Building a Jewish Community— Special Supplement Inside
*******************************c"011 TIE HIST SOCIETY
1500 R ST LINCOLN WE
VoLLXXV
No. 28
7Nisan,5758
Aprils, 1998
68508-1651
i,^,
It's an exciting time to be Jewish' by Carol Katzman
The Glory of Jewish Women
Though he is a full-time pulpit rabbi, Rabbi into publishing their own prayerbook, V'tahaer Lawrence Kushner has Libenu (Purify our Hearts), the first gender-neumanaged to turn out tral liturgy ever written. nine books (and is workAfter graduating Phi Beta Kappa from the ing on a tenth) during University of Cincinnati and being ordained as a his 25-year tenure at rabbi at Hebrew Union College in 1969, he entered by Pam Monsky Congregation Beth El in the writing field and like his foray into storytelling, Federation Communications Director a suburb of Boston, MA. it, too, was a fluke. Motivational speaker Arna Poupko will address His books crossed the . He was auditing a class at Brandeis University the Lion of Judah line from Jewish book- with fellow classmate Michael Strassfeld, the creDivision of the Jewish stores to Starbucks, the ator and one of three authors of The Jewish Federation of Omaha at a nationwide chain of cof- ; Catalog, thefirst in a series of three self-help luncheon on April 22, at feeshops, when a buyer books oh living Jewishly published in the 1970s. the home of Sharee and for1 the coffee nurveyors ' "Michael was gathering together resources for Murray Newman. decided Kushner's latest the back of the catalog and asked if I was an expert Rabbi Kushner / offering, Invisible Lines in anything," Kushner recalled; "I- couldn't say 'theMargie Alperson is chairperson for this first-time of Connection, was "short enough to read with a ology* as Dr. Maurice Friedman was already listed, event, exclusively for and I couldn't say 'social action' because my cup of coffee." ' • women who contribute Several producers are now interested in turning teacher, Rabbi Arnold Wolf, claimed that expertise. $5,000 or more to the the short book into a video and another wants to "So, as a joke, I told Michael - 'I can teach the UJA/Federation Campaign. record it on tape. So far, 20,000 copies of the book alphabet',;" he addedj "and The-Jewish Catalog listArna Poupkopoupko is a dynamic have been sold nationwide. ed me asan 'expert on the alphabet'." ' . , / : 1 lecturer, teacher and philosopher for federations, As the book's title suggest, the "invisible lines" That tioke' did lead to the publication of his first are the stories which Kushner says help people book, The Book of Letters, a beautifully designed Jewish organizations and campuses throughout learn, in this case, about Judaism. and illustrated story of the creation of ifcrje alphabet. • .North America. She combines warmth, wit and "People don't realize they've learned something Kushner.started his career in that book; noting, scholarship to challenge her audiences, while new when they've listened to a story," he told the that "aleph-is the sound of Q-d" a concept that he . instilling in them excitement and pride as Jews. Jewish Press recently in an interview. "And then has carried throughout.all his works, even those-' , Poupko's numerous national radio and television ' they ask the most sophisticated questions! not related to publishing. •' • . . : • •'•.' • • engagements include discussions and "appearances 1 "The storytelling came about because of a fluke," '... To motivate Jews to learn,he was the originator on the subjectof women'and Judaism and the role he noted, "I have been a commentator on NPR's All of the first Kallah,' a series .of week-long classes of religion in modernity, as well as articles and Things Considered and'ray -writing then shifted toheld in a retreat-ljke setting at Brandeis . publications on the subject of Jewish identity, • a storytelling format,".;.','.;..,r,^..s'ii'.i'.J......,:.,...;;.:-.: UruyerBitySppnMrpdi%:the^nioh of •American. Judaism and feminism and Jewish observance. this cal~-->ThJs! book, in. particular, is-itie basie?.fbr;Rabbr: Hebrew.Cbri^egationsyjthe Itollahrnp^.iBpfferedd ~.;"$flMare deligllted; to hav6^avpt^entex;'of ? iber speak to the Lion of Judah divisioh," Alperson Kushner's series of discussions, "What is the new in St.Louis,.•Md^iind1 Santa Cruii'C^in additipii said; "Arna Poupko is a woman who has served in Jewish spirituality?" at Temple Israel, Friday, to the suburban Boston location; \ ; .' • .a volunteer as well as a professional capacity in April 24, 8 p.m.; Saturday, April 25, 10:30 a.m. Kushner also ^serves as the .first rabbinic chair- Jewish communal service. Her topic! will be inspirand 4 p.m., and Sunday, April 26,10 a.m. man of Reform Judaism's Commission on Religious ing for the women who attend this luncheon." According to the rabbi, a quick definition is the Living and, for a (lecade, has been a member of the one by the late theologian Abraham Joshua faculty of'theyHebrew-Unio^;CoUege-Jewish . . Poupko is married to Rabbi Reuben J. Poupko of the Beth Israel Beth Aaron Congregation in Heschel, "Life lived in the continuous presence of Institute of Reh'gijm iirNew Yorjt. ' Montreal. They have five children, Ayi and Tamar G-d." Kushner added that the question really "It's an excitittg time to be"; Jewish," Kushner (twins), Hindy, and Adina and Eliezer (twins). should be "how to do that personally, congregation- noted, "especially! Reform and serious about being While in Omaha, Poupko will also meet with ally and communally." Jewish. ' He certainly is known for innovative steps taken ' "There.are thode who think/Gf-disaid everything Young Jewish Omaha (YJO) members to answer by Jews across all the movements. As the origina- He had to say at Mount Sinai and those who think the question, "Is there a future for Jewish life after tor of synagogue havurot (family friendship He never stopped .talking," Kushner concluded, Seinfeld?" on Tuesday, April 21, 5:30-7:30p.m., at the Jewish Community Center. groups), Kushner also helped lead his congregation "I'm in the latter camp!" YJO members should call Sharon Kirshenbaum, YJO Director, at 334-6485, by April 14 for reservations. Following the YJO program, Poupko will speak to the Federation board of directors at 7:30 p.m. during the regular board meeting.
topic for Lion of
by Sara Juster, Israel at 50 Jubilee Co-chairman .
