^Bmr^Uff^rs-j
7W^^.-'- ^Jrfc=T-'at '^V<
s^sicr •^.'varosTs
ilewlsh Pres
A CAR-RT SORI ^Ne Hi-it. Society 'l500 R SI I LINCOLN
N L.
* C R 11
b b b 0 8 " 1 fa b 1
Serving Nebraska and Iowa Since 1920
Vol. LXm No. 19 Omaha
; S Shvat, 57SB, January 6,1»M
UJA young leaders to meet in K.C. By Barbara Chandler, F'ederation public relations director "Facing the 2l8t Century: Challenge, Choice, Change" is the theme of the UJA Midwest Young Leadership Conference to be held the weekend of March 31 at the Ritz-Carkon Hotel in Kansas City. The conference for adults ages 25 to 40 is being organized by the UJA Young Leadership Cabinet. Program highlights include a festive Shabbat dinner, time for socializing, and breakout sessions with top speakers from the United States and Israel about important current issues. Rabbi Irwin Kula, who was in Omaha last year to open the first CLAL session, will be the Scholar-inResidence. Rabbi Kula is in his 30's, married with two young children, wears jeans and high-tops, gets occasional haircuts and is a dynamic, provocative speaker. Omahan Joel Alperson, who has just been appointed as campaign and membership chairman of the Young Leadership cabinet remarked, "As many Omahans who have attended the biannual Young Leadership Conference in Washington D.C., know, it is exciting to be part of a large conference with thousands of Jewish people, but one of the things that makes this Midwest Conference so exciting is its intimacy. Although we expect about 200 people to attend, there will be many opportunities to really get to know people and exchange ideas. 'This is a marvelous opportunity to meet people from other midwest cities who are extremely involved in their communities — they hold leadership positions, travel to Israel, make financial cominitments and have a passion to share that is very exciting." Registration for the conference is $199 and includes all meals. Conference hotel rates are available. The registration deadline is March 1. Anyone interested in participating should contact Jan Perelman, Young Leadership director, at the Jewish Federation, 334-8200.
NJHS plans two trips The Nebraska Jewish Historical Society is now accepting reservations for trips highlighting the Jewish views of Washington, D.C., and New York City. Chairmen are Margo Riekes and Barb Platt. The visit to Washington, D.C., the second annual tour sponsored by the N.J.H.S., will be Wednesday through Sunday, March 29 to April 2. It will again feature a visit to the U.S. Holocaust Museum. The itinerary includes the Israeli Embassy, the Hutznick Museum, national memorials, the U.S. Capitol, the White House, Kennedy Center ond the Smithsonian. According to Ms. Riekes, "The cost of this trip will be $889 per pei-son, double occupancy, and $1,099 per person, single occupancy. These prices include tiotel, round-trip airfare, breakfast, two dinners and more." Tours to Williamsburg or Mt. Vernon may be arranged at an additional fee. ReMrvations with a non-refundnbln deposit of $200 per person will hold a apnce. The deadline for reservations to Washington is Feb. 15. In June, the NJ.H.S. will sponsor its first tour of "Jewish Now York." It is scheduled for June 25 to 28, Sunday through Wednesday. Some highlights of tJiis trip will be Ellis Island, the Ixiwpr Kast Side, ths Jewish Museum, the Spanish-Portuguese Synsgogue, Brighton Beach, Brooklyn, and the Broadway musical, 'Sunsat Boulevardt* All group nDtals on this trip will be kosher. For information, pleaos contact the N.J.H.S. (Mt* at 334-8300 axt. 2X7; Ms. Riekes at 333-8498; K4i.Platt at 333-6646; or Dtb Covert, Travel Faire, M7-6367.
Micah Tuttle shows Rabbi Ruth Ehrenstein the mural which children of the religious school made to decorate the Synagogue for B'nai Israel's Tu B* Shvat seder to be held on Friday evening, Jan. 13. See story on page 5
The changing orthodox world By Debra Nussbaum Cohen NEW YORK (JTA) — Frum. Black-hat. Modern. Haredi. Observant. Right-wing. Centrist. UltraOrthodox. Torah-true. Religious. In a world where the choice between a black velvet yarmulke or a white knitted kipah is freighted with political meaning, the names differentiating sub-cultures of Orthodox Jews are loaded with symbolism. The semiotics of being Orthodox have never been more complex. No representative of an Orthodox group likes what they are called in the press. "I am just Orthodox," everyone says. There are times, however, when distinctions have to be made. Finding terms that are free of judgments about a group's religiosity, but sufficiently descriptive to be widely understood, and, at the same time, acceptable to the community being described, is a nearly impossible task. The term "ultra-Orthodox," for example, does not sit well with Agudath Israel of America these days. " 'Ultra' means 'too much,' and sends a message that we don't like, because we're not talking anymore about a far-right movement," said Rabbi Moshe Sherer, president of the organization. "This is a miyor stream in Jewish life." "Haredi" is a term most people seem comfortable with in describing the Agudah constituency. It is a Hebrew word meaning "trembling," as in "trembling in awe of the Almighty."
Sherer does not mind the term "fervently Orthodox," which is used by Jewish Telegraphic Agency, and also describes his movement as "uncompromising." But those terms seem to indicate that everyone else is not fervent, or does compromise — ideas that do not sit well with the Centrist Orthodox. The term "Modern Orthodox" has been used for decades. In the past 10 years, however, the term "Centrist" has begun to replace it, though not everyone is happy about it or even sure what it means. As Orthodox Judaism's most conservative elements have grown in influence, they have succeeded to some extent in undermining the legitimacy of the Modern Orthodox philosophy. That philosophy has long promoted the idea of living as an observant Jew in the larger culture, rather than encouraging segregation from it. But now, some Modern Orthodox Jews have grown uneasy with the term "modem," feeling that it is too, well, modern. And Orthodox Jews of every stripe are growing increasingly suspicious of anything smacking of modernity. Yeshiva University's president, Norman Lamm, says that ho introduced the term "centrist" to Orthodoxy. "I meant it not as a compromise between the Reform and the haredim, as some people think, but in the way that Maimonides speaks of the middle way," he said.
Activists prepare for 'new Washington' By Matthew Dorf WASHINGTON (JTA) — Three months ago, Jewish lobbyists across Washington watched with trepidation as members of the House and Senate cast votes on a procedural motion that ultimately sounded the death knell for school prayer in the last Congress. \ The phone lineslit up in Jewish organizations as jubilant leaders celebrated a year-long quest for victory that only months before seemed a nearimpossible task. Some in the Senate visitor's gallery pumped their fists in celebration, ending what has been widely described as one of the toughest battles ever fought by the Jewish community on the domestic front. That was then. Now that battle, during which 31 senators changed their votes after a concerted lobbying blitz, pales in comparison to what lies ahead for the Jewish community as the nt^w Republican-controlled Congress gears up for action, many activists say. Armed with two months of poit-election plans, strategies and blueprints for apprnnching the 104th Congress and its agenda, mnny Jpwish orgnnicoUons are preparing to flght for mnny of the core issues that bind the Jewish community.
