Vol. LXXXV No. 52 Omaha, NE
Celebrating 85 Years of Service to Nebraska and Western Iowa
18 Elul, 5766 September 8, 2006
Preliminary Construction Begins on New Rose Blumkin Jewish Home by OZZIE NOGG The Hasidic master, Rebbe Nachman of Bratzlav, said that the worth of any society can be measured by the way it treats its elders. By that standard, Omaha will be judged favorably. As we approach the New Year, and after extensive demographic studies and needs analyses of our local Jewish community, blueprints for the new Rose Blumkin Jewish Home are off the drawing board and on track for construction. “The driving force in this project went far beyond our obligation to house and feed the Residents of the existing Blumkin Home,” said Bob Belgrade, President of the Board of the RBJH and Jewish Senior Services, and a member of the steering committee overseeing the building project. “Our Home is clinically solid, and our reputation as the best long-term care facility in the region is well earned. But the Blumkin Home was built in 1982, and the philosophy of health care has changed in those 24 years,” he added. “Residents and their families deserve even more than we’re delivering. With that in mind, our mission is to ensure that the current building evolves from its traditional hospital-like feel into a dramatically transformed, totally new living environment, one that more closely resembles the kind of comfortable, inviting home we’d custom build for ourselves,” Belgrade concluded, “a home that people will be happy to live in and that their families and friends will enjoy visiting.”
According to Mike Silverman, Blumkin Home Executive Director, the first step prior to formal construction will see the creation of two prototype resident rooms located near the present lobby and reception area. “These rooms will be built according to our new architectural plans,” Silverman said. “But we’ve wisely chosen to take time to pilot them, to test the layouts and new furnishings before we spend community dollars to modify resident rooms in the entire building. When the model rooms are finished, we hope visitors to the Home will stop by and take a look. We want your feedback.” The main work of Phase One will transform resident rooms on the existing southwest corridor into a 25-bed Special Care Unit--SCU--dedicated to those with early to mid-stage dementia and Alzheimer’s. Most resident rooms in the SCU are private, and the unit will have its own dining area, lounges, sunroom, spa and laundry. “Most important,” Belgrade said, “this unit is completely secure. Residents can walk on the interior loop as well as in the enclosed outdoor garden without fear of getting lost or hurt. Family members can have faith in our ability to insure their loved one’s safety in a setting that is staffed, around the clock, by professionals trained to meet the daily challenges of residents with dementia.” What Belgrade and Silverman describe is only one of many phases designed to make the new Rose Blumkin Jewish Home a model nursing care facility. In
Above: rendering of new exterior of the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home’s west entrance. addition to the new Special Care Unit, the construction will upgrade two Extended Care Units, reconfigure the Short-Term Care Unit, and add a Main Street that lets residents feel they’re part of the larger, outside world. Silverman added, “When the project is complete, every inch of the building will have been touched, and changes to the existing footprint will add 20,000 square feet that, according to Silverman, “maximizes the use of current space and enhances the environment for our residents, visitors, volunteers and staff.”
Jewish Groups to Honor Japanese Hero
UNMC’s Eppley Cancer Center to Recognize Brokaw and Noddle by MARY ZGODA The University of Nebraska Medical Center’s Eppley Cancer Center will recognize legendary newscaster Tom at the Brokaw Ambassador of Hope Award Gala Oct. 13, 6 p.m., at Qwest Center Omaha. The award is given to individuals who have made significant contributions in the fight against cancer through Harlan Noddle research, patient care activities or by raising public awareness of cancer. Dr. Ken Cowan, Director of the UNMC Eppley Cancer Center, said Brokaw continues the tradition of excellent past honorees. “It is a great honor for the Eppley Cancer Center to have him involved in our event and also to recognize him with the Ambassador of Hope Award,” Dr. Cowan added. In addition, the family of the late Harlan Noddle, a prominent Omaha businessman, will receive the Margre and Chuck Durham Spirit of Nebraska Award. Nancy Noddle and the couple’s children, Jay Noddle and Susie Noddle Levine, will acept the award which is presented to those whose contributions to the UNMC
Inside Opinion Page see page 12
Eppley Cancer Center demonstrate the spirit of giving to the community. Harlan Noddle, a longtime supporter of UNMC and The Nebraska Medical Center, lost his battle with pancreatic cancer in December 2005. He was 69. Prior to his death, Noddle served for eight years on the Medical Center board of directors, and as chairman from April-Dec. 2002. He also was the chairman of the University of Nebraska Foundation board of directors and was elected to the Omaha Business Hall of Fame in 2002. As founder and chairman of Noddle Development Company, he left behind a legacy of economic growth and community development. Noddle’s firm handled such major projects as Qwest Center Omaha, One Pacific Place and the First National Business Park. The Spirit of Nebraska Award was first given in 2004 to the family of the late Liz Karnes, an Omaha community leader who died in 2003 following a 12-year battle with cancer. A world renowned journalist, Tom Brokaw is best known as the anchor of the “NBC Nightly News” from 1983 to 2004. During his tenure, the program was consistently the highest rated evening news show. Brokaw began his broadcast journalism career in Omaha working at KMTV from 1962-65. Complementing his distinguished broadcast journalism career, Brokaw has written several books and numerous articles, essays and commentaries for several publications. His best-known book, The Greatest Generation, Continued on page 3
This Week: Federation Honors Volunteers: Page 3 See Front Page Stories & More at: www.jewishomaha.org, click on ‘Jewish Press’
Part II and III of 9-11: Five Years After: Page 7
Discussion of a new Blumkin Home began in 2002 when Jewish Senior Services took a hard look at the changing demographics of Jewish seniors in the community to determine whether existing Home facilities, programs and services would satisfactorily meet future needs. The original Steering Committee, made up of Howard Kooper, Joanie Bernstein, Bob Lepp, Belgrade, Silverman and the late Harlan Noddle, reviewed proposals, developed strategies and crunched numbers. From day one, the group wrestled Continued on page 2
by GARY JAVITCH In August 1940, while the Japanese were forging an alliance with Nazi Germany, and while the Second World War was raging on the European continent, an unlikely Japanese diplomat boldly stepped forward to rescue thousands of Jews trapped in Lithuania with little or no chance of escaping the looming threats. To commemorate his heroic deeds, the B’nai B’rith Henry Monsky Lodge and the Institute for Holocaust Education with a grant from the Terry K. Watanabe Charitable Trust, will present Sugihara: Conspiracy of Kindness, a 90-minute historical documentary that tells the remarkable story of Chiune Sugihara and the Consul Chiune Sugihara Jewish refugees he helped to save. Members of the Japanese-American Citizen’s League helped plan the evening and have been invited to this event. The presentation will take place at the JCC on Sunday, Sept.17, 6 p.m., beginning with a special hors d’oeuvres reception. The program, which is free and open to the public will close with a dessert reception. In addition to the film, Omahan Helen Manheimer, a recipient of one of the last Sugihara-issued visas and survivor of this harrowing war-time experience will attend Continued on page 3
Coming This Month: New Year’s Issue Sept. 22 America Decides 2006: Esch Challenges Terry: Page 8
JCC Gallery Features Work of Milton Wolsky: Page 16
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
September 8, 2006
Preliminary Construction Begins on New Home Scanning | Color Graphics | School Reports | Manuscripts Word Processing | Mailings | Editing | Formatting Spreadsheets | Digital Photos | Resumes | Sales Proposals Transcription | Flyers | Business Cards | Brochures
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 9 Shabbat Tunes and Tales, 11:15 a.m. at Beth El SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 10 Adult Education, 10 a.m.-noon at Beth El Nashir Community Jewish Choir, 11 a.m. at Beth El Limmud Omaha Program, 12:30 p.m. C BESTT Chaverim Trip, 1:30 p.m. at Skateland L I P
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 11 JSS Senior Luncheon, 10 a.m. & JSS Senior Exercise, 10 a.m. NCJW Book Club, 7 p.m. S TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 A V ADL/CRC Executive Committee Meeting, noon E Eye on Israel, noon at Kripke Library
C L I P & S A V E
Continued from page 1 with questions of site location. “We considered putting the new building at various locations on the 132nd Street Campus,� Belgrade said, “but at each turn of the project we became more steadfast in our commitment to make the entire campus better by keeping the Home directly connected to the Jewish Community Center and its activities.� The plans trade the existing maze of narrow hallways for well-marked, direct access between the Home and the JCC. “In the end,� Silverman says, “there was only one good option. This plan is it.� Formal groundbreaking is projected to begin later this fall, with construction completed in phases that allow residents and staff to get on with their lives and work with as few interruptions as possible. “I’ve been involved in plenty of other building projects in the Omaha Jewish community,� Kooper said, “and the need for a new Blumkin Home is greater than anything else we’ve done. Kooper explained that because it’s so urgent, “we’ve taken out a construction loan in order to start now and avoid increased building costs. The Home intends to pay off the loan with future fundraising, and based on the tremendously positive response and significant support we’ve already gotten, I’m confident we can move ahead. Harlan and I talked about a new Blumkin Home almost every day before his death. What it would look like, how it would impact our seniors, how we would fund it. He was invaluable to the Steering Committee, and many of our decisions were based on Harlan’s input.� He added, “The plans are very exciting. When construction is done, the Home will be fabulous.� As national trends in senior health care shifted towards the hospitality industry, Omaha had to develop a proactive plan to stay ahead of the curve. The Steering Committee’s due diligence showed that the needs of today’s population are far different from those the building was originally designed to serve. “The provision of services has changed dramatically since the Blumkin Home opened its doors,� Silverman said. “The present Home was built in a time when extended care facilities gave almost exclusive priority to the medical needs of the residents. Now, expectations have changed. Today’s seniors and their families still want medical needs met, of course, but they also want attention paid to the needs of the whole person. Silverman said that “Residents and families are
demanding more than we’re able to provide in our current space. Baby Boomers want their parents in an upscale setting. Aesthetics and personal comfort are no longer considered frills.� The Steering Committee also addressed the Blumkin Home’s response to the growing importance of shortterm care and rehabilitation services. “Many medical conditions that once meant a loss of independence are now only minor setbacks,� Silverman said, “and today the emphasis is on rehabilitation. In recent years, we’ve provided an enormous amount of short-stay therapy to individuals post-hospitalization, but the demand has moved beyond what we can handle. Our new Short Term Care Unit and therapy suites will provide dedicated space for people in rehab, and help them get back to their lives outside this building.� According to Kooper, “Ample flexibility has been built into the blueprints so we can adjust to healthcare volatility. Our plan has everything.� Part of the vision statement of The Rose Blumkin Jewish Home and Jewish Senior Services reads, “The fact that people are living longer is both a blessing and a responsibility. Judaism teaches that the elderly must be held in the highest regard. That they are worthy of special treatment. It is our responsibility to support them.� When the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home building was new, it stood out as a premier facility, and many health professionals still credit it with providing the highest quality of care available. But studies made by the Steering Committee prove that Omaha can’t rest on its laurels. “Our goal is simple and attainable,� Silverman says. “We have an outstanding staff committed to exceptional care. Now’s the time for our facility to catch up with our care reputation. It’s time for us to create a new Blumkin Home that represents who we are today. A Home that will serve the frail and well-elderly of our Jewish community for decades to come.� Rose Blumkin’s late daughter, Frances Batt, agreed. “My mother was a revolutionary. She would say you never want to stand still. There are times to make changes. If we can improve ourselves, we must go forward and look to the future.� To talk about the many options available to the community in support of the new Home, please call Howard Kooper at 392.1800. As construction of the new Home literally gets off the ground, look for continuing updates and stories about the building, its programs, and the people who live and work within its walls.