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A gala concert by Donny Maseng will Maseng has made guest appearances conclude Omaha's.Yom Ha'Atzmaut on Law and Order, One Life to Live events on Sunday, May 3, 7:30 pjn., and, most recently, the premiere of iii the JCC Theater. Israel: 50 Years of Prince Street. A composer, teacher and Song will be followed by a 50th Jubilee lay rabbi, Maseng was featured on dessert reception. 'Israel's Greatest Male Vocalists and A limited number of patron tickets, Famous Israeli Male Singers. priced at $50 each, are available; the He is' also the year-round director of deadline is April 24 for names to be Theater Arts Programming for Olin listed in the program. General admisSang Ruby Institute in Wisconsin and sion tickets are $12 for adults and $8 chairs Soferja national Jewish writer's for those 18 and under. workshop. Donny Maseng was born in Israel to In Israel: 50 Years of Song, Maseng an American family connected with the Donny Maseng weave? together songs which span fifty beginnings of the State and both Maseng and years of Israel's .history, reflecting the cultural Israel came of age together. mosaic of its people, songs of war, the beauty of the : He came to the United States in 1971 to start in land and the hope, dreams and aspirations of its Only fools are Sad on Broadway. A playwright and people. actor, Maseng has served as Artistic Director of The songs, which run the gamut of Israeli music, Genesis Theater in Minneapolis and as an evalua- include pop, rock, Hassidlc, Middle Eastern and tor.'of new American plays and opera-musicals for folk and are sung in Hebrew, Yiddish and Ladino. the National Endowment of the Arte.'-1 (Continued on page 2)
Qaiginaf play featuring Omaha teens to commemorate Yom HaShoah by Qlorlann Levy, Director, Jewish Cultural Arts Council
This year's community-wide Yom HaShoah commemoration will include a production of Night Words written by David Roskies and directed by Temple Israel's Youth Advisor, Max Sparber. The commemoration will take place on Wednesday, April 22,7 p.m., at Temple Israel. The play is a series of dramatic Biblical and Rabbinic readings juxtaposed with eyewitness accounts of the Holocaust. It has been described as one of the few Holocaust pieces today that reflects the Holocaust's uniqueness in Jewish history. The performance will include teenagers from the Omaha Jewish community religious schools and youth groups as we.ll as Cantors Emil Berkovits, Eric Contzius and Leo Fettman. (Continued on page 12)
Page 2
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Watch for the new
April 3,1998
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS FRIDAY, APRIL 3 Visions Board Meeting, 9:30 a.m. SATURDAY, APRIL 4 Men's Club Shabbat, 9:30 a.m., at Beth El SUNDAY, APRIL 5 Israel Preparatory Class, 1 p.m. Temple Israel Mini University.'lO a.m., at Temple Israel Ya'Chad Activities, 1p.m. • ' MONDAY, APRIL 6 YES Program, 9:30 a.m. CJL, 7:30 p.m. Davis Institute, 7 p.m. Boy Scouts, 7 p.m. TUESDAY, APRIL 7 JCC Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m. Friedel Jewish Academy Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m., at the School WEDNESDAY, APRDL 8 Hadassah Board Meeting, 10:30 a.m., at Livingston Plaza Beth El Kadimah Meeting, 6:15 p.m., • atBethEl Adult Education, 7:30 p.m., at Beth Israel
Sparks from The Word. ,
Parashat Zav Shabbat HaGadol Shabbat HaGadol and Dies Irae Although it is tempting to think of "Shabbat haGadol" as the "Great Sabbath" before Passover, Hebrew grammar will not allow, it. Most probably the Sabbath gets its name from the last verse of the Haftarah,'which includes the phrase "the Great and Awesome Day of the Lord." Note that it is the Haftarah that is decisive. Unlike the other three special Sabbaths before Passover, Shabbat haGadol has no special Torah reading. There-is only a special Haftarah, and it is from it that we get the name, "haGadol," the "Great." It was Zephaniah, about 625 B.C.E., who left us the frightening phrase Yom evrah, the Day of Wrath (1:15). The medieval church translated it Dies Irae. Zephaniah, like the voices from the first "writing prophet," Amos, to the last, Malachi, the prophet of our Haftarah, addressed himself to a hope popular among our ancient ancestors. They had hoped for a "Day of the Lord," when the Lord would shatter all of Israel's enemies and bring in an era of peace and prosperity for His people. But the prophets, appalled by the religious infidelities and, even more, by the injustices in Israelite society, turned, the idea on its head. The Day of the Lord, they said, would be a day of fury, divine fury directed against the Lord's own people for its many and continuous transgressions. Therefore, change your ways; repent before the awesome day comes. Usher in a society of freedom and justice. In his powerful poem about the Day of the Lord (Ch. 2), the inimitable Isaiah sees widespread punishment on all the great and mighty, on all the haughty and selfish. Very many young students of the Bible get their first taste of the prophetic Day of the Lord from this stunning literary onslaught of Isaiah. Wash yourselves, he demands, purify yourselves. In no other way can the fury of the Lord be averted. And so it is, from Amos to Malachi. Like Isaiah, so Amos, before him. Like Isaiah, so Malachi after him. Malachi, the prophet of pur Haftarah, is a postexilic prophet, probably'to'te'dated about 450 B.C.E., shortly before the drastic reforms of Ezra. Malachi warns of the inevitable Day of the Lord. The return from the exile in Babylonia had not been the triumphant, glorious reestablishment of Judah that they had hoped for. It was, instead, difficult and deeply disappointing. The land was grudging, not welcoming, not wonderfully fertile. Nor were those who lived in the land eager.to have the exiles back. And soon the returnees felt that they had been short-changed by their own God, deceived by Him; they were therefore angry with Him and impatient. Malachi warns that with surfr a people, the Lord 'would show His own impatience by a Great and Awesome Day of the Lord. Our liturgists chose this as the last prophetic word before Pesah, to remind us that Passover is a time to; excise all sin, symbolized by Jiametz (leaven). Let Pesah bring us to a new year of joy, joy founded on justice and truth, on peace and freedom. Hag kasher v'sameahj We wish each other a Kasher and Joyous Holy Day! •
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A Passover tradition...
Each year, students from Boys Town Jerusalem Science Academy and the Torah and Technology Academy, roll up their sleeves and get together to bake traditional matzos for the Passover holiday. These matzos are then distributed by students to elderly Jerusalemites who are on limited incomes. The first seder is next Friday night, April 10.
Israel: 50 Years of Song (Continued from page 1) Maseng's concerts are interlaced with personal stories, anecdotes and observations gleaned over a lifetime of growing up in Israel. Omahan Phil Wolf, who has seen Maseng perform, noted, "As a performer, Donny is intense; he reaches the audience on a personal level when he performs. "Though he lives in a secular world," Wolf added, "he recognizes that we. can learn from Jewish teachings and values." . : Nancy Wolf, Israel 50 Jubilee Co-chairman, : echoed her husband's sentiments. "Seeing Donny perform is emotionally rewarding," she said, "His songs and stories make me laugh and cry. I look forward to seeing him again!" :
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LEAH KUPFER Services for Leah Kupfer were held March 26 at Golden Hill Cemetery. She was 69. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jack. Survivors include son and daughter-in-law, Moshe and Hana Kupfer of Brooklyn, N X , five grandchildren; and daughter and son-in-law, Florette Kupfer and Daniel Rostan of Brookline, MA. Memorials to Beth Israel Synagogue.
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THURSDAY, APRDL 9 Walk-in Drop-in, 9:30 a.m. Temple Israel Sisterhood Adult Education, 9:30 a.m. at Temple Israel All ovonto held st ths JCC unlo»» ottwmlsa Indicated. Th« Jewish Pnu I* not responsible loir the- accuracy ol the above events. To keep calendar accurate orforquestion*, call Ueriens
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April 3,1998
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 3
CANDLELIGHTINQ: 6:33 p.m. TEMPLE ISRAEL Member off the Union of American Hebrew Congregations 7023 Cass Street, Omaha, NE 68132 550-6536 FRIDAY: Tot Shabbat service, 7 p.m. A short service of song and prayer, followed by cookies and juice, will be held for toddlers through children in primary grades and families. Shabbat evening service, 8 p.m. Rabbi Stiel and Hazzan Contzius will officiate. Hazzan Contzius will present a Sermon in Song Music of the Haggadah. The Oneg Shabbat will be sponsored by Millie and Sam Calig in honor of the Bar. Mitzvah of their nephew, Alexander Clark. SITTER SERVICE Sitter service is available each Friday evening, Saturday mornings when there is a Bar/Bat Mitzvah, and Sunday mornings when there is Religious School. Please make a reservation. Cost is $2 per family if reservations are made prior to Friday, drop-ins are $3 per family. There are no facilities for infants. . • SATURDAY: Shabbat morning service, 1030 ajn, Alex Clark, son of Mindy and Wayne Clark, will celebrate his Bar Mitzvah. Simcha B'Shabbat-An informal Shabbat service that includes study and discussion of a variety of Jewish texts. The regular Shabbat service will be held in the Sanctuary. SUNDAY: Mini University, 10 am. -jioon: A special morning to help prepare for Passover. Schedule is: 10-11 a.m.: Karen Levine, "A Personal Faith Journey Workshop: Making this Passover Different." How can we make our celebration of Passover a truly spiritual journey for ourselves? 11:05-11:55 a m (choose one)-Rabbi Debbie Stiel, "A Walk Through the Haggadah." Learn about the various parts that make up the Passover Seder. Hazzan Contzius, "Preparing the House, the Table, the Body, and the Soul." Explore the different ways Jews have traditionally celebrated and continue-to-prepare for tbisMportaixtfestivalir.: - ^ • VVOivffiN'S SEDER^ Thursday, AprU i&, 11:45 njn, ' Lunch will be served. Cost is $4. Please call the Temple office at 556-6536 to make your reservation.
