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Why Omaha. Shecky?
By Morris Maline (Editor's Note: rm on a flnt-name baaia with Sol Panow. More than 40 years ago, Sol Parsow was decorating the front window of his haberdashery store next to the Orpheum theater. A young man walked in and complimented Sol on 'the professional arrangement of the clothing, then idelivered some rapid one-liners designed to ; unnerve the Omahan. Sol, however, came right back with some cracks about New York, and their instant relationship turned friendly. Shecky, the entertainer, was in town to perform ,at the Seven Seas Saloon around the comer from the Orpheum. Shecky invited Sol to see the show at the Seven Seas. He left the club convinced that this was a dynamite show and that Shec^ was "utterly fantastic." Coincidentally, Sol was trying to boost atten: dance that weekend at Beth El Synagogue's supper club. "We only had 25 reservations so when I told my co-chairmen about this new comic in town, they said, "bring him here."* ' Sol asked Shecky if he would perform at the synagogue, and the answer was an enthusiastic "Yes, 'ni bring my quartet and it won't cost you a dime." When word got out that Shecky was coming to Beth El, the reservations quickly moved up to 150 couples and the result was comedy history in Omaha. "He had us rolling in the aisles, and even then we didn't have enough. All 300, including the late Rabbi Katz, went to the Seven Seas to catch his act ' the:'e and provide another standing ovation," Sol ! recalled. Over the years, the two friends kept in touch by telephone, and occasionally Sol and his wife, Lee Jane, would catch the comic's act in various parts of the country. "We lost track for a time," Sol said, explaining that Shecky, for many years, was experiencing problems with alcohol and gambling, and eventually, throat cancer. They met again last year, this time in Palm Desert, the first time in 15 years. This meeting came at a time when Sol found out that he and Lee Jane were going to be the honorees of an upcoming benefit for the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. *I asked Shecky if he would come to Omaha as a guest, and his response was, 'For you and Lee Jane, Fll come to Omaha as a guest.'" When word got out that Shecky was willing to come to Omaha, the question became," Will he pfer^ibrm?" When Sol approached Shecky on whether he would perform, he replied, "Yes, but I'll need a stage." So the stage is set. Shecky will perform at the Orpheum on Sept. 10, , and for patrons he may do a little shtick, at Sol's :party on Sept. 9.
Jews of Yugoslavia avoid stance on Bosnia ByGUSedwa BELGRADE, Yugoslavia (JTA) — As fighting continues to rage in Bosnia, the Jews of neighboring Yugoslavia are doing their best to avoid taking sides in the conflict "Of course, we are against the war," Aca Singer, president of the Federation of Jewish Communities in Yugoslavia, said in a recent interview. "But we do not want to support one side or another." There are 8,000 Jews in the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, which includes the republics of Serbia and Montenegro. The two republics had formed part of the larger Yugoslavia that broke apart in 1991. At that time, the former Yugoslav Republics of Croatia, Slovenia, Bosnia and Macedonia declared their independence. Prior to World War II, some 82,000 Jews had lived in the unified Yugoslavia. About 67,000 — some 82 percent of the community — perished in the Holocaust, leaving only 15,000 survivors. In Serbia and Montenegro alone, 29,000 of the 40,000-strong community were killed. In Croatia, where followers of a nationalist puppet regime actively fought alongside the Nazis in an effort to destroy Jews and Serbs alike in neighboring Serbia, some 20,000 Jews perished in the notorious Jasenovac concentration camp. Long-simmering memories of the Croatian atrocities committed during the war have created a bond between Jews smd Serbs. The bond remains strong — despite the fact that most of the world community perceives Serbs as having committed the worst human rights abuses during the fighting in Bosnia.' But Yugoslavia's Jews, playing a delicate game of political acrobatics, avoid pointing fingers at either the Serbs or Muslims.
Vann seelcs $200 million for Rotary International
By Morris Maline Despite traveling hundreds of thousands of I miles and visiting scores | of countries, Howard D. Vann is not about to i rest As outgoing vice president of Rotary International, he has j accepted a new portfolio. He will assume the I vice chairmanship of the { Tenth Decade Howard D. Vann Committee which is seeking a permanent fund endowment of $200 million by 2005. "My anticipation is that we will do much better than that if our earlier experience is a guide,' he said, explaining that in '87-'89, Rotary raised $242 million in its worldwide campaign to eradicate polio. Mr. Vann, president of Vann Realty Co., and his wife, Judy recently returned from an eight-day trip to Rotarys District Conference in Israel. "It is not widely known, but there are 1,800 Gore fires speechwriter Rotarians in Israel, and amazingly, 1,100 attended By Matthew Dorf the conference.' WASHINGTON (JTA) - Vice President Al Gore He pointed out that Israel's Rotarians have an has Qred a speechwriter after learning that the ' advocacy program to help the court system, anothHarvard University professor compared the Israeli er program aimed at studying the use of material domestic intelligence agency to the Gestapo in a from figs to fight cancer, and the establishment of 1992 book review. a hot line for those seeking to enter the profesRichard Mariua, who heads the expository writ- sions. ing program at Harvard, where be has worked In addition, some 40 Rotarians were involved in a since 1978, was let go only days before he was to mission to Morocco to help the peace process. begin working at the White House full time. An interesting point, said Mr. Vann, is that the The 62-year-old professor has written numerous past president of Jordsn's Rotary Club visited speeches for the vice president Rotarians in Israel recently.
"There are no good guys at bad guys. It is hard to tell who is more to blame for the present tragedy. They are all guilty," seud Singer, 71, a survivor of both the Auschwitz concentration camp and the Communist prisons of the late leader of Yugoslavia, Marshall Tito. The fall of communism in Yugoslavia has done much to revive the Jewish community. Many Jews who had concealed their religion during the Tito era have come out of hiding. Jews are openly joining the cqmmunity because it provides them with a sense of belonging and because they receive financial assistance. That is a strong inducement for some in the current econom.ic situation, made more difficult by the international economic sanctions levied against Belgrade because of its support for the rebel Serbs in Bosnia. "Every day we admit new members into the community," said Rabbi Yitzhak Assiel, a 31-year-old convert who recently returned to Belgrade after more than six years of rabbinical studies in Israel. "The community has come back to life." Some 7,000 Yugoslav Jews have made aliyah in recent years. Those who remain are mostly elderly Jews. Another task facing the Yugoslav Jewish community is preserving the memory of the past. Almost an entire floor in the Jewish community building is occupied by the Jewish Museum, which has an extensive exhibit of Jewish history in Yugoslavia dating back to the 13th century. In a building adjacent to the museum, two women sit across from each other at a table and compare notes from a seemingly endless pile of documents. Each document contains the personal data of a Holocaust victim. The documents are being gathered together to be sent to Yad Vashem.
Need for Israel Bonds "compelling and urgent" By Morris Maline Barry Farber, who has been telling the Israel Bonds story for 34 years, said here last week that the need for Israel Bond purchases today is compelling and urgent. "No, Israels survival is not at stake. Israel is not in mortal danger, but there is a battle going on now that Israel might not win," Mr. Farber told the Jewish Preas. Mr. Farber, a national broadcaster and syndi Gated radio talk-show host, said the challenge today is to build an economic infrastructure rapidly to provide jobs and opportunity for the millions of Jews still in the former Soviet Union. "They want to leave for Israel, but the lack of jobs — particularly in the scientific and technical fields — makes them reluctant to take advantage of their immigration opportunities," Mr. Farber pointed out Mr. Farber said that he has traveled across America and to many foreign locations in his 34 years as a spokesman for Israel Bonds, and at this point he is trying to get the point across that dan ger to Jews is just a breath away and that an iron curtain for immigration could descend at any moment He asserted that the current Israel Bonds cam paign may be the last of the great efTorts because once peace is established and the building of Israel's economy is sufficient to accommodate the heavy influx of immigrants, Israel should be able to stand on her own legs. Mr. Farber said that American Jewry has shown a "spectacular commitment* to the Israel Bonds program and that the current hope is that Bonds be used to connect more individuals, including youth, to the land of Israel.
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July 38,1996
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Sparks from The Word By Rabbi Myer S. Kripke
Invitations mailed for Blumlcin Home*benefit Invitations to the Sept 10 Bliunkin Home benefit, A LOVE Affair, were mailed the week of July 24. Each invitation jn^ludes a return envelope and response card with all information and prices for the patron dinner at the OPPD Atrium and the Shecky Greene concert at the Orpheum Theater. If you did not receive your invitation, call 3936775.
Parashat Mattot, Parashat Mase Can a Weed Change Its Roots? One of the continuing delights of the student of the Bible is perceptive comments he finds in the commentators and interpreters o^ the centtiries. Yosef BTdhor Shor, a 12th-century French scholar who has left his mark on Talmudic studies, noted a minor change of wording between one verse and the succeeding verse. In Numbers 31:2-3 (in the Child Development Center first of the two Sidrot that are our reading this week and close the Book of Numbers) he noted that the Lord aainmanded Moses to punish the Midianites ^^ehalf of the Children oflsrael;" and Moses passes the command along to the people to punish the Midianites "on behalf of the Lord." B'khor Shor comments: "The punishment is on Your behalf, Lord, inasmuch as nations that hate us, hate us only because of You!' Our commentator was born shortly after the first Crusade, which may have accomplished little against the Muslims in Palestine, but devastated large parts of the Jewish community in (what are now) France and Germany. Jews on both sides of the Rhine were given the choice by the enthusiastic Crusaders, The Cross or the Sword! Baptismal Font or Death! Students in Camp Shalom at the JCC recently B'hor Shor thus interpreted the persecution of celebrated Spirit Day. They performed the Jews as basically religious, "on Your behalf, Lord!" class song during Shabbat. From left: Lisa One could escape the sword by conversion. This Egenberger, Roslyn Wolberger, Ben Gordon, variety of the perennial weed of anti-Semitism was Becca Gordon, Heather Knudson, volunteer, planted and nourished through many centuries of Daynov Epstein, Amy Tsuei, Matt Moore, Christianity from the Church Fathers and onward. Jaime Abramson, and Lora Rosenbaugh, It is really only in our generation that the Chtuxh, teacher. both Roman Catholic and Protestant, has vigorously condemned religious anti-Semitism. It need hardly be said that the insight of B'hor Ex-Czech official: Shor is no longer valid. The anti-Semitism of the Holocaust years and of the "thinkers" of the genera'Gestapo leader given to KGB' tion before, who gave it its rationale, was based on By Gil Sedan race, not religion. It made the unscientific assump- BONN (JTA) — Was Adolf Eichmann's immedition that Jews constituted a separate race ofate superior abducted from Argentina four years humankind, and a pernicious and polluting one at before Eichmann? that. According to a recent issue of the German news This horrendous rubbish has been peddled to magazine Focus, a former interior minister of ignorant and Jealous people now for decades, reallyiCzechoslovakia told the magazine that his couna full century. It was unpopular for a time, immedi^ try's secret agents kidnapped Heinrich MuUer in ately after the dimensions of the Holocaust wereil956 from Argentina and handed him over to the understood and the vicious tentacles of the NaziRussian KGB. beast were revealed. But, to change the metaphor Known as "Gestapo Muller" to distinguish him back, the roots of the weed are deep and tenacious, from other Heinrich Mullers in the Nazi hierarchy. The weed continues to threaten human culture, toMuIler was the chief of the Gestapo and choke off scientific progress, and to destroy the val-Bichmann's boss. He was directly responsible for ues of human life itself. the transport of millions of-Jews to the concentraIn the next generation, or at least in the next cen- tion camps. He was last seen leaving Adolf Hitler's tury, dare we hope that it will be a vigorous and Berlin bunker the day before Hitler committed suienlightened religion that will finally uproot thiscide. He was believed tp have been killed in the persistent, pernicious weed? bombings of Berlin at the end of the war.
