NEWSPAPERS ARE
BENZION NETANYAHU
Sparks from the word RABBI MYER S. KRIPKE Parsha Acharei Mot Two sons of Aaron, we are told, took it upon themselves to make offerings that had not been required. For this infraction, they died. The implication is that when one is ordered to do certain actions on important occasions, he must follow the orders carefully, without taking action of his own liking, without permission. If the punishment is severe, it is because they were dealing with matters of the highest possible importance. Let everyone take notice! Parsha K’doshim This Parsha at first seems impossible to obtain: how can one become holy, as the Lord Himself is holy? But the Sacred Text continues with relatively simple demands. One is not to take advantage of the deaf, nor of the blind. All that is required is very simple. One is expected to assist other people and to be kind to others. It is in this connection that the famous “You shall love your neighbor as yourself ” is given. To be “holy” is only to be decent and fair. There is no requirement to be extraordinarily religious or sanctimonious. To be “holy” is simply to refrain from acts of cruelty and unkindness. To be “holy,” one need only to be human and humane, to be gentle and loving. “Love your neighbor,” indeed as much as you love yourself. The Sacred Text does not demand more than the average person can do. He is required only to do his best, without rancor, without hatefulness, and without stupidity. He is to be himself, with no requirement to be better than anyone else. The fact that these two Parshiot, Acharei Mot and K’doshim (after death, holy) are together leads to the practice (a correct one) of speaking only kindly and gently of those who have passed away. After friends or relatives or neighbors have passed away, we must think of them not for any possibly unpleasant things they have done, but only of their righteousness and kindness. We must think of them as “holy.”
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.
JERUSALEM (JTA) -- Benzion Netanyahu, a noted Jewish historian and Zionist thinker, and the father of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has died. Netanyahu died April 30 at his home in Jerusalem. He was 102. He was predeceased by his wife, Tzila, and a son Yonatan, who was killed during a hostage-rescue operation at Entebbe Airport in Uganda. Benjamin Netanyahu visited his father for the last time on April 29, according to a statement issued April 30 from the Prime Minister’s Office. Netanyahu was born Benzion Mileikowsky in Warsaw in 1910, and immigrated to Mandatory Palestine in 1920. Netanyahu studied at the David Yellin Teachers’ College and later at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem. Among his books are a biography of Don Isaac Abravanel; a history of the Spanish Marranos; and his major work, The Origins of the Inquisition in Fifteenth Century Spain. He also authored The Founding Fathers of Zionism, about the lives of the founders of political Zionism -- Leon Pinsker, Theodor Herzl, Max Nordau, Israel Zangwill and Ze’ev Jabotinsky.
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Streetcar at Playhouse by JESSIE WEES for the Jewish Press “Stella!” Everyone knows what famous play this line is from, but unless you have seen the Omaha Community Playhouse’s production of A Streetcar Named Desire, you don’t know how good the play is. The play tells the story of Southern Belle Blanche DuBois’ slow break from reality while visiting her sister, Stella, and brother in-law, Stanley. From the moment Blanche meets Stanley, she starts escaping into her world of fantasies with the help of cruel and brutish Stanley. From start to finish Teri Fender gets so lost in her portrayal of Blanche that you forget this is a character she is playing and not her real life. Fender is really at her best when acting alongside Stanley, played by Chad Cunningham. Along with Fender and Cunningham’s wonderful chemistry, you are drawn into the intimacy of the play by being in the Howard Drew Theatre. The theatre is a smaller venue that puts the audience straight into the action of the play and makes you feel these characters’ world as a true story unfolding before you. A Streetcar Named Desire plays at the Omaha Community Playhouse until May 27. Don’t wait to hear that classic “Stella, Stella, Stella,” go see this play right away! For more information about show times and to order tickets, please call 402.553.0800 or visit www.oma haplayhouse.org.
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AFFORDABLE PRESS Release service. Send your message to 175 newspapers across Nebraska for one low price! Call 1-800-369-2850 or www.nebpress.com for more details. NEWSPAPER FOR Sale. Weekly newspaper, can be purchased with/without building. Priced to sell immediately!! Loyal advertiser and subscriber base. Call Cheryl at 402986-1777, 402-910-1603, howellsjournal@msn.com. ANTE UP Productions, Saddle Roping, May 13 in Wall, SD. Guaranteed cash & prizes. Details at www.anteupproduction.com or call 605-515-3066. Like us on Facebook. MANNY’S FLEA Market: Omaha’s Newest and Largest, 75+ Vendors, Dealers and Farmer Market Spots available $10. 7305 & 7409 Main Street, Omaha. Open weekends. 402-707-3282. QUALITY, PUREBRED, polled Charolais bulls, and open heifers ready to breed. Prestige herd. Devon Dells Charolais, Pleasant Dale, NE, 402-450-8752. CHARGE NURSE: Alpine Village of Verdigre, seeking night shift charge nurse. Three 12-hour-shifts scheduled, every third weekend. Competitive compensation package. don@alpinecares.com or 402-668-2209. AIRLINES ARE hiring. Train for hands on Aviation Career. FAA approved program. Financial aid if qualified. Job placement assistance. Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance, 888-896-8006. SCRAPER OPERATOR needed for grading contractor. Experience preferred. Company offers competitive pay, health insurance and a 401k plan for employees. Travel is required. Company has per-diem for employees, valid license required. Contact: Adams Construction Co., 308-962-7918. An Equal Opportunity Employer. YOU GOT the drive, we have the direction. OTR Drivers, APU equipped pre-pass EZpass, pets/passenger policy. Newer equipment. 100% No Touch. 1-800-528-7825.