I
In addition to the expected battle on school prayer, Jewish organizations are gearing up for other struggles in the early days of this new Congress. Lawmakers, new and old, only begin their work Wednesday (Jan.4), but Republican leaders have vowed to hold marathon sessions in order to deliver meuor legislation in the first lOOdays. Other issues high on both the Republican agenda and the Jewish angst list include a balanced budget amendment, n repeal of the ban on assault weapons and plans to gut welfare assistimre. Welfare reform will most likely emerge n» one of the most arduous tests for tht Jewish community this year, activists say. A move begun last year by the Clinton ndminia*! tration that will most likely be expnnd(>d by tliej new Kepubiican miuority would limit iiid to welfare] recipients. It would also fund reforniH Kurh as , training programs by ending aid to legal immi« grants. To some extent, Jewish ooncem over thaM iwui stems from nnxiety over wliiil impart thtM ^Ulj will have on Jewish refugees from the Soviet Union and elsewhere who turn to when they are unable to find employment.
Fighting for core issues
I January 6,1994
Jewish Press
Page 2
READERS...
Sparks from The Word
Please tell our advertisers you saw their ads in the Jewish Press
By Rabbi Myer S. Kripke
LSVr
cMvr MCAT SAT KAPLAN lU I.i:s
Expert Teachers Permanent Center* Total Training €!«•••• Starling in Jan«iary LSAT:Jan. 11 GRE: Jan. 28 GMAT: Jan. 21 MCAT:
JMI.
29
SAT: Jan. 29 CAU NOWi 345-359S
Our New Game Oepartmeht Features Bcunswick Billiard Tables, Foosball Tables and Air Hockey
superior
•pools, sp«ii«te' Come See Us At Our Store 4610 S. 132nd St. • Omatia • 333-9033 (N.W. Comer a 132nd «L)
245 W. Broadway » Council Bluffs»323-5980
t ^^Sic
HERE'S WHAT WE DO:
I!
it Vacuum Clean Burners
* Adjust Fan + Umil Control
* Clenn Heat Chamber
'* Adjust Burr>er EtficierKjy
* Clean Draft Otverler
* Check Furnace Rlter
* OH Bknver * Motor
* Muct), Much, Mon
* Turn On HumidHier
* SENIOR CmZENS 134.90
* Adjust Bert Tension
* Fro* 2nd Opinion
FLOYD'S FURNACE & AIR Licensed Bonded Order 24 hrs. dally
556-9706 CLIP & SAVE
CALENDAR OF EVENTS FRIDAY. JANUARY 6 VISIONS Steering Committee 9:30 a.m. SUNDAY, JANUARY 8 AMIT meeting, 5:30 p.m., Betti Israel MONDAY, JANUARY 9 YES. 10 a.m. TUESDAY, JANUARY 10 Oldtimers, 11:00 a.m. JOG Family Dinner, 5:30 p.m. CDC Family Game Nile, 7:00 p.m. WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 11 Breadbreakers, Noon, Regency West Best Western Federation Executive Committee, Noon THURSDAY, JANUARY 12 Walk-in Drop-in, 10:00 a.m. C L
8 A V E
'Al evarit h«ld at llw XC uriaw (Mhvwita ndcaled 7tmJ»wlihPrmiisnalf»$pon$l>ktoriht »cancYOllh«tb<ivtvtntt To lu«p ealMidar tccuralt or lor quaatfont on acUvlliai, cdl Mariana Hart at 1344300. Ext 263
CENTRAL PARK PHARMACY #5 307 NORTH 114lh St. PHONE 333-5100 -^ CUPS SAVE
Parashat Bo The Tenacity of Cultural Loyalties It may tielp to understand the belligerenoe of various combatants in the many — alas! — conflicts in our world, if we recognize how an almost inarticulate loyalty to a cultural heritage sparks the willingness to take up arms. I do not say that this excuses this belligerence. All the cultures—and religions^n question suggest that one must have toleremce and understanding for other, different cultures and religions. But conflicts and wars begin when people fear that it is Aheir culture or reUgion that is under physical or cultural attack and take up arms to defend it. How quickly principle falls before fear! It is true, however, that it was not always so. Classic Christianity believed that it had a holy task of converting the world to the "one b'ue faith." The Christian world is only slowly freeing itself from this error, and some fundamentalist Christians have not yet let go of this flawed belief. This was true also in the Muslim world, which expected all the world to acknowledge that there was no God but Allah and the one great prophet was Mohammed. Our world suffers on many fronts, and Israel above all, because of the large percentage of Muslims who still hold to the benighted belief that all the world must be Muslim. Could Jews ever fall for this error? Some of the medieval commentators on Torah read a surprising implication into a word describing the ninth plague, about which we read in our Sidrah. According to the text, the Egyptians had darkness all over the land for three days, "but all the Israelites enjoyed light in their dwellings." The Midrash comments that in "their" dwellings means that even if an Israelite entered an Egyptian home, he had light even there, in their Egyptian dwellings! Deutro-Isaiah (49:6) declared that God looked upon Israel as "a light of nations, that My salvation may reach the ends of the earth." In real ways it was true. In the Middle Ages, Jewish teachers who suffered personally under savage Christian and Muslim persecution recognized nonetheless that these two religions that aspired to be universal had nevertheless advanced the cause of honest faith in the world by adopting Jewish monotheism and Jewish ethics. Thus, unlike Christianity and Islam, which spread by the sword, Judaism had given life to daughter religions by the sheer power of truth and religious insight. But would all the world be Jewish? Ah, no. Here cultural, national, ethnic backgrounds enter in to keep differences alive. Ancient myths and stories are cherished. Lives of "saints," prophets, sages and conquerors (I), and holy places, events, and objects are venerated. Mankind's task is not to obliterate these differences. Our task is to defang them, while understanding them, accepting them, honoring them.
Tikvah Program offered Adolescents between the ages of 13 and 17, who are disabled learners, can receive a living and learning experience based on Jewish values through the Tikvah Program at Camp Ramah in Wisconsin, according to an announcement. Tikvah teens participate in sports, arts and cran«, drama, dance, and religious training. For information, contact Tikvah at Cnnip Ramnh in Wisconsin, 65 E. Wacker PI., Suite 820, Chicago, III. 60601, or call (312) 606 9316,
Hadassah and JCAC series continues ' The next educational program in the teries *A«k the Rabbi About tlip World of Jewish Women" will be held Wednesday at the home of Julee Katsmon, 12717 Capitol Plaza. Rabbi Joseph Friedman will apeak on 'Jewiih Women at the Mikvah * Make reMrvationa with Julee, 333-6621; Sandy, 391-6603: or Deborah, 493-2699.
Deaths ALLAN C. FORMAN Services for Allan Forman, 55, were held Wednesday at Beth El Cemetery. Survivors include his wife, Sheridan Sue of Gretna; a daughter, Jennifer Forman of Kansas City, Mo.; son, Scott of Bellingham, Wash.; mother, Bertha Pessen of Omaha; brother, Don Forman, also of Omaha; sister, Marcia Brown of Lexington, Ky.; step-son, Evan Williams of Lawrence, Kan.; one niece, one nephew and many cousins.
