Sponsored by the Benjamin and Anna E. Wiesman Family Endowment Fund AN AGENCY OF THE JEWISH FEDERATION OF OMAHA
Murray Newman tells it like it is
August 31, 2012 13 Elul 5772 Vol. 92 | No. 49
This Week
Join the Mainstreeters September activities Page 8
Beth El offers reflection and celebration during High Holidays Page 9
by SHERRIE SAAG Communications Specialist, Jewish Federation of Omaha Almost two years ago, Murray and his wife, Sharee, were awarded the Jewish Federation of Omaha’s Humanitarian Award. At that time, he was reminded of his brother Nick’s remarks as president of the Federation in 1972, “I feel a valid, important and meaningful life is possible here in Omaha... in a little community we can communicate with each other, we can work together. We can create something vital and creative.” Murray thought his brother’s words were appropriate in 1972, applicable in 2010 and today, in 2012, even more so. “We can secure our financial future, and we will, but there is more to keeping this community strong and healthy. Who will walk our campus and populate our hallways in the future?” Newman had said in 2010. Murray Newman leads the way by example. Since 1987, when he and his wife, Sharee, established the Murray H. and Sharee C. Newman Supporting Foundation, grants have been awarded to the ADL/CRC to run its prejudice elimination workshop, BBYO for its Teen Mitzvah Day, to the JCC’s Maccabi Games, NCJW’s
Murray Newman Dictionary Day program, and the JFS Tzedakah project, to name just a few. Every agency and program on campus is touched, and every community member benefits from their generosity and commitment. This year, Murray takes on the chairmanship of the Pacesetter Division for the 2013 Annual
Express yourself at the ArtRoom Some Bedouins still feel obligation to serve Israel Page 16
by ANNETTE VAN DE KAMPWRIGHT Editor of the Jewish Press The ArtRoom, located in Rockbrook Village, is owned and operated by Kim Noddle. Together with Anne Twedt, she teaches art classes in a variety of media, to a vari-
ety of age groups. It’s an educational studio, where visitors can immerse themselves in anything from sewing to painting to recycled art. Kim graduated from the University of Kansas with a degree in elementary education. While teaching in Omaha and starting a
C amp ai g n . Together, with Anne Shackman, the Lion of Judah Chair, they are setting a new course for Campaign solicitation; emphasizing families and a couples’ approach to Campaign giving. The following is a Q&A with Murray about the new approach: What makes Pacesetters important to you? The Pacesetter Division of the F e d e r a t i o n’s Annual Campaign defines the final of the result Campaign. So goes the Pacesetters... so goes the Campaign. The 91 cards comprising last year’s Pacesetter Division contributed 58% of the 2012 Campaign. It is no secret that during the last several years, the Federation’s Annual Campaign has struggled to even meet the prior year’s results. We MUST do better in 2013, or we
risk programs and services being reduced, and support to Israel and international Jewry through the Jewish Federations of North America will be reduced. I am pleased and proud to lead the Pacesetters’ effort. We have had a year’s worth of change at the Federation. Let’s make this year, a year of change for the Annual Campaign. And, let’s begin with the Pacesetters’ Division of the Men’s Campaign achieving record results. How can you make a difference now? I intend to do a number of things differently in this year of Campaign change. First, I plan to work more closely than ever before with the Lion of Judah Division of the Women’s Campaign. In fact, I’ve already started. The brilliant Anne Shackman and I have met several times to discuss a much closer collaboration than has ever existed before. Second, we are scrapping the old and tired concept of a Pacesetters Kickoff event. Instead, very shortly, Anne and I will be announcing an exciting and new joint kick-off for our two Divisions. Stay tuned for our announcement. Anne, myself, and the Federation Campaign staff are discussing the Continued on page 2
JCC Gallery hosts Jewish Artist Showcase by LYNN BATTEN Gallery and Publicity Manager During the month of September, the JCC Gallery will host the first annual Omaha Jewish Artist
en by a desire to recognize some of the local artistic talent that exists in the Omaha Jewish community. “I had seen the work of many local visual artists who also hap-
Inside Point of view Synagogues In memoriam
12 14 15
Next Month Rosh Hashanah Issue See Front Page stories and more at: www.jewishomaha.org, click on Jewish Press
L Randall Nogg’s Something Wicked family with husband Jay, she earned her Master’s degree in education from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. Kim is an educator, first and foremost: “Anything I do, I do with the student in mind. It’s all about the learning process, and I love watching kids and adults during that process.” Kim has taught classes out of her home for the past four years, and Continued on page 2
Showcase. This exhibit will feature 12 local Jewish artists working in their medium of choice. Mediums in this exhibit will include fiber art, photography, painting, glass art, bronze sculptures, mixed media and papíer-maché. Event co-organizers, Beth Brown-Gershovich and Marge Bresel, are excited to bring this event to the community. The inspiration for this event was driv-
pened to be Jewish. They all create outstanding art. I thought it would be a nice idea to pay tribute to them and feature all of their diverse talents. In my professional background I have 21 years of event planning, so organizing an event to make it happen came naturally to me,” said BrownGershovich. “Our goal for this exhibit was simple. We wanted to Continued on page 2
2 | The Jewish Press | August 31, 2012
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Murray Newman Continued from page 1 use of an innovative “pilot program� of joint solicitation of husbands and wives. We have bounced this idea off of several members of the community, and it was well received. Our goal is to solicit a dozen or so couples together; asking them to consider an increase of their combined gifts to be allocated to the Men’s and Women’s Divisions at their discretion. What do you hope to accomplish? Anne and I hope to reverse the trend of the last few years. We intend to lead our respective divisions with increased giving; to propel the overall Campaign to a new level. We hope to meet the goals set by our 2013 Campaign leadership. Any “pearls of wisdom� for the Press readers? Many exciting changes have occurred within the Jewish Federation of Omaha over the past 24 months under the capable leadership of President Jody Malashock and Chief Executive Officer Mike Silverman. The process of change is often difficult and sometimes misunderstood. But, it is vital that community members focus on the big picture and the destination to which we are headed.
Yes, there are always bumps in the road along the way, but the leadership must have the resources to reach that destination. Now is the time for all of us to “step up�, more so than ever before. Let’s make the 2013 Campaign the most successful ever; with everyone digging just a little bit deeper. Answer the Ask. Spend a few moments with that volunteer holding your card, meet with him or her; listen to what they have to tell you, and together, do some great things. Not only for our beloved Omaha Jewish community, but also for yourself. I speak from experience that I am happy to share. Nothing makes one feel better (in the long run) than doing something special and good for someone else.
“Let’s make this year a year of change for the Annual Campaign.� – Murray Newman
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Continued from page 1 has always been an advocate for the arts in Omaha: “Art should be accessible,� she says. “It’s not about admiring it from a distance, it’s about allowing anyone, kids as well as adults, to get up close and personal, and experience first hand what it means to create.� The space itself should make anyone’s creative juices flow: from the old repurposed kitchen cabinets to the display area, it is tempting to sit down and make something from the minute you walk through the door. Drop-ins are encouraged, and for those who want to check out the programs without leaving their house, there is an excellent website that walks anyone interested through the various programs. For instance, there’s “Paint ‘n Pour,� which is aimed at adults who want to have a relaxing evening out with friends. And if you absolutely have to be somewhere else, the ArtRoom offers Friday night classes that double as babysitting. How great is that? Classes are designed to inspire creativity. For seniors, fine art techniques are taught by using a variety of mixed media. Sessions include lessons in painting, drawing, sculpting, collage, printmaking, and up-cycling. That means making treasures from trash, something that is gaining traction the world over. For $50 per month, adult artists can rent studio space, bring their own materials, and come and go as they please. Once per week, local oil artist Mimi Silverman facilitates an oil painting class. All materials, including the canvas, are included with each four-week session.
In addition, onehour private lessons are available to reacquaint you with your sewing machine and discuss the proper tools needed for successful sewing projects. The sewing machine is evaluated, and students will be able to thread a machine, wind a bobbin and perform basic stitches. There are beginning sewing classes for new and returning students, and there’s screenprinting, a soon-to-be-completed dark room, and you can even throw birthday parties at the ArtRoom. “We plan the birthday party from beginning to end,� Kim says, “and help parents pick out an age-appropriate activity.� The ArtRoom does not provide food and drink, but Kim encourages parents to visit one of the other businesses at Rockbrook Village, such as Kristen’s, The Cake Gallery, Don Carmello’s, Garden Cafe, or Subway. “If you tell them it’s for a party at The ArtRoom, they will deliver,� she says. “It’s a great example of different businesses working together. We will provide the decorations and the necessary utensils.� The ArtRoom’s menu is extensive, and there’s most likely something for you. I highly recommend you give it a try. Check out their website, or drop by and get the grand tour. Anne and Kim’s enthusiasm is palpable, and infectious--just what one should expect from an art studio. The ArtRoom is open to the public Monday-Friday from 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., and Sunday from noon-5 p.m. For more information, please visit www.theartroom omaha.com or call 402.502.4262
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Continued from page 1 give local Jewish artists more exposure in the Omaha area.� Marge Bresel echoes this sentiment. “In the spirit of Hiddur Mitzvah (making a mitzvoth beautiful), we are bringing together the Jewish artists of Omaha,� she said. “We have so much talent in our community and it’s good to know each other. We’re quite a diverse group, as this exhibit illustrates.� The twelve participating artists in this year’s showcase are: Marge Bresel, Daniel Christensen, Lila Ferber, Annette Sherman Fettman, Tom Friedman, Allyson Friedman, Beth Brown-Gershovich, Ron Ipock, Bette Kozlen, Naava Naslavsky, Randy Nogg and Jenni Schlossman. The pieces in this showcase are a representation of the artist’s medium of choosing. They do not have to include Judaica, but several do. Bresel, whose medium is fiber art, recognizes the importance and inspiration that religion can provide when going through the creative process. She is a member-at-large of the Pomegranate Guild, a US/Canadian guild devoted to Judaica in the needle arts. The group has chapters all over the East Coast, Canada, and the West Coast. They also have national conventions with members teaching such things as talliot making, etc. Brown-Gershovich, who works in fused glass, also acknowledges how religion sometimes plays a role in her creative process. “I’m very proud of my heritage and the ingenuity of my people,� she said. “Since childhood, I was intrigued by the design of the Hamsa, its history, and what it represents (pro-
tection and good luck). My sweet, yet funny, bubbies emigrated to America from the Shtetels in rural Russia. They were always so superstitious about tempting the ‘Evil Eye’. I guess their superstitions got into my blood.� Both Brown-Gershovich and Bresel encourage all local Jewish artists to participate in future shows this group plans to organize. Since this was the first year of the event, the duo wanted to start on a smaller scale to gauge community interest. “We want to make this a yearly exhibit that grows more each year, eventually getting to the point where it becomes a popular event in the community,� Brown-Gershovich said. “There will be a call for entries in the spring of 2013 for a Fall exhibit. There will be some publicity in the Jewish Press to remind people of the next opportunity,� Bresel said. “People can also come to our reception and talk to us then. It’s a great way to view the exhibit, meet the artists, get information and enjoy a nosh.� The opening reception for this exhibit will be held on Thursday, Sept. 6 from 7–9 p.m. in the JCC Gallery. There will be light refreshments and the opportunity to meet the participating artists. This event is free and the public is encouraged to attend. For more information about participating in future Jewish artist exhibits, interested individuals may email Beth Brown-Gershovich at bbgartistry@gmail.com. The JCC Gallery is open Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m.–9 p.m, Fridays from 8 a.m.–5 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m.–5 p.m. In observance of the High Holidays, the JCC Gallery will be closed on Sept. 17, 18, and 26.