Summer camp art projects on display
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Third grade atudenU in aummer camp have aeveral prqjeeta on display at th« JCC, Including Shabbat aand aundaea, 3-D beachcomber viaors, 3-D beach acenery and pointilliam. Among the media used are aand, tisau« paper, craypas, starch, toothpicks, embroidery floss, cardboard, material, acrylic paint, marbeUxed paper, shells, sugar, salt From left are: Carol Greenbeif, art coordinator, Angela Friedman, Jessica Crabb, Shannon Wray, Irina Rosin, Danielle Chaaen, camp counselor, Sarah Stormberg. Not pictured: Jody Levine, Gal Tsbarai, B«ck]r Kafan, Amy Saylan, Stephanie Leman. >M ::i^^'.rn::
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BETH ELSTNAOOOUE
Syncigogues
14806 California
Omaha, NE 68154 498-8550
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TEMPLE ISRAEL 7023 CMS Street Omaha. NE 68,132 6S6-6536
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FRIDAY: Shabbat evening service at 7:30 p.m. Rabbi Stiel and Cantor Contzius will officiate. The Bummer theme, "A Summer Stroll Throueh Gates of Prayer," will continue. Sitter Service Sitter service is available each Shabbat evening service. Please make a reservation so we may plan accordingly. There are no facilities for infants. SATURDAY: Shabbat morning service at 10:15 a.m. ; Simcha B'shabbat-The congregation will study the Torah portion for the week. Adult education Tuesday: "Beyond Midrash,' 7 to 8:15 p.m., led by Don Schwartz. CHABAD HOUSE ^_^ 1322 So. 119th Street ^B Omaha, NE 68144 ^• 697-1124 •^ SATURDAY: Davening is at 9:30 a.m., followed by Kiddush. 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. Engiish "Think Jewish and speak English" classes on Jewish topics for new Americans, Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10:30 a.m. at Chabad House. ^^^B TIFERETH ISRAEL ^H^^ 3219 Sheridan Blvd. ^B Lincoln, NE 68502 ^"^ 423-8569 Services are conducted by Rabbi Stanley M. Rosenbaum. Minyans on Mondays and Thursdays at 7:15 a.m. FRIDAY: Services start at 8 p.m. SATURDAY: Services start at 9:30 a.m. B'NAIJESHURUN 20th and South Streeto Lincohi, NE 68502 436-8004
Services are officiated by Cantor Michael Weisser. FRIDAY: Shabbat evening service at 7:30 p.m. SATURDAY: Torah study and sefvice at 10 ajn. SUNDAY: Hebrew school, 9 a.m.; Religious school, 10 a.m.
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ROSE BLUMKIN JEWISH HOME FRIDAY: A special Friday service, led by Nancy and Sheldon Ripe, will start at 7 p.m. SATURDAY: Services, led by Steve Riekes, will be held in the Goldtten Chapel at 9 a.m. Members of the community are invited to join residents for the service and the kiddush following. Special memorial services are held on the last Saturday of each month.
OFFUTT rCapehart Cliapel I 35th Street and Capehart F Omaha, NE 68123 2944051 FRIDAYi Services start at 8 p.m.
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BETH ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE ISOSNcStadStrMt Omaha, NE 08104 566-6288
Office Houi«: Monday through Thursday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Friday: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. i ' . Services are conducted by Rabbi Paul Drazen and Cantor Emil Berkovits. FRIDAY: Services start at 6 p.m. SATURDAY: Services start at 9:30 a.m. Kiddush following services. The Devar Torah will be given by Glen Fineman. Sitter service starts at 10 a.m. , Shabbat story time, the first and third Saturday at 11 a.m. Minha-Ma'ariv and Havdalah services start at 8:40 p!m. SUNDAY: Services start at 9 a.m. WEEKDAYS: Services at 6:55 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Judaica Shop Open Tuesday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., or by appointment.
bffice hours: Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; Friday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Services are conducted by Rabbi Joseph Friedman. FRIDAY: Kabbalat Shabbat service at 7 p.m. SATURDAY: Morning services are at 8:46 a.m. in the Sanctuary and Goldstein Chapel. Babysitting service provided by Sisterhood. Super Shabbos-For children of all ages, starts at 9:30 a.m. Kiddush sponsored by Sisterhood. Mincha at '8:30 p.m. Shalosh Seudot, Ma'Ariv and Havdalah conclude the services. SUNDAY: Morning services at 9 a.m. Evening services at 8:30 p.m. WEEKDAYS: Services at 7 a.m. and 8:30 p.m. Practical Judaism A class with Rabbi David Kaye will be held Wedne8day,7:30 p.m., at the home of Rabbi and BTVAI ISRAEL Mrs. Kaye, 12237 Turner Cir. The RECONSTRUCTIONIST Cookbook "Happiness is Still Good Food," available at the CONGREGATION gift shop, or call Charlotte Kaplan at 551-5658. 322-4705 Services are led by Rabbi Ruth Ehrenstein and Sisterhood Gift Shop congregants. Sisterhood gift shop is open by appointment. Call NOTE: Services on the first and third Fridays of Leah Siegel at 556-5455. each month are held in Omaha. All other Friday night servites are held in Council Bluffs. For information on any activities, call 322-4705. FRIDAY: Shabbat service, 7:30 p.m., B'nai Israel East Pam and Justin KohU announce the June 23 SATURDAY: birth of a son, Noah Isaiah. Noah also has a sister, Havdalah at the JCC at 5 p.m. Bob Wolfson, exec- Talia Eisenberg, 9, and a brother, Zev Eisenberg, 7. utive director of the ADL, will speak on "The Grandparents are Sandy and Marvin Kohll and Militias and other issues for Jews to watch this Gerry and Dwight Kuster of Cedar Rapids, Iowa. political year." His talk will be followed by a Great-grandparents are Leona Cohn of Omaha potluck dinner at approximately 6:30 p.m. and Jeanette Kitster Of Bul'Ifngton, Iowa. SUNDAY: Rabbi is the guest speaker at the Second Unitarian Church, 10 to 11 a.m.
Births
Lori Sweet memorial fund An endowment fund in memory of Lori Sweet has been established with the University of Nebraska Foundation. The Lori Sweet Memorial Fund will be used annually for one or more scholarships to be awarded to fulltime undergraduate students enrolled in the College of Journalism and Mass Lori Sweet Communications at the University of NebraskaLincoln who are majoring in advertising. A m^jor contributor to the fund is Smith, Kaplan, Allen & Reynolds Advertising Agency, Inc. of Omaha, where Mrs. Sweet was an assistant vicepresident, media. She worked there for 12 years before she died of cancer in 1994 at the age of 40. Other contributors are from news media throughout Nebraska including KETV, Midlands Business Journal, WOWT, KMTV, and the Omaha World-Herald. Media representatives of national women's magazines such as Family Circle, Woman's Day, and Good Housekeeping also contributed to the fund. Mrs. Sweet's husband, Mark Sweet, who also donated to the fund, described the fund "as a tribute to Lori, so that her spirit of loving and sharing with others can continue forever." Mrs. Sweet was a 1972 graduate of Burke High School in Omaha and of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 1976. For additional contributions, contact Greg Jensen, University of Nebraska Foundation, 1111 Lincoln Mall, Suite 200, P.O. Box 82556, Uncoln, NE 68501-2666.
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Fn'edel Jewish Academy to host picnic
The Friedel Jewish Academy will host a back-toschool bar-b-que Sunday, Aug. 13, at 4 p.m. The event will be held at the Jewish Community Center Frohm Pavillion. For reservations, call the Academy at 334-0517, or Phyllis Hoffman at 391-7795.
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PERSONAL Mrs. Eric Mare of Delray Beach, Fla., was a recent guest of her father. Max Katz, and sister. Clara Lea Katz, residents of the Blumkin Home. Mrs. Mane is the former Jean Katz.