From The Bureau of Jewish Education ... By Susan Drazen, director "...oh the weather outside is frightful." It's January in Nebraska, and that may mean looking out the window to see snow and ice. Believe it or-not, in Israel, the trees will begin to bud in little less than a month, and Jewish people all over the world celebrate Tu Bishevat, the New Year of the Trees. Flowers and trees mean so much to all of us trees help shelter and clothe us, they give wood for houses, paper for the books we read, and shade us from the hot sun. They also keep the soil rich and fertile and give beauty to the world. The fifteenth day of the month of Shevat (Hamishah Asar Bishevat or Tu Bishevat representing the Hebrew letters which numerically equal 15) was set aside in the time of the Talmud to honor these loveliest of (jod's creations. Even before the days of the Talmud, our tradition demonstrated concern for trees: in the Bible, we read that "fruit trees may not be cut down in times of war." In the Book of Psalms, we are told that "a righteous man is like a tree planted by the streams of water." Perhaps most important; the Torah, the most precious gift given by God to the Jewish people, is called Etz Chaim, a tree of life. This year, Tu Bishevat falls on Jan. 16. To cele^ brate, you and your family can.. . ^M —eat fruit which grows in Israel (carob, figs, dates, raisins, almonds, oranges). Don't forget the blessing for fruit which grows on trees: Barukh ata Adonai elohenii melekh ha-olam, borai pri ha'etz. Praised are You, Lord our God, Ruler of time and space, who has given us the fruit of trees. —call the Jewish Federation of Omaha, 334-8200, to find out how to plant a tree in Israel. —buy a new plant for your home in honor of Tu Bishevat. —discuss the meaning of the following: "It is a tree of life to those who hold fast to it. . .' Why is Torah likened to a tree? —read "The Giving Tree" by Shel Silverstein. S
EXCEPTIONAL CARPENTER (Handyman)
Remodeling Call Hymie al 457-3953
Pulverente MONCIMEMT CO. Frank L. Ciciulla, Jr.
CARL JARL
60 Years Experience With Jewish Lettering and Memorials
LOCKSMITHS
1439 So. 13th
3724 S. 132 St. 7511 Dodge 393-7^SOO
341-2452
Pauit^i^ ant/ Dec^uUi^ 3gn Hu**m St.. omMJM. juf ism 345-56^7
Nursing Home Insurance Multiple Companies To Choose From Call Karen Nowl 402-397-5300 or 712-323-7332 : sLUH: _ .Ljjir:^^!^^.
January 6,1994
Synagogues Candlelighting 4:52 p.m.
r
TEMPLE ISRAEL 7023 Cass Street Omaha, NE 68132 5S6-6636
FBIDAY: Shabbat evening service at 7:30 p.m. Rabbi Azriel, Rabbi Stiel and Cantor Yablonski will officiate. Rabbi Stiel will speak. The Oneg Shabbat will be sponsored by the Temple Sisterhood. Time Change Shabbat evening worship services will be held at 7:30 p.m. during January and February. SATURDAY: Shabbat morning service at 11:15 a.m. Simcha B'Shabbat—The con^egation will study the Torah portion for the week. Adult Education Tuesday: Adult B'nai Mitzvah, 7:30 to 9:30 p.in. Thursday: Sisterhood Adult Education. "History of Jewish Women's Spirituality," led by Rabbi Stiel, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.; "Finding God: Jewish Responses," led by Rabbi Azriel, 10:30 a.m.; "Beyond Midrash," led by Don Schwartz, 7 to 8:15 p.m. Tot Shabbat Service Friday (tonight), 7 p.m.: A short service of song and prayer, followed by cookies and juice, will be held for toddlers through children in primary grades and their families. Men's Club Men's Club will meet Sunday at 10 a.m. Lox and bagels will be served. Rabbi Debbie Stiel will speak. Cost is $3 for non-members. Tu B'Shevat Seder Friday, Jan. 13: Immediately following the 7:30 p.m. service, a special seder, with wines, fruits, nuts and more, will be held to celebrate the birthday of the trees and the gift of the earth. RSVP to the Temple office by Monday, 556-6536. There is no charge for the festivities. "Shabbat Comes To You" Rabbi Azriel, Rabbi Stiel and the Temple Youth Group will lead a Shabbat service Friday, Jan. 1.3, 2 p.m., at the Blumkin Home. Bat Mitzvah Amy Ellen Willensky, daughter of Andi and David Willensky, will celebrate her Bat Mitzvah at the Shabbat morning service Saturday, Jan. 14
P
CHABAD HOUSE 1322 So. 119th Street Omaha, NE 68144 697-1124 SATURDAY: Davening is at 9:30 a«m., followed by Kiddusli. SUNDAY: '• ' Davening is at 9:30 a.m.
Talmud Classes Talmud class, 9:30 a.m. Wednesday. Advanced Talmud, 12 p.m. Thursday. Chumash Class Chumash class for adults, 7 p.m. Tuesdays. Yiddish "Hooked on Yiddish" lessons Wednesdays, 7 p.m. English "Think Jewish and speak English" classes on Jewish topics for new Americans, Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10:30 a.m. at Chabad House.
BT^AI JE8HURUN 20th and South StrceU Lincoln, NE 68002 43S-8004 Services are officiated by Cantor Michael WeisBcr. FRlDAYi Shabbat evening lervice at 7:30 p.m. SATiniDAYi Toriih study nnd service nt 10 a.m. SUNDAY: Hpbrew school, 9 a.m.; Keli^ous school, 10 a.m.
BETH EL SYNAGOGUE 14506 California Omaha, NE 68154 492-8550 Office Hours: i Monday through Thursday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Services are conducted by Rabbi Paul Drazen and Cantor Emil Berkovits. FRIDAY: Services at 6 p.m. SATURDAY: Services at 9:30 a.m. Kiddush following services. Sitter service starts at 10 a.m. Shabbat story time, the first and third Saturday at 11 a.m. K'tantan (program for kindergarten, first, second and third grades) meetSs the first and third Saturday at 11 a.m. , TSS (Torah Siddur Skills) at 10 a.m. Minha-Ma'ariv and Havdalah services, 4:55 p.m. SUNDAY: Services are at 9 a.m. WEEKDAYS: Services, 6i55 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. 1 Judaica Shop Open Tuesday through Thursday, 11 a>.m. to 2 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m. to noon; and by appointment. Sisterhood Cookbook The Sisterhood Cookbook "Just Desserts" is available at Beth El. Cost is $6.95. Adult Education Study Group Adult Education Study Group, led by Rabbi brazen, will explore 100 basic questions of Judeiism on four Monday evenings in January. The first one will be Monday from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Kids Lunch 'n Learn Children five years old and younger, and their families, will have Lunch 'n Learn at the synagogue Friday, Jan. 13, at noon. USY Shabbat Members of USY will participate in Shabbat morning services Saturday, Jan. 14. Following services, the youth group from the Latter-Day Saints Church will have lunch and a discussion on religion. TIFERETH ISRAEL 3219 Sheridan Blvd. Lincoln, NE 68502 423-8569 Services are conducted by Rabbi Stanley M. Rosenbaum. Minyans on Mondays and Thursdays at 7:15 a.m. FRIDAY: Light candles no later than 4:57p.m. Services start at 8 p.m. SATURDAY: Services start at 9:30 a.m.
Jawiah Preaa
BETH ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE 1502 No. 52iid Street Omaha, NE 68104 556-6288 Office hours: Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m^ to 4:30 p.m.; I nday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Services are cond|Ucted by Rabbi Josep^^ Friedman. FRIDAY: Kabbalat Shabbat services at 4:56 p.m. SATURDAY: Morning services are at 8:45 a.m. in th thc^l Sanctuary and Goldstein Chapel. Beginners Minyan at 9:30 a.m. Super Shabbos, 9:30 a.m., for children of all ages. Kiddush sponsored by Mrs. Grertrude Newman on the occasion of the yahrzeit of her father, Meyer Wolff Tatle. Babysitting service provided by Sisterhood. Lesson with the rabbi at 3:55 p.m. Mincha is at 4:55 p.m. Shalosh Seudot, Ma'Ariv and Havdalah conclude the services. SUNDAY: Morning services at 9 a.m. Breakfast and a study session with Rabbi Friedman follow the service. Youth study session with Rabbi David Kaye. fevening services at 4:55 p.m. MONDAY: Services at 9 a.m. arid 4:50 p.m. WEEKDAYS: Services at 7 a.m. and 4:55 p.m. Institute of Jewish Studies L.A.V.E., Live and Values Education, and a crash course in Hebrew will be offered through the Institute of Jewish Studies. The series will consist of five one-and-one-half-hour weekly classes starting Jan. 16, 7:30 p.m., at Beth Israel West (Friedel Jewish Academy), 126u4 Pacific. Cost is $15. To register, call the office. | Lunch 'n Learn ' Lunch 'n Learn will be held Tuesday from noon to 1 p.m. Call the synagogue office before 10 a.m. to order lunch. Sisterhood Gift Shop Open every Sunday from 10 to 11:30 a.m. and by appointment.
