Vol. LXXXIII No. 51 Omaha, NE
Greek Jews Are Small in Number, but Heirs to a Rich and Long Tradition by JEAN COHEN ATHENS (JTA)--Although the largest Jewish community in Greece resides in Athens, Jews from Salonika -remnants of a once-thriving community--are more active and cohesive. In Salonika, known in Greek as Thessaloniki, where 1,000 of the country’s 5,000 Jews live today, the synagogue has a regular minyan and younger Jews gather at the local Jewish community center. But even these activities are a far cry from what Jews have meant to the city--and what the city has meant to Jews--during the approximately 2,400 years of Jewish life in Greece. All told, 43,850 Jews, 95 percent of the Salonikan Jewish population, were deported from Salonika. Out of 77,377 Jews in Greece, only 10,000 survived the Holocaust. Today, there are nine active Jewish communities in Greece: Athens; Thessaloniki, or Salonika; Larissa; Chalkis; Volos; Corfu; Trikala; Ioannina; and Rhodes. In the former three communities, synagogues hold services regularly--and in Athens and Salonika there are also Jewish schools.
Jewish fencer Sada Jacobson of Atlanta won America’s first medal ever in women’s fencing Tuesday by winning the bronze. Some of the other Jewish athletes at the Olympics include, pictured from top left: Israeli rhythmic gymnast Katya Pisetsky, American kayaker Joe Jacobi and swimmers Jason Lezak and Lenny Krayzelburg, Argentine weightlifter Dario Lecman, and Australian table tennis comCREDIT: JTA petitor David Zalcberg. The umbrella organization of Greek Jewry is the Central Board of Jewish Communities, known by its Greek abbreviation KIS. Other organizations include the Women’s International Zionist Organization (WIZO), the Bat-El Union of Zionists for young women and the Union of Second Generation of Holocaust Survivors. The Jewish Museum of Greece, founded in Athens in 1977, preserves the heritage of the community. As it is elsewhere in the world, intermarriage is common among Greek Jews, who are generally assimilated and well-off and work in business or in white-collar professions. Many observers say that anti-Semitism in Greece today is on the rise. Most instances of antiSemitism have appeared in fringe papers and electronic media of the extreme right. One or two mainstream papers, such as Elefterotypia and Ta Nea, do occasionally carry anti-Semitic cartoons, mainly when they are trying to criticize Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon or Israeli policies. International Jewish groups have been quick to criticize the Greek government for not reacting to increased anti-Semitism, and the Simon Wiesenthal Center issued a travel advisory urging Jewish travelers to avoid visiting Greece for the Olympic Games, which continue through the end of this week. Continued on page 4
Inside
Celebrating 83 Years of Service to Nebraska and Western Iowa
Pizza a Morale Booster for IDF Soldiers by PAM MONSKY show their appreciation to these dedicated and brave Federation Communications Director young men and women. Imagine, just for a moment, what life is like for the Sharon Kooper, who is funding the pizza program, young soldiers serving in the Israel Defense Force. The said “This is a wonderful way to give back to others night is dark and the location is hostile. The soldiers’ twice! Your increased Campaign gift will help Jews in mission is dangerous and full of personal discomfort, need locally and globally and we are showing support but it’s one of utmost importance---they are guarding and boosting the morale of Israeli soldiers. I think this our homeland and the citizens of Israel. is a unique way to thank these remarkable people for Finally, the time comes for a well-deserved break and the very difficult work they are doing,” she explained. that’s when the pizza delivery arrives. That’s right, a Each pizza comes with a message of support from the pizza. sender, so the soldiers will “It’s impossible to put into know that the Omaha words what the arrival of Jewish community apprecipizza can do for a tank crew ates their defense of Israel. sitting on the outskirts of Community members will Nablus,” said Lt. Col. Efraim have the opportunity to get Hivsh, commander of the to know four active duty 7050 Battalion. “Light in IDF officers when they their eyes, warmth in their arrive in Omaha on Sept. 7 stomachs and the heart that for a week of informal gathglows with love,” he adds, erings at different homes describing the appreciation and other locations throughof the soldiers in his comout the community. mand to those who ordered Jody Malashock and Marcia the pizza. Pitlor are co-chairs of the Israeli soldiers enjoy pizza while on duty, thanks to a unique By now you may be won- project: PizzaIDF. 2005 Community Campaign dering who ordered the Event with the IDF soldiers. pizza for these soldiers? The answer could be...you! “This is an unconventional Campaign event and a remarkIn honor and appreciation to the Israeli Soldiers who able opportunity for the Omaha Jewish community to will be visiting our community to kick off the Jewish connect with the soldiers,” said Pitlor. Federation of Omaha’s 2005 Annual Campaign (Sept. Malashock agreed and added, “We hear and see so 7-12), a sponsor from the community will pay for pizza many images in the media and many of them are distortto be delivered to Israeli troops for every increased gift ed. This is a rare chance to learn about what the IDF to the Campaign. The idea for delivering pizzas to the stands for from the people who are on the front lines.” soldiers comes from an on-line morale booster called To make a reservation for any of the IDF Soldier PizzaIDF (www.pizzaidf.org), which allows support- events, please contact me at 334.6431 or ers to send pizza and pop to active duty soldiers. All pmonsky@jewishomaha.org. Everyone attending pizzas are kosher, which allows all soldiers to be able will be asked to make their pledge to the 2005 Jewish to eat them. Federation of Omaha Annual Campaign.. Now the Omaha Jewish community will be able to Continued on page 12
JCC Hires First Full-time Shaliach, Will Work in Omaha More Than Just a Summer by JEFFREY AIZENBERG JCC Executive Dirctor In partnership with the Jewish Agency for Israel, the Jewish Community Center of Omaha will be hosting-for the first time ever--a year-round Israeli Shaliach (emmisary) beginning next month. Uri Levin will be joining the JCC staff for a year, in order to bring Israel experiences to the entire community in a very personal way. Like other shlichim who are placed in Jewish communities all over the world, Uri went through an extensive screening process in order to be selected. He also participated in an intensive training program conducted by the Jewish Agency in Jerusalem in order to prepare for his year-long experience in Omaha. Uri was born in March of 1981 and grew up in a small settlement in northern Israel--Zurit. He was a youth leader at his local community center when he was in high school and led a wide variety of activities from hiking to photography. He also enjoys acting, Israeli dancing and playing the guitar. He’s traveled to Greece, Italy, France, Holland, England, Cyprus, Germany and Egypt as well as the United States. In 1997 he was selected as a young ambassador of his Partnership 2000 project. This experience included hosting American teenagers in Israel and then spending time in Pittsburg and Baltimore in order to learn about
This Week: Olympic Coverage, Pages 4-5 New Video Collection Highlights Jewish Heritage: Page 3
3 Elul, 5764 August 20, 2004
Read It & Eat for Armchair Olympians: Page 7
Jewish life in the U.S. In November of 1999, after graduating high school, Uri joined the Israeli Navy as a crew member in a missle boat. He then went to the IDF’s officer academy and was then stationed at the Haifa naval base and naval headquarters in Tel Aviv as a staff officer. His father, Naftaly, is a Uri Levin human resurces consultant and his mother, Rivka, is an architect. He has a younger sister, Roni, currently in the IDF, and a younger brother Amir, 14 and in junior high school. Uri’s assignments at the ‘J’ will include working with BBYO. as well as all of the synagogue youth groups in the community. He will also work with the JCC’s Junior Maccabi Club as well as the regular JCC Maccabi Team. Uri will help organize many Israel related events throughout the year and will be a resource for all Jewish groups. He will also be teaching Hebrew at the Child Development Center and to teens, as well as leading song sessions for the JCC camps. Organizations with an interest in having Uri work with their groups should contact Rachel Blum, JCC Jewish Program Director, at 334.6404.
Coming Next Month: New Year’s Special Issue on Sept. 10 The Rothchilds This Sunday at Temple: Page 11
Former Omahan Looks for Votes for her Children’s Book: Page 12
Page 2
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
August 20, 2004
VISIT OUR NEW LOCATION! OUR BIGGEST SALE EVER! Selected Jewelry Up to
Jewelry & Judaica
75% OFF
from Israel
Jewelry & Watch Repair Including Batteries & Bands
Fri. Aug. 20 10-6 Sat. Aug. 21 10-6 Sun. Aug. 22 12-6
5310 South 139th Plaza Suite 201 • Millard Plaza
Millard Avenue & Q Street behind Blockbuster
402/896-0116
New Video Collection Highlights Influence of Jewish Comedians by NIKKI STRAYER Library Assistant What do Groucho Marx, Sid Caesar, and Mel Brooks have in common? How does Yiddish culture continue to influence contemporary Jewish life? What is the connection between romance and Jewish identity? The Kripke Jewish Federation Library invites you to explore the answers to these and other provocative questions of modern Jewish life through the Jewish Heritage Video Collection--an exciting new approach to Jewish education through media. At the heart of the Jewish Heritage Video Collection (JHVC) is an incredible video library of nearly 200 titles, including feature films, children’s programs, foreign and Yiddish classics, television programs, and documentaries. All programs have been carefully chosen for the richness of their Jewish content. The JHVC is a welcome addition to the Kripke Library’s already extensive video collection. The JHVC also includes a series of stimulating courses and mate-
Home Loan Solutions for All Situations In Business to Serve YOU Since 1994
rials on a wide range of Jewish-related topics based on videos in the collection. Through group viewing, indepth curricular materials, and lively discussion, the community will have the opportunity to gain fresh
12111 Pacific Street • Omaha, NE 68154 402.330.0770 • 800.616.6848 Fax: 402.330.7318
Golfers to Play for Prizes and Fun at Shadow Ridge Tournament
Bob Goldberg, President www.advantagemort.com • email: bobg@advantagemort.com
CLIP & SAVE
CALENDAR OF EVENTS FRIDAY, AUGUST 20 YU Torah Tours Breakfast, 8 a.m. at Beth Israel Shabbat Services and Picnic, 5:30 p.m. at Temple Israel YU Torah Tours Shabbat Dinner, 7:30 p.m. at Beth Israel SATURDAY, AUGUST 21 USY Chapter Membership Training (21 & 22), 9 a.m. C at Beth El L YU Torah Tours Shabbat Lunch, noon at Beth Israel I P & S A V E
SUNDAY, AUGUST 22 Teacher-in-Service with Rabbi Sam Joseph, 9 a.m. at Temple Israel Religious School Steering Committee Meeting, 9 a.m. at Temple Israel Bible Study Group, 11 a.m. at Beth El Beth El BEAM at Stephens Center, 1:30 p.m. Bernie Dean stars in “The Rothchilds”, 7 p.m. at Temple Israel
C L I P & S A V E
MONDAY, AUGUST 23 JELS Teacher Training, 7 p.m. TUESDAY, AUGUST 24 BBYO Council Kickoff, 6 p.m. JELS Class “War & Peace”, 7 p.m. WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 25 PATTER, 10:30 a.m. at Beth El “Down to Earth Jewish Philosophy” Class, noon C Hazak Installation Dinner, 7 p.m. at Beth El C L NCJW Board Meeting, 7 p.m. L I First Day of School, 8:30 a.m. at Friedel Jewish Academy I P
P
THURSDAY, AUGUST 26 & Walk-in Drop-in, 10 a.m. Yiddish Group, 1 p.m. S Jewish Women International Pot Luck Dinner, 6 p.m. A at Corrine Levins
&
S A V V E All events held at the JCC unless otherwise indicated. The Jewish Press is not E 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)
GREAT Food at GREAT Prices Expect More From An Employee Owned Store
Peony Park 7910 Cass St. 384-8668
insights on important issues. Topics in the collection include: Comedy, Values, Yiddish Culture, Israel, the Holocaust, and the Jewish Image in American Film. “I am tremendously excited about the potential of this new Collection for the Kripke Library”, said Gary Katz, Library Administrator. The Jewish Heritage Video Collection was conceived and developed by the Jewish Media Fund, with funding from the Charles H. Revson Foundation. “The Jewish Heritage Video Collections offers an exciting opportunity to gain a sense of Jewish culture and community through the powerful medium of film”, noted Eli Evans, president of the Charles H. Revson Foundation. Members of the JHVC Advisory Committee include: Abba Eban, Elie Wiesel, Cynthia Ozick, Newton Minow, Richard Dreyfuss, Paul Mazursky, and former Omahan-Joan Micklin Silver.