PERSONAL Thank you to all who expressed ttieir corK»m and wishes for me during my recent hospitalizatton. , Ethel Rosenstnin
Don and Ann Kibel Schwartz Irwite you to a reception in horxK of
Mordy Schwartm Graduatk>n from U.N.O. Depailure for U.J.L.A. Monday, August 7,1995 • 11 AV 5755 7:30-10:00 p.m. - Temple Israel Casual Dress •:iMtHMH««Ml!iMifLJtr---- •A,iiLi>-•C.ai-.^^V
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Portland's Jewish Federation on Internet Editor's Note: The followinK is part 2 of the Jewish Federation of Portland, Oregon's, home page on the Word Wide Web of the Internet. Part 1 was presented last week: Beneficiary agencies Circle of Life Circle of Life is a full-service, non-profit organization providing developmentally and educationally oriented day care for young children. All children are welcome at Circle of Life i Hillel Foundation The Hillel Foundation at the University of Oregon in Eugene operate under the leadership of 'a community board and a rabbinic director. It provides programming, classes, materials and events to enrich Jewish identity and combat antiSemitism and Euiti-Zionism on the campus.Jewish Family and Child Service The Jewish Family and Child Service provides professional counseling to individuals, families, and groups to help preserve, strengthen and enrich Jewish family life. Other services include resettlement programs, Jewish Family Life Education and Homemaker Services. Mittleman Jewish Community Center The MJCC provides cultural, social,.recreational and educational activities for all age groups from preschool to senior adults. Facilities include a Junior Olympic-size swimming pool, gymnasium, health club, handball and racquetball courts, ten^nis courts, auditorium and meeting rooms. Portland Jewish Academy With a commitment to treating the diversity of Jewish practices and religious movements with equal dignity and respect, the PJA offers an accredited Day School (preschool- sixth grade) with dual curriculum of general and Jewish studies; an afternoon Hebrew School (grades 2-7) that concentrates on those elements of religious observances that require an active use of Hebrew; and an Adult Academy with classes in modem Hebrew, Yiddish, Jewish philosophy, history and Uterature. PJA also provides consultative services to the congregational schools and to all interested organizations. Robison Jewish Home The Robison Jewish Home provides residential 'medical, nursing, dietary, house-keeping, recreational, social, physical therapy and other services for Jewish elderly. A non-profit home for the aging ^ith an infirmary and a residential section, it offers a broad spectrum of care for Jewish men and women. United Jewish Appeal The United Jewish Appeal was founded in 1939. UJA was created by the American Jewish community as its principal fund-raising agent in the United States. It supports humanitarian programs and services in Israel and the Jewish communities in 26 nations around the globe. National AfFiliates Council of Jewish Federations The CJF is an association of more than 200 autonomous local community federations in the United States and Canada. Founded with 14 members in 1932, the CJF's work is carried out primarily through organizing and strengthening local federations and helping them to work together. National Jewish Community Relations Advisory Council A voluntary association of Jewish community relations agencies, the National Jewish Community Relations Advisory Council is the instrument through which its constituency of 13 national and 1171ocal Jewish organizations collectively evaluate developments of concern to the Jewish community, plan how to deal effectively with those concerns, leek consensus on joint policies and develop guidelines for appropriate action. United Jewish Appeal CAMPAIGN
In an era of tight resources, competing demands and uncertainty about the future, the Federation's annual campaign continues to demonstrate the community's commitment tp a strong vibrant Jewish future, locally and glol|)ally. Thanks to a dedicated corps of more than 350 volunteers, representing both established leadership ^s well as those newly involved, more than 3,0OO individual pledges were made, for a total of $2,600,000 in 1994. Campaign staff and volunteers divided their efforts into areas as follows: Presidents Club (Minimum donation $10,000): $1,250,009 Super Sunday telethon: $150,000 Women's Division: $600,000 Kehilla Division: Mitzvah Division: ^ ALLOCATIONS The 1994 allocations process was especially difficult because starting in 1994-95, local resettlement of Jews from the former Soviet Union will be funded out of the annual campaign, instead of the separate Operation Exodus campEiign that had provided funds for this purpose. i The new process provided that funds be set aside to ensure that government mandated resettlement services will continue. Funds were also held for Portland's share of national resettlement. The Allocation Committee has begun the process of implementing strategic priorities with the development of a Request for Proposal intended to grant up to $50,000 for prograins which respond to the established priorities. Allocations Campaign Achievement: $2,600,000 Shrinkage (3%): $78,000 Deficit Reduction (2%): $52,000 Federation Budget: $556,793 Jewish Review: $66,787 i Oregon Jewish Community Foundation: $20,000 Special Program Fund: $50,000 Dues to National Organizations: $65,000 Resettlement (core services/buyout): $100,000 Missions: $15,000 $1,003,580 Available for Allocation: $1,596,420 Plus Interest: $28,000 Plus Special Bequest: $100,000 NET AVAILABLE: $1,724,420 Circle of Ufe: $5,000 College Committee: $7,795 Hillel at UO: $30,000 Jewish Family & Child Service: $185,000 Mittleman Jewish Community Center: $335,000 Portland Jewish Academy: $200,000 Robison Jewish Home: $250,000 National Agencies: $7,625 BBYO: $203 Hillel Appeal (National): $3,945 Jewish Educational Services: $3,450 SUBTOTAL: $1,020,420 United Jewish Appeial: $704,000 TOTAL ALLOCATED:$ 1,724,420
The Jewish Press (Foondedin 1920) 111* rol* of th* Jtwiih Fcdaration of Omaha it to involvi Jtwi in mxting Jawith communal paadi locally, nationally and in Iiratl. AginciM of tha Federation arc: Community Ralationi, Jawiah Community Cantar, Jawiah Bdueation, Jawiah Prata, Jawith Family Servica, Library and Bureau for the Aging. I'he Jawith Preat (USPS 275620) it publiihed weekly on Friday for $24 per calendar year U.S., $27 foreiicn, by the Jewiih Federation of Omaha, 333 South 132nd Street, Omaha, NE S8164. Second clati potUge paid at Omaha, NE. POSTMASTER: Send addreii changet to l^i Jawith Pratt, 333 eouih 132nd Street Omaba.NE 68164.Telephona 402-334-fl?00,
RolMrt Elaaabarg Pnndtnt, Boenl of DirKt^n MorriaMaUna EdiU)riB.Chief Manrawi LaPmir Maniging Editor LtrryAidnxi Adnrtliing Mantger Sharyl Friedman Bookkeeper Oaorg* Sehapiro Volu&taar
Letters
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,Tp the Editor: For the past 20 years, the Omaha Chapter of Hadassah has sponsored an Oneg Shabbat at the previous Dr. Philip Sher Home and the present Rose Blumkin Home on the last Saturday afternoon of the month, "rhe 2 p,m, pro-am is followed by a tea in th^ main dining room, hosted by Hadassah. The entertainment for the program in the Home's auditorium has been provided by a number of persons willing to volunteer their musical talents with the Home residents, and we are very grateful to them for their continuing willingness to perform. We aff presently also seeking any other young people or adults who play instruments, sing or dance, who are willing to help us continue this "Mitzvah" of helping to brighten the day for the residents, i Please contact either of us and let us know if you are available, on a one-time basis or more often, tp volunteer helping us continue this monthly event! Co-chairmen Ann Belmont, S66-7526, and Mary Fellman, 393-3144 To the Editor: As a liberal and reform Jew I am astounded by the writings of Rabbi Friedman and Rabbi Kaye. Do not apologize for your viewpoint. Do not preach "oneness and unity" when the truth is only as you see it. How many Jews already don't belong to synagogues because of narrow-minded views held by community religious leaders? I'm sorry your adding fuel to the fire, you are causing more polarization than unification. My wife, of 27 years, and I w6rk bard to provide a home, education, religious training and the other factors that help make children productive members of society. Some traditions are beautiful and have great meaning, others are senseless and outdated. You choose to honor all traditions and feel that any deviation makes us less than Orthodox, trust me, it doesn't. The converts you and the elitist faction claim do not exist will do well to not experience this bigotry that I believe goes against the fundamentad principles of our faith. As we enter again into uncertain times, political upheaval, world financial unbalance and the restructure of world power, we as a people would do well to return to the basics of our faith. How few of us keep the Ten Commandments in our minds? How many acts of kindness, assistance or giving do we do on a regular basis? Please take the time to lead your congregation to unity rather than drive the spike fiurther into division. You will have to acconunodate those of us who will tolerate yottt extremism , We in our way have remained as faithful as you. True faith is internal not external. Robert Boumstein
Board of Directors 9ylTi> Wegner, Vice Pnaident; SUTC Uringer. Truiurar, Leo Meyeraon, Secretary; Cjmthit Epttein; SUve Denon; Merci GaUoer, Howard Kaplan; Shirjrl Let: Jane Ripi; Uoyd RoittUia; Alria Beta; Koee Schupwk; Fred 'Rclieuer, Ben Wietmaa. Edilorlali eipne* the iritw of the writer end art not necenarily repreientalive of the Tiewt of the Jtwith Preii Board, the Jewiih Federation of Omaha or the Omaha Jewith Community at t whole The Jawith Pn» It not retpontible for the Kethruth of any Dnduct ftr tttahli*^"f f^^ y.
JmfUhrinm
July SB, 1996
^NqiSY sends Israel program updates via e-mail By Carol Kafaman Parents who signed iip for Uiis new service are cruising the Kinneret, hiking in Nachal Devora and receiving weekly 'letters' from David Katz, staff of visiting Jerusalem. They learned about illegal the Jerusalem office of the National Conference of immigration prior to 1948 and the underground movements of Lehi and Etzel with a visit to the Synagogue Youth, via their online service. Danny DePorte, Jeffrey Katzman and Amanda Acco prison and Atlit detention camp. Mack left for Israel on July 10 to attend the Israel . Group one moved to Kfar Etzion for their second Summer Seminar, a ilve-week outdoor adventure Shabbat and toured the south, jncluding Eilat, during the program's third week. They also visited and learning program with NCSY.More than 70 teens from across the country are Sde Boker, site of Ben Gurion's grave, went camel participating, and 22 parents are receiving 'mail' riding, had a mock bedomn lunch in the desdrt and from their children using this high-te^h method. visited a llama ranch at Mitzpe Ramon. During their stay at Kfar Etzion, thei group made The first update noted that the teens had all jarrlved safely, missing the airline baggage han- jilmost daily visits to Jerusalem where they saw the vast underground tunnels of the Kotel and dlers strike by one day! Group one, of which Danny, Jeff and Amanda are began discussions on Tisha B'Av, the commemorapart, left for the north. Based at Keshet Field tion of the destruction of the Temples and other School in the Gallilee, the group hiked through disasters which befell the Jewish people. Banyas, a nature reserve, visited the Golan and Both groups will be in Jerusalem on the Ninth of went swimming in the Mediterranean. Av,-*ljthich falls on Sunday, Aug. 5. More than They spent Shabbat at Keshet with Yachad, 50,000 Jews are expected to be at the Kotel, includwhere Danny, Jeffrey and Amanda spotted Jeffrey ing teens from a variety of Israel summer proSteinberg, son of Georgianne and Seymour grams. Steinberg. More updates are expected from the NCSY office. I was privileged to be with the group for Shabbat Information about summer programs in Israel for and met all of your children," wrote Mr. Katz. "The students is available on the World Wide Web: group is full ofjust really nice kids!," he added. http^/www.jerl.co.il/summer/menu.htm, or by callThe teens spent the second week of the program ing the Bureau of Jewish Education at 334-6445.
