Sponsored by the Benjamin and Anna E. Wiesman Family Endowment Fund AN AGENCY OF THE JEWISH FEDERATION OF OMAHA
Engaging Jewish Omaha
September 6, 2013 2 Tishei 5774 Vol. 93 | No. 51
This Week
by SHERRIE SAAG Communications, Jewish Federation of Omaha Stacey and Jonathan Rockman are the 2014 Annual Campaign Chairs, and, together with their family, will lead a multi-generational effort that proved successful last year. Mike Erman, Stacey’s father, and Joe Erman, an uncle, will serve as chairs of the Pacesetter division. Ruth Erman, Stacey’s aunt, will chair the Lion of Judah division. The Rockmans enlisted sister Lori Miller, husband Michael and cousin Dana Kaufman (Ruth and Joe’s daughter) and husband Mike to round out the family effort. “I look forward to talking to community members about truly engaging in Jewish Omaha, whether as a donor, a volunteer or a program participant, or, even better, all three,” Jonathan said. When asked why this was the right time to chair a Campaign, he humorously said, “My wife said so.” But his next response was far more thoughtful and serious. “I sensed an opportunity to be of real value; to help improve the Campaign process and to encourage those that are able, to donate at a higher level than before. And, of course, I am inspired by
JCC Gallery: Israeli artist Moshe Mozon Page 6
Temple Israel’s big move Page 7
Stacey and Jonathan Rockman my wife, Stacey, and her volunteer work with Partnership2Gether, the Federation’s Budget and Financial Review Committee, and the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation.” “This is an opportunity to remind everyone how great Omaha is,” he added. Jonathan was born and raised in London, England, where he and
Stacey (Erman) met. They returned to the States, first to Chicago in 1990 and then to Omaha in 1992. “For us, Omaha’s attraction has always been its sense of community. Upon my arrival, I had personal and business mentors that showed me, through their actions, the value in this community. I was encouraged to give generously and to increase my
philanthropic giving each year,” explained Jonathan. “I managed to do it even during some really lean financial times. And there have been many occasions where I have increased my gift. I have learned to acknowledge that maybe I can’t afford a particular contribution, but knowing that the Federation helps people who need it more is motivation enough to do it.” According to Stacey, the multi-generational family model inspired her to take on the Annual Campaign. “I decided I would do this if my family did.” Dana and Michael shared the same opinion. “Having multiple generations from one family sends a powerful message. Because the Erman family has always been a strong supporter of the Federation, this is simply the next logical step in our family’s journey as members of the Jewish community.” Anyone who’s volunteered with Stacey knows she is a strong advocate for Israel and the Jewish people and is focused on action and results. “Being part of this community means taking my turn. It is all about connections, built one at a time, with this amazing community. Whether you visit the Rose Blumkin Jewish Continued on page 3
Maccabi hits the OC Academic Excellence The Backyard Concert Series returns Page 12
Inside Point of view Synagogues In memorium
This Month Education See Front Page stories and more at: www.jewishomaha.org, click on Jewish Press
Omaha’s Maccabi team 9 10 11
by LEORA AZRIEL Teen/BBYO Director Sixteen Omaha teens arrived in Orange County, CA on Aug. 4 to compete in the 2013 Maccabi Games. They joined over 2,000 Jewish teens from across the globe for the elite athletic competition and cultural event known as ArtsFest. The Omaha delegation included: Will McGauvran, Adam Silverman, Adam Folsom, Jacob Spivack, Brett Robinson, Grant Goldstein, Aaron Noddle, Spencer Arnold, Cooper
and Jackson Clark, Jared Murray, Zach and Alex Belgrade, Josh Polack and two Israeli athletes from our Partnership2GETHER region in the Western Galilee, Osher Cohen and Dennis Nemirovski. Omaha athletes and artists participated in tennis, baseball, soccer, and basketball, and Rockband. Besides athletic and artistic competitions, teens were able to explore California, the Merage Jewish Community Center in Orange County and countless other venues. Highlights from Maccabi Games include a visit from Jewish four-time Olympic gold medalist, Jason Lezak, Israeli/Orange County Beach Party, Clipper Girls, surfing, Angels baseball game, Host Family night, a Six13 performance, and so much more! The international Maccabi Movement, which presents the Maccabi games in three different US cities each year, offers athletic, cultural, Continued on page 3
Dorothy Spizman and Aaron Zipursky by MARY SUE GROSSMAN Program Coordinator, The Center for Jewish Life The Financial Aid Committee of the Center for Jewish Life is pleased to announce Aaron Zipursky has been selected as the 2013 recipient of the David Keiser and Lillian Keiser Stoms Foundation Education Endowment Fund for Academic Excellence Scholarship. This is the only merit-based scholarship granted by the committee and is based strictly on scholarship, with high school grade point averages and SAT/ACT
scores used as the primary measure to determine the recipient. Aaron, the son of Jim and Sally Zipursky, is a graduate of Burke High School and ranked second in his class. Aaron’s awards and honors in high school included National Honor Society, Spanish National Honor Society, Tri-M Music Honor Society, Principal’s Honor Roll, Exchange Club of Omaha 2011 Outstanding Sophomore Award, Cornhusker Boys State Selectee, Continued on page 3
2 | The Jewish Press | September 6, 2013
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at the Kripke Jewish Federation Library by MARY SUE GROSSMAN Program Coordinator, The Center for Jewish Life The High Holidays have arrived and the month of September will be filled with a whirlwind of activities. There will be synagogue services, family gatherings, spiritual preparation and, of course, those wonderful holiday meals. The Kripke Jewish Federation Library encourages you to include a stop or two at the library to check out the many offerings available for the High Holiday season. There are a variety of selections for adults that will provide inspiration for Yom Kippur, Sukkot and Simchat Torah. Children will love the many books about the holidays, having fun while also learning. A different form of inspiration is also available for the cook in the family from the variety of cookbooks available for the seemingly endless stream of holiday meals. The library, which is located by the main entrance of the Jewish Federation of Omaha campus, is open 9 a.m.–6 p.m., Monday through Thursday and 9 a.m.–4 p.m. on Friday. The library’s online catalog is available 24/7 on the Kripke Library page of the Jewish Federation website at www.jewishomaha.org. Know a book you want and are in a hurry? Just call 402.334.6462 and your selections will be ready and waiting for you when you arrive. The following is a small sampling of the books available. For the adult reader All These Vows – Kol Nidre by Rabbi Lawrence A. Hoffman, PhD. examines the prayer’s theology, authorship and history through a set of lively essays, all written in accessible language by over 30 contributors who span three continents and all major Jewish denominations. Every Person’s Guide to Sukkot, Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah by Rabbi Ronald Isaacs will help enhance your knowledge, observance and creative celebration of the harvest festival season. The book includes historical information, the rituals and customs plus a chapter on games, curiosities and oddities and a glossary of holiday terms. Festivals of Faith: Reflections on the Jewish Holiday by Rabbi Norman Lamm is a collection of thoughts on the Jewish holidays culled primarily from the author’s sermons and Divrei Torah delivered while he was the rabbi of The Jewish Center in New York City. The collection is described as a treasure trove of profound insights and inspiring teachings. Just for kids A Watermelon in the Sukkah by Sylvia A. Rouss is the story of the children in Miss Sharon’s class who have brought their favorite fruits to decorate the sukkah. But when Michael brings a watermelon, the class must find a way to hang it! Other favorites by Rouss include
Sammy Spider’s First Sukkot and Sammy Spider’s First Simchat Torah where Sammy learns about the holidays. Another delightful Sukkot book is The Vanishing Gourds – A Sukkot Mystery by Susan Axe-Bronk. When Sara’s gourds which are decorations for the family sukkah start mysteriously disappearing, the hunt is on for the culprits. The family of squirrels who are at the root of the mystery pay the family back for the missing gourds in a surprising way. Sadie’s Sukkah Breakfast by Jamie Korngold is the story of Sadie and her sister, Ori who are excited to wake up early on a Sukkot morning but they know they must not wake their parents. Admiring their decorative handiwork on the Sukkah they built last night, the siblings decide to bring breakfast out to the festive hut. For inspiration in the kitchen Cooking Jewish: 532 Great Recipes from the Rabinowitz Family by Judy Kancigor gathers recipes from five generations of a foodobsessed family into a celebratory saga of cousins and kasha, holiday feasts and crossover dishes, Aunt Irene’s traditional matzoh balls and Judy’s contemporary version with shiitake mushrooms. And don’t even talk about the desserts. With its lively stories and eccentric characters, Cooking Jewish invites the reader not just into the kitchen, but into a whole vibrant world of family and friends. The Jewish Cookbook: 70 Recipes Celebrating a Historic Cuisine by Judy Jackson features a mosaic of dishes originating in and adapted from the cuisines of many countries. In this book, regional recipes have been adapted to conform with religious rules and new foods have been incorporated into traditional recipes. Finally, get the kids involved with the cooking! Chocolate Chip Challah and Other Twists on the Jewish Holiday Table by Lisa Rauchschwerger will provide an interactive learning experience for children and parents alike. The author serves up mouthwatering meals and memories in her delightful cookbook. Using the Jewish calendar as a framework, both parent and child can prepare tasty treats all year long. Each easy-to-follow recipe is designed for children ages 5-11, their families, and their teachers. The Kripke Jewish Federation Library is administered by the Center for Jewish Life as part of its mission to maximize involvement of Omaha’s Jewish community in imaginative, compelling and meaningful Jewish experiences. For additional information on the other agency activities, please call 402.334.6445.
