Sponsored by the Benjamin and Anna E. Wiesman Family Endowment Fund AN AGENCY OF THE JEWISH FEDERATION OF OMAHA
Federation Annual Campaign
August 10, 2012 22 Av 5772 Vol. 92 | No. 46
This Get Back to Where You Once Belonged Week
Showing in the JCC Gallery: Works by Nelson Batin Page 5
Mezcal Bros. kick-off Backyard Concerts Page 6
by SHERRIE SAAG Communications Specialist, Jewish Federation of Omaha The 2013 Annual Campaign will focus on community families with the theme, “In my Footsteps: Learn from the Past, Lead for the Future.” With this in mind, it was a natural to have the Riekes family chair the 2013 Campaign, but with a twist. This year, Brett and Stacey Atlas will join Carl and Zoë Riekes as Campaign co-chairs and help promote a multi-generational family approach to our Campaign efforts. “Carl and I couldn’t be more thrilled to help direct this year’s Campaign with our children, Stacey and Brett, by our sides. The focus on generations of families, their importance to our community and their generosity and giving spirit cannot be over-emphasized,” said Zoë Riekes. “We are busy creating a fun and The 2013 Federation Annual Campaign high energy Campaign season Brett and Stacey Atlas. starting with a great community “The Beatles invaded America event starring BEATLEMANIA; a almost 50 years ago and now we’ll show the entire family will enjoy. I use their music for our own type of know my whole family is looking invasion with our enthusiasm for the forward to Sunday, Sept. 23.” Annual Campaign,” she added. “So,
Museum to honor Ann Goldstein Play by play at the Siyum HaShas Page 16
Inside Point of view Synagogues In memoriam
This Month Real Estate Special See Front Page stories and more at: www.jewishomaha.org, click on Jewish Press
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by CHRISTINA KAHLER Director of Marketing & Public Relations Omaha Children’s Museum is pleased to announce its sixth annual Great Friends to Kids Luncheon at the museum, 500 S. 20th Street, on Aug. 27 from noon to 1 p.m. The late Ann Goldstein and Gallup will be recognized for their dedication to metro-area children. “This event will bring together businesses, community members and civic leaders to celebrate those who have worked passionately to enhance the lives of metroarea children,” said Lindy Hoyer, executive director of Omaha Children’s Museum. “We’re proud of our community’s family friendly nature and want to recognize individuals who have worked diligently to make this a wonderful place for children to grow up.” Ann Goldstein will receive the
Great Friend to Omaha Children’s Museum award posthumously and Gallup will receive the Great Friend to Kids award. Ann Goldstein was a
strength in numbers! We are fortunate to have strong Jewish leaders from all generations in this community. So, we chose to focus the Campaign on that generational strength in the hopes that our future leaders “grab the baton” from our current community.” “We can learn a lot from our parent’s generation. They were instrumental in building this Jewish community, both financially and structurally. Now, it is up to us, the next generation, to step forward and follow in their footsteps (thus the campaign theme)!” Brett commented further, “This Campaign is going to be different because we are leading as a family. It’s Carl and Zoë, part of Omaha’s “great generation” that led us and built what we take for granted every day. Then, there are Stacey and I, who are part of a generation co-chairs, Carl and Zoë Riekes, left, and that needs to really understand the importance of carrying on this legacy. “In My Footsteps” is our Get Back to Where you Once Belonged, and join us for a great intent to recognize, and build on, the incredible investment of those who Annual Campaign.” Stacey voiced enthusiasm for the came before us. Beyond raising a theme’s intent. “There is definitely Continued on page 2
Historic Omaha Torah scroll coming home by LEIBEL BAUMGARTEN For more than a year he has been sitting in a tiny room in the holy city of Jerusalem. Each morning he arrives, after immersing in a mikvah, and picks up his feather.
Unity Torah. The words he writes today are the very same ones written by Moses more than 3,000 years ago. The messages this scroll contains will provide the very same inspiration that sustained our par-
Ann Goldstein true friend to Omaha Children’s Museum from its inception. Her passion for children was evident in her life as an elementary school teacher, her love for her family and through her service to the museum and other organizations. More than 35 years ago Ann and several friends joined together as volunteers to establish a children’s museum in Omaha and served as first governing board members of the museum. They worked tirelessly building a strong foundation so the Continued on page 2
Don Goldstein, left, hands the quill to Rabbi Mendel Katzman as the Unity Torah receives its first letters. Carefully, he examines the quill, to ensure it has been cut just so. He dips the quill into homemade ink, looks into an old book, and delicately forms a letter on parchment. He looks into the book once again and forms another letter. Then another, and another. His name is Moshe. He is a scribe writing the 304,805 letters that will make up the Omaha
ents, grandparents and ancestors, stretching back thousands of years. During joyous Temple times, the Torah was there; invigorating and uplifting. Throughout the most tragic of eras, from the crusades to the Holocaust, the Torah was with us, crying, yet surviving. Today, just as in yesteryear, children are lifted toward the Torah as Continued on page 2
2 | The Jewish Press | August 10, 2012
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House, Senate pass Iran sanctions enhancement by JTA NEWS STAFF WASHINGTON (JTA) -- The U.S. House of Representatives and the Senate passed the final version of the Iran Threat Reduction and Syria Human Rights Act. The American Israel Public Affairs Committee praised both houses and particularly the bills sponsors, Reps. RosLehtinen (R-Fla.) and Berman (D-Calif.) and Sens. Johnson (D-S.D.) and Shelby (R-Ala.). “Each passing day affords the world’s leading state sponsor of terrorism the ability to advance its illicit nuclear program,” AIPAC said. The bill expands sanctions on insurers dealing with Iran’s energy sector; sanctions anyone affiliated with the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps; expands sanctions on energy and uranium mining activities in Tehran; and freezes the assets of individuals and companies that enable Iran to repress its citizens through the use of technology. It also reduces the threshold for incurring sanctions from $20 million in annual dealings with Iran’s energy sector to $5 million.
Also, for the first time in actionable legislation, the measure defines the capability of building a nuclear weapon as posing a threat to the United States. The Obama administration, with support from Senate Democrats, managed to roll back some provisions backed by the House and Senate Republicans. Under the final version, for instance, the president has considerable leeway to postpone sanctions on insurers in order to give them time to comply. In a conference call Tuesday on the eve of the votes, top White House officials said the bill would be a useful tool for them in ratcheting up pressure on Iran, suggesting that they were ready to implement most of its provisions. “We certainly share the goal, and we believe it can be an important tool in adding to the sanctions regime we have in place,” Ben Rhodes, the deputy national security adviser, said on the call. “We are reviewing the specific text of the bill that was produced, but we’re quite optimistic that we’re going to be able to continue to work in lockstep with Congress with this new legislation that’s working its way through Congress as we increase pressure.”
Get Back: Federation Annual Campaign Continued from page 1 specific dollar amount, we will consider this Campaign a success when our generation embraces this challenge and runs with it.” “Stacey and Brett bring a whole new perspective to the Campaign. I love listening to their ideas. Their knowledge is that of a younger donor, while Carl and I bring informed opinions on more “seasoned” donors. Communicating, cooperating and collaborating give us a better picture of what our community needs,” said Zoë. The Riekes family is certainly energized about Campaign and their energy is contagious. While they feel fortunate to have multiple generations call Omaha home, they recognize that not everyone has family here and not everyone has family that believes strongly in supporting the Federation system. “We intend to reach out and connect with these community members, to help them realize their own reasons for supporting Jewish Omaha. Then, they too will Lead for the Future,” said Brett. Money raised by the Federation Annual Campaign touches every aspect of our community. So it follows that everyone benefits from the generosity of our donors. From the pre-school children enjoying Shabbat at the Pennie Z. Davis
Child Development Center, to teenagers becoming young philanthropists through the B’nai Tzedek Teen Philanthropy Program and youth who enjoy Jewish summer camp or a trip to Israel, or the recipients of daily kosher meals through Meals on Wheels, Stacey says we are reminded daily that “for the most part, the people who support this Jewish community are the people of our Jewish community.” One can’t talk about the Riekes family, learning from the past and leading for the future, without mentioning Henry and Dorothy Riekes, Carl’s parents. According to Marty Ricks, Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation Executive Director, Henry and Dorothy created the first PACE/LOJE fund in 1975, before the Foundation even existed. “Through their first endowed fund and the many others that followed, Henry and Dorothy were top contributors to community projects and their generosity will continue for many years to come.” For the generations to follow, they are the true inspiration. For Carl and Zoë, Annual Campaign chairs in both 2009 and 2010, three times is a charm. “I believe this community is the most caring, giving community in the country, bar none. It is nothing short of a privilege to chair the 2013 Annual Campaign,” said Carl.
“This Campaign is going to be different because we are leading as a family” – Brett Atlas
Unity Torah Continued from page 1 they kiss it lovingly. When the Torah is celebrated, it is hoisted in the air while a jubilant crowd dances around it. When a Torah is destroyed beyond repair, the community mourns it like a beloved relative, burying it respectfully. You see, the Torah is neither relic of the past, nor just a rulebook for the present. The Torah is more than a gift from G-d and not simply a holy Jewish object. The Torah is Judaism. The Torah is G-dliness. The Torah is our very life. And now, a Torah is being written for Omaha. By the entire community. The story of the Unity Torah begins at a birthday celebration. Rabbi Mendel Katzman, celebrating his 50th, was gifted with the start of a new Torah scroll. At the Chabad Center, members of the community were ushered forward to inscribe the first few words of the scroll, “B’reishit bara elokim. - in the beginning G-d created.” Moshe, the scribe, then took over more than 6,500 miles away in Jerusalem. While this Torah will look no different than thousands of others written throughout history, it will indeed be unique. Whereas a new Torah is typically commissioned by an individual or family in honor of a loved one or special occasion, every member of the Omaha Jewish community is being invited to endow a letter on their own, making them an essential part of the Torah. It may seem like only one letter amongst thousands, but the truth is, your letter is the most important one in the scroll! Every soul is represented by a letter in the Torah. If even one letter - one soul - is missing; the entire Torah is not fit for use. You may have 304,804 perfectly written letters, but if just one tiny letter is cracked, they are all practically worthless. Your letter makes all the difference in the world. “The Torah is the ultimate symbol of Jewish unity,” says Estie Baumgarten, Unity Torah Celebration Coordinator. “It is at once equally applicable to all, equally accessible to all, and requires the participation of every individual to be complete.” The idea of endowing a letter in a Torah is an age old tradition. The final mitzvah mentioned in the Torah is the
command that each and every Jew write a Torah for oneself. However this seems a near impossible task; after all, it takes an expert scribe like Moshe more than a year to complete. Our sages tell us that by purchasing one letter of a Torah, it is as if you have written the entire scroll, as every letter is so very essential. As the holiest object in Jewish life, the dedication of a new Torah is invariably celebrated with great pomp and circumstance. In the Shtetl, a town would shut down for the dedication. Stores would close as everyone gathered to celebrate. The Omaha Unity Torah will be celebrated in kind, but with modern twists. Live bands and impressive floats will lead the way, as the community parades with the Torah in stunning display of Jewish pride. “It’s a tremendously exciting opportunity,” says Baumgarten, “The entire community is getting involved in a multitude of ways.” Aside from everyone being able to buy a letter and join the parade, special Torah workshops are being set up to educate local children about how a Torah is made, and its value and centrality in Jewish life. The celebration and parade is scheduled for Thursday, Sept. 20. The final letters of the Unity Torah will be inscribed at the JCC, at 4:30 p.m., after which the parade will lead to the Chabad Center for a grand celebration and buffet lunch. The event is open to the entire community and is free of charge. Please visit www.omahatorah.com to buy letters, R.S.V.P for the parade, or simply find out more.
