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Louri Sullivan and David Gilinsky to Receive Spirit of Federation Award

leaving the chapter, I'll want to go back to right now. So, I am encouraging all of you in AZA No. 1510 to put everything into Weizmann that you can. In the long run, you'll get everything out of it you put into it, and much more.” See Spirit of Federation page 3

Meet Dr. Omri Senderowicz

JUST ASK!

Wings of Hope Page 5

NextGen: Building Community, One Fun Night at a Time Page 8

Cadee Story (headline needed) Page 12

REGULARS6

Spotlight Voices Synagogues Life Cycles

LYNN BATTEN JFO Content Coordinator/ Gallery Manager ested within the pages of the 1978 ad book for the 16th Annual Chaim Weizmann A.Z.A. No. 1510 Sweetheart Dance is an article titled “A Freshman Entering Weizmann Is Looking Towards an Exciting Future.” It was written by fifteen-year-old David Gilinsky. In it, he writes, “As a freshman, I am surprised to find out that Weizmann has helped me to find myself in many new and different ways. In the short time I have been a member, I've taken on new responsibilities, which always help in doing some growing up… I have a lot more to learn and much more to experience… I'm looking forward to each new year in Weizmann, and yet, I know when I am a senior and am

9 10 11

ANNETTE VAN DE KAMPWRIGHT Jewish Press Editor Jewish Omaha welcomes Dr. Omri Senderowicz as the new Director of the Schwalb Center for Israel and Jewish Studies at the University of Nebraska- Omaha. Previously, Omri was a Visiting Assistant Professor at the Jewish Studies Department at the University of Kansas and an Israel Institute Teaching Fellow. His wife Noa and their two children, Hamar, 8, and Boaz, 4, round out the Senderowicz family. Omri holds a Ph.D. in Anthropology and History from the Uni-

versity of Michigan, where his dissertation focused on the end of socialism in an Israeli kibbutz. His research interests include the study of socialism and post-socialism, the anthropology of ethics, interpersonal conflict and “ugly emotions,” and ethnic politics in Israel. His motivation comes from “a desire to create a stage where the Israel/Palestine conflict can be discussed in a nuanced way,” he said. “That nuance is something that is often missing in academics, especially in the West.” He likes that at the department of history, he has another hat at the university: “I really like my new colleagues,” he said, “and I love talking about history. His focus is on the history of the modern state of Israel, including the Arab-Israeli conflict, the history of modern Israeli society and culture, and will also be teaching general history courses. See Dr. Omri page 2

In 2019, Sonia Sotomayor, together with illustrator Rafael Lopez, published Just Ask! Be Different, Be Brave, Be You, which became a New York Times bestseller. Omaha’s Fran Sillau (book), Mark Kurtz (music and lyrics), and Debbie Denenberg (producer) have turned the story into a family musical. Just Ask! opens at The Rose Theater on September 11 and runs Friday through Sunday for three weeks. Ms. Sotomayor is visiting Omaha for the September 18 performance, and all in attendance will be invited to a talk back after the show. The story follows a group of children who gather to plant a community garden. They learn that one plant needs shade, one sun, one water. The children

make friends as they learn about one another’s abilities, challenges, and strengths. Like the plants, everyone needs something a little different to thrive. Fran Sillau commented, “In our show, each character has a disability, and the actors we cast, in real life, carry the disability of the characters they portray. We wanted to build a world where these characters could be seen See Just Ask! page 2

2 | The Jewish Press | September 11, 2026

JUST ASK!

Dr. Omri

Continued from page 1 as powerful and confident.” Debbie Denenberg added, “At the end of the play, our Sonia character comments that what makes us unique may be the source of our superpowers. In the Kansas City premiere, she asked the audience, ‘What is your superpower?’ Little hands shot up. We didn’t know what they might offer – perhaps ‘I’m good at math’ or ‘I run really fast’. But the children said, ‘I have type-1 diabetes’ or ‘I use a cane’. What might have been a source of shame before our curtain rose became a source of pride that the kids announced publicly. We saw the transformative power of theater in action.” Fran Sillau and Debbie Denenberg have been a team since the 2009 production of Brundibar with Opera Omaha at The Rose Theater. Debbie’s mom, Eunice Denenberg (z”l) produced, Debbie assisted and Fran was the Assistant Director. Then, in 2012 in a Torah class at Chabad, Executive Director Shani Katzman handed The Doll Maker’s Gift to Debbie. “Read this aloud to the class,” she said of the children’s book, “it has such fine Jewish values.” She added, “I can imagine this on stage with music.” Debbie picked up that cue and handed the book to Fran Sillau. He tracked the author down to her home in St. Petersburg, and helped Debbie assemble a New York-based artistic team. The Doll Maker’s Gift opened at The Rose in 2018 to tremendous publicity and success. Debbie and Fran were looking for their next project. Fran was contacted by The Bay Area Children's Theater in 2019 asking him to adapt and direct Just Ask! But the pandemic hit and Bay Area Children's Theater closed. “I was not willing to let the project go,” said Fran, “So I reached out to Sonia's agent myself. I submitted a treatment and song samples — my husband Mark Kurtz is our composer and lyricist. Three weeks later I was talking with Sonia and we were planning a musical.” It was a personal memory that inspired Sonia Sotomayor to write Just Ask! Be Different, Be Brave, Be You. Sotomayor was in the bathroom of a restaurant, giving herself an insulin shot, when a woman walked in and accused her of being a drug addict. She corrected the woman and explained she was a diabetic and was injecting medicine. Throughout the story, she explores the power of those disabilities and encourages kids to ask each other questions about one another, while helping them find the vocabulary necessary to openly discuss disabilities. Featuring multicultural songs in the spirit of Schoolhouse Rock and Sesame Street, this colorful musical will

Continued from page 1 The Midwest is generally calmer than some other colleges, especially on the coasts, he knows; his experience in Kansas illustrated that, and he expects Omaha will be no different. “I aim for debate, conversation, and an exchange of ideas that is combined with real learning,” he said. Other things the community should know: he grew up in a kibbutz. He has not yet visited the Henry Doorly Zoo. When asked, he admitted that having two young children, he’s had enough of going to the zoo; that is, until we broke the news that here in Omaha, we have a leucistic alligator named Thibodeax. All the food he’s eaten in Omaha so far has been excellent, he said. He loves steak, and while he himself said he is not a great cook, he does have a favorite dish: stewed beef. He listens to a lot of Israeli music, with the Beatles, or 90’s music thrown in for good measure. His favorite book is Tolstoy’s Anna Karenina. He does NOT like horror movies. Swimming, reading and watching movies is where he finds his joy. And there’s always football (the American kind), both college and NFL. Omri recently authored Man’s Best Friend? Dogs and Social Conflict on the Israeli Kibbutz, in contribution to the third volume of Conflicts and Conflict Management in Intentional Communities. In his writing, Omri explains how dog-driven conflicts reveal something serious about the problems inherent in kibbutzim. In his research on kibbutzim, he kept coming across reports in their internal publications of conflicts over dogs. “People constantly complain about it, fight about it, talk about it and so on. And so I let that lead me,” he said. “When I got invited to contribute to this book, I said, ‘Let's pull on that string and see what happens.’ And I actually found a lot of broader issues that were, in a funny way, enfolded within this small, minor issue.” (KU.com) His birthday is Oct. 8. In 2023, he and his family were spending the weekend with friends in a cabin in Illinois. The friends had a young daughter who turned three that same weekend, the trip was supposed to celebrate both birthdays. “The cell reception was spotty,” he said. “The news only came in slowly-and we didn’t want to pull the kids in just yet, so we went ahead and celebrated anyway. Having a birthday party for a three-year-old against that backdrop was a little crazy, but we did it. After that, the volume was just turned up. I was in my first semester at KU, and the classroom definitely became more intense. Especially in the last three semesters, students have become more critical of Israel. Sometimes that is policy-driven, sometimes it’s rooted in emotions. Today, my hope for the Schwalb Center is that it becomes a center for truly informed studies about Israel. I want to earn the trust of both students and faculty, be trusted as a source of for valid information and collaborate with other agents in the Jewish community. That includes the Harris Center for Judaic Studies, Creighton’s Klutznick Chair in Jewish Civilization, the Leonard and Shirley Goldstein Center for Human Rights, the Samuel Bak Museum: The Learning Center, the different agencies at the Jewish Federation of Omaha and all synagogues and Chabad. There are so many opportunities to work together, and I am very eager to get to work.”