BETH ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE Member of the Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America 1502 No. 52nd St, Omaha, NE 68104 ,.;:>*) 556-6288 Services conducted by Rabbi Howard Kutner. Office hours: Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; Friday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. FRIDAY: Kabbalat Shabbat service, 6:35 p.m. SATURDAY: Morning services, 8:45 a.m.; Little People's Service, 10:15 ajn.; Jr. Congregation, 10:30 a.m. Kiddush sponsored by Sisterhood. Chumash class with Rabbi Kutner, 6 p.m.; Mincha, 6:30 p.m., followed by Shalosh Seudot, Ma'ariv and Havdalah. . SUNDAY: Services at 9 a.m. and 7:40 p.m. WEEKDAYS: Services at 7 ajn. and 7:40 p.m. ADULT EDUCATION with Rabbi Kutner: Wednesday, 7:30 p.m., "Do It Right On Seder Night." CHABAD HOUSE An Affiliate of the Worldwide Chabad-Lubavitch Movement 1800 So. 120th St, Omaha, NE 68144 Phone:330-1800 E-MAIL-chabad@aol.com SATURDAY: Services, 9:80 a.m. Kiddush following services. SUNDAY: Services, 8:30 a.m. WEEKDAYS: Services, 7 a.m. WEDNESDAY: Mitzvah Munchkins class, 10aan.-noon THURSDAY: Tahnud Class, noon. B'NAI ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE 618MynsterSt., Council Bluffs, Iowa 51503
322-4705 E-MAIL: docjeb2@juno.coin
BETH EL SYNAGOGUE Member of United Synagogues of Conservative Judaism 14506 California, Omaha, NE 68154 492-8550 WEB--http://oni ahafreenet.org/bethel Office Hours: Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Services are conducted by Rabbi Paul Drazen and Cantor Emil Berkovits. FRIDAY: Services, 6 p.m. SATURDAY: Services, 9:30 a.m. Members of Men's Club will participate in services. Kiddush following services; Sitter service, 10 a.m.; TSS (Torah Siddur Skills), 10 aan.; Shabbat Story Time, first and third Saturday, 11 aon; Ktantan, second and fourth Saturday, 11 ajn*; Minha-Ma'ariv and Havdalah, 6:45 p.m. SUNDAY: Services, 9a.m.; WEEKDAYS: Services, 6:55 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.
Learning seder to be held atOffuttAFB Rabbi Ira Flax will lead a Passover seder on Sunday, April 5, 4 p.m., at the Capehart Chapel in Bellevue. This learning experience is open to all members of the community. . Rabbi Flax explained, "Jews are competent in their jobs as professionals among their peers, but as Jews, there is an awkwardness that challenges their sense of self." ' Attending educational programs such as these enhance each persons knowledge and comfort level within Judaism. • The Capehart Chapel is located on 25th and Capehart across from the USAF Medical Center. For more information, please call 651-9058.
'Odyssey' observes Passover
The story of the modern-day exodus of a Jewish grandmother to"esc<ipe rising nationalism and antiZionism in Egypt is one >f two Passover; specials airing back-to-back on Sunday, April 12, on Odyssey, a national religious cable network. / Miss the Sun, airing 4-4:30 p.m. (ET), tells the TIFERETH ISRAEL story-of Rosette Hakim, who fled her homeland for ROSE BLUM KIN JEWISH HOME Member of the United Synagogue the United States in 1962, a tune when anti-Zionist " of Conservative Judaism SATURDAY: sentiments in Egypt rah high and when hundreds 3219 Sheridan Blvd., Lincoln, NE 68502 Shabbat services, 9 a.m., led by Phyllis Hoffman; of Jews, suspected of pro-communist activities, 423-8569 Kiddush will follow. were held in detention camps. Services are conducted by Rabbi Stanley M. Immediately following, from 4:30-5 p.m. (ET), Rosenbaum. Make A Wish, Molly, will air. This. is..a story of a CONGREGATION B'NAI JESHURUN Minyan on Monday and Thursday at 7:15 ajn. young Russian Jewish immigrant girl, eager: to SOUTH STREET TEMPLE SHABBATON: Friday & Saturday belong and adopt the customs of her new country. Member of the Union FRIDAY: Services, 6 p.m.; dinner, 6:45 p.m.; When she is invited to her first birthday party, of American Hebrew Congregations Session 1, with Rabbi Allan Gonsher, 8 p.m. Molly faces the moral dilemma of whether to uphold 2061S,20th Sfc, Iincoln,NE 68502-2797 SATURDAY: Services, 9:30 a.m.; lunch, noon; Jewish law and tradition regarding food restrictions . 435-8004 Session 2, 1:15 p.m.; Jewish games (ages 9-12), during Passover, or to disobey so she will fit in. 5:45 p.m.; 3rd meal of Shabbat, 6:30 p.m.; Session 3, Services officiated by Cantor Michael Weisser. 7 p.m.; Havdalah, 7:45 p.m. TUESDAY: Adult Education, 7:30 pan. Yom HaShoah study project Babysitting is available. THURSDAY: Choir Practice, 7:30 pan. Rabbis in the Omaha area have joined together FRIDAY: Shabbat Hachinuch, 7:45 pjtn.; in planning a moment of study project for Yom OFFUTT SATURDAY: Tprah study, 10 a.m.; Dinner HaShoah. 25th and Capehart, Omaha, NE Theatre, 6 pan. Tickets are $4foradults, $2.50forchilThe community's commemoration of Yom 204-6051 , dren age 5 and under. HaShoah will take place on Wednesday evening, SUNDAY: Hebrew School, 9 a.m.; Religious Services conducted by Rabbi Ira Flax. School, 10 ajn.; Passover workshop, 10 aan.-noonOffice hours: Monday-Thursday, 7:30 a.m.- April 22, at Temple Israel. Aditionally, synagogue members;are asked to -Exodus Walk. This event will be held instead of a 4:30 p.m.; Friday, 7:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Model Seder.Temple Youth Group (first and third SUNDAY, April 5: Model Seder, 4 p.m., take a few moments on Thursday, April 23, 11 ajn., to study. Sundays), noon. Capehart Chapel. SATURDAY, April 11: Seder, 6:30 p.m., SAC BEYT SHALOM Me.norial Chapel. For reservations, call Carole An Affiliate of the Lainoff at 293-0321. Full-Time Director Jewish ReconstructJonist Federation of Youth Programs P.O. Bos 241130, Omaha, NE 68124-5130 758-9233 1,025-member family Reform congregation with .- http^/pwl.ttetcom,com/~eabaim rtearly 700 Religlo,u& Schoo^age children. ' , Yoware cordially invited to an This position would include involvemeht in .proFRIDAY: Kabbalat Shabbat services Friday! gramming for grades K-12, worli'wlthln NFTY•y,™ ""'OPEN HOUSE ' ' '• nights at 7:30 pan, at 3012 S. 119th St. in Omaha. Missouri Valley; Region, as well as various in honor of SUNDAY: Religious School, 10 a.m. (all grades), teaching and stafllpg responsibilities. Mdx Neiden's 75th birthday at the Jewish Community Center. ~ Resumes only: Temple Sinai, 3509 S. Glencoe, Sunday, April 12, 2-5 p.m. TUESDAY: Religious School, 4 p.m. (grades 4-8) Denver, CO 8 0 2 3 7 , Attn: Rabbi Kahn; or attheJCC. 3441 Calvert, Lincoln, NE FAX: 303-759-2519. DEADLINE: April 22 ' Make reservations for the April 18 community Job description available upon request .seder.by calling 758-9233. Debbie, Pinkie and Danny No gifts please .
