Vol. LXXXII
No. 38
Omaha, NE
21 Iyyar, 5763
May 23, 2003
SERVING NEBRASKA AND WESTERN IOWA FOR 82 YEARS
Federation Honors Volunteers of the Year at 100th Annual Meeting by PAM MONSKY, Federation Communication Director The Jewish Federation of Omaha will honor seven volunteers for extraordinary service to the Jewish community at its 100th Annual Meeting, Monday, June 9, 7 p.m. at the Jewish Community Center. The meeting will commemorate the Federation’s Centennial year and will be hosted by Federation President Steve Pitlor. The entire Jewish community is invited to attend. Marvin Gerber, who died suddenly on Tuesday, will be honored posthumously. The Rose Blumkin Jewish Home has selected Lyubov Blyakher as their Volunteer of the Year. Lyubov, and her husband, Aaron, immigrated to the United States from the former Soviet Union in 1991. Thousands of Soviet Jews were brought to the United States and Israel during Operation Exodus, a rescue and resettlement effort funded by the Jewish Federation of Omaha through United Jewish Appeal (now United Jewish Communities). While Blyakher faced formidable challenges adjusting to life in the United States, she began volunteering her time in her new community. She started volunteering at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Blumkin Home because it was near her home and now assists the residents to and from Bingo, Pokeno, Sing-A-Long and teatime.
Lyubov Blyakher
Gary Epstein
Marvin Gerber
Sally Kaplan
Suzanne Singer
John Sutin
Fred Tichauer
She is always one of the first ones to arrive to set up for a resident party and the last one to leave after cleaning up. Blyakher also has the knack of knowing when a resident needs extra attention, taking them under her wing to make them feel special. (Continued on page 6)
JCC Maccabi Games Wins Community Service Award
Committee Prepares for L.O.V.E. Event
by PAM MONSKY, Federation Communications Director The 2002 Omaha JCC Maccabi Games, which took place Aug. 4-9, will receive the Community Service Project Award at the Jewish Federation’s 100th Annual Meeting, June 9. Accepting the award on behalf of the Jewish Community Center will be Jody Malashock and Marcia Pitlor, Co-Chairmen of the JCC Maccabi Games. The Award is selected by the Jewish Federation’s Executive Committee from nominations submitted by Jewish organizations and the synagogues. The award is granted to the project that is the most creative and innovative, and has successfully Jody Malashock, left and Marcia Pitlor comet it’s stated goals. chaired the 2002 JCC Maccabi Games. Jeffrey Aizenberg, into the Games. By doing so, we were able to create JCC Executive Director, a much richer experience for the athletes, their explained, “Our goal families, our volunteers and the community at from the beginning was large,” she explained. to find a project that The Maccabi program in and of itself is unique. It would involve the maxifosters creativity by requiring the volunteers and mum number of people staff involved to develop innovative programming. in our community and Since many of the local and visiting athletes and allow a wide variety of organizations to participate and be part of the their families participate in the JCC Maccabi excitement and satisfaction of doing something Games year after year, the challenge to create extraordinary. Being a host community for the JCC something new and exciting was paramount during the planning stages for the Omaha Games. Maccabi Games fit the bill!” “My involvement with the Omaha Games was one The JCC Maccabi Games fulfilled the award criteria and then some. The opportunity to host the of the most rewarding experiences in my life,” said Games in Omaha was the Jewish community’s Malashock. “It’s hard to measure the significance largest endeavor. The volunteer leadership of the that the Games had on the people involved…this Games set and exceeded their primary goal of “unit- was more than an event. When people in a commuing the Omaha Jewish community in a collaborative nity come together for a common purpose, someproject that builds cooperation, understanding and thing magical happens. It was an extraordinary supports the mission of the JCC: to provide oppor- process of cooperation and camaraderie. “The result was this incredible sense of communal tunities for our Jewish youth and community.” JCC Assistant Director Lisa Shkolnick served as pride in our accomplishment and the knowledge the Omaha Maccabi Games Director. “What I loved that each person in the Omaha Jewish community about the Maccabi experience was that it went was invested in the outcome,” she noted. Pitlor agreed, adding, “The best part for me was much deeper than athletic competition,” she said. “The competition was the main event, of course, watching the athletes and the host families bond but we felt it was important to incorporate educa- with each other. I think at the beginning, before the tional, social action and Jewish cultural experiences (Continued on page 9)
The Gift of Time: Honoring Our Jewish Clergy, a musical program to recognize and celebrate the Jewish Clergy of Omaha, is scheduled for Sunday, June 8, 1:30 p.m. in the Jewish Community Center Theatre. The fundraiser is sponsored by L.O.V.E. (League Offering Volunteers for the Elderly), the auxiliary of the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home.
by OZZIE NOGG
Eileen Remer, L.O.V.E. Co-President, left, and Kathy Weiner, member of the “Celebrating Our Jewish Clergy” committee, measure a Torah for a new needlepoint cover to be presented to the Blumkin Home. The Torah covers are being designed by Minneapolis artist, Alice Nussbaum, whose work adorns the Torahs in use at Beth El Synagogue. (Continued on page 10)
INSIDE: JCC Basketball Tournament to Memorialize Eddie Belgrade ........................................ page 7 Temple, Beth El Honor Graduates .... page 10 WRJ Hosts Second Annual Retreat ... page 12
Page 2
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
May 23, 2003
PRINTING, COPYING and DIGITAL NETWORK 3706 South 132nd Street • 402/330-5050
Letterhead • Brochures • Newsletters Business Cards • Mailers • Postcards
EXPERIENCED CRAFTSMAN Finished Basements & Remodels Renovations • Framing • Drywall • Taping Plastering • Ceramic Tile • and More
STEVE VAIDA 402/861-6534
cell: 402/290-5189
All work guaranteed • Fully insured
Do You Have
HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE? If so, you may be eligible to participate in a research study evaluating a new drug for the treatment of hypertension being conducted by Heartland Clinical Research at 2219 N. 91st Plaza.
You May Qualify If: You are 18 or older • You have hypertension You are in otherwise good health Participants Receive At No Cost: Study medication • Blood pressure checks Physical exams • Lab testing • ECGs
Heartland Clinical Research, Inc. 2219 N. 91st Plaza, Omaha, NE 68134
402/502-9364 or 402/502-9363 CLIP & SAVE
CALENDAR OF EVENTS FRIDAY, MAY 23 CDC Graduation, 8 a.m. CDC Graduation Reception, 11 a.m. Beth Israel Scholar-in-Residence, Dr. Jonathan Adelman, 7 p.m. SATURDAY, MAY 24 C Beth Israel Scholar-in-Residence, Dr. Jonathan Adelman, C 10 a.m. L L I SUNDAY, MAY 25 P Beth El HAZAK Sponsors Options for Senior Housing, & noon S MONDAY, MAY 26 A V YES Program, 10 a.m. Florence Melton Adult Mini School, 11 a.m. E
Talmud Class with Rabbi Kutner, 7 p.m. at Beth Israel
I P & S A V E
TUESDAY, MAY 27 Visions Lecture and Lunch, noon, at Joslyn Art Museum Federation Partnership 2000 Consortium Meeting, noon BBYO Night, 6 p.m.
C L I P & S A V E
WEDNESDAY, MAY 28 Federation Partnership 2000 Consortium Meeting, 8 a.m. Hadassah HIES Luncheon, 11:30 a.m. B’nai B’rith Breadbreakers, noon, at the Park Inn Regency Lodge NCJW Book Club, 7 p.m.
C L I P & S A V All events held at the JCC unless otherwise indicated.The Jewish Press is not E
THURSDAY, MAY 29 Federation Partnership 2000 Consortium Meeting, 8 a.m. Walk-in Drop-in Activity, 10 a.m. Yiddish Group Meeting, 1 p.m. Friedel Jewish Academy Graduation, 7 p.m. AIPAC Annual Event, 7 p.m. at the home of Nancy & David Friedland
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)
SPARKS FROM THE WORD To Walk in God’s Ways by RABBI MORDECHAI LEVIN Parashah Bechukotai In Parashah Bechukotai, God tells the Israelites that if they follow the commandments they will be rewarded, but if they do not follow the commandments they will be punished. In other words, our actions have consequences. At the beginning of the parashah (Leviticus 26:3), God says, “If you walk in My laws, and faithfully observe My commandments...” What does it mean to walk in God’s ways? Different rabbis have different interpretations. Rabbi Shlomo ben Yitzchaki (better known as Rashi, 1040-1105), when commenting on the verse, asked the following question, “When the Torah says, ‘If you walk in My laws’, does it mean we should observe God’s commandments?” And then, Rashi answered his own question by saying, “No, because it is the second half of the verse that tells us--‘and faithfully observe My commandments.’ “What, then, does the Torah mean when it says, ‘If you walk in My laws.’ It means that you should labor in the study of Torah, in order to observe and to fulfill that which you learn.” Rabbi Chaim Ibn Attar (Ohr Hachayim, 16961743) said the reference to walking is to remind us to study Torah even when we are walking or traveling. We should instill within ourselves and our children a strong yearning to learn Torah and Judaism. There is a rabbinic debate about the importance of study versus the importance of doing good deeds. Which of them takes precedence? The rabbis decided that the study of Torah takes precedence, because study will lead to the doing of good deeds. Thus, the meaning of the verse, “If you walk in My laws, and faithfully observe My commandments” is: If you study Torah, then you will faithfully observe God’s commandments. The study should lead us action, to deeper commitment and observance, and to a greater sensitivity to the needs of others. According to Rabbi Simcha Bunem of Przysucha (1765-1827), If you will walk means that in the service of God we must constantly go higher and higher. We must not stay on one level or remain static, but move forward--step by step--to elevate ourselves. We should constantly search for new ethical commandments to perform and rituals to embrace. The Talmud (Sotah 14a) also examines the meaning of walking in God’s ways. Rav Hama, son of Rav Hanina, said, “After the Lord your God shall you walk.” (Deuteronomy 13:5). But is it possible to walk right behind the Presence? According to Rav Hama, the verse means we are to follow the ways of the Holy One. The Holy One clothed the naked. “The Lord God made for Adam and for his wife garments of skin and clothed them” (Genesis 3:21). So should we clothe the naked. The Holy One visited the sick. “The Lord appeared unto him in the terebinths of Mamre” (Genesis 18:1). So should we visit the sick. The Holy One buried the dead. “He buried Moses in the valley” (Deuteronomy 34:6). So should we bury the dead. The Holy One comforted mourners. And it came to pass after the death of Abraham that God bestowed blessing upon Isaac, his son (Genesis 25:11). So should we comfort mourners. Yes, the study of Torah leads to good deeds. If we follow the ways of the Holy One--if we walk in his laws--we will truly live, as it is written: “You shall keep My laws and My rules, by the pursuit of which man shall live: I am the Lord” (Leviticus 18:5).