Ann Goldstein Continued from page 1 museum could grow to become the organization it is today. She and her family enjoyed traveling to numerous children’s museums throughout the country gathering inspiration for Omaha Children’s Museum. Reservations start at $50. Tables and corporate sponsorships are also available. For more information or to RSVP call 402.930.2349 or go to www.ocm.org.
August 10, 2012 | The Jewish Press | 3
Cross country bikers inspire community by LEIBEL BAUMGARTEN need to do each day. Lazaroff himself is no It was a most inspiring Shabbat at the stranger to overcoming challenges, having Chabad Center, where a dozen cross coun- served in an elite division of the Israeli try bikers riding from Los Angeles to New Defense Forces specializing in counter terYork City stopped for the weekend of July 27. The ride is generating funds and awareness for The Circle, a Friendship Chabad founded initiative which serves special needs children and their families. At a luncheon following morning services, bikers related tales from the journey and the lessons learned. When asked why he would attempt such a difficult feat at his age, Mordy Kurtz, Chicago, IL, left, Yosef Peysin, Chicago, IL, Marty Gordon, 66, Shmuly Lazaroff, Houston, TX, Binyomin Cylich, Melbourne, shrugged and said he has Australia, Shmuel Shechter, Brooklyn, NY, Sruly Heisler, been doing crazy things all Seattle, WA. his life. A Massachusetts native now living in rorism and urban warfare. “Everyone’s body Jerusalem, Gordon said he had ridden many will eventually break,” he says of the intense charity rides in Israel and jumped at the Bike training, “It’s just a question of when and 4 Friendship opportunity. “When I started how you overcome it.” researching them, I found I had nieces and Avid cyclist, Larry Gilinsky, along with nephews who were volunteering for them, Rabbi Mendel Katzman, Director of the and what terrific work they do. I got permis- Chabad Center, joined the bikers Monday sion from my doctors, and here I am.” morning as they left Omaha and headed Melissa Schop thanked the riders for their toward Iowa. “They’ve undertaken a efforts, telling them of her special needs son, remarkable journey,” Gilinsky said. “I am Noah. “We know firsthand how important honored and privileged to join their misprograms like yours are. We cannot thank sion, even if only for a fraction of the disyou enough.” Susie Mogil agreed, “I want to tance.” thank all the bikers for all you do,” she said. The locals rode alongside the Bike 4 “I have a grandson with special needs, and I Friendship crew to the Bob Kerrey Bridge, truly appreciate all your efforts.” passing by the new Leavenworth St. biking Leader of the group, Rabbi Shmully lane just as it opened to the public. A repreLazaroff, of Houston, TX, says the ride is sentative from the Mayor’s office, Craig about pushing your limits and breaking bar- Howell, joined the sendoff noting the riers, just as children with special needs importance of volunteer projects such as
The Friendship Circle. “We are so proud that Omaha was able to host you. We commend your dedication to helping children.” The bikers themselves were appreciative of the warm welcome. Aron Neufield, of Valley Stream, NY, really enjoyed the people of
Nebraska. “From the conversations I had with the locals, I found them all very warm, very friendly,” he said in a video blog. To find out more about the ride, and follow the bikers on the rest of their journey, visit www.bike4friendship.com.
IHE announces new educator by HILLARY FLETCHER Advanced programs and has a passion for Marketing Assistant, teaching lessons of the Holocaust and Institute for Holocaust Education related issues. A member of the Nebraska The Institute for Holocaust Education is Holocaust Education Consortium (a comthrilled to announce a new addition to mittee of the IHE), she has traveled to Israel with Bearing Witness their staff. Donna Walter is Advanced and most recently the newly appointed with the IHE/NHEC. She is Education Coordinator. the National Catholic Donna’s duties will Association Educational include oversight and out2012 Distinguished Teacher reach for Searching for for the Plains States. Donna Humanities: Veterans, serves on the advisory counVictims and Survivors of cil of Project Interfaith. She World War II, the Holocaust and her husband enjoy ridexhibit at the Strategic Air ing a tandem bicycle and and Space Museum, coorditalking about their grandnation of the annual Tribute daughter, Annie (and soon to the Rescuers Essay grandchild #2). Contest, and point person Donna stated, “I am for the Nebraska Holocaust Donna Walter very excited to be working Education Consortium. She will also be a contact for educators here because I have benefited so much from IHE programming over the years and throughout the state. Donna has a Bachelor of Arts degree in I am eager to share this information with English from Western Illinois University other educators throughout the state.” Beth Dotan, Executive Director for the and a Master of Science in Reading from the University of Nebraska Omaha. She has IHE, weighed in, “I have worked alongside spent the past 24 years teaching eighth Donna for more than ten years and I feel so grade language arts and serving as curricu- fortunate to have her with us. Her knowllum coordinator for grades 5-8; has partic- edge and dedication to Holocaust educaipated in the nationally recognized ADL tion will benefit the IHE immensely and Bearing Witness and ADL Bearing Witness hopefully for years to come.”
4 | The Jewish Press | August 10, 2012
Beth El welcomes students to exciting new high school by JILL BELMONT Beth El Publicity Coordinator After two years as part of the Omaha Jewish Chai School, Beth El Synagogue Talmud Torah welcomes its high school students back to the synagogue to attend the BESTT High School of Jewish Studies. Beginning Wednesday, Sept. 5, students at the new high school will be treated to “an exciting array of courses and a group of terrific teachers,” according to Eadie Tsabari, Beth El’s Director of Congregational Learning.
to the beginning of classes. (Cost of dinner programs is included in the registration fee.) The school’s second trimester will run from Dec. 5 to March 20, and will offer the following classes: “Musar: Ethical Ways to Live a Jewish Life,” taught by Glen Fineman; “Ten Things Every Student Needs to Know Before They Go to College,” led by Alan Potash; “Judaism and Christianity: How Do They Differ? What Have They in Common?” taught by Rabbi Levin, and “Body Ethics: Jews and Tattoos and Piercings, Oh, My!” led by Daniel Christensen. Finally, the last trimester is planned for April 3 to May 8, with classes including “Ten Commandments of Teens,” led by Glen Fineman; a course (title to be announced), taught by Hazzan Krausman; “Hot Topics,” led by Rabbi Abraham; and “The Jewish People’s Court,” taught by David Herzog and Steve Riekes. In addition to regular BESTT classes, teens will still participate in monthly community educational programs for
teens, the first being a special Selihot concert on Saturday, Sept. 8. “The Community Chai School was very successful,” Tsabari said, “but we have chosen to have the best of both worlds: we’ll still have the community programs once a month, and our kids get to come home and attend BESTT High School.” Rabbi Mordechai Levin added, “For years our teens loved to attend Beth El’s Hebrew High School’s interactive and participatory classes, and enjoyed being with their friends. We’re so pleased that they’ll be back at the synagogue to once again enjoy both our outstanding classes and some great camaraderie.” Beth El’s high school is open to all teenagers in the Jewish community. For more information about the school and its programs, contact Tsabari in the BESTT office, 402.498.0904, or etsabari@bethel-omaha.org; information may also be found at www.bethel-omaha.org.
OTYG invites Omaha’s Jewish youth to make a splash
This group of Beth El teens, seen here during last Passover’s Chocolate Seder, will be among students participating in the synagogue’s new BESTT High School of Jewish Studies. The school will be run on a trimester schedule: Trimester 1 runs from Sept. 5 to Nov. 14, and will feature classes including “Seven Habits of ‘Chai-ly’ Effective Teens,” taught by Glen Fineman; “The WOW of Judaism,” taught by Andy Greenberg; “Body Ethics: Jews and Tattoos and Piercings – Oh, My!” led by Daniel Christensen; and “Torah Trades: The Success of Jewish Business People in Omaha and in the Torah,” led by Rick Canfield. The opening evening of classes will begin with a special welcome-back dinner at 6 p.m., with classes following from 6:45 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. During the school year, teens will be treated to monthly dinners and special presentations, prior
by DAVID GOLBITZ Temple Israel Staff Writer Summer is winding down and school is right around the corner, but one of Omaha’s Jewish youth groups isn’t ready to throw in the towel just yet. OTYG is hosting a pool party/membership drive on Aug. 24 and it’s open to all kids in grades 9-12. It’s an opportunity for the kids to hang out and swap stories about their summer activities, said OTYG Youth Advisor Amy Katz. The evening begins at 7:30 p.m. at Amy Katz’s house, 9120 Woolworth Avenue, and from there the group will head to Sunset Hills Pool, 9601 Walnut Street, where parents can pick up their kids at 11:30 p.m. Katz recommends those who are planning to attend should RSVP by contacting either herself or OTYG Vice President of Membership Abby Hack, who is excited about her first year as a member of OTYG. “I’ve always wanted to be a part of OTYG,” said Abby, an incoming freshman at Westside High School whose older
sister Grace and brother Joe were also members. Abby, 13, is hoping for a good turnout at the pool party. As part of her job as VP of Membership, she wants to “get people interested and involved” in OTYG. “OTYG is a great way to get involved with Temple,” Abby said. “All of our events are really fun and everyone always has a really good time and it’s a nice way to meet Jewish people from your temple and other temples. I think it’s a great way to spend your time and help out.” OTYG is part of NFTY, the North American Federation of Temple Youth, and allows teens to expand their youth group experience with their peers from across the country. In addition to hosting this pool party, OTYG has many other events scheduled throughout the year, including bake sales and movie nights. And this year, Omaha will be hosting the NFTY conclave in November. Those who plan on attending the Aug. 24 pool party should remember to bring along their OTYG membership form. Those who do will receive a new duffel bag with the OTYG logo emblazoned on the side.
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August 10, 2012 | The Jewish Press | 5
Now showing in the JCC Gallery: Works by Nelson Batin
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by JANET G. SMITH During the month of August, the JCC Gallery is pleased to exhibit paintings by local artist Nelson Batin. Batin’s background and life experiences are instrumental in the pictures he chooses to paint. The beauty he finds in the world around him is elegantly translated onto canvas and displayed for all to enjoy. His dedication to finding the joy and inspiration in everyday life is expressed through vivid pops of color and a wide array of subject matter. Nelson Batin was born in 1957 on the Philippines Islands. In 1975 he arrived in the United States, settling in Washington State. His father was a farmer and his mother a homemaker. Batin was the 4th child in a family of 11 children. Education was very important to his family. During his formative years Batin entered many art competitions. He never let one day pass without creating something for himself, or someone else. These projects were both 2-dimensional on canvas, paper or other media and 3dimensional multimedia sculpture, environmental design projects using fruit, flowers and other organic materials. He studied art at Wapato High School under Charlie Smith. Under Smith’s direction and encouragement to enter competitions, Batin won top honors in the 1977-1978 State Superintendent High School Art Show. A close family friend, Lorena Silva, realized the talent and creative side of Batin, and she encouraged him to pursue a career in art after high school graduation. Batin applied and was accepted to continue art studies at Yakima Valley College under R. Keyes Smith and at Highline Community College under Gary Nelson. He graduated with a degree as a production illustrator in 1984. Boeing Aircraft of Seattle, Washington needed Batin’s skills as a production illustrator and hired him full time after graduation to assist with aircraft production designs. Some of the airplanes he illustrated were the Boeing 747, 767 and 737. At Boeing he expanded his art illustrating and technical skills by taking and completing mechanical illustrating, expanded drafting skills and other coursework via Boeing Graphic Art (BoGART). This allowed him continued success and progress in his Boeing graphics illustration career for a successful and productive 24 years in illustration. This corporate experience involving detailed design guided Batin’s creative community contributions. Batin credits Boeing as instrumental to his fine art success and work as a
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fine art director. Batin exhibited annually in local, state, regional and national art exhibitions both juried and non-juried actively, since graduation in 1984. He was active in the Washington State Community as a board member. His work within the Philippine cultural community gained him recognition, appreciation and awards. This includes the Labor Day “Harvest Festival” of 2009 where the Yakima Herald-Republic documented Batin designing, creating and building a float. This float was featured in the Wapato parade to celebrate the cultural heritage of the Philippines with participants wearing traditional regalia and Philippine regional clothing. His creative design work and art projects won top awards at the University of Canada and in Olympia, WA at the State Capitol building. One art design project he enjoyed was the “Great Pumpkin Contest” taking first place ribbon with the entry Airplanes Gord-lore #2 as documented by a local newspaper in Washington. Then in 2010 he relocated with his family to Omaha, from Seattle. Here he works independently on his art and design projects. He continues as an art director for community projects, including but not limited to dance productions, costume design, entertaining, decorating and creating floral designs for cultural events. Batin incorporates ideas of nature, the environment, trees, flowers and other subject elements to enhance the visual experience by adding interest to events and people’s lives. Since leaving Boeing and relocation to Nebraska, Batin’s art direction is focused on his personal creative projects. The dedication and structured work ethic developed at Boeing he applies directly to his studio work and fine art projects. The influences of nature from three distinctly different areas of the world evolve in his designs. His art is found exhibited in large corporate reception areas, held by private collectors, non-profit organizations and businesses in Nebraska, Washington State and the Philippines. Commissions exhibited in public buildings are: University of Canada and the State Capitol of Washington at Olympia. The Jewish Community Center Gallery is free and open to the public. Gallery hours are Monday - Thursday 8 a.m. - 9 p.m., Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., and Sunday 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. For more information about this exhibit, please contact Lynn Batten, Gallery Manager at 402.334.6564.
