September 24, 2004 by Jewish Press

Vol. LXXXIV No. 3 Omaha, NE

Celebrating 83 Years of Service to Nebraska and Western Iowa

9 Tishrei, 5765 September 24, 2004

Major Events Planned as Congregation and Community Celebrate Beth El Synagogue’s 75th Anniversary Community-Wide Shabbat Celebration Marks Beginning

Sparkle and Elegance to Set Tone at Gala Celebration

by JILL BELMONT Joyful Meaning into Shabbat,” will feaBeth El Publicity Coordinator ture his infectious enthusiasm; the interBeth El Synagogue will kick off its active evening promises to be both fun year-long 75th anniversary celebration and memorable, said Pam Friedlander, with a special weekend featuring who is co-chairing the weekend’s events Omaha native Dr. Ron Wolfson, one of with her husband, Bruce, along with the country’s leaders in Bob and Sibby Wolfson Jewish family education. (brother and sister-in-law Wolfson, Dean of the of Dr. Wolfson). Center for Jewish “Some things just can’t Education at the be adequately described University of Judaism in and must be experiLos Angeles, will spend enced,” Friedlander said. the weekend of October “Sharing Shabbat with 29-31 leading workshops Ronnie is one of those and sharing a joy-filled things. His love of Shabbat celebration at Judaism and spirituality the synagogue. are electrifying; he fills Widely known for his the room with an incredinspirational and lively ible energy. presentations, Wolfson “It’s an experience no has served as a consultant one there will ever forDr. Ron Wolfson and scholar-in-residence get,” she added, “and our for synagogues throughout North hope is that after this evening, people America. In addition to being the found- will take home onto the wonderful joy ing director of the Whizin Institute for of Shabbat.” Jewish Family Education at the University Friedlander also noted that she and of Judaism, Wolfson is also the author of her co-chairs are in the process of The Art of Jewish Living series, as well as recruiting 50 host families to attend servco-editor of the1999 Jewish Book Award ices and the dinner; these families will winner, First Fruit: A Whizin Anthology of agree to host a Shabbat dinner in their Jewish Family Education. homes during the next month, inviting The entire community is invited to five people, at least one of whom is a turn Friday night into Family Night by new member (of less than two years) at experiencing “Dr. Wolfson’s One-of-a- Beth El. Kind Take-Home Shabbat Dinner,” on Host families will receive gifts bags, a Friday, Oct. 29, following 6 p.m. serv- how-to book, Shabbat CD, a tzedakah ices. Wolfson’s message, “Putting the Continued on page 4

by JILL BELMONT Beth El Publicity Coordinator Glitz, glamour and fun galore will be in abundance on Saturday, Nov. 13, as the community joins together to celebrate Beth El Synagogue’s 75th anniversary in grand style. The festive Diamond Anniversary gala celebration will begin in the synagogue’s social hall at 7 p.m. for cocktails, 8 p.m. for dinner, and will be highlighted Ann Goldstein, left, and Cheryl Cooper are chairmen of the by fine dining, music and 75th Anniversary Gala. dancing, according to Ann Goldstein, treated to Cantor Gastón Bogomolni and who is chairing the event with Cheryl some talented congregants performing with the band during several numbers. Cooper. Reminiscent of the ever-popular sup“This evening will be a non-stop celebration,” Goldstein said. “If you’ve been per clubs and college dances, a photogconnected to Beth El in any way, past or rapher will stroll through the party, present, we hope you’ll join us to mark snapping candid shots of party-goers, this wonderful milestone. If you cele- which will be available for purchase brated your Bar or Bat Mitzvah here, or before the party’s end, Goldstein said; if you or your relatives were married at Beth El’s commemorative ad book will Beth El during the past 75 years, come also be given to everyone in attendance. In addition to Goldstein and Cooper, back and celebrate with us as we roll back the clock and salute our syna- the event’s planning committee includes Eadie Tsabari, invitations; Joanie gogue’s history.” entertainment; Barbara The traditional warmth of synagogue Jacobson, nightlife will permeate the party atmos- Frankel, decorations; and Anne phere, as generations of families and Shackman, host-tables chairman. While written invitations to the friends raise a glass to toast the past, present and future of Beth El. Musical hits Diamond Anniversary Gala have been from the past seven decades will be per- sent out to Beth El congregants, formed by Pam and the Pearls, and Goldstein noted that an invitation to join Goldstein hinted that party-goers may be Continued on page 4

Rosh Hashanah in Gaza

A soldier in the Israeli Defense Force celebrates the New Year of 5765 while on duty in Gaza with a traditional taste of apples dipped in honey to signify his hopes for a happy, Copyright: ISRANET sweet (and peaceful) new year.

Inside

After Deadly School Siege in Russia, Jews Lending Survivors Helping Hand by LEV KRICHEVSKY MOSCOW (JTA)--In the aftermath of the deadly terrorist attack at a Russian school, Jews in Russia and around the world offered their help to survivors of the tragedy. Child survivors of the deadly terrorist attack at a Russian school in Beslan, where more than 300 people were killed Sept. 3, were invited to spend two weeks at a school in Israel. The ORT Yad Lvovich high school in the Israeli seaside town of Netanya invited 20 survivors of the attack to visit the school, the World ORT organization said in a news release. The Russian government is considering the invitation. Of 1,200 students in the Israeli school, 400 are from the former Soviet Union--and there are 35 Russian-speaking faculty. Robert Singer, World ORT’s director general, said the Netanya school could offer survivors of the terrorist siege a safe environment, in addition to staff experienced in helping young people through terror-related trauma. The American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee, for its part, will send a team of Israeli post-trauma experts to Beslan and will also send a group to the city to evaluate the situation. Continued on page 12

This Week: Monthly Calendar, Pages 6-7 Temple’s Reach for Success, a Success: Page 2

Public Invited to Honor Retiring Public Safety Officers by LOIS EPSTEIN Henry Monsky Lodge We don’t even know them personally. Yet, they put their lives on the line for us daily. They served, protected, and defended us from danger. And they did it for many, many years! So how do we say thank you to the police, firefighters and sheriff’s deputies for their dedication to our community? “For many years, it has been the biennial practice and privilege of Henry Monsky Lodge B’nai B’rith to hold a reception to honor the recently or about-to-be retired men and women of the Omaha Police and Fire Departments and the Douglas County Sheriff’s Department,” event chair Randy Endelman explained. “Since the events of Sept. 11, this award ceremony has taken on even greater meaning. We hope that people from all parts of the community will attend.” So with the help of committee members Gary Javitch, Dan Marburg, and Gerald Meyer, Endelman has organized a recognition award reception to be held on Sunday, Oct. 3, 2 p.m., at the Jewish Community Center. Speakers include the mayor, members of the city council and other public officials. The public is invited. Certificates of appreciation will be handed out to the retirees at that time. Great Western Bank and Grace-Mayer Insurance helped underwrite the event.

Coming Next Month: Salute to Education and Camping: Oct. 22

Malashocks Relay Thoughts on Hosting IDF: Page 3

Aron Neesman Wins URJ Award: Page 5

Yom Kippur Schedule at Area Synagogues: Page 10

Page 2

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 24, 2004

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“Reach for Success” Continues to Motivate Student Achievement by CLAUDIA SHERMAN month of October. If we read our 10 books, we got a Temple Israel Communications Coordinator popsicle. Thank you for all the things.” Since 2001, Temple Israel’s Social Justice Committee “We had Parent Teacher Conferences. All of our parhas been helping students at Lothrop Magnet Center, an ents were there! We had a blast at our popcorn party!” Omaha Public School (OPS) for pre-kindergartners wrote another. through fourth graders, and OPS’s Castelar Academy to A teacher told Friedman, “My special education stuachieve attendance and academic goals. dents earn rewards--incentives for various things such Reach for Success, funded by a donation to Temple’s as being kind to others, work completion, trying their Mitzvah Fund from the Ike and Roz Friedman Family best, and getting homework done. The children really Foundation, is an incentive program that lets the teachers know that “someone in the community appreciates what they’re doing,” said Shari Hess, a member of Temple’s Social Justice Committee who was an instructional facilitator at Castelar last year. Now that she’s retired, Hess will coordinate Reach to Success as a volunteer at Castelar. “Test scores and attendance at Castelar continue to improve,” Hess reported. “Our goals continue to be based on academics and attendance. The academic goals vary from class to class and grade to grade. For example, one kindergarten classroom had ten words each month that the students learned to read and spell,” she explained. “One fourth grade had a goal to write and publish one story per week.” She noted that the money donated by Roz Kathy Sargent, left, a teacher at Castelar Academy, with her fifth grade stuFriedman to buy incentives for the children dents look over some of the incentive prizes funded by Reach for Success. was also used to buy materials and refreshments for after-school and for evening activities for par- enjoy these self-motivating activities. They enjoy workents. “We also used it to supply materials for the par- ing toward a certain reward.” ent/student dual language meetings and pre-school A second grade teacher wrote that her students set honors assembly. All of the fourth and third graders goals and accomplish those goals which “give them a went bowling to celebrate their successes on district sense of pride. Hopefully, the goal setting will follow required tests.” them throughout life. Thank you for helping me do a Gina Fitzpatrick, magnet coordinator and instruction- better job.” al facilitator at Lothrop, described the success of the “Financially, it is hard supplying monthly rewards on program at her school. “We used the money for citi- a teacher’s salary,” added a third grade teacher. zenship, reading, and math goals. The students did “Thanks to your generous donation to Castelar, I’ve wonderfully!” All the grade levels showed increases in seen sparkling eyes and determined spirits! You truly their scores on state tests and standardized tests and are making a positive change in our students and staff. were treated to ice cream sundae and pizza celebra- I thank you from the bottom of my heart.” tions, field trips to the zoo, bowling, and roller skating. Hess also was grateful for the donation of books by “When the kids set their own goals, they really work Women of Reform Judaism from their August Used hard to meet them,” Fitzpatrick remarked. Book Sale. The books were used by 54 students In letters to Friedman from the children, one student enrolled in a summer program. “Each one of those chilwrote: “You are kind and generous too! We had a hot dren took home two books. This is so important for our cocoa party! We had a pizza party! We earned stickers! students,” Hess emphasized, “because many of them We promise to work hard everyday.” have no English books in their homes. They were so Another student wrote: “Thank you for the popsicles. excited choosing their books. I wish you could have Our class goal was that we had to read 10 books in the seen the looks on their faces.”