Blumkin Home Entertains on Grandparents Day
Regent Candidates Face-Off at Luncheon
by ANDREA BARTMAN for JSS/RBJH Josh Polack, below, leaned in closely to watch as “The Pancake Man� Jim Kuper tossed flapjacks high over hishead. Josh, age seven, was at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home on Aug. 27 to celebrate Grandparents Day with his family, including his 97-year-old greatuncle, Ed Berkowitz, a resident of the home.
by SHARON BARGAS Co-Vice-President of Public Relations for NCJW Carol Russell, University of Nebraska Board of Regents candidate, and incumbent, Dr. Randy Ferlic are scheduled to face-off on Tuesday, Sept. 19, 11:45 a.m., in the lower level of the Market Basket located at Countryside Village. The cost of the luncheon, sponsored by the National Council of Jewish Women, Omaha Section, is $12. A long-time Omaha volunteer, Russell will be joining Ferlic for the first time to discuss the issues surrounding their candidacy. Embryonic stem-cell research is expected to be an important topic of discussion during the luncheon. Ferlic, a physician, opposes this research, while Russell, a scientist, supports it. Areas of controversy within the University of Nebraska system may also be discussed. “This particular race is key to NCJW’s mission because so many issues affect the well-being of women, children and families,� says Nancy Nogg, a co-chairman of Public Affairs and Education. The Board of Regents consists of eight voting members elected by district for six-year terms, and four nonvoting student Regents, one from each campus, who serve during their tenure as student body president. The Board supervises the general operations of the University and the control and direction of all expenditures as stated on the University of Nebraska’s website. This luncheon is the only time both candidates have been together during this Board of Regents campaign. It should make for lively discussion and great access to the candidates, according to Nogg. “Our government truly does run on a local basis,� says Nogg. “The education provided sets the tone for the policy and economics in this area.� Individuals will be able to make a choice and vote on Tuesday, Nov. 7. Reservations may be made with Nancy Nogg at nlnogg@hotmail.com.
BBYO Night, 6 p.m. Creating Your Own Book of Life class, 7 p.m. at Beth El YJO Young Leadership Awards and Concert, 7 p.m. at Ozone Club WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 Rabbis & Presidents Meeting, noon at the JCC Lewis and Clark Festival with Darrel Draper and Music, 7 p.m. at the JCC Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m. at Beth Israel C THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 14 L I Women of the Torah, 9:30 a.m. at Beth Israel P Jewish Women International, noon
C L I P
at the Rainbow House & Yiddush Group, 1 p.m. S A V E
&
Executive Board Meeting, 5:30 p.m. at Friedel JFS Love & Logic Parent Workshop, 6 p.m. at JCC Federation Executive Committee Meeting, 6 p.m. NCJW Board Meeting, 7 p.m. Board of Directors Meeting, 7 p.m. at Friedel Advanced Parshah Study, 9 p.m. at Beth Israel All events held at the JCC unless otherwise indicated. The Jewish Press is not responsible for the accuracy of events. To keep calendar accurate or for questions, call Marlene Hert at 334-6437. FOR A COMPLETE LISTING, VISIT THE FEDERATION’S WEBSITE: www.JewishOmaha.org (click on calendar)
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One of many intergenerational events throughout the year at the Blumkin Home, the Grandparents Day celebration drew a crowd to the JCC for a day including pancakes, Dixieland jazz music and an ‘instrument petting’ with the Omaha Symphony, where children of any age got a chance to learn more about the instruments and to try their hand at playing. The day’s events were organized by the Blumkin Home Activities Department. Volunteers for L.O.V.E., the League Offering Volunteers for the Elderly, were there to assist seniors and help run the activities.
September 8, 2006
Japanese Hero
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 3
Federation Honors Volunteers
Continued from page the program and share some of her thoughts about the journey she and her family experienced. While Sugihara was not alone in his efforts to rescue the beleaguered Lithuanians, the consul performed these acts at great risk to his life and career. Indeed, he carried out his diplomatic functions in defiance of the repeated objections of his own government. Moreover, even after the Russian government ordered the Japanese consulate closed, he continued to distribute the life-saving documents, writing out hundreds a day by hand to desperate Jews. At war’s end, the Japanese government stripped him of his job, which caused him many hardships. In the end, he issued 2,139 visas, saving some 6,000 people. Their offspring number more than 100,000 people today, according to the Visas for Life Foundation, an organization that grew out of this experience to perpetuate the legacy of Sugihara and to pay tribute to him. The foundation details the life of Sugihara and has produced a special photo exhibit telling his heroic story. That display is available for viewing in the Pennie Z. Davis Gallery for Holocaust Education at the JCC through Sept. 29. In 1985, the State of Israel recognized Chiune Sugihara with the Righteous Among the Nations award from Yad Vashem. He is the only Asian recipient of this honor. For information, please contact Beth Seldin Dotan at the Institute for Holocaust Education at 334.6575.
Brokaw and Noddle Continued from page 1 depicts Americans who came of age during the Great Depression and fought in World War II. Dr. Cowan said the gala’s fundraising efforts are critical to the success of the Eppley Center. “This event is a unique opportunity to thank and recognize those who have joined us in the fight against cancer, enabling us to embark on innovative, cutting-edge research,” he said. Since 1998, the gala has raised more than $1.2 million for research. The event is hosted by the Friends of the UNMC Eppley Cancer Center and features an auction, dinner and program at 7 p.m. To make a reservation, call 402.934.4668 or visit www.hope-06.org.
About 200 members of the community gathered Tuesday evening to pay tribute to the Jewish Federation of Omaha volunteers. Photos from top left: Humanitarian of the Year Suzanne Richards Singer was surprised by sons Ken Somberg, left, and Dan Somberg who came in from out of town; Federation President Norman M. Sheldon thanked his predecessor Zoe Riekes; Larry and Sherry Shapiro take pride in the JCC Award given to their daughter and son-in-law, Melissa and Matt Shapiro; among the honorees are Stacey Rockman, Judi Yoo, Melissa and Matt Shapiro, and Kathy Pieper; Rose (and Stu) Bernstein accepted the volunteer award from ADL on behalf of their son, Sean; Nancy Rips, left, and Dottie Rosenblum were recognized by the Kripke Library and the Jewish Press. Not pictured: Renee Corcoran accepted the Community Service award on behalf of the Nebraska Jewish Historical Society exhibit on Jewish War Veterans.
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
September 8, 2006
International Scholars, New Classes, Music Celebrations, Family Enrichment Highlight Temple Israel’s Adult Jewish Learning Year by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Temple Israel Communications Coordinator With the enduring thirst for learning exemplified by Hermene Zweiback, a member of Temple Israel’s first adult B’nai Mitzvah class in 1989, the Center for Lifelong Jewish Learning presents a year of scholars, artists, classes, and musical events starting with Rabbi David Forman, founder of Rabbis for Human Rights, who will be a scholar-in-residence Oct. 27-29 at Temple. The calendar unfolds with three more resident scholars including Joel ben Izzy, Dec. 1-3, an international professional storyteller and author of The Beggar King and the Secret of Happiness; Dr. Dvora Weisberg, March 23-25, 2007, an associate professor of rabbinics in Los Angeles who travels across the country speaking about gender issues in rabbinic texts; and Jerusalemborn Noa Baum, who combines the healing power of storytelling and drama and will present her one-woman show about Palestinian and Israeli women, May 2-4. Dr. Richard Freund, a former Omahan who is now with the University of Hartford in Connecticut and director of the Bethsaida Archaeological Excavations Project in Israel, returns on Friday, Nov. 10, at Shabbat worship services to discuss, “Did the Exodus Happen?” Members of last year’s Adult Education Committee selected the theme, “Shema Temple Israel, Hear Our Stories,” as this year’s study theme. Jeff Schweid, chairman of the committee, explained, “As we begin our journey to our new building, we felt that learning to tell and to listen to the Jewish stories we all have will help us build and strengthen our community.” The newly published 2006-07 Hermene Zweiback Center for Lifelong Jewish Learning brochure clarifies that “it’s vital that we remember and reminisce about who we are and why we are together as a kehilat kodesh, a holy community. The scholars, teachers, and artists whom we’ve invited to enrich our learning as they share their stories with us.will help us interpret the story of ancient Israel and help us connect the story of the Jewish people to our own story.” New adult education classes begin Sunday, Sept. 17, when Rabbi Aryeh Azriel leads “High Holy Days Mini U,” at 10 a.m. There’s more than apples and honey, round challot, and honey cakes to prepare as the Days of Awe approach. Rabbi Azriel explores the true meaning of what we Jews do and why we do it. Lee Needelman will “Share the Moment” on Tuesdays beginning Sept. 26, noon to 1 p.m., when she leads a discussion group focusing on notable articles from Moment Magazine, Reform Judaism, Hadassah Magazine, NCJW Journal and other Jewish magazines. “Torah on Wheels” makes it easier to study Torah,
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explore and analyze Jewish laws and commentary as Temple clergy members lead monthly Torah study sessions at various congregants’ offices in the city. Lunch will be provided for $6. The first “Torah on Wheels” will be hosted by David Jacobson on Thursday, Oct. 5, at Kutak Rock. Other new classes include “Big Love: The Troubling Family Triangle of Sarai, Avram, and Hagar,” taught by Rabbi Azriel on Tuesdays, 7 p.m. starting Oct. 24. Wendy Goldberg will be the guide for an exploration of “What’s Jewish on the Web?” on Wednesdays, 7 p.m. commencing on Oct. 25.
Dr. Guy Matalon, executive director of the Center for Jewish Education, begins the 2007 curriculum with “Jewish Notions of the Afterlife,” offered on Wednesdays, 7 p.m. in February. In March, this class will continue at Beth El Synagogue. Right out of her Creighton University classroom, Professor Bette Evans will teach “Made in America: The Story of Religious Pluralism,” Tuesdays, May 1 -June 5, 7 p.m. Not all the classes are new at Temple. Some classics return such as “Sparks Beneath the Surface” on Saturdays, 9:15 a.m. prior to Shabbat worship services. Temple clergy and guest speakers lead the study sessions focusing on understanding the Torah portion of the week and occasionally discussing the Haftarah readings as well. New learners are welcome. “Adult Study with the Clergy” begins anew on Thursday, Oct. 5, 10-11:30 a.m., and continues through May 17. Rabbi Azriel will start off the year with “Keeping Current” using a Jewish lens to look at the
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meaning behind the headlines of the important news stories of the day. On Feb. 1, Rabbi Eric Linder will inaugurate his study topic, “Open my lips that my mouth may declare Your glory.” He will explore how the Amidah is a focal point for improving our relationships with friends and family, with ourselves and with God. In keeping with this year’s focus on storytelling, Cantor Wendy Shermet, beginning March 15, will share some tales connected with Jewish culture such as biographies, movie and theater anecdotes, music themes, and book notes. You needn’t be a parent to enroll in Temple’s Four B’s (Behaving, Belonging, Believing, and Bagels) on Sundays, Oct. 8, Nov. 5, Dec. 3, Jan. 7, March 18, and April 15,10:30 a.m. Four B’s increases Jewish literacy and strengthens the Jewish identity of children whose parents attend. Sessions are facilitated by Temple clergy and guests of Temple. In addition to the first-time Great Plains Hanukkah Concert on Sunday, Nov. 19, other musical celebrations include the Thanksgiving Interfaith Service on Wednesday, Nov. 22, the Interfaith Musical Service on Friday, Feb. 2, and Klezmer Nights with Temple’s middle/high school Klezmer Band participating in several services throughout the year. Another highlight of the year will be Cantor Shermet and the Omaha Symphony’s Maria Harding, who is currently on leave from her position as principal flutist, in concert together on Saturday, May 5, at Temple. Especially for younger learners, Danny Siegel, the original Mitzvah hero, also known as the Pied Piper of tzedakah, will speak at Temple on Wednesday, Feb. 14. Rabbi Steven Leder, senior rabbi of Wilshire Boulevard Temple in Los Angeles, who has appeared on numerous television and radio shows, will discuss “Raising Mensches in a World of Excess” at Four B’s on Sunday, March 18. Steve Brodsky, singer, songwriter, guitarist, soloist, and music director, will be at Temple to celebrate “Havdalah in Pajamas” on Saturday, April 14, with families who have children through third grade. Families with infants and children of pre-kindergarten age play and learn together at Cradle Roll on Saturday, Oct. 7, Sundays, Dec. 10, Feb. 25, and April 29, 10:30 a.m. Sponsored by Women of Reform Judaism, Cradle Roll celebrates a Jewish holiday or family observance at each session. The children also enjoy an age-appropriate craft project and a snack. To register for classes, inquire about fees, class schedules, and other information, contact Program Director Rosie Zweiback at rzweiback@templeisraelomaha.com or call her at 556.6536. Temple’s website, www.templeisrael-ne.org, can also be accessed for adult education opportunities.