@@@@@@@@ Please join us for a
Sheva Brachos Kiddush
DEATHS MILTON PARKER Milt Parker died at the age of 75. Services were held May 18 at Temple Israel Cemetery. Parker retired recently when he sold his business, Parker Heating and Air Conditioning. He is survived by his wife, Doris; daughter and son-in-law, Monica and Ben Nemani; son, Garret (Gary); granddaughter, Aryn; and grandchildren and great-grandchildren in Canada. Memorials to charity of choice. EDITH NODDLE Edith Noddle died at the age of 91. Services were held May 18 at Beth El Cemetery. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Noddle. She is survived by her sons and daughters-in-law, Harlan and Nancy of Omaha and Jeffrey and Linda of Minneapolis; son, Allan of Omaha; grandchildren, Jay and Kim Noddle, Susan and Marvin Levine, Julie and Patrick Ryan, and Stacey and Jerome Schneider; five great-grandchildren; and her sister, Mary Smith. Memorials to Beth El Synagogue or the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. GOLDYE GOLDBERG Goldye Goldberg died at the age of 87. Services were held May 20 at Golden Hill Cemetery. Goldberg went to work for the Jewish Community Center in 1934, performing tasks in every area of the building on 20th and Dodge--catering, secretarial work, bookkeeping in the Dr. Philip Sher Home for the Aged, and typing for Jewish Family Service. When Paul Veret was hired as Federation Director, she “moved up” to receptionist at the front lobby. and then to secretary for the athletic director of the ‘J’. She resigned in 1937 after her marriage to Harry Goldberg, but came back to work when her children were still in elementary school. She resigned once again in 1966. She was preceded in death by husband, Harry. She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Beverly and Robert Zuber; son and daughter-inlaw, Frank and Leanne Goldberg; grandchildren, Steve Goldberg, Robert and Kimberly Goldberg, Steven Zuber, Rachel and Christopher Johanowicz, Amy and Robert Garber; and one great-grandchild. Memorials to the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home, Beth El Synagogue, or charity of choice. CELIA B. ‘CELE’ SCHWARTZ Cele Schwartz died at the age of 86. A memorial service was held May 19 at Beth El Synagogue with burial in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. She was preceded in death by her husband, Harry, and her sister, Faye Levin. She is survived by daughters and sons-in-law, Lois and Donald Stern, Gail and Irving Veitzer; grandchildren, Adam and Polly Stern, Susan and Alan Kohll, Lynn, Tim Veitzer; three great-grandchildren; and a sister, Thelma Perlik, Chicago, IL. Memorials to charity of choice. MARVIN GERBER Marvin Gerber died May 20 at the age of 79; his 80th birthday would have been May 21. Services were held May 22 at Temple Israel Cemetery. He was preceded in death by his wife, Dory Gerber. His extensive volunteer work was recognized just last month by United Way, when he was honored as the winner in the Ethnic Category. The Jewish Federation will honor him posthumously with a Volunteer-of-the-Year Award next month. He is survived by son, Gary Gerber; daughter, Judith Feigin; granddaughter, Lauren Feigin; sister and brother-in-law, Marilyn and Yale Kaplan; and dear friend, Gilda Pieck, all of Omaha. Memorials to L.O.V.E. or Temple Israel’s Caring Committee.
in honor of newlyweds
Eva and Josh Gonsher GREAT Food at GREAT Prices
Saturday, May 31, 12:30 p.m.
Expect More From An Employee Owned Store
at the OCTL House 1313 No. 58 St.
Peony Park 7910 Cass St. 384-8668
Sponsored by the friends of Rini and Allan Gonsher
EARLY DEADLINE NOTICE The Jewish Press office will be closed Monday, May 26 for Memorial Day and Friday, June 6 for Shavuot. The deadline for ads, photos and articles is noon as follows: Issue Deadline June 13 Wednesday, June 4 Questions? Call 334-6448.
May 23, 2003
SYNAGOGUES
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 3
Candlelighting Friday, May 23 .............................................. 8:25 p.m.
TEMPLE ISRAEL
BETH ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE
BETH EL SYNAGOGUE
Member of the Union of American Hebrew Congregations
Member of United Synagogues of Conservative Judaism
7023 Cass Street, Omaha, NE 68132-2651 556-6536 templeisrael-ne.org
Member of Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America
1502 No. 52 St., Omaha, NE. 68104 -5013 556-6288 BethIsrael@novia.net
14506 California Omaha, NE 68154-1980 492-8550 WEB--www.bethel-omaha.org
FRIDAY: Men’s Club, 11:45 a.m. All male members of Temple Israel are invited to a weekly informal get together at Spirit World, 7517 Pacific St. Join us for some relaxation and great conversation; Evening Worship Service, 5:30 p.m. Rabbi Aryeh Azriel and Cantor Wendy Shermet will officiate. Rabbi Azriel will give the D’var Torah. SATURDAY: Bagels and Sacred Books, 9:30 a.m., in the Milder Center; Morning service, 10:30 a.m. SITTER SERVICE Sitter Service is available at each Friday evening service, Saturday mornings when there is a bar or bat mitzvah, as well as Sunday mornings when there is religious school. Charge is $2 per family. Please make reservations with the office. ADULT EDUCATION WEDNESDAY, May 28: “A Guide to the Perplexed: Reading the Writings of Maimonides” with Rabbi Azriel, 8:30-10 a.m. THURSDAY, May 29: Adult Study with Rabbi Azriel, 10-11:30 a.m. SPECIAL SERVICES Friday, May 30: Confirmation and Graduation Service, 7:30 p.m., followed by an Oneg. See article on page 10 for a complete listing of graduates.
Office hours: Monday through 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, 7 p.m., at Beth Israel. Scholar-in-Residence Shabbat, 6:30 p.m. at the JCC, followed by dinner at 7:45 p.m., where Dr. Jonathan Adelman will speak on “Can the Palestinian Authority Reform?” SATURDAY: Morning Services, 8:45 a.m., at both Beth Israel and the JCC. Free babysitting begins at 10 a.m.; Junior Congregation, 10:30 a.m., followed by kiddush. Lunch at the JCC will follow kiddush at 12:30 p.m. Dr. Adelman will speak following lunch on “Anti-Semitism in Global Perspective.” Mincha will follow the lecture at the JCC. Shalosh Suedot is at the home of Donald and Maggie Gerber at 7:30 p.m. where Dr. Adelman will speak on “Operation Iraqi Freedom and it’s Consequences,” followed by Ma’ariv. At Beth Israel: Mincha, 8:20 p.m., followed by Shalosh Suedot and Ma’ariv; Havdalah, 9:34 p.m. A weekly e-mail update is now being sent out, listing synagogue events. Please e-mail the office to be on the list. SUNDAY: Morning services, 9 a.m; Evening services, 6:45 p.m. WEEKDAYS: Services, 7 a.m. and 6:45 p.m MONDAY: Morning services, 9 a.m. The office will be closed for Memorial Day. Talmud class with Rabbi Kutner, 7 p.m. Everyone is welcome. WEDNESDAY: Hadassah Luncheon featuring “Rappin’ with the Rabbis”, 11:45 a.m.
Office Hours: Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m.5 p.m.; Friday , 9 a.m.-4 p.m. FRIDAY: Musical Kabbalat Shabbat service, 6 p.m. SATURDAY: Morning Services, 9:30 a.m. Bar Mitzvah of Aaron Murow, son of Allan and Jane Murow, who will host kiddush following services. Rabbi Levin’s Torah Class meets at 8:10 p.m. Evening services at 8:40 p.m. SUNDAY: Morning services, 9 a.m.; HAZAK sponsored panel discussion on Trends in Senior Care and Housing Options, 3 p.m., Guest Speaker Carolyn Leeds, a senior advocate from Indianapolis, will be joined by Omaha panelists Michael Silverman and Shane Kotok; Evening services and Study Session, 5:30 p.m. This relaxed, informal minyan, is led by Gastón Bogomolni. This week’s topic: The Torah Service and Its Prayers. WEEKDAY SERVICES: 6:55 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 28: Adult B’nai Mitzvah Class, 7:30 p.m, led by Cantor Emil Berkovits. Thursday, May 29: Introduction to Judaism class with Rabbi Levin, noon, topic is “Understanding the Priciples of Conservative Judaism”.
TIFERETH ISRAEL Member of United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism
3219 Sheridan Blvd., Lincoln, NE 68502-5236 tiferethisraellincoln.org
423-8569
Services conducted by Rabbi Stanley M. Rosenbaum. Minyan, Monday & Thursday, 7:15 a.m. FRIDAY: Shacharit, 8 p.m. SATURDAY: Shacharit, 9:30 a.m. Kathy, Julie, Michael and Benjamin will be taking part in the services in honor of Sheldon Kushner’s 75th Birthday. Please join the family at a Kiddush Luncheon following. Wednesday: Men’s Group at the Knolls, 12:30 p.m. If you don’t receive a call and would like to attend, call Yale Gotsdiner at 423-7066, or the office.
CONGREGATION B’NAI JESHURUN SOUTH STREET TEMPLE
OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE SAC Memorial Chapel 301 Lincoln Highway, Offutt AFB, NE 68113 294-6244 FRIDAY: Services, 7:30 p.m..
BEYT SHALOM
An Affiliate of the Jewish Reconstructionist Federation
3012 S. 119th St., Omaha, NE 68124-5130
P.O. Box 241130 402-592-4082
FRIDAY and SATURDAY: Memorial Day Weekend; Shabbat in the Home.
Member of the Union of American Hebrew Congregations
2061 S. 20th St., Lincoln, NE 68502-2797 435-8004 jewishnebraska.org FRIDAY: Shabbat services, 7:45 p.m., led by Rabbi Taub. Barbara and Celia Barron will light the Sabbath candles, Eleanor Kirkland, musician. The Calidonna family will host the Oneg. SATURDAY: Morning Service, 9:30 a.m., Alex Calidonna will celebrate his Bar Mitzvah, followed by brunch. Mark Miller will be the musician. No Torah Study. SUNDAY: No Hebrew school or Religious School. WEDNESDAY: AA Meeting, 7 p.m. in the Library or Social Hall.
ROSE BLUMKIN JEWISH HOME SATURDAY: Services, 9 a.m., are led by Rabbi Maximo Shechet. All services are held in the Herbet Goldsten Chapel and are open to the community.
B’NAI ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE 618 Mynster St., Council Bluffs, IA 51503-0766 Phone: 322-4705 e-mail: doc jeb @aol.com FRIDAY: Evening Service, 7:30 p.m. Oneg will follow.
Can You Identify These Photos? by JEWISH PRESS News Service Once again, the Nebraska Jewish Historical Society is asking for help from Jewish Press readers to identify the two photos at left. The NJHS has many more unidentified photos in their archives--if you’re interested in volunteering a few hours, please call Renee Corcoran, NJHS Director, at 3346442. The NJHS welcomes donations of family photos and other memorabilia, as well as Jewish organizational memorabilia. For more information about donating materials to the NJHS archives, call the office, 334-6441.
CHABAD HOUSE An Affiliate of the Worldwide Chabad-Lubavitch Movement
1866 So. 120th St., Omaha, NE 68144-1646 Phone: 330-1800 E-MAIL--chabad@aol.com WEBSITE: www.nebraskajudaism.com Services conducted by Rabbi Mendel Katzman. Monday-Friday: Services at 7 a.m. SATURDAY: Services at 9:30 a.m. SUNDAY: Services at 8:30 a.m. THURSDAY: “Slice of Life” Torah Class, ?? p.m.
B’NAI MITZVAH Alexander Barron Calidonna, son of Barbara Barron and Mark Calidonna, will celebrate his Bar Mitzvah on Saturday, May 24 at B’nai Jeshurun Temple in Lincoln. A sixth grade student at Holmes Elementary School, Alex received first place awards for his science project on volcanoes at the local and regional level. His interests include baseball, swimming, bicycling, Play Station and Dragon Ball Z. Alex has a brother, Joshua. Grandparents are Herman and Celia Barron of Omaha, and Catherine Calidonna of Yorktown Heights, NY. Jaclyn Harriet Adelson, daughter of Arlene and Tony Adelson, will celebrate her Bat Mitzvah on Saturday, May 31 at Temple Israel. A seventh grade honors student at Brownell Talbot, Jaclyn enjoys singing, taking voice lessons, piano and dance. For her mitzvah project Jaclyn baked for Temple Israel’s Onegs once a month for a year, and also donated baked goods to area shelters. Jaclyn has a sister, Lori-Anne, sister-in-law, Sharon, and brother, Matthew. Grandparents are Bernice ans Ted Miller, Seymour Stone, Beverly Barow and the late Alan Adelson.
