May 15, 2026

Tapestry Continues

Reflecting on a powerful beginning and looking ahead to June 1–6

NAOMI FOX, Director of Community Engagement and Education and JONNIE ROBINSON, Assistant Director of Community Engagement and Education

Following an inspiring and meaningful launch this spring, Tapestry: A Celebration of Jewish Learning 2026 continues to gain momentum across our community. We are pleased to welcome Dr. Erica Brown back to Omaha for Part Two of Tapestry, taking place June 1–6. This second installment carries forward the energy of April while offering new opportunities to engage, question, and grow.

Mazal tov, Joshua!

DIANE WALKER JFO Foundation Scholarship & Grants Manager

The Financial Aid Committee of the Jewish Federation of Omaha is pleased to announce that Joshua Shapiro has been selected as the 2026 recipient of the David Keiser and Lillian Keiser Stoms Foundation Education Endowment Fund for Academic Excellence Scholarship. As the only merit-based scholarship awarded by the Financial Aid Committee, this honor recognizes exceptional academic achievement and a demonstrated commitment to the Omaha Jewish community. Mary Sue Grossman, chair of the Financial Aid Committee reflected “Over many years with the Federation’s scholarship program – first professionally and now as a volunteer – I’ve had the privilege of seeing truly remarkable students emerge from our community. Their academic excellence coupled with involvement in Jewish life, gives me great optimism for the future. Joshua is one more in a long line of deserving recipients.”

The June lineup is rich and varied, with programs designed to meet people wherever they are in their Jewish journey. From intimate learning sessions to communitywide gatherings, each event invites participants to explore both timely and timeless topics. Listed below are events open to the full community; additional educational opportunities are offered for targeted audiences and shared through specific host organizations and demographic groups.

On Monday, June 1, programs begin at 9:30 a.m. with It’s not too late! Managing Regret (hosted by JFO & JFS Being a Good Ancestor Program) and continue at noon See Tapestry page 2

Young Leadership Awards

LYNN BATTEN, JFO Content Coordinator/Gallery Manager and ANNETTE VAN DE KAMPWRIGHT, Jewish Press Editor

Thursday June 4, the Jewish Federation of Omaha’s Annual Meeting and Awards Night will celebrate two deserving volunteers. Leora Werner will receive the Lois Jeanne Schrager Memorial Young Leadership Award and Dr. Carlos Gomez has been named as the recipient of the Bruce Fellman Memorial Young Leadership Award.

Both awards are given annually to honor a young woman and man under the age of 45, who have demonstrated personal commitment, dedicated involvement, and exemplary leadership qualities in rendering service to the Jewish and general community. The recipients are provided with a stipend to participate in the Jewish Federation of North America General Assembly or Young Leadership Conference.

Leora Werner is married to Matt; they have a son, Gabe, and a daughter, Mia.

“She has been an active and en-

Joshua will graduate from Central High School ranked second in his class of 563 students (99.64th percentile), where he has taken a significant course load, heavy with Honors, Advanced Placement, and International Baccalaureate courses. He is a National Merit finalist, an AP Scholar with Honor, is a member of Central’s National Honor Society, and has received “Golden Eagle Distinction” on the Central High School Honor Roll every year. Joshua is also an IB Perfect Score honoree and was named the Outstanding High School Student in Chemistry, awarded by the American Chemical Society – Omaha Section.

Last summer, Joshua was selected to work on STEM laboratory research at Creighton University under the supervision of Dr. Eric Villa, focusing on inorganic chemistry and crystallography. Working alongside college students, Joshua developed new molecular compounds and discovered, in his own words, the true value of failure, collaboration, and unbounded curiosity. In addition to being co-author on a forthcoming 2026/27 research See Joshua page 2

EXPERIENCE ANTISEMITISM?

If you experience antisemitism, there are ways to report an incident or hate crime:

IF THIS IS AN EMERGENCY, MOVE TO A SAFE AREA AND DIAL 9-1-1

CALL the JFO’s Safety and Security Team 402-334-6446

EMAIL JCRCreporting@jewishomaha.org

SCAN the QR code below to fill out the Incident Reporting Form

Tapestry

Continued from page 1 with A Conversation on Wonder (hosted by B’nai B’rith Bread Breakers).

On Tuesday, June 2, sessions include Jewish Identity in the 21st Century at 9:30 a.m. (hosted by B’nai Israel Living History Museum), To Heal a Fractured World through Faith at 2 p.m. (hosted by Tri Faith Initiative), and The Tower of Babel and the Promise of Diversity at 6 p.m. (hosted by Beth El Synagogue).

On Thursday, June 4, join Temple Israel at noon for Lunch & Learn: Samson and the Enigma of Strength (hosted by Temple Israel), followed by the Awards Night & Annual Meeting at 6:30 p.m. (community-wide event hosted by the JFO).

On Friday, June 5, attend the JFO Community Engagement and Education’s Lunch & Learn: A Jewish Approach to Friendship at 11:30 a.m. (community-wide event hosted by the JFO) and Are We Hard-wired for Happiness? Judaism and the Rebbe on Mental Health at 7 p.m. (hosted by Chabad of Nebraska).

It isn’t often that one hears a great speaker and can tell anyone who did not attend that you get another chance next month. Do not miss the opportunity!”

We work directly with law enforcement, Secure Communities Network, and the Anti-Defamation League.

If you see something, say something.

The week concludes on Saturday, June 6, with Rabbi Sacks and the Rebbe on Happiness and Loneliness at 11:30 a.m. and Where Have All the Leaders Gone? at 4 p.m. (both hosted by Beth Israel Synagogue).

Reflecting on the inspiring and meaningful first installment of Tapestry, our community is still resonating with the ideas, conversations, and connections made during Dr. Erica Brown’s recent visit.

Over the course of several days in late April, participants from across Omaha and Lincoln had the opportunity to engage with Dr. Brown’s teachings—exploring questions about leadership, identity, spirituality, and purpose. Whether gathered in synagogues, classrooms, or community spaces, attendees experienced firsthand her ability to make ancient wisdom feel immediate and relevant. The energy in each room was thoughtful, curious, and deeply engaged.

One participant, Shane Kotok, reflected on her experience: “A friend encouraged me to come hear Dr. Brown at her Tuesday session on writing… I was extremely hesitant. I am not the writer in our family, and I am not a fan of interactive events. I am so amazingly glad I got out of my comfort zone and came. Dr. Brown is one of the most inspirational speakers I have heard in a long time. Erica, as she introduced herself, connected to all of us in the room and helped us connect to each other. She is a scholar who is not intimidating but made me want to know more. Her discussion on her book, ‘Morning Has Broken’ was even more uplifting. Again, I was afraid that her talk After Oct. 7th would be depressing and perhaps political. My fears were completely unfounded. She presented this difficult topic in a way that gave hope with humor and learning.

Joshua

What made Part One especially meaningful was not only the caliber of learning, but the sense of shared experience. Tapestry is more than a series of programs—it reflects who we are as a community. It brings together individuals of all backgrounds and perspectives to learn, reflect, and connect. In a time when meaningful dialogue can feel increasingly rare, these moments remind us of the power of coming together around ideas that matter.

Tapestry represents the very best of what The Jewish Federation of Omaha strives to offer: access to world-class learning, opportunities for meaningful connection, and moments that inspire us to live more thoughtful and purposeful lives. If you joined us in April, we invite you to come back and continue the journey. If you couldn’t attend, June offers a fresh opportunity to be part of something truly special.

Learning is not a one-time experience; it’s an ongoing conversation. And through Tapestry, that conversation continues to unfold, one thread at a time.

We look forward to learning with you.

We are grateful to the following funds that are financially supporting this year’s Tapestry: A Celebration of Jewish Learning: Phillip and Terri Schrager Supporting Foundation, Herbert Goldsten Fund, The Klutznick Custodial Fund, Shirley & Leonard Goldstein Supporting Foundation, Milton S. and Corinne N. Livingston Foundation Fund, Dr. Bernard H. Bloom and Dr. Bruce S. Bloom Memorial Endowment Fund and an anonymous donor.