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 5
Unprecedented Hanukkah Concert to Be a “Great” Jewish Experience for Kids she, Cantor Bogomolni, and Rabbi Jonathan Gross will by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Temple Israel Communications Coordinator rehearse with the children at Friedel Jewish Academy For the first time in the history of Nebraska, Iowa, and the JCC’s Pennie Z. Davis Child Development North and South Dakota, and eastern Wyoming, the Center. Cantor Bogomolni will rehearse with the children at children of the Great Plains region will come together to participate in a Hanukkah concert on Sunday, Nov. 19. Beth El during the week and on Sundays as well. He added that there will be an Omaha “We are not aware of any precekids’ rehearsal prior to the concert. dence for such a program or conThe music has been divided age cert which will involve five appropriately. states!” said Cantor Gastón There are 13 selections the chilBogomolni of Beth El dren, cantors, and soloists will sing Synagogue. during the one-hour event. One is “This is a chance to join with all a Thanksgiving song in Yiddish to the Jewish kids from Omaha and be sung by the cantors and a few our region in a musical kallah,” soloists. The others are Hanukkah added Cantor Wendy Shermet of music in English, Hebrew, Yiddish, Temple Israel. “High school and and Ladino. A CD has been finaljunior high school kids get a lot of ized that the children can use to our energy and attention. This is practice. Copies will be available at an opportunity to focus on and each synagogue. feature our elementary-age chilSome children from out of state dren.” She hopes that the camawill need home hospitality during raderie that the children will share their stay in Omaha. To volunteer will “get them excited for future your home, Temple Israel memyouth group experiences.” Cantor Bogomolni noted that Designed by Julie Rosenquist, the Great Plains bers can contact Dorothy Spizman “when a preschooler or kinder- Hanukkah Concert logo will be imprinted on tee at dorothy26@cox.net or Susie gartner sees a sixth, fifth or fourth shirts by Bergman Incentives. Each child partic- Norton at susie.Norton@cox.net. grader participating in a program ipating in the concert will receive a free shirt. Beth El members can get in touch like this, they think: ‘This is cool. I want to be like with Beth Friedman at BMFriedman@cox.net, and them!’ So it sets a great role model for the ‘younger’ Beth Israel members can call Rabbi Gross at the synayoungsters. gogue at 556.6288. “We have been in contact with Jewish organizations in Cantor Shermet explained that she and Cantor Iowa, South and North Dakota, Nebraska, and Bogomolni looked at the possibility of having the 4 p.m. Wyoming, and we are hearing a lot of ‘We really want to concert at the auditorium at the University of Nebraska make it!’ It sounds like a lot of fun and like a great expe- at Omaha or the Rose Theater. “We both felt that in rience for our kids,” Cantor Bogomolni remarked. order to conserve monetary resources and have more At a time of year when Christmas music pervades the funds to donate, we would hold the concert at Beth El airwaves, the Hanukkah Concert is “an important which has graciously allowed us to use their large and opportunity for Jewish children to enjoy their own flexible space,” she said. Proceeds from the concert will musical heritage. Furthermore, the larger non-Jewish be donated to Child Saving Institute in Omaha and a community will have a chance to learn a little about children’s charitable organization in Israel. Judaism,” said Cantor Shermet. “In light of recent events, the concert takes on new Cantor Shermet and Jeff Taxman will start practicing meaning,” she said. “We’ll be very thoughtful in picking with all the students at Temple Israel in grades kinder- an organization in Israel that involves the welfare of chilgarten through six. All elementary school children at dren.” Temple will participate in the concert unless parents tell Cantor Bogomolni added that “the concert will be her otherwise, mentioned Cantor Shermet. In addition, recorded and will endure forever in this community.”
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
September 8, 2006
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Keynote Speaker to Focus on the Jewish Spirit During “Limmud Omaha” by MARY SUE GROSSMAN Administrator Ellen Frankel developed her love of stories at an early age. “I have always loved reading stories with classic ingredients. Jewish stories, especially those about King Solomon, stories by Andrew Lang, Greek legends and European fairy tales were among my favorites.” As a child, she had a wonderful rabbi who “adopted” her. In addition to the many Shabbats spent in his home, she said, “I spent many hours reading from his library and I loved Midrash from an early age.” When asked about her career as a writer, she reported that she started in fourth grade, “Though I doubt anyone would have called me a writer then!” Now a well-known author, Omahans will have the opportunity to hear Dr. Frankel at “Limmud Omaha: A Day of Learning” on Sunday, Sept. 10, 1:305 p.m. In addition to her talents as a writer, Dr. Frankel serves as CEO and Editor-in-Chief of the Jewish Publication Society. She will be Limmud’s keynote speaker and also a breakout session presenter. Limmud, presented by the Center for Jewish Education, will be held at the Jewish Community Center. When Dr. Leonard Greenspoon, Limmud chairDr. Ellen Frankel person, told her the event’s theme: “The Texts and Textures of Judaism,” Dr. Frankel thought it was a wonderful choice. When writing The Jewish Spirit: A Celebration of Stories and Art, she worked with many artists to include as many symbols as possible in the book. “It is hard to celebrate if things are so abstract,” Frankel commented. “People want to adorn Jewish life and the tradition of Jewish symbols has developed over the years.” Dr. Frankel will give her keynote address to begin Limmud at 1:30 p.m. and will also speak at 4:40 p.m. in a wrap-up session. “Ellen Frankel is uniquely placed to kick off and conclude our day of learning,“ said Greenspoon. “There is no one who knows more about the variety of exciting opportunities we have for deepening and broadening our experience of Judaism through the thoughtful and creative exploration of our
shared textual and artistic productions.” Frankel’s first book, The Classic Tales: 4000 Years of Jewish Lore, featured a collection of 300 traditional Jewish tales. “I wrote the book in 1989 and that was in the early days of computers. As I was writing, I kept erasing and kept erasing. By the time the book was completed, not only had I typed the stories but I also memorized most of them.” Her children were six and seven-years-old at the time and every night at dinner they would implore her to “tell us a story,” which added to her story-teller experiences. Today, Frankel combines lectures and storytelling, speaking to synagogues, summer study institutes, Hillels, Jewish women's groups, JCCs, museums, schools, retirement communities, nursing homes, and radio audiences. During the Limmud breakout sessions, she will give the presentation “Jewish Folklore.” Frankel eagerly talked about the Jewish Publication Society. “JPS is non-denominational and non-profit and straddles the scholarly and commercial worlds,” she explained. When asked about the challenges of deciding what to publish, Frankel said “I can say ‘no’ but I can’t say ‘yes’. An editorial committee consisting of scholars, rabbis, educators, and board members review proposals. After consensus is reached by the committee, each project is then sent to expert readers and finally to the in-house staff for the final approval.” One goal of the organization is to provide enduring good Jewish books at an affordable price. Another goal is to undertake major--and unique--projects that no one else will do. With a Torah commentary taking 25 years and translations requiring 30 years, JPS prides itself in making real contributions to Jewish culture. An afternoon of breakout sessions will follow Frankel’s keynote address. The first session, from 2-2:40 p.m., will feature: Dr. Mordechai Levin, Dr. Leonard Greenspoon, and Dr. Moshe Gershovich. From 2:503:30 p.m., Susan Aizenberg. Rabbi Aryeh Azriel, Dr. Frankel, Dr. Sidnie White Crawford, and Dr. Guy Matalon will be presenters during the second session Rounding out the afternoon, 3:40-4:20 p.m., will be Jenni Schlossman, Ph.D, Rabbi Jonathan Gross, Rabbi Mendel Katzman, and Prof. Gerald Shapiro. Limmud, which is open to the community at no charge, is sponsored in part by the Philip and Ethel Klutznick Chair in Jewish Civilization at Creighton University. For more information, please call 334.6445.
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NCJW is “Getting Back to Basics” for Needy Children by SHARON BARGAS Co-Vice-President of Public Relations for NCJW The school year has begun and it’s typically a time when children receive new clothing to kick-off the new school year. For many children, the most basic clothing items such as new underwear and socks are a luxury. In honor of the 10th anniversary of Dictionary Days, the National Council of Jewish Women, Omaha Section, created a clothing drive for needy children entitled, “Getting Back to Basics.” As the campaign name implies, the goal of the drive is to collect the necessities for school age children ranging from kindergarten up to sixth grade. The drive is another opportunity to give needy children a chance to attend school completely clothed. The clothing drive will run from Sept. 11-22. Items on the clothing drive “wish list” include clean winter clothing of all types for children (coats, hats, sweaters, boots, gloves and mittens); shoes; long underwear, and most importantly, underwear and socks. Campaign organizers ask that clothing be delivered to the Membership Desk at the Jewish Community Center. One teacher shared with Sandy Epstein, campaign
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organizer, that many of the students come to school very “under-dressed.” “It is hard to imagine that there are children who don’t even have underwear on a daily basis,” Epstein, said. “It is devastating to imagine what those kids are going through.” Epstein is hoping to be able to deliver all of the donated clothing to 24 academies in the Omaha Public School district on Monday, Oct. 9, which falls on the same day dictionaries are delivered to those schools. Giving to children in need is simply filling in a missing piece of life for a child who does not have the same opportunities as most children in the Omaha community, according to Epstein. NCJW is a volunteer organization, inspired by Jewish values, that works through a program of research, education, advocacy, and community service to improve the quality of life for women, children, and families and strives to ensure individual rights and freedoms for all. For more information, contact Epstein at 397.2528 or on her cell at: 871.8188, or via e-mail slepstein@cox.net or send a check to NCJW, C/O Sandy Epstein, 9743 Fieldcrest Dr., Omaha, NE 68114.
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September 8, 2006
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Part II: 9-11...FIVE YEARS LATER
Part III: 9-11...FIVE YEARS LATER
Eavesdropping on the Conspiracists: What They’re Still Saying about Jews
Alarmed by Conspiracy Theories, Authors Fight Fire with...Satire
by RICHARD GREENBERG NEW YORK (JTA)--Jew-centric conspiracy theories on the Sept. 11 attacks are a hearty breed: They continue to be recycled and rehashed, five years after the event. Here’s a representative selection of recent (or at least still-extant) Web postings from individuals who maintain that the Jews or the Israelis had a role in America’s deadliest terror attack -- or its supposed cover-up. “There was ruin and terror in Manhattan, but, over the Hudson River in New Jersey, a handful of men were dancing. As the World Trade Centre burned and crumpled, the five men celebrated and filmed the worst atrocity ever committed on American soil as it played out before their eyes. Who do you think they were? Palestinians? Saudis? Iraqis, even? Al-Qaeda, surely? Wrong on all counts. They were Israelis -- and at least two of them were Israeli intelligence agents, working for Mossad, the equivalent of MI6 or the CIA.”--www.whatreallyhappened.com, Aug. 7, 2006 “Essentially, this is what it boils down to: If you talk about evidence of Mossad handiwork or the Israeli government’s deep involvement in the events of Sept. 11, 2001, and the gatekeepers get wind of this chit-chat, then you are an antisemite. If you try to point out that many hi-power individuals both within and external to the U.S. government were in on 9-11 and that these people happen to be Jews and/or Zionists with direct ties to Israel and were involved in orchestrating and/or covering up 9-11, then
you’re an anti-semite.” --World Indepen- by RICHARD GREENBERG NEW YORK (JTA)--The anti-Semitic dent News Group, undated article entifrom the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks fallout tled, “Connecting the Dots” so appalled alternative journalists Joshua “Although much of the admitted foreNeuman and David Deutsch that they knowledge of terrorist events on and went scurrying to their keyboards. since 9-11 is of Israeli origin, the followThey didn’t fire off letters to the editor or ing section is not meant to be antilearned treatises documenting that the pen Semitic by any means. Several workers Jews in fact were blameless for transforming from Odigo, an Israeli instant messaging swath of lower Manhattan into a smola company that had offices in the World dering graveyard. Instead, Trade Center towers, they conspired to register were warned to get out of their anger and reveal the the building prior to the truth through other means: attacks on the morning of They chose satire to expose 9-11. [The article goes on what they called the “utter to claim that some Israeli ridiculousness” of the variofficials were informed of ous Jew-blaming canards other terrorist attacks as concocted immediately after well.] If this were the the terrorist attacks in New case, the question begs to York and Washington. be asked just as with 9-11 The Big Book of Jewish why were Israelis given published in Conspiracies, exclusive treatment while April 2005 by St. Martin’s others were not is a compendium of Griffin, war ned?”--www.911The Big Book of Jewish Jewish conspiracies through fraud.blog-spot.com, Conspiracies by Joshua the ages as seen through the March 13, 2006 and David Deutsch. Neuman eyes of, say, Woody Allen or “Was it only a coinciBrooks. Mel dence that so many rich and powerful “We don’t know what goes on in the Jewish Americans played a pivotal role, or minds of people who really believe in performed a supporting role in the Jewish conspiracies,” the authors say in alleged ‘terrorist attack’ on September the book’s introduction, “but we feel 11, 2001, and the ‘War on Terror’ that sure of one thing: They don’t like pretty followed? Likewise, under closer scrutiny, to have those beliefs laughed at.” why do we find so many Israelis, in the Mocking every conceivable anti-Semitic exact same locations as the alleged stereotype, the book “reveals,” for examIslamic plotters and terrorists? Curious ple, that the Jews poisoned the wells of coincidence or clever design?’’-Europe in order to create a market for www.rense.com, July 7, 2006 bottled water, that a Berlin pharmacist
actually fomented World War I, and that psychoanalysis was invented as a way to hypnotize wealthy and powerful gentiles. As for 9-11 itself, the book discloses that Rabbi Chaim Schnitzelbaum of lower Manhattan orchestrated the whole thing because the World Trade Center was blocking his view of New Jersey. Acknowledging that some might find the book to be in bad taste, its co-authors --Neuman is the editor and publisher of Heeb magazine and Deutsch is its humor editor--stress in the introduction that their motives were pure and that “the subjects satirized in this book are indeed serious ones.” They also concede that using satire to ridicule anti-Semitic conspiracy theories could backfire if “some idiot” were to read the book and think “he had unearthed a piece of serious scholarship.” Contacted shortly before the fifth anniversary of 9-11, Neuman said he was dismayed that the “delusional pronouncements” triggered by the terrorist attacks have continued unabated. “We had hoped that the book would signal the end of some of these ridiculous notions,” he said. “Unfortunately, it coincided with an explosion of conspiracy theories about Jewish machinations.” Does poking fun at these theories and their propagators ever help? Perhaps, says Mark Potok of the Southern Poverty Law Center, which monitors hate groups. “Satire and ridicule can sometimes damage the credibility of these people in the eyes of their followers. Although the bulk of this needs to be addressed factually, at some point you’re left with satire and not much else.”