Weekend Food Program by ADRIELLE GRIFFIN Communications Manager, Completely KIDS The Weekend Food Program at Completely KIDS was created to combat childhood hunger in our community and is driven by dedicated volunteers. Completely KIDS provides food to elementary children who receive little or no food on the weekends. Volunteers fill bags each week with food that is both nutritious and child-friendly. The backpacks are handed out on Fridays to sustain the children through the weekend. Staff and teachers at four Completely KIDS locations have identified 385 children as being in need of food for the weekend. These children are eligible to receive weekend food because of their involvement with our Out-of-School Time programs; however, there is a waiting list of children who need the program. The majority of the children to which we provide weekend food come from families whose incomes are 200 percent below the poverty level. Many of our parents are overemployed (fam-
ilies who work multiple jobs but still do not break the poverty line), which creates circumstances that produce hunger and child care issues because children may be self-supervised. Childhood hunger affects many children in our community and because they are hungry when they come to school, these children have a difficult time concentrating on their work and, consequently, cannot perform well. In order to continue the Weekend Food Program, Completely KIDS needs your help! A contribution of $7 funds one child’s backpack for one weekend. A donation of $364 sponsors one child for an entire year. Food drives through businesses, churches, and schools provide the program with the opportunity to bring that cost down. Completely KIDS will work with you toward a successful drive, whatever your goal! For more information about the Weekend Food Program at Completely KIDS, please contact Ann Lawless at 402.397.5809, ext. 207, or alawless@completelykids.org.
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September 6, 2013 | The Jewish Press | 3
Engaging Jewish Omaha Continued from page 1 Home with your dog, read a story to students at the Pennie Z. Davis Child Development Center, help cultivate the community garden, or foster relationships with our partner region in Israel, the rewards far outweigh the investment you make.” Dana echoed her cousin’s remarks. “It is critical for our community to understand at its core; the Campaign exists to ensure access to programs, services and resources we all rely on every day. From early
education to senior care and everything in between – we all use these services, we all need them to live here, and we should all be supporting the Campaign.” The Rockman’s want this Annual Campaign to be about inclusivity. Jonathan explained, “We need everyone, at every giving level, to help us realize future growth for Jewish Omaha. Now is the time to consider your capacity for maximum giving and help people who need it more.”
“THIS IS AN OPPORTUNITY TO “REMIND EVERYONE HOW “GREAT OMAHA IS.” – Jonathan Rockman
Maccabi hits the OC Continued from page 1 “Maccabi is a great experience for Jewish teens. It is an opporand social opportunities for Jews from around the world. tunity to meet and interact with Jewish teens from everyTeens play in a supportive environment that fosters mutual where. Friendships are made that will last for years. Both my respect and sportsmanship and offers peer interaction in a children enjoyed the experience. In fact, they start talking fun, democratic and peaceful environment. about the next year immediately after returning home.” “Maccabi is unique in that, Adam Folsom also played unlike teen youth groups, it basketball in Orange County. instills Jewish values, enriches “Maccabi was the best week of teens’ Jewish identity and my life. I told my dad that encourages their identificaright after I got off the plane tion with the state of Israel all and saw him!” within the context of athletic “As an athlete during my and cultural competition. teen years, I can relate to the That’s one of the reasons why feeling of energy and amazeit has been such a successful ment when, as part of an athnationwide program of the letic team, you step off the Jewish Community Centers plane, ready to compete,” of North America, “said JCC Nick Runco, Omaha’s Executive Director Mark Maccabi basketball coach Martin. commented. “I was honored Basketball team member to march into the opening Jacob Spivack remarked, ceremonies with such a tal“Maccabi Games was such an ented group of athletes.” amazing experience and I Omaha Delegation head especially enjoyed meeting Leora Azriel recalls the effort Jewish teens from around the expended when Omaha hostworld. The memories I made ed the Maccabi Games in during this week will definite2002 and in 2010. “I was ly be with me for a lifetime.” impressed with the effort of Jared Murray won a medal for baseball. Jared Murray lives in more than 1500 volunteers Lincoln and signed up for Team Omaha early on. “I had a that worked diligently to recruit, organize, and put together great time being part of a huge Jewish event, something I am such an amazing Jewish experience. I am grateful to have not familiar with growing up in Lincoln. I finally felt part of spent valuable time with our delegation teens and look fora Jewish group and it was great that it happened to be an ath- ward to seeing their future accomplishments in athletics and letic team.” participation in the Jewish community. I am extremely Alisa Murray, Jared’s mother, sent her daughter, Alex to proud that Omaha brought back three medals. What an Maccabi 2011 in Israel and had this to say about the program, accomplishment!”
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Academic Excellence Continued from page 1 an AP Scholar and an AP Distinguished Scholar. Aaron was also involved in a wide variety of extra-curricular activities during high school, including varsity band and jazz band, the Metro Area Youth Jazz Orchestra and the NASA INSPIRE program. In 10th grade he was a Student Spaceflight Experiments Program finalist; his experiment, which focused on food preservation, was on a NASA shuttle mission. Aaron has been very involved at Beth El Synagogue, including serving as treasurer, religious education vice president and president of USY and working as a tutor for the religious school. Throughout high school he also led holiday and weekly services for residents at the Blumkin Home. Aaron will be attending Northwestern University and plans to major in biomedical engineering. “In addition to having more freedom and independence in college, I am looking forward to having a wider choice of classes” commented Aaron. “After my undergraduate work, I am considering medical school or a career in a field involving practical engineering.” Dorothy Spizman, chair of the Financial Aid Committee, presented Aaron’s award. “It is a pleasure each year to read of the accomplishments of the scholarship applicants. The hard work and involvement of the teens is always impressive.” Spizman added “Aaron’s academic achievements are remarkable and I have no doubt that he will be a great success in whatever he chooses to do.” Lillian Keiser Stoms and her brother David were native Omahans, and this fund was established in their memory by their niece, Sally Clayman. In addition to the Academic Excellence award, there are two other scholarships that were also established in memory of David Keiser and Lillian Keiser Stoms. The Lillian Keiser Stoms Educational Fund was established to benefit and assist in the education of Jewish youth living in a single parent family or Jewish single parents who have custody of their children. The David Keiser and Lillian Keiser Stoms Foundation Education Endowment Fund was created to provide funding for university scholarships to Jewish youth who have earned a minimum 3.0 GPA. Both funds are awarded based on financial need. For information on any scholarship program, please call Mary Sue Grossman, Program Coordinator for the Center for Jewish Life at 402.334.6445. Those interested in contributing to or endowing scholarship funds should contact Howard Epstein, Executive Director of the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation, at 402.334.6466.
EARLY DEADLINE NOTICE The deadline for the Sept. 27 issue is Wednesday, Sept. 18, 9 a.m. Questions? Call 402.334.6448.
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It doesn’t happen by accident by SHERRIE SAAG Communications, Jewish Federation of Omaha “People give to people. You must be donor-centered and mission-driven.” Such was the message conveyed to campaign solicitors recently at training sessions conducted by Matt Freedman, the Associate Vice President for Philanthropic Resources at the Jewish Federation of North America (JFNA). Freedman was in Omaha the week of August 12 to conduct two training sessions for volunteers and professional staff. He began the afternoon session by complimenting Jewish Omaha in general and campaign volunteers in particular. “As a visitor, I see first-hand how vibrant, active and special Omaha is. But this doesn’t happen Matt Freedman by accident. It takes dedication and perseverance. Our 150 plus Jewish Federations across North America collectively raised over $2.5 billion last year. History unfolds differently because of you, the Campaign volunteer.” Freedman reported that while total US philanthropy actually increased by 3% last year despite the lingering effects of the economic downturn, the nature of that philanthropic giving has changed drastically. “The landscape is different. In the past, donors reported spreading their charitable dollars amongst several organizations. Now we see it has become more concentrated. Donors are consolidating their gifts and giving to just one or two charities of choice.” “Of course, the key to this is being the charity of choice,” he emphasized. Current research shows donors overwhelmingly choose charities where engagement occurs and a personal relationship is established. Freedman said that, overall, Federations are doing well with donors for whom they are the charity of choice. Marty Ricks, Chief Development Officer of the Jewish Federation of Omaha, was pleased with Freedman’s mes-
sages and inspiration during the sessions. “He is the consummate philanthropic professional with many years of active and successful solicitation under his belt. We were fortunate to hear about the methods and tactics he has employed over the years and I look forward to seeing them in action as the 2014 Campaign gets underway.”
“ONE JEW TO ANOTHER JEW TO “HELP A THIRD JEW. THAT’S THE “INSPIRATION BEHIND A “SOLICITOR’S JOB.” – Matt Freedman Freedman encouraged those in attendance to bring passion, intensity and inspiration to the job. He challenged both groups to think about their donor conversations in a new way. “Your role is to do the offering, not the asking. Offer up questions that make a donor think about what they want to achieve or accomplish within the context of their family, friends, community and personal goals.” He offered the following examples: Am I the kind of person who participates in Jewish Omaha? Am I the kind of person who is invested in the Jewish people? Am I the kind of person who actively engages in Jewish history? Ultimately, he says, donor conversations should go beyond asking for money. “We should be making the case for donations to the Jewish people, not the Annual Campaign.” Freedman concluded by thanking those in attendance with a simple heartfelt message, “I need you to know that you change the world and I am grateful for that.” Freedman has been with the Jewish Federations of North America since 2011, having previously been responsible for strategy and development at THE ASSOCIATED: Jewish Community Federation of Baltimore, one of the largest Federations in terms of charitable giving in the United States. He is an alumnus of the Darrell Friedman Institute for Jewish Communal Leadership and JFNA’s Mandel Executive Development Program. He holds a master’s degree in Jewish studies from Baltimore Hebrew University and a master’s in Public Administration from the University of Maryland.
NJHS needs your help by RENEE CORCORAN Executive Director, Nebraska Jewish Historical Society The Nebraska Jewish Historical Society is planning an exhibit to remember the Highland Country Club in the near future. The exhibit would be located in the small gallery on Main Street at the Rose Blumkin Home. We
would like to recreate the Past Presidents Wall. If you have in your possession one of these framed portraits of a past president, would you considering loaning it to the NJHS for the exhibit? Please contact the NJHS office at 402.334.6443 or email njhs@jewishomaha.org.
