November 6, 2009

Vol. LXXXIX No. 7 Omaha, NE

Celebrating 89 Years of Service to Nebraska and Western Iowa

19 Cheshvan 5770

November 6, 2009

Riekes’ take the helm again

Former U.S. ambassador to Israel to inaugurate Couple to lead Federation’s 2010 Campaign UNO Schwalb Center by KRISTAL WALENZ Administrative Assistant Schwalb Center for Israel and Jewish Studies of the University of Nebraska-Omaha Martin Indyk, a former United States Ambassador to Israel, will be the featured speaker at the inaugural event of the Natan and Hannah Schwalb Center for Israel and Jewish Studies at the University of NebraskaOmaha. Indyk’s presentation will be given at the UNO’s Thompson Alumni Center on Tuesday, Nov. 24, 7:30 p.m. The event, Martin Indyk presented by the Schwalb Center and funded by the Phil and Ruth Sokolof Endowment, is free and open to the public. Indyk’s presentation, “The New Administration -Making Peace in the Middle East,” will use material from his new memoir, Innocent Abroad: An Intimate Account of American Peace Diplomacy in the Middle East. The book and his lecture draw on his many years of involvement in the region to provide the inside story of the last time the United States employed sustained diplomacy to end the Arab-Israeli conflict and change the behavior of regimes in Iraq and Iran. Indyk served both as Ambassador to Israel and as Assistant Secretary of State for Near East Affairs during the Clinton administration. “Playing an important role in the negotiations Continued on page 2

by BOB GOLDBERG Federation Communications Director This years Federation Annual Campaign will have outstanding leadership through the ranks. Carl and Zoe Riekes will be this year’s co-chairs and have built a team that is determined to raise the dollars to make this years campaign successful. The Jewish Federation is the heart of our community’s infrastructure, allocating valuable dollars to family and child services, senior services, school and camp scholarships and a host of vitally important programs. Zoe Riekes, Campaign Co-Chair explained, “In these compelling times, when more and more Jews are turning to the Federation for help, our goal is to continue to be strong and be there to support the needs of Jews both in Omaha, in Israel and around the world.” It’s an amazing story. Two thousand years ago, Jews were exiled from the Land of Israel and we vowed to care for one another like family. Today, thanks to donors that vow still holds true. Every dollar donated to the Jewish Federation enables this community to take care of our most vulnerable, reach out to Jews in more than 70 countries, act quickly in times of conflict and natural disaster, and strengthen and nurture Jewish identity. In short, every dollar is an investment in a vibrant Jewish future. This year’s campaign began at the Pacesetter kickoff

Zoe and Carl Riekes with a keynote address by Federation Vice President David Gilinsky. “We have one of the most vibrant and engaged small Jewish communities in America. I have personal relationships in our community that go back three generations. The leaders of our parents’ generation had a vision and worked hard to create what we enjoy today,” Gilinsky said. “We cannot take what has been built over generations for granted. We need to ask ourselves what kind of Jewish community we want for ourselves and for our children. And, is our generation willing to do what it takes to continue this fantastic legacy?” Members of the entire community have an opportunity to participate in continuing this legacy on Monday, Nov. 16, when the Federation will host a Campaign Continued on page 2

Rabbi’s kidney donation inspires community by YONIT TANENBAUM Editor’s note: FridaySunday, Nov. 13-15 is the annual Organ Donor Sabbath. This piece is reprinted, with permission, from www.chabad.org/news. When the opportunity arose for Chabad-Lubavitch Rabbi Ephraim Simon to potentially risk his life in the preservation of another’s, he paused. He wanted to give one of his kidneys to a suffering man; the problem was that he had to think about how he would communicate that decision to his nine children. So in July, Simon, codirector of Friends of Lubavitch of Bergen County in Teaneck, NJ, gathered his family around him. “As emissaries of the Lubavitcher Rebbe,” he told them, referring to Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, of righteous memory, “we dedicate our lives to helping other people.” Rabbi Ephraim Simon donated a kidney to a “perfect He went on to describe stranger.” Credit: ChabadNews.org

Inside Opinion Page see page 8

the terminally-ill man he had met earlier, a father of a large family just like theirs. “By tatte giving him a new kidney, he will live, G-d willing. This is our gift to him and you are all a part of it.” Simon’s journey from community leader to organ donor -- the operation took place exactly one week ago -- began last year when the 41-year-old rabbi opened a mass e-mail from a woman trying to arrange a kidney donation for a potential recipient. A 12-year-old Jewish girl with the same blood type as Simon’s was succumbing to a terrible disease, and desperately needed a new kidney. The rabbi decided to respond. “I have a 12-year-old daughter, too,” explains Simon from his home, where he’s in the midst of a two-week recovery period. Having never considered donating an organ in the past, “I was moved to consider testing for her.” “Let’s see what it entails, and then make a decision,” came the reply from his wife, Nechamy Simon, when he brought it up. After a few days of intense research, and a careful risk-benefit analysis together, the Simons reached out to the sender of the email, a Jewish woman by the name of Chaya Lipschutz, offering one of the rabbi’s kidneys if he matched as a candidate.

This Week: Survivor returns from visit to hometown: Pages 6-7 See Front Page Stories & More at: www.jewishomaha.org, click on ‘Jewish Press’

Library Discussion Group celebrates 30 years together: Page 3

“I cannot let a young girl die, and not do anything,” Simon told Lipschutz. But the woman informed him that “a donor has already been found.” Many people would have understandably felt relief at the realization that they wouldn’t be called upon to undergo major surgery. Simon, however, saw things differently. “I felt like I didn’t act fast enough,” he recalls. “I knew right then and there that if somebody else was in need, I was going to be the one to save their life.” According to the U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services, more than 80,000 people nationwide are waiting for a healthy kidney. But last year, more than 4,500 lost their fight for life while waiting. Simon told Lipschutz, a former kidney donor herself, to keep his name on file and to contact him if another person was in need. Two months later, the woman called back with news that a 35-year-old mother of two needed a kidney. Simon immediately agreed to undergo tests at Montefiore Medical Center in the Bronx, N.Y., where the woman was being treated. He wasn’t a match. Then in February, Lipschutz called yet again to ask Simon if he would give his kidney to a single Israeli man in his 30s. Continued on page 4

Coming This Month: Hanukkah Gift Guide Issue Attorney behind The Insider discusses film at Film Streams: Page 4

Hottest ticket in town -for Maccabi athletes: Page 12

Golden Thread

Page 2

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

November 6, 2009

pen Just O

Alteration Tailoring Bridal Leather 10% Discount for Jewish Press Readers Custom Drapes Lyuda Yegudkina, Owner Custom Tailoring Natural Fur 13919 South Plaza Fur Storage 402/614-1115

It’s a Family Affair

Federation’s 2010 Campaign Continued frtom page 1 “Ready To Go” event at the Jewish Community Center. Volunteer solicitors can pick up their campaign cards, glean instruction from expert campaign solicitors and pick up a meal “Ready To Go.” The evening will give solicitors the tools to be ready to share their Federation stories with the donors. Bruce Friedlander According to Campaign leaders, each person has their own story and it is the sharing of these individual experiences that makes the process exciting. To participate or get more information, please contact Campaign Director Sharon Kirshenbaum at 334.6485. “Omaha has built a wonderful Jewish community over many decades and our goal is to maintain everything we have and continue to improve,” says Federation Executive Director Jan Goldstein. “Last year, the Federation and all the agencies took significant cuts in funding. This year, we aim to raise more dollars so that we can increase the funding to all areas of Federation life to keep up with community needs in the areas of assistance, scholarships, Jewish education, and leadership training,” she added. “These are just some of the things made possible with your generous donations to the Federation’s Annual Campaign.”

Keith Josephson

Bobbie Epstein

Jamie Friedland

Ellie Batt

Swanson Towers Omaha’s finest lifestyle experience featuring 24 hour full-service staff, tennis court, pool, large party room, and underground heated parking. We are offering three spectacular Condos.

$219,000 HUGE REDUCTION! 2 Bedroom/2 Bath 1868 sqft. Penthouse level w/south & west views $275,000 2 Bedooom/2 Bath 1833 sqft. Total remodel, all new décor w/granite, stainless $349,900 3 Bedroom/3 Bath 2706 sqft. Penthouse Level views to the South & West

Alan Cohen

Anne Cohen

Marty Cohen

677-2524 850-4161 690-1591

2010 Campaign Leadership Team Carl & Zoe Riekes: Campaign Chairman Keith Josephson: Pacesetters Bobbie Epstein: Lion of Judah Bruce Friedlander: General Men’s Ellie Batt: General Women’s Jamie Friedland: Young Leadership Teresa & Andy Ruback: Super Sunday

Teresa and Andy Ruback

Former ambassador to inaugurate Schwalb Center

Your Trusted

GUIDE

For Medicare Supplemental Coverage

As you maneuver through your Medicare Supplemental options, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska will be there to show you the way. Simple, affordable plans No waiting periods Little or no claim filing Freedom to choose any doctor or hospital

An Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

FREE ATLAS

Call to get a QUOTE from a BCBSNE representative and receive a FREE atlas. Call Toll Free

(877) 444-BLUE (2583) TTY/TDD Users

Visit www.bcbsne.com

(800) 833-7352

Security System! FREE Home

$

85 L U 0 E V A

at NO COST to you for parts and activation with only a $99 Installation Fee and the purchase of alarm monitoring services. Terms and Conditions below.

Continued from page 1 between Israel and the Palestinians gives Dr. Indyk a valuable vantage point,” said Dr. Guy Matalon, director of the Schwalb Center. “His experience, reputation and credentials make him the obvious choice for the inaugural Phil and Ruth Sokolof Lecture in Israel Studies.” Indyk currently serves as the director of Saban Center for Middle East Policy at the Brookings Institution in Washington, D.C. He is well known as one of the lead U.S. negotiators at the Camp David talks and as the framer of the U.S. policy of dual containment which sought to “contain” Iraq and Iran. In 1993, he became President Clinton's Middle East advisor at the National Security Council, where he was responsible for helping to negotiate the Israel-Jordan Peace Treaty. In 1995, Clinton sent him to Israel to work with Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin on Israeli-Syrian issues, and he was there when Rabin was assassinated. Since that time, he has worked with four Israeli prime ministers. He also served as assistant Secretary of State for Near East Affairs, where he was responsible for launching the secret negotiations that eventually led to the disarmament of Libya. Before entering government service, Dr. Indyk served for eight years as founding executive director of the Washington Institute for Near East Policy. He has also been an adjunct professor at Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies and has taught at the Middle East Institute at Columbia University, the Dayan

Center for Middle East Studies at Tel Aviv University, and the Department of Politics at Macquarie University in Sydney, Australia. He has published widely on U.S. policy towards the Arab-Israeli peace process and the complex challenges of the Middle East. Dr. Indyk is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations and the American Academy of Diplomacy. He is Chairman of the International Council of the New Israel Fund, Vice-President of the American Friends of the Rabin Center and serves on the boards of Freedom from Hunger, the Lowy Institute for International Policy, and the Sydney University Graduate School of Government. This year’s Sokolof Lecture in Israel Studies is a result of a close cooperation between the Jewish Federation of Omaha and the Schwalb Center for Israel and Jewish Studies. “Working together to bring such high caliber speakers benefits all of us and in these tough economic times, collaboration between UNO and the Jewish community is exactly what is needed,” said Dr. Matalon. The Center creates, coordinates and promotes an interdisciplinary program focusing on teaching and scholarship in Jewish and Israeli history, politics, culture and society. Its primary goal is to expand knowledge about Judaism and Israel, both on the university campus and in the broader Nebraska community. For more information, email unoisraelcenter@unomaha.edu or call 554.2139.