August 31, 2012 | The Jewish Press | 3
The ‘angel of the Paralympics’ is undergoing a revival by MIRIAM SHAVIV Breslau Hospital until 1933, when the Nazis made it illegal for every two hours to prevent the sores from developing. LONDON (JTA) -- In 1917, Ludwig Guttmann, a young Jews to work in Aryan hospitals. Guttmann moved to the local Initially he faced resistance from the medical staff. But, says German Jew volunteering as an orderly in the local Accident Jewish hospital and was elected its medical director in 1937. Mackenzie: “people finally stood a chance of living.” Hospital for Coalminers, came across a strong Guttmann also focused on their mental health. miner with a broken back. The patient, he was “He was ahead of the curve with the idea that told, would be dead within three months. In fact, your mental state makes a difference, that your he died after five weeks. bodies and brains are one,” Morris says. “For “Although I saw many more victims suffering these men to live, they had to want to live.” the same fate,” Guttmann wrote in his memoirs, One of Guttman’s ideas was to involve them in “it was the picture of that young man which sport. On the day that the 1948 Olympic Games remained indelibly fixed in my memory.” opened in London, Guttmann organized an Guttman, who fled Nazi Germany to the archery competition for 16 patients at Stoke United Kingdom, became a doctor and was Mandeville, which he then repeated every year. inspired to specialize in patients with spinal In 1952, the games became international when a injuries. He eventually founded a sports competiteam of Dutch ex-servicemen was included. In tion for the disabled, which now is commonly 1960, for the first time, the games took place at regarded as the “father” of the Paralympic the same venue as the mainstream Olympics. The Games. Rome games attracted 400 athletes from 23 counThe Games, which use the Olympics facilities, tries and are commonly regarded as the first run this year from Aug. 29 - Sept. 9. Paralympics, although the term did not become While awareness of the German-English official until 1988. Opening ceremony of the Summer Paralympic Games in Athens, September 2004. refugee had faded since his death in 1980, it is According to Mackenzie, Guttmann’s belief in Credit: Creative Commons now enjoying a revival. One of the Olympic masthe healing power of sport partially stemmed cots was named Mandeville; during World War II, Guttman Two years later, the Council for Assisting Refugee from his experience as a youth in Germany. Also, he was was asked by the government to set up a spinal unit at Stoke Academics brought him to the United Kingdom with his fueled by an “extraordinary mixture” of empathy with his Mandeville hospital, north of London, to help the expected wife and two young children. He was partially escaping the patients and ruthless determination. many disabled veterans from the war. attention of the Gestapo, who first noticed him on the night “He was a bit of a tyrant,” Mackenzie says. “Patients got Also, earlier this month, the BBC screened The Best of of Kristallnacht in November 1938, when he admitted more seriously blasted if they skipped a session in the gym. He Men, a drama based on Guttman’s work at the hospital. And than 60 men to the hospital, fictitiously claiming that they was liked and loathed by patients and other authorities, but London’s Jewish Museum is showing a small exhibit about all had serious medical conditions. was considered to be remarkable in what he achieved.” Guttman’s work through Sept. 16. At first he worked in medical research in the university Guttmann, who was knighted in 1966, died of heart failMeanwhile, a life-size bronze statue of Guttmann has been town of Oxford; Germans were not allowed to practice med- ure in 1980 after achieving considerable international placed at the Stoke Mandeville hospital’s stadium that will be icine in the UK. Soon, however, the government noticed a renown. In 1974 he visited Heidelberg, Germany, where a transferred later to the hospital, while a new bust of paper he wrote about how to treat people with spinal street was named for him. Newspaper clips in the small Guttmann will be present at every future Games. injuries. They were expecting many disabled veterans from Jewish Museum exhibit show him described as “the famous “It is a huge irony,” says Abigail Morris, chief executive of the war and asked him to set up a special spinal unit at Stoke Englishman from Germany” and “the angel of the London’s Jewish Museum. “Hitler tried to kill all the Jews Mandeville. Paralympics.” and people with disabilities. Thanks to his actions, At the time, people with spinal injuries were “left as lumps For Morris of the Jewish Museum, ultimately, Guttmann’s Guttmann ended up here, in the UK, and this year over of waste” to die, says Mike Mackenzie, chairman of the is a very Jewish story. 4,000 athletes will compete in London at the Paralympic Poppa Guttmann Trust. Guttmann, however, actually want“It’s that moment when not only do you pick yourself up Games. It’s the triumph of human spirit over adversity.” ed to treat them. He realized that the two main causes of but you make the world a better place, helping people who Guttmann, who was born in 1899 to a traditional Jewish death were sepsis from pressure sores and urinary infec- literally are forgotten and left to die,” she says. “Guttmann family in Tost, Upper Silesia, was a senior neurosurgeon at tions, and instructed the nurses to turn patients in their beds gave these people life. It’s the spirit of l’chaim -- to life.”
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4 | The Jewish Press | August 31, 2012
SHALOM Omaha!
Bike for the Fight comes to the JCC
to preserve the unique and fascinating Jewish culture. As an Israeli, it is very inspiring. I chose coming here to Omaha, because I felt that living in a smaller community would be more interesting GILI GUTWIRTH, Community Shlicha, The Center for Jewish Life and personal than going to a My name is Gili Gutwirth. I am 22 years old big community where your efforts are less from Herzliya, a city very close to Tel-Aviv, noticed and you don’t necessarily get to right on the beach. I was released from the know people as much. IDF in 2011 and had the classic year for young Prior to arriving here, I had participated Israelis. I traveled throughout the Indochina in an intensive shlichim training from JAFI region and took my Israeli SATs. For this (Jewish Agency for Israel) in Kiryat Yearim, upcoming year, I decided to go on shlichut. near Jerusalem. During the training (that I was looking for a chance to do something resembled in many ways what I had in the that is professionally developing, meaningful army), we learned as much as we possibly and significant. The shlichut looked like a could about Judaism as a culture, a nation, great opportunity to do so with the extra and as a religion. We heard a variety of peobonus of living abroad and being exposed to ple from all the different sides of the speca new, different culture. All of that plus the trum. We had a lot of lectures about the exposure to Jewish lives across the ocean. American Jewish community, its strengths Some of the things I have immediately and its challenges and about the cultural difseen in this new and different culture ferences. We also heard a talk by Andrew include pick-up trucks; school buses; Cushnir, the Executive Vice President of the American football; diners; big supermarkets; Greater Los Angeles Federation, telling big portions; people not continually honking about this year’s U.S. elections. car horns; and people that call you “Ma’am”! So, here I am! I’m looking forward to a great Every day that I have been here in Omaha, year. I hope to learn and teach, show the great I have been so impressed with everything love I have for Israel, and what I love about it. that is being done in the community, I hope to know you all (yes, you too!). whether it’s at the JCC , the synagogues , Everyone is welcome to call 402.590.2158, Friedel, or under the “umbrella” of the Jewish send an email to ggutwirth@jewishomaha. Federation. Whereas in Israel being Jewish is org or just stop by at the office. And ask me nearly effortless, almost unnoticed, here about dinner, great shakshukas are my treat! people give much of their time and resources Shabbat Shalom, Gili
by MARK KIRCHHOFF Administrative Assistant, Center for Jewish Life Rami Peled, born 1953. Died, 2011 at the age of 58. Cause of death: pseudomyxoma peritonei. Circumstances: culmination of an eight-year battle with this form of stomach cancer. Every person’s time will come. All of us will move on. Tom Peled has not allowed the battle to end or the name to die. Tom is Rami’s 24 year old son. Tom experienced all the grief that a son feels for the loss of his father. Not knowing how to best cope with the loss, Tom challenged himself to the mental and physical hardships of a three month, 3,000 mile trip around Europe. The trip proved to be the foundation for a new venture. Upon completion of his travels, Tom was inspired to do something significant. He founded an international cycling charity, Bike for the Fight (BFF), and made plans to bike across the United States – this time with renewed vigor and an important purpose. The trek was not to be a tribute to the memory of his deceased father – it was designed to be a continuation of his father’s fighting, optimistic character. The journey has begun. On Aug. 1, Tom departed from Malibu, California, and will arrive in New York City on Oct. 24. He is biking to raise awareness of the need for cancer research, to raise funds for the Israel Cancer Research Fund (ICRF), and to bring strength and inspiration to other families coping with cancer. He is riding to show support for those who have lost loved ones to the disease. Tom plans to travel 60 miles a day and stop in many small towns, interact with the local people, and visit as many Jewish communities as possible along the way. He is joined by Eran, who will drive his equipment, Roy who will bike with him, and Luca who is producing a film documentary of the ride. Through the documentary, the trio hopes to take the message to an even higher level of awareness and support. Tom has mentally broken the journey into two parts – “before Chicago” and “after Chicago.” Before Chicago, BFF will be stopping in
From our Shlicha
Livingston Foundation grant applications by HOWARD EPSTEIN The annual meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Milton S. and Corinne N. Livingston Foundation, Inc. will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 27, 2012. The primary interest of the Milton S. and Corinne N. Livingston Foundation, Inc. is to support Jewish institutions and projects. The Foundation has a secondary interest in supporting health, education, cultural and social services in the Omaha Metropolitan area. Grant requests should be submitted in writing, using the appropriate forms to
Howard N. Epstein at 11605 Miracle Hills Drive, Suite 300, P.O. Box 542005, Omaha, NE 68154-8005. Guidelines are as follows: 1. Grants will be limited to organizations located within the Omaha Metropolitan area and the State of Israel. 2. No grants will be given for capital or endowment campaigns. 3. Organization representatives may contact Howard Epstein at 402.492.9800 for a grant application form. The deadline for grant requests is Friday, Sept. 28.
Omaha at the Jewish Community Center. The Jewish Community Center and the Center for Jewish Life have joined forces in planning a full slate of activities once Tom and his companions arrive in Omaha. On Sunday, Sept. 9, they will join the JCC Spinning Class at 9 a.m. for an exercise session. This will be followed by an adult ride open to everyone beginning at 10 a.m. The ride will meet in front of the Wheatfield’s at One Pacific Place and follow the trail to Seymour Smith Park and back. (To register for the adult ride, please contact Gili at ggutwirth@jewishomaha.org or call 402.590.2148.) At 4:30 p.m., Tom will give a presentation for adults in the JCC Theater while the kids participate in a separate session in the JCC Auditorium, right across the hall. Kids will also have the opportunity to ride an obstacle course to be set up in the CDC parking lot between 5 and 5:45 p.m. Tom has chosen ICRF to be the recipient of the funds he raises partly because the recipients of ICRF funds, including Nobel Prize winners, have been engaged in ground-breaking research that has resulted in the development of life-saving achievements, such as early diagnostic devices and new drugs for leukemia, bone marrow cancer, breast and ovarian cancer, among others. Tom related, “My dream is that Bike for the Fight and efforts like it will someday help us overcome cancer so that other families do not have to suffer the premature loss of a loved one as my family did.” Peled, who is currently a student at the Lauder School of Government, Diplomacy and Strategy at the prestigious IDC college in Israel, has already attracted an impressive group of partners and co-sponsors including EL AL Airlines, Hillel, Maccabiah 2013, Embassy of Israel, and Microsoft Israel, which is developing a special app for the project. He has received support from Israeli leaders, including Israeli President Shimon Peres, and Jerusalem Mayor, Nir Barkat. For additional information on the events, please call Gili Gutwirth at 402.334.2148.
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August 31, 2012 | The Jewish Press | 5
Temple Israel unveils new high school curriculum
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by DAVID GOLBITZ teenagers. OJC will give students an opportunity to practice Temple Israel Staff Writer Judaism with their peers and learn from other members of At the end of the previous school year, Temple Israel the larger Jewish community. It will give students a chance asked its teens what changes they would like to see in the to broaden their perspectives on a variety of topics integral Wednesday evening curriculum. to Judaism. “Time with clergy,” they answered. “Time to socialize. Students in grades 9-12 are also encouraged to join Time to study.” Omaha Temple Youth Group. The purpose of OTYG is to Temple Israel heard their suggestions and went about cre- instill Jewish identity and foster commitment to the ideals ating a new and improved curriculum for their midweek and values of Reform Judaism. OTYG is student-led and meeting. Dubbed Temple Teen Night, Wednesday evenings engages in social action, religious and cultural activities and have been reworked to provide a fresh, innovative approach many social events. to Jewish learning for Temple Israel’s young adults. Additionally, students in grades 9-12 will have the opportu“During the important years between B’nai Mitzvah and nity to travel with Temple Israel clergy in order to deepen their adult independence, we are securing the foundation of a Jewish relationships with each other, bond with the rabbis and cantor, home we want our teens to and experience Judaism be connected to for the rest beyond the Omaha Jewish of their lives,” said Rabbi community in which they Josh Brown, who, along have grown up. with the Teen Advisory Ninth graders will travCommittee, co-chaired by el to New York City with Susan Rothholz and Paul Rabbi Brown, where they Miller, has been instrumenwill “explore the gateway tal in revamping Temple to American Jewry.” Israel’s youth program. Highlights include a Beginning Wednesday, Broadway show, eating at Sept. 5, the first of 17 a real New York deli and a Temple Teen Nights kicks Drew Beach, left, Rabbi Azriel, Hannah Perry and Hannah Budwig visit to one of the oldest off with dinner from 6synagogues in the country. 6:30 p.m., followed by an hour of class time in which students Temple Israel 10th graders will take a trip to Washington are separated by grade level. Teachers, including Temple D.C. with Rabbi Azriel to attend the Bernard and Audre Israel clergy, will instruct students on a variety of subjects, Rapoport L’Taken Social Justice Seminar. Students will ranging from identifying and practicing Jewish values to have the opportunity to impact our political process as they understanding differences between not only the three branch- share their views on social justice topics with decision makes of Judaism -- Orthodox, Conservative and Reform - but all ers on Capitol Hill. There will also be opportunities to the major world religions. The 11th and 12th graders will also explore the monuments in our nation’s capital. be invited from time to time to participate in Adult Education And this year, 11th and 12th graders will visit the classes with other members of the Temple Israel community. University of Kansas with Cantor Shermet, which will proFor the final half hour, from 7:30-8 p.m., Temple Israel will vide for them a glimpse of Jewish life on a college campus. host a Beit Café, or “coffee house,” during which students can Students will explore Hillel and sit in on a Jewish Studies class. hang out, study, or discuss the issues of the day with members “It is our hope that these trips will culminate in a trip to of the clergy or various guests from the Jewish community. Israel open to all of our 11th and 12th graders,” Rabbi “We are focused on solidifying our teens’ love for Temple Brown said. Plans are underway to make that happen for Israel, the greater Omaha Jewish community, and we are next year’s crop of 11th and 12th graders, though nothing is committed to serious learning,” Rabbi Brown said. concrete just yet. In addition to the new Temple Teen Night format, the Ceremonies that mark important milestones in the lives Temple Israel Board of Trustees voted on a motion to ensure of Temple Israel’s youth are observed first at the end of 10th that while Temple Israel students will have a “Reform Jewish grade and again upon their graduation from high school. Educational Experience,” as exemplified by Temple Teen Temple Israel holds a confirmation ceremony for 10th Night, they will also continue to take part in a combined graders as a way to mark the commitment students have curriculum governed by members of the three synagogues. made to their Jewish studies. Students participate in the Temple Israel students will participate in the new Omaha Shabbat service and share a private moment with Rabbi Jewish Connections program, created in concert by clergy Azriel on the bimah. and lay leaders from Beth El, Beth Israel, Temple Israel and Temple Israel’s high school graduates are honored with a the Center for Jewish Life. Senior Send Off, an intimate opportunity to pause and OJC will provide students from the three synagogues an reflect on this rite of passage and a chance for clergy to offer opportunity “to engage in and celebrate Jewish life togeth- advice to the graduating class. er,” Rabbi Brown said. “OJC events will be presented in harParents are encouraged to contact Teen Advisory mony with the synagogues’ educational programs, and the Committee co-chair Susan Rothholz or Temple Israel clerlearning opportunities will include innovative experiences.” gy with any questions or concerns they may have over the The first such innovative experience is a concert at Beth new direction Temple Israel teen education is taking. El on Saturday, Sept. 8 to celebrate S’lichot, beginning at “While there are a variety of needs and opinions among 11:30 p.m. this diverse group, everyone agrees that we want our teens Additional OJC programs will include an exploration of to feel at home in our Jewish community as they prepare for important Jewish issues relevant to the lives of today’s their Jewish life after high school,” Rabbi Brown said.
