Vol. LXXXV No. 6 Omaha, NE
UNMC Chancellor Named King of Ak-Sar-Ben by CAROL KATZMAN Editor of the Jewish Press Dr. Harold “Hal” Maurer is unique among the community leaders selected as kings of Ak-Sar-Ben. He’s not the first Jewish man named king nor is he the first nonnative Omahan, however, he certainly is the first whose rise is nothing short of meteoric. After all, he’s only been a Nebraskan for little more than 12 years. But last Saturday, night, Dr. Maurer was named the 109th King of Ak-Sar-Ben at the charitiable organization’s coronation ball. Arriving here in 1993 from Richard, VA, as the new Dean of Medicine at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, Dr. Maurer was named chancellor just three years later. Since then, Dr. Harold “Hal” Maurer he’s overseen themerger between Clarkson Hospital and University Hospital, more than doubled the dollar amount of grants UNMC has received for scientific research, built the Durham Research Center, attracted top medical talent not only from throughout the nation, but from all over the world, and started construction on several other new buildings, including a second research tower. Along with his wife, Beverly, Dr. Maurer was honored just last month by Chabad of Nebraska with its Chai Leadership Award. At that dinner, too, supporters and friends of the Maurers spoke of the couple’s “team” Continued on page 23
Celebrating 84 Years of Service to Nebraska and Western Iowa
18 Tishrei, 5766 October 21, 2005
Mission Participants Return from Kiev and Israel
Last month, 36 members of Omaha’s Jewish community traveled to Kiev, Ukraine, and to Israel to visit sites funded by campaign dollars through the Joint Distribution Committee and the Jewish Agency for Israel. Above, Eunie Denenberg, left, Norman Denenberg, a Jewish student from Kiev, Jody Malashock and Zoe Riekes recite kaddish at a memorial service at Babi Yar, the site where 33,771 Jews were murdered during World War II. More photos on page 12.
Young Adults Learn More Than History and Religion in Israel Programs Geared Just for Them Josh Bleicher Sees Israel for Himself Through EIE Program by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Reform Movement has been sending Temple Israel Communications Coordinator youth to Israel to this one-semester Sixteen-year-old Josh Bleicher wanted accredited high school nestled in the to learn more about Judaism and create a Judean mountains. Students live togethstronger connection with Israel. “Israel er, learn together, and grow together as a always seemed like a great far off ideal community exploring 4,000 years of that the Jews of America support by eat- Jewish memory, learning Hebrew, and ing hummus, Israeli dancing, and send- coming to know Israel as their second ing money,” he said. “I wanted to see home. The high schoolers have the what it was all about in order to form a opportunity to build their Jewish selfpersonal connection with the Jewish esteem, enhance their personal identities as Reform Jews, and to homeland.” sharpen their awareness He had heard of international issues. about the Josh, a senior at Eisendrath InterOmaha’s Brownellnational Exchange Talbot this year, spent the High School first half of 2005 at (EIE) in Israel Kibbutz Tzuba with 95 from friends at other American teens. Olin-Sang-Ruby “We went to school with Union Institute, a Reform Movethe Americans, but other ment camp in than that, we were with and Wisconsin, the Israelis from the kibothers who are butz the whole time,” he members of NFTY explained. In the dining (the National hall, at parties, dances, Federation of and just walking around, Temple Youth). Brownell Talbot senior Josh Bleicher spent “we would interact with For more than a semester last year at Kibbutz Tzuba on the kibbutzniks. 40 years, the the Eisendrath Israel Exchange program. Continued on page 7
Inside Opinion Page see page 20
Using the Past to Decide My Future by JOANNA YAFFA KAY A bump in the road wakes me from my early morning daze. I look out the window of the bus and study the sun peeking over the mountains, shedding a golden light on the hills and seemingly dancing waters. I was currently witnessing a sunrise over the Sea of Galilee, something everybody should experience at least once in their lives. I was able to encounter this not only once, but every morning for an entire month. The fifteen minute 5:30 a.m. rides Dr. Rami Arav and crew dig part of the ancient street in front of from Kibbutz Ginosar to the city gates. the Bethsaida Excavation My parents told me of a presentation site allowed me this beautiful opportuni- they had seen about the dig from Dr. ty. This summer I joined other volunteers Rami Arav, a professor at the University on an experience unlike any other--an of Nebraska-Omaha and head of the archaeological dig. Bethsaida Excavations along with Dr. Digging up the past to help uncover Richard Freund, a former Omahan. It my future was my plan for the summer. seemed to be the perfect opportunity to After graduating from the University of gain some insight on the field of archaeWisconsin – Madison with a degree in ology. So--for four weeks this past sumAnthropology and certificate in Classics, mer, I volunteered on the dig, indulging I needed some time to explore before in an exhilarating, novel experience. choosing a masters degree program. Continued on page 6
This Week: Special Education & Camping Issue Coming Next Month: First Special Issue on Travel & Entertainment Panel Examines Catholic/ Jewish Reations: Page 3
Child’s Accident Teaches Family Lessons About “Small Things”: Page 5
Recipes for Sukkot... Such a Tzimmes!: Pages 10-11
Jewish Book Fair Opening Event Features Omaha Native Son: Page 24
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
October 21, 2005
Jewish Family Is Unique Among Girls & Boys Town Family Teachers
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS FRIDAY, OCT. 21 Tot Shabbat, 6 p.m. at Beth El SATURDAY, OCT. 22 JYG Event - Grades 7/8, 8 p.m. SUNDAY, OCT. 23 C L “Living Hebrew” Class, and Bible Study, 10 a.m. at Beth El I P WRJ-O Baking, 10 a.m. at Temple Israel
C L I P
Adult Education, 10 a.m. at Temple Israel & Prayer Class, and Jewish Potpouri, 11 a.m. at Beth El
Sukkah Party, 12:15 p.m. at Beth El S “Sunday Story Time,” 2 p.m. at Kripke Library A NJHS History of Klezmer Music, 2 p.m. V Family Sukkot Program, 5 p.m. at Beth Israel E
& S A V E
MONDAY, OCT. 24 Consecration and Service, 7 p.m. at Temple Israel
Stem-Cell Research Subject of Panel Discussion at Beth El
TUESDAY, OCT. 25 JCC OPEN/FED OFFICES CLOSED FOR SHEMINI ATZERET BBYO Night, 6 p.m. Hakafot & Dinner, 7 p.m. at Beth Israel WEDNESDAY, OCT. 26 JCC OPEN/FED OFFICES CLOSED
C FOR SIMCHAT TORAH L I Simchat Torah Lunch, noon at Beth Israel P NCJW Board Meeting, noon & S A V E
THURSDAY, OCT. 27 Adult Education, 10 a.m. at Temple Israel Visions Mystery Trip, 10 a.m. Walk-in Drop-in, 10 a.m. Religious School Committee, noon at Temple Israel Yiddish Group, 1 p.m. Adult Education, 7 p.m. at Temple 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)
This Space For Rent Call Allan Handleman 334-6451
by PAM MONSKY respect and tolerance for people With eight teenage boys, a with different faiths, especially four-year old girl and a onesince many of them had never year old boy, I expected that met a Jewish person before. dinner at the home of Jeremy As for the Wright’s own chiland Annette Wright would be dren, four-year old Isabella and a chaotic scene. At the one-year old Mendel, they, too moment, the Wright’s are the are learning to live in a diverse only Jewish couple working as society. “We want our kids to Family-Teachers at Girls and grow up in a full house with a Boys Town. When I called to lot of life and a lot of different interview the couple, my son characters,” said Annette. Sam and I were immediately “Here, they’ll learn how to invited to dinner. solve problems and grow up Instead of the noisy chaos I tolerant and well-adjusted.” imagined, everyone was wellAlthough their children don’t mannered and respectful. The attend church as the boys are boys remained standing until As Family-Teachers, Annette and Jeremy Wright are the pri- required to do, they do celethe three women at the table mary caregivers and counselors to seven boys in their home. brate all the holidays, both were seated. A prayer was said, In 2004, Girls and Boys Town provided direct care to more Christian and Jewish. plates were passed and the than 43,500 children. Credit: Courtesy of Girls and Boys Town. Jeremy said one of the best meal commenced with lots of chatter and laughter. things about working as a Family-Teacher is the time he is After dinner, the boys cleaned up the kitchen (includ- able to spend with his wife and kids. “Just the other day, I ing Sam, who volunteered unasked, which is astonishing took them to the zoo and we also go to Joslyn frequently. in itself!) as Annette, Jeremy and I retreated to the liv- What other job allows you to do that?” he asked. ing room. Annette and Jeremy met 10 years ago in But in the end, it comes down to being able to make a difHolland, where Annette is from originally. Jeremy, ference in the lives of young people. “There’s something who’s from Kearney, was participating in an exchange exciting about being surrounded by teenagers all the time program. They married and were enrolled in the gradu- and being able to watch them bloom,” explained Annette. ate program at University of Nebraska-Kearney. “They’re giving us wonderful memories and we’re doing Looking for more involvement in Jewish life, they the same for them,” Jeremy agreed and added, “They’re on began calling every rabbi in Omaha. Rabbi Aryeh Azriel the brink of so of Temple Israel was the first to call them back and the many possibilicouple soon became involved at Temple. ties and it’s a Meanwhile, Jeremy and Annette were becoming disil- privilege for us lusioned with the whole grad school scene, with its to nurture emphasis on how many papers one could get published them. You and not much emphasis on the students they were teach- never know ing. They decided that what they really wanted was to what’s going work in an environment that was more about the kids. to stick and It was Rabbi Azriel who encouraged them to apply for a what memories Family-Teacher position at Girls and Boys Town. they’re going That was seven years ago, and clearly this young cou- to take with ple made the right decision. “If you want to give your them. We want Family-Teachers Jeremy and Annette Wright life meaning, this is the way to do it,” said Annette. to make sure and their two children, Isabella, 3, and Jeremy agreed and added, “You’ll never have more that they have Mendel, 8 months, give help, healing and opportunities to do mitzvahs than you do here.” plenty of good hope to the youth in their home. But what is it like being the only Jewish Family- memories to Credit: Courtesy of Girls and Boys Town. Teachers? “Well, we certainly would like to have another choose from!” Jewish couple as Family-Teachers on campus, and maybe There was little doubt that the Wrights have created a some will consider it after reading this,” admitted family, and a wonderful one at that. Annette proudly Jeremy. “But we’ve loved every minute of our lives here.” told me that last quarter their house had the highest “We tend to connect the kids who live with us GPA among the 16 homes in their part of the Girls and through food,” smiled Annette. “We make careful selec- Boys Town community. Their kids who have grown up tions of the Jewish traditions we share with our boys. and left still call “home” and some have already married For instance, Jeremy brings home challah every Friday and started their own families. night, we had apples and honey on Rosh Hashanah and we When it was time to go, I had a hard time getting my celebrate Hanukkah with everyone,” she continued. son Sam to leave. After only two hours, we both felt like “We don’t want to force our religion on the kids, but we part of the family, too. (For more information about becoming Family don’t want it to be secretive either,” added Jeremy. The couples‚ approach has resulted in their boys having a healthy Parents, call Girls and Boys Town at: 402.498.1774.)
C L I P & S A V E
by JILL BELMONT Beth El Publicity Coordinator An informative, thought-provoking panel discussion examining the issues surrounding stem-cell research will be held on Sunday, Nov. 6, 2 p.m., at Beth El Synagogue. The entire community is invited to attend this event, co-sponsored by the synagogue’s Hazak organization and the Omaha Chapter of Hadassah. The goals and accomplishments of stem-cell research, as well as a discussion about why fetal stem-cell research is needed, will be among the issues explored, according to Hazak president Dr. Jim Wax, the event’s moderator. “Hazak partnered with Hadassah because of each organization’s interest in this area,” Wax said. “We chose this topic because the diseases that could be affected by this research, such as diabetes and Parkinson’s, are those that can affect our age group, and we think that everyone should be aware of the research’s progress and possibilities.” Local Hadassah chapter chairperson Georgia Ann Steinberg agreed, adding that, “Hadassah supports stemcell research as an imperative for the means to save and heal human life, which is an integral part of Jewish law and tradition.” Steinberg also noted that “all major rabbinic streams agree that embryonic stem-cell research is permissible. Hadassah Medical Organization and Hadassah’s
Goldyne Savad Institute of Gene Therapy continue to pioneer medical technology using stem-cell research.” The panelists all support stem-cell research, and were selected on the basis of their expertise, Wax noted. They include Toby Schonfeld, PhD, Assistant Professor, Section on Humanities and Law, Department of Preventive and Societal Medicine at the University of Nebraska Medical Center; Howard Gendelman, M.D., chairman of the UNMC Department of Pharmacology and director of the Center for Neurovirology and Neurodegenerative Diseases (CNND); UNMC Professor John Sharp, PhD, UNMC professor in the Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy, Radiology and Radiation Oncology; and Sanford Goodman, chairman of the Public Policy and Advocacy Committee for Nebraskans for Research. During the panel discussion, each participant will make a 20-minute presentation, followed by a question-answer session, Wax said. Verbal questions will be accepted from the floor, as well as written queries put forth by the moderator. Following the second presentation, there will be a short break and refreshments will be served. While there is no charge to attend, event organizers have requested that courtesy reservations be made by Nov. 1, by contacting Gloria Goodman at 333.3351, or Esther Wax at 393.4442.
October 21, 2005
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 3
Community Event to Examine Jewish-Catholic Relations in Omaha by BETH KATZ ADL Director of Interfaith Affairs and Community Education The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) has partnered with the Catholic Archdiocese of Omaha and the Kripke Center for the Study of Religion and Society at Creighton University to sponsor a “Community Conversation on Jewish-Catholic Relations” honoring the 40th anniversary of the historic Catholic document Nostra Aetate (In Our Time). The “Community Conversation” is free and open to the public on Sunday, Oct. 30, 2-4 p.m., at the Cathedral Cultural Center at 3900 Webster St.
Oct. 11, 1962: Pope John XXIII opens the Ecumenical Council, Vatican 2. The event, which features a panel and large group discussion, will examine the evolution of Jewish-Catholic relations in Omaha since the Second Vatican Council’s landmark decision and statement that began the process of healing Jewish-Catholic relations by rejecting the centuries-old Christian teaching of contempt for Judaism and Jews. This event marks the beginning of the ADL’s Jewish-Christian Interfaith Series,
“Common Roots: Examining the Shared Rabbi Aryeh Azriel of Temple Israel, who will present at the panel a Jewish Heritage of Jews and Christians.” Dr. Ronald Simkins, Director of the perspective on the significance of Nostra Kripke Center for the Study of Religion Aetate for Jewish-Catholic relations. Rabbi Mordechai Levin of Beth El and Society, notes that this is an opportune moment for the community to Synagogue, who will offer opening reflect on the state of Jewish-Catholic remarks at the event, sees this as an opportunity for relations in Omaha, Nostra Aetate ‘101’ Jews to learn about “The 40th anniverAdapted from Celebrating the 30th this historic docusary of Nostra Anniversary of the Vatican II Declaration ment and to also Aetate provides a Nostra Aetate (No. 4) on Catholic-Jewish take stock of the context for JewishRelations: Programs and Resources by Dr. challenges that lie Catholic dialogue. It Eugene J. Fisher and Rabbi Leon Klenicki ahead. “Nostra is important for (1995) Aetate is an Catholics to express The fourth chapter of this landmark unprecedented docto Jews that there should no longer be Catholic document forever altered Jewish- ument in the histoantagonism between Catholic relations by laying the theological ry of the Catholic Christians and groundwork for subsequent Vatican teach- Church. This event Jews…It is impor- ings. The areas of Catholic teaching that it offers us an opportant for Jews to influenced regarding Jewish-Catholic rela- tunity to learn more about the signifiexpress to Catholics tions are: how their relation• recognizing that Judaism has a place cance of this docuship to Christians in G-d’s design for redemption and that the ment and the chalhas changed, if Hebrew Bible is not merely a prelude to the lenges that we face to further interreliindeed it has.” coming and mission of Jesus Event organizers • declaring that Jews are not responsible gious relationships and dialogue,” and panel partici- for Jesus’ death (deicide) pants hope that • decrying anti-Semitism as contrary to Rabbi Levine said. Vice-Chancellor there will be a the spirit of the Gospel Nostra Aetate’s full Ecumenical strong Jewish text can be found online at http://www.vat - and of the turnout and empha- ican.va/archive/hist_councils/ii_vatican_c Officer of size that this o u n c i l / d o c u m e n t s / v a t - Archdiocese Omaha Reverend anniversary is as rele- ii_decl_19651028_nostra-aetate_en.html Ryan Lewis, JCL, vant for Jews as it is for Catholics. “We Jews have to be aware STL, will give a brief overview of the of the positive steps taken by the Vatican. contents and impact of Nostra Aetate The Nostra Aetate document reaches out from a Catholic perspective. Dr. Roger to us, Jews, as invitation for healing and Bergman, director of the Justice and a directive to move on toward an authen- Peace Studies Program at Creighton tic dialogue that will lead to a true part- University; Dr. Wendy Wright, professor nership for mending our world,” says of Theology at Creighton University;
and Dr. Bette Evans, associate professor of Political Science, all of whom have been active in Jewish-Catholic relations in Omaha over the years and will share
Bishops from around the world gather in Rome for the Second Vatican Ecumenical Council. Ecumenical councils are gatherings of the Pope and the world’s bishops and produce the highest form of Catholic Church law. This Council, held in four sessions from October 1962 until December 1965, created and approved the document Nostra Aetate, which deals with Jewish-Catholic relations. what they have learned from these experiences about local Jewish-Catholic relations. Following the panel discussion, there will be an opportunity to share concerns and questions with the panelists followed by a light reception. For more information on this event or other ADL interfaith programming, contact me at bkatz@adl.org or at the ADL office, 402.333.1303.