by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Temple Israel Communications Coordinator Approximately 100 golfers are expected to participate in this year’s Temple Israel Golf Outing on Monday, Aug. 30 at Shadow Ridge Country Club, 187th and Pacific Streets, said Jon Meyers, a member of the committee planning the annual event. “It’s a top-notch tournament along with a good meal, a lot of prizes, and a lot of fun,” Meyers described. Prizes include jewelry, computer and golf equipment, and clothing. The grand prize will be a chance to win a car from Acura of Omaha for a hole-in-one. For $125, a single participant can play 18 holes of golf, get a cart, driving range privileges, lunch and dinner. Foursomes can play for $500. Playing spots are filled on a first come, first served basis. Lunch at Shadow Ridge is at noon followed by a shotgun start at 1 p.m. Non-players can attend the dinner and awards banquet at 6 p.m. at Shadow Ridge for $30. Cocktails begin at 5:30 p.m. Anyone can play in the Golf Outing. Golfers do not have to be members of Temple Israel. Call Temple at 556.6536 to make reservations for golf and the dinner
by Tuesday, Aug. 24. Proceeds support religious school at Temple, youth groups, adult education, and worship services. On the preceding day, Sunday, Aug. 29, Temple Israel families are invited to the fourth annual Family Miniature Golf Outing at Boulder Creek, 14208 “S” St. (just southeast of 144th and “Q” Sts). Registration begins at 4 p.m., and the shotgun start is at 4:30 p.m. Afterwards, hamburgers, veggie burgers, and hot dogs will be coming hot off the grill for hungry golfers. There will be many opportunities to win raffle prizes, and every golfer at the Family Miniature Golf Outing will automatically be entered into a drawing for a grand door prize. Although participation is free for the Sunday event, reservations are necessary and can be made by calling the Temple office at 556.6536 or via email to mkube@templeisraelomaha.com by Wednesday, Aug. 25. In addition to Meyers, other Golf Committee members are Joe Meyers, John Glazer, Steve Redler, Jim Farber, Jeff Smedlund, Jeff Schweid, Dennis DePorte, Rick Fox, Michael Miller, Scott Schneiderman, and Lori Bennett.
Camaraderie and Spirituality on Tap at Beth El’s First Rosh Hodesh Retreat by JILL BELMONT Beth El Publicity Coordinator It’s not too late to register for Beth El Synagogue’s first-ever Women’s Rosh Hodesh Retreat, to be held Friday, Oct. 15 and Sat., Oct. 16, at the Arbor Day Farm–Lied Conference Center in Nebraska City. “Renewing Our Spirits... Celebrating Ourselves” will be the theme of the retreat, and all Beth El women are invited to join together for a joyful Shabbat filled with spirituality, study and song, beginning at 4 p.m. on Friday, and ending after Havdalah Saturday evening. (Participants may stay over Saturday night after the retreat, but must make arrangements for this extra night by calling the Lied Center, 1-800-545-6519.) In addition to creative Shabbat services, activities during the retreat will include yoga with Larisa Ginsburg, Israeli dancing led by Cheryl Lerner, and study sessions such as “Turning Pages” with Nancy Rips, “Exploring Our Spirituality,” with Stephanie Koraleski, and “RiskTaking,” led by Gloria Kaslow and Marti Rosen-
Atherton. “We have really enjoyed our monthly Rosh Hodesh meetings, and wanted to have the opportunity to spend a more extended time together celebrating our Judaism,” said Dinah Raful, a retreat coordinator. “This will be a wonderful time for Beth El women to come together in a beautiful setting at the beginning of this New Year, to learn and experience Shabbat with much spirituality and creativity. What a marvelous opportunity to learn and to enjoy intelligent, sensitive and caring Jewish women...who could pass up this chance?” Cost for the retreat (includes three vegetarian meals and full accommodations) is $110 per person/double occupancy, or $140 per person/single occupancy. Scholarships will be available, on a confidential basis, by calling Beth El Executive Director Larry DeBruin at 492.8550. Registration forms are available in the synagogue office; the deadline is Aug. 27, so make your reservations now, as space is limited!
August 20, 2004
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 3
JNF Says Water, Not Terrorism Is Biggest Issue Facing Middle East by CAROL KATZMAN Editor of the Jewish Press Watch the news and nearly all the stories are about the latest bombings, killings, “incursions” or the security barrier. But according to Col. (Ret) Kami Robinson, the most pressing issue in the Middle East today is water. “In a good year--and last year was good--rainfall is still 25% less than the country needs,” he said. “Consumption by agriculture, industry and consumers today use 52 billion gallons more water than the country has available.” The special emissary for the Jewish National Fund was in Omaha last week, along with JNF Midwest Regional Director Yaron Iram, to strengthen relations between the 103-year-old non-profit organization and its supporters. Robinson, a tank commander who retired as a colonel in the IDF, is the son of Holocaust survivors and came to Israel when he was only three-monthsold. In addition to earning a BA at Bar Ilan University, he has an MBA in budgets and management from Tel Aviv University. He was the financial adviser to the Ministry of Defense and IDF Chief of Staff before serving as Keren Kayemet’s Director of Financial Projects. “Some 1.2 million Israelis get their water from JNF reservoirs,” Robinson said, “And though the government signed an agreement with Turkey to have shipped an additional 13.2 billion gallons of water annually, it will only fulfill five percent of Israel’s water needs. “Plus, it will cost us three times the
price we would pay if we had enough reservoirs to collect that same amount of water. So, long term, we’re also looking into ‘recycled’ water.” The drought of the last decade, broken only last year, combined with a growing population have put severe strains on Israel’s ability to provide safe, clean drinking water to its consumers, as well as providing for the needs of farmers
Acco, as well as two others in nearby Western Galilee kibbutzim. JNF reservoirs hold a huge quantity of wastewater, flood and water runoff, which is then cleaned and is made available for irrigation and agricultural needed. Omaha’s 1991 mission, in fact, visited a moshav in the Negev that used this ‘recycled’ water in its tomato greenhouses. The brackish water, while unfit for human consumption, actually forces the plants to grow tomatoes that are sweeter and juicier. And, by using ‘recycled’ water for agriculture, it saves fresh and treated water for Israelis. JNF is probably best known for its pushkas, the blue tin boxes in which most every Jewish adult can recall savings pennies, nickels and dimes to plant trees in Israel. And JNF has plantCol (Ret.) Kami Robinson , left, and Yaron Iram explain the work ed trees--millions of JNF accomplishes in Israel. them--240 million to be and manufacturers. Even though Lake exact! But, Yaron Iram, added, “JNF Kinneret was replenished by rains and wants to be known as more than trees snows of last winter, it still isn’t enough and blue boxes.” to make up the difference. JNF still maintains its toll-free phone So JNF, Col. Robinson insists, is on a number (800.542.TREE) website mission. (www.jnf.org) to purchases tree certifiHaving already built or co-financed cates, but the organization is also 163 reservoirs (including a number in responsible for building the infrastrucOmaha’s Partnership region, the Western ture in many parts of Israel--roads, playGalilee), JNF wants to build 35 more-- grounds, riverbed restoration, beach including one in Nahariya and another in development and restoration of archeo-
logical sites. Throughout the arrival of nearly a million olim (immigrants) from the former Soviet Union, JNF road crews worked in outlying areas of the Negev, the Jordan Valley and the Galilee to create a network of highways and roads not just for ordinary citizens, but for agricultural development, afforestation efforts, firefighters and the Israeli Defense Force. Robinson looks at Israel the way Americans look at Arizona...a state whose population has been able to expand because of their water research. But, Robinson, pointed out, “It’s Israel that’s doing the research!” The U.S. Western states actually belong to a consortium that pays Israeli scientists--many of them at JNF--to develop alternative sources of conserving, desalinating and treating water. In addition to JNF’s emphasis on water, Robinson pointed out its educational programs, noting that “Omaha synagogues and schools can obtain classroom materials at little or no cost.” And college students might be interested in JNF’s Caravan for Democracy program, which provides the kind of information students need to combat antiSemitism and anti-Israeli sentiment found on college campuses today. For educational information, including JNF’s next tour to Israel--Nov. 6-14, call 800.563.0099. “Our goal,” Robinson added, “is to strengthen the relationship of the next generation to Zionism and Israel. Everything JNF does is for all Israelis.”
Largest exclusive BMW Dealer in NE, IA, SD!
Now with the Highest Customer Satisfaction Index in NE, IA, KS, SD, MN!
Be Worry Free 2004 BMW325i
BMW Defines Driving!
#1354
(Including brake and brake pad replacement. See dealer for details.)
BMW BMW 2004 2004 Defines Defines BMWZ42.5 Driving! BMWX32.5 Driving! #1178
#1121
Lease For
329/mo
3500OFF
$
$
36 month lease, 10,000 mi/yr lease. $2995 cash/trade down plus 1st month payment and security deposit due at signing. Tax, title and license extra. WAC. See dealer for details.
1.9APR
or
Lease or purchase a new BMW and have the confidence of free Full Maintenance 4 yr/ 50,000 Mile Warranty
60 months WAC. Tax, title and license extra. See dealer for details.
1.9APR
Lease For
299/mo
$
39 month lease, 10,000 mi/yr lease. $2995 cash/trade down plus 1st month payment and security deposit due at signing. Tax, title and license extra. WAC. See dealer for details.
or
60 months WAC. Tax, title and license extra. See dealer for details.
1.9APR
or
60 months WAC. Tax, title and license extra. See dealer for details.
Over 200 New & Pre-Owned Certified BMWs To Choose From!
markel BMW
Continuously Serving Nebraska’s Automotive Needs For Over 95 Years
Westroads • 716 N. 102nd • 393-9700 • 800-593-6060 • www.markelford.com Mon-Thur: 8:30-8 • Fri-Sat: 8:30-6
More about BMW 325i Z4 X3 www.markelbmw.com Tel. 402-393-9700 Fax 402-255-3403
The Ultimate Driving Machine®
Page 4
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
August 20, 2004
Kosher Restaurant in Athens Wins Gold Medal with Customers by JEAN COHEN lunches and pre-cooked Sabbath mealsATHENS (JTA)--To many Athenians, a -and doubles as an information center kosher restaurant is an odd site -- but, if for tourists. The dishes at Kol Tuv, operearly returns are any indication, a wel- ated by Elisa Kamonto and Joseph come one as well. Varouh, who run a catering business in Since opening Aug. 1 in advance of Athens, are influenced by traditional this month’s Olympic Games, the Kol Sephardi Jewish cooking. Tuv restaurant has done a brisk busiItems on the menu include pastelikos, ness: Its varied menu--from Greek food ground-meat pies, from Varouh’s family like moussaka to Middle Eastern dishes recipe book, and tazikos, a vanilla-flasuch as humus to traditional Greek vored almond dessert that was handed Jewish cuisine such as a haminados, an down from Kamonto’s grandmother. oven-baked egg dishIt’s believed to -has attracted Jews be the first time a and non-Jews alike. kosher restaurant “The atmosphere of has opened in the restaurant and the Greece since World decor are amazing,” War II, when more said Liana Zervou, a than 90 percent of Greek Christian custhe Jewish commutomer. “I was surnity died in the prised by the tasty Holocaust. traditional Greek The communiJewish dishes, and I ty, which numbers called one of my some 5,000 people, Jewish friends right is very assimilated, away to tell them and Hendel himselfhow great it is.” -with his traditional The Kol Tuv restaurant, in Athens. The air-conditioned beard--is something restaurant features brick walls and of a curiosity for many Greeks. wooden tables, with a few outdoor Hendel is unsure whether the restautables nearby. rant will remain open after the Games There’s also a long wooden bar where close at the end of the month, but says beer, wine and coffee drinks are served. he may be tempted to keep it running. The Glatt kosher meat restaurant is the Alon Biniaminov, an Israeli businessbrainchild of the local Chabad-Lubavitch man, brought his Greek partner to the rabbi, Mendel Hendel, who opened it for restaurant to introduce him to Jewish the Games with help from Chabad and food. “He especially liked the falafel the Athens Jewish community. with the humus. But what really surThe restaurant, open for breakfast, prised him was to learn that the delilunch and dinner, also prepares boxed cious souvlaki was kosher.’’