I
Tu B'Shevat seder at Beth Israel Synagogue
By Carol Katzman Though Rosh Hashanah occured in September, "the other new year," Tu B'Shevat, comes on Sunday evening, Jan. 15. Also known as the New Year of the Trees, it will be celebrated with a seder B'NAI ISRAEL and meal at Beth Israel Synagogue at 5:30 p.m. The RECONSTRUCTIONIST The event will be coordinated by Melissa CONGREGATION Friedman, Maggie Gerber, Julee Katzman and 322-4705 Services led by Rabbi Ruth Ehrenstein and con- Dani Shrago. The seder, compiled in the style of the Passover gregants. NOTE: Services on the first and third Fridays of Hagaddah, will be led by Rabbi Joseph Friedman. each month are held in Omaha. All other Friday It will open with a brief historical overview of the holiday and a discussion of the customs in diflerei night services are held in Council Bluffs. For information on any activities, call 322-4705. countries. FRIDAY: 'The Tu B'Shevat seder is not new," said Rabbi Shabbat services, 7:30 p.m., at 3012 So. 119th St., Friedman, "it dates back to the 17th century. The Omaha. For directions, call 322-4705. custom is a beautiful one, however, and readily SATURDAY: Learner's service and Torah study, 9 a.m., at the addresses the contemporary issues of ecology and home of Mact^ Rosenberg and Ellen Fennick, 3516 concern for the environment. "What better opportunity to discuss these current S, 104th St", Dfliaha. Call 390-9062. SUNDAY: problems," concluded Rabbi Friedman, "than Religious School resumes. Jewish celebration that focuses on nature." FRIDAY, Jan. 13: (at the synagogue) Four cups of wine or grape juice will be part ol 6 p.ni.--Israeli dinner. Cost is $10 per person; free the seder, as well as the blessings and tastings for pre-Bar/Bat Mitzvah nge. Make reservations by an exotic array of fruits and nuts from the land of Jan. 10. Call Rebecca Bloom at 455-1890. Israel. 7:.10 p.m -Tu B'Shvat seder and pot-luck dessert. The seder will be followed by a meal featuring an SUNDAY, Jan. 16: Israeli menu. Religious School. Cost is $10 for adults; $5 for children ages 2-12; ROSE BLUMKIN JEWISH HOME nnd $1.50 for children under ago two. SATURDAY: For reservations, call Beverly Franklin at 334 Services are held in the Ooldsten Chapel nt 9 a.m. Members of the community are invited to join 7365, or send checks to Beth Israel Synagogue, 1602 N. 62nd St., Omaha 68104, residents for the service and the kiddush following. Special memorial services are held on the last Saturday of each month.
I I
OFFUTT Capehart Chapel 25th .Sircel and C^apchart Omnhn,NK6HI23 2«4-eOSi
FRIDAY: .Services ittart at 8 p.m.
PERSONAL Sincere thanks to my dear family and friends for the many llowers, gifts and contributions sent to nne during my recent hospitalization and recuperation.
Sadye Newman
'CT!Eia*W»^^ •Mi.tSU -
January 6, 1994
Jewish Presa
Plage 4
Letter to the Editor
Editorial _l By Morris Maline ^tbatyOU have our number, setting up a stand, the Jewish Press hopes to , -, • increase access for readers and increase productivi-
please call.
ty.
Now that you've got oar number, we'll loo^ forward to hearing from you. By this lime, users of the United Stales postal system should be aware of the fact that postage has increased. No longer will 29 cents deliver a fir^t class envelope. The charge now is 32 cents. For those of you who mail a substantial number of press releases to the Jetoish Press the amount paid for postage can be a m^or operating cost. All is not hopeless, however. A press release can be hand delivered, although I hardly would suggest anyone exposing himself to freezing weather in order to save 32 cents. Another option might be to have your children act as dehvery people when they come to the JCC for play or study. A better solution has to be available. It is. It's called: electronic mail, more widely known as E-mail. The Jewish Press has it, and you can use it to deliver your news releases, changes of address, corrections, or whatever, by simply touching a few keys on your computer. We can be reached at the MCI mail address: MCI ID: 681-3156. This electronic mail box is 'opened' several times a day so the advantages should be obvious. No longer do you or I have to wait days for delivery, no more paper cuts in opening glued envelopes, no more licking stamps, and more importantly — the extension of deadlines. By using electronic mail, it is possible for us to include a story electronically-mailed on Wednesday morning to be printed Wednesday night and appear in the Jewish Press when you open your ordinary mailbox on Friday. Although this speed is possible, we normally would reserve a Wednesday message for highest priority items, so don't look at our electronic mailbox as a guarantee. The information highway is boldly striking out where no man ( or woman) has gone before, and in
News and Views By Bernie Mosow I have done my best to not make this Column into a platform from which I can expound m^ personal opinions on such things as politics, religion, fashions (ah unUkely topic) or social issues. I know you would be thrilled to hear Bernies theories, ideas, views and/or hunches on those topics but since neither my experience nor my education qualifies me as an expert in those fields, I try to limit my comments on them to the humorous side of those weighty subjects. However, a column on the editorial page of the Lincoln Star caught my eye and made my blood boil. (Picture that if you will, an eyeball being tossed around and blood boiling). The wife of an ex-governor was espousing her view of the situation in the Mid-east as if it had unquestionable merit. Before the good folk of Lincoln take Ruth Thone's opinions as "gospel trutli" (i.e. her column of Dec. 22), 1 would suggest that they ask her for her credentials. Her former position as first lady of Nebraska hardly qualifies her as a "maven of the year" on the situation in Israel. Come to think of it, for what does that qualify her? How exactly was she able to sort out the Israel/Arab problems? Ruth, the world awaits your solution to this ageold dilemma. IRS?I$ IRS?I$ IRS?!$ IRS?1$ IRS?I$ IRS?1$—i
Confused by Tax Laws? Most of us are. As a servk:e to our readers, we will publish a Special Tax Tim* Supplement on February 10, 1995.
To the Editor: We at Jewish Family Service thank all the organizations, businesses and individuals who contributed to our Hanukkah food and gift distribution programs for localJe'wish ftunilies in need. Response from the community was so positive that we were able to provide every cjjild on our "Project Dreidel" list with at least one gift for each Hanukkah night, while the families received traditional holiday foods and treats. Those groups who gave so generously so that the children could have Hanukkah gifts include: Jewish Cultural Arts Council, National Council of Jewish Women, VISIONS, JCC Child Development Center, B'nai Israel Synagogue, Temple Israel Sisterhood, Boy Scout Troop 218, JCC Brownie Troop, Friedel Jewish Academy and the Edith and Paul (Jroldstein Philanthropic Fund. Other groups who donated holiday items or provided volunteers include Federation Campaign Women's Division, Temple Israel Caring Committee, Beth El Judaica Shop, and B'nai B'rith Youth Organization. Local Jewisli businesses, who, year after year, holiday after holiday, either donate or give discounts toward food purchases include The Midwest Box Company, The Bagel B^n, Spirit World, and Baker's Supermarket. Special recognition goes to Henry Monsky Lodge B'nai B'rith, who, for the past several years at. Hanukkah, have given the children very generous gift certificates. Last, but not least, the Women of CRT, who, for the past nine years, have provided us with loyal and enthusiastic volunteers for each and ever;,' Tzedakah project. Thank you all for making the Festival of Lights so much brighter this year for those children and families who are less fortunate in our community. Alice A. Weiss, C.M.S.W. Tzedakah Coordinator Glen H. Fineman, CJM.S.W. Executive Director
The Jewish Community Center of Omaha is seeking...
caring, enthusiastic and G<feative people to be counselors in dynamic summer camp programs.
