ewish Press
SERVING NEBRASKA AND WESTERN IOWA FOR NEARLY 80 YEARS No. 46 Omaha, NE
25 Tammuz, 5760
Jerusalem, the symbol, ended talks while Jerusalem, the city, has earthly needs by Avl Machlis JERUSALEM (JTA)~Jerusalem may be a city infused with historical and religious significance to three of the world's great faiths, but it is also a city with ordinary people who live ordinary lives. As the fate of Jerusalem was brought to the negotiating table this week in Camp David, pundits tried to determine whether compromise could supersede the passions that have prevented Israelis and Palestinians from discussing the city until now, and lead to a historic peace accord. But there was little talk about things like garbage collection or social security, issues that would have been affected by any agreement to change the status of parts of the city. Apparently, passions over the city were too strong for the Camp David negotiators and were primarily the reasons for the summit's end. If there ever is any decision on Jerusalem, it would need to take into account both the heavenly aura of a city charged with emotion and faith, as well as the earthly details of how municipal bureaucracy would function in a shared metropolis. The issues are further complicated by difficult geography, with Arab and Jewish neighborhoods in eastern Jerusalem situated side by side. During the negotiations, it was unclear what type
of formula for sharing the city—if any—the leaders were discussing. But it would have been the details that determine to what extent the lives of Israelis and Palestinians would be affected.
sites, are among the reasons why Israeli and Palestinian leaders knew fena the start thai any change in the city's status could not include a physical division of Jerusalem. Neither side wants sew masses of anempioyed Palestiaians or a checkpoint What is clear is that during in the center of the city. the 33 years since Israel capStill, the lives of Palestinians i s eastern Jerusalem would likely change significantly if an tured eastern Jerusalem in the accord is signed .that would place control of their Six-Day War, the unification of affairs under the Palestinian. Authority—and not the two extremely different necessarily for the better. An increasing number of are putting patriotism aside and sides'of the city has created a Palestinians speaking out opealy about their fears of living dynamic that will he hard to under Palestinian. Authority President Yasser Arafaifs regime, with Its well-documented corrupreverse. tion and stagnant economic policy. Many Palestinians work in Jewish parts of Khsder Ali, a 5^year~oid unemployed resident of Jerusalem and are an integral part of the city's .eco- the Shuafat reftigee camp, which could be transnomic pulse—whether as taxi drivers, ear'mechan- ferred to the Palestinians, is not looking forward to ics, cooks in trendy cafes or construction workers. Palestinian rale as he watches what he calls ""corThey may work primarily in menial jobs, but at ruption or nepotism* just down fee road. least they have jobs, in contrast to the many *The truth is we don't want either side, the status Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza Strip who quo is good,** he said. Under that states quo, Ali, are unemployed. who has 12 children, enjoys a standard Israeli perIndeed, the economic realities of the city, com- cbild social security stipend fliat totals more than bined with the mutual need for free access to holy (Oon&med on page IS)
Dawld Rice's new charitable remamder onitrust provides major benefits by Claudia Sherman, Foundation Public Relations Coordinator David Rice, a lifelong Omahan, recently established a charitable remainder trust which will eventually be managed by The Foundation of the Jewish Federation of Omaha. Rice's charitable remainder unitrust will provide him with "tremendous tax advantages," he said. As the trustee, he will also be able to control how the principal is invested and receive payments based on a fixed percentage of the value of the trust assets during his lifetime. Originally a chemist in his family's poultry pharmaceutical business, Gland-0 Lac Company, Rice became a stock broker in 1969. In 1975, he became a Certified Financial Planner (CFP). The oldest CFP in Nebraska, he said there were only about 75 people in the country who earned the CFP designation before he did. Rice is a registered representative of a brokerage firm, Multi-Financial Securities Corporation which is a member of the NASD (the National Association of Security Dealers). The firm is headquartered in Denver, Colorado. Eice and his partner sell stocks, bonds, and other securities. "We do taxes, total financial planning, and manage investments," he commented at his office in southwest Omaha. A member of Beth El Synagogue for 63 years, Eice said he learned about charitable giving from his father, Sam Rice, and his uncle, Joe Rice. "They were very active in the Jewish community," he recalled "and very generous contributors to the Jewish Federation." Rice and his wife, Esther (Zorinsky), were married for 39 years before she died of leukemia in September, 1997. Two of their four daughters, Jody Malashock and lindy Fried, live in Omaha; another daughter, Edye Krasne, lives in Fremont; and the Rices' fourth daughter, Carey Herzberg, lives in Columbus, Ohio. Rice has nine grandchildren. a My wife and I always gave (to the Jewish
• • ,
David and Esther Bice
Federation campaign) every year." He wanted to create a trust to continue the flow of contributions in memory of his wife and "to leave a legacy for both of us." Part of the income from Rice's trust will be donated to the Jewish Federation in the form of an endowment known as the David S. Sice and Esther Zorinsky Rice Fund. It will be used to provide funding for programs and financial assistance for Jewish children in the Omaha community including educational programs, camp expenses, (Continued on page 13)
Middle. .. East Peace Talks at Camp Dawid released by the White House Between July 11 and 24, under the auspices of President Clinton, Prime Minister Barak and Chairman Arafat met at Camp David in an effort to reach an agreement on permanent status. While they "were not able to bridge the gaps and reach an agreement, their negotiations were unprecedented in both scope and detail. Building on the progress achieved at Camp David, the two leaders agreed on the following principles to guide their negotiations: 1) The two sides agreed that the aim of their negotiations is to put an end to decades of conflict and achieve a just and lasting peace. 2) The two sides commit themselves to continue their efforts to conclude an agreement on all permanent status issues as soon as possible. 3) Both sides agree that negotiations based on UN Security Council Resolutions 242 and 338 are the only way to achieve such an agreement and they undertake to create an environment for negotiations free from pressure, intimidation and threats of violence. 4) The two sides understand the importance of avoiding unilateral actions that prejudge the outcome of negotiations and that their differences will be resolved only by good faith negotiations. 5) Both sides agree that the United States remains a vital partner in t i e search for peace and will continue to consult closely with President Clinton and Secretary Albright in the period ahead.
INSIDE: Monthly calendar.......... A message for Tisha h'Av
pages 8-9 page 10
Jewish weddings and the
Internet.
.
Birthright grants
page 12 16
Page 2
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
July 28,2000
A-1 Working Conditions Pennie Z. Davis Child Development Center 333 South 132 Street • Certified teacher of 3-year-olds, MWF 15 hours per week. • Caregiver daily, 3:00-6:00 p.m. Call (402) 334-6415 to apply.
^
HOUSE FOR SALE (West Fairacres) Beautiful, Modern, Open Ranch » Updated White Kitchen • 4 Bedrooms • 31/2 Baths • New Roof • Mature Trees •Finished Walk-Out Basement $334,500
OPEN HOUSE August 5 & 6 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 134 So. 122rid St. . 697-9108 j
Rentable AWilHCS FOR •Decks •Patios •Windows Custom made Awnings shipped in five days! We'll beat any comparable estimate by $ / 00!
FIREPLACE Omaha'i #1 D«>«lgn»r Showroom
12015 Pacific St. •697-8338 Mon-Fri 8:30-5:30 • Sat 10:00-3:00
ChubadHoUse 'Cordially invites you to our
BarMitzvah Banquet Celebrating 13 Years of Service and Leadership Special Honorees Irv & Geri Epstein Maury&JoanUdes
_
Spurk& from the Word
Parashiyyot Mattot-Mas'ei by Rabbi Myer S. Kripke
HELEN M. SHUKERT Graveside services for Helen Shukert were held July 24 at the Beth El Cemetery Chapel. She was 85. I suppose it is not odd, but a naturally expected She was preceded in death by her husband, occurrence, that while we read these Torah por- David. tions, ending the Book of Numbers (B'Midbar), Survivors include three children: Sari Wolf of actual talks are going on in Washington about the England, Dr. Samuel Shukert of Denver, and Jay very land areas we are reading about! Shukert of San Francisco; 12 grandchildren; and 14 As a child, I was simply unbelieving that two and a great-grandchildren. half tribes of ancient Israel preferred to remain east of Mrs. Shukert was instrumental in starting the Jordan rather than cross into the designated terri- L.O.V.E. (League Offering Volunteers for the tory of the Promised Land. It was only on attaining a Elderly) at the Rose Blumkin Home, and remained kind of maturity that I recognized the dominating an active volunteer until her death. influence of economics on the opinions of us all. How Memorials to L.O.V.E. at the Blumkin Home, 323 could these herdsmen prefer to live across the river So. 132nd St., Omaha, NE 68154. from their brethren just for these grazing areas? And how can Americans debate the virtues of ALBERT ORUCH estate taxes, when it is obvious that the good of all Graveside services for Albert Oruch Were held demands that there be a level playing field for the July 27 at Golden Hill Cemetery. He was 85. next generation. And how can a man who flunked He is survived by his wife, Reva; stepsons and out of Yale become a multi-multi millionaire? What daughters-in-law, Mark and Linda Rimmerman of a country this is! He will only be a heart beat from Omaha and Harlan and Carol Rimmerman of the presidency if his mentor is elected president! Kansas City; 10 grandchildren and four greatReturning to our Sidrot, it is important to notice grandchildren; sisters-in-law, Fanny Gummers, that the end of our second Sidrah is in a very real Edith Abrams and Ruth Oruch; and nieces and sense the end of Torah, since the Book of nephews. Deuteronomy is basically a wonderful recollection, Donations to Jewish Senior Services, 328 S, and a wonderful group of sermonic addresses by 132nd St., Omaha, NE 68154. Moses. Mas'ei ends the journey of Israel in a physical sense; the moral destiny of Israel continues in a settled land, rather than in the miserable desert. Our fourth book of Torah, which ends in our reading this week, concludes with a summary statement that "these are the commandments.. .which the Lord commanded. . .to the children of Jericho." But we Grant applications to the Herbert Golclsten Trust have to wait through the reading of the whole Book of are due September 5, according to Joseph Deuteronomy before an attempt is made, under Kirshenbaum, President of the Trust, The Goldsten Trust allocates funds to Jewish Joshua, to cross the Jordon and take up the task of religious, charitable and educational organizations forcing their way into the land. This is the land that in the metropolitan area. the Lord had promised again and again that this The Trust was established by the late Herbert would be their land, as His gift-and they have to Goldsten and is funded through a bequest from his fight their way in! How about a little miracle instead estate following his death in 1990, of this onerous and dangerous conquest? Kirshenbaum noted that special consideration But the Torah's emphasis is on mitzvot, "comwill be given to grant requests for projects which mandments," which tend to be moral more than ritrequire funding that would not otherwise be availual, in the way that the House of Israel conceived able from general community resources and which them. Even ritual mitzvot were understood to be would have a favorable long-term impact on the moral, in that it was obedience to a moral code and Omaha Jewish community. Applications requestto a moral God that led to their observance. ing relatively small amounts which could be funded So Mattot-Mas'ei, our two Sidrot, end on a cliff- through other sources only be considered in hanger. How simple and undramatic the last words extraordinary situations,will he added. are. And yet, "in the plains of Moab, by the Jordan, Grant application forms have been sent to Jewish at Jericho" promise a needed military campaign organizations and are also available through the and necessary girding up, before the moral destiny Jewish Federation Foundation. Applications (six and the wrestling with the moral problems of life copies) should be sent to the Herbert Goldsten can begin in earnest. Trust, c/o The Foundation of the Jewish Federation Thus the Torah, which Jews have always cherof Omaha (Attention: Marty Ricks), 333 So. 132nd ished as the most important part of the Bible, leads St., Omaha, NE 68154. us to turning its lessons over and over again, menGrant selections will be made at the October tally and spiritually, before continuing. And what meeting of the Goldsten Trust Board of Trustees. better way to continue than with the brilliant Book of Deuteronomy.