Friedel Hosts Annual Open House by JORDANA L. KURTZMAN “I have the children work for Friedel Jewish Academy in pairs for some of their Friedel’s recent event proassignments,” she vided parents with an explained, “and Davida opportunity to discuss the Halev and Mika Caplan curriculum their children were working together on will be learning this year, as their addition problems. At well as a chance to look first I just thought they were over the new books and going over the math, but course materials to be used then I realized that they by the teachers. Principal were discussing the math Cookie Katskee was thrilled problems entirely in to see nearly every family Hebrew!” represented at the school Mika’s mother, Na’ava that night. She credits the Students at Friedel Jewish Academy line up for a picture on Naslavsky-Caplan, concurs wonderful turnout to the the first day of school. with Sather’s enthusiasm, “loving and nurturing environment” the school imparts adding that the “Hebrew and love of Judaism taught on the children and their families. here is deeply rooted within the Friedel students and Diana Zeman, the school’s kindergarten teacher, told their families.” the parents--many of them new parents of Friedel stuThe parents who visited Denise Bennett’s classroom dents--about everything ranging from her student's got to see how their fourth, fifth, and six grade students daily routine to how the children earn beans for good were working on deciphering the setting, plot, and behavior to trade in for prizes at the end of the week. characters of books they read recently. Students had She also discussed how she works with the Judaic stud- their parents take a quiz to see how well they knew ies teachers to connect the secular curriculum with their own sons and daughters, answering questions Jewish holidays. about favorite foods, books, and movies. Some stuStacie Brodkey, mother of student Benjamin, was dents were surprised to find that their parents knew very pleased with the Open House, saying she “learned them better than they even knew themselves, offering a lot about what Benjamin does” during his school day. proof that their child’s favorite ice cream was Cherry Barb Sather, who teaches the first, second, and third Garcia, rather than Neapolitan. grades, discussed homework expectations and about Families interested in visiting Friedel can call how the children themselves integrate their Judaic and Administrative Assistant, Mary Jane Tweedy, for more secular studies without prompting from the teachers. information at 334.0517.

September 24, 2004

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 3

If You Can’t Bring the People to Israel, Bring Israel to the People… Goodbye Seems So Final; How About: to Be Continued…?

by LARRY MALASHOCK that their child will sleep safely tonight. I came home from work not long ago and was asked The good-bye letter our ‘boys’ wrote to us said by my wife if we could house a couple of Israeli sol- (among a number of other personal thoughts) “We can by DIANE MALASHOCK diers for a week. Of course I knew the decision had honestly say we now have family in Omaha.” These were our words that we expressed to our boys already been made and the question was strictly proCoincidentally, we wrote letters to each of them and posed to make me feel like I had a say in the matter. I said we now have family in Israel. How are you sup- (the Israel Defense Forces soldiers who were in can’t say exactly what went through my mind except posed to feel when you have to say good-bye to your Omaha, sponsored by the Jewish Federation of Omaha that I have learned to pick my battles and this didn’t child, yet you’re not sure when you will see him again? Annual Campaign), as they were getting ready to leave us. What follows were seem like the time to go to war as I was unprepared. I I’m not sure if anyone knew what would excerpts from personal letsaid sure--yet I had reservations. be accomplished by bringing the IDF solters we wrote to them. I am a lifelong Jew with no attachment to Israel save diers here, but for Diane and me, it “When you have your first for the fact that I am Jewish and Israel is the only touched us more than a trip to the Holy child and you are thinking Jewish state outside of New York--and I have no great Land. You go to Israel and marvel and about having another, you love for New York. I have never made the trip to Israel wonder. You walk the ancient byways, buy wonder how can I love and my views of the Middle East have been sculpted by stuff, take pictures and eat. Then you go another child? Well, you NBC, CNN, the World-Herald, discussions with home. Granted, you see the stress and the have your next child and acquaintances, and even Al-Jazeera. I paid to have different culture in which Israelis live, but you are amazed at how some trees planted somewhere, but that was about the you come home and look at pictures. much you can love them extent of my Israel connection. Sometimes the lasting impression is a litboth. Who would have What do I know about Israel that is factual? Essentially nothing first hand--as is probably the case with most Above: Larry Malashock, left, and his wife, Diane, played host to Capt. Eyal Ofir, and Lt. A, right. thought that after having American Jews. All I really know is that Israel seems to Below left: All four IDF soldiers hug Buddy Goldstein, left, and his wife, Shirley, goodbye. Right: three children of our own, be fighting a battle that can never be won--only main- Diane Malashock chats with Marty and Iris Ricks at one of the IDF presentations, while husband we found room for four more ‘boys’ in our hearts?” tained--as there are hundreds of millions of Arabs who Larry, in back, shows Bobbi Leibowitz to a seat. Their visit has touched us want to see its “My parents are from New York and in such a way that words demise. On made aliyah in 1970, so I have been cannot describe. Now that paper, the Arabs should to the United States many times. This their visit has come to an be able to win visit to the Omaha Jewish community end, our hearts are heavy. eventually by is by far the most meaningful experi- They will be in our thoughts and prayers daily. We will attrition. In ence I’ve ever had with Jews in the never look at the news from addition, I felt Diaspora. I will never forget your Israel without thinking of the political kindness and warmth and look forthem. We added quite a few and power memories of the week and a structures preward to meeting you all again in lot of private “inside jokes”. clude peace unless an event of either miraculous or cata- tle more intense. Israel.” Lt. A., 24, a Blackhawk heliLarry and I have never strophic proportion occurs. For us, however, we have made the copter pilot, participates in search been to Israel, never really So now I get to have some of these battle-hardened intense emotional connection to the and rescue operations. had a desire to go--until front-line soldiers in my house for a week--what did I Israeli people first. This was not like a now. It hasn’t yet been 24 expect? Not what we got. I’m still not sure, but some- connection that comes from having a how I was ready to welcome some Israeli mouthpieces common religion or a parlor meeting conversation soon hours since we have let them leave our lives and we who would be here to help raise funds for their war to be forgotten, but an understanding that our boys are talking of a trip to see our “Boys.” Thank you to the Jewish Federation of Omaha for giveffort. I expected kind of mini-propaganda ministers (yes our boys) are fighting the fight of their lives for who are experts in both public relations and in killing their country and since they are “our boys”--I must sup- ing us a week of our lives and bringing to us a stronger commitment to the Jewish community of Omaha and a tie at close range. And they were going to be sleeping port them and all they represent. to Israel and our four “Boys”. under my roof? I guess I could tolerate that for a week. Their fight has become ours. After all--it’s for the community. The first time I saw Oren, Nimrod, and Eyal, and “Lt. A” (so named because we can’t publish his name or photo as he’s an Air Force pilot), I thought they could be any of our children and had kind of a nervous manner to them. Not aloof, but very aware, quiet and observational. Definitely not the polished outgoing P.R. guys. Nimrod and Oren were not feeling well and I found out that none of them were quite sure what they were supposed to do or say. In addition, English was a bit of a challenge for them, yet they were expected to convert some pretty difficult thoughts into English--a language not native to any of them. We took Lt. A and Eyal home, introduced them to both Q. Who is eligible? Q. Who wins? our son, who’s still around, and our dog, showed them A. Jewish Omaha high school students in A. The four contestants scoring the most where to put their stuff and then wondered, “now what?” A. grades 9-12. A. points. Most of their time in Omaha was spent doing the

Jewish Omaha Teens Can Win Big $$$ $600 • $350 • $250 • $125 Enter the 19th Annual Edward Zorinsky B’nai B’rith

Bible Quiz Contest

same thing over and over with different groups of people--relating stories of what it’s like to be in the military in and near the Gaza Strip. Rehashing the stories of personal challenge, tragedy and grief over and over during the day allowed them to use the time with Diane and me for decompression and relaxation. They were at war the day before they came here; they will be at war the day after they leave and they were discussing the war all day while they were here. The nights were to forget the war and be boys (young men--sorry, guys!) And that was the time we got to have them. They just wanted to be ordinary boys (young men) yet they have done and seen things I hope I never do. They are young enough to enjoy listening to Eminem and play on our Playstation II, yet they are also willing to jump into a life and death struggle if need be on a moments notice. Our time together enabled them to just “be”. We bonded with and opened up to each other in a manner that was totally unexpected--so much so, that we cried when it was time for them to go. What was the reason for such profound sadness? There is now a face on the news out of Gaza. If I hear that a Blackhawk went down or a ship has been attacked, I will find out who and where. Even Oren and Nimrod touched us to the point that I want to see them finish their tour safely and get out (and come back to visit us on their post-tour travels), as parents praying

Q. What Bible subjects? A. All quiz questions will be based on the A. Books of Leviticus chapters 11, 19, 23, 25; A. Numbers chapters 11-25, 27, 32, 35, 36; A. and the entire Book of Esther. Q. What are the prizes? A. $600, 1st prize; $350, 2nd prize; $250, A. 3rd prize; $125; 4th prize. (Applicable to A. college tuition, an approved trip to Israel or A. an approved camp or educational program A. sponsored by a Jewish organization). A. Extra cash prizes paid at the quiz: $25, 1st A. place; $10 to all contestants who correctly A. answer three questions.