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Mezcal Bros. ready for our Backyard stage by SHERRIE SAAG Communications Specialist, Jewish Federation of Omaha The Federation’s Backyard Concert Series kicks off next Sunday, Aug. 12 at 6 p.m. with the rockabilly sounds of The Mezcal Brothers of Lincoln, NE. Bring your lawn chairs, picnic baskets and favorite beverages and enjoy, because the music will be as hot as our Omaha temperatures! The band, together for 12 years, includes Gerardo Meza, founder, front man, and rhythm guitar player; Charlie Johnson on double bass; Benny Kushner on lead guitar and Shaun Theye on drums. The band released their first full length CD, Hold On Tight, in 2000, kick starting their decades-long history of touring. After spending most of the summers on the west coast, they toured the Midwest extensively in the winter; always keeping their home base in Lincoln. The Mezcal Bros. also play selected venues and festivals throughout the United States and Europe. They recently recorded their fifth record to be released in the near future through Jungle Records or Spinout Records. The band’s influence stems from their love of fifties Rockabilly music. Gerardo Meza writes in this genre and captures the essence of that time in rock history. According to him, “we are NOT an oldies band; rather we interpret the cultural phenomenon known as Rock and Roll, done in the way the originators of this music did back in the 1950’s.” “Our influences include Elvis, Buddy Holly, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins, Little Richard, Jerry Lee, and Big Joe Turner, to
name a few,” he added. Their goal at each concert is to make the audience happy and provide, in their words, “a rockin’ great time!” The Backyard Concert Series is presented by the Jewish Federation of Omaha and generously sponsored by the Sokolof Javitch Music Fund of the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation. Additional support
Backyard concert series
Publishing Date | 08.24.12 Space Reservation | 08.15.12 Camera Ready Deadline | 08.17.12
Contact your advertising representative to advertise in this very special edition.
Jessie Wees
402.334.6559 | jwees@jewishomaha.org
Shiri Tene
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HONOR I NG
Ann Goldstein (1946-2011)
Temple Israel religious school registration is now online
Great Friends to Kids Annual Luncheon
Great Friend to Omaha Children’s Museum 2012 Ann Goldstein
provided by the Special Donor Advised Fund, the Myron (Mike) Milder II Memorial Fund and the Samuel and Bess Rothenberg Memorial Endowment, all of the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation. The Backyard Concert Series continues Sundays Aug. 26 and Sept. 12. Star Catering will have kosher food for sale. For more information, call Bob Goldberg, Director of Strategic Initiatives at 402.334.6431.
Great Friend to Kids 2012 Gallup
Monday, August 27, 2012, Noon‒1 p.m. Omaha Children’s Museum 500 South 20th Street
by DAVID GOLBITZ Temple Israel Staff Writer Summer is almost over and you know what that means: time to register your kids for Religious School! This year registration is easier than ever. For the first time Temple Israel is allowing parents to register their children online via ChaverWeb. Parents should have received an email last week with your ChaverWeb username and temporary password. If any families haven’t received this email, please contact Temple Israel immediately so that your child can be registered before classes begin Aug. 19. ChaverWeb aims to simplify the registration process by allowing parents to, with a few clicks of a button, select the grade your child or children will be in, allow permission for field trips, give Temple Israel staff permission to call emergency contacts and let staff know about any medication or learning assistance your child may need. Parents will also be able to update their Temple Israel membership information, edit contact information and check account balances. Temple Israel hopes to open this feature to all congregants in the coming months. Over the past months, both Rabbi Joshua Brown and Religious School Principal Ariella Lowensohn have been diligently working to
put in place a faculty and a curriculum that they feel will be most beneficial to Temple Israel’s children. “In our high school program we are focused on solidifying our teens love for Temple Israel, the greater Omaha Jewish community. We are committed to serious learning,” said Rabbi Josh Brown. “We want our teens to feel at home in our Jewish community as they prepare for their Jewish life after high school.” Religious School Principal Ariella Lowensohn agrees. “What made my religious school experience so compelling was a combination of the dedicated group of teachers and clergy I had there, and the community created by spending time with other Jewish kids my age who I had grown up with and could count on seeing every year,” Lowensohn said. Once the kids are registered via ChaverWeb, preferably by Aug. 10, both students and their parents are invited to Temple Israel on August 19 for the first day of religious school. Parents will have the opportunity to meet teachers and learn about the curriculum for the upcoming school year, followed by a school-wide barbecue lunch with faculty.
EARLY DEADLINE NOTICE Tickets available at 402-930-2349 or ocm.org
The Jewish Press office is closed Monday, Sept. 3 for Labor Day and MondayTuesday, Sept. 17 and 18, for Rosh Hashanah; the deadline for the Sept. 21 issue is Tuesday, Sept. 11, 9 a.m. Questions? Call 402.334.6448.
August 10, 2012 | The Jewish Press | 7
Beth El Talmud Torah boasts a new curriculum, new principal by JILL BELMONT Beth El Publicity Coordinator The best of times are just around the corner for BESTT (Beth El Synagogue Talmud Torah), as the religious school offers new classes, a new education director, and classrooms filled with enthusiastic students. With the beginning of the school year, longtime BESTT faculty member Eadie Tsabari takes the helm as the synagogue’s Director of Congregational Learning, which includes the title of religious-school principal. “I’m excited about BESTT because we have a phenomenal group of kids,” she said. “They’re one of the nicest groups of kids that we’ve ever had. They’re excited, they’re fun, they’re smart, they love to learn, and they get it. And their parents get it. Their parents are committed, and that’s what makes everything work. There’s a difference between being a member of a synagogue and belonging to a synagogue. We belong here.” Emphasizing the important role a good Jewish education plays in the lives of children, Beth El’s Rabbi Mordechai Levin said he looks forward to another productive and inspirational year for the congregation’s children. “Many studies show that Jewish education has an important impact on the way our children choose their Jewish priorities as adults, such as ritual observance, charitable giving, and membership in Jewish communal organizations,” he said. “Beth El has always prided itself in the high quality of our school, and we’re ready for another great year of enrichment. Our children will love it!” Like last year, classes are scheduled for Wednesday afternoons and Sunday mornings. The optional Monday Moadon Judaic-enrichment classes will also be offered to all youths in the Jewish community. Tsabari said she looks forward to the school’s new trimester system, as the new schedule will allow more classes to be offered and more faculty members utilized. The first trimester (Aug. 26 to Nov. 18), will focus solely on learning Hebrew, which will build a solid foundation for students’ future classes and participation in religious services. “We’ll use this time to really get our Hebrew under our belts, learn our prayers and utilize it throughout the year,” she said. The second trimester (Nov. 28 to March 20), will continue with Hebrew lessons, but will also offer core classes
exploring history and ethics, “the core things we need to know to be good Jews,” Tsabari said. During the final trimester (April 3 to May 10), core classes will continue, and Sundays mornings will also feature fine arts projects, consisting of cooking, art, dance and music, on a rotating schedule.
Eadie Tsabari, seen here with a group of BESTT students, is taking the helm at the religious school, one of her responsibilities as the synagogue’s new Director of Congregational Learning. “The school’s structure’s a little bit different, which makes it interesting.” Tsabari said. “Our ‘Shabbat’s Cool’ is now a monthly program; our themes during those programs will center around holidays, so we can actually experience the holidays ahead of time and understand and be prepared when we go home and celebrate with our families.” In addition, she said, “We’ve also added extra ‘shul-ins,’ where we stay a little later on Shabbat. We are so excited to offer true Shabbat experiences for our students in order to build community, leadership and understand the beauty of Judaism.” Tsabari also shared the fun-filled educational activities planned for the congregation’s pre-kindergarten set: little ones and their parents will be treated to monthly Torah Tots programs, led by Naomi Gaca and Rabbi Steven Abraham, with special musical sessions presented by Hazzan Michael Krausman.
ROSH HaShanah Greetings This year you can send your greetings through these very special ads that will run in our annual Rosh Hashanah issue. Each ad can be personalized with your name, the names of your children or your grandchildren.
“Students ages three to five and their parents will be introduced to our Talmud Torah program, and will begin to develop a basic understanding of holidays, customs, ceremonies, Bible stories and key Hebrew vocabulary,” she said. “We’ll have a lesson, story time, songs and great activities – it’s going to be so much fun!” All in all, the school’s main priority is “to build as much community as we can build,” Tsabari said, noting that parents are always invited to join their children during classes on Wednesdays and on Sunday mornings, when the day begins with a school assembly and guest speakers. “Our parents are given the opportunity to participate in many facets of their children’s Jewish education,” she said. “Through family education programs and congregational celebrations, we can all work together to become partners in the important task of passing along our heritage to our children. We want our children to cherish their Judaism. Together with our children, we want to celebrate and discover all that is sacred and wonderful in Jewish life.” For more information about BESTT, contact Tsabari at 402.498.0904, or etsabari@bethel-omaha.org. To check out the entire BESTT Family Information Handbook, visit www.bethel-omaha.org.
Organizations B’NAI B’RITH BREADBREAKERS Beth Katz, Project Interfaith Executive Director, has launched a brand new program to improve interfaith relationships in the River City. Ravel-Unravel has already garnered accolades, and she will tell us all about it on Wednesday, Aug. 15, 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 It has been said that Yiddish doesn’t only have words, it also has an attitude. Leo Rosten wrote “Yiddish never takes its tongue out of its cheeks!” Come join us at the Rose Bumkin home’s Boardroom, at 1-3 p.m., every Thursday.