Herbert Golclsten Trust accepts applications
Pulverente MONUMENT CO. 60 Years Experience With Jewish Lettering and Memorials
1439 So. 13th 341-2452 Frank L. Ciciulla, Jr.
Featuring in Concert Avraham Fried
Sunday, August 13 12 Av, 5760 5:00 p.m. Cocktails • 6:00 p.m. Dinner 190.00 per person ($40.00 lax deductible)
Embassy Suites Old Market 555 So. lOlh St., Omaha, NE valet parking available • black tie optional
Chahad.. .Changing the World One Mitzvah at a Time Mail reservation and check payable to Chabad House by August 1 Nancy Wolf, 16620 Vinton Circle Omaha, NE 68130
Deaiiis
Beth Israel Synagogue is seeking a dynamic self-starter to fill a new part-time position (up to 10 hours per week). Responsibilities include: • Leading a weekly Parent/Toddler class on Sunday morning. • Leading Shabbos morning Junior Congregation (curriculum provided). • Planning programs for and administering our youth group (5-12 graders); includes some weekend travel.
contact Beth Cohen -556-6288
' •
Interested in only one part of the job ? We can split responsibilities between two individuals
Beth Israel to host Tisha ETav event by Beth Cohen
This year, the Chofetz Chaim Heritage Foundation has once again organized a Tisha B'av event, "Who Will Put Out the Fire?" which is expected to involve more than 200 Jewish communities in countries throughout the world. Beth Israel Synagogue will host the event in Omaha on Monday, Aug. 7 at 0 p.m., in the JCC Social Hall. The entire community is invited. For two thousand years, Tisha B'av has been a day of mourning marking the destruction of the First and Second Temples of Jerusalem. But JO years ago, the Chofetz Chaim Heritage Foundation added a new element—the concept that Tisha B'av should not only be a day of mourning, but a day of energizing the Jewish people to undo the damage. The Chofetz Chaim Heritage Foundation works each year to bring communities presentations on topics relevant to Tisha B'av. This year, the Tisha B'av event will feature a video presentation of Rabbi Paysach Krohn, whose riveting speaking style has won him worldwide acclaim. He will speak on muxs diinmn, .scnswltjHS hatred, shining his awn brilliant light cm the inner workings of this tenacious and destmdive trait.
July 28, 2000
SYNAGOGUES
Jewish Press , Omaha, NE
Page ?
| CANDLEUGHTING: 8:27 p.m.
TEMPLE ISRAEL
BETH ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE
BETH EL SYNAGOGUE
Member of the Union of American Hebrew CtiitgregntiQiis
Member of the Union of Orthodox: Jewish Congregations of America
Member of United Synagogues of Conservative Judaism 14606 California Omaha, NE 681S4-1980 492-8550 WEB -www.bcthel-omaha.org Office Hours: Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m,5 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. Services are conducted by Rabbi Paul Drazen and Cantors Emil Berkovits and G. Michael Horwitz. FRIDAY: Services, 6 p.m. SATURDAY: Services, 9;30 a.m. Kiddush following services; Devar Torah given by Scott Bresler; Sitter service, 10 a.m.; Humash with Rashi study session,, 8:10 p.m.; Minha-Ma'ariv and Havdalah services, 8;40 p.m, SUNDAYS Services, 9 a.m. WEEKDAYS: Services, 6:55 a.m, and 5:30 p.m.
7023 Cass Street, Omaha, NE 88132-2651 556-6536 tentpleisrael-ne.org FRIDAY; Shabbat service, 5:30 p.m., Rabbi Debbie Stiel and Cantor Jennifer Blum will officiate. SATURDAY: Bagels and Bible, 9:30-10:15 a.m.; Shabbat morning service, 10:30 a.m. SITTER SERVICE-Sitter service will be available for Friday evening services. Cost is $2 per family. Sorry, there are no facilities for infants. There is no sitter service for Saturday morning services during July and August. Adult Education: Thursday, Aug. 8: Adult B'nai Mitzvah Class, 7-8 p.m. OUTDOOR SUMMER SERVICE FRIDAY, August 4, 6 p.m.: The evening begins with a bring-your-own picnic supper, followed by a worship service led by Rabbi Aryeh Azriel. Bring any sporting equipment you might like to use. A sitter will be provided for young children. An alternative indoor service will be held at Temple at 5:80 p.m.
OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE 2fJth and Cam-hart, Omaha, NE 68113-5000 394-6051 Office hours: Moud:>vThursdnv, 7:.'U) a.m.-<l:.'10 p.m.; Friday, 7:M0 a.m.-2 p.m.
1602 No. 52nd Street, Omaha, NE 68104-5013 556-6288
Office hours: For the week of July 30-Aug. 4: Monday through Thursday, 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; Friday, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Services conducted by Rabbi Howard Kutner. FRIDAY: Evening Services, 7 p.m, The west minyan will be at the home of Leon and Dani Shrago, 805 S. 120 Avenue, 7:80 p.m. SATURDAY: Morning Services, 8:45 a.m. Kiddush is sponsored in honor of Scott Lewis; Pirkei Avos class with Rabbi Kutner, 7:60 p.m.; Mincha, 8:20 p.m.; Havdalah, 9s31 p.m, SUNDAY: Services, 9 a,iw. and 8:25 p.m. WEEKDAYS: Services, 7 a.m. and 8:25 p.m. TUESDAY: Class with Rabbi Shlomo Levin, 7:80 p.m. ROSE BLUMKIN JEWISH HOME J WEDNESDAY: Rabbi's Talmud Class, 7:30 p.m. SATURDAY: Services, 9 a.m., let) by Andrew SEED SEED returns to Beth Israel Synagogue for the Grmmher& Members of the community are. welsixth year from Aug. 16-27, with a festive SEED come!. Services are held in the Herbert Goldsten Shnbhos on Aug. 18-10. SEED offers the opportuni- Cliapol, followed by Kiddush. A mcmortul service is ty for. community members to learn Torah, held on tlu* last. Slmbbat of each month, in memory Talmud, Minima and Siddur. Contact tht> ayna- of residents who huvo died. t;o(tuo office for morn information on SK10D learning opportunities and tfhabboa monk*.
CONGREGATION B'NAI JESHURAN SOUTH ST11KKT TKMPLE
of (ho Union of Annwi«t«n Itobcvw (.'unsfrt-jfa turns 8. 2<)t.h St., iiim-oln, NK KBH02-2797
CHABAD HOUSE
BEYT SHALOM
An AfliliaM of lite Worldwide <*hab(Hd-Lubnvi(«h Muwnu-nl
An Affiliate of Un»
JttSfl Ho. 120th St., Omaha, NK 68J44-1646 Phone: 330-1800 E-MAIL~ohabnd0aol.com WEBSITE: www.chabud.oenlerrt.com/omaha Services conducted by Uubbi Mondol KJIUIJJHU. FRIDAY: Kubbalut Shublml SATURDAY: Sorvietw, »:30 a.m. SUNDAY: Sorview, 8:30 a.m. WEEKDAYS: Minymi. 7 a.m. MONDAY: Chicken Soup for the Woman's Soul, 11:45 a.m.-1 p.m.
B'NAI ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE 618 Myn«i«r St., Council Blufifs, IA 515O8-G760 PluMiet 322-4705 E-MAIL: doojobOaol.com FIUDAY: Sorvioea, 7:IS0 p.m. Topic will IH> "Will intorneciuo foudinfj destroy Israel?" Onotf and Kiddish will follow services.
3012 8. lUUli 8t n P.O. IJox 241130, Omaha, NK 08124-5130 phone: 758*92.%) FRIDAY: Slmhlml. in tho Homo RELIGIOUS SCHOOL: Summer Vacation. IUHWW rtwumc August 20. FRIDAY, Aug. 4: KnbbnlnL Hhnbbat, 7:30 p.m.
TIFERETH ISRAEL MemlMT of the IJniUxl Sy of <]onmrvuUv<» Judaism ;t2J» Sheridan Blvd., Lincoln, NK B8502-32tt« H cumhu'U>d by Rubbi Stanley M. Kr>«i>nbsium. Minyan, Monday and Thursday, 7:15 a.m. FRIDAY; Service*, H p.m. SATURDAY! Services, fl;3G a.m.
Joint Tisha b'Av observance combines tradition and Internet
Services uffu'mU'd by Cantor Michael FRIDAY: Kabbuth Kvu a<»rviw, 7:45 p.m. SATURDAY: Tornh Study, 10 a.m. WKDNESDAY: AA Mwl-intf, 7iS0 p.m., in the library.
Talking History schedule These programs will air on upcoming Mondays at 10 a.m. on KlOS-radio's Talking History show: July 31, "Hintory of the Roach" with Lena Lencek; op-cd by Jnno Iloltz Kay; mid AuguBt 7, "llariey Davidson Hikea*1 with Brock Yatea; op~cd by Melissa Pkraon.
PERSONALS Thank you to all my friends and relatives for cards, donations, flowers, phone calls and concern during my hospitalization and surgery, A special thanks to Rabbi Drazen. Rose Abrahams The Norman Zevitz family wishes to thank all the people who donated and sant well wishes to Dorothy Zevitz. Thank you, again. Norman Zevitz
by Ozzie Nogg
A joint service commemorating Tisha b'Av, sponsored by Beth El Synagogue and Temple Israel, will be held on Wednesday, Aug. 9, 8 p.m. The entire community is invited to the program in the Beth El chapel. Tisha b'Av has long been considered the saddest day in the Jewish year. A day of fasting and mourning, the ninth of Av--according to the Talmud—was marked for calamity because it was on that date that the spies sent by Mosea into Canaan brought back a report which made the Children of Israel doubt God's promises to them. The resulting displays of ingratitude and lack of faith shown by the Hebrews during their years in the wilderness-their complaints and weeping-led God to decree that the ninth of Av would eventually see the destruction of both the First and Second Temples in Jerusalem and the Exile of the Jewish people. The destruction of the Temples and, in particular, the surviving remnant of the Western Wall, will be the subject of the Tisha b'Av observance this year. The program, titled "The Western Wall: Ideal
or Idol", will focus on the role played by the Wall from ancient days to the present. Facilitated by Larry Raful, the discussion will address the question of whether or not the Wall, considered by some to be the only true Jewish "holy site5*, has become a symbol out of proportion with its historical significance. The evening will give participants a chance to share personal impressions and feelings evoked by their visits to the Wall. In addition, the program will look at the recent phenomenon of Kotel Kamthe Internet site that gives viewers an around-theclock, virtual trip to the Wall-and also examine the on-line services that provide ways for people who are not in Jerusalem to e-mail and fax prayers and .messages for inclusion in the Wall. The joint Tisha b'Av observance will also include Miiieha/Ma'ariv services and the traditional chanting of. Eichah, The Book of •Lamentations. • Conducting the services are Rabbis Paul Drazea and Debbie Stiel, Cantors Emil Berkovits. and Jennifer Blum and rabbinic intern Daniel Fellnwm. : For .more information,, call 402-8650.