FRIDAY? -• Services, 7:30 p.m. Topic is "How Does the Torah Treat Homosexuality?"1 '' ' B'nai Israel is planning a Passover buffet for Friday, April 17. More details to come.
Page 4
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Editorial
April 3,1988
Why the plan will fail
According to AIPAC (the American Israel Public Affairs Committee), the American government lately has been trying to push Israel into adopting a plan in which the United States would define the lands from which Israel's army should withdraw. This is against the advice of Israel's own national security decision-makers. If President Clinton yields to this advice, it would result in the polar opposite to which his advisers intend. Some background: 98 percent of the Palestinians now live under the protection of the Palestinian Authority and its civil administration in fulfillment of Oslo *98. Yet Israel still does not have the peace and security it was promised. Nearly 400 Israelis have been killed and hundreds more injured and maimed in tourist attacks since the Oslo agree-' ments were signed, a higher rate than before Oslo! Back in 1988, (and now Assistant Secretary of State) Martin Indyk said, "When the U.S. tries to pressure Israel, it provides an incentive for Israel's adversaries to wait for (America) to deliver Israel." This pressure also erodes American credibility as a mediator, because the Israeli public will never accept the idea that foreigners, rather than their own elected government, will draw the nation's borders. The Clinton administration has built an admirable record in its relations with Israel. When the President is being given bad counsel by his own advisers, the most important thing'that friends of the Administration can do is to urge him to reject this proposal before it is too late and before it throws the peace process totally off the track. We urge readers to call or write President. Clinton today and tell him so. ''
Film on Holocaust wins Oscar by Tom Tugend
Behind the Headlines
Israeli Arab's water project may aid regional cooperation
LOS ANGELES (JTA) - The headline honors by Gil Sedan went to Titanic and the stars of As Good as It Gets; but two Oscars in less glamorous categories SAKHNIN, Israel (JTA)-- As the driver of a illustrated the Holocaust's impact on filmmakers. sewage tanker emptied its contents into a pond, an The Long Way Home took the prize for best doc- older man, visibly angry, appeared among the trees. umentary feature. The film, produced by the "What's with all this sewage water contaminatSimon Wiesenthal Center, chronicles the fate of ing my olives?" shouted Rashid Abu-Raya, waving Holocaust survivors in the postwar years and his fists at the sewage container. "There is no law their attempts to reach the Jewish homeland. and no justice." In his acceptance speech,, the center's dean and Hussein Tarabei, who is Abu-Raya's nephew, founder, Rabbi Marvin Hier/ dedicated the award was embarrassed. The 31-year-old graduate .of to "the survivors of the Holocaust; who walked Israel's Technion was trying to show a visitor that away from the ashes, rebuilt their lives and Sakhnin, an Arab town of 22,000 in the Galilee, helped create the State of Israel.'' • could become an environmental beacon for the Academy Awards host Billy Crystal seemed Middle East. dumfounded at the presence of the yarmulke"The idea was simple," said Tarabei, standing by wearing Hier. "What a night, when your rabbi the pond, ignoring the stench. "We take the incoming wins an Oscar. Unbelievable," Crystal said; fluids, separate them from the solid stuff and turn It was the second Oscar for the Wiesenthal the water into perfectly good irrigation water." ••-.. Center, whose first documentary, Genocide, won in In a region where water is a precious commodity 1981. The production team of. Long Way Home is and newtechnologiesare being developed to recy-. currently rushing to complete the official film of cle waste water for commercial use, Tarabei hopes Israel's 50th anniversary celebration, titled If You that Arab countries will look to the cost-effective Willlt. project as a model. If BO, the idea for the project, The other Oscar awarded to a Holocaust theme developed at an Israeli institution, could pave the movie went to Visas and Virtue, a short film about way to cooperation with neighboring Arab counthe true story of a diplomat who paid with his tries on the critical issue of water resources. career for saving thousands of Jews. It honors Some Arab nations have already shown interest Chiune Sugihara, who was the Japanese consul in - and a U.S. government program has contributed Vilnius, Lithuania, in 1940. As throngs of desper- $2.5 million to the project, which is run by the ate Jews besieged his office to escape the expected Israeli Towns Association for Environmental Nazi onslaught, Sugihara, against the direct Quality. An international delegation, including orders of Tokyo', issued thousands of visas to representatives from Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, enable Jews to escape to safety via Soviet Union. Qatar and the Palestinian Authority visited Sakhnin in 1994. The Palestinian Hydrology Group, a non-governmental group in the self-rule Israel to implement proposed conversion solution areas, and water experts at Ein Shams University in Cairo have since met with Tarabei and his by Mitchell Danow team, who work under the guidance of his former' had been created to implement the committee's teachers at the Technion. NEW YORK (JTA) -The conversion crisis in recommendations. He added that a budget was Water experts at the Technion, Haifa's technoloIsrael is well on its way to being resolved. now being created, which would work with the gy institute, favor low-tech methods for recycling This was the assessment offered last week by Jewish Agency to establish the conversion insti- polluted water because they are cheaper and can the Israeli minister who heads a government- tute, and with the Chief Rabbinate to establish. be adapted far use in neighboring countries. Israel appointed committee that spent seven months additional conversion courts. The committee's pro- has invested in costly high-tech recycling methods seeking a compromise that would be acceptable to posal has been endorsed by the Knesset. But the because the country has limited space, he said. the three main streams of Judaism. But according rabbinate's stance has been far less clear. In Sakhnin, the sewage ends up in two sedimento non-Orthodox leaders, Finance Minister The Chief Rabbinate Council, in a unanimous tation ponds northeast of the town. Bacteria that Ya'acov Ne'eman is being overly optimistic — and decision, pledged to set up more religious courts to exist naturally in the sewage water initiate a it is unclear exactly how he intends to have his handle conversions. But it declined to address the process that separates the liquids from the solid committee's recommendations implemented. crucial part of the proposal, the creation of the joint waste in the ponds. The rehabilitated water then In late January, the Ne'eman Committee pre- institute to prepare candidates for conversion. goes into a third oxidization pond, which further sented to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a Ne'eman reiterated last week that the Chief purifies the water before it flows into a reservoir proposal intended to give the non-Orthodox Rabbinate had not been asked to vote on the insti- that becomes a source of water, for irrigation. The streams - who are seeking to break the Orthodox tute. And this presumably meant'that implemen- solids, left at the margins of the ponds, turns into : monopoly over conversions performed in Israel — a tation of the Ne'eman Committee's proposal could organic manure. role in performing conversions that would be offi- proceed without any hindrance. While the project has yet to be replicated outside cially recognized by the Jewish state. Meanwhile, Israel's High Court of Justice post- Sakhnin, Technion experts see it as an important According to the proposal, an interdenomina- poned again a hearing on a petition to recognize educational tool for Israel's Arab community. tional conversion institute would be established Conservative conversions of adopted children. The "What is beautiful about this project," said under the auspices of the Jewish Agency for court accepted the state's argument that the Shlomo Kimhi, "is that it becomes an environmenIsrael, while leaving the actual conversion process Ne'eman Committee should be given time to tal education center, attracting hundreds of Arab under the Orthodox Chief Rabbinate's control. implement its recommendations. The hearing was youths for studies of the environment." Speaking with reporters, Ne'eman said a team postponed until April 20.