help you learn how to “just ask” about what makes each of us extraordinary! Denenberg commented, “We all know how the generosity of Rose Blumkin and others helped refurbish the glorious Rose Theater in downtown Omaha. What our community might not know is how The Rose is nationally recognized as one of the finest children’s theaters in the country. Matt Gutschick is a visionary leader, and The Rose is a gem: innovative, true to its mission, creative and inclusive. We are so lucky to have them, and they are so worthy of our support.” General admission tickets are $20 and can be purchased through rosetheater.org. Complimentary tickets are available for First Responders & Veterans, through a partnership with Heartland Honors 9/11. First responders and veterans may receive up to four complimentary tickets (applicable ID is required). Call The Rose’s Box Office at 402-345-4849 to reserve seats. The special event featuring Sonia Sotomayor’s talkback after the show is Friday, September 18, with the performance starting at 6:30 p.m. Tickets to this show will be limited and must be purchased in advance. The final day to purchase tickets for this special performance is September 15.

Understanding Israel's Elections: A Community Conversation Ahead of the Vote

SHARON BARGAS JFO Community Engagement and Education Associate As Israel prepares for its Oct. 27, 2026, election for the 26th Knesset, community members will have an opportunity to learn how Israel’s distinctive electoral system shapes its government, political coalitions, and national debate. Dr. Ari Kohen, Kripke Chair of Judaic Studies and director of the Harris Center for Judaic Studies at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, and Itay, the Omaha Jewish community’s shaliach and Israeli citizen, will lead "Understanding Israel's Elections," a free, nonpartisan edu-

cational program at 7 p.m. on Sept. 24. The program is open to the public, and no prior knowledge of Israeli politics is required. Attendees will be invited to ask questions and learn from two presenters who bring complementary perspectives: Dr. Kohen will provide academic context on Israel's political system, while Itay will share lived experience of elections and civic life in Israel. The upcoming election carries historical and political significance. It is scheduled to be Israel's first Knesset election held at the conclusion of a full four-year term since 1988. It will also be the country's first national election since the Hamas-led attack of Oct. 7, 2023, and the war that followed, developments that continue to shape public discussion in Israel and around the world. To reserve your spot, scan the QR code. The event location will be shared after registration.

The Jewish Press | September 11, 2026 | 3

Spirit of Federation Continued from page 1 A few pages later, there is a photo of Louri Sullivan, the then-seventeen-year-old Sweetheart candidate. Next to her bio is a quote that reads, “Laugh more and try to leave the people you meet happier than before they saw you.” Both snippets, simple in nature, were early glimpses into the people David and Louri would become: two individuals who care deeply and work tirelessly to make our community stronger. For over 40 years, Louri Sullivan and David Gillinsky have made a positive impact on our community. In gratitude for their years of involvement, the Jewish Federation of Omaha ( JFO) is proud to honor them as the recipients of the Phil and Terri Schrager Spirit of Federation Award. This award is given annually to honor one man and one woman who have demonstrated personal commitment, dedication, and leadership to the JFO and/or its agencies. “Louri and I are lifelong friends, and I couldn’t be happier to be honored alongside her,” David said. “But if my community work is like a V-6, Louri is a twin-turbo V-8. She is a perennial, passionate volunteer who has made important contributions across our community. No one worries about meeting objectives if Louri is involved. It’s going to happen.” “I am so thankful to be this year’s recipient of the Phil and Terri Schrager Spirit of Federation Award, especially with David,” Louri said. “My first true involvement in the Jewish community was through BBYO. I was the sweetheart for Chaim Weizmann, which was the chapter David, my brother Bruce, and Tim Schrager were all members of. I also have great respect for Phil (of blessed memory) and Terri Schrager. It makes receiving this award even more meaningful,” she said. David and Louri’s paths to leadership took them in different directions after their time in BBYO, but both eventually returned to Omaha. After graduating from Westside High School, Louri attended the University of Texas at Austin as a business and marketing major. After working in Dallas real estate for many years, Louri returned to Omaha and joined the nonprofit world. Louri serves on the Board of Directors and Scholarship Committee for the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands. In 1998, she received the Women & Youth Award from the organization. She assisted Children’s Hospital as a NICU volunteer, gala chair, and board member. She served on the Foundation Board for Westside High School and acted as chairperson for events benefiting Swanson Elementary and District 66. She also served on the Women’s Ball Committee and participated in Leadership Omaha. In 2005, Louri received the Lois Jeanne Schrager Young Leadership Award from the JFO. Louri’s involvement within the Jewish community is multifaceted. She worked for the JFO as Senior Director of Community Impact and Special Projects from 2015 to 2021. She has served as a JFO Foundation board member since 2023. She is a member of the JFO’s 132nd Street Task Force, served on Temple Israel’s Board of Trustees,

and currently serves on the Feldman Family Foundation. Louri is a Lion of Judah and has participated on and planned JFO mission trips, including Momentum and a Women’s Mission Trip to Europe. “I feel honored to have worked at and volunteered for the JFO and its agencies over the last 20-plus years,” she said. “It’s given me so many ways to play a part.” Louri has four children: Rachel, Josh, Samantha, and Tommy. Together with her parents, Tom and Darlynn Fellman; her partner, Rod Kestel; and her children, Louri will serve as a co-chair for the JFO’s 2027 Annual Campaign. “I’m proud to serve as co-chair alongside my parents, Rod, and my children. My kids really wanted to do it, which tells me the future of our Jewish community is in good hands,” she said. David also plans to assist Louri as a member of the campaign team. “I’m happy to be helping her,” David said. “Louri doesn’t take a back seat when she commits to something. She’s a driving force who inspires others to harness their efforts alongside hers. I have to give a shout-out to Tom and Darlynn, who have clearly inspired Louri. They also inspire me to do this work,” he said. Louri has made countless contributions to the Jewish community, many holding a special place in her heart. “Helping to bring the Pennie Z. Davis Early Learning Center to reality 25 years ago and bringing the Momentum Trip program to Omaha while working at the JFO are two things that still make me smile because I see the impact they have on our community,” Louri said. “And there are still big things on the horizon,” she added. “I’m not done yet.” David’s not done either. After attending the University of Pennsylvania, David and his wife, Katherine Finnegan, returned to Omaha in 1990. He then became owner of Bergman Incentives. David and Katherine have three children: Molly, Laura, and Jack. They are also proud grandparents to two granddaughters and one grandson. “The BBYO/AZA experience of my youth created lifelong bonds. It ingrained in me a sense of community that ultimately brought Katherine and me back to Omaha 36 years ago,” David said. “Being surrounded by my immediate family and a close-knit Jewish community made our return a no-brainer. Once we were here, we knew we wanted to make a difference. For me, I think the Chamber’s Leadership Omaha program, headed by Ann Goldstein, of blessed memory, taught me a lot about giving back to our community. Ann was the one who really helped me get started on a leadership path.” David immersed himself in volunteer work, serving as board member and President for the Anti-Defamation League (ADL)/Community Relations Council (CRC) for the Great Plains Region. He also served as a board member for the JFO and Temple Israel, an advisory board member for the Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC), a member of the JFO Governance Committee, and a member of the JFO Budget, Financial Review, & Audit Committee. He participated on the 2005 and 2008 JFO community mission trips, as well as the JFO Men’s