Child performer of Brundibár tells heartfelt story of survival Our state-of-the-art system includes: ■ Front and Back Doors Protected ■ Infrared Interior Motion Detector ■ Digital Keypad with Police, Fire, and Medical Emergency Buttons ■ Interior Siren ■ Control Panel with Battery Back-up ■ Lawn Sign and Window Decals Your home security system is monitored by ADT professionals 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. As an added benefit, installing a Security System may qualify you for a Homeowners Insurance discount.

Act Now and Receive a

FREE

Wireless Remote Control $99 Value! To take advantage of this promotion, you must call no later than 30 days from the postmark of this advertisement. Not valid with any other offers or discounts. Must mention this coupon.

Reservation Code: DF-MBIDS-09

Act Now and Receive a

FREE

Medical & Fire Panic Alert To take advantage of this promotion, you must call no later than 30 days from the postmark of this advertisement. Not valid with any other offers or discounts. Must mention this coupon.

Reservation Code: DF-MBIDS-09

1-888-669-4896

Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-Midnight EST Sat-Sun 8am-8pm EST

$99.00 Customer Installation Charge. 36-Month Monitoring Agreement required at $35.99 per month ($1,295.64). Form of payment must be by credit card or electronic charge to your checking or savings account. Offer applies to homeowners only. Local permit fees may be required. Satisfactory credit history required. Certain restrictions may apply. Offer valid for new ADT Authorized Dealer customers only and not on purchases from ADT Security Services, Inc. Other rate plans available. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Licenses: AL-09-1104, AZ-ROC217517, CA-ACO6320, CO-110357041, CT-ELC.0193944-L5, DE: 07-212, FL- EC13003401 GA-LVA205157, ID: 39131, IL-127.001042, KY-City of Louisville: 483, LA-F1082, MA: 1355-C, MD: 30339155,107-1375, MI- 3601204877, MN- TS01807, MO-City of St. Louis LC7017450,CC354, MS-15007958, NC- 25310-SP-LV, NE-14451, NJ- 34BF00021800, NM-353366, NV-68518, City of Las Vegas: B14-00075-6-121756, C11-11262-L-121756, NY-Licensed by the N.Y.S. Department of State UID# 12000286451, OH- 53 89 1446, OK-1048, OR- 170997,RI-3428, SC- BAC 5630, TN- C-1164, TX-B13734, UT-6422596-6501, VA-115120, VT-ES-2382 WA- 602 588 694/PROTEYH934RS, WI- City of Milwaukee M-0001599, WV- WV042433, WY-LV-G-21499. For full list of licenses visit our website www.protectyourhome.com/MBIDS

Ela Weissberger, who performed as the cat in the original production of the children’s opera staged in Terezin concentration camp, was on hand last week for rehearsals of Brundibár at the Rose Theater, sponsored by Opera Omaha and the Institute for Holocaust Education. Speaking to the performers, friends and family last Sunday, Weissberger noted that “It’s a pleasure to watch these kids because I can hear children’s voices.” Her last show was 65 years ago, but Weissberger considers these performances for students all week to be a “memorial to my friends.” The public performance is Saturday night, 6:30 p.m., at the Rose. For tickets, call Opera Omaha at 346.7372 or Ticket Omaha at 345.0606 or online at operaomaha.org or ticketomaha.org.

November 6, 2009

Library Book Group celebrates 30 years reading together

by SHERRIE SAAG Administrative Assistant Celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Kripke Library Book Discussion Group on Thursday, Nov. 19, 1 p.m., in the Kripke Library. In honor of this occasion, the group will discuss the book that started it all, The Fixer by Bernard Malamud. And as an added bonus, Gloria Kaslow, the group’s first discussion leader 30 years ago, returns to lead the conversation. Nov. 15, 1979, marked the debut of the Jewish Federation Library Book discussion group (renamed the Dorothy Kaplan Book Discussion Group). A team of dedicated women, including former “Library Diva” Dorothy Kaplan, were intent on beginning a book club at the Library. Their goal was to select books with Jewish content which they hoped would appeal to women of different ages and taste. As a testament to the strength of the community, some of the original members are still actively engaged. Of the original group Marilyn Berman, Jean Duitch, and Phyllis Bittner still faithfully attend. New members are added and older members no longer with the group are fondly remembered for their wit, incisive reading ability and even their punctuality. “This book group is one of the oldest in the country. These women are amazing. To meet and discuss books regularly for the past 30 years is a credit to them,” said Gary Katz, Library administrator. Group facilitators are both members, and sometimes, honored guests. The diversity of topics has increased -- everything from poetry and mysteries to science fiction and biographies. Among the earliest titles were As a Driven Leaf, Last of the Just, Night, and The Adventures of Auggie March. More recent choices included the Pulitzer Prize winner The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier and Klay, Everything is Illuminated and Philip Roth’s The Plot Against America. Choosing to view Jewish films during certain month’s injected a new dimension to the group’s choices like Everything is Illuminated and Enemies: A Love Story. Meeting on the third Thursday of each month, the group welcomes newcomers. Copies of The Fixer are available in the library for $5. For information, please contact Katz at 334.6462 or gkatz@jewishomaha.org.

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 3

Scary Guy to bring his message to Temple Middle/High Schoolers

by CLAUDIA SHERMAN op a concern for the well being and dignity of all, one Temple Israel Communications Coordinator of the greatest deterrents is prejudice. These prejudices Looks don’t matter. It’s what’s inside that counts. are the basis of negative attitudes and discriminatory That is the message of The Scary Guy, who will pres- actions,” the request explained. Not immune to prejudice, the Jewish community is ent his mission, “The Total Elimination of Hate, Violence, and Prejudice Worldwide” to Temple Israel’s “called upon to be even more responsible....to act with Middle and High School students on Wednesday, Nov. sensitivity to negative cues that signal oppressive atti11, 6:30 p.m. Funded by a grant from the Lazier L. tudes.” As the Torah says, “Do not hurt the feelings of Singer Memorial Fund, The Scary Guy’s positive pres- a stranger or oppress them, for you were strangers in entation is open to all Jewish high school students in Egypt.” (Exodus 22:20) the community. “Youth learn about prejudice and disAfter graduating from crimination from their peers, families, the high school in 1972, the media, and community interactions,” the former Craig Kaufman grant request noted. “Our children majored in voice at become easy targets for those who engage Macalester College in St. in prejudice and discrimination when we Paul, MN. He used to be fail to talk about how wrong such thinka baby portrait photograing and actions are.” pher, a computer salesScary Guy, whose tattoos cover 85 perman, and a tattoo artist cent of his face and body, talks “about who owned three tattoo cultural attitudes, ethics, and morals shops. He composes claswhich are at the heart” of his message sical music, is an artist, a “about stereotypes, prejudice and judgsinger, an entertainer, a mentalism based on appearances.” Since performer, and a comedihis last appearance at Temple Israel in an. 2003, bullying has increased among the Since legally changing nation’s teens through text messaging and his name in 1998 to The email. “The synagogue,” according to the Scary Guy, he has worked The Scary Guy will make an appearance at grant request, “can make a valuable conwith governments, law Temple Israel to talk about prejudice based on tribution toward developing a more just enforcement, the mili- appearances. society.” tary, religious groups, corporations, social services, Scary Guy encourages students to become more health care, detention centers, prisons, housing associ- aware of the impact of prejudice and discrimination, to ations, colleges, and schools spreading the word that understand their destructive nature, and to examine prejudice and its ill affects on the world’s community their own and others’ treatment of people different must be combated by every means possible without from themselves. They will be able to better analyze the becoming negative in the process of achieving this goal. difference between reasonable dislikes or caution from “More and more schools are rediscovering that they prejudice, understand and accept diversity, promote fair cannot avoid moral instruction,” as was pointed out in treatment of others by learning strategies to interrupt the request to the Singer Fund. “As students learn to discrimination, and discuss Jewish attitudes toward understand their rights, the rights of others, and devel- prejudice.

Now Open! at 132nd & West Center Kosher Selection

Featuring

Large Variety of Quality Kosher Fresh Meats Large Selection of Kosher Wines Kosher Frozen Foods Section Kosher General Grocery Section

Fresh Organic Fruits & Vegetables Natural Organic Shop Fabulous Floral Department 1,000 ‘s of Reduced Prices

132nd & West Center • 402-330-0230 | Pharmacy • 402-330-0270

Page 4

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

November 6, 2009

Rabbi’s kidney donation Continued from page 1 that a doctor remarked that if he didn’t know “It wasn’t for a young girl, better, he “would have said this kidney came or for a mother of two,” from a brother.” says Simon, “but one can“I told my children that G-d could have not weigh one life over easily made me ill, and I would have been the another.” recipient,” he says. “Thank G-d, I was As it turned out, Simon blessed with a healthy family. What better was not a match, but he way to thank Him than to use my own health immediately went to to help somebody else?” another hospital to underLooking back at the ordeal, Simon -- who go tests for the other man, is quick to emphasize that his wife had as a Satmar Chasid from the Rabbi Ephraim Simon and his family. much a hand in donating “their” kidney as he Williamsburg section of Brooklyn and a father of 10. did -- hopes that more people will step up and give the At the kidney clinic, as the rabbi was on his way to gift of life. “My sacrifice is just a few days of discomfort,” have his blood tested, the critically ill man came down he says. “The reward of saving a man’s life, giving a the hallway.“Excuse me,” said the man, who had heard father his life back, giving a family their father and husthat a Chabad-Lubavitch emissary had volunteered to band back, outweighs all the risks. “Not everyone can donate his kidney. “Are you the one testing for me?” donate a kidney,” continues the rabbi. “But everyone The two chatted briefly. The man showed Simon pic- can reach out to help another person.” tures of his family and told him a little about the genetFor more information about kidney donation in the ic disease that had killed several of his relatives and was Jewish community, please visit Chaya Lipschutz’s webdestroying his kidneys. Simon assured him that if he site, kidneymitzvah.com. were a match, he would go through with the procedure. A few hours before Passover, both men received the news they had been waiting for. Simon was busy preparing for the communal Seder at his Chabad House when WALK-IN, DROP-IN the hospital called. “Rabbi,” a voice on the other line Join us for lunch and a show on Thursday, Nov. 12, began, “you are a match.” Although he and his wife kept it between themselves, their Seder for more than 100 10:45 a.m., when we meet at the JCC and then go to lunch at Charlie’s on the Lake. Following lunch, join us people took on new meaning for them both. Immediately following the holiday, Simon called the for a community concert at 1:30 p.m., in the east dintransplant coordinator at the hospital to set up a series of ing room at the Blumkin Home with Steve Fowler and examinations to assess his fitness physically, emotionally, accompanist Lynne Scott. There is no admission fee. For information, call Maggie Conti at 334.6521. and mentally as an organ donor. LOMIR REDN YIDDISH At Shabbat services that week, he broke the news to Yiddish brings us closer to our roots! Come join us his congregation. Every single person is important, he told them. If an individual is lacking, it is everyone’s job every Thursday afternoon from 1-3 p.m., at the JCC. to help him or her. So “in a few weeks, a critically ill Jew For information call Anne Skolkin at 343.1638. VISIONS in need of a healthy kidney in order to survive will Reminder: Join your friends on a sweet tour of receive one of mine.” “I initially had a mother’s natural reaction,” reveals Hollywood Candy in the Old Market on Monday, Nov. Judy Simon, 61, who at first was very concerned about 9, 11 a.m. Cost is $4. Explore the store; see a slide presher son’s long-term health. ”But after doing research, I entation; learn the history of candy; see a candy demonstration and enjoy samples. Lunch to follow at Julio’s at realized that there is no reason to be.” After a “heart-warming” meeting with the recipient’s 12:15 p.m. Send reservations to Phyllis Roffman, 4118 family at the hospital during the procedure, the mother No. 139 St, Omaha, NE 68164. For information call her says that it’s “incredible to have a child do this altruistic at 333.1222. Make check payable to Visions. CENTER FOR JEWISH EDUCATION thing. I feel so honored and blessed to be part of it and “Eye on Israel” will take place Tuesday, Nov. 10, 12to say he is my son!” Simon went to Cornell University Medical Center the 1 p.m., in the Kripke Library. Dr. Guy Matalon, execuday of the surgery carrying letters and pictures from his tive director of the Center for Jewish Education, leads nine children. When the anesthesia wore off and he the participatory lunchtime sessions, open to the public awoke in the recovery room, his wife read the letters to and provided free of charge. For more information, call him. In another room, the recipient was doing so well, 334.6445 or email mgrossman@jewishomaha.org.