Focus on Issues
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THE JEWISH PRESS (Founded in 1920) The role of the Jewish Federation of Omaha ia lo involvo Jews in meeting Jewish communal needs locally, nationally nmi in Israel. Centers of Excellence of the Federation arc: Community Mnlions, .lewinh Community Center, Jewish Education nnd Librnry Services, Jewish Family Service, Jewish Senior Services. The Jewish Press is n Constitutional Committee orihe Jewish Federation of Omnhn. The Jewish Press (USI'S 275620) is published weekly on Friday for $Ufi per cnlcniliir year U.S.; $30 foreign, by the Jewish Federation of Omaha. Dondlino for copy, ails nnd photos is Thursday, noon, eight days prior to publication. Periodical postage paid nt Omnhn, NE. POSTMASTER: Send address chniiRcs lo Thn Jewisli IVcss, 333 So. I32nd St., Omahn, NE 68154; Tclophono 402-334-6448; FAX 4()2-334-fi422; Kmnll <g'shpre8S@aol.com> '
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luilding a Jewish Neighborhood for the 21 st Cehtury
For over 70 years, the Community Center has been a pivotal force for many generations of Omaha Jews. The T has had impact on the development of the Jewish community and Jewish identity over the years.
> - " I am not going to, tell.you that our Jewish Community Center will be our Town Hall; that it will be the meeting place for all elements, and for all groups of Jews; that it will furnish facilities for the cultural and recreational activities of the Jews in the dty;that it will render service and establish contact to make the place of the Jews in the 1 community better understood and appreciated. You know that
he money poured ii\.Jt was a new horizon for us in / 973. We were building something that was way beyand its time. I was Construction Chairman for the JCC on 132nd Street I met my wife at the JCC on 20th and Dodge, and I wanted to get even with everyone! People were eager to work on the project and to give. We had $700,000 from the old JCC that we put into
" I am not going to tell you that our generationlong dream has been translated into reality that a visionary ideal has been evolved into concrete ' actuality, that a magnificentfourhundred thousand dollar edipce,'one of the very, finest in the country, has been erected. You know that halt will tell you is a Jewish Corn Centerthat is notJewish is a misnomer. The must be a place where Jewish ideals will nofenl/be taught but will also be lived, it must be a place where old and young gather in the spirit of, helpfulness and of service. A united Jewr\ made possible the success thus far achieve a united Jewry must maintain that old Hi ideal of'Achduth'"~4rom "Dedicating Ourselves," byWm. FLBIutnenthal, upon the dedication ofthe JCC, 20th and Dodge, 1925.
J E W I S H
an endowment We raised $4 million and we never touched therendowmertt"—Norman Batt, on the liujlding^otthe JQC in 1973.'
" I was on ^ie\baMfjgxowmHiee |5jr . * the current JCC, Prememb&fat one' meeting suggemfiglp: women's health club, and was trfd'to;sit down! Things have come full d xh'qawt* —Rose PMor,
on the planning meetings for the current JCC.
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\l of us in Omaha were fortunate enough to have had people who built the JCC for us. The generations before us built the old JCC downtown, and luckily for us the people hour community built the JCC we have now that our children enjoy. It's our responsibility and privilege to revitalize our JCC for the next and for the _ next foh, of families." ---Tom
he Rose Blumkin Jewish Home \ campaign,whkh was unofficially launched 1 With the gift of$ I million by Mrs. Blumkin and her family, will have its community [ kick-off the week of July 12 at the Jewish he construction of the . Community Center. The 80-bed home, with licensing for skilled care, will be one Gordman Center for Jewish i of the most modern facilities to be built Learning integrated Jewish j in this part of the country. 'We have the education into the JCC j continued responsibility to care for our , elderly,* said Leonard (Buddy) Goldstein, , Campus. It serves as an \> chairman of the Finance Committee. * , Indication of the priority that , %yery effort h being taken to assure the : ibis community places on the . finest of facilities, the best care for those , on the current project t o , eidprfy of ourJewish community who can )«\: j&wish education of our ;? revitalize the JCC, 1998, " no longer take tare of themselves. The '{-;•' childrw,^ -.-Marty Shukert, on. new &>$e Bfitmkin Jewish Home will be a .\%, tt)© construction of the Gordman ", Home of which we can all be proud. The j^t%^Cewter-for'Jewish teaming and ' ^pportof&Sry member of our community ' through gifts both iarge and small will be ; .^IC - frjedel Jewish Academy, 1995. :; * - .»* • ^ nihded h makethis Home a possibility." «> —ifroir* the Jewish Press, 1980.
Historiwl Society
The following facilities are available as of April 3,1998 for dedication in honor of or in memory of your family members and loved ones: FACILITY AMOUNT Child Development Center: Named dedication of entire facility ........: ...1,500,000 Entrance to facility 150,000 -SOLD Primary classroom (eight available) •.,; .100,000 Infant care.rpom (three available) ;..... 100,000 Creative arts center/fine arts .,...:..... .....;.100,000 Creative arts center/media.........; „...,.....,..,..., :...%.J00,000 Creative arts center/theater 100,000 .Western walj (for display of children's work) 100,000 Preat room',...... , ..........._ ...;100,000 t)irector1s/offtce. :.„„:.!.: UULJ..L,:.i!..;.L..l .>.50,000 : Parent's cpnfcrence and visitor's lounge .............•.......,............(,.50,000 SOLO PrograniCdordinator's office .......•../;...;..........,;...........i.50,0()0 {nfanl/Toddler'playground :..'. '.. ..^.50,000 PJaygroujid :.'...„ ^,.^...,...^ .....:.....: ...50,000 SOLD Commons area ....50,000 SOLD Reception desk 25,000 Administrative area 25,000 Link to JCC 25,000 Staff resource room 25,000 Great room furnishings 15,000 Kitchen... 15,000 Administrative workroom 15,000 Reading lofts (four available) 10,000 Classroom furnishings (ten available) 10,000 Entry door mezuzah .._ 5,000 Classroom mezuzah (ten available) ......,..„;.......:'.;•........;... 2,500 Wa|l6irhWrOT^onirehanwJ)>latec(Sd'availaBle):^»::: Ll.OOO Health and Physical Education: —' ' Named dedication of world class fitness and health center.. 1,200,000 Named dedication of men's full time health spa... 500,000 Named dedication of women's full time health spa 500,000 New indoor running/walking track (10 laps to mile)..!.. 250,000 Senior aerobic studio 200,000 World level fitness and health center furnishings/equipment ..150,000 Classical Youth Dance studio ; 100,000 Jazz Youth Dance studio 100,000 Health and Fitness Testing room 75,000 Drop-in Babysitting room ..75,000 Health spa massage area ...50,000 Fitness Center spinning room ..50,000 Fitness Center Cardio Theater.... ..50,000 Men's health spa whirlpool ..„ 35,000 Women's health spa whirlpool 35,000 Men's health spa sauna 35,000. Women's health spa sauna ..35,000 Men's health spa steam room 35,000 Women's health spa steam room 35,000 Fitness Center greeting station ..:*... ...:....;.. ;.25,000 Health spa reception area...;........ ..25,000' Men's health spa lounge and relaxation area :.....i.25,000 ; ;Women's health spa lounge and relaxation area.;;;i,........!........ ;.25,000 Member Services desk ..25,000 Member Services office '. 25,000 Free weight area 15,000 Cardiovascular area ...15,000 Stretching area. ..15,000 Banners ..10,000 Trophy case ....;..... 5,000 Entry door mezuzah-Fitncss Center........... .......5,000 Entry door mczuzah-Hcalth Club 5,000 Wall of honor or tree of life name plate (50 available) ,..:I,000
FACILITY AMOUNT Outdoor facilities: New family tennis courts facility .....250,000 JCC circle road around entire Jewish Community Campus ....250,000 Family pool and water recreation facility 250,000 Childrens outdoor playground 50,000 Outside benches (six available) 5,000 Personalized plaza paving bricks (50 available).... 2,500 Additional Community facilities: Named dedication for Jewish library and research center .......500,000 Named dedication for Jewish youth wing 500,000 ' ADL offices,;......:....: .:.; .;..250,000 SOLD Jewish Farmly Services offices 250,000 SOLD Jewish community press/media offices 250,000 Jewish Federation offices 250,000 Jewish Community Foundation and Development offices ......250,000 Community entrance to front of JCC. 250,000 Access for elderly and disabled members elevator 150,000 Rose Blumkin Home Electric Beds 150,000 Jewish library media and technology center 100,000 Rose Blumkin Home Nursing Station..... 50,000 Rose Blumkin Home Ceramic Studio ....50,000 Rose Blumkin Home Physical Therapy Equipment 25,000 Rose Blumkin Home Volunteer Coordinator Office.... 25,000 Rose Blumkin Home Adult Program Director Office 25,000 Rose Blumkin Home Therapeutic Recreation Director Office .25,000 library coffee bar™,.» ..............25,000:•;: i ' Meeting room mezuzah.;...! 1 2,500 : Roie Blumkin Home free of Life leaves .1,000 Please refer all dedication information to Jeffrey Aizenberg: 334-6417
JCC RENOVATIONS/ADDITIONS SOLD
AREA Main Entry Lobby Jewish Press . Jewish Federation of Omaha Men's Health Club 'Jewish Historical Society1' Youth Auditorium
REMODELED &/OR EXPANDED Future Total S.F. Original S.F. 1194 1194; ;•• 1000 673 1996 868 3500 4600
410
81'5
2166 3800
2938 5350
RELOCATED Original S.F. Jewish Family Service Dance Library Community Meeting Room #10 Foundation Adult Lounge ADL/AWOD Child Development Center
868 1500 2800 1090
625
1093
725
10500
;
' •••"•>-. V ' . - M 7 , v . ••'•
Future Total S.F. 1494 2165 3228 includes 1343 sf add 1616
763
1130 2000 16000
new facility
ADDITIONS Fitness/Track Women's Health club Library Child Development Center New Elevator
Total S.F. 18000 3130 1343 16000
200
new facility
Aprils, 1998
America Celebrates Israel's 50th to air April 15
YJE.S.
