Vol. LXXXIII No. 24 Omaha, NE
Celebrating 83 Years of Service to Nebraska and Western Iowa
21 Shevat, 5764 February 13, 2004
Lincoln Woman Gets a New Kidney by CAROL KATZMAN Editor of The Jewish Press While Omahans were recovering from the first of several significant snowstorms, Pinkie Neiden Hansen was recovering from major surgery. After years of dialysis and waiting several months for a kidney, she underwent an eight-hour transplant operation on Jan. 27 at the University of Nebraska Medical Center’s Lied Transplant Center. Hansen went public on March 28, 2003, in a front-page article in the Jewish Press, written by Joan K. Marcus. For her birthday present, which she celebrated that weekend, she asked for a donation of a healthy kidney. Most kidney transplants come either from a close relative-as in the case of Marcia Pitlor’s donation to her brother nearly three years ago, or are “cadaver kidneys,” those taken from newly deceased patients who’ve signed organ donor cards. In 2002, Cheryl Cooper donated a healthy kidney to her best friend, Ann Goldstein. Despite some setbacks, the two women are in good health and Goldstein’s donated kidney is working perfectly.
Hansen’s donor, Lyle Sinner, is a friend--not a relative--of the family. He was wheeled into surgery first, for the removal of one of his healthy kidneys--a present to Pinkie, whose surgery began three-and-a-half hours later. Both have suffered some setbacks--Hansen was due to go home last weekend and instead spiked a fever of 104º; she was treated with a variety of antibiotics and came home Monday! In 1970, she was diagnosed
Friends of Pinkie Neiden Hansen sponsored a “recuperation shower” for her during the regular meeting of the Tifereth Israel Synagogue Women’s Lunch Bunch. Hansen has asked that donations be made either to the synagogue, the Lied Transplant Center or a charity of choice, as “my appetite is not the best just now, and besides, Dave is a great cook...I won’t need a thing other than rest..”
Super Sunday Helps Jews Overseas by PAM MONSKY Federation Communications Director On Super Sunday, Feb. 15, dozens of volunteers will meet at Omaha Steaks Telemarketing Center to call members of the Omaha Jewish community and ask for their support of Jewish programming and services by making a gift to the Jewish Federation of Omaha’s Annual Campaign. But Andie Gordman and her brother Jay, serving as 2004 Super Sunday Co-chairs, want to make sure that all donors to the Annual Campaign know how their contributions impact the quality of Jewish life here in Omaha and all over the world. Super Sunday is the largest division of donors in the Annual Campaign, raising more than $50,000 every year. Super Sunday also serves as the unofficial finale to the Annual Campaign, which this year has a goal of $3.2 million. At this time, the Federation is very close to reaching that goal and the Super Sunday donors play a key role in the Annual Campaign’s success. Through our national umbrella organization, United Jewish Communities, the Jewish Federation has the capacity to reach every Jew in need with an unparalleled social-service network. This life saving work is accomplished through two pre-eminent overseas partners; the Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI) and the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC). Unfortunately, the needs overseas continue to increase due to the unrelenting terror in Israel, economic collapse in Argentina and rising anti-Semitism. The situation for Argentina’s Jewish community remains critical since the
Inside
nosuppressant drug. “So far, it’s been an incredible experience,” Hansen wrote in one of her e-mail updates, “nothing too traumatic. I’m sore but this too shall pass.” Lyle had to return to the hospital when an infection developed and he’s still there. Pinkie’s husband, Dave, however, spent time with him and his wife, Luetta, watching the first night of NASCAR racing. Lyle hopes to be released sometime this week. “Dave has been an incredible caregiver,” Pinkie added, “but I can tell he needs a break from taking vitals and doling out drugs, keeping track of what goes in and what comes out, bringing me meals and keeping me on schedule. “Even so, after we get home I’ll still have to have blood levels drawn three days a week,” she noted, “but at least it won’t be dialysis!” Hansen doesn’t need offers of food and has declined gifts of flowers and balloons, but she does request that donations be sent to Tifereth Israel Synagogue in Lincoln, whose support group has “been incredible” or to the Lied Transplant Center.
Bush Administration Begins Embracing Sharon’s Proposals
country’s economic collapse in 2001. Since then, more than 8,000 Argentinean Jews have made aliyah to Israel, well above budgeted projections. Campaign contributions help Argentinean families to successfully integrate into Israeli society. Of the Jewish population who remain in Argentina, more than 25% formerly middle class families now live below the poverty line. Campaign contributions help provide services to help Argentina’s Jewish community recover from the country’s economic meltdown. The unrelenting terror attacks in Israel continue to take their toll on the country’s resources. Today, one in five Israelis now live below the poverty line, including 500,000 children, and the unemployment forecast for 2004 is modestly estimated to be 15%. The government of Israel can no longer fund their social service and welfare programs as all of the country’s resources must be directed towards defense. Federation Campaign dollars are helping to fund the social welfare programs and counseling services for terror victims. The population seeking assistance is growing at an alarming rate…without our help, thousands of families would have nowhere to turn. Sadly, as the terrorism continues, the needs continue to increase. So, when your phone rings this Sunday, Feb. 15, Super Sunday Co-chairs Andie Gordman and her brother Jay urge you to answer the call and make an increased pledge to the 2004 Federation Annual Campaign! For more information, please contact me at 334.6431 or pmonsky@jewishomaha.org
Next Week: Home & Garden Issue on Feb. 20 Gibson, Famn Trade Letters, But Fail to Find Common Ground: Page 2
with Focal Segmental Glomerula Sclerosis, a gradual reduction in kidney function, discovered while she was still in junior high school. She was treated with a variety of experimental drugs, had to limit her physical activities and went on a low protien diet. She finally wound up on dialysis five years ago. At the Lied, Hansen started going to Patient Services for her daily blood draw soon after surgery, and had her fluid output monitered very closely. She also received an IV infusion of Thymoglobulin, an immu-
by RON KAMPEAS WASHINGTON (JTA)--For Ariel Sharon’s government, Washington is a town where once unimaginable dreams can come true. The Bush administration is on board with the West Bank security barrier, officials who could once barely contain their impatience with Israel have shut out the Palestinians, and the president wants to learn more about the Israeli prime minister’s plans for unilateral disengagement from the Palestinians. The problem with answered prayers,
top White House officials: Steve Hadley, second-in-command at the National Security Council, and Elliot Abrams, the top Middle East official at the NSC. The two were to have gone to the Middle East this week, but administration officials said the visit has been postponed for the time being--possibly until next week, possibly later. When they do visit, Giora Eiland, who heads Sharon’s National Security Council, will present them with an array of options. After getting feedback from his U.S. counterparts, Eiland, top Sharon adviser Dov Weisglass and others on the Israeli security council will further refine the plans and arrive in Washington for more consultations a week later. Sometime after that--as soon as early March--Sharon himself will arrive in Washington to present Bush with a detailed plan. Americans were skeptical at first when Sharon announced his plans earlier this month for a unilateral withdrawal of The children of Gush Katif play in the sands of the Gaza Strip Jewish settlements from Gaza, outside their settlement. Photo courtesy of Protexia. but a barrage of Israeli reasIsrael is finding, is that they lead to more surances melted resistance. questions.In recent meetings with their The speedy evolution from the United Israeli counterparts, top U.S. officials States on the fence to the United States have asked Israel to fill in the gaps in on Israel’s side was evident in U.S. State Sharon’s broad outlines of a break with Department spokesman Richard the Gaza Strip and pullouts from remote Boucher’s initial statements. areas of the West Bank. On Feb. 2, Boucher’s position was “The Americans want details,” an pronouncedly wait-and-see: “I don’t Israeli official said. think I can put this move in isolation,”he Israelis are scrambling to provide those said. “What needs to be looked at is the details ahead of a visit to the region by two Continued on page 12
Coming Next Month: Salute to Beth Israel’s New Building on March 5
Two Young Jewish Omahans Start Entertainment Weekly: Page 3
OTYG Wants to Raise $20,000 at Spaghetti Auction: Page 5
Crossword Puzzle, Happy Birthday, Trees: Page 7
Page 2
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
February 13, 2004
Gibson, Foxman Trade Letters, but Fail to Find a Common Ground
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CLIP & SAVE
CALENDAR OF EVENTS SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 14 Opening Shabbat at the New Beth Israel, 9 a.m. BBYO Chaim Weizmann Sweetheart Dance, 8 p.m. and Procession, 11 p.m. SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 15 JEWISH FEDERATION OF OMAHA SUPER SUNDAY, 7 a.m. RBJH Sweetheart Senior Prom, 7 p.m. C JCC Basketball Awards Ceremony in the Gym, 7 p.m. L MONDAY, FEBRUARY 16 I P YES Program, 10 a.m. & “Soul of the Text” Adult Ed. Class, 11 a.m. JELS Teacher Training Program, 7 p.m. S TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 17 A V Adult Education, 8:30 a.m. at Temple Israel E Adult Education, noon at Temple Israel BBYO Chapter Elections, 6 p.m. BBYO Night, 6 p.m. Temple Israel Board of Trustees Meeting. 7:30 p.m.