Q. Where and when? A. At the JCC, Wednesday, December 8, 2004, A. 7 p.m. Q. How to enter? A. Submit entry to the B’nai B’rith office at the A. JCC by November 1, 2004. Q. Can you practice before the quiz? A. Practice sessions will be scheduled and A. sample questions will be given. Q. Do you have any more questions? A. Call Steven Riekes, 333-8498 or Lois A. Epstein, 334-6443.

Sponsored by Henry Monsky Lodge B’nai B’rith This contest is designed for all Jewish high school students. The only requirement is to read the specified chapters in the Books of Leviticus and Numbers and the entire Book of Esther.

Entry Form Name of Contestant ______________________________________________________________________ Parents Name __________________________________________________________________________ Address _________________________________________ Zip _________ Phone ____________________ School ____________________________________________________________ Grade ______________ Return form to: B’nai B’rith Office, 333 South 132 Street, Omaha, NE 68154

Page 4

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 24, 2004

Visions: Discover the Fun

IN THE NEWS Robert Dustin Epstein, son of Gary and Lisa Epstein, has been named an escort for the upcoming AkSar-Ben coronation ball on Oct. 16. A senior at the University of Wisconsin, Robbie is a member of the Pre-law Society and volunteers for Turning Point Mentoring. He also served as a special assistant to Wisconsin Lt. Gov. Barbara Lawton and interned for Sen. Herb Kohl. The Sixth Annual Central High School Hall of Fame dinner, scheduled for Oct. 7, will honor 11 Central grads, including former Omahan Harry Friedman. Executive Producer of the top two syndicated television programs, Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy!, Friedman got his start in tv on Hollywood Squares in 1971. Friedman has garnered 24 Emmy nominations and won six. He lives in Los Angeles, CA, with his wife, Judy. Reservations, due by Sept. 27, can be made by sending a check for $40 per person to: CHS Foundation, Hall of Fame Dinner, PO Box 31610, Omaha, NE 68131-0610. For information, call 758.9247 or 397.4444. Judith Mayotte, PhD will be the keynote speaker at the annual fall luncheon of the Women’s Fund of Greater Omaha. Prof. Mayotte will speak on “Creative Leadership in the 21st Century” at the event on Thursday, Oct. 21, 11:30 a.m. at the Holiday Inn Central. For ticket information, call 827.9280.

ARTS &ENTERTAINMENT The Omaha Symphony is offering specially priced tickets for military personnel and their dependents at its opening Light Classics and Family Series with “From Russia with Love” on Oct. 9, 7:30 p.m. at the Orpheum and “Kids’ Movie Music” on Oct. 10, 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. at the Rose Theatre, as well as on all concert tickets throughout the 2004-05 season. For ticket information, call the box office at 342.3560 or visit www.omahasymphony.com.

Ah, the spirit of adventure. Visionaires recently enjoyed a day trip to Nebraska City. Participants enjoyed beautiful weather while they toured the city, the new Missouri River Basin Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, Arbor Farms and enjoyed lunch at the Lied Conference Center. Jerry Zeffren, left, Esther Wax, Doris and Lewis Izenstat, Rosalyn Zeffren, Sylvia Swartz, Doris and Harry Alloy, Betty Sanford, Sylvia Davis, Jim Wax, Ethel Goldston, Ethel Grossman, Sally Masnek, Esther Simon, Rose Pitlor, Maggie Conti and Joe Frank were among the group.

JWI Hosts Mah Jongg Tournament by ROSALIE GREENSPAN for Jewish Women International Once again, Jewish Women International will sponsor its annual Mah Jongg tournament will be on Sunday, Oct. 10, 12:30 p.m., at the Jewish Community Center. Registration will start at noon, with play commencing a half hour later, The entrance fee is $18; refreshments will be served and tournament and door prizes awarded, To register, send check payable to JWI by Tuesday, Oct. 4, to: me at 8108 Howard, Omaha, NE 68114, or Esther Wax, 118 So. 88 St., Omaha, NE 68114; or call us at: 391.1954 or 393.4442. Your place will be reserved upon receipt of your check. If you can provide a Mah Jongg set and/or table- Practicing are: Esther Wax, left, Corinne cloth, please Levin, Rosalie Greenspan, and Frieda call me or Krizelman. Not pictured: Beth Friedman, Esther Wax. Allison Latenser, and Sally Masnek.

Beth El’s 75th Anniversary Community-wide Shabbat

Gala Celebration

Continued from page 1 box and Shabbat candles to get them started,” she said. During Shabbat services Saturday morning, Oct. 30, Wolfson will present a D’var Torah regarding “The Future of Beth El,” and will lead the blessings and singing during a festive Kiddush luncheon following services. He will also participate in a Saturday evening retreat for Beth El Board members, to discuss “Synagogue Reinvention;” and will lead the “Art of Jewish Living” workshop, on Sunday, Oct. 31, 11 a.m. to noon, for Beth El’s Sisterhood, Hazak, Men’s Club and parents; from noon to 1 p.m. for educators. Cost of the Friday night Shabbat dinner is $15 for adults; $7.50 for children ages 6-12; no charge for children five and younger. Reservations are needed and may be made by sending a check to Beth El, 14506 California St., Omaha NE 68154. For information, please call Pam Friedlander at 334.8773.

Continued from Page 1 in the festivities is extended to the entire community; those wanting additional information about the evening may call her at 391.1050, or Cooper at 391.7514. Admission/categories include: Silver Patrons (under age 35), $50; Gold Patrons, $75; Platinum Patrons, $150; Diamond Anniversary Patrons, $375. Deadline for reservations is Nov. 1; friends’ and families’ seating requests will be honored. “This is a time to bring people together who have been connected to Beth El, to honor the synagogue’s role in the Jewish community for the past 75 years. What better way to do that than by joining with friends for an evening of great food, music and dancing?” Cooper asked. “This is our diamond anniversary--everyone’s going to have the chance to sparkle.”

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Aron Neesman Wins Award from Union of Reform Judaism by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Temple Israel Communications Coordinator Aron Neesman is one of two students in the United States to be recognized by the Union for Reform Judaism (URJ) Department of Lifelong Jewish Learning for his intention to make learning a lifelong habit. He received the Kavanah Award, the first time it has ever been bestowed. Among other achievements, Neesman was commended for completing 50 hours of Jewish study and action subsequent to his Confirmation at Temple Israel in May. He wrote about his experience as a member of Omaha Temple Youth Group (OTYG) and his plans to pursue an undergraduate degree in Aron Neesman Judaic Studies and Education. He then plans to study to become a rabbi. Rabbi Aryeh Azriel described Neesman as a young man with “a burning desire in his heart to make the world around him a better place.” A spring graduate of Westside High School, Neesman is attending the University of Missouri in Kansas City this fall. He plans to major in theater with a minor in Judaic studies. “I’ve been looking at becoming a rabbi since I was five,” the 18-year-old recalled. “I can’t see myself doing anything else.” He said he enjoys helping people learn about God and discover the different aspects of Judaism. Neesman attended religious school from kindergarten through twelfth grade at Temple where he became a Bar Mitzvah in 1999 and was confirmed. He has been active in OTYG since he was a high school freshman serving as co-religious and cultural vice president, writing Shabbat and havdalah services, and attending numerous North American Federation of Temple Youth Missouri Valley conclaves. He has worked as an aide for a Temple Religious School student who is disabled, a teacher’s assistant, and an office manager throughout his high school years. Neesman’s community service activities include participating in Temple’s Mitzvah Day, helping at Special Olympics events, Environmental Interact, and paper recycling. He is also active in Boy Scouts and as an actor in several Westside High productions. “I was impressed with your level of involvement as well as your enthusiasm,” wrote Marilynn Yentis, chair of URJ’s Lifelong Jewish Learning Committee when she congratulated Neesman. “I hope that you enjoy this exciting and fulfilling part of your lifelong Jewish journey and that you continue to pursue your interests in Jewish education and the rabbinate. It is inspiring to hear the stories of committed young people such as yourself.” Neesman was awarded $250 to attend a Kesher national event. Kesher is the campus-based program of URJ’s College Department. Kesher works in partnership with Hillel and other organizations on college campuses and offers national leadership events and trips to Israel as well as other places.