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Page 8
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
September 8, 2006
Esch Challenges Congressional Seatholder AMERICA DECIDES 2006 by JOAN K. MARCUS Jim Esch, 30, has decided to run for the Second Congressional District seat because he sees an opportunity. He has challenged the seat currently held by Republican Lee Terry because he says he can be an independent leader who can do what is best for Nebraskans. He recently spoke to B’nai Brith Breadbreakers. Esch, a Democrat, is the oldest of six children and a lifelong resident of Omaha. His family first homesteaded in Nebraska and Colorado in the early 1900s. In 1994, he graduated from Creighton Prep and in 2000 from Creighton University with a law degree. While at Creighton, he was president of the student body. “Family values and deep Nebraska roots serve as my background. My father is a Vietnam veteran who lost his right leg during the war,” Esch told the Breadbreakers group. “My grandfather was an Omaha police officer who was killed in the line of duty. As a child, I learned the meaning of sacrifice.” After graduation from law school, Esch worked for the Steier Group, a national consulting and fundraising firm for nonprofit organizations. He helped to raise over five million dollars for schools, churches and other groups. In 2003, he began running the Greater Omaha Economic Development Partnership (GO!). His fundraising efforts netted $15 million used to attract
businesses, jobs and investments to the Omaha community. He also is the managing partner of a real estate investment partnership with farming and ranching interests in Nebraska and Colorado. He had to resign from the Chamber of Commerce, however, in order to become a candidate. “I’ve never been involved in the political process or the Democratic Party. However, I decided to run because I’ve never been one to sit on the sidelines when I think something needs to change. And, I will argue that our political process today is fundamentally corrupt,” he said. “I believe that the root of the problem is lobbyists and the special interest groups that fund them. Lobbyists fund the elections, set the agenJim Esch da in congress and write the legislation. They are certainly one of the biggest reasons our nation is so poor. Another huge problem is that we’re spending too much.” In the House of Representatives, 98% of the incumbent candidates are re-elected. “A big piece of that is because of how our electoral process is conducted,” he added. “Everyone believes that in order to win an election, you have to win it on television; this necessitates raising as much money as you can.”
Because of his opponent and the state of the country, this might be a good opportunity to run a different type of campaign said Esch. “I think winning is possible is because this election will look a lot like 2002,” he noted. “My opponent won the race with only 89,000 votes when there are 140,000 registered Democrats in the second district. There are 70,000 Independents and countless Republicans who are dissatisfied with the direction our country is taking. I’m out trying to recruit 500 teams throughout the city so we can go back to a grassroots structure. We’re trying to engage the average voter back into the process because they are disenfranchised.” According to Esch, “Unless we, the people, take back government, it will be the fringes of both parties that will continue the agenda. Today, there are registered lobbyists in 35,000 Washington, D.C. and it is a $2 billion a year industry. There are only 535 members in The House and Senate so that makes 70 lobbyists for each of them.” Esch also thinks the United States should be getting out of lraq. “A year ago, I thought we had the opportunity to stabilize Iraq. But, Baghdad is now in the midst of a religious civil war. And, unfortunately we have two options. We either need to get out of harms way (and keep troops there to protect the oil and Iraq itself) or put in the amount of troops we need,” he said. “When you’re fighting a counter insurgency or guerilla warfare, you need 10 times the forces of the force that you’re going after. Which means that we need 250-300,000 troops. Now, I’d be hard pressed to believe that the American people want that to happen. You can’t force
Democracy on people at the point of a gun. They have to want it and I don’t know if they ever will because the religious hatred there dates back 1300 years.” In regard to terrorists, Esch commented that the congress reduced the amount of money allotted to Homeland Security by about $7 million. He doesn’t think that the war in Iraq has anything to do with the real war on terror. “We have 10 million cargo vehicles come into our ports every year and we’re only checking 10% of them,” he added. “It wouldn’t be hard for someone to get a bomb through one of our ports right now.” The candidate also suggested major tax reform as part of his platform. Although Social Security has raised seniors out of poverty, Esch is not in favor of private accounts, adding, “On one hand, I admire President Bush for at least addressing a big issue.” With our entitlement programs based on having a bigger workforce at the bottom and fewer retirees at the top, Esch noted that people aren’t having as many children as they once did and “we will need a bigger workforce to pay Social Security.” He suggests perhaps more immigrants might help this problem. Healthcare is another issue that needs to be addressed. “For a city our size, Omaha can have tremendous influence. We have the insurance, legal, and medical communities to sit at the table and hammer out this problem.” Although Esch describes himself as pro- life, he is in favor of embryonic stem cell research. “My generation needs to be concerned because we will need to deal with the consequences of the decisions we make today,” he added.
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September 8, 2006
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
IN THE NEWS
Page 9
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The Ak-Sar-Ben Ball Committee has announced that Lauren Calli Freeman, daughter of Robert and Robyn Freeman, has been selected as a 2006 princess. A junior at Washington University in St. Louis, she is majoring in international business and policical science. She is a member of AEPhi sorority, and volunteers with the Jewish Student Union and Big Brothers Big Sisters. Pages for the Ak-Sar-Ben Ball include: Anna Susan Boggust, daughter of Matthew and Paul Boggust; Madeline Claire Simon, daughter of Jim and Kim Simon; Samantha Frances Sullivan, daughter of Charlie and Louri Sullivan; Rachel Megan Zetzman, daughter of Ted and Amee Zetzman; and Tanner Brian Magid, son of Tucker and Cindy Magid. The coronation ball, Unlock the Enchantment, is scheduled for Oct. 14 at the Qwest Center. Proceeds from the events benefit the Knights of Ak-Sar-Ben Scholarship Fund. The results are in: the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) College of Business Administration and the Service Learning Academy are ranked in the annual America’s Best Colleges compiled by the U.S. News & World Report. The College of Business Administration ranked in the Best Undergraduate Business Programs category and the Service Learning Academy ranked in the Academic Programs: Service Learning Academy category. Also, for the first time, UNO received an upper tier regional best universities master’s ranking in the Midwest category. The purpose of the U.S. News rankings is to spotlight the country’s academically excellent programs. During the past several months, institutions from across the country submitted information for entry. Rankings were based on peer assessment, freshman retention, gradua-
tion rate, class size, student/faculty ratio, percentage of full-time faculty, SAT/ACT scores, freshmen in top 25 percent of class, acceptance rate and alumni giving. The information was then checked by the U.S. News staff for accuracy and compiled into the America’s Best Colleges rankings. Jodi Picoult, best-selling author of 13 novels that focus on the complexities of family, relationships and love, will be the featured speaker at the 17th Annual Women & Health Lecture Series, sponsored by The Center for Health Policy & Ethics at Creighton University Medical Center. The lecture is Tuesday, Sept. 12, 7:30 p.m., at Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft St. The event is free and open to the public; there is no admission charge to the gardens after 5 p.m. Early arrival is recommended as last year’s lecture attracted 450 people. Lecture co-sponsors are Creighton University Medical Center, Creighton University, The Nebraska Humanities Council, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska, Lauritzen Gardens, Alegent Health and The Bookworm Bookstore. Picoult will speak on “The Facts Behind the Fiction” of her 2004 novel, My Sister’s Keeper. “My Sister’s Keeper” tackles the controversial issue of genetic planning. In the book, 3-year-old Kate Fitzgerald has a rare form of leukemia. Her sister, Anna, is conceived to be a perfect genetic match for Kate and, for years, Anna’s blood, platelets and bone marrow are used to help keep her sister alive. The novel begins when 13-year-old Anna hires an attorney to sue her parents for the right to have control over her own body while her parents consider using one of Anna’s kidneys to keep 16-year-old Kate alive. What follows is a thought-provoking, heart-felt story that raises many ethical and moral questions. The Center for Health Policy & Ethics Annual Women & Health Lecture series highlights issues that are critical to the health and well being of women.
YOUNG ENERGETIC SENIORS Members will meet Monday at the JCC. Join us for a Lewis and Clark Festival starting with Native American Dancers at 12:30 p.m., followed by Matthew “Sitting Bear” Jones. A UNL Professor, Jones will talk about “The Otoe-Missouria Meet Big Knives” which examines the first and second meetings that Lewis and Clark held with the Otoe-Missouria nation. Lunch is served at noon for $6 per person. Try your luck with bingo at 10 a.m. with Eileen and Miles Remer. For transportation call Dee Dee at 330.4272. Call Maggie for reservations at 334.6521 for the Ameristar Casino on Sept. 21. VISIONS Reminders: Tai Chi and lunch is on Wednesday, Sept. 13 at the Parkwood Terrace Apartment Club
House (93rd and Western Ave) at 10 a.m. The Visions luncheon is Friday, Sept. 15, 12:30 p.m., at the Westside Community Conference Center at 3534 So. 108 St. Join us for a musical program with Cantor Gaston Bogomolni accompanied by Esther Wax. For those members going on the day trip to Perry and Boone, Iowa, the full payment is now due. Call Anne Skolkin for information at 343.1638.
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LOMIR REDN YIDDISH Come to the Yiddish meeting at the JCC on Thursdays, 1-3 p.m. Call Anne Skolkin at 343.1638. JEWISH OMAHA SINGLES The rain date for the cancelled evening at Jason’s Deli and Family Fun Center has been rescheduled for Sunday, Sept. 17, 5 p.m., at Jason’s Deli on 71st and Dodge for dinner and conversation, then walk next door to the Family Fun Center for minigolf and arcade fun. Please RSVP to Sandi Cole at 895.1815 or SRCOMAHA@aol.com.