C L I P & S A V E
Large Turn-Out Expected for Beth El’s ‘Tot Shabbat’
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18 JELS Program “Jewish Thinkers on Jewish Subjects”, 10 a.m. Hadassah Board Meeting, 10 a.m. “Patter” Program, 10:30 a.m. at Beth El Crash Course in Hebrew Reading, noon Social Justice Club (Gr. 7-12), 5:30 p.m. at Temple Israel High School Dinner, 6 p.m. at Beth El NCJW Board Meeting and Social, 6 p.m. Adult Education, 6:30 p.m. at Temple Israel Adult B’nai Mitzvah Classes, 7 p.m. at Beth El Board Meeting. 7:30 p.m. at Beth El THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 19 C L Walk-in Drop-in, 10 a.m. I Adult Education, 10 a.m. at Temple Israel P “Jewish Wisdom for the 21st Century” with Rabbi Levin, noon at Beth El & Yiddish Group, 1 p.m. S JSS Program “Abe Lincoln”, 1 p.m. A Jewish Women International Sweetheart Day, 2 p.m. at the Rose Blumkin Home V E Maccabi Parent Meeting, 6 p.m. Caring & Condolence Committee Meeting, 7 p.m. at Beth El JOLT II, 7 p.m. All events held at the JCC unless otherwise indicated.The Jewish Press is not responsible for the accuracy of events.To keep calendar accurate or for questions, call Marlene Hert at 334-6437. FOR A COMPLETE LISTING,VISIT THE FEDERATION’S WEBSITE: www.JewishOmaha.org (click on calendar)
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by TOM TUGEND only in the Gospel of Matthew, has been used historiLOS ANGELES (JTA) -- Mel Gibson and Abraham cally to accuse the Jewish people of collective responFoxman are not becoming the best of pen pals. sibility for the death of Jesus. With Gibson’s controversial $25 million The Passion A Gibson spokesman, Alan Nierob, said the final verof the Christ set to premiere Feb. 25, he and one of his sion of the film has yet to be seen. Gibson is “editing movie's harshest critics have traded letters that, so far, every day, 10 hours a day,” Nierob said. have failed to yield a truce in a kind of latter-day Cold In fact, Gibson apparently will drop the controversial War where the sides alternately snipe and plead for scene from the film. The New York Times reported last detente. week that in response to Their correspondence focus group reactions, grew out of harsh criticism Gibson will cut the quote by Foxman, national laying collective guilt for the Director of the Anticrucifixion on the Jews. Defamation League. However, even if that Foxman watched a screenscene is deleted, as some ing of The Passion last have urged, it won’t make month and told reporters much difference, Foxman that it was a “painful” picsaid. ture putting ultimate blame “The film is a continuum for killing Jesus on Jewish of ‘the Jews did this and the mobs and authorities. Israel Singer, left, chairman of the World Jewish Congress, Jews did that,’ while the Other Jewish officials and stands with architect Daniel Libeskind, center and Romans mainly come off as rabbis have seen versions of Christoph Cardinal Schonborn of Wien, Austria at the World good guys,” he said. the film and delivered Symposium of Catholic Cardinals and Jewish Leaders, held Foxman said that the only mixed reactions, but it was in New York Jan. 19-20, 2004. Credit: Richard Lobell remaining hope of softening Foxman who received a Jan. anti-Semitic fallout from the 30 letter from Gibson urging Foxman to join him in film--particularly in Europe, Latin America and the Middle “setting an example for all our brethren” by following East--is for Gibson to appear on-screen at the end of the the path of respect and “love for each other despite our movie and say something along the following lines: differences.” “I did this film because I believe I was inspired by The actor-director addressed Foxman as “a man of the Holy Ghost. I believe that Jesus suffered for all integrity and a man of faith,” adding, “I do not take your mankind and that He wanted us to love and not to concerns lightly. It is my deepest belief, as I am sure it is hate. Some people want to put the blame for His death yours, that all who ever breathe life on Earth are children on the Jews. That is wrong.” of God and my most binding obligation to them, as a “If he were to appear, I think it would detox some brother in this waking world, is to love them.” of” the movie’s impact, Foxman said. In a response Monday, a copy of which JTA obtained, But Nierob said that wouldn’t work on celluloid. Foxman thanked Gibson for his “kind words,” but said “Try and kill a commercial film, please,” he said. “It they did not get to the heart of the matter. makes no sense from a cinematic point of view.” “Unfortunately, your letter does not address any of Nierob added that he doubted Gibson would reply furthe issues that we have been raising all along since we ther to Foxman. “Everything’s been said--Abe said it.” first reached out to you in March 2003,” Foxman wrote. Foxman and numerous Catholic scholars contend that “Your words do not mitigate our concerns about the Gibson’s portrayal of vengeful Jews runs counter to the potential consequences of your film to fuel and legit- Second Vatican Council ruling of 1965 that Jews do not imize anti-Semitism. Can the image of your film be used bear collective responsibility for Jesus’ death. by those who are disposed toward hatred and harden However, Gibson belongs to a traditionalist offshoot their hearts?” of the Catholic Church that rejects many reforms of the For almost a year, Gibson has turned a cold shoulder past 40 years, as well as the legitimacy of the popes. to Foxman’s entreaties to preview the film and discuss Adding to what has become a journalistic cottage its content. However, the ADL leader and a colleague industry is a weekend report that Reader’s Digest, got into a Jan. 21 screening of the film for a group of which claims some 40 million readers, will publish an Protestant ministers in Orlando, FL. extensive interview with Gibson in its March issue. It On Monday, Foxman said the unfinished version he will hit the newsstands the day before the film opens saw included a scene in which a Jewish mob pleads on Ash Wednesday. with Pilate to crucify Jesus and shouts, “His blood be According to Reuters, Gibson claims in the article that on us, and on our children.” he was surprised by the intensity of the controversy The That single sentence, found in the New Testament Passion has spawned.
C L I P & S A V E
by DIANE AXLER BAUM “It was an incredible experience,” exclaimed Bobbie for Beth El Synagogue Epstein, one of the nearly 50 in attendance at the first Based on the enthusiastic response to Beth El’s first Tot Shabbat. “The parents loved watching the children Friday evening ‘Tot Shabbat’, even larger numbers of learn and participate,” she noted, “And the grandparyoung children, parents, and grandparents are expect- ents just kvelled.” She’s called many of her friends ed to join together for the next Tot Shabbat service, on with grandchildren to share her enthusiasm and Feb. 20, 6 p.m. encourage them to come in the future. Once each month thereafter, Tot Shabbat services are Leslie Eades, whose family also attended with three scheduled for March 19, April 16, and May 14. Within a generations, responded to “Patty’s wonderful rapport framework of 20 to 30 minwith the kids” and to “the utes, the lovely service utiage appropriate, but still lizes music, prayer, and stovery engaging material.” ries. The experience comes “We absolutely will go to a warm close at an Oneg back,” said Eades, who’s Shabbat of cookies and suggested to her friends, juice. also young parents, that Patty Nogg is ideally suitthey should not miss Tot ed to serve as leader. To Shabbat. The service is the role she brings 11 years geared especially to chilof experience as a beloved dren two to six years of age. teacher on the staff of the For more information on JCC’s Child Development programs for toddlers and Center, in addition to her children at Beth El, call or expertise in Judaic music Getting ready to leave for last month's Tot Shabbat at Beth contact Harriet Einziger at and her extraordinary vocal El are Sarah Schop and Alec and Cali Epstein, grandchil- 492-8550 or programskills. ming@bethel-omaha.org. dren of Bobbie and Robert Epstein.
February 13, 2004
Two Young Jewish Men Take Risk to Start Omaha Weekly by CAROL KATZMAN older building and a ceilEditor of the Jewish Press ing that caved in from Why would two nice heavy snow on the roof. Jewish boys leave their But they’re “cautiously jobs to launch a weekly optimistic,” insisted newspaper in Omaha, Goodman, whose title is NE, in an economy that Vice-president and hasn’t quite rebounded Director of Marketing. He yet? That was the big comes to City Weekly with question in a recent interexperience as an account view with Andy Ruback, executive for Clear 27, and Eric Goodman, Eric Goodman, left, and Andy Channel Radio, too, and 23, two of the four own- Ruback are two of the City also worked in promoers of City Weekly, which Weekly’s new owners. tions for a firm in Kansas publishes its debut issue Feb. 18. City. A graduate of the University of “We saw a hole in the market,” said Kansas, Goodman has a degree in jourRuback,” and we think (our paper) can nalism and insisted that City Weekly will fill it.” be mainstream and not be an “underRuback, comes to this new venture ground” paper or “trashy.” with a background in sales, having “We hope to be the one and only worked for Clear Channel Worldwide as source for entertainment (news) in the General Sales Manager and before that Omaha area,” he added. National Sales Manager for its eight Ruback prides himself on being a properties in Omaha and Lincoln. His “nice Jewish boy who stayed in Omaha.” official title at City Weekly is Executive He’s dating someone here and spends Vice-president and Co-Publisher. Friday nights at the home of his grandGoodman and Ruback have partnered parents, who serve Shabbat dinner for with Dan Beckmann, former owner of upwards of 20 people. The Reader, and Patrick Stibbs. Jim Minge, Next week’s debut run of City Weekly former Entertainment Editor at the World- will be 15,000, but Ruback hopes for a Herald, is the new Editor-in-Chief. 50,000 press run in the near future. As far as the two young men are con- They’ve got 870 distribution sites and cerned, if this doesn’t work out, they’ll even purchased 75 outdoor newspaper be on to “the next big thing.” But in the racks, so Omahans can pick up a copy meantime, they’ve done their home- next to the World-Herald, Wall Street work, researched this market (and oth- Journal and USA Today. ers), hired production and sales staff, In addition to publishing the paper, the writers and designers for their new owners also want to produce concerts home above Goldberg’s on 50th and and musicals. “We want people to think Dodge. There, Ruback and Goodman of us first,” Ruback smiled, “when it have had to contend with wiring an comes to entertainment.”
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 3
Israeli Musicians to Perform in Free Concert by BETH DOTAN The Institute for Holocaust Education Director, Institute for Holocaust Education and the Ghetto Fighters’ Museum A special musical performance by Education staff jointly prepared lessons Kolit: Voices of the Generations will take based on the poetry and music written in place on Sunday, Feb. 22, 7 p.m., in the ghettos during the Holocaust. the Jewish Community Center’s Theatre. Teachers will prepare their students with Open and free seating will begin at 6:30 these lessons to gain an understanding p.m.. “Kolit, the Hebrew term for “voic- of the lives of youth during this time. es”, is an Israeli musical group from the Kolit is not a professional group that Ghetto Fighters’ Kibbutz of the Western earns its living from singing, but is the Galilee. expression of the authenThe group comes to the tic experience of a comOmaha community as part munity located in the of the Jewish Federation’s Western Galilee landparticipation in the scape, and adjacent to a Partnership 2000 Project museum that tells the and in conjunction with story of the Jewish peothe Institute for Holocaust ple. The simple songs Education, a division of come from the heart and the Plains States Regional invite the audience to Office of the Anti- Members of Kolit are: Roni Shner, participate. In addition left, Tova Havardi, Hanah to singing, members of Defamation League. Bartonowski, Tali Shner, Dalya Guy. the Kolit invite the audiPartnership 2000 is a program of United Jewish Communities ence to discuss the story of the second and the Jewish Federation of Omaha that generation after the Holocaust, the culpairs up Jewish communities in the ture of remembrance and the intergenerUnited States with similar communities ational discourse that developed at the in Israel for the purpose of enhancing Ghetto Fighters’ Kibbutz. the social, educational and business relaDuring their visit in Omaha, Kolit tionships between American and Israeli members will meet with professionals Jews. Omaha’s Partnership 2000 area is who hold positions in our community in Israel’s Western Galilee. that parallel their own in Israel. Members of Kolit will be involved in Organizations such as the Omaha Public educational programming during their Library, South High School Art visit to Omaha. They will sing for music Department, Millard West Music and social studies students at Millard Department, the Omaha Children’s West on Friday morning, Feb. 20, fol- Museum and others will be a part of this lowed by a visit to Millard South on the sharing and dialogue exchange. same day. They will visit South High on For more information, please contact Monday, Feb. 23. me at 333.1303.