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8 | The Jewish Press | August 10, 2012
August 10, 2012 | The Jewish Press | 9
Rabbi Hillel said
“If I am not for myself, who will be? If I am only for myself, what am I? And if not now, when?” These words remind us that though self-interest is our right, we also have a duty to care for others. Today. For over a century, Jewish Family Service of Omaha has focused on providing crucial aid to individuals, couples and families facing challenges in their lives. Between July, 2011 and June, 2012, our efforts have been sustained by the following contributors who chose to balance their own needs with the needs of others. Grants
Endowments
Contributions & Tribute Cards
Project Tzedakah
Project Dreidel
Members of our community deserve to live with dignity. These grants provide financial assistance, counseling services, YACHAD activities and other critical programs that strengthen Jewish family life. Carl Frohm Memorial Foundation Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging (ENOA) Harris Family Endowment Fund Herbert Goldsten Trust Howard & Judy Vann Family Education Fund The Milton S. and Corrine N. Livingston Foundation, Inc. Parsow and Simons Families Special Needs Community Fund Phillip & Terri Schrager Supporting Foundation Lazier L. Singer Memorial Fund for Youth Murray H. and Sharee C. Newman Supporting Foundation National Yachad (OU) Samuel & Delma Goodman Youth Fund Shirley& Leonard Goldstein Supporting Foundation Sokolof Foundation Special Donor-Advised Fund of the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation
Pitlor Family Transplant Support Endowment Fund Richard “Pete” Lee Memorial Endowment Fund Rosalie and Milton Saylan Endowment Fund for JFS Ruth and Bernard Raskin Endowment Fund Ruth and Otmar Liebenstein JFS Financial Assistance Endowment Fund Steven Bloch President’s Fund Yachad Endowment Fund
Mary and Tom Bernstein Beth El Synagogue BESTT (Beth El Synagogue) Beth El Synagogue 5th Grade Class Carol and Steve Bloch Albert Bloch CDC Students Rose Cohen Edith Comisar Juanita Davidson Sharon and Howard Epstein Audrey Epstein Annette and Cantor Leo Fettman Hillary and John Fletcher Joanne and Jerry Freeman Beverly Frieden Katherine Frish June Goodbinder Caryl and Barton Greenberg Renee and Morris Handleman Joanie and Richard Jacobson Jewish Funeral Home Inc. Gloria and Howard Kaslow Maxine and Joe Kirshenbaum Gail and Jerry Kohll Bette and Jack Kozlen Sissi Lapides Miriam Moran (Schwartz Philanthropic Foundation) National Council of Jewish Women Patty and Steve Nogg Sandy and Alan Nogg Carol and Alan Parsow Fefe Passer Ruth and Merle Potash Shila and Dr. Ira Priluck Cloe Ray Zoe and Carl Riekes Caryn and Gary Rifkin Helen Rifkin Phyllis Roffman Joan Rosen Linda and Rodney Sadofsky Sherry and Larry Shapiro The Todd & Bettiana Simon Foundation Lomir Redn Yiddish Group Marion and Harold Slosburg Dorothy Spizman Gloria Vann Janice and Philip Wayne Andi Willensky Mort Zuber
Each year, during Rosh Hashanah, Hanukkah and Passover, JFS supports the less fortunate with holiday food baskets. Giving to others is an act of social justice. Bag N Save Burke High School Students Nancy Burkhart Cathy Christiansen Arnold “Tuffy” Epstein Lauri Epstein Judy Farber David Goldberg Danielle Gordman Joanie Jacobson Nikki Kirshenbaum Kate Kirshenbaum Gary Kudym Lomir Redn Yiddish Group Wendy Manvitz Bruce Meyers Anne Moshman Mandie Norton Ellen Platt Susan Rothholz Jeanne and Rabbi Maximo Shechet Mimi Silverman Dorothy Spizman Temple Israel Joye Wees
Jake Meyerson Jenny Meyerson & Family Linda and Alan Muskin Nan C Kim Noddle Susie and Michael Norton & Family Fefe Passer Caryn Scheer Jeanne and Rabbi Maximo Shechet Lisa Shkolnick Andrea and Mike Siegel and Family Sonia Tipp Joye Wees Kori Wees Amee and Ted Zetzman & Family
Endowments Tikkun Olam -- repairing the world -- is a moral obligation. Through these endowments, JFS continues to help people build lives of hope and joy. Edith and Paul Goldstein Endowment Fund Glazer Family Endowment Fund Harry and Fannie Stock Rothkop/Theodore Rothkop Fund Ike Friedman JFS Financial Assistance Fund Jake and Mary Wine Fund Jerome J. and Frances O. Milder Endowment Fund JFS Discretionary Fund Kutler Dental Custodial Fund Leo and Frances Rodick Memorial Endowment Fund Louis Friedman Fund for New Americans Mark and Sophie Sturm Immigrant Education Fund Nancy Noddle JFS Financial Assistance Fund Nathan and Rose Lillian Fine JFS Tzedakah Endowment Fund Paul Alperson Endowment Fund Paul and Joy Grossman Family Endowment Fund Pennie Z. Davis Family Life Education Fund * Of Blessed Memory
In Kind Donations The Talmud says, “A good friend is a tower of strength. To find one is to find a treasure.” Friends of JFS help families in crisis receive guidance to put their lives back in order. 39 Forever Beth El Sisterhood Brenda Arnold Chris Blumkin Florence Brody Saundra Clarke Beth Friedman Danielle Gordman Karen and Jeff Gustafson Jordana Glazer Barbara and Robert Goodman Julianne and David Herzog Cecilia Knight Ivy Kohll Sandra Kohll Deborah Kronick Lomir Redn Yiddish Group Ruthie Potash Iris and Marty Ricks Ed Schneider Family of Selma Shamberg Sherry Shapiro Jeanne and Rabbi Maximo Shechet Suzanne Singer Philip Wayne
Contributions & Tribute Cards Donations in honor and in remembrance of family and friends help meet the emotional and financial needs that accompany unexpected medical problems or the loss of employment. Anonymous (2) Harry and Doris Alloy Sandra Belgrade
Project Dreidel At Hanukkah, JFS volunteers bring toys to children. Through this active intervention, the fundamental human needs of others are met. B’nai B’rith Albert Bloch Stacie Brodkey & Children Sandy and Sherman Brodkey Burke High School Students Nancy Burkhart Laurie and Jason Epstein & Family Paul and Sandy Epstein Jamie and Ted Friedland Debbie Friedman Wendy Furst Danielle and Jeff Gordman & Family Bridget and Kip Gordman & Family Scott Haber Sharon and Jeff Kirshenbaum & Family Sharon and Howard Kooper Tina and Joe Meyers Sue Meyers
Friends Campaign Friend for Life The Todd & Betiana Simon Foundation Scott Haber Nancy Noddle Cynthia Schneider Eve and Fred Simon Friend of the Family Ike and Roz Friedman Foundation Gloria and Howard Kaslow Sharee and Murray Newman Zoe and Carl Riekes Silvia and Dr. Larry Roffman Angel Bev and Dick Fellmen Sandy and Alan Nogg Tom Vann/Vann Realty Co. Nora and Barry Zoob Champion Anonymous (2) Scott Burger Champion Mark Singer Suzanne Singer Patron Ida Berman Mary Berman Fran and Louie Blumkin Cheryl and Dr. Ron Cooper Sandy and Paul Epstein Kay Lynn and Dr. John Goldner Karen and Jeff Gustafson
Patron Nancy and David Jacobson Debbi and Larry Josephson Sally and Gary Kaplan Marsha and Milt Kleinberg Alice and Harold Kosowsky Diane and Dr. Larry Malashock Ann and Dr. Gordon Moshman Susan and James Polack Iris and Marty Ricks Carol and Edward Schneider Susie and Dr.Norman Sheldon Mimi and Michael Silverman Joie Simon Cari Sommer Andi Willensky Nancy and Phil Wolf Leona Wolfson Charlotte and Morley Zipursky Debbi and Dr. Speedy Zweiback Supporter Anonymous (1) Phyllis Aron Beth Cohen and Harry Berman Rose Davis Sharon and Howard Epstein Debbie and Scott Friedman Lois and Lloyd* Friedman Rosalie Greenspan Mary Sue and Alex Grossman Sara and Dr. Fred J. Kader Konstantin Kaplun Abigail Kutler Lisa and Dennis Lewis Jody and Dr. Neal Malashock Tina and Joe Meyers Papio Creek Gems and Gifts Margo and Steve Riekes Helen Rifkin Judy and Dr. Blaine Roffman Betty Rubin Lori Kooper-Schwarz and Wayne Schwarz Sissy and Howard Silber Sponsor Anonymous (7) Joanie and Terry Bernstein Peter Brodkey Elaine and Sam Bukenholts Molline and Fritz Cassman Debbie Denenberg Maneva and Harold Edelman Edith Epstein
Sponsor Judith Feigin Annette and Cantor Leo Fettman Sally and Dr. Paul Fine Paulette and Henry Flatowicz Frances and Sam Fried Ron Giller Shari Hess Sylvia Jess Beatrice Karp Esther and Philip Katz Jenny and Scott Meyerson Drs. Ruth and Eyal Margalit Rita Novak Linda Novak Helga and Phil Patterson Caryn Rifkin Nancy Rips Stacey and Jonathan Rockman Sheila Rosen Rita M. Rosen Margo Rosen Rosalie and Milt Saylan Phyllis Schwartz Sherry and Larry Shapiro Kathy and Dr. Larry Siref Harlan “Bud” Studna Judy and Stewart Tully Joodi and Norman Veitzer Mary Lou and Arthur* Walker Circle of Friends Anonymous (4) Doris and Harry Alloy Elyce and Aryeh Azriel Jay Benton Phyllis Bittner Fanny Bohbot Judy and Larry Brookstein Freda Bucheister Cantor Wendy Shermet and Len Burrell Ida and Larry Cohoon Janey and Jerry Dann Pat Mogil and Roger Darrington Beth Dotan Melvin Epstein Helen and Tuffy Epstein Sam Fedman Betty Fisher Bev and Joe Frank Joanne and Jerry Freeman Beverly Freiden Jan and Mort Glass Ruth and Irwin Goldenberg
Circle of Friends Alan Goodman Caryl and Barton Greenberg Myrna Grumer Joanie Jacobson Gloria Jones Franklin Kaiman Sylvia and Jerry Kaiman Nikki and Adam Kirshenbaum Kate Kirshenbaum Ivy Kohll Joseph Kosinovsky Shane and David Kotok Bette and Jack Kozlen Leslie Kully Dr. Lina Lander Dr. Michael Levine Marilyn Lewis Lina Levit Boris May Robyn Menin Bella and Leonid Nakhimovich Mark Ocheretyanskiy Donna and Dr. Robert Olesh Reva Oruch Vicki Perlmeter Cheryl Phillips William Pisetsky Joan and Bennett* Raduziner Eileen and Miles Remer Jerry Rosen Joan Rosen Susan Rothholz Faye Ruback Alla and Mark Rubezhin Lynne and Errol Saltzman Stephanie and Michael Sigmond Esther Silver Harold Siporin Dorothy Spizman Rocky Stern Kimberly and Alan Stoler Billie and Melvin Tatelman Marilyn and Steve Tipp Helen Weber Alan Wolfson
Jewish Family Service is able to do its work because members of this remarkable community genuinely care about one another. Thank you for your generous support.
All contributions are as of June 30, 2012. We apologize if your name was omitted from this list. Please call JFS at 402-330-2024.
10 | The Jewish Press | August 10, 2012
Going on a Vacation? New Beth El adult-ed class to teem with controversy Don’t leave your four legged friends in a kennel. Call to reserve your vacation times soon!
House Sitting/Pet Sitting References Available
402-422-0365 Cell: 402-517-6444
by JILL BELMONT Beth El Publicity Coordinator Have you ever wondered what the Torah says about capital punishment, women’s rights, homosexuality, slavery and divorce? Beth El’s new, monthly adult-education class, “The Highly Controversial Laws of the Torah,” will tackle these and other thought-provoking topics, beginning on Sunday, Aug. 19. According to teacher Andy Greenberg, the 10 a.m. class will focus on “how we respect Andy Greenberg the text and our heritage as we try to balance it with today’s modern world. This interactive class will invite lively discussion and debate, while providing
Camp Sabra
an education of the text and how we use it – or not!” The class is geared to “anyone who loves to be involved in discussions and open forums,” he said, adding, “Knowledge of the Torah, Judaism, and Hebrew is not required. Each class will open with a statement from the Torah and then we’ll let the discussions begin. “Many of us have not examined these topics in a classroom setting,” Greenberg continued. “We’re not going to challenge the laws and we are always going to maintain respect for the Torah and other people’s opinions.” Upcoming class sessions are scheduled for Sept. 9, Oct. 28, Nov. 18 and Dec. 16; all adults in the Jewish community are welcome to participate. Cost to attend is $36 for Beth El members; $45 for nonmembers. To register, contact the synagogue office, 402.492.8550, or programming@bethel-omaha.org, or visit www.bethel-omaha.org. (Click on “Lifelong Learning,” then “Adult Education.”)