Wanted: High school journalism student for free-lance position
Jewish Press: Student Intern. Cover events/programs of interest to teens and their parents For more information, cai! Carol Katuman, 334-6450
Page 4
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
July 28, 2000
Still no deal You can't blame the failure of this round of negotiations on Israel. Prime Minister Ehud Barak bent so far backwards, he nearly fell over, yet the Palestinians and their leader, Yasser Arafat, still wouldn't budget. Part of the problem here is a cultural one. In Arab conversation, just making a statement aloud translates as truth. Therefore, when Arafat declares that "Jerusalem must be the capital of the state of Palestine," in his mind and every other Arab's, it's already a statement of fact. To Western ears, it's just posturing, but having made his stand, Arafat can't go back to his people or other Arab leaders with anything less. Of course, there are other problems as well: the lack of governance by the Palestinian Authority, the growing resentment by the average Palestinian about the luxurious lifestyles lived by their so-called government officials, and the continued jailing of dissidents and suppression of the truth in the Palestinian media and schools.
The great elder statesman, Abba Eban, once said, "The Palestinians have never missed an opportunity to miss an opportunity." His sentiments still ring true today. Perhaps Arafat is scared (and he should be), that by signing a significant peace accord and giving up any future demands, he would again be a target for assassination. Perhaps, he is scared of governing his people. Perhaps, he just can't give up the struggle. After all, it's a lot easier screaming demands and whining about what you don't have than actually delivering on promises made to your constituents. The good news (as of press time) is that the sky hasn't fallen; while there's posturing (on both sides), no one is shooting. The bad news is: if Barak can't maintain his margin of power, there will be an election and Arafat's new negotiating partner may take a tougher stance...or Arafat, who's already in ill health, may not be at the negotiating table at all. As we all breathe a collective sigh at another opportunity lost, let's continue to pray for the peace of Jerusalem
<PBX JUST A GROUP
OF
Would U.S. Jewry lobby hard for an Israeli-Palestinian deal? by Michael J. Jordan
NEW YORK (JTA)-Had Palestinian and Israeli negotiators succeeded in forging peace at Camp David, it's all but certain that tens of billions of American tax dollars would be needed to underpin such an agreement. And in cajoling the U.S. Congress to loosen the purse strings, no group would be more vital than the leading American pro-Israel lobby, the American Israel Public Affairs Committee. No one doubts that AIPAC would "be there" on behalf of a peace deal, despite deep reservations , from some corners within the organization. "There would be initial sticker ahock-'I can't believe they're giving up this, I can't believe they're giving up that,'" said a Jewish official familiar with AIPAC. "But most people would swallow hard, sit back and realize that if Barak, with the credibility as Israel's greatest warrior, says this will enhance Israel's long-term security, the community will respond and rally behind him," However, some now wonder-in light of a recent open letter critical of Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak signed by several Jewish leaders affiliated with AIPAC-what degree of enthusiasm its lobbyists would demonstrate. AIPAC, after all, mirrors American Jewry itself. Its 463-member executive committee spans the political spectrum of Jewish groups and individuals, and, therefore, encompasses the wide range of American Jewish opinion on how best to achieve peace in the Middle East and guarantee security for the Jewish state. With Barak so driven in his quest for peace, a number of U.S. Jewish groups and officials have expressed concern that Barak is prepared to breach several "red lines" drawn by previous Israeli leaders on such issues as the status of Jerusalem, Palestinian refugees, national borders and Jewish settlements. Nowhere were these divisions so evident as in a series of recent newspaper ads. One, spearheaded by the Zionist Organization of America (ZOA), featured an open letter to Barak criticizing the prime minister for appearing to concede too much in peace negotiations. The letter, signed by 30 leading American Jewish
figures, was published throughout Israel, in The explain Barak's vision to the 535 members of the New York Times and in several U.S. Jewish papers. U.S. Congress, Another full-page ad, which appeared in The New AIPAC, which has often been a driving force in York Times on July 12, the first full day of the Bum- securing U.S. foreign aid to Israel and others, mit, and in Jewish papers, was sponsored by thewould have to convince members of Congress, Israel Policy Forum, a group that promotes the many of whom are wary of foreign aid expendipeace process. tures, of the need for billions more in aid for Israeli This open letter to Barak, which carried 384 sig- security measures, Palestinian statehood and natures, stated that "the overwhelming majority of refugees. American Jews support this peace initiative." For now, observers say, AIPAC's professional A third letter appeared in The Washington Post staff is laying the groundwork for any peace dealto welcome Barak to the Camp David summit. related lobbying, clarifying Israeli positions and Sponsored by the 54-member Conference of making plain the need forfinancialaid, Presidents of Major American Jewish After any deal, AIPAC would be expected to present Organizations, it carried the names of only 36 a united, non-partisan front. Internal concerns would members. AIPAC, a member of the Conference of be expressed privately, or directly with the Israelis. Presidents, itself appeared as a signatory on the Rabbi Michael Melchior, Israel's minister for third letter, but AIPAC-afiiliated individuals were Diaspora affairs, said in an interview last week also signatories to the first two dueling letters. from Camp David that he senses widespread For their part, AIPAC officials insist the lobby- Jewish support for Barak initiatives and that if consistently ranked as one of the most influential and when the time comes,"! expect there will be on Capitol Hill-would lead the charge for a finan- unilateral support for the financial aid we need" from AIPAC. cial aid package to secure peace. "AIPAC's record in supporting the peace process If there is a deal eventually, one of the many is clear and unambiguous, and we are very proud tasks for Barak-who is said to be the most highly of it," AIPAC spokesman Kenneth Bricker told decorated soldier in Israel's history-would be to JTA. "We completely understand the magnitude sell the plan not only to the Israeli public, but to and significance of what might be achieved at American Jewry as well. Camp David." They, too, need reassurance. To date, this has Bricker declined to elaborate. Due to AIPAC's been a failure of Barak's administration, say some strict press policy, several members of the execu- observers. tive committee declined to comment. Israeli leaders, they say, traditionally tend to However, the ZOA letter did raise important take American Jewry's support for granted and questions about AIPAC: If there is internal unease have not done enough to inform and educate U.S. with a Camp David deal that relinquishes more Jews about the peace process. If such steps were than expected, how would that unease affect the taken, they say, it could exert more influence on timing and style of AIPAC's lobbying campaign? Washington. Some observers think that support among "AIPAC will continue to explain the Israeli posiAIPAC's board—and intensified AIPAC activity on tion forcefully and effectively," said Rabbi David behalf of a financial aid package-would come only Saperstein, director of the Religious Action Center after the Israeli public gave its stamp of approval of Reform Judaism. in a referendum, which has been promised by But Barak, he added, "will need to explain clearly Barak. Israeli rejection by referendum would ren- to the American Jewish community why the peace der AIPAC's lobbying moot. process, and the peace agreement he is signing, is Even though Barak wasn't able to wrest a deal indispensable for the security of Israel, and why with the Palestinians for a peace agreement, it every other possibility is fraught with almost gxxarwould inevitably fall to AIPAC and its allies to anteed disaster."
Lloyd Roitstein THE JEWISH PRESS Chairman (Founded in 1920) Carol Katzman The role of the Jewish Federation of Omaha is to involve Jews in meeting Editor-in-Chief Jewish communal needs locally, nationally and in Israel, Centers of Maureen LaPour Excellence of the Federation are: Community Relations, Jewish Community Managing Editor Center, Jewish Educational and Library Services, Jewish Family Service, tarry Axelrod Jewish Senior Services. The Jewish Press is a Constitutional Committee of Advertising Manager the Jewish Federation of Omaha. Deadline for copy, ads and photos is Barbara Frankel Rocky Stern Thursday, noon, eight days prior to publication. Sales representatives The Jewish Press (USPS 275620) is published weekly on Friday for $28 per calendar year U.S.; Jonina Stewart $32 foreign, by the Jewish Federation of Omaha. Telephone: 402-334-6448; FAX: 402-334-5422; Bookkeeper E-mail: <gshpress@aol.com> Jen Gates Periodical postage paid at Omaha, NE. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Jewish Production Assistant George Schoplro Press, 333 So. 132nd St., Omaha, NE 68154-2198. Volunteer
JEWISH PRESS COMMITTEE Fred Tichauer, Vice-Chairman; Joanie Jacobson, Secretary; Howard Silber, Treasurer; Elyce A:eriel; Jill Belmont; Jean Duitch; Penny Kndelman; Kip Gordman; Gary Kiulym; Howard K. Marcus; Linda Salt'/man; Stoves Simon; Aineo Zetzman; George Schapiro (Honorary Committee Member). Editorials express the view of the writer and are not necessarily representative of the views of the Jewish Press Committee, the Jewish Federation of Omaha or the Omaha Jewish Community as a whole. The Jewish Pwes reserves the right to edit letters and articles for space and content The Jewish Press is not responsible for the Ktishruth of any product or establishment.
July 28, 2000
Focus on Issues
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 5
Compromise on religious liberty slated for action in U.S. Congress by Brian Seidman
NEW YORK (JTA)--Due to overcrowding, parents at the Young Israel of New Rochelle, N.Y., synagogue are not able to pray with their children, many members cannot find a seat for Shabbat or holiday services and celebrations like Bar Mitzvahs must often exclude much of the community. The synagogue members have stared across the street at their proposed expansion site for 15 years, without breaking ground. Members of the synagogue board say they have been forced to deal with zoning restrictions, such as finding room for a required amount of parking spaces even when their Orthodox Jewish congregants walk to the synagogue for services, and conducting extensive ecological surveys. "We've gone through a long, arduous, expensive process in order not to build an industrial plant, but a house of worship," said board member Michael Turek. Now legislation that was scheduled to be introduced into the U.S. Senate this week could aid the congregation's battle to expand. The Religious Liberty Protection Act being introduced by Sena. Edward Kennedy CDMaes.) and Orrin Hatch (R-tJtah) ia a newer, more limited version of a bill that has had a rocky history, The new compromise'version is more limited than what was first envisioned by its proponents, including many Jewish tfroups. • •The'proponed meaaura applies only to zoning regulations and the rights of "insfcifculionalizod persona," including prisoners. It ruquirna .state and local governments to supply a compelling reason for blocking the establishment of a synagogue, for example -and proof that the governments are blocking religious liberties by the "least restrictive means" possible. In the case of prisoners, the legislation would allow them to better argue for a religious diet, permission to wear religious objects, or participate in religious observances. The first version of RLPA weighed in on such issues as allowing Jewish children to wear yarmulkas in school, allowing minors to drink wine for religious purposes and laws that conflicted with the Orthodox prohibition against autopsies. The legislation, known as RLPA, is the offspring of the Religious Freedom Restoration Act passed by Congress in 1993 and struck down by the U.S. Supreme Court in 1997, ruling that Congress had overstepped its bounds. Following that ruling, every major Jewish organization, as well as
numerous other religious and civil liberties groups, joined together to craft new legislation that would j»ass constitutional muster. Jewish activists were surprised when a majority of Jewish lawmakers voted against RLPA, which passed the House of Representatives by a 306-118 vote last July. Support from many Democrats faded when critics said a loophole in the law would allow for the violation of civil liberties. Opponents said, for example, that landlords or employers could refuse to rent or hire gays and lesbians, citing religious principles. The bill became a flash point in the debate over which rights, religious liberties or civil liberties, take precedence. As a result, several Jewish groups withdrew their support from the legislation. "There was the threat that religious liberties might become a partisan issue, where the Democrats were on one side and the Republicans on the other, and it's not good to the cause of long-term religious liberties in America, which has a history of crossing party lines,", said Matthew Dorf, director of government relations.of the American Jewish Congress. Last week,'nearly a year after many abandoned the legislation, the coalition of religious and civil liberties that had been its driving force returned to the table to endorse n compromise proponnl. The now bill OHcnpus civil liberties problems by avoiding the isauo, focusing inntoad on just zoning and prisoncm. "Thin more limited approach avoids some of the civil rights issues that we and others had raised in terms of needing to be sensitive to existing civil rights protections, so that religious liberty claims could not be used as a sword," said Michael Lieberman, the Anti-Defamation League's Washington counsel. Though the supporting groups are confident that the new bill can pass, their chief enemy is time, with roughly six weeks left to have the bill passed by the Senate and the House of Representatives and be signed by President Clinton. "We're pleased with the new bill',* said Nathan Diament, director of the Orthodox Union's Institute for Public Affairs, "We certainly would have preferred that the Senate pass the broader bill, but we're clear-eyed about the political realities." Dorf agreed, Baying that the AJCongress sees the bill as a "down payment" and the "first step" toward a full religious liberties bill.