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ADL accepting applications for 2012-2013 Glass Leadership Institute by LIZZY GILBERT Corporate & Community Development, ADL Plains States Region The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) has announced that they are accepting applications for the 2012-2013 class of their select leadership program: Glass Leadership Institute (GLI). GLI is designed to equip young professionals with the skills and information needed to be advocates for ADL’s mission of securing justice and fair treatment for all. Founded in 1913, ADL is the world’s leading organization fighting anti-Semitism through programs and services that counteract all forms of hatred and prejudice. Through a formal application process, ADL recruits and invests in a diverse group of young people who are committed to civil rights, religious freedom, and anti-bias education. GLI highlights include an introduction to ADL’s civil rights work, law enforcement resources, educational programs as well as the many ways ADL serves the community on a daily basis. GLI also offers opportunities to learn more about ADL’s national and international initiatives through an informative trip to ADL’s 3-day National
Leadership Conference in Washington, DC. On Wednesday, Sept. 12 at Slowdown (729 N. 14th Street), 5:30-7 p.m., ADL will hold a Get-to-Know-Glass Happy Hour. The event will be a great opportunity for interested participants to meet alumni of the program, ADL board members, and learn all of the reasons to apply to participate. GLI meetings are held monthly from Oct.-May, 6:30–9 p.m., in the Greater Omaha area. Dinner will be provided at no cost. If you are passionate about making Omaha a No Place for Hate® community, you are encouraged to attend the Get-to-Know-Glass event on Sept. 12 and submit your application. Email apotash@adl.org for a fillable pdf application form. The deadline to apply is Friday, Sept. 20. You may mail completed applications to 333 S. 132nd Street, Omaha, NE 68154 or fax it to 402.333.5497. If you have any questions or need additional information on the program, please contact ADL Regional Director, Alan Potash at apotash@adl.org or 402.333.1303.
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ADL holds Educator Breakfast on The Social Impact of Youth Bullying by LIZZY GILBERT Corporate & Community Development, ADL Plains States Region The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) Plains States Region in collaboration with the Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network (GLSEN) of Omaha, and generously sponsored by Cox Communications, is pleased to announce the first topic of the 2012-2013 school year’s Educator Breakfast Series: Warren Blumenfeld, Ed.D., on The Social Impact on Youth Bullying. The event will be held on Tuesday, Sept. 11 with breakfast beginning promptly at 7:30 a.m. Institutional bullying and Warren Blumenfeld harassment do not exist within a vacuum, but rather reflect and actually reproduce the prejudices and discriminatory actions stemming from the social environment. Warren J. Blumenfeld, Ed.D., Associate Professor in the School of Education at Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa, specializes in Multicultural and
International Curriculum Studies as well as LGBTQ Studies. In his presentation, he investigates connections in the context of youth bullying and harassment by exploring the larger sociological and psychological environment, which will assist us in determining, understanding, and if necessary, instituting procedures to change our institutional environments. Additionally, Warren’s Words: Smart Commentary on Social Justice, will be available for purchase at the reduced price of only $10. The ADL’s quarterly Educator Breakfast series is available to the public at no cost. Each breakfast focuses on an evolving issue in education as it relates to the mission of the ADL. Teachers, counselors, administrators and community providers are exposed to unique material and presenters, and given the opportunity to ask questions and discuss with one another. To register for the event, please visit www.adledbreakfast092012.eventbrite.com. For more information on ADL’s Educational Programs or the Educator Breakfast, please contact Jessica Gall, Education Project Director, at the Anti-Defamation League office at 402-334-6573 or jgall@adl.org by Sept. 10. Space is limited so please register soon!
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by MARK KIRCHHOFF Administrative Assistant, Center for Jewish Life OJC has a name change. Emerging from the collaborative efforts of the synagogues and the Center for Jewish Life, Omaha Jewish Connections is about to move from a list of goals to reality. More than one giant leap, the debut will be a triple jump of activity on Friday and Saturday, Sept. 7 and 8. Omaha Jewish teens will experience what will be an exciting, entertaining, and informative kickoff event featuring an incredible performance by the band, A.K.A. Pella. A.K.A. Pella burst onto the Jewish music scene, and according to reviews of the latest album, V, “the boys have outdone themselves... with groundbreaking and original lyric adaptations... it is fantastic!” The band consists of three members, all of whom have separate professional careers. Dovi Ziffer is a founding member of AKA Pella who works as a business consultant for an international consulting firm. He is joined by Zevi Daniel and Shallom Engel. Zevi is Director of Marketing for a Baltimore-based dental supply company. Shallom Engel works as an attorney with a boutique real estate law firm. Rabbi Josh Brown from Temple Israel states, “This program is not only an exciting way to begin the year together, but also a wonderful way to show our teens that we are focused on them as we enter our High Holy Days. Coming together at this time of year, with an exciting band and the support of the entire Jewish community, promises to leave our kids enthusiastic about the coming year with the OJC.” The new Omaha Jewish Connections gives opportunities to high school students to experience an energetic, challenging, and informative approach to learning about Judaism. People from Beth El Synagogue, Beth Israel Synagogue, Temple Israel, and the Center for Jewish Life are working together to make this year’s learning experiences amazing. OJC programs integrate into the programs offered by the three synagogues. The ten OJC program themes are being developed to explore a number of questions. Among them: What does Judaism teach us about the treatment of animals? Can you name the Ten Commandments? Is it more important in life to be good, kind, smart, or happy? What does Jewish Law teach about pirating music? These topics and more will be explored throughout the school year. Everyone in the community is invited to participate in the two community events before the official high school OJC kickoff event. On Friday, Sept. 7 at 2:30 p.m., A.K.A. Pella will perform at Tea Time in the auditorium at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home (RBJH). The event is appropriately called, “Shabbat Comes to You at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home.” Community activities with A.K.A. Pella continue on Friday at 5 p.m. in the RBJH Chapel with Kabbalat Shabbat. The band will lead the weekly service and everyone – kids, teens, parents, grandparents – is invited to join in the ruach (spirit) of Shabbat. Rabbi Yaakov Weiss commented, “It is really exciting to include the residents of the Blumkin Home in the opening OJC event. I think this all stems from the realization that we are all part of one big Jewish family comprising the entire Jewish community. It will be a great opportunity for the residents and visitors to take part in this incredible spiritual beginning for the High Holiday season, in addition to
adding a special influx of guests for Shabbat.” The final jump of the weekend is the official kickoff event of the OJC at Beth El Synagogue at 11:30 p.m. Saturday, planned exclusively for high school students. Sharing the enthusiasm of all who have been planning this event, Rabbi Jonathan Gross of Beth Israel is quoted as saying, “Kicking off the new year with a powerful and uplifting Selichot sets the tone for the high holiday season and the beginning of a new year. A.K.A. Pella blends the traditional with the modern by putting the timeless Selichot poems to contemporary familiar songs. For a thousand years Jews have described Selichot as one of the most meaningful and memorable events of the year, and I am thrilled that the Omaha teens will have an opportunity to participate in a way that will be meaningful to them.” Joining Rabbi Gross in his enthusiasm, Rabbi Steven Abraham from Beth El said, “Selichot is when the real countdown begins for the High Holy Days. I am extremely excited for the concert on Saturday evening; it should be a wonderful experience for our teens to kick off the holiday season as a community in song and prayer.” The program will end at 1 a.m. Participation in the OJC events is open to all Jewish high school students. Contact your synagogue to register. If you are not a synagogue member, you may register for the OJC through the Center for Jewish Life by calling 402.334.6446. A.K.A. Pella’s visit to Omaha is funded in part by the Sokolof Javitch Music Fund of the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation, the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home, and the Jewish Federation of Omaha. Their support has provided the means to take the first steps in OJC programming for the year. Everyone involved thanks them for investing in the education of Jewish teens. Every participant in this triple jump will win a gold medal as they begin an exciting year of Jewish education. A kickoff event is just that. There is more to come. Visit the Omaha Jewish Connections page of the Jewish Federation of Omaha’s website, www.jewishomaha.org to follow this year’s events.
Organizations B’NAI B’RITH BREADBREAKERS Scott Hazelrigg will wear two hats for this special session. With a special election coming up to ask District 66 voters to override spending limits, Scott, a member of the Westside Community Schools Board of Education, will offer some insights in this very timely session. He will also discuss his role as Executive Director of the NorthStar Foundation, which helps underprivileged kids stay in school and go on to college on Wednesday, Sept. 5, 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.
August 31, 2012 | The Jewish Press | 7
Grandparents’ Day at the RBJH promises intergenerational fun by OZZIE NOGG The entire community can look forward to an afternoon of fun during the Grandparents’ Day Celebration on Sunday, Sept. 9, at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. The annual event, sponsored by L.O.V.E. (League Offering Volunteers for the Elderly) runs from 1-4 p.m. Activities include a Classic Car Show in the JCC parking lot; free photo booth with goofy props; a Bounce House; fabulous face painting by Karen Menagh, a Blumkin Home Activities Director; and delicious ice cream sundaes served from 2:30-3 p.m. on Main Street. “The afternoon will also feature the L.O.V.E. Gift Shop Sale,” said Lois Wine, RBJH Director of Volunteer Services. “It’s the perfect time to purchase a cute purse, fun jewelry, or an assortment of High Holiday cards, all specially priced.” Spearheading the Grandparents’ Day Planning Committee are Jim Wax, L.O.V.E. President, along with Judy Brookstein and Sheryl Friedman. The program is underwritten by these funds administered by the Foundation of the Jewish Federation of Omaha: The Sheldon A. and Lorrie Bernstein Endowment Fund; The Betty and Seymour T. Lee Endowment Fund; and The Chester and Phyllis Lustgarten Endowment Fund. Mike Schop, Rose Jewish Home Assistant Blumkin Administrator, said, “You don’t have to have a loved one at the Home to enjoy this program. My wife, Melissa, and our children plan to bring our favorite family matriarchs -- Sis Adler and Bobbie Epstein -- with us to Grandparents’ Day. They’ll have fun with the
kids and enjoy seeing their friends who either live at the Home or are there for rehab.” L.O.V.E. has been a mainstay of the community and the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home for the past forty years. During this time the organization raised in excess of $350,000 to provide needed equipment and programming for the RBJH. The L.O.V.E. Auxiliary
It’s the Beat! on the Mighty 1290 KOIL by NORMA JOHNSON Each week you can learn new things about arts and entertainment in Omaha by “listening in” on the conversations Karen Sokolof Javitch and Jody Vinci have with the guests they interview. You can hear it “live” on the Mighty 1290 KOIL am at noon on Saturday, or you can listen to past shows on www.Itsthebeat.net. “Most of our guests have a connection with Omaha,” Karen comments. “They have either branched out from our wonderful city or they are cultivating their talents here. Omahaborn Rick Chudacoff spoke with us last week about his fun-filled musical day with children and adults at the Omaha Conservatory of Music. He is a musician, songwriter and producer who held a concert at the OCM Center last weekend.” Ever wondered how much artistic talent you have? Last week’s guest, Kathy Byrnes, invited
all wishful artists to visit her new shop, “Village Canvas and Cabernet” which will open on Friday, Sept. 14. Just consider a ‘ladies night out’ with painting, laughter and wine. And you go home with your artistic creation! Each week Karen shares a few more of her original songs. Last Saturday, Karen and Jody interviewed Heisman Trophy winner Eric Crouch and played a song he had recorded for Karen on the Nebraska Celebrity CD. Her CDs are available through her website: www.jmrproductions.com and at Nebraska Furniture Mart. Individual songs are available for download at www.cdbaby.com (search Karen Javitch). “Karen and I laugh our way through the show,” Jody explains. “And we want our listeners to laugh and learn with us!” So tune in to “It’s the Beat!” on the Mighty 1290 KOIL am – noon on Saturdays. You’ll learn something and have fun along the way!