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
October 21, 2005
Steve Fischer Writes Tell-All Book about Las Vegas by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Temple Israel Communications Coordinator Las Vegas in the ‘50s and ‘60s was another world. Those were the days when small-time gamblers like Omahan Steve Fischer, in town with his wife Jan “for a weekend of shows and great food, could ride down the elevator at one of the Strip hotels with Lucille Ball, have an ‘A’ table at the Versailles Room at the Riviera to see Rowan and Martin with Edie Adams opening, and laugh until it hurt when Buddy Hackett played the old Congo Room at the Sahara,” described Fischer. In August, Fischer published a book of 27 of his favorite stories about the Nevada hot spot. He and Jan have been going to Las Vegas fairly regularly, about three or four times a year, for the past 40 years, Fischer said. After retiring in 2003, he “had plenty of time on my hands, a very large collection of Las Vegas memorabilia, and a million Las Vegas stories” that he was more than willing to share. A selfdescribed Las Vegas historian, Fischer said he totally enjoys researching and collecting the stories. Previous to the book, When the Mob Ran Vegas, Stories of Money, Mayhem and Murder, he wrote columns and articles about Las Vegas for magazines and “extensively for eBay,” said Fischer. His first run of 1,500 books sold out in
a matter of days mostly at Las Vegas bookstores. “Pretty amazed” by his success, Fischer, a member of Temple Israel, thought, “This should happen to everyone once in their life!” He had another 10,000 copies of the book printed which are available online at www.When TheMobRanVegas.com or by phone at 402.214.5705. The book costs $19.95. There are stories about opening night at the Cal-Neva Lodge when Frank Sinatra’s guests included Marilyn Monroe, Joe Kennedy and his son, John F. Kennedy; the newly approved owners of the Riviera, Harpo Marx and his brother Gummo Marx; as well as other chapters about Jerry Lewis, Meyer Lansky, Howard Hughes, and Bugsy Siegel. There’s even one about Steve’s Uncle Morrie and Aunt Audrey Shapiro’s Las Vegas vacation. The Shapiros are from Omaha, and the story describes their visit to the Flamingo Hotel in 1953. “Many of the stories.are about famous or infamous people, many are about people you’ve never heard of before, but they all contributed to giving the fabulous town such a vibrant history,” Steve pointed out. Fischer will be available for book signing on Friday, Oct. 28, 7 p.m., at Barnes & Noble Booksellers at Oak View Mall and again on Sunday, Nov. 6, 1 p.m., at The Bookworm at Countryside Village, 87th and Pacific.
ORGANIZATIONS LOMIR REDN YIDDISH Come to the Yiddish meeting at the JCC on Thursdays, 1-3 p.m. Call Anne Skolkin at 343.1638. NEBRASKA JEWISH HISTORICAL SOCIETY On Sunday, Oct. 23, 2 p.m., NJHS will host a special program celebrating the history of Klezmer music in conjunction with the 350th year anniversary of Jews in America. The program will feature a film, Jewish Soul Music, The Art of Giora Feidman, in the JCC Theater. Following the film, a dessert reception will be held in the JCC gallery with the music of Tuffy’s Klezmorim, Debbie Greenblatt-Seay and a special guest. VISIONS Reminder: For those members going on the Magical Mystery Tour on
Thursday, Oct. 27, please meet at the JCC at 8:45 a.m. for 9 a.m. departure. Luncheon Meeting is Nov. 18, 12:30 p.m., at the Venice Inn, featuring Mike Kelly, the popular columnist for the Omaha World Herald. Cost is $9.50 per person. Send reservations and check made out to Visions to Tootie Simon, 8725 Izard St., Omaha, NE 68114 by Nov. 11. For questions, call Alloy at Harry 697.8709. Visions next Mitzvah Project is to collect a funds to purchase special adaptive computer equipment for the residents of the Blumkin Home. Bring donation to the luncheon or send to Maggie Conti, 323 So. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68154. Make check payable to Visions. B’NAI B’RITH BREADBREAKERS There is no Breadbreakers on Wednesday, Oct. 26, due to the Jewish holiday of Simchat Torah.
IN THE NEWS The Nebraska Heart Gallery will premiere Friday, Oct. 28, 6:45 p.m., at Sparkling Nights, which will feature guest speaker and award-winning author Amy Tan. Tan’s best selling novel, The Joy Luck Club was made into a movie, and on Oct. 18 she will release her new fiction novel, Saving Fish from Drowning. Sparkling Nights, a Child Saving Institute Guild event will be held at the Joslyn Art Museum at 2200 Dodge. The Heart Gallery concept was developed by Diane Granito in New Mexico and has quickly grown across the country. The Heart Gallery has been featured on the CBS Today Show, Parade, Women’s World and New York Times and most recently on ABC’s 20/20 show. Child Saving Institute is the organizer of the Nebraska Heart Gallery, which is one of few being run by a non-profit organization. For more information call the CSI Development office at 553.6000, or visit nebraskaheartgallery.org. The Nebraska Heart Gallery features work of local professional photographers. Photographers are paired with waiting children and asked to capture the children’s personalities through their camera. This year’s Goldstein Lecture features Committee on Conscience Director Jerry Fowler who will speak on “Genocide Emergency Sudan: Who Will Survive Today?”on Thursday, Oct. 27, 7 p.m. the Milo Bail Student Center at the University of Nebraska-Omaha. It is sponsored by the Shirley and Leonard Goldstein Endowment at UNO. Fowler is Staff Director of the Committee on Conscience at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. He previously was legislative counsel for the Lawyers Committee for Human Rights, where he worked on a broad array of human rights issues, including international justice and refugee and asylum policy. His publications include the essay, “Out of that Darkness: Preventing Genocide in the 21st Century,” in the Second edition of Century of Genocide: Eyewitness Accounts and Critical Views (Routledge, 2004). He also directed the short film A Good Man in Hell: General Romeo Dallaire and the Rwanda Genocide, taught at George Mason University Law School and George Washington University Law School, and has been a Scholar-inResidence at American University’s summer Human Rights Institute. He is a graduate of Stanford Law School and Princeton University. From 1983-87, he was stationed in Germany as an officer in the United States Army. From 1993-95, he served as Special
Litigation Counsel for Department of Justice.
the
U.S.
Creighton University Kripke Center for the Study of Religion and Society has funded a conference to address the presence of animal products in medications as an issue for Jews, Moslems and Hindus. The conference on Friday, Nov. 4, 8:30 a.m. to noon at the Boys Town National Research Hospital Auditorium, 555 No. 30 St. “When Taking Medication is a Sin: Religious Traditions and the Presence of Animal Products in Medications,” is free and open to the public. Speakers include Lyn M. Hall, RNC, APRN, The Nebraska Medical Center; Judith Lee Kissell, PhD, CUMC, Center for Health Policy and Ethics; Michael Makoid, PhD, CUMC, School of Pharmacy and Health Professions; Syed M. Mohiuddin, MD, CUMC Cardiac Center; S. Pirzada Sattar, MD, CUMC, Department of Psychiatry, Omaha VA Medical Center; and Rabbi Jonathan Gross, Beth Israel; Saaib Al-Shehadat, MD, Islamic Center of Omaha; Shashi Bhatia, MD, CUMC Department of Psychiatry; and Tehmina Zeb, Islamic Center of Omaha. Parking for guests is in the hospital visitors’ lot directly north of the hospital. Use hospital valet parking if mobility impaired. Call 402.280.2017 for information or see http://chpe.creighton. edu or www.justiceandhealth.org According to News-Medical.Net, Israeli in scientists reported Human Reproduction they have successfully transplanted whole frozen and thawed ovaries in sheep, retrieved oocytes and triggered them in the laboratory into early embryonic development. Lead author Dr Amir Arav, senior scientist at the Institute of Animal Science, Agriculture Research Organization, Bet Dagan, and brother of Dr. Rami Arav, said that these results demonstrate that it is possible in a large animal species, to remove, freeze, thaw and replace ovaries, obtain oocytes and maintain normal ovarian long-term function. This approach could become a feasible treatment for women facing premature ovarian failure. Blue Valley North High School’s debate and forensics squad in Overland Park, KS, ranked fifth out of the National Forensics League’s 2,700 schools. Senior Maggie Fried, daughter of former Omahans Sandy and Ed Fried, achieved the state’s highest honor, receiving first place in the Kansas State High School Activities Association Four Speaker competition.
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A Child’s Accident Teaches Family The Small Stuff Doesn’t Matter by PAM MONSKY The Lehman family has lived through a surreal experience. On Aug. 4 of this year, five-year-old Adam, son of Denise and Howard Lehman, fell out of his second story bedroom window and landed on the concrete driveway in front of their garage, where Denise just happened to be working. She recalled, “Fortunately, I was right there. Unfortunately, I saw him hit the driveway.” What followed in the days and weeks since that horrific accident is summed up by Howard as “the best and worst six weeks of our lives.” Howard Lehman is a native Omahan who met Denise at Arizona State University where she roomed with his sister. Married for 23 years, they returned to Omaha 11 years ago from Scottsdale with their two daughters, Stephanie, 19 and Allison, 16. When Denise, an RN,
Gradually, the doctors reduced the sedation medication and Adam was removed from the ventilator. He woke up and was responding to simple commands like ‘hold up one finger,’ and the family was thrilled. “You never saw a family so excited,” said Denise. “These little baby steps told us his brain was high functioning.” But Adam had yet to talk or make any sound and he couldn’t sit up or hold up his head. The Lehmans found out that there is no rehab facility in Omaha specializing in treating small children, so Adam was admitted to Madonna Rehabilitation Center in Lincoln. “We are a very proactive family,” explained Denise. “And we had to do what was best for Adam. Being 45 minutes away from our family and friends was overwhelming. After two weeks of constant visitors at Creighton, we suddenly had fewer people coming all the way to Lincoln to visit. Adam When was admitted to Madonna, he was alert and could count and wave, but he had a nasal feeding tube and he couldn’t talk, stand or lift his head, even to turn it. His progress, however, was nothing short of miraculous. Denise recalls, “He was supposed to be there Stephanie (left), Howard, Denise, Allison, and Adam Lehman for six weeks and discovered she was pregnant with Adam, they ended up shortening his stay. she called it a “happy surprise.” Within three weeks he was walking, talkSince the day of Adam’s accident, ing and eating. He ran out of there after Denise has kept a log of every test, pro- four weeks! The people at Madonna are cedure and everything the doctors told doing a story about him because he’s them. She wrote down her questions such a success story!” along with her feelings and now it’s Today, Adam is back in school full time, become a kind of diary documenting the attending Kindergarten at Aldrich family’s ordeal. Elementary. Denise and Howard say he’s As a nurse, Denise said, “it was a fool- 99% back to normal. “His mind and spirish thing to do, but as a mother, I picked it are back,” said Denise. “The only probhim up and called 911. He was uncon- lem he has is a small vision condition. scious, but breathing.” But it generally takes an entire year for a Adam spent two weeks at Creighton brain injury to heal, so it could still go Medical Center where Denise never left away.” his side. Family and friends came immeThe Lehman’s are still amazed by the diately to the family’s side. He was put on support and love they were shown by a ventilator and kept sedated in a coma- friends, co-workers and the community. like state until the extent of his injuries “We’re just overwhelmed by the commucould be evaluated. “There were specific nity’s outpouring of love and prayers for things they needed to measure that Adam. Words are not enough,” Denise would tell us if Adam would survive. The thoughtfully explained. Denise smiled and shook her head as doctors were blunt; they didn’t sugarcoat anything. It’s the most helpless feeling in she recounted some of the wonderful the world to see your 5-year-old son, so things people did for Adam and the famsmall and helpless, and there’s nothing ily. “Adam’s entire preschool class from the JCC came to our house the day you can do,” said Denise. Three days after the accident, they before he came home and decorated began reducing the sedation drugs and every inch of it! We set up a website and Adam squeezed his mother’s hand. In her have had over 3,600 visits and messages diary, the event is marked with exclama- of encouragement. Rabbi Gross and tion points. “Everything becomes a mile- Rabbi Levin came practically every day to stone,” she recalled. “Squeezing my Creighton Medical Center and made sevhand, holding up a finger, passing the 72 eral trips to see us in Lincoln as well. We can never, ever thank everyone enough,” hour mark.” Meanwhile, Adam’s numbers were she said. “I’m the nurse; I used to think I was a looking good. Although he had multiple skull fractures, that turned out to be a good, caring person. But this has been a good thing because it relieved the pres- life-changing event. To be on the receivsure on his brain. After four days, he ing end of it.” She stopped for a moment began to move a little, but the doctors before continuing, “I didn’t believe in noticed he wasn’t moving his left side. miracles before--I do now.” Denise said that through this ordeal, “We’d get good news and then bad news,” said Denise. “It seemed like her family has learned what’s really they’d give us hope and then they’d take important. “The small stuff doesn’t matit away. I began to bargain with God like ter. When you sit in a hospital with a seriplease just get him off the ventilator, ously ill child for six weeks, nothing else in life matters,” she said. then, just let him move.”
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Using the Past hooks and weights, Roman nails, pottery sherds, glass, Continued from page 1 Two kilometers northeast of the Sea of Galilee lies jewelry, coins and tombs can be found ranging from Bethsaida, literally, “House of Fisherman.” This site is 10th Century BCE to relatively modern times. For instance, I found a Hasmonean, or Maccabean, mostly referred to in Second Temple Period sources. Bethsaida is thought to be the capital city of the bibli- coin from the first century BCE right after finding an cal kingdom of Geshur in the Iron Age (10th century old metal spoon from 20 years ago. Since the Romans’ BCE). It was built with city walls and a city gate discov- demise, Bedouins and Syrian soldiers have taken their ered in 1996 to keep the Assyrians out. There is a plaza turns overrunning the area. Proof of Syrian occupancy area with a street and behind the gate are four chambers. from the 1950s can be seen through foxholes, bunkers, In spite of the fortification, the Assyrians did end up ammunition, shoes, buttons, and cans left behind. Finding a tin can from 50 years ago is not nearly as destroying the city in 743 BCE. This city was burned with a fire so hot that the rocks cracked, baked, and exciting as uncovering a tomb from 2000 years ago. In the plaza area, a tomb was discovered that housed blackened. The burnt layers allow archaeologists to date areas to this specific year, making the site almost a snap- a full skeleton with his head cocked to the east. Was this shot in time--the day the city was burned. Though the a Jewish grave? What was his life like? What did he do, city was destroyed, the Geshurites were not the last to what did he eat? Excavating a tomb is exciting, but hard work. Due to use this plot of land. The next most written about use is a first century CE my small stature, I was requested to do a lot of the work Roman city. Bethsaida is perhaps most popularly known in the tiny area. I felt the reality of the situation when I as the site of the “feeding of the multitudes” and the uncovered the lower mandible. My breath was taken “healing of the blind man.” It was once located on the away. This was a real person, with a real name. A physishores of the Sea of Galilee, or the Kineret, where Jesus cal anthropologist came in to look at the remains. He is said to have walked on water. Because this site is so collected samples and will analyze them to hopefully associated with Jesus, many come from near and far to give us insight as to the identiy of this person. We break at 9 a.m. for tour the excavation area and breakfast that undoubtedly to get a little bit dirty themincludes Turkish coffee, selves. affectionately called “potThe volunteers on the tery shard coffee”, referring group were a motley crew. to the mass of dreg and bitThe first session included terness to get people going. mostly retired Christians and After breakfast, we dig again seminary students wanting until 11 a.m., which is when to know more about the we get our popsicle break! Bible. I was surprised to be This refreshment was the one of only two Jewish volhighlight of the day. We unteers. In my next session, then resume digging until however, the retirees and we clean-up to get back on Christian seminary students the bus at 12:30 p.m. were replaced by some Now we have time at yeshiva students and mostly Kibbutz Ginosar to have Jewish college students from Connecticut. There were An infant buried in a pot under the street. Shown are a bead lunch and take a dip in the Kineret or that much needed also photography students and a scarab beetle showing Egyptian influence. and seminary students from Germany, Austria, Finland, nap. We reconvene at 4:30 for the pottery reading. We and South Africa. Each brought a different element for go over finds from the day before after they have been the group dynamic. Not only was I learning from the washed by the poor soul who had to scrub buckets and actual digging, but also from working closely in the dig- buckets of mostly tiny sherds of pottery. The volunteers sort the pottery into rim and handle ging pits with all different kinds of people. Now for a day in the life of a Bethsaida excavator. You pieces, bone, flint, body, and a separate pile for pottery must be at the bus by 5:30 a.m. ready with digging with special markings or different objects. Dr. Rami Arav clothes, water, hat, sunscreen, and the roll you saved then goes through the pottery, identifying each piece. from dinner the night before. Enjoy the moments of Whether it is a Galilean Bowl or a Roman casserole dish, sunrise, for it will come up quickly and soon the scorch- he always seems to know exactly what it is. We then mark the piece and record them in the journal. ing begins. After a delicious dinner at Nof Ginosar, the hotel on Now, at 6 a.m., is the best time to dig, still being cool outside. Among some of the areas we dug were parts of the Kibbutz, we usually have a lecture by Dr. Arav, Dr. the Iron Age chambers behind the city gate, the plaza Richard Freund, (former UNO professor who now and areas where the city wall collapsed onto the street, heads the Greenberg Center for Jewish Studies at the and a first century CE Roman military tower. University of Hartford) or another one of the profesAfter someone takes the elevations of the land levels sionals on the trip. They are always enlightening and and records details on the area, you are free to take off range in topics from Bethsaida itself, Israeli history, from where you left off the day before, removing earth Dead Sea Scrolls, to Nazareth. and rock that has not been touched for two thousand I have been blessed to have such an educational opporyears. Carefully chip away at the terrain with your pick, tunity. It is amazing to learn how the digging up the past or pateesh in Hebrew, keeping your eye out for treas- can help us uncover not only what happened in days ures, fill up your buckets and sift them. gone by, but also gives us insight in what is happening in Digging is a tedious process of filling and sifting buck- present times--and what may come in our future. ets one after another. It all feels worthwhile, though, For further information and pictures on the Bethsaida when you make a find. At the site, things like fishing Excavations, go to: www.unomaha.edu/bethsaida.
