March 13, 2026 by Jewish Press

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Welcome Ellie Forseter Novak ANNETTE VAN DE KAMPWRIGHT Jewish Press Editor The Jewish Federation of Omaha is excited to announce that, as of March 9, Ellie Forseter Novak has assumed the role of Senior Director of Development. Ellie was one of four women who in 2021 participated in the National Women’s P hi l anthropy ’s Emerge Leadership Program (the other three were Jess Cohn, Ally Freeman and Hillary Rubesin). The experience inspired them to secure funds through the Shirley & Leonard Goldstein Supporting Foundation and the Staenberg Anything Grant to create intimate 30-40 person events to explore Jewish values and themes. “I’m very pleased that my personal and professional journey has led me here,” Ellie said, “and eager to serve the community that has become my home over the past ten years. My goals, particularly to start, are to meet with as many individuals as possible around the campus and in our broader community. I aim to listen and discover opportunities for the JFO to strengthen our connections. I think these last few years have been isolating for a lot of Jewish people,

Rabbi Ben Sharff’s Trip: Upon further reflection Page 5

BBYO February recap Page 7

The Kaplan Book Group looks at motherly love Page 12

creatin g an uncertainty about how to express their Jewish identity. I hope to find ways to support and engage everyone, wherever they are in their Jewish journeys. Ultimately, my charge is to ensure Omaha’s diverse Jewish community has the resources and outlets for building a strong sense of self and purpose.” Ellie grew up in White Plains, NY, which is a suburb of New York City. She attended the Solomon Schechter Hebrew Day School from nursery through 8th grade and then White Plains Public High School. Other than blessings, and words of appreciation for See Ellie Novak page 2

Joe M. Rice (1949–1951) — Unselfish Service and Unquestioned Ability REGULARS 6 9 10 11

MARTY RICKS NJHS Board Member As we continue to rediscover the early presidents of the Jewish Federation of Omaha, we return again to the archives of the Nebraska Jewish Histor-

Community, Identity, and Connection ITAY JFO Community Shaliach February was a month full of learning, celebration, and meaningful connections across the Omaha Jewish community. Through educational programs, holiday celebrations, youth leadership, and intergenerational initiatives, I had the privilege of engaging with community members of all ages and backgrounds.

Standing on Their Shoulders: Rediscovering Federation Presidents

Spotlight Voices Synagogues Life Cycles

SPONSORED BY THE BENJAMIN AND ANNA E. WIESMAN FAMILY ENDOWMENT FUND

ical Society. In old editions of the Jewish Press, in clippings from the Omaha World-Herald, and in a recorded NJHS interview conducted on June 22, 1989, a portrait emerges of a man whose life embodied steady leadership and enduring responsibility. Joe M. Rice’s story reflects the American Jewish journey of the twentieth century: immigrant roots, early hardship, entrepreneurial persistence, and unwavering commitment to community. See Joe M. Rice page 3

The month began with Tu BiShvat programming in partnership with PJ Library. Together with families and children, we explored the meaning of Tu BiShvat, the Jewish “New Year of the Trees.” We discussed why the holiday is celebrated, how it connects to the land of Israel, and the different ways it is marked in Israel compared to the United States. The children participated in a dried fruit tasting challenge, tree planting activities, and hands-on learning experiences. For me, one of the most meaningful parts of the event was sharing how Tu BiShvat is experienced in Israel. The holiday carries a special symbolism: taking a moment to appreciate the trees and fruits that grow in the soil of the land of Israel. Being able to bring that perspective to the community and share Israeli culture and tradition made the program especially memorable. Later in the month, Israel observes Family Day on Feb. 17, and I brought this tradition to Omaha through programs at Friedel Jewish Academy, local synagogues, and additional community settings. The day emphasizes gratitude, appreciation, and strengthening family bonds, highlighting the importance of the family unit in Jewish and Israeli life. During the activities, each child designed a mosaic "Hamsa" and wrote a personal message on the back for their family wishes, See Community page 2