This Sunday, be sure you’re Invested in Jewish Omaha! Answer the call on Super Sunday, February 15!!
• DID YOU KNOW that Jewish Family Service provided Emergency Financial Assistance to more than 100 • Jewish families in Omaha last year for food, shelter, medicine, utilities and winter clothing for children? • DID YOU KNOW that Jewish Senior Servies prepared and delivered 15,482 Meal-on-Wheels to Omaha • Jewish seniors who might otherwise not get a hot meal or a visitor? • Gifts to the Jewish Federation of Omaha’s Annual Campaign through Super Sunday support these and • many other vital community services.
Your community needs you NOW more than ever! Andie Gordman Jay Gordman 2004 Super Sunday Co-Chairs
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
February 13, 2004
Temple Scholar Steers the Way to Living with Loss, Healing with Hope
How to Go on Living When a Loved One Dies sions decrease as you sense that others appear uneasy whenever you broach the subject. For this reason, Jewish Senior Service and Jewish Family Service is offering a monthly grief support group beginning Wednesday, Feb. 18, 4:15-5:15 p.m., in the JFS conference room. Starting in March, the group will meet at the same time on the second Wednesday of every month. The group is designed to facilitate a caring community in the midst of the many feelings of the mourning process and to suggest Jewish resources that may offer comfort to those grieving a loss. People are welcome to attend as many of the sessions they would like and there is no charge. For additional information, call Shane Kotok at 334.6529 or me at 330.2024.
by STEVE STIEL Executive Director, Jewish Family Service The death of a loved one is the deepest loss people experience. Grief is a universal and natural response to loss that is often accompanied by feelings of love, sadness, anger, fear, guilt and loneliness. In the days and weeks immediately following the death, friends and family provide comfort and support. With their support, the burden of grief is tolerable. As the weeks turn into months it is common for the support to dissipate as people return to the routines of their daily lives. However, the need for emotional support usually remains for those who have experienced the loss of a loved one. The need to talk about the person who died often remains strong. Yet, the opportunities for these discus-
Beth Israel Initiates 52nd Street Chapel Minyan ing. Sale of the building would be contingent on the school being able to finish the year there. In April, the Executive Committee will evaluate what changes will need to be made to this plan, based upon whether the building has been sold and the number of people attending weekly services. The 52nd Street Chapel will continue to look as it has for years, with pews, art work and plaques in place. Prayer books and a Torah will be part of what is provided by Beth Israel for the minyan. Beginning with services this Sunday, Feb.15, daily morning and evening services will be in the chapel of the new building, 12604 Pacific St. Service times for the 52nd Street minyan will be the same as the Shabbat service at the new building.
by BETH COHEN Executive Director In April of 1999, the Beth Israel Board of Commissioners approved a motion to provide a location for its members in the 52nd Street neighborhood should the synagogue go forward with a move to west Omaha. In December of that year, the congregation voted to build a new building, which opens tonight for its first Shabbat services. At the February board meeting, President David Kohll announced that the chapel of the 52nd Street building would continue to be available for Shabbat and Holiday minyanim. This plan will be in place at least through May as the synagogue has a lease agreement with the Children’s Room Montessori in that build-
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by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Temple Israel Communications Coordinator “We all have losses in our lives,” pointed out Cantor Wendy Shermet of Temple Israel. “The loss of expectations, the loss of dreams,” occur to people within the context of a myriad of human experiences. These losses might include the decline of one’s health or restrictions imposed by disease; losing a job which may involve loss of personal dignity in addition to loss of income; loss of a beloved pet; and traumatic events in a family such as separation or divorce. “When people are going through grief,” according to Steve Stiel, executive director of Jewish Family Service, “they very much feel they are alone in their grief. I’ve found that it helps to go talk to somebody like a counselor or a therapist, a member of the clergy, a support group, or others who’ve suffered similar losses. Part of the advantage (of talking to others) is to understand the emotions that are being expressed -- just to get an idea of what to expect -- even though not everyone grieves the same way. There’s comfort in knowing that someone understands what you’re going through.” Grief can be shared, however, by an entire nation or a people with an accompanying loss of innocence and security, Stiel added. Rabbi Earl Grollman, who will be a scholar-in-residence, February 20-22, at Temple Israel, was an on-site counselor following the bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Building in Oklahoma City in 1995 and the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. An internationally recognized bereavement counselor, Rabbi Grollman recalled, “In both places, I felt like I was in a time capsule. No words will ever capture the magnitude of the havoc.” “I was often asked, ‘How could God allow this to happen?’ I don’t think God had anything to do with the disasters. This broke God’s heart as it would any parent whose children had been brutalized.” He added, “God’s predicament is the predicament of every parent who has to grant freedom to children, and the granting of it (was) misused and abused at Oklahoma City and on Sept. 11th.” “Anger at God shows that the connection is deep and powerful,” Rabbi Grollman explained, “and as I remind people, God can take it.” Rabbi Grollman believes that “God was present in the darkest hours even as the fires raged. God was cleverly disguised as the men and women who formed human chains in their determination to save as many lives as possible. God masqueraded as the brave men and
women of the fire and police departments who plunged into the towering inferno to rescue whomever they could. And God also bore a striking resemblance to those I saw working around the clock in the smoldering rubble oblivious to their personal safety.” On Friday, Feb. 20, Rabbi Grollman will give the D’var Torah at 7:30 p.m. Shabbat Worship Services at Temple Israel on “Turning Stumbling Blocks into Stepping Stones.” Seniors in need of transportation who wish to attend services that night should call Temple Israel at 556-6536 by Thursday, Feb. 19, to reserve a seat on the Shul Shuttle. It will pick them up at their homes, apartments, or retirement centers and return after services. There is no cost to ride the shuttle. Rabbi Grollman will talk about “Dealing with the Inevitable Losses of Life”, on Saturday, Feb. 21, 3 p.m. in the Milder Center at Temple, followed by a healing havdalah service. On Sunday, Feb. 22, 10 a.m., there will be a discussion on “Children Mourning,” dealing with how parents, families, and communities can help children cope with loss. When the children of a close friend of his died, they asked Rabbi Grollman what to do. He went to the library to find a book on how to explain death to children. “There wasn’t a single volume to be found,” he said. “It was a taboo subject” as if death would disappear if it weren’t discussed. His book: Talking About Death: A Dialogue Between Parent and Child, helped fill that void. The paperback edition is available for sale at Temple Israel along with three of Rabbi Grollman’s other books: Living When a Loved One Has Died; Living with Loss, Healing with Hope: A Jewish Perspective; and Straight Talk About Death for Teenagers. “I think loss has a way of hurtling us into despair,” said Rabbi Craig Marantz of Temple Israel. “Rabbi Grollman can help us learn how to better cope with the nature of loss so that it doesn’t rob us of the hope to live life meaningfully. Judaism teaches us to live life and gives us hope to keep going and to find meaning in life even when things seem cloudy.” Rabbi Marantz added, “Rabbi Grollman will help us navigate this path of discovery in a meaningful way.” Rabbi Grollman’s residency, open to the entire community, is co-sponsored by the Hermene Zweiback Center for Lifelong Jewish Learning with Thomas Belford Jr. and John A. Gentleman Mortuaries.
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Parenting Your Teen with Less Stress
by JENNIFER MEYERSON JFS social worker, with excerpts from Mark Cohen, M.A. Adolescence is an exciting, though challenging time for both teenagers as well as their parents. Even though teens need and want to separate from their parents during adolescence, they also need to know that the safety net of home and family is always there for them. As parents, we need to pay attention to new behaviors, emotions, and signals. Now it is especially important that parents keep the lines of communication open. The following guidelines offer how this can be accomplished: • When your teen talks to you, pay attention. If you are a good listener, your teen will be more likely to talk with you. If you can’t pay attention at that moment, explain why. Ask if you can talk about the issue later, at a specific time. Remember that small things to you may seem quite significant to your teen. • Express interest and encouragement in your teen’s activities. Keep in mind these may be positive activities, even if they are not ones you would find intriguing. • Ask questions about schoolwork other than, “Did you do your homework?” or “How was school today?” Teens will be more likely to discuss a subject with you if they feel they are not being criticized. All parents fear their teens becoming involved in high-risk behaviors such as drinking, smoking, and sexual activity. Here are some prevention tips: • Be part of your teen’s life. If possible, be present when she is likely to be home. • Encourage your teen to talk to you openly at any
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by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Proceeds raised by the auction Temple Israel Communications Coordinator will be donated to Camp CoHoLo Omaha Temple Youth Group (OTYG) near Gretna, Camp Rainbow near will be serving pasta and more at its St. Louis, Missouri, as well as all annual Spaghetti Dinner and Auction on Temple Israel youth groups Sunday, Feb. 22, 5 p.m., at Temple including OTYG, Junior Youth Israel. A vegetarian sauce will also be Group for seventh and eighth available. The teens have named their graders, Club 56, and Club 34. fund-raising project Mission Impastable, The youth groups will use the hoping that it will be possible to raise money for youth group scholar$20,000 as they did last year. ships, to subsidize travel to youth Margaret and Caroline Terry, OTYG group related activities, and for special projects coordinators and chairs programming. The camps serve of Mission Impastable, have been workchildren who suffer from cancer ing with other youth group members to and blood disorders. secure donations for the auction. Janet Baack, current president They’ve collected auction items from Molly Needelman, right, dressed up with of OTYG, spent a day at Camp stores such as Borsheim’s, hair salons, a camper at the 2003 session of Camp CoHoLo and participated in and Julio’s restaurants and items such as Rainbow. activities with the children there. children’s furniture, reserved parking spaces at Temple, “It means a lot to the kids,” she said. “They look forand specialty baskets. ward to it all year.” Rescheduled from Feb. 1 when it was realized that Molly Needelman, who was a counselor last summer that was Super Bowl Sunday, Margaret and Caroline at Camp Rainbow, echoed Janet’s sentiment. “These kids said the extra time gave them an opportunity to accu- have had such hard lives. Camp is so much fun, and it mulate more donations for the auction. An all-day silent lets them have one week of being a normal person.” auction in the Friedman Social Hall begins at 10 a.m. Adult dinners cost $9, and children (three to 12 years Jimmy Farber will be the auctioneer for the live auction old) are $4 each. Silent auction bidders do not need to which will follow the dinner. be present at the dinner. Reservations for the spaghetti Teens will provide sitter service after the dinner dur- dinner, which is open to the community, can be made ing the auction for children six years old and younger. by calling Temple Israel at 556.6536. However, walk-ins Fun activities will also be organized for older children. will be seated, too.