ORGANIZATIONS

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

The University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) Department of History and UNO College of Arts and Sciences, in conjunction with the University of Nebraska Foundation, will host a special screening of the film, The Insider on Tuesday, Nov. 17, 6:30 p.m., at Film Streams, 1340 Webster St. The event will feature a postfilm discussion with environmental attorney Charles J. Mikhail, who played a leading role in building the reallife case against “Big Tobacco.” Mikhail also served as a consultant for the movie, working personally with director Michael Mann and his crew, including actors Al Pacino and Russell Crowe. The Insider tells the true story of a “60 Minutes” television series exposè of the tobacco industry, as seen through the eyes of a real tobacco executive, Jeffrey Wigand. Mikhail, a Palestinian-Christian who immigrated to the United States, runs a law firm in Mississippi. He also is a major donor to the new Schwalb Center for Jewish and Israel Studies at UNO, and was featured in an article in the Jewish Press when he spoke at the Center for Jewish Education’s “Eye on Israel” in 2007. The “60 Minutes” story became a critical piece in the case against the tobacco companies.The screening is free for UNO staff, faculty and students with a valid UNO ID. Free Charles J. Mikhail tickets will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Otherwise, tickets are $4 for Film Stream members, $6 for students and $8 for the public. For more information, call 402.554.3502.

Mommy and Me offers playtime at Kripke Library Eva Cohen listens intently to a story during a recent “Mommy and Me” at the Kripke Library, as Ori Matalon listens with mom, Elinor. For more information, call 334.6462.

motorcycles roadsters scooters ATVs

utility vehicles snowmobiles watercraft trailers

9004 S. 145th St. Omaha, NE 68138 (402) 333-0655 333-0414 fax www.leisurelifesports.com

November 6, 2009

Beth El Sisterhood’s annual Boutique promises shopping, noshing and fun

by JILL BELMONT Beth El Publicity Coordinator Got the itch to get some holiday shopping done early? Want to find a special gift for that special someone -- or yourself? Look no further than Beth El’s social hall, which will be transformed into a shopaholic’s paradise on Sunday, Nov. 15, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., during Sisterhood’s annual Boutique extravaganza, where attendees will be treated to merchandise by an exciting variety of talented vendors (see full list below).

candles; taste the fresh challah and sweets baked by the Sisterhood women; and soothe your aches with the healing touch of massage. For those who have gifts on their mind browse and shop for Hanukkah, B’nai Mitzvah, weddings, birthdays and anniversaries.” She also noted that Beth El’s Judaica shop will be open for business -- it will be the last day of its huge, annual sale, where everything is marked anywhere from 10 percent to 75 percent off. Boutique vendors and their wares include: Advanced Innovations, panoramic photography, Judaica gifts; Discount Designer Fabrics, custom pillows, throws, table runners; Keller Sports Cards; Bonnie’s Stoneware Pottery; Paul Goetz, clocks made from novelty license plates; Donna Koliha, jewelry; Just For You, jewelry; JN Designs, inspirational bookmarks; Yachad note cards, artwork; Mainstream Boutique, clothing, handbags; Kat’s Candles, candles, painted jars; Naslavsky Color Just like last year’s event above, Beth El’s Sisterhood and Pace, jewelry, Judaica; Boutique will be a shopper’s dream, offering a variety of art- Fusion with Flair, glass jewwork, jewelry, home decor and clothing on Nov. 15. elry, gifts; RSVP, stationery, Along with shop-’til-you-drop oppor- personalized gifts; Razzle Dazzle tunities, an all-day raffle will be held, with Dazzling Designs, beaded glassware; prizes awarded every 15 minutes. Raffle Silpada Designs Jewelry; Glass by Terry, tickets, at 50¢ apiece, may be purchased glass jewelry, art; Larry Budwig Art Glass, the day of the event; they also may be glass jewelry; Susan Wilson, massage; obtained by sending a check -- made Fairbanks Studio, pottery; Little Stitches payable to Beth El -- to “Boutique Quilts for Kids; Threads by Cheryl, hand Raffle,” Beth El, 14506 California St., knits, glove cuffs, liners; Lazy Rose, jewOmaha, NE 68154. elry, home décor; Pampered Chef; In addition, during the day every Wiley’s Handcrafts, LLC; BBG Artistry, appetite will be satisfied, from a pizza and glass jewelry, fused-glass home décor; salad luncheon provided by Men’s Club, Livne Fine Art Studio, fine art in acrylic to a mouth-watering, delicious bake sale. on canvas; Moonfish Jewelry; Mary Kay “Boutique will be exciting this year Cosmetics; Colleen Alexa, wickless canbecause we have a variety of new vendors, dles; Claire’s Crafts, home décor; along with many returning favorites from Kimotofoto, photography, note cards; previous years,” said event chairman Fusion with Flair, glass jewelry, gifts. Susan Fellman Witkowski. “We have Witkowski noted that merchants have something for almost all of your senses: until Nov. 9 to reserve a table at the come look at the beautiful art, jewelry, event; for more information, they may Jori Kravitz at handmade clothing and other artisan contact treasures; smell the handmade scented jkravitz1@cox.net.

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 5

SEWING CENTERS 3407 S. 84th

10144 Maple

(Westgate Plaza)

(Maple Village)

392-0430

572-1212

Mon & Thur: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. • Tues, Wed, Fri & Sat: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

One Bedroom/Two Bedroom Units Available

Call us for a tour today!

Community Life • Community/Dining Room • Optional Dining • Van Transportation • Library • Wellness/Exercise • Guest Room • Country Store • Move-In Incentives

Bloomfield Forum 402-390-9991

9804 Nicholas St. • Omaha, NE 68114

A Non-profit Development Sponsored by

Omaha’s Independent Senior Living Specialists www.bloomfieldforum.com

Business GUIDE

TAX+FINANCIAL PLANNING

COMING 12.04.09 SPACE RESERVATION 11.21.09 CAMERA READY DEADLINE 11.24.09 Contact your advertising representative to advertise in this very special edition. ALLAN Handleman Call Allan Handleman at 402.334.6451 or email: ahandleman@jewishomaha.org

IN THE NEWS

I am a Genius of Unspeakable Evil and I Want to be Your Class President by Josh Lieb, head writer and executive producer of Jon Stewart’s “The Daily Show”, has recently been published, and is available at local bookstores. Though he grew up in Columbia, SC, Lieb’s parents are former Omahans Jack and Gail Lieb; his grandparents were Charles and Lil Lieb and Rabbi Matt Poliakoff. While attending Harvard, Lieb also spent three summers here, living with his cousins, Rich and Fran Juro, and working at No Frills Supermarkets. In fact, the new comic novel is set in Omaha and has many mentions of familiar Omaha landmarks (including No Frills). Articles about the book and its author have appeared in the Wall Street Journal and USA Today. Jon Stewart has also written a blurb for the novel, made a humorous endorsement viewable on YouTube, and endorsed it on his show. Lieb has won three Emmy awards for “The Daily Show” and was writer and executive producer for “NewsRadio” and

“The Simpsons”. He lives in Manhattan with his wife Beata and their young son. He is not only working on the screenplay of the novel, but also a sequel. Home Instead Senior Care offices serving Nebraska have scheduled a free web conference for family caregivers on Thursday, Nov. 19, 6 p.m., as part of National Family Caregivers Month. The web conference, “The Best Care for Your Parents: Senior Care Solutions and Potential Pitfalls,” will be co-hosted by Suzanne Mintz, President and CEO of the non-profit National Family Caregivers Association, and Home Instead Senior Care Co-Founder and CEO Paul Hogan. Hogan, who co-authored with his wife, Lori, the new book Stages of Senior Care: Your Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Best Decisions (November2009/McGraw Hill) and Mintz will offer participants solutions and resources. To register for the web conference, go to www.caregiverstress.com.

Planning a bar or bat mitzvah... the most exciting and special time of your child’s life?

All of us here at the Holiday Inn Omaha Convention Center are pleased to offer our special packages for your Bar or Bat Mitzvah. We would be honored to be part of your family’s celebration. Let Us Help Celebrate Your Special Day.

Omaha Convention Center 3321 South 72nd Street | Omaha, NE 68124 Catering Direct: (402) 517-3083

Out

Dining

Page 6

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

November 6, 2009

A survivor’s family comes full circle

THE GREEK ISLANDS 3821 CENTER • 346-1528 Greek Specials Daily Greek Beer & Wine Homemade Pastries Dine In/Carry Out Party Room We Cater Too! Full Service Bar Mon.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sun., 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

ENTERTAIN

FIRST CLASS HONEYMAN RENT-ALL The Party Place WITH

FOR THE FINEST IN ENTERTAINING ACCESSORIES, HOW CAN YOU THROW A PARTY AND NOT INVITE US? • Tables • Chairs • Linens • Skirting • China • Glassware • Champaign Fountains • Chafing Dishes • Party Canopies • Wedding & Church Displays • Dance Floors • BBQ Grills • Coat Racks • Candelabras • Margarita Machines • Chocolate Fountains

Our Visit room w o h S

11226 Wright Circle

333-2882

(1 Block South of 114th & Center)

We Disp dding Sup lays & plies

We olve Debt Problems

CALL NOW and get an advocate on your side! bankruptcy and maintain We’re experts at negotiating Avoid your dignity reductions with the credit card companies Have an advocate deal with your creditors We can arrange one affordable monthly payment