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
September 8, 2006
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Barbie, Jewish Identity, Prayer and Chocolate Signify S’lichot at Temple
Beth El’s Selihot Program Basks in the Beauty of High Holidays Music
by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Temple Israel Communications Coordinator What does a Barbie doll have to do with Judaism? Jewish identity, prayer, chocolate, and yes, even a Barbie doll -they’re all part of Temple Israel’s S’lichot program this year. Starting with havdalah on Saturday, Sept. 16, 7 p.m., in the Temple foyer, S’lichot continues in the sanctuary with members of Temple’s Junior Youth Group being given the honor of changing the Torah covers. A worship service follows in the chapel, and then the film The Tribe, which is about 20 minutes in length, will be shown. Narrated by Peter Coyote, the film mixes old school narration with a new school visual style, according to the website, www.tribethefilm.com. The Tribe weaves together archival footage, graphics, animation, Barbie doll dioramas, and slam poetry to take audiences on an electric ride through the complex history of both the doll and the Jewish people from Biblical times to present day. By tracing Barbie’s history, the film sheds light on what it means to be an American Jew in the 21st century, notes the website. Rabbi Eric Linder has organized a panel to discuss the movie. He said, “It will feature a diverse set of members of our very own tribe here at Temple Israel. Continuing our year-long theme of ‘Shema Temple Israel: Many Voices, One Congregation,’ this program will help each of us develop our own Jewish voice amidst the many variations and streams of ‘doing’ Jewish that exist in our modern age.” A chocolate Oneg brings a delicious end to the observance of S’lichot, the beginning of the days of repentance and forgiveness.
by JILL BELMONT Beth El Publicity Coordinator As the High Holidays approach, Selihot serves as the gateway into this time of renewal and forgiveness. Held the Saturday evening prior to Rosh Hashanah, this service offers Jews an opportunity to prepare for the holidays and focus on repentance, as well as hope for the new year. This year’s Selihot observance at Beth El Synagogue, on Saturday, Sept. 16, 9 p.m.,will offer a memorable evening of music and prayer, and the entire Jewish community is invited to take part. The evening will begin with a Havdalah service, followed by “A Musical Journey Through Our High Holidays Liturgy,” presented by Beth El Cantor Gastón Bogomolni. During the program, Cantor Gastón will pay tribute to the brilliant group of cantors who, generations ago, put music to High Holidays liturgy. Through the use of recordings, video and song, he will lead attendees through the fascinating, creative journey of these “golden-age” hazzanim, and show how they created the perfect union of music and prayer by applying traditional Jewish chanting to the words of High Holidays liturgy. “These cantors’ brilliant use of music to interpret and ‘feel’ prayers has been a gift to Jews for generations,” he said. A dessert reception will be held after the program, followed by Beth El’s moving Selihot service, led by Rabbi Mordechai Levin and the cantor. Encouraging community members of all ages to attend, Cantor Bogomolni added that, “A beautiful and memorable evening of music and prayer is planned, and we look forward to sharing this meaningful evening with our community.”
Flavored Butters by Offerico Maoz (Ten Speed, $12.95)
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Coming Next Month
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Publishes 10.20.06 Ad deadline 09.28.06 Camera ready deadline 10.05.06 Call Allan Handleman at 402/334-6451 or email: ahandleman@jewishomaha.org Call Terri Greenwood at 402/334-6559 or email: terrigreenwood@jewishomaha.org
READ IT AND E AT Reviewed by LOIS FRIEDMAN The introduction addresses all you want to know about butter...our word for butter comes from the Greek word boutyron literally, “cow cheese.” Butter is mentioned in the Bible as a staple in the ancients’ diet and a symbol of richness and comfort, possibly discovered by the biblical Hebrews and related to the Mediterranean region as the birthplace. The earliest method of making butter was milk was placed in an animal skin, sewn up and agitated...usually drug behind a horse. Churning, clarifying, whipping, flavoring and more, came later. Sixty-five savory and sweet recipes with headnotes, serving suggestions, brief instructions are in six chapters: Savory, Spicy, Nut & Seed, Seafood, Sweet Butters and Buttercreams, and Butter Sauces. You’ll have a large repertoire of butter spreads...artichoke, avocado, chipotle pepper, smoked salmon and this butter suggested to add to mashed sweet potatoes. HONEY-MUSTARD BUTTER Prep Time: 10 minutes 1 heaping tablespoon honey 2 tablespoons good-quality prepared mustard 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 1 cup unsalted butter, softened In a mixing bowl, combine the honey, mustard, vinegar, and Worcestershire. Mix well with a wooden spoon. Add the butter and mix until thoroughly blended. Lois Friedman can be reached at ReadItAndEat@yahoo.com.
ENGAGEMENT EPSTEIN/SCHLANGER Elaine and Dr. Steven Epstein announce the engagement of their daughter, Kimberly Evette Epstein, to Jason Scott Schlanger, son of Beth and Lee Schlanger, all of Houston, TX. The bride-to-be is the granddaughter of Sylvia and Alfred Freedman of Houston, TX, and Etta and Harold Epstein. A a summa cum laude graduate of the University of Pennsylvania with a BA in philosophy, she graduated cum laude from Harvard Law School and practices real estate law at Baker Botts L.L.P. in Houston. Her fiance earned a BA in history from the University of Pennsylvania. He is the vice president of development for Martin Fein Interests Ltd. He is the grandson of Henni Kraselsky and the late Nathan Kraselsky, and the late Rella and Daniel Schlanger. The couple is planning an October wedding in Houston.
BIRTH Jon and Laura Fischer announce the July 4 birth of their son, Benjamin J. Fischer. He has a sister, Allison, age 7, and a brother, Harrison, 5. Grandparents are Jan and Steve Fischer, and Larry and Jane Masur. Great-grandparents are Esther Meiches and the late Herb Meiches, and the late Bernie and Dorothy Fischer.
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September 8, 2006
Made in Israel and High Holiday Items Available at Beth Israel Sisterhood Shop by MARY BORT for Beth Israel Synagogue With the High Holidays just two weeks away, are you looking for a hostess gift or something unique to decorate your table during Rosh Hashanah? You can do that and support Israel at the same time, when you visit Beth Israel’s Sisterhood Gift Shop. “The chairman is Bette Kozlen, who has been working non-stop to acquire a wide selection of terrific items for the shop,” stated Beth Cohen, Beth Israel’s Executive Director. “She is a tireless volunteer who truly strives to find things to meet a wide variety of tastes. The shop includes holiday and Judaic items as well as ‘secular’ items made in Israel.” Kozlen always keeps upcoming holidays in mind when she makes purchases. For example, for the High Holidays, she obtained a variety of unique honey pots and servers. Another important consideration for Sisterhood is to offer “Made in Israel” items at Beth items from Israel. “We Israel Sisterhood’s Gift Shop are trying to promote and include these hand-made support Israel by buying ceramic pomegranates. ‘Made in Israel’ items and pieces created by Israeli artists, that we can offer in the Gift Shop,” said Kozlen. Perhaps the most distinctive “Made in Israel” items that Kozlen found are beautiful, ceramic pomegranates. With vivid color and “seeds” inside, these pieces are perfect for a gift or table setting during a yom tov meal. “Jewish mysticism says that a pomegranate has 613 seeds, one for each of the 613 mitzvah of the Torah, and they symbolize health and happiness for the new year,” noted Cohen. The ceramic pomegranates are handmade by Hedva Segal, an artist and designer at a Galilee kibbutz. “We also have selected pieces of tableware, mezuzahs, key chains with the Traveler’s prayer, hamsas and lots more,” said Kozlen. “Sisterhood wants the Gift Shop to be a place offering a wide range of things that helps meet the needs of our community.” Gift shop items may be purchased through the synagogue office, Monday-Thursday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Fridays, 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., or on Sundays by appointment. For more information, call the office at 556.6288.
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 11
National Presenter Featured at Lewis & Clark Festival by ANDREA BARTMAN Audience members themselves are invited onto the stage for JSS/RBJH during the presentation to dramatize various episodes of A presenter nationally recognized as one of the most the Lewis and Clark expedition. prominent authorities of the Lewis & Clark adventure Says Draper, “This presentation is mixed with humor will be featured at the grand finale of the festival on and drama and should give people a visual picture of Wednesday, Sept. 13, 7 p.m. at the Jewish Community what it was like to actually be there.” Center. Darrel Draper, dressed in full expedition cosAlso featured at the event will be Native American and tume, will portray George Drouillard trading post artifacts and music by the (1774-1810), the half French and half Roundhouse Band. Draper, a fifth generShawnee Indian who was considered the ation Nebraskan, resides in Omaha with most valuable member of the Lewis & his wife JoAnne. His interest began while Clark expedition. he was seven, living in Cass County when The festival, organized by Jewish Senior the 150th anniversary of the expedition Services and the Blumkin Home Activities was celebrated. “I walked on pathways Department, will bring the expertise of that may have been walked on by Lewis & Draper and other top notch presenters to Clark themselves,” he remembers. many residents of the home and members The presentation completes four days of the community who have been unable of activities that begin Sunday, Sept. 10. to attend events like this one previously. There are no admission fees for any Says Linda Fitzgerald of the RBJH events and the public is invited to attend. Activities Department, “A desired goal of Left: Darrel Draper, dressed in full expedithis festival is that perhaps participation costume. tion…will lighten our hearts and remind us of the many great lessons of the past that we may apply to the unrest and sorrow of The celebration marking the bicentennial of Nations our times.” the Lewis & Clark expedition, with no admis- JCC Auditorium, 12:50 p.m. Draper, who has personalsion fee for events, begins this Sunday in the • Matthew “Sitting Bear” Jones in “The ly retraced thousands of lobby of the Blumkin Home with the display of Otoe-Missouria Meet Big Knives” miles of the Lewis and Clark replica of the boat the explorers used on their Sept. 12: a Tuesday, Trail by canoe and on foot, journey. The schedules of events includes: RBJH Large Dining Room, 1:30 p.m. begins his presentation with Sept. 10: Green Vickrey in “Songs Lewis & Sunday, • Mary an overview of the expediRose Blumkin Jewish Home Front Lobby, 1 Clark Might Have Sung” tion through the eyes of Wednesday, Sept. 13: George Drouillard as he p.m. Cutaway Keelboat Display • RBJH Large Dining Room, 1:30 p.m. accompanies Lewis & Clark • Mouth of the Platte Volunteers • Bev Hinds as “Sacagawea” on their adventure. 1 : 3 0 p . m . Dining Room, RBJH Large • Native American Displays with Natalie Adapted from the James • Fort Atkinson Honor Guard Osborne, RN, and Janet Herman, RN, both Alexander Thom novel, 1:45 p.m. RBJH Large Dining Room, from the RBJH. Sign-Talker, the presenta• Dale Clark presents “Lewis & Clark’s JCC Auditorium, 7 p.m. tion, which has won 12 of Discovery through the eyes of a Crew Corps • Lewis & Clark Festival Grand Finale national awards, will comMember” • Darrel Draper portrays George Drouillard bine history and acting abiliRBJH Courtyard, 3 p.m. • The Roundhouse Band ty to draw the audience in to Platte Muzzleloaders • Eastern • Cabanne Trading Post artifacts/Native relive the humor, dangers, • Rifle and Pistol Display American artifacts and hardships of the expedi• Hawk (tomahawk) and Knife Throwing • Art Work from UNO’s Peter Kiewit tion and receive a rare Demonstration Institute glimpse of how Shawnee •The Nebraska Humanities Council, Jewish spirituality contributed to Monday, Sept. 11: JCC Auditorium, 12:30 p.m. Senior Services and the Mouth of the Platte the success of this amazing • Native American Dancers, Singers and made funding and support for all festival events story of human perseverance Bucks” Omaha and Ponca “Young Drummers possible. and Western discovery.
Lewis & Clark Festival Schedule of Events
49th Annual MCH Auxiliary /
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Page 12
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
September 8, 2006
The Concept Behind the Fifth Commandment “Honor Thy Father and Thy Mother” comes between the fourth commandment--to remember and observe the Shabbat--and the sixth: “Thou shall not murder.” The Fifth Commandment stands alone in that it does not belong among the first four which have to do with man’s relationship to G-d, nor to the last five, which relate to the behavior of humans toward one another. The Fifth Commandment is the only one that gives a specific direction as to how a child shall treat his or her parents. Although some commentators mention that it forms the bridge between the first four and last five, it is so specific that it bears further exploration. As any good Hebrew school student knows by the fourth grade, the Fifth Commandment doesn’t state that we should “love” our parents. Nor does it command us to obey them. It merely directs us to “honor” them. What exactly does that mean? Does that mean that we--the children-should always place the call to them? That we must do the inviting? That we must ask permission, follow their guidance, and let them always have the upper hand, so to speak? Honor could mean all those things or none. If in fact, we children always listened to our parents and performed exactly as they wished, either we’d never grow up--or more of us would be in therapy! Surely “honor” does not translate as “become robots.” That couldn’t be G-d’s intention in the Fifth Commandment, and though every generation battles with the prior one, in our hearts we all
know that the next generation must become independent and responsible and learn how to make decisions without having parents do everything for them. In the end, honor comes down to one thing: our parents gave us life. Whatever their mistakes in raising us, their shortcomings in parenting, they gave us their DNA, their traits-good and bad--and childhood experiences (ditto). They weren’t perfect, but then neither are we. No doubt many of us would like to have parents here on earth with us once again, if only to apologize for our own bad behavior. Honor thy father and thy mother. When, at the end of their lives, our parents are more like children--who cannot manage alone, make decisions, feed or clothe themselves--it is even more important to honor them...to see that their last years are spent in comfort, surrounded by people who truly care about their health and well-being. If it’s at all possible, we hope the last years of our parents’ lives will take place at home. But sometimes that’s not realistic. Maybe a spouse is gone and the remaining parent is too frail to remain home. Maybe the children no longer live here, or even if they do, maybe a parent needs ’round-the-clock care, something today’s families may not be able to provide. There is one place that can, however: the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. With consistently high ratings from the state, its residents and their families, the Blumkin Home is about to embark on a revolution. Built in 1982 on the “hospital model,” the Blumkin Home’s staff
and leadership have spent the last four years researching ways to improve the physical surroundings of its residents. Next month, this community will break ground for a “new” Blumkin Home while fundraising continues. Construction is planned to minimize disruption to the lives of its residents...because of course, the staff at the Home already knows the meaning of the Fifth Commandment; they live it every day. Honor thy father and thy mother. And join us as we welcome them into their “new” Home.