Counseling service for Jewish older adults By Claudia Sherman Foundation public relations director A mcgor service provided by the Bureau for the Aging is counseling. Due to unique problems involved with aging, Shane Kotok, the professional counselor with the Bureau for the Aging, is adept at both traditional and non-traditional styles of counseling. Many clients do not make office appointments but ,need the reassurance offered by a timely telephone call from the counselor. Mrs. Kotok also voluntarily extends her support after-hours and on weekends to visit Jewish older adults in the hospital, in the emergency room, and in their homes. Counseling may be needed at the time of a crisis. For instance, family members and the client may require support during the course of' terminal illness. The counselor functions as a surrogate family member during such traumatic cfrcumstances. Mrs. Kotok can also respond to calls from Life Line, a 24-hour-a-day medical alert system. She is a contact for out-of-town family members who might call her during the day or night, seven days a week. This unique service offered by the Bureau for the Aging has elicited praise from families near :and far, said Gene Brandt, executive director. The Ruth Riekes-Richards Endowment Fund is one of the crucial benefactors of the counseling program as well as other vital services provided by the Bureau for the Aging including Kosher Meals on Wheels, transportation, and congregate meal programs. Iliis endowment fund is one of 11 administered by The Foundation of the Jewish Federation of Omaha on behalf of the Bureau for the Aging.
'Women Against Violence' seeks volunteers Volunteers are needed for the YWCA Women Against Violence crisis Une. Volunteers receive cedls from victims of sexual assault, domestic violence, and child sexual abuse, as well as their family and friends. During the 39-hour training program, volunteers will learn the dynamics behind these crimes, as well as crisis intervention and active listening 'Bkills, and a brief background in medical and legal procedures. After training, volunteers staff the line between 6 and 12 hours per month, from their home, at a time conveniently scheduled. Training begins Sept. 9. Call the volunteer coordinator at the YWCA, 3466666, for more information.
Organizations YES YES will meet Monday at the JCC. Bingo, YES Talk and English class all start at 10:30 a.m. The choral group will rehearse at 11. Following lunch at noon, Julia Parker will speak. For transportation, call 330-4272. WALK-IN DROP-IN Walk-In Drop-In will meet Thursday at the JCC. Exercise class starts at 10:15 a.m. Bingo will start at 10:30, and English class is offered at 11. Bring a dairy sack lunch to eat at 11:45. At 12:15 p.m., a video, "Bubbe Meises" (part 1), will be shown in room 10. VISIONS Visions will travel to Topeka, Kan., Wednesday, Nov. 1, to view the 'Treasures of the Czars' at Kansas International Museum. Flyer to follow. For information, call Betty Sanford at 399-2001. Reminder: Visions will tour the Joslyn Art Museum Sunday. The board meeting will be held at the JCC Friday, Aug. 4, 9:30 a.m., in the adult lounge.
CORRECTION In last week's edition, the entry fee for the Omaha Chapter of Women's American ORT road rally was listed as $10 per person. The cost is $10 per couple.
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Jean Peters, a public school teacher and also a pilot, will speak to B'nai B'rith Breadbreakers Wednesday at noon at Regency West Best Western, according to Bob Birt, chairman for August. Ms. Peters, who has participated in a national air race and will participate in an international race, will discuss her experiences. WOMEN'S AMERICAN ORT Omaha Chapter of Women's American ORT will host its annual road rally Sunday, Aug. 6. Participants should meet at the main entrance to the JCC building at 5:45 p.m. Entry fee is $10 per couple, plus cost of meal. For information, reservations and meal choices, call Lesli Sher at 896-5951.
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Rabin letter read at cemetery By Jeremy Jones SYDNEY, Australia (JTA) — More than 1,000 people crammed into a cemetery in South Australia to express solidarity with the Jewish community of Adelaide, where more than 60 graves and headstones had been vandalized earlier this month. Among those conveying their concern was Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin, who sent a letter expressing his "utter digust" at the anti-Semitic attack that occurred there. Yehuda Avner, the Israeli ambassador to Australia, read aloud the letter sent by Rabin. 'Given our history, our common heritage, our mutual faith, the desecration of the Adelaide Jewish cemetery could not but touch a nerve in the emotions of us all," the letter said. 'It revives painful asBodations."
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Bert's Eye View By B«rt Lewis I heard reports recently about a trade show devoted to "Fancy Foods*....certainly that's a category which allows for lots of imagination. So what was considered "fancy"? Not much, as far as I could see. In fac|, I think I would have called it "unusual food," rather than fancy. For instance, a Tequila-flavored lollipop, complete with a worm imbedded inside. Why the worm? Go ask somebody who is a Tequila expert. In the meantime, the person introducing the product claimed the worm was "crunchy, kind of like corn flakes." Actually, at that point, I realized I could have waited a really long time to learn that little gem of information. ' I also was surprised to see that coconut jam was being introduced. Of all the fruits and berries available for jelly or jam, coconut seemed definitely unusual, especially in view of the fact that the natural oils in coconut have been declared- bad for the cholesterol. Mostly, the foods being displayed for public attention were those usually found in the spicy category. Extra hot this or that, for the consiimer who likes to say 'the hotter the better." You know the kind of person I mean~the same one who tastes the freshly ground horseradish strong enough to fog up the windows and says 'that's not too hot." That's the same person who asks for extra hot salsa when eating Mexican food, and then maybe adds pepper! (I like spicy, too, but can't see the tl^ill of feeling hke the fire-eater in the circus.) The Fancy Food Show exhibited new taste sensations from many different countries and cultures, some seemed interesting, some not. Food will always be a subject of interest to most of us, whether we stuff or eat sensibly. And Americans seem.to love trade shows and consider such exhibits good business, so I guess we shouldn't be surprised when a Tequila lollipop is introduced. If you don't mind. 111 just skip the worm.
Statement by the President 'On behalf of all Americans, I offer my deepest condolences to the Government and people of Israel at this tragic moinent. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims of this terrorist atrocity and their loved ones... Peace requires courage. The people of Israel have demonstrated enormous resolve and determination in pursuing the path of peace. Through times of suffering as well as rejoicing, the Government and people of the United States stand with them."
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In thieNews Elayne Susan Klein, daughter of Bruce and Jackie Klein of Omaha, recently graduated from Lake Forest Academy in Illinois. She will attend Bradley University. (Photo was received after press time for 'Salute to "95 Grads")
Mike Richards, son of Bobbi and Marv Richards, has been named partner in the Arthur Andersen, L.L.P. firm. He has been in the Chicago office since graduating from the University of Iowa-Iowa City.
The Jewish Press Call
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Unlike rare coins and priceless antiques, your will does not improve with age. An obsolete will may ignore momentous personal changes. Following up on my previous article about wills, I'd like td provide you with a quick rundown of circumstances that can make a review of your will an urgent matter. . , Marital Changes Thjis includes your own, your children's, or granddlildren's marriage relationships. Birth If you have a new child or grandchild, you may want to provide for the child's financial needs da. beyond your own lifetime. Death The death of a family member can profoundly affect a desired pre-arrangement. New Job _ Youll want to be sure to make the right survivor arrangelnents for new benefits, including the proceeds of insurance, pension, 401(k) and other company plans. Move Out of State Though your will is still valid, you may need to change it. Different death-tax and probate laws may necessitate revisions in your will in order to save taxes and simplify probate depending on the state in which you reside. New Tax Law You must be constantly alert to be certain that your will takes advantage of available credits and deductions. Philanthropic Concerns If you want to continue your financial support of •the Jewish Federation and its Affiliated agencies (Jewish Community Center, Jewish Press, ADIVCRC, Bureau of Jewish Education, Bureau for the Aging, Jewish Family Service, and the Jewish Federation Library), you may want to bequeath a sum of money or a modest share of your estate, perhaps as a memorial. For a no-cost, no-obligation consultation, please feel free to call me at The Foundation office, (402) 334-6440.
Allison Nettie Boehm, daughter of Clautjia Cohn Boehm and Joel T. Boehm, is a recipient of the Dean's Award for academic excellence during the spring semester at Colgate University. She is a 1994 graduate of Westside High School.
To Place Your J^ Holiday Greeting in the V/ NewYear's Edition of
J3 E ^ °^
Reasons tb review your will By Sheldon A. Bernstein, endowment director The Foundation of the Jewish Federation
William A. Nelson recently presented a Good Neighbor ciUtion to Mary Fellman, who has been honored by Ak-8ar-Ben and the Omaha World-Herald.