UNO to Host Batchelder Biblical Archaeology Conference by TERESA GLEASON Director of Communications, Administration at UNO The Bethsaida Excavations Project at the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) will host the seventh annual Batchelder Biblical Archaeology Conference and Reunion, Friday-Sunday, Nov. 10-12. Scholars from all over the world will meet to discuss and present their research on the 2005 dig season at Bethsaida, an ancient city located near the north coast of the Sea of Galilee in Israel. All conference activities will be held on the UNO campus, and the keynote lecture is free and open to the public. Geography historian and biblical archaeologist Anson Rainey will deliver the opening keynote address Thursday, Nov. 10, at 7:30 p.m. in the Milo Bail Student Center (MBSC) Ballroom. Rainey is a professor emeritus of Ancient Near Eastern Cultures and Semitic Linguistics at Tel Aviv University, Israel. The title of his address is “The Rise and Fall of the Aramean Kingdom of Damascus.”
Conference activities continue Nov. 11, in the MBSC Ballroom and conclude Nov. 12, in Eppley Auditorium. “Over the years, the Batchelder Conference for Biblical Archaeology has gained the prestige of a high quality international conference that attracts scholars and lay people from around the world,” said Dr. Rami Arav, director of the Bethsaida Excavations Project at UNO. “It brings to a large audience the most updated discoveries and thoughts.” In 1991, the Consortium of the Bethsaida Excavations Project (CBEP) was formed and has been housed at UNO since its inception. Its mission is to excavate the ancient city of Bethsaida, research the data discernible from the remains, and disseminate the conclusions to both academic and popular audiences. The conference is co-sponsored by International Studies and Programs at UNO, and the Greenberg Center for Judaic Studies at the University of Hartford. To register or for information and a schedule, call Steve Reynolds, Bethsaida Project coordinator, 554.3108.
October 21, 2005
EIE Program Continued from page 1 However, outside of the gas chamber at “It was a great place to safely experi- Auschwitz, we joined up with a group of ence Israel,” Josh continued. From his Israeli youth visiting the camps, made a back porch, he had “a beautiful view of circle, and sang “Am Yisrael Chai” (The Jerusalem. The food was excellent, there People of Israel Live). There were at least was plenty of things to do, and so many 50 Israeli flags and so much hope in a interesting people to talk to.” place where there was so much hatred Accredited by the Middle States and evil. It was nice to sort of say, you Association of Colleges and Schools, lost. We Jews are still here.” Josh's school in Israel offered a threeFor one week, the EIE students get a hour Jewish history class every morning taste of one of the most significant instithat he described as amazing. “It showed tutions in Israeli life: the Israel Defense me how much I don't know and simply Force. Gadna, designed as an army orienskimmed the surface of so many subjects tation program for Israel teens, allows which I need to study more in depth. EIE students to join in a mini-basic trainThen we had two hours of Hebrew class ing program to gain an inside view of the which improved my Hebrew a ton,” he army and modern Israel. said. “It was very intense Josh’s both physically and menteachers tally,” Josh recalled. “Our were “fancommanders would only tastic and I talk in Hebrew to make learned the experience harder. We just as learned about camoumuch or flage, past Israeli battle m a y b e victories, and shot M-16s. more than “It was a great and diffimy friends cult experience. It gave at home. me a great appreciation We had for all of the Israeli solflexible diers who endure that schedules Josh Bleicher and his new friends clown around at experience for at least two with lots of the kibbutz. years.” time in the day when we could go sit by “This experience gave me so much the pool and study or just hang out with knowledge about Judaism and Israel, both friends.” its history and issues today.” Josh pointed In addition, there were usually two out. “More than this, it showed me how field trips a week. “We stayed at the Dead huge a subject both Judaism and Israel are, Sea, Tel Aviv, Haifa, the Golan Heights, and how much I need to learn. I feel so Eilat, Kibbutz Yahel (a Reform kibbutz), much more connected with Israel after this and we went just about everywhere else trip. I know more about what the people of in between. We also went to Prague and Israel have had to go through and still go Poland for a week.” On those trips, the through every day. students met with the Jewish community “The main thing I loved in Israel was of Prague and saw the concentration the Jewish culture. The mezuzahs on camps in Poland and the Warsaw Ghetto. every door, the language of the Torah “We learned about the great Jewish surrounding you, the people wearing kipcommunities in Europe. There were pot who serve you in a restaurant, and beautiful synagogues and Jewish stores, the enormous amount of pride that all of clocks, and art work,” he explained. In this exists is so amazing to me. Having a Poland, “we went to Terezin, Auschwitz, Jewish culture wherever you are is so and Birkenau. The museum at Auschwitz important and something that I strive to was horrible. There were rooms full of make for myself here in America,” he hair, shoes, baby toys, clothes, talit, and said. almost anything you can think of. We also “Before I went on EIE, I looked at the went in a gas chamber at Auschwitz world through American eyes. Now I which was one of the hardest things look at the world through Jewish eyes.” about the trip. It is so horrifying to think For more information about the you are standing in a place where hun- January-June 2006 EIE semester, contact dreds of thousands of your people were Jillian Cameron, recruitment and regisexecuted. And this was just preparation tration coordinator, by email at for Birkenau. The enormity of this place jcameron@urj.org or by phone at amazed me. From one end of the camp, 212.650.4073. While in Israel, students it is impossible to see the fence at the can take the PSAT, SAT I, SAT II, ACT, other end. Seeing the Nazis’ machine for or AP exams. Scholarships are available death is so real at Birkenau. These places from Temple Israel, the Jewish Federation, and through NFTY. are cold and frightening.
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Jewish on Campus? Where to Begin... by HOWARD WOLKE Choosing the right college is a challenge for students and their parents. Students want to know: Where is the best place to study my major? What is the social life like? Are their jobs near campus? How far can I get from my parents? Parents want to know: Will my children get a quality education? Will they be able to find a job or go to graduate school with their degree? How much will college cost? Will I ever be able to afford another vacation? On top of these concerns, Jewish parents and students have one additional question: Will the student be satisfied Jewishly? Sometimes the question is driven by a search for significant spirituality; often it’s driven by a search for significant others. Either way, it’s close to the hearts of many freshmen and their parents. Finding the right answer is as complicated and nuanced as the students themselves. What’s right for Daniel may not be appropriate for Danielle. As the Jewish community on campus, Hillel works with 400,000 Jewish college students every year. We understand their different needs and interests. Hillel’s Web site, www.hillel.org, provides useful, detailed information about Jewish life at hundreds of schools around the world, everything from the Jewish population on campus to the availability of kosher dining, the presence of Jewish sororities and fraternities to the number of Jewish arts groups. For more personalized information, Hillel professionals on campuses are available to speak with prospective freshmen and their parents during a college visit or by telephone. Hillel’s Web site offers a complete listing of their contact information. Today’s Jewish college students come to campus from a variety of backgrounds and Hillel is working to provide for their different needs and interests. As a result, school choices have never been so broad or so filled with Jewish content. Universities themselves are contributing to this renaissance of Jewish life on campus by working closely with Hillels across North America. Kosher dining services are now available at the University of Connecticut and the University of Maryland. New Hillel buildings have been constructed at Syracuse, Duke, the University of Pennsylvania and Vanderbilt with administration encouragement and support. Hillel has built 20 buildings in the last five years. The rich array of Jewish student programs may start in the Hillel facility but it spills out onto the campus wherever students may be found. Jewish students are vitally interested in the arts. Today, more
than 35 schools across the country have Jewish a cappella groups including Binghamton’s Kaskeset and NYU’s Ani V’Ata. Columbia University hosts an annual Art and Photography Show. Cornell even has a Latin-Israeli DanceInitiative called Be’Ketsev, or “with a beat.” A recent study has shown that 43 percent of Jewish students have taken a Jewish studies course in college. If students are into affecting change, they can check out Yale where students regularly tutor at a local New Haven middle school or the annual Tufts literacy carnival: Read by the River. Jewish students on campus regularly get involved in political action with College Democrats and College Republicans. Just last month, Columbia’s LionPAC, a political pro-Israel group held a debate between student supporters of various presidential campaigns. Young people come to campus from different Jewish movements and these movements often have counterparts on the college campus. In choosing a school, students can select a campus with an active branch of Kesher, the Reform college group, Koach for Conservative students, or the Jewish Learning Initiative, an Orthodox-sponsored group that provides opportunities for students to immerse themselves in text study. Students properly use their college years to improve their leadership skills and expand their experiences. Campus Hillels offer many opportunities for students to develop as leaders and to travel abroad. Hillels offer Alternative Spring Break trips within the United States, to Latin America and to the former Soviet Union. This spring, Hillel is sending students from more than a dozen campuses to different parts of the globe. During winter and late spring, students can participate in free, 10-day trips to Israel through birthright israel. Diversity has become an important value for students. And in this respect, Jewish students have tons of opportunities. On campus Jewish students are diverse as ever with Queens College alone having a Persian Club, an Israeli Club and a Bukharan Club. NYU has an Arab-Jewish dialogue group. Life on a college campus offers confusing choices. Students can look to Hillel as a resource to help find the right school, and to get the most out of the college years once they’ve arrived. Howard Wolke is Communications Associate with Hillel: The Foundation for Jewish Student Life in Washington, D.C.
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Adult Education Opportunities Flourish at Beth El ceremony, which will take place during by JILL BELMONT Beth El Publicity Coordinator Shabbat services on March 11. This year’s As the saying goes, “If you build it, class, including Shirley Cemaj, Ann they will come.” These words certainly Goldstein, Carole Greenberg, Andrea ring true when looking at the thriving Grossman, Betty Kolnick, Gale Levitan, adult-education program at Beth El. Over the past several years, learning opportunities for Jewish adults have blossomed, enticing participants from throughout the community to enrich their lives in a variety of ways. “We take great pride in doing all that is required to provide our adults with creative, meaningful learning experiences,” said Rabbi Mordechai Levin. Cantor Bogomolni (standing, center) and members of his “It is a mitzvah to pursue Adult B’nai Mitzvah class take a break from their Sunday Jewish education, and we’ve morning studies. The class of 13 will celebrate its milestone made it a major commitevent next March. ment.” The joy of Jewish learning is evident as the synagogue’s weekly classes immerse community members in a myriad of meaningful Jewish subjects. Sunday mornings are jampacked with five adult-education classes, and congregants and non-members alike are invited to participate. At 10 a.m. “Living Hebrew,” taught by Susi Frydman-Levin, is offered as an intermediate level An average of 40 people join together each Sunday morning Hebrew class geared to those to enjoy Susi Frydman-Levin’s “Jewish Pot Pourri” class. wishing to enhance their conversational Mitzie Monovitz, Betty Perelman, Carole skills; at the same time, the weekly Bible and Ed Schneider, Lourdes Secola, study class convenes in the library, offer- Sherry Shapiro and Sally Zipursky, will ing dynamic conversation and an in- participate in the morning’s Torah readdepth exploration of how the Bible ings, as well as read portions of the Haftarah. relates to contemporary life. The most enjoyable aspect of teaching At 11 a.m., Frydman-Levin and her lively “Jewish Pot Pourri” class revel in this class, says Cantor Gastón, is “seeing everything Jewish--history, traditions, these adults’ deep desire to succeed. I music and literature. Each week’s focus is love to see them challenging themselves a surprise, the instructor said, with stu- to become better Jews and more knowldents exploring the endless richness of edgeable about the Jewish traditions, hisJewish culture. “Classes are based on a tory and prayers.” variety of subjects--short stories, fables, Beginning on Nov. 3, noon, Rabbi children’s stories, songs--the possibilities Levin will kick off the fourth year of his are endless and we’ll make it up as we always-popular Thursday class, and he go,” Frydman-Levin said, adding, “it’s welcomes both regulars and newcomers fun to not have a specific text to follow.” to take part in “Discovering the Talmud: The synagogue’s newest adult-educa- Lessons for Everyday Living.” tion offering, entitled “From Your Heart This class will explore the importance to God’s Ears,” is led by Andy of this essential rabbinic work, offering Greenberg, and at 11 a.m. each Sunday. historical background, as well as a road This introspective and interactive class map through its many features “If the focuses on the meaning and personal Bible is the cornerstone of Judaism, then the Talmud is the central pillar,” he said. interpretations of Jewish prayers. Students in Cantor Gastón “In many ways the Talmud is the most Bogomolni’s 10 a.m. Sunday morning important book in Jewish civilization. No Adult B’nai Mitzvah class are currently other book has had a comparable influbusy preparing for their B’nai Mitzvah ence on the theory and practice of Jewish
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life, shaping spiritual content and serving as a guide to conduct. “The Talmud offers profound insights, lively debates and challenging perspectives for everyday living,” he continued. “We will learn about some of the most important people and ideas of the Talmud; we will also discuss selected texts and see how they apply to our lives today.” Beth El’s commitment to learning is also evident during Shabbat. In addition to his insightful weekly D’var Torah, Rabbi Levin leads a monthly alternative Shabbat service, featuring thought-provoking discussions about the symbolism behind and contemporary application of the week’s Torah reading. Following a short hiatus, this special service will resume on Saturday, Nov. 19, 10 a.m. To facilitate a more intimate, comfortable atmosphere, the alternative service is always held in the synagogue’s chapel, and more often than not, empty seats are few and far between. The parasha comes alive during animated Torah discussions, with congregants offering personal interpretations and thoughtful perspectives on the weekly reading. The sharing of ideas is an important component of the service, Rabbi Levin said, explaining that “these Torah discussions give us the opportunity to hear pieces of wisdom from different people--it’s good to be able to learn from each other.” The synagogue’s educational programming will be highlighted this year by several special events involving two scholarsin-residence: Dr. Adolfo Roitman, curator of the Shrine of the Book, which houses the Dead Sea Scroll collection at the Israel Museum in Jerusalem, will visit
Beth El from Feb. 10-12; and renowned author, storyteller and inspirational speaker Rabbi Jack Riemer will share his wisdom with the community May 5-7. Dr. Roitman, a senior lecturer at the Schechter Institute of Jewish Studies in Jerusalem, has served as a visiting scholar at universities across the United States and Central and South America, speaking about early Jewish literature, the significance of the Dead Sea Scrolls, and biblical interpretations. Rabbi Riemer is the author of numerous books, including So That Your Values Live On, a Treasury of Ethical Wills, the three-volume The World of the High Holy Days, and Jewish Reflections on Death, a classic resource which assists mourners. He has lectured at universities, healing centers, synagogues and churches around the world and has been called “probably the most quoted rabbi in the country” by tzedakah guru Danny Siegel. Another educational highlight will take place in March, as UNO Professor Guy Matalon leads a special mini-course entitled “Bad Boys of the Bible,” co-sponsored by Beth El and the Center for Jewish Education. Rounding out the learning opportunities at the synagogue are entertaining and informative lunch ‘n’ learn events sponsored by Beth El’s different auxiliary groups, and the lively Women’s Rosh Hodesh group. A veritable smorgasbord of Jewish classes has been assembled by the synagogue’s staff and teachers--and whether your pleasure is a class, an activity or a special event, there is always something interesting and meaningful to discover at Beth El.
Slow Cooking by Joanne Glynn (Whitecap)
READ IT AND EAT Reviewed by LOIS FRIEDMAN A magnificent color photograph accompanies each recipe in this oversize cookbook. Savor the aromas of the freshest ingredients and to appreciate “food that is a celebration of the art of cooking and the comfort of home, family and friends”. Prepare-Relax-Enjoy, Starting Well, On the Stove, In the Oven, Perfect Sides and A Happy Ending are chapters, with almost 100 international recipes and detailed instructions for not so fast food. This dessert can be made with any kind of fruit. APPLE CRUMBLE Serves 6; cooking time: 1 hr
8 Golden Delicious apples 4 tablespoons caster (superfine) sugar zest of 1 lemon 4.5 oz. butter 4.5 oz. all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Turn the oven to 350°. Peel and core the apples, then cut them into chunks. Put the apple, 2 tablespoons of sugar and the lemon zest in a small baking dish and mix together. Dot about 2 tablespoons of butter over the top. Rub the remaining butter into the flour until you have a texture which resembles coarse sand. Stir through the rest of the sugar and the cinnamon. Sprinkle the crumble mixture over the apple and bake the crumble for 1 hour, by which time the top should be browned and the juice bubbling up through the crumble.
October 21, 2005
Temple Israel Repeat Campers and First-Timers Enjoyed Their Summers by CLAUDIA SHERMAN LaVista Junior High School. Temple Israel Communications Coordinator Eighth grader Chloe Ginsburg headed to Herzl Camp Olin-Sang-Ruby Union Institute (OSRUI), 45 miles also in Wisconsin last summer. It was her third year from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, has been home to more there. “A lot of people in my family have gone there,” than 30,000 youngsters over the past 54 years and was she said, which prompted her first visit. “I liked it the first of a dozen Union for Reform Judaism camps in enough to keep going.” North America. Like many other young teens, Chloe’s favorite part of Fourteen-year-old Ben Ozeroff was back at OSRUI camp was “just being with a lot of my friends.” Other last summer for the fifth time. He was in the Bonim ses- camp activities included swimming, art, and athletics. sion which is a cabin program that offers an opportuni- She participated in the Kesher program which included ty to be part of a large community while at the same a two-day bike trip and sleeping outside. time focusing on one of “On Friday night, we all three areas of interest: explodressed in white and could rations, sports, and watersit wherever we wanted for front. Ben, a ninth grader at dinner,” Chloe explained. Temple Israel and at On other nights, campers sat Heartland School, chose with their cabin mates. sports. Shabbat ended with singing “Sports isn’t my favorite and havdalah on Saturday thing, but it was very fun nights. there,” he admitted. He Chloe attends Temple played softball, soccer, volIsrael Religious School and North Middle leyball, tennis, and indoor Millard games like foosball and air School. hockey. “I enjoyed it a lot,” Camp Sabra, located on Lissa Mandell, Jordan Jensen, Alexis Slutzky, and Maddie the Lake of the Ozarks midBen said. way between St. Louis and Ben’s favorite activity at Jordan enjoy visiting day at OSRUI. camp was “hanging out with my friends.” Other activities Kansas City, Missouri, was Zach Spooner’s choice for he found “very interesting” were the talent show, camp- summer camp. Actually, it was the fifth time for Zach to wide sports, and competitive swimming. There was Torah enjoy the natural beauty of the Ozarks. And besides, “it’s fun and you get to meet study every Thursday and new friends,” pointed out “Shabbos every Friday night, Zach, 15. His favorite activiand boy was that fun!” he ties were water sports and a insisted. “We had a very large softball world series based and very delicious dinner for on Omaha’s own College Shabbat. And there was World Series. singing.” There were worship There were worship servicservices on Friday nights and es every Friday which Zach Saturday mornings. Shabbat enjoyed, because “you get to mornings were also a chance go with your friends.” Sabra to sleep late. It was also “the also features an Israeli Day only time we could have when they “teach us about chocolate milk!” according to things going on in Israel.” Ben. Maddie Jensen meet sher OSRUI counselsors. He also spent five days on a Rachel Scheet, 12, also went to OSRUI last summer. It was her first time and camping trip in Arkansas. “It was fun, a good experishe attended the Tzofim Bet session which emphasized ence,” he said. A ninth grader at Burke High School, Zach also outdoor experiences. “I liked stayed in tents and feeding attends Religious School at Temple. the animals -- goats, sheep, chickens, and a rabbit.” All four of the campers said they would like to go back Rachel and her mother Lisa spoke to OSRUI Director Jerry Kaye before the seventh grader decided to register to camp next summer. It’s not too soon to register. Camp sessions fill up quickly. All Temple Israel members are elifor camp last year. “It sounded like fun,” she said. In addition to the outdoor life, Rachel got to choose gible for a $1,000 Eisenberg campership for their first clubs in which to participate. She picked horseback rid- Jewish camp experience. The Jewish Federation also offers ing and dance. On Shabbat, “we said prayers and had a $500 to youngsters who attend Jewish camps the summer special dinner -- chicken and challa and stuff,” she before and the summer after their Bar or Bat Mitzvah. recalled. Another highlight of Shabbat was when Jerry Jewish Educational and Library Services also has financial aid scholarships for summer camps, and additionally, some Kaye read a story to the campers. Rachel attends Religious School at Temple and goes to camps themselves offer financial assistance.