CLARK/ROSENBERG Molly Ann Clark and Eric Marshall Rosenberg of Lincoln, were married on Aug. 23 at Unicorn Castle in Pacific Junction, IA. The ceremony was performed by Karl Linderholm. The bride will graduate in Dec. 2013 with her Masters in Social work from University of Nebraska-Omaha. Her attendants were Jessica Holt, Tabitha Monter, Jessica and Natasha Allen, Aubrey Darrough, Emily Chapman and Amanda Dampf, sisters of the bride, and Marci Rosenberg, sister of the groom. She is the daughter of Carolyn and Charles Clark of Lincoln. The groom attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and he is a web designer for Firespring in Lincoln. His attendants were Anthony and Vinny Lucchino, Matt Makovicka, Nate Carlson, Patrick McBurney, Dustin Winchester, and Eric Sullivan. He is the son of Brenda and Daniel Frost of Bandon, OR, and Joan and Mark Rosenberg of Lincoln. He is the grandson of Joan Zalkin Martin, Myrna Rosenberg of Grand Island, NE, the late Marshall N. Zalkin, and the late David Rosenberg. He is the great-grandson of the late Monie and Allen Zalkin, and the late Esther Kaiman. The couple resides in Lincoln.
Organizations B’NAI B’RITH BREADBREAKERS A Jewish homicide detective? In Omaha? The recently retired Sgt. Brian Bogdanoff will discuss how he solved a triple murder case and wrote a national award-winning book about the case to cap his highly recognized career. on Wednesday, Sept. 11, 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 Yiddish was once thought to be a dying language, is now very much alive, with Webster’s Third International Dictionary listing more than 500 Yiddish words. It has been perpetuated by greeting cards, television, radio, speakers, plays and books. It is now presented in transliterated form using the Roman alphabet, so that everyone can become a maven instantly. If you want to “jazz up” your conversation, throw in a few Yiddish words. One word in Yiddish has more meaning than a dozen words in any other language. So be a mentsh and zog a por verter, (say a few words). We meet every Thursday from 1-3 p.m., in the boardroom of the Rose Blumkin Home. For information, please call Anne Skolkin at 402.343.1638.
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More than a chair by BETH COHEN decided it was time. The old teal chairs had for Beth Israel Synagogue served the synagogue well, but it was time to The year was 1975, and Leon Wintroub look into purchasing new chairs. After was the newly elected president of Beth countless chairs were sat on by committee Israel Synagogue. Not every decision a syn- members, a unanimous decision was made. agogue president makes continues to impact Beth Israel was going to purchase the exact a congregation on a daily basis almost 40 same chair from the exact same manufacyears later. In his first official act as turer they purchased from in 1975. With President, Leon made just that kind of decision. Leon bought chairs. Not just chairs. Comfortable chairs. In the year prior to Leon’s election as president, the synagogue board and Sisterhood had spent a great deal of time discussing the pros and cons of the existing chairs, weighing the benefits of new styles, scrutinizing brands and prices, and arguing the necesCurrent Beth Israel President, David Kohll, with Leon sity of the expense. Wintroub (Beth Israel President, 1975-1977) and Rabbi As one can imagine, the Jonathan Gross, pictured here as the new black chairs are weight of responsibility to being unloaded at the synagogue and the old teal chairs are purchase chairs that hunbeing taken for resale. dreds of people will use on a weekly basis is enormous. While not mak- only a slight color change, from teal to black, ing the decision lightly, Leon knew enough the strength of Leon’s first decision as presidiscussion had taken place and he acted dent will continue to live on at Beth Israel. decisively in placing the order for new Beth Israel is grateful to Zoë and Carl chairs. Riekes for making the leading donation to Flash forward to 2004. Beth Israel makes the chair fund in 2009. After a final fundthe move from its home on 52nd Street to raising push, the Beth Israel Sisterhood con126th and Pacific. The teal chairs made the tributed the remaining $2,500 needed to move to the new building, although there make the purchase. On August 22, 2013, was lengthy discussion about them. A proj- Leon was on hand with current Beth Israel ect for another day, it was decided. In 2009, President David Kohll to accept the delivery the synagogue’s Interior Design Committee of the new chairs.
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Temple’s golf outing by DAVID GOLBITZ winning the car. I told her that doesn’t hapTemple Israel Staff Writer pen every time.” Temple Israel member Alan Fredricks has Nearly 100 golfers participated in Temple participated in the Golf Outing numerous Israel’s Golf Outing on Aug. 19. The annual event, a fundraiser for Temple times and he said everyone always has a Israel’s Education coffers, was held at great time. Shadow Ridge Country Club and featured dozens of raffle prizes and “a wonderful steak dinner provided by Omaha Steaks,” according to event co-chair Jeff Smedlund. “What a wonderful day,” Smedlund said. “Turnout was great, and we had many generous hole sponsors. Most people walked away with something, including Mike Miller, who won an iPad at the Rabbi’s Challenge Hole.” No one, however, walked away with a brand new Acura, Rabbis Azriel and Brown hitting the links at Temple Israel's which was the hole-in-one annual Golf Outing. prize this year. “The weather was good, the course was “My daughter was the witness for the great,” Fredricks said. “The food and prizes hole-in-one,” Smedlund said, “and she was were great, too. Dennis [DePorte] and his there last year when someone won $20,000. group do a wonderful job putting this She was really looking forward to someone together.”
Community 360° annual awards banquet by ED JOSEPH Development Officer Sept. 12 will be a Red Letter Day for Community 360°. Their annual awards banquet will take place at the Kroc Center 2825 Y Street and starts at 6:30 p.m. This year’s Community Partner of the Year will be Russ Kaplan, President of Russ Kaplan Investments. Kaplan will be recognized for his generous support of Community 360° over the last few years. For over three decades, Kaplan has worked with numerous clients, including senior clients helping them to ensure their financial security. Kaplan believes it is important to give back to the community that has helped make his company so successful.
This year’s banquet is partially sponsored by: Good Samaritan Society – Omaha, Jones Automotive and Physicians Mutual. Music will be by Dan Cervany, Secretary/Treasurer of the Omaha Musician’s Association 70-558. Community 360° for over 21 years has recruited and trained volunteers to work in nursing homes filling the void for the resident who may not ever receive visitors. Currently Community 360° has over 200 volunteers visiting over 40 nursing homes in the Omaha Council Bluffs area. For reservations, please RSVP by Sept. 6 at 402.556.8032 or info@community360.org. For reservations and more information on Community 360°at www.community360.org.
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6 | The Jewish Press | September 6, 2013
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by OZZIE NOGG The main events in September for the Jewish community are, of course, the High Holidays -and Mainstreeters has scheduled two programs that won’t interfere with your attendance at services, so mark the dates on your calendars. Both September programs are supported in part by grants from the United Way of the Midlands and the Jewish Federation of Omaha. Join Us at the Movies: The Great Gatsby. Friday, Sept. 13, 1 p.m. in the JCC Theater. No charge for the film or for unlimited bags of fresh popcorn. No reservations necessary. Invite a friend. (We promise you’ll be out in time for Kol Nidre.) The Great Gatsby follows would-be writer Nick Carraway as he leaves the Midwest for New York City in 1922 during an era of loosening morals, jazz music, bootleg kings and sky-rocketing stocks. Nick’s new neighbors include his cousin Daisy; her philandering, blue-blooded husband Tom Buchanan; and Jay Gatsby, a mysterious, party-loving millionaire. Nick is drawn into the captivating world of the super-rich and all their illusions, loves, and deceits. As he witnesses events unfold both within and without the world he inhabits, he writes a tale of impossible love, incorruptible dreams and high-octane tragedy, holding a mirror to our own modern time and struggles. The film, directed by Baz Luhrmann, stars Leonardo DiCaprio, Tobey Maguire, Carey Mulligan, and Joel Edgerton. Due to the High Holidays, there’s only one Friday Deli scheduled in September, and Sept. 13 is it. If you’d like to have lunch at the Star Deli in the Rose Blumkin Home Auditorium before the movie, call Maggie Conti at 402.334.6521 to reserve a table or to answer your questions. Lunch is on your own. The Star Deli starts serving at 11:30 a.m. The Omaha World Herald: Get the Scoop from Joel Long, OWH Director of Communications and Public Relations. Monday, Sept. 16, 12:30 p.m. Lunch in the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home Auditorium. Since 1885, The Omaha World Herald has been an integral part of the Omaha community. The paper has won three Pulitzers, including the 1920 Pulitzer Prize for Editorial Writing awarded to Harvey E. Newbranch for his editorial entitled Law and the Jungle, which decried the lynching of a black man on the lawn of the Douglas County Courthouse. Come hear Joel Long discuss the past, present and future of our locally-owned newspaper, which is currently the only remaining major metropolitan newspaper in the United States to publish both morning and afternoon editions. For your entree, choose either Chicken Fingers with Mashed Potatoes and Gravy or
Birth Jordan and Joshua Eveloff of Carter Lake, IA, announce the June 4 birth of their daughter, Price Leona. She was named after her paternal great-grandmother Leona Eveloff. Grandparents are Dannette and Mark Eveloff of Council Bluffs, and Cheryl and Jim Price of Phoenix, AZ.
Baked Salmon with Rice Pilaf. Both entrees include Mediterranean salad (cucumber, tomato and onion), fresh challah, apple pie and your choice of beverage. Cost: $11.50 per plate. Make checks payable to Jewish Social Services and send full payment to: Mainstreeters c/o Maggie Conti, 323 So. 132 Street, Omaha, NE 68154. Reservations are appreciated by Monday, Sept. 9. For transportation or answers to questions, call Linda Abrams Tederman at 402.468.4939. According to Maggie Conti, Director of Activities and Outreach Programs at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home, “Mainstreeters’ main goal is to offer activities and programs that give area residents -- age 60-plus -- the chance to participate in new experiences, meet new people and enjoy life to the fullest. We invite you to join us in the New Year.”