Scan to read more and register for Tapestry programming in June.

Continued from page 1 publication, Joshua connected science to Tikkun Olam. Having been raised to turn values into action, he found his passion for research could make a tangible difference in the world.

In addition to academics, Joshua serves as president of both Central’s Math Club and its chapter of Mu Alpha Theta, the national math honor society. He has served as chair of the OPS Superintendent Advisory Council and as a State Thespian Officer, advocating for educational equity. He has also found time to perform on stage in 8+ musicals and plays in ensemble, supporting, and leading roles. He credits the JCC Performing Arts program with first inspiring his love of the stage. Joshua’s commitment to Jewish life is equally impressive. He serves as chapter president of United Synagogue Youth and as chapter vice president and treasurer of BBYO. Through his work with the Omaha Jewish Community Relations Council, he has visited local high schools to help foster understanding about Judaism. He has received the Seth Rich Leadership Award for Emerging Leadership and the Jack Molad Ruach (Spirit) Award from Beth El Synagogue. Joshua also currently works at Member Services at the Staenberg Omaha JCC, further strengthening his community ties.

Planning to major in Chemistry, Joshua will be attending Yale University in the fall. Yale has the opportunity for rigorous interdisciplinary learning that blurs the lines between science, medicine, and ethics that Joshua was seeking. Beyond the classroom and lab, Joshua is looking forward to a vibrant, pluralistic Jewish kehillah – a religious community that chal-

lenges, supports, and engages ensuring his college years are rooted in both academic excellence and shared heritage.

The son of Melissa and Matt Shapiro and older brother of Evan and Lea, Joshua describes himself as a curious person who loves to solve problems. Raised to turn values into action, he views community dedication as a natural extension of his faith. Ultimately, he wants to step up in unique ways, do the work, and leave his community better than he found it.

Lillian Keiser Stoms and her brother David, both native Omahans, are remembered through this fund, established by their niece, Sally Clayman, of blessed memory. In addition to this Academic Excellence award, there are two other scholarships established in their memory. The Lillian Keiser Stoms Educational Fund benefits and assists 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 awards are based on financial need.

For information on scholarship programs, please contact Diane Walker, Scholarship and Grants Manager at 402.334.6551 or dwalker@jewishomaha.org. Those interested in contributing to or endowing scholarship funds should contact Amy Bernstein Shivvers, Executive Director of the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation at 402.334.6466 or ashivvers@jewishomaha.org

Young Leadership

Continued from page 1

Israel’s Rabbi Deanna Berezin said, “having moved to Omaha at the age of four. Throughout her life, and across many spheres, Leora has demonstrated a natural ability to build community, foster connection, and lead with energy and care.”

Leora said she feels incredibly honored to receive the Schrager Award: “Those who have won in past years have demonstrated exceptional leadership and service in our community. It's a privilege and I profoundly thank the dedicated clergy and local leaders, such as Rabbi Berezin, who nominated me.”

After college, Leora returned to Omaha to serve as BBYO Director at the Staenberg Omaha JCC, a role that aligned closely with her passion for youth engagement and community-building. That work also led her to re-engage deeply with Temple Israel, where she taught in the religious school at both the sixth and eighth grade levels.

“I hope my own kids see that being an active member of the Jewish community is something you participate in, not just something you live in,” she said. “I want them to understand we all have a responsibility to look out for one another, support and contribute in ways that make our Jewish community stronger. Whether that means volunteering, going to Jewish youth group, attending Jewish camp, supporting local organizations, or simply treating people with kindness and respect, I hope they learn their actions matter.”

Leora has played a central role in shaping experiences beyond the classroom. She was instrumental in developing and co-leading Temple Israel’s 6th Grade Family Retreat, an annual program designed to strengthen relationships among students and parents as families approach the B’nai Mitzvah journey. Even after stepping away from formal teaching, Leora continued to co-lead the retreat for several years, reflecting her commitment to long-term community impact.

“She understands the power of personal outreach,” Rabbi Berezin said, “it is often the key factor in engaging people. She connects with people one-on-one and invites them to join her in the experiences she creates.”

She has also served as a co-chair of TISH, Temple Israel’s affinity group for members in their 30s and 40s, since the program’s founding nearly a decade ago. Through personal outreach and thoughtful programming, Leora has helped cultivate meaningful connections among families navigating similar stages of life.

“Strong Jewish communities are built by people who are willing to show up, give their time, and help where they can. I get involved, because I want to give back to the community that has, for decades, consistently supported my family and me.”

She knows what Jewish Omaha means:

“It is a sense of belonging and community. It's a network of relationships, shared values, and generations of people who have worked to support one another and strengthen the broader Omaha community. It means showing up for a friend in need, teaching our children the importance of identity and service, and ensuring the next generation feels connected and proud.”

Beyond the Jewish community, Leora is deeply involved in civic leadership as well, including service with the Omaha Children’s Museum Guild, NorthStar Guild, and her children’s school PTO. Known for her enthusiasm, generosity, and humility, Leora leads by example and remains unwavering in her belief in the power of community—especially Jewish community—to bring people together. Her greatest strengths are her passion, enthusiasm, kindness and her genuine care for oth-

ers. She truly understands community building.

Dr. Carlos Gomez and his wife Sara moved to Omaha in 2022. From the start, the Jewish Federation of Omaha and its affiliated institutions opened their doors and welcomed the family warmly. That sense of belonging was, in fact, a meaningful part of the decision to put down roots in Omaha.

The Bruce Fellman Memorial Young Leadership Award is given annually to a young man who has demonstrated personal commitment, dedicated involvement, and exemplary leadership qualities in rendering service to the Jewish and general community. Over the last four years, Dr. Gomez's involvement in the Omaha Jewish community has embodied exactly that.

"The community embraced us," Dr. Gomez said. "My wife, my kids, and I have benefited so much from being part of this community, and I wholeheartedly wanted to give back — to learn about the challenges and contribute in a meaningful way." That impulse led him to join the JFO's inaugural cohort of Young Omaha Emerging Leaders (YOEL), a six-month program designed to introduce rising lay leaders to the structure, history, and priorities of Jewish Omaha. Throughout the program, Dr. Gomez distinguished himself as a thoughtful participant who actively sought opportunities to translate learning into service.

proud to support it."

Dr. Gomez is an Associate Professor of Infectious Diseases at the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) where he specializes in caring for transplant recipients and cancer patients with infectious complications. He co-directs the Transplant Infectious Diseases Research Program and leads clinical trials in drug therapeutics, vaccines, and diagnostics. Away from medicine and community work,

Dr. Gomez is a fútbol man — soccer, for those who insist.

“Mention fútbol and you've got my attention,” he says. On the award, he doesn't reach for easy gratitude.

"During those months, Carlos showed a great desire to learn as much as he could about our Jewish community and made it known from the start that he was interested in giving back in any way he could," said Stacy Feldman, JFO Chief Impact Officer, who led the inaugural YOEL cohort. "Carlos showed a real penchant for leadership right from the start — not afraid to ask questions or share thoughts and opinions. He's also altruistic. He approaches leadership with intention, curiosity, and care."

Dr. Gomez's experience in YOEL led him to play an instrumental role in the development of the JFO's NextGen Think Tank. The catalyst was deeply personal. After October 7, Dr. Gomez felt compelled to act.

"I knew the world would not be the same," he said. "I was concerned about the fractures forming across generations — in how people understood and valued Israel, in how communities were experiencing the rise of antisemitism. I wanted to bring people together, to listen to one another, and to support each other." Working alongside JFO professionals, he helped convene peers in their 20s, 30s, and 40s for open dialogue about Jewish identity, belonging, and resilience. The success of this initiative expanded the Think Tank model and strengthened peer-driven connections across the community.