GAUCHER DISEASE Approximately 1 out of every 450 within the Ashkenazi Jewish population has Gaucher disease
The symptoms may become apparent at any age and they include:
Athletes Look for Rankings to Raise Standing of Israeli Olympians
Most of Israel’s Olympic team posed for a group pictures at Ben Gurion Airport with Education Minister Limor Livnat (front row, fifth from left) before flying to Athens to join the rest of their team. An Olympic triumph for Israel was table-tennis player Marina Kravchenko’s defeat of European champion Otila Badescu of Romania on Sunday. Also, Israeli wind-surfer Gal Friedman reached
third place in the second men’s mistral race on Sunday and as of press time is ranked fifth in the overall standings. One controversy cropped up when a member of Iran’s judo team forfeited his match against Israeli Ehud Vaks, however Vaks failed to win his next match against an Algerian and is out of the running for a medal. Credit: ISRANET
Greek Jews Heir to Rich Tradition Continued from page 1 The first Greek Jew whose name is known was “Moschos, son of Moschion the Jew,” a slave identified in an inscription dated to approximately 300 BCE-250 BCE. The inscription was unearthed in Oropos, a small coastal town between Athens and Boeotia. The Jewish community is believed to have grown further after the Hasmonean uprising, when many Jews were sold into slavery in Greece. During the Hellenistic period, a Jewish community formed mainly in Thessaloniki, where Jews concentrated in an area near the city port. The center of both their social and religious lives was the synagogue. Later, the Romans granted autonomy to the Jewish community which was comprised largely of traders, craftspeople, farmers and silk growers. This ancient community came to be known as the Romaniotes, some of whose descendants still live in Greece today. During the 15th and 16th centuries, many Jews expelled from Spain, Portugal, Italy, Sicily and France, as well as refugees from North Africa, settled in Salonika. Once there, the Romaniote and Sepahrdi communities founded separate synagogues. By the mid-16th century, Salonika-once known as the “Jerusalem of the Balkans”--had become a Jewish center of Europe, as persecuted Jews poured in. In 1900 there were approximately 80,000 Jews in Salonika out of a total
population of 173,000. In the early 20th century, the city was under Turkish rule, and after the Turkish sultan was overthrown by republicans known as the Young Turks, Jews in the city entered a “golden era” in which they could found in most every profession: They were traders, tobacco and port workers, lawyers, physicians and teachers. The first Zionist organizations in Greece--Agudat Bnei Zion and Maccabee--appeared in Thessaloniki, and by the eve of World War II there were more than 20 Zionist organizations in the city. But at the same time, increasing competition in the job market during the first decades of the 20th century, particularly among craftsmen and tradespeople, motivated thousands of Jews to emigrate, largely to the United States. The war itself was a disaster for the community. The Nazi army occupied the city on April 9, 1941. In early 1943, all of the city’s Jews were herded into ghettoes; later that year they were deported. Perhaps in reaction to the criticism, Greece recently announced that it would establish a national day of remembrance for Greek Jews who died in the Holocaust. Greece’s Interior Ministry said it will submit legislation to Parliament that would make Jan. 2 --the day prisoners were liberated from Auschwitz--a “Day of Remembrance of Greek Jewish Holocaust Victims.”
EASY BRUISING AND BLEEDING BONE PAIN ●
Cruise Away...
FATIGUE EASILY FRACTURED BONES ●
DELAYED GROWTH ENLARGED SPLEEN AND LIVER ●
into a Great Vacation!
Nebrasksa’s #1 Volume Cruise Agency!
DISCOUNTS UP TO 50%
Omaha’s Oldest, MOST EXPERIENCED, Representing CRUISE LINES...WORLDWIDE! The consequences of this disorder can be debilitating. For more information on Gaucher disease, treatment, and testing, contact your doctor or please call and ask for Information Packet 9. RGD/US/P145/01/04
1-800-745-4447 www.genzyme.com
OPEN WEEKDAYS 9:00-6:00, SAT. By Appointment Only Nationally Recognized Award Winning Agency
339-6800 OR 1-800-289-5505
PRINCESS
10760 “Q” St., Omaha, NE 68127
Carnival
NATIONAL TOP NATIONALAGENCY NATIONAL TOP PRODUCER AWARD OF THE YEAR PRODUCER AWARD
August 20, 2004
Jewish Athletes to Compete in Athens for Argentina and Australia by FLORENCIA ARBISER in love with the sport. Now 21, the Sydney resident BUENOS AIRES (JTA)--Olympic teams from countries represents Australia in this rough and tumble contact outside of Israel and the United States are notably short sport. on Jewish athletes during the Athens Games. Still, from In the last seven years, Chervonsky has made a rapid weightliftinglifting to soccer to table tennis, several rise in the sport's rankings and has won both junior and Jewish athletes will be displaying the colors of their senior national titles. Chervonsky, who has spent time respective countries during the competition in Greece, in Slovenia and Japan fine tuning her skills, attributes which continues through next week. her success to her coaches. Without her love of trainDario Lecman says he spent the better part of his first ing, she says, the Olympic goal would have been even 16 years hanging out at the Maccabi Jewish center in more difficult to reach. Buenos Aires. It was there, he says, that he first disTal Karp, 22, can still recall being kicked off the field covered weightlifting. when she tried to get in on a boys soccer game at the “I used to spend a lot of time at the weightlifting area, Maccabi sports center in Perth when she was just sixbecause many cute girls were there, exercising their years-old. She sat watching the game in tears. When bottoms,” says the 32-year-old Lecman, during an inter- soccer competition gets underway in Athens, Karp will view in Buenos Aires. no longer be watching, Although Lecman did not she’ll be playing--for find his soul mate at Australia’s national team. Maccabi’s gym, he did fall in A midfielder, Karp is conlove with weightlifting, the sidered one of Australia’s sport in which he will be finest players, and has reprepresenting Argentina at resented the country 23 the Games. The 210-pound times in international comLecman qualified for the petition. previous two Olympics. Karp has already set herIn the 1996 Atlanta self a new goal: making the Games, a last-minute sprain team to represent Israel, kept him out of the compewhere her father was born, tition. Four years later, in in the 2005 Maccabiah Sydney, he competed, Games. though residual pain from a David Zalcberg, 23, may wrist injury kept him from be Australian, but he lives doing well. part of each year in Sweden Still, Lecman, who says he so he can participate in hopes to finish in the top European table tennis toureight in Athens, has had naments. This week, he was success in previous internain Athens, competing in the tional competition. He has table tennis doubles’ event. won gold and silver medals In 1997, Zalcberg won in the Pan-American Games Maccabiah gold during the and was awarded (JTA)--Twenty-seven-year-old Gavin Fingleson, of Sydney, games in Ramat Gan, Israel, Argentina’s prestigious Australia, has of late been playing baseball in the United and was one of the Silver Olimpias award five States with the New Haven County Cutters, a team in the Australian athletes who independent Northeast League. But during the Olympics, plummeted into the Yarkon times. Lecman’s Jewish identity he’s donning the uniform of Australia’s national team to River that year when a includes fond memories of compete on an Athens baseball diamond. Fingleson, who bridge en route to the Passover seders at the home is the Cutters leading hitter, arrived in Australia from his Opening Ceremonies of the of his cousin in the Once native South Africa when he was 11-years-old and showed Games collapsed. Four athneighborhood of Buenos great baseball talent even before his Bar Mitzvah. He rep- letes lost their lives in the Aires, a center for Argentine resented his state’s junior team in baseball for four sea- accident. Jewish life. It also includes sons before ultimately being selected for the senior team. Like Karp, Zalcberg, a a Hebrew phrase he and his He played for both Australia’s under-16 and under-19 medical student and fluent friends were taught during teams, eventually winning a baseball scholarship to French speaker, is hoping to their days at the Maccabi Wallace State Community College in Alabama, where he make the team again for the center: chazak v’ematz: be earned a degree in science. Fingleson then won another 2005 Maccabiah. But before scholarship, this time at the Southeastern Louisiana that, all focus is on Athens. strong and brave. In Athens, Lecman plans University, where he gained further degrees in health promotion and exercise science. He remained in the U.S. for to be. (JTA correspondent When she was 15-years- three years thereafter, playing baseball professionally in Henry Benjamin in old, Russian-born Sonya Louisiana, New York and Minneapolis before being scout- Sydney, Australia, conChervonsky was introduced ed and signed by a team in Taiwan. In Athens, he expects tributed to this report.) to judo and fell immediately Cuba and Japan will be the major contenders for gold.
Temple Kesher Event to Connect Young Adults by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Temple Israel Communications Coordinator “We’re trying something new,” said Lynne Jensen, Director of Youth and Informal Education at Temple Israel. In an effort to keep in touch with young adults who are past high school age, Temple will inaugurate Kesher which will provide an opportunity for this age group to renew acquaintances, meet each other and the Temple staff. “We have so many opportunities up until kids graduate from high school,” Jensen noted. “We want to continue to keep in touch with them.” On Saturday, Aug. 28, 6 p.m., Kesher will host “Hangin’ and Havdalah!” at the home of Rabbi Aryeh and Elyce Azriel, 13635 Walnut St. “We hope that whether they’re working or in college or graduate school, these young adults will join us for some fun and dinner,” Jensen said. “We’re having meat or vegetarian items, and it’s absolutely free!” she promised. Jensen suggested that anyone living in or near Omaha or Lincoln bring their Jewish friends with them to Kesher, which means connection in Hebrew.
Other Kesher events planned are a dinner with members of Omaha Temple Youth Group on Wednesday, Nov. 24, at Temple just prior to the annual Interfaith Thanksgiving service, and in December, coffee and conversation at Espresso Mary’s for both in-town and out-of-town young adults who are home for winter break. Please RSVP to Jensen or Elyce Azriel at Temple Israel, 556.6536, for the Aug. 28 event or e-mail: ljensen@templeisraelomaha.com. Jensen also mentioned that college students can attend the 2004 Kesher Convention, sponsored by the Union for Reform Judaism (URJ), scheduled for this Nov. 4-7 at Northwestern University in Evanston, IL just outside Chicago. Participants will have the chance to join 200 college students for a weekend of singing, learning, networking, and fun. Social action activities and interactive workshops focusing on issues that students face both personally and on their campuses are planned. For more information, log onto the website www.keshernet.com or contact the College Department at 212.650.4070, kesher@urj.org.
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Dining
Page 5
Out When you patronize these fine establishments, tell them you saw their ad in the Jewish Press.