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 9
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Teacher memberships are available at the Omaha Children’s Museum at a 50% discount now through Oct. 30. The membership also offers a 25% discount on class field trips and invitations to teacher-only events and workshops. The discounted teacher memberships can be used for OCM’s return showing of the popular “Grossology” exhibit--“The (Impolite Science) of the Human Body.” In November, “Rocks Rocks!” opens and runs through March, 2006. Enjoy a family dinner with Sam & Louis’s New York Style pizza on Thursday, Nov. 3, 5-7 p.m. Cost is $4 for adults; $3 for children 12 and under. For membership information or reservations to events, call the OCM at: 342.6164 or visit w.ww.ocm.org.
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
October 21, 2005
A Boyfriend’s Tzimmes Spurs a Lifetime Love of Jewish Food
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In her book of personal anecdotes, And the Bridge Is Love, Fay Moskowitz offered the most delightful description of all time: “Aunt Celia had red hair the color of carrot tzimmes cooked in honey and darkened with cinnamon.” Who knows if that was her natural color, or if Clairol ever offered a product close to the deep coppery shade of a good, old-fashioned tzimmes. A versatile stew that welcomes a multitude of ingredients, tzimmes is a complete meal in a pot when made with meat. When vegetables and fruit stand alone, it becomes a saucy side dish, which perks up poultry or veal. Because Sukkot falls so deep into autumn this year, nothing could be more satisfying than a steaming tzimmes, whether it be your grandma’s recipe or an updated version full of sassy ingredients. With its funny sounding name, tzimmes is one of those foods that have bounced around the Ashkenazi world for centuries, but rarely receives respect. Like a loveably flamboyant child, tzimmes is often the butt of jokes but with its irrepressible personality, this comforting stew is simply too tantalizing to miss. TANGY TZIMMES (Pareve) 21/2-3 lbs. yams, about 6 11/2 lbs. medium carrots, about 10-12 4 oz. branch of fresh ginger 20 oz. can pineapple chunks 1 cup orange juice 1 tsp. salt Juice of 1 lime 1/2 cup maple syrup 12 oz box dried plums (pitted prunes) 6-quart pot 2 cups walnuts, chopped Peel yams, carrots and ginger. Cut yams into 8 chunks, carrots into quarters and ginger into 1/4 inch slices. Drain can of pineapples and reserve juice. Place yams, carrots, ginger, pineapple juice, orange juice, salt, lime juice and maple syrup into the pot and cover. Simmer on a low flame for 45 minutes, stirring every few minutes. Add pineapple chunks and dried plums. Simmer and stir for another 15 minutes, or until potatoes are soft in the center when a knife is inserted. Before serving, place walnuts on a cookie sheet and bake in a 350º oven until lightly browned, about minutes. Check nuts often, as they burn easily. Turn tzimmes into an attractive bowl and sprinkle with walnuts. Yield: 12 servings. Continued on page 11
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Because of their many ingredients and long cooking time, tzimmes recipes are associated with prolonged procedures or involved business. Leo Rosten cites a newspaper advertisement: “Skip the fuss. Leave the tzimmes to us.” In spite of the stigma attached to its meaning, tzimmes isn’t really difficult to prepare, not counting the chopping of produce. After that, cooks are on Easy Street. As the assorted ingredients gently stew in a large pot, multitaskers can help children with homework, return phone calls, read e-mails and bake brownies, if they remember to give the tzimmes an occasional stir. Praising the ease of tzimmes preparation, Kay Kantor Pomerantz, author of several cholent, or Sabbath stew, cookbooks, explains, “I love tzimmes almost as much as cholent, because you can throw it together and it always tastes delicious.” When ingredients have a chance to mellow and harmonize, the flavor is heightened. “The longer tzimmes sits, the better,” Pomerantz says. “But don’t let it sit too long.” In America, most tzimmes recipes combine sweet potatoes, carrots and prunes. However in the Old Country, white potatoes prevailed. Sweet potatoes are an American contribution to the genre. Traditionally tzimmes was sweetened with honey. But in our country, where everything from ketchup to breakfast cereal is sugared, maple syrup, brown sugar, canned pineapples and orange juice were invited on board. A good tzimmes can be made with practically anything, but dried fruit is its signature ingredient. There are recipes that call for dates, apricots, raisins, figs and even cranberries. Cinnamon has been the seasoning of choice, although paprika was a contender too. A staple of kosher hotel buffets in Israel, tzimmes epitomizes Ashkenazi cuisine. However, health conscious people looking to trim fat and cholesterol from their diets have replaced beef with chicken and turkey in recipes. Today’s tzimmes is seasoned with lusty flavors as far flung as ginger, cayenne pepper, Madeira wine, cumin, or chili powder. A recipe from author Gil Marks calls for mint. In modern-day America, tzimmes appears in some surprising forms, as teacakes, souffles and desserts, which include candied fruit and caramelized apples. In Jewish circles, it’s been said that you can make a big fuss about almost anything, but you can’t make a real tzimmes without carrots. Congenial and colorful, carrots are the common denominator in recipes.
fata’s Ca La
by LINDA MOREL NEW YORK, (JTA)--In the town where I grew up, there were three churches and no synagogues. Naturally, Jews were few and far between. We moved there in the 1950s because my mother liked the landscape. Abandoning our Ashkenazi background, she befriended our neighbors, pursuing standard American fare, such as candied carrots and mashed sweet potatoes with marshmallows. So it’s not surprising that I was in college before I got my first taste of tzimmes. One Sukkot during the late 1960s, a boyfriend invited me to his grandparents’ two-family house in Borough Park, a Brooklyn neighborhood that was mostly populated by Orthodox Jews. In their dining room, the usual foods graced the lace on their holiday table: challah, roasted turkey, brisket with onions, stuffed peppers and an apple kugel--no cream, of course. “What’s that?” I whispered, pointing to a bowl brimming with sweet potatoes and carrots, the color of molten amber punctuated by bold black prunes. “Tzimmes,” my boyfriend said. “Tzimmes?” I asked, trying this sweet and savory medley. Catching a hint of honey, I wanted the recipe. “You’ve never heard of tzimmes before?” asked his grandmother, piling a second portion on my plate. “In Yiddish, it means a big fuss or a lot of trouble.” “I don’t know any Yiddish,” I said, distracted by my ecstasy. Although I eventually broke up with that boyfriend because he was too much of a tzimmes, I was seduced by a burst of flavor as vibrant as autumn leaves. That Sukkot, I discovered a comfort food with a warmer heart than mashed potatoes or Campbell’s soup concoctions. Although tzimmes is most often associated with Rosh Hashanah because of its sweet ingredients, the dish is also served at Sukkot, when piping hot casseroles full of fall produce are infinitely practical. In cold climates, hearty foods are popular for outdoor dining in sukkahs, the harvest huts erected in backyards and decorated with dangling produce to celebrate the season’s bounty. Leo Rosten explains in The Joys of Yiddish, the word tzimmes derives from the German zum, or “to the,” and essen, or “eating.” Simmered for hours on a low flame, tzimmes is a mixture of vegetables; fruits, often dried; and sometimes meat, such as brisket, flanken, or short ribs. It’s not surprising that tzimmes originated in Germany, where people have cooked fruit with meat since the Middle Ages.
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Lifetime Love of Jewish Food Continued from page 10 TZIMMES TEA BREAD (Pareve) This recipe is ideal for leftover vegetarian tzimmes, such as the Tangy Tzimmes on the previous page. Serve it with tea or coffee on sunny afternoons inside the Sukkah. Enjoy it plain or lightly toast and spread butter, jam, or cream cheese on top. On Shabbat, this surprising little bread is delicious for breakfast or with lunch. 2 disposable aluminum loaf pans (8 by 4 by 21/2 inches) No-stick vegetable spray 2 cups flour 1/2 cup sugar 1 Tbsp. baking powder 1/2 tsp. salt 2/3 cup orange juice 2 eggs, lightly beaten 3 Tbsp. margarine, melted 2 cups tzimmes (already prepared) Preheat oven to 350º. Coat loaf pans with no-stick spray. Reserve. Sift flour, sugar, baking powder and salt into large mixing bowl. Make a well in the center of sifted ingredients. Pour orange juice, eggs and margarine into the well. Mix together until dry ingredients are just moistened. Fold in tzimmes and mix until incorporated. Don’t puree. Small chunks of carrots and sweet potatoes are visible. Divide dough in half and fill prepared loaf pans. Bake 50 minutes, or until top forms a dome, edges brown lightly, and cake tester or toothpick inserted in the center returns clean. Cool to room temperature on a rack. Loaves will fall slightly. Remove from pans. Slice and serve immediately. For deeper flavor, wrap unsliced loaves separately in foil and store in sealed plastic bags at room temperature to serve the following day. Breads freeze well. Yield: 12-14 slices per loaf. LITE TZIMMES (Meat) 3 Tbsp. olive oil 3 lbs. leeks, about 4, greens discarded and white parts cut into 1/4 inch slices 3 skinless, boneless chicken breasts (6 halves) cut into 1 inch slices salt and white pepper to taste
2 lbs. medium carrots, about 12-14, peeled 3 lbs. Yukon gold potatoes, about 6, peeled and cut into 6 chunks 5 cups chicken broth 1 cup white wine 1/2 cup flat leaf parsley, minced 1/2 cup dried cranberries 2/3 cup dried apricots, halved 2/3 cup pitted dates, halved 4 Tbsp. honey 1 tsp. ground cinnamon 1/2 tsp. ground nutmeg In a large pot, saute leeks in olive oil for 1 minute. Add chicken and saute until lightly browned. Add remaining ingredients and gently mix. Simmer on a low flame stirring several times for 45 minutes, or until potatoes are soft when a knife is gently inserted in the center. Serve immediately, or bring to room temperature, refrigerate up to 3 days, and reheat on low. Recipe freezes well. Yield: 10 servings SAVORY TZIMMES (Meat) 11/2 lbs. medium sized carrots, about 10-12 2 medium sized onions 2 medium sized zucchinis 4 baking potatoes, peeled 3 lbs. cubed beef for stewing Salt to taste 5 Tbsp. olive oil Black pepper to taste 1 tsp. paprika 31/2 cups beef broth 1 cup red wine 1/2 cup dill, minced 1 cup golden raisins Dice carrots, onions, zucchinis and potatoes. Reserve. Sprinkle beef with salt. In a large pot, saute beef in 3 Tbsp. olive oil until lightly browned on all surfaces. Remove from pot and reserve. Drizzle remaining olive oil in pot and place diced produce inside. Sprinkle with salt, pepper and paprika. Saute and stir until produce wilts. Return beef to pot and stir. Mix in broth, wine and dill. Stirring every 15 minutes, simmer on a low flame for three hours, or until meat is tender when pierced with a knife. Add raisins and simmer another 15 minutes. Serve immediately, or bring to room temperature, store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and reheat on low. Recipe freezes well. Yield: 10-12 servings
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
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ment. On each campus, two CFD Fellows underclassmen will be chosen; they will need to apply for the Fellowship. These students will be in charge of coordinating all programming and working with a CFD professional creating the budget, marketing campaign, etc. They will receive extensive professional attention and guidance from the CFD staff and the different activist trainers, allowing the school’s Israel programming to be taken to a new level and hopefully expand its reach and turn apathy into activism. The Caravan Fellows will also have the chance to participate in an enriching two-week leadership training mission to Israel where they will gain even more tools to become the most effective Israel educators and advocates. “Caravan for Democracy Fellowships allows JNF, Media Watch International and Hamagshimim to invest directly in the campus and its up and coming student leaders,” said Mara Suskauer, Executive Director of JNF’s Department of Israel Advocacy and Education. “By providing leadership training opportunities, programs to provide dialogue about Israel on campus, and our two-week Israel Activists Mission, we are able to make a significant impact for proIsrael programming on campus.” Fellowship components include a two-day leadership introductory retreat in New York; responsibility for two small events during the year in addition to a bigger yearend event; helping to launch JNF’s Negev campaign on the campus; a two-week mission to Israel designed to complete their Israel advocacy training and enhance their knowledge and understanding of Israel; and the opportunity to meet and network with elite leaders within the Jewish community, hearing their stories of success and inspiration. For more information about the Caravan or Fellowships, please contact Rebecca Kahn at 212.879.9305 x248, or by e-mail at rkahn@jnf.org.
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College Campus Program Sharpens Israel Focus by JODI BODNER JNF Director of Communications New York, NY--In January 2002, at the height of the intifada, many Jewish college students found themselves unprepared to deal with, and react to, the pro-Palestinian agenda that headlined many campus activities. Jewish National Fund, in conjunction with two partners--Media Watch International and Hamagshimim --rose to the challenge of driving constructive dialogue on college campuses throughout the U.S. by bringing speakers from Israel to discuss the challenges Israel faces as the only democracy in the Middle East, with its formulation of Caravan for Democracy (CFD). Three years later and the atmosphere on campuses has changed. Jewish students want to be more proactive, not reactive. There is a desire to understand Israel beyond the conflict, learn the facts and present them to their campus community in a positive and constructive manner. At the same time though, apathy still abounds. To better hone the Israel focus, this year CFD is embarking on a new program--the first ever Caravan for Democracy Fellowship.With this program CFD is adapting to meet the new needs of pro-Israel students and offers a unique opportunity for both the participating campuses and the individual participants. “It is important to implement a Fellowship program into Caravan for Democracy since it enables the targeting of future campus leaders,” said Doron Shmueli, a senior at the University of Colorado at Boulder, and a CFD student who traveled to Israel this past summer on the CFD mission. “Once the current leaders graduate and continue with their career goals, a new leader should emerge to continue the important privilege we are all entitled to--being a part of Israel’s future.” Fifteen campuses across the country will be selected for participation based on need, desire and commit-
Page 11
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Page 12
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
October 21, 2005
Mission Participants Return from Kiev and Israel
In September, 36 members of the community, ages 27-84, participated in a Leadership Mission to Kiev and Israel, seeing first-hand some of the many projects supported by the Jewish Federation. Exploring Israel from the Golan Heights to the Negev, the group, several of whom are pictured, enjoyed a range of experiences--from educational to emotional to just plain fun. Above from left: Rabbi Jonathan Gross of Beth Israel Synagogue is “Defender of the Faith”; Bucky Greenberg, Suzanne Singer and Myron Kaplan visit stu-
dents at the Gordon School, one of our Partnership with Israel projects; Jim and Jordana Glazer plant trees in Israel; Kiev participants visit the synagogue in Berditchev: Eunie and Norm Denenberg; Ann and Don Goldstein, Howard and Jan Goldstein, Buzz and Jody Malashock, Allan and Janie Murow, Joe and Maxine Kirshenbaum, Kevee Kirshenbaum, Joe Kirshenbaum, Phyllis Rifkin, Zoe Riekes, Norm Sheldon, guide Alex Fleischer and JAFI representative Stuart Schrader; Buzz
Malashock, left, Norm Sheldon and Allan Murow enjoy the group’s final dinner; Sharon Kirshenbaum, left, Lisa Sheldon and Wendy Goldberg celebrate a successful mission; Myron Kaplan, seated left, and Stacey Rockman watch as our new Nebraska fan dances with his ‘Go Big Red’ cap; Maxine Kirshenbaum, center, visits the Kotel with Wendy and David Goldberg; Kevee Kirshenbaum fills out a questionairre at the JAFI Center in Kiev; Jordana Glazer, left, Katherine Finnegan, David Gilinsky and Jim
Glazer fill up on falafel in the Macheneh Yehudah market; Israel-only mission participants gather to plant trees at a JNF forest: Jennifer and John Glazer; Jim and Jordana Glazer; David and Wendy Goldberg; Caryl and Bucky Greenberg; Rabbi Gross, Shami Jacobs, Myron Kaplan, Julee Katzman, Sharon Kirshenbaum, Lisa Sheldon, Suzanne Singer, Katherine Finnegan and David Gilisnky, (not pictured: Guy Matalon and Stacey Rockman; Jennifer Glazer, David Gilinsky and Jim Glazer enjoy the Dea Sea.
October 21, 2005
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 13
education+camping ajewish press special
You are invited to attend Learn more about magnet opportunities within the Omaha Public Schools. Meet staff and discover the curriculum of each of the district’s magnet schools.