Dr. Gomez also serves on the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home Advisory Board, where he contributes his expertise in medicine and healthcare — but, he is quick to note, the learning has gone both ways.

"I came in thinking I could offer some perspective on healthcare, but what has surprised and moved me is how much I've learned from my peers on the board and the staff at RBJH — the complexity of delivering compassionate, high-level senior care, and the extraordinary passion and devotion they bring to it every day. RBJH is a remarkable institution, and I am

“Honestly, I wonder if I deserve it — that's the imposter syndrome I carry inside. But this hits the button. It doesn't silence the doubt, it just pushes you to stop hesitating, get your hands dirty, and do the work. And then I think about the men I've met along the way — at the JCC, the JFO, these institutions — who have been showing up for decades, without fanfare. We desperately need male leaders who protect and elevate everyone around them, and I have found those role models here — in a boardroom conversation, a casual gathering, or a word from Bob, our CEO. They have taught me more about real leadership than I expected. I'm still learning from them. This community has been good to my family. The least I can do is show up and earn it.”

Please join us in honoring Leora and Carlos on Thursday, June 4 at the Jewish Federation of Omaha Awards Night & Annual Meeting. The program will begin promptly at 6:30 p.m. and will be followed by a dessert reception. Those attending are asked to RSVP in advance at www.jewishomaha.org

Welcome, Toni Heilman

We are pleased to share that Toni Heilman has joined the Jewish Federation of Omaha as the new Archivist for the Jewish Historical Society. Please join us in welcoming her to our community.

Toni was born and raised in Las Vegas and earned her bachelor’s degree in history from Miami of Ohio University.

While at Miami, she was introduced to archival work through the Walter Havighurst Special Collections, which inspired her to pursue archival work as a career.

Following graduation, Toni was accepted into the University of Washington’s Master of Library and Information Sciences program, which she is currently completing online and will finish in the coming months.

She recently relocated to Omaha and is excited to begin building both her career and her life here.

SNOWBIRDS

Please let the Jewish Press know in advance when you are leaving and when you are returning. Sometimes several papers are sent to your “old” address before we are notified by the Post Office. Every time they return a paper to us, you miss the Jewish Press and we are charged! Please call us at 402.334.6448 or email us at jpress@jewishomaha.org.

Bennett G. Hornstein Memorial Scholarship 2026: Gadi Hernandez-Corado, University of Nebraska-Lincoln School of Law

DIANE WALKER

JFO Foundation Scholarship & Grants Manager

The Bennett G. Hornstein Memorial Scholarship for aspiring or current law students has been awarded to Gadi Hernandez-Corado for the 2026-2027 academic year. This award is accompanied by a $5,000 stipend. This is the 20th anniversary of this prestigious award.

Gadi received her Bachelor of Science in Political Science from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas in May 2024, earning a place on the Dean’s Honor List every semester. She is currently a second-year law student at the University of Nebraska College of Law, pursuing her Juris Doctor with a focus in Immigration Law, with a projected graduation date of May 2027. She is also embarking on a dual degree program, simultaneously pursuing a Master of Arts in Political Science alongside her law degree.

A first-generation law student and daughter of Guatemalan immigrants, Gadi reflects: “After experiencing the legal system from the perspective of a low-income client, I have always known that I wanted to one day turn the tables and become someone capable of helping other low-income families through complex legal problems. I wish to be able to help address the large immigration need that exists in Nebraska by working with a nonprofit or creating a nonprofit that helps low-income immigrants through the legal processes.”

In her essay, titled A Soul Full of Success, Gadi writes: “I wish to become an attorney who fights for those who have lost hope: those who have unjustly been unable to access an attorney due to their economic status, immigration status, geographic location, or prior traumatic experiences with lawyers. The law is founded on concepts such as equality and fairness, yet many individuals face the legal system without hope of having the help of a practiced attorney … I hope to one day contribute to the creation of a better system of connecting those in need to pro-bono attorneys … I hope to be able to provide many who have lost hope with the opportunity to be able to dream again — that is what a successful attorney who fights for justice looks like.”

Gadi has worked deliberately to build a strong foundation in the public interest sector and immigration law. She is currently a law clerk at Nebraska Appleseed — an organization that fights for justice and opportunity for all Nebraskans in the areas of child welfare, health care access, economic justice, and immigration—where she has deepened her understanding of immigration policy and the public interest sector while serving her community. As one recommender notes, “[Gadi] helps drive the work forward as much as any attorney would. During her yearlong clerkship, she provided invaluable policy and litigation support for a variety of projects.” She is also a member of the Public Interest Scholars Program, which further reflects her commitment to public service as a guiding

principle of her legal career.

At the Immigration Clinic, Gadi volunteers as a SpanishEnglish interpreter, traveling as far as Schuyler, Nebraska to help individuals navigate the legal system—a direct expression of her commitment to reaching those who need it most. This past fall, she won an essay competition sponsored by the Nebraska State Bar Association’s Public Interest Law Section and was selected as the opening speaker for the Access to Justice Summit at the NSBA’s Annual Meeting in October. All of this comes while she serves on both the Nebraska Law Review and the Nebraska Journal on Advancing Justice, takes on pro bono service, and continues to excel in the classroom.

Prior to her time at Nebraska Appleseed, Gadi worked as a legal intern at Raich Law in Las Vegas. She also volunteered with Spread the Word Nevada, where she oversaw warehouse operations and organized a Raiders-sponsored charity event in support of Communities in Schools (CIS).

One recommender wrote: “Bryan Stevenson talks about the power of ‘getting proximate’ to people and communities that have been excluded or disfavored. Gadi has done this throughout her life, while also being a member of some of those communities herself. She is a compassionate, empathetic person who, even while carrying a great deal of responsibility in her childhood and young adulthood, found time to serve others. I believe her first-hand experience with the ways in which the government fails to adequately support low-income families (while acknowledging that she, herself, benefitted in many ways from the dedication of public service providers) has been deeply influential and driven her to pursue educational and professional opportunities that will best position her to provide underserved communities with the assistance they deserve.”

Gadi Hernandez-Corado embodies the qualities that Bennett G. Hornstein exemplified: a high standard of academic achievement, an adventurous spirit, and a desire to take an active role in service to the community. Applicants must also be attending law school at the University of Nebraska or Creighton University.

The late Bennett Hornstein, assistant Douglas County public defender for 20 years, was a passionate advocate of the rights of those who could not afford a lawyer. After his battle with cancer and untimely death at the age of 46, his family established the Bennett G. Hornstein Endowment Fund in partnership with the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation. This fund provides an annual scholarship for a law student who will carry on Hornstein’s commitment to working for those members of society whom no one else wants to help.

For more information about the annual Bennett G. Hornstein Memorial Scholarship, please visit the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation website – www.jfofoundation.org Scholarship applications are accepted each year, per instructions on the website.

The Foundation welcomes donations to the Bennett G. Hornstein Endowment Fund in support of this scholarship. Donations may be made via the Foundation’s website, www.jfofoundation.org, or by mail to: Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation, 333 South 132nd Street, Omaha, NE 68154. For more information, please contact the Foundation at 402.334.6551.

Jennifer Beth Kay yahrzeit and speaker program

We welcome you to join us in person for minyan on June 15 at 5:30 p.m. at Beth El Synagogue, followed by our speaker at 6 p.m. Both the service and the program will also be available by livestream and Zoom for those who cannot attend in person. This year, we are grateful to be joined by Rabbi Mordechai Geiger, senior rabbi at Beth Israel Synagogue who will speak on “Stop auditing your worth; how much do you have to do to be enough.”

GEIGER

Beth Israel

Originally from California, Rabbi Geiger brings with him the warmth, openness, and energy of his West Coast roots. He received his smicha from Rav Yitzchak Berkowitz while studying in the Phoenix Community Kollel, and he has continued to build a rabbinate grounded in compassion, curiosity, and genuine connection.