Page 4
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
May 23, 2003
EDITORIAL You Can’t Argue with Demographics Photos have been trickling in for publication in the June 6 Graduation photo spread of 2003 high school seniors. Readers were shocked last year when there were fewer than 50 photos on the page. You’re about to be shocked again-we’ve got fewer than 50 this year, too (though there are still a few missing-and you know who you are! So, please, send your child’s senior photo, name, parents’ names, high school and college ASAP to us at the Press!). As the old adage says, “You can’t argue with demographics.” Less than a decade ago, we published nearly 65 photos a year of graduating seniors. This year, Beth El’s third grade consecration class has only 10 students. Last year’s pool of potential kindergarteners from which the Friedel Jewish Academy tried to recruit new students had only 31. If this isn’t hitting you over the head by now, then math isn’t your strong suit. The Centers of Excellence were supposed to have the results of a longawaited demographic survey nearly a year ago. The resulting “merge” of mailing lists from agencies on this campus
and the Press subscription list did not provide the comprehensive information needed. And by the time it was available, it was out-of-date, often listing snowbirds twice (or even three times if a business address was included). Children of divorced parents were listed with each parent. The numbers just didn’t add up and the resulting information was therefore, skewed. This community desperately needs hard information about its members. How many Jews DO live in greater Omaha? How old are they and what services do they currently use and what will need in the future? Temple’s considering building a $20 million synagogue ‘out West.’ Jewish Senior Services is pursue building an assisted living facility. And is there really a pool of preschoolers for our Child Development Center and Friedel? (It certainly would help us at the Press, too, if we knew the buying habits of our readers.) We are not suggesting that the Omaha Jewish community close up shop. On the contrary, we’re looking for hard data so we can make sensible decisions for our future. The longer we wait, the more people we’ll lose.
Pro-Israel Campus Activists Claim Victories, Worry About Future
FOCUS ON ISSUES by RACHEL POMERANCE NEW YORK (JTA)--Israeli rock music filled the Greenwich Village basement where New York University students downed kosher hot dogs and chips for Israel’s 55th birthday. Some flaunted their Hebrew-language skills in animated chatter around smoky grills, and a piercing Sephardi ululation rang through the room. But despite the celebratory atmosphere, two students lamented what they see as the anti-Israel animus of the school’s Middle Eastern studies department. “Jewish professors are afraid to take a clear stand for or against Israel,” Scott Dubin, an activist with Gesher, a Zionist group on campus, said. “Part of that comes from a desire to remain academically neutral, but at the same time, just like the rest of the world, they’re leaving the fight for Israel up to students.” The glimpse of the NYU party reflects the broader picture on North American campuses, pro-Israel activists say: It capped a year during which pro-Israel students felt relief, pride and progress regarding Israel’s profile on campus, but the struggle is far from over. Campus debate on the IsraeliPalestinian conflict has lost a bit of its urgency during the past year, overtaken by activism surrounding America’s war against Iraq. Anti-Israel activists found a home in the anti-war movement, but they made little headway in building sup-
port for the Palestinian cause, and even alienated some students who supported U.S. troops. At the same time, Jewish groups and activists answered the call to defend Israel’s name. Twenty-six groups, ranging from Aish HaTorah to the Reform outreach group Kesher, came together to form the Israel on Campus Coalition, a national coordinating body that provided high-profile speakers and advocacy training for students. A movement to have universities divest from companies that do business with Israel garnered headlines, but it was roundly condemned by university presidents and sank under the weight of counter-petitions supporting Israel. Dialogue even bloomed on several of the most heated campuses. “Tides really have turned,” said Daniel Spector, 20, formerly president of Georgetown University’s Jewish Student Association. “Two years ago, American college campuses were really in a bad way for Zionist Jewish students,” who now “feel comfortable on the campuses again.” But the pro-Israel activists aren’t declaring victory yet. Some worry animosity will resume once Americans no longer are preoccupied with rebuilding Iraq. Officials with Jewish campus groups fear anti-Israel forces will link America’s occupation of Iraq with Israel’s presence in the West Bank
and Gaza Strip. They also anticipate increased pressure on Israel as the world presses for implementation of the “road map” to rejuvenate IsraeliPalestinian peace talks. “I don’t think” anti-Israel activists “produced any major results on campus in the second semester,” said Wayne Firestone, Director of the Israel on Campus Coalition. “The question is whether they will regroup under this new banner of ‘End the occupation’ for the coming semester.” The slogan already has surfaced at several conferences of anti-war groups, according to Jonathan Kessler, leadership development director for the American Israel Public Affairs Committee. Anti-Israel activists never intended to focus on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict during the war, Kessler said. Instead, they wanted to broaden their constituency within the anti-war movement, building alliances they could plumb for new supporters once the war ended, he said. But activists say students are only part of the problem: Some of the most entrenched anti-Israel voices belong to professors, campus watchers said. “In the 39 years that I’ve been teaching, this is the worst year,” Alan Dershowitz, a Harvard law professor, told JTA. “The deliberate lies that have been put forward by distinguished professors has had no match in this country.” While pro-Israel students have been
(Founded in 1920)
Nebraska Press Association
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, Jewish Senior Services. 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.
National Newspaper Association
The Jewish Press (USPS 275620) is published weekly on Friday for $28 per calendar year U.S.; $32 foreign, by the Jewish Federation of Omaha. Phone: 402-334-6448; FAX: 402334-5422; e-mail editorial material, photos and address changes to: ckatzman@jewishomaha.org; send ads (in .TIF or .PDF format) to: rbusse@jewishomaha.org. Periodical postage paid at Omaha, NE. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The Jewish Press, 333 So. 132nd St., Omaha, NE 68154-2198.
Fred Tichauer Chairman Carol Katzman Editor Richard Busse Creative Director Allan Handleman Advertising Manager Ray Pred Account Executive Timothy J. Ketelsen Bookkeeper Jen Gates Production Assistant George Schapiro Volunteer
louder than in the past, “the faculty still has been deafeningly mute,” he said, calling the silence of some proIsrael faculty members a “great scandal.” Barnard student Avigail Appelbaum, 20, agreed. “I can’t take classes at my Middle East” studies department at Columbia “unless I’m willing to sit through diatribe after diatribe given by professors who are not willing to hear that Israel is legitimate,” she said. Students are “afraid to be connected with Israel,” she said. Appelbaum, who founded and chairs the North American Jewish Student Alliance, a new group on 62 campuses, said national Jewish groups “truly failed the students” by adopting a posture that was too defensive and not sufficiently aggressive. But most Jewish students interviewed for this article lauded national Jewish organizations and resources, saying they had been instrumental in pro-Israel forces’ gains on campus. With a grant from the Avi Chai Foundation, Neta Retter, 19, organized a “Got Israel?” campaign at the University of California at San Diego. Activists from the school’s Hillel papered the campus with fliers inquiring “Got Genes?” or “Got AIM?” and then mounted a blue and white balloon arch on campus to publicize how Israeli research--on genetics and instant messaging, for example--personally affect students’ lives.
JEWISH PRESS COMMITTEE Joanie Jacobson, Vice-Chairman; Penny Endelman, Secretary; Steve Simon, Treasurer; Elyce Azriel; Jill Belmont; Jean Duitch; Kip Gordman; Bobbi Leibowitz; Howard K. Marcus; Scott Meyerson; Linda Saltzman; Joey Shyken; Melanie Weinstein; Amee Zetzman; George Schapiro (Honorary Committee Member). 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.
May 23, 2003
BEHIND THE HEADLINES by RACHEL POMERANCE NEW YORK (JTA)--The following is a timeline of major events over the past year with regard to North American campuses: • May 2002: Following the “Passover massacre” bombing in Israel, Hillel: The Foundation for Jewish Campus Life launches its first Israel advocacy mission. The program draws 400 students for the five-day mission, and 80 remain for two weeks of advocacy training at Tel Aviv University. • May 1, 2002: The American Israel Public Affairs Committee rolls out an expanded campus program, tripling the size of its budget and staffing. The new initiative works with four key activists on each of 60 campuses that AIPAC feels produce future political leaders. The activists attend intense summer and winter training with advocates and policy makers. • Summer 2002: Twenty-six groups come together to form the Israel on Campus Coalition, a national coordinating body that provides high-profile speakers and advocacy training for students. • August 2002: The Jewish National Fund’s Caravan for Democracy takes 13 students on a two-week training seminar to Israel. The students visit journalists, politicians and terror victims and learn how to write letters to
the editor of newspapers and organize on campus. • August 2002: As part of its first Israel advocacy program, the Alpha Epsilon Pi fraternity trains 300 delegates at its international convention. • Aug. 20-25, 2002: Hillel holds its annual Charles Schusterman International Student Leaders Assembly at Camp Moshava in Honesdale, PA. About 425 students gather to plan campus activism for the year. • September 2002: A sukkah at the University of Colorado is desecrated the day after Palestinian official Hanan Ashrawi makes a speech on campus. Groups of various faiths come together to rebuild it. • Sept. 9, 2002: Rioting by antiIsrael protesters leads to the cancellation of a speech by former Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at Concordia University in Montreal. Afterward, campus administrators impose a temporary ban on Mideastrelated activities. • Sept. 16, 2002: Academic Daniel Pipes unveils Campus Watch, a website to monitor professors and institutions he deems anti-Israel or antiAmerican. The site ignites a furor in academia, with many denigrating it as McCarthyist.
LETTER FROM ISRAEL
Mazal Tov and Siman Tov by HARRY ALLEN This is a hard scrabble place--this Israel. Its climate (like Nebraska’s) is abominable--too hot in the summer and in a good winter, wet and gray. The desert winds blow in from the Arabian peninsula from time to time, bringing with it the sand reminiscent of the midwest dust bowl storms of the 1930s. We live with the barbarism of Arab terrorism and the cloying self-righteous human rights industry--numbering sadly, too many people, many of our own Jews with in it. We are, as Moses himself proclaimed, a stiff necked people; that is our strength and salvation, not just in Israel, but in the far flung habitats of the Jewish people as well. We have this stubborn will to succeed and advance humanity in the face of turmoil, and difficulty. And nowhere was this humanity more evident than in our Beit Knesset, Moreshet Yisroel, this past Thursday morning, when we celebrated the B’nai Mitzvah of four very severely physically and mentally handicapped youngsters. The Masorti movement sponsors a program called Operation Mazal Tov, which for many years now has worked with kids like these in teaching as much Judaism as the kids are able to absorb. The rabbis and teachers in Israel who work with these young people are certainly among the lamed vovniks--the righteous of the world. But back to Thursday morning. We had our regular service--but not really. Instead of our usual 15 people or so, the Beit Knesset was full to overflowing with friends and family of the kids, as well as our own members. Our Thursday morning Talmud classes attended en masse. The synagogue was festooned with flowers and the Israeli flags decorating the hall for Yom Ha’Atzmaut were still in place. Over the past year, these kids had
learned how to haltingly recite the brachot for an aliyah (the blessing before the reading of the Torah). Each of them was wheeled to the bima in response to the traditional call of the gabbai to come forward. As they slowly recited what they had so patiently learned, there was not a dry eye in the house. Parents who in their entire parenting experience had never heard a mazal tov for anything their children had accomplished were overjoyed at the congregations’ singing of Mazal Tov and Siman Tov as the other kids threw candy. One father, an Orthodox man who had originally not wanted to participate because women were to be called up, was teary-eyed as his son performed the mitzvah of an aliyah. Over the course of the year, each of the kids had managed to write a personal prayer which was read at the ceremony. One wrote, “Praised be to God, Who gave me my mother, who I love very much and prepares schnitzel for me.” Another wrote, “Praised be to God, Who gave me brothers and sisters.” Not exactly liturgical, but surely religious. And in this hard scrabble country, there were 24 other similar services that day--all sponsored and paid for by the Masorti movement. These are special moments in time when we try to reach out in love and Jewish tradition to the least able among us. Surely this place and these times have not erased our humanity. It would be wonderful if the Jewish communities served by this newspaper would choose to be a part of this magnificent program. You can, of course, send your individual donations to Operation Mazal Tov, Masorti Foundation for Conservative Judaism in Israel, 475 Riverdale Dr., New York City, NY 10115-0122.