Financing a college education
Rosalie and Milt Saylan continues to show a deep commitment to the residents, serving as volunteers for various programs. “Our goal,” said Jim Wax, “is to respect and honor those who have come before us and have shown the way for the next generations.” Community members who want to show a Classic Car during Grandparents’ Day should please call Karen Menagh at 402.334.6521. Josh Gurock, Rose Blumkin Jewish Home Director of Facility Services, said, “Last year, my kids had a great time sitting in all different types of vehicles and learning about them from their owners. If you have an antique, vintage or classic car, you’ll want to add it to the lineup.”
by BETH BROWN-GERSHOVICH for Russ Kaplan Investments Repaying student loans has become a serious financial issue with the bad economy resulting in a lack of jobs for college graduates. I believe if you are going to be going to college or have a loved one that will be attending in the future, it is necessary to consider costs when making a decision. Will the benefit of the degree be worth the cost to acquire the degree? One misconception many seem to have is that an academic university/college degree is necessary for everyone, when it comes to finding a job. This is not necessarily true. There are many skilled jobs not requiring a college degree that pay
more than a lot of academic university/college graduates are getting. There are smaller colleges/ technical universities (like DeVry) that specialize in educating and training students for these skilled jobs. The cost of tuition may also be lower. It may be okay not to go to college, but it is NOT okay to not have a skill that someone is willing to pay you for. I would therefore recommend if you do go to college that you consider what you will be able to do with the degree and weigh it against the cost that going to college will require, and whether or not the career you want to work in requires an academic university education, as opposed to more specialized training at another educational institution.
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8 | The Jewish Press | August 31, 2012
Mainstreeters Fall line-up by OZZIE NOGG Street Y kicks off its fall season with speakers George Though the first day of autumn is still a few weeks off, McGovern, Mayor Ed Koch, Rupert Murdoch and Paul it’s time to fall in love with Mainstreeters and their Volker. The American population is aging, but because programs for September -- plus a December offerof advances in health care and pharmaceutical teching you won’t want to miss. nologies, an increase in the retirement age may be the The Magical, Marvelous Mystery Trip: new norm. This evening’s Thursday, Sept. 6. You’re invited to spend a esteemed panel will share relday like no other, full of surprises and fun. Casual dress and easy walking. Deluxe Coach Bus transportation sponsored by Jewish Social Services departs from the JCC at 9:30 a.m. (Be at the JCC by 9:15 a.m.) Bus space is limited so please reserve by Aug, 30. The Mystery Trip cost of $18 per person includes transportation, admission fees, a delectable lunch, tax and gratuity. Make checks payable to Jewish Social Services and send full payment to: Mainstreeters c/o Maggie Conti, 323 So. 132 Street, Omaha, NE 68154. For information call Harry Alloy at 402.697.8709. Let’s Paws for Lunch: Monday, Sept. 10, 12:30 p.m. in the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home Auditorium. Come hear Jim Wax, left, Harry Alloy, Doris Alloy and Rose Pitlor, are among those who enjoyed our special guest speaker, Pam Wiese, last year’s Mainstreeters MysteryTrip to Nebraska City, which included stops at the Vice President of Marketing and Native American Earth Lodge at the Lewis and Clark Center and the Tree Public Relations for the Nebraska Adventure Apple House Market. The group boarded a wagon for a guided tour of Humane Society. Pam will speak on apple trees and grape vines, and finished up with apple pie a la mode. pet issues in the Metro area and will even bring some fun, furry friends. For your entree, choose evant information and wisdom for “young retirees.” A either spaghetti and meatballs or baked salmon over rice dessert reception sponsored by Jewish Social Services folpilaf, both served with tossed mixed green salad, garlic lows the free broadcast. bread and apple pie. Cost is $11.50 per box lunch. Make Join Us at the Movies: Midnight in Paris, directed by Woody checks payable to Jewish Social Services and send full pay- Allen. Friday, Sept. 28 at 1 p.m. in the JCC Theater. No ment to: Mainstreeters c/o Maggie Conti, 323 So. 132 Street, charge for the film or for unlimited bags of warm, delicious Omaha, NE 68154. Reservations are appreciated by popcorn. No reservations necessary. Invite a friend. This Monday, Sept. 3. For information, call Linda Abrams romantic comedy set in Paris tells the story of a family that Tederman at 402-468-4939. travels to the French capital on business. The group includes Relevant Octogenarians: Live From NY’s 92nd Street Y on a young engaged couple who are forced to confront their difThursday, Sept. 13, 6:30 p.m. free in the JCC Theater. Join fering views of a perfect life. Paris. Love. What’s not to like? Mainstreeters and the rest of the community as NY’s 92nd If you want to have lunch at the Star Deli before the show,
call Maggie Conti at 402-334-6521 to reserve a table. Lunch is on your own. The Star Deli starts serving at 11:30 a.m. Billy Elliot: The Musical on Sunday, Dec. 2, at 1:30 p.m. at the Orpheum Theater. Mainstreeters has purchased a limited block of early-bird main floor tickets for this Tony Award-winning show, specially priced at $48.75 each. It’s strictly first come, first served. Those interested in attending should make checks payable to Jewish Social Services and send full payment to: Mainstreeters c/o Maggie Conti, 323 So. 132nd Street, Omaha, NE 68154. For more details, call Rose Pitlor at 402.558.5144. Harry Alloy has been leading the Mystery Trip for about fifteen years, taking the group to sites off the beaten path throughout the Omaha area. “We were lucky enough to have a private tour of the Holland Center before it opened to the public,” Alloy said. “We also travelled to Lincoln and saw the Wyuka Cemetery -- home of the Nebraska Holocaust Memorial -- and the International Quilt Study Center and Museum on UNL’s East Campus. I’d say eighty percent of us had never been to either location, so it was a real education. Of course, the trip to Council Bluffs’ historic Squirrel Cage Jail was especially exciting because one of our group got locked in a cell by mistake, and we only realized it when we were getting back on the bus and counted heads and noticed we were one person short. I can’t tell you where we’re going on Sept. 6, but I promise the day will be memorable.” Maggie Conti, Director of Activities and Outreach Programs Jewish Social Services/Rose Blumkin Jewish Home, praised Alloy for his dedication and organizational skills. “Harry works tirelessly, planning each detail to make sure the Mystery Trip goes off without a hitch. Each and every trip has been a unique adventure and a guaranteed fun-filled day. We really appreciate Harry’s hard work and creativity.” Mainstreeters welcomes all Jewish residents of the Omaha area age 60 plus. The group offers a mixed bag of learning opportunities plus social and cultural events. “There are no membership dues,” Conti said, “but we very much appreciate everyone who sends us $5 to cover Mainstreeters communication costs for printing, postage and mailing.” This year’s Communication Fee is good from July 2012 to June of 2013. Please make your check payable to Jewish Social Services and mail to Mainstreeters c/o Dr. Jim Wax, 1103 No. 93rd Street, #350, Omaha, NE 68114.
Do you know someone who is 18-26 years old, has special needs, and wants to travel to Israel for a FREE 10 day trip from December 30, 2012-January 10, 2013?
• This trip is a FREE gift from Taglit-Birthright Israel, in partnership with Yachad/National Jewish Council for Disabilities. Yachad • is dedicated to enhancing the life opportunities of those with disabilities and including them within the Jewish community. • Taglit-Birthright Israel Yachad provides an opportunity of a lifetime. Participants experience a trip to Israel with other Jewish • young adults and strengthen their personal Jewish identity and connection to the Jewish people! • With safety always the first priority, the group will enjoy time in Jerusalem and Northern Israel. They will ride camels, visit • Masada, and participate in many other exciting activities around the country. • Eligibility requirements: This trip is for individuals with special needs, ages 18 to 26 , who have never been to Israel before on a • peer trip. • Yachad provides trained staff to accompany all participants.
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BodnerN@ou.org • 212.613.8266 Deadline: September 10, 2012
August 31, 2012 | The Jewish Press | 9
Beth El offers reflection and celebration during High Holidays by JILL BELMONT Beth El Publicity Coordinator Every fall, the High Holidays offer families throughout the community a great opportunity to celebrate together at Beth El. The synagogue’s doors are always open to newcomers and visitors, and all members of the Jewish community are welcome to welcome a sweet new year with the entire Beth El family. The holiday observance will begin with a special Selihot service on Saturday, Sept. 8, when the congregation formally installs its new cantor, Hazzan Michael Krausman. The evening will begin with a 9:30 p.m. dessert reception, followed by Havdalah and the installation ceremony at 10 p.m.; then at 10:30 p.m., the reflective and beautiful Selihot service will take place. The synagogue’s Rosh Hashanah celebration, led by Rabbi Mordechai Levin and Hazzan Krausman, begins Sunday, Sept. 16 with a 6 p.m. Ma’ariv service. On Monday, Sept. 17, services will be held at 9 a.m.; Tashlich will take place at 4:45 p.m. and Minha/Ma’ariv will follow at 6 p.m. On the second day of Rosh Hashanah, Tuesday, Sept. 18, services will begin at 9 a.m. The clergy will be accompanied by Beth El’s new congregational choir. Thanks to the overwhelming response to last year’s program, the synagogue is once again offering its joyful, interactive High Holidays Family Service, from 10:30 a.m. to noon in the social hall, on both days of Rosh Hashanah, as well as on Yom Kippur. Geared to children in kindergarten through seventh grades, the service is open to everyone in the congregation, and will be led by Rabbi Steven Abraham and Eadie Tsabari, and assisted by Beth El teens. The morning will feature a fun, fast-paced and engaging service, filled with storytelling, kid-friendly discussions and much, much more, according to Rabbi Abraham. There is no charge to attend and registration is not necessary. Beth El’s fun-filled Tot Service will also return this year,
and is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. on both days of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. Held in the chapel, this festive program will feature songs, stories and creative activities, all enhancing little ones’ holiday experiences. Shira Abraham will lead the Rosh Hashanah activities, and Patty Nogg will take the helm for the Yom Kippur celebration. An adult must accompany each child to this service. There is no charge to attend, but for planning purposes, RSVPs are needed. Registration deadline is Sept. 10. For more information, visit www. bethel-omaha.org, or contact Margie Gutnik in the synagogue office, 402.492.8550, or at programming@bethel-omaha.org. Babysitting will be available during High Holidays services for children ages three months to five years old on erev Rosh Hashanah, as well as on both days of the holiday; also during Kol Nidre and Yom Kippur services. Cost is $3.50 per child, with a maximum of $25 per family. Children must be pre-registered to use this service: registration deadline is Sept. 10, and a $7 charge will be assessed for late reservations. Reservations may be made online, or by contacting the synagogue office. The congregation’s observance of Yom Kippur begins with Kol Nidre at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 25. The next morning, services will be held at 9 a.m., and at 5:30 p.m., Rabbi Abraham will lead a thought-provoking study session for adults. Minha-Ne’ilah will begin at 6 p.m., and once again, the congregation’s children (ages 12 and younger) are invited to participate in a joyous processional and Havdalah service at the end of the service, around 7:35 p.m.; all participants will meet in the chapel at 7:20 p.m. In addition, congregants experienced in blowing the shofar are invited to take part in a group sounding of rams’ horns at the conclusion of Ne’ilah (around 7:45 p.m.) To be included in this group, please contact Rabbi Levin at rabbilevin@bethel-omaha.org.