Rabbi Geiger’s life reflects a beautiful balance of spirit and passion. He is an avid rock climber who embraces the challenge of reaching new heights — an image that resonates deeply with the personal and communal journeys we all nav-

igate. He also finds expression through music, playing guitar as a way to bring heart, harmony and spirituality together.

In addition to his rabbinic training, Rabbi Geiger holds a Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Science and Human Services from Bellevue University, a background that aligns naturally with the mission of our program: to deepen understanding, reduce stigma, and strengthen the support we offer one another.

The Kim Foundation will be there with information and swag. For 25 years, The Kim Foundation has served this community with compassion, purpose, and steadfast dedication.

Through suicide prevention education programming, mental health awareness initiatives, community outreach, and postvention support for those who have lost a loved one to suicide, TKF strives to bring hope, understanding, and connection to those who need it most.

We hope you will join us, whether in person or online streaming at https://venue.streamspot.com/eb28b85f, as we remember Jennifer, uplift our community, and continue the important conversation around mental health with warmth, honesty, and hope.

Donations to the Jennifer Beth Kay Mental Health Fund can be made at the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation.

Heartland homecoming rekindles connections and celebrates Jewish roots

AMY BERNSTEIN SHIVVERS

JFO Foundation Executive Director

This spring, the Omaha Jewish Alumni Association (OJAA) brought together generations of alumni, families, and friends for a memorable Heartland Homecoming: Meet Me in the Middle reunion weekend—an event defined by reconnection, reflection, and deep appreciation for Jewish life in the Midwest. From the opening gathering at the Staenberg Kooper Fellman Campus to the culminating celebration at B’nai Israel Synagogue and Living History Museum in Council Bluffs, attendees traveled from across the country to revisit the places and relationships that helped shape their lives.

The weekend began with a guided tour of the JCC campus led by Jewish Federation of Omaha CEO, Bob Goldberg, where many were struck by the growth and transformation of Jewish Omaha. For some, it was their first visit back in decades.

Bob Suvalsky, who traveled from Houston, reflected on the experience:

many Jewish friends, families, and relatives who have impacted my life… observing firsthand artifacts from so many contributors gives me a strong sense of my Jewish heritage that I aspire to maintain and not take for granted.”

Others spoke to the power of reconnection. Lisa Epstein noted, “It was heartwarming to see people connect who have not seen each other for years. The museum at the synagogue had wonderful history to enlighten everyone.”

Jeanne Katelman echoed that sentiment: “Thank you so much for all the effort that went into this! The whole event exceeded my expectations. Reconnecting with friends I had not seen in over forty-five years, the emotional impact of seeing the Jewish history museum, and just the warmth of the entire Jewish community

“The intimate tour at the campus blew my mind as I remembered what it looked like when I went to Burke High School from 1974–1977, when the ‘J’ was ‘brand new’ back then. The Staenberg Kooper Fellman campus has been transformed into a world-class facility, coupled with the amazing renovations in progress at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home.”

filled my heart.”

The success of the weekend was made possible through the leadership and dedication of the event’s co-chairs— Abby Coren, Amy Frankel, Janie Kulakofsky, Michael Fineman and Patty Nogg —along with a planning committee that included Gary and Lisa Ep-

Sunday’s gathering at B’nai Israel Synagogue carried a particularly emotional resonance. Once a vibrant center of Jewish life in Council Bluffs, the synagogue has been thoughtfully preserved and reimagined as a living history museum — offering visitors a tangible connection to the past while still providing a place for Shabbat services once a month.

David and Carol Alloy, leaders of the B’nai Israel community, shared: “It was truly special welcoming many people to B’nai Israel Synagogue. We are very proud to show off the work that we have done and will continue to do. We want people to know how important this place is in our hearts.”

For many attendees, walking through the building brought back vivid memories of childhood and community life. Bob Suvalsky added: “Sitting in the main sanctuary and walking through the classrooms where I received my early Jewish education brought back so many happy memories… The B’nai Israel Board has done a fantastic job of converting the classrooms into the Living History Museum… It was like a flashback in time.”

That sense of nostalgia was paired with a renewed appreciation for shared heritage.

Steve Suvalsky, in town from Des Moines, Iowa, reflected on the broader impact of the weekend: “The OJAA gatherings at the JCC and B’nai Israel Synagogue rekindled my love for the

stein, Mary-Beth Muskin, Stacie Metz, Jess Cohn, Gary Javitch, Jay Katelman, Bob Rifkin, Stephanie Cohen, Sharon Nova and others who worked behind the scenes to bring the reunion to life. Special thanks were also extended to the B’nai Israel Board for their stewardship of the synagogue and for warmly welcoming attendees into a space so rich with meaning and memory.

More than just a reunion, Omaha Jewish Alumni Association serves as a powerful reminder that while time and distance may separate people geographically, the bonds formed through shared experiences, values, and community remain enduring. If you are interested in hosting OJAA in your neck of the woods, please contact the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation, 402-334-6466.

TO SUBMIT ANNOUNCEMENTS

Announcements may be e-mailed to the Press at jpress @jewishomaha.org; or mailed to 333 So. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68154. Readers can also submit announcements -- births, b’nai mitzvahs, engagements, marriages, commitment ceremonies or obituaries -- online at www.omahajewishpress. com/site/forms/. Deadlines are normally nine days prior to publication, on Wednesdays, 9 a.m. Please check the Jewish Press, for notices of early deadlines.

FRIEDEL

Dr. Erica Brown, who visited Omaha for the first part of Tapestry, spoke with Friedel middle schoolers about "Are you a Good Listener? How to go from Bad to Good, from Good to Great."

SP O TLIGHT

PHOTOS FROM RECENT JEWISH COMMUNITY EVENTS

SUBMIT A PHOTO: Have a photo of a recent Jewish Community event you would like to submit? Email the image and a suggested caption to: avandekamp@jewishomaha.org

Don’t miss Guys & Dolls at the J

Luck be a lady! Hailed as the perfect musical comedy, Guys & Dolls is the Staenberg Omaha JCC’s 2026 Spring Musical. Performances are Thursday, May 28 at 6:30 p.m.; Sunday, May 31 at 1 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.

This award-winning classic, written by Tony-winner Frank Loesser, gambles with luck and love under the bright lights of Broadway. Get your tickets while they last: advance student tickets are $10, advance adult tickets are $15 and can be purchased on our website at jccomaha.org. On the day of the performance, tickets can be purchased at the door for $12 and $17, respectively.

Come join us as we tell the story about the lives of gamblers and missionaries in a sin-filled New York City. Guys & Dolls takes us from the heart of Times Square to the cafes of Havana, Cuba, and even into the sewers of New York City, but eventually everyone ends up right where they belong.

From acting workshops to musical theater performances, the JCC Theater Programs has options that suit all walks of life and are open to both members and non-members. The JCC cultivates a community of actors who support each other’s personal and creative growth. The JCC is producing a musical this fall just for students ages 8–18 years old, as well as a fall play exclusively for ages 18 and up.

This day in Jewish History

ANNETTE VAN DE KAMP-WRIGHT Jewish Press Editor

In 877 B.C.E., the prophet Samuel, who proclaimed first Saul, then David as King of Israel, died on this date in the town of Ramah.

On May 15, in the year 392 C.E., Theodosius I, emperor of the eastern half of the Roman Empire became the last ruler of the entire Roman Empire by combining the east and the west territories. He refused to condemn Judaism, because he considered it a legitimate religion. Theodosius also prohibited the destruction of synagogues by zealot Christians; interestingly, he was of Spanish origin.

contains the line “The King of Spain, I have honored him always.” May 15, 1948 C.E. was the first day of Israeli Independence; Arab armies invaded Israel and the first Arab-Israeli war began. President Truman had recognized the provisional Jewish government as the de facto authority of the Jewish State one day earlier; U.S. delegates to the U.N. and top-ranking State Department officials were angered that Truman released his recognition statement to the press without notifying them first.

In 1004 C.E., Henry II, who as Holy Roman Emperor would expel Jews from various German cities, was crowned King of Italy.