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 5
From Divestment to Training, a Busy Year for Student Activists • Sept. 17, 2002: Harvard President Lawrence Summers blasts what he considers growing anti-Semitism on campus, singling out a movement to force universities to divest their holdings in companies that do business with Israel. Other campus presidents, including those from Tufts, the University of Pennsylvania and the University of Michigan, follow Summers’ lead in rejecting divestment. • October 2002: The second National Student Conference on the Palestine Solidarity Movement takes place at the University of Michigan. The conference gains much media attention, but its divestment campaign flops over the course of the year amid administrative rejection and counterpetitions. • Oct. 7, 2002: The American Jewish Committee publishes a full-page ad in The New York Times with 312 signatures of college presidents decrying intimidation of Jewish students on campus. • November 2002: Chabad announces a plan to expand from 61 to 81 full-time Chabad houses on campus. • November 2002: The annual General Assembly of the United Jewish Communities federation umbrella is complemented by a student “Zionism Teach-in” that draws
about 300 people. The event is run by the Jewish Agency for Israel and USD-Hagshama. • December 2002: Hillel director Richard Joel, one of the top leaders in organized Jewish life, announces he will leave his post to become president of Yeshiva University. • December 2002: Concordia University’s student government tries to remove Hillel as a sanctioned student group for distributing material related to the Israel Defense Force. The move ultimately fails. • January 2003: Hillel launches Israel 101, a campaign to fill the next 101 days with innovative, student-led Israel programming. • March 2003: The Anti-Defamation League releases a survey showing 106 anti-Semitic incidents on college campuses in 2002, a 24 percent increase over the previous year. • March 27, 2003: Israel at Heart, a private initiative run by New York philanthropist Joey Low, begins its second annual two-week program to bring Israeli students to North American campuses to talk about living with terrorism. • March 30-April 1, 2003: At its annual policy conference, AIPAC presents the White House with pro-Israel petitions bearing 55,000 signatures from students at 60 colleges.
Lexis-Nexis users can find selected articles from the Jewish Press (including back issues in the 1970s and 80s) at the EthnicNewsWatch website, available by subscription.
From the collection of Mr. & Mrs. Alvin Goldstein Boca Raton, Florida
Asian Assemblage Art by Jo Nelson Singer Island,Florida • 561-863-8833
Exhibiting at Countryside Village Art Fair June 7-8 • 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Page 6
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
May 23, 2003
Volunteers of the Year (Continued from page 1) Blyakher volunteers at the Home four to five days each week for several hours each day. While learning English as a Second Language, Lyubov studied diligently for the citizenship exam and is now proud to be an American. Gary Epstein is being honored by the Jewish Community Center as their Volunteer of the Year. He has served on the JCC Board for 12 years, eight of them as a Vice-president. He is currently the President-elect and will begin serving his two-year term as President of the JCC in 2004. Epstein takes an active role in all of the activities and special events at the JCC. In addition to his service on the Executive Committee, he has chaired the Fitness and Athletic Committees as well as the JCC’s Golf Outing program. Currently, Gary is leading a new program, the “Eddie Belgrade Memorial Three on Three Basketball Challenge,” slated for July 27 (see story on page 7). Epstein and his family have been involved with the ‘J’ for generations and his personal commitment to the agency ensures that the quality of Jewish programming will continue for years to come. Jewish Senior Services selected Marvin Gerber as their Volunteer of the Year. Marvin was the kind of volunteer who worked quietly behind the scenes, avoiding kudos or recognition for his volunteer work. Gerber served on the board of the senior group Visions for two consecutive positions. He was on the original
board and instrumental in planning and organizing meetings for the newly formed group. Visions is a social group for active seniors that also has a “good social conscience.” Gerber was a familiar face on its “Mitzvah Committee,” organizing programs and volunteer opportunities throughout the community. He was also actively involved with Temple Israel’s Caring Committee, L.O.V.E. (League Offering Volunteers for the Elderly), and as a veteran volunteer caller for the Jewish Federation’s Super Sunday. He also volunteered his time for JSS and Y.E.S. (Young Energetic Seniors) by driving seniors on monthly outings and day trips. Incredibly, Gerber was also a tutor at Westside Middle School and worked with the students every week for four years. His sudden death leaves a “huge hole in our hearts” as well as in our corps of volunteers, said Michael Silverman, JSS Executive Director. Sally Kaplan is Jewish Family Service’s Volunteer of the Year. Throughout her volunteer service, Kaplan has played a major role in the agency, serving on the JFS Board as Secretary and Vice-president. She also chaired the Agency Operations Committee, which took the lead in creating and updating the policies and procedures for JFS. Her committee also revised the financial assistance policy to address the changing needs of the Jewish clients seeking help. Kaplan has been a valuable resource in revising the Adoption Policy, which
The Jewish Federation of Omaha is proud to nominate the following community members for positions of leadership
ELECTION 2003 INFORMATION for the Jewish Federation of Omaha and its Centers of Excellence JOINT ANNUAL MEETING June 9, 2003, 7:00 p.m. Ɣ Jewish Community Center, 333 South 132nd Street OFFICERS & CHAIRMEN:
JEWISH FEDERATION OF OMAHA
President………………………………………………………………………......Steve Pitlor Vice President/Israel Overseas……….……………………...………….……...Zoë Riekes Vice President/Secretary………………………………….……………….…...Robert Lepp Treasurer……………………………………………………….………….……...Steve Nogg Past President……………………………………………………..……….....Forrest Krutter Foundation Chairman……………………………………...……………...….…Steve Bloch Budget and Allocations Chairman………………………………………......Norm Sheldon Building and Grounds Chairman………………………………………….…..Todd Manvitz Marketing Committee Chairman………………………………………....…..Margo Riekes Young Leadership Cabinet…………………………………………….……..Michael Miller Planning & Evaluation Chairman………………………..…………….….Sandy Friedman Jewish Press Chairman…………………………..…………….……...….Joanie Jacobson ADL/CRC OFFICERS: President ………………...…....Sara Juster First Vice President ……….David Gilinsky Second Vice President…….Keri Workman Past President……..……..Mimi Waldbaum
JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER OFFICERS: President…………………….Jeff Kirshenbaum Past President……………...Richard Jacobson
JEWISH SENIOR SERVICES OFFICERS: President…………….…...Joanie Bernstein First Vice President…………Bob Belgrade Second Vice President………Harold Mann Secretary………………………....John Lehr Treasurer…………………….....Mort Glass Past President…………….....Sivi Roffman
JEWISH FAMILY SERVICE OFFICERS: President ………………….……..Justin Cooper Vice President……………..………...Lisa Lewis Secretary……………………………... Treasurer ……………………..…….Todd Simon Past President……….……….Patricia Newman
now reduces the legal liability of JFS without diminishing the service provided. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with years of clinical experience, Kaplan volunteered her expertise by providing professional consultation to the JFS therapists on difficult cases. In addition, Sally was a co-facilitator of two interfaith couples workshops sponsored by the agency. Her contributions of time and talent have been integral to its success and growth. The Jewish Federation has named Suzanne Singer as Volunteer of the Year. In the spring of 2002, the Federation voted to renovate the community mikvah. The mikvah, attached to the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home, had not been updated for 20 years. Singer, a member of the Federation’s Executive Committee, agreed to chair this project. She not only served as chair, but became a “general contractor” for this project, working tirelessly for nine months. The result is a beautiful mikvah that is a warm and inviting place for members of our Jewish community and visitors. Volunteerism is second nature to Singer. She has served in many volunteer positions for a variety of organizations in our community including: Temple Israel, National Council of Jewish Women-Omaha Section, and as a member of the board of the Livingston Foundation. Singer has held a number of positions in the Federation and recently concluded a two-year term as Vicepresident of the Board. The ADL/CRC has selected John K.
Sutin as their Volunteer of the Year. John has been volunteering his services at the ADL/CRC office for the past year, managing the agency’s computer database. He is responsible for the task of entering new names and updating data. He is also starting to identify individual’s areas of interest, which will allow the ADL/CRC to streamline and personalize mailings and emails for their constituency. This huge undertaking will enable the ADL/CRC staff to customize information according to individual preferences as well as help reduce postage costs. Sutin’s attention to detail and dedication to this important project are greatly appreciated. Fred Tichauer is the Volunteer of the Year for the Jewish Press. He has served on the Board of the Jewish Press Committee since 1995, and will conclude his two-year term as Chairman in June. As a member of the Executive Committee for the last eight years, Tichauer has held virtually every leadership post from Secretary and Treasurer to Vice-chairman and Chairman. Tichauer’s exceptional council, wise advise and creative inspiration has been crucial to improving the operations and content of the Jewish Press. As Chairman, Tichauer and his committee were not satisfied with just upholding the paper’s high standards, they also looked for ways to improve them. His passion for excellence has helped the Jewish Press become an even stronger, fiscally-responsible award-winning newspaper.
JTA BRIEFS • In his first phone call with Palestinian Authority Prime Minister Mahmoud Abbas, President Bush reemphasized the need for a crackdown on violence. In the call, Bush stressed the need for parties to work together on steps toward peace, White House spokesman Ari Fleischer said. “People in the Palestinian Authority who care for peace must work with us to fight off terror,” Bush said. “People in Israel who care for peace will work with us to fight terror.” • Palestinian terrorist groups’ offices in Syria reportedly were closed. The closing of offices of groups such as Hamas, Islamic Jihad and the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine followed a meeting earlier this month in which Secretary of State Colin Powell demanded that Syrian President Bashar Assad close the offices and curtail the groups’
activities. In addition, several leaders of radical Palestinian groups left Damascus recently, according to the Jerusalem Post. • Irene Gut Opdyke, a native of Poland who agreed to serve as a German officer’s mistress to save the lives of Jews during the Holocaust, died May 17 at the age of 85. In 1940, Opdyke, who was later named a Righteous Gentile, befriended 12 Jews who were forced to work as dressmakers and tailors for the Nazis in Tarnopol, Poland. She hid them in the laundry room of a confiscated villa where she worked as a housekeeper for a German officer. One day, the 70-year-old major discovered her secret and said he would keep it only if she became his mistress. Opdyke’s 1999 book, In My Hands: Memories of a Holocaust Survivor, is being turned into a movie.
Jewish Family Service wishes to thank the “Mitzvah Makers” of this community: for your time, effort and support of our 2002-2003/5763 Project Tzedakah and Project Dreidel Bag ’N Save Bagel Bin Midwest Box Company Beth El 5th Grade Talmud Torah Class Burke High School Students
The Jewish Federation of Omaha 333 South 132nd Street Omaha, Nebraska 68154 (402) 334-8200
www.jewishomaha.org
Friedel Academy Students JCC Child Development Center Visions Individual & Private Donors Beth El Synagogue Temple Israel Tzedakah Committee and Community Volunteers A complete list of individual names is printed in Jewish Family Service’s newsletter.