JCC Gallery: Israeli artist Moshe Mozon
by LYNN BATTEN Publicity and Gallery Manager, Jewish Federation of Omaha The Jewish Community Center Art Gallery welcomes Israeli Artist Moshe Mozon and his collection of Judaic tapestries and lithographs during the month of September. The public is invited to meet the artist at a special series of “pop up” sales at the JCC on Sept. 29, 30, and Oct. 1. Prints, Judaica, and jewelry by Goldie Mozon will be for sale.
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September 6, 2013 | The Jewish Press | 7
The big move by DAVID GOLBITZ Temple Israel Staff Writer The weekend of Aug. 23-25 was a weekend of conflicting emotions for the congregation of Temple Israel. On Friday, they celebrated the 25th anniversary of Rabbi Aryeh Azriel’s arrival in Omaha, while at the same time bidding a fond farewell to the congregation’s home for the past 60 years. “It was very bittersweet when I walked out of Temple Friday night,” said longtime member Jane Rips. “It made me kind of sad that we were closing the door on the past.”
musical, emotional service in honor of Rabbi Azriel, and the congregation, personified by President Sally Kaplan, created a fund in Azriel’s name dedicated to youth engagement. “It was impossible for me to keep my feelings... it poured out of me,” Rabbi Azriel said. “It was fantastic. The work that Cantor Shermet and Rabbi Brown had done in planning the service, and the outpouring from the congregation... it took my breath away.” About 650 people attended the Friday evening service; it was almost standing room only. The dividers that had been
Zetzman, Jon Meyers and Wendy Goldberg, who placed them in the ark. Committee member Katherine Finnegan was unable to attend the ceremony. Following the ceremony in the sanctuary, congregants, many of whom had not yet seen the inside of the building, were invited to explore their new spiritual home. “I was worried that the building was so big that I wouldn’t be able to find my daughter, who likes to run around,” said Temple Israel member Hillary Fletcher, “but it doesn’t feel that way.”
Harley Schrager putting up the mezuzah.
Rabbi Aryeh Azriel after arriving at the new building.
The Richard Slosburg family recites a prayer.
The future, however, was right around the corner, as less than 48 hours later the congregation drove and walked its Torah scrolls from the Cass Street building to the new Temple Israel. “When I walked into the new building, it felt so right,” Rips said. “It was joyous. I thought it was the perfect way to make this journey, the old to the new. It was a glorious day.” On Sunday morning, more than 300 congregants participated in walking one of the Torah scrolls from Cass Street to Sterling Ridge, a distance of a little more than six miles. The participants were split into groups, with each taking about a half mile; some congregants chose to accompany the Torah scroll the entire way. Along the way, Temple Israel members were greeted at St. Andrews, an Episcopalian church at 84th and Pacific streets. Churchgoers welcomed the walkers with good wishes and bottles of water; at Beth Israel, which is right down Pacific Street from the new Temple Israel, walkers were met with “Welcome to the neighborhood” signs. “It was amazing,” said Rabbi Aryeh Azriel. “There was such good energy, such good vibes. It really helps all of us become more comfortable and more enthusiastic about the coming year. It’s going to be a great year.” Rabbi Azriel, who moved to Omaha with his wife Elyce and young daughter Leora in 1988, was overwhelmed by the weekend’s celebrations, which began with the final Friday evening service at Cass Street. Cantor Wendy Shermet and Rabbi Josh Brown planned a
set up between the sanctuary and the social hall, where a special oneg had been planned by Jane Rips, had to be taken down to make room to accommodate all the well-wishers. The celebration continued Sunday morning when Bob Freeman and Silvia Roffman, winners of Temple Israel’s highest honor, the Pillar Award, were given the honor of removing the mezuzahs from the Cass Street building -- one each from the entrances to the sanctuary and chapel, and one from the south side entrance. Then there was a brief ceremony in the sanctuary as the Torah scrolls were removed and processed out of the building. All but one Torah scroll were placed into cars and driven to Sterling Ridge by Eileen and Miles Remer, Doris and Harry Alloy, Ducky and Mike Milder, Ellen Saylan and Steve Gottlieb, and Beth and Ron Brodkey, where they waited to be reunited with the scroll being walked. Once the walkers arrived at the new Temple Israel, a brief ceremony honoring the major donors was held outside, during which the cornerstone was unveiled and one of the mezuzahs from Cass Street was affixed to the entranceway by the Schrager family. Prayers were offered by members of the Fellman-Sullivan, Friedland, Newman, Seldin, Simon and Slosburg families. The Torah scrolls were then walked inside the new Temple Israel for the first time. In the sanctuary, the scrolls were passed from Executive Committee members to Temple’s high school students. The students handed the scrolls to Building Committee members John Waldbaum, Ted
Sunday was Fletcher’s first time even seeing the new building, let alone walk around inside. Nearly 700 people attended the ceremony at the new Temple Israel. “The exciting part of the weekend, for me, was seeing so many people walking together, and seeing so many people in the new building, filling it with life,” Rabbi Josh Brown said. “To see all the people who love this community come out and show their support was inspiring.” Rabbi Azriel praised everyone who contributed to the new building, from the designers to the construction crews to the volunteers who assisted in the move. “It was really a community effort,” he said. “It wasn’t really a temple moving, it was a community together moving, and that was impressive. “It’s wonderful to be able to see the project we dreamt about and worked so hard for, for so many years, so many people and so many committees,” Rabbi Azriel continued. “And then, finally, it’s here. It’s not so much about putting the mezuzah on the door, but what happens the day after, moving forward. We will bring dignity, community, love, courage to this congregation. We will continue the tradition of Temple Israel. Think about it, 142 years. I mean, who gives you permission to break the chain of tradition? No one.” Ed. note: We know you are eager for more; Oct. 4, the Jewish Press will publish a special section dedicated to Temple’s new home--with many more pictures!
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8 | The Jewish Press | September 6, 2013
PLANT MANAGER Gerhold Concrete Company, a division of Lyman-Richey Corporation, is looking for an experienced Plant Manager for its Wayne, NE locations. Responsibilities include supervising and coordinating activities of workers in the manufacturing of concrete products, the testing of those products, the delivery of ready mix concrete and materials, and the safety of all employees. Also responsible for discovering, evaluating, and bidding projects within the sales area and maintaining positive customer relations. Qualified candidates should have prior management experience, preferably in the concrete industry,
strong math skills, and be detail-oriented. Candidates should also have a bachelor’s degree in business administration or equivalent of two years related supervisory experience and/or training. We offer a competitive wage and benefits package. Qualified candidates should send their resume & cover letter with salary expectations to:
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Moving? Please give us the following information: Your name, old address and new address and when you want the address change to go into effect.
The Jewish Press Call 402.334.6448 or email us at jpress.jewishomaha.org
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Friday the 13th is lucky for Star Deli devotees by OZZIE NOGG Now hear this. Because so many of the Jewish holidays land on a Friday this year, there will be only one (yes, ONE) Friday Star Deli in September. On Sept. 13, to be exact. And the deli special that day is a doozie -- The Triple Decker Reuben. (Note from the kitchen: There will also be a special Deli Dinner on Tuesday, Sept. 24, to celebrate Sukkot. The Deli Dinner runs from 5:30 p.m.-7 p.m. and features Prime Rib. Deli-goers may choose to enjoy desserts in the Sukkah, weather permitting. Now, back to the remarkable Reuben.) “The Triple Decker Reuben makes up for the fasting you will do on Yom Kippur,” said Mike Schop, Assistant Administrator of the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. “Chef Mike Aparo shmears Russian dressing on three slices of marble rye, tops each slice with corned beef, adds sauerkraut, layers the whole thing together, grills the sandwich and voila. It’s triple the fun and deliciousness. Join us at the Deli on Friday, Sept. 13, and enjoy.” During September, all donations from the Deli tzedakah boxes located on each table go to the Institute for Holocaust Education. In addition to the Triple Decker Reuben and Prime Rib Dinner, September Deli-goers can also choose from the Deli’s
traditional menu items -- corned beef, pastrami, smoked turkey, egg or tuna salad sandwiches along with ever-popular salads and sides. Looking ahead, we’re told that fun hijinks are in the works, along with some price revisions. “We’re pleased to say we haven’t changed the Star Deli pricing in two years,” Schop said, “but food prices and the expense to ship Kosher product continue to rise. We plan to put the new prices into effect with the start of the new Jewish year in October. More information will be available on our website and Facebook pages.” Launched in July of 2010, The Star Deli on Main Street -with its garlicky aromas and the raucous atmosphere of a Lower East Side eatery -- is a favorite Friday lunch destination for local chow hounds. Open for business every Friday from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., The Star Deli is happy to host special occasions and will reserve private dining spaces in the RBJH for large groups. For more information on how Star Deli Catering can add spice to your meetings, parties and life cycle events, please contact Mike Aparo, 402.334.6522 or Regan Tinglehoff at 402.334.6523, or visit the web page -http://www.rbjh.com/index.php/star-catering/home. And you can LIKE the Star Deli on their Facebook page -https://www.facebook.com/star.deli.rbjh.