R O Ñ E S S A î T MA 90th & Arbor 391-0191
Fax: 391-1086 Mon-Sat 11am-1am Sun 4pm-9pm Locally Owned & Operated
LUNCH SPECIALS Serving Mexican Food • Fajitas • Tacos • Enchiladas • Tamales Full American Menu • Steaks • Sea Food •Prime Rib • BBQ Ribs • Chicken Childrens Menu Available Party Room Available
THE GREEK ISLANDS 3821 CENTER • 346-1528 Greek Specials Daily Greek Beer & Wine Homemade Pastries Dine In/Carry Out Party Room We Cater Too! Full Service Bar Mon.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sun., 11 a.m.-8 p.m.
Serving up a taste of Sicily & Italy ~ that’s Pasta Amore
Your neighbors, Leo and Pat Fascianella
Catering to your home or office Party rooms available for up to 65 people
New! Outdoor Dining And Party Room
Pasta Amore
11027 Prairie Brook Road, Omaha • 391-2585 Lunch: Monday-Friday: 11:00 am-2:00 pm Dinner: Monday-Saturday: 4:30-on Open Sundays for private parties • www.PastaAmore.net
FYI— Here’s th at Res taurant 6 9 7 5107 The Be s t L S 12129 almon I eve amb & r had! Ope W n E . Ce ve n ry D
ter
ay f
or L Bis unch tro & D 121 inner
697-5107 Reservations Accepted
12129 W. CENTER RD. Westwood Plaza
Page 6
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
August 20, 2004
ORGANIZATIONS
ENGAGEMENTS
WALK-IN, DROP-IN For those members going to the Bluffs Run Casino on Thursday, please meet at the JCC main entrance at 8:45 a.m. LOMIR REDN YIDDISH We are playing Yiddish Bingo--Oivai. It’s fun! It’s educational! Come to the Yiddish meeting at the JCC on Thursdays, 1-3 p.m. Call Anne Skolkin at 343.1638 for information. VISIONS Our Nebraska City Trip is Wednesday, Sept. 1, departing the JCC at 9 a.m. See the new Missouri River Basin Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center; have lunch at the scenic Lied Conference Center; tour Nebraska City and visit the apple farm. Cost of $30 per person includes transportation, admission to museum, lunch, tour of Nebraska City and apple farm. Return by approximately 4 p.m. Send reservations with full payment to Anne Skolkin, 1010 Regency Parkway, #302, Omaha, NE 68114. Make check payable to Visions. Deadline is Aug. 21. B’NAI B’RITH BREADBREAKERS Cindy Alloway will speak at Breadbreakers on Wednesday, Aug. 25, noon, at Park Inn Regency, according to Gary Javitch, Chairman. Alloway is the administrator of the new Lakeside Hospital, and she will discuss “The Newest Full Service Hospital.” Cost is $10 for lunch and $2 for beverage service only. Breadbreakers is open to the community. TORAH LEARNING CENTER Rabbi Tuvia Hoffman will teach the following classes: on Tuesdays, 7 p.m.--Jewish Philosophy--ongoing discussions on self-growth, and on Wednesdays, noon--“Down to Earth Jewish Philosophy” in the Omaha Room of the Jewish Community Center. New home-study groups and classes and individual study sessions are available. Please call me at 981.0569 for more information. If you loved learning about Aleph and Bet, you’ll want to hear about Gimel! Rabbi Yaakov Marcu returns to Omaha, Oct. 15-16, for a Shabbaton at TLC.
DINOVO/COMISAR The parents of Shannaon Christina Dinovo and Marshall Scot Comisar announce their engagement. The bride to be is the daughter of Brian and Sandy Nimmo, Terrance Dinovo and Diane Wallace Reid. She graduated from the University of Nebraska-Omaha in May, where she was a member of the tennis team. She earned a degree in psychology and is currently working on a master’s in elementary education at the University of Minnesota. She is the granddaughter of Phyllis Matthews and the late Don Ringler, Sylvia Nimmo and the late Kenneth Nimmo, and John Dinovo. Her fiancé is the son of Frank and Chreil Comisar. He graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where he was a member of Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity. He earned a degree from the J.D. Edward’s program in electrical engineering. He will also be working on a master’s degree at the University of Minnesota. His grandparents are Joan Martin and the late Marshall Zalkin and Edith Comisar and the late Alvin Comisar. A wedding is planned for June 25, 2005, at the Ironwood Country Club.
It’s Visions’ Monkeyshines
JIM & JENNIE’S GREEK VILLAGE Traditional Greek Dishes
♦ Roast Lamb ♦ Fish Plaki ♦ Stuffed Grape Leaves ♦ Chicken Reganato ♦ Souviaki ♦ Mousaka
♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦
TAKE-OUT
Saganaki Spanakopita Lamb Kabob Chicken Kabob Seafood Specialties Full Bar
CATERING
3026 No. 90th St. • 571-2857
Members of Visions like Sissy Silber, right, enjoyed the day at the Henry Doorly Zoo, viewing a variety of exotic animals and visiting the new Hubbard Gorilla Valley. The group then had lunch at Piccolo Pete’s. For information about upcoming programs, call Maggie Conti at 334.6521.
Trovato’s Steaks and Italian Cuisine Finest Homemade Italian Cooking
Bring in this ad and receive a
% discount
20
on your deli purchase Eat in only
By Sept. 20, No Frills Supermarkets will offer even “more of the best for less” to customers in South Omaha. No Frills Supermarkets is buying the Baker’s Supermarket at 24th and Vinton St. as part of its expansion plan for the Omaha metro area. CEO Rich Juro says, “The No Frills commitment to high quality food at lower prices is ideal for South Omaha.” This will be the second South Omaha store for No Frills and the company will soon operate 14 supermarkets in Nebraska and Iowa.
KING KONG Greek Gyros • Steaks Phillies • Burgers
Open 7 days a week
5013 Underwood
#1 Food in the Midwest
(6 Blocks North of 50th & Dodge)
4409 Dodge Street • 553-3326 72nd & Q • 932-6420
556-9505
Open 7 Days a Week
EL ALAMO “Best Mexican Food”
Spirit World 7517 Pacific Omaha, NE 68114 391-8680
Dan Fellman, son of Dick and Bev Fellman, received a Master of Arts in Hebrew Letters degree from the Cincinnati, OH, campus of Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in June. He is on track to be ordained as a rabbi next spring and is now working on his Rabbinic Thesis, focusing on Harry Truman and Eddie Jacobson and their roles in the establishment of the State of Israel. Fellman earned a BA in Political Science in 1996 from Colorado College in Colorado Springs.
Home of Omaha’s Original Gyro Our Daily Lunch & Dinner Specials are #1
eli D e h T at
IN THE NEWS
Naomi Rennard, daughter of Dr. Stephen and Barbara Rennard, has been selected to attend Girls Nation. She was one of two delegates selected from over 400 at Nebraska Cornhusker Girls State. Naomi is one of 96 girls selected from across the nation to convene as a national senate and meet public officials, including the President of the U.S. This Program is sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary.
BIRTH Traci and Lance Kugler announce the Aug. 4 birth of their son, Alexander Michael, named for his greatgrandmother, Marian Kutler. Alex has a sister, Lauren. Grandparents are Sandy and Stuart Kutler and Cyndi and John Kugler. Great-grandparents are Harriet Singer and the late Lazier Singer, Frances and Robert Koehler and Louis Blohm, and Dale Knight of Lexington, NE.
GIVNER/SCHILLIE Debra Givner and Trey Schillie announce their engagement. The daughter of Donna Givner, and Nathaniel Givner, Scottsdale, AZ, the bride-to-be earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Missouri and a master’s from the University of Kansas. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker at the Genesis Alternative School in Kansas City, MO. Her fiancé is the son of Frank and Charlene Schillie of Moberly, MO. He earned a bachelor’s degree at the University of Missouri and a master’s from Yale University in New Haven, CT. He is employed as a mapping specialist with the U.S. Forest Service in Seward, Alaska. The couple plans an October wedding in Omaha.
Genuine New York Style Pizza
Buy any large pizza pie and get a 1 topping medium FREE *Not to be used with any other offer.
132nd & Dodge Streets Westridge Shopping Plaza 493-0404 • Fax 493-2994
FREE DELIVERY
Nachos • Guacamole • Tacos • Fajitas Burritos • Shrimp • Enchiladas Combination Dinners Carnitas • Tostadas Tamales • Arroz Con Pollo • Machaca MEXICAN BEER Corona • XX • Bohemia • Tecate • Carta Blanca Open for Lunch and Dinner 11 a.m.-9 p.m. OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK
4917 South 24th St. • 731-8969
August 20, 2004
Attention Armchair Athletes
R EAD IT AND EAT Reviewed by LOIS FRIEDMAN In case the flights to Athens, the birthplace of the ancient Olympic Games, are full and all of the copies of My Big Fat Greek Wedding are checked out at the video store, why not try a quick escape and adventure via these Greek cookbooks (Archestratos wrote the first cookbook in 330 B.C.) Enjoy a sampling of the 4000 year culinary traditions of Greece. My Big Fat Greek Feast by George Kyrtatas (Small Potatoes Press, $15.95) include Dolmathes (Stuffed Grape Leaves), Spanakopita (Cheese and Spinach Pie wrapped in phyllo), Mousaka (traditional eggplant dish), Pastitsio (pasta dish) and more. The chapters cover meze (appetizers), dips and chips, entrees, side dishes, desserts, and sauces and names are in both Greek and English. More than 80 one-to-a-page recipes with brief instructions and colorful photographs combine with “Big Fat Greek Facts” from this chef who grew up in his Greek family’s New Jersey restaurant, Hathaway. “Figs were used as a training food by the early Olympic athletes, and were also presented as laurels to the winners...the first Olympic ‘medal’.” Even armchair athletes have to train; try this recipe. GREEK BAGUETTE WITH A SWEET KISS 1 French baguette, cut into 10 slices 2 tablespoons honey 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 teaspoon paprika 1/2 teaspoon brown sugar 1 (20 ounce) can figs packed in water, drained and sliced into small pieces 4 ounces Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
Arrange baguette slices on a sheet tray. Evenly spread honey on each slice. Combine cayenne pepper, paprika and brown sugar and sprinkle over honey. Top with figs and Gorgonzola Broil until cheese begins to melt. Plate and serve warm. Flavors of Greece by Rosemary Barron (Interlink, $27.95) is a delightful read and has more than 250 national and regional specialities from the founder of Kandra Kitchen Cooking School in Greece. Read of traditional flavors, customs, the Greek kitchen and cooking details in the introductions and headnotes of the bakers dozen chapters from appetizers to desserts. From Avgolemono Sauce to zacharoplasteion (pastry shop) the recipes feature detailed instructions. Enjoy the aromas, picture yourself at the Games in Athens or in a picturesque village, on an archaeological dig or enjoying meze in an out-of-the-way taverna. From a selection of sweet and savory fig recipes, continue your training and try this appetizer. PEPPERED DRIED FIGS (Sika Piperata) 24 good-quality, moist dried figs 4 tablespoons cracked black pepper 12-18 bay leaves Trim the fig stems. Gently roll each fig in the pepper to lightly coat. Cover the bottom of a glass jar with a few of the bay leaves, or make an overlapping circle of leaves on two layers of plastic wrap. Then make alternate layers of figs and bay leaves, finishing with a layer of leaves. Gently press down on the leaves with the palm of your hand, then tightly cover the jar or pull the edges of the plastic wrap together into an airtight packet. Store at room temperature for up to 1 month.
The First Day of School is Here!