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Page 5
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
time, and mean it! When your teen does open up to you, watch your reaction. Avoid responses or facial expressions that will cause him to think twice about being candid with you in the future. • Be specific about what kind of behavior you expect and what is unacceptable. Don’t just assume that your teenager already knows. They need to hear these messages again and again. • Keep harmful substances out of the house. This includes cigarettes, drugs, and alcohol. When teens have access to these items, they are more likely to use them. • Ask who, what, where, and when your teen is going when they leave the house. • Expect good things from your teen. Kids who know their parents trust them have greater emotional well-being. • Encourage your teen to become involved in school activities. Studies show that those who are involved at school engage in fewer high-risk behaviors. • Watch your teen for changes in his lifestyle or habits; i.e. changes in appearance, appetite, friends, hobbies, grades. • If you are concerned, talk to a school counselor, family doctor, and/or ask for a reference to a qualified, licensed professional who specializes in working with adolescents, such as Jewish Family Service, 330.2024. Having strong self-esteem is essential, especially during the teen years. Remember, trust your instincts; you know your child best. You’ve gotten this far; just hang in there. As they saying goes, a parent’s greatest reward is grandchildren!
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
February 13, 2004
IN THE NEWS
ORGANIZATIONS
Shira Kaplan, a senior at the College of Saint Mary was awarded NAIA AllAmerica Honors in Soccer for 2003. She also received several other soccer honors and awards, including the Player of the Year for NAIA Region IV, and placement on the Region IV first team, All-Conference (Midlands Athletic Conference) first team, and All-Nebraska first team.Most importantly, Shira received Academic All-American honors two years in a row. Shira also served as a Captain of the College of Saint Mary Soccer team during her junior and senior years. Shira serves as a Coach of the Junior Varsity team at Duchesne Academy in Omaha, and looks forward to future coaching activities. She already holds a “D” license from the United States Soccer Federation. She was also nominated last year for the A.O. Duer Award given out by the NAIA to an outstanding Junior athlete in any NAIA sport. There are seven finalists nationwide for this honor, which examines a player’s academics, athleticism, and community service. A brother and sister duo, Michael Schall and Stephanie Patsalis, have opened The Cooking Club, which offers public sessions (noon and 6:30 p.m.) and private appointments where up to 14 people can assemble a choice of meals offered on the monthly menu. Local corporations have started using the Cooking Club for training meetings and educational outings. Each meal winds up being less than $2.25 per serving, offering savings as well as fun, noted Schall,
Dining
who, with his sister, often prepares some menu items ahead of time. The personal chefs, both omaha natives and graduates of Burke High School, can be found in their kitchen at the Cooking Club, located behind Pier One on 123rd and Center Sts.
MARRIAGE FLEISCHER/KATZMAN Shanny Fleischer, daughter of Levana Kovo of San Antonio, TX, and Jeffrey Katzman, son of Carol and Mike Katzman, were married Jan. 19 at Congregation Rodfei Shalom in San Antonio. Rabbi Chaim Kosman of Ner Israel Rabbinical College and Rabbi Aryeh Scheinberg of Rodfei Shalom officiated; a dinner dance at the Marriott Northwest followed. The bride attended Neve Yerushalayim Seminary in Israel for two years and graduated from Teachers Institute of the Hebrew Theological Seminary in Chicago last August, with majors in Judaic studies, English and business. The groom earned a B.A. from Ohr Somayach Tanenbaum College and is pursuing a second bachelor’s degree in math from the University of Maryland while continuing studies at Ner Israel Rabbinical College. He is the grandson of Janie Levin of Miami, FL, and Maury and Madeline Katzman. After sheva brochas parties in San Antonio, Omaha and Baltimore, the couple resides in Baltimore.
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Y.E.S. Members will meet Monday at the JCC. Play bingo at 10 a.m. with Eileen Remer or exercise with Stacey Paskert at 10:30 a.m. Bring articles to share for the “YES Talk” at 11 a.m. Abbie Erpelding, a student intern from Dana College, will lead the discussion group. Celebrate President’s Day wearing Red, White and Blue. Following lunch at noon, Robyn Lensch will perform show tunes and patriotic music! For transportation, call Dee Dee at 330.4272. Call Maggie for all reservations at 334.6521 for Abraham Lincoln Live on Thursday, Feb. 19, 1 p.m., in JCC auditorium. Lee Williams will come in character. There is no charge for the performance. Lunch is at 11:30 a.m. . Cost is $6 and must be paid in advance. Make check payable to JSS and send to Maggie Conti, 323 So. 132 St. Omaha, NE 68154. A dessert reception, sponsored by Jewish Women International, will follow. Make reservations for Bluffs Run on Feb. 26. WALK-IN, DROP-IN Members will meet on Thursday at the JCC. Exercise and bingo will begin at 10 a.m. Lunch will be served at 11:30 a.m. The show, Abraham Lincoln Live, will begin at 1 p.m. For transportation, call Maggie Conti, 334.6521. LOMIR REDN YIDDISH Want to have a “Freylichen Tog”? Come to the Yiddish meeting at the JCC on Thursdays, 1-3 p.m. Call Anne Skolkin at 343.1638 for information. VISIONS The Dick Walter’s professional film travelogue shows on Friday, Feb. 27, 2 p.m., at the Joslyn Art Museum. Visions members price is $6 per person. Join us for lunch on your own at noon. Send reservations with payment to Sandy and Fred Bromley, 13419 Marinda St., Omaha, NE 68144. Deadline is Feb. 19. Make checks payable to Visions. Membership dues to Visions are due. Please send $5 check, payable to Visions, to: Gilda Pieck, 6955 Cuming, Omaha, NE 68132. BREADBREAKERS Gary Perkins will speak at Breadbreakers on Wednesday, Feb. 18, noon, at the Park Inn Regency, according to Marty Ricks, Chairman. Perkins is CEO of Children’s Hospital, and will discuss what is going on at the hospital. Cost is $9 for lunch and $2 for beverage service only. Breadbreakers is open to the community. OMAHA CENTER FOR TORAH LEARNING “Hidden Dimensions of Psalms,” organized by Shirley Goodman meets at the home of Annette Fettman on Tuesdays, 4:30 p.m. Rabbi Tuvia Hoffman will explore the meaning of Psalms. A crash course in Hebrew Reading with Rabbi Hoffman also meets Wednesdays at noon in the Federation Conference Room; Advanced Hebrew Comprehension meets at 7 p.m. at the OCTL Beis Midrash; call 981.0569 for more information. NATIONAL COUNCIL OF JEWISH WOMEN Join NCJW-Omaha Section for a Social Event on Wednesday, Feb. 18, 7 p.m., at the Fox & Hounds, 120th St and West Dodge. To RSVP, call Mimi Silverman at 932.6626 or e-mail: MimiTaffet@cox.net. Cost is $10 with a reservation or $12 at the door. BETH ISRAEL SISTERHOOD David Kohll, President of Beth Israel, will discharge outgoing officers of Sisterhood and install new officers this Shabbat. The outgoing cabinet includes: Georgia Ann Steinberg, Charlotte Kaplan, Nadine Kutner, Sandra Kohll, Tibe Stoler, Jeanette Nadoff, Susie Shyken and Annette Fettman. The new board is Presidium: Toba Cohen-Dunning, Janet Kohll, and Sandra Kohll; Vice-presidents: Bette Kozlen, Maggie Gerber, Annette Fettman, and Julee Katzman; Secretaries: Rocheyl Simon and Susan Polack; Treasurer: Jean Paley; Directors: Jane Cohen, Jeanette Nadoff and Susie Shyken.
BIRTH Paula and Matt Boggust announce the Jan. 22 birth of their daughter, Jane Elizabeth. She has an sister, Annie and a brother, Harry. Grandparents are Nancy and David Friedland, and Marilyn and Jack Boggust of Del Mar, CA.
February 13, 2004
Beth El’s Rosh Hodesh Group Changes Meeting Date by DIANE AXLER BAUM reminded those planning for Beth El Synagogue to attend to bring money The influence of fathers for tzedakah. “This on daughters will promonth is Rosh Hodesh vide the theme for a Adar, and we want to use meeting of the Beth El our collected monies to Women’s Rosh Hodesh observe Matanot Group, Monday, Feb. l’Evyonim, (giving gifts to 23, 7:30 p.m., with the poor), one of the Judy Brookstein socializing and refreshmitzvot of Purim.” They and Margie Gutnik ments at 7 p.m. will purchase a grocery Originally scheduled for Feb. 22, the ses- certificate in the “Buy Beth El Program” sion will be at the home of Margie for donation to the Omaha Food Bank. Gutnik, co-host with Judy Brookstein. The Rosh Hodesh group was created “We look forward to sharing the wis- by and for the women of Beth El to furdom and advice we received from our ther the values of Conservative Judaism dads and other significant male family and provide an open forum for spiritual members, including our grandfathers, discovery and discussion. To RSVP, uncles and brothers,” Gutnik said. please click or phone one of the hostWomen are invited to bring photos to esses: mgutnik@cox.net, or 493-8168; enhance their remarks. Brookstein or Brookstein@tconl.com or 493-3642.
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 7
Happy Birthday, Trees! by BERNARD MANN, Legacy Crosswords, © 2003 Sponsored by Tanners
A Short (Hair) Cut to a Civics Lesson
IF YOU DON’T ASK, A DON’T GET IT! Y by BERNIE MEYERS With proper deference to my summertime barber--I dearly love my winter barber. It’s a little bit analogous to having affairs with more than one person at different times and different places--presumably making it OK. Love may be too strong--perhaps warm feeling, admiration, high esteem, professional competence--might be more appropriate. My winter time barber is Lope, a nice looking, virile, young Philippino barber-who runs a one man no nonsense barber shop in a moderately, not busy, commercial strip in Sarasota. To get an appointment for a haircut is a simple matter: I call at 10:30 in the morning (he doesn’t open until 10): “Lope--Bernie. Got an opening today?” “How’s one o’clock?” “OK!” I walk in a few minutes before one. If he has a customer in the chair, he’s on the clean up end of the hair cutting. No one else is waiting. Within a few minutes I’m in the chair, and the hassling starts. “I see haircuts are only nine bucks for under 10-years-old,” I announce. “How come kids get a better discount than seniors--and can I qualify as a 10-year-old?” “Maybe in your next life. You got a driver’s license and Social Security card?” he replies. “Yah, but I left them both home today.” “Sorry, you must be attached to the cards for age discount discrimination.” Lope is in his early forties. He’s been a barber in Sarasota for eight years--and before that, a barber in Toronto for six years--and before that a barber on the Island of Panay in the Philippines. He’s a straight shooter--George W’s kind of guy. He and his lovely wife have three boys--a golden retriever (how can anyone with a golden retriever not be a good guy?)--and a happy outlook on life and his work. His kids do NOT get into trouble. The oldest is in charge of the computers at the famous Ringling Museum, and the two younger ones are studying computer work and pursuing programming careers. Talk between us invariably turns to politics--unless I tell him that it’s not a good day--and I’d just as soon rest while he cuts. Today is the day after the New Hampshire Democratic primary.