Hot sun + Hot car« No place for children. Cars heat up very quickly. Don't leave children unattended In a hot .car. NEBRASKA HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES SYSTI-IM
He, 9a& So*
MARKELBMW ::'
'-1M-"••'•''•
'.•'••";i;M1','-.
s i f t';•&'•
y
2000 BMW Tht! Mltltmtte Driving Machino
102nd & Dodge at thVWestroads .393*9706 v::| 80O-593«6O8Cf';
2000 BMW 7 SERIES
www.nKirkolbinw.com Mon-Thur 8;30-8 Fri-Sat 8:30-6
Special Lease and Finance Rates Available Through BMW Financial Services
2000 BMW 3 SERIES
Page 6
Je.wish Press, Omaha, NE
July 28, 2000
Y.E.S. Members will meet Monday in the auditorium of the JCC. Exercise at 10:15 a.m. in the auditorium; or try your luck at bingo with Eileen Remer, also at 10:15. a.m. Bring articles to share for the "YES Talk" discussion group at 11 a.m.. Following lunch at noon, Steve Stiel, Director of Jewish Family Service, will speak. For transportation, call 3304272. Make reservations with Maggie Conti at 3346521 for the Hot Dog Lunch and Game Day on Aug. 17; WinnaVegas Casino on Aug. 24; and Platte River State Park and Safari Park on Aug. 31. Deadline for reservations with payment is due one week prior to departure. WALK-IN, DROP-IN For those going on the Lunch Bunch trip to the Bohemian Cafe and Omaha Botanical Gardens this Thursday, please meet at the JCC front entrance at 10:45 a.m. Exercise starts at 10:15 a.m. For transportation, call Maggie Conti at 334-6521. ] VISIONS Reminder: Visions Board Meeting is Friday, Aug. 4, 9:30 a.m., in the Blurnkin Home conference room. Picnic Mixer-Visions and 39 Forever on Sunday, Aug. 6, 12:30-4 p.m., at Chalco Hills Recreation Area. Cost of $4 includes the main course and drinks. Please bring a side dish such as salad or dessert to share. Mail reservation form to Judy Katskee, 10356 Brown St., Omaha, NE 68134. Deadline is Aug. 1. Ride the trolley and tour Omaha's Historical Old Market and Downtown on Wednesday, Sept, 6, at 6:30 p.m. We willmeefc at the Omaha History Center and Coffee Lounge located at 512 S. 13th St. After the tour, come back to the center for dessert and refreshments; a pianist will play Big Band musical favorites. Cost of $15 per person includes trolley ride with step-on guide, dessert with coffee, tea or pop, live musical entertainment and tax and gratuity. Send reservation form to Marilyn Fried, 2821 S. 76th Ave., Omaha, NE 68124. Make check payable to Jewish Senior Services. Limited reservations, B'NAI B'KITH BKEADBREAKERS Dr. Leroy Carhart will speak at B'nai B'rith Breadbreakers on Wednesday, according to Gary Javich. The topic of Carhart's discussion will be "Why I Chose 'Choice'." Breadbreakers meets every Wednesday at noon at McGuire's Irish Pub, 106th and Pacific. The program is open to the community. Cost is $9.
VISIONS day trip to Brownviile
Jacobs receives Young Leader award by Lois Epstein
Photo by Luther MacNaughton Forty Visionaires recently visited the Brownviile Concert Series to hear the extraordinary South African Jewish singer/ actress Natalie Gamsu. Following the concert, members dined at Farmer Brown's Steak House. Front, from, left: Sol & Cherie Kutler, Jim Wax, Ann Kaiman, Wally Elkon, Bus Rubin, Harry Alloy, Pauline Landman, Rosalie Meiches, Gloria Goodman, Blanch Wise, Esther Wax, Sally Telpner, Doris Alloy, Marilyn Sacks, Sally Masnek, Ruth Orueh, Dee Brown, Louise Abrahamson, Jean Elkon, Natalie Gamsu and her pianist, Dorothy Kaplan, Sylvia Jess, Bev Gilinsky, Anne Skolkin, Sheldon Masnek, Doris Cohen, Maynard Telpner, Maurie Meiches, Alan Goodman, Morey Landman, Gilda Pieck, Marv Gerber, Bill Cohen and Betty Rubin. Not pictured: Jay and Peggy Chasen, Ethel Goldston, Harriet Miller and Sylvia Shapiro.
Adam Jacobs, President of the Mid America Region of B'nai B'rith and Immediate Past President of Henry Monsky Lodge, is one of five recipients of the prestigious Label A. Katz Young Leader award. Jacobs has contributed his ideas and enthusiasm to B'nai B'rith, and has demonstrated exceptional leadership and initiative to the organization. He will be presented with the award in August at the B'nai B'rith International convention in Washington, D.C. Named after the youngest man to have achieved the office of B'nai B'rith International President, the Label A. Katz awards are presented annually to no more than five members of B'nai B'rith under the age of 40. B'nai B'rith is the world's bestknown and most widely-respected Jewish organization with men and women members in 56 countries, B'nai B'rith sponsors a variety of prognunH including promoting democracy around the world, sponsoring nonsectarian housing for low-income seniors and proAdam Jacobs received his viding leadership outgoing president award programs for this past May. teenagers.
Facts about Ssraei Bonds NEW YORK (JTA) -- The following are some facts about Israel Bonds, which recentle celebrated its 50th anniversary: • Israel Bonds, like bonds purchased anywhere, are essentially a loan. An investor agrees to supply a certain amount of money for a fixed period of time, to be paid back with interest. • The idea for Israel Bonds, which is an economic development corporation that sells bonds issued by
treat customer service is founded on principles. That's why OPPD, guided by its primary principle of responding to you, is developing major, companywide customer service improvements. Some improvements, like our unified customer call center and expanded products and services, are designed to make your life easier. Others, like equipment upgrades and
the State of Israel, came in September, 1950, when Israel's first prime minister, David Ben-Gurion, met with 50 American and Israeli leaders in the King David Hotel in Jerusalem. • The Knesset voted to launch Israel's first bond issue in February, 1951. In March, Ben-Gurion launched a bond drive at Madison Square Garden in New York. That event was followed by a coaatto-coast U.S. tour that netted $52.6 million.
measures, are designed to keep your rates lower and your air and water cleaner. OPPD understands that the quality of its commitment directly affects the quality of your life. And OPPD is committed to responding to your needs by providing low-cost energy and exceptional service for you and your family for generations to come.
Omaha Public Power District <|| www.oppd.com
-o
Karen Levin has been named the first Executive Director of the Nebraska Cultural Endowment (NGE). A new private non-profit organization, the NCE was established to benefit the arts and humanities in our state. With Ms. Levin at the helm, the NGE will raise private funds, invest funds, and provide advocacy in support of the Nebraska Arts Council and Nebraska Humanities Council, its two member organizations. The NCE will also assist in managing the investments and earnings generated by the state-held Nebraska Cultural Preservation Endowment Fund. Levin holds BS in Social Work from the University of Missouri. She was the Founder and first Director of the Omaha Children's Museum, an institution that has grown to a membership of 2,500 families and annual attendance of 100,000. She also served as Executive Director of Omaha's Metropolitan Arts Council, where she developed several innovative programs. Levin has been certified as an accredited Consultant of the Carlson Learning Companies (DiSC Profiles) and has been designated as a Certified International Fund Raiser by Loyola Marymount University. She has received recognition as one of 75 "Women of Achievement" by the Great Plains Girl Scout Council; is a recipient of a Jaycee Ten Outstanding Young Omahan Award; a United Way Outstanding Volunteer Award for community service; Woman of the Year in the Arts Award from the Omaha Women's Political Oaueua. SNAP! announced the three playwrights responsible for the work being featured in this summer's SNAPIfest will be in attendance to view their plays and to lead Question and Answer sessions after the performances. Dori Appel, Paula Kamen and Linda Eisenatein who live in Oregon, Illinois and Ohio respectively, will be traveling to Omaha the last weekend of tho festival, thanks to the efforts of SNAP! President Roxanue Wuch who arranged for air fare and will also be hosting tho artists. The plays, (Paula Kmuon'H A Cure For AT DM;
Directors Hoxannc Wach, Michal Simpson and Don Nguyen discuss this summer's offerings for SNAPIfest 2000. Dori Appel's Tea Time and Balance; Linda Eisenstein's The Names of the Beast and Three The Hard Way) will be presented at the Millennium Theatre, 601 So. 16th St. Performances will be at 8 p.m. on Thursdays through Saturdays, and 2 p.m. on Sundays, until Aug. 6. Heservations may be made by calling 345-8948, or through tho SNAP! website, www.snapproduetions.com. Tickets are $17; $15.for seniors, students and Tag Members. Net200() Communications, Inc., an innovative provider of integrated broadband telecommunications services to medium and large businesses, announced today the appointment of Michael Wasserman as General Manager of the Philadelphia sales office. Wasserman will direct the growth of business in the region, and ensure the delivery of NetBOOO's exceptional service to newly acquired customers. Wasserman, former Omahan and son of Phyllis and Jerry Wasserman, comes to Net.2000 with more than 11 years of experience in telecommunications sales. Prior to Net2000, Wasserman was a Senior General Manager at Global Crossing Telecommunications, Inc., where he developed and re-deployed a sales office and team. He also was responsible for the re-branding of Global Crossing in the Philadelphia market as a "Data-Centric" company.