RESPECT at Beth Israel
Now Enrolling at
71st & Mercy | 39th & Harney | 125th/126th & Pacific | 185th & W Maple
402.393.1311
THANK YOU NEBRASKA Thank you Nebraska for your donations, help, support, generosity and prayers during a very difficult time fighting the wildfires in North Central Nebraska along the Niobrara River. It makes us proud to call ourselves Nebraskan’s after seeing how virtually every part of our great state stepped forward to help during our time of need! Brad Fiala, Ainsworth Fire Chief Mark Johnson, Johnstown Fire Chief Scott Hallock, Springview Fire Chief Terry Engles, Valentine Fire Chief Greg O’Kief, Wood Lake Fire Chief Doug Fox, Region 24 Emergency Management
Camp Sabra (Lake of the Ozarks) is home this summer to a number of Omahans both as campers and staff. Shown during second session are: Back row: Josh Finnicum, Michael Parsow, Ariel Kohl, Calyn Burgess, Molly Helm, Jack Sullivan, Britany Bleicher; Front row: Will McGauvran, Olivia Nogg, Adam McGauvran, Julia Brodkey, Tomer Palmon, Ben Brodkey, Jeremy Silverman; Not shown: Jessica Levinger and Ben Raful
CSS understands your needs by KATHY LANGDON Caring Senior Service provides great care. Our services are tailored specifically to meet your needs. You will receive one-onone care from a professionally trained caregiver that understands your needs and works with your schedule. We charge one flat, hourly rate no matter what services you may require. Our caregivers provide any combination of these tasks: personal care, transportation, meal preparation, medication reminders, companionship, respite care, errand service, light housekeeping. Transportation is one of CSS’ services that is uniquely different than what other agencies offer. Many of our clients utilize this specific service for a variety of different needs. As we age, it’s normal for our driving abilities to change. By reducing risk factors and incorporating safe driving practices, many of us can continue driving safely long into our senior years. But we do have to pay attention to any warning signs that age is interfering with our driving safety and make appropriate adjustments. Even if you need to reduce your driving or give up the keys, it doesn’t have to mean the end of your independence. Seeking alternative methods of transportation can offer health and social benefits, as well as a welcome change of pace to life. For example, one of our clients goes to dialysis 3 times a week. Our caregiver picks him up at 5:30 a.m. to be at his dialysis appointment at 6 a.m. This is a win-win situation for our client, as he is able to receive the medical treatment he needs, and this also relieves the family of worrying about their father driving to and from dialysis. Many of our clients enjoy the ability to be able to keep up with their daily tasks with the help of CSS. Driving is a symbol of freedom. When we lose the ability to drive on our own, this doesn’t mean we can’t get out and do the things we once did. With a CSS caregiver behind the wheel, seniors are once again able to get out and do the things that give them independence. Consider us your private chauffeur driving to doctor’s appointments, the store for some shopping, or maybe just to get out on the road to enjoy the view. If you have the car, we have the drivers! All of our caregivers have a valid drivers license and are insured. Call Caring Senior Service at 402.682.7326 today! PAID ADVERTISEMENT
To order a gift subscription to the Press... Send a check for $25, made out to the Jewish Press and prorated for the year, to 333 So. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68154. For more information on how to connect your outof-town relatives and friends, call 402.334.6448.
In July, kindergarten through 3rd graders participated in a week-long RESPECT Theatrical Artist in Residency at Beth Israel. On the first day, students were treated to an educational play about bullying. On subsequent days, the children worked directly with two of RESPECT's actor-educators to develop their own plays based on talmudic stories and treating others kindly. The plays, seen here in final rehearsal, were performed on Shabbat for the congregation. The Theatrical Artist in Residency was generously sponsored by Donald Gerber.
Rich Juro honored by KATIE WORTMANN Director of Marketing/Public Relations Omaha businessman and philanthropist Rich Juro was honored at Omaha Community Playhouse’s 2012 Awards Night with OCP’s Trustees’ Award. The Trustees’ Award is given to recognize special distinguished service to the Omaha Community Playhouse. Juro serves on OCP’s board of trustees and is the chairman for the development committee. He is also on OCP’s Foundation board. His development efforts have brought in many new sponsors and donors to OCP. He and his wife Fran also support OCP through show sponsorships and philanthropic contributions. “Rich is the epitome of what a nonprofit board member should be,” said OCP President Tim Schmad. “He is always willing to roll up his sleeves and make things happen. He truly gives the Omaha Community Playhouse his time, talents and financial resources.”
In the news Rep. Lee Terry and Rep. Jeff Fortenberry are hosting the event entitled, America’s Role in Global Nuclear Security. It will feature a keynote address by General C. Robert Kehler, Commander of the U.S. Strategic Command at Offutt Air Force Base. His talk will focus on America’s Nuclear Posture within the Broader National Security Framework. Dr. David Kay, former United Nations Chief Weapons Inspector, will also offer remarks about the Challenges of Detecting Nuclear Transgressions. America’s Role in Global Nuclear Security, Tuesday, Aug. 14, 1:30 p.m. at The Salvation Army Kroc Center, Joyce Mammel Assembly Hall, 2825 Y Street, Omaha. This forum, free and open to the public, will provide keen insights into America’s leading role on nuclear security efforts and their impacts on the world stage. For more information Please contact Rep. Fortenberry’s Lincoln office at 402.438.1598 or Congressman Terry’s Omaha office at 402.397.9944 if you have any questions.
August 10, 2012 | The Jewish Press | 11
Temple Israel volunteers at the Stephen Center by DAVID GOLBITZ Temple Israel Staff Writer On Sunday, July 29, as they do in every month with a fifth Sunday, members of Temple Israel volunteered at Stephen Center, an emergency shelter near 27th and Q Streets. Like many of Omaha’s shelters, Stephen Center is overcrowded and undersupplied, said Don’L Dacey, a longtime Stephen Center volunteer. “They are in great need right now,” Dacey said. “I have never seen the place so depleted of supplies.” There are currently 98 people staying at Stephen Center, including 40 children, some of whom are being forced to live in their cars due to overcrowding, Dacey said. On Sunday, Stephen Center was down to salami for breakfast, and while volunteers usually bring about 10 dozen eggs, they had to send someone out for another Temple Israel member five dozen because there Don’L Dacey is a longtime were so many hungry peovolunteer at Omaha’s ple, Dacey said. Stephen Center emerIn addition to food, the gency shelter. families at Stephen Center are also in dire need of personal hygiene items, like shampoo, soap and women’s feminine hygiene products, Dacey said, as well as regular items like office supplies, pots and pans, blankets and towels, and twin size beds and bedding. “With all the children they have, they also are going to need some basic school supplies,” Dacey added. Dan Gilbert, Chair of Temple Israel’s Social Justice committee, was surprised to hear how in need Stephen Center is. I’m sad that I didn’t know how great the need is right now or just how quickly things have changed there,” Gilbert said. “Forty children... wow.” Temple Israel is asking its members, and others within Omaha’s Jewish community, to help Stephen Center through this rough summer by bringing in kind or cash donations to Temple Israel through August, or directly to the Stephen Center.
What I Learned by BETH COHEN Executive Director, The Center for Jewish Life Since starting as the Executive Director of the Center for Jewish Life in March, I have learned many things. It has felt a little strange for me, in a way, having worked in Omaha’s Jewish community for over twenty years and suddenly finding that there is so much about it that I don’t know. My work had previously been more limited to the JCC programs I was responsible for as the Youth and Camping Director or to the synagogue programs I was involved with as Beth Israel’s Executive Director. With the Federation, the scope of my work is not only local but global. As a result, I was fortunate to get to attend the recent Partnership2Gether Steering Committee Meeting in Indianapolis, July 22-24. Partnership2Gether is the paradigm for promoting people-to-people relationships by partnering global Jewish communities directly with Israeli communities. Omaha is one of 12 cities in the U.S. partnering with the city of Akko and the Matte Asher region in the Western Galilee of northern Israel. The 12 cities make up the Central Area Consortium. Zoë Riekes, of Omaha, is the U.S. chair for our Consortium. She partners with a lay leader from Israel, and together they lead the group of volunteers and professionals in projects to share cultural, social, medical, educational and economic initiatives. The Steering Committee Meeting, hosted by the Jewish Federation of Greater Indianapolis, brought together over 60 people representing the Consortium communities. This group meets twice a year, stateside over the summer and in Israel in January. Omaha will be hosting the next stateside meeting in July of 2013. The meeting was an intensive three-day program scheduled from 8:00 a.m. until past dinner. The core of the meeting was to hear reports from the Partnership Task Forces. The model of the Task Forces is a testament to the idea that we are creating true partnerships between countries, communities and individuals. For each Task Force there is a volunteer chairperson from the United States and one from Israel. They work together with a staff person from JAFI, the Jewish Agency for Israel. JAFI partners with JFNA, the Jewish Federations of North America, to support all of the partnerships between Israeli communities and the U.S. Those are a lot of acronyms that all mean one thing: Jews working together to build living bridges to connect communities. In addition to being home to the Consortium Chair, Omaha is also home to the stateside Arts Task Force chair Kim Goldberg. Kim partners with an Israeli counterpart,
Albert Ben-Shloosh. In addition to volunteering with the Partnership, Kim is a freelance designer and artist, and Albert is the General Director and Producer of the annual Akko Festival. Together, they bring creative opportunities to the 12 cities and the Western Galilee in the areas of theater and performance art, fine art, music, dance, art therapy, photography, design, architecture, film, and puppetry. Did you attend the Ga’aton Dance Performance last April in Omaha? Or the Yom Ha’atzmaut concert at the That was our JCC? Partnership at work. The Education Task Force works with a wide variety of programs that connect people in the Western Galilee and the Consortium communities in formal and informal educational settings. Teachers, children, teens, students and professors can connect both virtually and in person through the many Partnership opportunities. Were you part of a group that created a Shining Star that is now decorating the wall at the border of Lebanon and Israel? Are you a Friedel parent whose child has had an Israeli pen pal? Did your child meet an Israeli teen through participating in Maccabi Games? That was our Partnership at work. The Medical Task Force creates opportunities for medical personnel from the Consortium communities and the Western Galilee to connect on a professional level, giving the Western Galilee Hospital international exposure with learning and sharing opportunities to doctors on both sides. Over the years, a number of Omaha doctors have participated in the Emergency Response Group (ERG), a course in emergency preparedness management at the Western Galilee Hospital. After parts of the Western Galilee Hospital were severely damaged during the 2006 Lebanon war, Omaha was deeply involved in fundraising and lobbying efforts with the Israeli government, leading to the $24 million project to build an underground Emergency Department that just opened this summer. That was our Partnership at work. All of these Task Forces work cooperatively with the Missions & Marketing Task Force to get the word out about the great works happening through the Partnership and to provide opportunities for people visiting the Partnership area. Omaha makes it a point to bring mission groups to the Western Galilee, and our Israeli staff roll out the red carpet to provide VIP tours to groups and individuals visiting Israel. That is our Partnership at work. I came back from the Steering Committee Meeting energized about the work we do from Omaha to benefit the Western Galilee and the personal connections between Omahans and Israelis. Watch for regular articles in the Jewish Press to learn more about our Partnership2Gether projects.