BEHIND THE H EADLINES by DANIEL PIPES The debate over profiling airline passengers revived after the thwarted Islamist plot to bomb ten airplanes in London on Aug. 10. The sad fact is, due to a mixture of inertia, denial, cowardice, and political correctness, Western airport security services--with the notable exception of Israel’s--continue to search primarily for the implements of terrorism, while largely ignoring passengers. Although there has been some progress since 9-11, most involves the scrutiny of all travelers’ actions. For example, in 2003, the Transportation Security Administration, charged with protecting U.S. airplanes, launched a passenger profiling system known as Screening of Passengers by Observation Techniques, or SPOT, now operating in twelve U.S. airports. Adopting techniques used by the U.S. Customs Service and by Israeli airport security, SPOT is, according to TSA spokeswoman Ann Davis, “the antidote to racial profiling.” Relying on “behavioral pattern recognition,” it discerns, she says, “extremely high levels of stress, fear and deception.” SPOT agents observe passengers moving about the airport, with TSA agents looking for such physical symptoms as sweating, rigid posture, and clenched fists. A screener then engages “selectees” in conversation and asks unexpected questions, looking at body language for signs of unnatural responses. Most selectees are immediately released but about one-fifth are interviewed by the police. After the London plot, the British authorities have instituted a crash-course in SPOT, learning directly from their American counterparts. Building on this approach, an Israeli
...my “education by murder” hypothesis (is) that people wake up to the problem of radical Islam only when blood is flowing in the streets... The airport disruptions following the thwarted London plot prompted much discussion about the need to focus in on the source of Islamist terrorism and to profile Muslims. In the words of a Wall Street Journal editorial, “a return to any kind of normalcy in travel is going to require that airport security do a better job of separating high-risk passengers from unlikely threats.” This argument is gaining momentum. A recent poll finds that 55 percent of Britons support passenger profiling that takes into account “background or appearance,” with only 29 percent against. Lord Stevens, the former chief of Scotland Yard, endorses focusing on young Muslim men. The Guardian reports that “some EU coun-
Jewish Press Committee Bobbi Leibowitz, Vice-Chairman; Stan Mitchell, Secretary; Scott Meyerson, Treasurer; Michael Siegel, Finance Chairman; Joanie Jacobson, Immediate Past-chairman; David Herzog; Susan Lehr; Jamie Meyerson; George Quittner; Melissa Schop; Michael Sigmond; Jim Simon; Nancy Skid; and Dorothy Spizman. 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, Center for Jewish Education, Jewish Family Service, and Jewish Senior Services. The Jewish Press is a constitutional committee of the Jewish Federation. Editorials express the view of the writer and are not necessarily representative of the views of the Jewish Press Jewish the Committee, 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.
Time to Profile Airline Passengers? machine, called Cogito, uses algorithms, artificial-intelligence software, and polygraph principles to discern passengers with “hostile intent.” In trial runs with control groups, the machine incorrectly fingered 8 percent of innocent travelers as potential threats and let 15 percent of the roleacting terrorists slip through. While methods that target the whole population have general value--SPOT did discover passengers with forged visas, fake IDs, stolen airline tickets, and various forms of contraband --its utility for counterterrorism is dubious. Terrorists trained to answer questions convincingly, to avoid sweating, and control stress should easily be able to evade the system.
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tries, particularly France and the Netherlands, want to introduce explicit checks on Muslim travelers.” One politician in Wisconsin and two in New York state came out in favor of similar profiling. Fox News anchor Bill O’Reilly suggests that Muslim passengers ages 16 to 45 “all should be spoken with.” Mike Gallagher, one of the most popular American radio talk-show hosts, wants “a Muslim-only [passenger] line” at airports. One author even proposes putting “Muslims on one plane and put the rest of us on a different one.” The British Department for Transport reportedly seeks to introduce passenger profiling that includes taking religious background into account. News from British airports indicates that this has already begun--sometimes even by fellow passengers. Three conclusions emerge from this discussion. First, because Islamist terrorists are all Muslims, there does need to be a focus on Muslims. Second, such notions as “Muslimonly lines” at airports are infeasible; rather, intelligence must drive efforts to root out Muslims with an Islamist agenda. Third, the chances of Muslim-focused profiling being widely implemented remain negligible. As the same Wall Street Journal editorial notes: “the fact that we may have come within a whisker of losing 3,000 lives over the Atlantic still isn’t preventing political correctness from getting in the way of smarter security.” Noting the limited impact of losing 3,000 lives had in 2001 and building on my “education by murder” hypothesis that people wake up to the problem of radical Islam only when blood is flowing in the streets, I predict that effective profiling will only come into effect when a much larger number of Western lives, say 100,000, have been lost. Pipes is director of the Middle East Forum and author of Miniatures (Transaction Publishers). He can be reached at: www.DanielPipes.org.
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Fear, Loathing and Respect in Mideast: Arab Countries’ Mixed Feelings on Iran
FOCUS ON ISSUES by URIEL HEILMAN AMMAN, Jordan (JTA)--Iran’s refusal to suspend uranium enrichment activities that could be used to produce atomic weapons is prompting both admiration and concern in the Arab world. Many Muslim Arabs admire the government in Tehran for defying Western demands to curb its nuclear program, but there also is significant concern among Arabs and their governments about Iran’s nuclear ambitions and the country’s sometimes-violent quest for greater power in the region. “Many Arabs believe that since Israel has nuclear weapons, why not balance this with Iranian nuclear weapons?” said Hani Hourani, director general of AlUrdun Al-Jadid Research Center in Jordan. “At the same time, there are many Arabs in the Gulf countries and serious forces in the region, like Egypt and Saudi Arabia, worried about Iranian nuclear weapons.” It’s not just these states’ alliances with the United States that make Iran’s nuclear ambitions cause for concern. Countries like Saudi Arabia and the Persian Gulf states have their own disputes with the regime in Tehran. Iran and the United Arab Emirates have a territorial dispute over three islands in the Persian Gulf that Iran seized in 1971. Saudi Arabia and Iran routinely clash over oil policy, the restive Shi’ite minority in Saudi Arabia and Tehran’s suspected support for Al-Qaida, which opposes the Saudi government. The two countries back opposing sides in the conflict in Iraq, with Tehran behind Iraq’s Shi’ite militias and the Saudis more supportive of Sunni co-religionists. Similarly, Sunni-dominated countries with significant Shi’ite populations, like Jordan, Bahrain and Egypt, also worry about the growing power of Iran, which is dominated by Shi’ite clerics. They point to the country’s nuclear program and a possible “Shi’ite crescent” stretching from Iran to Lebanon--through a Shi’ite-dominated Iraq, a Tehran-friendly Syria and a Lebanon dominated by the Shi’ite militia Hezbollah--as a threat to the entire region’s stability. Perhaps just as significant as the religious divide between these Sunni regimes and the Shi’ites in Tehran is the ethnic dimension to this split, pitting Persian-the ethnic majority in Iran-against Arabs. Foad al-Khalafat, a former Muslim Brotherhood official in Jordan, told JTA he was approached not long ago by Iran’s ambassador in Amman as part of an Iranian attempt to cement its ties with Islamists in Jordan and extend its influence in the region. Khalafat said he heard Iran was making similar overtures in other Arab countries, including Egypt, Syria, Yemen and Algeria. Iran’s embassy in Jordan did not respond to e-mail inquiries for comment. Khalafat said he rejected the ambassador’s overture and that he would never cast his lot with the Iranians, who he said do not represent Arab interests. But he said he wouldn’t rule out some form of relationship with Iran in the future. Even as Iran rattles its war sabers, staging massive military exercises this week
and last, some Arabs are pointing the finger at the Middle East’s favorite scapegoat for creating the Iranian problem: Israel. These Arabs say Israel’s presumed nuclear arsenal is the primary impetus behind Iran’s push to go nuclear, too. “I think the West allowing Israel to establish its nuclear capability has done the damage that we are all suffering from now. There are other countries that now are perhaps pursuing the same role,” the Saudi foreign minister said earlier this year. The solution, many suggest, is to eliminate Israel’s nuclear capability. If Israel dismantled its own nuclear arsenal, estimated at 75 to 200 warheads, Iran might be persuaded to forgo its own nuclear ambitions, they say. “There are many ways to influence Iran and meet these challenges. It’s not necessary to attack Iran,” Hourani said. “Egypt has suggested a nuclear-free Middle East. This is another answer.” Such a scenario is both naive and unlikely, according to experts in Israel. Though it doesn’t officially admit to having nuclear weapons--Shimon Peres confirmed it in an address to American Jewish leaders several years ago, but he was not part of the government at the time--Israel would never relinquish the tactical advantage it gets from being perceived as a nuclear power. And Iran, for its part, has shown no indication that it would forgo its own nuclear program, which it insists is for civilian purposes, if Israel disarmed--nor would Israel be likely to trust Iran’s promises. There also are suggestions in the Arab world that Israel and the United States could persuade Iran to forgo its nuclear ambitions through a strategy of appeasement. This scenario would have Israel completely withdraw from the West Bank, Gaza Strip and Golan Heights, and would see U.S. forces leave Iraq. “How can we stop this movement, the Shia interest in our area?” Abu Rashid said. “It’s easy if we solve the Iraqi problem and the Palestinian problem.” Such analyses ignore Tehran’s deadly track record of supporting terrorism, experts in Israel say. Iran funds Hezbollah, which invented a territorial dispute with Israel over the Shebaa Farms area--which the United Nations says never was part of Lebanon-to justify attacks against the Jewish state. Iran also provides material support for Palestinian terrorist organizations, supports Iraqi militants and is believed to have sponsored terrorist attacks worldwide, including the 1994 bombing of the AMIA Jewish community center in Buenos Aires, which killed 85 people. Mustafa Hamarneh, director of the Center for Strategic Studies at the University of Jordan, cautioned that Iran’s militant rhetoric should not be mistaken for the will to act. “They just talk, talk, talk. They don’t fight,’’ Hamarneh said. Whether Iran ultimately chooses to continue fighting its wars through proxies like Hezbollah or engage directly and more aggressively with its rivals in the region remains one of the Middle East’s most vexing, and uncertain, questions.
...just as significant as the religious divide between these Sunni regimes and the Shi’ites in Tehran is the ethnic dimension to this split, pitting Persian--the ethnic majority in Iran-against Arabs.