1248 C.E.: Odo of Chateaubroux "investigated" the Talmud and then condemned it. This was the second condemnation of the Talmud after an appeal was made by the Jewish community of France. There is a story here...

1648 C.E.: The Treaty of Westphalia was signed as part of a series of treaties that brought an end to the Thirty Years War and the Eighty Years War between Spain and the Netherlands. The treaty officially recognized the independence of the Dutch from the Spanish Empire. This guaranteed the independence of a European nation that had provided Jews a place to grow and prosper. Many of these were Sephardic descendants of those who had been expelled by the Spanish in 1492, or were refugees who had grown weary of the Inquisition. Fun fact: the Netherlands’ national anthem, to this day, still

On May 15, 1962 C.E., Adolf Eichman was executed for his crimes. At the height of his power, he directed the transportation of 400,000 Jews to their death in the gas chambers.

In 1967 C.E., Jerusalem’s Old City and the Temple Mount were liberated during the six-day war. In Israel, this day is celebrated as “Jerusalem Day,” marking reunification, and access to the kotel. On 12 May 1968, the Israeli government officially proclaimed Jerusalem Day to be celebrated on the 28th of Iyar, and on 23 March 1998, the Knesset passed the Jerusalem Day Law, making the day a national holiday. The flag parade is a well-known portion of the celebration.

This year, President Donald Trump is urging Jewish Americans to observe a national Sabbath from sundown May 15 to nightfall May 16 as part of Jewish American Heritage Month and the nation’s 250th anniversary.

Editor’s note: In 2026, May 15 falls on 18 Iyar. While only some of these dates correspond with 28 Iyar, all correspond with the date of May 15 on the Gregorian calendar.

A Voice from Israel: A wedding, against all odds

WHEELER

Collective Lavo B’tov Co-Founder & Director

Could you imagine planning your wedding for months –and dreaming about it your whole life –only to be told, five days before, that none of it can take place as planned? That everything must change – the place, the number of guests, even the basic sense of certainty –and that you may find yourself not even knowing whether to go ahead with the wedding at all, or postpone it to a time after the war… a time no one, at that moment, could predict? And if you do decide to go ahead – you are left wondering whether anyone will come at all, while sirens sound, mis-

siles are fired, and uncertainty surrounds everything.

All of this, in the middle of a war.

For Michael and Ahinoam – two people, each navigating their own life challenges – this was not a story. It was their reality just a few weeks ago in Israel. I had the privilege of mentoring Michael, an engineer who is on the autism spectrum, and Ahinoam –both in their mid-30s – over time, two courageous people who chose not to give up on the possibility of building a life together.

But this story is not only about holding a wedding in the middle of sirens and uncertainty. It is about the long journey required to believe that such a possibility can exist – even when there are challenges, and when doubts arise, both from within and from the outside. A journey of patiently weaving that possibility, step by step, until it begins to take form in the world. Not because the challenges disappear –but because something else is patiently built alongside them.

Within two days, an alternative wedding was arranged. A simple dining hall in a yeshiva in Gush Etzion became, for one evening, something truly special – filled with a kind of joy that almost felt beyond words.

As they stood under the chuppah, I found

myself wiping away tears, along with many others, feeling a deep sense of awe – as something that had not always felt obvious, or even possible, was unfolding before us. And in that moment, we felt a little like joyful doulas –privileged to witness not only the moment itself, but the long path that made it possible. Everything that had been built over time –the care, the patience, the belief in them – in their possibility, and in their relationship –had become real.

In the days that followed, people who did not know the couple – and some who did –reached out to me quietly and asked:

“Maybe there is also a possibility for my son… for my daughter?”

Sometimes, a single story quietly expands what an entire community believes is possible.

Rachel Kolette Wheeler is the Cofounder and Director of Collective Lavo B’tov, working with people with disabilities to build meaningful lives in all life areas. She brings over 35 years of experience in transformational work across individuals, relationships, and organizations. Based in the U.S.(Omaha), she visits Israel frequently and stay closely connected through her daily work online. In her column, Rachel brings forward voices and real stories from Israel. How is

this publication thinking about the future?

information, call 1-800-521-0600, ext. 2888 (US) or 01-734-761-4700 (International) www.il.proquest.com

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Shabbat Shalom

ANNETTE VAN DE KAMP-WRIGHT

Jewish Press Editor

As usual, my mid-week custom of trolling a number of news outlets for inspiration disappoints me. Attacks, antisemites, boycotts-there is nothing fun to write about. Also, you are really not interested in hearing what I have to say about the latest arson of a synagogue in London. Trust me.

Yesterday was Lag B’Omer-when we pause between Pesach and Shavuos, light bonfires, cut our hair, and get married. We also get to pray for whatever we want, a dear friend told me, because miracles happen on Lag B’Omer. And the list of miracles we need is long.

It is an interesting concept: “miracles.” As Jews, we don’t have to decide whether we believe in them or not, because the evidence is all around us and within us. We’re still here, aren’t we? What’s more, when we mark time on the Jewish calendar, whether it’s the weekly Shabbat or a yearly holiday, we do so in the knowledge that there are millions of us all over the world who do the same. There is tremendous comfort in that awareness. We light our candles and say our prayers, while countless people we have never met do the exact same thing. We are connected through our memory, and our rituals.

I feel the same when I interact with people in other communities. I recently spoke with an employee at the Jewish Federation of Louisville, Kentucky. We compared notes, and found common ground. When I receive emails from Oceanside, California, inviting me to a Shavuos event, even

Editorials express the view of the writer and are not necessarily representative of the views of the Jewish Press Advisory Board, the Jewish Federation of Omaha Board of Directors, or the Omaha Jewish community as a whole.

though they know I am in Omaha, I can picture the party preparations, and I know what the food will look like. Last Hanukkah, I received a fairly large number of photos from family and friends from various menorah-lightings around the world. From Orlando to Amersfoort, those pictures all look the

same. On my social media, I have blocked so many bad agents, that I now receive endless Jewish-only threads every Friday, and I see ‘Good Shabbos’ wishes without fear of being exposed to hate. Because nobody needs that, especially on Friday morning.

I think Shabbat is maybe one of our greatest miracles. Personally, I think turning from work-mode into rest is essential, connecting with family, hearing the blessing of children week after week, it’s an anchor. Lighting the candles, I imagine a wave of

light crossing the globe, hour-by-hour. Do you ever wonder the exact number of candles that are lit the world over? The number of challahs, how many matzah balls and prayers and blessings? How many cups of wine? Tell me that is not a miracle. One shabbat in one household may seem not that big a deal, but when you consider you are one of many, it suddenly becomes a giant movement. Sometimes I think back to the time my husband and I were first married. We were in grad school, my salary was $400 per month and I couldn’t get a second job because I was on a student Visa, so he worked three-but Friday night meant home-baked challah and cream cheese. It was a far cry from the spreads we have on Friday night these days, not to speak of the Saturday leftovers. Or the massive Saturday evening meal my mother would put on the table when I was growing up. Smoked mackerel, fancy breads with endless cold meats, fried cod and herring.

And while that all sounds delicious, it is not the food itself that matters the most, it’s maintaining the rituals. It’s why Shabbat meant as much during our poor college years as it does now, and why I know our children will continue. It’s about getting that text from my family Friday morning, when they are already settling down and I haven’t even reached the lunch hour yet. It’s the continuity, the knowledge that we are all part of something much bigger than us.

You’ve probably heard this before: as much as we keep Shabbat, Shabbat has kept us. No matter what the world throws at us. Shabbat Shalom!

Tired of debating the encampments: Two years on, Jewish students need agency, not alarm

SOPHIA ADLER VARON

JTA

“I’m tired of debating the encampments,” said one student as others nodded. Here I was, a fly on the wall, during an open-space dialogue about antisemitism, self-facilitated by Jewish college students from across North America.

“What I’d like to better understand is,” said a different student, “When we refer to antisemitism on campus, what do we actually mean? Is it antisemitism that happens to take place on campus, or is it something distinct?”