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Mission Trip to Ukraine in 2012. Outside of the Jewish community, David has served as a board member and chair for Community Health Agencies Drive (CHAD) and the National MS Society of Nebraska. In 2000, David received the Bruce Fellman Memorial Young Leadership Award from the JFO. In 2021, David received the Spirit of Justice Award from the ADL, an honor recognizing outstanding volunteers who advocate for justice and equality. When asked about the significance of receiving the Phil and Terri Schrager Spirit of Federation Award, David reflected on his past community involvement and how it has added an additional layer of meaning. “The Spirit of Federation Award means something different to me because I was serving on the Schrager Supporting Foundation Board when Phil Schrager, of blessed memory, advocated for funding this new award,” he said. “The Schragers and Fellmans had underwritten the Young Leadership Awards for years. Phil felt our community needed an award for, and I’ll use this term generously, ‘middle-aged’ community members who continue to lead and make a positive difference in the Jewish community.” Louri cites David’s vision and persistence as some of his key strengths. “David is so deserving of the Spirit of Federation Award,” Louri said. “Honestly, I can’t believe he hasn’t received it sooner. David is a leader and a doer. He’s always educating himself and others.” Out of all his accomplishments, David is particularly proud of working to sustain Jewish Omaha’s stability. “I feel like everything I’ve been a part of has been important and impactful,” he said. “But I think I’m most proud of my work on the JFO Foundation Board because we are helping ensure the long-term stability of our Jewish community. We’re also helping donors’ lifetime visions become reality through their legacy gifts.” A lot has changed since 1978, but Louri and David’s commitment to our community remains the same. The fundamental drive to make a difference is still there. David continues to put everything he has into each project, and Louri continues to make a positive impact, not only leaving people happier but also more supported. It is work done not for personal benefit, but to carry forward the legacy of our community. “We grew up here. It is up to us to continue what the leaders before us built,” Louri said. And continue they will. Louri and David will receive the Phil and Terri Schrager Spirit of Federation Award at the 2027 Annual Campaign Community Kickoff Event, held on Monday, Oct. 12, at the Omaha Performing Arts Tenaska Center for Arts Engagement. In addition to the award presentation, the event will feature Tessa Veksler as the keynote speaker. Veksler is a Jewish advocate who has become a voice for Jewish pride and the fight against antisemitism. The community is invited to attend. Tickets can be purchased at jewishomaha.org or by calling 402.334.6430.

4 | The Jewish Press | September 11, 2026

New Faces and Offerings possibility of equality; we all can get along no matter what.” at Friedel Nate discovers Addie’s nephew Dodo, who is deaf as a

Kaplan Book Group Shops Around SHIRLY BANNER JFO Library Specialist James McBride’s novel Heaven & Earth Grocery Store, set in 1972, opens with the mysterious finding of a skeleton in a well. It quickly flashes back to the 1920s and 1930s in a small section of the rural town of Pottstown, Pennsylvania, known as Chicken Hill. The story focuses on the lives of Moshe Ludlow, a Jewish immigrant and theater owner, his wife Chona Flohr Ludlow, their Black neighbors and friends Nate and Addie Timblin, and Dodo, who is the Timblin’s orphaned nephew. The novel examines the relationship of the Jewish and the Black Community during that era. Moshe’s integrated All-American Dance Hall and Theater features not only klezmer musical performances, but also the performances of many of the Black artists of the day. The All-American Dance Hall and Theater opened its doors to Black audiences as well, which was unusual for theaters of that time. Chona runs the Heaven & Earth Grocery Store, which her father previously started and ran for many years with her help. It sits below the apartment Moshe and Chona live in. Despite having had polio as a child, Chona has never let her physical handicap slow her down. Not one to hold back about the injustices that the Jews and Blacks of Chicken Hill face, Chona regularly speaks out against the Ku Klux Klan and Doc Roberts’ involvement in racist activities in the community. The Black community is indebted to Chona for her kindness and support, especially regarding payments and credit extensions for groceries at the Heaven & Earth Grocery Store. When a mysterious illness befalls Chona, the local Black community, especially Nate and Addie Timblin, rally to support her by running the store and helping to nurse her back to health. “It was proof of the American

result of an exploding stove accident, goes missing after the death of his sister-in-law. Nate finds Dodo, and decides to hide him in the theater from the state authorities, who want to send him away to a special school. Moshe and Chona decide it would be better to hide Dodo in their home, while the state is looking for him. Whenever the state authorities come around to look for Dodo at the Ludlow’s house or store, Chona sends him to the backyard next door of her childhood friend Bernice, to get lost amongst Bernice’s many children. When Doc Roberts decides to get involved in finding and sending Dodo away, he confronts Chona. It causes her to have a seizure and collapse. Doc Roberts has always held animosity towards Chona for rebuking him when they were children, and tries to sexually assault her while she is in an incapacitated state. Dodo witnesses the attack, tries to stop it, and falls off the roof while being chased by the police. Severely injured, Dodo is sent to a State Hospital for the Insane and Feeble-Minded, where he is befriended by another patient who has cerebral palsy. Nate and Addie, along with some of their friends, come up with a plan to free Dodo and bring him back home. Will Dodo get saved from his fate at the hospital? Will the truth about Doc Roberts and who really attacked Chona and caused her eventual death be revealed? Will we ever discover whose skeleton was uncovered in 1972? Join us as we unravel this complex novel. We hope you can join us Thursday, Sept. 17 at 1 p.m. when the Dorothy Kaplan Book Discussion Group gathers for its monthly meeting at the Staenberg Omaha Jewish Community Center to discuss The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store by James McBride. The Dorothy Kaplan Book Discussion Group meets on the third Thursday of every month at 1 pm. both in person and via Zoom. 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.

Beth Israel Welcomes Rabbi Bernie Goldberg

MARY SUE GROSSMAN Beth Israel Synagogue was delighted to welcome Bernie Goldberg to Omaha in early August. Bernie has joined Beth Israel staff in the new position of Director of Programming and Outreach. From Maryland, Bernie earned his marketing degree at Yeshiva University in New York. For the past three years, he has been teaching Torah and sharing Judaism at the Forest Hill Community Kollel in Toronto. Building on years of experience participating in, and later leading, Jewish youth and groups through NCSY and summer camps, he is excited to join the Beth Israel team in building a great future for the shul and for Omaha. “Working for the kollel in Toronto was a wonderful experience, helping others gain new Jewish knowledge all while experiencing my own personal growth,” Bernie shares. “In thinking of my personal Jewish journey, I have a passion to help others find their own strong relationship with G-d. This can be a challenge as many people can be set in his or her ways and often don’t appreciate the strength they already possess for learning.” In de-

scribing his personality, Bernie shares he is friendly and likes to have a good time while always striving to be thoughtful. He added that he also has his serious side. “Working with the wide demographics in Omaha will be a great opportunity to connect with all age groups. We are all people, share similar experiences, and can find ways to relate.” When asked about first impressions of Omaha, Bernie quickly said that the unity and warmth was obvious from the start. When not on the job, he likes to spend time outside including biking and spending time with his children. Rabbi Mordechai Geiger is thrilled to have Bernie join the Beth Israel team. “From the first phone conversation through the official interviews, I felt that Bernie would be a great fit. He will be an integral part of our vision for Beth Israel and has hit the ground running, already making strong connections in our shul and the community.“ As the title indicates, Bernie will be responsible for programming for all ages while doing on going outreach throughout Omaha’s Jewish community. Joining the staff right before the High Holidays, the chagim will provide many opportunities for him to quickly connect with people. To reach Bernie, please call the synagogue office at 402556-6288 or email bgoldberg@orthodoxomaha.org. Keep up to date on Beth Israel happenings on the website, weekly email, Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp.