by Art Grossman
created memories for those who have been to the Eternal City, how fitting as we approach Yom' HaAtzmaut (Israel's Independence Day) 50th anniversary celebration. Then on to the lunch where faithful Stan Widraan entertained with nostalgic melodies. His The recent OldtimersAT.E.S. meeting was tai- opening number "Young at Heart" struck a chord lored so we would not forget those precious . in the hearts of our septuagenarians and octogethoughts of the Psalm. ••:..' • narians who tapped and clapped in rhythm. Instead of the usual Early Bird, discussion, we We welcomed .new members Max and Dorothy were shown a video of Jerusalem in One. Then we joined in a symbolic tour, under the guidance of In sick bay are Ruth Breslow at University docent Toni Kutcher, through the corridor of the Hospital; Sylvia Stein at Clarkson; and Mollie JCC Galery, where replicas of shuks (booths) re- Rhodes at Veteran's Hospital. ,
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PAUL'S QUALITY
. Members will meet Monday at the JCC. English Class starts at 10 a.m.; bingo and exercise both start at 10:30. The "YES Talk" discussion group A star-studded show paying tribute to ISrael's will meet at 11 a.m. in the adult lounge. Following a hot kosher lunch, Anna Mosenkis and Lev 50th anniversary hosted by Kevin Costner and Shechtman will perform music from Eastern Michael Douglas'will air on CBS, Wednesday, April 15, from g ^ p m . Europe. For transportation, call 330-4272. The American tribute, "To Life! America Reminder: Mah Jongg Club will meet Celebrates Israel's 50th" will also feature Kathy Wednesday, April S, in room 6. ' Deadline is April 23 for the WinnaVegas Trip Bates, Sid Caesar, Natalie Cole, Harry Connick, Jr., Richard Dreyfuss and Noa, Israel's leaning on April 30. Call Maggie Cqnti at 334-6521. international recording artist. Other stars on the show are: Jessye Norman, WALE-BSr.DROP-IN Members will meet Monday at the JCC. English Mark O'Connor, Winona Ryder, Arnold class starts at 10 a.m.; exercise at 10:15, and bingo Schwarzenegger, Gil Shaham, Stevie Wonder and at 10:30. Bring a dairy sack lunch to eat at 11:30. NoahWyle, . At noon, the movie Air Force One will be shown in. The show is being taped in Los Angeles at the the Blumkin Home auditorium. Popcorn will bo Shrine Auditorium with a live interconnection to an audience in Israel at the Tower of David served. For transportation, call 330-4272. Museum in Jerusalem. The. evening's hosts for the taping are, the Jewish Federation of Los Angeles VISIONS Discover the works of impressionist artist'Edgar and the Simon Weisenthal Center. . . Tickets are available for the taping by calling 1Degas at the Joslyn Art Museum on Wednesday, April 29. At noon, dine at the Durham Cafe in the 213-761-8140 and are priced from $25 to $100. Atrium (lunch buffet is on your own). At 1 p.m., a Patron seats are available at $1000. Proceeds will tour with a docent will begin. Cost is $3.50. There benefit the Israel Experience Program. is no charge for members of the Joslyn. For reservations, mail form by April 22 to Jean Elkon, 1005 N. 63rd St., Omaha, NE 68132. Make checks payable to Jewish Senior Services. EARLY DEADLINE NOTICE There will be no regular news or announce•BREADBREAKERS ments in the April 10 issue, as it is the special Tom Begley will speak at Breadbreakers on Passover edition of the Jewish Press. Wednesday, according to Adam Jacobs. Begley is Deadline for the April 17 issue for ads, copy with Aromablends Essential Oil Co, and he will and photos is Wednesday, April 8, at noon; discuss aromatherapy and alternative healing the JP office will be closed Friday, April 10, and techniques. Breadbreakers meets every Wednesday April 17. Thank you for your cooperation; at noon at Highland Country Club. The program is open to the community. Cost is $7.75
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
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Bobby Newman, left, and Matthew Heyman were recently awarded first and second place in Den 10's Pinewood Derby competition. Additionally, Bobby received first place in Boy Scout Wolf Pack 366. Bobby is the —I son of Patricia and Jefirey Newman; Matinew is the son of Richard Heyman and Besty Baker Heyman. They both attend Swonson School. Siena/Francis House will host Spring Sprint, a 10K run, three-mile walk, three-mile run and onemile kids walk on Sunday, April 26 at Zorinsky Park, 156th and F St., at 8 a.m. Proceeds will benefit the Siena/Francis House, a homeless shelter and recovery center located at 17th and Nicholas St. in Omaha. To register for the run, call 341-1821.
Aldridge Elementary School's "Camouflage Creation" entry won first place in Division One of the regional Odyssey of the Mind Competition. Carolyn Ware, daughter of Barbara GottliebWare, was one of the seven-member team who won a blue ribbon; The team will now take part in the Btate competition to be held at the University of Nebraska at Kearney. Jesica Hasslinger, daughter of M'Lee and Larry Hasslinger, was featured in a recent Pride newsletter. She presented Pride (Parent Resources and Information on Drug Education) with a $100; check from gifts she received when she became a Bat Mitzvah. Right on the Money v/ith Marshall Lewis now airs on KKAR, 1290 AM radio on Saturday at 1 p.m. Mindy Colchtjfe daughter of Bonnie and David Colcher, made'.Deatl's List at Brandeis University in Waltham, M£L, last semester. Dean's list honors are given to students with a GPA of 3.5 or higher. Rabbi Ira Flax, chaplain of Offutt Air Force Base, has been promoted from Captain to Major.