Imagine all the people by ZOË AND CARL RIEKES & STACEY AND BRETT ATLAS 2013 Jewish Federation of Omaha Annual Campaign Co-chairs Imagine a place where Jews don’t have enough to eat. Imagine a place where Jews don’t have basic medical care after working hard their entire lives. Imagine a place where
Jewish children don’t recognize their heritage and have no place to learn about it. These places are real. The work of the Jewish Federation of Omaha is to imagine a day when these places cease to exist. As Jews, it is our responsibility to care for one another and for those less fortunate, a lesson taught from generation to generation, L’Dor V’Dor. We believe our Annual Campaign is about more than raising money. It is about helping people across our community fulfill the mitzvah of Tzedakah. There were 129 visits to Jewish Family Service’s Food Pantry last year. Through its Project Tzedakah, almost one hundred individuals were served during the Rosh Hashanah, Hanukkah, Passover holiday cycle. Internationally, Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) is expanding an innovative food card program. $150 provides groceries for a family in crisis and just $27 provides a hot kosher meal for a poor family of four. Our Meals on Wheels program provides 35 kosher meals, every day. Because we believe that every Jewish senior deserves to be healthy, independent and active, Jewish Social Services (JSS) offers programming through Mainstreeters, where yearly over 225 seniors actively participate. Last year, JSS social workers provided over 100 seniors and their families with
support on aging issues, and the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home has provided loving care to almost 2000 residents since 1982. In Russia and Eastern Europe, JFNA funds more than 160 Hesed centers that provide life-saving medical care, home care, and winter relief to 168,000 impoverished elderly Jews. In difficult times, our values and traditions keep us going. Around the world, Jews, especially young Jews, are feeling renewed excitement about being a part of the Jewish people. By investing in experiences that build Jewish identity for everyone, we help secure the Jewish future. Last year the Jewish Federation of Omaha provided $35,000 in scholarships to twenty families with children in our Pennie Z. Davis Child Development Center, and about 75 families received financial assistance for JCC memberships so that, together as a family, they can participate in all our campus has to offer. Together with our synagogues, preschool and day school, our Federation campus is the center of Jewish life and learning in Omaha. Through the Center for Jewish Life, over $250,000 in scholarships went to support our children. Last year, 55 kids attended Jewish summer camps and 19 teens traveled to Israel with support from the Federation. Fifty teens have established B’nai Tzedek accounts and are well on their way to becoming young philanthropists. Through engagement, education and promotion, we make our community aware of all that our Annual Campaign achieves. Through your Campaign contribution, you recognize the Jewish Federation of Omaha as the most significant way to make a difference in Jewish lives here at home, in Israel and around the world. We want to engage and involve every member of our community. And, with a little help from our friends, we will.
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September Community Calendar FRIDAY, AUGUST 31 Star Deli, 11:30 a.m. at RBJH Tot Shabbat, 6 p.m. at Temple Israel
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 Mainstreeters Mystery Trip, 9 a.m. 92Y Broadcasts and Reception, 6:30 p.m.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 1 Torah Study, 9:15 a.m. at Temple Israel
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 14 Star Deli, 11:30 a.m. at RBJH Rabbi Levin’s Let’s Do Lunch, noon at RBJH Star Deli
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 3 Wrestling w/Rabbis of the Talmud, 10 a.m. at Beth El Torah Teleconference class with Rabbi Gross, 10:30 a.m. TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 4 B’nai B’rith Board Meeting, 11:45 a.m. Beth El Rosh Hashanah Progra.m., 1:40 p.m. at Remington Heights BBYO Night, 6 p.m. Rabbi Mizrahi’s Weekly Class, 6:30 p.m. at Beth Israel WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 BESTT Talmud Torah Class, 4:15 p.m. at Beth El Hebrew High, 6 p.m. at Beth El Judaism, Zionism and Social Justice, 6:30 p.m. at Temple Israel Rabbi Weiss’s Weekly Class, 7:45 p.m. at Beth Israel THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 Adult Study, 10 a.m. at Temple Israel Local Jewish Artists Reception, 4 p.m. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7 Star Deli, 11:30 a.m. at RBJH Oh Say Shalom to Shabbat & Tot Shabbat, 6 p.m. at Beth El SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 8 Torah Study, 9:15 a.m. at Temple Israel Junior Congregation, 10 a.m. at Beth El Selichot & Installation of Hazzan Michael Krausman, 8:30 p.m. at Beth El OJC [Omaha Jewish Connections] Selichot Concert featuring A. K. A. Pella, 11 p.m. SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 9 Blood Drive, 9 a.m. at Temple Israel BESTT Talmud Torah Classes, 9:45 a.m. at Beth El Adult Education Classes, 10 a.m. at Beth El RBJH/JSS Grandparents Day Celebration, 1 p.m. Backyard Concert Series, 6 p.m. MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 10 JFS Project Tzedakah – Rosh Hashanah, 7:30 a.m. Wrestling w/Rabbis of the Talmud, 10 a.m. at Beth El Torah Teleconference class with Rabbi Gross, 10:30 a.m. BESTT Monday Moadon, 4:15 p.m. at Beth El Back to Basic – High Holiday Edition, 7 p.m. at Beth El
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 15 Torah Study, 9:15 a.m. at Temple Israel SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 16 Erev Rosh Hashanah Weekly Torah Study, 10 a.m. at Beth El MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 17 JCC Closed for Rosh Hashanah TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 JCC Closed for Rosh Hashanah Board of Trustees, 7 p.m. at Temple Israel WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 BESTT Talmud Torah Class, 4:15 p.m. at Beth El Federation Board Meeting, 5:30 p.m. What’s UP: Israeli Media with Rabbi Azriel, 6 p.m. at Temple Israel Hebrew High, 6:45 p.m. at Beth El Rabbi Weiss’s Weekly Class, 7:45 p.m. at Beth Israel THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 Unity Torah Community Celebration, 4:30 p.m. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 Star Deli, 11:30 a.m. at RBJH SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 Torah Study, 9:15 a.m. at Temple Israel Junior Congregation, 10 a.m. at Beth El SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 BESTT Talmud Torah Classes, 9:45 a.m. at Beth El Weekly Torah Study, 10 a.m. at Beth El Torah Tots, 10:30 a.m. at Beth El Beth El Memorial Service, 11:45 a.m. at Beth El Cemetery 2013 Annual Campaign Community Event, 5:30 p.m. at Hilton Omaha MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 24 Wrestling w/Rabbis of the Talmud, 10 a.m. at Beth El Torah Teleconference class with Rabbi Gross, 10:30 a.m. BESTT Monday Moadon, 4:15 p.m. at Beth El TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 Erev Yom Kippur B’nai B’rith Board Meeting, 11:45 a.m.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11 JFS Project Tzedakah – Rosh Hashanah, 8 a.m. B’nai B’rith Board Meeting, 11:45 a.m. BBYO Night, 6 p.m. Rabbi Mizrahi’s Weekly Class, 6:30 p.m. at Beth Israel
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 JCC Closed for Yom Kippur
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 BESTT Talmud Torah Class, 4:15 p.m. at Beth El Teen Night, 6 p.m. at Temple Israel Take Action to Ensure Your Legacy, 6:30 p.m. at Temple Israel Transforming Moments, 6:30 p.m. at Temple Israel Hebrew High, 6:45 p.m. at Beth El Rabbi Weiss’s Weekly Class, 7:45 p.m. at Beth Israel
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 29 Torah Study, 9:15 a.m. at Temple Israel Junior Congregation, 10 a.m. at Beth El
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28 Star Deli, 11:30 a.m. at RBJH
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 30 Erev Sukkot BESTT Talmud Torah Classes, 9:45 a.m. at Beth El Weekly Torah Study, 10 a.m. at Beth El NCJW Great Omaha Chocolate festival, noon at UNO Fieldhouse
All events held at the Jewish Community Center unless otherwise noted. This calendar does not include all community events. For a complete listing, visit the Federation’s website: www.jewishomaha.org (click on calendar). To keep calendar accurate, call Pat Anson at 402.334.8200. The Jewish Press is not responsible for the accuracy of the above events.
August 31, 2012 | The Jewish Press | 11
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by DAVID GOLBITZ Temple Israel Staff Writer When Joi Brown picked up her batch of honey cakes from Temple Israel last year, she had no idea that by the end of her delivery run she would have met someone who would go on to become one of her dearest friends. “Meeting a senior congregant through the honey cake visit has given me so much more than I anticipated,” Brown said. “We continued our friendship with outings and gatherings after discovering common interests in the arts and films.” Brown moved to Omaha from Wisconsin with her husband nearly seven years ago, and last year was the first time she had volunteered to deliver honey cakes to Temple Israel’s older members. “Not being from Omaha, and still getting to know the community, this friendship is an amazing gift,” Brown said. “I truly enjoy the insight, wit and perspective of my new friend.” That friend, David Rice, is equally gratified by his relationship with Brown. “We’re both a little crazy,” he said. Since becoming friends during last year’s honey cake delivery visit, Rice and Brown talk at least once a month and often enjoy going to see a movie at Film Streams. “We hit it off very well,” Rice said.
Rice is also very supportive of the honey cake deliveries. “I like honey cake,” Rice said. “And it’s good for the community.” With Rosh Hashanah right around the corner, Temple Israel is once again looking for volunteers to help deliver honey cakes to its senior members. Volunteers will be asked to visit two or three of Temple Israel’s elder congregants, ages 80 and above. Volunteers will also be provided with phone numbers so they can call ahead and find out when would be a good time to visit. Honey cakes must be picked up from Temple Israel on Friday, Sept. 7, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., but they can be delivered anytime over the weekend. Deliveries can also be arranged by zip code, so you won’t be asked to drive too far from your home or workplace. Temple Israel also asks that volunteers follow up with clergy or with Wendy Goldberg if they learn anything, happy or sad, such as a birth in the family or a change in health status during their visit. If you would like to deliver honey cakes to one of Temple Israel’s senior members, please contact Program Director Wendy Goldberg. And who knows? You might even meet a friend whom you would never have met if not for these honey cakes, just like Joi Brown and David Rice.
Friday Learning Series to feature Syrian Jews and ethical wills by MARY SUE GROSSMAN Associate Executive Director, The Center for Jewish Life The Center for Jewish Life’s Friday Learning Series kicks off the new year with two, two-session classes in September taught by Judy Rosenfeld. All sessions will take place from 10-11a.m. in the Kripke Jewish Federation Library. The first class, “The Syrian Jewish Community” will be held Sept. 7 and 14. The sessions will explore this thriving Jewish community, teaching about the history of the Syrian Jews and its rich heritage and culture. Learn Judy Rosenfeld about the various Jewish customs practiced that are different from the Ashkenazi Jews, who represent the majority of those in Jewish Omaha. The class will also discuss the strengths of the community and the challenges it faces for future survival. The second class, meeting on Sept. 21 and 28, is entitled
“Ethical Wills – Take Action to Ensure Your Legacy.” Ethical wills are “precious spiritual documents, windows into the soul of those who write them.” [Jack Riemer] Judy will lead the study from the Jewish perspective on ethical wills and share a few ethical wills that will stir your soul. Participants will learn how to write an ethical will and actually begin writing one’s own during class. Judy commented that everyone should “come prepared to explore your values and Jewish legacy.” Rosenfeld received her Bachelor’s degree in Judaic Studies from Brooklyn College. She has been a Jewish Educator in the Orthodox, Conservative and Reform communities for over twenty years. Most recently, she served as the Educational Director for the Congregation B’nai Israel in Toms River, New Jersey. Class tuition is $18 for each two-session class, discounted to $14 for the donors of the Annual Campaign of the Jewish Federation of Omaha. Pre-registration is required and should be sent to mkirchhoff@jewishomaha.org or by calling 402.334.6463. Details on upcoming agency classes to be taught by Suzi Frydman-Levin, Miriam Gross, Ilana Weiss and Dr. Leonard Greenspoon will be coming soon.
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The Secret Within by RABBI LEIBEL BAUMGARTEN for the Chabad Center Looking at the average Torah in Omaha will present quite a different image than, say, North Africa. While a Sephardic Torah is housed in a heavy wooden case, an Ashkenazic scroll is covered by a fabric, referred to as the ‘Mantel’, meaning cloak. The custom of Sephardic Jews is to read from the Torah as it stands supported by its ornate wooden case. The Ashkenazic community reads from the Torah lying flat on the Bimah’s table. In many communities a silver or wooden ‘Yad’ (pointer) is used to help the reader stay focused. Even within Ashkenazic and Sephardic communities, there are varying customs. In Ashkenazic circles, some adorn their Torahs with silver breastplates, some use exquisite crowns; some use velvet, others use silk. Throughout the years, at Torah dedications in Ashkenazic communities, the remnant fabric of a new Torah’s ‘Mantel’ would be used in a special way. The leftover material would be cut into small pieces and distributed to participants at the joyous Torah dedication. This underscores the fact that an object which is used for the beautification of a Mitzvah invites protection and blessing. Mothers
would clamor to receive even a small piece of this fabric in the hopes that their children would be protected and their faith in G-d strengthened. At Omaha’s Unity Torah Celebration, this custom will be honored as well. No matter what the Torah looks like on the outside, the inside is always the same; the same 304,805 handwritten black letters on handcrafted parchment. The same injunctions and messages. Exactly. Down to the very last letter. Just as the Jewish people are a nation of all shapes, colors and sizes, with each individual possessing unique qualities and distinct virtues, on a soul level, we are one and the same. We all have the same Father, and are equal and most worthy in His eyes. Be a part of Omaha Jewish history and join the Unity Torah Celebration, celebrating the unity and brotherhood of our community. Be inspired as we parade as one through our streets, and proudly display our togetherness. At the celebration, you will be inspired and uplifted. Reserve your letter in the Torah today. Endowments begin at $18. Visit www.omahatorah.com to find out more and secure your place in history.