SARA KOHEN Friedel Jewish Academy Director of Advancement When Friedel students started their new school year on Aug. 19, they were greeted by some new faces, as well as a familiar face in a new role. Sarah Powers is the new seventh- and eighth-grade Humanities teacher. Mrs. Powers comes to Friedel after 37 years with Omaha Public Schools. With a Bachelor of Science in Education from Creighton University, a Master of Science in Reading Education from UNO, and endorsements in Love & Logic and English as a Second Language, Mrs. Powers has spent most of her career teaching sixth-grade Language Arts and Social Studies. She also has taught Careers and Computer Apps. She has been a Sixth-Grade Team Leader, the faculty leader of the Student Council and the Safety Patrol, and coleader of the after-school tutoring program. In 2008, Mrs. Powers won the Buffett Outstanding Teacher Award.

Rabbi Baruch and Shira Goldreich join Rabba Abi Taylor-Abt as Friedel’s Jewish Studies teachers. The Goldreichs moved to Omaha this summer from Lod, Israel. Shira Goldreich has an M.A. in Educational Counseling and credentials in special education. Shira brings extensive experience in curriculum development and educational innovation in both formal and informal settings. She is teaching kindergarten, first, and second grade Jewish Studies. Rabbi Goldreich has served as a regional CEO for Israel's National School Feeding Program and coordinator of an IDF program that helps students from underprivileged backgrounds integrate into military service. He is an IDF reserve commander in the Nahal Brigade. Although he manages large-scale, high-pressure situations at his work, his passion is community building, and he's looking forward to leading the school's Torani Jewish Studies program for third through eighth graders. Angie Gormley is Friedel’s new third- and fourthgrade teacher. Mrs. Gormley has taught at Friedel in various capacities for nearly twenty years. She taught first- and second-grade general studies for ten years before transitioning to part-time when her children were young. In her years as a part-time staff member, she taught Musical Explorers, Library, and Innovations classes. Mrs. Gormley has a bachelor's degree in elementary education with an endorsement in early childhood education from the University of Nebraska at Kearney. Beth Cohen, Friedel’s Head of School, says that she is “very proud and grateful that we’ve been able to attract and retain excellent teachers, even during the current statewide teacher shortage.” In addition to new teachers, Friedel students will have new experiences in the kitchen this year. Students will learn cooking skills and nutrition through new kitchen lab classes with Chef Nickie (who will continue to provide delicious food service for our students and staff, as well as Thursday-night takeout dinners and catering for the community). Students will continue to benefit from their regular specials classes: Music (through Friedel’s partnership with the Omaha Conservatory of Music), swimming and P.E. with JCC instructors, Art, Innovations, Library, and Environmental Education in our school garden. Middle school students also participate in exploratory classes, in which they expand their horizons through short-term classes. Recent examples include CPR training, learning about different careers, and cross-stitch. More information about Friedel (including Friedel’s online kosher market, Thursday night takeout catering information, and donation opportunities) can be found at www.friedeljewishacademy.com.

The Jewish Press | September 11, 2026 | 5

Wings of Hope

Update from Lincoln

ANNETTE VAN DE KAMP-WRIGHT Jewish Press Editor Join Shiri Phillips and Itay in building a powerful community art project created in memory of the Kutz family and the victims of October 7. You can see examples of this global project, known as Livnat’s Wings, here. From Sept. 4 through Oct. 2, we will be collecting used toys. Toys can be dropped off at the Omaha Staenberg JCC (Membership entrance and JFO foyer), Temple Israel, Beth Israel, Beth El and Friedel Jewish Academy. The donated items will be permanently collaged onto a set of sculptural wings, and the finished sculpture will serve as a lasting memorial that brings a message of hope.

What we are looking for: Used toys that are colorful, small, and made of hard plastic. It’s okay if they are broken or incomplete. Think about: • figures & animals • cars & trucks • mini toys • building blocks & bricks • puzzle pieces • parts of toys We ask that you do not donate stuffed toys, plush toys, or anything soft/squishy or fabric, since these items cannot be used in the project. For more information, please contact Jay Katelman at jkatel man@jewishomaha.org.

CATHERINE PETERSEN I am a member of Congregation B'Nai Jeshurun (aka The South Street Temple) in Lincoln, Nebraska, and have been elected to the Board of the Jewish Community Legacy Project (JCLP), a national nonprofit that supports small Jewish congregations across North America. The JCLP serves as a long-range planning partner for small Jewish congregations, working to understand each community's unique needs and then providing planning resources and solutions tailored to the challenges associated with congregational growth, sustainability, or decline. JCLP partners with communities across North America and connects them with a team of experienced advisors. I was elected to the Board and subsequently attended the 2026 President's Forum and Board Retreat, held in Atlanta on Aug. 18–19. The gathering brought to-

gether JCLP Board members and the presidents of small congregations from across the country. Board members and congregational presidents took part in joint sessions together, and the Board also held separate working sessions to set organizational goals for the coming year. The retreat concluded with a guided visit to the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, Ebenezer Baptist Church, and the King Center. During the visit, we explored the complex relationship between the American Jewish community and the Civil Rights Movement. I'm honored to serve on the Board and am looking forward to contributing to the JCLP's work supporting small congregations nationwide. For more information about the Jewish Community Legacy Project, visit jclproj ect.org.

6 | The Jewish Press | September 11, 2026

JCC Over 350 community members enjoyed live music from “Used Cars” and “Omaha Broadway Bar” at this year's Backyard Concert Series held in the newly renovated Howard Kaiman Pavilion at the Staenberg Omaha JCC. The Backyard Concert Series is a free event that provides accessible opportunities for members of the community to experience the arts. It brings new visitors to our campus and builds a sense of community through positive shared experiences. This year's event sponsors were: FNBO, Omaha Steaks, Sun Valley Landscaping, and Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation Funds: Shirley & Leonard Goldstein Supporting Foundation, Special Donor-Advised Fund

SP O TLIGHT

GENEROUSLY SUPPORTED BY

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.

After 38 years of caring for and supporting the Residents of the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home, Sherri Judah, Occupational Therapist with Rehab Visions, is retiring at the top of her game. We wish her a retirement ﬁlled with happiness, relaxation, and all the wonderful things she deserves.

RBJH The RBJH Residents shucked 14 dozen ears of corn to share with our hardworking staff and the kitchen, where it will be served at tea time with plenty of butter and salt. The winner of the most shucked corn is Marge Hays, at a whopping 40 ears.