Students continued to share their nuanced stories and questions, without fear of saying the “wrong thing,” wrestling with complexity while demonstrating a sense of confidence made possible by a compassionate environment.

The students didn’t come to a consensus — nor was that the goal. What they, and I, left with was a deeper understanding of the variety of ways antisemitism manifests on campuses and how differently students experience and respond to it. My work leading a program aimed at supporting pluralism for Jewish college students has reinforced for me that the pressures facing Jewish college students are uniquely heavy today, far beyond what I experienced a decade prior when I was in college. This kind of pressure requires a system-wide response that goes beyond simply investing in greater “protection,” Jewish students need a greater sense of agency to lead.

The study of Jewish college students conducted by the American Jewish Committee in February confirms that the state of antisemitism on campuses in America is appalling and a real reason for concern. In 2025, four in 10 Jewish college students report experiencing antisemitism and 48% have experienced or avoided at least one behavior out of fear of antisemitism. Even then, the Jewish Agency’s new global report finds that 74% of young Jews (ages 18-28) believe that they have the power to positively influence the future of their communities.

These statistics underscore for me that while policy reform and strong administrative leadership

on campuses is essential, students must also be supported to build agency to focus on what is within their locus of control — and that includes forming relationships across difference. When student resiliency and agency is not prioritized, we risk increased burnout and apathy from this generation that can have dire consequences for leadership towards Jewish life in the future.

This is why in 2024 The Bronfman Fellowship launched the program I lead, Campus Commons: Building Bridges with Jewish Wisdom. As director, I have worked closely with more than 100 students from 60 campuses so far. What inspires me most about these students is their moral courage in seeking out ways to break down silos.

whelming to the factors within their influence.

When we then asked, “What ignites your leadership as a bridge builder?” the answers were moving and strikingly consistent: love and community. While students expressed deep pain and worry for

Participants come to the program with questions about the viability of pluralism and describe how antisemitism has affected their campus experiences, ranging from leaving social spaces where they feel unwelcome, choosing not to list Jewish activities on a resume, or avoiding talking with a roommate about topics that could be related to Judaism or Israel. It is easy to assume that the greatest obstacles facing Jewish students are beyond their control.

Yet something shifts. After our retreat which focuses on building confidence while wrestling with complex issues and acquiring skills rooted in relationship-building across difference, we observed a notable change in how students talked about their circumstances. In addition to naming external barriers to pluralism, students started to move productively inward- talking honestly and openly about personal limitations that were holding them back from bridging divides.

When asked in a closing activity: “What holds you back in your bridge-building?” students named timidity, lack of courage, and uncertainty about their Jewish or political knowledge. Naming these vulnerabilities does not lessen the external challenges faced, rather it shifts what can feel over-

in

the Jewish future, they also shared that they are holding onto hope that community across difference is possible. Many believe what they are facing is driven not by inevitability, but by ignorance — and that it can be addressed.

With greater confidence and skills, students begin to take small but meaningful steps: initiating conversations, setting boundaries, building relationships, and trying again when efforts fall short. This growing sense of agency enables students to recognize how their voice and presence can shape discourse, empowering them not only to respond to antisemitism, but also to build a more connected Jewish future.

If we continue to meet students where hope lives, we affirm that true support means equipping them to lead the way. Not only with tools to combat, but also with the confidence and vision to break down the silos in order to rebuild trust and community. Sophia Adler Varon is manager of strategic initiatives for The Bronfman Fellowship and directs its Campus

program. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of JTA or its parent company, 70 Faces Media.

Synagogues

B’NAI ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE

618 Mynster Street Council Bluffs, IA 51503-0766

712.322.4705 www.cblhs.org

BETH EL SYNAGOGUE

Member of United Synagogues of Conservative Judaism 14506 California Street Omaha, NE 68154-1980

402.492.8550 bethel-omaha.org

BETH ISRAEL

SYNAGOGUE

Member of Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America 12604 Pacific Street Omaha, NE. 68154

402.556.6288 BethIsrael@OrthodoxOmaha.org

CHABAD HOUSE

An Affiliate of Chabad-Lubavitch 1866 South 120 Street Omaha, NE 68144-1646

402.330.1800 OChabad.com email: chabad@aol.com

LINCOLN JEWISH COMMUNITY:

B’NAI JESHURUN

South Street Temple

Union for Reform Judaism

2061 South 20th Street Lincoln, NE 68502-2797

402.435.8004 www.southstreettemple.org

OFFUTT AIR

FORCE BASE

Capehart Chapel 2500 Capehart Road Offutt AFB, NE 68123

402.294.6244 email: oafbjsll@icloud.com

TEMPLE ISRAEL

Union for Reform Judaism (URJ) 13111 Sterling Ridge Drive Omaha, NE 68144-1206

402.556.6536 templeisraelomaha.com

LINCOLN JEWISH COMMUNITY:

TIFERETH ISRAEL

Member of United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism 3219 Sheridan Boulevard Lincoln, NE 68502-5236 402.423.8569 tiferethisraellincoln.org

Monthly Speaker Series Service, Friday, June 12, 7:30 p.m. with our guest speaker. Our service leader is Larry Blass. Everyone is always welcome at B’nai Israel!

For information about our historic synagogue, please visit our website at www.cblhs.org or contact any of our board members: David Alloy, Renee Corcoran, Rick Katelman, Gail Kenkel, Janie Kulakofsky, Howard Kutler, Ann Moshman, Mary-Beth Muskin, Debbie Salomon, Sissy Silber and Jenn Tompkins. Handicap Accessible.

Services conducted by Rabbi Steven Abraham and Hazzan Michael Krausman.

IN-PERSON AND ZOOM MINYAN SCHEDULE:

Mornings on Sundays, 9:30 a.m.; Mondays and Thursdays, 7 a.m.; Evenings on Sunday-Thursday, 5:30 p.m.

FRIDAY: Annual Meeting, Graduation & Six String Shabbat, 5:30 p.m. at Beth El and Live Stream.

SATURDAY: Shabbat Morning Services, 10 a.m. at Beth El and Live Stream; Kiddush sponsored by Richard and Dana Knox following services; Jr. Congregation (Grades K-12), 10 a.m.; Havdalah, 9:20 p.m. Zoom Only.

SUNDAY: BESTT (Grades K-7), 9:30 a.m.; Last Day of BESTT Talent Show, 10:30 a.m.

MONDAY: The Bible With And Without Jesus 6 p.m. led by Rabbi Abraham & Pastor Johnson at St. Luke.

TUESDAY: Sefer HaMiddot, 10:30 a.m. with Rabbi Abraham.

WEDNESDAY: BESTT (Grades 3-7), 4 p.m.; Hebrew High (Grades 8-12), 6 p.m.; Exploring Torah, 6:30 p.m. with Rabbi Abi Taylor-Abt

THURSDAY: The Bible With And Without Jesus 10:30 a.m. led by Rabbi Abraham & Pastor Johnson at St. Luke; Erev Shavuot Service, 7 p.m. followed by Tikkun Leil Shavuot at Betth El & Live Streaam.

FRIDAY-May 22: Shavuot Morning Service, 10 a.m. followed by Dairy Lunch at Beth El and Live Stream; Kabbalat Shabbat, 6 p.m. at Beth El and Live Stream.

SATURDAY-May 23: Shavuot/Shabbat Morning Services with Yizkor, 10 a.m. at Beth El and Live Stream; Havdalah, 9:30 p.m. Zoom Only. Please visit bethel-omaha.org for additional information and service links.

FRIDAY: Torah from Omaha, 6:45 a.m.; Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Mincha/Kabbalat Shabbat, 7 p.m.; Candlelighting, 8:18 p.m.

SATURDAY: Shabbos Café, 8:30 a.m.; Shacharit 9 a.m.; Tot Shabbat, 10:30 a.m.; Youth Class, 10:45 a.m.; Soulful Torah, 7:25 p.m.; Mincha, 8:10 p.m.; Kids Activity/Laws of Shabbos 8:40 p.m.; Havdalah, 9:25 p.m.