12 | The Jewish Press | August 31, 2012
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What you might have missed
ANNETTE VAN DE KAMP-WRIGHT Editor of the Jewish Press People have asked me over the past week whether I was planning to write about Todd Akin. The answer is no, everything’s been written by now, and anyway, I wouldn’t know where to start. I don’t mean to be flip; the political discourse surrounding rape, incest, abortion and respect for women is terribly important. Having said that, we too often see the public debate ruled by one issue, and one issue only. And there is so much else we should pay attention to (did I already say this before? I seem to be having déja vu). Here is the Jewish Press’ list of “other things we should not overlook.” Number one: The current administration continues to send $3 billion –and then some- in aid to Israel, every year. Yet they remain on the defensive as far as their attitude towards Israel, while the only Presidential candidate this year who has firmly spoken out in favor of ending that aid is Ron Paul. It’s not the most popular part of Ron Paul’s platform, and it may be what ultimately killed any chance he had of being the nominee. The RNC agrees: they refused Ron Paul a speaking slot at the convention. Number two: Denmark has commissioned an investigation into non-medical circumcision, and whether its procedures violate its health code. It is possible a ban will follow. It’s a heated debate in many other countries as well. A recent ruling by the German district court of Cologne says circumcision “for the purpose of religious upbringing constitutes a violation of physical integrity”. The judgment added: “The child's body is permanently and irreparably changed by the circumcision. This change conflicts with the child's interest of later being able to make his own decision on his religious affiliation.” (Source: JTA) Should we take that to mean that circumcision should par-
tially be banned because it would hinder a conversion away from Judaism? To make things even stranger: the German postal service has announced it will be issuing a stamp commemorating the circumcision of Jesus on Sept. 11. The third thing I don’t want you to miss is a happy one: Modern Orthodox Congregation Beth Israel in New Orleans is about to officially reopen. The congregation found a new home next door to Reform Synagogue, Gates of Prayer, in Metairie. After Katrina, when Beth Israel found itself in ten feet of water, thousands of prayer books and seven Torah scrolls were lost, and the building was destroyed beyond repair, the congregation found a temporary home with Gates of Prayer. Jewish federations all over the country raised funds, the Rabbinical Council of America, Yeshiva University and the Orthodox Union launched a joint online fundraising campaign, and the Jewish Newcomers Program started bringing Jews back to New Orleans. When the time was right, they bought the land next door. The comeback of Beth Israel is a great story, and we should all celebrate it. (Unfortunately, as I’m writing this late on Sunday night, storm Isaac is projected to hit New Orleans in a few days, and I’m sure everyone in Nola is watching the forecasts with dread. Let’s hope and pray for the best). One more story, but this one you’re going to wish you missed: an Estonian gas company launched an Internet campaign advertising their product. They did so by displaying a photo of the gates of Auschwitz, including the ‘Arbeit macht frei’ sign. The caption: “Gas heating - flexible, convenient, and effective.” Just in case you’ve ever wondered what a lack of education really looks like: here it is. It’s a good reminder that thorough Holocaust education should never be taken for grant-
ed, and that there are many pockets in the world where this education is severely lacking. After being criticized, the company’s owner removed the photo, and posted a bizarre apology, saying that “Hitler killed himself after getting his gas bill,” and adding he “felt sorry for those people.” Like I said: education, it’s essential. When you watch all the political noise surrounding this election, it’s easy to forget that in the meantime, other important stuff happens. Constantly. I challenge you to take a break now and then and read an international newspaper. Especially since most websites have those handy buttons that allow you to read anything, from anywhere, in translation, so you don’t have to be fluent in French, Danish, or even Hebrew. Have a happy Labor Day weekend, everyone. Editor’s note: The time to sign up for the Jewish Press Club is now, as we are winding things down with our initiative. Please help us continue to make a great paper, and join today!
Jews should vote with religion in mind
Behind the headlines N. AARON TROODLER NEW YORK (JTA) -- Most people dislike politics. “Voter apathy” has become part of our vernacular, and far too many people fail to exercise one of the most extraordinary privileges afforded to us by the Constitution -- the right to vote. As Americans, voting is a privilege we should cherish. However, as Jewish Americans, we have an even greater obligation to ensure that we do not ignore this sacred constitutional freedom. We are in the midst of a heavily contested presidential election. Mitt Romney and the Republicans sense an opportunity to reclaim the White House by faulting President Obama for the ongoing fiscal challenges facing many Americans. Obama and the Democrats counter by touting the president’s foreign policy credentials and focusing on the inroads they contend he has made on the domestic front. Many political pundits insist this is one of the most important presidential elections of our lifetime. For us, as Jewish Americans, that assertion could not be truer. Presidential politics carries with it a healthy dose of religion. Injecting religion into politics is no longer taboo, and candidates today speak freely about their faith and incorporate religious ideology into their campaign rhetoric. Just as the candidates make religion a focal point of their campaign, we as Jewish Americans must make our faith a centerpiece of this critical presidential election. Jewish Americans traditionally play a pivotal role in presidential elections. In an effort to cultivate Jewish support, candidates typically address issues of significance to the Jewish community during their campaigns. They say what we want to hear, and we, ostensibly ecstatic that they have pledged
(Founded in 1920) Andrew Ruback President Annette van de Kamp-Wright Editor Richard Busse Creative Director Shiri Tene Advertising Executive Jessie Wees Advertising Executive Lori Kooper-Schwarz Assistant Editor Barbara Kirkpatrick Bookkeeper
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their undying love to Israel and the Jewish community, carry that rhetoric with us into the voting booth on Election Day. The Jewish community must demand more. We live in trying times and can no longer simply take the candidates’ pro-Israel statements at face value. We must engage in a substantive dialogue with the candidates about the issues that are vital to our future as Jews. With the onset of the Arab Spring and the meteoric rise of Islamist fundamentalism, the U.S.-Israel relationship could not be more essential. In a period of uncertainty for Israel, the one certainty we need is an unbreakable bond between America and Israel. Hyperbole and empty promises from the presidential candidates concerning the U.S.-Israel relationship are unacceptable. In light of the fluid situation involving Israel’s neighbors, we need a genuine pledge from the candidates that America will continue standing together with the Jewish state. The type of sincere assurance we need will not necessarily happen on its own. It is up to us, as Jewish Americans, to ensure it happens. As deadly Katyusha and Kassam rockets continue raining down on Israel, Jewish Americans need to make certain that our presidential candidates undertake to finally end the violence. When Hamas fires rockets from Gaza at southern Israel and Hezbollah launches rockets at northern Israel, the international community inexplicably shrugs its shoulders and essentially does nothing. The safety and security of our Israeli brethren is paramount, and we have a responsibility to hold the candidates accountable when it comes to safeguarding the State of Israel. As Iran works towards nuclear proliferation, America and the European Union have decided that ongoing talks are the solution to our collective problem. The talks persist even though Gen. Hossein Salami, the acting commander of Iran’s
Revolutionary Guard, recently boasted that Iran test-fired missiles that can strike Israel and U.S. military bases in the region. Nuclear Iran poses a grave threat to Israel, so Jewish Americans need to tell the presidential candidates that this dangerous situation needs to be addressed accordingly. While the candidates crisscross the country talking to voters, Jonathan Pollard continues to languish in prison after more than 26 years behind bars. Pollard, who received an unprecedented life sentence for passing classified information to Israel, an American ally, is extremely ill and has expressed remorse for his actions. Numerous American leaders have implored Obama and his predecessors to commute Pollard’s disproportionate sentence. As Jewish Americans, we have a duty to inform the presidential candidates that Jonathan Pollard’s release is a major priority. In 2008, Barack Obama garnered 78 percent of the Jewish vote, while John McCain received just 22 percent. Those electoral numbers were consistent with the Jewish vote in presidential elections for the past century, in which the overwhelming majority of the Jewish community gravitates toward the more liberal candidate. The days of Jewish Americans casting their votes based on party affiliation and partisan politics must end now. We cannot afford to tow the party line and vote for someone simply because there is a “D” or an “R” before the name. The time has come for Jewish Americans not to just vote responsibly but to vote religiously. Just as Sen. Joe Lieberman proudly embraced his Jewish identity as a vice presidential candidate in 2000 and a presidential candidate in 2004, we also need to be especially cognizant of our Jewish identity in the political context. As Jewish Americans, we must do our due diligence and make certain that the issues that are important to us also Continued on page 13
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August 31, 2012 | The Jewish Press | 13
How the contemporary left can reclaim its moral authority
Behind the headlines ROBERT WISTRICH JERUSALEM (JTA) -- After the 1967 Six-Day War, much of the radical left in the West predicated its militant anti-Zionism on the illusory notion that the Palestinians represented a revolutionary and “progressive” vanguard that could one day mobilize the Arab masses in the cause of social revolution. But in 2011, when revolution really spread to the Middle East, Palestine was scarcely on the agenda. Not only that, but the Palestinian national movement, far from representing social revolution, has been increasingly dominated by religious fundamentalist terrorism, whose values are completely antithetical in all respects to those of Western liberalism. Yet, the Palestinian “myth” of liberation still lives on as if nothing has changed. Significantly, Israeli society continues to move forward as an increasingly successful, economically liberalized and modern “start-up” nation. Yet, its very tangible achievements are simply shrugged off by those left-liberals who either ignore the moral and political bankruptcy of Palestinian nationalism or blame its abject failure on Israel and the United States. In my recent book From Ambivalence to Betrayal: The Left, The Jews and Israel, I addressed this Manichean stance at some length, examining the refusal of the left to engage in any substantive critique of radical Islam even as it indulges in the most hyperbolic clichés about Israel. Moreover, whenever the subject of contemporary antiSemitism also is thrown into this boiling pot, an infantile counter-accusation is usually evoked -- that one is cynically “stifling criticism” of Israel or dishonestly playing the “Zionist card.” In other words, any critic who detects even a hint of anti-Jewish bias in the venomous demonization of Israel as “Nazi,” “fascist” or a “racist apartheid state,” par excellence is assumed to be protesting in bad faith or acting as a venal apologist for Israel. If anything can stifle genuine debate, it is surely such unjust accusations. They invariably shut down any serious discussion of the very real anti-Semitic legacies, the stigmatizing vocabulary and paranoid conspiracy theories so widely prevalent today among many Islamists, Marxists and supposedly “liberal” adversaries of modern Zionism. There is something profoundly dishonest about reducing anti-Semitism to a discourse about “immunizing” Israel from legitimate criticism. Among other things, it assumes that Jews actually have the power to silence critics of Israel. Yet, it should be obvious that such “criticism,” far from being silenced, is in fact rampant in the Western media. The appalling fact is that obvious falsehoods such as branding Israel as an “apartheid state” or trying to demonize it through the “Nazi” analogy have become rather fashionable in much contemporary Western discourse. Equally, when self-proclaimed “progressives” work overtime to turn Israel into a pariah state or to dismantle it, they
are hardly being “progressive,” let alone original. Worse still, they echo in a sometimes ominous manner the brutal language of the Nazi campaign in the 1930s to make Europe judenrein (Jew-free). As for the Islamists (whether in Iran or those currently riding high in the Arab world), they have never disguised their relentless pursuit of the “eliminationist” option -- to “cleanse” the Middle East definitively of the “Jewish cancer” -- which is exactly how Israel is currently described by the ayatollahs in Tehran. Yet, incredibly, there are leftists -- including so-called Jewish “progressives” -- who either remain silent about the enormity of this genocidal language or malevolently suggest that Israel is deliberately exaggerating the Iranian threat to justify future aggressions of its own. As I showed in my recent book, the prevailing defamation of Zionism has its roots in the campaign of the Soviet Union and its Third World allies that cynically manipulated “antiracist” catchwords to stigmatize and morally discredit Zionism in the international arena. It was the totalitarian Soviet propaganda apparatus that first invented the myth of an essential ideological unity between Zionism and racism -- a canard eagerly embraced in the 1970s by Yasser Arafat, many Arab states, nonaligned Third World countries, black radicals and much of the Western New Left. Already at that time, Zionist Jews came to be seen by communists, leftists and Islamists as embodying an immensely powerful, intangible, occult form of global power threatening to dominate the whole world. This pseudoMarxist and anti-American variation on the “Protocols of the Elders of Zion” produced a particularly vicious mutation of fascist conspiracy theories, which during the past decade have experienced a spectacular revival on the anti-Zionist left. Such mythologizing of Jewish power lies at the heart of the so-called “new anti-Semitism,” which is ultimately not so different from the old. Already in the mid-19th century, socialists as diverse as Karl Marx, Pierre-Joseph Proudhon and Mikhail Bakunin had postulated the existence of a universal, anti-social Jewish mercantile “essence” that had supposedly seized control of the capitalist world and would therefore have to be destroyed. Their heirs today have embraced the phantasmagoric view that humanity can be redeemed (and peace finally achieved in the Middle East) only if the world is physically liberated from the new “Jewish” yoke -- that of a demonic American-Zionist-Israeli conspiracy. If the contemporary left seriously wishes to reclaim its own moral credibility and political relevance, it will have to engage in some serious soul-searching and definitively free itself from the incubus of such perverse fantasies. Only in this way can it hope to reconnect to an authentic emancipatory vision of human liberation. Robert S. Wistrich is the director of the Vidal Sassoon International Center for the Study of Antisemitism at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and author of the newly published From Ambivalence to Betrayal: The Left, The Jews and Israel, University of Nebraska Press, 2012.