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ORGANIZATIONS LOMIR REDN YIDDISH We are playing Yiddish Bingo--Oivai. Come to the Yiddish meeting at the JCC in the Social Hall on Thursdays, 1-3 p.m. Call Anne Skolkin at 343.1638 for information. No class on Sept. 30. VISIONS Reminder: Visions Board Meeting is Friday, Oct. 1, 9:30 a.m. in the Blumkin Home conference room. Magical Mystery Trip is Thursday, Oct. 14. Cost is $30 per person includes coach bus, lunch, tax, tip. Sign up for an unexpected adventure. Depart from the JCC at 9 a.m. and return by approximately 3 p.m. Make checks payable to Visions and send with reservations to: Harry Alloy, 11317 Harney Plz. Cir., Omaha, NE 68154 by Oct. 4. JEWISH SENIOR SERVICES Join us for a Grandparents’ Day Celebration on Sunday, Sept. 26, 1:30-3:30 p.m. Family fun for the entire family is sponsored by League Offering Volunteers for the Elderly (L.O.V.E.) and JSS. There is no admission charge. The Omaha Intergeneration Orchestra, a group of 40 musicians conducted by Chuck Penington, will perform. Wildlife Encounters will bring unique animals to engage children of all ages. Joe Cole, an award winning magician form Omaha, will provide entertainment. A professional photographer will take family photos for a nominal fee. For information, call Lois Wine at 334.6519. An Autumn Affair with the Omaha Municipal Orchestra is Tuesday, Oct. 5, 7 p.m. at the JCC. Music for the body, mind and soul includes overtures by Shostakovich, Mozart and Tchaikovsky. Call Maggie Conti at 334.6521 for reservations. There is no charge. B’NAI B’RITH BREADBREAKERS BBYO Director Rachel Blum and newly-arrived Israeli Shaliach (literally “messenger”) Uri Levin will be the guest speakers at Breadbreakers on Wednesday, Sept. 29 noon, at the Park Inn Regency, according to Gary Javitch. They will discuss Levin’s role in the community. Cost is $10 for lunch and $2 for beverage service only. Breadbreakers is open to the community. TORAH LEARNING CENTER (TLC) Classes will resume the week of Oct. 18 following the Jewish holidays and are taught by Rabbi Tuvia Hoffman. Mondays, 7:30 p.m.: “Kosher Kitchen”--Learn the laws of keeping kosher. No prior knowledge necessary. Beginner and Advanced students will gain from this class at the home of Rabbi and Ariella Hoffman. Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m.: “Growth Through Torah”-Personal Growth through studying Jewish philosophy from the Torah. located at a private residence. Wednesdays, noon: “Maximize Your Relationships”-explore your relationships through Torah wisdom in the Omaha Room of the JCC. Thursdays, 1 p.m.: “Meaning of Life and Other Business”--based on the Kabbalistic text Way of G-d by Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzatto at the JCC; at 7:30 p.m. at the JCC, learn to read Hebrew in just a few weeks in our Crash Course in Hebrew Reading, sponsored by NJOP. For information, call 981.0569.

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

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All events held at the Jewish Community Center unless otherwise noted. This calendar does not include all community events. For a complete listing, visit the Federationâ€™s website: www.jewishomaha.org (click on calendar). To keep calendar accurate, call Marlene Hert at 334-6437. The Jewish Press is not responsible for the accuracy of the below events.

(Editorâ€™s note: Because of the full calendar for this month, classes are only listed the first time they are scheduled; for a complete schedule, call the sponsoring organization or cynagogue.) SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 JCC CLOSED FOR YOM KIPPUR SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 Sukkah Building, 8 a.m. at Beth El Candidates Forum, 10 a.m. at Temple Israel Bâ€™nai Bâ€™rith Sukkah Decorating, 11:30 a.m. Grandparents Day Intergenerational Concert, 1 p.m. Sukkah Decorating, 4 p.m. at Beth El MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 JELS Teacher Training, 7 p.m. TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 28 Women of Worth, 9 a.m. at Chabad BBYO Chapter Elections, 6 p.m. Federation Executive Committee Meeting, 6 p.m. Adult Education, 6 p.m. at Temple Israel Federation Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m. WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 29 Maimonides Class, 11 a.m. JCC CLOSED AT 6 P.M. FOR SUKKOT Sukkot Family Box Dinner & Service, 6:30 p.m. at Temple Israel THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 30 JCC CLOSED FOR SUKKOT FRIDAY, OCTOBER 1 JCC OPEN/FEDERATION OFFICES CLOSED FOR SUKKOT Visions Board Meeting, 9:30 a.m. SUNDAY, OCTOBER 3, Congregation Sukkot Party, noon at Beth El Bâ€™nai Bâ€™rith Policeman/Fireman Recognition, 2 p.m. Community Wide Simchat Beit HaShoeva Sukkah Party, 4 p.m. at Chabad House New Member Reception, 7 p.m. at Temple Israel

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 5 TLC â€œGrowth Through Torahâ€?, 7 p.m., call for location BBYO Chapter Elections, 6 p.m. JSS Concert, 7 p.m. WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 6 TLC â€œMaximize Your Relationshipsâ€? Class, noon Youth Group Dinner, 6 p.m. at Temple Israel Consecration & Service, 7 p.m. at Temple Israel THURSDAY, OCTOBER 7 JCC OPEN/FEDERATION OFFICES CLOSED FOR SHEMINI ATZERET Simchat Torah Ice Cream Social, 7 p.m. at Beth El Celebrate Simchat Torah, 7:30 p.m. at Beth Israel FRIDAY, OCT 8 JCC OPEN/FEDERATION OFFICES CLOSED FOR SIMCHAT TORAH Scholar-in-Residence Al Vorspan, 7:30 p.m. at Temple Israel SATURDAY, OCTOBER 9 Scholar-in-Residence Al Vorspan, 10:30 a.m. at Temple Israel Maâ€™agal Haâ€™rav with Al Vorspan (Gr. 7-12), 2:30 p.m. at Temple Israel SUNDAY, OCTOBER 10 Scholar-in-Residence Al Vorspan, 10 a.m. at Temple Israel Mah Jongg Tournament, noon MZ Yoshanah Gallery Reception, 2 p.m. MONDAY, OCTOBER 11 ADL PEW Facilitator Training, 4:30 p.m. NCJW Book Club, 7 p.m. Jewish Press Committee Meeting, 7:30 p.m. TUESDAY, OCTOBER 12 BBYO Night, 6 p.m. Bâ€™nai Bâ€™rith Membership Appreciation Nite, 6 p.m. at DJâ€™s Dugout Executive Committee Meeting, 7 p.m. at Beth El WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 13 Rabbis & Presidents Meeting, noon Hadassah HMO Program, 7 p.m. Leon Wieseltier, 7 p.m. at Temple Israel Kabbalistic Journeys, 7 p.m. at Chabad House

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 24, 2004

Opinion Our Apologies, Dear Reader Yom Kippur is a strange holiday. It’s the only day of the Jewish year when Jews are obligated to pray five times, instead of the usual three. Some scholars even argue that Yom Kippur’s rigorous prayer schedule is where Muslims got the idea that they should pray five times--every day. Not only are there extra services, each service is longer, filled with numerous “Al Cheits”, asking forgiveness for the sins we have committed. So, with apologies (and thanks) to the Dallas Jewish Week for their original editorial “Forgive Us, Pardon Us,” in the Oct. 2, 2003, issue...the Jewish Press makes atonement, too. Al cheit shechatanu, For the sin which we committed by spelling your name incorrectly, And for the sin of leaving it out altogether. For the sin which we committed by printing too many left wing opinion pieces. And for the sin of printing too many right wing editorials. For the sin which we committed of writing too many local stories and not enough about Israel, And for the sin of publishing too many stories about Israel and not enough local ones. For the sin which we committed by printing too many stories about the same people, And for the sin of writing stories about people you don’t know. For the sin which we committed by publishing too many stories about Jews in other countries, And for the sin of not printing enough stories about Jews in other countries. For the sin which we committed by publishing your Bar Mitzvah notice a week late (even though we only received it a day before going to press), And for the sin of having to edit your Bar Mitzvah announcement due to space restrictions. For the sin which we committed by losing your phone message, And for the sin of not calling you back promptly.

(Founded in 1920)

For the sin which we committed (through the US Post Office) by failing to deliver your Press on time, And for the sin of not changing your address quickly enough to avoid your Press being forwarded yet another week. For the sin which we committed by not covering your organization’s event, And for the sin of covering your organization’s event, but not giving it the space or placement you assumed you’d get. For the sin of publishing editorials or cartoons which offend you, And for the sin of publishing too few editorials with which you agree. For the sin which we committed by printing too many stories about the Federation and not enough stories about your synagogue, favorite Center of Excellence or the Jewish organization in which you’re involved, And for the sin of printing too many about the Centers of Excellence and someone else’s synagogue and not enough about the Federation. For the sin which we committed by printing too many stories about one synagogue or organization, And for the sin of not printing enough stories about other synagogues or organizations (even if we didn’t have any to print). For the sin which we committed of not interviewing you in either the New Year’s or Passover issue, And for the sin of repeatedly requesting an interview from those of you who aren’t interested. For the sin which we committed by publishing articles that are too long, And for the sin of publishing those that don’t give enough information. For the sin which we committed by printing columnists whose writing you don’t enjoy. And for the sin of not publishing your cousin’s (father’s, sister’s, nextdoor-neighbor’s) article.