Temple religious school promises vibrant experience by DAVID GOLBITZ Temple Israel Staff Writer The first day of school is always special, though perhaps never more so than the beginning of the 2013-14 Religious School year at the new Temple Israel at Sterling Ridge. “This year, our first in our new building, is a fabulous opportunity to build on the learning opportunities provided to our congregants,” said Director of Lifelong Learning Debbie Massarano. “Our teachers and madrichim will be striving to create vibrant educational experiences for our younger students. In addition, our clergy will be teaching our high school students. We are intentionally planning opportunities for building connections, new relationships, and a tremendous feeling of belonging for everyone who walks through our doors.” Those doors will first be open for business on Sunday, Sept. 8, as parents and their children are invited to a “Second Sunday” pancake breakfast at 9:30 a.m. in the social hall, before everyone gathers in the sanctuary for a prayer assembly at 10 a.m. “Second Sundays” is just one of the new programs designed to develop and sustain relationships among Temple Israel families. On the second Sunday of each month when Religious School is held, Temple Israel invites every family member to spend the morning at the new building. “‘Second Sundays’ will be the day to spend at Temple for all of our members,” Massarano said. “Breakfast will be available before school starts, we will start our mornings together with prayer, and then there will be many different learning opportunities for everyone of all ages.” Following the assembly on Sept. 8, parents are invited to accompany their children to their classrooms to get to know each other and their children’s teachers. Parents will be excused from the classrooms at 10:45 a.m., and are asked to return to the sanctuary at 11 a.m. for a parents’ orientation. “The Religious School really is a blessing,” said Hillary Fletcher, whose oldest son Zane, a freshman at UNO, will be a teacher, and whose younger children, Jack and Baye, will be students. “It’s really a school. They have cubbies. There are secular schools that would love to have what our Religious School has. You wish every regular school had
what our Religious School has.” For their part, the Religious School teachers are perhaps even more excited than parents and students to start the year in their new, state-of-the-art classrooms. “I always love the first day of the school year,” said Natasha Kraft, who teaches Grade 4 Hebrew. “I think the new building is going to be great,” she said. “I’m excited about working in our new space, with all the natural light in our rooms, and I’m excited to see the kids and see how they’ve grown over the summer.” First grade teacher Dora Goldstrom echoed Kraft’s enthusiasm. “There are no words to describe how excited I am about the new building,” Goldstrom said. “The building is so spectacular. They started talking about it eight or nine years ago, and I hoped it would be built in my lifetime. I know the families and the kids are going to be thrilled with the building and the school.” Jill Idelman, who teaches second grade, is anxious to get settled in the new building, but she knows she’s going to miss the building on Cass Street, too. “This year obviously has some heightened excitement with moving into our new space,” she said. “I am confident that students will be more comfortable in the classrooms. This building shows we have made a physical investment in their education, too. The memories of Cass Street will run deep in my heart. That's where my life in Omaha really began and where I first started teaching Hebrew. However, I see such wonderful potential with this resource that is so inviting and refreshing for students young and old.” The first day of class for Temple Israel’s high school students is Wednesday, Sept. 11, with Temple Teen Night beginning with dinner at 6 p.m. In addition to teaching the high school students, Rabbis Aryeh Azriel, Josh Brown and Cantor Wendy Shermet will also take turns leading the adult education class in ten-week sections. The first session, led by Cantor Shermet, is entitled, “Tools to Engage in a Conversation about Israel as an American Jew.” Note: The “Second Sunday” breakfast on Sept. 8 will be free of charge, and future breakfasts will have a minimal cost.
Don’t worry, be happy by OZZIE NOGG Menagh continued. “She told the residents that happiness is The Rose Blumkin Jewish found in wonder, well-being Home recently invited Stacey and wisdom. She encouraged Flowers, motivational speaker, to them to remember, to reflect spend time with the residents. and rejoice every day; to eat “Stacey delighted the audience well, to move and play. She with a moving talk about being reminded residents that each happy in life,” said Karen one of them has unique gifts, Menagh of the RBJH Activities talents, skills and abilities. She Department. “She stressed that showed them how the wisdom it’s a commitment to yourself to they’ve gained over the years be happy, 365 days a year, and can help them choose happiness the residents certainly agreed.” over heartache, no matter what Ms. Flowers is considered one challenges or obstacles they may of the top female motivational face. In Stacey’s words, ‘Life is speakers in the nation, and Motivational speaker Stacey Flowers, left, with RBJH shares her wisdom and knowlmeant to make you smile.’ Her resident, Louise Abrahamson. edge on TV, radio and in magavisit brought smiles to everyone, zines. She has spoken to over 100,000 people at various ven- and was a great example of kindness to people of our audiues across the country. “Stacey’s message was very uplifting,” ence’s age.”
September 6, 2013 | The Jewish Press | 9
Point of view
American Jewish Press Association Award Winner
Nebraska Press National Newspaper Association Association Award winner 2008
Why we should care about Syria by ANNETTE VAN DE KAMP-WRIGHT Jewish Press Editor Watching continuous Syria coverage over Labor Day weekend, I find myself at a crossroads. Most of what I watched and read centered on President Obama’s announcement that he would seek Congressional approval before ordering a strike against Syria. I don’t find his decision that surprising. Yes, he could strike if he chose to do so. However, anyone who has been watching the situation in the Middle East knows that this is not a matter that will be resolved by one drone strike, in and out, quick and easy. It is not going to be that simple. If and when the United States gets involved, it will be a long-term effort. Politicians may repeat how they don’t want “boots on the ground,” but it may come to that regardless. Agreeing that military intervention is needed is not my usual response to watching the news, and it certainly isn’t a knee-jerk reaction. Not that I am an isolationist; far from it. I believe we are all citizens of this world, and we have a responsibility to look out for each other. That responsibility goes beyond our immediate borders. It’s why we send aid to other nations, it’s why we have institutions like the United Nations and the European Union; it’s why we keep trying to have a healthy dialogue with each other, even if we are not always good at it. Now that we know Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad did indeed use sarin gas on his own people in the Damascus suburbs, the discussion about what to do has become more urgent than ever. More than 100,000 people have died since the beginning of the Syrian conflict, and approximately 2 million Syrians have fled their home country, half of them children. The United Nations predict that by the end of 2013, this number will reach 3.5 million, with the majority of refugees in Lebanon, Jordan and Turkey. Many of them live in refugee camps under such horrible conditions some of them have been tempted to return. UN High Commissioner for Refugees António Guterres recently said we have "not seen a refugee outflow escalate at
such a frightening rate since the Rwandan genocide almost 20 years ago," Dominic MacSorley recently wrote in Huffington Post. Isolationism is no longer an option (was it ever?), and the time for the world to act is now. While the politicians talk, humanitarian efforts are under way, underreported and with no end in sight. Israelis from humanitarian groups are in Jordan to assist Syrian refugees and are assisting children and infants who have been injured in the Syrian military’s ongoing violent crackdown throughout Syria: “Members of an Israeli group dubbed IL4Syrians, guided by the motto, “Nobody asks permission to kill. We do not ask permission to save lives,” have been secretly sneaking into Jordan to help Syrian refugees,” reported Palestinian website Donia Alwatan. Israeli volunteer groups have been providing humanitarian aid in Turkey as well. The Western Galilee Medical Center in Nahariya, located in our Partnership2GETHER region, has treated countless wounded Syrians, according to Director Dr. Masad Barhoum (still wondering how your campaign dollars are helping?). Unfortunately, it seems the humanitarian need is once again not what drives the discourse. Syria is far away, opponents say; the Middle East always has been and will continue to be a mess, and there’s nothing we can do. What if Syria and BFF Iran punish Israel for US involvement? After Iraq and Afghanistan, we are tired of foreign war, and we really can’t afford it anyway. It’s really none of our business, and we should worry about our own economy. Getting involved does not serve American interests. Yes, what happens in Syria is sad, but how does it concern us? I’ll tell you how it concerns us. Al Qaeda would benefit enormously from a destabilized Syria. Allowing Syria
to descend into chaos would mean another operating base for them. In addition, continuing violence in Syria will affect global oil prices. Iran is watching closely and might draw the conclusion that when America says “red line,” they don’t really mean it. Not stepping in will make Israel less secure, not more. Finally, conflicts always have a tendency to spill over into neighboring countries. Those neighboring countries are: Iraq, Turkey, Jordan and Lebanon. Convinced yet? And yet, I can’t help but feel we must return to the humanitarian argument. A dictator who uses gas to murder innocent civilians needs to be held accountable. Under what conditions would it possibly be okay to let this go? Today, Thursday, President Obama is at the G20 in Russia. Over the next few days, you will hear a lot about why we should get involved, how we should get involved, whether Obama was right to ask Congress to back him, and whether we will have the support of our allies as well as the United Nations. But, unless we as a nation take a stand in the face of genocide, it is all just talk.