“What do you think about the Democratic candidates.?” he asks. He knows that I am currently the second most cynical member of my family-Brother Dave beat me out by a hanging chad in 2000-a certified curmudgeon--and extremely unhappy with the Bush Monarchy. “You know what?” I semi answer. “I don’t care for any politician today. They may come in with good motives and good intentions--and then they take the fifth, the plastic cocktail glasses, the ice, and all the mix that goes with the smoke filled rooms of the old bosses.” “You’re wrong,” he answers with some passion. “This is the greatest country in the entire world. We are the envy of every other country. I am able to earn a living, own a home, drive a decent car, care for my family and own a Golden retriever. My boys are able to get an education and a shot at decent jobs. There is no place in this world that I would prefer to live. I do not wish to return to Canada. I don’t wish to return to the Philippines. No matter, how muddy the politics get--this is still the best system!” I sat quietly for a few moments my face blushing a deep red. I turned to Lope and asked, “May I please apologize to you? You have brought me kicking and screaming from negative to positive. I feel ashamed for my cynical negative attitude. Thank you for waking me up.” What a lesson and what a guy. He asks nothing other than opportunity. No one owes him anything. He’s a winner--without riches. He’s representative of what this country once was--and to which he’d like it to return. I don’t like George Bush and what he stands for. But I have the right to voice that dislike and work within the system to make changes. I say, “The little guy has no chance against the big money boys.?” Tell that to Lope as he patiently cuts hair--makes small talk--and revels in his good fortune to be an American. I retain the right to be angry and contentious but I must recognize how good it is here. Thank you, Winter Barber Lope--for opening my eyes to the wonders of the United States of America--at a time when it’s so easy to be negative. And, are you sure I won’t qualify for the kids’ discount? Does Lope give me good haircut? I dunno! I consider the lack of hair like raw material with which I provide him an opportunity to do his work. Bernie Meyers can be reached at bmeyers999@aol.com
ACROSS 1. Hebrew for bitter or mister 4. “I ____”, said the Shulamite of her complex ion (Song of Songs) 10. Acronym for a member of Israel’s Parliament 14. Summer drink 15. CAN YOU ______ FRUIT TREE? ASKED THE TRIM MING CREW HEAD 16. Seph___, the 10 Divine Emanations 17. Ruby 18. FRUIT TREE OF ISRAEL 20. ADJECTIVE FOR A NECK LACE BEAD THAT CON TAINS A FRUIT TREE OF ISRAEL 22. Resident of Nome or Juneau 23. “Earnings were down ____ quarter” 26. Acronym for alias 27. Not difficult 28. Shad and salmon eggs 30. “Suits me ___ ‘T’” 33. A ___ MIGHT CONNECT ONE FRUIT GROWER AND ANOTHER 36. FRUIT TREE OF ISRAEL 39. FRUIT GROVE, GRAPE GROVE 43. Is there ____ the inn? 44. “Don’t let ___!” said child to vet 45. “You've got mail!” outfit 46. Sea eagle 48. ___ Arnold, children’s book writer-illustrator 52. Even’s opposite 55. INTRODUCTORY
COURSE ON FARM-FIELD SCIENCE 58. CITIZEN OF THE LAND 61. SOME HAVE ____ THE HORA ON THIS HOLIDAY 62. WHAT TU-B'SHVAT HAS ALWAYS BEEN 65. Stein starter for a Jewish genius 66. Designer, namesake of St. Louis bridge 67. Alabama city 68. PREFIX FOR WINE-MAKING SCIENCE 69. Greek porch 70. M follower makes beastie under bed 71. Gary Cooper’s ___ York DOWN 1. Long-tailed bird, chatterer, or scold 2. Poet/performance artist Karasick 3. Algae bloom does it again 4. FRUIT TREE OF ISRAEL 5. Olive’s dad, formally (think Popeye) 6. Half of an expanding bullet 7. Donkey, in Dijon 8. Do a new closure in a fence 9. Marx 10. Pinsk’s rhyming city 11. Whopper of an exploding volcano 12. Very small bit 13. British gun 19. U.S. car assistance group 21. “I’ve Got _____” 24. ISRAEL HAS AN ___
CLIMATE AGRICULTURE 25. Putting 2 and 2 together 29. ADD SOME OF THIS INTO THE PLANTING MIX IF IT’S TOO CLAYEY 31. ___.com, URL of competitor to 45 Across 32. Sum 2 and 2 together 34. Misfortune or evil, in Hebrew 35. Sculpture or painting, in Rouen 37. Hawaiian greeting loop 38. “Where’s ____, dear?” asked the Brit, not finding his favorite jacket 39. Hebrew girl’s name 40. Short for Aussie jumper 41. Rockies state 42. Passage, in anatomy 47. THE PLANTERS HOPE FOR ____ THE DAY AFTER 49. Event leaders, at the mike 50. SOME ISRAELIS IN ANCIENT TIMES USED FRUIT EXTRACTS FOR ____ FABRICS 51. I ____ CHOP THAT CHERRY TREE DOWN! SAID GEORGE 53. Tango or salsa in Seville 54. Lions and Tigers loc. 56. Old English for ‘of the valley’ 57. Negative person, especially when the votes are counted 58. Brazilian lumber trees 59. Chair part 60. Senior prom vehicle 63. Major Barbara author’s initials 64. Dah-___, Morse Code bit
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Page 8
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
February 13, 2004
Opinion Who Wants Gaza Anyway? Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon finally bit the bullet (pun intended) and announced that the State of Israel would dismantle settlements in the Gaza Strip. Those who think all settlements should be evacuated will not even take this as good news--they want to return to pre-1967 borders and regard even this first step as not enough. Those who think not one inch of land should be given to the Palestinians will also not be happy. And, apparently, the Palestinians aren’t happy either--or so states Yasser Arafat. So who wants Gaza anyway? Even if the Gaza becomes Judenrein, the Nazis second favorite word for an area completely rid of Jews (the first being “Final solution”), can the Palestinians succeed in Gaza? Maybe yes, maybe no. ‘Yes’, if their corrupt leader hands over the funding from the international community that rightfully belongs to the Palestinian people. Then, those same people can improve the infrastructure and housing, and perhaps even help some startup businesses. But ‘no’, if Arafat retains his iron grip. Then the Gazans are stuck. Even Egypt didn’t want the Gaza Strip back when Israel offered it in 1979 as settlements in the Sinai peninsula were dismantled and the area returned to Egypt. How about the Israeli left? According to Michael Lerner, publisher of Tikkun, “This
(Founded in 1920)
move suits Sharon’s grand strategy...He is ready to give up Gaza, with its million unwanted Palestinians, and also a few isolated West Bank settlements, in order to get the Americans to agree to the annexation of most of the West Bank...Of course, this will not bring peace. Nor will it bring security.” The left isn’t too happy either. So, what about Israelis right wingers? How do they feel about this announcement? According to the Women in Green, an activist group who wants to retain the West Bank and Gaza, “We must ...remind the public that we are in Judea, Samaria, and Gaza by right, and not on sufferance. Gaza and its surrounding areas were included in the portion (given to) the tribe of Judah. The first settlement (there) was initiated by Johanan the Hasmonean... “When Roman commander Titus repressed the uprising, he was forced to first go to Gaza and put down the revolt there. Gaza was ‘the key to Eretz Israel,’ since it is situated on the crossroads between Egypt and central Israel, and is also on the coastline...For a long time, there were only three centers of Jewish settlement in Israel: in Jerusalem, Tiberias, and Gaza. “In short, our connection to the Gaza region is much deeper than our ties to Tel Aviv.” Even Former Military Intelligence Chief Shlomo Gazit wrote, “Our exit from Gaza will
BEHIND THE HEADLINES
transform it into big armed camp into which weapons of all kinds will stream via land, sea and maybe even air. It will also become an arsenal for independent development and production of arms. Moreover, this capitulation will be rightly viewed as an unambivalent victory for the Palestinian armed struggle.” Who needs Gaza? Good question. Jews ought to be able to live anywhere they want, but who needs this messy neighborhood. Let ’em have Gaza...and then seal the border.
B’nai Akiva: the Premier Religious Youth Movement in Israel
Invaluable Service by HOWARD KOHR Kazakhstan; small-business projExecutive Director ects in Kyrgyzstan and many AIPAC, the American Israel more helpful efforts. Public Affairs Committee Last year, the CIC taught 116 At a time when Israel is near courses on various socio-ecodaily terrorist attacks, an ugly nomic subjects in which students diplomatic offensive seeking to iso- from 112 countries participated. late it in the international commu- The CIC is even active in counnity and blood-curdling threats tries that have no diplomatic relafrom Iran, Hizballah and other tions with Israel such as Senegal, rogue entities, Israelis quietly con- Mali, Niger and Chad. tinue doing what they have been Israel’s humanitarian aid has doing for decades with enormous proven extremely popular in success: helping people in devel- developing countries. Israeli oping countries overcome adversi- experts have consistently offered ty and improve their support and needed As citizens of a lives. services since the The story of heroic country that itself 1950s, and are willing Israelis operating in was a developing to endure severe and harsh, remote parts of nation until recently, dangerous conditions the world to better the that deter many Israelis have a deep Western case workconditions of their fellow human beings understanding of the ers. deserves far more needs of developing As citizens of a attention than it has countries. country that itself received. was a developing With a paltry annual budget of nation until recently, Israelis have less than $10 million, the Ministry a deep understanding of the of Foreign Affairs’ Center for needs of developing countries. International Cooperation (CIC) Moreover, as a small, embattled has sent dedicated experts to nation, Israel is hardly suspected dozens of Third World countries to by Asians, Africans or Latin set up and help operate medical, Americans of using its expertise agricultural and economic projects. to promote imperialist designs. Establishing trauma units in Peru Regrettably, these invaluable and Ethiopia and centers for treat- Israeli services to the world are ing the blind in Fiji and Cameroon nearly lost in the din of daily are just a few of Israel's CIC initia- headlines centering on bloodshed tives. and mayhem. Even more unfortuOther projects include a dialy- nate is that Israel is being forced sis unit in Costa Rica; an emer- to cut its international aid budget gency medical unit in Jordan; a due to the growing expenses of cancer treatment center in combating terrorism. Mauritania; agricultural projects in That is a tragic loss for Third China, the Philippines, World people, who would otherUzbekistan, Sri Lanka, and East wise benefit from additional Timor; rehabilitating earthquake Israeli humanitarian assistance. Howard Kohr can be reached victims in Turkey and prostitutes in Cambodia; a central bank in at: Rneedler@aipac.org.