RJC has a positive take on Ron Paul’s convention footprint by DANIEL TREIMAN The National Jewish Democratic Council is bashing the GOP for including a video tribute to Rep. Ron Paul at its convention in light of his views on Israel. But the Republican Jewish Coalition prefers to see the glass as half full on the issue of Paul's footprint at the convention. Talking Points Memo, in an article looking at potential fallout from Israel supporters regarding the video tribute, reports: The Republican Jewish Coalition barred Paul from a candidate forum last year, citing his “misguided and extreme views.” But the RJC seemed reluctant to even acknowledge Paul’s inclusion. “We are pleased that Ron Paul was denied any formal speaking role at the convention and that the RNC has
worked so that his name will not even be put in nomination,” RJC executive director Matt Brooks told TPM in a statement. “This reflects the broad consensus that Ron Paul and his views are outside of the mainstream of the Republican Party.” While Paul is not addressing the convention, his son was given a prime speaking slot. Like his father, Sen. Rand Paul is opposed to all foreign aid -- including to Israel -- and advocates pretty isolationist foreign policy positions. But in contrast to his dad -- who at times has been rhetorically quite harsh toward the Jewish state -- the Kentucky senator has tried to sound more Israel-friendly notes. The RJC has hammered Democrats for letting President Jimmy Carter speak at their convention.
Vote with religion in mind Continued from page 12 become important to the presidential candidates. Obviously, domestic concerns such as taxes, job creation and economic stability are essential. Certainly, foreign relations and America’s standing in the international community are significant. However, equally important, if not more important, are the issues that are close to our hearts as Jewish Americans. Indeed, this is one of the most important presidential elections of our lives. The future of the State of Israel and
the religious freedoms we enjoy as Jewish Americans depends heavily on who occupies the White House. The outcome of this election undoubtedly will impact our lives for many years to come. We need to ensure that there is a healthy dose of Judaism injected into this presidential election. It is the best medicine that we as Jewish Americans can have. N. Aaron Troodler is an attorney and a principal of Paul Revere Public Relations, a public relations and political consulting firm.
Labor Day 2012 and Jewish Values
Focus on issues STUART APPELBAUM When Congress declared Labor Day a public holiday in 1894, workers had more to lament than to celebrate: an economic depression, a growing concentration of corporate wealth and power, and the brutal suppression of their unions. A momentous national railroad strike to protest deep wage cuts and the summary firing of workers who dared to voice their grievances was ruthlessly broken with the help of the U.S. attorney general and federal troops, leaving more than 30 workers dead and the strike’s leader, Eugene Victor Debs, in jail. Nevertheless, in those bleak times, there was something for workers in the U.S. to celebrate: a broad notion of solidarity had begun to take root, defining an injury to any one worker as an injury to all. That solidarity, directly countering the forces that divided working people, sustained and strengthened the labor movement in the years to come. A strong labor movement, in turn, worked to build the middle class and strengthen our democracy. This resonated with the Jewish communities of the day, largely immigrants and children of immigrants who knew what communal solidarity and mutual aid were all about. And it was no accident that Jewish workers were among the ranks of the U.S. labor movement. Jewish labor activists made a lasting impression on the development of the U.S. labor movement, from the International Ladies’ Garment Workers’ Union, the Amalgamated Clothing Workers of America, the American Federation of Teachers, and to my own union, the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union. On this Labor Day, U.S. workers once again face hard times: persistent high unemployment and a concentration of wealth and economic power not seen since the 19th century. The Jewish community, of course, is not immune to the toll it has taken in communities across the country – just ask anyone working at a Jewish federation’s Jewish Family Service or Jewish Vocational Service. And this growing inequality, not surprisingly, has coincided with organized labor’s decline. Today, the country’s union membership rate is under 12 percent, the lowest in more than 70 years. But that trend is not driven by the hostility of workers toward unions -- in poll after poll a majority of non-union workers say they would like to join a union if they could -- but rather by hostility of some employers and state and local governments. Since the 2010 midterm elections, legislatures in dozens of states including Indiana, Ohio, and Wisconsin have moved to eviscerate collective bargaining rights, pass socalled “right-to-work” laws, or make it more difficult for unions to collect dues. Anti-labor politicians, pundits, conservative foundations and other ideologues cynically use the economic downturn to scapegoat workers and their unions. These attacks serve to reinforce the increasing concentration of wealth, diminish the flow of purchasing power needed to revive the economy, and deny workers a voice in their workplaces. Anti-labor forces in Michigan are even attempting to deny voters the opportunity to enshrine the right to collective bargaining in their state constitution. As the unions that represent working men and women are systematically crippled, the corporate money that has flowed untrammeled into American politics since the Supreme Court’s 2010 Citizens United decision gives the wealthy more influence than ever over public policy and legislation. This is not the country that most of us want, nor does it comport with the justice that our Jewish traditions teach us to pursue. That is why an overwhelming majority of delegates to this year’s annual plenum of the Jewish Council for Public Affairs passed a resolution strongly supporting collective bargaining rights in the public as well as the private sector. As the resolution reminds us, “religious commandments in the Torah and Talmud relating to the employment of workers are imbued with respect for labor rights.” Ki Teitzei, the Torah portion read in congregations around the world the Shabbat before Labor Day this year, commands employers to be fair and honest in their dealings with employees (Deuteronomy 24:14-15), and it obligates Jews to practice mutual aid (Deuteronomy 22:1-4). The massive protests in defense of workers’ rights in Ohio, Wisconsin, and elsewhere in the past two years prove that we are stronger together than any one of us is on his or her own. On this Labor Day, let us rededicate ourselves to rebuilding the broad solidarity that has always been the foundation for a fair, decent, and strong society. Stuart Appelbaum, President of the Jewish Labor Committee, is also the president of the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union, representing workers in the United States and Canada.
14 | The Jewish Press | August 31, 2012
Synagogues B’NAI ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE 618 Mynster Street | Council Bluffs, IA 51503-0766 | 402.322.4705 email: CBsynagogue@hotmail.com For information on our historic synagogue – dates and times for Friday night services, please call 712.323.8885.
BETH EL SYNAGOGUE Member of United Synagogues of Conservative Judaism 14506 California | Omaha, NE 68154-1980 | 402.492.8550 www.bethel-omaha.org Services conducted by Rabbi Mordechai Levin, Rabbi Steven Abraham and Hazzan Michael Krausman. FRIDAY: Kabbalat Shabbat Service, 6 p.m.; Dinner and Drash, 7 p.m., following Shabbat services. Cost: $10. RSVP online at www.bethel-omaha.org, or contact synagogue office at 402.492.8550, or programming@bethel-omaha. org. SATURDAY: Shabbat Services, 9:30 a.m.; Kiddush given by Beth El; Evening Services, 7:50 p.m. WEEKDAY SERVICES: Sundays, 9 a.m. & 5:30 p.m.; weekdays, 7 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. TUESDAY: Beth El visits Remington Heights, 1 p.m. The clergy will present a special Rosh Hashanah program for residents. WEDNESDAY: Hebrew High School classes begin, 6 p.m. with a kick-off dinner, followed by classes. Tot Shabbat and Oh Say Shalom to Shabbat, Friday, Sept. 7, 6 p.m. Tot Shabbat is led by “Missy Patty” Nogg and is for children from birth through kindergarten, along with their parents, grandparents and other special adults. Oh Say Shalom to Shabbat is led by clergy members, Eadie Tsabari, and teenagers from the congregation and is Geared to children ages 6-10 and their families. Dinner follows at 6:30 p.m. Cost: Beth El members, $5; non-members, $7.50. No charge for children six and younger. RSVP online at www.bethel-omaha.org, or contact the synagogue office at 402.492.8550, or programming@bethel-omaha.org. Selihot Service, Saturday, Sept. 8. The evening begins with a 9:30 p.m. gala dessert reception, followed by Havdalah and the formal installation of Hazzan Michael Krausman; Selihot service, 10:30 p.m. The Highly Controversial Laws of the Torah adult-ed class , Sunday, Sept. 9, 10 a.m. led by Andy Greenberg. All classes and programs are open to everyone in the Jewish community.
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. MONDAY: Minyan, 7 a.m. Labor Day Breakfast Special 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.
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 Courtney Davidson and Brett Chatz. SATURDAY: Shabbat Morning Service, 9:30 a.m.; Torah Study, 10:30 a.m. on Parashat Ki Tetze. MONDAY: Temple office closed for Labor Day THURSDAY: Choir Rehearsal, 7:30-9 p.m. ADULT EDUCATION THURSDAY, Preparing our Souls for the High Holy Days, 6:15 p.m. Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are the most liturgically complex services during the year. The services and Torah readings are filled with meaning and imagery which are meant to point our thoughts in a particular direction. There is so much happening during High Holiday worship that it is easy to lose sight of the bigger picture. Let us explore that bigger picture together as we get ready for the Jewish New Year and Day of Atonement. 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 SAC Memorial Chapel 301 Lincoln Highway | Offutt AFB, NE 68113 | 402.294.6244 FRIDAY: Services, 7:30 p.m.
ROSE BLUMKIN JEWISH HOME 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 by Sisterhood; The Laws of Shabbat, 5:30 p.m.; Advanced Parshah Study for Kids (ages 10 and up), 6:30 p.m.; Mincha, 7:30 p.m., followed by Seuda Shlishit; Havdalah, 8:40 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.
CHABAD CENTER An Affiliate of Chabad-Lubavitch 1866 South 120 Street | Omaha, NE 68144-1646 | 402.330.1800 www.OChabad.com | email: chabad@aol.com Services conducted by Rabbi Mendel Katzman. Office hours: Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-4:30 p.m. FRIDAY: Minyan, 7 a.m.
Personal The family of Sindie Katskee wishes to express its sincere thank you for the outpouring of support and friendship during Sindie’s long hospitalization. The numerous visits and contributions we received touched us and helped comfort all of us during this time. A special appreciation goes to Rabbi Levin for his many encouraging visits, as well as Rabbi Abraham, Hazzan Krausman, Rabbi Brown, and Cantor Shermet. Sindie, Jerry, Rachel, Naomi and Aliya
323 South 132 Street | Omaha, NE 68154 SATURDAY: Services, 9 a.m. led by Andy Greenberg. Services will be held in the Chapel. Members of the community are invited to attend.
Candlelighting Friday, August 31, 7:41 p.m.
TEMPLE ISRAEL Union for Reform Judaism (URJ) 7023 Cass Street | Omaha, NE 68132-2651 | 402.556.6536 www.templeisrael-ne.org FRIDAY: Shabbat Worship Service, 6 p.m. led by Rabbi Azriel and Cantor Shermet. SATURDAY: Torah Study, 9:15 a.m.; Shabbat Morning Service, 10:30 a.m. SUNDAY: No Religious School TUESDAY: Kol Rina Rehearsal, 6:30 p.m. WEDNESDAY: Grades 3-6, 4-6 p.m.; School Dinner, 6 p.m.; Temple Teen Night, 6 p.m.; Family School, 6-8 p.m.; Grades 7&8, 6-8 p.m.; Judaism, Zionism and Social Justice, 6:30 p.m. with our new Community Shlicha, Gili Gutwirth. THURSDAY: Adult Study with the Clergy: Elul with Cantor Shermet, 10 a.m. First Friday Shabbat Service, Friday, Sept. 7, 6 p.m. Tot Shabbat, Friday, Sept. 7, 6 p.m. Congregational Dinner, Friday, Sept. 7, 7 p.m. Please contact the Temple Israel office, 402.556.6536, to make a reservation. No cost for the dinner.