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12 | The Jewish Press | August 10, 2012
Point of view
American Jewish Press Association Award Winner
Nebraska Press National Newspaper Association Association Award winner 2008
The heat is on
ANNETTE VAN DE KAMP-WRIGHT Editor of the Jewish Press I am totally and utterly done with this heat wave. Seriously, enough is enough. Oh, I know: some of you think I will regret my attitude once the first snowflakes fall. I have news for you: I won’t. Nor does the fact that my livelihood isn’t threatened by this drought or that I have air conditioning in my house, my car, and my office stop me from moaning about the weather. I find it hard to think about anything else and obsess over the slightest rain chance. You can’t check the radar too much, I think. Over the last weeks, we’ve been reading Parsha after Parsha about our people in the wilderness. I remember, as a child, thinking that those early Israelis complained way too much. I haughtily imagined that, would I ever be in the position to trek across the desert to the Promised Land, I would nobly accept whatever came my way. As an adult, I know better. Had I been there, I would have complained the loudest, I’m sorry to say. The western world is spoiled. We don’t worry about mass starvation, slaughter, or the Ebola virus. The really big disasters always seem to happen halfway around the world. Of course, we do know hardship: we bury people we love, whether because of natural causes or to the acts of a madman in a random movie theater. We struggle with our finances and we get sick; we have our hearts broken, watch our loved ones go to war in faraway countries and watch tall towers fall. And yet, we love to fuss over the small stuff. I say ‘we,’ because I suspect I am not the only one. It’s not just the weather either. It’s the price of gas, the pastrami sandwich that didn’t come with the right condiments, the Starbucks coffee that was too hot. And then, of course, we love to com-
plain about each other, and about ourselves. We are too fat, our hair suffers from the humidity, and by the way: the line at the supermarket was way too long this morning. We never stop complaining about that small stuff, unless we are interrupted by true tragedy. Then, we remember. And I wonder: why is that? Is all that negativity really a comfort zone, a reminder that all we have to complain about is the small stuff? Is it actually a luxury to whine about the
weather? Exactly how embarrassed should I be when yet another heat-related lament passes my very parched lips? On August 1, GMAnews.com reported: “The USDA has now designated 1,584 counties in 32 states -- more than half of all counties in the United States -- as disaster areas, 1,452 due to drought.”
The Midwest and the Plains States have been hit the hardest; the growth index plunged to 48.7 (it was 57.2 in June, any score below 50 means there is an actual decline). The dollar is getting stronger, which hurts exports. These things will affect other sections of the economy, such as grocery prices and ethanol production, as well as job growth and foreclosures. “That loss in turn undermines the tax base of a community which shrinks its capacity to fund every government function from schools to bridge maintenance,” according a July 19 article in the Christian Science Monitor. I guess the complaining in and of itself is not the issue; instead, it’s the focus of those heat related complaints. It’s not the uncomfortably hot walk across the parking lot that we should be talking about; it’s the bigger picture. Especially in states like Nebraska, Iowa, and Kansas, many real people are facing real disaster. And we should have a Jewish response to that, whether the people affected the most are Jewish or not. They are, after all, our neighbors, friends, sometimes relatives; we as a community do not live in a vacuum. So here’s my challenge to you, readers: write to us, and tell us what you think. If a tornado, God forbid, would touch down tomorrow, anywhere in Nebraska, we’d get up and help. We would feel the immediacy. Drought, on the other hand, doesn’t give us a sense of urgency- it creeps, slowly destroying harvests and people’s livelihoods; in the end it will affect everyone. Not in the least the food pantries, during a time when many of them are already stretched. And that is something (unlike my personal heat aversion) that truly is worth complaining about. If you want more information, visit http://www.drought central.nebraska.gov/.
Obama, Jewish tradition agree on universal health care
Behind the headlines EZEKIEL J. EMANUEL PHILADELPHIA (JTA) -- “My son, the doctor.” Why does every Jewish mother have to have a doctor in the family? It might be because the immigrant mentality desperately desires a secure and well-paid profession, but in fact, there is a deeper reason why Jewish mothers want a doctor son. The value of health care is throughout our tradition. Our greatest rabbi, Maimonides, was a medical doctor, and doctors even have the authority to break the Sabbath strictures to care for the sick. We’re taught that “whoever saves a life, it is considered as if he saved the world.” How much greater nachas can a Jewish mother get? The duty to heal the sick and provide for the poor are deep moral imperatives in the Jewish tradition. Combined with the biblical command to treat the stranger as yourself because you were once a stranger in a strange land, this duty transforms our obligations beyond the worthy interest in promoting the health and well-being of our own community. Our mothers can’t just want their children to be doctors to Jewish people, they must heal whomever is sick -- Jew and non-Jew. This element of Jewish philosophy makes the Jews’ stake in health care reform enormous. It is not just about providing insurance to millions of uninsured Americans -- caring for children who might not get the vaccinations or the checkups they need, or diagnosing cancer or other diseases early, or making sure people don’t have to choose between bankrupt-
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cy and having a needed surgical procedure. For Jews it is about more; it is about holding true to our tradition. After 100 years of trying to achieve comprehensive health care reform -- an effort that started with Teddy Roosevelt and continued with FDR, Harry Truman and Bill Clinton -Congress finally passed the Affordable Care Act and President Obama signed it into law on March 23, 2010. Once and for all, the Supreme Court affirmed that the law, particularly the individual mandate, is constitutional. That would appear to be the end of the discussion and, in most instances, it would be. But not today. Not in the age of 24hour news cycles. Not during a divisive presidential election. Yet in the midst of the chatter and the punditry, it’s important to focus on what matters most. As the president said after the Supreme Court’s ruling, “Whatever the politics, today’s decision was a victory for people all over this country whose lives will be more secure because of this law.” Let’s be clear, the law has already produced significant benefits for average Americans. More than 5 million seniors have received an average of $600 in reimbursement for their drug payments because of the partial closing of the “doughnut hole.” More than 6 million young adults -- many of them our children or grandchildren -- are on their parents’ insurance because of this health care reform. Tens of millions of Americans have received preventive services -- whether mammograms or other tests -- without a co-pay because of health care reform. Millions of Americans have received checks from their insurers because they spent too much on administrative costs rather than on health services. Because of this health care reform, children can no longer be denied care due to pre-existing conditions. Patients can’t
lose coverage when they get sick. Insurance companies can’t impose lifetime caps on care or raise premiums without reason. Medical research will proceed faster, as insurers must cover the cost of participation on clinical trials. And all of this reform comes while still preserving the traditional physician-patient relationship. And 2014, the launch of the insurance exchanges, promises even more. No American will face denial of coverage or exorbitant premiums because of a pre-existing condition. Women will not have to pay more than men for the same insurance. And most important for Jews, 30 million Americans will gain access to health insurance. These changes will save lives. They will perfect our union and help repair our world. Yet Republican leaders want to reverse course. Since the Supreme Court’s decision, we’ve heard presumptive Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney call for full repeal of the law. Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell said that extending coverage to 30 million uninsured Americans is “not the issue.” Leading Republican governors have pledged to refuse additional funding for Medicaid -- funds to secure medical care for working families, low-income workers, children and seniors. Republicans claim they want to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act. The fact is they have never once offered a coherent “replacement” alternative plan to the ACA that controls costs, provides care to the uninsured and incentivizes better quality care. “Repeal and replace” may be good rhetoric, but unfortunately it is not backed up by any real substance. As Jews, can we really accept living in Continued on page 13
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August 10, 2012 | The Jewish Press | 13
Remember importance of genetic testing on Tu b’Av
Focus on issues ESTIE ROSE NEW YORK (JTA) -- As Jews, we don’t have many lighthearted holidays, but this week we celebrated one of them, Tu b’Av. Casually known as the Jewish Valentine’s Day, Tu b’Av is the counterbalance to the most difficult of all our holidays, Tisha b’Av, which came right before. While we fast and remember all of our hardships and trials during Tisha b’Av, this holiday also tells us toll engage in mirth, and celebrate love and joy. Many wed during Tu b’Av, and many, according to Jewish lore, will meet their matches. But as with all Jewish holidays, this one still must come with a warning, albeit one deeply rooted in modernity. As young Jews meet their mates and consider marriage, they should be told about the importance of undergoing carrier screening for Jewish genetic diseases, and act on it. Carrier screening identifies “carriers” -- individuals who are not affected with a specific disorder but whose offspring are at risk if the carriers marry carriers of the same disorder. If both members of a couple carry the same disease (“carrier couples”), there is a one in four chance that each of their children will be affected with the disease. Based on my experience as a genetic counselor, approximately one in three Ashkenazi Jewish individuals who undergo screening will be identified as carriers for at least one Jewish genetic disease. In addition, approximately one in 100 couples will be a carrier couple. Unfortunately, there still are rabbis -- and physicians for that matter -- who neglect to stress the importance of being screened to prevent from giving birth to a child with one of these horrible, and often fatal, genetic diseases. There are a number of options for genetic testing. Some are “closed,” where the individuals being tested are not told
what diseases they carry but rather only if they are genetically compatible with a potential spouse; by genetically compatible, meaning that both prospective partners are not carriers of the same disease. Other programs provide “open” screening -- those being screened are told their results and provided guidance by qualified genetic counselors. As a genetic counselor, my worst days are when I have to tell a young couple that the baby they are waiting to welcome into the world will be born mentally disabled, with a poor quality of life, and/or even worse, with a short life span. I have seen firsthand how sick children who need aroundthe-clock care or, worse yet, a child who dies young can do irreparable damage to what used to be the most loving and committed relationships. Fortunately, the diseases that hit the Jewish community the hardest can be avoided through a simple blood test. And Jewish genetic disease carrier screening is significantly more affordable than it was just last year. Unfortunately, many young couples choose to wait to undergo carrier screening until pregnancy occurs. Why? Lack of awareness is often the reason. But many young adults who are aware of the availability of carrier screening feel a sense of invincibility and never think their child will be the one born with one of these diseases, especially since most of these diseases are rare and unfamiliar. Plus, since screening for the current panel of Jewish genetic diseases can cost as much as $6,000 if performed in a commercial lab and many insurance policies don’t cover the costs until pregnancy, many couples decide to wait. What happens, however, if a couple discovers that both are carriers after the woman is already pregnant? Very difficult decisions, many that run counter to one’s own ethical and religious beliefs, need to be made in a short time. It is a heartache that easily could have been avoided. Today’s Jewish genetic disease carrier screening organiza-
Letters TO THE EDITOR Dear Editor, It was good to read about the Omahans’ visit to the Nebraska Holocaust Memorial in Lincoln. The ongoing support of the Frieds’ Heartland Holocaust Educational Fund has been exceptional. Gary Hill’s support and development of the educational activities associated with the Memorial have been equally noteworthy. In this context, it is important to note that the idea for a Holocaust Memorial at Wyuka Cemetery was generated by the Wyuka Historical Foundation. In 2003, the Foundation’s Board asked the Lincoln Jewish community for help in creating that memorial. Yale Gotsdiner took the lead in the communications with Wyuka, to create a better understanding of what the Cemetery and the Historical Foundation had in mind for this worthy project. When the decision was made to go forward, a committee was formed consisting of Wyuka Historical Foundation and Wyuka Cemetery staff members and officers, and Jews from Lincoln and Omaha. Jerry Kohll co-chaired the committee with Yale Gotsdiner. Funds were raised across the state, including the donations of many school students. The Federations of Omaha and Lincoln were in the forefront of support. From the outset, the Committee wanted to memorialize not only the Holocaust and its victims, but also to recognize the bravery of those who sheltered Jews, and the heroism of the troops who liberated them. Above all, the goal was to
create in the Memorial a teaching tool -- to educate the people of Nebraska about the horrendous evils of Nazi Germany. For four years, (until the dedication of the Monument in April, 2007 and beyond), Gotsdiner and Kohll tirelessly led the Committee’s efforts. Each man gave countless hours and made other considerable contributions toward the completion of the Memorial. With the continued support of these educational opportunities by the HHEF, and with Hill’s ongoing leadership in maximizing those educational opportunities, the Committee’s vision continues to be realized. Marcia Kushner Dear Editor, Your editorial of July 27 was spot on in calling for more discourse in the news about real pressing issues. But you failed to mention one of the two Presidential candidates when asking for “what Romney has to say...”. Shouldn’t you ask what Governor Romney and President Obama have to say about the important issues? Perhaps you’ve heard President Obama’s plans for education, defense, infrastructure, energy, etc. I certainly have not. Perhaps the President will also comment about his visits to Israel during a debate. Or not. Alan Hersch
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tions advocate that individuals and couples undergo screening before conception, since being aware of one’s carrier status before conception allows couples to make informed family planning decisions. And today there are more family planning options for carrier couples than ever, including invitro fertilization with a procedure called pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) to select against specific Jewish genetic diseases. To prevent costs from being a barrier for young adults before conception, most screening organizations have relationships with commercial laboratories to make screening significantly more affordable. Many also provide full subsidies to all uninsured patients who express financial difficulties. Most carrier screening programs also provide detailed one-on-one counseling sessions with a genetic counselor. The counselor explains how the Ashkenazi Jewish population is more prone to certain diseases that result from genetic mutations present in this population and makes recommendations for genetic testing based on personal and family history. As wonderful as today’s medical technology is, diseases prevalent among Ashkenazim will never be eradicated as the genetic mutations will continue to be passed down from generation to generation. Since carriers do not show signs or symptoms of the disease, the only way one learns if he or she is a carrier is by undergoing genetic testing or having an affected child. And with new diseases routinely being added to the testing panel, it is critical that couples check with their physicians between pregnancies to ensure that their tests are all up to date. Regardless of one’s level of observance, Ashkenazim share genetic similarities -- and some share genetic mutations. A simple blood test can save lives and help prevent diseases from destroying families. Estie Rose is a genetic counselor with Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York and with the Program for Jewish Genetic Health of Yeshiva University.