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Beth Israel Synagogue offers an innovative approach to Hebrew school... ...Our Talmud Torah program is entirely based on individual and small group learning, focusing on Hebrew reading and translation, Torah study and Synagogue skills. We offer a Shabbat Junior Congregation that includes weekly Parsha study for children ages 5-12, Weekly Tot Shabbat for 2-5 year olds, and a Sunday morning class with Rabbi Gross for 7-12th graders. formerly Jewish Educational & Library Services
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Page 14
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
October 21, 2005
Teen Madrichim Serve as Religious School Role Models continue the training process, focusing by ELYCE AZRIEL Middle/High School Director on child development, appropriate ageTeens serve as role models for younger level expectations, and teaching skills. students and help set the tone for them Madrichim coordinate lesson plans with to follow. Therefore, developing a pro- the assigned teacher and help supervise gram for teen aides in the Religious class each Sunday and Wednesday session. What was a struggling program last School at Temple Israel can become a rewarding experience for the aides and year has become a vital part of the prothe congregation. Teens are encouraged gram at Temple this year. Now the to share with others what they have biggest issue is that there are not enough learned with their students while contin- positions available for the middle and uing their own religious education within high school students interested in being madrichim. Temple Religious School. The first training session for madrichim was on Aug. 21 with Rabbi Sam Joseph, professor of Jewish Education and Leadership Development at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion. Madrichim duties such as preparing for activities, leading games or songs, serving snacks, working with small groups, checking assignEmily Katz left, Grace Hack, Rabbi Sam Joseph, Sarah Long, ments, and classroom manHannah Grossman, and Aaron Passer met to discuss the role agement were discussed. of being a madrichim. Depending on the individStudents participating in the ual’s skills and the teacher's needs in the classroom, there is no limit to the role madrichim program are: Sean Bernstein, teen aides can play in young students’ Sam Burrell, Jessie Danon, Joe Goldberg, Molly Goldberg, Haley Gordman, education. When Jewish teens are placed in a class- Hannah Grossman, Noah Grossman, room, the support and nurturing neces- Grace Hack, Emily Katz, Samantha sary to ensure their success must be pro- Long, Sarah Long, Josh Moran, Jackie vided. The prime objective is to place Neesman, Aaron Passer, Brenna teens in classrooms to learn the art of Robinson, Rachel Saferstein, Sarah Chelsea Taxman, Sam teaching, role modeling and to help make Spooner, Jewish education fun. Throughout the Weinstine, Alex Wolpa, Ethan Workman, school year, Temple’s madrichim will and Taylor Workman.
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Israel’s Challenged Children Enjoy Very Special Camp Shalva Visit by “Special Camper” President Katzav with. Their son Yossi, now 28-years-old, by DEBBIE ABRAMOWITZ Director of Communications was left blind, deaf and extremely hyperJerusalem--Challenged children in active following a routine DPT shot at Israel recently experienced a dream come age 11 months. At age 8, Yossi had a Helen Keller-type true as campers at Camp Shalva, a summer sleep-away dream for special needs breakthrough when a speech therapist, deaf herself, was able to communicate the children. The Shalva Summer camp, now in its word “shulchan,” “table” in Hebrew by 15th year, is run by the staff and volun- signing into Yossi’s hand. But the teers of Jerusalem-based Shalva, the Samuels remember all too well the enorAssociation for Mentally and Physically mous strain of taking care of Yossi. “Friends would knock on our door and Challenged Children in Israel (www.shalva.org). Founded by Kalman offer to take Yossi off our hands for a few and Malky Samuels in 1990, Shalva runs hours, but we knew they would be back year-round programs at its two full-time at our door with him in fifteen minutes or centers for challenged children, newborn less, simply because no one could deal to young adults, in addition to its annual with him for longer than that,” recalls Kalman. summer camp. “Seeing the love and compassionate care that these spechildren cial receive is very heart-warming,” noted Israel President Moshe Katsav, who visited the y o u n g s t e r s . Left: Yossi Samuels and a friend; right: Shalva’s summer camp. The site this year was the Kinar Resort on “But it was still the kindest gift possible Lake Kinneret. “It is truly heartwarming for us, because even 15 minutes gave us a to see the dedicated staff working day chance to breathe and to relax and to and night to light up the faces of these gather our strength.” During those dark, special souls.” silent years, the Samuels prayed for a mirInteracting with the individual campers acle and pledged that if their prayers were on an almost one-to-one ratio, more than answered, they would help other parents 90 staff members, who work with the in similar dire straights. When Yossi’s children during the year at Shalva’s two dark world opened up, they remembered centers in Jerusalem and Alon Shvut, their pledge and, in 1990, founded accompanied the 118 special campers this Shalva in a small basement in Jerusalem. year, Shalva’s largest camp to date. The Today, Shalva serves over 400 special children enjoyed a full agenda of activi- needs individuals at its beautiful, state-ofties, the envy of any child, including jeep the-art seven-floor Beit Nachshon rides, visits to zoos and parks, a ropes Children’s Center in Jerusalem and its course, swimming, hiking, sailing, Children’s Center in Alon Shvut. movies, performances by popular enter- Shalva’s families come from all walks of tainers--and a visit by the President. Israeli society including many olim from All of this, as well as the year-round pro- the United States, Ethiopia, and elsegrams at Shalva, are without charge, thanks where, and travel from as far away as Beer to generous funding by Israeli and oversees Sheva and Raanana to receive services for donors. This year, for example, a group of their children. donors from Bear Stearns in New York, The encouragement and support famiprovided major financial support for the lies receive is almost as appreciated as the camp, while Dudu Landau, owner of Eretz therapies and help given to their children. Ahavati, treated Shalva’s special campers to One mother describes her first experience an amazing jeep tour for the sixth consec- at Shalva after giving birth to a Down utive year. This summer Landau provided syndrome child. “The moment I walked 40 jeeps, complete with guides who volun- through the doors, the color and the teered their time as well. beauty of Shalva just enveloped me with “My son returns from camp shining love. Then, for the first time, I was able with joy and that feeling stays with him to cry. The other mothers, how I gathfor a very long time,” noted a Shalva par- ered strength from them! Their insistence ent. In addition to providing an exciting, that I stay for Mom’s coffee time, I therapeutic summer camp experience for thought was silly, but after one time, I the children, their families also receive a would never miss it again. cherished gift: more than a week of “Of course, I come to Shalva for my respite and the chance to spend quality son, but even more so, I come for me. time with their other children, to relax The fact that someone shares in my son’s and recharge for the daily challenges they progress and in his life lessens the diffimust stuggle to cope with. culty of having him. I feel that everyone “There is no way to describe how much here really knows us, and loves us, and the programs at Shalva, especially the that gives me so much strength.” summer camp, mean to our family,” she Kalman and Malky Samuels were noted, adding, “I cannot imagine how recently recognized by the Jerusalem we could manage without the support Foundation as the 2005 recipients of the system we get from Shalva. Teddy Kollek Prize for outstanding lead“The peace of mind that Shalva gives us ership. Shalva also received the 2005 all year, knowing that our special child is Speaker of the Knesset’s Quality of Life receiving therapies and love from the staff Prize for Outstanding Humanitarian there, gives us the opportunity and the Service earlier this year. Heralded nationstrength to function like a normal family ally and internationally as a vanguard each day when he comes home, to raise organization, Shalva has been the recipihim and our other children in a normal ent of many other prestigious awards in family atmosphere.” recent years including the President’s The critical need for respite is some- Prize for Excellence, the Mayor of thing Shalva’s founders, Kalman and Jerusalem’s Award for Exceptional Malky Samuels, are personally familiar Service Jerusalem Municipality Award.
October 21, 2005
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 15
Financial Aid Committee Makes Jewish Experiences and College a Reality by MARY SUE GROSSMAN Administrator, The Center for Jewish Education The Financial Aid Committee of The Center for Jewish Education (formerly known as JELS, Jewish Educational and Library Services) is comprised of a group of individuals from the Omaha Jewish community with a wide range of congregational affiliations, life experiences, and community involvement. The unifying principle for each member however, is the commitment to provide financial assistance to make Jewish experiences and college studies a reality for members of the community. Aveva Shukert chairs the Financial Aid Committee. She has served for several years and is proud to be involved with this group. The names of the remaining committee members are confidential. The mission statement of this committee is “to administer the allocation and distribution of scholarship funds entrusted to it for the benefit of Omaha’s Jewish youth. This duty includes the guarantee of confidentiality to the applicants and their families in conjunction with the diligent stewardship of community funds.” “We are unable to publicly recognize the members of the Financial Aid Committee,” says Shukert, “and I want to state that it is my honor to work with such a caring group of people. Each member takes his or her involvement very seriously and the sensitivity shown when reviewing applications is most gratifying. “Financial aid work consists of at least one-third of the duties of administrator Mary Sue Grossman,” added Shukert. “She’s told me that working with the Financial Aid Committee is a true pleasure and all applications are reviewed in a fair, consistent manner. When difficult decisions are needed, the committee does
so carefully and thoughtfully. The community can also be assured that confidentiality is a top priority. The committee members and Mary Sue consider confidentiality of utmost importance.” With the exception of one merit scholarship for graduating seniors, all awards given by the Financial Aid Committee are need-based. By reviewing a family’s financial information, the committee first determines a need ranking. Awards are decided by the need ranking, other factors affecting a family’s financial resources, the overall requests, and the funds available. Funds often have other requirements the committee must also consider such as Jewish activity involvement. Determining awards is an intricate process for the Financial Aid Committee, with a wide array of issues to consider. “The great work of the Financial Aid Committee is made possible by the nearly 40 individuals and foundations who have established endowment funds at the Jewish Federation of Omaha says Marty Ricks, Foundation,” Foundation Director. “Each year however, we are significantly deficient in having enough funds to meet all the needs of the local Jewish community. If anyone is interested in establishing a new scholarship endowment fund, please contact me at 334.6440.” The committee meets four times a year. In the late winter, a meeting is held to consider Israel trip applications. Back to back meetings are needed in the spring for college applications. Another spring meeting is used to consider requests for summer camps. In the summer, the committee meets to consider applications for Friedel and the CDC preschool. Other requests, such as those for youth group trips, are handled on an as-needed basis.
Zoë Riekes, President of the Jewish Federation recognizes the important work of this committee. “I am so proud of our community for both the generosity of those who have provided funding for scholarships and to the members of the Financial Aid Committee who anonymously give so many hours of their time each year to award the scholarships.” Scholarships are available for Jewish summer camps, JCC camp and preschool, Friedel Jewish Academy, Israel programs, undergraduate and graduate studies, yeshiva studies, adult Jewish education,
music and cultural arts, and youth group programs. The annual Financial Aid Guide is distributed each December in the Jewish Press. The guide describes various funds and application deadlines. It also provides information on non-need based grant programs of the Jewish Federation. Applications are available on the Center for Jewish Education page of the Federation website at www.jewishomaha.org or by e-mailing scholarships@jewishomaha.org or calling 334.6445.
College Cost Workbook Available at No Charge by HAROLD SIMANSKY Are you overwhelmed by the dizzying number of ways to plan and save for college? Then this is the easy-to-use workbook for you. College Costs How Much?! The Workbook to Help You Save for School answers the most frequently asked questions about investing for your child’s education, such as: • What is the best way to save for college? • Am I eligible for financial aid? • What is the best 529 Plan for me? • Are there savings programs for private school? • What is the difference between savings plans, such as an Education Savings Account and a 529 Plan? • As a grandparent, is there any way I can help? With the cost of an average four-year private college now approaching $250,000--including tuition, room, board, and general expenses--for a child born after the year 2000, it’s a wonder anyone but the most well-to-do parents can pay for their children’s education.
The bad news is that the price of a college education, unlike the stock market, isn’t going down. The good news is that there’s plenty of financial aid available, and many new and innovative programs have emerged to help parents deal with the task of paying for college. All types of organizations, from federal and state governments to mutual fund companies and colleges themselves, now offer education savings assistance. The increasing number of plans is a boon for parents, but the number of new choices can be overwhelming. Parents who do the research into educational savings plans are now bombarded with literature touting merits of different plans, without any idea of how to tell which one is best for them. Now, as a special offer, you can receive a free copy (a $14.95 value) of College Costs How Much?! The Workbook to Help You Save for School! Shipping and handling is included. For more information go to: www.collegecostshowmuch.com/free offer/.
Page 16
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
October 21, 2005
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by MARY BORT for Beth Israel Synagogue Teaching a group of young people can be a challenging and rewarding experience. Thanks to the efforts of two hard-working educators, Beth Israel Synagogue’s Junior Congregation is taught every Shabbos morning at 10:30 a.m. Children are divided into two learning groups: preschool and pre-bar/bat mitzvah. Debbie Kricsfeld is the pre-school teacher of the weekly Junior Congregation for two to five year-olds. She began working with the youngsters this fall. “When my sister-in-law, Anna Besser, told me she was expecting and wasn’t going to be able to lead the two to five year olds anymore, I mentioned that I wouldn’t mind taking over the class for her. She mentioned my name to Rabbi Gross and Beth, and they contacted me.” Although she is new to teaching this particular class, Kricsfeld has plenty of prior experience working with children. “About ten years ago I taught four to ten year olds at Beth Israel each week, and also was an NCSY advisor,” she explained. “Then I got married and had my own children and there wasn’t time to continue teaching. Now that my youngest, Rachel, is three, I knew I would be able to have enough time to plan for the classes. Plus, Rachel is in the class with me, which makes it even more fun.” Working with and keeping the attention of a room full of pre-schoolers each week takes preparation. Kricsfeld has spent time researching stories and songs, and planning various activities. “Whenever appropriate, I link my class to what they are reading in the Torah during regular services,” she said. “For example, we’ll learn songs or do other things that pertain to the high holidays. During weeks where it would be difficult to relate the specific Torah portion to kids who are only two to five years old, we focus on mitzvahs during class. Giving charity, helping Mommy and Daddy...that type of thing.” The pre-school class is held in the Children’s Room next to the Sanctuary. According to Kricsfeld, “The beauty of having the class in that room is that when any of the kids have trouble concentrating on what we’re doing in class, they can stay in the room with us and play, but still listen and remain interested in what we’re doing. I find that they will eventually be drawn back in by the activity or song we’re singing, and will rejoin the group. They always are getting something out of the class.” Kricsfeld’s enthusiasm for working with the pre-schoolers is evident when she describes her experiences thus far. “I’m enjoying it! Ten years ago, I was young; what did I know? Now it’s a lot more fun, because I know how to communicate and relate to the children. We do the blessings each week, with challah bread and grape juice, and then go into a story and sing a song. The kids like it and I can see that they are learning, and I’m having a great time working with them.” For the past three years, Donald Gerber has volunteered
his time to teach Beth Israel’s weekly Junior Congregation class for children ages five through twelve. When asked what led him to become the teacher, he explained, “The previous teacher left, and I volunteered to cover the class and share my knowledge until a replacement was found. It was hard work to prepare for the weekly classes, but I liked sharing my knowledge with the kids and found it to be a rewarding experience. So I’ve kept on doing it.” Gerber’s educational philosophy is to actively involve students in the learning process. “Learning doesn’t have to be boring,” he said. “I always include the kids during our class. When I was a kid, whether it was in public school or Hebrew school, I didn’t like it when a teacher just stood up and talked at us. Students lose interest; I know I did.” “So, I ask a lot of questions during class and get the kids involved. The goal is that they will have a working knowledge of the Torah, backwards and forwards. I want them to know the figures from the Torah, our heritage and traditions, and how each lesson fits in with the big picture. When I was young, it was all a jumble to me. There were pieces that I learned, but didn’t really see how they all combined to make the big picture. So, as a teacher, I work to help the kids see how all the pieces fit together.” Gerber draws upon his many years of study, both as a child and as an adult, as he prepares for his weekly class. “I have lots of texts and constantly read” he stated. “I study and prepare and work to make interesting lessons. And I enjoy it! The kids are fun to teach and have a lot of energy. You have to keep their attention with new and interesting ways. It’s really something when they suddenly get quiet and you can see them really get in to the topic.” Leading the Junior Congregation has resulted in Gerber learning even more about the Torah. And about teaching. “It’s taught me as much as the kids” he said. “After a class, I’ll go home and ask myself ‘how can I teach that better?’ Reflecting on past classes helps me come up with new ways to teach future lessons. Different students have different learning styles and you have to adapt to their needs.” Both Gerber and Kricsfeld express enthusiasm for leading Junior Congregation classes and a willingness to continue teaching Beth Israel’s children. According to Beth Israel’s Executive Director, Beth Cohen, “It’s the commitment by teachers like Donald and Debbie that make all the difference in our children becoming active members in our synagogue and community. They reinforce what parents are teaching at home, and help our kids look forward to each Shabbat. We can’t thank Donald and Debbie enough for sharing their time with our children.” For more information about Junior Congregation at Beth Israel Synagogue, please call the synagogue office at 556.6288.