JOURNAL ENTRY FROM ISRAEL by TEDDY WEINBERGER B’nai Akiva is the premier religious youth movement in Israel, and in Givat Ze’ev, B’nai Akiva is the only religious youth group in town. I happen to be the father of five of its members. Beginning in the fourth grade and on through high school, B’nai Akiva serves as the social framework for the majority of religious kids in Givat Ze’ev. The Movement’s motto is “Torah and Work,” a local branch is known as a “snif,” and the branch is headed by a “communarit,” who is usually a 19-yearold-woman on national service duty. Youth groups in Israel breed leadership at a very early age. While in the States many youth leaders are college students, in Israel, because of the universal draft, leadership begins in the 10th grade and generally ceases some months before the end of the 12th. B’nai Akiva’s regular activities are held on Tuesday and Saturday afternoons, plus there are weekly Shabbat services and seasonal overnight trips. Then there is “Hodesh Irgun” (organization month) a period that gets progressively frenetic and sleepdeprived as it heads for the grand finale “Shabbat Irgun”, a Sabbath when even the posthigh school B’nai Akiva gang (young adults in college or the army) throng to the snif. On that Saturday night there is a mifkad aish (“fire roll-call”), where they set afire the B’nai Akiva symbol,
sing the M o v e ment’s anthem (“Onward B ’ n a i Akiva, hip-hip and the
and rise up”, “Hatikvah.” Afterwards, everyone files into Givat Ze’ev’s gymnasium, and each of the groups (known as “tribes”) performs skits or dance numbers. Inevitably parents marvel at how so many practicing hours could yield such a final product. The traditional swearing in of the new tribe takes place for ninth graders late on that same Saturday night. It was my daughter Rebecca’s turn this year. Departure was scheduled for 12:30 a.m., but, as is traditional for B’nai Akiva, the actual departure time (2 a.m.) was much later than scheduled. I was surprised to learn that in fact there is no swearing-in ceremony at the “swearing-in”; rather it’s basically a hazing of the new tribe by older members. They took the ninth graders to a beach, somewhere on the outskirts of Tel Aviv. It was pitch dark and the recruits were given various assignments and roughed up if they didn’t comply. The boy recruits were pushed into the water and rolled in the sand. This went on for some hours, until the recruits received sweatshirts with their new tribe’s name on it, Lavi, returning home at 8 a.m. Since just about every religious secondary school in Israel is single-sex, one of the attractions of B’nai Akiva is that it Continued on next page
Joanie Jacobson Chairman Carol Katzman Editor Richard Busse Creative Director Allan Handleman Advertising Manager Ray Pred Account Executive Timothy J. Ketelsen Bookkeeper Lori Kooper-Schwarz Production Assistant Jewish Press Committee Howard K. Marcus, Vice-Chairman; Bobbi Leibowitz, Secretary; Scott Meyerson, Finance Chairman; Steve Simon, Treasurer; Fred Tichauer, Immediate Past-chairman; Jean Duitch; Penny Endelman; Kip Gordman; Stanley Mitchell; George Quittner; Linda Saltzman; Joey Shyken; Nancy Skid; and Melanie Weinstein. The role of the Jewish Federation of Omaha is to involve Jews in meeting Jewish communal needs locally, nationally and in Israel. Centers of Excellence of the Federation are: Community Relations, Jewish Community Center, Jewish Educational and Library Services, Jewish Family Service, and Jewish Senior Services. The Jewish Press and the Foundation are constitional committees of the Jewish Federation. Editorials express the view of the writer and are not necessarily representative of the views of the Jewish Press Committee, the Jewish Federation of Omaha or the Omaha Jewish community as a whole. The Jewish Press reserves the right to edit signed letters and articles for space and content. The Jewish Press is not responsible for the Kashrut of any product or establishment. Editorial The Jewish Press is a Constitutional Committee of the Jewish Federation of Omaha. Deadline for copy, ads and photos is: Thursday, noon, eight days prior to publication. E-mail editorial material and photos to: ckatzman@jewishomaha.org; send ads (in .TIF or .PDF format) to: rbusse@jewishomaha.org. Letters to the Editor Guidelines The Jewish Press welcomes 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: ckatzman@jewishomaha.org.. Letters should be no longer than 250 words and must be singlespaced 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, but should be printed as soon as possible to ensure timeliness. Letters may be published without giving an opposing view. Information shall be verified before printing. All letters must be signed by the writer, but the name can be withheld at the writer’s request. 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 more information, contact Carol Katzman, Jewish Press Editor, 402.334.6450. Postal The Jewish Press (USPS 275620) is published weekly on Friday for $31 per calendar year U.S.; $35 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. 132nd St., Omaha, NE 68154-2198 or e-mail to: jpress@jewishomaha. org.
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How Israel is Different OUR MAN IN ISRAEL by CARL ALPERT Haifa--As we have often said, and repeat again, some of the most interesting news from Israel never makes the headlines, and either gets buried on back pages, or never makes print at all. In recent weeks, for example, we find the following: • Oops! In a drive-by terror attack north of Jerusalem, one of many, the driver was wounded. Fatah Tanzim took the credit. Later it was revealed that the car, with Israel license plates, was being driven by a Palestinian Arab who had stolen it, and was on his way to Palestine-controlled territory. The Fatah apologized. The driver received medical treatment in an Israeli hospital. • Unexpected Results. The European Union, which affords Israel products special exemption from customs duties, refuses to extend the same exemption to products made in the disputed settlements. Israel’s Minister of Commerce and Industry agreed that all such items would bear identification of the place they were produced. Manufacturers and producers in the areas warned that if they were unable to market their wares competitively in Europe because of the added tax, they would be compelled to dismiss hundreds of Palestinian workers they now employ. • A Strike That Back-Fired. Victims of the long strike by civil servants against the government were the general population, who were unable to obtain necessary services. The Histadrut then hit on the idea of calling out on strike the patrolmen whose duty was to give
parking tickets. In that way, the public would be benefited, and the authorities would lose income. The step was widely publicized, and motorists hastened to take advantage of the new freedom. In Haifa, however, the officers remained on duty, and scores of drivers fell victim. • Exploiting the Past. Under the law, all archeological artifacts uncovered in the country become property of the government. Tens of thousands of items have accumulated in the archives, and many more are added each year. President Moshe Katsav has suggested that since most of them have no scientific value, they should be put on sale to the public, producing income for the government and enhancing public interest in the past. Further, it would put an end to the present illegal, but flourishing, trade in such items.
...What are the prospects for the future? 43% believe a peace treaty will be achieved within the next three years, whereas 34% believe an open war with the Arabs will break out within the next three years. • No Help for the Settlements. Though the raising of pigs in Israel faces many legal obstacles, ways have been found to circumvent the law. One innovation is at Kibbutz Lahav where a strain of the swine has been developed that can efficiently sniff out buried mines. Jewish settlements in Judea and Samaria would be interested in acquiring these to protect themselves against hostile Arabs, but the left wing Hashomer Hatzair kibbutz is said to prefer to export the animals to foreign countries. • Israeli Arabs Excel. The oud, a musical instru-
B’nai Akiva Continued from page 8 provides a normative framework for socializing. In Givat Ze’ev, many of the teenagers are fairly strict when it comes to romance, having placed themselves in the category of “shomrei negiah” (those who observe the practice of abstaining from all pre-marital touching of the opposite sex). So if you can overcome the fact that sometimes your teenager will only get four or five hours of sleep on a school night, and if you don’t get bothered by the organized chaos that often governs B’nai Akiva activities, it’s a fairly wholesome atmosphere. Everything would be fine and dandy were it not for the fact that B’nai Akiva is a hot-bed of right-wing reli-
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gious nationalism, firmly supportive of principles like an undivided Jerusalem, Jordan as the Palestinian State, and expanding rather than dismantling settlements. The very enthusiasm that makes B’nai Akiva so attractive also makes it hard for a kid not to swallow its political theology hook, line, and sinker. I would love it if one of the more liberal religious organizations or movements (like Meimad or Oz ve-Shalom, sponsored a youth group here)--but they don’t. So if I want my children to have a social life in Givat Ze’ev, I have to let them go to B’nai Akiva. Besides, what makes you think that my kids listen to me anyhow? Teddy Weinberger can be reached in Israel at: weinross@netvision.net.il.
ment of the lute family, is extremely popular among the Arabs. Judges from Egypt, Syria, Lebanon, Morocco and Algeria presided over the annual oud competition held recently in Cairo. The winners of first and second place were two Arabs from Israel. • What They Really Believe. A survey conducted by the prestigious Jaffee Center for Strategic Studies has ascertained that 30% of the Jewish citizens of Israel would be prepared to pay higher taxes to increase the nation’s security budget. An almost equal number registered opposition. Support for transfer of Israel’s Arabs out of the country drew 33% support. What are the prospects for the future? 43% believe a peace treaty will be achieved within the next three years, whereas 34% believe an open war with the Arabs will break out within the next three years. • Strange Request. A help-wanted ad: Wanted, a mechanical engineer with proven experience. Military background with sea-borne vessels in the air force required. • Saved by Gefilte Fish. A report on the contribution of South African volunteers in Israel’s War of Independence in 1948 includes the story of an American pilot, Milton Rubenfield, who was flying a plane which attacked an Arab armored column near Tulkarem. The plane was hit and Rubenfield had to ditch it in the sea near Moshav Michmoret. He began to swim ashore. As Lydia Aisenberg tells it in the Manchester Jewish Telegraph, he knew no Hebrew and feared that the moshavniks would think he was an Egyptian. As he waded ashore, hands in the air, he shouted out “Gefilte fish! Gefilte fish!” and the guns aimed at him were lowered Carl Alpert can be reached at: alpert@techunix.technion.ac.il.