For the sin of being too serious, And the sin of being too irreverent. For the sin of trying to run the Jewish Press like a business, And for the sin of accepting advertisements which offend you. For the sin of making any error at all, And for the sin of bringing attention to the error by printing a correction. For all these sins, dear reader: salach lanu, mechal lanu, kaper lanu--forgive us, pardon us, grant us atonement. We hope all of us in the Jewish community will have a year of peace and prosperity, a year of good health and happiness. May we all try to do better, smile more, be slow to anger and quick to forgive. May peace come to Omaha, the United States, Israel and the world. Amen.

orate wandering in the desert. In graduate school, where I first learned of the scholarly approach to religion, I learned that the tradition of the booths on Succot had an agricultural origin: farmers would build little shacks in order to afford themselves some shade when they rested from their work in the fields. Back when I studied this, such an explanation seemed about as remote from my life as a people wandering in the desert for 40 years. Since I have moved to Givat Ze’ev, however, this agricultural custom has come alive for me.

made out of any number of materials: stone, wood, cloth, tarp. The huts are not meant to withstand storms, since the year’s farm-work will be over by the time the rainy season comes. The main thing is that the huts produce shade (interesting side point: according to Jewish law, one of the key requirements for a succah is that it contain more shade than sun). After viewing these ancient-yet-contemporary huts, one is urged toward the following conclusion: just as great novelists often make stories out of the raw fabric of their lives, so the Jews utilized their lives as farmers as a basis for their religious imagination. The scholarly theory of the succah’s origin can not be proved. But it’s important to note that a person can accept this origin and still keep the tradition religiously, since one thing is in fact clear: unlike the “historical” origin, the conception of Succot as “harvest holiday” (a traditional name for this festival) is open to all. Because let’s not forget: it is only through religious belief that one can imagine the booths of the Children of Israel wandering in the desert some 3,300 years ago. Yet when going home to Givat Ze’ev, no belief is required to see the importance of the succah: you just have to open your eyes and look around. Happy Holiday.

Editorial The Jewish Press is a Constitutional Committee of the Jewish Federation of Omaha. Deadline for copy, ads and photos is: Thursday, noon, eight days prior to publication. E-mail editorial material and photos to: ckatzman@jewishomaha.org; send ads (in .TIF or .PDF format) to: rbusse@jewishomaha.org.

Sitting in Booths

JOURNAL ENTRY FROM ISRAEL by TEDDY WEINBERGER Living in Israel does not just make traditional Judaism come fully alive—it also makes scholarly criticism of that tradition come alive as well. An excellent example of this may be found in the tradition of sitting in ‘booths” for the week-long holiday of Succot, which begins this year on Wednesday night Sept. 29. Scholars view the agricultural underpinnings of the major festivals in Judaism as key to the origin of each holiday. Like many peoples, the Jews depended on agriculture for their sustenance, and it thus comes as no anthropological surprise to find that the Jews, just like other peoples, tied their ethnic celebrations to the agricultural calendar. Passover is the Jewish spring holiday, Pentecost is the early harvest holiday, and Succot is the late harvest holiday. What makes each holiday particularly “Jewish” is that, according to scholars, at a certain point in time religious-historical meanings were overlaid onto the national agricultural holidays. Thus, the spring holiday also became the holiday to commemorate the Exodus from Egypt; Pentecost also became the holiday to commemorate the giving of the Torah, and Succot also became the holiday to commem-

...just as great novelists often make stories out of the raw fabric of their lives, so the Jews utilized their lives as farmers as a basis for their religious imagination. Arab-worked fields that I pass on the way to and from Jerusalem are a throwback to ancient times (I recently saw a farmer irrigating his crops by carrying buckets of water and pouring the water out by hand). And wouldn’t you know it, there on those Arab fields, a succah occasionally appears. The whole thing now makes perfect sense. There are few trees around, the sun is scorching, and any small amount of shade provides welcome relief. The Arab huts look to be pretty ramshackle,

Joanie Jacobson Chairman Carol Katzman Editor Richard Busse Creative Director Allan Handleman Advertising Manager Ray Pred Account Executive Timothy J. Ketelsen Bookkeeper Lori Kooper-Schwarz Production Assistant Jewish Press Committee Howard K. Marcus, Vice-Chairman; Bobbi Leibowitz, Secretary; Scott Meyerson, Finance Chairman; Steve Simon, Treasurer; Fred Tichauer, Immediate Past-chairman; Jean Duitch; Penny Endelman; Kip Gordman; Stanley Mitchell; George Quittner; Linda Saltzman; Joey Shyken; Michael Siegal; Nancy Skid; and Melany Weinstein. The role of the Jewish Federation of Omaha is to involve Jews in meeting Jewish communal needs locally, nationally and in Israel. Centers of Excellence of the Federation are: Community Relations, Jewish Community Center, Jewish Educational and Library Services, Jewish Family Service, and Jewish Senior Services. The Jewish Press and the Foundation are constutional committees of the Jewish Federation. Editorials express the view of the writer and are not necessarily representative of the views of the Jewish Press Committee, the Jewish Federation of Omaha or the Omaha Jewish community as a whole. The Jewish Press reserves the right to edit signed letters and articles for space and content. The Jewish Press is not responsible for the Kashrut of any product or establishment.

Teddy Weinberger made aliyah to Israel with his wife, former Omahan Sara Ross, and their five children. He can be reached at: weinross@netvision.net.il.

Letters to the Editor Guidelines The Jewish Press welcomes Letters to the Editor. They may be sent via regular mail to: The Jewish Press, 333 So. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68154; via fax: 1-402-334-5422 or via e-mail to the Editor at: ckatzman@jewishomaha.org.. Letters should be no longer than 250 words and must be singlespaced typed, not hand-written. Published letters should be confined to opinions and comments on articles or events. News items should not be submitted and printed as a “Letter to the Editor.” The Editor may edit letters for content and space restrictions, but should be printed as soon as possible to ensure timeliness. Letters may be published without giving an opposing view. Information shall be verified before printing. All letters must be signed by the writer, but the name can be withheld at the writer’s request. No letters should be published from candidates running for office, but others may write on their behalf. Letters of thanks should be confined to commending an institution for a program, project or event, rather than personally thanking paid staff, unless the writer chooses to turn the “Letter to the Editor” into a paid personal ad or a news article about the event, project or program which the professional staff supervised. For more information, contact Carol Katzman, Jewish Press Editor, 402.334.6450. Postal The Jewish Press (USPS 275620) is published weekly on Friday for $31 per calendar year U.S.; $35 foreign, by the Jewish Federation of Omaha. Phone: 402.334.6448; FAX: 402.334.5422. Periodical postage paid at Omaha, NE. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The Jewish Press, 333 So. 132nd St., Omaha, NE 68154-2198 or e-mail to: jpress@jewishomaha. org.

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September 24, 2004

The 24/7 Togetherness Dilemma STAYING IN TOUCH by OZZIE NOGG My husband Don and I recently celebrated our 50th wedding anniversary. What a joyous, magical time it was --a collective love-in filled with nostalgia and parties and the warmth of precious family and friends. Both of us were higher than kites. But what goes up must come down, right? And we landed with a splat when Don went into work last week and learned that his position had been terminated. After more than a half-century of going to his office--his beloved home away from home--they pulled the plug. Ouch, rats, and well, I’ll-be-a-son-of-a-gun. You could reasonably argue that when Don sold the family business 12 years ago and opted to stay on as an at-will employee, the writing was on the wall. And when the new owner subsequently sold the company to a national corporation, I was surprised Don wasn’t axed right then. But that’s beside the point. He has now been shown the door, and reasonable behavior on my part is not gonna happen. Nope. I’m into Mighty Mad Mode. And while Don got through the job-loss grieving stages in jig time, I chose to beat my breast and suck my thumb for days, railing against heartless corporations that don’t value the loyalty and experience of older workers. Then, after Don cleaned out his office and dumped 53 years worth of family photos, industry awards and personal papers on our den floor, I put on full war paint. No one can mess up our lives --or our apartment--and get away with it. There will be consequences, by golly. Heads will roll. So, late at night, while Don sleeps peacefully, I tumble down my private rabbit hole where fact and fantasy shrink and stretch. There I am, testifying before the Labor Relations Committee, offering legislation to change the face of business ethics as we know it. To make my case, I cite Talmudic passages. Work is the very foundation of man’s existence. Labor is the path to happiness. Idleness leads to mental instability. I offer examples from contemporary sociologists who, while agreeing it’s fine to make a buck, urge us to fill the boardroom, warehouse, sales floor and steno pool with tzedek and chesed--fairness and goodness--the core values of Jewish ethics. I quote Rabban Shimon ben Gamliel’s suggestion that even if the bottom line argues against it, employers should hold on to faithful servants. “An older worker who has served a firm faithfully over many years is the glory of the firm,” Gamliel said, “and should be let go only with the greatest reluctance.” How about them apples, kiddo. Put that in your pipe and smoke it. Don moves on with his life, makes lunch dates with pals, rides his bike on cool autumn afternoons, while I--still down my rabbit hole, still creating sulfuric scenarios--make the talk-show rounds and explain my crusade to put sharper teeth in the Age Discrimination Act. “Ah, yes, it’s true,” I say to Charlie Rose. “My efforts are inspired by the ignoble way my husband was treated, but also by Jewish tradition which recognizes that with age comes wisdom. “Anyone who’s ever read Proverbs, Leviticus or Psalms knows that gray hair is a crown of splendor, that we should rise in the presence of the aged and