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. followed by a dessert oneg sponsored by Miriam and Mark Wallick. SATURDAY: Morning service, 10 a.m. followed by Kiddush lunch. New Member Shabbat on the Green, Friday, Sept. 7, 5:45 p.m. Dinner will be served at 6 p.m. and Kabbalat Services will begin at 7 p.m. Please bring your lawn chairs and blankets. Adults are $8 and kids are $4. Please RSVP to Nava in the office no later than Tuesday, Sept. 4. The Divorce Girl, fiction reading with Caryn MirriamGoldberg, Kansas Poet Laureate, Tuesday, Sept. 11, 7 p.m. at Tifereth Israel followed by a book signing and refreshments. Welcome back Lincoln Jewish Community School (LJCS) on Sunday, Sept. 9. All classes meet at Tifereth Israel. Parent Meetings will begin at 9:30 a.m. for Gan-Grade 7 and 9:45 a.m. for Hallah High. 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.
Asher Lopatin to succeed Avi Weiss at Yeshivat Chovevei Torah by URIEL HEILMAN NEW YORK (JTA) -- Rabbi Asher Lopatin of Chicago is set to succeed Rabbi Avi Weiss next year at the helm of Yeshivat Chovevei Torah, the liberal Orthodox rabbinical school founded by Weiss. Lopatin is the spiritual leader of Anshe Sholom B’nai Israel Congregation, a high-profile Modern Orthodox synagogue in the Lakeview neighborhood of Chicago that counts Mayor Rahm Emanuel among its occasional congregants. A former Rhodes Scholar, Truman Scholar and Wexner Fellow, Lopatin was ordained by the late Rabbi Ahron Soloveichik of the Brisk yeshiva in Chicago and by Yeshiva University’s rabbinical school, the Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary, or RIETS. Weiss’ school was launched in 1999 as a more liberal alternative to YU’s rabbinical school and has encountered some opposition among more conservative elements in the Orthodox world. Weiss ignited a furor in those circles -- and applause in many liberal Orthodox ones -- when in 2010 he conferred rabbinic ordination on a woman, Sara Hurwitz, who was given the title “rabba” (female for “rabbi”). “We at Yeshivat Chovevei Torah Rabbinical School (YCT) believe that the future of Orthodoxy depends on our becoming a movement that expands outward nondogmatically and cooperatively to encompass the needs of the larger Jewish community and the world,” the school says on its website. “For this vision to succeed, we require
a new breed of leaders -- rabbis who are open, non-judgmental, knowledgeable, empathetic, and eager to transform Orthodoxy into a movement that meaningfully and respectfully interacts with all Jews, regardless of affiliation, commitment, or background.” That would be an apt description of Lopatin’s approach to Jewish life, say those familiar with his 18-year tenure at Anshe Sholom. Under Lopatin’s stewardship, the synagogue has “become really cutting-edge in progressive approaches to Orthodox tradition while remaining firmly Orthodox,” Rabbi Paul Saiger, the president of Lopatin’s shul, told JTA. “I moved to the community because he was the rabbi and he was revitalizing the congregation. He helped build a community day school, an eruv, a mikvah.” Reached by telephone, Weiss said that Lopatin’s appointment wasn’t official yet, and Lopatin told JTA that an announcement would be premature, but the succession plan already has been shared with insiders at YCT, and Lopatin told his Chicago congregation about a month ago that he’d be stepping down in June 2013. Lopatin originally had been slated to leave Chicago two years ago and immigrate to Israel, where he was to lead a new community in the Negev Desert comprised in part of new immigrants from his congregation. But those plans were canceled when Lopatin’s young daughter Cara became seriously ill and the family decided to stay in the United States to avoid disrupting her treatment.
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August 31, 2012 | The Jewish Press | 15
The Twelve Stones
In memoriam JACK BELMONT
Sparks from the word RABBI MYER S. KRIPKE Parsha Ki Tavo As the Israelites came closer and closer to the Promised Land, they were instructed to build an altar of stones; the stones were to be rocks that had never been cut by steel. Particularly, they were to set up 12 stones, which I imagine to be pillars. These were to be covered with plaster, upon which it would be possible to write. Moses was ordered by the Kodesh Baruch Hu to write the Torah on these stones. Fame and fortune await the explorer who can find these stones or pillars. In a generation or so, they would sink beneath the surface of the ground. Until now, they have not been found. Somewhere, beneath the surface of the earth, they stand undiscovered. Who knows when an explorer with underground equipment will come upon them. The writing is surely in an old script, which we cannot read; human ingenuity, however, will find a way to decipher this ancient script. To repeat: fame and fortune await the explorer who can find these ancient stones, somewhere beneath the surface. Dig, you seekers, dig!
Egyptian court sentences 76 in Israeli embassy atack by JTA NEWS STAFF JERUSALEM (JTA) -- An Egyptian court sentenced 76 citizens in last September’s attack on the Israeli Embassy in Cairo. Seventy-four of the convicted protesters were recently given one-year suspended prison sentences. One was sent to a juvenile detention center, while a former police officer who fled the country after criticizing the Mubarak regime was sentenced to five years in prison in absentia, the Egyptian daily Al Masry Al Youm reported. More than 1,000 Egyptians demonstrated at the embassy Sept. 9, 2011, many after an Egyptian Facebook group called on protesters to gather at the embassy and “urinate on the wall.” During the demonstration, protesters tore down the Israeli flag from the high-rise building’s roof for the second time in a month. Three people were killed and more than 1,000 injured in the riots. The protesters broke down the 8-foot-high security wall surrounding the embassy compound and entered the building, requiring the evacuation of Israel’s ambassador to Egypt, embassy personnel, their families and Israelis staying at the embassy. Six security employees stranded in the building were later removed by an Egyptian commando unit during a rescue operation. The riots took place after six Egyptian security personnel were killed in August 2011 as Israel pursued the bombers of a civilian bus near Eilat.
Jack Belmont passed away on Aug. 21 in Omaha. Services were held on Aug. 24 at Mount Sinai Cemetery with Rabbi Levin officiating. He was preceded in death by his son Barry, and brothers Joe and Benny. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Ann; daughters and sons-in-law, Nini and Skip Rosenstock of Overland Park, KS, and Marlene and Hyman Sukiennik of Scottsdale, AZ; grandchildren: Brittany and David Sukiennik, and Carly and Jesse Rosenstock. Memorials may be made to the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home or the National Kidney Foundation.
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PHYLLIS SINTON FRIED Phyllis Sinton Fried passed away on Aug. 7 in Jacksonville, FL. Services were held Aug. 10 at Jacksonville Jewish Center Cemetery led by Rabbi Jonathan Lubliner. She was preceded in death by her husband of 64 years, Stuart Fried; parents, Harry and Ida Sinton; brothers, Walter and Melvin Sinton; sister, Dorothy Sinton Steuer; mother-in-law, Elizabeth Venger Fried. She is survived by her son, Richard Fried of Denver, CO; daughter and son-in-law, Ellen and Henry Kopp of Jacksonville, FL; grandchildren: Lauren and Jason Rubin of Tampa, FL, and Jessica Kopp of Savannah, GA; sisters-inlaw, Ruth Sinton of Houston,TX, and Lois Sinton of Clearwater, FL., and nephews, nieces, cousins and dear friends. She is a graduate of Central High School, and lived most of her life in Omaha. In the years following World War II, she doubled as a homemaker and working mother, retiring after 26 years at N.P. Dodge Company, followed by additional years at Bemis Arts Center. Phyllis was a longtime member of Beth El and an active member of Hadassah, which honored her for her devotion to the Omaha chapter. Memorials may be made to Beth El Synagogue, Nebraska Jewish Historical Society or Hadassah.
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PETR GINZBURG Petr Ginzburg passed away on Aug. 24 at age 89. Services were held on Aug. 26 at Temple Israel Cemetery. He was preceded in his death by his wife of 52 years, Marksina. He is survived his by sons and daughters-in-law, Ark and Larisa Ginzburg, and Mike Ginsburg and Elvira Stepanova; grandchildren: Greg, Igor, Lev, Henry and Miriam; sister, Lina Levit; and niece, Inna Zevakina. Petr Ginzburg’s family resettled to Omaha from former Soviet Union, Kiev, Ukraine exactly 20 years ago on Aug. 25, 1992 with help of Jewish Federation of Omaha.
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16 | The Jewish Press | August 31, 2012
Despite hardships, some Bedouins still feel obligation to serve Israel by BEN SALES voted down, and Lieberman incurred protests from Israeli- even between Jews.” RAHAT, Israel (JTA) -- On an August weekday afternoon, Arab leaders. On one complaint -- the lack of education -- Col. Ahmed 19-year-old Mohammed Kernowi stands in front of a Ramiz, the head of the IDF’s minority department small store in Israel’s largest Bedouin city, a hot plate and himself a Bedouin, says army service can help. He in front of him with small pancakes sizzling in prepasays the IDF provides Bedouin soldiers the opporturation for the end of that day’s Ramadan fast. nity to advance their careers, in part by offering trade At his age, many Israeli men have been through courses to soldiers along with scholarships. basic training and are weathering their first of three Ramiz adds that unemployment among Bedouins years of compulsory military service either on the is due to their location rather than their ethnicity. country’s borders, in the West Bank, in an office or on “The unemployment exists in the North and one of the country’s many bases. South,” the regions where Bedouins live, he said. “The Kernowi, however, prefers baking to bullets. soldiers, if they want to serve, they can learn. We give “No one goes from our family,” he said. “It’s a waste them an opportunity to work and enter society.” of three years of your life.” Data from the government's Israel Employment While some Bedouins continue to voluntarily serve Service, however, show that Rahat’s unemployment in Israel's military, their community -- just as with rate is far higher than those of nearby predominantly some in Israel's Jewish community -- debate whether Jewish cities. In April, Rahat’s unemployment rate was it is worthwhile. Bedouins, separated physically and 29.2 percent, while those of the surrounding to some extent culturally from other Israeli Arabs, are Beersheva, Ofakim and Netivot were 7.2, 12.7 and 8.2 exempt from serving in the Israel Defense Forces. percent, respectively. There are about 250,000 Bedouins in the country, An IDF soldier training during an exercise of the Desert Reconnaissance The IDF also offers Bedouin veterans who come according to Israeli government figures. The IDF Battalion of the Gaza Division, which is primarily composed of Bedouins, from unrecognized villages priority in government could not provide an estimate of the army’s current Nov. 2010. Credit: IDF Spokesperson resettlement programs that relocate the villagers to Bedouin population, but Doron Almog, head of Israel’s Kernowi complains that Negev Bedouins receive “no equal- government-sanctioned residences. Bedouin Improvement Program Staff, estimates that half a ity, no respect” from Jewish Israelis -- a claim that is echoed While Sammy says his IDF’s opportunities passed him by, percentage of eligible Bedouins head to the army. by other Bedouins who also lament lackluster education and another resident of Rahat, Ibrahim Abuzayid, believes the Army service has been a defining part of Israeli public life; employment programs in Rahat. Another source of resent- IDF is the Bedouins’ best shot at equality in Israeli society -many Jewish Israelis make professional connections they use ment toward the state are the IDF demolitions in recent years though he also is frustrated with what he sees as government throughout their civilian careers. But the debate about who of unrecognized Bedouin villages in the Negev. Bedouin lead- anti-Bedouin discrimination. As the head of the Bedouin should serve in the IDF has become especially heated this ers say the villages are part of the seminomadic Bedouin cul- branch of the Coalition for the Soldier, an Israeli aid organsummer. ture; the Israeli government maintains they are illegal. ization, Abuzayid helps provide troops with supplies and This month, the Israeli army officially began drafting Despite the complaints, some Bedouins serve readily and care packages. young haredi Orthodox men when no new compromise leg- with distinction. Several sound no different than the most “In the army there’s true equality that we don’t find every islation was passed by lawmakers about their service. In patriotic Jewish Israelis in describing the obligation they feel day,” said Abuzayid, who fought in the 1973 Yom Kippur February, the Israeli Supreme Court had struck down the to serve the country, no matter how Israel treats their com- War. “As soon as you take off your uniform you’re nothing. law that exempted the haredim from serving and mandated munities. Give me an agricultural plot, a dozen acres. Give me water. I that they serve in either the military or civilian volunteer “We live in the state and we should give to it,” said Sammy, don’t deserve it?” organizations. 35, who joined the army (legally) at age 16 1/2. “I wanted to Still, as is the case for many Bedouins, Abuzayid feels a A faction of the Israeli Knesset is demanding that Arabs be give the state three years.” duty to serve that he has passed on to his eight sons, all of required to serve as well. A month ago, the leader of Israel’s But Sammy, who works in a Rahat grocery store, also says whom did army service. nationalist Yisrael Beiteinu party, Avigdor Lieberman, sub- he regrets his time in the IDF. “We don’t have another state,” he said. “They don’t help the mitted a bill to the Knesset that would have required all “I don’t see any value,” he said. “It didn’t help my life. It Bedouins? It’s still our state. We were born here. Our chilIsraelis, regardless of background, to be drafted. The bill was would be better if there were equality. There’s no equality dren were born here. There’s no reason not to serve.”
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