LETTER
TO THE EDITOR
To the Editor: Henry Monsky Lodge is planning to do something special for the 50th Anniversary of the B’nai B’rith Charity Sports Banquet to be held on May 12. If you have a Banquet program dating between 1954 and 1994 or any other Banquet memorabilia that you could loan us, please contact Lois Epstein, the B’nai B’rith secretary, at 334-6443 or e-mail lepstein@jewishomaha.org. Gary Javitch, President Henry Monsky Lodge B'nai B'rith
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Synagogue Listings B’nai Israel Synagogue 618 Mynster St. Council Bluffs, IA 51503-0766 322.4705 email: CBsynagogue@hotmail.com
Beth El Synagogue Member of United Synagogues of Conservative Judaism 14506 California Omaha, NE 68154-1980 492.8550 www.bethel-omaha.org
Beth Israel Synagogue Member of Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America 12604 Pacific St. Omaha, NE. 68154 556.6288 BethIsrael@OrthodoxOmaha.org
Beyt Shalom An Affiliate of the Jewish Reconstructionist Federation 3012 S. 119 St. P.O. Box 390352 Omaha, NE 68139 660.2395 http://welcome.to/beytshalom/
Chabad House An Affiliate of the Worldwide Chabad-Lubavitch Movement 1866 S. 120th St. Omaha, NE 68144-1646 330.1800 nebraskajudaism.com email: chabad@aol.com
Congregation B’nai Jeshrun South Street Temple Union for Reform Judaism 2061 S. 20th St. Lincoln, NE 68502-2797 435.8004 jewishnebraska.org
Offutt Air Force Base SAC Memorial Chapel 301 Lincoln Highway Offutt AFB, NE 68113 294.6244
Rose Blumkin Jewish Home 333 S. 132 St. Omaha, NE 68154
Temple Israel Union for Reform Judaism (URJ) 7023 Cass Street Omaha, NE 68132-2651 556.6536 templeisrael-ne.org
Tifereth Israel Member of United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism 3219 Sheridan Blvd., Lincoln, NE 68502-5236 423.8569 tiferethisraellincoln.org
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Synagogues B’NAI ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE FRIDAY: Services, 7:30 p.m.
Cheryl Lerner, 334.8430 cldancer@aol.com.
or
BETH EL SYNAGOGUE
BETH ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE
Office Hours: Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. FRIDAY: Join us for a musical Kabbalat Shabbat Service in the Chapel, 6 p.m. SATURDAY: Morning Services, 9:30 a.m.; We celebrate the aufruf of Ali Lerner and Mark Doyle. Kiddush sponsored by Ruth and Irwin Goldenberg, and Martha and Richard Lerner in honor of the aufruf of their grandchildren and children. Evening Services, 5:35 p.m. SITTER SERVICE Friday Night and Saturday Morning Sitter Service provided at no charge on a drop-in basis. WEEKDAY SERVICES: Sunday, 9 a.m. and 5:30 p.m., Monday to Friday, 6:55 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. ADULT EDUCATION SUNDAY, 10 a.m. Session two of eight-week Hebrew Crash Course, taugh by Susi FrydmanLevin; 11 a.m. Adult Bible Study Group, with Dr. Leonard Greenspoon, continues with The Book of Samuel, in the library. WEDNESDAY, 7 p.m.: Adult B’nai Mitzvah class with Cantor Bogomolni. THURSDAY, noon: “Jewish Wisdom for the 21st Century” with Rabbi Levin. Optional lunch available at 1 p.m. For more information, call the synagogue. FEATURED PROGRAMS Sisterhood’s “Afternoon of Games” on Sunday, 1 p.m. PATTER (Toddlers & Parents Torah, Exercise, Recreation) session with Helen Epstein, Wednesdays, 10:45 a.m. HAZAK sponsors lunch and learn after Shabbat morning services, Feb. 21. Dr. Terry Clark will speak (see article below). COME & DANCE! Israeli Dance for everyone (no experience required) Thursdays, 7:30 p.m. For information,
Office Hours: Monday- Thursday, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Fridays, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Services conducted by Rabbi Howard Kutner. FRIDAY: Kabbalat Shabbat Services, 5:37 p.m. SATURDAY: Shachrit, 8:45 a.m.; Free babysitting, 9:30 a.m.; Junior Congregation, 10:30 a.m.; Kiddush will be followed by a festive lunch celebrating the opening of our new building and the installation of the new officers and board of Sisterhood. SUNDAY: Shachrit, 9 a.m.; Mincha, 5:20 p.m. NCSY Juniors Family Fun Center, 2 p.m. Call Rabbi Simon at 330.4695 for more information. Weekday Shachrit, 7 a.m. Monday and Thursdays, & 7:15 a.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays; and a light breafast will be served everyday ater minyan. Weekday Mincha and Ma’ariv, 6:30 p.m. TUESDAY: Sisterhood Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m. WEDNESDAY: Board of Commissioners Meeting, 7:30 p.m. THURSDAY: Tunes of Tefillah; tunes of Shachrit and other Shabbos tunes, 7 p.m., in the new building. Services through Friday morning, Feb. 13, will be held in the Chapel at 52nd St. (see article on page 4 for mroe information).
BEYT SHALOM FRIDAY: Kaballat Shabbat SUNDAY: Religious School, 3-5 p.m.
CHABAD HOUSE Services conducted by Rabbi Mendel Katzman. Monday-Friday, Morning services, 7 a.m. SATURDAY: Mamarim class, 9 a.m.; Services, 9:30 a.m.
SUNDAY: Services, 8:30 a.m. Mishneh class, 9:30 a.m. MONDAY Halacha Intermediate level, 7 p.m.
CONGREGATION B’NAI JESHURUN Rabbi Debbie Stiel will be in the office Tuesdays and Thursdays, all day. You may reach her 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays at 416.2321 (local for Lincoln), or at rabstiel@aol.com. FRIDAY: Potluck dinner, 6 p.m. Please RSVP to the Temple office; Family Shabbat with fifth and sixth grades participating, 7 p.m. Family Service. Dave Williss will read the Ten Commandments from the Torah. SATURDAY: Monthly Shabbat Morning Services, 9:30 a.m.; Torah Study, 10:30 a.m. SUNDAY, Feb. 15: No Religious School; Megillah Practice, 1-4 p.m. TUESDAY, Feb. 17: Adult Ed.: Gates of Prayer, 7 p.m.
OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE FRIDAY: Services, 7:30 p.m.
ROSE BLUMKIN JEWISH HOME FRIDAY: Services, 7 p.m.; Boy Scout Shabbat Service SATURDAY: Services, 9 a.m.; led by Andrew Greenberg
TEMPLE ISRAEL FRIDAY: All male members of Temple Israel are invited to a weekly informal get together at Spirit World, 7517 Pacific St. Join us for relaxation and conversation, 11:45 a.m.; Family Shabbat Service, 6 p.m. Rabbi Craig Marantz and Cantor Wendy Shermet will officiate; Early Worship Service, 6 p.m. Rabbi Aryeh Azriel and Jeff Taxman will officiate using the Union Prayer Book. SATURDAY: Bagels and Sacred Books, 9:30 -10:15 a.m.; Shabbat Morning Service, 10:30 a.m. Lauren Davis, daughter of Mary
Prof. Terry Clark to Discuss ‘War on Terror’ by DIANE AXLER BAUM for Beth El Synagogue Dr. Terry Clark, regarded as both a scholar and an exciting speaker, will keynote a luncheon following Shabbat morning services at Beth El Synagogue, on Feb. 21. Presented by the “seasoned’ n spicy” citizens of Hazak, he will focus on "The Current Status of the War on Terror.” Dr. Clark is professor of political science and director of the Graduate Program in International Relations at Creighton University. He has been instrumental in the development of Creighton’s exchange program with universities in Eastern Europe. A specialist in comparative politics and international relations, Clark is the author of three books and of numerous articles pub-
lished in major journals devoted to the study of post-Communist Europe. His research interests include the development of democratic institutions and the evolution of public opinion supporting such institutions in Lithuania and Russia. Dr. Clark holds a BS from the United States Military Academy at West Point; MA degrees from both the University of Illinois and the University of Oklahoma; and a PhD. from the University of Illinois. Cost of the luncheon, which is open to the community, is $7.50 for members of Hazak, $9.50 for other adults, and $5 for children. Babysitting will be available at no charge. Reservations are necessary and may be made by calling Natalie Rubin at 334.5893. For more information, call Gloria Goodman, 333.3351.
PERSONALS An aufruf honoring the marriage of Ali Lerner and Mark Doyle will be held Saturday morning, Feb. 14, at Beth El Synagogue. Mr. and Mrs. Irwin Goldenberg and Mr. and Mrs. Richard Lerner would like to invite the Omaha and Lincoln communities to celebrate in this simcha. Mrs. Sara Landsman is in New York mourning the loss of hr husband, Mandel Landsman, who died Feb. 1. She can be reached at 718.327.7756 or 718.337.5665.
Candlelighting Friday, February 13, 5:37 p.m. Kay and Henry Davis, will celebrate her Bat Mitzvah at the Shabbat Morning Service. ADULT EDUCATION TUESDAY: Intensive text study with Rabbi Azriel on The Guide for the Perplexed, the writings of Maimonides, 8:30-10 a.m. WEDNESDAY: Conversations with Rabbi Azriel, noon-1 p.m. Bring your own lunch to this informal discussion of current events and issues. “History of Israel” with Prof. Moshe Gershovich, 6:45-8:30 p.m.; join Gary Kaplan & Mike Walts to learn classics of Jewish Rock & Roll and the Jewish Youth Movement, 7-8:30 p.m. THURSDAY: Adult Study with the Clergy with Rabbi Azriel, 1011:30 a.m.. Prayer Hebrew and Music with Cantor Shermet, 11:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m. OTYG SPAGHETTI DINNER Sunday, Feb. 22: Silent auction begins at 10 a.m.; dinner and live auction at 5 p.m. (See article on page 7 for complete details.)
TIFERETH ISRAEL Services conducted by Rabbi Stanley M. Rosenbaum. Minyan, Monday & Thursday, 7:15 a.m. FRIDAY: Services, 8 p.m. SATURDAY: Morning Service, 9:30 a.m.; Junior Congregation, 10:15 a.m. MONDAY: No Hebrew School due to LPS vacation. TUESDAY: The Ladies Lunch Bunch will meet at Hillcrest Country Club, noon WEDNESDAY: The Men’s Lunch Group will meet at the Knolls, 12:30 p.m. UPCOMING EVENTS Saturday, Feb. 21, 7:30 p.m. Annual Progressive Dinner. Wednesday, Feb. 25, 7 p.m.: The Jewish Federation of Lincoln will sponsor a return appearance by Yair Dalal at the Sheldon Art Gallery. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door. Friday, Feb. 27, 8 p.m. Federation Shabbat.