show respect for the elderly.” Charlie nods at me across that round, polished, dark wood table. I’m plotzing to ask, “Why are your shirtsleeve cuffs always unbuttoned?” but the question is not germane to the topic at hand, so I plow ahead before he can interrupt me, as is his wont. “You see, Charlie, Judaism looks with favor on the special abilities of the elderly. Let’s remember that Moses and Aaron were 80 and 83 when God chose them to lead the Israelites out of Egypt.” Charlie nods again and invites me back to share an hour with Alan Greenspan. Or Mother Teresa. My choice. Meanwhile, my Donald--bright eyed and bushy tailed--continues to put the past behind him and look smilingly to the future. Not I. At the First Annual Combined Convention of the American Psychiatric Association and the AFL-CIO, my keynote address exposes the pernicious effect unemployment has on a person’s mental, physical and spiritual health. I pound the podium and launch my screed. “Jewish tradition tells us that when Adam was tossed out of the Garden of Eden, he became reconciled to his fate only after he was told he would have to work!” (Sound of audience cheers.) “Judaism teaches that the human spirit remains discontent unless man earns his keep!” (Thunderous applause.) “Our sages say that work is great, for it honors him who does it!” (Whoops and hollers.) “Human dignity is enhanced when a man sustains himself by his own efforts!” (You go, girl!) “According to the Psalmists, ‘When thou eat the labor of thy hands, thou shall be happy, and it shall be well with thee.’” (Right on, sister!) Screaming its approval, the crowd rushes the podium, lifts me to its shoulders and carries me triumphantly up the rabbit hole, out into the sunrise. Oh, shoot. It’s morning in America. Time to wake up and smell the coffee. So, fine. Even with all my sturm und drang, nothing’s changed. No faceless corporate heads rolled. No ethical business reforms were made. Still, now that my frustrations have been dumped, I feel better, even though an important personal issue remains unresolved. To whit: Over the past 50 years, Don and I have learned how much each of us needs and wants the other in his/her life. Over the past few weeks, we’ve learned how much each of us needs and wants the other out of his/her space. I mean, how can I watch Wolf Blitzer all day when Don prefers listening to Mozart? How can I leave the bed unmade until five minutes before he comes home from the office (my guilty little secret...) when he no longer has an office to come home from and is, to boot, a neat freak? How can I finish this column when he’s on the computer playing Hearts? I’ve scoured Judaic sources but find nothing that might help us adjust to living under the same roof--24/7--with at least a modicum of tzedek and chesed. If you have advice, call my cell. Don is on our home phone, and jeez Louise, you know how that man can talk. Omahan Ozzie Nogg is a freelance writer. She can be reached at: ozmom@cox.net or see all her work at: www.rabbisdaughter.com. Her book, Joseph’s Tomb, will be published next month with proceeds benefitting Beth El Synagogue.

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 9

Opera at the Market

LETTER FROM ISRAEL by HARRY ALLEN The summer season came to an end in Israel with a flurry of cultural events, not unlike the United States. We ended a recent quick journey to America (to attend the wedding of our grandson Eitan) with a joyous outing at Tanglewood in the Berkshires, listening to the final concert of the Boston Symphony’s Beethoven’s magnificent Ninth Symphony. At Tanglewood, one sits on the spacious greens, enjoying a picnic lunch, hobnobbing with the folks around and being absorbed by the beauty of the place and the enchantment of the music. But opera at the Machane Yehuda fruit and vegetable market in Jerusalem? Now that’s a whole other story! For those benighted people who have never had the pleasure of journeying to Jerusalem and wandering through open air markets, an explanation is in order. At Machane Yehuda, one can buy the freshest fruits and vegetables, the most recently caught fish--some of which are still flopping around on their beds of ice-tantalizing pasties, meats of every variety, a surfeit of cheese, religious medallions and countless other items. All of these are hawked at outdoor stands at very low prices by stall owners who are hardly opera-going types. Machane Yehuda is a Sephardic Likud stronghold; on Thursdays before Shabbat, the market is thronged with

people and the peddlers are one happy lot. It is to this unlikely venue that the Israel Opera company came to perform a summer end concert. Last year, it was the Israeli Philharmonic. Thousands of of people jammed the market place, which had been set up with chairs, a temporary stage and wonderful lighting effects. Incredible stage decorations were made with fruit and vegetables from the market. In place of the usual floral piece of the podium, there was a magnificent centerpiece constructed of five different colors of bell peppers, arranged in columns about two feet high. Along the border of the stage, colorful and artistically arranged fruit and vegetables provided a rainbow of design. Aside from the music, the variety of Israelis who had come to enjoy the music was the wonder of such an event coming on the heels of the terrible news of the bombings in Beer Sheva and barbarism in Russia. Oh, yes, about the music. For an hourand-a-half, principals from the Israel Opera, accompanied by the opera orchestra, sang some of the most beloved and well known arias from such operas as The Marriage of Figaro, Cosi Fan Tutti and the Barber of Seville. The evening ended with a rousing chorus and a fireworks display, which added sparkle to the moonlit sky. The next day, Machane Yehuda was back to normal--the peddlers shouting out their prices, the crowds shopping--but the memory of Opera at the market lingered on. Former Lincolnite Harry Allen makes his home in Jerusalem with his wife, Annie.

...the variety of Israelis who had come to enjoy the music was the wonder of such an event coming on the heels of the terrible news of the bombings in Beer Sheva and barbarism in Russia.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR To the Editor: We would once again like to express our gratitude to the staff, nurses, and aides at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. Thank you could not stretch to all the people who cared for our father, Morris J. Lipp. After losing our mother two years ago, we were sure Dad would follow quickly. But in the last two years, Dad was treated with such amazing dignity and respect. Each caregiver had a special relationship and always shared special stories with us. For all of you who have never been to the Home or pray you never have to, shame on you. We are so blessed to

have this marvelous facility that takes such splendid care of our elderly. Come see the Home and, if you want to feel good about yourself, adopt a grandparent. Once again, a huge thanks to the staff, nurses and aides who have a gift. They touch lives with their wings! Rocky Lewis and Sandy Epstein To the Editor: Just wanted to compliment you on the New Year’s Edition of the Jewish Press; I am still reading it! You always publish such wonderful special issues. Sue Meyers

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Page 10

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Synagogue Listings B’nai Israel Synagogue 618 Mynster St. Council Bluffs, IA 51503-0766 322.4705 email: CBsynagogue@hotmail.com

Beth El Synagogue Member of United Synagogues of Conservative Judaism 14506 California Omaha, NE 68154-1980 492.8550 www.bethel-omaha.org

Beth Israel Synagogue Member of Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America 12604 Pacific St. Omaha, NE. 68154 556.6288 BethIsrael@OrthodoxOmaha.org

Beyt Shalom An Affiliate of the Jewish Reconstructionist Federation 3012 S. 119 St. P.O. Box 390352 Omaha, NE 68139 660.2395 www.beytshalomomaha.org

Chabad House An Affiliate of Chabad-Lubavitch 1866 S. 120th St. Omaha, NE 68144-1646 330.1800 nebraskajudaism.com email: chabad@aol.com

Congregation B’nai Jeshurun South Street Temple Union for Reform Judaism 2061 S. 20th St. Lincoln, NE 68502-2797 435.8004 jewishnebraska.org

Offutt Air Force Base SAC Memorial Chapel 301 Lincoln Highway Offutt AFB, NE 68113 294.6244

Rose Blumkin Jewish Home 333 S. 132 St. Omaha, NE 68154

Temple Israel Union for Reform Judaism (URJ) 7023 Cass Street Omaha, NE 68132-2651 556.6536 templeisrael-ne.org

The Neighborhood Minyan Torah Learning Center 1313 No. 58 St. Omaha, NE 68132 553.5397

Tifereth Israel Member of United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism 3219 Sheridan Blvd., Lincoln, NE 68502-5236 423.8569 tiferethisraellincoln.org

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September 24, 2004

Synagogues B’NAI ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE

BETH ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE

YOM KIPPUR FRIDAY, Sept. 24: Leonard Greenspoon will speak at Kol Nidre services, 7:30 p.m. SATURDAY, Sept. 25: Oliver Pollak will speak during morning services, 10:30 a.m.; Concluding Service, 5:30 p.m.; Break-theFast to follow services. If you are planning to be at the Break-theFast Potluck, please call Sandra at 323.8886 to let her know what you will bring. All services led by Jeffrey Taxman.

Office Hours: Monday-Thursday, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Fridays, 8:30 a.m-2 p.m. Services conducted by Rabbi Jonathan Gross. YOM KIPPUR FRIDAY, Sept. 24, Kol Nidre, 7 p.m.; Free babysitting available. SATURDAY, Sept. 25: Shacharit, 8 a.m.; Free Babysitting, 9:30 a.m.; Junior Congregation, 10:30 a.m.; Torah Reading, 10:30 a.m.; (Children’s lunch will follow Junior Congregation); Sermon, 11 a.m. followed by Yizkor; Mincha, 5 p.m., Neilah, 6:10 p.m.; Fast ends, 7:58 p.m., followed by “Break the Fast” dinner. SUNDAY: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Help put up the synagogue’s new sukkah, 10 a.m.; Mincha/ Ma’ariv, 6:30 p.m. Weekdays: Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 6:30 p.m. TUESDAY, Sisterhood Luncheon, noon: Enjoy lunch with friends and get to know Rabbi and Sara Gross. SUKKOT WEDNESDAY: Mincha, 6:45 p.m. T H U R S D AY : S h a c h a r i t , 9 a.m., followed by lunch in the Sukkah; Mincha, 7 p.m. FRIDAY: Shacharit, 9 a.m. Kiddush in the sukkah is sponsored in memory of Golda Lieberman by her family. Mincha, 7 p.m. Contact the synagogue office to make your reservations for Simchat Torah dinner on Oct. 7.