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Omaha Mayor Hal Daub spoke recently to Beth El Synagogue's Hebrew High School. The discussion was not about politics, but rather focused on Greek Specials Daily Greek Boar & Wine what we;' as teenagers, need to do in the future to Homomada Paitrloa 'Dins In/Carry Out make sure we are a part of the community. Specializing In Baklava Wo Cater, Tool "We are going to be' looking at you to be leaders Full Service Bar* Party Rooms in the public and private sector of our community," Mon.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri.-Sat, 11 am.-IO p.m. began Mayor Daub. He then explained how teens Sun., 11 a.m.-8 p.m. can play an important role. : iJ][JliJjiJl[jj(jj[JiiJim m m m cJ The mayor touched on the issue of voting and reminded everyone how important it is to exercise their right to vote. However, the main point he A An Evening of Enchantment focused on was on becoming an active citizen. at "You have to give back to the community; you cannot just absorb it," he stated and then described programs in Omaha in which we can get [ W \ Restaurant • Bistro • Wine Bar involved, such as the "Help Clean Up Omaha Project" and "Sun Dawgs." mXk Enjoy Our Deligh&il Mayor Daub concluded, "Your opinions are valuIntimate tfSwK Lunches able because you are the future; your involvement 1 1 1 ton*^ 345-8980 is an assurance for me that things will carry on." "^^J^r™ OLD MARKET PASSAGEWAY While not everyone in the room supported Mayor Daub's political views, the students were respectful and listened intently to him. He also left the high schoolers with many opinions. "I felt he was dodging the issues by giving a more GREEK GYROS • STEAKS general overview of his position as mayor," stated PHILLIES • BURGERS Talya Greenspoon. Michael Fineman added, "He nailed the issues that affect us as teenagers and taught us more about how our community and how our city works as a whole." ' #1 Food in the Midwest Scott Littky, Beth El High School Director, Open 7 Days a Week stated, "I felt he did a really good job of making 4409 Dodge St. • 553-3326 students think they are important and that they can affect changes in the community." Rabbi Paul Drazen also attended the evening discussion. He said, "I think it was good of Mayor Daub to come out and speak, not about politics, as much as the need for government and what it can do." All in all, the evening was one filled with discusMonday-Saturday (Lunch 'til 2 on Sat) sions of the future and the gaining of a better understanding of our community. • Pancakes • Omelettes • Rissotto • Salmon Burger Ryan Tichauer describes the evening best, "It was • French Toast •Wild Rice w/Artichokes an interesting and educational experience. We appreciate that Mayor Daub took the time to meet with us." 1259 So. 120th St. (402) 334-7172
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BBYO and JFS pair up for 'Habitat for Humanity'
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Lfci first round of Council elections, were BBYO's held recently and new officers, pictured above, are, from left: Eryk Gilinsky, AZA Council Godol; Melissa Shapiro, BBG Coucil Isaiah; Nikki Romanik, BBG Council S'ganit; and MarkJavitch, AZA Council S'gtm.
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Volunteers included: front row, from left, Wendy Robertson, Jennifer Rifkin, Melissa Shapiro and Annie Nogg; back row, 'Robbie Epstein and Tony Endebnan. , . BBYO and Jewish Family Service recently paired up for a community service project "Habitat for Humanity." Six Omaha teens worked two full days in the former fire station at 22nd & Ames. The "crew" helped tear down walls, paint, clean equipment, and much more in efforts to restore the fire station to new headquarters for Habitat for Humanity.
Ed Ludin K2UK Scholarship available This scholarship is offered by the Chaverim of Delaware Valley, Inc., a non-profit Amateur. Radio organization. To be eligible, the applicant must hold an amateur radio license and be Jewish. The award is made on the basis of scholarship and financial need. It is open to post secondary students in academic, technical and graduate programs. There is no age limit. A copy of his/her amateur radio license must accompany the request for an application. _ Applications are available by writing to: Chaverim of Delaware Valley, Inc., Sylvia Soble, W3SLF, 9367 Hoff St., Philadelphia, PA 191164706. They must be returned by June 1. '
April 3,1998
Shabbat Shalom. Editor's Note: Following Is an excerpt from Danny's D'var Torah given on his BarMltzvah.
Three angels disguised as men are walking by Abraham's tent. Abraham shows hospitality by giving them food and water. They tell Abraham that his -wife, Sarah, will have a son. Sarah overhears arid laughs because she thinks that at 90, she is too old to have children. As promised, they do have a son, and they name him Isaac. The three visitors set off for Sodom. God says'to Abraham that He will destroy the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah because of the immoral behavior of the residents. Abraham asks God that . if there are 50 good people Danny in the cities, will He still destroy them? God says no. Abraham continues to plead and bargain and finally gets God ; to agree that if there are only 10 good people, He wont destroy the cities. Unfortunately, 10 good people could not be found. In fact, there was only one. His name was Lot. God sends two angels to tell him to leave Sodom. Lot and his family leave; and the angels tell them not to look back. But Lot's wife does look back, and she is turned into a pillar of salt. The last major incident in Vayerra is God's final test of Abraham's faith. He tells Abraham to sacrifice his son, Isaac. Abraham is about to kill
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BY DANNY MORRIS Isaac when God stops him. God says He now knows that Abraham fears God. Instead, Abraham sacrifices a ram. At this point, God decides that Abraham will be the leader of the Jewish people. I think one of the most important messages in this parsha — one that applies to my everyday life - is that we are continually being tested. Every day we make decisions that affect how we live, whether or not we are moral, whether or not we have faith in God. When Abraham gave food and water' to the three angels, he passed an ethical test because he was following a moral rule to show hospitality to strangers. In the story of Sodom and Gomorrah, the people failed the test of living their lives in a moral way. Lot's wife failed her test because she did not have enough faith in God and his messengers and did not obey their instructions. The most incredible test of faith is told in the Akedah or the Binding of Isaac. Abraham's faith and loyalty to God were exceptional. His trust was so great that he was willing to sacrifice his one and only beloved son, Isaac, if it was God's will. I wonder if I could ever do what Abraham did. You never know what you can do until you are put to the test; I do not yet know what obstacles Heir) my future. Sometimes things you don't want to do still have to be done because they are moral and right. As an adult Jew, I hope I can meet, life's test in a moral way. With Abraham's faith as an example, I hope I can be strong enough to take chances and risks for what I believe is just and right. Shabbat Shalom.