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
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Destruction of Israel Taught in Mainstream Schools of the Palestinian Authority
BEHIND THE HEADLINES by DAVID BEDEIN Bureau Chief, Israel Resource News Agency As this is being written, in late August 2006, news wires around the world are running a story that Mahmoud Abbas, head of the Palestinian Authority, has launched a new peace initiative with Israel. However, the new school books that this same Machmud Abbas has now introduced in the Palestinian Authority school system--run independently of Hamas--represent a curriculum that prepares a new generation of Palestinians to destroy Israel. Following fervent support given to Hizbullah’s total war on Israel by Abbas and the Palestinian Authority this summer, this raises the question as to whether the new school year in the Palestinian Authority, which open in early Sept., will simply ad fuel to the fire of the Palestinian Authority’s war against Israel, instead of a new peace initiative with the Jewish State. Since these PA school books have also been incorporated in the Arab schools in Jerusalem, which raises cause for further concern, while a movement is afoot in the Israeli Arab schools in the rest of Israel to adopt the PA curriculum in their schools. Indeed, the latest study of PA textbooks, www.intelligence.org.il/eng/default.htm, commisioned by the Intelligence and Terrorism Information Center in Herzelia, www.intelligence.org.il, an agency that had been consistently supportive of the Oslo Peace Process, speaks for itself. Here are some pearls of wisdom that Palestinian children will learn from the new school books of the Palestinian Authority this year: 1. Israel does not appear on any maps of the world in the new PA texbooks, while maps of Israel replace the name Israel with Palestine in all of the new Palestinian Authority school books (p. 4, Tarikh al-Hadarat al-Qadima,History of Ancient Civilizations), fifth grade textbook, (p. 53, Al-Iqstisad al-Manzili Home Economy), 10th grade textbook, p. 42, Tarikh al-’Alam al-Hadith walMu’asir,History of the New Modern World, 10th grade textbook, p. 86). 2. The new Palestinian School Books “annex” sites in Israel to Palestine: “Haifa is a Palestinian seaport”, (p. 7, Lughatuna al-Jamila,Our Beautiful Language, Vol. 2, fifth grade textbook, p. 86). “Galilee, Nazareth and Beit She’an are regions in Palestine” (p. 7, Al-Iqtisad al-Manzili (Home Economy, 10th grade textbook, pp. 36-37). 3. The new books mention Israel only as an enemy, in reference to “occupation of lands” in 1948 and 1967. For example, “there is no doubt that the Israeli occupation has a negative impact on [Palestinian] agriculture and its export” (p. 8, Lughatuna al-Jamila, Our Beautiful Language, Vol. 1, 10th grade textbook, p. 102). 4. They present Zionism only as an enemy movement. Here are some examples: a. “the Palestinian people are under an oppressive siege, limiting their movement and way of life” (p. 9, Al-Tarbiyah alIslamiyyah, Islamic Education, Vol. 1,
fifth grade textbook, p. 49). b. Accusation against settlements [from 1948!] of damaging water sources “the influence of settlement on sources of water in Palestine” (p. 9, Ulum al-Sihha wal-B’ia,Health and Environmental Sciences, 10th grade textbook, p. 122) c. “the Palestinian family has problems...stemming from the occupation...it loses father, mother or son to death or imprisonment...endures the difficulties of life... (p. 11, Al-Tarbiyah al-Wataniyya National Education, fifth grade textbook, p. 23. 5. The new books make the false claim that an “extremist Zionist” set fire to the Al-Aqsa Mosque in 1969; (p. 12, Tarikh al’Alam al-Hadith wal-Mu’asir History of the new Modern World), 10th grade textbook, p. 106) when it was really a mentally unstable fundamentalist Christian Australian. 6. The new books teach that the first Zionist Congress at Basel fostered the Zionist State based on a secret decision of what came came to be known as the “Protocols of the Elders of Zion”. (p. 13, Tarikh al-’Alam al-Hadith wal Mu-’asir, History of the News Modern World, 10th grade textbook, pp. 60-64). 7. The new books teach that the only ancient inhabitants of Israel were Arabs, ignoring any ancient Jewish presence. “Concentrated...in the land of Al-Sham {Greater Syria}...was the culture of the Canaanite and Aramaic peoples who migrated there from the Arab peninsula” (p.14-15, Tarikh al-Hadarat al-Qadima, History of Ancient Civilizations, fifth grade textbook, Foreward). 8. The new books teach that Palestinians must use war and violence to accomplish their goals, especially martyrdom: (p.18): The heroic mother, “who incessantly presents one sacrifice [fida’] after another” (Lughatuna al-Jamila, Our Beautiful Language, Vol 2, fifth grade textbook, p. 31). The warrior goes to war faced with one of the good options: victory or martyrdom in battle for the sake of Allah. (Ibid. Vol. 1, fifth grade textbook, p. 70): p.19: “Allah designated the people of this land (Al-Sham and Palestine) to an important task: they must stand on the forefront of the Muslim campaign against their enemies, and only if they fulfill their duy to their religion, nation, and land will they be rewarded as stated in the scriptures.” (Al-Tarbiya al-Islamiyyah,Islamic Education, Vol 2, 10th grade textbook, p. 50). 9. The new books feature children with names such as Jihad (holy war) and Nidal (struggle): (p.22, Tarikh al-Hadarat alQadima, History of Ancient Civilizations, fifth grade textbook, p.6). 10. And they stress the importance of “return” of refugees to all of Palestine-by violence: (p. 22) “The wrong must be made right by returning them to their homes: we returned to the homeland after a long absence”. (Lughatuna alJamila Our Beautiful Language, Vol 2, fifth grade textbook, p. 43). “Returning to the homes, the plains and the mountains, under the banners of glory, jihad [holy war] and struggle” (Lughatuna alJamila,Our Beautiful Language, Vol 1, fifth grade textbook, p.88).
The new Palestinian School Books “annex” sites in Israel to Palestine: “Haifa is a Palestinian seaport”, ...“Galilee, Nazareth and Beit She’an are regions in Palestine.”
David Bedein can be reached at the Beit Agron, International Press Center in Jerusalem, at: media@actcom.co.il.
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
September 8, 2006
Candlelighting Friday, September 8, 7:27 p.m.
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 southstreettemple.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 1317 No. 57 St. Omaha, NE 68132 551.6609
Tifereth Israel Member of United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism 3219 Sheridan Blvd., Lincoln, NE 68502-5236 423.8569 www.tiferethlincoln.org
A special occasion or one just for fun? If you can think it, We can write it Even under the gun!
Poems for all occasions
Bar/Bat Mitzvah Candle Lighting a specialty
402-932-8289 poetic.license@cox.net
B’NAI ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE FRIDAY: Services followed by Oneg, 7:30 p.m.
will offer a variety of full-length features and short films, followed by discussions moderated by Stephen Skulsky. Cost is $36.
BETH EL SYNAGOGUE FRIDAY: Musical Kabbalat Shabbat service, 6 p.m. SATURDAY: Morning services, 9:30 a.m. During services, Rabbi Gary Bretton-Granatoor, national director of the Anti-Defamation League’s education division, will address “The Parting of the Ways and Finding a Path to Peace.” Kiddush sponsored by Sara Juster and Sorin Juster, in honor of their daughter, Samantha, becoming Bat Mitzvah. Evening services, 7:35 p.m. ADULT EDUCATION Sunday classes include: Living Hebrew, 10 a.m., with SusiFrydman-Levin; “The Weekly Parasha: It’s All About Me?!” 10 a.m., led by Andy Greenberg; “Jewish Pot Pourri,” 11 a.m., led by Frydman-Levin. All year-long classes are $36 (with the exception of Bible study); for more information, contact Margie Gutnik in the office, or at programming@bethel-omaha.org. CREATING YOUR OWN BOOK OF LIFE Tuesday, 7 p.m.: Art class taught by Daniel Christensen. Create your own Jewish memories. Cost is $18; for information, call Margie Gutnik in the office. ABBA, EEMA & ME Wednesday, 9:30-11 a.m.: New learning play group and their parents, offers age-appropriate activities, singing and play time. All families in the Jewish community are invited at no charge. For information, contact Holly Weill at 493.5126, or Margie Gutnik. SHABBAT TUNES & TALES Saturday, Sept. 9, 11:15-11:45 a.m. Monthly sing-along program led by Patty Nogg is open to all Jewish children (up to age five), their parents and grandparents. NASHIR CHOIR Beginning Sunday, 11 a.m., this choir will be led by Emily Meyer. Open to ages 14 and up. Cost is $18 (to cover materials). For more information or to sign up, contact Margie Gutnik. CHAVERIM Sunday, 1:30-3:30 p.m.: Youth group for kids in grades 46 will enjoy a roller skating party at Skateland on 132nd and ‘B’ St. Cost (includes drink and snack) is $6 for Chaverim members, $8 for non-members. For more information, contact Robert Mosenkis at 492.8550, or youthdir@bethelomaha.org. KARIN LEVINE HEALTH SYMPOSIUM: Sunday, Sept. 17, 2-4 p.m. at the JCC. Panelists include health care professionals from the Methodist Health System. Cost is $5. For information, contact Carole Lainof at 293.0321, or via e-mail at thelainofs@cox.net, or Caryn Rifkin at 334.7216 or CRGR6175@aol.com. JEWISH FILM SERIES Beginning Sept. 18, 7 p.m., and scheduled for the third Monday of each month, the series
BETH ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE Office Hours: Mon.-Thurs., 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Fri., 8:30 a.m-2 p.m. Services conducted by Rabbi Jonathan Gross. FRIDAY: Kabbalat Shabbat, 7 p.m. SATURDAY: Shacharit, 9 a.m. Free babysitting, 9:30 a.m.; Children’s Classes, 10 a.m. (contact the office for class schedule); Kiddush is sponsored by the family of Mary Sue Grossman in honor of her 50th birthday; Mincha, 6:45 p.m., followed by Gemara class; Havdalah, 8:26 p.m. SUNDAY: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Contact the office for Mincha/ Ma’ariv service time. WEEKDAYS: Shacharit, 7 a.m; Contact the office for Mincha/Ma’ariv time. MONDAY: NCSY Latte & Learning, 7 p.m. at Scooter’s, 120th and Blondo. Learn about “Sci-Fi and Judaism.” At 7:30 p.m. at the synagogue, learn the melodies and meaning behind the prayersat a class led by Rabbi Gross; don’t come to shul on Rosh Hashanah unprepared. WEDNESDAY, 7:30 p.m.: Board of Commissioners meeting. THURSDAY: Women of the Torah class, 9:30 a.m. Babysitting is provided at no charge
CONGREGATION B’NAI JESHURUN Services conducted by Rabbi Ilan Emanuel. FRIDAY: Shabbat evening service, 7:45 p.m., led by Rabbi Emanuel, with oneg following, provided by Ruth Nisse. (Note: sitter service will be available). SATURDAY: Shabbat Morning Service, 9:30 a.m.; Torah Study, 10:30 a.m., all led by Rabbi Emanuel. LINCOLN JEWISH COMMUNITY SCHOOL SUNDAY: Grades 2-7 at Tifereth Israel, 9:30 a.m.-noon; K-1 at South Street, 9:45 a.m.12:15 p.m., Hallah High, 10 a.m.-noon at South Street. SUNDAY, 1-6:30 p.m.: “Interfaith Dialog in the Shadow of 9-11” is in the Skutt Ballroom at Creighton University; contact Fran Minear at 402.280.2303 for registration. TUESDAY, 7-9 p.m.: “Preparing for the Dayes of Awe” with Rabbi Emanuel. WEDNESDAY, 4-6 p.m.: Hebrew Class for grades 2-7 Tifereth Israel. THURSDAY, 5-6 p.m.: Food distribution program at Saratoga School, sponsored by the Social Choir Action Committee; Rehearsal, 7 p.m. TEMPLE CLEAN-UP DAY Sunday, Sept. 17, 9 a.m.noon; bring your garden tools and cleaning supplies for indoor and outdoor cleaning.
BEYT SHALOM FRIDAY: Shabbat in the Home.
OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE FRIDAY: Services, 7:30 p.m.
CHABAD HOUSE Services conducted by Rabbi Mendel Katzman. Office hours: Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-4:30 p.m. FRIDAY: Service, 7 a.m. SATURDAY: Maamar class, 9 a.m.; Service, 9:30 a.m.; Kiddush luncheon follows the service. SUNDAY: Services, 8:30 a.m.; Torah Studies-Journeys exploring the Book of Devarim (Deuteronomy), 10 a.m. WEEKDAYS: Minyan, 7 a.m. MONDAY: Halacha class, 7 p.m. TUESDAY: Women of Worth Prayer Circle, 9 a.m. Kabbalah WEDNESDAY: Circle, 7 p.m. THURSDAY: Jewish Thought, 12:45 p.m. All events and programs are open to the community. For information or to register, call 330.1800 or visit www. Ochabad.com.
ROSE BLUMKIN JEWISH HOME SATURDAY: Services, 9 a.m. led by Miles Remer.
TEMPLE ISRAEL FRIDAY: New Member Dinner, 6 p.m.; Shabbat service, 7:30 p.m.: includes the installation of Rabbi Eric Linder and honoring of new members; Oneg sponsored by Rabbi Linder’s parents, Lois and Michael Linder; SATURDAY: Sparks Beneath the Surface, 9:15-10:15 a.m.; Shabbat Morning Service, 10:30 a.m.
RELIGIOUS SCHOOL SUNDAY: Prayer Assembly, 10 a.m,; Grade 5 Parent Learning coffee with Cantor Wendy Shermet and Rosie Zweiback, Program Director, 10:30 a.m.; Steering Committee/Volunteer Corp Orientation, 11:15 a.m.; Welcome Back bbq, noon. KOL RINA Rehearsals are scheduled for Sunday, 10 a.m., and Tuesday, Sept. 12, 6:30 p.m. TUESDAY, Sept. 5: Life Long Learning, Adult B’nai Mitzvah, 6:30–8 p.m. in the Temple Israel Library. WEDNESDAY, 4-6 p.m.: Religious School begins for grades 3-6. Saturday, Sept. 16, 6 p.m.: Dinner in the youth lounge for seventh and eighth graders, followed by Slichot Service at 7 p.m., which includes the showing of The Tribe; services and a chocolate oneg follow.