We will offer Information and instructk>ns from the Internal Revenue Service to help students arKi seniors, empbyees arxJ entrepreneurs get through the filing process and to help our readers plan their tax strategy for the coming year. Advertisers We invite the following businesses to partKipate in this tax supplement. Accounting Services Banks Savings & Loans Insurance Agencies Computer Sales & Sen/ice Financial Planners Investment Sewices
Contact: Beth Cohen, JCC Youth Services Director, for information and application!
-,
Lawyers Mortgage Companies Stock Brokers Office Supply Car Leasing Copter Sales & Service
333 S. 132nd Street • Omaha, NE • 68154 Call:
334-8200 ext. 217
For space reservations and details call Larry at 334-8200, Ext 251. Deadline Is January 20,1995.
k
The Jewish Press (Found«din1920)
of th« Jewish Federation of Om*ha ii to InvoWt Jew* in meeting Jewiih communni ally, nntinnnlly and in Israel.
Aganciei of the Federation are: Community I^elntions, Jewish Community Center, Jewish Education, Jewish Press, Jewish Family Service, Librory and Bureau for the AfpnK. The Jewish Press (U8PS 276820) is published w»»l<lv ..n Friday for $'^.4 per cnlenilnr year U.B., >27 foreign, by the Jewish Kedernlion nf Omni ih l.')2nd Slrei<t, Omnhn. NK 68154. Second class postage paid at Omahn, NK. I'l.. ...... IKK: Send address chnnK** to Til* Jewiah Prass, 333 south 132nd Street, Omaha, NE 6H164, Telephone 402-.'i;i4-820O.
B«n Wlaeman President, Ikierd of Director! Morris Malina F^ditor-inChinr Bheryl Friedman IWmin*'** ManttUtT M«ur««n l^l'uur Prijdiiitli)n tjirry Alelrud AdvvrtininR Ci«irrliniil/ir (ieorg* Rchaplro Viiliinl«ir
Board of Directors
^
Sylvia Wagner, Vice President; Steve Lievingsr, Tressurer, Cyt-'h.. I.V.1 <4...^.,i...„ ii„j,j,y Elsenberi, Steve Danon, M 'lieryl L«e, Leo Meyereon, Jsne Hi| Audrey Shsplm. Edi(j»ri»l« iopTtss the view of the writer end are not necessarily r> I o of tha views or the Jewish Press Iloerd, th<. >'' lion ofOnishs ur th« Omaha Jvwish Cummunlt; ityS
J
Ttie Jewish Press Is nut ni>p<iniilhl« for the Kashruth of s pivduct or estsblishment.
r^FtB^SaSnpe^BE-£iZ'' January 6,1994
Organizations YES YES will meet Monday at the JCC. "YES talk" will start at 10:30 a.m. in the adult lounge. Bingo is also at 10:30 in room 10. The YES choral group will practice in the auditorium at 11. Following lunch at noon, Dr. Paul Shyken will speak on his trip to Israel. For transportation, call 330-4272. Deadline is Monday for the trip to Mahoney ite Part'. Call Margaret at 330-4272. OLDTIMERS Oldtimers will meet Tuesday at the JCC. Earlybird discussion will be held at 11 a.m. Following lunch at noon, B'nai B'rith Youth Organization will discuss their trip fo Israel and •Poland. Due to a conflict in scheduling, Oldtimers will eat lunch in the adult lounge. WALK-IN DROP-IN Walk-In Drop-In will meet Thursday at the JCC. Exercise with Larissa in the adult lounge at 10:15 p.m. Bingo starts at 10:30 in room 10. Bring a dairy sack lunch to eat at 11:30. Following lunch, the movie "The Paper," with Glen Close and Michael Keaton, will be shown in the Blumkin Home auditorium. RUSSIAN CLUB The Russian Club will meet Friday, Jan. 13, at the JCC. Exei:cise with Larisa at 10 a.m. Lunch will be served in roo?^ 10 at 11. Moscow News at noon in the adult lounge, and bingo at 1 p.m. Call Ida Grinshpon by Wednesday, Jan. 11, for transportation, 330-8316. VISIONS The January membership luncheon meeting will be held Friday, Jan. 20, at the Venice Inn at 12:30 p.m. Cost is $6.50 per person. Incoming officers and present committee members will be recognized. Reservations are a must by Jan. 13. Send form and check to Helen Rifken, 9302 Bemis Plaza, #2, O.-naha 68114. Visions will take a trip to Casino Omaha Sunday, Feb. 5. Cost is $12 and includes transportation, dinner buffet, fun coupon book, tax and gratuities. Space is limited. Mail form to Betty Sanford, 9205 Western Aye., #127, Omaha 68114.
BREADBREAKERS David Kotok, chief politicSl reporter for the Omaha World-Herald, will speak to B'nai B'rith Breadbreakers Wednesday at noon at Regency West Best Western, according to Gary Javitch, January chairman. Mr. Kotok's topic will be "Reflections of the Political Scene." Cost is $7.50 and the public may attend.
0
EaitSkto-EpplcyAMMd OrnaRd, Nabratka PtK>n*: (402) 422-M31 • Fdx: (402) 422-0106 1-800-227-9639
Sky Hart)ors Owrtef Service offefs a variety of aircraft from single engine to tuftKiprop, as well as Jet services. We are o 24-hour a day 7 days a week service, licensed to fly anywhere In the United States and Canada. For business trips or p>leasure excursions v» have an aircraft to meet your travel needs and flt your budget. In addition, all of Sky Harbor's plksts are extensively trained and tested every 6 months to Ir^sure you safety So next time you txave o need to travel,don't rely on someone else's schedule... Call Sky HartDOf. Well make sure you arrive with kiggage. and on time. Special requests are wek:ome,
Jewish Family Service to present workshop Jewish Family Service will present "How to Talk So Kids Will Listen," a six-week group workshop based on the writings of authors Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish. ' Audiotapes of the authors speaking and in role play with others will be used as teaching tools, as well as the authors' writings. Each week there will be a different audiotape with corresponding handouts to help illustrate the attitudes and skills that can improve relationships between adults and children. Examples of weekly topics include "Engaging Cooperation," and "Alternatives to Punishment," among others. Discussion on the topics will be included. The author's presentations, in both the audiotapes and their writings, offer guidelines and common sense solutions to the everyday frustrations of parenthood, the announcement stated. Facilitator for the group is Alice Weiss, C.M.S.W., A.C.S.W., therapist on staff at Jewish Family Service. The workshop will be held on six consecutive Monday evenings starting Jan. 30, from 7:30 to 9 p.m. at the Jewish Community Center. The fee is $40 per individual for all six sessions, and $50 per married couple. Pre-registration is required and space is limited. For additional information, please contact Jewish Family Service at 330-2024.