Save money - Get out of

debt FASTER than you can on your own

If you have over $12,000 in debt,

CALL NOW! FREE Consultation

D No Obligation D Confidential

1-888-248-1637 Not available in all states

by LEO ADAM BIGA a low profile making a new start in the States. She marKitty Williams’ Holocaust survivor story came full cir- ried, bore children, worked. Other things crowded out cle in September when she retraced her odyssey accom- the Holocaust. “It was pushed way back,” she said. panied by a granddaughter and a grandniece. The trio?s As if enduring the Shoah wasn’t enough, she lost her journey began in her homeland of Hungary and traveled eldest child to suicide and saw her first marriage dissolve. to Poland and Germany. Dredging up the awful past meant more pain. Besides, A Holocaust remembrance trip is not for everyone. she wished to spare her kids the baggage. This was Kitty’s fourth. But in 1982 she went back with two “It’s very hard,” she said. sisters and her daughter Pam. In ’91 “Some people never want to she and her son Mark went for a go back and yet I feel a conreunion of the Allendorf survivors. She nection. I think it’s like then gave her first extensive Holocaust going to a cemetery. In a accounting for the Survivors of the way it doesn’t accomplish Shoah Visual History Project. Her anything but you feel this is videotape testimony was more a memowhere you lost your family rial to her father, killed shortly after and you need to actually their arrival at Birkenau, then a chroniphysically make the effort of cle of her own experience. seeing it.” She returned to Europe in 1999 with She said she mainly went Mark and Amanda. With the passage of back “to show the girls. time the burden of memory became Even though I can tell them more oppressive. “It’s with you. It it’s just not the same as actuhaunts you forever when you think ally seeing it, and I am hopabout it. You try not to, but somehow ing that it impressed them the older I get the more I think about enough they can pass it on it,” Kitty said. to their children and to For years she was urged to tell her another generation. I don’t Above: Kitty Williams visited her mother’s grave story for publication, but begged off. know what it will stir up in in Debrecen. Below: She is reunited with a child- Finally, she relented and the Jewish Press them. I’m sure they’ll never hood friend from her hometown in Sarand. published her tale in this past New forget it.” Year’s edition. She’s glad she did it. Her family’s grateful, too. Grandniece Amanda Peters, whose Hilary Gray of Atlanta hungered to father is Kitty’s son Mark know more. Her grandma Klara (Klari) Peters, confirmed how powpassed without sharing much. erful it was visiting the sites Said Hilary, “I am always eager to hear where her grandmother and the stories because I want to know what aunts suffered. happened, and I want to pass on their “When you’re hearing first stories when they no longer can.” She hand about things that hapsaid the article is “something physical pened it really brings it to to pass down to my children and my life,” said Amanda, who lives children’s children, and not just the in Brooklyn. Growing up, oral memories. Now, my family’s strugshe said, her elders would “recollect stories here and there but you didn’t really get gles and victories will not be forgotten.” She’s already an order of what happened.” The trip, she said, gave a “shared” the experience with all her friends and family. personal, visceral chronology of her grandma “Kati’s” She and her father are planning to visit Kitty next year. For Amanda, the September trip to Europe with Kitty Holocaust trials she never had before. The former Katalin Ehrenfeld lived at home with her left an indelible impression. “I wasn’t quite prepared for father, Mor, when Germany occupied Hungary and how emotionally challenging it was going to be for her,” enacted anti-Jewish laws. They were taken from their Amanda said. “It’s not that she completely lost it or broke home in Sarand to the nearby Debrecen ghetto. From down, but I felt all of us were put on edge as she recalled there, they were transported to Auschwitz-Birkenau, these horrific memories. And not just horrific, but things where two sisters were imprisoned. Kitty was among that were just difficult and sad. Missing someone like her 1,000 females sent to a munitions factory in Allendorf, father that badly can create emotional turmoil.” The women visited the gravesites of Kitty’s mother, Germany, where she was liberated. A decade ago Amanda and her dad went with Kitty to Anna, and her baby sister, in Debrecen’s Jewish cemethe old country. She was 14. The family’s Holocaust her- tery. Both died before the war. A family friend has erectitage influenced her decision to work in El Salvador, a ed a plaque there in honor of Kitty’s father. Among the toughest things they did was visit nation healing from genocide. She feels a connection to Birkenau. “I could never possibly have imagined how that people’s struggles. “That’s why I’ve taken that direction. I think it’s huge it was,” said Amanda. “The barrack conditions extremely important to remember that although on were terrible. The way they had to use the bathroom, the smaller scales and using different methods these atroci- way they slept, just how little they had. The other thing ties still occur today and happen all over the world -- in that is haunting about that place is the smell. It’s like no Africa, in Central and South America, in Asia,” said smell you’ve ever experienced before -- what you can Amanda.“So, although my work is not directly imagine death would smell like. One of those things you Holocaust education, I think it’s important we bridge don’t ever really forget.” Kristi said, “It just made my heart ache.” these experiences and realize it’s not just the Holocaust As tough as it got, Amanda said, “it was just a really we have to remember.” When she got the chance, she eagerly returned to excellent experience to have the opportunity to go there and to hear things I hadn’t heard before. The thing that Europe with her grandma. “It’s not really something you can turn down, you fascinates me is how many stories there are just in my famknow, just considering the history of our family. It’s just ily. It’s incredible the number of times they escaped death.” There were tender, joyful moments, too. Kitty reunitan opportunity I really couldn’t pass up.” It was the first such trip for her cousin, Kristi Miller of ed with childhood friends and neighbors. She visited her Phoenix, whose grandmother was Kitty’s late sister high school. She finally visited the museum in Elizabeth. Kristi said she felt compelled to “see where I’m Stadtallendorf, Germany, that honors the women who from, to see my roots, to see what transpired in the survived Allendorf. Their names, including Kitty’s, are camps. I’ve wanted to go since I was a small girl. Prior to inscribed on a wall. Kitty and her group were given a going I didn’t know where my great-aunt was in the special tour and feted by staff and town officials. Ironically, for years Kitty withheld her story because camps. I had heard a story about my grandma seeing her.” With that new clarity she’s keen to learn even more. she felt it wasn’t special, but even she says the museum “It has increased my desire to learn and read about the is proof that “it’s a little bit different than the other stoHolocaust. I will go back again. It’s not a pleasant expe- ries. At least I don’t know of anywhere else in Germany where they created a museum in our honor.” Its theme rience but it’s very important and meaningful.” Kristi said while her grandma “never spoke about it -- The secret of reconciliation is remembering. “It’s a satisfaction of knowing the Germans are not with her kids or with us grandchildren -- she didn’t want to talk about it -- Kati’s much more open to talking only admitting what they did but this generation has a about it. So, absolutely, I’ll keep asking her questions.” lot of sympathy for us and a lot of regret for what their Unlike her siblings, who wouldn’t broach the subject, parents and grandparents did. At least they don’t shrug Kitty was forthcoming about the family’s ordeal. Still, it off like the Hungarians do: ‘Oh that’s ancient history, she remained cautious. The Council Bluffs resident kept Continued on page 7

November 6, 2009

Survivor’s family Continued from page 6 we don’t need to talk about that.’ I have yet to hear a Hungarian say, ‘I’m sorry it happened.’ I feel really sad about that.” One of her motivations in going again was documentation. “I wanted to get some specifics of some of the people who helped me, who helped my family, that deserve to be mentioned in the Righteous Christian list at Yad Vashem. I wasn’t very successful. So we went to the cemetery, but we didn’t get a whole lot of information there either.” She did meet for the first time a branch from her mother’s side raised Catholic after the war. They knew little of the family’s Holocaust lineage, but her visit changed that. “It was very important for me and the girls to meet them,” said Kitty. “My highlight was to be able to see my family in Hungary,” said Amanda. “We were able to visit her brother Joska’s (Josef’s) son, also named Joska, and his wife Piroska, their son Joska and his wife Agi and their children Balazs and Regina.”

Cousins Regina, left, Amanda Peters and Kristi Miller were reunited. The middle Joska was discovered years after the war. He’d been fathered out-ofwedlock by Kitty’s brother, who was killed on the frontlines. The Christian

The Pointe is Choice

mother and boy escaped persecution. But the chaos of the war and its aftermath disconnected him from his Jewish roots. Years later, Amanda said, “a friend of the family saw him on a train platform and went up to him and said, ‘Either you’re the ghost of Joska Ehrenfeld or you are his son,’ because the resemblance is absolutely striking. He replied, ‘Well, I never knew my father,’ and the friend was able to give him contact info for my grandmother and all her siblings in the States; he wrote them all letters. Kati said when she got his letter her reaction was, ‘Oh my God, Joska’s alive’ -- the handwriting was exactly the same. He came to the U.S. for a family reunion and they’ve stayed in contact and visited.” “It’s a miracle we discovered him. It’s unmistakable who he is, his resemblance to my brother is just uncanny,” said Kitty. Amanda feels a bond with Joska. “We don’t even speak the same language but I remember being able to connect with him when I was 14; it was the same thing now at 24. He and his wife are just absolutely beautiful, giving, welcoming people. We ate, we drank, we talked. It was so much fun to look through all the photos.” She added, “It’s really, really important for me on a personal level to keep in touch with my family. I think it would be such a loss for us not to keep in touch just because my grandmother’s generation is getting older. With Internet and so many ways of communicating these days, why not?” Although a fit 85, Kitty said she returned “emotionally and physically exhausted,” adding, “I’m glad I went and I’m glad I’m back.” She says it was her last trip there, but she still has things to see and do there. To close the circle once and for all.

As Omaha’s premiere assisted living and memory support community, Heritage Pointe offers: • A full range of apartment sizes from studios to two bedrooms with multiple baths • Six levels of personalized care provided by our certified staff • Choice of dining times for superb meals prepared by our executive chef • Concierge & transportation services • On-site wellness center, plus so much more

It’s good to have choices. Come visit our family and your choice will be Heritage Pointe!

168th & Blondo (402) 614-5222 www.heritagepointeomaha.com

LaKota Lodge Counseling Clinic, L.L.C. Individuals • Couples Veterans • Seniors Trauma • Addictive Behaviors Medicare • Medicaid Most Insurances Accepted 40 Years Experience

402/597-2292 11330 Q St. | Ste 226 | Omaha, NE 68137

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 7

Kids, fun and Judaism take center stage at next Beth El Women’s Rosh Hodesh Group

by JILL BELMONT Nogg, the grandmother of four, Beth El Publicity Coordinator recalled the significance of celebrating The four co-hosts of Beth El’s upcom- Shabbat as a child with her maternal ing Women’s Rosh Hodesh Group meet- grandparents. “In my mind’s eye I can ing want you to have some serious fun still see my grandmother lighting the canbeing Jewish. And more importantly, they dles and hear my grandfather saying the want you, your children and grandchil- Kiddush. These experiences are the earlidren to have buckets of fun being Jewish. est influences that I remember. When I They’ll show you how on Thursday, had children, I wanted to re-create that Nov. 19, 7:30 p.m., during “Living It special feeling by celebrating Shabbat and and Loving It! Helping Kids and holidays with my own family.” Grandkids Find the Joy in Being Jewish” -- and all the women in the Jewish community are invited to join in the fun! Two of the hosts, Patty Nogg and Sherry Shapiro, have walked the walk, each having raised three children; they are now enjoying the joys of grandparenthood. Their co-hosts are Jaime Nogg (Patty’s daughter-in-law) and Melissa Shapiro (Sherry’s daughter), both young mothers who are Getting ready to host the upcoming Women’s Rosh Hodesh just beginning their journey Group meeting are, Melissa Shapiro holding son Joshua, left, as Jewish parents. The meet- Sherry Shapiro, Patty Nogg holding grandson Jordan, and ing will be held at the home Jaime Nogg, holding son Cory. Sherry Shapiro added that, “I rememof Patty Nogg, 1425 No. 135 St. Social ber when our children were young and time begins at 7 p.m. The four women will share tips and how much they enjoyed going to synaresources for everything Jewish for chil- gogue. Now we are blessed to watch our dren: books, music, games, web sites and not quite two-year-old grandson enjoy more, Patty said. Sharing this information Tot Shabbat services at Beth El, and blessis close to her heart, she said, because, ing the candles when we have Shabbat “To put it simply, I am a Jewish mother with his parents and him. It really doesn’t and bubbe whose hope is that her chil- matter what table we sit at or what we eat. dren and grandchildren will not only It reinforces the belief that children learn observe the holidays, customs and rituals at an early age to enjoy customs.” of Judaism... but will do it joyfully!” Continued on page 11