BETH EL SYNAGOGUE Office Hours: Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. YOM KIPPUR FRIDAY, Sept. 24: Kol Nidre, 6:45 p.m. SATURDAY, Sept. 25: Morning service, 9 a.m. (Includes Yizkor and Musaf); Alternative Service, 9:45 a.m.; Study Session with Rabbi Jules Harlow, 4:30 p.m.; Minha-Ne‘ila, 5:30 p.m.; Havdalah, including children’s processional, 7:30 p.m.; Sounding of Shofar Approximately, 7:45 p.m. Following Ne’ila, Hazak will sponsor its annual Break-the-Fast meal. Advance reservations are required; please contact Gloria Goodman, 333.3351. WEEKDAY SERVICES: Sunday, 9 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.; Weekdays, 6:55 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Babysitting will be available during all High Holidays Day services. For reservations, call Harriet Einziger. SUNDAY, Sept. 26, 8 a.m. Build the sukkah! Plan to take part in Beth El’s annual sukkah building. Participants will meet at the synagogue; we can use as many hands as possible. Sukkah Decorating, 13 p.m.: BESTT students have worked hard to make decorations for the sukkah. Come help us hang and display them! WEDNESDAYS, 10:45 a.m. PATTER (Parents & Toddlers, Torah, Exercise, Recreation) session class for 11/2 to threeyear-olds with Helen Epstein, For more information, call Harriet Einziger, 492.855. SUKKOT WEDNESDAY, Sept. 29: Minha/Maariv, 5:30 p.m. THURSDAY, Sept. 30: Morning, 9:30 a.m.; Minha/Maariv, 5:30 p.m. FRIDAY, Oct. 1: Morning, 9:30 a.m. USY SUKKAH FIESTA Back by popular demand, join the party on Oct. 2 at Cantor Gastón and Lena’s Sukkah. Bring your instruments and join us at the Bogolmonis’ for lots of fun under the stars. “JEWISH POT POURRI” CLASS: Starting Sunday, Oct. 3 at 10 a.m. in the synagogue library, join teacher Susi Frydman-Levin for a new class that will offer a little bit of everything Jewish: from music and literature to history and traditions. For reservations, contact Harriet Einziger.

BEYT SHALOM YOM KIPPUR FRIDAY: Kol Nidre, 7:30 p.m. SATURDAY: Morning services, 9:30 a.m.; Musaf, 11 a.m.; Mincha, 5 p.m.; Neilah, 5:45 p.m. Yizkor following Neilah; Break-the-Fast, 6:30 p.m., Potluck, dairy/vegetarian. All services at the synagogue. SATURDAY, Oct. 2, 5 p.m.: Sukkot and Havdalah at the Schlossman/Ferber House.

CHABAD HOUSE Services conducted by Rabbi Mendel Katzman. YOM KIPPUR FRIDAY Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Mincha, 6:45 p.m.; Kol Nidre, 7 p.m. SATURDAY: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Children’s Program, 11-noon; Yizkor, 11:30 a.m.; Mincha, 5:30 p.m.; Neilah, 6:30 p.m.; Fast ends, 7:58 p.m. Light refreshments will be served to break the fast. SUNDAY: Services, 8:30 a.m. Mishneh class, 9:30 a.m. MONDAY-FRIDAY, Morning services, 7 a.m. MONDAY: Halacha “Walking the Walk” of Jewish Law, 7 p.m. This course offers textual study and practical how-tos. TUESDAY: W.O.W: Seasons of the Soul--Jewish Life Cycles, 9 a.m. Women only; babysitting available upon request. SUKKOT WEDNESDAY: Morning Services, 7 a.m., Coffee and cake

Candlelighting Friday, Sept. 24, 6:59 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 29, 6:50 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 30, light no earlier than 7:49 p.m.

follows; Mincha/Maariv, 7 p.m. THURSDAY: Davening led by Rabbi Katzman, 9:30 a.m., Mini Minyan for kids ages three-11, 11 a.m.-noon; Kiddush to follow in the sukkah. FRIDAY, Oct. 1: Davening led by Rabbi Katzman, 9:30 a.m.; Kiddush to follow in the sukkah. SUNDAY, Oct. 3, Community Sukkot Celebration, 4-6 p.m. For more information or to register call 330.1800.

CONGREGATION B’NAI JESHURUN Rabbi Debbie Stiel will be in Lincoln two weekends a month. Please call her at 402.416.2321 or e-mail her at rabstiel@aol.com to set up an appointment. YOM KIPPUR FRIDAY: Evening Service, 8 p.m SATURDAY: Morning Service, 10 a.m.; Children’s Service, 2:30 p.m.; Afternoon Service, followed by Yizkor Memorial service and Neilah concluding services, 3:30 p.m. Community Break-the-Fast Potluck Dinner follows services. Babysitting will be available during all adult services. SUNDAY: No Religious School FRIDAY, Oct. 1: Sukkot Family Shabbat Service, 7:15 p.m with oneg to follow.

OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE FRIDAY: Services, 7:30 p.m.

ROSE BLUMKIN JEWISH HOME YOM KIPPUR FRIDAY: Kol Nidre, 7 p.m. led by Andrew Greenberg. SATURDAY: Morning and Yizkor service, 9 a.m., led by Andrew Greenberg; Mincha and Neilah services, 7 p.m., led by Phyllis Hoffman SUKKOT THURSDAY, Sept. 30: Services, 9 a.m. led by Rabbi Maximo Shechet. FRIDAY, Oct. 1: Services, 9 a.m. led by Rabbi Shechet. SATURDAY, Oct. 2: Services, 9 a.m. led by Andy Greenberg.

TEMPLE ISRAEL YOM KIPPUR FRIDAY: Kol Nidre First Service, 6 p.m.; Sitter Service is available this service only with advance reservations. Second Service, 8:15 p.m. SATURDAY: Young Children’s Service, 9 a.m.; Morning Service, 10:15 a.m.; Alternate Service, 10:15 a.m.; Ethics Panel following Morning Service; Musical interlude, 1:30 p.m.; Moments of Remembrance, 2:30 p.m.; Family Youth Service, 2:30 p.m.; Afternoon Service, 3:30 p.m.; Yizkor, 5 p.m.; Neilah & Havdalah, 5:45 p.m. Hear the final blast of the shofar and join us for Havdalah led by sixth graders. Sitter Service is available starting with the 10:15 a.m., with morning service with advance reservations. SUNDAY, 10 a.m.: In the Milder Center, a discussion of Public

Education: “No Child Left Behind”, the OPS lawsuit, and the direction of public education in Omaha. The panelists include: Jim Farko, Penny Parker, and Marian Fey; Gary Kaplan will facilitate. SUKKOT WEDNESDAY, Sept. 29: Family Potluck Dinner, 6:30 p.m.; Family Services, 7:30 p.m. Please call the Temple office, 556.6536, by Monday, Sept. 27, to make your reservation. THURSDAY, Sept. 30: Morning Service, 10:30 a.m. TOT SHABBAT, Friday, Oct. 1, 6 p.m.: Join us for our regular Tot Shabbat Service in the chapel and stay afterward to celebrate Shabbat with old and new friends, and a child-friendly dinner. The traditional cookies and juice will be available. Please RSVP to the Temple office, tisrael@ qwest.net or 556.6536.

THE NEIGHBORHOOD MINYAN AT TLC YOM KIPPUR FRIDAY: Kol Nidre, 6:45 p.m. SATURDAY, Sept. 25: Shacharit, 8 a.m.; Torah Service, 10:30 a.m..; Sermon, 11:30 a.m.; D’var Torah & Yizkor, 11 a.m.; Mincha, 4:45 p.m.; Neilah, 6:15 p.m., followed by Break-the Fast. SUKKOT WEDNESDAY: Sept 29: Mincha/Maariv, 6:45 p.m. THURSDAY, Sept. 30: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Mincha/ Maariv, 6:45 p.m. FRIDAY, Oct. 1: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Yizkor, 10 a.m.; Kabbalat Shabbat, 6:45 p.m. SAVE THE DATE! Friday-Saturday, Oct. 15-16: Rabbi Yaakov Marcus returns to continue his series on the Hebrew Aleph-Bet.

TIFERETH ISRAEL Services conducted by Rabbi Stanley M. Rosenbaum. Minyan, MONDAY & THURSDAY, 7:15 a.m. YOM KIPPUR FRIDAY: Kol Nidre, 7 p.m. SATURDAY: Morning service, 9 a.m.; Junior Congregation, 11 a.m.; Yizkor, Mincha/Ne'ilah/Ma’ ariv/shofar blowing, 5:15 p.m. Brenda and Richard Ingraham invite you to Break-the-Fast, immediately following services in memory of their parents. WEDNESDAY: Men’s Lunch Group will meet at the Knolls, 12:30 p.m. Contact Yale Gotsdiner at 423.7066. SUKKOT WEDNESDAY: Sept 29: Sukkot services , 7 p.m. THURSDAY, Sept. 30: Morning, 9:30 a.m.; Mincha/ Maariv, 7 p.m. FRIDAY, Oct. 1: Shacharit, 9:30 a.m.

PERSONAL I wish to thank my family and friends for making my 90th birthday a day I will always remember. Thank you for the many gifts, donations and a leaf on the tree of life. God bless you all. Lily Kay

September 24, 2004

Who Values Yom Kippur?