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October 21, 2005
Temple Israel Volunteers Partner with Teachers to Shape Kids’ Jewish Identities by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Temple Israel Communications Coordinator Education at Temple Israel is a partnership. Families and religious school are partners and the Religious School Steering Committee (RSSC) and its subcommittees are partners “in continuing the excellence of the education we provide to our families who have kids from kindergarten to grade 12,� said Elyce Azriel, director of the Middle/High School at Temple. K a t h e r i n e Katherine Finnegan Finnegan, who chairs the RSSC this year, believes, “The responsibility of creating individuals who identify as Jews can’t be left solely in the hands of a school.� As a Hebrew School Stacey Rockman teacher and a parent, “I have the unique perspective of seeing how Jewish education flows,� she said. The RSSC is an avenue of involvement in children’s Jewish education. “We are lucky to be part of a synagogue organization that is comfortable looking at itself and constantly striving to make improvements to the existing structure for the benefit of its congregants. It takes people to sit around the table. It is an evolving process that remains grounded in the foundations of Judaism and the commitment of our leadership. Our staff so willingly wants our input and involvement. They have a tall order to fill in a short period of time,� Finnegan said. She would like to help the staff make “the Temple Religious School experience memorable for our kids, because I believe the experiences we are providing will shape their Jewish identities.� Comprised of congregants who have kids currently in the Religious School and congregants whose kids have graduated from the Religious School, the RSSC’s role is to define the school’s vision; to support staff, teachers, and students; assist with financial planning and oversight; review and make recommendations and provide input on personnel evaluations to the Board of Trustees; understand and review curriculum and activities of Religious School; and to develop and support a volunteer coordination sub-committee. Finnegan said that “everyone is invited to be on our committee.� We have “an open door policy.� In addition, both Rabbis Aryeh Azriel and Craig Marantz; Middle School/High School Director Elyce Azriel, Program Director Rosie Zweiback, and Youth and Informal Education Director Lynne Jensen serve on the committee. Congregant members are: Jennifer Tompkins Kirshenbaum, Jennifer Glazer, Allison Latenser, Lesley Slutzky, Larry Gendler, Jordana Glazer, Len Burrell, Mary Kay Davis, Maria Neesman, Louri Sullivan, Stacey Rockman, Pam Epstein, Steve Danon, Kate Kaminsky, Barry Grossman, Ellen Long, Ellen Platt, Wendy Goldberg, and Mike Norton. There are also several sub-committees of the RSSC including ones for volunteer coordination, a partnership with Israel, curriculum evaluation, and personnel. “We are limited to what we can accom-
plish only by our numbers,� Finnegan pointed out. She encourages others to serve on the various sub-committees. “It’s a great way to get involved on the committee level at Temple.� Louri Sullivan and Jordana Glazer are coordinators of the volunteer sub-committee which is based on a PTA model to promote volunteer participation in an effort to assist educators, staff, and the children. “Anyone who is a member of Jordana Glazer Temple can be a volunteer,� said Glazer. There are a number of grandparents volunteering. “We have opportunities from substituting in a Hebrew or Judaica class, to chaperoning a field trip, to Louri Sullivan coordinating Chanukah parties.we have something for everyone,� she promised. “The key is for children to see their parents, friends, and communities participating in their Jewish education. It lets them know that we value the time they spend in Religious School.� Sullivan said, “I don’t want my kids to think I am just dropping them off so that I have some free time. I want them to first and foremost learn while at Temple, enjoy going, and know that I am close by either helping or learning myself. As a parent today, we are all busy and have so many other commitments.� Both Glazer and Sullivan hope that they’ve identified some easy ways to make volunteering a positive experience. “We want the volunteer experience to be a win-win for everyGlazer, “and we are one,� agreed always looking for volunteers.� Finnegan praised the efforts of the volunteer coordination sub-committee. “They have developed an incredible core of parents to assist with Family Shabbatot, holiday activities, school field trips, etc. The support of parents in these activities makes experiences more meaningful for the children, allows teachers more time to focus on classroom responsibilities, and creates a greater sense of community in our synagogue.� Another RSSC sub-committee, Partnership 2000 (with Israel), has become a focus of our efforts and we have begun to incorporate it into our curriculum, Finnegan said. The mission of the partnership, explained Stacey Rockman, chairperson, is to forge relationships through programs that build Jewish identity in the United States and Israel and strengthen ties between the two countries. Every community in America is matched with a different city or area in Israel. Our consortium of 13 communities is partnered with the Western Galilee area. “My goal,� said Rochman, “is to have every member of our community have a personal contact with Israel.� “We can deliver the best Jewish educational experience possible,� Finnegan noted, “but if it isn’t reinforced at home on some level, the job of our professionals is that much more challenging.� Setting an example as a parent and a teacher “is one way I can share what I know.�
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 17
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Adult Retreat Adult Study with the Clergy Basic Judaism Club 56 Cradle Roll Family Services & Teaching Sermons Family School Family Workshops Grade 10 Trip to New York Grade 12 L’Taken Washington, D.C. Grades K-12 The Hermene Zweiback Center for Lifelong Jewish Learning Jewish Journey Groups Junior Youth Group Kesher Kol Rina Mentor Program Middle/High School Clubs • Art • Hebrew • Social Justice Omaha Temple Youth Group Scholars-in-Residence Social Justice Education Opportunities for all ages Sparks Beneath the Surface Torah Tots Tot Shabbat
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
October 21, 2005
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The University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) has been selected for The Princeton Review’s new college guide, The Best Midwestern Colleges, released online this week. Based on both statistical information and surveys of college students and recent college graduates, the guide showcases top schools in 12 Princeton Review states—Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota and Wisconsin. UNO was recognized for being a university “in ascension,� according to the university’s “School Says� summary entry on academics in the princetonreview.com Web site. Students provided the comment material. More than 900 UNO students responded to the Princeton Review survey. Also on the “Academics� page, another UNO student comment read “substantial efforts have been made and will continue to be made to make UNO a bigger and better university to attend in the coming years.� Listed in the “Student Body� section, a UNO student wrote the “...reputation of our school is changing from a ‘Gee, well at least you are going to school’ to a ‘Cool, you’re going to UNO’ attitude.� In “Campus Life,� a student glowed about UNO student housing, calling it “amazing.� “They are apartment living, no communal bathrooms you share with an entire floor, no cinderblock walls or outdated cots.� Another comment in “Campus Life� added that UNO stays connected to the metropolitan area by “hosting events throughout the year that encourage community turn out. Some events are even complimentary for attendees, which highly encourages non-college students
to attend. My school frequently hosts open houses to inform all about the programs and activities that it holds.� Five other Nebraska colleges and universities were listed in The Best Midwestern Colleges – Creighton University, Doane College, Hastings College, Nebraska Wesleyan University and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. In the region, 158 colleges and universities received a listing. “We’re very pleased to be listed and proud of the student comments about our university,� said Wade Robinson, UNO associate vice chancellor for student affairs. “We hope having this information available to high school students and their families encourages them to visit campus and look at UNO for their higher education.� The Princeton Review launched its regional college guides several years ago in response to a growing trend for students to attend colleges and universities within two- to five-hour drives of their homes. The regional guides focus on the Midwest, Northeast, Southeast and West. Information in the guides includes data on admissions, financial aid, student body demographics and academics. The regional guides, like the national one from Princeton Review, also present an inclusive cross-section of academically outstanding colleges. For more information, call 402.554.3502. The Princeton Review is a New York City-based company known for its test prep courses, education services and books. It is not affiliated with Princeton University or Educational Testing Service. Princeton Review books are published by Random House.
BIRTH Dawn and Bill Havens of San Diego, CA announce the Aug. 20 birth of their son, Robert Daniel (Rachaman Davin). He is named for his great-grandfather Robert Barnett and his mother Dawn Havens. He has a three year-old brother, Marcus Barry.
Grandparents are Fran and Barry Snyder, and Carole and Frank Havens of Solona Beach, CA, and the late Maureen Havens. Great-grandparents are Sarah Silver and the late Sam Silver, and Betty McLaughlin.
JEWISH HOLIDAY CLOSING AT PRESS The Jewish Press will be for Shemini Azeret/Simchat Torah, Oct. 25-26. Pictures from the New Year’s issue can be picked up in the Press office during regular business hours. For more information, call the Press office at 334.6448.
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October 21, 2005
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 19
Youngsters of All Ages Benefit from Beth El’s Educational, Social Programming by JILL BELMONT Beth El Publicity Coordinator From the time they learn to walk, the children of Beth El Synagogue are infused with the joy of Jewish learning. From educational offerings to youth groups and special social programming, a kid-friendly education is being experienced by students of all ages, on a daily basis. “Jewish education is essential for Jewish continuity,” says Beth El’s Rabbi Mordechai Levin. “There is no future without a heavy community investment in Jewish education, particularly in the area of youth. At Beth El we are committed to offering the best Jewish education to our young people.” The nurturing of young minds begins early on, starting with the synagogue’s popular PATTER (Parent and Toddler Torah, Exercise and Recreation) class. For the past several years, Beth El’s diaper set -- ages 18 months to three-years-old -- has enjoyed the lively and fun-filled class taught by longtime preschool and elementaryschool teacher Helen Epstein. Held on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 a.m. to 11:45 a.m., Epstein uses music, playtime and story-telling to impart the spirit of Judaism to her small participants and their parents. Parents, grandparents and children throughout the Jewish community have also come to love the synagogue’s delightful Tot Shabbat services, held once a month in the sanctuary. The 30-minute service, offering age-appropriate prayers, stories and songs, is led by early-childhood specialist Patty Nogg, and is always followed by an Oneg Shabbat of cookies and juice. All Jewish families are encouraged to attend the next Tot Shabbat service at 6 p.m. on Nov. 4, and as a special treat, everyone attending the service is invited to stay afterward for a special dinner, featuring a kid-friendly menu and lots of Shabbat fun! Shabbat observance at Beth El also includes weekly services and activities for older children, including K’Tantan (grades K-2), led by Daniel Christensen, and Junior Congregation (grades 3-7), led by Eadie Tsabari. As part of Junior Congregation, teens tutor younger children in private sessions and assist Tsabari during the service. Beth El Education Director Judy Rubin encourages students to regularly attend Junior Congregation, saying that the increased exposure leads to greater expertise in leading Shabbat morning services. By introducing and examining the many-faceted world of Judaism, Beth El Synagogue Talmud Torah (BESTT)
offers its students of all ages a variety of educational and social vehicles to study and embrace Jewish prayer, history and culture. Those just crossing the threshold into school age become acquainted with the Hebrew language, prayer, Jewish holidays and rituals through story-telling, music, arts and crafts and other activities.
forum for parents and students to learn side by side and discuss issues about Judaism that might not be addressed around the dinner table. In addition, a new feature of the 2005-2006 school year will be a multi-generational Havdalah program. During the middle school years, BESTT aims to acquaint students with different elements of life Jewish and beliefs. The importance of mitzvot is examined, along with opportunities to perform different types of mitzvot at home and in the community. As part their of B a r / B a t Mitzvah year, s e v e n t h graders and their families may participate in personal mitzvah projects. With Rubin’s guidance, these Top: Members of the BESTT Chaverim youth group enjoyed a fun-filled after- projects may noon during a recent outing to Vala’s Pumpkin Patch; above, Beth El’s joy- be tailorful, interactive Tot Shabbat service has captivated Jewish families from made by each throughout the community, who join together for the monthly celebration. student, and For third through sixth-graders, “the include aspects of Torah (study), Avodah overall objectives of our school are to pro- (prayer/worship) and Gemilut Hasadim vide our students with a knowledge base, (doing good deeds). Students also study respect and love of the elements of the the founding of the State of Israel, discuss Siddur, Hebrew language, Bible, history, current events affecting the Middle East, Jewish rituals, Israel and an understand- and learn about 20th century Jewish ing of God,” Rubin said. “Students feel European history. safe and comfortable in our school enviBy the time they reach Beth El’s High ronment and are nurtured to become bet- School of Jewish Studies, students are ter people and good Jews through learn- offered a contemporary curriculum, ing about our traditions and values.” which includes a variety of subjects Guided by Rubin, learning at Beth El embracing Jewish knowledge and values takes on many forms, from traditional in preparation for the future. Students textbooks and worksheets, to experiential, explore history, literature and the arts, as hands-on vehicles, such as art, music and well as the different branches of Judaism mitzvah projects. Experiential activities, and the relationship of Judaism to other she noted, always include all of the senses religions. In addition, area professors and so that all students may be reached. In community professionals teach miniaddition that family education programs courses on a variety of subjects of concern have been planned for all classes in third- and interest to today’s Jewish teens. through-seventh grades, to provide a Overall, according to Rubin, BESTT’s
ARTZA looking for Female Chaperone Omaha’s most popular Teen Trip to Israel is back…and a wonderful opportunity exists for that right person to join our leadership team of Guy Matalon and Uri Levin, in chaperoning this trip of Jewish teens for one month in Israel. This individual must be an American Jewish female, 21 or older, who has been to Israel once before. She must be outgoing, enthusiastic, energetic, and mature. Experience working with teens is preferred. Actual trip runs from June 25th through July 23rd, 2006. Pa rticipation in pre and post Artza programming is also required.
If you are interested in learning more about this opportunity, please contact Lisa Shkolnick, JCC Assistant Executive Director, at 334-6425.
mission “is to teach our children the richness of Jewish life, help them achieve positive Jewish identities, and encourage them to actively participate in Jewish life.” Beth El’s social programming for youth also works toward the same goals. Led by Youth Director Jamie Skog, the synagogue offers several youth groups including Kadimah, for 7th and 8th graders, which offers camaraderie, learning and fun through events, such as miniature golf outings, sukkah decorating and Shabbatonim; and United Synagogue Youth (USY) for high school students, created to meet the social, spiritual, cultural and religious needs of Jewish teens throughout the community. Led this year by USY President Steven Meyer, the group’s involvement includes running the annual Purim carnival, selling bagels and doughnuts on Sunday mornings before religious school, and participating in regional conventions. Last month, the group hosted a successful overnight kickoff and sponsored a spaghetti luncheon fundraiser following BESTT’s “Bring Your Parents to School” day. BESTT Chaverim, a recently-formed social group for Jewish fourth-throughsixth graders throughout the community, meets monthly at various locations for fun and camaraderie. Following last month’s fun-filled swimming party, future activities will include a visit to Vala’s Pumpkin Patch, laser tag, ice skating, bowling, sledding, Jewish cooking for kids and mini golf at Boulder Creek. For those looking for a Jewish camp sponsored by the Conservative movement, Camp Ramah, located near Eagle River, Wisconsin, is a fun-filled favorite for youth from around the country. Ramah offers four-week sessions for children entering sixth grade; and an eightweek session for seventh through 11th graders. A full range of activities integrates Jewish values and observances into the daily camp experience. Activities include swimming, sailing, kayaking, music, dance, nature, photography, arts, sports and drama. All meals are kosher and Shabbat is observed. Beth El Rabbi Mordechai Levin characterizes Ramah as “a fun, social, educational, committed Jewish environment. Going to Ramah often leads children to take Judaism more seriously. It is a place where Jewish identities are built, and it reflects the standards of Conservative Judaism.” For more information about Camp Ramah, call 312.606.9316, ext. 221, e-mail registrar@ramahwisconsin.com, or visit the camp web site at www.ramahwisconsin.com.
Page 20
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
October 21, 2005
What’s It Like to Be a Graduating Senior in 2005? Now that the Yom Tovim--Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot and Simchat Torah--are nearly over, get ready for Passover! No, we’re not kidding. As soon as the Jewish Press staff and committee have put the New Year’s issue to bed, we start contemplating themes for the Passover issue--and vice-versa. After all, it takes months to line up writers, gather names and track down subjects to be interviewed for these two large issues. So what does all this have to do with this year’s high school graduates? Think back to 1988--that’s when Press Board member Silvia Roffman mused about the babies born that year. “They’ll become Bar and Bat Miztvah in 2001!” she exclaimed to then Press Editor Morris Maline. For many of us, that year represented a film, 2001: A Space Odyssey, a 1968 look at what space travel might be when “we were all grown up.” The Press introduced the community to these babies in 1989 when they were about a year old, and again in 1993, when they entered kindergarten. In 2001, most of them did, indeed, celebrate their B’nai Mitzvah, and for the first time, wrote their own personal stories of becoming teens. It’s time now to bring this group full circle, so the April 7, 2006, Passover issue will say goodbye to this group as they graduate high school and go off to college. Some of them are already there, having graduated early, and some still have another year to go, but this group of about 50 teens--really, young adults--have lived through quite a bit in their short lives. Just this
year alone, they’ve witnessed a tsunami in Southeast Asia, back-to-back hurricanes in the Gulf Coast, and a catastrophic earthquake in Pakistan. Add to that the rise of the Oslo Accords, assassination of Yitzhak Rabin, another intifada, and the withdrawal of Israel from the Gaza Strip and you get the idea of the major world events these teens have witnessed. Technologically speaking, this group has gone from second phone lines at home to their own cell phones, from Walkmans to iPods, from snail mail to e-mail. They write their essays for school and post them on their teachers’ blackboards--website blackboards, that is. They talk to friends in Russia, Israel, Spain as casually as our grandparents would have a conversation with neighbors over the back fence. And, as you’ll read in Samantha Long’s essay on the opposite page, they have a lot to say to us, to adults, to the community. This is an educated group, this B’nai Mitzvah Class of 2001, this class of high school graduates. They want a voice in their education-both in public school and religious school. Some of them--like Josh Bleicher--have already spent time in Israel while in high school. Others, like Shevi Katzman, are taking a year off to study in Israel post-high school.
They’re risk takers and activitists. They’re artists and musicians. They’re athletes and leaders. And you’ll get to read their stories on April 7, 2006. We’ll be sending a letter with isntructions soon, but if you’re the parent of one of these teens, contact the Press at: jpress@jewishomaha.org or call 402.334.6448 for information on how your teen can participate.
Editorials express the view of the writer and are not necessarily representative of the views of the Jewish Press the Jewish 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.