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A locally-produced film, Omaha (The Movie) by Dan Mirvish, is this year's winner of the Dramatic Feature Award, an award of $500. According to the announcement, it is a ludicrous but insightful work following the adventures of a young Nebraikan whose world-wide quest for spiritual peace leads him to his own backyard. No award was presented this year in the Documentary Feature category
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Barbara Forbes, who recently competed in the Fencing event for the Cornhusker State Games, won the Bronze Medal, Womens Epee' Division. She also competed in the Novice Foil and Women's Foil divisions. Last March, she was the Bronze Medal winner. Women's Foil, at the University of Nebn >ruke^^ Omaha Novice Tournament
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Waddell & Reed Asks
true American way of things. While some voices may claim this or that is the one true American way to think or believe, do not believe them. As an American citizen you can believe in any religion you want or none at all. Your values ^nd moral code are for you to decide Or^ behalf of the judg^ and staff of the United whether they are shared by many or none at all. States District Court, I want to congratulate each Political, economic, and social values range from^ of you on your aocomplis^ment in becoming full the right to the left and anywhere in between. participants in this democracy and to welcome you There is no one right way or wrong way to think as new citizens of the United States of America. and believe as an American - the choice is yours. You have worked hard to accomplish yoiir goal of That word citizen - what does it mean? ' One definition found in a dictionary describes a citizenship and hav^ made sacrifices in attaining citizen as a person who owes allegiance to a state it. I ask you not to waiver in your commitment. in which the sovereign power is retained by the Stay informed, be<lome involved, and remain alert. Democracy demands of us our blast judgment people who also ishares in the political rights of those people. Today you have sworn allegiance to and that requires that we know the facts, think the United States and have become a full share- about their importance, and decide what should be holder in the sovereign power retained by the peo- done by our representatives and leaders. This govple. The certificate you will receive at the end of ernment is with our consent. Thus we must exerthese ceremonies can be likened to a stock certifi- cise our right to vote and let our views be known to cate in a company that issues certificates to its others. We should become involved in our commushareholders. You are now an owner of this coun- nity and in our political process. Finally, we should be ever vigilant. Over the try. Unlike a business^ however, these certificates are issued one to a customer and are all of equal main door of the state capitol in Lincoln are carved value - equal whether you were born here, bom of the words The salvation of the state is watchfulAmerican parents, or immigrated here from anoth- ness in the citizen.' We must insure that the wisher country. Consequently, your certificate is of es of the people are being carried out rather than equal value to that of Hillary Clinton, or Warren the personal whims of our representatives and leaders. When they stray, we mjist tell them so. r Buffett, or Michael Jordan, or John Q. Public. In your oath, you renounced land and its people. When they refuse to change their ways, we must Preserve your native language, your heritage and take action to correct them. After our Declaration of Independence in 1776, ; culture. Doing so enriches your new country. We have been blessed by immigrants fit)m every coun- the great experiment of democracy began in this try of the world who have brought their languages, country. You are now part of that great experiment their cultures, and' their values with them. This that has lasted over 200 some years. Welcome to diversity is one of the great strengths of the United the laboratory and congratulations on your comiStates. Because of this diversity, there is no one mitment to the preservation of democracy.
Are Ton Satisfied With Tour Job?
Editor's Niate: The following talk warn given by Judge ThonuM D. Thalken to welcome na^ralized citisens. Some of the photoa below were taken on that day, other* were taken during previous Bessiona:
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Chirac hailed for recognizing France's role in Holocaust By Michel DiPaz PARIS (JTA) — Jewish leaders here and abroad are hailing a speeqh by French ^sident Jacques Chirac, who became the first Frenph leader to recognize publicly the responsibility of the French state in the deportation of thousands of Jews to their death during World War II. French Nazi-hunter Serge Klarsfeld described Chirac's speech as a "historic statement" that ' clearly separated Chirac fivm his immediate pre' decessor, Francois Mitterrand. "This is what we always wanted to heai'," Klarsfeld said' of the speech. "Chirac's predecessor came twice to the commemoration of the Vel d'Hiv , roundups, but he never spoke, and he always refused to recognize the responsibihty of France in the arrests and the deportations. President Chirac just did that." The speech also drew praise from European Jewish Congress President Jean Kahn, who said Jews and everyone who fought against the Nazis "must have been delighted to hear these words." In Germany, Ignatz Bubis, the chairman of the Central Council of Jews in Germany, called on other European leaders to follow ,Chirac's example and acknowledge their countries' collaboration with the Nazis. "This collaboration actually took place in all coun, tries occupied by Hitler Germany, with the excep• tion of Denmark and Bulgaria," Bubis said in a radio interview. "But such a clear admission as that from Jacques Chirac has otherwise come only from the Dutch Queen [Beatrix). So I am surprised," said Bubis. The plaudits for the French president followed a speech Chirac made at ceremonies marking the S3rd anniversary of the first mass arrests of Jews in Paris. The deportations were undertaken by the Vichy collaborationist government in power during the war. "There are moments in the life of a nation that hurt the memory and the idea one has of his counjtry," Chirac said at a monument located near the Velodrome d'Hiver; the now-demolished cycling Stadium where French police held some 13,000 Jews during the infamous July 16-17, 1942, roundups. About 4,000 of the Jews, those without family, were sent to the Drancy internment camp near Paris. They were then deported to Auschwitz. The remaining 9,000, which included 4,000 children, -were kept at the Vel d'Hiv for a week and then sent directly to the Auschwitz death camp. . "It is difficult to evoke them, because those dark hours tarnish forever our history, and are an insult to our past and our traditions," said Chirac. He then added the words Jewish leaders had never been able to elicit from his predecessor:
"Yes, the criminal folly of the occupier was assisted by French, by the French state. 'France, homeland of the Enlightenment and of human rights, land of welcome and asylum, France, on that very day, acc,ompliBhed the irreparable," he saidi. "Fkiling her promise, she delivered those she was to protect to their murderers." , The comments by Chirac, who was elected to the French presidency less than two months ago, stand in stark contrast to the position of his predecessor regarding France's wartime past. ' During a television interview last yearj Mitterrand sought to distance the actions of the 'collaborationist Vichy regime from the French Republic. Mitterrand was an officer in the Vichy regime in 19^2, but later worked with the Resistance. "The republic had nothing to do with all that. I do think that France is not responsible," he said. "Those who are accountable for those crimes belong to an active minority who exploited the (French] defeat. Not the republic and not France. I'll never ask for forgiveness in the name of France." Mitterrand also drew the ire of many for failing to apologize for his postwar friendship with Rene Bousquet, the Vichy regime's chief of police who ordered the infamqus Vel d'Hiv roundups. Chirac attacked "the spirit of hatred" that not only marked the Nazi era, but could be found in present-day France in the form of the extreme right-wing National Front, headed by Jean-Marie Le Pen. The "racist crimes" perpetrated nowadays by such groups as the National Front, Chirac said, "stem from the same sources" as Nazism. The anti-immigrant National Front scored surprise victories in France's nationwide municipal elections last month, winning mayoral races in several cities. In the southern city of Toulon, the Jewish community boycotted the local commemoration of the wartime Jewish deportations because they were presided over by the newly elected National Front mayor, Jean-Marie Le Chevalier. To show their defiance, members of the French Union of Jewish Students replaced a wreath laid by the mayor with one of their own. Chirac also referred to the situation in Bosnia, where humanistic values "are today held up to ridicule in Europe itself, by the supporters of ethnic cleansing." Chirac, who in recent days called upon Western nations to form a rapid reaction force to drive rebel Bosnian Serbs back from U.N. safe havens they recently overran, drew a clear parallel between events in Bosnia and the Nazi Holocaust.
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Temple Israel to hold golf, tennis outing By Morris Maline In an effort to benefit its social action programs. Temple Israel will hold a golf and tennis outing, Monday, Aug. 28, at Highland Country Club. According to the announcement, special events will include hole-in-one prizes of both a 1995 Mustang convertible and $10,000. In addition, there will be surprise holes involving Rabbi Aryeh Azriel, Rabbi Debbie Stiel and Cantor Erik QontziuB. The event is sponsored by Stan Schrier. The schedule is as follows: Registration and photographs fi'om 11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.; driving range open at 11:30 a.m.; lunch at noon; shotgun start at 1 p.m.; tennis tournament, round robin at 3 p.m.; pre-dinner party from 5:30-6:30 p.m.; dinner at 6:30 p.m., preceded by the presentation of prizes by Gary Java, KKAR sportscaster. Reservations are required by Aug. 14 . For reservations and information on fees and sponsorship, call 556-6536.
Orthodox groups urge civility in peace debate By Larry Yudelson NEW YORK (JTA) — After two years of increasing rancor in the debate over Israel's peace process policy, a growing chorus of American Jewish organizations are appealing for an urgent return to civil discourse. Six leading. Orthodox Jewish organizations declared last week that "there can be no excuse or justification for the extremist verbal attacks directed against the elected leadership of the State of Israel." The statement,was issued jointly by Amit Women, Emunah of America, Mizrachi — Religious Zionists of America, the Rabbinical Council of America, Poale Agudath Israel and the Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America. The Orthodox groups came together Eipparently in response to Orthodox Rabbi Abraham Hecht, who last month declared it acceptable under Jewish law to assassinate Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin. At the same time, the New Israel Fund recently brought together several other groups to discuss how the community should respond to Hecht's statement and similar remarks. "Silence in the face of this accelerating breakdown in civil discourse is unacceptable," NIF warned in a statement last week.
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Salisch meets with community professionals By Bariwra Chandler, Federation conununicaUons director The Federation'B Strategic Planning consultant, Dr. Marc Saliach, met with Jewish community proIfeBsionaU on July 10 -12. Participants included Federation and Agency directors and professiopal staff, rabbis, cantors, synagogue directors and professionals, religious school directors and comn^unity teachers. The purpose of the meetings was to update community professionals on the status of the'planning process andi to begin to gather input from them in their areas of expertise. Forrest Krutter, Strategic Planning chairman, welcoi^ed the group at an opening breakfast meeting where he reviewed the reasons for undertaking the process at this time. *We need to look at the fundamental issues of where we are going and what our purpose is,' Mr. Krutter added, 'The Strategic Planning ^Committee is working to develop key strategic issues, but as professionals, you provide valuable 'input and expertise since each of }n>u is spending :;your professional career dealing with these issues. You bring to the process education, knowledge and perspective that the committee members do not have." Dr. Salisch explained the steps involved in the strategic planning process and spoke optimistically ' about the outcome. "Omaha has a unique problem. You have had ; enormous success for a long time and it's difBcult to see the need for change, but you need to look to the future to have freedom and options down the road. My role is to ensure a thorough and impartial . process that will help the community plan for the future." Lori Rabb, Federation assistant director, noted that strategic planning is relatively new to Federations. "Many organizations have been going Lthrough this type of evaluation and planning for years, but Federations have not because we have been very successful at raising funds and meeting the needs of our communities. However, things have been changing over the past several years. People no longer have the strong ties to the Jewish icommunity that their parents had. We are re-evaluating how we meet people's needs today and how we will meet them in the future." Dr. Salisch suggested that while cities like Baltimore and New York are models for large city strategic planning, Omaha is different. As a relatively stable Midwest community, we are in the unique position of potentially becoming a national model for smaller cities.