BAT MITZVAH Avery Hannah Lehr, daughter of Sandy and John Lehr, will celebrate her Bat Mitzvah on Saturday, Feb. 21 at Temple Israel. Avery is a seventh-grader at Westside Middle School, where she is a Distinguished Scholar. She participated in the People to People Student Ambassadorship last summer and travelled to the Grand Canyon with the Iowa/Nebraska delegation. She has appeared in several community theater productions. She enjoys dance, tap, jazz,
ballet classes, traveling, tennis, spending time with her friends, and summers at Birch Trail Camp. She won third place honors in the District 66 K i w a n a s S p e e c h Contest in sixth grade. For her mitzvah project, she volunteered at the Child Development Center Summer Camp at the Jewish Community Center. Avery has a younger brother, Jacob. Her grandparents are Gail and Gene Smoler of Farmington Hills, MI, and Joanie and Martin Lehr.
February 13, 2004
I am Your G-d
SPARKS FROM THE WORD by ROCHEYL SIMON Parashat Yitro (I would like to dedicate this to the complete and speedy recovery of my father Yechiel Avrohom ben Meir who was hit by a car three weeks ago.) In this week’s Torah portion, Yitro, we read the Ten Commandments. I find it interesting that the Ten Commandments begins with the statement, “I am the Lord your G-d, who took you out of Egypt.” It seems strange that G-d should choose to begin that way. Wouldn’t it be more impressive to say “I am the Lord your G-d who created the world.”? The traditional answer is that G-d chose to begin with something everyone at Mount Sinai remembered. This was something they all experienced. Therefore it was a more convincing argument on why they should keep the Torah. However a second explanation from Rabbi Shlomo Freifeld, zt”l, may be to go deeper into the intent of the statement. It could be that it isn’t meant to describe Gd’s power. Rather, it is directed to unleashing our power. These words were spoken to help us reach our potential as a nation and individuals. I am the Lord, your G-d...I am “your” G-d, your personal G-d. I want to connect with you. For I am the one Who took you out of Egypt--just as I miraculously freed you from slavery, I promise to guide you over all obstacles that may block your path. When the Israelites received the Ten Commandments, they became connected to G-d in a supernatural way. No longer would their potential be restrained by their inborn level of intellect, emotional makeup or by cultural constraints. They could now reach far beyond. “As I miraculously took you out of Egypt, I will help you to overcome all restraints, forever more.” The fact that we are still here speaks to this supernatural relationship we have with G-d. Our neighbors of ancient times are no longer around. We, the Jewish People, in contrast, have survived countless years of exile, have been persecuted in every way and every place, and miraculously, have not only survived, but are actually more a part of world politics more than ever before! The last 100 years of human history have set back perceptions of human potential. Karl Marx pressed upon us the notion that we were merely social animals devoid of any divine spark. Sigmund Freud saw us as a battleground between the id, superego and ego. Darwin’s theory of evolution reduced man to nothing more than a glorified ape. How much more awesome is the Torah view of man --“created in the image of G-d,” intimately connected to the Almighty, with unlimited potential. Have a good Shabbos!
by JILL BELMONT for Jewish Family Service Who makes the decisions when caring for the elderly? These issues will be discussed at a special “Munch ‘n’ Learn,” on Tuesday, Feb. 17, 7:30 p.m., at the home of Helen Epstein, 2223 No. 100th St. The event, chaired by Epstein and this writer, is being co-sponsored by Jewish Family Service and Jewish Senior Services. The evening’s featured speaker will be Susan V. Murray, a social worker who has specialized in Susan V. Murray geriatrics and gerontology for the past 19 years at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Murray, author of The Community Resource List for Older Adults and Family Caregivers, has spent her professional career assessing and strengthening the family caregiver system for vulnerable older adults. Jewish Senior Services, will also be on hand during the evening to answer questions about JSS and the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. The event is free and open to the community. Reservations are required and may be made by calling the Jewish Family Service office at 330.2024.
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MARIJUANA
DEATHS MARGARET LINDEN Margaret Linden died Jan. 30 at the age of 68. A memorial service was held Feb. 2 at Heafey-Heafey Hoffman-Dworak-Cutler Chapel. Linden was a long-time member of the National Council of Jewish Women-Omaha Section. She served as Chairman of the Council Thrift Shop, Member Services Secretary and on the Board of Directors. In 1999, the Section honored her with its Distinguished Service Award. She was preceded in death by her husband, Paul Richard Linden. She is survived by daughter and son-in-law, Catherine and Greg Sousa of Dallas, TX; daughter, Debbie Prince; sons and daughters-in-law, Paul and Celene Linden, Jeff and Jenny Linden, all of Omaha; grandchildren, Sabrina, Megan, Chris and Jake; sister, Mary Beckman; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Carol and Bill North. Memorials to charity of choice. MILTON B. GOLDBERG Milton Goldberg died Feb. 2 in Glendale, AZ at the age of 79. Services were held Feb. 5 at Oakhill Mortuary in San Jose, CA. He was preceded in death by his wife, Selma. He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Cheri and Ron Stucke of Glendale, AZ; sons and daughtersin-law, David and Naomi Goldberg of Fremont, NE, and Jay and Nila Goldberg of England; brother and sister-in-law, Louis and Sandy Goldberg; and grandchildren, Matt and Allison Stucke and Jeremy and Julie Goldberg. BRUCE VANN Former Omahan Bruce Vann died Feb. 8 in Los Angeles. He was 48-years-old. Memorial services were held Feb. 11 at Mount Sinai Memorial Park in Los Angeles. A prominent entertainment attorney, Vann was a founding partner of the Century City law firm, Kelly, Lytton & Vann. He graduated from Washington University and earned a JD from Duke University Law School in 1980. Vann serviced as a member of the board of directors of Temple Judea, one of the largest congregations in the San Fernando Valley; shortly before his illness, he had been elected President. He is survived by his wife, Susan; sons, Michael and Corey; parents, Donald and Gloria Vann, formerly of Omaha now living in Palm Desert, CA; brother and sister-in-law, Martin and Judy Vann of Calabasas, CA; sister and brother-in-law, Sally and Jeff Rotenstreich of Atlanta, GA. Memorials to Temple Judea, 5429 Lindley Ave., Tarzana, CA 91356, or to the American Cancer Society in Bruce Vann’s name, for the research and treatment of anaplastic thyroid cancer.
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
February 13, 2004
Lincoln Kids Join Together with Omahans for a Day at the ‘J’ by LORI MERLIS fun at nearby Planet X. for B’nai Jeshurun Meanwhile the Over winter break, younger children joined 27 Jewish children conin with the JCC children verged on the parking for Harry Potter Day. lot of Congregation They glowed with Tifereth Israel in excitement as they took Lincoln. Within 15 minturns wearing the mysutes, the children, their terious “Sorting Hat” Lincoln children started the day by lunches, swim gear and and were separated into playing games with kids from Omaha. four adult chaperones “houses” for the day, were loaded aboard a sleek and shiny just like at Hogwarts School. motor coach. As the coach eased its way First graders Amos Pomp and Marina along the streets toward the highway, Kushner agreed that “getting points” was the kids buzzed with excitement about their favorite part of the day. They also their upcoming adventure: a full day of had a chance to swim and enjoy the fun at the Omaha Jewish Community beautiful JCC facilities. Center. As the day drew to a close, staff made For the first time, children from kinder- sure the kids exchanged telephone numgarten through eighth grade and from bers. Lincoln families hope this will be both Lincoln congregations, Tifereth the first of many opportunities for the Israel and Temple B’nai Jeshuran, had a young people of Lincoln and Omaha to chance to meet and share a fun day together. They also spent time with Omaha youth of similar ages. Lincoln Jewish Federation President Marcia Kushner came up with the idea of a school vacation trip for the youth of Lincoln. The Lincoln Jewish Federation funded the trip, and JCC Program Director Rachel Younger kids from Lincoln met children of the same age at Blum and Youth Director the JCC in Omaha; the event, planned months in advance, is Laura Wine designed the the first of many future get-togethers. details. The older children were smoothly inte- get together. Our next trip to the JCC is grated into the JCC’s camp, where they planned for April 25, for the Israel had a great time in the pool followed by Independence Day celebration, Yom video games, go-karts, and other wild Ha’Atzmaut.
Sharon’s Proposals Continued from page 1 overall commitment that they had made and the need to move on those specific commitments that they’ve made so far.” It took just a day for him to sound more convinced: “We certainly welcome action on settlements,” he said on Feb. 3. “We look for their action on their obligations.” Three elements contributed to U.S. openness to Sharon’s surprise announcement: Deepening disappointment with the Palestinians’ failure to control terrorists in the West Bank and Gaza Strip; the Israeli Labor Party’s pledge to back the Gaza plan from the opposition should hard-line pro-settler parties bolt the ruling coalition; and reassurances from government officials that the withdrawal would hew to Bush’s vision of working toward a viable Palestinian state. “We see these processes in the framework of the president’s vision of June 24, 2002,” Israeli Trade and Industry Minister Ehud Olmert said Feb. 5 after meeting with Colin Powell in Washington. Olmert was referring to the day Bush spoke of the establishment of a
Palestinian state and an end to Palestinian terrorism by 2005. Olmert also reassured Powell that Israel would hasten the introduction of measures to ease the lives of Palestinians. A deputy prime minister, Olmert said Bush administration officials were confident that Israel would not use disengagement as a pretext to choke off a viable Palestinian state and to entrench Israel’s presence in the West Bank. “They understood that it is not Israel’s intention to create facts on the ground,” Olmert later told reporters. Details that emerged over this weekend reinforced Olmert’s message that Israel was ready to work within the confines of Bush’s vision. Eiland and other officials outlined plans to change the route of the security fence, a pledge that addressed U.S. concerns that the fence was cutting too deeply into the West Bank. “Look, let’s take it one step at a time-pulling out of settlements is a good thing,” said one administration official. “It’s the kind of action that could jumpstart a dialogue between the parties.”
Controversial Movie to be Shown at Kripke Library by DOROTHY KAPLAN for the Kripke Library Trembling Before God will be shown in the Kripke Library as part of the adult book discussion group on Thursday Feb. 19, noon. The film, which was an official selection of the Sundance Film Festival 2001, and was also featured at the Omaha Jewish Film Festival in 2003, has been described as “fascinating, powerful, loving, healing and eloquent.” It is a documentary that shatters assumptions about faith, sexuality, and religious fundamentalism. Built around intensely
told personal stories and Orthodox Jews who are gay or lesbian, the film portrays a group of people who face a profound dilemma--how to reconcile their passionate love of Judaism, and the biblical prohibition that forbid homosexuality. A discussion about Trembling Before God will immediately follow. Upcoming selections of the book discussion group: The Human Stain by Philip Roth is March 18; selections from Joseph Epstein’s Small Fabulous Jews will be on April 15. New members are invited to attend. For information, call 334.6462.