JFS CORNER by TANYA SEINA, LMHP Jewish Family Service The first day of school is an exciting time for children and parents. However, doing something for the first time, like starting school, can be scary for children--and for adults as well! Clingy behavior, tears and temper tantrums are common occurrences on the first day of school. Experiencing separation anxiety is a normal reaction when entering a new environment away from parents. It is okay to allow the child to feel fearful. Fear is a natural emotion that everyone experiences. Instead of telling the child that he or she should not feel scared about going to school, there are some things parents can do to reassure their child that the outcome will be all right. It is normal to fear the unknown, so taking the mystery out of what to expect on the first day of school can help alleviate anxiety. Familiarize your child with the classroom, the teacher, and the daily routine ahead of time. If possible, introduce your child to some of the other kids who will be in his or her class. Highlight all the fun activ-
ities the child can look forward to doing at school. Some kids look forward to drawing pictures while others become excited about playing on a new playground. Parents can also encourage their child to take a meaningful object to school with them to provide comfort and security during a separation. There are also children’s books available to help kids prepare for the “big day.” The Kissing Hand describes how a mother puts a kiss in her son’s hand for him to hold onto during their separation. A complete list of children’s books on this topic is available from the Omaha Public Library and from Jewish Family Service. Parents should keep in mind that if a child senses a parent is anxious or sad about sending the child off to school, the child’s insecurity will increase and the separation will not go smoothly. When it is time to say goodbye, make it short and not drawn out. Let your child know when you will be back. It is important to keep in mind that every child separates in his or her own special way. Some kids run into their new classroom without looking back, while others need extra time to adjust. Remember to respect each child’s unique temperament and personality as you create those first day of school memories.
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Dining
Out
When you patronize these fine establishments, tell them you saw their ad in the Jewish Press.
Elegant Year-Around Dining
650 North H Street Fremont, NE 68025
Omaha/Fremont 402/727-8321 800/942-8321
When people mention Jack & Mary’s, they’re talking
Chicken! RESTAURANT
Lunch and Steaks • Seafood Dinner Chicken Old Mill Shopping Center 108th & Dodge 496-2090
Neon Goose Inc. presents
Lunch • Tues.-Fri. 11-2:30 Dinner • Tues.-Thurs. 5-10 • Fri. & Sat. 5-11 Sunday Brunch • 10-2 1822 N. 120th St. • SW corner of 120th & Blondo
898-1882
Temple Course to “Freshen Up” Participants’ Hebrew by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Temple Israel Communications Coordinator If you’d like to brush up on your Hebrew just before the High Holidays, Temple Israel is offering a two-session Prayer Hebrew Refresher Course on Sundays, Aug. 29 and Sept. 12. The first class is from 10:30 a.m. to noon, and the second, from 10 a.m. to noon. Colleen Kennealy, a Temple member and an instructor for Temple’s weekly Family School, will be the instructor. “We’ll review the Hebrew alphabet,” Kennealy explained, “and then put it to practical use reading common blessings and prayers from the Siddur. After
just two study sessions, you’ll be ready to participate more fully in the High Holiday services,” she said. Kennealy teaches sixth graders and their parents at Family School “focusing on the prayers in the Siddur and introducing Torah trope. She also mentors B’nai Mitzvah students to help them develop fluency with the Hebrew prayers. She recommended that participants in the Hebrew Refresher Course already be familiar with the Hebrew alphabet. To register for the course, which is free, contact Program Director Rosie Zweiback at 556.6536 or e-mail her at: rzweiback@templeisraelomaha.com.
SM
Friedel Jewish Academy Hosts Ice Cream Social by JORDANA L. KURTZMAN Friedel Jewish Academy is holding its annual Ice Cream Social on Sunday, Aug. 22 2-4 p.m. in the school, where members of the Jewish community can visit the school and its facilities as well as meet the teachers and staff. The social, sponsored in part by Bag ’N Save, has been a long-standing tradition where everyone can make their own sundaes.
Cookie Katskee, Friedel’s principal, feels the PTOsponsored program offers the chance for new students to become acclimated to their new school surroundings in a social environment. “The ice cream social also allows new parents to meet each other as well as the board members,” she said. Friedel parents--past, present, and future--are invited to enjoy some cool kosher refreshments with us.
Page 7
SM
PIZZERIA 13463 W. Center Rd.•330-1444 7924 W. Dodge Rd.•391-1881 1213 Howard St.•344-2222
Page 8
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
August 20, 2004
Opinion Creating Opportunities for our Young People While some people in the Jewish community have been moaning about the lack of job opportunities in Omaha, others have been doing something about it. One program worth noting (which we’ll be writing about in our upcoming New Year’s issue--Second time Around: Changing Jobs in the Jewish Community) is FEREP--Federation Executive Recruitment and Education Program. This program--run by United Jewish Communities--offers graduate school scholarships to particular programs at some of the country’s most prestigious universities in exchange for a two-to-three year commitment to work in the Jewish Federation system. And Omaha currently has two young women who are participating! Jen Gates worked her way through college at the University of Nebraska-Omaha as a Production Assistant at this newspaper and by serving as staff for Temple’s junior youth group, JYG. She’s now in her second year of a three-year program at Brandeis University, pursuing a double master’s--one in Jewish education and another in Jewish communal work. And now Tiffany Eisenman has joined their ranks. She recently earned a B.S. in Communications from Boston University and will begin the master’s in Jewish communal service program at New York University in a few weeks. An active member of NCSY in high school, Tiffany also spent a year learning in Israel at Michlelet Esther. What do these bright talented young Jewish women have in common? Thanks to FEREP, their master’s programs are subsidized and they’ll be guaranteed jobs when they graduate. In this economy, having the promise of a job is worth the two-to-three years of graduate school. If a member of your family is
(Founded in 1920)
interested in learning more, visit UJC’s website at: www.ujc.org, (click on jobs or enter FEREP in the search line) or call Jan Goldstein, Executive Director of the Federation at 334.6433 or Mary Sue Grossman, Administrator of Jewish Educational and Library Services, at 334.6445. Stephanie DePorteearned a double master’s in Jewish education and communal service at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion’s Los Angeles campus. (Though not a FEREP scholar, Stephanie was awarded a number of othr prestigious scholarships.) She is now principal of the religious school at Temple Judea in Tarzana, CA. Stephanie won the Teen Leadership award from the Federation in 1995. Sarah Raful, too, is also working towards a double master’s in Jewish education and communal service at HUC-JIR. Though it’s premature to release full information about another project, it’s noteworthy that the Federation also has formed another subcommittee. Under the guidance of the Director of Community Development-Janie Murow-this group will research the possibility of obtaining summer internships at local businesses for col-
lege students. Perhaps if they have a positive taste of working in Omaha for a summer-and, like the FEREP scholars--a possible offer of full-time job following graduation, returning to Omaha might seem like more of a reality. While there’s no guarantee our FEREP scholars will return to Omaha, Omaha’s participation in this community does enhance the Jewish communal professionalism of other Jewish communities--and in return, we may well hire a FEREP graduate here. After all, look at the number of rabbis Omaha has produced (and continues to produce!)--all of whom are making significant contributions to Jewish life across the United States. Tired, cliched answers won’t solve our problems, but thinking out of the box can enable Omaha to offer creative solutions to its young people.
Israel to withdraw from Gaza and other disputed areas. It will not be easy to withstand pressures that can be brought to bear. Within Israel, majority public opinion appears to endorse withdrawal, and the new coalition government will undoubtedly proceed to implement it. The settlers’ appeal is to basic Zionist loyalties, and reference is sometimes made to heroes in the country’s history, like Bar Kochba. The reference is an unfortunate one, for the lesson to be learned from that chapter in the country’s history is contrary to what the settlers seek. Let us review the old story.
assertion “Year One of the redemption of Israel”, and then, “Year Two of the freedom of Israel”. Emperor Hadrian responded to this uprising by sending strong forces to the country, and within three years crushed the rebellion. The result was the massacre of most of the remaining Jews in the country, and the end of any possibility of revival until our times. Many in Israel, and friends overseas, are these days asking whether it is wise to follow the Bar Kochba example and to defy world public opinion and even the advice of our American friends. Despite Israel’s military strength, economic pressures can be brought to bear that will result in undermining our vaunted security. There are more fundamental issues on which Israel will be called upon to make a determined stand, and many believe it is unwise to compel a showdown on what is relatively a minor aspect. The bravado, the zeal and the dramatic appeals of the settlers must yield to the need for national unity in the face of more vital challenges which Israel will face. They are undoubtedly motivated by a sincere and deeply felt ideology, but Ben-Gurion’s basic rule has been recalled: In time of danger, security and military logic trump ideology. Over all, and despite differences of opinion on policies and reactions, there is practical unanimity in the Israelis’ firm determination that the existence of the state is justified, both historically and contemporarily. And irrespective of the negative headlines, a normal, creative, cultural, economic and humanitarian existence is carried on, continuing to attract new Jewish immigrants from various parts of the world. Their arrival helps to bolster national morale. Carl Alpert can be reached at: alpert@techunix.technion.ac.il.
Eyes on Gaza
OUR MAN IN ISRAEL by CARL ALPERT Haifa--The settlers in the Gaza Strip and in the border settlements scheduled to be evacuated are putting up a well-organized campaign seeking to avert their fate. They have been emphasizing that Prime Minister Sharon’s program to withdraw all Israelis from Gaza is tantamount to succumbing to terrorist pressures, and the result will be to encourage more terrorism aiming to compel more withdrawals. In addition, they point out that making Gaza judenrein is in effect contrary to accepted world standards objecting to discrimination on grounds of race or religion. Some million and a half Arabs live freely in Israel with full rights of citizenship, it is noted, while Jews are to be expelled from Gaza because they are Jews/Israelis. The campaign against the withdrawal enjoys support from many circles in Israel. The dominant Likud party itself is split on the issue. Many Israelis, especially in the south, fear that the move will bring the anti-Israel border closer, and makes new population centers easier targets for terrorist missiles and bombs. It is pointed out that Sharon, who has initiated the withdrawal, was originally one of the leaders promoting the settlement program. His arguments at the time regarding Israel’s rights to the land, and the need to assure national security are today being thrown back in his face. It is quite obvious that world public opinion is on the side of the Arabs, and even our good friend, the United States, is pressing
The bravado, the zeal and the dramatic appeals of the settlers must yield to the need for national unity in the face of more vital challenges which Israel will face. The Temple was destroyed by the Romans in the year 70. Jerusalem lay in ruins, but the great majority of the surviving population struck roots in other parts of the country, awaiting change in circumstances. Friction with the Romans continued, and a group of insurgents organized to fight them. They were led by Bar Kochba, and in a short while succeeded in “liberating” more than 50 towns and villages. He ruled with an iron hand, overcoming objections from his own people who warned that it was suicidal to challenge the mighty Roman Empire. Sixty-two years after the destruction of the Temple, Bar Kochba proclaimed the establishment of a revived Jewish state. He even issued coins which carried the
Joanie Jacobson Chairman Carol Katzman Editor Richard Busse Creative Director Allan Handleman Advertising Manager Ray Pred Account Executive Timothy J. Ketelsen Bookkeeper Lori Kooper-Schwarz Production Assistant Jewish Press Committee Howard K. Marcus, Vice-Chairman; Bobbi Leibowitz, Secretary; Scott Meyerson, Finance Chairman; Steve Simon, Treasurer; Fred Tichauer, Immediate Past-chairman; Jean Duitch; Penny Endelman; Kip Gordman; Stanley Mitchell; George Quittner; Linda Saltzman; Joey Shyken; Michael Siegal; Nancy Skid; and Melanie Weinstein. The role of the Jewish Federation of Omaha is to involve Jews in meeting Jewish communal needs locally, nationally and in Israel. Centers of Excellence of the Federation are: Community Relations, Jewish Community Center, Jewish Educational and Library Services, Jewish Family Service, and Jewish Senior Services. The Jewish Press and the Foundation are constutional committees of the Jewish Federation. Editorials express the view of the writer and are not necessarily representative of the views of the Jewish Press Committee, the Jewish Federation of Omaha or the Omaha Jewish community as a whole. The Jewish Press reserves the right to edit signed letters and articles for space and content. The Jewish Press is not responsible for the Kashrut of any product or establishment. Editorial The Jewish Press is a Constitutional Committee of the Jewish Federation of Omaha. Deadline for copy, ads and photos is: Thursday, noon, eight days prior to publication. E-mail editorial material and photos to: ckatzman@jewishomaha.org; send ads (in .TIF or .PDF format) to: rbusse@jewishomaha.org. Letters to the Editor Guidelines The Jewish Press welcomes Letters to the Editor. They may be sent via regular mail to: The Jewish Press, 333 So. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68154; via fax: 1-402-334-5422 or via e-mail to the Editor at: ckatzman@jewishomaha.org.. Letters should be no longer than 250 words and must be singlespaced typed, not hand-written. Published letters should be confined to opinions and comments on articles or events. News items should not be submitted and printed as a “Letter to the Editor.” The Editor may edit letters for content and space restrictions, but should be printed as soon as possible to ensure timeliness. Letters may be published without giving an opposing view. Information shall be verified before printing. All letters must be signed by the writer, but the name can be withheld at the writer’s request. No letters should be published from candidates running for office, but others may write on their behalf. Letters of thanks should be confined to commending an institution for a program, project or event, rather than personally thanking paid staff, unless the writer chooses to turn the “Letter to the Editor” into a paid personal ad or a news article about the event, project or program which the professional staff supervised. For more information, contact Carol Katzman, Jewish Press Editor, 402.334.6450. Postal The Jewish Press (USPS 275620) is published weekly on Friday for $31 per calendar year U.S.; $35 foreign, by the Jewish Federation of Omaha. Phone: 402.334.6448; FAX: 402.334.5422. Periodical postage paid at Omaha, NE. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The Jewish Press, 333 So. 132nd St., Omaha, NE 68154-2198 or e-mail to: jpress@jewishomaha. org.