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Clinton's initiative could increase religion in ^hool By Matthew Dorf WASHINGTON (JTA) — President Clinton's move to head off the drive for school prayer could backfire as reUgious right activists vow to pse the initiative to push for more religion in America's classrooms. I The guidelines are a "road map" for bringing religiorf into the schools, said the Rev. Lou Sheldon, chairman of the Traditional Values Coalition, a church lobbying organization based in Anaheim, Calif and a chief architect of the highly controversial "reUgious equality amendment" "The president helped us because he raised the level of the issue," said Sheldon, a bom Jew who converted decades ago at the age of 16 after "seeing the light" at an evangelists meeting in his native Washington^ D.C. It was largely in an effort to stave off Sheldon and other religious rights activists — and especially their congressional backers — that Clinton last week issued a set of guidelines defining the vast array of religiouci activity legally permitted in public schools. Jewish groups mostly applauded the president's initiative, but some said they are looking for some fine-tuning to avoid a backlash against Jewish and other minority students. The guideUnes, which the president said "borrows heavily" from a recently released study on the subject by a coalition spearheaded by the American Jewish Congress, spell out what forms of religious expression are curiieptly allowed in the schools. Noting that nothing in the First Amendment "converts our public schools into religion-free zones," the guidelines address-such issues as student prayer and religious discussion, teaching about religion and the wearing of religious garb. The administration hopes that once Americans realize the extent' of the protections under current law, politicians will abandon their efforts to amend the Constitution. CUnton, who unveiled his guidelines in a speech at a Virginia high school last week, vowed to send the guidelines to all of America's 16,000 school districts before the beginning of the school year. "The Constitution protected the free exercise of religion, but prohibited the establishment of religion," Clinton said in his speech. "It does not, as some people have implied, make us a religion-free country," he said. While many Jewish activists — concerned moAt with averting the enactment of a constitutional amendment — praised Clinton for his initiative, some suggested that some changes are necessary to help clarify what is prohibited in the schools. "It's a fair rritidsm of the presidential memo that
it did not state unequivocally what is prohibited," said Marc Stem, co-director of the legal department of AJCongrees and the primary author of the guidelines on which Clinton's directives were based. ' "It would have been nice had the president emphasized more of the prohibitions," he said. Stem acknowledged the possibility that the effort could galvanize the right, but, he said, ^'We can't resist acknowledging what law is because someone might distort it" ' ' "This may be the lesser of two evils, but I don't see the Jewish community in the position of arguing against religious freedom protected in current law," he said. Stem said AJCongress would try to convince the Department of Education, the White House and the attorney general to add language on forbidden religious expression "so what is sent out is clear." Among the Orthodox community, Agudath Israel of America said it "commended the thrust" of Clinton's remarks, but expressed concern that the emphasis on legally protected religious speech "could create problems for children of minority faiths, including Jewish children, in public schools." Despite some concerns, several Jewish groups said they believe that the guidelines will be an important tool for educators trying out to navigate the complex nature of religion in school. The guidelines "give some clarity to schools and communities about what is and is not allowed," said Rabbi David Saperstein, director of the Reform movement's Religious Action Center. "Yes, this will lead to more religion, but, no, I don't believe it will be coercive," he said. Clinton's move "really undermines the argument for a constitutional amendment," Saperstein added, giving voice to the biggest fear among Jewish and other religious groups. How the Clinton initiative will impact the debate over a constitutional amendment on Capitol Hill is still an unknown. Congress wrapped up a series of field hearings on the "religious equality amendment" this week as reUgious right activists and members of Congress feverishly worked to complete language on an amendment before lawmakers recess for August Although the actual text of an amendment has yet to be introduced into Congress, Sheldon has drafted a broad amendment that, among other things, would allow students to lead their classmates in prayer during the school day. The Christian Coalition has also made passage of a constitutional amendment the centerpiece of its legislative agenda.
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Remembering Jewish life in Nebraska (continued 1850-1950)
From Generation to Generation... In 1886, Aaron Ferer, a young immigrant from Russia, left New York City with his wife, Chile, and $12.50. Possibly heeding the advice of Horace ' Greeley to "Go West Young Man," he traveled as far west as his money would take him, which turned out to be Omaha, Neb. After his arrival, he started collecting scrap metals and sometime thereafter established a small scrap processing business named Aaron Ferer & Sons Company at Eighth and Dodge Streets. Since his demise in 1937, Aaron Ferer & Sons Co. has been continuously managed by his sons and grandson; presently four great-grandsons (the fourth generation) of the founder are active in the day-today operation and management of the company, ensuring further longevity for this 109-year-old company. ' Aaron Ferer had six sons who followed in his footsteps. Samuel Ferer (who died in 1951) started operations in St. Louis in 1918 under the name of Aaron Ferer & Sons Co.; Morris Ferer branched out to Los Angeles in the aluminum smelting business; Abe Ferer started in Oakland; Allan Ferer startied in San Diego; and Hyman Ferer remained in Omaha. In 1960, Harvey D. Ferer succeeded his late father, Hyman Ferer, as president of the company. Harvey D. Ferer is the grtmdson of Aaron Ferer. In October, 1965, Aaron Ferer & Sons Co. announced the dedication of their new scrap facility at 909 Abbott Drive. They also celebrated their 80th year in business. • • The presidency of Aaron Ferer & Sons Company was passed on to a fourth generation in 1993. Matthew D. Ferer was appointed president to succeed his father, Harvey D. Ferer. The latter becomes chairman of the company. Matthew Ferer is the youngest of Harvey Ferer's sons and was previously chief financial officer. Siblings Aaron and Whitney Ferer, who are vicepresidents, have assumed the additional titles of :vice-chairmen.
Ujiited Way/CHAD
Race and Religion By Shana Novak, Syracuse University Jeiviih Preg$ intern I've heard it on' 'The Oprah Winfrey Show," just recently on "Sally Jessie Raphaelj" and unfortunAtely, all too often, I hear it from normal people. We've all probably heard it, and no matter where it comes from, it makes me REALLY mad. It's a statement so commonly and casually used that people don't even realize they are making a big (not to mention ignorant) mistake. ""The Puerto Ricans, the French, the Germans, the blacks, the whites, the Jews." It doesn't take a genius to figure out which word is out of place in thd sentence above-but obviously there aren't as many 'geniuses around today as we may think. Are the people of the world so uneducated that they can no longer distinguish between race and reUgion? Last time I checked, the word "Jewish" belonged among the words Catholic, Christian, and Muslim. Will someone please let me know if Judaism has suddenly become a country in Europe? I'd love to know why half the human race thinks that's what our religion is. I've always wanted to do something about this misconception. I thought about going on a national tour once-explaining to Americans everywhere that there are distinct differences between being a Muslim and a Malaysian or being a Buddhist and a' Belgian. When I got to thinking about this idea, I realized that my information would go in one ear and out the other side. So what's next? Subliminal messages? Dropping flyers from the sky? Making a movie out of my hfe story? I think not. The solution to this very dangerous problem is, in my mind, easier said than done. Very simply put, we need more education on racial and religious issues and the differences between them. If I'm lucky, I might get to take a course in college on this idea- but waiting until college to pound this stuff into people's heads is too late. Instead of being 18 years old when you finally learn that being Protestant and Polish are two different things, you should be eight. Education is always complicated these days-with so much to get in the way-but teaching an eight-year-old who is still developing his mind is a whole lot easier to teach than a strong-minded college activist. If we ever want the world to know the differences between being Jewish and Japanese, we must not wait until the world is attending a large university to tell them. We must begin showing our young ones the contrasts between race and religion as soon as possible, and after that, the development of their education must never stop. If I have said anything in this story to offend you, please understand that I'm not trying to dictate the way one lives. If you have an opinion, stick to it, but there is one thing that is most definitely not an opinion-it's a fact: BEING JEWISH MEANS BELONGING TO A RELIGION-NOT A RACE.
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By Debbi Brown, volunteer Rose Blumkin Jewish Home "We'll always be best friends. We'll live next door to each other on neighboring farms and then our children will be best friends! too." That wa^ the childhood promise my best friend, Sarah, and I made to each other hundreds of times over the ' course of our friendship. ' Interestiiig choice of where to live since we were both born and raised ii\ Miami Beach. We lived three houses away from each other which, in our opinion, was two.houses away too many. Theire was a golf course across the street from our houses, which was our playground, and daily we would plop ourselves down on the tenth hole, look up into the sky and play "looks like" with the cloud formations. . Well, I ended up in Omaha, and Sarah landed in Laguna Niguel, Calif, and as the years passed by, Sarah and I grew to know that promises, like clouds, sail past all too quickly as you stand by helplessly watching them fade away. And life, one learns, goes on ... and other best friends appear magically. There were best friends that I made in college in Boston, best friends I taught with and best friends that I made when I moved to Omaha. Connie was one of my best friends in Omaha. We shared a closeness like that of sisters. She shared her feelings freely and we related to each other's "open book policy." Our life is like an open book," we would remark proudly. We spent a lot of time" together over the years. One day Connie said she was moving away. As if to make it less sad for me she'd say often, "don't worry, we'll always be together, well be roommates at the Blumkin Home." I have a sense that time eludes us. And with a birthday fast approaching that will categorize me as middle-aged, I have decided I'd better look into the situation at the Blumkin Home (I'm doing the footwork, Connie). So over the course of the next few months, Fm going to share some facts with you about a wonderful place known simply to most as the Blumkin Home. It's real name is The Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. In 1981, construction of The Rose Blumkin Jewish Home began on the grounds of the Jewish Community Center nine months after the announcement from Rose Blumkin and her family that one million dollars would be donated toward the construction of a new home, with the community doubling this amount. In 1982, the doors opened. The Rose Blumkin Jewish Home has the capability to accommodate residents requiring skilled care. Actually, it is licensed by the state as a Skilled Care Nursing Home. It offers both short-term convalescent care and long-term nursing care to its residents. It is a home that provides more than physical care. "Their social, spiritual and psychological needs are faithfully addressed", wrote Bert Lewis in Listen Up, Teire Kinderlach. Ganug (as my grandmother would say in Yiddish) enough for now.