NEIGHBORHOOD MINYAN FRIDAY: Services, 7:15 p.m. SATURDAY: Services, 9 a.m. No services will be held Sept. 22-Oct. 20.
TIFERETH ISRAEL Services conducted by Rabbi Royi Shaffin. Minyan, MONDAY, & THURSDAY, 9 a.m. FRIDAY: Services, 7:30 p.m. followed by a light oneg. SATURDAY: Weekly Parashat class, 8:30 a.m.; Morning service, 9:30 a.m. followed by Shabbat lunch and Talmud class. LINCOLN JEWISH COMMUNITY SCHOOL SUNDAY: Grades 2-7 at Tifereth Israel, 9:30 a.m.-noon; K-1 at South Street, 9:45 a.m.12:15 p.m., Hallah High, 10 a.m.-noon at South Street; Torah reading class, 9-10 a.m., led by Nancy Coren and Rabbi Shaffin (class also scheduled for Sept 14, 7:30 p.m., Sept. 17, 8 a.m. and Sept. 18, 7:30 p.m.). WEDNESDAY: Men’s Lunch Group will meet at the Knolls, 12:30 p.m. Contact Yale Gotsdiner at 423.7066; 4-6 p.m.: Hebrew Class for grades 2-7 Tifereth Israel. Friday, Sept. 15: New Member Shabbat dinner.
This Honey’s the Bee’s Knees
MEMORIAL SERVICES Rabbi Jonathan Gross will lead Kever Avot services on Sunday, Sept. 17, noon, at Mt. Sinai Cemetery, 78th and Crown Point
PERSONAL Our family sincerely appreciates the thoughtfulness of our relatives and friends for remembering Robert Cipinko. We thank you all, Marian Abramson, Linda Grossman, Sandford Cipinko
Members of Beth El’s Sisterhood came together on a recent Sunday morning to wrap and package bottles of honey to be delivered throughout the community for Rosh Hashanah. All proceeds from the annual honey sale benefit Sisterhood, which helps to fund youth activities, education and community/social services. Among the volunteers were: Stefani Lailari, left, Jori Kravitz, Leigh Emas, Cheryl Lerner and Patti Adler.
Pulverente MONUMENT CO.
September 8, 2006
The Culmination
SPARKS FROM THE WORD by RABBI MYER S. KRIPKE Parashat Ki Tavo What would you do if you were planning for some happy moment, if you were arranging not only your thoughts but everything you owned for the arrival of that happy day? Our ancient ancestors were in that position when they were ready to cross the Jordan, their Rubicon, and enter the Promised Land. But it wasn’t for them to plan, for they were under commitment and under command. They found that they were still not free to choose what they would do because they were told that more important than anything else was the level of their loyalty to their God. He now makes promises and warnings. The promises are brief but glorious. The warnings are dire and desperate. One is almost embarrassed at reading the calamities that would come upon Israel if their loyalty to their Divine Leader was found wanting. It is a terrible list of painful punishments. It has been suggested that the passage was written by an historian who had lived through the period, or by an historian who had read of these calamities in the distant past. And yet, and yet: the Haftara read on the Sabbath of this Sidra is the sixth of the seventh Haftarot of Comfort that run from Tisha b’Av to Rosh Hashanah. Our liturgists, thus, were men of feeling and of literary taste. They understood the effect of words. Although they were bound by the written texts before them, they knew where to choose and what to place before the people. Thus we have the continuation of choice passages from Deutero-Isaiah, the wonderful voice of the people in exile, a voice that could bring consolation even in times of trouble and unhappiness.
ADL Executive to Address Congregation During Beth El Shabbat Services by JILL BELMONT Beth El Publicity Coordinator The community is invited to join together at Beth El Synagogue for a special Shabbat service tomorrow morning, Sept. 9, 9:30 a.m., as the congregation welcomes guest speaker Rabbi Gary Bretton-Granatoor, national director of the Anti-Defamation League’s education division, based in New York City. Rabbi Bretton-Granatoor, who formerly served as ADL’s national director of interfaith affairs, will present “The Parting of the Ways and Finding a Path to Peace,” focusing on the historical relationship between Jews and Christians, as well as the direction in which that relationship is currently moving. “Christianity has called itself the wild branch grafted onto the good olive tree of Judaism, but within one cen- Rabbi Gary Bretton-Granatoor tury, enmity and misunderstanding changed the nature of our relationship,” said Rabbi Bretton-Granatoor. “Lack of knowledge about Jews and Judaism affected the early Church Fathers, from whom we see the beginnings of anti-Judaism. This anti-Judaism took on a political patina and became anti-Semitism. “Forty years ago, the Church confronted its teachings about Jews and Judaism and a new chapter in our relationship was written,” he continued, noting that during his Shabbat presentation, he will address “where we came from, where we are now and where we’re going.”
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DEATHS MARGY SCHNEIDER Margy Schneider died Aug. 29 at the age of 53. Services were held Aug. 31 at Temple Israel. A graduate of Wesleyan College and Creighton Law School, Schneider clerked for the Nebraska Supreme Court. After practicing law, she wrote plays and had one produced at the Shelterbelt Theatre. She also taught remedial English at UNO and ESL to immigrant students, as a volunteer. She is survived by her parents, Charles and Cynthia Schneider; husband, Greg Searson; sons, Jay and Todd Searson; brother, Jerry Schneider; brother and sister-inlaw, Bruce Schneider and Jenne Reichstadt of Ft. Calhoun, NE; aunts, uncles and cousins. Memorials should be designated for cancer research at UNMC or to a charity of choice. JUDI KATZ BERCK Former Omahan Judi Berck died in Des Moines, IA, on Monday at the age of 61. Services will be held today, Sept. 8, at Tifereth Israel in Des Moines. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ira Berke. She is survived by her mother, Minette Katz; sister and brother-in-law, Nancy and Norman Neinchel of San Jose, CA; sister, Betsy Katz; brother, Dr. Steve Katz of Huntington Beach, CA; brother and sister-in-law, Dr. David and Jil Katz of Orlando, FL; nieces and nephews, David and Maggie Neinchel of San Diego, CA, Beth Katz, and Daniel Katz of Orlando. Memorials to Beth El Synagogue.
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High Holiday Website Now Up and Running by ESTIE KATZMAN for Chabad of Nebraska With the approach of the High Holidays and the holidays that follow, the world’s premiere High Holiday and Sukkot site, accessible at www.ochabad.com/ NewYear, is a perfect companion and guide to the extraordinary range of traditions, practices and emotions inherent in this festive month. The megasite includes hundreds of web pages full of everything from practical how-to guides, to deep mystical and Talmudic insights, to interactive games and a searchable worldwide database of High Holiday services. Utilizing a variety of advanced web technologies and an elegant design, the Jewish New Year site provides a treasure trove of information for the Jewish year. The content is culled from more than 720 sources, ancient and contemporary, and features prayer excerpts, Bible readings, stories for children, and a thorough and exciting look at the layers upon layers of meaning associated with the holidays. In addition, the site spans the entire history of the Jewish People, citing sources and practices ranging from the biblical Patriarch Abraham to ancient Rome to Turkish Izmir in 1729 to 1890s’ Dagestan to 1950s’ Iraq to 1990s’ Jerusalem. An analysis of one of the Rosh Hashana readings yields the prayer rituals that were first introduced by a Jewish woman. Medieval philosopher Maimonides is given much play as he explains how one can make amends for past iniquities, and an “Ask the Rabbi” button allows people to get answers to all kinds of holiday questions. Beginning with the solemn judgment days of Rosh Hashanah (starts Sept. 22) and Yom Kippur (eve of Oct. 1), and on to the joy of Sukkot (eve of Oct. 6) and its apex on Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah (eve of Oct. 13), the enormous website offers the story behind the story--for the entire family.
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
September 8, 2006
JCC Gallery to Exhibit “The Life and Work of Milton Laban Wolsky, 1916-81”
Beth El Sisterhood Sponsors Health Symposium in Memory of Karin Levine
by NORMA HILT artist, Wolsky produced realism, contemThe Jewish Community Center will be porary and abstract art with the same skill displaying the works of Milton Laban and expert results. Wolsky in their Gallery through Oct. 30. In addition to painting, Wolsky was a Wolsky was born in Omaha member of the American in January of 1916 and died Federation of Mineralogical of cancer in 1981. The JCC Society. He made jewelry exhibited a portion of his from semiprecious stones. works in 1986. Now, 20 It wasn’t until his retireyears later, a complete retroment in 1978 that he was spective of Wolsky’s work able to devote all of his time will be shown in the JCC to painting. Wolsky was a Gallery. The community is member of the Society of invited to an art reception at American Illustrators, the JCC on Sunday, Sept. Watercolor Society and a fel17, 3-5 p.m. low in the International Wolsky dedicated his Institute of Arts and Letters. Milton Wolsky entire life to art. He He was listed in studied at the Art “Who’s Who in of Institute Art” from 1956 Chicago and later until his death in at the Art Students 1981. League of New He exhibited York under the his works by invitadirection of Julian tion at various Levi and Hans museums including Hofmann. From Joslyn Art Museum, 1946-54, he Rochester Art worked from a New Museum, Colorado York City studio and became one of the Springs Fine Art Center, Walker Art nation’s top illustrators, regularly appear- Center, as well as the Smithsonian ing in Time, Redbook, Collier’s, Woman’s Institute and the US Air Force Historical Home Companion and Esquire, to name a Foundation, among others. few. Despite his success in New York, he Despite this recognition, Wolsky expehad a longing to come home to the rienced little monetary gain from his art. Midwest. He personally did little, if anything, to In 1954, Wolsky purchased the J. promote his own work. He painted soleLaurie Wallace studio and returned to ly for the love of art. Omaha. He continued to earn his living For more information about the exhibwith illustrative and commercial art. it, please contact Rachel Blum, JCC However, his true love remained with Program Director, at 334.6404 or contemporary oils. A multi-talented rblum@jccomaha. org.
hopes of creating a forum by JILL BELMONT offering up-to-date informaBeth El Publicity Coordinator tion and guidance about a Beth El’s Sisterhood will myriad of health issues.” sponsor the first annual Each year’s topics will Levine Health Karin vary: this year’s symposium Symposium on Sunday, will focus on three areas: Sept. 17, 2-4 p.m. in the breast cancer, osteoporosis Jewish Community Center and menopause, according to Theatre. The symposium, chairman Carole Lainof, who created to provide education said “the whole purpose of and the most current inforthis conference will be to edumation about important Karin Levine cate women about health prohealth topics, was established in memory of Beth El congregant Karin motion, early detection and prevention.” Panelists will include a variety of healthLevine, who died last December at age 49, following a 15-year battle with cancer. care professionals from the Methodist Sisterhood President Caryn Rifkin said Health System, who will address their she came up with the idea after reading respective topics, then participate in a Joanie Jacobson’s Jewish Press article about question-answer session, Lainof noted. A reception will follow the conference. Levine, published shortly after her death. The community is welcome to attend; “I was appalled by the misinformation and misdiagnoses Karin was given when cost is $5. In addition, there will be a she first explored her symptoms,” Rifkin request for optional donations to benefit said, “and by the time they figured what the Susan G. Komen Foundation and the American Cancer Society. For informawas going on, the cancer was rampant.” Rifkin said she and the Sisterhood board tion, contact Lainof at 293.0321 or thewanted to honor Levine’s memory by lainofs@cox.net, or Rifkin at 334.7216 establishing an annual symposium, “in the or CRGR6175@ aol.com.
Challah-Thon Planned at Chabad by DIANE GRAUL Never made challah, want to make a challah as good or better than ones you purchase or does your old challah just need a new twist? Come to the ChallahThon at Chabad on Monday, Sept. 18, 6:45 to 9 p.m., for hands on learning of many ways to make challah, including the traditional round for the holidays. This Women of Worth Chabad Auxiliary program is free and open to the community. In fact, bring your daughter to learn what
goes into this Shabbat mitzvah. The recipe of the late Karin Levine will be featured. In her memory, the goal is for 40 women to attend. According to Shani Katzman, when 40 women get together and bake challah great spiritual achievements are possible as there is mystical significance in the number. A limited number of round challahs will be available for purchase. For reservations, call Kim Novak, 960.0152, or email auntiekim2@aol.com.