Join campaign to raise federal minimum wage
Behind the headlines STUART APPELBAUM NEW YORK (JTA) -- It’s not that often that Labor Day and Rosh Hashanah fall so close together on the calendar. This year they are but three days apart, providing an opportunity for some introspection on an issue that should be of concern to the entire American Jewish community: the pitiful state of the federal minimum wage. The federal minimum wage isn’t a living wage. At $7.25 an hour, today’s full-time minimum-wage worker makes just $15,080 a year. Even in a family with two people working minimum-wage jobs, household income hovers at the poverty level. And that’s assuming they are lucky enough to have full-time jobs. Moreover, the makeup of minimum-wage workers has changed. James Surowiecki, writing in The New Yorker earlier this month, noted a recent study by the economists John Schmitt and Janelle Jones showing that “low-wage workers are older and better educated than ever.” “More important,” Surowiecki wrote, “more of them are relying on their paychecks not for pin money or to pay for Friday-night dates but, rather, to support families.” Meanwhile, the purchasing power of the minimum wage has plummeted. From January 1981 to April 1990, the federal minimum wage was never raised. In 2007, Congress raised the federal minimum wage by $2.10, to $7.25 per
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hour, as a first step toward restoring it to its historic value. But for the minimum wage to have the same purchasing power it had back in 1968, it would have to be more than $10 per hour now. American Jews should remember the situation confronting so many of our ancestors who could earn only poverty wages in the garment trades and other sectors when they first arrived in the United States. The challenges confronting those in minimum-wage jobs today are no less daunting. They are the workers who care for our elderly parents, wash our cars, pick our produce, clean our offices and work at fast-food restaurants. The vast majority work multiple minimum-wage jobs to support their families and they are still struggling, faced with terrible choices over which bills to pay -- rent or heat, groceries or medicine -- that none among us should be forced to make. A comprehensive study by the Economic Policy Institute points out the benefits of raising the minimum wage. An increase to $10.10 by July 1, 2015 would raise the wages of about 30 million workers, who would receive more than $51 billion in additional wages over the phase-in period, increase gross domestic product by roughly $32.6 billion and create a net gain of 140,000 new jobs. It would not, as many conservatives claim, kill jobs. Moreover, it would be an important first step in closing the widening income gap. So we need to raise the federal minimum wage. Yet much of the business sector and its allies continue to stymie even mod-
est attempts to lift minimum-wage workers out of poverty. Why? Essentially because they can. Two years ago, former Smith Barney director Desmond Lachman told The New York Times, “Corporations are taking huge advantage of the slack in the labor market -- they are in a very strong position and workers are in a very weak position. They are using that bargaining power to cut benefits and wages, and to shorten hours.” Of course, not all the blame for low-wage workers lies with the businesses that employ them. The consuming public also plays a role. Too often, we fail to make the link between low prices and widespread poverty. Some states, frustrated by the inability of Congress to raise the federal minimum wage, have raised the minimum wage locally. But this needs to be done nationally -- and it needs to be done now. In Parshat Shoftim, the Torah proclaims, “Justice, justice shall you pursue.” If we are to provide a measure of justice where it counts to the least well-paid among us, we have to do our part to support an increase in the federal minimum wage. We must partner with others to ensure it happens. We need to talk about it with our friends, families and neighbors. We in the Jewish Labor Committee are proud to be part of this campaign and encourage the wider community to join. It’s the right and just thing to do. Stuart Appelbaum is the president of the Jewish Labor Committee and president of the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union, UFCW.
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10 | The Jewish Press | September 6, 2013
Synagogues
Candlelighting Friday, September 6, 7:30 p.m.
B’NAI ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE
CHABAD CENTER
ROSE BLUMKIN JEWISH HOME
618 Mynster Street | Council Bluffs, IA 51503-0766 | 712.322.4705 email: CBsynagogue@hotmail.com For information on our historic synagogue – dates and times for Friday night services, call 712.323.8885. Kol Nidre Services, Friday, Sept. 13, 7:30 p.m., Dr. Leonard Greenspoon speaks about If I forgot thee, O Jerusalem...Remembering and Forgetting in Jewish Tradition. Saturday, Sept. 14, 5:30 p.m., Yom Kippur concluding service and Break-the-fast potluck. Please call Sandra at 712.323.8885 to RSVP and let us know what dish you’d like to bring. Yom Kippur services will be led by Jeffrey Taxman.
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 and Meditation, 7 a.m. SATURDAY: Minyan and Meditation, 9:30 a.m.; This week is Shabbat Shuvah, getting another chance to return. Come enjoy food and company and some important tidbits on Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur. SUNDAY: Minyan, 8:30 a.m.; No breakfast this week due to the Fast of Gedaliya. WEEKDAYS: Minyan and Meditation, 7 a.m. TUESDAY: Dynamic Discovery with Shani Katzman, 10:15 a.m. A class for women based on traditional texts with practical insights and application. RSVP by calling the office. WEDNESDAY: Personal Parsha class, 10 a.m. with Rochi Katzman. RSVP by calling the office; The Development of the Oral Tradition, 7 p.m. with Rabbi Katzman. RSVP by calling the office. THURSDAY: Women’s Study at UNMC with Shani Katzman, noon. RSVP by emailing Marlene Cohen at mzcohen@unmc.edu. Kol Nidre Service, Friday, Sept. 13, 6:45 p.m. Yom Kippur Break-the-fast, Saturday, Sept. 14, 8:15 p.m. All programs are open to the entire community.
323 South 132 Street | Omaha, NE 68154 FRIDAY: Second Day of Rosh Hashanah Morning service, 9 a.m., led by Miles Remer. SATURDAY: Services, 9 a.m. led by David Herzog. Kol Nidre Services, Friday, Sept. 13, 7 p.m. led by Andy Greenberg. Services will be held in the Chapel. Members of the community are invited to attend.
BETH EL SYNAGOGUE Member of United Synagogues of Conservative Judaism 14506 California | Omaha, NE 68154-1980 | 402.492.8550 www.bethel-omaha.org Services conducted by Rabbi Steven Abraham and Hazzan Michael Krausman. FRIDAY: Morning Service, 9 a.m.; Youth Service, 10:30 a.m.; Shabbat Shuvah Mincha service, 5:45 p.m., followed by Kabbalat Service at 6 p.m. SATURDAY: Shabbat Services, 9:30 a.m.; Ozzie Nogg will present D’var Torah; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 7:30 p.m. WEEKDAY SERVICES: Sundays, 9 a.m. & 5:30 p.m.; weekdays, 7 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. SUNDAY: Join Men’s Club for Sukkah Building, 8 a.m., as they construct the synagogue’s sukkah in the front courtyard; USY Bagel Sale, 9:20-9:40 a.m.; Primary and high school BESTT classes, 9:45 a.m.; Torah Study Group, 10 a.m.; Merit scholarship informational meeting, 12:30 p.m. TUESDAY: Wrestling with the Rabbis of the Talmud, 10 a.m. weekly adult-education class led by Rabbi Abraham. No charge to attend; everyone is welcome. WEDNESDAY: BESTT Weekday classes, 4:15 p.m.; High school dinner, 6 p.m. Classes begin at 6:45 p.m. Register online at www.bethel-omaha.org; Choir Rehearsal, 7:30 p.m. in the chapel. Operation Isaiah, share food and clothing with those in need by bringing non-perishable food and gently-worn clothing to the synagogue, now through Sept. 13. Kol Nidre Service, Friday, Sept. 13, 7:15 p.m. Torah Tots, Sunday, Sept. 15, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Fun-filled class for preschoolers and their parents, led by Naomi Gaca. USY Lounge Night, Sunday, Sept. 15, 5 p.m., USY will host a special interfaith program at the synagogue with the Second Unitarian Church’s youth group. Cost to attend is $10. RSVP to Betsy by contacting her at youthdir@bethelomaha.org, betsy4589@gmail.com, or at 402.321.1806. All classes and programs are open to everyone in the Jewish community.
BETH ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE Member of Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America 12604 Pacific Street | Omaha, NE. 68154 | 402.556.6288 www.BethIsrael@OrthodoxOmaha.org Office hours: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Services conducted by Rabbi Jonathan Gross. FRIDAY: Shacharit, 8 a.m.; Sermon, 10 a.m., followed by Shofar blowing; Mincha/Ma’ariv and Kabbalat Shabbat, 7:30 p.m. SATURDAY: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Children’s Classes begin with Torah Parade, 9:45 a.m.; Mincha, 7:15 p.m.; Havdalah, 8:31 p.m. SUNDAY: Fast of Gedelya begins at 5:45 a.m.; Shacharit, 8:30 a.m.; Fast of Gedelya ends at 8:28 p.m. WEEKDAYS: Shacharit, 7 a.m. MONDAY: Selichot, 6:30 a.m.; Daf Yomi: Week in Review with Rabbi Gross, 7:45 a.m. TUESDAY: Selichot, 6:30 a.m.; Women’s Study Group, 6:30 p.m. at the home of Kathy Weiner. WEDNESDAY: Selichot, 6:30 a.m.; Coffee and Your Jewish News with Rabbi Gross, 7:45 a.m.; Rabbi Weiss’s Weekly Class, 7:45 p.m. THURSDAY: Selichot, 6:30 a.m.; Sacred Grounds with Rabbi Gross, 9:30 a.m. Kol Nidre Service, Friday, Sept. 13, 7 p.m.
MEMORIAL SERVICES Sunday, September 8 Oak Hills/Bikhor Cholim, Council Bluffs, 10 a.m. Mount Carmel Cemetery in Lincoln, 10:30 a.m. Beth El Cemetery, 84th and ‘L’ Sts., 11 a.m. Temple Israel Cemetery, 6412 No. 42 St., 1 p.m. Wyuka Cemetery in Lincoln, 3 p.m.
CONGREGATION B’NAI JESHURUN South Street Temple | Union for Reform Judaism 2061 South 20th Street | Lincoln, NE 68502-2797 | 402.435.8004 www.southstreettemple.org Services conducted by Rabbi Craig Lewis. FRIDAY: Family Dinner and Early Family Shabbat Service, 6 p.m. Please RSVP to the Temple office; Classical Reform Shabbat Service, 7:45 p.m. with oneg following hosted by Leslie Delserone and Peter Mullin. SATURDAY: Shabbat Morning Service, 9:30 a.m.; Torah Study, 10:30 a.m. on Parashat Ha’azinu. SUNDAY: LJCS Gan through Grade 7, 9:30 a.m.-noon and Parent Session at 11:30 a.m. at Tifereth Israel; Hallah High Lite, 9:45 a.m.-noon and Parent Session at 10 a.m. at Tifereth Israel; Hallah High, 9:45 a.m.-noon and Parent Session at 10 a.m. at Tifereth Israel; LJCS Parent Orientation, 11:30 a.m. at Tifereth Israel; Jr. Youth, 12:30 p.m. at Laser Quest; Board of Trustees, 1 p.m. WEDNESDAY: Hebrew classes (grades 3-7), 4-6 p.m. at Tifereth Israel. THURSDAY: High Holiday Day Choir Rehearsal, 7:30-9 p.m. Yom Kippur Evening Service, Friday, Sept. 13, 8 p.m. Annual High Holidays Food Drive has begun and we are collecting food and personal care items. Remember that monetary donations are also welcome and encouraged. Make checks out to the Food Bank of Lincoln and get them to the Temple office so we can send our collective donations to the Food Bank after the holidays. Help is still needed to water the Temple grounds during the weeks of Sept. 9, and Sept. 16 (Monday through the following Sunday each week). Our days to water (at our odd numbered address) are Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. Please contact Ellin at ellin7@aol.com if you can help or if you have questions. Thank you!
OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE SAC Memorial Chapel 301 Lincoln Highway | Offutt AFB, NE 68113 | 402.294.6244 FRIDAY: Services, 7:30 p.m.
TEMPLE ISRAEL Union for Reform Judaism (URJ) 7023 Cass Street | Omaha, NE 68132-2651 | 402.556.6536 http://templeisraelomaha.com FRIDAY: Shabbat Shuvah Service, 6 p.m. Due to the holiday, this evening will not be a First Friday service or congregational dinner. A special haftarah is read and traditionally the rabbi gives a sermon related to repentance. SATURDAY: Torah Study, 9:15 a.m.; Shabbat Morning Service, 10:30 a.m.; Tashlich, following the Saturday morning service we will gather with our neighbors from Beth Israel for Tashlich, which means “cast away.” We will throw our transgressions into the creek behind our new building and begin the new year cleansed of our sins and misdeeds. Lunch will be provided afterward at Beth Israel. SUNDAY: Second Sundays and Prayer Assembly, 9:30 a.m.; Opening Day for Religious School, 10 a.m.; Kol Rina Rehearsal, 1 p.m.; TUESDAY: Kol Rina Rehearsal, 6:30 p.m. WEDNESDAY: Grades 3-6, 4-6 p.m.; School Dinner, 6 p.m.; Family School, 6 p.m.; Grades 7-8, 6 p.m.; Temple Teen Night, 6 p.m.; Tools to engage in a conversation about Israel as an American Jew, 6:30 p.m. with Cantor Shermet; Meet and Greet Ice Cream Social for Grades 7 & 8, 7:30-8 p.m. Come and meet your Director of Youth Engagement Nikki Flatowicz, and new JYG Advisor Dominique O'Connor. Find out what's going on this year with JYG, how to get involved, and other fun happenings at Temple. Kol Nidre Service, Friday, Sept. 13, 7:30 p.m. High Holy Days Food Drive: Fill a Bag, Feed a Family, Saturday, Sept. 14. Pick up a bag at Temple Israel on Rosh Hashanah, fill it with food, and return your filled bag on Yom Kippur. Last year we collected over 3,100 pounds of food to stock the pantry at the Food Bank of the Heartland. Please include as much protein (i.e., canned meats, tuna, lentils/beans, peanut butter) in your donations. Help us to make this year a sweeter one for all.
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: Temple office closed for Rosh Hashanah; Service, 9 a.m.; Youth Service, 11 a.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 7:15 p.m. SATURDAY: Morning service, 10 a.m. followed by a Kiddush luncheon. SUNDAY: LJCS Gan through Grade 7, 9:30 a.m.-noon and Parent Session at 11:30 a.m. at Tifereth Israel; Hallah High Lite, 9:45 a.m.-noon and Parent Session at 10 a.m. at Tifereth Israel; Hallah High, 9:45 a.m.-noon and Parent Session at 10 a.m. at Tifereth Israel; LJCS Parent Orientation, 11:30 a.m. at Tifereth Israel. Kol Nidre Service, Friday, Sept. 13, 7 p.m. Annual Congregation Break-the-fast at the end of Yom Kippur. Havdalah service and meal around 8:20 p.m.
Iron Dome deployed by JTA NEWS STAFF (JTA) — The Israeli army has deployed the Iron Dome rocket interception system around Tel Aviv in preparation for a possible strike by Syria. The deployment was completed on Friday morning, Army Radio reported, adding it was the first time the system has been readied to intercept inbound fire from the north. The deployment comes as expectations mount that the United States will launch a strike against Syrian President Bashar Assad’s forces following a chemical weapons attack that killed hundreds near Damascus. Syria has threatened to target Israel if it is hit. On Thursday, administration officials told the New York Times that President Obama was prepared to move ahead with a limited military strike against Syria despite a stinging rejection of such action by the United Kingdom and
mounting questions from Congress. Britain’s parliament rejected a motion Thursday that would have mandated a military response to the chemical attack by Syria. The vote was a heavy blow to Prime Minister David Cameron, who had pledged his support to Obama and called on lawmakers to endorse Britain’s involvement in a brief operation to punish Assad for the attack, which American intelligence believes was ordered by the regime. The vote was also a setback for Obama, who, having given up hope of getting United Nations Security Council authorization for the strike, is struggling to assemble a coalition of allies against Syria. Unnamed administration officials made clear that the eroding support would not deter Obama in deciding to go ahead with a strike, the Times reported. Pentagon officials said that the Navy has moved a fifth destroyer into the eastern Mediterranean Sea.
Pulverent e
September 6, 2013 | The Jewish Press | 11
Value God and man
In memoriam IDA HALPERIN
Sparks from the word RABBI MYER S. KRIPKE Parsha Haazinu The striking poem that is the Torah reading for the Sabbath of Repentance (Shabbat Shuvah)ends on a familiar theme. The theme is that God saves Israel from destruction, among other reasons, because His own honor is dependent on Israel’s success. If enemies are permitted to destroy Israel, what happens to the Lord’s credibility? The argument was used by Moses in the narrative of the golden calf, and by Ezekiel during the Babylonian exile. Ezekiel used it to explain why God would bring Israel out of exile: not because you deserve it; you don’t. He must save you in order to preserve His own honor and credibility. The theme is not without relevance to our own Jewishness. The continuous and obstinate survival of the Jewish people has been appraised by Jews and non-Jews alike as an indication of the presence of forces stronger than naked might: “Not by strength nor by power, but by My Spirit.” Whether Jews relish the role or not, the idea of being Gd’s people overlays the exigencies of history to make the Jew the symbol of “right” as distinguished from “might.” Again and again, rabbis teach their congregations that continuing the Jewish tradition is of prime importance, not only to Jews but to the larger world as well. If Jews disappear, then we have given the world a terrible lesson: namely, that enough pressure, relentlessly and viciously applied, can destroy anything and anybody. Thus the theme involves all of the shortcomings of our personal and social lives as Jews: ignorance of our traditions and our history, failure to provide an atmosphere of Jewish values, refusal to support our institutions of learning and teaching. A poem is a poem--but it is not to be taken lightly simply because most of us are loathe to give it sufficient attention to understand it. The poem has to do with the most momentous of themes, fitting for the Shabbat of Repentance. It tells us that the credibility of God and the integrity of man are inextricably bound together.
Chasing the storm by OZZIE NOGG One again, Rose Blumkin Jewish Home residents and the Storm Chasers Baseball team met on a summer afternoon at Werner Park in Papillion for some good ol’ fun in the stands and on the diamond. The evening was perfect until the rains poured down, but a few rain drops couldn’t dampen the residents’ spirits.
Ida Halperin passed away on Aug. 19 at age 95. Services were held Aug. 23 at at BHH/Fisher Farm Cemetery. She was preceded in death by husband Yale Halperin. She is survived by her daughters, Ronna Kaplan and Diane Halperin; son and daughter-in-law, Howard and Carol Halperin; five grandchildren, two great-grandchildren; sister, Vera Bernstein; and many nieces, nephews and loving friends. Memorials may be made to Beth Israel Synagogue, 12604 Pacific Street, Omaha, NE 68154.
by JTA NEWS STAFF (JTA) -- Pope Francis in a meeting with Jewish leaders sent Rosh Hashanah greetings to Jews worldwide and expressed “concern” at the ban on kosher slaughter in Poland. At an audience Monday at the Vatican with World Jewish Congress heads, the pope said he was directing a cardinal to investigate the situation in Poland, where a ban has been in effect on ritual slaughter since January. Francis met with a WJC delegation headed by the organization’s president, Ronald Lauder, who presented the pontiff with a kiddush cup and a honey cake. A WJC statement said the pontiff and Lauder spoke about the situation in Syria “and agreed to speak out against attacks on religious minorities, such as Coptic Christians in Egypt and against trends to restrict well-established religious practices such as circumcision.” In addition, according to the statement, “The pope specifically expressed concern about the bans on kosher slaughter in Poland and directed Cardinal Kurt Koch, the president of the Vatican’s Commission for Relations with the Jews, to investigate and host a follow-up meeting as early as next week.” The WJC said the pope, using the Hebrew phrase “Shanah Tovah,” asked Lauder to convey holiday wishes to Jewish communities worldwide. The group said the pontiff reiterated a statement made last June that “a Christian cannot be an anti-Semite” and said that “to be good a Christian it is necessary to understand Jewish history and traditions.” Referring to the conflict in Syria, “the pope called the killing of human beings unacceptable and said world leaders must do everything to avoid war,” according to the WJC. Francis has met with Jewish leaders and representatives on a number of occasions since his election to the papacy in March. The WJC called it his “first private audience with an international Jewish leader” since becoming pope. The delegation also included WJC leaders Robert Singer and Maram Stern and the heads of the Latin American Jewish Congress, Jack Terpins and Claudio Epelman.
Dan Mirvish’s film Between Us is coming back to Omaha for one night only, Sept. 16, but in a few different venues. As part of a unique 29-city release through Marcus Theaters in seven Midwestern states in September, the film will play at these venues in Nebraska and Iowa: Village Pointe Cinemas, 304 North 174th Street, Omaha, NE; Twin Creek Cinema, 3909 Raynor Parkway, Bellevue, NE; Lincoln Grand Cinema, 1101 P St, Lincoln, NE; College Square, 6301 University Ave, Cedar Falls, IA; Sycamore Mall, 1602 Sycamore St., Iowa City, IA.
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Pope Francis conveys Rosh Hashanah greetings
In the news
Ruth Altstadt, left, caregiver to RBJH resident Rabbi Myer Kripke, and ‘Stormy’ -- the Storm Chaser’s mascot. By the way, Rabbi Kripke was quite the ball player in his day. Shortstop, to be exact.
