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Creative Connection Jon Stewart and Peter Beinart on Judaism Page 5

JCRC Strengthens Outreach to Schools as Antisemitism Rises Page 6

Camp Gan Israel: The Greatest Camp in the Universe Page 8

REGULARS4

Spotlight Voices Synagogues

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AMY BERNSTEIN SHIVVERS JFO Foundation Executive Director As a rising freshman at the University of Nebraska Omaha majoring in Art, Juliette Boehm Smith brought her creative energy, curiosity, and drive to the Jewish Federation of Omaha’s Marketing Department this summer as part of the Jacobson Leadership Tomorrow ( JLT) internship program. Over the course of eight weeks, Juliette’s capstone experience touched nearly every corner of campus—supporting multiple departments, building new skills, and leaving a meaningful impression on staff and community members alike. From the start, Juliette hit the ground running— learning photography, graphic design, and layout software like InDesign and Lightroom. She supported visual projects ranging from business cards and camp certificates to digital artwork for custom hats and folders, gaining exposure to both digital and print production. A highlight included touring Boys Town Printshop, where she gained a deeper appreciation for the behind-the-scenes process of professional printing. Throughout the summer, Juliette’s talents were shared across campus agencies: • At Jewish Family Service, she joined the Meals on Wheels program each week, delivering food and offering companionship to seniors—an experience she described as heartwarming and deeply impactful. See Creative Connection page 3

Where Are They Now: Dana Nogg Kiper

Welcoming Abby Coren

AMY BERNSTEIN SHIVVERS JFO Foundation Executive Director What is your favorite Jewish memory growing up in Omaha? I have so many, but two stand out. First, my time at Temple Israel was incredibly meaningful—both for the education and the friendships. I loved going to Hebrew and religious school each week to see friends like Paula Friedland Boggust, Amy Kavich Zetzman, and Andrew Bernstein—many of whom remain close today.

ARI KOHEN The Norman and Bernice Harris Center for Judaic Studies and Housing & Dining Services at the University of Nebraska—Lincoln are excited to welcome Abby Coren to the position of Jewish Life Coordinator/Kosher Kitchen Supervisor. In this newly-created position Abby will provide programming support for the UNL Hillel, create outreach opportunities for Jewish students on campus, and train for the role of mashgicha under the leadership of Rabbi Mordechai Geiger and Rabbi Maximo Shechet to provide kosher food options while on campus. Abby was born and raised in Lincoln, NE and attended Tifereth Israel Synagogue while growing up. “My love for Judaism and my love for Lincoln cannot be separated in my mind,” says Abby. “Living an observant Jewish life in Lincoln was not

I also have fond memories of Rabbi Brooks, Cantor Firestone, Mrs. Delman, and Mrs. Whitman. I even helped out with Sunday School and enjoyed assisting Mr. Shulman. I just loved being at Temple. In high school, I was deeply involved in BBYO and Temple youth group (MoVFTY). I served as President of Ediar BBG and made lifelong friends from across the Midwest. One highlight was leading a Friday night See Kiper page 2

always convenient due to the lack of kosher restaurants or meat options in local grocery stores, but my family always found ways to enjoy and celebrate our Judaism without feeling that we lacked anything.” Abby knows firsthand how important a strong Jewish community is in creating a sense of welcome and belonging. Abby spent time See Abby Coren page 2