May 23, 2003
IN THE NEWS Maya Fabrikant, daughter of Marina and Ilya Fabrikant of Lincoln, will spend two weeks in the Bahamas this summer with the Earthwatch Institute. More than 600 high school students applied for the research position of measuring water currents; Maya is one of 77 selected from 34 states in the Student Challenge Awards Program. The program aims to expand the potential of high school students and stimulate their curiosity about science and technology. Maya’s current interests at Lincoln Southeast High School include physics, astronomy, chemistry and biology. The following eighth grade students have been inducted into the Rotary Club of Omaha’s annual Honor Roll: Leah Chapman and Jeffrey Malashock from Beveridge Magnet School; Allison Levinger and David Sukiennik from Kiewit Middle School; Michael Crabb, Zane Fried and Jacquelyn Neesman from Westside Middle School. The Marilyn White Gendler Memorial Scholarship Foundation has announced their 2003 awards: Edward Osugi and Catrice Bryson from North High School and Jasmae Prince from Central High School. The foundation was established in memory of Marilyn White Gendler, who taught at Lothrop Elementary School. Members of the foundation board include Larry Gendler and Joyce and Wyman White. The foundation does accepts contributions. For information, call 457-5704. Merrill Elizabeth Abrams, daughter of former Omahan Jim Abrams and Laura Reilly, granddaughter of Omahan Edith Abrams and the late Arthur Abrams, received baccalaureate degrees from the Wharton School and the College of Engineering at the University of Pennsylvania on May 20, 2003. Michael Parsow has organized a second competition of his version of The Iron Chef. Gary Epstein was the first chairman, who orchestrated the evening and announced the winner. A n d y Greenberg was chairman of this latest event. According to Parsow, Andy “really knows how to introduce Iron Chefs! We always have a lot of fun pretending to be great chefs...the food’s not bad either!” Parsow follows similar rules to the television show of the same name, including choosing an ingredient that all “chefs” must use in their recipes. He also has a t-shirt, apron and hat and says, “It’s important to dress like an Iron Chef!”
BETH EL SYNAGOGUE WANTS YOU! Experienced Professional Jewish Educator/Youth Director Join the Team Staff at Beth El Synagogue’s Learning Community Applicants must be able to: Teach at Beth El Synagogue Talmud Torah (BESTT) during all school hours Develop and coordinate informal programming and activities within the synagogue for youth of all ages Job Qualifications Include: Formal education or work experience in Jewish education. Demonstrated experience working with youth. Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to attract and inspire youth. Knowledge of Conservative Judaism. Strong organization skills Apply via e-mail to: Larry DeBruin Beth El Synagogue exec@bethel-omaha.org
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 7
JCC Introduces Eddie Belgrade Memorial “3-on-3” Basketball Challenge by BOB FRANZESE, JCC Athletic Director An exciting new basketball tournament is coming to the Jewish Community Center. On Sunday, July 27, the JCC will host a “three-on-three” basketball tournament for JCC members. Teams of four will compete in a full day of basketball competition on the indoor and outdoor courts. The competition starts with three ‘pool play’ games, and then teams will be seeded into a single elimination tournament. The JCC Eddie Belgrade Memorial 3-on-3 Basketball Challenge has divisions for every age group. The men’s tournament will consist of the following: third-fourth grade, fifth-sixth grade, seventh-eighth grade, high school, open division, under 30, under 40, and under 50. The women’s division is divided as follows: thirdfourth grade, fifth-sixth grade, seventh-eighth grade, high school and open. It should be noted that the open division is for athletes 16-years-old and older and is intended for the most competitive of players. “A great time will be had by all that participate in this event,” said Athletic Committee Chairman Gary Epstein. “Exercise, fun, and a chance to compete are just a few of the reasons to get your teams registered quickly. It’s going to be a great day you will definitely want to be a part of.” Along with the three-on-three basketball tournament, the event will consist of several contests open to tournament participants. A three-point contest and a hot-shot contest will take place. A champion from both contests from each age division will be crowned. The late E d d i e Belgrade, for whom this tournament was named after, was an avid participant and supporter of JCC athletics. He was a long-time member of the A d u l t Basketball League, as well as an avid racquetball player. “He really enjoyed basketball as he was a good athlete himself,” said his son, Bob Belgrade. “He competed in the men’s basketball league at the JCC
Bob Franzese, JCC Athletic Director, practices his jump shot. for as long as I can remember and also sponsored a youth basketball team. “This is a perfect way to remember his name,” Belgrade added. “JCC athletics are something he both enjoyed participating in as well as supporting.” The following companies have committed to sponsoring this tournament: Belgrade Company, Body Basics, Broadmoor Development, Frankel Zacharia, Grace/Mayer Insurance Company, Horizon Dental Center, Kutak Rock, Lynn Roberts International, Marks Clare and Richards, Mulhall’s Nursery, Nebraska Warehouse, Nebraska Wine and Spirits, Nobbies, and Omaha Compound Company. Sponsorship opportunities for this event still exist for people or businesses at the following levels: Overall Sponsorship ($1000), Gold Level Sponsorship ($300), Silver Level Sponsorship ($200), and Bronze Level Sponsorship ($100). Contact me at 334-6424 if you are interested in being a sponsor for this event. The deadline for registering your team for this day of basketball action is Friday, July 11. It is important to note that divisions will be filled on a first come, first serve basis, so it is important to register your team early. To register, contact the JCC Member Services department at 334-6426. If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to call me directly.
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT The Grande Olde Players Theatre and Charles Jones have announced the opening of the classical musical, The Threepenny Opera on Thursday, June 3, 7:30 p.m., at 2339 No. 90 St. Written by Berthold Brecht in 1929, the show features music by Kurt Weill. Marian Priesman stars as Mrs. Beacham. Tickets are $12 for adults and $11 for students/seniors. For information, call 397-5262.
The Lincoln Community Playhouse is holding auditions for Footloose, the stage play based on the highly-successful 1984 film about teenage rebellion. Roles are available for 25 performers, ages 14 to adult. To make an appointment for the auditions on May 26-27 at LCP, call 1-402-489-7529 or sign up online at www.lincolnplayhouse.com. The show runs July 11-Aug. 3.
Your Job’s Within Our Reach
BETH EL SYNAGOGUE WANTS YOU!
Weekly/Monthly Lawn Maintenance Mowing • Aeration • Fertilizing • Bush Trimming
Design & Installation of Landscapes Potted Plants & Vegetable Gardens
Paley Landscaping p g Phil Paley, Owner
333-5120
Family Education Educator/Adult Program Director Join the Team Staff at Beth El Synagogue’s Learning Community Applicants must be able to: Develop and coordinate programming and educational opportunities for adults and families. Teach at Beth El Synagogue Talmud Torah (BESTT) during all school hours. Job Qualifications Include: Formal education or work experience in Jewish education Formal education or experience in event & program planning Excellent interpersonal skills Strong management and administrative skills Knowledge of Conservative Judaism practices appropriate to Beth El Apply via e-mail to: Larry DeBruin Beth El Synagogue exec@bethel-omaha.org
Page 8
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
May 23, 2003
Sharon and Abbas talk, but bombings dampen hopes for quick progress
Israeli Consulate Urges More Effort by Jewish Community
by NAOMI SEGAL JERUSALEM (JTA)--Efforts to revive Middle East peace talks suffered another setback this week, as Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon put off a scheduled trip to Washington following a spate of deadly terrorist attacks. At least nine Israelis were killed and dozens wounded in two weekend suicide attacks. Seven people were killed and 20 wounded, four of them seriously, when a terrorist dressed as a religious Jew blew himself up on a city bus in Jerusalem early Sunday morning. The attack came a day after an Israeli couple was killed in a suicide bombing in the West Bank city of Hebron. Hamas claimed responsibility for both attacks, identifying the bombers as residents of Hebron, reports said. A third attack shortly after the bus bombing failed when the bomber blew himself up at a roadblock north of Jerusalem, killing only himself. On Monday, the attacks continued. At least three people were killed when a suicide bomber struck in the northern Israeli city of Afula. Eighteen people were wounded in the attack at a shopping center. The bomber detonated his explosive belt after a security guard prevented him from entering the shopping center. Islamic Jihad claimed responsibility for Monday’s attack. Sunday’s bus bombing came just hours after Sharon and his Palestinian Authority counterpart, Mahmoud Abbas, held talks in Jerusalem, where both agreed that “a cessation of terrorism is a first and vital step to any progress,” according to a statement issued by Sharon’s office. Yet government sources quoted Sunday by the Ha’aretz newspaper characterized the meeting as a failure. According to the sources, Israel displayed flexibility and openness, but the Palestinians rejected all proposals outright and refused to accept security responsibility “for even one centimeter of territory.” Palestinian officials agreed that the talks had failed, but blamed Sharon. “The talks ended in total failure because Sharon insisted on discussing only security matters and refused to accept the ‘road map’” peace plan, a senior Palestinian official told the Jerusalem Post. “We hold Sharon fully responsible for the failure of the talks and for the upsurge in violence.” Sharon and Abbas had agreed to meet again following Sharon’s visit to the United States. But after Sunday’s bus bombing, Sharon’s office said the prime minister was delaying his departure in order to convene urgent security and political consultations. Sharon had been expected to discuss confidence-building gestures toward the Palestinians in his White House meeting with Bush, which was scheduled for Tuesday. U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell conveyed to Israel that the United States understood his decision to delay, Army Radio reported. Even before the wave of attacks, expectations for the Sharon-Abbas meeting had been low in light of the differences over the road map.
by CAROL KATZMAN, Editor After reading a recent editorial in the Omaha World-Herald, linking the terrorist attack in Saudi Arabia with the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians, Moshe Ram, Consul General of Israel from Chicago, shook his head. “This is a combination of lack of knowledge and lack of understanding,” he insisted. “Using people as bombs (is) part of a sick mentality that sends them to die for stupid reasons.” Though Bob Wolfson and Gary Javitch, Executive Director and board member of the Anti-Defamation League, as well as this writer, have had guest editorials published on the op-ed pages of the World-Herald, Ram urges the Omaha Jewish community to do more. “Others have to respond with letters,” he explained. “There needs to be more effort in building support for Israel in the non-Jewish community. While dialogue with non-Jewish leaders is good, there needs to be communication with the grassroots.” Ram was in Omaha last week as part of his regular visits in the 11-state Midwest region the Chicago office represents. In addition to meetings with leaders of the Jewish community, he also met with the Presidents of both Grace and Creighton universities, the board of directors of the ADL-CRC and members of the Chamber of Commerce. He also met with leadership from Christ Community Church to help them plan events in support of Israel. Not everything Ram does relates to politics, as his schedule showed. His meetings were also an attempt to build support in the area of academia and business. In fact, Ram learned in a meeting with Jon Bruning, Nebraska’s Attorney General, that Bruning will be participating in a trip to Israel next month for State AGs. “Jon said he was very excited about the prospect of learning more about Israel,” Ram added. Ram has spent nearly all of his adult life in the foreign ministry. He earned an undergraduate degree from Hebrew University in Political Science and Middle Eastern Studies and prepared for his career in a two-year training course. He’s been posted to the Far East twice--initially in Nepal and the Phillipines and after a stint in Los Angeles covering the Southwestern United States, Ram opened Israel’s first consulate in Shangha, China. He has been Consul General in the Chicago office for the last four years. “This is a big area,” he admitted. “Covering all the Jewish communities in 11 states is not so easy. I wish I could visit Omaha more often.” In fact, Ram was originally scheduled to come here during Omaha’s Shop Shalom and Yom Ha’Atzmaut celebrations. Promoting Israeli business is definitely high on Ram’s agenda. “It’s very important to make donations to Israel,” he noted, “and support social services and the work done to help the Israeli people. But, even more
Do You or Your Child Have
Beware of Low-Yeilding CDs!