SUNDAY: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv 8:20 p.m.

MONDAY: Torah from Omaha, 6:45 a.m.; Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Monday Mind Builders 4 p.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv

8:20 p.m.

TUESDAY: Torah from Omaha, 6:45 a.m.; Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 8:20 p.m.

WEDNESDAY: Torah from Omaha, 6:45 a.m.; Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Character Development, 1:30 p.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv 8:20 p.m.

THURSDAY: Torah from Omaha, 6:45 a.m.; Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 8:20 p.m.; Candlelighting, 8:24 p.m.; Shavuot Tikkun Leil, 8:30 p.m.

FRIDAY-May 22: Office Closed for Shavuot; Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Mincha/Kabbalat Shabbat, 7 p.m.; Candlelighting, 8:25 p.m.

SATURDAY-May 23: Shabbos Café, 8:30 a.m.; Shacharit 9 a.m.; Tot Shabbat 10:30 a.m.; Youth Class 10:45 a.m.; Soulful Torah 7:25 p.m.; Mincha 8:10 p.m.; Kids Activity/Laws of Shabbos, 8:40 p.m.; Havdalah, 9:33 p.m.

Please visit orthodoxomaha.org for additional information and Zoom service links.

Join classes via Zoom. Go to ochabad.com/academy. For more information or to request help, please visit www.ochabad.com or call the office at 402.330.1800.

FRIDAY: Shacharit, 8 a.m.; Lechayim, 5:30 p.m., go to ochabad.com/lechayim to join; Candlelighting, 8:18 p.m.

SATURDAY: Shacharit 10 a.m. followed by Kiddush and Cholent; Shabbat Ends, 9:25 p.m.

SUNDAY: Sunday Morning Wraps, 9 a.m.

MONDAY: Shacharit 8 a.m.; Personal Parsha 9:30 a.m. with Shani; Intermediate Biblical Hebrew Grammar, 10:30 a.m. with David Cohen; Parsha Reading, 6-8 p.m. with David Cohen.

TUESDAY: Shacharit, 8 a.m.; Aramaic Grammar, 10 a.m. with David Cohen; Intermediate Biblical Hebrew Grammar, 6 p.m. with David Cohen; Introductory Biblical Hebrew Grammar, 7 p.m. with David Cohen.

WEDNESDAY: Shacharit 8 a.m.; Introductory Biblical Hebrew Grammar, 10:30 a.m. with David Cohen; Parsha Reading, 11:30 a.m. with David Cohen.

THURSDAY: Shacharit, 8 a.m.; Introductory Biblical Hebrew Grammar, 10 a.m. with David Cohen; Advanced Biblical Hebrew Grammar, 11 a.m. with David Cohen; Talmud Study, noon; Introduction to Alphabet, Vowels & Reading Hebrew, 6 p.m. with David Cohen; Code of Jewish Law Class, 7 p.m.; Light Holiday Candles, 8:24 p.m.

FRIDAY-May 22: Shacharit, 10 a.m.; 10 Commandments Reading, 11 a.m. followed by Garden Party at Chabad, RSVP at ochabad.com/gardenparty; Light Shabbat/Holiday Candles, 8:25 p.m.

SATURDAY-May 23: Shacharit 10 a.m. followed by Kiddush and Cholent; Yizkor, 11:30 a.m.; Shabbat/Holiday Ends, 9:32 p.m.

LINCOLN JEWISH COMMUNITY: B’NAI JESHURUN & TIFERETH ISRAEL

Services facilitated by Rabbi Alex Felch. All services offered in-person with live-stream or teleconferencing options.

Israeli Chef Partnership2Gether delegation

JAY KATELMAN

JFO Director of Community Development

From April 19–21, Omaha had the privilege of hosting an Israeli chef delegation.

On Sunday evening, we welcomed delegation leader Sharit Shelev, along with Chef Inon Carmel and Sous Chef Itai Nachmias. Upon their arrival, Cindy and Bruce Goldberg graciously hosted a wonderful dinner in their honor.

The following day, the delegation led a Lunch & Learn experience, bringing together community members and staff to collaboratively prepare a menu that included arayes, fattoush salad, matbucha, and Lebanese-style green tahini.

It was a truly memorable and delicious experience, with everyone gathering around the table to share both the meal and meaningful conversation.

For those who have not yet attended a Lunch & Learn, I highly encourage you to join us for

a future session!

The visit concluded with a private dinner, followed by a brief trip the next morning to the Pedestrian Bridge, where the delegation enjoyed the unique opportunity to stand in two states at once before continuing to their next Partnership destination. It was a pleasure hosting them, and we are deeply grateful for their time, talent, and generosity.

FRIDAY: Kabbalat Shabbat Service, 6:30-7:30 p.m. led by Rabbi Alex at SST followed by an Oneg; Shabbat Candlelighting, 8:19 p.m.

SATURDAY: Shabbat Morning Service, 9:30 a.m. led by Rabbi Alex at TI; Torah Study, 12:30 p.m. on Parashat Bamidbar via Zoom; Family Potluck and Game Night, 6 p.m. at SST. Bring a dish to share for the potluck beginning at 6 p.m. Games are available to play, but feel free to bring one of your favorites! Games begin at 7 p.m.; Havdalah, 9:26 p.m.

SUNDAY: LJCS Classes, 9:30 a.m.; LJCS End of Year Party, 11 a.m.; Men’s Bike/Coffee Group, 10:30 a.m. at Rock 'N' Joe Coffee, 5025 Lindberg St, Lincoln. For more information or questions please email Al Weiss at albertw801@gmail.com; We can do this - Feed the Children, 11 a.m.-1:15 p.m. at Belmont Community Center. Questions? Susie at 402.570.4922 or Aimee Hyten (SST Lead) 240.475.0747

FRIDAY-May 22: Kabbalat Shabbat Service, 6:307:30 p.m. led by Rabbi Alex at SST followed by an Oneg; Shabbat Candlelighting, 8:26 p.m.

SATURDAY-May 23: Shabbat Morning Service, 9:30 a.m. led by Rabbi Alex at TI; Torah Study 12:30 p.m. via Zoom; Havdalah, 9:33 p.m.

FRIDAYS: Virtual Shabbat Service, 7:30 p.m. every first and third of the month at Capehart Chapel. Contact TSgt Jason Rife at OAFBJSLL@icloud.com for more information.

In-person and virtual services conducted by Rabbi Benjamin Sharff, Rabbi Deana Sussman Berezin, and Cantor Joanna Alexander.

FRIDAY: Drop-In Mah Jongg, 9 a.m. In-Person; Village Walking Group, 10 a.m. In-Person; Shabbat B’yachad Service, 6 p.m. In-Person & Zoom.

SATURDAY: Torah Study, 9:15 a.m. In-Person & Zoom; Shabbat Morning Service and Bat Mitzvah of Addison Williams, 10:30 a.m. In-Person & Zoom.

TUESDAY: An exploration of Mordechai Kaplan: A Learning Series, 11 a.m. with Rabbi Bienstock — InPerson & Zoom; Mah Jongg Made Easy 1:30 p.m. InPerson.

WEDNESDAY: Yarn It, 9 a.m.

THURSDAY: The Zohar: Thursday Morning Class 11 a.m. with Rabbi Sharff — In-Person & Zoom; Evening Shavuot Service, 5:30 p.m. at Beth El — In-Person; Tikkun Leil Shavuot (Evening of Study), 6 p.m. at Beth El — In-Person.

FRIDAY-May 22: Shavuot Service and Yizkor, 10:30 a.m. In-Person & Zoom; Shabbat B’yachad Service, 6 p.m. In-Person & Zoom.

SATURDAY-May 23: Torah Study, 9:15 a.m. In-Person & Zoom; Shabbat Morning Service, 10:30 a.m. InPerson & Zoom. Please visit templeisraelomaha.com for additional information and Zoom service links.