Before someone offers you alcohol or other drugs, decide what you are going to say.
Nebraska STATEWIDE CLASSIFIEDS CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING works! Place your 25 word ad into thousands of Nebraska homes for $225. Contact the Jewish Press at 402-334-6448 or call 1-800-369-2850. LOOKING FOR the classic car, truck or motorcycle of your dreams? Midwest Classic Cars website is your Midwest connection to classic vehicles for sale. Need to sell a classic vehicle? For only $25, your ad with photos will run until sold! Call this newspaper today for more information or call 1-800-369-2850. NEBRASKA ANGUS Tour - September 21st. Visit Angus Ranches throughout Northeast Nebraska. For registration information check out the website at www.nebraskaangus.org or call 308-577-6700. BANKRUPTCY: FREE initial consultation. Fast relief from creditors. Low rates. Statewide filing. No office appointment necessary. Call Steffens Law Office, 308-872-8327. steffensbankruptcylaw.com. We are a debt relief agency, which helps people file bankruptcy under the bankruptcy code. AFFORDABLE PRESS Release service. Send your message to 175 newspapers across Nebraska for one low price! Call 1-800-369-2850 or www.nebpress.com for more details. DO YOU live in rural Nebraska and need a small business loan under $50,000? REAP can help! Call 402-656-3091 or visit www.cfra.org/reap. LAST MINUTE Getaway! Overnight stay in Nebraska City at Lied Lodge for $99. Includes breakfast for two. September special, Sunday-Thursday. Call 800-546-5433 to make your reservation. REGULAR/HANDICAP Walk-in tubs or shower units, complete bathroom remodeling, reasonably priced models available. Licensed government contractor. 402-896-2966, more info: www.showersplumbing.com. EARN $500 a day. Insurance Agents needed; leads, no cold calls; commissions paid daily; lifetime renewals; complete training; health/dental insurance; life license required. 1888-713-6020. $1,000 SIGN On Bonus - For Journeyman Plumbing Technician. Top wages, benefits. Anderson Bros. Electric, Plumbing & Heating, Inc., 2600 E. Hwy. 30, Kearney, 308-2366437. $1,000 SIGNING Bonus - HVAC Technician. Must have NATE and Refrigeration Certified. Top Wages. Anderson Bros., 2600 E. Hwy. 30, Kearney, NE, 308-236-6437. AFS TECHNICIAN Position Available. Grosshans International, Inc., is hiring for a full-time technician for our Trimble Precision Farming Systems. Applicant must have strong computer, people and organizational skills and physically be able to install systems on tractors, combines and planters. Extensive training is required to become certified and some travel for education is required. This position includes excellent benefits for the right person as part of a growing team. Please send resume to: Grosshans International, Inc., PO Box 168, Aurora, Nebraska 68818, Attention: Alan Anderson, or call 402-694-2121. SOUTH CENTRAL Diesel, Inc., Holdrege, NE, has a FT position in our growing sales department. Must be very organized, excellent computer skills, detail oriented, self-motivated and have good communication skills. Knowledge of Automotive & Diesel Parts a must. Great Pay, Retirement, Paid Vacations, Employee Health Insurance Paid. Contact Mike @ 308-995-6528 or scdinc2@qwestoffice.net.
The Completely KIDS Guild's Big Red Tailgate will be held Sept. 20 at Embassy Suites, La Vista, 12520 Westport Pkwy. The event will include dinner and cocktails, raffle, Big Red Spirits, entertainment, and silent and live auctions. For more information about Completely KIDS or its events, visit completelykids.org.
DRIVERS WANTED now!!! Multiple locations in Nebraska. Haul Railroad Crews. 21+, Valid DL, Clean MVR, Drug & B/G checks. Apply online: www.railcrewxpress.com.
To Submit obituaries to the Jewish Press:
DRIVERS WANTED: $2,500 Sign On Bonus. Estimated average earnings of $65K+ per year. Excellent Regional Opportunities! Home Weekly, Great Benefits including Health, Dental, 401K, etc. Paid Driver Assist. Class A-CDL with 9 months experience required. Call 1-630-961-7327, www.ryder.jobs. Ryder Dedicated. EOE. Drug test required for employment.
Email to the Press at jpress@jewishomaha.org; fax to 402.334.5422, or mailed to 333 So. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68154, or online at the Jewish Federation of Omaha website: www.jewishomaha.org. Click on Jewish Press and go to Submit Announcements.
OWNER OPERATORS: ITL Tanklines need owner operators to pull tank trailers throughout Nebraska & surrounding states. $200,000 average. Call Brian, Monday to Friday, 8-5, 800-728-2675. “PARTNERS IN Excellence” OTR Drivers APU equipped Pre-Pass EZ-pass passenger policy. 2012 & newer equipment. 100% No touch. Butler Transport, 1-800-528-7825.
OWNER OPERATORS for flatbed operation based in the Norfolk, NE, area. Running mostly in the central U.S. Call Jody at S&S Express, 402-582-4791.
12 | The Jewish Press | September 6, 2013
Backyard Concert Series returns by RACHEL MARTIN sold for $2 and cookies sold in packs of three for $2.50. Music blasts throughout the yard as friends and families BBYO and BBYO Connect will benefit from the cupcake eat their picnic dinners. Blankets and chairs belonging to sales with proceeds going toward Jewish programming. more than 100 people cover the grass at the Backyard The Backyard Concert Series is sponsored by the Sokolof Concert Series. This year, three live outdoor concerts will be held on Sept. 22, Sept. 29 and Oct. 6 at the JCC. Each of the concerts boasts different bands, with two bands performing on Sept. 22. “It’s a great laid-back event,” said Esther Katz, JCC Cultural Arts Director. “Beautiful weather and wonderful music – it builds community when people get together like that.” This is the Third annual Backyard Concert Series. Last year, hundreds of people attended each show, according to Katz. The concerts are set up in the field behind the JCC, near the pavilion. Sailing the Soup and Sarah Benck will perform on Sept. 22 from 5-6 p.m. and 6-7 p.m. respectively. Kris Lager Band will perform on Sept. 29, and Lil Slim Blues Band will perform on Oct. 6. Each of the Sunday evening concerts will be held from 5-7 p.m. “We took our grandchildren and a picnic dinMany community members enjoyed the ;aid back atmosphere at last ner to the final concert last year,” Patty Nogg said. year’s Backyard Concert Series “It was fun seeing people of all ages enjoying themselves.” Javitch Music Fund, Herbert Goldsten Trust, Special DonorAll ages are welcome at the concerts. There is room to Advised Fund, Myron (Mike) Milder II Memorial Fund, lounge and relax, and a playground for kids to run around Ann Woskoff Schulman Memorial Fund, and Samuel & Bess so they don’t have to sit still. Rothenburg Memorial Endowment Fund. “Our grandkids had the best time running around with During the month of September, the JCC Art Gallery weltheir friends,” Nogg said. “We loved watching them!” comes Israeli Artist Moshe Mozon and his collection of Judaic Admission to the concerts is free, but donations will be tapestries and lithographs. Mozon will be appearing at a specollected for Jewish Family Services. Donation items may cial series of “pop up” sales at the JCC. At the Sept. 29 concert, include: canned fruits, peanut butter, tuna, salad dressing, prints, Judaica and jewelry by Goldie Mozon will be for sale. and paper products such as Kleenex, toilet paper and paper Before the final concert on Oct. 6, the new community towels. Please be sure that the food items are not expired. Shaliach, Eliad Eliyahu Ben Shushan will set up tables and Concert attendees are welcome to bring their own picnic introduce himself to community members. Come early that baskets and coolers. Star Catering will also be selling food. day to meet him and grab a spot for the last concert of the The menu for the concerts includes a hamburger and chips series. $5, beef hot dog and chips $4, watermelon slice $1, and In the case of inclement weather, the concerts will be held lemonade $1. in the JCC theater. Contact JCC Cultural Arts Director Chocolate and vanilla cupcakes from the Bagel Bin will be Esther Katz for more information ekatz@jccomaha.org.
A night at the opera by ANNETTE VAN DE KAMP-WRIGHT Jewish Press Editor Opera Omaha announced its 2013-14 season back in April of this year; they are calling it a year of “Breaking Boundaries.” Three operas are on the schedule, and each has a strong female protagonist who takes center stage. On Nov. 1 and 3 of this year, George Bizet’s Carmen will undoubtedly draw a large crowd. Featuring familiar music, the show’s sets have been purchased from the New York City Opera. Carmen offers a strong storyline, multiple costume changes, and a spectacular experience for those lucky enough to be in the audience. French with English subtitles. Agrippina will be performed on Feb. 14 and 16, 2014; written in 1709, it is the oldest opera ever presented by Opera Omaha. With music by Georg Friedrich Handel, the production will be built especially for Opera Omaha. Italian with English subtitles. Finally, on April 25 and 27, 2014, Opera Omaha will present Gioachino Rossini’s Cinderella. It’s the most whimsical and family-friendly of the three, and it may hold some surprises, so warn your kids: this is not the Cinderella we all know. There’s a stepfather instead of a stepmother, a bracelet instead of a glass slipper, and some very confused stepsisters. Italian with English subtitles. Individual tickets for the 2013-14 season are on sale now, and subscriptions start as low as $49. For more information, visit www.operaomaha.org, or call 402.346.4398. In addition, join Opera Omaha for a multi-media performance featuring highlights of what’s to come. Artists will provide an unforgettable night under the stars when Opera Omaha takes the coming season outside with “Opera Outdoors,” featuring live performances including selections from Carmen, Agrippina, Cinderella, and more, in the Pavillion at Turner Park, Midtown Crossing. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. on Sept. 13 and is free and open to the public. It’s the perfect time to get a little taste of the upcoming performances. Bring your lawn chairs, picnics, and the whole family!
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