Nebraska Press Association
National Newspaper Association
August 20, 2004
Kerry Mideast Adviser is Lauded, but Some Prefer to Wait and See who speaks eloquently of the central role Israel plays in his family’s Judaism. Still, the pro-Israel community was concerned by RON KAMPEAS about a retinue of advisers-including former Secretary WASHINGTON (JTA)--The big of State Madeleine Albright blank space on Mel Levine’s CV--being and former U.S. ambassador to Israel out of the inner circle of Middle Eastern Martin Indyk--who are perceived as diplomacy for 10 years--may be the being tainted by the failed Oslo peace biggest asset he brings to John Kerry, process. who took him on last week as his cam“These are people who reflect the polpaign’s top Middle East adviser. icy of the past,” one American Jewish Levine, 62, served as a member of the official said. “Will it be a redux of failed U.S. House of Representatives from policies?” California from 1983-93, earning a repuLevine’s resume helps answer that tation as one of Israel’s closest friends on question: He played a central role in the Capitol Hill. Democratic Party’s pro-Israel policy until For Kerry, bringing Levine on board is a year before the launch of Oslo in 1993, “a brilliant move,” said Steven Spiegel, a when he ran for the U.S. Senate but lost. scholar with the Israel Policy Forum, a That means he’s identified with dovish group that promotes U.S. engage- Democrats from a time when the party ment in the region. unstintingly defended Israel against the “You want someone in that kind of a policies of Bush’s father, who was perposition who has impeccable pro-Israel ceived as unfriendly to the Jewish statecredentials, who is not controversial, - not with the sometimes nettlesome who has broad respect from a variety of relations that dogged U.S.-Israel relations figures--that’s hard to get these days. It during the Oslo process under a shows the campaign is in close touch Democratic president. with the community.” “He has the background, Levine, who is Jewish, will but not the baggage,” said play a key role in a close another Jewish communal election in which both camofficial, speaking anonypaigns are chasing Jewish mously. votes in swing states. Levine especially is idenNonetheless, he downtified with pro-Israel antagoplayed his role in the Kerry nism to the first Bush. It was campaign’s “Middle East Levine who, during a House policy working group.” hearing, chastised Secretary “One of the things that is of State James Baker for The Kerry campaign’s unique about this presidenpublicly criticizing Israel for tial campaign, the principal top Middle East adviser, building in eastern Mel Levine. foreign policy person for Jerusalem when the Kerry is Kerry,” he said. “He’s steeped in Palestinians and Arabs were doing little knowledge of these issues, so no foreign to engage the Israelis toward peace. policy adviser should overestimate the In one of the most rankling episodes role he or she would play.” in the history of U.S.-Israel relations, That may be the case, but many in the Baker told Levine that when Israel was Jewish community were relieved at serious about peace, “the telephone Levine’s hiring by a candidate who still is number is 1.202.456.1414,” the number not particularly well known outside his for White House switchboard. home state of Massachusetts, and who-“I remember that exchange quite vividdespite a 100 percent pro-Israel voting ly.” Levine said with a chuckle. “I was record during 19 years in the U.S. Senate surprised at the response: It clearly -still is seen as an unknown quantity on underscored the tension that existed at Israel. that time between those of us in “Mel Levine is highly respected in the Congress who felt Bush-Baker were American Jewish community, and his unduly harsh on the one hand, and the appointment is a strong addition to the Bush-Baker position on the other. It Kerry campaign foreign policy team,” crystallized that conflict.” said Josh Block, spokesman of the One Jewish communal leader couldn’t American Israel Public Affairs help noting the irony--Levine is returnCommittee, where Levine until recently ing to the scene at a time when another served as a board member. President Bush is chiding Israel for “While in Congress, he was a potent building near Jerusalem. The administraforce on what is now known as the tion has been upset about Israeli plans to House International Relations add another 600 housing units in Committee, particularly on the Middle Ma’aleh Adumim, a bedroom communiEast subcommittee, where he dealt with ty in the West Bank. numerous highly important issues relatNow a practicing lawyer, Levine didn’t ed to Israel’s security,” Block said. leave Israel behind after leaving Those sentiments were echoed by Congress: In addition to his stint on the Abraham Foxman, the Anti-Defamation AIPAC board, he was named a co-chairLeague’s national director. man, along with Arab-American Institute “Mel is an experienced congressman President James Zogby, of Builders for who during his years in Congress was Peace -an outfit that sought, with only active on foreign relations and a signifi- moderate success, to facilitate investcant public advocate of support for ment in the nascent Palestinian entity. Israel,” Foxman said. After the Wye accords in 1998, Levine Kerry’s campaign has been trying hard was named as a U.S. representative to a to close a perceived gap on the Israel task force charged with monitoring issue with President Bush, who current incitement--experience that he said Israeli leaders believe is the friendliest would help inform his advice to Kerry. American president ever toward the Levine acknowledges that one of his Jewish state. jobs will be to convince Jewish voters The Democratic candidate has made that Kerry’s call for a renewed push for strides in recent months with a policy Palestinian-Israeli peace--and increased paper that struck all the right notes and multilateralism--does not mean a return by using his Jewish brother, Cameron, to Oslo.
AMERICA DECIDES 2004
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 9
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR To the editor: We Jews have lost a friend, a dear friend, with the death of Susie Buffett. Her life embodied some of Judaism’s highest ideals. “Justice, justice shall you follow” (Deut. 16:20) was a concept she passionately embraced. Her strong social consciousness inspired her involvement with childhood education in general and Central High School in particular. On the national and international level, she was active in women’s issues and AIDS projects. During the 1960s, Susie organized the Panel of American Women, a group of Protestants, African-Americans, Catholics and Jews--among whom were Litzie Trustin, Shirley Lipsey, Racky Newman, Bella Eisenberg and me. Tzedakah--Hebrew for justice--is also translated as “charity, philanthropy and every endeavor to bring out what is best and highest in others (Hertz Commentary). Susie’s beneficence has been widely documented. Susie’s religion was people; she had faith in them. A wise and loving spirit, she radiated joy. Our world is diminished by her death. Eunice Denenberg. To the Editor: A large number of Presbyterians were distressed by the actions taken at the most recent meeting of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (USA). We are distressed that the General Assembly’s statement this year on Israel lacked balance and failed to
condemn the terrorism to which the people of Israel have been subjected. The Presbyterian Church does not speak with a monolithic voice. Just as a variety of opinions about any one issue exists among Jews, this reality is also true with Presbyterians. We are deeply distressed by any suggestion that divestment policies of the church relating to Israel should uniquely target that country in ways that do not apply to every other country, including Palestine. We must be careful not to attack the economic life of the Israeli people, or to undermine Jewish survival in any way. We call upon Presbyterians to be very careful in balancing consistency in our divestment policies with the economic needs of Israel. Consideration of selective divestment from corporations reflects policies that the Presbyterian Church has long applied to American investments, both domestic and foreign. We would continue to invest, on the other hand, in a corporation that built hospitals in Israel or the West Bank. In these sensitive and difficult times, we must be careful to understand the Presbyterian Church’s criticism of certain policies of the present Israeli government in light of the denomination’s consistent and solid support for the state of Israel’s right to exist within secure and agreed-upon borders. Rev. Dr. Donald W. Shriver and Rev. Dr. William Harter, Co-Conveners PCJCR (Presbyterians Concerned For Jewish Christian Relations)
Temple Israel Executive Director Full-Time Position
Do you deal warmly with people--with respect, honesty and confidentiality? Can you demonstrate supervisory, delegating, organizational and decision making skills? Do you have budget experience? Are you computer literate? Do you have 2-5 years experience in non-profit organizations? Do you have experience in and love for Jewish organizational life? Salary and benefits commensurate with experience. Contact: Michael Walts, Search Committee Chairman C/o Temple Israel 7023 Cass Street Omaha, NE 68132
Page 10
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Synagogue Listings B’nai Israel Synagogue 618 Mynster St. Council Bluffs, IA 51503-0766 322.4705 email: CBsynagogue@hotmail.com
Beth El Synagogue Member of United Synagogues of Conservative Judaism 14506 California Omaha, NE 68154-1980 492.8550 www.bethel-omaha.org
Beth Israel Synagogue Member of Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America 12604 Pacific St. Omaha, NE. 68154 556.6288 BethIsrael@OrthodoxOmaha.org
Beyt Shalom An Affiliate of the Jewish Reconstructionist Federation 3012 S. 119 St. P.O. Box 390352 Omaha, NE 68139 660.2395 www.beytshalomomaha.org
Chabad House An Affiliate of Chabad-Lubavitch 1866 S. 120th St. Omaha, NE 68144-1646 330.1800 nebraskajudaism.com email: chabad@aol.com
Congregation B’nai Jeshurun South Street Temple Union for Reform Judaism 2061 S. 20th St. Lincoln, NE 68502-2797 435.8004 jewishnebraska.org
Offutt Air Force Base SAC Memorial Chapel 301 Lincoln Highway Offutt AFB, NE 68113 294.6244
Rose Blumkin Jewish Home 333 S. 132 St. Omaha, NE 68154
Temple Israel Union for Reform Judaism (URJ) 7023 Cass Street Omaha, NE 68132-2651 556.6536 templeisrael-ne.org
The Neighborhood Minyan Torah Learning Center 1313 No. 58 St. Omaha, NE 68132 553.5397
Tifereth Israel Member of United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism 3219 Sheridan Blvd., Lincoln, NE 68502-5236 423.8569 tiferethisraellincoln.org
If you’re looking at this space, so are others! YOUR AD CAN GO HERE...
to reserve space, call Allan Handleman, 334-6451, or Ray Pred, 334-6559.
August 20, 2004
Synagogues B’NAI ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE FRIDAY: Services followed by Oneg, 7:30 p.m.