Page 8

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

November 6, 2009

The role of the press We used a lower case ‘p’ on purpose. It’s not that the board or staff of the Jewish Press think we’re publishing New York Times or Wall Street Journal, but there is a role for the press -- and the Press -- to play, in this, and in every other Jewish community. One of the beauties of the United States Constitution is the section on freedom of the press. Its value cannot be overstated, especially in these times when dictators like Hugo Chavez are shutting down tv and radio stations in Venezuela, or when Iran’s leaders are continuing to arrest those protesting rigged elections. For clarity’s sake, here’s the exact wording of the First Amendment: “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.” The depth of this statement is truly astonishing. It has meant protection of those with whom most civilized people would disagree -like the Ku Klux Klan, Holocaust denier David Irving, or Nazi skinheads. Where else in the world can this happen? Not even in the United Kingdom, on whose laws much of American jurisprudence is based, has granted such farreaching freedoms to its citizens. One only has to note the phrase, “helping police with inquiries” as the oft-used description of suspects in custody -- or the gag orders imposed on British courts while trials are occurring to realize that Americans can discover just about anything. The fact that disagreeable people can

march in the streets of Skokie, IL, host “discussions” in Omaha, or rally in our state capital also means that those in favor of restricting abortion and those opposed can also use the First Amendment to attempt to persuade others of their views. It means that supporters of the War on Terror can write op-eds in newspapers, while those opposed to the powers granted by the Patriot Act can rebut. And that’s why we’re so concerned -- and confused -- by the backbiting by the adminsitration and the media -- about a free press! Though the Jewish Press is just a “little community newspaper,” we are proud to be part of a long-standing tradition of America’s free press. This newspaper, however, is not a private corporation; it’s owned and published by the Jewish Federation of Omaha, and that means certain advantages -- and certain limitations. The advantages are obvious. Unlike for-profit newspapers, which these days, don’t seem to be making a profit, the Jewish Press can turn to its publisher, the Federation, for infusions of cash during downturns. On the other side, the Press has had, in past years, the ability to pay for its remodeling and expansion out of its surplus, as well as items such as computers and printers. The limitations are obvious: we try not to bite the hand that feeds us -- though we’ve come close! The Press has not shied away from tackling some contentious issues -- from the cost of living Jewishly to questioning certain alliances made by institutions within the Jewish community. Those editorial stances have sometimes made readers angry, but it has also made them think.

And like “the big boys” in national journalism, that’s one of our roles. We have a lot of faith in our readers; that’s why we often print op-eds with which we personally do not agree. It’s not up to us to spoon feed a particular party line to readers. We think you’re a pretty intelligent lot -- and in the end, you’ll make up your own mind on hot issues, politics here and in Israel and other topics of interest. We’ve offered this previously, but we sincerely hope you’ll take us up on this: tell us what’s on your mind. Let us know if you’ve read something in these pages with which you disagree. After all, it’s not only a free country, it’s still a free press. At least, we’d like to think so!

FOCUS ON ISSUES

Jewish Press Board Andy Ruback, Vice President; Michael Sigmond, Secretary; Michael Siegel, Treasurer; Howard K. Marcus, Immediate Past-chairman; Daphne Pollak Alperson, Marc Brodkey; Eric Dunning; Jason Epstein; Andie Gordman; Michael Kaufman; Bette Kozlen; Jamie Meyerson; Jim Simon; Dorothy Spizman. The role of the Jewish Federation of Omaha is to involve Jews in meeting Jewish communal needs locally, nationally and in Israel. Agencies of the Federation are: Community Relations, Jewish Community Center, Center for Jewish Education, Jewish Family Service/Jewish Senior Services, and the Jewish Press . Guidelines and highlights of the Jewish Press, including front page stories and announcements, can be found online at: www jewishomaha.org; click on ‘Jewish Press.’ Editorials express the view of the writer and are not necessarily representative of the views of the Jewish Press Board of Directors, the Jewish Federation of Omaha Board of Directors, 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.

On Jerusalem, the U.S. still indulges Palestinian fantasies

presidency alone the right to conduct the nation’s foreign policy. Of course, there is another reason: Some argue that moving the embassy would represent recognition of Israel’s sovereignby CHERYL HALPERN ty over all of Jerusalem, a policy strongly opposed by many nations. Nonetheless, the United States does LIVINGSTON, N.J. (JTA) -Recent Palestinian riots in Jerusalem’s Old maintain a diplomatic presence in Jerusalem -City, combined with Palestinian claims that just not for Israel’s benefit. Located now on Israel is trying to “Judaize” Jerusalem, are part Agron Street, just a few blocks outside the Old of a coordinated effort to deny Israel its long- City walls, the U.S. consular office was estabheld claim to the city as its eternal and undi- lished in the 19th century to serve all U.S. diplomatic needs in pre-1948 Palestine. vided capital. Today it focuses its attention on the Sadly, American foreign policy encourages the Palestinians to continue with their revi- Palestinian Arab community. The office exists sionist fantasies. Why? Because the U.S. offi- as if it is oblivious to Israel’s existence. There is cially treats Jerusalem as the Palestinian Arab barely any mention of the State of Israel on the capital by locating its Palestinian Consulate in U.S. Jerusalem Consulate’s Web site, and the consulate maintains an Jerusalem and its Israeli eerie resistance to recEmbassy elsewhere. Perhaps President Barack ognizing anything The United States estab- Obama, so famous for dismissing affiliated with Israel, lished its embassy in Tel Aviv “childish” disputes rooted in historic Hebrew or Jews. The and has kept it there, even “About Us” section of though Jerusalem has been squabbles, could bring some the Web site defines the capital of Israel since realism to the situation. the consulate as “an 1950. Prior to that, those areas of Jerusalem held by the Israelis after independent U.S. mission that is the official their War of Independence simply were not diplomatic representation of the United States secure enough to serve as Israel’s seat of gov- in Jerusalem, the West Bank and Gaza.” To give a few glaring examples of the conernment. Things have changed. Jerusalem was reuni- sulate’s Palestinian-Arab orientation: The fied in 1967, and the city is at peace. Still, the “2009 Programs and Events” space informs Americans stay in Tel Aviv. How must this that a poetry contest devoted to pro-environappear to the Israelis? Imagine going to some- mental themes is open only to “residents of one’s house and demanding to be served din- Gaza, the West Bank and Jerusalem ages 10-22. ner in the living room rather than the dining Poems may be in English or Arabic.” Hebrew room. That is, in essence, what the United poetry evidently need not be submitted. Black History Month brings American musiStates is doing. Acknowledging this discourtesy, Congress cians to share “blues and jazz with Palestinian directed the State Department in 1995 to audiences.” What about Jews who themselves move the embassy to Jerusalem and recognize are black and who were born in Africa? Never the city as the capital of the State of Israel, mind -- because they are Jewish. This is not merely a matter of symbolism. never to be re-divided. However, since 1995, every president sub- The American Consulate treats the city as ject to this act has suspended action on it, Palestinian, and as the capital of Palestinian asserting that the Constitution grants to the life, even though both assumptions are fantasy.

(Founded in 1920) Bobbi Leibowitz President Carol Katzman Editor Richard Busse Managing Editor Allan Handleman Advertising Manager Lori Kooper-Schwarz Assistant Managing Editor Barbara Kirkpatrick Bookkeeper

In Jerusalem, the only sovereign leaders of any state, or state in waiting, are Israel’s. Israel’s President’s House is in Jerusalem. Israel’s Foreign Ministry is in Jerusalem. Its Parliament, the Knesset, is in Jerusalem. And its heart -- historically, spiritually, politically and culturally -- is Jerusalem. Meanwhile, Palestinian Arabs have leaders based in Ramallah and Gaza City, respectively. Ramallah is the seat of the Palestinian Authority. It is home to Palestinian centers of science, culture and education. When visiting dignitaries -- including then-Sen. Barack Obama in 2008 -- visit Palestinian leaders, they do so in Ramallah. Perhaps President Barack Obama, so famous for dismissing “childish” disputes rooted in historic squabbles, could bring some realism to the situation. He could give a speech pledging to a new approach based in realism and the “mutual interests, mutual respect” theme which guides so much of his foreign policy. He could announce that he is moving the U.S. Consulate for Palestinian Affairs to Ramallah, which is where the Palestinian political leadership works, and for the moment, leave the embassy in Tel Aviv. That, however, still would not be a solution forged in the spirit of mutual respect. To do that, President Obama would have to recognize that the seat of government for Israel is in Jerusalem, and the seat of government for the Palestinians is in Ramallah, and announce that he is placing American diplomats at offices in both those cities and only those cities. Thus, the American Embassy would be moved from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem and serve all residents of Israel, and the consulate serving all Palestinian Arabs and a future Palestinian entity would be shifted to Ramallah. Nothing would be more realistic, and nothing would be more symbolic of a policy of pursuing mutual interests in the spirit of mutual respect. Cheryl Halpern was an appointee of former Presidents George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton and George W. Bush.

Editorial The Jewish Press is an agency of the Jewish Federation of Omaha. Deadline for copy, ads and photos is: Thursday, 9 a.m., 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 it 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. The Jewish Press will not publish letters that appear to be part of an organized campaign, nor letters copied from the Internet. 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 information, call the Editor, 402.334.6450. Postal The Jewish Press (USPS 275620) is published weekly (except for the first week of January and July) on Friday for $35 per calendar year U.S.; $72 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. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68154-2198 or e-mail to: jpress@jewishomaha. org.

American Jewish Press Association Award Winner

Nebraska Press National Newspaper Association Association Award winner 2008

November 6, 2009

Darfur and the Jews

BEHIND THE H EADLINES by SHOSHANA BRYEN

The American Jewish community was way out in front on Darfur-calling it what it was, demanding that the U.S. government respond, working up public outrage, and raising money for relief. And we were good at it -- the African Union provided forces that protected the refugee camps; the United States provided airlift and other logistical necessities as well as sanctions on the Sudanese government; aid organizations helped to feed and clothe the survivors. Finally, in 2008, the United Nations indicted Omar Bashir for genocide, war crimes and murder. Odd, then, to read the reaction of Jewish “community leaders” to the Obama Administration’s decision to offer Sudan “incentives” for future good behavior-coupled with the threat of increased sanctions for future misdeeds-and no penalty for the past. We cite the reporting of JTA: “It’s a great first step forward,” said the president of the American Jewish World Service. “Exactly the right approach,” said the director of the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism, “It sends a very clear message of continued U.S. attention and engagement, and exactly what is expected of them to improve the situation.” The department chair of Tikkun Olam at the Herzl/RMHA Upper School in Denver and founder of an international movement of high school students concerned with Darfur hedged a little. “It’s great in theory ... We’re waiting to see how it’s implemented. We need to see a lot more action.” The director of Jewish World Watch said, “We’ve heard policies, seen written statements, but at the end of the day the key is whether there’s actual change on the ground. We’re seeing a unified clear policy, but we need to be very cautious, and we need to hold the administration’s feet to the fire.” We are talking genocide here -- while it’s nice of them to take a “wait and see” attitude about the future disposition of Darfur and its wretched survivors, is there no one among the “leaders” who believes there is a need for the arrest and trial of Omar Bashir and his henchmen? Has “Never Again” become “Only Until They Stop”? JINSA has always believed the people of Darfur needed rescue by the international community-as we would have wanted the Jews rescued. In 2007, we asked: If it was 1943, would we be content to have Red Cross ensure food package delivery to Auschwitz? (Never mind that oven over there.) Would we demand financial sanctions on Goering or Mengele? That’s the level of proposal President Bush has put forward-and even that has no traction in the U.N. Security Council ... A “war strategy” might, in fact, be more effective and humane than a “peace strategy.” The militias, with government assistance, are waging war against the people of Darfur and warriors-people authorized to use violence-are needed to protect the people and kill, yes kill, the perpetrators. There is no reason to believe anything less will stop the ravaging of an already ravaged people. To the extent that the Jewish community could convince the U.N. that killing the killers is the fastest route to peace, the people of Darfur may yet have hope. To the extent that we wash our cars for Darfur, we are fooling ourselves into believing we are relevant when the issue is genocide. Or post-genocide. Bryen is National Security Director for JINSA, the Jewish Institute for National Security Affairs, in Washington, D.C. Read more at www.jinsa.org.