We look forward to welcoming an Israeli and

Life Cycles

ROBERT LAWRENCE LEPP

Robert Lawrence Lepp, born July 2, 1952, in Chicago, Illinois, passed away surrounded by love on April 28, 2026, after a sevenyear battle with kidney cancer. He lived a full and meaningful life defined by deep devotion to his family, a remarkable work ethic, and a gift for connection. A private family celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Bob spent his childhood in Skokie and Highland Park, Illinois, before attending the University of Iowa, where he earned his Bachelor of Business Administration. He went on to attend Creighton University School of Law, where he graduated magna cum laude and met his beloved wife, Karen, with whom he shared 47 years of marriage.

Bob dedicated his life to the practice of law, continuing his work up until his final weeks. Over a career spanning more than four decades, he built a reputation as a skilled, thoughtful, and deeply committed attorney. He was known for his direct and responsive approach, his ability to navigate complex conversations, and his unwavering dedication to his clients. His work was not just his profession, but a true passion.

Beyond his career, Bob was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his loving wife, Karen; his children, Allison (Adam) Freeman, Dustin (Kylie) Lepp, and Kelsey (Abraham) Mora; and his cherished grandchildren, Palmer and Tinley Freeman; Charlotte Lepp; and Emilio and Viviana Mora, with another Mora grandson expected in October. He is also survived by his mother, Eleanor Lepp; and his sisters, Joan Cahn and Lori Minkow, along with their families. He was preceded in death by his father, Harry Lepp.

Bob was happiest when surrounded by his family. Whether gathered together at home or sharing conversations, those moments meant the most to him. Outside of his work and family, he had a deep love for golf and sports.

Known as the life of the party, Bob had a natural ability to bring people together. His sense of humor, love of conversation, and ability to blend meaningful reflection with lightheartedness made him someone others were drawn to.

Above all, Bob will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his integrity in his work, and the joy and presence he brought to those around him. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the relationships he built, and the family he loved so deeply.

Memorials may be made to Pickles Group in memory of Bob Lepp at Pickles Group c/o Cassy Horton Executive Director 2057 Green Bay Road Suite A Highland Park, IL 60035 or by visiting picklesgroup.org

BAT MITZVAH

ADDY WILLIAMS

Addy Williams, daughter of Diana (Manvitz) Williams and Jason Williams, will celebrate her Bat Mitzvah on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at Temple Israel.

Addy is a seventh-grade student at Westside Middle School and a member of National Junior Honor Society.

Addy is interested in softball, basketball and clarinet. She is a member of Treble Express Show Choir.

For her mitzvah project, Addy volunteered with Hands, Hearts and Paws to help get dogs adopted.

She has a brother, Jackson Williams. Grandparents are Wendy and Todd Manvitz of Omaha, Steve Williams of Omaha and Gail and Con Parde of Lincoln.

Great-grandmother is Doris Alloy of Omaha.

Carl Riekes Inducted into JBL Hall of Fame

JAY

KATELMAN

JFO Director of Community Development

On Friday, April 24, Jewish Business Leaders gathered to celebrate a milestone moment: the induction of Carl Riekes of Ryco Packaging into the JBL Hall of Fame. Surrounded by more than 130 members of the community, the evening was not just a recognition of professional success—it was a reflection on the values and leadership philosophy that built a lasting legacy.

Joined by his son-in-law, Brett Atlas, Carl shared a series of thoughtful remarks and personal stories that offered insight into what it truly takes to succeed. While many might expect tales centered on revenue growth or market dominance, Carl’s perspective was refreshingly different. He spoke candidly about the highly competitive nature of the packaging industry, particularly when it comes to recruiting and retaining top sales talent. In a field where non-compete agreements have long been standard practice, Carl chose a different path.

lead with generosity and appreciation. That same mindset shaped the internal culture at Ryco, where employees were treated not just as colleagues, but as family. Perhaps the most powerful moment of the evening came when Carl recalled the greatest compliment he had ever received. A temporary employee, nearing the end of her assignment, came into his office to share her experience. She told him that she had worked in many places, but never before had she seen an environment

He never believed in relying on contracts to keep employees from leaving. Instead, he built a culture rooted in trust, respect, and genuine care. His philosophy was simple: treat people the right way, and they will choose to stay. Over time, that belief proved to be not only admirable but effective. Carl took immense pride in the fact that Ryco’s retention and loyalty were driven not by obligation, but by culture.

That culture extended beyond the office walls. Carl shared a small but telling example: when clients invited him to lunch or dinner, despite the expectation that they would pay, he would insist on picking up the check himself. It was a gesture that reflected a deeper principle—

where people genuinely enjoyed coming to work each day and treated one another with such care and respect. For Carl, that affirmation meant more than any financial milestone or industry recognition.

It was, in many ways, the “secret sauce” behind Ryco’s growth across the country. By prioritizing people over profits and relationships over restrictions, Carl built something far more enduring than a successful company—he built a community.

His induction into the JBL Hall of Fame serves as a reminder that true leadership is not measured solely by scale or revenue, but by the impact one has on others. In honoring Carl Riekes, the community celebrated not just a career, but a philosophy—one grounded in integrity, generosity, and the belief that when you treat people well, success naturally follows.

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Kaplan Book Group and Making Adult Decisions News

SHIRLY BANNER

JFO Library Specialist

Sometimes the people who have known you the longest aren’t the ones who know you the best. There is something to be said about stepping back and gaining perspective through a new set of eyes. In Abbi Waxman’s novel Adult Assembly Required, Laura Costello comes to discover how true this can be as she begins to start her life anew.

Laura moved from New York to Los Angeles to attend graduate school for Physical Therapy. In the process, she hoped to escape from her overprotective family and come to terms with the haunting memories of a serious car accident several years before. Laura meets an eclectic group of new friends who help her deal with a variety of problems that include finding a place to live after her apartment burns down just a week after she arrives, an ex-fiancé who won’t take the hint that she’s moved on, her fear of driving or even being in a car, and her overbearing mother who keeps insisting she needs to come back to New York and pursue her PhD and become a teacher like everyone else in her immediate family.

After a chance meeting at a bookstore, Laura is adopted by Polly and Nina, the co-owners of the store. Polly arranges for Laura to rent a room at a questionably legal boarding house where she lives and is owned by therapist Maggie. Among the other residents is “Impossibly Handsome Bob” who maintains the garden and grounds of the house for a break in his rent. Neither Polly nor Bob nor Maggie are what they seem to be. Polly, despite all her oddball actions and dress, is actually very levelheaded and becomes one of Laura’s closest friends and mentor, helping next to deal with

adapting to life in Los Angeles. Maggie might be a therapist, but she is dealing with the help of Laura, to resolve her issues with her estranged daughter. “Impossibly Handsome Bob” is actually more than just a handsome empty-headed person but, a very sensitive and compassionate person. Laura and Bob develop a true friendship and a shared love of watching baseball on TV together. It becomes obvious to all the residents of the house that there is much more to Laura and Bob’s friendship, but neither is willing to admit it to out loud. Will Laura ever admit her feelings for Bob? Will Bob ever admit his feelings towards Laura? Will Laura ever overcome her fear of being in a car and driving? It may take a village to raise a child but Waxman’s novel shows that it takes a new group of friends to “raise” a conflicted adult.

Join the Kaplan Book Group on Thursday May 21 at 1 p.m. to join in the discussion and find out who really knows you best.

The Dorothy Kaplan Book Discussion Group gathers on the third Thursday of every month at 1 pm for their monthly meetings in person in Conference Room A of the Staenberg Omaha Jewish Community Center or via Zoom for their discussions of a wide range of books. New members are always welcome.

The Group receives administrative support from the Community Engagement & Education arm of the Jewish Federation of Omaha. For information about the group and to join in the discussion, contact Shirly Banner at 402.334.6462 or sbanner@jewishomaha.org

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