BETH EL SYNAGOGUE 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., Kiddush sponsored by Eadie and Eitan Tsabari in honor of their daughter, Efrat, becoming a Bat Mitzvah. Evening Services, 8:05 p.m. WEEKDAY SERVICES: Sunday, 9 a.m. and 5:30 p.m., Weekdays, 6:55 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. SITTER SERVICE During Friday night and Saturday mornings services, on a drop-in basis, at no charge. SPECIAL PROGRAMS PATTER (Toddlers & Parents Torah, Exercise, Recreation) session class for 11/2 to three-yearolds, resumes with Helen Epstein, Wednesdays, 10:45 a.m. HAZAK: Installation meeting featuring Rabbi Paul and Susie Drazen is Wednesday, Aug. 25, 6:30 p.m. Rabbi Drazen, director of the Mid-Continent Region of the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism, will speak. Reservations needed; for more information, contact Natalie Rubin, 334.5893. USY Chapter Membership Training: USY kickoff for ninth12th graders Saturday, Aug. 21 and Sunday, Aug. 22. Enjoy games, fun, friends and an exciting field trip; call Rachel Katskee for more information. K’TANTAN PLUS, Aug. 28, 10:45 a.m.: Open to children in kindergarten through seventh grade (and their parents), activities will include exploring the Siddur in an age-appropriate fashion. BETH EL SYNAGOGUE TALMUD TORAH (BESTT): Tuesday, Aug. 24, 7 p.m.: Curriculum Night for parents of students in Pre-K-third grade. Thursday, Aug. 26, 7 p.m.: Curriculum Night for parents of students in grades 4-8. Sunday,
Aug. 29, 10 a.m.: First day of classes for BESTT. Wednesday, Sept. 1, 7 p.m.: First day of classes for eighth grade and high school. WOMEN’S ROSH HODESH RETREAT Women of Beth El are invited to the Arbor Day Farm-Lied Conference Center in Nebraska City, to enjoy “Renewing Our Spirits, Celebrating Ourselves,” a retreat offering a joyful Shabbat. The retreat will run from 4 p.m. on Oct. 15, to Saturday evening following Havdalah. Registration deadline is Aug. 27; contact Helen Epstein for more information.
BETH ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE Office Hours: Monday-Thursday, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Fridays, 8:30 a.m-2 p.m. Services are conducted by Rabbi Jonathan Gross. FRIDAY: Kabbalat Shabbat Services, 7:30 p.m. A family Friday night dinner will follow services. Dinner is $12 for adults, $6 for kids (children 4 and under are free). SATURDAY: Morning Services, 9 a.m.; Free babysitting, 9:30 a.m.; Kiddush sponsored by the Sisterhood. Junior Congregation, 10:30 a.m.; A festive Shabbat Lunch will follow services. Lunch is $8 for adults and $4 for kids (children 4 & under are free). Concurrent Adult and NCSY sessions with the YU Torah Tours will be at 7 p.m., followed by Mincha, 7:50 p.m. and Shalosh Suedot, and Havdalah, 8:58 p.m. SUNDAY: Morning Service, 9 a.m.; Evening Service, 7 p.m. Weekday Morning Service, 7 a.m.; Weekday Evening Service, 7 p.m. TUESDAY: Sisterhood Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m.
BEYT SHALOM FRIDAY: Shabbat in the Home.
Mishneh class, 9:30 a.m. MONDAY Halacha Intermediate level, 7 p.m.
CONGREGATION B’NAI JESHURUN Rabbi Debbie Stiel will be in the office two weekends a month. You may reach her 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays at 416.2321 (local for Lincoln), or at rabstiel@aol.com. FRIDAY: Shabbat Evening Service, 7:45 p.m. led by Jeff Kirkland. Oneg to follow services provided by Nancy and Mark Intermill. SATURDAY: Torah Study, 10:30 a.m. led by Sara Friedman; Game Night, 6 p.m. SUNDAY, Aug. 22, 7 p.m.: Congregational Meeting-As part of the rabbinical search process, the board invites the congregation to participate in a conversation on the future of South Street Temple. Nancy Myers will facilitate. THURSDAY: Choir Practice, 7 p.m. ADULT EDUCATION SUNDAYS: Beginning Hebrew Prayers, using the book Hineini, on Aug. 15 and Aug. 29, 9 a.m.. UPCOMING EVENTS MOVIE NIGHT, SATURDAY, Aug. 28, 7-9:15 pm: The Quarrel--another excellent and thoughtful movie for teens and adults will be shown. Join us for havdalah, snacks, and a movie you will not forget. HEBREW HIGH KICK-OFF After extensive planning by a joint advisory board from B’nai Jeshurun and Tifereth Israel, Hebrew High (grades 8-12) will have an orientation and kick-off for parents and students on Sunday, Aug. 29. Meet teachers, Brian Schur and Sarah Trainin, learn about the curriculum, and receive the calendar, at 10:30 a.m. at Tifereth Israel.
CHABAD HOUSE Services conducted by Rabbi Mendel Katzman. MONDAY-FRIDAY, Morning services, 7 a.m. SATURDAY: Mamarim class, 9 a.m.; Services, 9:30 a.m. SUNDAY: Services, 8:30 a.m.
OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE FRIDAY: Services, 7:30 p.m.
ROSE BLUMKIN JEWISH HOME
Jessica Morris, daughter of Cindy and Allen Morris, will celebrate her Bat Mitzvah on Saturday, Aug. 28 at Beth El Synagogue.
Friday, August 20, 7:57 p.m. TEMPLE ISRAEL FRIDAY: Outdoor Shabbat Evening Service, 6 p.m. Bringyour-own picnic supper followed by a worship service led by Cantor Wendy Shermet. Afterward, stay and share some fun with other Temple families-bring any sporting equipment you might like to use. Alternative indoor service will be held at Temple Israel at 6 p.m. SATURDAY: Bagels and Sacred Books, 9:30-10:15 a.m.; Shabbat Morning Service, 10:30 a.m. BROADWAY ON THE BIMAH SUNDAY, Aug. 22, 7 p.m.: The Rothschilds starring Bernie Dean in the Temple Sanctuary (see article on page 11). HANGIN’ AND HAVDALAH KESHER Saturday, Aug. 28, 6 p.m.: At the home of Elyce and Rabbi Aryeh Azriel at 13635 Walnut St. (see article on page 5). ADULT EDUCATION Brush up on your Hebrew before the High Holy Days on Sunday, Aug. 29, 10:30 a.m.noon. (see article on page 7). SITTER SERVICE Sitter service will be available at each Friday evening service. Please make a reservation through the Temple office. Cost is $2 per family. Sorry, no facilities for infants.
THE NEIGHBORHOOD MINYAN AT TLC FRIDAY: Kabbalat Shabbat services, 7 p.m. SATURDAY: Shabbat services, followed by festive kiddush, 9 a.m.
TIFERETH ISRAEL Services conducted by Rabbi Stanley M. Rosenbaum. Minyan, MONDAY & THURSDAY, 7:15 a.m. FRIDAY: Services, 8 p.m. SATURDAY: Morning Service, 9:30 a.m. WEDNESDAY: The Men’s Lunch Group will meet at the Knolls, 12:30 p.m. If you do not receive a call, contact Yale Gotsdiner at 423.7066.
SATURDAY: Services, 9 a.m.; led by Andy Greenberg.
B’NOT MITZVAH Effie Tsabari, daughter of Eadie and Eitan Tsabari will celebrate her Bat Mitzvah on Saturday, Aug. 21 at Beth El Synagogue. Effie is an eighth-grade honor roll student at Westside Middle School. She is involved in dance, music and track. Effie has two brothers, Ron and Onie and a sister, Gal. Her grandparents are the late Nachman and Mazal Tsabari and the late Helen and Joe Fishel.
Candlelighting
Jessica is a eight grade honor roll student at Millard North Middle School, where she participates in the Swing Choir, Orchestra, and Jazz Band. She was chosen to be in the Duke Talent Identification Program and is involved with the Omaha Blues Society. Her other interests include dance and competitive swimming. Jessica has a older brother, Dan, and an older sister, Alyssa. Her grandparents are Sally Clayman and the late Albert Clayman, and Beverly Morris and the late Dr. Haskell Morris.
Rabbi Levin to Offer Class in Preparation for Upcoming High Holidays by JILL BELMONT Beth El Publicity Coordinator Repairing the world and bettering ourselves as human beings will be the focus of a two-part High Holidays class presented by Rabbi Mordechai Levin at Beth El, on Sunday, Sept.5 and Sept. 12, 10-11 a.m. The entire community is invited to attend “Preparing Ourselves for the High Holidays: Bringing Deeper Meaning to Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur,” which will center on ways the Mahzor addresses tikkun olam, performing public acts to repair the world, and tikkun middot, the personal and private process of internal mending. “Tikkun middot and tikkun olam are mutually dependent and both are necessary,” Rabbi Levin said. “We will examine the relationship between them, and how the High Holidays challenge us to overcome or compensate for them.” As the holidays approach, this class will prove to be both meaningful and thought-provoking. Please call the synagogue office, 492.8550, to reserve your space.
August 20, 2004
“Justice, Justice Shall You Pursue”
SPARKS FROM THE WORD by RABBI MYER S. KRIPKE Parashat Shoftim Without disparaging American law, in which I have no expertise whatever, and without casting any but positive views on ancient Roman law, I call attention to a gem in Jewish law, which is embedded in our own Sidra. Torah law does not distinguish, as we would, between civil law and religious law. In our own situation we would not permit religious law to enter into consideration. But Torah law refuses to separate the two. In our own Sidra, both are given. There are warnings against the trap of the idolatrous worship of the indigenous dwellers in the Land; and there are warnings against the trap of improper law arising in one’s own community. Moses suggests (remember that all of Deuteronomy purports to be final lectures by Moses) that the people should continuously seek out prophets like himself. That is to say, a prophet who is without guile and with only the best of intentions, compounded with ability and talent. Furthermore, he says, “You must be whole
DEATH KHAYA MAY Khaya May died Aug. 14 at the age of 79. Graveside services were held at Beth El Cemetery on Aug. 15. She is survived by husband of 59 years, Boris May; daughters and sons-in-law, Elizabeth May and Lev Shekhtman, and Lyudmila and Yefim Pozovsky; brother and sister-in-law, Boris and Rema May of New York; sister and brother-in-law, Klara and Yosif Elkin; grandchildren, Gene and Inna Pozovsky, Michael and Gorica Shekhtman, and Alex Shekhtman; and a great-granddaughter.
To Submit an Obituary Notice: Send full name, age, date of death, location of service and burial site to the Jewish Press via e-mail: ckatzman@jewishomaha.org; fax, 402.334.5422; or mail, 333 So. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68114. Survivors shall be listed, including names of surviving spouse, sisters, brothers, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, sons, daughters, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, and grandchildren and their places of residence; the numbers (but not names) of greatgrandchildren, as well as the name of the spouse or children who preceded the deceased in death. In cases where confusion might arise due to people of the same name either being the deceased or a survivor, maiden names or middle initials shall be added, if known. Nieces and nephews shall be listed when there are no surviving children or grandchildren. Friends of the deceased (companions or life partners) shall be listed. Other pertinent biographical information (including honors or the serving as an officer in a Jewish organization) may be included at the Editor’s discretion. Memorial suggestions are acceptable to any bona fide, charitable organization; addresses will be included to out-of-state non-profit organizations, if provided. CORRECTION Due to a production error, Yuri Paskar’s name was inadvertantly listed underneath Lydia Novikov’s scholarship information. The corrected information is below.
EARLY DEADLINE NOTICE The New Year’s issue published Sept. 10. Due to the closing of the Jewish Press office during the Jewish holidays, the deadlines for issues in September and October will be as follows: Issue Deadline Sept. 24 Tuesday, Sept. 14 Oct. 1 Wednesday, Sept. 22 Oct. 8 Tuesday, Sept. 28 Oct. 15 Tuesday, Oct. 5 Questions? Call 334.6448.