ASTHMA?
VOLUNTEERS aged 12 and older with a history of asthma for at least the past 6 months may qualify to participate in a research study of an investigational medication. You will be reimbursed for travel.
Most people do not associate CDs with risk. After all, they offer guaranteed income and are FDIC-insured up to $100,000 per financial institution. But CDs can become risky if you depend too much on them to reach your long-term financial goals. When you’re planning for retirement or saving for your children’s education, you may have to look elsewhere for the growth you need. Before your CDs automatically roll over, call me to find out about alternatives—such as tax-deferred annuities—that may help you make progress toward long-term goals. Annuities have limitations and withdrawl charges.
Joseph M John, CLU, ChFC
Qualified participants may receive the following at no cost: Study Related Tests and Visits Study Medications For more information, please contact:
Heartland Clinical Research, Inc. 2219 N. 91st Plaza, Omaha, NE 68134 402/502-9364 or 402/502-9363
Pruco Securities Registered Representative 440 Regency Pkwy., Suite 150 Omaha, NE 68114 402/926-2850
Annuities ARE NOT INSURED BY FDIC OR ANY FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGENCY
important is the opportunity to create joint ventures and become (a part) of the Israeli economy.” Ram is hoping that one of the outcomes from his meetings with the Chamber of Commerce will be expansion of trade between Israel and Nebraska. He’s also working on the possibility of putting together a trade delegation here to visit Israel soon. “Whatever people do to support Israel is good,” he added. “Donate, do business with Israeli companies, create new ventures are all very, very important. But helping the economy by conducting business is our number one priority right now, followed by advocacy for Israel.” Ram praised President George W. Bush for his “ideological support” of Israel, but cautioned that the Jewish community has to do more to shore that up with other political leaders. “It’s important to sustain that support,” he insisted. “The Jewish community must be vigilant about monitoring talk-radio and local media, television and newspapers. NPR (National Public Radio) is also very problematic. Members of the community need to respond, otherwise (the image of) Israel is framed by what non-Jews read and hear and see in the media.” Ram made another point about the image Americans have of Israel and praised Omaha’s efforts in this area. “Israelis lead normal lives,” he said. “They go to work and school, they attend social events and concerts. Just like us. “Bringing Israeli artists to the Midwest to perform or display their work also shows a different face to the world. Israeli films, art, dance performances and concerts are all ways to (combat) what people think of Israel. “We know we have support from the evangelical Christian community,” he admitted, “but it’s the mainstream Protestants who need to hear from us.” His final message to the Omaha Jewish community has been repeated often. “Visit, yes, but support Israel in whatever way you can,” Ram insisted.
Residential Mortgage Services, Inc.
Take advantage of today’s low mortgage rates! • Consolidate Debts • We’ll make getting your mortgage “pointless.” • Apply for your mortgage and check rates at: www.residentialmortgages.com
MAY LOSE VALUE
ARE NOT A DEPOSIT OF OR GUARANTEED BY ANY BANK OR ANY BANK AFFILIATE
Annuities issued by The Prudential Insurance Company of America, 751 Broadstreet, Newark, NJ 07102-3777, and its affiliates. The Prudential Insurance Company of America and its affiliates are Prudential Financial Companies. Each company is solely responsible for its respective financial condition and contractual obligations. Guarantees are based in the claims-paying ability of the issuing company. Prudential Financial is a service mark of The Prudential Insurance Company of America, Newark, NJ and its affiliates. IFS-A078727 Ed. 3/2003
Moshe Ram, Israeli Consul General
Omaha Bellevue Council Bluffs Lincoln
333-7900 292-7900 322-7900 423-8885
May 23, 2003
Lion of Judah Division Learns About Leaving a Legacy by PAM MONSKY, Federation Communications Director
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 9
KKAR to Broadcast Live from Israel by PAM MONSKY Federation Communications Director Kent Pavelka, host of “Omaha’s Morning News with Kent Pavelka” on KKAR 1290 AM, will be broadcasting live from Jerusalem May 26-30, from 5:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. CDT. This unprecedented trip is made possible by an exciting and important initiative called “American Voices in Israel,” which allows a radio talk show personality to broadcast to their local U.S. audience from a state-ofthe-art radio studio in Jerusalem. Pavelka will be accompanied by ADL/CRC Director Bob Wolfson. The Jewish Federation of Omaha is the first community to participate in this new initiative. Pavelka said he is “looking forward to the trip to Israel both professionally and personally. This is an amazing chance to provide the Omaha area with a much deeper level of understanding about the ‘Road Map’ for Middle East peace. The timing couldn’t be better because the world’s focus is now on the region. This is just a
great opportunity for me, KKAR and the people of Omaha. I’m hoping people will pass the word to tune in.” Listeners in Omaha will be able to call-in to Pavelka while he is broadcasting live in Jerusalem using a local phone number between 5:30 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. Omaha time. Pavelka will interview senior government, military, business and other officials, as well as visit strategic spots, key institutions, Federation-supported programs and religious and historic sites. “American Voices in Israel,” is a nonprofit initiative that provides broadcast facilities in Jerusalem to American journalists and is made possible through the Jewish Federation of Omaha and its supporters. “American Voices in Israel” is co-sponsored by United Jewish Communities (UJC) and the Jewish Council for Public Affairs (JCPA), in cooperation with the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations and The Jerusalem Post.
PRESS NOTICE The Jewish Press is looking for information about your family B’nai Mitzvah, weddings, anniversaries or other celebrations for our new upcoming special issue on Simchas, to be published Aug. 22. Send photos and articles of 250 words or less to: The Jewish Press, 333 So. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68154 or in the body of your e-mail letter to: ckatzman@jewishomaha.org. Send photos as attached .jpg or .tif files. Questions? Call 334-6450.
Top photo: Ruth Erman, left, and Bobbi Leibowitz, 2004 Women’s Division Co-Chairmen for the Federation Annual Campaign, hosted guest speaker Sandra Lippy, center, National PACE/LOJE Chairman for UJC at the Lion of Judah breakfast at the home of Sharon Kooper last week. Lippy has a long history with UJC and has served in numerous leadership posts for more than 25 years. She spoke about the importance of establishing Lion of Judah Endowments (LOJE), which ensures that their gift ($5,000 and above) to the Campaign will continue in their name. Bottom photo: Sharee Newman, left, and Jan Schneiderman, both past Women’s Campaign Co-chairmen were among those attending the breakfast. Newman shared her decision to establish a Lion of Judah Endowment (LOJE). Federation Foundation Director Marty Ricks explained that a LOJE can be easily established through the Foundation to fit a variety of donor needs. For more information about LOJE or PACE (Perpetual Annual Campaign Endowment), please contact Ricks at the Foundation office--334-6440-or Kathy McGauvran, Women’s Campaign Director at 334-6427.
CORRECTION Jamie Friedland’s name was inadvertently misspelled in last week’s photo spread on Shop Shalom and Yom Ha’Atzmaut. The Press regrets the error.
Pulverent e MONUMENT CO.
Lynne M. Popp Educational Therapy, Inc.
Frank L. Ciciulla Jr.
M.S. in Learning Disabilities, B.C.E.T.
60 Years Experience With Jewish Lettering and Memorials
1439 So. 13th
341-2452
• Educational Assessments • Workshop Presenter • Dyslexia • Teacher Trainer • Educational Therapy
4405 North 156th Ave. Circle Phone: 402/498-8708 FAX: 445-0433 E-mail: slpopp1@cox.net
The most advanced accessible vehicle in the world.
JCC Maccabi Games kids even got here, the host families were wondering what they had gotten themselves into! But by the time the Opening Ceremonies had ended, they couldn’t wait to go and get “their” kids! “There was this instant sense of mishpocha, of family, between the host families and these young Jewish athletes that will never leave them,” Pitlor continued. “The experience also bonded host families to each other, as people who hadn’t talked or seen each other for years shared stories about ‘their kids’ while they watched them compete and as they waited at One Pacific Place for the busses to bring them back at night.” The JCC Maccabi Games had an impact on the Omaha Jewish community in ways that no other program or event has done before. The Games required 27 committees and involved more than 1,000 volunteers who participated in a planning process that took 21/2 years. As the Opening Ceremonies drew near, the anticipation and excitement was palpable and was felt by virtually
everyone. The success of the Games fostered a tremendous sense of communal pride and a shared feeling of accomplishment. Richard Jacobson was the President of the JCC during the entire Maccabi Games project. “The Omaha Maccabi Games were the biggest and best thing to have ever happened to our community at large,” he said. “I literally stood back in awe for two years and watched this evolve. The talent and dedication of the volunteers and staff was amazing! I can’t tell you how proud it makes me feel to have been a part of it!” Current JCC President Jeff Kirshenbaum added, “I learned a great deal about leadership from working with and observing Richard, Marcia and Jody. I try to use what they taught me about being a Jewish leader on a daily basis. “The momentum created by the Maccabi Games has opened up endless possibilities,” he insisted. “It showed us how much we could achieve when we work together as a Jewish community.”
Photo by Dale W. Anderson
(Continued from page 1)
Ask about our 10-year custom financing.
IMS Rampvan™ from Independent Mobility Systems Call for more information, free video, brochure or demonstration. New and Used Wheelchair Vans available in stock for immediate delivery.
Jeff Schrier Ford/Mobility Motoring 9203 South 145th Street • Omaha, NE 68138 402/896-6000 • Ask for Joe Martin • 800/367-3880 www.mobilitymotoring.com
Page 10
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
May 23, 2003
Be a role model; Temple Celebrates 12th the person you want Graders’ Confirmation your kid to be. and Graduation
What stronger anti-drug message is there?
BOB NELSON, CLU One of Nebraska’s Most Respected & Experienced Insurance Professionals
• Life Insurance • Long Term Care Ins • Estate Planning • Business Insuranace • Retirement Planning bnelson@gracemayer.com
402-397-5050 800-279-2081
For more information call: 1-800-648-4444 http://www.prevlink.org
PEOPLE WHO READ NEWSPAPERS ARE
STUDENTS WITH BETTER GRADES It all starts with Newspapers
LAKESIDE HILLS
Luxury Apartment Homes “Brand New” 1 Bedroom $845 • 2 Bedrooms $1100 • Heated Garage w/remote • • • • • • • •
9’ Ceilings/ Crown Molding Gourmet Kitchen Controlled Access Entries Elevator Service Fireplace 7,000-sq.-ft. Clubhouse Terrific Workout Area and Pool Walking distance to new Baker’s Store, Super Target, restaurants, banks, medical and wellness center and many more shops. Oak View Mall only five minutes
Call for our RENTAL SPECIAL 2 blocks north of
934-5253
170th & West Center Rd. Professionally managed by Vacanti & Randazzo Companies
TUESDAY MUSICAL Season Tickets 2003-2004 112th Season
by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Temple Israel Communications Coordinator At Shabbat worship services on Friday, May 30, 7:30 p.m., the first class of Temple Israel to be confirmed in the 12th grade will also graduate religious school. Rabbi Aryeh Azriel, Rabbi Craig Marantz, Cantor Wendy Shermet, and Elyce Azriel, Director of Temple’s Middle/High School, will officiate at the Confirmation/Graduation Service. It will be preceded by a special celebratory Shabbat dinner with all graduates and their families. Parents of the confirmands/graduates will also participate in the service by reciting a prayer in “family gladness” and in gratitude to God “for the gift and blessing of parenthood.” Along with the graduates, the sixth grade class will sing “Standing on the Shoulders” by Doug Cotler and “When You Believe” by Stephen Schwartz. “We hope, that by attending confirmation, the sixth graders will see what they have to look forward to,” Elyce Azriel explained, “as they observe and share this defining moment in the lives of the seniors who are role models for the younger students as they pursue their studies at Temple and learn the invaluable lessons of Jewish education.” Seventh graders’ mitzvah projects will also be on display for the congregation to view in the Social Hall at the Oneg Shabbat following services. Mitzvah projects are required of all B’nai Mitzvah students. Rabbi Azriel hopes that all members of the congregation will attend the service “to celebrate the accomplishments of our 12th graders. This is the first time a class has gone through 12 years, rather than ten years as in the past, to be confirmed. They are the youth of our entire congregational family. We all have had a part in bringing them to this point in their lives, and we want them to know we still care about them as they head off to college and other pursuits.” Jane Brooks, wife of the late Rabbi Emeritus Sidney Brooks, added her congratulations to the high school seniors. “I commend them for maintaining their ties throughout high school. It’s a great accomplishment and something we can all be proud of.” This year’s graduating class includes: Leora Azriel, Alexander (Alex) Clark, Lauren Freeman, Samantha Friedman, Shaina Meyers, Rebekah Phillips, Sara Schweid, Emily Sternberg, Rebecca (Becky) Sternberg, Benjamin (Ben) Taxman, Aaron (A.J.) Walts, and Allie Willensky.