Universal health care Continued from page 12 a country that denies tens of millions of our citizens access to health care insurance? Can we in good conscience let our children -- and our neighbors’ children -go without vaccinations, checkups and care for the simplest of ailments? President Obama courageously championed health care reform. He understood the moral imperative. Because he led, millions of families will now be part of the health care system and Jewish doctors will better be able to fulfill their obligations to help save the world. And Jewish mothers can be prouder still that their sons -- and daughters -- can care for all Americans. Dr. Ezekiel J. Emanuel chairs the Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy at the University of Pennsylvania.
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14 | The Jewish Press | August 10, 2012
Synagogues B’NAI ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE
CHABAD CENTER
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.
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, 9:30 a.m.; Kiddush luncheon follows the service. SUNDAY: Minyan, 8:30 a.m. followed by Breakfast Bonanza. WEEKDAYS: Minyan, 7 a.m. WEDNESDAY: Torah Studies: A weekly journey in the soul of Torah, noon. RSVP to 402.417.2009; A Taste of YeshivaChevruta style Beit Midrash study, 6:30 p.m. All programs are open to the entire community.
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 Hazzan Michael Krausman. FRIDAY: Let’s Do Lunch, noon. Meet Rabbi Levin at the Star Deli for a delicious meal and casual conversation. RSVP to the rabbi at rabbilevin@bethel-omaha.org, by Thursday, Aug. 9; Kabbalat Shabbat Service, 6 p.m.; Shabbat dinner welcoming Hazzan Krausman, 7 p.m., a congregational dinner is planned to welcome Hazzan Krausman and his family, following Shabbat services. Dinner cost is $7.50 for Beth El members, $12.50 for non-members; $25 maximum per family. No charge for children ages five and younger. For more information contact Program Director Margie Gutnik at 402.492.8550, or at programming@bethel-omaha.org. SATURDAY: Shabbat Services, 9:30 a.m.; Kiddush given by Margo and Steve Riekes, in honor of their anniversary, Steve’s birthday, and as a welcome to Hazzan Michael Krausman and his family; Evening Services, 8:20 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. MONDAY: Wrestling with Rabbis of the Talmud, 10 a.m. with Rabbi Abraham. Mexican & Margaritas, Sunday, Aug. 26, 6:30 p.m., at the synagogue, for those in their 20s and 30s. Sponsored by the Young Adult Committee. Cost is $9 per person. Parents are welcome to bring their children for their own separate party, with babysitters present. Cost will be $4 per child; this includes dinner. To RSVP, send a check – made out to Beth El – to the synagogue, in care of “Mexican & Margaritas Night. For more information, contact Margie in the synagogue office, or programming@bethel-omaha.org. All classes and programs are open to everyone in the Jewish community.
CONGREGATION B’NAI JESHURUN South Street Temple | Union for Reform Judaism 2061 South 20th Street | Lincoln, NE 68502-2797 | 402.435.8004 www.southstreettemple.org Services conducted by Rabbi Craig Lewis. FRIDAY: Shabbat Evening Service, 7:45 p.m. with oneg following hosted by Alan Frank. SATURDAY: Shabbat Morning Service, 9:30 a.m.; Torah Study, 10:30 a.m. on Parashat Ekev. SUNDAY: Board of Trustees, 1 p.m. WEDNESDAY: The Book Club is invited to meet with a book group at Westminster Presbyterian Church (Sheridan and South) at 1 p.m. The group is reading The Dove Keepers and Rabbi Lewis will give a presentation on Masada. Please RSVP to Marcia Kushner at kete3@aol.com so she can let the church know how many will be attending. THURSDAY: Choir Rehearsal, 7:30-9 p.m. The Social Action Committee encourages you to participate in the school supply drive for Saratoga School and Community Learning Center. Saratoga School, located less than a mile from South Street Temple, is a Title 1 school in which 81% of the students qualify for free or reduced lunch. Items most needed are notebooks, backpacks, pens and pencils, crayons, markers, colored pencils, kleenex and hand sanitizers.
OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE 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 is sponsored in honor of the Matalons making aliya; The Laws of Shabbat, 6 p.m.; Advanced Parshah Study for Kids (ages 10 and up), 7 p.m.; Mincha, 8 p.m., followed by Seuda Shlishit; Havdalah, 9:14 p.m. SUNDAY: Gemara class, 8 a.m., learning tractate Kiddushin; Shacharit, 9 a.m. followed by breakfast. WEEKDAYS: Shacharit, 7 a.m. TUESDAY: Rabbi Mizrahi’s Weekly Class, 6:30 p.m. WEDNESDAY: Rabbi Weiss’s Weekly Class, 7:45 p.m. THURSDAY: Women of the Torah class, 9:30 a.m. with Rabbi Gross; Weekly Med Center Class, 1 p.m.
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 FRIDAY: Shabbat Comes to the Blumkin Home, 3:30 p.m. led by Hadassah 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.
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 p.m. led by Rabbi Brown; Shabbat Worship Service, 6 p.m. led by Rabbi Azriel, Rabbi Brown and Cantor Shermet; Summer Speaker Series: “Consider the Years” with Sivi Roffman and Suzanne Singer; College Dinner with the Clergy for College Kids, 7 p.m. at Temple Israel.
B’nai Mitzvah Alexander Mark Belgrade and Zachary Edward Belgrade, sons of Robyn Belgrade and Jim Belgrade, will become a B’nai Mitzvah on Saturday, Aug. 18, at Temple Israel. Alex and Zach are eighth-grade Honor Roll students at Westside Middle School. Alex is a Duke University Talent Identifcation participant and his interests include basketball, track, music and hanging out with friends. Zach’s interests include basketball, helping animals, music and hanging Alexander Mark out with friends. Belgrade For their mitzvah project, Alex and Zach chose the non-profit organization Ted E. Bear
Hollow, a center for grieving children and their families. They helped out at several KidsKamp programs, where families come to spend an afternoon filled with fun activities to honor an commemorate loved ones who have died. They helped out doing office work and collected items on their wish list to be donated for the upcoming 5K Run and Remembrance Walk and KidsKamps. Grandparents are Nancy and Dr. Gary A. Epstein, and Sandra Zachary Edward Belgrade and the late Eddie Belgrade Belgrade.
Candlelighting Friday, August 10, 8:12 p.m.
SATURDAY: Torah Study, 9:15 a.m.; Shabbat Morning Service, 10:30 a.m. SUNDAY: Teacher Meeting and Work Day, 11 a.m.; Madrichim Orientation, 11:45 a.m. MONDAY: Temple Israel Annual Golf Tournament, noon at Shadow Ridge Country Club. Please contact the Temple Israel office, 402.556.6536 or mweidner@templeis raelomaha.com, to register. Shabbat Worship Summer Series, “The Promise Land of Cass Street” with Rosie Zweiback on Friday, Aug. 17, 6 p.m.
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, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. FRIDAY: Services, 6:30 p.m. SATURDAY: Study Session on Eicha, 9:30 a.m.; Morning service, 10 a.m. followed by Kiddush lunch. Saratoga School and Community Learning Center. Saratoga School, located less than a mile from South Street Temple, is a Title 1 school in which 81% of the students qualify for free or reduced lunch. Items most needed are notebooks, backpacks, pens and pencils, crayons, markers, colored pencils, kleenex and hand sanitizers. Please consider participating this year. Please drop off any items to the marked box at Tifereth Israel. Please join us at a book club meeting at Westminster Presbyterian Church (Sheridan and South) on Wednesday, Aug. 15, 1 p.m. The group is reading The Dove Keepers and Rabbi Lewis will be speaking about Masada.
Barak calls Sinai attack a ‘wake-up call’ for Egypt by JTA NEWS STAFF JERUSALEM (JTA) – Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barak called a terrorist attack in the Sinai that killed at least 15 Egyptian soldiers a “wake-up call” for Egypt. “We hope this will be a fitting wake-up call for the Egyptians to take matters into their own hands on their side more forcefully,” Barak told the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee on Aug. 6, a day after the attack. Armed attackers in the Sinai Peninsula killed the soldiers at the Rafah security checkpoint before attempting to infiltrate the Israeli border. The attackers, who Barak identified as members of the Global Jihadi terror group, also kidnapped several Egyptian soldiers, according to reports. Two of the vehicles used in the attack then crossed the border into Israel. The first was blown up by the terrorists to breach the fence, and the second was targeted and hit by Israeli forces, according to the Israeli military. The six terrorists in the vehicle were killed in the blast. Barak said they were all wearing suicide bomber belts. Israeli intelligence had information on the planned attack, which allowed the military to have helicopters in the area to strike, an IDF spokesman said. Israel and Egypt remained in close contact during the attack, Barak said, according to reports. Barak and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu toured the area of the attack on Monday. Netanyahu met with commanders and soldiers who were involved in the operation, and praised them for their actions. He also expressed regret over the killing of the Egyptian soldiers. “I think that it is clear that Israel and Egypt have a common interest in maintaining a quiet border,” Netanyahu said. “However, as has been made clear on numerous occasions, when it comes to the security of the citizens of Israel, the State of Israel must and can rely only on itself. Nobody can fulfill this role other than the IDF and the security services of the State of Israel, and this is how we will continue to act.” On Aug. 3, the U.S. Embassy in Israel called on American citizens to “take precautions” in traveling to the Sinai. The warning came a day after Israel’s National Security Council Counter-Terrorism Bureau called on “all Israelis in the Sinai to leave the area immediately and return home.” The embassy’s security message pointed out that there have been multiple kidnappings in the Sinai of U.S. citizens over the past four years and that kidnappings of foreign tourists in the Sinai have increased since January 2012. U.S. government personnel are prohibited from traveling to the Sinai, except by air to Sharm el Sheik.
Pulverente MONUMENT CO.