The Jewish Press | September 11, 2026 | 7

PEOPLE WHO READ NEWSPAPERS ARE

STUDENTS WITH BETTER GRADES It all starts with Newspapers

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8 | The Jewish Press | September 11, 2026

NexGen: Building Community, One Fun Night at a Time JONNIE ROBINSON JFO Assistant Director of Community Engagement and Education Something exciting is happening with NexGen at the Jewish Federation of Omaha. It’s not just about the events on the calendar, it’s about the people who keep showing up, connecting and having a great time together. NexGen brings together young Jewish adults, generally ages 21–35ish, for casual, social experiences designed to make it easy to meet new people and reconnect with friends. Over the summer, the group has been growing and so has the energy around it. From a group outing to Late Nights at the Zoo to a summer happy hour at our own outdoor pool, NexGen is creating fun opportunities to come together. Guided by fantastic community chairs, Brooklyn Gathye and Logan Armstrong, NexGen is helping create a welcoming space for the next generation of Jewish adults to build friendships, strengthen connections to the Jewish community and enjoy spending time together. And judging by the turnout and enthusiasm, it’s working. NexGen events are intentionally relaxed and welcoming. You don’t have to know everyone when you walk in, and you don’t have to be involved in every Federation program to feel at home. Whether you’re coming with a friend or looking to meet someone new, NexGen is creating a space where connections happen naturally. The summer events are just the beginning. With fall and winter programming on the horizon, there will be even more opportunities to get together, try something new and be part of this growing community. Save the date for the NexGen Sukkah Hop on Oct. 1, 2026. More details are coming soon, so keep an eye out and start thinking about who you’ll bring along. Keep an eye out for upcoming NexGen events and bring a friend! If you’re a Jewish

young adult ages 21–35ish and have been looking for a fun way to connect with other young Jewish adults in Omaha, this is your invitation to join the group. The best part of NexGen may be what happens between the events: new friendships, familiar faces and a growing sense of community.

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David Finkelstein President Annette van de Kamp-Wright Editor Will Fischer Creative Director Claire Endelman Sales Director Lori Kooper-Schwarz Assistant Editor Sam Kricsfeld Digital support Mary Bachteler Accounting Jewish Press Advisory Board David Finkelstein, President; Margie Gutnik, Ex-Officio; Toby Dresdner, Andrea Erlich, Dana Gonzales, Mary Sue Grossman, Hailey Krueger, Avery Lubin, Sara Rips, Seth Schuchman, Stewart Winograd and Bob Yaffe. The mission of the Jewish Federation of Omaha is to build and sustain a strong and vibrant Omaha Jewish Community and to support Jews in Israel and around the world. Agencies of the JFO are:: Institute for Holocaust Education (IHE), Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC), Nebraska Jewish Historical Society (NJHS), Jewish Press, Rose Blumkin Jewish Home (RBJH), Jewish Family Service (JFS), Staenberg Omaha Jewish Community Center (JCC). Guidelines and highlights of the Jewish Press, including front page stories and announcements, can be found online at: www.jewishomaha.org; click on ‘Jewish Press.’ The Jewish Press is not responsible for the Kashrut of any product or establishment. Editorial E-mail editorial material and photos to: jpress@jewishomaha.org and avandekamp@jewishomaha.org; send ads (in TIF or PDF format) to: wfischer@jewishomaha.org. Letters to the Editor Guidelines The Jewish Press welcomes signed Letters to the Editor. They may be sent via regular mail to: The Jewish Press, 333 So. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68154; via fax: 1.402.334.5422 or via e-mail to the Editor at: avandekamp@jewishomaha.org. Letters should be no longer than 250 words and must be single-spaced typed, not hand-written. Published letters should be confined to opinions and comments on articles or events. News items should not be submitted and printed as a “Letter to the Editor.” The Editor may edit letters for content and space restrictions. Letters may be published without giving an opposing view. Information shall be verified before printing. All letters must be signed by the writer. The Jewish Press will not publish letters that appear to be part of an organized campaign, nor letters copied from the Internet. No letters should be published from candidates running for office, but others may write on their behalf. Letters of thanks should be confined to commending an institution for a program, project or event, rather than personally thanking paid staff, unless the writer chooses to turn the “Letter to the Editor” into a paid personal ad or a news article about the event, project or program which the professional staff supervised. For information, contact Annette van de Kamp-Wright, Jewish Press Editor, 402.334.6450. Postal The Jewish Press (USPS 275620) is published weekly (except for the first week of January and July) on Friday for $40 per calendar year U.S.; $80 foreign, by the Jewish Federation of Omaha. Phone: 402.334.6448; FAX: 402.334.5422. Periodical postage paid at Omaha, NE. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The Jewish Press, 333 So. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68154-2198 or email to: jpress@jewishomaha.org.

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The Jewish Press | September 11, 2026 | 9

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.

The Trouble with Nostalgia ANNETTE VAN DE KAMP-WRIGHT Jewish Press Editor Here’s a chilling sentence: “Germany’s far right is heading to a historic win in the eastern federal state of Saxony-Anhalt, with plans of overhauling society to foster national pride and reject the country’s “guilt complex” over the Holocaust.” (Shira Li Bartov, JTA) The party in question, ‘Alternative for Germany (AfD),’ plans “a sweeping nationalist agenda that includes expanding deportations and moving refugees into group shelters, dropping support for public broadcasters, defunding “anti-German art” and teaching children less about the Nazi past.” Although they do not come right out and say “Jews,” they do use Nazi language, from “Everything for Germany” to warnings about “Volkstot.” We can take some comfort in the knowledge that this is not (yet) playing on the national stage, and German Intelligence is monitoring it. But: in Germany, local governments have quite a bit of input into school curricula, so what will those little German children be learning in school once AfD wins their election? And who is to say this will not spread? “The AfD has also promised a “patriotic cultural policy.” In that vein, the party has proposed that artists and cultural organizations sign a declaration pledging their “commitment

to German national culture” and promising relations with Russia. They also have a small not to “disparage Germany and its culture” if group of Syrian refugees—so the AfD wants to ban Islam and opposes all immigration. Its they seek state funding,” Bartov also wrote. Sometimes I wonder: how many Germans feel members are anti-European Union, and deny human-caused global warmat home with this specific ing. It all reads like the nosbrand of nostalgia? The talgia has more to do with “More Bismarck,” line of reunification and the related romanticizing thinking, struggles, I don’t know. What “Real German” culture, atI do know is that the notion tacking anything modern that things were better in the (meaning, post-1933) in arpast usually leads to drama. chitecture, visual arts or literature—we know where Credit: JWaller, licensed under the Cre- The real question is: should ative Commons Attribution-Share we, in Omaha Nebraska, such fantasies lead. worry about one state in Saxony-Anhalt is the Alike 4.0 International license. eighth-largest state of a total of 16. It has about Germany? The answer is yes. Not to be melo2.14 million people. As a state, it didn’t exist dramatic, but if more people in other coununtil 1945. The USSR created it after the Nazis tries had actually paid attention to Adolf when lost the war, by combining the province of Sax- he published his book, it could have made a ony (which was formerly Prussian) and the difference. He spelled it all out quite neatly. The AfD is equally clear in what they want: free state of Anhalt. It was divided again, and “Alexander Gauland, an AfD co-founder, forfinally became an actual state during reunifimer party leader, and current Member of Parcation in 1990. The borders within Europe have changed liament, said in 2017 that Germans should be throughout the 19th and 20th centuries; it “proud of the achievements of German solmakes one wonder what exactly the benefit diers in two world wars.” (ADL.org) Since then, would be from looking back. Why not look to the party has only grown. So, there you have it. It seems romanticizing the future? Percentage-wise, the state has one of the lowest numbers of immigrants, the ma- the past isn’t really necessary—they are aljority being Ukrainians. So, the AfD wants closer ready well on their way to recreate it.