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It’s a crumbling and sodden mess at the Schindler factory site by EVA MUNK BRNENEC, Czech Republic (JTA) -- The windows are smashed, the doors stand agape and the keys in the rusting padlocks have not been turned for years. Still, despite the plaster clinging to the crumbling bricks in leprous sheets, the front looks salvageable. The back, however, tells a different story. Piles of debris block gaping holes knocked through the walls when the owners tore out the big textile machines. Nearby, the erstwhile camp hospital decays in a sodden mess. This is the place where in the waning days of World War II, Oskar Schindler saved 1,200 Jews from near-certain death. The Schindler buildings were last used by a company called Vitka, a once-thriving textile manufacturer. But after Vitka went into bankruptcy in 2004, a series of corporations sold off its machines for lump iron and stripped the buildings of anything of value. In the course of last year, the latest owner of the property, Blue Fields, razed 80 percent of the factory buildings. Blue Fields also failed to pay the bank, which put a lien on the property. The bankruptcy administrator immediately put a halt to further demolitions, and the entire property, including the Schindler buildings, is now mired in litigation that could take years to resolve. “Those buildings are going to stand there in that condition for years to come,” said the bankruptcy administrator, Jiri Krejcerik. “No one is going to invest into property that isn’t theirs.” Blahoslav Kaspar, the mayor of Brnenec, the town where the factory stands, long has dreamed of turning the Schindler buildings into a Holocaust memorial. The town submitted a plan for the center to the regional authorities with a request for about $1 million. But it has no chance of acquiring the funds until the ownership issues are resolved.
Horrified by the rapid destruction, historical preservationists scrambled to have the site declared a national monument. But the request, now pending in the Czech Culture
tration camps and prisoners, Schindler moved some 1,200 Jews from his enamelware factory in Krakow, where they faced near-certain death in Auschwitz, to Brnenec
The lower part of the Schindler factory next to a demolished 19th-century building. Credit: Lubomir Zmelik Ministry, hinges upon the concurrence of Blue Fields, which has stopped communicating except via an electronic mailbox. Until a company representative re-emerges, the authorities say their hands are tied. Though a preliminary ban on demolition has been placed on all buildings, Blue Fields still destroyed several 19th-century buildings in better shape earlier this year, Eliska Rackova of the Pardubice Historical Authority told JTA. “The owner produced a statement from the construction authorities saying that the buildings were decrepit and a danger to the public, and we were powerless to stop it,” she said. Now there is concern that the same fate awaits the rest of the Schindler buildings, possibly condemning a key piece of Jewish history to the dustbin. In the winter of 1944, as the war neared its end and the Nazis rushed to destroy concen-
Happy Mother’s Day to all of the women who touch our lives. ✃
in the Czech Sudetenland. At the time, Brnenec resident Eduard Kubin was a 17-year-old worker at a munitions plant adjacent to the Schindler buildings. Kubin, now 86, still remembers the freezing winter night when the transport arrived. “It was the coldest winter anyone could remember, and 15 prisoners froze to death on the way,” he recalled. “They took them to the cemetery in the village of Brezova, but the priest wouldn’t let them be buried on cemetery ground. They had to dump them in a nearby hollow and pile old wreaths on them. “After the war, the Czechs made the local Germans dig them up with their bare hands and place them in a mass grave inside the cemetery. Schindler even brought in a rabbi to consecrate the ground.” Relics of those cruel times are everywhere: the latticework balcony where the guards
took their smoke breaks; the courtyard where prisoners assembled; the iron gate with the peephole that still creaks open to grant a glimpse of the world; the low door (now marked with a sloppily painted D) that Schindler would emerge from for the review. “Around back there’s a window where we used to leave loaves of bread,” said Kubin, pointing to a narrow alley next to the factory wall. “It was next to the electrified fence, in a spot where the guards in the towers couldn’t see. We’d wrap them in oily rags to camouflage them.” “Giving them food was tricky,” said Petr Henzl, 83, whose father worked at the factory during the war. “A lady who lived behind the wall threw them some fruit once, but the guards caught them picking it up and gave them an awful beating.” Both Henzl and Kubin give much of the credit for the survival of the prisoners to Schindler’s wife, Emilie. “He was off on business mostly,” Kubin said. “She ran the kitchen and the hospital and got the headman at the mill to give them the leftover groats and husks to make gruel. She was also the one who took in the last transport in December.” The few local residents who remember that time now look on in frustration as the property falls into further and further disrepair. JTA’s efforts to contact Blue Fields, which does not list telephone or email contacts, were unsuccessful. The Czech Jewish community says it would welcome a memorial in Brnenec. “It’s a world-famous site, and it would be a shame not to use it for educational purposes -- there can never be enough of those,” said Tomas Kraus, spokesman for the Federation of Jewish Communities. “In the history of the Czech Jews it is but one stone in the mosaic, but a very important one.”
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