BESTT Honors Graduates at Beth El by OZZIE NOGG Beth El Synagogue’s eighth and 12th grade graduation ceremonies are scheduled for Saturday, May 31, during Shabbat morning services. Diplomas will be awarded by Rabbi Mordechai Levin and Eadie Tsabari. Eighth Graders who completed their required course work and will receive Graduation Diplomas with Honors are: Martin Kaplan, son of Howard Kaplan and Julie Frank; Seth, son of Gary and Robbi Kudym; and David, son of Hyman and Marlene Sukiennik. Other BESTT eight grade graduates are: Erin, daughter of Mike and Sheri Abramson; Carolyn Barenbaum Meyers, daughter of Bruce Meyers and Sally Barenbaum; Leah, daughter of Doug and Debbie Chapman; Alex, son of Gary and Lisa Epstein; Bradley, son of Ron and Marsha Frank; Zane, son of Jim Fried and Lindy Freed; Devon, son of Rick and Jeannie Gilinsky; Nimrod Ginsburg, son of Jacob Ginsburg and Orly Gilat; Julie, daughter of David and Pam Gross; Joshua, son of Cary and Andrea Grossman; Lauren, daughter of Keith and Judy Josephson; Kevin, son of Scott and Barbara Kirshenbaum; Sara, daughter of Harry and Janet Klein; Allison, daughter of Howard and Denise Lehman; Alison Lercher, daughter of David Lercher and Minnie Abromowitch; Ariel, son of Rabbi Mordechai and Susi Frydman Levin; Jeffrey, son of Larry and Diane Malashock; Alyssa, daughter of Allen and Cindy Morris; Daniel, son of Jerry and Jeanne Raznick; Seth, son of Joel and Mary Rich; Rebecca Salkin, daughter of Richard and Cynthia; Taylor, daughter of Mark and Vicki Sandford. Seniors who will receive Graduation Diplomas from the BESTT High School of Jewish Studies include: Jennifer, daughter of Harvey and Rose Cooper; Alan, son of Morris Friedman and Beth Friedman; Sarah, daughter of Michael and Patricia Linn; Kimberly, daughter of Steve and Marcia Pitlor; Annie, daughter of Gary and Caryn Rifkin; Jennifer, daughter of Gerald and Lynne Shkolnik; and Michelle, daughter of Steve and Marsha Simon. Michelle Simon will represent the seniors and deliver the D’var Torah. This year, each eighth grade graduate will receive a copy of Back to the Sources, edited by Barry W. Holtz, as a gift from the Dr. Leon Fellman family. The 12th grade graduates will each get a miniature Siddur Sim Shalom, courtesy of the A. B. and Freeda Gendler Fund. BESTT faculty members for eighth and 12th grades are Daniel Christensen, Glen Fineman, David Herzog and Jeff Shyken.
L.O.V.E. Event (Continued from page 1)
Cypress String Quartet October 14, 2003
Claude & Pamela Frank piano/violin December 2, 2003
Nathan Gunn
Richard Goode
Kirill & Alexandra Troussov
baritone
piano
violin/piano
February 24, 2004 March 16, 2004
April 13, 2004
SEASON SUBSCRIPTION
includes a bonus ‘‘bring a friend’’ ticket - a $30 value:
EARLY BIRD
$95.00
After May 31
$111.00
All Concerts are at 7:30 p.m. Witherspoon Concert Hall Joslyn Art Museum, 2200 Dodge Street
Purchase tickets on-line at
www.StageTix.com or write to Tuesday Musical Concert Series P.O. Box 6132 Omaha, NE 68106-0132 For additional information, please call (402) 551-2234
According to Judy Brookstein, Chairman of the event, “Our clergy serve us so well, through the support and wise counsel they give to their individual congregations and to the community as a whole. All of them contribute in very special ways to the Blumkin Home, too, and this program is designed to show our appreciation for their dedication and devotion.” Honored clergy include Rabbi Aryeh Azriel, Cantor Emil Berkovits, Rabbi Aryeh Blum, Gastón Bogomolni, Cantor Leo Fettman, Rabbi Menachem Hecht, Rabbi Mendel Katzman, Rabbi Myer S. Kripke, Rabbi Howard Kutner, Rabbi Mordechai Levin, Rabbi Craig Marantz, Rabbi Maximo Shechet, Cantor Wendy Shermet and Rabbi Debbie Stiel. The musical afternoon features Ernest Richardson, Assistant Director of the Omaha Symphony, and his wife, Anne Richardson. They will be joined by The Nebraska Children’s Choral Society Bel Canto and a special choral group made up of youth from each of our congregations. Musical arrangements are by Mark Sanford,
Andee Scioli and Joanie Jacobson, Mistress of Ceremonies. Esther Wax will provide the accompaniment. A dessert reception will follow the program and presentations. A portion of the money raised this year will go towards renovations in the Blumkin Home chapel, including new chairs, a curtain for the ark and new Torah covers. The needle work on the covers will be done by Sylvia Jess and Charlotte Zipursky. “The chapel truly is a sacred worship space for the residents of the Home and their families,” Brookstein continued. “The community’s generous contributions to L.O.V.E., will help make it even more beautiful.” In addition to Brookstein, other committee members are Carole Greenberg, Dora Goldstrom, Ellen Platt, Dinah Raful, Eileen Remer, Sherry Shapiro, Esther Wax and Kathy Weiner. Seating for the program is limited and advance reservations are encouraged. For reservations and additional information, contact the Blumkin Home at 330-4272.
BIRTH Yosef and Shani Richtman of Far Rockaway, NY, announce the May 11 birth of their daughter, Charna Rochel. Grandparents are Walter and Harriet Richtman of
Chicago, IL, and Abe and Ellen Orzel of Kew Garden Hills, NY. Great-grandparents are Rosa Richtman and the late Dave Richtman.
May 23, 2003
ORGANIZATIONS
B’NAI B’RITH BREADBREAKERS Steve Skulsky will speak on Wednesday, May 28, noon, at the Park Inn Regency, according to Gary Javitch, Chairman. Skulsky, a movie aficionado, will use film clips to discuss “Overcoming Challenges: Leading Men in the Movies.” Cost is $9 for lunch and $2 for beverage service only. Breadbreakers is open to the community. OMAHA CENTER FOR TORAH LEARNING Torah Tots is Monday, May 26, 10 a.m. at the OCTL House, 1313 No. 58 St. with Shari Blum. The Beit Midrash meets on Tuesday, May 27, 7:30 p.m. The Wednesday Women’s Class is May 28, 7:30 p.m., all at the OCTL house. Join OCTL for the weekly discussion of Torah Topics at Lunch ’n Learn, Wednesday, May 28, noon, at the Kripke Library; the Wednesday Teen Class meets at 7:30 p.m. at the home of Brooke Shrago, 805 So. 120 Ave. Join the OCTL for the first night of Shavuos, Thursday, June 5, 11 p.m., for open Beis Medrash and classes all night long, in honor of the festival of the giving of the Torah. For information about OCTL, call Rabbi Aryeh Blum at 320-8055. Y.E.S. There will be no meeting due to Memorial Day. WALK-IN, DROP-IN For those members going on the day trip to the Bluffs Run Casino on Thursday, please meet at the JCC main entrance by 8:45 a.m. LOMIR REDN YIDDISH The Yiddish Conversation Group will meet on Thursday, 1-3 p.m. at the JCC. Call Anne Skolkin for information at 343-1638.
by BERT LEWIS As I write this, it’s a spring day here in Nebraska. A typical spring day, I might add, since it’s raining and a little dreary. The kind of day when I like to hide out with something good to read and hope the phone doesn’t ring. You know what I mean? I’d bet you probably do, since most of us love an excuse to “get away” once in a while. We can’t always actually leave, so we find another way to escape. For me, a book is the ticket to someplace else-someplace where I get so involved with what I’m reading, I don’t hear somebody talking to me. I have favorite authors, of course. I wait for some of them to turn out a new book, then run to get my hands on it as fast as I can. I also love discovering a writer I’d never heard of before. If I enjoy the work, I immediately look for earlier publications. Sometimes they’re wonderful; sometimes they’re early efforts and not so great, but always worth investigating. When I talk or think about books and reading, I remember my earliest experiences as a small child. I don’t remember who took me to the library first, but I still remember how astonished I was at the sight of all those books. I had another marvelous source….my zayda’s store. It was a fantastic place, filled with treasures which included books occasionally. Actually, it was a second hand store, called a “junk store” by some, but to my big brother and me, it wasn’t toys are us, it was “you want it? Nem, mine kind.” Because to our zayda, it was really a kick to know he had something in his (you should pardon the expression) inventory that we wanted. Often, it was a box of books that somebody had to get rid of. To us, it was an introduction to Nancy Drew or The Hardy Boys, for example, and they were ours to read as well as keep. I think most of my enjoyment in reading came from those used books. The next collection to which I had access was the Central High Library, and I don’t want to tell you how many books I read when I was supposed to be doing homework. It was my favorite place in the whole school! So if you’ll excuse me now, I’ve gotta go. See, I just came from one of the book stores, and I’ve got two new books. My only problem is which one to read first.
by JENNIFER KELLEY Gan Israel Day Camp has been providing children of our community with memorable summer experiences. A staff of dedicated young men and women implement programs and activities in a uniquely exciting and lively fashion. Safety at all times is the number one concern and priority. Director Shani Katzman noted that “counselors are trained in first aid and CPR.” At Gan Israel, each individual child is given the opportunity to express his/her own talents and abilities. Meeting five days a week, the diverse schedule of field trips, athletics, and swimming is consistent with the preferences of kids today. Self-growth and creativity is encouraged through songs, discussion groups, arts and crafts, and dramatics. “My kids loved everything about camp. The sports, the wonderful out-of-town counselors, and the davening,” said Louri Sullivan. A portion of each day is set aside for Torah study. The learning program is carefully designed to achieve maximum personal growth, as well as understanding and appreciating Jewish life. The counselors are also the instructors. As such, they blend the joyous and fun-filled atmosphere of camp with the learning and experiencing of Judaism. Delicious and nutritious kosher lunches are served daily. C.G.I’s variety of sports activities include baseball, basketball, soccer, football, volleyball, and more. Recreational swimming, water sports, and swimming instruction take place in full-size heated swimming pools. All aquatic activities are under constant careful supervision of trained, experienced and certified Red Cross life-guards. Gan Israel’s “trip days” include roller skating, bowling and trips to other local attractions. Comedy skits, talents shows, and plays are but a few of the programs which challenge the child to display talents. Performances are presented often. Katzman said she is “looking forward to another thrilling camp season. I enjoy getting to know the children and watching their growth.” Open to all children from our community. Camp will run June 30-July 11, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. For more information or to reserve, call me at 330-1800. Camp based at Chabad House, 1866 So. 120 St. A child can come for the full two weeks or for just one week.