Why We Need a Jewish Day School in Omaha
ANOTHER POINT OF VIEW by JORDANA KURTZMAN I’m often asked by members of my family who live in large Jewish communities on both coasts, why my children attend a Jewish day school. My aunt, who lives in California, recently asked me why, amidst the cornfields of Nebraska, we even needed a Jewish day school. Once I explained to her that Omaha is a thriving semi-metropolis with thousands of Jews and several synagogues, I thought her curiosity would be laid to rest, but my aunt pressed me further: “But why do you need a Jewish day school?” I realized that her question wasn’t so much directed at the Omaha Jewish community, but at Jews as a whole. Why do we need Jewish day schools when children can receive a Jewish education in an after-school setting? The answer isn’t as straightforward as one might imagine. Some of the reasons are fairly obvious, while others are more indistinct, albeit just as worthy of consideration. Clearly, the level of Hebrew knowledge that Jewish day school children have exceeds that of their peers who attend after-school programs. Children who attend Jewish day schools can comfortably read unfamiliar Hebrew text at the same pace as they can read an untried English passage. They understand and respond to conversational Hebrew questions and commands, and their understanding of the language as a whole is much more fluid. Furthermore, children who participate in second language acquisition learn them exponentially and their accents are usually indiscernible. The result is that the process of learning a second language in this manner inherently causes the child to think in that language. Children who attend Jewish day schools also understand the connectedness of the Jewish
cycle of events intrinsically. In this environment, students learn about holidays such as Tu B’Shevat, Shavuot, and Yom Ha’Atzmaut in ways that they never could at an after-school program, simply due to the time constraints. Having this basis of knowledge gives them choices in life concerning their own levels of observancy and synagogue participation. Parents today want their children to fit comfortably into American society, and one of those ways includes attending public school. As my aunt pointed out, we don’t have a Jewish majority in this country--shouldn’t children attend a school where the environment found within is reflected in the outside community? To a great extent, I agree with this line of reasoning. It makes perfect sense for a child to adapt to the community in which they will inhabit for the rest of their lives; however, I grew up in such an environment, and the only way I could ever have felt wholly comfortable in public school would be for me to have not been born a Jew. Some of my strongest memories of elementary and junior high school center around Christmas. No matter how secure you are in your religious beliefs, it’s hard getting around this holiday in secular society. To Christians, it’s almost un-American to not celebrate this holiday. Each year, I dreaded coming back from Christmas vacation only to be bombarded with “What did you get for Christmas?” at every turn. Even though I grew up on Long Island where there are so many Jews living there that the public schools are closed on the High Holy days and Passover, the non-Jewish children would forget that Jews don’t celebrate Christmas--or perhaps they couldn’t believe it. Additionally, we had to learn a host of carols for the yearly Christmas concert. Typically, my school would throw in the innocuous “Dreidel” song while I had to memorize deeply religious chants like “In Excelsis Deo” and “Do You Hear What I Hear?” These days, public schools have Winter Break in lieu of Christmas vacation, but it’s
(Founded in 1920) Joanie Jacobson Chairman Carol Katzman Editor Richard Busse Managing Editor Allan Handleman Advertising Manager Pam Monsky Sales Associate Lori Kooper-Schwarz Assistant Managing Editor Barbara Kirkpatrick Bookkeeper Jason Rich Sales & Marketing Intern Jewish Press Committee Howard K. Marcus, Vice-Chairman; Bobbi Leibowitz, Secretary; Scott Meyerson, Finance Chairman; Steve Simon, Treasurer; Fred Tichauer, Immediate Past-chairman; David Herzog; Jamie Meyerson; Stanley Mitchell; George Quittner; Linda Saltzman; Joe Shyken; Michael Siegal; Nancy Skid; Dorothy Spizman; and Melany Weinstine. 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 is a constitutional committee of the Jewish Federation.
always over Christmas, so really--who are they kidding? I remember other things about my life in public school: walking into the cafeteria sporting an “Israel” button and receiving searing ridicule for wearing it; riding home on the bus and listening a group of kids call a boy (whom I attended Hebrew school with at my shul) a “dirty Jew”; a boy in music class asking me what my nationality was and being stupefied and somewhat annoyed when I answered “Jewish.” Of course, I had many good times in school, but these anti-Semitic events are, for me, punctuated like scars on the blossoming of my Jewish identity. I think of what my comfort level might have been had I been able to go to school wearing a costume on Purim or had I been able to celebrate Yom Yerushalayim with my friends at school. Jewish day schools exist to provide an environment of Jewish learning, but they also exist to provide a secure haven for Jewish children to revel in the details of our religion with other children who feel the same. We are so fortunate to have Friedel Jewish Academy here. This school exists to provide Jewish learning in all capacities with no boundaries. Leonard Friedel believed enough in the principal of Jewish education through a Jewish day school that he donated half a million dollars to this ideal. His two daughters, Randi and Lynne, continue to be major benefactors to Friedel Jewish Academy even though neither of them lives in Omaha and neither of them has children who attended Jewish day school. We, as a community, need to support Jewish day schools for the same reason that we support Israel: even if you never go there, you always know that you can--and you always know that as a Jew, this is the one place you will not feel like an outsider. This answer may not fully satisfy my aunt, but it gives me great comfort to know that my children’s formative years will be ones where they will develop their sense of Judaism with a sense of unparalleled pride and safety.
Editorial The Jewish Press is a Constitutional Committee of the Jewish Federation of Omaha. Deadline for copy, ads and photos is: Thursday, noon, eight days prior to publication. E-mail editorial material and photos to: ckatzman@jewishomaha.org; send ads (in .TIF or .PDF format) to: rbusse@jewishomaha.org. Letters to the Editor Guidelines The Jewish Press welcomes Letters to the Editor. They may be sent via regular mail to: The Jewish Press, 333 So. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68154; via fax: 1-402-334-5422 or via e-mail to the Editor at: ckatzman@jewishomaha.org.. Letters should be no longer than 250 words and must be singlespaced typed, not hand-written. Published letters should be confined to opinions and comments on articles or events. News items should not be submitted and printed as a “Letter to the Editor.” The Editor may edit letters for content and space restrictions, but should be printed as soon as possible to ensure timeliness. Letters may be published without giving an opposing view. Information shall be verified before printing. All letters must be signed by the writer, but the name can be withheld at the writer’s request. No letters should be published from candidates running for office, but others may write on their behalf. Letters of thanks should be confined to commending an institution for a program, project or event, rather than personally thanking paid staff, unless the writer chooses to turn the “Letter to the Editor” into a paid personal ad or a news article about the event, project or program which the professional staff supervised. For more information, contact Carol Katzman, Jewish Press Editor, 402.334.6450. Postal The Jewish Press (USPS 275620) is published weekly on Friday for $31 per calendar year U.S.; $35 foreign, by the Jewish Federation of Omaha. Phone: 402.334.6448; FAX: 402.334.5422. Periodical postage paid at Omaha, NE. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The Jewish Press, 333 So. 132nd St., Omaha, NE 68154-2198 or e-mail to: jpress@jewishomaha. org.
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October 21, 2005
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
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What’s on Eighth? An Israeli Simchat Torah Primer JOURNAL ENTRY FROM ISRAEL by TEDDY WEINBERGER “On the eighth day you shall hold a solemn gathering.� Numbers 29.35 Growing up in America, I always knew about the concept of “yom tov sheni shel galuyot.� According to this tradition, for each holy day of a festival, two are celebrated by those Jews living outside of Israel. I always wondered, however, about the Simchat Torah holiday. On the other festival holy days (the first day of Succot, the first and last days of Passover, and the Shavuot holiday), it was clear to me that the second day outside of Israel was basically a duplication of the first. But after the seven-day holiday of Succot (one holy day
plus six days of festival in Israel, two holy days plus five days of festival outside of Israel), we Jews in the Diaspora celebrated first Shmini Atzeret (“the eighth day of assembly�) and then Simchat Torah. Unlike the other “second days,� here seemed to be an example not of mere duplication but of a separate “second day� holiday--Simchat Torah. What then I wondered went on in Israel? If Israelis did not have two holy days at the end of Succot, when did they celebrate both Shmini Atzeret and Simchat Torah? Since I will be celebrating my ninth Simchat Torah in Israel this year, I think I have finally grasped what goes on here during this holiday (believe it or not, the process took me a few years). For the ritually curious, all of the rites that are celebrated in the Diaspora over two days are packed into one day: the special prayer for rain, the Yizkor memorial prayer and the hakafot (“circuits�) with the Torahs, etc. all occur on the one day of Simchat Torah in Israel. Yes, for all intents and purposes there is no Shmini Atzeret in
It Could be Worse
ANOTHER POINT OF VIEW by SAMANTHA LONG (Editor’s note: this was initially delivered as a sermon at the Rosh Hashanah Youth Services at Temple Israel on Oct. 4.) For some parents, a child’s utterance of “I’m sorryâ€? seems to be something that occurs every hour. And yet no matter how many times it occurs, it also seems to be met with forgiveness. Parents are very skilled at forgiving. It almost comes naturally to them. And not only do they forgive but they let us, their children, know we are forgiven. We are all very familiar with the concept of a child seeking forgiveness from their parent, but what about the idea of a parent seeking forgiveness from their child? Have we as children ever thought about forgiving our parents for the grudges that we may hold against them? The grudge from when they wouldn’t allow us to do what we want, or when they made us do something we didn’t want to do. Have we found it in ourselves to understand and forgive these things? And most importantly, if we have found a way to forgive, have we let them know that they are forgiven. Now I know some of you are thinking that that’s impossible to do at this moment, because just this morning you were suppose to sleep in and your parents woke you up way too early to and drug you to Temple just to get a good seat for the service. The service that you didn’t really want to go to. But today is not like all other days. Today we need to try and change our mindset.Our way of thinking. Today we need to go from telling ourselves that no one understands to realizing that it could be worse. So let’s give this “it could be worseâ€? thing a try. For example, Abraham could have been your father. Now imagine Abraham is your new father. How many of you think that you would find it a little difficult to forgive your new father if he led you up a mountain, tied you up, and then laid you on a self made altar in order to sacrifice you to God! Hmmm‌your own parents are not only looking betE R H S O V O O T B 04 0
17th Annual
ter but they’re also looking easier to forgive now aren’t they? But maybe not. Maybe some of you are still thinking that that can’t even compare to the time when they humiliated you in front of your date. So let’s say that on top of your new father leading you up a mountain, tying you up, and laying you on a self made altar in order to sacrifice you to God, he deceives you in order to get you there! Ok. Ok. So some of you are still saying, “but my parents deceived me just this morning when they told me to hurry up because I was gonna be late and then I found out after I was done rushing around that we were an hour ahead of schedule�. But let’s keep in mind that their deception did not result in you becoming a sacrifice to God. So now that your parents are seeming like the best parents in the world compared to your new father Abraham, and forgiving them is now seeming like a piece of cake, let’s consider one more thing. On top of your new father deceiving you in order to lead you up a mountain, tie you up, and lay you on a self made altar to sacrifice you to God, right before they actually sacrifice you, an angel suddenly appears and yells to your new father “STOP! Don’t do that! God takes it back, sorry for scaring you, but it turns out we don’t need you to kill your child after all.� And instead of this angel being met by an outrage from your new father, he is met with “Oh thank you very much angel.� And that is that. Now after all of that, if you cannot wrap your arms around your parents right now, and thank them for not attempting to sacrifice you to God at any point during your lifetime, you really need to speak with Rabbi or me after services so that we can notify your parents that attempting to sacrifice you is illegal in the state of Nebraska. So for this New Year I hope that we can all, parents and children alike, give this new mindset a try. This mindset of “it could be worse�. The one in which Anne Frank seems to have perfected. When we walk out of this synagogue today, let us take a moment to ask for forgiveness. A moment let those around us know that we have forgiven them. A moment to give thanks for everything we have in our lives. Because in all reality, it could be worse.
To the Editor: Do you appreciate the work HonestReporting does to ensure Israel receives fair coverage in the world media? The issue is honesty--and practical politics. As Israel’s former Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently said: “The critical factor in shaping the foreign policy of the U.S. is public opinion. Public opinion will prevent any government from turning on Israel, and will make a friendly government friendlier. We need to persuade Americans of the justice of our cause.� And what’s true for America is true worldwide. Our Jerusalem staff monitors the international news around the clock. Our Canadian, Brazilian, Italian and Spanish affiliates and HonestReporting Campus do the same for international and university media outlets, bringing accountability to journalists everywhere. And our latest venture--Teach Kids Peace--exposes and fights the systematic nurturing of Palestinian children to refuse peaceful coexistence with Israel. We invite you to be our partner. Visit us at: www.honestreporting.com. The Honest Reporting Team
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Israel, there is only Simchat Torah. It’s true that the liturgy speaks not of “Simchat Torah� but of the “holiday of the eighth day of assembly,� but the central rite of the holiday, the completion of the Torah cycle with the reading of the end of Deuteronomy and the renewal of the cycle with the reading of the beginning of Genesis, carries the spirit of the day. An interesting aspect of Simchat Torah is that it provides the only case where Israel alone repeats a major holiday rite. I am talking here about “hakafot shniyot,� a second night of dancing with the Torah, that has come into vogue throughout Israel. Hakafot shniyot take place the evening after Simchat Torah in Israel, a time that is technically weekday here. Because of this, the hakafot are accompanied by live music. The custom is helped by the fact that children do not have school the next day (and thus many people take off from work). In Givat Ze’ev, the music is provided by a local professional key-board player accompanied by a number of other musicians (a number that is dependent both on the financial situation of the municipality and whether or not a mayoral election is approaching). I have no idea exactly what percentage of Israeli Jews celebrate Simchat Torah. I do know that as a religious person, it’s nice to live in a country where my local town government sponsors hakafot shniyot. Yet, as usual, I will be bothered by the fact that practically all of the people who will be celebrating hakafot shniyot in Givat Ze’ev will be religious. After all, there are both religious and cultural reasons to dance with a Torah. It pains me that almost no secular residents of Givat Ze’ev find reason to celebrate at hakafot shniyot. The national religious camp in Israel is currently undergoing a great deal of soul searching about how to bridge the religious-secular divide that was so much in evidence this past summer. Judging from my experience in Givat Ze’ev, there is plenty of work to do on issues of Jewish culture before one gets to more thornier issues of Jewish theology. Plus, as hakafot shniyot demonstrate, it’s a whole lot more fun. Chag Samayach!
Claud Mann
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
October 21, 2005
Candlelighting Friday, Oct. 21, 6:16 p.m. Monday, Oct. 24, 6:12 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 25: no earlier than 7:11 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 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 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
If you’re looking at this space, so are others! YOUR AD CAN GO HERE...
to reserve space, call Allan Handleman, 334-6451, or Pam Monsky, 334-6559.
B’NAI ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE FRIDAY: Services followed by Oneg, 7:30 p.m.
BETH EL SYNAGOGUE FRIDAY: Musical Kabbalat Shabbat Service, 6 p.m.; Tot Shabbat, 6 p.m. SATURDAY: Morning Service, 9:30 a.m.; Junior Congregation (3-7), 10 a.m.; K’tantan (K-2), 10:45 a.m.; Kiddush sponsored by Cynthia Epstein and David Wiesman, in honor of their son Harison becoming a Bar Mitzvah; Evening Service, 6:20 p.m. Sitter Service is available during Friday night and Saturday morning services, on a drop-in basis, at no charge. SUNDAY: Bible Study Class with Leonard Greenspoon, 10 a.m.; “Living Hebrew,” with Susi Frydman-Levin, 10 a.m.; Adult B’nai Mitzvah class with Cantor Bogomolni, 10 a.m.; Jewish Pot Pourri Class, 11 a.m.; “From Your Heart to God’s Ears”, led by Andy Greenberg, 11 a.m. SERVICES: WEEKDAY Sunday, 9 a.m./5:30 p.m.; Weekdays, 6:55 a.m./5:30 p.m. PATTER will not be held during October; it resumes Nov. 2 at a new time Wednesdays, 10:3011:45 a.m. SUKKOT PARTY: The community is invited to a “Soup-er Sukkot Luncheon” on Sunday, Oct. 23, 12:15 p.m., in the synagogue’s sukkah. Cost is $6.50 for adults; $4.50 for kids ages 512; free for kids under five. New synagogue members are invited to attend, free of charge. For more information, call the synagogue office 492.8550. SUKKOT MONDAY: Hoshanna Rabbah, 6:15 a.m. SHMINI ATZERET/ SIMCHAT TORAH MONDAY: Evening, 5:30 p.m. TUESDAY: Morning, 9:30 a.m. (Yizkor and dedication of memorial plaques); Hakafot, 6:15 p.m. WEDNESDAY: Hakafot and honors, 9:35 a.m. TOT SHABBAT DINNER Friday, Nov. 4, 6 p.m. Tot Shabbat services, followed by a kid-friendly dinner There is no charge to attend, but courtesy reservations are requested by calling the synagogue office. STEM-CELL PANEL DISCUSSION: On Sunday, Nov. 6, 2 p.m.; (see full article on page 2).
BETH ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE Hours: MondayOffice Thursday, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Fridays, 8:30 a.m-2 p.m. Services conducted by Rabbi Jonathan Gross. FRIDAY: Kabbalat Shabbat, 6 p.m. SATURDAY: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Free Babysitting, 9:30 a.m.; Junior Congregation, 10:30 a.m.; Kiddush sponsored by Sisterhood; Mincha, 6 p.m.; Havdalah, 7:15 p.m. SUNDAY: Shacharit, 9 a.m.;
Sukkot Programs and Dinner begin with the Playground Dedication at 4:30 p.m.; At 5 p.m., concurrent programs for preschoolers led by Debbie Kricsfeld, for school-aged children led by Shlicha Rachel Ohana, and a cooking class for adults led by Nancy Mattly. Dinner follows at 6 p.m.; Contact the office for Mincha/ Ma’ariv time. WEEKDAYS: Shacharit, 7 a.m. (Chol Hamoed Sukkot Shacharit is at 6:40 a.m.); Contact the office for Mincha/Ma’ariv time. SIMCHAT TORAH MONDAY: Shacharit, 6:30 a.m.; Office closes at noon; Mincha, 6 p.m. TUESDAY: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Free Babysitting service, 9:30 a.m. through the conclusion of services; Junior Congregation, 10:30 a.m.; Yizkor, 10:30 a.m.; Kiddush is sponsored by Sisterhood; Mincha, 6:15 p.m.; Ma’ariv and Hakafot, 7 p.m., followed by a dairy dinner. WEDNESDAY: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Free Babysitting service, 9:30 a.m. through the conclusion of services; Junior Congregation, 10:30 a.m.; Lunch will follow services; Mincha, 6 p.m.; Havdalah, 7:10 p.m.
provided by Amy Zlotsky and Kyle Hoagland. SATURDAY: Shabbat Morning Service, 9:30 a.m.; Torah Study, 10:30 a.m. led by Rabbi Emanuel SUNDAY: Gan Simcha, grades K, and 4-7, 9:30 a.m.-noon, at Tifereth Israel; grades 1-3 and Hallah High, 9:45 a.m.-12:15 p.m. at B’nai Jeshurun. TUESDAY: Joint Religious School Community-Wide Simchat Torah Service, 6:30 p.m. at South Street Temple. WEDNESDAY: No Hebrew classes.
OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE FRIDAY: Services, 7:30 p.m.