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Letter from Israel By Harry Allen America has the 'Christian right'—Israel - the vot have produced a number of IDF officers and solOrthodox right. The American Christian right is diers. more focused on matters of what it considers famiThe ruling has aroused wide-spread condemnaly values'—the Israel religic^us right is much more tion both among Orthodox and non-Orthodox sec^concerned with the very basis of government in this tors of Israeli society. The Ashkenasic Chief Rabbi, country. ' Yisroel Lau, a Holocaust survivor, spoke out The question of the extent to which Israel should against it as did the former Sephardic chief ^bbi, be shaped and governed by religious law (Halacha) Ovadia Yoeef, along with many others who are also has bedeviled the modem Zionist movement since part of the Hesder Yeshiva movement and the its birth and has never been resolved. National Religious party. i ; Ben Gurion negotiated a truce with the religious The mling has thus created a mtyor rifl within parties, but that status-quo has never been fully the National Religious party and has placed jBCcepted by either the reUgious parties or the secu- Orthodox soldiers in an untenable position. These larists. The issue has now burst forth like a forest soldiers are deeply attached emotionally to their fire which was fanned into a blaze by strong wind 'rebbes' but as in any army one must obey the igniting long smoldering'Ambers. i leadership or suffer the consequences. The ruling That strong wind is the imminent conclusion of raises the ugly spectre of 'civil war" in Israel as the second phase of the Oslo accords with the PLO final settlement with the Palestinians approaches. which will result in Israeli troop withdrawals from So the issue of Halacha vs. westem style poUtical the Arab population centers of the West bank. democracy has moved center stage. When that happens — as it surely will — Israel Unfortunately, what has been additionally lost is occupation of Judea and Samaria will have ended the possibility of infusing Israeli life with a greater no matter what the final agreements conclude. degree of personal religious commitment. That reality has panicked the right wing and it has This ruling simply provides additional ammunibecome increasingly militant, apgry and very des- tion to the extreme secularists, who are not limited perate. to the present government by any means, for the It is against this political background that las^ campaign to expunge religious values entirely from week's halachic ruling by a group of rabbis is to be Israeli society. ' understood. In their political zeal, the rabbis who made the Twenty rabbis, all affiliated with either the ruling have caused grave damage. They would have Header Yeshiva movement (those yeshivot which been well advised to follow the admonition of the combine army service with Yeshiva studies), the little old Jewish lady who, when called upon to B'nai Akiva youth movement which is the "modem" deliver the verdict of the jury in a contentious law Orthodox youth organization or the Na,tional reli- suit, responded as follows, "Your honor, we have gious party, issued a ruling that it is forbidden for listened to the defendant and we have listened to an Israeli soldier to remove either an army base or the plaintiff, and our decision is that we shouldn't settlement from the West Bank. The Hesder yeshi- mix in.'
AARP vote The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) is involved in the discussions on the future of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security. In their continuing effort to inform members and the public on these issuos, AARPArote is sponsoring an issues forum Saturday, 5:30 p.m., at Regency West Best Westem, Pacific St. and 1-680. Senator Robert Kerrey will speak. The public may attend at no charge.
Attend Shabbat services
By David Landau JERUSALEM (JTA) — Two young Israelis were shot and killed recently at Wadi Kelt, a popular hiking spot located between Jerusalem and Jericho. Oren Shahor of Ra'anana and Ohad Bachrach of Beit El, both in their 20s, were hiking in the area and had stopped to eat. They were apparently fired upon from some distance; one was subsequently attacked with a knife as well. The two victims bad been known to be carrying side arms at the time — but these were gone by the time tiieir bodies were found.
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Tjemple Israel Sisterhood to host book sale Temple Israel Sisterhood will host a nearly-pew and used book sale at Temple Israel, 7023 Cass St., on tKe following scheduled dates: Sunday, Aug. 20, noon to 6 p.m. Monday, Aug. 21, and Tuesday, Aug. 22, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 23,10 a.m. to 6 p.m. A preview sale will be held Sunday, Aug. 20, from 9 a.m. to noon, for a cost of $10, which includes a continental breakfast and flrst choice of all the books. For information, call Jeanne Angalet at 3934193.
Playhouse auditions The Omaha Community Playhouse has announced auditions for Glory Years, a new script written by Charles Jones, artistic director, and celebrating the past 100 years of the Knights of AkSar-Ben and Omaha. Production dates are Thursdays through Sundays, Sept 22 through Oct. 22, as part of the Fonda-McGuire series. Needed are 16 adult actors and six adult actresses, all to play multiple roles, and six children (three boys and three girlb age 8 to 11). All will be asked to sing a prepared song of 16 measures. An accompanist will be provided. There will also be a dance audition. Audition dates are: Adults-Tuesday, Aug. 1, and Wednesday, Aug. 2, both at 7:30 p.m.; ChildrenWednesday, Aug. 2, 5 p.m. Auditions will be held in the Hitchcock Rehearsal Hall (via the west stage door entrance of the Playhouse). For information, call 553-4890.
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IWo dfflcers presumed lost By David Landau i JERUSALEM (JTA) — Two Israel Air Force officen were missing and presumed lost after their F16 warplane collided with another F-16 just off the coast of Nahariya recently. Lt Col. Kami Shlomi, 36, a squadron leader frota Mishmar Ha'emek, and Lt. Yuval Binyamin, 2<l, failed to qect from their plane after the collision. The crew of the second jet fighter bailed out safely' into the sea and were picked up by a navy rescue craft.
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By Evan Saltman First, a person's identification with his general Editor'a Note: Evan Saltnnan delivered the following D'var Torali at graduation at country is lost. That isn't so difficult. Then, he Margolin Hebrew Academy Feinateih Yesiiiva must break ties with his town.' Finally, Avram is instructed to go to a land which Hashem will first of tiie south in Memphis, Tenn. show him later. Now his security comee onljy from I In the end of Parshat Noach it says: Terach took his relationship with G-d. This idea has special meaning for me and my Avram, his son, and Lot, the son of Haran, his family. In some ways, I am the same as Avram, and grandson, and Sarai, his daughter-in-law, the wife of Avram, his son, and they left Ur Kasdim to go to some ways I ixa different. Two years ago I left my the land of Canaan and they came to Charan and friends, familyrand my city in order to come, to Memphis to learn in a Yeshiva. At first, the move they liyed there. In the next persha it says: Hashem said to was difficult for me, but there are many people in Avram, 'Gro from your land and from your birth- this community whoniade it an easier one, and I place and from your father's home to the, land that would Uke to thank them very much. Next year, I have decided to continue my learning I will show you." in Israel. The Torah calls out again—"go even furTwo questions arise from these verses: ther," from my land and leave my country. In a cru1) Didn't Avram already leave his home with Terach? Why is Hashem telling Avram to leave? He cial aspect, my situation is diflerent. Leaving my parents is not part of my mission. has already left! 2) The'order of the verse doesn't make sense. If Unlike Avram, my parents share in my journey Avram leaves his land, wouldn't he have already with support and self-sacrifice in making it all posleft his birthplace and his father's home? This is sible. I have come to understand that a truly loving not a sensible progression. If I were to tell you to parent is the one that can sacrifice their own emoleave America, leave Tennessee, and leave tional needs for the greater benefit of their own Memphis, wouldn't you have already left Tennessee child. One might think that a true loving parent wouldand Memphis if you first left America? The order n't let their child go because they can't bear to part should be reversed! Rashi deals with the first of these two questions. with him. But this is not true love. Truly loving He says: Did he not already go from there with his parents would support everything the child needs father, and did they not come to Charan? Bilt he to pursue and my parents have done so. By giving said to him, "Go even further from there and go me the opportunity to have a Jewish education and to continue on to Israel, my parents have shown me , from the house of your father." the meaning of life, the meaning of parenthood, There are two questions on Rashi: 1) This is a nice idea, but the verse says leave and what the future can hold. your land. It doesn't say to go further away. 2) What is the significance of going further? Avram already, left. What's the difference? When we look back at the text we are confronted with another question. The Torah says that they left Ur Kasdim headed for Canaan. Why did they stop and dwell in Charan?
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Perhaps the answer to this is tied to the fact that a person is constantly looking for a sense of securiGREAT SMOKED FLAVOR - AT LASTI jr^ ty in life, a feeling that things are going well. This 1410 N. Saddl«cr*«k. 6S132 . -^ -a sense of security is tied to the place he lives; your f Cpen7DaysAVVto(cMON-THURSn.O0anitolt00pjn. • childhood; friends, family, memories, everything FBI4SATItOOanitotOOam.-SUNNoonti7«)(ini ~ Dins in or Take Out ^ produces this sense. When a person goes to a new OajVERYAVAJLABLE. Cet 7>ICC V place, he feels Hke he is leaving everything behind, : CALL-INS ARE WaXOME-WwO /tWjJ ^ and is all alone. This is why Terach stopped in Charan and could not go on to Canaan. Terach couldn'^.break his ties with his homeland. By not going too far, Terach was still able to feel himself connected to Ur Kasdim. For example, if an American moves to Canada, he doesn't feel completely broken off from America. But if he moves to Greek, Italian & Lebanese Imported Groceries Australia, the person would feel that he is comCXVM & Ollva 01: FXa & Kusait ChMM: Pala k FUl pletely removed from his identify as an American. Bnud: Falalel nin & TtM; Omk k Turtdih CotlM: Haiva, Jams k Molaaau: Cousooua. I^nllls, Whtals, NuU, The proximity of Charan to Ur Kasdim allowed the Saada. Atova al, a Larga VarMy ol Fraah Spkaa family to continue to view themselves as somewhat still part of Ur Kasdim. (402) 390-0120 Open: MonSat 10 00AM - 8 00 PM When Hashem told Avram to leave from his land, 3025 South 83rd Plaza, Omatia, NE 68124 Hashem meant that Avram should break all ties GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE that he has with his birthplace and his land and his father's home. So the importance isn't in the lljfUfiiKiftifUBiBifarJrJfiifiifiiriiriitoriiriifijRil physical distance but the mental distance that is created by going even further. This is why the verse says leave your land, because mentally the family was still back in Ur Kasdim. NEW LOCATION • 3821 CENTER Now we can answer the second question. The Graak Baar ft Win* Graak Spaclals Dally verses list the progression in a psychological order Dina In/Carry Out Hotntmada Paitrias of breaking ties with the past, from least diflScult to WaCatarTool Spaclallzing In Baklava most difficult Party Rooma Full S»rvk» Bar
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The Dance Dept. of the JCC reeently offered a week-long cheerleading eamp. Among thoae participating were, back row, from left: Sara Schweid and Rebecca Murow. Front row: Sarah Linn, Lauren Fergin and Heather Holling.