Engagements TATELMANMELER Maynard and Patricia Tatelman announce the engagement of their daughter, Sheryl, to Arie Meier, son of David Henry and Deena Meier of Migdal Ha-Einek, Israel. Miss Tatelman is a doctoral candidate in Clinical Psychology at the Illinois Institute of Technology. She has degrees in Industrial Engineering and Psychology. She is the granddaughter of Ethel Mogil and the late Charles Mogil, and the late Edna and Sam Tatelman, Mr. Meier is the owner of Meier Movies, a video and film production company. He has a Bachelor of Arts degree in film and video from Columbus College. A May 28 wedding at Temple Israel is planned.
HOUSEWORK SPECIAUSTS IV* do whattver it takts to achiava spoUass insults. Call tor FREE MMmaU. H fvti torn our fmmmgSanftM you wabvtoyfUuumiiM/iIng Bmvkml
(ULlinin(W$SSI-)347
^ ITS SAFE RELIABLE DOOR-TO-DOOR TRANSPORTATION FOR CHILDREN! Buay pamntt and buty kid* now hava « aolutnn tor galting f r<xn hara lo ttiari.
IDEAL FOR: Urbifn Li'ssoiis Early School Oisima»,ili O.if/O.if Mit/v.ih P.ulivs Weddings
KIOSK KAB. W*
MM
n* To oi/fKinm»i%
TO Hf\Xl out MOUt
CAit H«).";MBA7
333-2412
Jewiah Preas
Pages
'Reconstructing Tu B'Shvat' By Rabbi Ruth Ehrenstein fM B'nai Israel Synagogue ' ' Tu B'Shvat, the 15th of the Hebrew month of Shvat, is an ancient holiday that can provide us with contemporary approaches to Judaism. Originally, the "birthday or new year for trees," it is a time in Israel when the first trees and almonds are beginning to blooni. In America, it has become a custom to give mon'ey for trees to be planted in Israel by the Jewish National Fund. It can be a holiday that enables us to appreciate and grow in awareness of this natural • world, despite the fact that we live in a taechanized, climate-controlled one. First brought into prominence by the mystics of S'fat, Tu B'Shvat was a holiday to unleash the holiness of blessing by eating, and of course, first blessing, 15 Or more fruits at a Tu B'Shvat seder, a meal with a specific order. The mystics or Kabbalists divided the fruits into three courses: ones that have a hard or inedible outer shell but a soft inner, nuts, citrus fruit, bananas, etc.; those with a hard inner but soft outer, peaches, avacados, olives and other foods with pits; and those which are soft all the way through, strawberries, figs, etc. Some understand these courses to also represent different levels of existence: assiyah (action), yetzirah (formation), beriah (creation), and atzilut (einination). There may have been as many as 10 fruits in each course since the number 10 corresponds to the number of (jod's attributes or sephrot in mystical thought. Another feature of the seder for Tu B'Shvat was the drinking of four cups of wine: one fully white, one white with a little red, one red with a little white, and one fully red. These are thought to represent' the seasons, starting with the whiteness of winter and moving to the fullness of autumn. We can use these ideas as a basis for looking at our contemporary situation and thinking about the message and meanings we need at this time of year. Living in our carefully homogenized, climate• controlled dwellings, it is important for us to celebrate the diversity that exists in the natural world. And through that celebration and love, to learn to cherish and preserve the earth's abundance and beauty. We, like the mystics, can achieve different planes of existence. Based on the four worlds, we can create a modern understanding: assiyah (action) becomes the physical world; beriah (creation) is our intellect (after all, God barah create by speaking and the words came to be); and atzilut (emination) represents the spiritual world. Tu B'Shvat allows us to formulate our own levels of thought and action in the natural world and to delve into the depths of our existence and that of future generations on earth.
panos^-i^
FbgeS
Jewish Preu
wp^s^B'^^vsaa January «, 1894
MITZVAH SUGGESTION By Danny Sieg«l Establish a flower committee to take leftover flowers from synagogues and otiier Jewish communal events to sheltersJiospitals, or residences for the elderly.
AFFORDABLE Companions And Home Helpers
Please
«Honie
553^100 ImM
fontana^Merngan.
SALE FALL - 50% TO 75% OFF 7637 Pacific Street • Omaha, NE 68144 • (402) 392-1292
Holiday Inn - Old Mill 655NO. lOBAve. Join A Team Leader In The Hospitality Industry Is now tailing applications for the following positions: Guest Service Representatives Part Time Night Auditor • Maintenance Banquet Set Up • Wait Staff Buspersons/Room Service LA,
Full and Part Time avaBabla AM and PM ShWs. We olfer compellllvB wages, benells. Incentives. We are an equal oppoitunKy employer.
JU
Bert's Eye View
Beth Israel Instltue of Jewish Studies open
By Bert Lewis
By Carol Katzman L.A.V.E. and a crash course in Hebrew will tie Are you a native Omahan? What I mean is not offered through the five-week Beth Israel Institute just were you bonin and raised here, but does your of Jewish Studies starting Monday, Jan, 16, 7:30 family go back a generation or two or maybe more? p.m., at Beth Israel West Cthe Friedel Jewish I've lieen spending some time lately working on, a Academy building), 12604 Pacific St. project that has to do with Omaha Jewish families L.A.V.E., Life and Values Education, was develand the early history connected with them. You'll oped by Dr. Norman Amsel, dean of the American find out more about it soon for several reasons. program at Bar Ilan University in Israel. It was For one thing, I'm going to tell you, and for anoth- presented at an international CAJE, Conference on er, the Press will be talking about it from time to Alternatives in Jewish Education, and will be time. There will be a special edition of,the Jewish taught by Rabbi Joseph Friedman. It has been Press devoted to just that subject: the history (or taught at reform temples, synagogues, universitiei maybe I should just say the story) of Omaha and Jewish Community Centers. Jewish families. The program has three components: a video, disIf you've ever poked around in the inventory of cussion group and a summary. Using television and our Historical Society, you already know there are movie segments from such programs as LA Law, marvelous photographs showing everything from The Twilight Zone, All in the Family, Driving Miss business establishments to inter-generational fami- Daisy and the short-lived show Brooklyn Bridge, ly portraits. For many of us, just sitjtipg down to a among others, the group will focus on drawiijg ethtable loaded with pictures turns out to be an expe- ical conclusions. rience hard to describe. To support, define or debate the conclusions of Which brings me to the point. Whafs the photo the class. Rabbi Friedman will use traditional situation in YOUR house? Do you have some old, Jewish texts ranging from the Chumash (Five old pictures or maybe newspaper ads or some other Books of Moses) to 20th century Responsa. record of what was happening in your family here Concurrently with the L.A.V.E. class, a crash in Omaha a long, long time ago? course in Hebrew, developed by the National If you do, you might well turn out to be a valuable Jewish Outreach Program,, will be offered. The resource for one of the most fascinating projects the course promises that participants will be reading Press has ever done. You don't have to GIVE us Hebrew by the end of the five-week Institute, in your precious keepsakes (unless you want to), but if time for the reading of the Megillah. you'd allow us to use them, to share them with the The classes are open to anyone in the Jewish rest of the community, you'll bring pleasure to community and run from Jan. 16 through Feb. 13. many. Cost is $15 for the five-week series. I can't describe the nostalgic fun of turning up a For advance registration, checks may be sent to copy of a Central Market ad, complete with pictures of the people who were there to wait on cus- Beth Israel Synagogue, 1502 No. 52nd St., Omaha tomers. Or the reminder of some of the butcher 68104. shops and bakeries in the old 24th Street area. For information, call the synagogue at 556-6288. " We have many wonderful photographs, but experience tells us there are many more ....some are in YOUR closets or attic. So how about it? If this is your community, you already know there are many who consider us a BettyAnn Brody Bucksbaum, formerly of Omaha, "special Jewish community". . .one which stands and Steven N. Bucksbaum of Glenview, 111., apart from just any old segment of other cities announce the July 2 birth of their adopted son, We have accomplished amazing things in our Noah Chiam Brody. brief history, especially considering our limited Grandparents are Dr. and Mrs. Alfred W. Brody numbers. Few other cities can boast of as many of Omaha and Mr. and Mrs. Arnold Bucksbaum of achievements with such a small group to make them happen. We have a lot to be proud of, so why Phoenix and Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Great-grandmother is Anne Schloss of Marion, not go back and look at the original movers and Iowa. shakers who began the story? Some of us think this is a great idea. What do you think? Will you help by contributing pictures and/or information? Think of it as a wonderful way to do a little organizing of keepsakes...housecleanBarry Siff, vice president of Human Resources ing of a sort. for Idelman Telemarketing, has been chosen as one Please. We really could use your input. of 10 outstanding young Omahans, according to an announcement by the Om^a Junior Chamber of Commerce. Each year, the Jaycees recognize 10 men and Beth Israel Sisterhood will hold their monthly women, ages 21 to 40, for their continuing commitluncheon meeting Tuesday at 12.30 p.m. in the synment to community service. J agogue social hall.