ROSE BLUMKIN JEWISH HOME SATURDAY: Shabbat Services, 9 a.m. led by Andy Greenberg. TUESDAY, Shimini Atzeret, Oct. 25: Services with Yizkor, 9 a.m. led by Rabbi Maximo Shechet. WEDNESDAY, Simchat Torah, Oct. 26: Services, 9 a.m. led by Rabbi Maximo Shechet; Simchat Torah Celebration, 7 p.m. with Beyt Shalom Reconstructionist Congregation.
TEMPLE ISRAEL BEYT SHALOM FRIDAY: Shabbat in the Home. SATURDAY, Oct. 22: Sukkot/Havdalah, 3 p.m. at the home of Jenni Schlossman and Jeff Ferber. WEDNESDAY, Oct. 26: Simchat Torah celebration, 7 p.m. at the Blumkin Home.
CHABAD HOUSE Services conducted by Rabbi Mendel Katzman. Office hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. FRIDAY: Minyan, 7 a.m. SATURDAY: Maamar class, 9 a.m.; Shacharit, 9:30 a.m.; Kiddush to follow service. SUNDAY: Services, 8:30 a.m.; Mishne class, 9:30 a.m.; Chabad Cheder and Aleph Champions, 10 a.m.-noon.; Family Sukkot Festival, 4-6 p.m. WEEKDAYS: Minyan, 7 a.m. TUESDAY, Shmini Atzeret: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Kiddush follows services WEDNESDAY, Simchat Torah: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Kiddush follows service. THURSDAY: Jewish Thought, 12:45 p.m.; Torah Tots, 4:15 p.m. FRIDAY, Oct 21: Services, 7 a.m.; Ima & Me, 10:30–11:45 a.m. For information about programs or to register for classes, call the office or visit: www.nebraska-judaism.com.
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
FRIDAY: Shabbat Evening Service, 7:30 p.m. Rabbi Craig Marantz and Cantor Wendy Shermet will officiate. The Oneg Shabbat will be sponsored by the Women of Reform JudaismOmaha. SATURDAY: Sparks Beneath the Surface, 9:30-10:15 a.m.; Shabbat Morning Service, 10:30 a.m. SITTER SERVICE: Available at each Friday evening service, Saturday mornings when there is a bar or bat mitzvah, as well as Sunday mornings when there is Religious School. Please make a reservation through the Temple office. Cost is $2 per family. Sorry, there are no facilities for infants. ADULT EDUCATION SUNDAY, Oct. 23, 10:15 a.m.: Beginning Hebrew with Colleen Kennealy. Fee: $18 for members/$25 for non-members. THURSDAY, Oct. 27: “Adult Study with the Clergy” with
Rabbi Azriel, 10-11:30 a.m.; 78:30 p.m.: Jews and Christians: In the Pursuit of Understanding Each Other, a discussion facilitated by Rabbi Marantz with invited Christian scholars. CLUB 56 SUKKOT PARTY: On Sunday, Oct. 23, noon-2 p.m. Pizza lunch in the sukkah! Relay races! Fruit-related craziness! Come to Religious School and stay for the fun! Cost is $5. WRJ-O BAKING DAY: Sunday, Oct. 23, 10 a.m. Love those goodies at Onegs? Well here’s an opportunity to help make more! Join members of WRJ-O on in the Temple kitchen to bake more delicious treats. You don’t need to be a member of WRJ-O to help. SIMCHAT TORAH MONDAY, Oct. 24: Erev Simchat Torah, 7 p.m. Rabbi Azriel, Rabbi Marantz and Cantor Shermet will officiate. Kindergartners and older students who have never been consecrated will participate in the special Simchat Torah service. The tunes of the Fiddlers, Tuffy Fabrangen Epstein’s group, will add to the merrymaking. A Oneg will follow with ice cream, cookies, music and dancing. TUESDAY, Oct. 25: Simchat Torah Service and Yizkor, 10:30 a.m.
NEIGHBORHOOD MINYAN There will be no services in October.
TIFERETH ISRAEL Services conducted by Rabbi Royi Shaffin. Minyan, MONDAY & THURSDAY, 7 a.m., followed by breakfast. FRIDAY: Services, 6:30 p.m. conducted by members of USY, with an Shabbat dinner following. SATURDAY: Parashat Hashavu’a class, 8:30 a.m.; Morning service, 9:30 a.m. followed by Shabbat lunch and then Talmud class. MONDAY: Hoshanah Rabbah servics, 6:30 a.m. TUESDAY, Oct. 25: Shemini Atzeret Service with Yizkor, 9:30 a.m.; Simchat Torah School Celebration WEDNESDAY, Oct. 25: Simchat Torah Service, 9:30 p.m.
Picking the Prettiest Etrog Important for Sukkot No sooner had the final prayers for the Jewish New Rosh Year, Hashanah been recited, than many religious Jews started the long-term preparation for the festival of Succot, which began Monday evening. The first of the four species, lulavimim, etrogim, aravot, and hadassim (palm branch, citron, willow branch and myrtle) were on sale in religious areas as soon as the Rosh Hashanah festival finished. It is regarded as being meritorious to begin preparation for a festival as early as possible. Immediately after Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement), the buildingof succot (temporary booths) began in earnest. Copyright: ISRANET
October 21, 2005
Lighten Up: It’s Simhat Torah
SPARKS FROM THE WORD by RABBI MYER S. KRIPKE (Editor’s note: this column was originally printed in the Oct. 20, 2000, Jewish Press.) We never tire of pointing out that Simhat Torah gives us the opportunity to make the point that the Torah is never-ending. For on this day, the annual reading of the Humash, and without delay, begins again from Genesis. In some synagogues, even though there may be a Torah scroll waiting, rolled to Bereshit, there is the pointed rolling of a scroll all the way from the end of Deuteronomy to the beginning of Genesis. With a bound book, change takes an instant. With a scroll, the changes take several minutes, and the impression is not lost: a scroll is, indeed, a Scroll. Since we have printed books, why do we maintain the practice of reading liturgically in the synagogue only from hand-lettered scrolls? At least the congregation has books; why doesn’t the Baal Qriah, the Reader, use one? Why should we make it difficult, requiring him/her to memorize the vocalization, the punctuation and even the trope? Perhaps the simplest and most trivial explanation is in the comparison for a hostess of dessert hastily bought at the supermarket and the dessert (and dinner) painstakingly and lovingly prepared. However, there’s a little more to it. Simhat Torah ends the fall holidays. We have been subjected to the seriousness of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. Who will live and who will die? Shemini Azeret continues the tone and adds Yizkor. Simhat Torah adds the finishing touch. One might say, even a hilarious touch. So if the chag means joy or happiness with the Torah, why limit it to sedate smiles?
King of Ak-Sar-Ben Continued from page 1 effort in developing relationships in the business and civic community. At the Chabad dinner on Sept. 15, for example, Nancy Noddle spoke admiringly of Bev Maurer’s ability to persuade legislators in Nebraska’s Unicameral, adding, “This team has made UNMC one of the premier medical centers in the United States.” Those same sentiments were echoed at last Saturday’s Ak-Sar-Ben ball in describing the philanthropic service given to the community by both Hal and Beverly Maurer. She is involved in Uta Halee Girls Village, Nebraskans for Research (which is presenting on a panel on the ethics of stem cell research at Beth El Synagogue on Nov. 6) and the Ronald McDonald House. He is honorary chairman of National Council for Community and Justice and a board member of the Omaha Chamber of Commerce. He chairs the Biomedical Informatics Task Force and this year’s American Heart Walk. In addition to his full-time position at UNMC, the chancellor has been passionately involved in moving forward the redevelopment of Midtown Omaha, something he insists in necessary to the growth of UNMC and the health of that particular area of Omaha. Lisa Diesing, daughter of Terri and Jack Diesing, Jr., was named Queen of Quivera, the mythical kingdom of the annual event. Funds raised by the charity ball will be awarded as $10,000 scholarships to 20 area high school seniors. More than three million dollars has been given away in the form of scholarships since 1988. Betsy Baker, who chaired this year’s Women’s Ball Committee, said of Dr. Maurer in Sunday’s Omaha World-Herald, “He is such a perfect man to honor.” Among this year’s princesses was Anna Cotton, daughter of Marcy and Ira Cotton, a graduate of Creighton University. Jeff Taxman served as the “prime minister” of Ak-Sar-Ben.
A Look Back at Education in the Jewish Community
IbyN RETROSPECT CAROL GENDLER (Editor’s note: in honor of next spring’s exhibit “Front Page: 85 Years of Jewish Press History,” the Press is running excerpts of these columns originally put together by historian and author Carol Gendler. The exhibit, co-sponsored by the Jewish Press and the Nebraska Jewish Historical Society, will open in April, 2006.) • A night school for Russian Jewish immigrants was held on Dodge Street in 1892. It was reported that all but three of four of the refugees had beards and that “the class was attentive and eager to learn and a great deal is expected of it.” • Two Jewish girls, Addie Gladstone and Esther Jacobs, were among the 11 members of the very first graduating class of Omaha High School (now Central High) in 1876. Both girls went on to become teachers in the public schools--Addie at East school and Esther at Hartman’s Addition School. • The Congregation of Israel (today known as Temple Israel) had some difficulties with its rabbi, Dr. George E. Harfield, in 1884. The officers of the congregation found the rabbi’s behavior “as unbecoming a clergyman and moved that Harfield be requested to resign at once.” Three Sunday School pupils later testified that the rabbi had struck them, and members of the congregation attested to the rabbi’s use of improper language from the pulpit. The rabbi’s salary had been $125 monthly, a sum which he found necessary to supplement by giving private lessons in French and German.
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• At the annual meeting of the Congregation of ISrael in 1906, it was decided that experienced teachers would be employed to replace the volunteers who had served until that time. Florence Brown was to be superintendent. • The South Omaha Hebrew School presented “Queen Esther” in 1912 for the benefit of the Jewish National Library Alliance. • Seventy-five Jewish immigrants, ages 18-50, attended night school at 25th and ‘Q’ Streets in 1913. Bertha Coombs and Mollie Uland were the teachers at the school, which at first met weekly, but later held classes three nights each week. The Omaha BEE reported that “the earnest-eyed immigrants come trouping like children with their books and pencils under their arms. Old men with venerable beards sit nightly, side-by-side with youths of 20. All have one object--to learn English so that they may grasp the opportunities that offer in this country.” • The following young pope were members of the City Talmud Torah confirmation class of 1918: Harry Adelson, Mannie Adler, Edwin and Tina Altschuler, Fannie Alperin, Jacob Bercovici, Jacob Davidson, Ida Dolgoff, Annetta Fariger, Harold Farber, Nellie Ferer, Samuel Gordon, Anna Greenberg, Bessie Katz, Rose Kraft, David Kubjensky, Celia Keers, Gertrude Lewin, Mary Maisel, Harry Mendelson, Libby Minkin, Esther Potashnick, David Ravitz, Celia Ross, Sarah Savad, Sara Segelman, Tobie Steinberg, Martha Weinstein, Fred White, and Miriam Wintroub. It was said that “confirmation work is an innovation in the system of religious training in the Jewish orthodox community. Unlike most classes of this kind, it is not merely a ceremonial institution, but is the culmination of a period of thorough study in Biblical history, philosophy of religion, Jewish ethics and religious catechism.”
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
October 21, 2005
Jewish Book Fair Event Features Native Son Eric Konigsberg
Jacob’s Ladder Is First Relief for Many Katrina Victims
by OLIVER MACKSON and GARY KATZ, Library Administrator By this time next year, one of the most notorious killers in New York history - make that modern mob history could be basking in the sunshine. When Eric Konigsberg was sent off to boarding school, he learned from an ex-cop that his great-uncle Harold was in prison in upstate New York. Harold “Kayo” Konigsberg was a legendary Mafia enforcer, suspected by the FBI of upwards of 20 murders. His colorful life and times are featured in Konigsberg’s first book, Blood Relation. Konigsberg, an Omaha native, will speak about this fascinating portion of his family’s history at the opening event of Jewish Book Month on Wednesday, Nov. 2, 7 p.m. in the JCC Theater. Preceding his talk, the Jewish Federation of Omaha will present its annual Humanitarian of the Year award to Alan, Fred and Steve Simon, fourth-generation owners of Omaha Steaks. Harold “Kayo” Konigsberg, a 79-year-old reputed enforcer for organized crime outfits, is eligible for parole in April, 2006, according to the state Department of Services. Correctional Konigsberg, a native of Bayonne, NJ, earned his nickname because of his boxing prowess. At the time of his murder convictions, he was already serving a state prison sentence for extortion. He taught himself to read, and he defended himself in court. In 1982, an Ulster County jury convicted Konigsberg of strangling Teamsters boss Anthony “Three Fingers” Castellito in 1961 at the union honcho’s home in the Town of Kerhonkson. The rub-out earned Konigsberg a $15,000 payday from Castellito’s union rival, Anthony “Tony Pro” Provenzano, who was Konigsberg’s co-defendant. Konigsberg was convicted twice. His first trial, in 1978, was overturned on appeal, while Provenzano’s conviction was upheld. Konigsberg was re-tried and convicted in Ulster County Court in 1982. Ulster County District Attorney
by LARRY BROOK Ovett, a town in Southern Mississippi Deep South Jewish Voice that had basic food and water, but still BIRMINGHAM, AL--In a former shirt had no medical supplies or personal factory in Utica, MS, volunteers from the hygiene items. In Utica, the empty space Union of Reform Judaism are doing in the truck was filled with those items some heavy lifting in a way that none of already on hand, and other items specifithem could have predicted. cally needed in Ovett were purchased by Six weeks away from the URJ biennial a donation that was immediately granted convention, Stefani Rozen would nor- by their congregation. mally be working on convention plans. One person who came for aid said he was Instead, she is coordinating shipments of taking care of 16 people who were taking goods at the warehouse, sending them to shelter underneath a bridge, and upon communities across the region that are receiving a supply of diapers said that the struggling to recover from Hurricane infants there hadn’t had any diapers for Katrina. Though it has been five weeks days--they haven’t been wearing anything. since Hurricane Katrina hit, these shipAlexander has been serving as a liaison ments are still vital for small struggling between URJ and local relief agencies, communities outside the focus of New attending coordinating meetings. She Orleans and the Mississippi coast. noted that the Jewish community has On Sept. 6, a group of volunteers was always been very good at giving money, but joined by 20 members of Utica Baptist less experienced with hands-on work and Church and the Utica logistics in disaster relief. Heritage Society, and There are good ways began cleaning out the and bad ways to send 10,000 square foot factorelief items. One recent ry for Jacob’s Ladder, a suggestion was school project of the nearby supplies for students who Henry S. Jacobs Camp will be going back to and the URJ. school soon, but groups Within a couple of days, wanting to send items truckloads of goods from should go ahead and preReform congregations pare kits. “Buy backpacks across the country began and fill them, so when arriving. A team of volunpeople come in you can teers from the URJ’s give them” one item. Religious Action Center Rabbi Barry Weinstein takes a Since the warehouse arrived to load and moment to give a child a push in opened, word spread unload trucks, sort goods the B’nai Israel Synagogue’s yard quickly throughout the and distribute them. in Baton Rouge, LA, when the syn- region. In Utica itself, 90 Jonathan Cohen, agogue was serving as a shelter percent of the population Director of the Jacobs for Katrina victims. Temple Israel lives below the poverty Camp, came up with the worked with Weinstein to send line, and many of the resiidea of using the ware- needed goods there, as well as to dents have taken in evachouse as a staging ground Jacob’s Ladder. Credit: Matt uees. That places a burden after the camp received Samuels/Jewish Herald-Voice on already-tight family some goods for distribubudgets, so the warehouse tion. The camp had also served as a refuge has seen many locals come for assistance. for evacuees during the hurricane, and now Some church vans from around the area houses volunteers working on several relief have shown up at the warehouse, looking efforts, including Jacob’s Ladder. for items for people they are housing. “In Susan Alexander, who on Sept. 19 was some of those cases, this was the first aid staffing the camp office and is associate they were receiving,” Rozen said. director of the URJ’s Olin Sang Ruby David Berkman, the URJ Assistant Union Camp in Wisconsin, said the pro- Director of Camping and manager of the ject’s emphasis has been on the small project, estimates conservatively that at communities that still are not receiving least 750,000 pounds of goods will pass much assistance. through the warehouse, but he thinks it On Sept. 20, for example, a truckload may wind up being closer to 1.25 million of goods from Temple Emanu-El of pounds. The volunteers, many of whom Westfield, NJ, arrived in Utica. Because are from up north, start at 7 a.m. and their original truck broke down in sweat it out in the non-air conditioned Tennessee, they had transferred their warehouse, but they think about those goods into a larger truck, and upon who have been displaced for weeks and arrival the volunteers at Jacobs Ladder who have no idea what, if anything, they asked if they could divert the truck to will have when they return.
Donald Williams, who matched wits with Konigsberg back in the days when Williams was a fresh-faced young assistant prosecutor, said he’ll write to the state Division of Parole and argue against releasing Konigsberg from Attica state prison. “His past speaks for itself, and that does not even touch on the matter of justice and his being held accountable for his actions,” Williams said this week. Konigsberg will sign copies of Blood Relation after the free Jewish Book Fair event. Books cost $20 and are available in the Kripke Jewish Federation Library. For more information please contact the Kripke Jewish Federation Library at 334.6462 or gkatz@jewishomaha.org.
Eric Konigsberg JEWISH BOOK FAIR EVENTS Wednesday, Nov. 2, 7-9 p.m.: Eric Konigsberg in the JCC Theater Wednesday, Nov. 9, 7-9 p.m.: Sam Apple in the JCC Theater Thursday, Dec. 8, 11:45 a.m.: Judith Viorst at the Book Fair Luncheon in the JCC Auditorium; $15 for lunch
USKER H AUTO GROUP
www.huskerautogroup.com
Sunday, Dec.11, 3-5 p.m.: “Chanu-Kids” in the Kripke Library Thursday, Dec. 15, 1-3 p.m.: Rochelle Krich at the Book Discussion Group Kripke Library
MERCEDES
6701 Telluride Dr. • Lincoln, NE 68521
1-800-876-1598
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