When Trust Fails, Jews Pay First SETH SCHUCHMAN I work at Gallup, where I lead our publishing business, so I spend a lot of time with data about what people think and feel about their lives, their leaders and the institutions around them. Recently, one number has been especially hard for me to shake. Americans’ average confidence in 14 major institutions stands at just 27%, near a historic low. I started thinking about that number not only as someone who works at Gallup, but as a Jew. Because at the same time trust has fallen to historic lows, antisemitism remains at levels we have not seen in decades. I do not believe declining trust causes antisemitism. Jew-hatred is far older than America’s current crisis of confidence, and it has survived good economic times and bad ones. But I do believe the connection matters. When people stop trusting institutions to be fair, truthful or capable of solving their problems, complicated problems become more susceptible to easy answers. And easy answers often need someone to blame. There is research behind that concern. Psychologist Mirosław Kofta and his colleagues found that a perceived lack of political control predicted greater belief in Jewish conspiracy theories, which in turn was associated with more discriminatory attitudes toward Jews. That does not mean someone becomes an antisemite because Congress is unpopular or groceries cost too much. It tells us something more important: when people feel they have little control over the forces shaping their lives, explanations built around hidden power can become more attractive. Antisemitism has a terrible historical advantage here. It already comes with a story about hidden power. For centuries, Jews have been accused of controlling banks, governments, media and

wars. We have been blamed for capitalism and communism, for controlling governments and undermining them. The contradictions never mattered because antisemitism is not really a coherent theory about Jews. It is a theory about hidden power. The antisemite supplies the story. A lowtrust society gives that story oxygen. Jewish history gives us reason to recognize the pattern. During periods of catastrophe, economic upheaval and political failure, Jews have repeatedly been offered as the explanation for forces people could not understand or control—from poisoned wells during the Black Death to secret Jewish power in the Protocols of the Elders of Zion. Institutional distrust did not cause those events. And we should not force all of today’s antisemitism into a theory about American trust. Oct. 7, the war that followed and the political response to Israel clearly changed the trajectory. But those events also tested our institutions. Could universities distinguish protest from intimidation? Could leaders protect free expression and safety at the same time? Could institutions apply their rules consistently even when the issue was politically charged? The consequences are no longer abstract. In the American Jewish Committee’s latest survey, 55% of American Jews said they had changed at least one behavior because they feared antisemitism. Forty-one percent had avoided publicly wearing or displaying something that might identify them as Jewish. More than half of us. Someone takes off a Star of David. Someone decides not to wear a kippah. Someone chooses not to speak. A family thinks twice about where it goes. Those are not only measures of antisemitism. They are measures of freedom. The law can guarantee my freedom to be Jewish. But if fear convinces me to hide my Jew-

ishness, my lived freedom has become smaller. So what are we responsible for doing? Security matters. Education matters. Law enforcement matters. Confronting antisemitism matters, including when it comes from people with whom we otherwise agree. But if low-trust environments give more room to conspiracy and scapegoating, another responsibility follows. We should build institutions worthy of trust. That does not mean asking people to trust institutions blindly. Sometimes distrust is deserved. Trust has to be earned. A university earns it when its rules apply fairly. A company earns it when people understand how decisions are made. Journalism earns it when inconvenient facts are still reported. Government earns it when laws visibly apply to the powerful as well as the powerless. Leaders earn trust when they tell people the truth, especially when the truth is complicated. Our tradition gives us language for this work: tzedek—justice. Justice is not only about outcomes. People need to believe the process itself is fair. And Jeremiah gave Jews in exile an instruction that may capture our responsibility better than any survey can: Seek the welfare of the city where you live, for in its welfare you will find your welfare. We should build trustworthy institutions because it is right and because leadership carries responsibility. But Jewish history gives us another reason. Trust is infrastructure. When it is strong, people have legitimate ways to settle disputes, address grievances and make sense of a complicated world. When it breaks down, the market for easy answers grows. And easy answers need someone to blame. Trustworthy societies are harder places in which to sell scapegoats. Building one is both an act of leadership and a Jewish responsibility.

Synagogues

10 | The Jewish Press | September 11, 2026

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

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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

B’NAI ISRAEL Erev Rosh Hashanah, Friday, Sept. 11, 7:30 p.m. with our guest speaker, Council Bluffs Mayor Jill Shudak. Rosh Hashanah, Saturday, Sept. 12, 10:30 a.m. with our guest speaker, Donna Dostal, President and CEO of Community Foundation for Western Iowa. Our high holiday service leader is Bob Yaffe. 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.

BETH EL Services conducted by Rabbi Steven Abraham and Cantor Gil Ezring. FRIDAY: Erev Rosh Hashanah Services, 6 p.m. at Beth El and Live Stream. SATURDAY: Rosh Hashanah Family Service, 9 a.m.; Rosh Hashanah Morning Service, 9:30 a.m.; Rosh Hashanah Youth Services & Programming (Grades K12), 10 a.m.; Rosh Hashanah Mincha/Ma'ariv, 5:30 p.m. at Beth El & Live Stream. SUNDAY: Rosh Hashanah Morning Service, 9:30 a.m.; Rosh Hashanah Youth Services & Programming (Grades K-12), 10 a.m.; Rosh Hashanah Lunch by reservation, 12:45 p.m.; Tashlich, 4 p.m. Meet at Beth El. MONDAY: Shacharit, 7 a.m. at Beth El and Zoom; Mincha/Ma'ariv, 5:30 p.m. at Beth El and Zoom. TUESDAY: Mincha/Ma’ariv, 5:30 p.m. at Beth El and Live Stream. WEDNESDAY: BESTT (Grades 3-7), 4 p.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 5:30 p.m. at Beth El and Live Stream; Hebrew High (Grades 8-12), 6 p.m. THURSDAY: Shacharit, 7 a.m. at Beth El and Zoom; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 5:30 p.m. at Beth El and Zoom. FRIDAY-Sept. 18: Kabbalat Shabbat, 6 p.m. at Beth El and Live Stream. SATURDAY-Sept. 19: Shabbat Morning Services— Suicide Prevention Shabbat, 10 a.m. at Beth El and Live Stream; Jr. Congregation (Grades K-12), 10 a.m.; Havdalah, 8 p.m. Zoom Only. Please visit bethel-omaha.org for additional information and service links.

BETH ISRAEL FRIDAY: Torah from Omaha, 6:45 a.m.; Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Calm in an Uncertain World, 7:35 a.m.; Mincha/Kabbalat Shabbat, 7 p.m.; Candlelighting, 7:23 p.m. SATURDAY (RH Day 1): Shabbos Café, 8:30 a.m.; Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Tot Shabbat, 10:30 a.m.; Youth Class, 10:45 a.m.; Soulful Torah, 6:25 p.m.; Mincha, 7:10 p.m.; Kids Activity/Laws of Shabbos, 7:40 p.m.; Candlelighting, 8:21 p.m. SUNDAY (RH Day 2): Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Tot Shabbat, 10:30 a.m.; Youth Class, 10:45 a.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 7:20 p.m.; Havdalah, 8:19 p.m. MONDAY: Selichot/Shacharit, 6:40 a.m.; Calm in an Uncertain World, 7:45 a.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 7:20 p.m. TUESDAY: Torah from Omaha, 6:45 a.m.; Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Calm in an Uncertain World, 7:35 a.m.; Smichat Chaver Men's Class, 6:30 p.m.; Mincha/ Ma’ariv, 7:20 p.m.

WEDNESDAY: Torah from Omaha, 6:45 a.m.; Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Calm in an Uncertain World, 7:35 a.m.; Character Development, 1:30 p.m.; Mincha/ Ma’ariv, 7:20 p.m. THURSDAY: Torah from Omaha, 6:45 a.m.; Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Calm in an Uncertain World, 7:45 a.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 7:20 p.m. FRIDAY-Sept. 18: Torah from Omaha, 6:45 a.m.; Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Calm in an Uncertain World, 7:35 a.m.; Mincha/Kabbalat Shabbat, 7 p.m.; Candlelighting, 7:11 p.m. SATURDAY-Sept. 19: Shabbos Café, 8:30 a.m.; Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Tot Shabbat, 10:30 a.m.; Youth Class, 10:45 a.m.; Soulful Torah, 6:15 p.m.; Mincha, 7 p.m.; Kids Activity/Laws of Shabbos, 7:30 p.m.; Havdalah, 8:09 p.m. Please visit orthodoxomaha.org for additional information and Zoom service links.