Senior LIVING

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 9

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR To the Editor: A story to brighten your day: Our daughter, Rachel Fitz, is in Israel preparing to work on social justice projects in India and Jerusalem. Recently, she was in the south of the country at Ein Gedi and Kibbutz Lotan. At Lotan, she met a nice young man in his mid-20s who is living and working there. Rachel learned that though born in the Soviet Union, he and his family immigrated in 1991 to Omaha. He identified himself as Rafi and told Rachel that he graduated from Burke High. Of course, Rachel was excited that he was from Omaha and told him she had visited there many, many times, as her mom is a native Omahan. He inquired as to my maiden name and, when told, asked Rachel if she knew or was related to Max and Betty Falk. Rachel was stunned. She told him that Max and Betty were her beloved late grandparents. Rafi said that he had never met them, but just read the most terrific story about them in the Jewish Press! So, never doubt that your reach (especially now that you are online) is global! And know that the gift of Ozzie Nogg’s story about my parents, Max and Betty Falk, just keeps on giving and giving. Jeri Falk Fitz Ruxton, MD Editor’s note: Rafi is, in fact, Robert Mosenkis, former youth director at Beth El Synagogue and the son of Anna and Igor Mosenkis. He is studying environmental science at Kibbutz Ketura, part of a program run by Ben Gurion University. To the Editor: Thirteen years in the making, and 11 years after the horrific hate crimes against Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Jr, President Obama signed the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act. The HCPA provides limited jurisdiction for federal law enforcement officials to investigate and prosecute certain bias-motivated crimes, but even with new federal jurisdiction, state and local officials will continue to handle the majority of hate crimes prosecutions. The law will give localities new tools to fight bias-motivated crime, including federal training and direct assistance in certain cases. The legislation also facilitates certain federal investigations and prosecutions when local authorities are unwilling or unable to proceed. Hate crimes laws protect everyone. Everyone has a race, religion (or lack of religion), ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or disability, and any one of us could be targeted on the basis of any of those characteristics. Federal involvement in select cases where state and local officials cannot or will not act, and expanded federal partnerships with state and local officials, will result in more effective responses to these crimes. Hate crimes laws, including HCPA, do not punish thought or speech. Rather, they punish criminal acts. The Supreme Court unanimously upheld Wisconsin’s

To the Editor: I have noticed many times over the years an interesting phenomenon. Someone who has earned the love and respect of the Jewish community -- a rabbi, a cantor, a Jewish Home director, a librarian, etc, etc. announces that he/she is leaving. A hue and cry goes up that that person simply cannot be replaced. But in most instances, the replacement comes, moves into the job and then into the hearts of the community and there we are with a winner again. But I’m afraid that this time we cannot be so lucky. The news in last week’s Jewish Press that we are losing Carol Katzman as editor is unspeakably dreadful. Those of us who have been around through many editors have watched the ups and downs of our Press from the Dave Blacker days of the ’30s on. Carol walked into a newspaper which had withered and was, seemingly, on its last legs, buoyed only by the loyalty of our Jewish community and the need for local news. Today we have a vibrant, exciting, meaningful newspaper which is an important part of the life of our vibrant, exciting Jewish community. Carol may be replaced by a good editor -- possibly a top-notch editor. But she will not be replaced by Carol Katzman and that will be a great loss for this community. We can only wish the best for her. Don Nogg

To the Editor: As a freelance writer, I’ve worked with Carol Katzman for the past 13 years, and I’d like to express my profound appreciation for the wonderful job she’s done captaining the Jewish Press. Putting out a weekly newspaper is no cakewalk: this is a job that simply has no end. Put one issue of the paper to bed, and immediately begin working on the next; procrastination is not an option. In addition to meeting editorial and advertising deadlines, an editor deals with an often demanding, critical public; she is reminded every day that it is impossible to please all the people all the time. Over the years, Carol’s professionalism has been a constant; her journalistic know-how has been supplemented by her patience, sense of humor, and above all else, fairness. It has been a joy to work with her. As Carol retires in December, I thank her for keeping the Jewish community in-the-know for the past 13 years, and I wish her all the best as she finally tosses aside those pesky weekly deadlines for some much-deserved relaxation with her family. Jill Belmont

Editor’s note: I’ve received a number of e-mails, calls and letters, and I’m very grateful to all the complimentary and kind words. As my retirement nears, I’ll be publishing my list of thanks as well.

JOE KOPECKY BUILDERS

On Main JEWELRY REPAIR

JEWELRY Repairs • Restoration “One of a Kind Custom Jewelry”

WATCH BATTERIES CLOCK REPAIR (402) 721-1727 423 N. Main Fremont, NE

hate crimes law (which is based on ADL’s model statute) in 1993 because the law clearly did not criminalize hate speech, which is constitutionally protected. Alan Potash, Regional Director Anti-Defamation League Plains Region

Custom Homes Remodeling Kitchens Bathrooms Basements

30 years of experience

402/676-9533 jokopecky@gmail.com

COMING 12.24.09 SPACE RESERVATION 12.14.09 CAMERA READY DEADLINE 12.16.09 Contact your advertising representative to advertise in this very special edition.

ALLAN Handleman Call Allan Handleman at 402.334.6451 or email: ahandleman@jewishomaha.org

Page 10

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

November 6, 2009

Candlelighting Friday, November 6, 4:56 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

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

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

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

Rose Blumkin Jewish Home 323 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 Prayer Group 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.tiferethisraellincoln.org

If you’re looking at this space, so are others! Your ad can go here... to reserve space,

call

Allan Handleman, 402.334.6451

B’NAI ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE

BETH ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE

FRIDAY: Services followed by Oneg, 7:30 p.m. FRIDAY, Nov. 13: Services followed by Oneg, 7:30 p.m. with guest speaker, Joanna Kay speaking on: “How did a nice Jewish girl end up in a job like this?” The community is invited.

Office Hours: Mon.-Thurs., 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Fri., 8:30 a.m-2 p.m. Services conducted by Rabbi Jonathan Gross and Rabbi Yitzchak Mizrahi. FRIDAY: Kabbalat Shabbat, 4:56 p.m. SATURDAY: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; free babysitting, 9:30 a.m.; Children’s Classes, 9:45 a.m. with Torah Parade; Kiddush is sponsored by Sisterhood; “Guard Your Tongue”, “The Great Midrash” and “Advanced Parshah Study for Kids” (ages 10 and up) one hour prior to every Shabbat; Mincha, 4:45 p.m. followed by Seuda Shilisht; Havdalah, 5:56 p.m. SUNDAY: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Bagels & Beit Midrash begins with breakfast, 9:40 a.m.; Sacred Text Messages (for teens) with Rabbi Gross, 10 a.m.; Living in Season with Miriam Gross, 10 a.m.; Ma’ariv, 8:30 p.m. WEEKDAYS: Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Mincha, 5:15 p.m. MONDAY: Mincha & Mishna, 5:15 p.m., Mishna study with the rabbis along with Mincha/ Ma’ariv services. TUESDAY: Scholar’s Club for fourth-sixth graders, 3:45 p.m. at the Blumkin Home; Rabbi Mizrahi’s Weekly Class, 7 p.m. WEDNESDAY: Board of Commissioner’s Meeting, 6:30 p.m. THURSDAY: Women of the Torah class, 9:30 a.m.; Rabbi’s Gross’s weekly class, 7:30 p.m.

BETH EL SYNAGOGUE Services conducted by Rabbi Mordechai Levin and Cantor Beth Schlossberg. FRIDAY: Musical Kabbalat Shabbat service, 6 p.m. SATURDAY: Morning services, 9:30 a.m.; Kiddush is sponsored by the synagogue; Learner’s Service, 10:15-11 a.m., geared to those wishing to learn the basic structure and prayers of the Shabbat service; Mincha/ Ma’ariv, 5 p.m. WEEKDAY SERVICES: Sundays, 9 a.m. & 5:30 p.m.; weekdays, 7 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. SUNDAY: Meet Yourself in the Torah, with Susi Frydman-Levin, and Beginning Hebrew, with Eadie Tsabari, 10 a.m.; Bible Study Discussion Group, 10 a.m.; Jewish Images on the Big Screen, 11 a.m. with Frydman-Levin. JUDAICA SHOP SALE: Sunday, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. (See full story on page 5.) BESTT: On Sunday, no classes for grades 3-5, due to Shabbaton. All other classes are in session. HAZAK SACK-LUNCH AND MOVIE: Sunday, noon-3 p.m. Cost is $5 for members; $6 for non-members. RSVP to Esther Wax at 393.4442. THURSDAY: Rabbi Levin’s Understanding and Living Jewish Values, noon. Cost: $36, members; $45, non-members; Women’s Book Club, 1:15 p.m. will discuss Rashi’s Daughter, Book I. SHABBAT MORNING LIVE: Saturday, Nov. 14, 10:30 a.m. to noon. Led by Holly Weill, for 4-8 year olds and their favorite adult(s). Program includes music, creative movement, games and edible art activities. No charge to attend, but for planning purposes, please RSVP to Margie in the office or at programming@bethel-omaha.org. NEW MINI-COURSE: Exploring the New Wave of Domestic Terrorism, Sundays, 8, 15, 22 and Dec. 6, 10-11 a.m., led by ADL director Alan Potash. Call Margie in the office to register. Classes open to all adults in the Jewish community.

CHABAD HOUSE Services conducted by Rabbi Mendel Katzman. Office hours: Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-4:30 p.m. FRIDAY: Service, 7 a.m. SATURDAY: Maamar class, 9 a.m.; Service, 9:30 a.m.; Youth Minyan, 10:30 a.m. MiniMensch title will be awarded; Kiddush lunch follows; join Rabbi Katzman from 12-1 p.m. SUNDAY: Service, 8:30 a.m.; Mishpacha Mornings Remix, 10:15 a.m. Parsha Club for the Elderly, 2:30 p.m. at the Blumkin Home. (See full article on page 11.) WEEKDAYS: Services, 7 a.m. MONDAY: Soul Quest: The Journey through Life, Death and Beyond, 7 p.m. To enroll, visit www.myJLI.com/SoulQuest or call the office. Contact Shevi@ ochabad.com with any questions. TUESDAY: W.O.W. Parsha, Prophets, and Prayer, 9:15 a.m. THURSDAY: The Parsha Club for Level I beginners, ages 5-6; and

Level II intermediates and experts, ages 7-9, 3:50 p.m. Please contact Shevi@ochabad.com. Friday, Nov. 13, 6 p.m.: Annual Women’s Shabbat Dinner at Katzman home. RSVP to shanikatzman@gmail.com. All events and programs are open to the entire community.