Births
In the News
Balebusta of the Month
Beth Israel Sisterhood tb host luncheon
1 1/2 sticks margarine 3/4 cup light brown sugar 1 cup pecan halves 1 pound medium noodles 4 large eggs 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1/2 cup sugar 2 teaspoons salt Melt half of margarine in bottom of springlorm pan. Swirl around sides and bottom. Press brown sugar on bottom. Press pecan halves on top of brown sugar in circular pattern (place smooth side of pecan face down). Boil noodles and cool down. Beat eg^s and mix with noodles, melted margarine, cinnamon, sugar and salt Pour over pecans. Bake 350 degrees In preheated oven for 1 hour IS minutes until top browns. Set tor 15 minutes before unrrxildlng. Serve cold or at room temperature. 10-12 Servings.
Melissa Katzman, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Michael Katzman, and Beth Shyken,. daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Paul Shyken, will show a slide presentation of the March of the Living on their recent trip to Poland and Israel. For reservations, call Bemice Cohen at 558-3423.
IPiDir ^IhiB l(BBll HID
Corporate Finance Associates has announced that Faltin Enterprises has acquired the Merry Maids Franchise #107, and that Jim Zipursky of CFA's Omaha office served as financial advisor to Merry Maids. m
-NE>V
R.K-
liis:i(!nii
^& PELlCATESgEN^ inaiiM'iitli
CiucKEN BREAST SANDWICH
"Balebueta of the Month" la brought to you by
gakeii
1
Seasoned With Lemon f\:pp€r, Swina Cheese, Lettuce & Thmato On A Hoagiel Op«n 7 Days A Wock
linui'iiH' 'ip|)i'ti/<'ls
13760 Millard Avnnue Millnrd, Nobraiika Phunn ftlM-SSSS
Mon. - FVi. 6:80 • H:00 Sal. «:30 • 6:00 Nundny » 00 - ft 00
2925 S. 108th
r.^- ^^^^
Januarys, 1994
Fifty years of giving started with a B lue Box
JewiihPre«>
Pmgtil
EVERYBODY READS JEWISH PRESS ADVERTISING You Just Did!!! For information, tall 334-8200, exf. 251
By Claudia Sherman, Foundation public relations director A patient solicitor, Mr. Dvorkin related how he David Dvorkin remembers the first called someone who had not made a pledge to the (Featuredin U.S. West campaign the previous year due to ill health arid time he was asked to. Valu-Cbb Card) contribute to the iinancial problems. 'He said he couldn't give," Mr. Jewish Federation's Dvorkin explained, "and I said okay — no pressure. annual campaign. "It Five mintites later, he called me back and pledged NOW SERVING DINNER OPEN: 9 a.m.- 10 p.m. M-F'ga-m. • 11 p.m. Sal. was about 50 years $25," continued Mr. Dvorkin. ago, and I still remem"I just have to give something," Mr. Dvorkin's Catering For All Occasions 312 So. 72nd St ber the solicitor," prospect said. Dellcioi^s Dslj & Bakery Hams Cedarnola 'MidcSe Eastern Cuisine' Omaha, NE 68114 recalled Mr. Dvorkin. Mr. Dvorkin agreed. He doesn't think that being Beet, Chicken, Lamb, Seafood, Work: (402) 393-4168 "His' name was Harry such a longtime supporter of the Jewish community & Vegetarian Dishes Home: (40;) 553-1059 Levy, and he came to is "something so big. I really don't think about it." our grocery store at It's just something he does. 16th and Williams." After owning a grocery store, Mr. Dvorkin worked Since then, Mr. for 31 yeeu-s at Bristol Market at 27th and Bristol Dvorkin and Jeanne where he ran the meat counter. Mrs. Dvorkin Dvorkin, his wife of worked for 21 years. Now that they're retired, Mr. more than 56 years, Dvorkin »aici'he never misses an Oldtimers meetDavid & Jeanne have been giving to ing. Dvorkin the Federation camThe Dvorkins have also enjoyed traveling with paign because they have 'enjoyed belonging to a the YES Group to Israel and "all over the United cohesive Jewish community that makes it easy to States." In December, they were getting ready to do what little we can to keep it the same way for leave for Chesterfield, Mo., to meet their first future generations," he wrote when contributors great-grandchild, six-month-old Luke Benjamin were asked to identify themselves if they are Silver Warren^ far the first time. Circle donors to the Federation campaign. Although their children tried to encourage Mr. The Jewish Federation and The Foundation of and Mrs. Dvorkin to move to a warmer climate, the Jewish Federation have established the Silver David and Jeanne like Omaha. "Everybody's Circle designation to recognize members of the friendly. I've always enjoyed Omaha," she said. Jewish community who have consistently con"There's nothing not to like!" they agreed. They tributed to the UJA/Federation campaign for 25 added that Omaha is a special place, and although years or more. "Making their annual gifts a priori- people belong to different synagogues, "we respect ty has provided the funds for our community to each other and we're all still one community." support the programs and services of the Federation and its family of agencies as well as the . ;Oi:?F,irn,ii'r34A?l6l Jews in Israel and in depressed countries around 1-Kit:- d Ailvi 'J.W-lVSb the world," said Howard Bloom, Federation executive director. (g MJBJBJaJBJajgJBJBJBJBJBJBJELJBJBJBJBJaia By Rebecca Bloom "Since our community enjoys the blessing of a The B'nai Israel community will hold their annuvery special group of people, Silver Circle members, 3 everyone including those members, should be al Tu B'Shvat seder and Shabbat service Friday, 2l aware that their lifetime achievements can be easi- Jan. 13. This year, the seder will be preceded by P ly commemorated in perpetuity by opening an Shabbat dinner featuring simple foods from Israel. If you've ever attended one of our Tu B'Shvat : endowment fund with The Foundation for as little P as $5,000 in cash, stock, real estate events, you will know that we invite participation F in the service through readings and music. The* Foundation/Silver Circle or other property," F explained Foundation Director Sheldon A. B'nai Israel religious school has prepared decora- •" F Bernstein. "In the future, when grants are made tions for thie social hall and will perform at'the P a from an endowment fund to charitable programs, seder/service. When I think of Tu B'Shvat, I relate it with two your name will be honored and your generosity F American secular holidays. Arbor Day and Earth F remembered for years to come," he added. 3 The Dvorkins recalled how both their mothers Day. The first for the planting of trees and the secP kept Blue Boxes in their homes. "We put our spare ond a more general day set aside to learn how to change in the box every Friday night," Mrs. care for the planet. As a congregation, we strive to ft<$mUftANT i. TAV<ftNA Dvorkin said. Her husband added that simchas be good role models for young members, including P giving our support to various local and national were also occasions to drop change in the 'pushka.' s *We had our problems like most people did,' environmental groups. 3l n9So.40ttiSt. •S58-S623 Information on Jewish and general environmennoted Mr. Dvorkin, "but we never reneged on a 3] Greek American Cuisine pledge. The idea of giving just stays in your mind," tal topics will be available at the seder. 3 The evening schedule for the event is: s Mr. Dvorkin commented. Their daughters, Lois Full Bar 6 p.m.-Sh^bbat dinner. Epstein and Marilyn Warren, as well as grandLamb, PasNtsio. Mousaka P 7:30 p.in.-'Tu B'Shvat seder, blessings, shabbat daughter, Randi Epstein Poscover, carry on the Mon-Thuri:ll-9p.m. • M-Sot: 11-10p.m. s service and seng! Blue Box tradition in their own homes. s 8:30 p.m.—Service, followed by Oneg Shabbat Mr. Dvorkin has also been involved in campaign 0(^-l''l'''l''l'Jl''i''l''l'JI*JFJl*'rJI^'i'I''l''l''I"ll'^' solicitation through the JCC Old timers. "I was dessert table and warm beverages. Cost is'Ho for adults, and free for pre-Bar/Bat Volunteered' to help in the campaign," he smiled. "But it was a natural thing to do. Once you get Mitzvah age, payable in advance or at the door. Make reservations by Jan. 10. Call Rebecca at involved, you stay involved. I keep saying every year's going to be the last year, but it never is," he 456-1890, or Mindy at 553-8631. (Leave a message at either number). chuckled.