July 28, 2000
Bert's Eye View
by Bert Lewis
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
O P E N H O U S E , Sunday, July 30,1-3 p.m. 826 No. 148th St. (SEVILLE NEIGHBORHOOD —WALK TO BETH I
When I sat down to write this, wondering what I Large 11/2 stories, 4+bedrooms. Main Floor was going to say, I remembered once again one of Mastergujte, Vaulted Ceilings, 2nd Floor has 3 my favorite expressions: "There's nothing new Bedrooms, Study Area. 9800 Sq. Ft- Finished, under the sun!" At least, so it seems to me, when it Wooded Lot, Finished Basement with Office, jrj j comes to writing this column. I Game Room, Rec Room, Bedroom. $194,500 j There was a time when I was fearful about repeating myself, but I've decided it's nearly imposRichard Diamond sible to avoid that, since there are only so many NP Dodge Co. 758-1479/ topics to be addressed. In the hope of turning up an idea, I decided to go through some of my old work and see if I could put a new spin on something which had worked once before. Well, having sifted through stuff from the past, I've come to this conclusion: I've already written about everything there is to write about, with the possible exceptions of maybe the formula for making a bomb, or directions on the way to do brain surgery! I can't believe how many times I've written about the weather, the changing seasons, politics, sports Carol A. Llndhjem and my family. Actually, I should have mentioned OWNER family first, because hands down, that category Woatridga Shopping Cantor• 132nd ft W. PodgsRd. 4 9 3 - 3 8 9 3 was done the most frequently. How many times have I talked about books *Schollman's and/or bookstores? I've lost count. Friendships, old and new, are another subject Pve covered many Beautiful Decorative times, and yiddish as spoken (or heard) shows up. • Cabinet, Door & . ': often, as do holidays and usually the foods associatBath Hardware ed with them. ' • Supplies ' Food. Now there's a subject I've covered a jillion Mon-FH 8-Si Sat, S-noqn times, maybe more! Mostly when food is ment's, your perflonal hardware consultant tioned, we're discussing ethnic goodies, but not always. With our people, the connections of certain 508-9210 foods with specific holidays is a given, 1 mean, after 8426 *PB St. (across from Acura) all, we don't talk about Passover without listing WM)8t»bll»hMlf 1988 the seder menu, and potato lathes get plenty of press when the subject is Hanukkah, right? And our recently celebrated Shavuot brought all the talk (and I hope enjoyment) of blintzen and kugela and other dairy dishes, including choose kniitftett. I'd like to go on record hero and now, by saying I know how absolutely ne.nunpt.iouH a chucw. Danish can be, but until you've had a cheese hmaht Ideal for Mom's, Grandma's, Teen's you juat think you know the* meaning of delicious. See? There I go again--a big discussion about Sterling Silver Jewelry food. Now do you understand why I do it so often? It*H so easy to do. . .all I uood is for somebody to accented with gemstonesand pearls,.. mention ono particular dish and I'm out of control! inspired by nature. Hence, all those food columns. If 1 were to make, an actual count of which topics word written about the moat often, I'm nearly certain (hoy would turn out to b<> tho onou about my family, or moro Hpt'ciiicnliy, my parents. I'm fortumite in that, many who read my words know both my mom and dud, Iiwauae of that, fact, I enjoy n lit,tlo fringe bonofit, which IH tho pleasure \ get when Homnlwdy calls and tolls me a IitUe something about knowing one or th« other after reading my words. While it's true there should be countless topics to cover, it seems to me I've already written about all that I know anything about. In football season I get involved in the mishagosa with everyone else, so that one is easy. Baseball doesn't interest me, so it gets short shrift, but I'll talk a little basketball if something interesting occurs in that area. Tho only thing I know about soccer is that kids are more involved in it than many adults'think is necessary. That's the end of my understanding of soccer. I tend to excuse mistakes and c'nibnrruHuinrf moments by calling thorn "human nature." Tiny, wo all have a little, problem now and thnn, and sometimes they're funny •mouj.th to write about, HO that's why we have that category! Having said all that, I still haven't made a decision about a topic for today. I guess I'd better do a little more research, then maybe I'll get an idea. Wo want you to enjoy wearing Elisft liana jewelry. 100% guarantee: Kepnirs mado sixty limu In the meantime, if you get a good idea, call me, at no additional charge. I'll be delighted to listen!
TMME
Bracelets... as unique as you are.
Custom orders are wolcotne-Itridal jiiwclry available. Come in today.
CORRECTIONS July 21, 2000, issue I'offo 5: "Letter to the lOditor" by Kileen RemerVolunteers for the Oinahn Urnillo Services work out of their homes and not at Beth El Synagogue. This information was insidverleutly added to the article. I'ajfe ii: "Birth*"- Trsu-y suid Nenl .Sim'Ufs H yearold dnuj-jhU-r'K name is Kmily Lotm«<. The ,h>trisli Press re.^rof.t-i the error.
Mali • M:»m Klivir ;inu:H I'mm
Page 8
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
July 28, 2000
E L ALAMO A FULL SERVICE SiLOM FOR MEM AMD WOMEN
"Best Mexican Food"
COUNTRYSIDE VILLAGE PADIFIO AT 87TH Nachos * Guacamole • Tacos • Fajitas Burritoa • Shrimp * Enchiladas Combination Dinners Carnitas * Tostadas Tamales • Arroz Con Polio • Machaca MEXICANBEER Corona * XX • Bohemia • Tecate • Carta Blanca Open for Lunch and Dinner 11 a.m.-9 p.m. OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 4917 South 24th St. • 731-8969
• PEDICURING • WAXING
HAIRSTYUNG MANICURING
TRUGREEN
Interior PlantCare
over 500 tropical plants in-stock custom containers custom floral events interior plantscaping sen/ices outdoor grounds maintenance fresh, dried and silk arrangements short term rentals custom holiday decorating award winning staff
2215 Harney 346-4200 private parking afthe dopr
THAT POTTERY-PLACE, introduces Judaica Pottery
FRIDAY, JULY 28 Russian Club, 10 a.m.
This painl-your-own potter.' studio specializes in unique gifis palmed bj you. Select from over 100 different Hems. Mezuzahs. Havdalah sets and Kiddush cups are now available! Birthday, group and no-occasion parties arc Vvelcomc.
MONDAY, JULY 31 YES Program, 9:30 a.m.
7828 Dodge Street-Omaha, NE 402-392-1166
ENTERTAIN
FIRST CLASS I WITH
SATURDAY, JULY 29 Bagels & Bible, 9:30 a.m., at Temple Israel
TUESDAY, AUGUST 1 BBYONight, 6p.m. JCC Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m.
•
HONEYMAN RENT-ALL *7&c Panty Pltux.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 3 Walk-in Drop-in, 9:30 a.m.
FOR Tim FINEST INENTERTAINING ACCESSOBlES, mWCANYOVTiaQWAPMMANDNOTINVmVS?? • Tables » Chairs • linens • China • Silver • Glfuawaw • Punch Bowls • Fountains • Chafing Dishes • Party Canopies • BBQ Grills • Wedding & Church Displays • Portable Bars • Dance Floors • Skirting • Coat Racks • Coffee & Tea Servers • Candelabra*
I
u . o v | X <i»
FRIDAY, AUGUST 4 Visions Board Meeting, 9:30 a.m.
11226 Wright Circle
I' 8kxk So.ol114lhi Center)
333-2882 Arc Our Business
ns
V^4 believe tliar. special occasions deserve special Attention! C^cuttf on us lor memorable events trwt exceed expectations
• Weddings • Anniversaries • Bar/Bat Mitzvahs 12,000 sq. ft. of flexible event space accommodates up to 250 guests • On-site planning and catering professionals
TUES BBYO Night Israeli Scout] Community [ Meeting, j
WEDNPf Joint Tisha t at Beth El
Walk-in Dro| FRID Russian Clul i
• SATUli Bagels & Bill MONI YES Prograii
SATURDAY, AUGUST 5 Bagels & Bible, 9:30 a,.m,, at Temple
TUESl BBYO Nighty Executive Co SUNDAY, AUGUST 6 6 p.m., at I Visions and 39 Forever Picnic, Noon, Board Meetii at Chalco Hills MONDAY, AUGUST 7 YES Program, 9:30 a.m.
THURS Walk-in Drop Library Book!
For information, Call the sales department at
402-496-0850 ext. 143
PUw'OmaL Old Mill 655 Nortli Io8tl< Av«ni« Omnna, N E o8lS+
STEP UP TO Stepanel^ Xaunderers Omaha's Quality Cleaner 2523 S. 90th St. 10730 Pacific St. 12100 West Center 414 N. 76th St.
2214 N. 90th St. 1810 N.-144 St. 114th & Davenport 118 N. 50th St.
AH events held at the Jewish ComtTH
This calendar does not incl
July 28, 2000
Bakers
Special Savings
Online
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 9
TUX
RENTALS AND SALES
Mercedes-Benz
Every Week coupons, recipes & super savings for you to print out at home
327 N. 76th S t 496-7788 aB
just «> \
384-990° (76th S L -
PREMIER M
°< jorich r m
O
T
Q
R
C
A
R
S
15225 Industrial Road • Omaha (402)384-9999
www.supermarkets. com
©199/ Autliarfwi) Mciendes Boiu Dnnlm
Call
DAY, AUGUST 8 , 6 p.m. s Performance, 7 p.m. Singles Cruise Night p.m.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 19 Bagels & Bible, 9:30 a.m., at Temple i
MONDAY, AUGUST 21 YES Program, 9:30 a.m. TUESDAY, AUGUST 22 BBYO Night, 6 p.m. Federation Board Meeting, 7:80 p.m.
5SDAY, AUGUST 9 I'AV service, 8 p.m.,
Dundee Realty Co. SALES • KENTALS • MANAGEMENT Residential and Commercial Heal Estate Listing and Relling-Omuha and surroutulhtH arentt
Howard Weiner Dik Weiner 4645 Dodge •553-2121
THURSDAY, AUGUST 24 Walk-in Drop-in, 9:30 a.m.
5DAY, AUGUST 10 Kin, 9:80 a.m.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 25 Russian Club, 10 a.m.
(AY, AUGUST 11 ), 10 a.m.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 26 Bagels & Bible, 9:30 a.m., at Temple
©AY, AUGUST 12 !e» 9,*30 a.m., at Temple
for REMABUE & RESPONSIBIJS 1?ABRICAJW
Addresses
SUNDAY, AUGUST 27 Beth El Congregational Picnic, Noon
)AY, AUGUST 14 i, 9: 30 a . m .
MONDAY, AUGUST 28 YES Program, 9:30 a.m. JOLT Session with Dr, Reuven Hazan, 7 p.m.
MY, AUGUST 15 > 6 p.m. mmittee Meeting, 'ernple Israel lg, 7:30 p.m., at Temple
K
5213 Leavonworth 214 N. 114 St. 10910'Q'St. 2209 Capehart Rd. 108th & Center 2301 Lincoln Rd. 112 N. 18 St. B728 Pacific
2619 N. 90 St. 2909 N, 106 Sf.
5624 Ames 614 N. 114 St. 14430 W. Center Rd. 13919 'S ( Plz. 7897 S, 83 St. 4028 N, 132 St.
J
TUESDAY, AUGUST 29 Women's Campaign Cabinet Kickoff, 11 a.m., Location: tba BBYO Night, 6 p.m.
IDAY, AUGUST 17 An, 9:30 a.m. THURSDAY, AUGUST 31 Discussion Group, 1 p.m. Walk-in Drop-in, 9:30 a.m. mity Center unless otherwise noted.
ude all community events.
1212 S. 119th St. 330-7577
Where Are You Going?