August 10, 2012 | The Jewish Press | 15
The law of consequence
In memoriam JACK M. GREEN
Sparks from the word RABBI MYER S. KRIPKE Parsha Eikev As Israel came closer and closer to the Promised Land, they were reminded that they were expected to remember all the commandments the Lord had given them, and follow them. They are told that if they do what they have been commanded, then all kinds of good things would follow. In the word “Eikev” itself, there is the connotation that one thing follows on the heels of another. If Israel, therefore, is obedient to the commands of the KBH, the land would produce abundantly, and there would be food and provision for human and animal alike. If, on the other hand, there is disobedience, the land itself would produce nothing. Hunger and hardship would follow. Israel might well be thrown out of the land they were promised. The promise was conditional: do this, and that will follow; do that, and disaster will follow. Therefore recognize and understand full well that much depends on you yourselves. There is a consequence to what you do. There is a natural part of living on this earth: it may be called the law of consequence.
An Olympian and a Nazi sympathizer? by JTA NEWS STAFF (JTA) – A German Olympic rower left the Olympic Village following claims that her boyfriend is a member of an extremist political party inspired by the Nazis. Nadja Drygalla, who had already finished competing at the Games as part of the women’s rowing eight team, reportedly left after a conversation with German officials. “Miss Drygalla confirmed her commitment to the Olympic Charter,” said the head of Germany’s committee, Michael Vesper, according to Reuters. “She is leaving the Olympic Village so as not to be a burden for the team.” Media reports said her boyfriend was a leading member of a regional National Socialist group, the Rostock National Socialists, and had worked in a state election for the farright National Democratic Party. Germany’s intelligence agency describes the NDP as racist, anti-Semitic and inspired by the Nazis. The German rowing federation reportedly said in a statement that it welcomed Drygalla’s decision to leave early and would investigate the matter after the Olympics. Mark Adams, spokesman for the International Olympic Committee, said Drygalla had done nothing wrong at the Games, according to Reuters. “There is no issue for us regarding the rower. I have seen the report. But as far as the Games are concerned, she has not done anything wrong,” Adams said, reported Reuters. Drygalla’s departure from London is not the first time that racism has been an issue during the 2012 Olympics. Before the Games even began, Greek triple jumper Voulu Papachristou was expelled for a racist tweet.
Beth El plans ‘Camp Shabbat’ dinner for kids and parents by JILL BELMONT Beth El Publicity Coordinator To kick off the new school year, Beth El Synagogue Talmud Torah invites all BESTT students and their parents to a lively “BESTT Camp Shabbat” dinner on the back lawn of the synagogue on Friday, Aug.17, 6 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to wear their Shabbat whites for this special summer-camp-style celebration, led by the synagogue’s Director of Congregational Learning, Eadie Tsabari, along with Rabbi Steven Abraham and Beth El congregant Yonatan Dotan, who works as head song leader at Herzl Camp. “We’re excited about how many of our Beth El students took part in a Jewish summer experience,” said Rabbi Abraham, “and we want them to be able to come back to Beth El and show off their camp ruach (spirit).” Cost to attend is $5 a person and $20 (maximum) per family. Reservations are required and may be made by contacting the BESTT office, at 402.498.0904, or etsabari@bethel-omaha.org.
Jack M. Green passed away on July 29 at age 92. Services were held Aug. 1 at Beth El Cemetery, 84th and L Street. He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Bernice “Bordy” Green; son and daughter-in-law, Richard F. Green and Joan Auerbach Green; two grandsons and one great grandson. Memorials may be made to the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home.
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RUTH KRAFT Ruth Kraft passed away at 87 years old. Services were held on Aug. 3 at Mt. Sinai Cemetery, 78th and Crown Point Avenue. She was preceded in death by husband, Nathan; daughter, Carol; and son, Larry. She is survived by daughter Sharon Brown of Colleyville, TX; grandchildren: Stuart Brown, Chad Brown, Dax Sinn and Jason Sinn; and eight great-grandchildren. Ruth was an avid bridge player and Toastmaster member. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society and/or Pathways to Compassion Hospice.
SHIRLEY ROSENBERG Former Omahan Shirley Rosenberg passed away July 31 in Santa Ana, CA at age 86. Services were held Aug. 5 at the Temple Israel Cemetery followed by a memorial service at Temple Israel. She was preceded in death by her husband, Millard H. Rosenberg. She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, John and Sydney Rosenberg of Minneapolis, MN, and daugther, Jane Rosenberg of Orange, CA; grandchildren: Sam and Emily Rosenberg; nieces and nephews. Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, Orange County Chapter, 17771 Cowan, Suite 200 Irvine, CA. 92614.
Yizkor for Golden Gate Bridge suicides by JTA NEWS STAFF (JTA) – A San Francisco synagogue will hold a memorial service for the 1,558 known suicide victims who have jumped off the Golden Gate Bridge. San Francisco’s Congregation Sha’ar Zahav will host a special Yizkor, or remembrance, service on Aug. 7 to raise awareness about suicides and bullying, according to j., the Jewish news weekly of Northern California. Jewish filmmaker Jenni Olson, who made the 2005 documentary The Joy of Life about the bridge’s history of suicides, told j. the idea came to her during the recent 75th anniversary of the Golden Gate Bridge. “We do a Yizkor service during the High Holy Days that is so moving,” Olson reportedly said of the c on g re g a tion, whose name is Hebrew for “g o l d e n gate.” “I thought it would be so powerful as a remembrance, as a religious service, and also as a kind of activism project to continue to draw attention to this issue,” she added. At the one-hour event, the names of the 1,558 suicide victims will be projected on-screen as congregant volunteers lead the assembled in prayer. Organizers expect both Jewish and non-Jewish families and friends of lost loved ones to attend, according to the newspaper. “There’s been an epidemic of teen suicide related to bullying in the last few years,” Sha’ar Zahav Rabbi Camille Angel, told j. “Of course our community is touched when these things happen. It shakes us.”
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16 | The Jewish Press | August 10, 2012
Play by play at the Siyum HaShas by URIEL HEILMAN EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (JTA) -- With more than 90,000 people packed into MetLife Stadium for the 12th Daf Yomi Siyum HaShas, JTA was there calling the play by play. 6:18 p.m.: On the way to the siyum. Mob scene at Penn Station, with lines stretching around corners at the ticket windows and machines. Not your usual stadium crowd. 6:41: Transferring trains at Secaucus amid tight security. Two black-hatted, peyos-bouncing, tzitzis-flapping Chasids get pulled aside by a K-9 officer who searches their black plastic bags. I get waved right through. Was it their beard style that aroused suspicion? 6:45: On the train, women and men self-segregate. Do I hear mincha minyan, anyone? 6:57: Pulling into MetLife Stadium (a.k.a. Giants Stadium). Instead of tailgaters in the parking lot it’s full of Hatzolah ambulances. Are they on the job or just here for the party? 6:59: One minute to kickoff - err, the daf. 7:03: A drizzle continues to fall. According to Jewish tradition, it’s a sign of blessing. 7:13: In typical Jewish fashion, the event will be off to a late start (30 minutes). There’s so much black in the seats you’d think the Raiders were in town. 7:33: Mincha begins (nusach sfard). This is probably the quietest the stadium has ever been. Those in the women’s sections are asked to pull curtains erected by the organizers to obstruct the men’s view. No more rain. 7:50: Big question: Will there be tachnun (a penitential prayer omitted in celebratory days), or is this simcha enough cause to skip it? 7:51: No tachnun! (Of course, this IS mincha k’tana) 7:55: Tehilim (Psalms) for the sick, for those in Israel, for those unjustly imprisoned. 8:00: Rabbi Chaim Dovid Zwiebel of Agudath Israel of America takes the mic, introduces Elly Kleinman, Aguda’s chairman of the 12th Siyum HaShas. Offers a shortened “Shehecheyanu.” 8:06: Attendance: 92,000+, says Kleinman. The largest siyum in history. Last time, in March 2005, the celebration was at the much-smaller Madison Square Garden, with overflow crowds at Continental Airlines Arena and the Javits Center, for a total crowd of 50,000. Also: Far larger than the mass celebrations this week in Israel. Does Babylonia (the
More than 90,000 people packed MetLife Stadium in New Jersey for the Siyum HaShas, celebrating the completion of the Daf Yomi page-a-day Talmud study cycle, Aug. 1, 2012. Credit: Yisroel Golding/Siyumphotos Diaspora) still trump Jerusalem when it comes to the Talmud? 8:10: Kleinman: What happens the day after the Siyum? “We turn the page.” Clever. 8:11: A nod to diversity: This celebration is for all Jews, not just those with black hats, says the speaker, but also those with velvet yarmulkes, knit yarmulkes and even -gasp! -- baseball caps. 8:12: The JumboTron screens a tribute video about Jerome Schottenstein (z”l), of the ArtScroll Schottenstein Talmud family, to whom the Siyum is dedicated. 8:16: Shlomo Yehuda Rechnitz, emcee: “Fortunate is the person who sees, who experiences, this great gathering... Try to visualize the singing and dancing that’s going on right now in Shamayim (heaven) watching tens of thousands celebrating the masechtos (tractates) they worked on so dilligently.” 8:20: Hitler mention: On this day in 1936, the Olympic Games began at a stadium of similar size in Berlin, Rechnitz notes, drawing a contrast. 8:22: First real Torah discourse of the night, on differences between Esau and Jacob. 8:24: Rechnitz alludes to imprisoned Jews in “Postville, Bolivia or North Carolina.” Read: AgriProcessers chief Aaron Rubashkin, New York businessman Jacob Ostreicher and convicted spy Jonathan Pollard. 8:34: I stop in the bathroom for a pit stop (too much
Golden Fluff Mineral Water -- based in Lakewood, N.J., of course), but I don’t have to miss any of the action because there are flat-screens above the urinals broadcasting the proceedings from the dais. Wait a minute: Isn’t this a halachic problem!? (UPDATE: Later in the evening, the TVs in the bathroom are muted.) 8:41: Rabbi Yaakov Perlow, the Novominsker rebbe, begins the first Yiddish speech of the night. Last time, 7 and 1/2 years ago, it was mostly Yiddish. Is this progress or regress? Depends on your perspective. 8:44: “The Torah knows no barriers of language,” Perlow says, shifting to English. 9:00: Big cheer as video narrator declares this the biggest Siyum HaShas ever. “A great American palace of sport has been transformed into a sanctuary of the spirit!” and “May it hasten the arrival of Moshiach tzidkeinu” -- the messiah. 9:01: First decorum announcement: Stop walking through the aisles. Now I feel Iike I’m in shul. 9:06: Walking around the stadium, the N.J. State Troopers seem to be in a good mood. This must be an easy crowd for them. No scent of weed wafting through the air to track down, no fights in the stands, no flashing in the upper deck, no wilding on the ramps. Heck, there’s no alcohol here. What are they going to make a l’chaim on when they finish this thing? 9:18: Longest Yiddish speech of the night (20 minutes and counting) just ended. For simultaneous translation, a call-in number for area code 712 (Iowa) was provided. Who speaks Yiddish in Iowa? Oh, right, those ex-Agri employees stuck in Postville. 9:35: More Yiddish. Oy vey. 9:39: At the beverage stand, they’re selling kosher water, regular water and soft drinks. For once, the kosher option is cheaper (it’s also smaller). At the food stands, no pastrami, no cheesesteaks, no hot dogs (even kosher ones). What is there? Danish, cookie, chocolate babka, potato chips. 9:43: Breakaway Maariv minyan in section 134. 9:50: The actual siyum ceremony starts after a long Yiddish discourse by Rabbi Kotler. 9:57: Mazel tov! We completed Shas! (Well, some of us, anyway). Wild dancing begins. Rock the house! 10:11: Dancing ends and another speech begins. Wait, there’s more? I’m outta here.
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