VISIONS Reminder: For those members going to the Joslyn Art Museum to see “Featured Artwork: Galaxy by Jackson Pollock,” please meet at the museum Tuesday, May 27, 11:45 a.m. for lunch (at noon). The lecture begins at 1:15 p.m.
Blumkin Home and L.O.V.E. to Honor Volunteers
JEWISH SENIOR SERVICE Celebrate the music of the greatest generation with the Iowa Western Community Band, Tuesday June 10, 7 p.m., at the JCC. There is no admission fee. Refreshments will be served. Bring a friend to hear Glenn Miller, patriotic tunes, swing, Duke Ellington and George Gershwin. For reservations, call Cathy Carroll or Anne Joseph at 334-6520.
by LOIS WINE, JSS Volunteer Coordinator Plans are underway for the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home’s Volunteer Recognition and L.O.V.E. Installation. Michael Silverman, Executive Director of Jewish Senior Services, will install the new officers of L.O.V.E. (League Offering Volunteers for the Elderly, the auxiliary of the Home). The event is planned for Sunday, June 1, 11:30
Dining
When you patronize these fine establishments, tell them you saw their ad in the Jewish Press. Now Open • Think Daily
Out
Marino’s E WE’R ! BACK
Deli Mkt & Ristorante Italiano COME SEE US!
Serving Omaha’s finest Italian cuisine since 1983
Serving Lunch & Dinner DINE IN or CARRY OUT
7910 HARRISON ST.
597-1476
Page 11
Camp Gan Israel Opens This Summer
BERT’S EYE VIEW
OMAHA CHAPTER OF HADASSAH “Rappin’ With the Rabbis,” Hadassah’s annual H.I.E.S. luncheon, is Wednesday, May 28, 11:45 a.m. at Beth Israel Synagogue. The event will offer attendees the opportunity to get to know Rabbis Mordechai Levin, Aryeh Azriel, Craig Marantz, Howard Kutner and Mendel Katzman during an informal question answer session. Reservations for the luncheon and child care are needed immediately; call Charlotte Kaplan, 551-5658.
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Open For Lunch
Casual Upscale Dining Featuring Hot Rock Cooking Of Exotic Meats and Fondue Also Serving Steaks, Seafood & Pasta Catering Available 1202 South 119 Street • 402/697-1313
a.m., at the Jewish Community Center Auditorium. Volunteers and residents will be guests of the Blumkin Home. Additional guests are invited to attend; reservations can be made by sending a check for $8 made payable to JSS, to: Kathy Weiner, 8714 Izard St., Omaha, NE 68114 by May 27. For information, please call her at 397-8028.
132nd & Arbor • 330-2110 90th & Fort • 572-5223 13th & Howard • 345-6921
KING KONG Greek Gyros • Steaks Phillies • Burgers
Home of Omaha’s Original Gyro Our Daily Lunch & Dinner Specials are #1 #1 Food in the Midwest Open 7 Days a Week
4409 Dodge Street • 553-3326 72nd & Q • 932-6420
Page 12
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
May 23, 2003
WRJ Retreat Promises to Nourish Body, Mind, and Spirit by CLAUDIA SHERMAN, Temple Israel Communications Coordinator Following on the success of last year’s women’s retreat, Temple Israel’s Women of Reform Judaism (WRJ) is sponsoring another weekend escape from June 27-29 at the Creighton Spirituality Retreat Center in Griswold, Iowa. Described as “an exploration of body, mind, spirit, and ritual,” the retreat is open to all women of the Jewish community. Nancy Nogg, one of the retreat organizers, said she knows how difficult it is for busy women to make all the arrangements to go away for a weekend. “I know you’re asking yourself if this is going to be worth your time. You’ll wonder if you’d rather go shopping at Bloomingdale’s or go to a spa,” she admits. “But this impactful weekend--in a stunning, peaceful setting--will give you the tools to help manage your busy life,” she insisted. “It will be enlightening spiritually and emotionally,” she promised. “It’s designed for the whole Jewish woman to give her a chance to take a breather and renew. It’ll also be an opportunity to get to know other women on a different basis.” In the planning stages for months, the retreat committee includes Nogg, Michelle Bucher, Deb Marburg, Louri Sullivan, Debbi Zweiback, Stacey Rockman, Wendy Goldberg, Betsy Marantz, Ducky Milder, Rabbi Debbie Stiel, and Rosie Zweiback. Rabbi Amy Katz, adult learning coordinator for the Central Agency for Jewish Education and the Jewish Community Center in Overland Park, KS, and Cynthia Wakeman, a team building consultant
Cynthia Wakeman
Rabbi Amy Katz
from Sioux City, IA, will facilitate the retreat. “The combination of Rabbi Katz and Cy Wakeman will be extremely powerful,” emphasized Nogg. Rabbi Katz, ordained from the Jewish Theological Seminary of America, wrote her doctoral dissertation about the challenges of teaching prayer in the modern context. Besides her academic interests and professional pursuits, she enjoys spending time with her husband and three children. Wakeman, who helped lead last year’s retreat and just completed training with Oprah Winfrey, “will bring a different dimension this year,” said Nogg, “while Rabbi Katz will convey the spiritual awareness.” Wakeman’s background combines eight years experience consulting in the high tech computer industry with seven years in health care administration. She has been a featured keynote speaker at
numerous national and international conferences and a variety of state conventions. Her approach is described as “unconventional, candid, and humorous.” She and her husband own two bed and breakfast inns and are raising four sons. In addition, Devra Lerner and Linda Salvay, musicians with Yachad: the Traveling T’fillah Band of Kansas City will bring their “beautiful harmonies and guitar music to the liturgy of Shabbat,” said Rosie Zweiback, Temple Israel program director and Lerner’s niece. Other plans for the retreat include campfires, Jewish study, worship, Torah, reflection, peace, sisterhood, yoga, and the perennial treat--chocolate. “The first retreat was so positive that people are really looking forward to this one,” remarked Michelle Bucher. “Cy Wakeman will make you laugh. She’ll make you cry. We’ll have a wide range of ages and time for friendship, Torah, and community as well as informal time.” Reservations are needed by Friday, May 30. The cost for a double room is $85 and $110 for single rooms including meals. All women who attend must be members of WRJ ($36 per year). To make a reservation, send in a check with the bottom portion of the invitation. If you would like to have one mailed to you, please call Zweiback at 556-6536. Nogg said the group will meet in Temple’s parking lot at 5:15 p.m. on June 27, to caravan to Griswold and return at approximately noon on Sunday.
OCTL Hires Second Rabbinic Couple by RAE TRAYNOR What does a background in theater, a job promoting and publishing an online column, and lecturing for a group of college students have to do with the rabbinate and outreach? The Omaha Jewish community is about to find out as the Omaha Center of Torah Learning introduces a second couple at the end of this month. Rabbi Tuvia Hoffman, his wife, Ariella, and their two young daughters, Bayla and Gila, will arrive Memorial Day to work with current OCTL Director Rabbi Aryeh Blum, his wife Shari, and their daughter, Meira. “We are so thrilled and excited about having another young couple here to help us with the work of promoting Torah in Omaha,” said Rabbi Blum. “Rabbi Hoffman has an unusual background which will be a tremendous
asset to us in outreach.” University Rabbi Hoffman, a native of Detroit since 2001. and graduate of Wayne State Rabbi University, started out with the H o f f m a n ’s intention of working in the theater. wife, Ariella, He served as artistic director for is a graduate Miniature Sun Productions and then of the changed gears when he headed off to University of Israel to learn at Yeshivat Darchei Texas and Noam. learned at During a two-year stint in Boston, Midreshet Rabbi Hoffman studied in the Boston Rachel and Kollel with Rav Reuven N e v e Rabbi Tuvia Hoffman Kaminestsky, before completing the Ye r u s h a smicha program (rabbinic ordination) layim. She organized a Ladies Morning at Darchei Noam, while simultane- Learning Program in their home in Beit ously studying at Ner L’Elef, an Shemesh, attended by 30-50 women Israeli organization which trains rab- each week, and also makes and sells her bis and their wives for outreach work own natural soaps and lotions! in the Diaspora. He’s run the Pizza “Rabbi Hoffman will use his unique Talk outreach program at Hebrew talents in a variety of ways,” added
Rabbi Blum, “from enhancing our p.r. and programs to scheduling additional classes and learning groups for everyone from pre-schoolers and their parents to teens and adults. We already offer a variety of day and evening classes for adults, singles’ parties, scholars-in-residence, children’s programs, teen classes and even Shabbat beginners services; now we’re offering Omaha Jewry more Torah with more professional staff.” Allan Gonsher, OCTL President, added, “For an organization our size, our output in incredible. With continued community support, we hope to help make Omaha the envy of other Jewish communities.” To learn more about OCTL and how it can serve individuals or groups, call Rabbi Blum at 320-8055.
LANDSCAPES DESIGNED,
INSTALLED & MAINTAINED
• Lawn & Landscape • Renovations • Shredded Mulch • Shrub Trimming • FREE Estimates
You Scream, Ice Cream, We all scream for the Special Olympics Team!
MONTEMARANO
Special Olympics Nebraska inspires greatness for over 3,100 children and adults with developmental disabilities through year-round sports training and competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports.
332-3641
Help Wells’ Blue Bunny® Inspire Greatness!
LANDSCAPES, INC.
Home Loans To Fit Your Needs Rates As Low as 5.25%* • Lower Your Rate! • FREE Pre-Approvals • Home Improvement • Debt Consolidation • Cash For Other Reasons • 100% Purchase Programs • Land Contracts
Call Judy at PCI Financial 2204 90th Plaza Omaha, NE 68134 402/391-6141 ext 17
Proud Member of the Better Business Bureau * Rates as low as 5.25% depending on your credit * and other factors.
Use this coupon with the purchase of any two half gallons of Blue Bunny flavored ice cream. You will receive $1.00 off your purchase and Wells’ Blue Bunny will donate 50¢ to Special Olympics Nebraska and help support some very inspiring individuals!
By buying Blue Bunny ice cream you will... • empower people with developmental disabilities to realize their full potential. • help people with developmental disabilities become more fulfilled and productive members of their families and the communities in which they live. • improve the lives of people with developmental disabilities and, in turn, the lives of everyone they touch. Visit www.sone.org or call (800) 247-0105 for more information about Special Olympics Nebraska.
“Special Olympics is not only about sports, it is about changing lives.”
MANUFACTURER’S COUPON
EXPIRES 12/31/03
Support Special Olympics Nebraska
Save $1.00 on any TWO half gallons of
BLUE BUNNY®
Ice Cream and Wells’ Blue Bunny® will donate 50¢ to Special Olympics Nebraska DEALER: We will reimburse you the face value + 8¢ for handling this coupon according to our offer. Good only on the product/package size stated above. On request, you must show proof of purchase of sufficient stock to cover coupons presented for redemption. Void if taxed, prohibited, or otherwise restricted by law. Customer pays any sales tax. Cash value 1/20¢. ANY OTHER USE CONSTITUTES FRAUD! Duplications or reproductions not accepted. Mail to Wells’ Dairy, Inc., CMS Dept. #70640, 1 Fawcett Dr., Del Rio, TX 78840. LIMIT ONE COUPON PER PURCHASE.