(CATERIHC Margarita and Mary Goodenow PRIVAI'E PAR! Y ROOMS AVAILABLE
SERVING THE ENTIRE METRO AREA
,
CATCHING
PAINT WALLCOVEaEONGSWINDOW TREATMENTS
FOR A H . OCCASIONS 'NO JOB IS
CALL (0IU f I B : CONSUUAIION
328-8251
8B i t IE
Visit our newest location at 141st & Arbor 90th & H • 27th & Douglas 90th & Grant • 1851 Madison Av., C.B.
w
Travel Faire Will Get You There WlM
nuill.lOltllf
•I ( til >'(,' i,'UI|l
Page 10
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
July 28, 2000
Out of sorrow can come joy a message for Tisha b'Av by Ozzie Nogg
Wednesday night, Aug. 9, is the eve of the ninth of Av — Tisha B'Av - the saddest day in the Jewish calendar. The day the rabbis called "a day set for misfortune." The Midrash says that God, from the beginning, had marked Tisha b'Av as a day of grief because of the Spies-in-the-Desert episode. You remember. We're in the t h e wilderness. Moses sends spies to Canaan. They return on the ninth of Av and the majority reports that the land cannot be conquered because the people who live there are giants! So the Israelites rebel and cry, "Better we should have stayed in Egypt!" This makes God really mad. "You weep now without cause," He says. "But surely you will have good reason to weep on this day." And then — because of their cowardice, ingratitude and lack of trust — God condemns the people to die in the desert without seeing the Promised Land and ordains the destruction of the Temple in some future year on Tisha B'Av. Past forward... It's 9 Av, 586 B.C.E., and Oust as predicted) Solomon's Temple is taken by the Babylonians. The Jews are sent into exile and
COMDO FOR RENT SWANSON
TOWERS
' Karen Grove (Ownar & Cienlivo Daslgnat)
,,FIowermart ••'
1127 South 119th Omaha, NE 68144 (4OZ) 330-076S
•2be<Jn;oms»2balhb • Lots of Light • Secure Building IrV' cipo! and paint to suit
Call Kennle Hughes
551-9541
Babysitter tianted Seeking a caring, funloving individual to look after our 15-month-old son in our SSB Lincoln home.
WHY NOT DO IT THE EASY WAY?
NORM'S DOOR SERVICE GARAGE DOOR SPECIALISTS
SALES AND SERVICE COMMERCIAL* INDUSTRIAL RESIDENTIAL
6200 South 90th St. at 90th & Washington
Omaha, Nebraska
Part-time mornings (10-12 hrs.i week) Call Deb 420-7337 CENTRAL ; AIR CONDITIONING CLEAN AND CHECK PERFORM COMPLETE SYSTEM CHECK TO INCLUDE: • Clear! and Inspect condenser coll • Lubricate Mechanical Equipment as required • Add 8 oz. of freon FREE • Verify Electrical Connections arid Operation • Verify Compressor Operation and Performance • Verify Fan and Fan Motor Operation • Verify System Pressures, Line Set and Aooil Integrity I $50 With Coupon B m K 1*45 Senior Pries ^ P - 6 "
Tisha b'Av becomes a day of tears. Years later, Cyrus lets the Jews r e t u r n to Jerusalem and allows them to rebuild the Temple. They ask, "Should we continue to fast and mourn the loss of the First Temple as we did while in Babylon?" To which the persuasive prophet Zechariah answers, "These fast days should now be turned into days of joy" whereupon the Past of 9 Av is discontinued for centuries (or so it is generally believed...) But then comes another calamitous 9 Av, this one in 70 C.E. The Romans destroy the Second Temple, force Israel back into exile and Tisha b'Av becomes, once again, a day of mourning and fasting. The gloom of Tisha B'Av is compounded by these additional tragedies that are said to have happened on the dreadful date: • 135 C.E.-The fall of Bethar ends the Bar Kochba rebellion; •136 C.E.—Jerusalem is plowed under and a heathen city built on its site; • 1244—Torahs and sacred books are burned in France; • 1290—The Jews are run out of England; • 1492—The Jews are forced out of Spain. And so, Tisha B'Av becomes known as the Black Fast - a symbol of all the persecutions endured by Israel. The day of tears predicted way back in the desert. Fasting a n d Mourning Customs Like Yom Kippur, Tisha b'Av is a major fast observed from sunset to sunset. The ancient rabbis said, "When Av comes ins all merriment goes out." And they meant it. Starting with the first day of Av, it's no meat, no wine (except on Shabbat), no clean clothes or celebrations. The meal on the eve of Tisha b'Av is modest—hard-boiled eggs and noodles (some sprinkle ashes on the food), and the very pious sleep on the floor with a stone for a pillow. On Tisha b'Av, as on Yom Kippur, you can't eat, drink, bathe, wear perfume or leather shoes or engage in any kind of physical pleasure. It's also customary to abstain from work since, on this unlucky day, your labors will probably turn to dross, anyway, so why bother? Unique to Tisha b'Av is the ban against Torah study (a joyous activity) except for the reading of the Book of Lamentations, Job and certain chapters from Jeremiah. Another old Tisha b'Av custom is cemetery visits, which probably stems from Jeremiah's trip to the grave of the Patriarchs in hopes he could convince God to let the Israelites enter the Promised Land. According to legend, all the great men of the past rise from their graves on Tisha b'Av to mourn the
lost glory of Israel, and in Polish villages, little boys left wooden swords on the graves so the dead, when they arose, could give Israel's enemies a good zetz. (Kids understand these things...) Synagogue Customs a n d Observance On Tisha b'Av, the synagogue changes from a joyous House of God to a house of mourning. Traditionally, the lights are dimmed, the ark and torah scrolls draped in black and the congregation sits on low benches or on the floor. Words of greeting are discouraged, but if someone says "hello," you may respond out of courtesy. In the evening, the Book of Lamentations (Echah) is chanted. This powerfully written little book laments the loss of the Temple and describes the desolation of Jerusalem and the suffering of the Jewish people. Still, it is customary to end the reading on a positive note by repeating the next-tolast verse, "Turn us unto Thee, Oh Lord, that we may be turned! Renew our days as of old!" (Who wrote Lamentations? Many scholars give the nod to Jeremiah, and since his birthday is—you guessed it —on 9 Av, he seems an appropriate choice.) Sad as Tisha b'Av may be, the month of Av ia not given over only to mourning and fasting. After 9 Av comes the anticipation of comfort and consolation, reflected in the rabbinic name for the month itself-Menachem Av-He who comforts Av. On the Saturday after Tisha b'Av (Shabbat Nachamu—the Sabbath of Comfort ), we read the Haftarah from Isaiah that begins, "Comfort ye, My people." Then, the mood changes from despair to hope. In the shtetl, Shabbat Nachamu was a festive time, and many a happy bride and groom tied the knot on that weekend. The month of Av also brings us Tu b'Av-15 Avan ancient festival almost totally ignored today. The festival originally marked the end of the woodchopping season. Apparently this work-stoppage gave the young men of Israel time to go hunting for wives, and-ever helpful—the maidens of Jerusalem (according to the Talmud) dressed themselves in white on 15 Av and went to the vineyards, singing and dancing, and the young men followed after them. Result? Tu b'Av became a festival of matrimony, creating new generations ready to sustain Jewish life. Now, if Tisha b'Av is'gloom and destruction, then Tu b'Av is the antidote—a time of joy and new beginnings. So, on Aug. 16 (Tu b'Av this year) do what Michael Strassfeld suggests in his book, The Jewish Holidays, go have a good time! This August, rediscover the month of Av.
Eg AS transports supplies to Lebanese refugees
BAKER HEATING AND COOLING, INC. "Where quality is still a way of life.""
(402)331-8920
556-9706 [ 2 4 Hour/7 Day Service Available •
i Chirr Than ,..
r
pur Mome
fyur Mome
i)ur Mome
Sir Speedy
PRINTING, COPYING and DIGITAL NETWORK
3706 South 132nd Street • (402) 330^5050 Letterhead • Brochures • Newsletters Business Cards • Mailers • Postcards
Pw. New York - EL AL Israel Airlines is transporting more than 800 boxes of vitally needed clothing, toiletries and toys to Israel for the benefit of the Lebanese Christian refugees who fled the Hezbollah forces in. Lebanon following Israel's withdrawal. Jewish communities from throughout the United States organized the collection efforts. Shown here at a reeent press conference with the first shipment of "Bundles of Hope" are some of the organizers of this relief effort (from left): Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein, Founder and President of the International Fellowship for Christians and Jews; Michael Mayer, General Manager for EL AL Israel Airlines in North and Central
America; Alan G. Hevesi, New York City Comptroller and President of Bnai Zion; Ronald S. Lauder, Chairman of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations; Ambassador Shmuel Sisso, Consul General of Israel; Stephen Solender, President and CEO of the United Jewish Communities; and Malcolm Hoeulein, Executive Vice-chairman of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations. Also involved in this relief effort are the Jewish Community Center Association, the Jewish Council for Public Affairs and the Metropolitan Coordinating Council on Jewish Poverty. . •
July 28,2000
Israel revolutionizes CQmnrBoraicatiQrss ________
Page 11
Alzheimer's benefit tomorrow night
by Galia Walsh
It wasn't that long ago that relay stations and creative new telecommunications in Israel meant Internet applications. picking up the phone and dialing-it Israel's economic development is was an exciting , „ strongly linked to moment after ./•*,' her political clout. being on a waiting Right now, during list for a telephone peace talks with for months. It was Syria and the a giant leap from PLO, Israel can the days when our only protect her forefathers interests by negoclimbed mountiating from a tains to use fire to position of communicate with strength. And retheir brethren gardless of the across the land. outcome of the But the leap present peace Israel has taken talks, Israel is in communicagoing to need this tions in the last political strength two decades is in the years to more' astounding High tech: Israel Bonds invest- come. than any histori- ment dollars have been critical in Gideon Patt, a cal precedents. expanding Israel's high tech econ- former Israeli Today, Israel is omy. By helping modernize the government minone of the fore- nation's communications infra- ister and current most loaders in structure and building Jeru- President and telecom muni ca- salem's state-of-the-art JVtanhat CKO of Israel tions and internet Technology Park and similar Bonds, HiiyH, "It's technology. With facilities, Bonds investments have all coniuM-U'd. l;lu; entire world helped propel. Israel into its E t: ti n o in i e dope n dent; on prominent position'among the BtroiiKt.h and coittinunhuttions world's technology i political {strength technology, this -you can't, divide means Israel is holding a golden key thorn." He ttddu, "Isn't it. wonderful to to the future. She can be a strong know that Israel's hooked up to the player on the world's economic and world." political stages. But like all business? Patt, who iB a noted economist, success demands more success, And remembers well when Inruel wan an for Israel to develop further and iHolated nation, struggling valijuitly strengthen her international ponition, bnl, Hucco.sufully (,o support her then the telecommunications industry Hiimll population. needs.an extensive economic infra' l'att wonders, "What if JoHhua of structure. the Bible could have communicated Israel Bonds has helped build this in a modern way with his troops'? So, in 10 years, let's not wonder, what infrastructure sine© 1951. In 1951, Ben-Gurion conceived of would Israel's economy look like if the idea of selling bonds for Israel as we'd really invested in telecommunia means of sustaining the country's cations?" fledgling economy. The idea worked. Israel Bonds provides a meant* for And since "that time Israel Bonds has individuals, corporations and labor been a mainstay of the country's unions to have a personal connection economy, raising over $21 billion in with Israel, investment capital. The use of bonds, run the gamut Israel Bonds has helped in the from diversifying sophinlic.iu,ed porttelecommunications race with fast- folios to supplementing retirement paced world uplinks, downloads and plans or. giving a Bar or Hal. Mitzvah child a personal gift as well as a high-speed in-forinntion transfers. Bonds has helped build satellite stake in the Jewish nation.