JELS Scholarship Winner
Yuri Paskar University of Nebraska Omaha Edward Zorinsky Endowment Fund
hearted with the Lord, your God.” They have not yet come into the Land, but Moses warns the people never to remove a boundary mark identifying the property of a neighbor. He orders that in justice, they must rely on two or more witnesses, not one. There is the interesting provision that in assembling an army, certain recruits are to be dismissed: those who have built a new home and not occupied it, those who have planted a new vineyard and not yet enjoyed its produce, or those who have engaged new brides but have not married, and (note this!) those who have been recruited but are afraid of battle. There are many interesting things here, and I suggest reading this Sidra carefully. One of the provisions, for example, is the appointment of a king (the text does not say who it is who will appoint the king!), nor is the supervising committee named who will determine whether he has acquired too many horses or wives or money. The gem of justice to which I referred occurs early in our Sidra: “Justice, justice shall you pursue.” You must not expect justice to come ambling along for you to acquire it, but you must pursue it, for it is easy to elude you. “Justice, justice shall you pursue” if you are to live long in this new, good Land. Again, risking repetition, all of this law is religious law, including, yes, including civil law.
Page 11
You are the most powerful influence in your child’s daily life. Kids who learn from their parents or care-givers about the risks of drugs are: • 36% less likely to smoke • marijuana than kids who don’t • 50% less likely to use inhalants • 56% less likely to use cocaine
BLUE RIBBON
• Over 25 Years • Experience • Installation • Parts & Repairs • Custom Work • Sandblast Designs Visit Our Showroom
Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning
Craft Shower Doors
• 65% less likely to use LSD
For more information call:
1-800-648-4444 http://www.prevlink.org
778-9596
Over 25 Years Experience
13237 B St.• Omaha,NE
Steve Snail 558-8617
Pulverente MONUMENT CO. 60 Years Experience With Jewish Lettering and Memorials
One-Man Broadway Musical Sunday to Portray Lives of Rothschild Family by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Temple Israel Communications Coordinator When Sheldon Harnick, who wrote the lyrics to the Broadway musical The Rothschilds, saw Bernie Dean perform his one-man version of the show, Harnick admitted he was “extremely curious” to see how one person could convey the effect of a show which had a cast of 40 on Broadway. Harnick and Jerry Bock provided the musical team who wrote the musical score not only for The Rothschilds, but also for Fiorello! in 1959 and Fiddler on the Roof in 1971. “In a word, I was deeply impressed by Bernie Dean what Mr. Dean accomplished,” said Harnick. Dean “condensed the dialogue scenes, preserving only what was essential. He supplemented the dialogue he chose to use with material he had prepared, both historical and anecdotal, which constantly enriched and clarified the dramatic narrative.” The Rothschilds is loosely based on the achievements of the Rothschild family as depicted in Frederic Morton’s book. Hal Linden won a Tony Award for his portrayal of Meyer Rothschild in the original Broadway production. An off-Broadway revival in 1990 was well received. On Sunday, Aug. 22, 7 p.m., Bernie Dean will perform The Rothschilds at Temple Israel. “I’m really looking forward” to the performance in Omaha, said Dean. Tickets cost $5 in advance or $7 at the door. Reservations can be made by calling the Temple office at 556.6536 or sending a check to Temple at 7023 Cass St., Omaha, NE 68132. Tickets may also be purchased at the Temple office. Lyricist Harnick added that since Dean “possesses a fine, strong voice and is an excellent singing actor, this made the presentation particularly gratifying to me. By the end of the evening,” Harnick said, “I felt that Mr. Dean had given a first-rate account of The Rothschilds, both musically and dramatically, within a remarkably short span of time. Moreover, he had managed to weave colorful and absorbing historical material in and around the drama, thus making the experience even richer. I wholeheartedly recommend Bernie Dean’s one-man version of The Rothschilds to anyone fortunate enough to see it.” A dessert reception will follow the performance to which the entire community is invited.
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
1439 So. 13th 341-2452 Frank L. Ciciulla, Jr.
Jackson Home Appliance “OMAHA’S MOST TRUSTED NAME IN APPLIANCE REPAIR” NOW BRINGS THAT SAME ATTENTION TO HEATING & COOLING
Jackson Heating & Cooling FEATURES CARRIER HOME HEATING & COOLING PRODUCTS CALL TODAY FOR YOUR FREE QUOTE FROM ONE OF OUR HVAC SPECIALISTS ON A NEW FURNACE, AIR CONDITIONER OR HEAT PUMP 8827 Maple Street Omaha, NE 68134
391-4287 Carrier Factory Authorized Nate Certified Technicians
get history buff. It’s fun to know history.
894-0105 4429 South 140th St. Omaha, NE 68137 L.L.C.
omahatransvideo.com
BAT MITZVAH/BAR MITZVAH CHILDHOOD MEMORIES SCRAPBOOK Your special young ones photos to video synchronized to music. Share the treasures of their youth with your family and friends Anniversaries - Birthdays - Graduations - Weddings - Company Histories
Format Transfer To DVD VHS ~ BetaMax ~ 8mm Video Hi 8mm Video ~ Digital 8 ~ Mini DV Omaha’s Most Trusted Video Services Since 1987
®
Care Consultants for the Aging Since 1991
Home Care at it’s Best A Registry Providing Companions, Home Health Aides, Nurses Aides and Nurses Affordable rates with no minimum hours Omaha 398-1848
Lincoln 488-3771
7701 Pacific, Suite 100
6211 “O”, Suite “B”
Page 12
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
August 20, 2004
Pizza for IDF Soldiers Continued from page 1 What follows is a letter from one of the many soldiers in the IDF who have received pizza through this special project: My name’s Tova and I serve as a fighter in the combat engineering troops of IDF. During a period of my life about two months ago when I was feeling down and depressed for numerous reasons, my company and I were holding the line in Gush Ezion near Bethlehem. One night when I was on patrol with four of my platoon mates, a car stopped at the checkpoint we were at and gave us two pizzas and a coke, along with a note from someone in the USA who donated it. I can’t even begin to describe in words how good it made me feel. It was about 4 a.m., freezing cold, we were all asking ourselves what the hell’s wrong with us that caused us to enlist in the first place...the thought that someone else, someplace in the world, think we’re doing a good job, an important job that’s worth helping to, was totally a foreign one. It made me smile constantly for at least a week, and I still get happy every time I think about it, and every time I'm feeling down. I saved the note and I’d also like to take this chance to thank all of you out there who were thinking of us and appreciating what we do, and are willing to donate your time and money to make us happy. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart...Tova.
UJC Establishes Relief Fund in Wake of Hurricane Charley by Jewish Press News Service New York--United Jewish Communities (UJC) is accepting donations for humanitarian aid for members of the Jewish and general communities touched by the massive destruction of Hurricane Charley in Florida late last week. The hurricane, characterized by authorities as one of the most powerful in U.S. history, caused at least $20 billion of property damage, left thousands homeless and killed at least 16 people. Donations should be made to UJC Hurricane Charley Disaster Relief and sent to UJC, Inc. Hurricane Charley Disaster Relief, P.O. Box 20, Old Chelsea Station, New York, NY 10013.
IDF Soldiers’ Schedule for Visits Sponsored by the Jewish Federation Tuesday, September 7, 10 a.m. Lion of Judah, Pomegranate, Double Chai and Ben Gurion Society Campaign Divisions Tuesday, September 7, Noon “The Guy and Bob Show” Special Edition Sneak Peek at the Kripke Federation Library Tuesday, September 7, 6 p.m. BBYO and Synagogue Teen Youth Groups Location: JCC Teen Lounge Tuesday, September 7, 7 p.m. Community Parlor Meeting Home of: David & Debi Kutler Co-hosts: Paul & Sandy Epstein Wednesday, September 8, 7:30 a.m. Community Parlor Meeting
Location: Kripke Federation Library Hosted by: Arnold & Sheryn Joffe, Steve & Margo Riekes, Howard & Gloria Kaslow Wednesday, September 8, 5 p.m. Pacesetter, Jr. Pacesetter and Ben Gurion Society Campaign Kickoff Wednesday, September 8, 7:30 p.m. Young Leadership (men and women, ages 25-45) Home of: Lori & Michael Miller Thursday, September 9, 10 a.m. Community Parlor Meeting Home of: Mark & Jill Belmont Co-hosts: Tom & Keri Workman Thursday, September 9, 1 p.m. Community Parlor Meeting
Home of: Nancy Rips Co-hosts: Keith & Judy Josephson Thursday, September 9, 5:30 p.m. Men’s Campaign Kickoff at the JCC Friday, September 10, 10 a.m. Home of: Donald & Maggie Gerber Co-hostess: Joanie Kaiman Sunday, September 12, 10:30 a.m. Community Parlor Meeting Home of: David & Andi Willensky Co-hosts: Bob & Robyn Freeman Sunday, September 12, 7 p.m. Community Parlor Meeting Home of: Steve & Patty Nogg Co-hosts: Steve & Dodi Redler
Omahans Can Vote for One of Their Own in Children’s Book Contest by CAROL KATZMAN included football legends Tom Editor of the Jewish Press Osborne and Barry Switzer. Omaha native, Gail Greenberg, is one of 14 finalists When Greenberg was 19, she wantin a national children’s picture book contest, sponed to coach football. Coach Tom sored by the American Book Cooperative. Greenberg’s Osborne told her she needed career picture book, No Pig’s Brain Soup, Please!, is a humorcounseling because “players wouldn’t ous and poignant story about a little girl who thinks respect a female coach” and women she must choose between her Chinese heritage and didn’t do things like that. However, she the Jewish faith of her adopted family. The book with Gail Greenberg once suggested a play to Coach the most online votes will be published. Osborne and Nebraska scored a touchdown. Voting takes place from now to Aug. 22; voters can Upon graduation, Greenberg migrated south to vote more than once--every 24 hours in fact, at the con- obtain an MBA at the University of Oklahoma. Some of test website: www.abcbookcompetition.org. the OU football players were convinced she was a Originally from Omaha, Greenberg wrote her first Nebraska spy! With her sports background, Greenberg book for her father as a Father’s Day present when she embarked on her writing career as a sportswriter and was in third grade. Greenberg won her first children’s publicist. Wanting to broaden her experience, story contest in fifth grade. That began her interest in Greenberg tried other types of writing. children’s writing. Her writings include children’s and Her work has appeared in Jack and Jill, Wee Ones adult articles, short stories, poems, books, screenplays, Magazine, Dogs in the News, The Houston Chronicle, and plays. Jewish Herald-Voice, Houston Business Journal, and A sports fanatic, Greenberg was a pioneer as the first other publications. She has received numerous writing female student manager of the football and wrestling awards. Greenberg graduated from Central and attendteams at her high school and at the Universities of ed a reunion this summer. She still has family living in Nebraska and Oklahoma. Her college employers Omaha, including her mother, Renee Micklin.
Send Rosh Hashanah Greetings with one of these personal ads
Rosh Hashanah Greetings Your names go here
A
35.00
This year you can send your greetings through these very special ads that will run in our annual Rosh Hashanah issue. Each ad can be personalized with your name, the names of your children or your grandchildren.
B
Just fill out the form below and send or bring it to the Jewish Press office. But hurry these ads will only be accepted through August 23, 2004.
from
$
Rosh Hashanah Greetings from Your names go here
46.00
$
Rosh Hashanah
Rosh Hashanah Greetings Form Name ____________________________________________________________________________
Greetings
Address __________________________________________________________________________ City ____________________________________________ State _________ Zip ________________ Check the size of ad you would like: ❏ A ❏ B ❏ C Use the lines below to list your family members names you would like on your Rosh Hashanah ad.
from
_________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________
Your names go here
C
68.00
$
_________________________________________________________________________________
Please send a check for the amount listed along side the different sized ads or you can drop the form and payment off at the Jewish Press office in the JCC. Jewish Press, 333 South 132 Street, Omaha, NE 68154