CHABAD HOUSE 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, 7:22 p.m. SATURDAY: Rosh Hashanah Morning Services, 9:30 a.m. followed by Kiddush, ochabad.com/hh26; Light holiday candles after, 8:19 p.m. SUNDAY: Rosh Hashanah Morning Service, 9:30 a.m., ochabad.com/hh26; Rosh Hashanah One-Hour, 11 a.m. followed by Kiddush, ochabad.com/hh26; CKids Club: Shofar Blasting & Taslich, 4 p.m., ocha bad.com/club; CYP Shofar and Taslich, 6 p.m. ocha bad.com/cyprh; Holiday Ends, 8:18 p.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. FRIDAY-Sept. 18: Shacharit, 8 a.m.; Lechayim, 5:30 p.m. go to ochabad.com/lechayim to join; Candlelighting, 7:10 p.m. SATURDAY-Sept. 19: Shacharit, 10 a.m. followed by Kiddush and Cholent; Shabbat Ends, 8:07 p.m.

LINCOLN JEWISH COMMUNITY: B’NAI JESHURUN & TIFERETH ISRAEL Services led by Rabbi Benjamin Sendrow. All services offered in-person with live-stream or teleconferencing options. FRIDAY: Erev Rosh Hashanah Service, 7 p.m. led by Rabbi Sendrow at SST; Shabbat Candlelighting, 7:24 p.m. SATURDAY: Children’s Morning Service, 9:30 a.m. at SST; Day One Rosh Hashanah Morning Service

(Conservative), 9:30 a.m. lay led at TI. Babysitting Available; Day One Rosh Hashanah Morning Service (Reform), 10 a.m. led by Rabbi Sendrow at SST; Taslich, 3 p.m. at Union Plaza (meet off 21st Streets between O and P Streets); Havdalah, 8:22 p.m. SUNDAY: No LJCS Classes this week; Men's Bike and Coffee Club, 10:45 a.m. The Mill Coffee & Bistro at Nebraska Innovation Campus, 2021 Transformation Dr #1350, Lincoln. For more information or questions please email Al Weiss at albertw801@gmail.com; Day Two Rosh Hashanah Morning Service, 9:30 a.m. at TI. TUESDAY: SCKC Rehearsal, 7–8:30 p.m. at SST WEDNESDAY: Men’s Lunch Group, 12:15 p.m. at Horisun Hospice, 8055 O St #300, Lincoln. We meet in the conference room. Bring your own lunch and beverage. For more information, contact Albert Weiss at albertw801@gmail.com; Hebrew Classes, 4:30–6 p.m.; SST Board Meeting, 7– 9 p.m. at SST. THURSDAY: HHD Choir Rehersal, 6:45–8:30 p.m. FRIDAY-Sept. 18: Kabbalat Shabbat Service, 6:307:30 p.m. led by Rabbi Sendrow at SST followed by an Oneg; Shabbat Candlelighting, 7:12 p.m. SATURDAY-Sept. 19: Shabbat Morning Service, 9:30 a.m. at TI followed by a Kiddush Lunch; Torah Study, 12:15 p.m. on Parashat Ha’azinu led by Rabbi Sendrow at TI; 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, 8:10 p.m.

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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.

TEMPLE ISRAEL

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, 9 a.m.; Erev Rosh Hashanah Service, 7:30 p.m. In-Person & Zoom. SATURDAY: Tot Rosh Hashanah Service, 9:30 a.m. In-Person & Zoom; Sitter Service for children, 10 a.m.; Rosh Hashanah Morning Service with Torah Reading, 10:30 a.m. In-Person & Zoom; Youth Programming, 10:30 a.m. In-Person. SUNDAY: 2nd Sunday Breakfast Service, 9 a.m. at Stephen Center; No Youth Learning this week; Kol Rina Rehearsal, 1 p.m. TUESDAY: Mah Jongg Made Easy, 1:30 p.m. In-Person; Kol Rina Rehearsal, 6:30 p.m. WEDNESDAY: Yarn It, 9 a.m. In-Person; Grades 36, 4:30 p.m.; Mah Jongg Made Easy, 5:45 p.m. InPerson; Hebrew CHAI: Grades 8-12, 6 p.m. FRIDAY-Sept. 18: Drop-In Mah Jongg, 9 a.m. InPerson; Village Walking Group, 9 a.m.; Shabbat Shuva Service and Tashlich, 6 p.m. In-Person & Zoom. SATURDAY-Sept. 19: 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.

MEMORIAL SERVICES Sunday, Sept. 13 Temple Israel Cemetery, 6412 N. 42nd St., 1 p.m.

Community Survey Helps Shape JCRC’s Legislative Priorities HEIDI HEILBRUNN IHE and JCRC Program and Communications Manager The Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) is still seeking participation in its Community Survey, to help the organization determine its priorities and focus for the coming years. The survey will close on Sept. 18. The JCRC serves as a bridge between the Jewish community and the broader Omaha and Nebraska communities. Part of that role includes advocating on issues before the Nebraska Legislature and voicing perspectives on legislation that affects the Jewish community. The results of the 2024 Community Survey identified the separation of government and re-

ligion as one of the top priorities among respondents. That issue became particularly relevant during the most recent legislative session, when several bills addressed religion and public education. The JCRC monitors legislative bills, hearings and schedules throughout the session, with assistance from Catalyst Public Affairs, a lobbying firm. That allows the organization to stay informed about issues that could affect the Jewish community and participate in the legislative process. The Community Survey is an opportunity for community members to have a voice in shaping the JCRC’s priorities and, ultimately,

in how the Jewish community is represented in conversations across Omaha and Nebraska. The current survey offers members of the Jewish community an opportunity to weigh in on the issues they would like the JCRC to address in its work with state and local government, as well as weigh in on Israel and the safety of American Jews. Those who participate will also have an opportunity to win a $75 gift card. To take the Community Survey before Sept. 18 and let the JCRC know which issues matter most to you, please see our ad on Page 8 of this paper and scan the QR code.

Life Cycles IN MEMORIAM

DAVID LEVIN David Levin passed away on Aug. 25, 2026, in Omaha at age 76, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in fashion, design, business, and in the lives of the many people fortunate enough to know him. He was preceded in death by his mother, Sallye Berman Levin; his father, Jack M. Levin; and his beloved sister, Gail R. Levin. David was born on Oct. 20, 1949, in Norfolk, Nebraska. He graduated from Omaha Central High School and went on to receive his bachelor’s degree from the University of Missouri, Columbia. He then moved to Boston where he worked as a potter, ultimately selling some of his pieces to MoMA in New York City. After moving back to Omaha, David and his father, Jack Levin, owned and operated 18 retail stores across a fourstate region. Among them, The Avenue, an Omaha institution, serving generations of Omaha women and reflecting David’s own unmistakable sense of style. Style, for David, was never simply about what was fashionable. It was about taste, proportion, individuality, and knowing the difference between something that was merely expensive and something that was truly good.

David’s sister, Gail Levin, was a multiple Emmy Awardwinning documentary filmmaker whose distinguished career included acclaimed work for PBS’s American Masters and Great Performances. David remained devoted to Gail’s memory following her death in 2013. Yet describing David by his professional accomplishments alone misses much of the man. Those who knew David will remember the intelligence, the style, the stories, the sardonic humor, the opinions, the laughter, and the conversations. Above all, they will remember a singular man who went through life very much as himself.