BYKATEEGGERS
BY NICK JACOBSON
I am a converted Jewish girl who is curI have been playing hockey for eight years, since I was age 6.1 started play- rently attending Duchesne Academy of ing because I always heard my dad talk- the Sacred! Heart, a Cath-i ing about the results of hockey games. When I first took the ice, I looked like olio school. Being the, a clown. I couldn't skate. I had to use a traffic cone to hold on to while I skated. only Jewish pi, The Omaha Hockey Association gave girl in the me used equipment. My first shin whole school is difficult yet guards were made of cardboard. As I got older, my skating and stick han- rewarding. It dling improved. I learned good sports- is very benefimanship and how to be a team player. cial for me to a The hardest thing is keeping up with receive strong educapractices and game schedules. tion, which is „ Kate This year I am in the league called what I receive "Bantams," for kids 15 and under. This at Duchesne. In addition to learning league is different from last year the basics, I am also being exposed to because we are more aggressive and it: another; religion without feeling gets a lot rougher. The equipment I uncomfortable. • " I V; j wear now is ... I have learned a .lot: about very different Catholicism, and my friends have than when I learned much about Judaism. started. It is Sometimes I go to mass, with friends; more protec-, at the same time, they come to tive and I wear Temple or spend Shabbat with me. more equipEven though our religious backment than a' football player. grounds are very different and we When I'm off believe in completely different things, my the ice,fl»keep friendship and stay at Duchesne, has not r in focus by been affected in any negative way" I do t playing street ' not feel threatened as the only Jew in, a ' h o c k e y . Catholic school; instead, I feel like a part Nick Through the of a family where there is understanding : . years, I have put a few holes and marks and interest in differences. Duchesne Academy is a place where on the garage wall! I also enjoy watching hockey games in you are. welcome no matter who you are; person. I went to most of the UNO you do not feel ashamed or left out Maverick games, and I also like to go to because of your differences. It is a place the Lancer games where I can see two of worship and a place for family and Danny Is an eighth grader at Mlllard friends, and I have always felt welcomed. North Middle School, a member of of my brother's friends, Jed and Jake The girls at Duchesne are very active in Kadlma USYand Beth El Synagogue, r Ortmeyer, play. their faith, and as you might expect, there I plan on playing hockey for the rest of is no discrimination In a place of God. ,mylife,.,,,. .. ; . ., ;...... • . Kate Is a freshman at Duchesne Nick Is an eighth grader at Phoenix Academy and a member of Temple BYLEAHRAFUL , Academy and a member of Temple Israel, lsraal.\ . I couldn't stay at school; it was too hard. I needed to go somewhere where I felt at home... where people knew Mark. I went to my elementary school, Columbian. I saw some of my teachers who had heard . > , • t ." *• -, " • about Mark and gave them hugs. They • '' " .* were also very emotional. Why did this have to happen at such a young age ... and why us? Why did we have to lose a friend at 13? I had a lot of emotions like sadness; grief, disbelief, anger, pain and many more. On Feb. 15, Mark's friends and family gathered at Faith Christian Church for Mark's last farewell, his funeral. When I got to the church, all my friends were crying and embracing each other. There was an open casket, which made me more upset. My mother had come with me. We' took our seats, and the service started. It was absolutely beautiful. The pastor spoke about Mark magnificently. Mark's sisters read poems inspirationally. But my favorite part of the service was when : ' • • : : : they played / Will Always Love You by Whitney Houston. That really got to me. That made me come to reality. ' Mark is gone, and I'll miss him. I would never get to talk to him ahout who Once upon a time, .•.on a place called earth, knows what, or just look at his handIn an era of confusion, I lived. some face. Never again. He was always Denying all reality a wonderful friend. Destruction of normality That started me thinking. What is a The magic Is like poison two in one. friend? I came to a conclusion. With winds of bleak transmutable power, A friend is someone who listens to I'll suffer 'til the witching hour, you. A friend is a person you love and And hang my hair from atop the tower, trust and someone who is always there So that my prince can rescue me. when you need them. Mark was one, Oh, happily ever alter, and I am one, and [am very lucky to where do you hide? have the greatest Wands In the whole Why do you trick me, tease me, tear me world. ,ij into these bits and pieces of nothing? Leah Is en eighth grader at Baverldgo Junior MghfO msmb&tofKodknsii VSY&id BY JENNIFER RIFKIN
As I walked into school, there was commotion about something, but I had no idea, so I didn't ask. My first period class was French. I came in a few minutes early and took my seat. Two. of my friends, Jacob and Paul, were talking. "Did you hear?" Jacob asked. "Yeah," Paul said painfully. "What?" I wondered. "What happened?" Our principal, Dr. Werkhelser, came on the intercom. "Last night, Mark Tauzin died "jie told us. It sounded like he had just been crying. I was silent Shocked I : Leah thought I might have heard wrong. Nope. : He can't be deadl I had been in elementary school with Mark, so I had known him a long time. The teachers were letting students go to the counselor's Office. Jacob and Paul went, but I thought I could handle the news. We were watching a foreign movie, but I was thinking about the last time I saw Mark. We were waiting for our mothers to pick us up after school. When my mother came, I said goodbye. I never thought that was it, the lost time I would ever talk to him. I didn't know what to think, but I knew I needed a hug from a friend. I went to the counselor's office. I was hysterical. Boys and; girls were hugging, crying, comforting, one another. Some of the people in the office weren't my friends, buH'didn't care. I hugged each BoUtBSynagoguo. of them, and some twice.
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Jennifer is a junior at Mlltent North, a mmbor of Ediar BBG, and Beth B Synagogue
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
April 3,1998
Everyone loves flowers!
Newman Grant requests due Mayi by Claudia Sherman, Foundation Public Relations Coordinator
"Over the past several years, there has been a growing interest expressed by local Jewish organizations in obtaining Esther K. Newman/Carolyn Kully Newman grants for hew and innovative programs that are designed to enhance the Jewish identity of our youth," said Myra Oberman, chairman of the Newman Grants Committee. "Because of the competition for grant dollars," she noted, "we ask that potential recipients be clear as to the viability of their proposed programs so that dollars are not allocated for programs that never get off the ground or are cancelled as a result of poor planning or enrollment. "In addition, we are encouraging all organizations that submit requests to maximize in-kind contributions so as to stretch the dollars available for allocation," she added. • Grant applications along with copies of guidelines the committee uses in their deliberations to determine grant distributions have been mailed. Deadline for submitting proposals for grants is
JIM fit J€NNIG'S R6STAURANT "The Greek Village" RoMtlJmb FUiPlaM StuI«lQrap*U«vn CWck.nBt8«i«lo • BMT-Wlna
Commemoration . . (Continued from page 1) The director, Max Sparber, has been involved in theatre for almost 11 years and currently has two original plays in production or pre-production in Omaha: Minstrel Show at the Blue Barn Theater, and Boy Elroy which will go into production in April or May. • Sparber has also written for film and television. His script, Kishinev, about the 1904 pogrom in White Russia was a semi-finalist in the prestigious Don and Gae Nicholl's Fellowship Contest. The Yom HaShoah Commemoration is underwritten by grants from the Esther K. Newman and Mort Richards Funds and is under the auspices of the Jewish Cultural Arts Council. Justin Cooper is chairman of this year's commemoration. . There are still dramatic speaking roles for Omaha Jewish community teenagers. Please call Max Sparber or Rabbi Debbie Stiel at 556-6536 for more information.
Authentic Greok Outline DAILY SPECIALS • • • •
Friday, May 1. The committee,- which convenes twice a year, will, meet on Tuesday, May 19, to determine the allocation grants'. Esther K. Newman Fund allocations subsidize educational, religious, cultural, social, and recreational projects that provideSj&ogramming for children, teenagers, and young adults under the age of 23 who are not attending a college or university. Carolyn Kully Newman Fund grants are intended to help support program's for families with children who are kindergarten age or younger. Members of the Newman Grants Committee represent the Jewish Federation Board of Directors, the Federation Budget and Allocations Committee, Jewish Educational and Library Services, the Jewish Community Center, Beth Israel and Beth El Synagogues, Temple Israel, Friedel Jewish Academy, B'nai B'rith Youth Organization, and the Federation Foundation. . Both Newman Funds are administered by The Foundation of the Jewish Federation. Applicants can call the Foundation office at 334-6440 for assistance.
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3026 No. BOUl S t • 571-2057 »T—T—T"-I—I—T—I—T«-T-
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i Co-chairpersons are Dory Mawyer (right), and Ellie Greenspoon. , Mother's Day is just around the corner, and LOVE has the perfect gift^-flowers and beautiful hanging and bedding plants that will keep blooming all summer long.: • . LOVE (League Offering Volunteers for the Elderly), is an auxiliary group that enhances the quality of life for residents of the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. By purchasingflowers,contributions will continue to support activities such as bingo,, arts and crafts, holiday parties and many more life-enriching activities for-the .elderly.. /•'•' .•' Flyers are enclosed in this issue of the Jewish. Press. Deadline for ordering is April 29. ;•' , , ' CORRECTIONS ; : The Visions and New Citizens photos in the upper outside corners of pages 6 and 7 in the March 27 issue were inadvertently transposed. Also, Megan Adam's name wais omitted in the Panim el Panim group photo on page 11. She is third from left in the second row. The Jewish Press regrets the errors.
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