Fire your imagination with sizzling k:^'f Chinese Food -^;^at practically
B'nai Israel will host dinner and seder
GRWr W/IIL
Ip
I
i»^^A
WINE BEER
The Best New York Style Pizza at Zio's f924 Dwige Stra-t 391-1881 13463 W. Center 330-1444 7777 CBBS 397-7770
DINE-IN TO-GO
NOW OPEN
Bruegga, iMfho? (|»3 We're the new bagel bakery with the funny name. (Sounds like "brew-gers"). We make old-fashioned, kettle-boiled bagels. Ten varieties baked fresh all day. We also have dolicioua cream cheeses, fresh bagel aandwichas, terrific, fresh-ground coffee and a nice wnrm ottitude, no matter how you lay our name. Come on in.
BRJEG6ER1f'^fem BAKERT •Ptc Flcstniiiitt Round*
40tS Oodg*. Omaha • SS«4M0
>^^fWWW¥ WW^W^^'9WWW9Wm^W^WW ^
ill I sine
of /ndia
'E--^;=_tr=,"'7——-;i=* ^*
JewiahPreaa
Januiiry A, 1994
MISSION!
A Shabbat Experience By Forrest Knitter Shalom Mission participant
On the Friday night we spent in Jerusalem, Rabbi Friedman of Beth Israel Synagogue arranged, for those interested, the opportunity to have Shabbat dinner with a Jerusalem family. After services at the Western Wall, a group from the mission went to the plaza behind the Wall ])(hei<« a large crowd had gathered and a man was assigning homes to visitors. " TK^ demand for guests was strong, as many wished to have the opportunity to welcome visitors. Having been "preassigned" to one particular family, the Omaha contingent of nine walked to an apartment complex where we joined approximately 40 other people, mostly college students and young travelers from the states ^d Europe, in a family's apartment. The total area of the apartment could not have been 1,000 square feet and much of it was devoted to books. In that crowded home, this family invites 30 to 50 visitors to Jerusalem every Shabbat, To them, greeting guests is their raison d'etre — a key to their role as Jews. Their goal is not only to feed visitors, but to provide them with a true sense of what it is like to live in Jerusalem on the Sabbath. Our hosts, began tl?e evening with a few words about the Torah portion of the week and then insisted that each guest introduce him or herself and speak on a topic that interested them about the Torah portion, their visit to Israel or whatever else moved them. Thus, each guest in turn spoke. As this was occurring, our hostess choreographed. Do you have a white, -•^. We want your while For Pickup cdl398-1595:;"'^ laxMudUi rK<^ powM
B'nai Israal Spring Auction 1995
The Torah emphasizes Abraham's hospitality i guests. Abraham would sit in the midday heat waiting to greet guestfe. Iiwfact, the Rabbis said that he had a door on each side of his tent so guests from any direction might be welcome. Likewise, Omaha's Jewish community has always emphasized welcoming of guests. The importance of welcoming guests, displayed by this Jerusalem family and our people from Abraham to today, however, goes far beyond Shabbat dinners or even "guests." The effort of our Federation and synagogues to involve more people in their activities and in the governance of this community is also part of tradition of welcoming "guests." We are not and cannot become a small closed Forrest Krutter (center) particii in ser- group of decision makers and participants but must welcome maximum involvement in all our activivice in Jerusalem to welcome Shal ties. No member of our community should feel like from a very small kitchen, a dinner for up to 50, a "guest" in our organizations. emerging from the kitchen whenever one of the The Federation's Young Leadership Development more soft spoken guests were speaking. She would program is one manifestation of the Federation's apologize and explain that she had missed the effort to involve others, to bring more inside our words and ask that they be repeated so she could tent. Similar efforts are occurring at each of our synagogues. learn from them. The Strategic Planning.g^mittee's efforts to In this way, we spent our Shabbat evening address the community's ifSds for the future is wrapped in the hospitality of a Jerusalem family another opportunity to involve a broad range of our who thoroughly enjoyed greeting guests and makcommunity. We must see that participants in these ing them feel a part of their family. and other programs are welcomed. When the dinner ended, our host thanked each Hopefully, like Abraham and our hosts in guest for brightening his family's Shabbat and Jerusalem, all of us will have the wisdom to urged each of us to return for lunch after morning encourage participation, listen to all who join us services. They had no idea how many would (fome and learn from them. but hoped to see us all! In closing, I would like to acknowledge the appreThe tradition of welcoming guests we experienced ciation all the participants in the Federation's in Jerusalem goes back to tlie very genesis of our Shalom Mission to Israel have for the Foundations, people. which made the mission possible.
BERGMAN'S PAINTING & DECORATING
CARL JARL
Inlerlor/fixterior painting, woodwork reflnisNng. enamoling. walpaper removal, drywal repair. Free estimates. Insurance, 20 years expertenca, relerenoes. 345-5490
SECURITY SYSTEMS 3724 S. 132 St. 7511 Dodge 391-57^00
25% off all techline furniture
stop by for our FREE techline brochure...see how techline can organize your life!
IS ¥HE
risanzzi TO BUYI
^^jy T.<^Aiuaii»yjWjUMfc»y/ ROCKBROOK VILLAGE • lOBTH & W. CENTER ROAD • OMAHA • 393-8780 M0N-THUR8 10-8 • FRI & 8AT tO-fl • SUN 12-6
STOREWIDE SAVINGS