CONGREGATION B’NAI JESHURUN Services conducted by Rabbi Ilan Emanuel. FRIDAY: Snacks, 6 p.m.; Early Family Shabbat Service, 6:15 p.m. led by Rabbi Emanuel. SATURDAY: Shabbat Morning Service, 9:30 a.m.; Torah Study, 10:30 a.m. all led by Rabbi Emanuel; LJCS Havdalah Family service, 6 p.m. with oneg following prepared by the sixth and seventh grade class. SUNDAY: LJCS Grades 3-7, 9:30 a.m.-noon at Tifereth Israel; Gan Simcha-Grade 2, 9:45 a.m.-12:15 p.m. at South Street Temple; Hallah High, 10 a.m.noon at Tifereth Israel. WEDNESDAY: Hebrew classes (grades 3-7), 4-6 p.m. at TI. THURSDAY: Board of Trustees, 7 p.m. ADULT EDUCATION SUNDAYS, 7 p.m. Intro to Judaism, led by Rabbi Emanuel. For information or to sign up, call the office. A $5 dollar donation per session is requested for nonmembers. TUESDAY, Nov. 10, 7:30 p.m. Jewish Book Month, discussions of Bernard Malamud’s short stories led by Gerry Shapiro.

the Surface, 9:15 a.m.; Shabbat Morning Service, 10:30 a.m. SUNDAY: Religious School (K6), 10 a.m.; Children’s Choir Rehearsal, noon, lunch provided for choir and younger siblings; Bible Quiz Practice, 12:15 p.m.; OTYG Board, 12:30 p.m. TUESDAY: Will Your Grandchildren Be Jewish? with Rabbi Kerry Olitzsky, 7 p.m. Open to the entire community. WEDNESDAY: Grades 3-6, 46 p.m.; OTYG Lounge Night, 5 p.m.; All School Dinner, 6 p.m.; Family School, 6-8 p.m.; The Scary Guy talks to Grades 7-12, 6-8 p.m.; Adult Beginning Hebrew, 6:30 p.m. with Mor Sheinbein; Nurturing the Nurturer: Stress Management, Judaism and the Arts, 6:30 p.m. Cost is $18 for members; $25 for non-members; no charge for Family School parents. THURSDAY: “Adult Study with the Clergy,” 10 a.m. WRJ Game Night, 7 p.m. at Ironwood Country Club. Need a ride? Contact Wendy Goldberg at Temple or wgoldberg@templeisraelomaha.com, by Nov. 10 to make arrangements. Grandparents Circle, Tuesdays, Nov. 17-Dec.15, 7 p.m. Rabbi Linder and Program Director Wendy Goldberg will facilitate the course. Contact Goldberg at Temple or wgoldberg@templeisraelomaha.com, to register.

NEIGHBORHOOD PRAYER GROUP FRIDAY: Minyan, 4:56 p.m. SATURDAY: Services, 9 a.m.

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

ROSE BLUMKIN JEWISH HOME SATURDAY: Services, 9 a.m. led by Andy Greenberg with Naomi and Aaron Zipursky. TUESDAY: Havdalah and Trivia with BBYO Teens, 7 p.m. SUNDAY: Parsha Club, 2:30 a.m.

TEMPLE ISRAEL FRIDAY: Shabbat Service, 6 p.m. led by Cantor Shermet. SATURDAY: Yoga at Temple, A Shabbat Alternative, 9 a.m. Six week session: $30 for members, $50 for non-members. E-mail wgoldberg@templeisraelomaha.c om, to participate; Sparks Beneath

Services conducted by Nancy Coren, Lay Leader. Office hours: Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m.-1:30 p.m. and Friday, 8-11 a.m. FRIDAY: Services, 6:30 p.m. SATURDAY:Morning service, 9 a.m. followed by Kiddush lunch and Talmud study. SUNDAY: LJCS Grades 3-7, 9:30 a.m.-noon at Tifereth Israel; Gan Simcha-Grade 2, 9:45 a.m.-12:15 p.m. at South Street Temple; Hallah High, 10 a.m.noon at Tifereth Israel. TUESDAY, Nov. 10, 7:30 p.m. Jewish Book Month, discussions of Bernard Malamud’s short stories led by Gerry Shapiro. WEDNESDAY: Men’s Lunch Group will meet at the Knolls, 12:30 p.m. Contact Yale Gotsdiner at 423.7066; Hebrew classes (grades 3-7), 4-6 p.m.

B’NAI MITZVAH Andrew David Klein, son of Janet and Harry Klein, will become a Bar Mitzvah on Saturday, Nov. 14, at Beth El. Andrew is a seventhgrade honor student at Beveridge Middle School and plays select baseball and select

basketball. His interests include listening to music, hanging out with friends, using the computer, and cheering his favorite sports teams. He has three sisters, Sara, Laura, and Emma, and two brothers, Daniel and Jacob. Grandparents are Phyllis Schwartz and the late Maurice Schwartz, and Alice Klein and the late Bernard Klein.

Justin Ryan Norton, son of Susie and Mike Norton, will become a Bar Mitzvah on S a t u r d a y, Nov. 14, at Temple Israel. Justin is an eighth-grade honor student at Westside Middle School and received honors from Nebraska Scholars

Academy at Hastings College. His interests include reading, geography, traveling and movies. For his mitzvah project, Justin has enjoyed welcoming Shabbat with residents of the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. He has three younger brothers, Seth, Aaron and Leo. Grandparents are Silvia and Larry Roffman, and Patricia and Phillip Flaherty of Weymouth, MA.

November 6, 2009

DEATHS EUGENE KAPLAN Eugene (Gene) Kaplan died Oct. 22 at the age of 70. Services were held Oct. 23 at Beth El Cemetery. After 57 years with Gordmans, Inc. he retired as Corporate Director of Construction & Property Management. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Ronna Halperin Kaplan; sons and daughters-in-law, Corey and Stacy Kaplan and Scott and Pam Kaplan; grandchildren, Yanira and Jonah, all of Chicago; brother and sister-in-law, Steve and Lynnda Kaplan, Cleveland; brother, Marc Kaplan, Taos, NM; sister-in-law, Diane Halperin, Manhattan Beach, CA; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Howie and Carol Halperin; mother-in-law, Ida Halperin. Memorials to the Michael Rolfe Pancreatic Cancer Foundation 500 No. Michigan Ave., Suite 200, Chicago, IL 60611. MYRA SIVIN Myra Sivin died Oct 15 at the age of 91. Services were held in Chicago. She is survived by her husband, Leo Sivin; daughter and son-in-law, Margaret and James Bresel; grandchildren, Michael and Kallen, Amy and David; and two great-grandchildren. Memorials to Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. ANITA KULAKOFSKY Word has been received that Anita Kulakofsky died in Chicago. A full obituary will be published next week.

UNVEILING Of the gravestone of the late Gerry Schuchman on Sunday, Nov. 15, 10:30 a.m., at Mt. Carmel Cemetery, Lincoln.

HOLIDAY CLOSING & EARLY DEADLINE NOTICE The Jewish Press will be closed Thursday, Nov. 26 for Thanksgiving. The deadline for all ads, articles and photos is Tuesday, Nov. 24, 9 a.m., for the Dec. 4 issue. Questions? Call 402.334.6448.

Making God do your bidding

SPARKS FROM THE WORD by RABBI MYER S. KRIPKE Parashat Vayeira Our Sidra tells us that God appeared to Abraham in the form of two men or perhaps three. And Abraham was told about the approaching destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, the evil cities. When we think of “sin city” today, we think with a grin of a place like Las Vegas. But our Holy Text had something else quite different in mind. We were later to understand what it was -- homosexual activity. No -- not murder, not violence, not mayhem -- but homosexuality. Today, it is taken for granted that there are some people whose basic emotional drives turn them to be gays or lesbians. But the ancient world, including the writer or writers of these chapters of Humash, had not yet studied biology or psychology. They knew a vice when they saw it and refused to tolerate it. A vice is a vice, nothing more but nothing less. And the wicked cities and the evil creatures who lived there were to be destroyed. But let us go back to the first sentence of the Sidra, which tells us that the Lord appeared to Abraham in the person of two men. How does the godhead appear to us now in our contemporary world? Some of us see the Good Lord only in the traditional context, such as synagogue, church or mosque. But some see God in everyday occurrences: when you see the hungry, feed them; when you see those without clothing, clothe them; when you see those without shelter, house them, even in your own home. If this is not God, it is at least godliness. It is what the Holy One requires of us and is delighted when it is done. So do not wait for God to appear to you. It is your duty and privilege to bring His appearance to you: by godly acts. It is in what we likely call mitzvot that we can summon His appearance. So we are bidden: Do this, do that, do this ... !

Friday night series returns to Council Bluffs synagogue

Chabad’s Parsha Club expands to Blumkin Home

by SANDRA KURLAND B’nai Israel, an independent synagogue in Council Bluffs, IA, has announced the 2009-10 schedule of its Second-Friday-of-the-Month speaker series. All services are held at the synagogue, 601 Mynster St. at 7:30 p.m., and are followed by an Oneg Shabbat. The featured speakers include: • Joanna Kay, crime scene investigator, who will answer the question, “How did a nice Jewish girl end up in a job like this?” on Nov. 13; • Sportswriter Mitch Sherman, who is a reporter for the Omaha World-Herald, will discuss, “Covering Nebraska Football and Sports” on Dec. 11; • Founder and executive director of Film Streams, Rachel Jacobson will talk about “Omaha’s non-profit cinema,” on Jan. 8, 2010; • Karen Gustafson, MSNCC, LMNP and director of Jewish Family Service, asks, “Does it happen to us, too?” on Feb. 12. • Former Omaha City Councilman Mark Kraft will talk about “Starving the beast” on March 12; and • closing out the series will be RN Carole Lainoff, who will address, “Here’s to your health!” on April 9. Services are open to the entire Jewish community.

by CAROL HUTCHISON for Chabad of Nebraska Sunday, Nov. 8, 2:30 p.m., will mark the start of a revolutionary way to enhance the assisted-living lifestyle. Successful with children, the Parsha Club, which was established at Chabad of Nebraska in 2006, has branched out to offer energizing parasha classes for the elderly at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. Lois Wine, activity director of the Home, explains, “Our residents always look forward to educational and interactive programs. This group promises to be engaging and entertaining.” The club will meet in the afternoon of the second Sunday of every month to study the Parsha, to take pride in Judaism and to learn lessons of how to enhance and enrich their lives Jewishly. The hands on program will cater to all levels of knowledge of the parsha and skill levels. “I can’t wait to offer this program to our Blumkin Home friends,” said Mushka Katzman one of the facilitators of this program who is a frequent visitor at the Home. “The residents have had such full lives which will serve as a colorful backdrop upon which to project the insights of the parsha.” “The study of Parsha throughout the millennia has been the spiritual compass through which Jews have viewed the events of their world,” explained Shani Katzman, education director at Chabad House. “It is more than any other topic. Chassidic masters posited that ‘one must live with the times, the trends, referring to the moral trends set by the parsha.”