SPARKS FROM THE WORD by RABBI MYER S. KRIPKE Yom Kippur Who values Yom Kippur more, the Jew who is “a shayner Yid” who davens every day (three times!), who never violates Shabbat and who studies Torah at every opportunity--or the Jew whose mind never entertains a Jewish thought from year to year, for whom Shabbat is Game Day and gambling day? Now look: I am not saying this tongue in cheek. I’m serious. That first Jew really doesn’t need Yom Kippur very much, because in his daily prayers he has asked God to forgive us, “S’lach lanu,” “Forgive us, O Father, for we have sinned, pardon us, etc.” So when Yom Kippur approaches, he has practically nothing left to be pardoned! But my second fellow Jew, who hasn’t observed Shabbat or kashrut or anything for a whole year, he has very much to atone for and Yom Kippur is just made for him! He’ll spend 20 minutes or so in a synagogue or temple, sneak in and sneak out, and he’ll feel clean and forgiven for another year! And who is there who will say to him, NO? For it is God’s nature, part of His “character” to forgive, even those who don’t ask! So it’s important for my second fellow Jew to have Yom Kippur. He has a whole load of sins to dump out in a synagogue on Yom Kippur. So Yom Kippur is really very important to him. To be sure, he had heard someone talk about Tashlich on Rosh Hashanah. But he couldn’t make it that afternoon--there was a game he had to see. So it’s important now that he has Yom Kippur. You and I like one of those of our fellow Jews better than the other. But who can say which one God prefers? There are human beings, Jews and others, who have won salvation, we are told, only by a lifetime of faithful service, and others, in a flash of a moment. But who can be so lucky? I guess we had better not rely on the flash of a moment. Too bad. I guess we had better rely on a lifetime of faithful service. Starting now.

Sukkot to be Celebrated with Potluck, Sukkah Decorating and Service at Temple Israel by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Temple Israel Communications Coordinator Although we can’t replicate the life of the Israelites who wandered in the desert for 40 years after leaving Egypt, we can get an idea of what it was like to look up through the branches of their roofless huts or sukkot. It might be easier to emulate the farmers in the Promised Land who built sukkot to protect themselves from the sun by day and the cold and wind at night when they harvested their crops. But most of us aren’t farmers. And yet the fall holiday, Sukkot, to be celebrated on Wednesday evening, Sept. 29, at Temple Israel, is still a time to thank God for the goodness of the earth. Families are invited to come together for a potluck dinner at 6:30 p.m. Families whose last names begin with letters from A-K, can bring a pasta meal to share. Those whose last names start with letters from L-Z, are requested to bring a chicken meal for the potluck. (Please do not bring pork or shellfish.) Decorating the outdoor sukkah is also part of the tradition. Temple will supply the decorating materials. Women of Reform Judaism will provide beverages and an ice cream and cookie Oneg Shabbat following the family worship service which begins at 7:30 p.m. All babies born since last year’s High Holy Days will receive a special blessing during the service. Children who have September and October birthdays also will be called to the bimah for a special blessing. On Thursday morning, Sept. 30, Sukkot worship services begin at 10:30 a.m. On Saturday, Oct. 2, there will be Sukkot parties at the home of Rabbi Aryeh and Elyce Azriel for Omaha Temple Youth Group members and eighth graders and one for Club 56 (fifth and sixth graders) at the home of Cantor Wendy Shermet and her husband Len Burrell.

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

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Brenna Paige Robsinson, daughter of Kimberly and Andrew Robinson, will celebrate her Bat Mitzvah on Saturday, Oct. 2 at Temple Israel. Brenna is a seventh-grade student at Westside Middle School. She was awarded the President’s Education Award for Outstanding Achievement, first place in the Swanson School Speech contest, and second place District 66 Speech contest. Her interests include the Westside Middle School Show Choir, dancing, interpreting for the hearing impaired and interpreting the National Anthem at Creighton University basketball games. For her mitzvah project, she interpreted for Danny Glazer at golf and art camp. Brenna has a sister, Sydney, and a brother Brett. Her grandparents are Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Singer, Tucson, AZ, and Mr. and Mrs. Sam Fried, and the late Burton L. Robinson. Yosef Daniel Abrahamson, son of Dinah Abrahamson, will celebrate his Bar Mitzvah on Saturday, Oct. 2 at Chabad Headquarters in Crown Heights, NY. Yosef is a home-school educated sixth grader. His interests include caring for his two dogs, three birds, and fish. He enjoys ice skating and writing. He spent his summer learning the laws of Tefillin and is planning to recite the Ma’amar that was recited by the fifth and the previous Lubavitch Rebbes for their B’nai Mitzvah. Yosef has a sister, Sarah.

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Carol Nathan and Audrey Wiener take a break from preparing bake sale sweets for Beth El Sisterhood’s annual Fall Boutique, to be held Sunday, Oct. 17, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Merchandise to be sold includes artwork, stationery, clothing, jewelry and kosher items. Vendors interested in reserving a table may contact Boutique Chairmen Caryn Rifkin, 334.7216, or Patti Adler, 333.4047.

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 24, 2004

Jews Lending Beslan Survivors Helping Hand

Temple Scholar to Discuss Jewish Vote, Middle East, Inter-Religious Relationships by CLAUDIA SHERMAN follow at 10:30 a.m. in the sanctuary. Temple Israel Communications Coordinator “On Election Eve 2004: What is the Albert Vorspan, who will be in Omaha Jewish Role in American Politics? What as a scholar-in-residence, Oct. 8-10, at Should It Be?” will be the subject for a Temple Israel, “has been an outstanding bagel brunch with Vorspan on Sunday leader in the area of social action,” morning, Oct. 10, 10 a.m., in the according to Jane Brooks. She and her Friedman Social Hall. husband the late Rabbi Sidney Brooks, Vorspan said he will ponder “where who served Temple Israel from 1952 to Jews are in this political year, where the 1985 have been “good friends Jewish vote has been and why, for years,” with Vorspan, she and what the issues of particusaid. lar concern are to Jews.” He Jane Brooks described will also talk about “Israel and Vorspan as someone who can the Middle East; Iraq and what get people “to listen to him that has done to us as a nation and understand him. He moves and, in particular, to Jews and you and inspires you,” adding the implications for civil liberthat “he also has a delightful, ties and the right to protest.” wonderful sense of humor!” He went on to say that he will Senior Vice President also touch on “the separation Emeritus of the Union for of church and state and its Albert Vorspan Reform Judaism (URJ), Vorspan implications for Jews.” is also the former director of the “I’ll also talk about the urgency of Commission on Social Action of Reform inter-religious relationships and the need Judaism and was instrumental in estab- to strengthen and deepen them,” he lishing the Religious Action Center said. He plans to discuss “the need to (RAC). He is now a consultant to URJ, reach out to Muslims who want to sepaRAC, and serves as URJ’s representative rate from the fundamentalist fanatics.” to the United Nations. In Vorspan’s book, Tough Choices, Sponsored by the Hermene Zweiback written with David Saperstein, the Center for Lifelong Jewish Learning at authors confront these dilemmas as well Temple, Vorspan will focus on the topic, as other cutting-edge issues of our times: “Tough Choices for American Jews,” racial justice, biomedical ethics, world throughout the weekend. At Shabbat peace, the environment, gay and lesbian worship services on Friday, Oct. 8, 7:30 rights, abortion, and other issues. p.m., he will address “A Call to Action in Framed in the perspective of liberal Tough Times.” Judaism, the writers used Jewish sources On Saturday morning, Oct. 9, he’ll and morality to guide them. join Temple’s Bagels and Sacred Books Temple Israel welcomes everyone to session at 9 a.m. in the Milder Center to hear Vorspan and meet him as the condiscuss “Are We Jews Secure in America? gregation focuses on studying the 350 A Debate with Myself.” Shabbat services years of the Jewish American experience.

Continued from page 1 hospital in Vladikavkaz and a member of “It is vital to show the support of the local Jewish community, is dealing American Jewry for all those who were with much of this aid. victims of the massacre in Russia, regardBerkowitz said that in less than a less of their race or religion,” Steven week, thousands of postcards and small Schwager, the JDC’s Executive Vice-pres- gifts from schoolchildren in the United ident, said in a statement. States have been received by the federaThe JDC is also collecting donations to tion’s U.S. office. help the victims. He said that some financial had Last week, the Federation of Jewish already been received and will be directCommunities of Russia, a leading Jewish umbrella organization, launched a worldwide campaign to assist children injured in the Beslan attack. Through this initiative, the federation, which is behind the Chabad-Lubavitch operation in the area, aims to send victims urgently needed medical supplies and medDuring a meeting with government officials on Sept. 6, 2004, icine. “We have our com- Russian President Vladimir Putin holds a moment of silence for munity on the ground the victims of the Beslan attack. Credit: Russian Presidential Press Service in touch with the hospitals and the families that have been ed to the victims in Beslan. affected,” said Rabbi Avraham “The response we get is incredible,” Berkowitz, the Federation’s Executive Berkowitz said. Director. He said his group’s call resonated with “We decided to get as much small a diverse group of people: a surgeon in direct aid as possible that will go instant- New Zealand, an air controller in ly to those who need it.” Houston, students of a Jewish school in The group said it was already able to San Diego and a priest in Akron, Ohio. send some shipments of medications-“Some of the gifts are small, but all primarily to treat burns--to Vladikavkaz, very personal,” he said. the town 20 miles from Beslan, which More information about the JDC's has a Jewish community that is affiliated efforts is available at www.jdc.org; for with the federation. the federation’s efforts to help the chilTatayna Kalaeva, head of a children’s dren of Breslan, go to www.fjc.ru/.

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