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
•.'.•
•
•
"
h
• i
..,»*• \
• *
-..:
• : . • • • •
'
A new musical, Surprise! will make its debut at the. bea.efU performance for the Alzheimer's Association tomorrow night (Saturday, July 29) at 8 p.m., at the Jewish Community Center, A reception will follow. From left', Karen Sokolof Ja'vitch, writer and creator of the original music; Erie Crouch, singer; Judy Farber, Choreographer; and Stan Wtdman, who has one of the lead roles. For more'information, call th« Alzheimer's office at 572-8059,
To find an FDA-certified mammography fad Call the National Cancer Institute's Cancer Information Service at
1 -800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237) 9 am - 8 pin Eastern I-800-332-8615 TTY
STEEL GARAGE DOORS Raynoc Manufacturing gives a Lifetime Warranty on their doors for as long as you own your home. Raynor's beautiful steel doors with raised panels have the look of a decorative wood door, but not the problems of wood. To eliminate painting, Raynor applies a heavy baked~on enamel finish in five colors. To conserve energy, each door can be insulated with 1irt" polystyrene with steel covering. Come in and see the working models. We offer Remodeling, Installation and Financing. Other products: Door openers« Lifetime Siding * Storm Doors • Patio Doors • Entry Doors * Windows
6iMlD66R8t WINDOW CO Centrally located (Take 1-80 to 60th or 42nd St. Exit, 2 blocks south to F St., then to 46th St.)
V
Framing Specialists
and more... Original Works Lithographs Limited Editions Etchings Poster Art
391-6440 849$ Fr«d«rlck St.
334-5889
4665 G Street • 402-733-6440 * OPEN SAT 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
REPRESENTING: •Greenwich Workshop •Mill Poncf Press •Hadley Companies •p. Buckley Moss & many others
2570 S. 129 Av«. Monldntr Shopping Ctr.
291-8699 111 W. Mission B«lt«vu# :'•'• -, i r v r . f i Hoti'ns a' 431 'j .!c'-ii. • on ew'it'i1
J
Page 12
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
July 28, 2000
OTYG elects new officers
People of the Byte
-
by Ally Freeman
WEINER/FENKEL Omaha Temple Youth Group (OTYG) held elecCristi Weiner and Kevin Finkel, both of New tions in late May and a new board was installed York City, have anthe same day. Recently elected officers are as folnounced their engagelows: Shayna Denny and Ally Freeman, Coment. Presidents; Steve Sternberg and Aron Neesman, The bride-to-be gradReligious and Cultural Vice-presidents; Adam uated from New York Rosen and Jamie Skog, Social Action Vice-presiI University. Until redents; Ben Taxman, Programming Vice-president; cently, she was a merEmily and Rebecca Sternberg and Lauren chandise manager in Freeman, Membership Vice-presidents; Ben ! the International DiDelman, Treasurer; Alex Bloom, Secretary; Sarah I vision at Coach, a Rips and Margaret Terry, Junior Youth Group leather goods manuLiasions. facturer in New York Immediately following installations, outgoing City. She is the daughboard members continued the annual tradition of ter of Jane and painting their handprints and names on the Michael Siegel of youth lounge wall. Philadelphia. This summer, between camp and other trips, The prospective bridegroom is an Associate in all 14 of the new board members have been disLehman Brothers', a New York based investment cussing goals and program ideas for next year. bank, Equity Capital Markets Group where he We are looking forward to an exciting year, after focuses on the biotechnology and health care taking a summer hiatus from programming since many board members are out of town. We will industries. He graduated with honors from the start the year off with an OTYG Board University of Pennsylvania. He is the son of Lois and Joel Finkel, and the Shabbaton and Training in late August to make plans for the upcoming year, in addition to hold- grandson of Sue Greenberg and the late David ing our first official OTYG Board meeting,. The Greenberg, and Helen and Leonard Finkel, all of evening will be the first time the new board will Omaha. all be together and will include creative services, fun mixers and leadership programming. We will also attend the Missouri Valley Leadership Training Institute in September to meet other Greg and Lisa Ostravich of Highlands Ranch, board members in the region and learn more CO, announce the June 19 birth of their son, about our individual positions. Samuel Ross. Samuel has a brother, Zachary Kiva, 3. Grandparents are Eden and Allen Ostravich of Omaha and Emmy and Marshall Hornstein of Highlands Ranch. Great-grandparents are Sarah Ostravich Litt and Joe Litt of Omaha.
Jewish Weddings & the internet by Mark Mietkiewicz
You are cordially invited to attend the weddings of Caroline and Leslie Bunder. And Russell and Deborah Rothstein. And Sandra and Andrew Cohen. Never met them? No problem. Now you can —thanks to your computer and the Jewish Highway. But before we get to their chuppahs, some background about Jewish marriage. There are several excellent overviews of the customs and traditions leading from engagement through the wedding day. Visit Ohr Somayach's Jewish Wedding Ceremony: www.virtual.co.il/education/education/ohr/judaism/articles/weddmg.htm, the Shaarey Zedek Wedding Guide from the Conservative congregation in Southfield, Michigan: www.shaareyzedek.org/gwedding.htm and the Chabad Wedding Guide: gopher://gopb.er. chabad.org:70/ll/guide/wedding;. Groom Joel Snyder and bride Leslie Salba found themselves under a chuppah. But the couple walked away—single. Actually Joel and Leslie never did intend to get married. They were participating in a ceremony under the auspices of several Detroit rabbis and hundreds of teens who came to watch the "wedding" and gain understanding" of Jewish marriage traditions. You can read a full report on the simcha in the Detroit News: http://detnews,eoin/m©nWstorieis/274I,9,htm. I also recommend Eliezer Segal series of thoughtprovoking articles at: www.acs.ucalgary.ca/ ~eIsegaI/Shokel/Weddings.Jitidex.html. In another article, Siegel documents the story of one of the most famous kalian's captured in art, Rembrandt's "The Jewish Bride" (1666): www.artchive.com/artchive/R/jcembrandt/jew" ish_b)ttidejpg»htiwl. The painting shows a plump young lady, seated alongside her stylishly dressed Jeff a n d J a c q u e l i n e (Shohet) Zabin of husband, and hangs in Amsterdam's National Evanston, IL, announce the July 7 birth of their Museum. Siegel unravels the fascinating tale of son, Elan Max, the two and says some art historians question whether the couple who sat for the painting really Elan has a brother, Ethan Louis, 4. Grandparents are Harold and Phyllis Zabin of were Jewish—or even married. Omaha and Harriet Shohet and Ruben Shohet, However, others place the husband as a man both of New York, NY. leading a double life. He was a Marrano. In Great-grandmothers are Rose Binstein of Omaha Brussels, where he was forbidden to return to and Faye Zabin of Sioux City, IA. Judaism, he was Christian Captain Miguel de Barrios. While in Amsterdam, he was David Levi P h i l l i p a n d Lisa Cohen of Austin, TX, de Barrios. He settled there and married Ms love, announce the April 24 birth of their son, Blake Abigail de Pina, who was descended from a promiAndrew. nent Moroccan rabbinic family. For more on their Blake has a brother, Parker Ryan. tumultuous lives, I recommend Siegel's article. Grandparents are Sandra and David Cohen of Rembrandt's "The Jewish Bride" is also known as Houston, formerly of Omaha, and Mr. and Mrs. "The Loving Couple." These two aren't the only two Frank Gamez of Corpus Christi, TX. Jewish lovers who have decided to put their faces Great-grandmothers are Frieda Krizelman of on the web. Several couples have decided to share Omaha and Ophelia Gamez of Corpus Christi. their special moments with anyone who cares to Great-great-grandfather is Victor Guajardo of click, in. Corpus Christi. You can peak in on the ceremonies of Caroline Westbrook and Leslie Bunder: www.bunder.com/wedding/index.htm, Sandra & Andrew Cohen: http://gnv.fdt.net/~sandrew/ wedding/wed.html and Russell Rothstein and Deborah Fass: http://rpcp.mit.edu:80/'-rii:/wcd« ding.html. Get to know the newlyweds as you look in on everything from shots of the invitation, the ring, photos of the ceremony, the dancing, the meal and even a honeymoon diary! Tzvi Nussbaum has also shared photos of his wedding. You can take a glimpse at the very tradiSECURITY EQUIPMENT INC. tional ceremony during which the bride wears a . . . . Committed to Your Security traditional veil covering her fuce under the chupah. However, we are never told the name of Tzvi's bride: www.wynn.com^ewish/wedding'.htinl. "Excellence In Security Since 1969" So all the best to Caroline and Leslie, Russell and Deborah and Larry and Sherrie. And to everyone else planning their wedding both on the •Quality Burglary & Fire Systems Jewish Highway or the more conventional route, *U.L. Approved Central Station Monitoring Mazel Tov! •Closed Circuit TV
Births
16 OTYG members also ventured to Kansas City in early June for a day at Worlds of Fun. Pictured above a r e Whitney Taxman a n d Shayna Denny with Darya Khalili of KC, right before experiencing free fall on the Ripcord.
PLUMB CONSTRUCTION, INC. Quality
Craftsmanship
JeffPlumb General Contractor 5728 Colorado Lane Ft. Calhoim, NE 68023
Phone: 572-0115
Residential Mortgage Services,Inc. YOUR LOW COST-FULL SERVICE MORTGAGE LENDER • 1 Day NO COST Pre-Approval! : • NEW CONSTRUCTION - Long Term Rate Locks With REPRICING AVAILABLE If Rates Go Down! • NO-COST TRU-LOCK COMMITMENT © Allowing You To Lock A Rate While You Are Shopping For A Home • 100% LTV Equity Lines of Credit, Second Mortgages • Low Cost Fixed Rate, Adjustable Rate and Balloon Mortgages!