Kids, fun and Judaism Continued from page 7 Melissa gave kudos to her parents and grandparents for enriching her life with Jewish traditions; she is determined to pass those traditions to the next generation. “It is very important to my husband and me that we instill Jewish values in our children, which is why we take our son to Tot Shabbat, sing the Sh’ma every night before he goes to sleep and create traditions for the different holidays.” Jaime Nogg added “I hope everyone will leave feeling good about what they already do, and are inspired to try new ideas.” To attend, please RSVP to Patty at 493.3479 or noggster2@aol.com; Jaime at 991.6753 or jgoldf5375@aol.com; Sherry at 330.9825 or sheshap@aol.com; or Melissa at 614.6571 or smallshap@aol.com.

Petite Tablet with More Calcium & Vitamin D3

HIDE A:< 8G6BEH 7:;DG: I=:N HIDE NDJ#

®

For those with milk allergies

Teach your kids it’s easier to never start.

Page 11

BLUE RIBBON

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

It’s up to you to provide the information they need to say no to drugs.

Over 25 Years Experience

1-800-648-4444

Steve Snail 558-8617

Pulverente MONUMENT CO.

60 Years Experience With Jewish Lettering and Memorials

1439 So. 13th 341-2452

Frank L. Ciciulla, Jr.

COMPLETE RESTAURANT & LOUNGE BUSINESS LIQUIDATION ABSOLUTE AUCTION SUN, NOV. 15, 2009 12:NOON DODGE, NE: 403 2nd St. (Auction on Premises) REAL ESTATE: 2,500 SF Comm. Bldg on Main Street used as Bar/Restaurant. Approx. 125 Cap, Full Bsmnt, Newer Roof & More! Great Corner Location on Main Street! Fixtures & Equip, Bar Items, Signs, Mugs & UN-L Stuff,Tables & Chairs, Bar Stools, Appliances & Electronics, Kitchenware, Misc. Items & Much More! SCHEDULE: Noon – Small Items; 12:30 – Real Estate; 1:00 – Equip & Fixtures. NOTE: Make Plans to Attend. All Sells Absolute to the Highest Bidder – Start your own Business at YOUR Price! For More Info, Terms, Brochure or Tour of the Facility, Contact the Auction Company or visit web site at www.nitzauctions.com.

FORMER ASSETS OF DODGE CITY RESTAURANT & LOUNGE 230 Ridgeland Rd. • Fremont • 800-301-8805 www.nitzauctions.com

Did you know . . our company is seeking you?

Business Analyst / IT Site Leader BD, a leading global medical technology company with operations in over 50 countries, is among the world's leading suppliers of medical devices. Our Columbus, NE facilities have openings in their IT Departments. Requirements desired: 5 years of IT experience in software development and analytical system design. For detailed job descriptions or to apply on-line, please visit our website at: www.bd.com/us/careers. BD offers a very competitive compensation; and benefits package; which includes a Company Match 401(k), Employer Sponsored Pension Plan and Bonus Opportunities available on first day of employment. Search by Job Number: SYS00020 - Business Analyst • PRO100PG - IT Site Leader EOE

SAVINGS YOU CAN’T PASS UP

Buy 2 ads & receive the 3rd ad FREE*! Advertise in over 175 Nebraska newspapers for only $210/week....

NEBRASKA CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING NETWORK Contact your local newspaper or call 800-369-2850 www.nebpress.com *All Customers Qualify. Must be consecutive weeks with no copy changes. Price per week is $210 for 1st 25 words, $7 each additional word. All ads must be prepaid.

Statewide Classified ADVERTISE STATEWIDE for $210/25 word classified ad. Over 175 newspapers with circulation of more than 400,000. Contact the Jewish Press at 334-6448 or call 1-800369-2850. ADOPTION: LOVING parents and their 9-year-old adopted daughter would love a sibling. Stay at home mom, professional dad. Expenses paid. Please call Becky/ Mike 800472-1835. SELL YOUR classic car, truck or motorcycle online. Call this newspaper or call 800-3692850 to place your ad on the national www.midwestclassiccars.com web site for only $25.00. Your ad runs until your vehicle is sold! 6TH ANNUAL Flea Market Antique Show, February 27-28, 2010. Lancaster Event Center, Lincoln. Midwest's largest show. Booth info, 402-525-6234. Early vendor booth registration discounts! BANKRUPTCY: FREE initial consultation. Fast relief from creditors. Low rates. Statewide filing. No office appointment necessary. Call Steffens Law Office, 308-8728327. www.steffenslaw.com. We are a debt relief agency, which helps people file bankruptcy under the bankruptcy code. SLEEP INN, Lincoln, NE, one mile from Airport. Complimentary continental breakfast. Make reservations for games, holidays, weddings, meetings. Low rates guaranteed. 888844-7533, www.sleepinnlincolnne.com. DO YOU live in rural Nebraska and need a small business loan under $35,000? REAP can help! Call 402-656-3091 or visit www.cfra.org/reap. AG TRACTOR Supply, used rebuilt or new parts, agtractorsupply.com, discounted at 50% and more. Call 800-944-2898. 9301 Breagan Road, Lincoln, NE 68526, 402-4218822. FREE SAMPLES. Licorice, Chocolate, Gifts. Licorice Club, handcrafted candy dishes. Gift wrap. Nationwide delivery. www.LicoriceInternational.com, 1-800-LICORICE (5426742). Shop in Lincoln's Haymarket. Order for the holidays. WALK-IN BATHTUBS $2,995, hot tubs $995 to $4,995, saunas $1,995 to $2,795. Call 1-800-869-0406 for price list and pictures. Town Center Showcase, Lincoln, NE, goodlifespa.com. 4 BEDROOM Doublewide. Owner financing. Reasonable down. Will move. Land available. 785-862-0321. **************** We own the bank! Doublewides/modulars/land /construction/easy financing. Call 800-375-3115. GREAT HOME in Chappell, NE, with huge steel building. Lots of trees make you feel you are in the country. 3,600 sq. ft., 4 bedrooms, 3 baths. $349,000. Call Mike Lashley, Broker, Lashley Land and Recreational Brokers, Inc., 308-532-9300, www.lashleyland.com.

8VaXZi ^h YZh^\cZY id ]Zae hide adl XVaX^jb aZ\ XgVbeh# ?jhi Vh` ndjg e]VgbVX^hi#

Helps fight leg cramps

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Fights osteoporosis CAL-09902 Rev 0709 Copyright © 2009 Mission Pharmacal Company. All rights reserved.

SALES PROFESSIONALS are needed at a prominent John Deere dealer with locations across Nebraska. Ag Industry experience required. College graduates and sales experience is desired. Career growth, aggressive compensation and benefits provided. E-mail to recruiting@plainspower.com.

Page 12

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

November 6, 2009

NFTY Conclave kicks off with Dan Nichols

for students who have learning differences, as artist-inby CLAUDIA SHERMAN Temple Israel Communications Coordinator residence at all 12 Union for Reform Judaism camps, perWhen 100 NFTY (North American Federation of formed at NFTY National Conventions, received NFTY’s Temple Youth) teens and their advisors from Illinois; President’s Award, and performed at Masada during Kansas City, Missouri; and Colorado, converge on Israel’s 50th anniversary celebration. “We Want Jew,” the theme of the fall conclave, will be Omaha at Temple Israel the weekend of Nov. 13-15 for Fall Conclave, they’ll be looking forward to the music of introduced at mixers Friday afternoon, and emphasizes Dan Nichols and Eighteen, his Jewish rock band. Nichols Jewish responsibilities to the world, both the land and the inhabitants. “OTYG (Omaha is the lead guitarist and vocalTemple Youth Group) wantist for the band which will be ed a strong social action part of Shabbat services on component in both the proFriday, Nov. 13, 6 p.m. The gramming and in our comentire community is welcome to attend. munity service aspect as well Described as “one of the as our social activities,” most popular and influential explained Amy Katz, OTYG Jewish musicians in North advisor. “We have a lot of America,” Nichols performs great things planned and feel more than 200 events a year. it will be a valuable conclave His music has become a part that meets the goals of of the Reform Jewish movefriendship and community ment with synagogue youth while also providing educaand clergy alike incorporattion and opportunity in our ing it into their curriculum Jewish responsibilities.” and worship services. His last Dan Nichols and his Jewish rock band will be one of the high- Other conclave highlights two albums have garnered lights at next weekend’s NFTY Fall Conclave at Temple Israel. include a newcomers meeting critical acclaim and a legion of growing fans. Songs like with David Lizzo, the new NFTY Missouri Valley “L’takein (The Na Na Song),” “B’tzelem Elohim,” Regional advisor; “The Story of Stuff,” by Hannah “Kehilah Kedoshah,” and “My Heart Is in the East,” are Grossman, OTYG program vice president; the Dan popular songs in Reform Judaism today. Eighteen’s Nichols Concert; “Introduction to Lobbying” by Jordan newest album, “The Roots,” launched in 2008 to rave Jensen, OTYG social action vice president; a social action reviews. hands-on project at Together Inc. which includes sorting Originally from Indianapolis, Nichols earned a clothes and preparing food for shelters. “A Night in Bachelor of Music in 1992 from the University of North Israel” is scheduled for Saturday night followed by havCarolina at Chapel Hill. His involvement in Jewish music dalah. The Pancake Man will make breakfast on Sunday began when he served as head song leader at a Jewish morning while the conclave participants enjoy a Shuk and summer camp. He has remained engaged in the Jewish Slide show before the traditional farewell Friendship musical world through his work as a cantorial soloist at Circle. Grace Hack and Emily Katz are conclave co-chairs. congregations in Raleigh, NC, and Nashville, TN. In “A year ago, OTYG was approached to host fall con1995, he formed the rock band Eighteen which released clave, and they were enthusiastic and wanted to do it,” its first CD, “Life,” in 1996 and continues to produce recalled Katz. “They’ve learned that it’s a lot of hard more. work, but they’ve stepped up to the plate to an extremeNichols has also served as a music specialist at a school ly challenging task,” noted the proud OTYG advisor.

Maccabi’s got the hottest tickets in town

by DIANE MALASHOCK JCC Maccabi Games Program Director One of the hottest athletic events is the Omaha JCC Maccabi Games Aug. 1-6, 2010. Nearly 1,000 Jewish athletes ages 12-16, from cities across the United States and Israel will gather in Omaha for a week of Olympic style events, competition, social/educational programs and community service projects. Currently 37 Omaha teens have their tickets to participate: Sophie Cemaj, Alec Epstein, John Gallagher, Jack and Laura Gilinsky, Daniel and Grant Glazer, David and Emily Glazer, Lauren Kirshenbaum, Andrew and Jacob Klein, Sam Kohll, Jacob Lehr, Ben and Lee Lohman, Lilly Phillips, Ethan Potash, Ari Rauhauser, Brigette Rech, Brett and Sydney Robinson, Caroline and Oliver Rockman, Gavin and Mallory Rogers, Justin Schrager, Brooke and Chad Shulewitz, Monica and Tyler Siegel, Talia Simon, Josh Sullivan, Lindsey Thomas, Katelin and Rachel Zetzman, and Zane Zimmerman. In addition, Omaha’s Partnerhip with Israel region in the Western Galilee is also sending athletes. One of the hottest basketball games of the season Creighton vs. Nebraska will be played in Omaha at the Qwest Center on Dec. 6. All athletes registered for the 2010 JCC Maccabi Games by Nov. 18, are eligible to attend the game free! And they will also be eligible to win one of three prizes: a free 2010 JCC Family Membership, an Apple iPhone, or a Flip Ultra Video Camcorder. The drawing will be Dec. 6. To join Team Omaha, be eligible for a ticket to the game and a chance to win prizes, contact me at 590.2143. If you are already registered, just RSVP for tickets.