The Jewish Press | September 11, 2026 | 11

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12 | The Jewish Press | September 11, 2026

News LOC AL | N AT I O N A L | WO R L D

The Jacobson Leadership Tomorow Internship

CADEE SCHEER Jacobson Leadership Tomorrow Summer Intern When I received a letter in the mail, “Welcome to the Jacobson Leadership Tomorrow Internship,” I was very excited. The program seemed like an amazing summer opportunity. It was my style: trying new things, talking to people, having fun, and making a positive impact on the community. It turned out that the internship was all of these things and so much more. I was involved in many incredible programs that I didn’t even know existed. I was impressed by the variety of programs that the agencies have created to support all stages of life. Lastly, I was blown away by the staff's kindness and passion. It was an honor being in this position for the summer, and I am glad to take with me many new skills and a deeper connection to the Omaha Jewish community. Through the internship, I experienced a variety of interesting programs. For example, I joined Mike from Jewish Family Services (JFS) for the Meals on Wheels program. In this program, people can have food delivered to them Monday through Friday. Whether they need extra support through meals or they physically cannot leave their homes, Mike will drive to their house with a bag of food and a smile. This program is impactful, but many people don't know it exists, or that JFS has programs like the food pantry and many others. Another program I experienced was going to the food bank for the Tzedakah Teen program. This program brought teens together to help the community. It was a lot of fun, and the teens made it into a very high-stakes competition about who could fill the most bags of food first. A third example of a program I experienced through the internship was going with Shelly Fox and Pam Monsky to Hillcrest. Hillcrest is an end-oflife care facility that works with the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. Hillcrest wanted to learn more about how to better care for the Jewish residents and make sure they were respecting their traditions. Pam provided a general background on Judaism. I have heard her talk about this when I previously did the Student-to-Student program through

the Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC). Pam knows how to keep her audience engaged, saying amusing lines such as, "You can even have Shabbat over a bucket of KFC”. Shelly Fox was also there to explain traditions surrounding end-oflife care and burials. Shelly spoke about programs that she runs, like the variety of support groups offered to the community. Something that makes the campus so special is the interconnection of all the agencies. This allows the Federation to be as big and impactful as it is today for the community. At the core of all of these agencies are the people. This internship was such a joy, and I learned so much because of the people I interacted with each day. Every single person was the kindest person I have ever met. They always made me feel that I was a part of something important. They let me see what they do every day and why they do it. One person who stands out to me is Stacy Feldman; she recently moved into the role of Chief Impact Officer. I worked with her on an important task to make sure programs were really affecting people. In the time I worked with her, I could tell she cared deeply about this community. This was true for every single person who was there. They love this community, and it shows in everything they do. They care for everyone on a personal level, whether it is making sure every resident at the RBJH has their own room and the best treatment, or saying hi to everyone in the halls, regardless of whether they are the CEO or a coworker. Something that I have realized from my time on campus is that the Jewish Federation has found a way to

offer care for every person at every stage of their life. If you need support, JFS will help with everything from food and meals to advice. JCRC will help with any issue or concern you have, from personal to global. The Foundation will give you philanthropy advice, and they administer endowed programs like the Jacobson Leadership Tomorrow Internship. The Community Education and Engagement team will have fun programs for every age. The RBJH offers seniors great activities such as bingo, games, and karaoke. I'd like to stay connected to the JCC next summer and volunteer at the RBJH, which was a highlight of my summer experience. I appreciate the staff taking time out of their schedules to teach me, and I hope my work was helpful to the community. I am thankful to Joanie and Richard Jacobson for creating this internship. I will never stop talking about all the fun things I was able to do. It has been eye-opening and has shown me that, no matter what I do in the future, I want to help people and be surrounded by people with the kindness everyone on campus showed me.

made, but because of the family I have created and the life lessons I am leaving with. When I was little, my older brothers Ari and Ethan would come back from camp and tell me: “You can be stupid with what you do, because someone will have your back; but if you are dumb, you can’t ask for that help.” This quote doesn’t mean to do thoughtless or destructive things, it means if you make a mistake, you can count on someone. For me, that someone is my camp family. Ha’achim sheli tamid amru li she’asur lif ’ol bli lachshov u’vechoser achrayut, aval she’im et’eh lif ’amim, atmid yiyeh Mishehu she’yegabeh oti ve’yitmoch bi. Bishvili, hatmicha hazot hayta hamishpacha sheli bamachaneh, she’tamid hayta sham bishvili. During my first summer as a chanich in the summer of 2018, I got on the bus in Minnesota, and I knew no one-not a face on the bus looked familiar. But then, the group of boys I was sitting with offered me some snacks, and obviously, I wasn't going to say no. That’s when I started my camp family. As we got older, my family started to expand from my group of close friends to the entire Eidah. By Bogrim, rumors were going around saying we weren't a good Eidah, or that we were uncontrollable. It' s true, we have had our ups and downs, but so has every other one before us. During our Bogrim summer, our counselors saw through what everyone else said about us, believed in us, and in the end, it only made us closer and better off. That’s the summer we finally went from a lot of little cliques to one big family. I think I speak for my whole Eidah when I say our counselors changed us for the better- Oren Nochimowski and Micah Feigelson taught us

one very important life rule: inclusivity. They would ask us, "What is the point of doing something fun if not everyone can enjoy it? On one of the first days of this summer, I was told the givah is special, because if you’re at the top, you can look down and see the struggles and successes you have gone through to get up there. At the bottom, you can’t yet see the top, or know what the next step on your path brings. Ha-giv’ah mesamelet et ha-derekh she’avarta bamachaneh. Rak acharei dhemagi’im lemakom gavoha efshar lehistakel le’achor ule’havin kama hitkadamta, aval bizman she’atah adayin ba’derekh ha’kasha, kasha lirot ethatemunah ha-mele’ah vela’da’at mah mekhakeh lekha behemskekh. Just like in this week’s parsha, Eikev, where Moses continues to give his final speech to the children of Israel. He says: Remember the long way that the Lord your Gd has made you travel in the wilderness these past 40 years. For 40 years, we took the same path. At camp, for two months, we take the same path. Everyone at camp can relate to this, and we all need to understand our paths have crossed time and time again for a reason. I say: let me climb the palm, let me take hold of its branches (Song of Songs 7:9). This summer marks the end of our climb up the palm tree. We have held every branch, lived every struggle, and can now relax. Thank you for the best nine summers of my life. You have all been with me for my highest, and my lowest, and accepted me for who I am. When I think of joy, I think of the memories with you all. Mishpacha, simchah, targish. Feel joyful with your family. Shabbat Shalom.

Thoughts about Camp

Asher Finkelstein with Spencer Gordman ASHER FINKELSTEIN Editors note: The summer of 2026 was Asher Finkelstein’s last summer as a camper at Camp Ramah. At the end, he was chosen to give a speech. What follows is a condensed version of that speech. Asher is the son of Becca and David Finkelstein, and has two older brothers, Ari and Ethan. Achim, simchah, targish: "Brothers. Joy. Feel." It means to feel joy with your brothers. Every week since Bogrim, Erev Shabbat, all of the boys in my Eidah leave the chadar right after kiddush, make a standing ma’agal outside and recite these three words. I want to introduce you all to a new saying that made my camp life more enjoyable; I encourage you to make it a tradition for your cabins. Mishpacha, simcha, and targish. This means to feel joy with your family. Camp is a family to me and I owe my life to this camp, not only because of the friends I have