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Planning a bris ByPamKohU On Friday, June 23, our son was bom, and mixed with joy land the wonder and miracle of birth, came the sober realizatioh that according to halacha, a bris had to be arranged by the following Friday. We wanted a mohel to do the ceremony of brit : iflilah. A mohel is a person who is specially trained ; in the medical and surgical techniques of drcumdsion. In addition to being an expert in his field, the ; mohel is also an expert in the Je^sh laws pertain< ing to brit milah. ' On Sunday, from my hospital bed (I had towait • until Shabbos was over—no mohel answers the ; phone on Shabbos) I called a few well-connected rabbi friends of ours in search of a mohel. My next step was to dial 1-800-85MOHEL. To my delight, I • was connected to an amiable mohel by the name of Rabbi Michael Rovinsky from St. Louis, Mo. Among several degrees the rabbi has is a masters in Talmudic law from Iver Israel Rabbinical College in Baltimore. He is the director of the Association for the Advancement of Brit Milah, an organization which strives to provide every Jewish child an opportunity for brit milah. He is on call, so to speak, and travels throughout the U.S. perform^ing brits whenever he is called, sometimes two a ^day in different cities. People were told where and when the brit would be. I learned from a friend that it is not correct to invite people, but that the information should be given. It is up to an individual to attend and is considered a mitzvah. Meanwhile, I was busy getting the specifics done—Highland's kitchen was koshered, the food ,was considered, out-of-town relatives came, etc. Rabbi Rovinsky flew into town the following Friday. He met us at Highland Country Club with a fully-prepared table for the ceremony. As Justin held our son in his lap, the rabbi told a story about times not so distant when the freedom to practice this most important of Jewish rituals of identity was denied. The actual circumcision was done very quickly, and our whole mishpocha participated in the blessings and ceremony. After the appropriate blessing was recited over a cup of wine, the baby received ihis Hebrew name, Noah Isaiah. I carry with me in my mind, a picture frozen in time of those friends and family members who joined us that day; of our older children, Talia and Zev; and the look on my husband's face as he r^d a prayer that spoke so beautiAilly of the continuity and family strength of the Jewish people. After the ceremony. Rabbi Rovinsky flew off to ofBdate yet another brit. He called me for several days to check on baby Noah's well being.
Brownie/Girl Scouts Troop 944 By Rozanne Kahn and Eadie Taabari, leaden Troop 944 will host a picnic and swim night for [iris entering first through sixth grade. The event fill be Tuesday, Aug. 8, 6 p.m., at the Jewish Community Center pavilion. Participants are asked O bring a dairy picnic dinner and swimsuit. Also, if enough older girls are interested, there nil be Girl Scouts. For information, contact Beth Cohen, youth serices director, at 334-6409.
JUST BECAUSE IT'S LEGAL DOESN'T MEAN IT'S SAFE.
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The heat was on By Shana Novak, Syracuse University i Jewith Press intern The days of melted lipstick and blazing sun wer& here again—only this year, the hot and steamy days of summer were noticeably more intense. The pools were crowded, air conditioners operated in full force, and ice cream sundaes became soup within seconds. When temperatures in Omaha broke the century mark, different people dealt with the heat in difierent ways. For some people, the heat directs their lives every day at work. Becky Perehnan, a lifeguard at Champions Country Club, works every day in the boiling temperatures and takes extra precaution when in the lifeguard chair. ' "At work, we put umbrellas over our chairs aiid always wear hats" Becky said. Andy and Cory Itkin also work outside. They are employees of Happy Hollow Country Club and say that higher temperatures bring them watermelon while on break. Although some Omahans don't work outside, the heat still affects their work places. Susie Mogil, of the Old Market's store "Extremes" (formerly Legoons) says that because of the hot temperatures, she noticed a slowness in business around the Market. 'TVhen it's hot out, people just don't want to shop when they have to be outside" Susie said. Mike Platt works inside also, but when it is hot outside, there's one thing that people need the most -water. "These days, the demand for water is as high as the temperature has been," Mr. Platt, of Ideal Pure Water explains. "A lot of people are concerned about the quality of tap water these days, so the need for bottled water is high to begin with, but when its so hot, we see an increase in our water sales by 50 percent," he said. Alan Kulakofsky, of Alcsarben Beef, doesn't see any increase in meat sales because of the heat, but he doesn't feel that the high temperatures have any negative affect on the industry, either. Although newscasts blame unbearable temperatures for the death of many cattle, Mr. Kulakofsky simply says, "Prices shouldn't be afliected". Annie Nogg is the perfect example of the heat wave affecting everyone- not just the employed. Annie will be a high school freshman next year and definitely feels she is affected by high temperatures. "When it's really hot out, I try not to go outside as much. I also make sure that I wear more sunscreen when I swim," she said. Patricia Newman is a mother of two young children and also makes sure her kids wear lots of sunscreen when they swim. Mrs. Newman also thinks that when the temperatures are high, mornings are the better time to be outside. "The heat is really hard on kids- so when we swim, we swim in the morning and drink lots of apple juice. Jn the afternoons when the heat is the worst, we stay inside and go to movies," she said Heat waves are hard on all of us. Prom the successful businessman to the caring mother, constant high temperatures aRect everyone in one way or another. To beat the heat, go to the pool, drink some lemonade, or turn up the air conditioner. Of course, some rain would be nice, too
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Israel works legendary magic on singles By Joel Alperson s itor's Note: «^oel Alperson recently led a sinKles group mission to Israel. His report follows: A total of 483 Jewish singles streamed down the two airline gangways as I watched from the tarmac. It was hard to believe that so many had travelled from all over the U.S. to be in Israel. Sure they had all been on vacations before, but this was not Hawaii or Europe. We had landed at a military base in Eilat amid Sparse surroundings and stifling heat. Also, $2,600 was no small fee to pay for an overseas get-away. To most, ranging in age from 25 to 40, that kind of money came dearly. So why Israel? Reasons varied!. For some, this was just an exotic trip. For others, Israel marked yet another opportunity to meet a future wife or husband, or make new friends. For others still, parents had pushed just hard enough to get their son or daughter to sign up. And finally, there were those who simply came to see the land they had heard and learned so much about. But, reasons were not important now. We ;• had arrived, and Israel was about to work its legendary magic on everyone. Watching almost 500 people react to Israel was like watching 500 kernels of popcorn in a hot skillet. The kernels don't pop all at once and they don't pop in the same way. Each needs its own time and (klace before it changes. And so it was with our UJA Mission. For some it was Yad Vashem, for others it was Masada, or the Haas Promenade when we arrived in Jerusalem. Everyone experienced a defining moment. I particularly remember a man from our Mission pray^ ing at the Wall in the old city of Jerusalem. I was standing next to him as he knelt on one knee, sobbing. I didn't interrupt him, but when we were in the cove alongside the Wall, I asked how he was 'doing. He explained that he had undergone brain surgery only three years ago and had since felt a void in his life. He suspected that his Jewish heritage held the key.
It was at the Wall that all of his feelings jelled. He, like three-quarters of the participants on this Mission, had cOme to Israeli for the first time. And like virtually every first-time visitor, this man would leave Israel with far more than he had planned. The stories were as numerous as the participants. One woman, who Was mildly mentally retarded, thanked those on her community's bus for helping her throughout the Mission. , There n^as another woman who suffered from a debilitating muscular disease which caused her arms and legs to move uncontrollably when she walked. ^
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Wtttchit^ almost 500 people react to Israel was like watching 500 kernels of popcorn in a hot skillet. The kernels don't pop all at once and they don't pop in the same way. Each needs its own time and place before it changes. And so it was with our UJA Mission. While I never heard her speak, she too had gained acceptance from others. There was a body builder, a comedian, lawyers, doctors, business owners, and people who were out of work. There was a woman from Puerto Rico and another from Australia. There was even a man who was not Jewish. He wanted to see Israel and had heard that this Mission was a great way to do it. We were all together and yet all very different. Each one of us had a story to tell and feelings to share. Of course everyone learned that there was more to Israel than just the magic. We learned of the harsh realities as well. Israeli settlers in the North spoke of how their children were escorted to school by Israeli soldiers who protected them from potential terrorist
attacks.
Mission participants saw the Golan heights and learned how perilous it would be for Israel to give up this strategic location. We learned of the ^ars Israel had fought and of the price Israelis paid for their freedom. While we stayed in Tiberias as well, it was not the places alone that made our experiences special, for by themselves they are only places. More ' important was the way in which we Jews interacted with Israel and with each other. Of course there was plenty of fun to be had. Long alter the day's programs had ended. Mission participants could be found out on the town or at the hotel hospitality suite as late as 4 a.m. and even later. With wakeup calls coming at 6:16 a.m., exhaustion became an all-too-familiar feeling for everyone. Strangely, most operated on energy they didn't even know they had. One lady told me "I'm a little tired, but I'm so excited it doesn't matter." The feelings at the end of the Mission were bittersweet as recent strangers had become more than just friends. Even though they would be separated by hundreds and even thousands of miles in some cases, people would stay in touch for years to come. On the day I was leaving Israel, I saw one lady from our Mission walking around a postcard rack in the hotel gift shop.' She complained that she couldn't find anything she wanted. Yet she didn't leave. She admitted, standing next to the door leading outside, that once she left the shop, the Mission would be over for her. She just couldn't bring herself to take those last few steps. Whether for the- first Ume or the 50th, leaving Israel is always hard. And of course, there will probably be marriages as a result of this Mission . . there alwa)rs are. But regardless of whether or not a match was made, everyone left Israel with something special. For some it was friends and for others it was the knowledge that their liveS' would never again be quite the same.
iif^ JULY 28, 29
These Children Have No Other Place To Turn. So We're Turning To You! TlKse children rtptesml the (aces ol our Jewish lulure, Without your help, many will never have the chance to sirenglhen their ties to the Jewisli community ComefStones was eslahlished to assist Jewish <;hildren - unal)le to allord valuable learning programs like • Preschool • Day School
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