WE'LL MAKE YOUR LOAN "POINTLESS" CALL €LHRY mmnm&n 333-7900 Check rates 24 hours a clay at www.r6sidentialmortgages.com
Other Offices; Bcllcvwe 292-7900 Lincoln 423-8885 Council Bluffs 322-7900
* Access Control Systems
Call us at 333-3233 to ask aboui a "Free" Honie Security Survey SEl is the preferred provider of the Jewish Community Center & Rose Blumkin Home
Mark Mietkiewicz is a Toronto-bwmd television producer who writes, lectures and teaches about the Jewish Internet, Me can be contacted at: highway@home.com,
July 28,2000
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 18
Rice's Trust (Continued from page 1) trips to Israel, and other programs. Income will also be used to establish an endowment for Beth El Synagogue to provide financial aid, scholarships, and other financial assistance to needy Jewish children and students in the Omaha community to foster and promote their participation in the synagogue's various programs. Funds will also be allocated to Temple Israel for charitable and religious purposes determined by its Board of Trustees and to the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. "I just have a special feeling for the Home," he said. "I would like to help." One-time gifts from the charitable trust will also be given to the Leukemia Society of America and the American Cancer Society. During Rice's lifetime, he will have the option to change any of the charities or the purposes of his charitable trust. The funds will not be disbursed until after he dies. Pointing out the tax advantage of a charitable remainder trust, Rice, who is 72, will withdraw 10 percent annually of the trust amount and will receive an original tax savings of $11,569 for each $100,000 invested in the trust. Taxation on each year's 10 percent withdrawal is calculated mostly at the capital gain tax rate which is lower than the ordinary income tax rate. "Hopefully, I will be able to earn 16 percent a year so that the trust assets will still grow at five percent after my yearly withdrawal of 10 percent," As a certified financial planner, Rice is familiar with these issues. He recommended that people who have a minimum of $100,000 to invest in a trust should talk to a financial planner, a bank trustee, or an investment manager. Rice's cousin, Yale Richards and David Wilson, both attorneys with Marks Clare & Richards, helped Rice create his trust document. Such a move
Dust, A History of the Small and the Invisible by Joseph A. Amato
Excellent Quality Construction
"helps reduce estate taxes for their heirs and creResidential and Commercial ates additional income during the lifetime of the donor," Rice added. Marty Ricks, Foundation Executive Director, provided illustrations to Wilson to complete the team CONTRACTOR approach. The calculations of the tax deduction for charitable remainder trusts is extremely complex, 402-331-0888 "but I have the software that makes the process 11045 " O " St. Omaha, NE 68137 simple and will be available to provide illustrations to the lawyers and accountants who need them," Ricks said. "Dave has set up a fairly aggressive structure but has confidence that he can exceed the ten percent payout and cause the trust principal to grow each year." ,XECUTIVE "Charitable remainder trusts are very popular Start enjoying today," noted Ricks, "because they provide an the EXECUTIVE PRIVIIXGB income stream to the donor prior to his or her at Enterprise Bank today! death, benefit designated charities, contain much • Complimentary Pnnijie Chtcks !:[ flexibility in their design, save income taxes in the '" '"ditj. ever y^' • UnlbnitiA Witbdtmnli • Rewarding Product? & Services year the trust is funded, and also save estate and dollar •Annual poresnlago yield as ol 7/«W>. All inheritance taxes since the funds are not included in your rates ara subjacl to chango without nolico. Feet may reduce Mminga, $1,000 minimum in the donor's estate." balanoo required to opon account and avoid checking monthly loos, CwitKimor accounts only. There are many ways to invest, Rice said, citing a account! 12800 West Center Road pooled income fund, donating a life insurance policy or an IRA. (402) 330-0200 5 . 6 4 % APY"There should be more of this going on," he con210 Regency Parkway Omsiu.NK 68U4 cluded and offered to talk to others, without charge, about what would be best for them and to www.enterpriseebaiik.com show them the advantages of giving to the Jewish community. "Dave has carefully thought out his plan and has generously provided for the charities that are near and dear to him," added Ricks. He also commended Rice for "supporting children of future generations by providing resources for scholarships for education, camps, and other Jewish programs in this Decorative Art vibrant community.'1
Dennis A- Turnbull
of unique creation* CENTRAL AIR S / I A 9 9 TUNE-UP ft Gl,(?AN "•^*T'5I•.,.,' Her*1* What Wai
reviewed by Oliver B. Pollak
Place your baby on His track to sleep,..
mf more
cxhirhi^ O
exclusive work* of m.uiy
I haw a weakness for books about tih,e obvious. ARn.trnv & tfir it Books about the pencil, bookshelf, potato, corn, toilet, items of everyday use, consumption, ubiquitous Rackhroak vilkgc (4QZ) Your Furnace & and overlooked. Books about things we take for " OOLsas Open Monday - Saturday 10*6 granted heighten our consciousness of the complex- FAMILY HEATINGS. COOLING ity of our material world. Dust has an added sig- U:<s»seil-8omlf>ci-- 5 5 6 " 9 7 0 8 Reduce nificance. the risk ofSIDS Generations of women have vehemently fought this tiny particle threat to hygiene and order, with rag, mop, broom, vacuum, air filters, dryer lint trap and, most recently, anti-static spray. Reading about dust mites makes people ill. Dust is the The -Jewish Press :: . : smallest particle that can be seen with the naked Year feiHtion is cdmina! eye. The relationship between dust, dirt, germs, filth, i disease and sickness promotes concern for sanita- I tion, lighting, heating, ventilation and sewage disposal. Spring cleaning, cleaning eaves, troughs and I Once again, the ^Jewi^k T V e ^ will observe Rosh Hashanah\ gutters are part of a ritual cycle sanitation. I with a beautiful special issue on September S9, SOOO. TOs| Hippies and people who avoid deodorant upset the accepted scheme. Amato family history reminds us •year, the theme for our annual New Year edition is j h e EOlkof the importance of antisepsis and sterilization; 17Kr\r\i\t&t'?cH'y of lh*a <jAwi^h Pr*e^. We will highlight storiesl his great-grandfather died from the bite of a rabid dog, and hie 33-year-old Sicilian grandfather died j and photos of Jewish history, locally, nationally and worldwide. I of a ruptured appendix. Dust stands for corruption of the body. Biblically * A D V E R T I S E R S * We would like to include your ad in • dust shows up in Genesis 3:19, "for dust thou are, this issue. Please note deadlines: f and unto dust thou shall return." In the New 1 Testament, Jesus mixed dirt with saliva to heal the blind. A form of dust is necessary for Ash Wednesday. The development of the optic; lenses, several hundred years ago, revealed Lhu world of tin; microcosm. In the 20th century, the oh>el.ron microscope has permitted us to go where anno have gone before. And, recently, the quark, supposedly taken from James Joyce's Finnrnuna Wake, IIHM been identified as the mother particlo. Amato, a Professor of Intdloolual und (lulturul History and Dean of Rural and Regional Studios at Southwest State University in Marshall, Minnesota, has also written several books including Golf Beats as AH and When Father and Son Conspire; A Minnesota Farm Murder. :
OKI(;T 2-1 he;, daily
I'
P u b l i c a t i o n ©ate. v ......".... SEPT. 2 9 I
Camera
s d u e . . . . . . . . SEPIAS'
Stories* a n d photos d u e . . . . . AUGUST:||8;
Page 14
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
July 28,2000
Abbott and Costello learn Hebrew V. I H V !
~~
by Rabbi Jack Moline
GREEK GYROS • STEAKS I PHILLIES • BURGERS
;
Mt>>li^U$
r>ai(3^ Lunch& Dinner Specials arc #1
#1 Food in the Midwest Open 7 Days a Week
4409 Dodge St. • 553-3326
BEIJING GATE The finest Chinese cuisine in Omaha EAST 3515CenterSt TEL: 342-9226 FAX: 346-9223
WEST 2859 S. 168th St. TEL: 778-9322 FAX: 778-9515
Mediterranmn ^oods, Inc. Greek, Italian & Lebanese Imported Groceries Olives Be Olive Oil; Fe'ta &C Kessari Cheese; Peta & Fiat Bread; Falafel mix & Tihini; Greek & Turkish Coffee; Halva, Jams '&: Molasses; Couscous, Lentils, Wheats, Nuts, Seeds, Above all, a Large Variety oFFresh Spices.
(402)390-0120 Open; Mon-Sat 10:00AM - 8:00 PM
3025 South 83rd Plaza, Omaha, NE 68124 GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE
THE GREEK'ISLANDS. 1 3821 CENTER •346-1528 Greek Specials Dally Homemade Pastries Party Room
Greek Beer 8. Wine Dine In/Carry Out We Cater Too!
Full Service Bar Mon.-Thurs., 11 B.m.-9 p.m.; Frl.-Sat., 11 a.m.-io p.m:
(Editor's note: for those of you who remember, Abbott and Costello, here's a play on their famous "Who's on First" baseball routine. And for those of you who are not fluent in Hebrew, here's a hint: who is he, he is she, me is who, and ma is what! This comes via e-mail from Rabbi Jack Moline, a Conservative rabbi in suburban Washington, D.C.) ABBOTT: I see you're here for your Hebrew lesson. COSTELLO: I'm ready to learn. A: Now, the first thing you must understand, is that Hebrew and English have many words which sound alike, but they do not mean the same thing. C: Sure, I understand. A: Now, don't be too quick to say that. C: How stupid do you think I am? Don't answer that. It's simple; some words in Hebrew sound like words in English, but they don't mean the same. A: Precisely. C: We have that word in English, too. What does it mean in Hebrew? A: No, no. Precisely is an English word. C: I didn't come here to learn English, I came to learn Hebrew, So make with the Hebrew. A: Fine. Let's start with men. C: You. A: No, mee. C: Fine, we'll start with you. A: No, we'll start with mee. C: Okay, have it your way. A: Now, mee is who. C: Youis Abbott. A: No, no, no. Mee is who. C: You is Abbott. A: You don't understand. C: I don't understand? Did you just say me is who? A: Yes I did. Mee is who. C: You is Abbott. A: No, You misunderstand what I am saying. Tell me about mee. C: Well, you're a nice enough guy. A: No, no. Tell me about mee! C: Who? A: Precisely. C: Precisely what? A: Precisely who. G: It's precisely whom! A: No, mee is who. C: Don't start that again-go on to something else. A: All right, Hu is he. C: Who is he? A: Yes. G: I don't know. Who is he? A: Sure you do. You just said it. C: I just said what? A: Hu is he. C: Who is he? A: Precisely. C: Again with the precisely! Precisely who? A: No, precisely he. C: Precisely he? Who is he? A: Precisely! C: And what about me? A: Who. C: Me, me, me! A* Who, who who! C: What are you, an owl? Me! Who is me? A: No, hu is he! C: I don't know! Maybe he is me! A: No, hee is she! C: Do his parents know about this? A: About what? C: About he! A: What about her?
C: That she is he! A No, you've got it wrong -- hee is she! C: Then who is he? A: Precisely! C: Who? A: He! C: Me? A: Who C: He? A: She! C Who is she? A: No, hu is he. C: I don't care who is he, I want to know who is she? A: No, that's not right. C: How can it not be right? I said it. I was Btanding here when I said it, and I know me. A: Who. C: Who? A: Precisely! C: Me! Me is that he you are talking about! He is me! A: No, hee is she! C: Wait a Minute, wait a minute! I'm trying to learn a little Hebrew, and now I can't even speak English. Let me review. A: Go ahead. C: Now first You want to know me is who. A: Correct. G: And then you say who is he. A: Absolutely. G: And then you tell me he is she. A&C; Precisely! C: Now look at this logically. If me is who. And who is he. And he is she. Don't it stand to reason that me is she? A: Who? C: She! A: That is he! C: Who is he? A&C: Precisely! C: I have just about had it. You have me confused I want to go home. You know what I want? Ma! A: What G: I said ma. A: What. Q: What are you, deaf? I want Ma! A: What! G: Not what, who! A: He! C: Not he! Ma is not he! A: Of course not! Who is he! C I don't know. I don't know. I don't care. I don't care who is he, he is she, me is who, ma is what. I just want to go home now an play with my dog. A: Fish. C Fish? A: Dag is fish. C: That's all, I'm outta here.
at Spirit World 7517 Pacific Omaha, NE 68114 391-8680 11424 Davenport St. Omaha, NE 68154 334-7123
Our Kitchen Can Prepare Your Favorite Box Lunch to Your Any Occasion Party! (BAR AND BAT MITZVAHS) luncheons - parties Call and Ask for Our Catering Department
NOW! More than 40 flavor? of KOSHER Ice Cream • Pies • Cakes • Shakes • Malts • and More Ashby's Ice Cream 1001 Galvin Rd. South Beilevue, NE 293-1300
Steak & food from around the world. Cigar
Tianoto
/Featuring the best Omaha steaks as well sw Dow sole, lobster tail, crab legs and oiMoc from around the worW.
344-3200
July 28,2000
Jerysalem, the symbol, ended talks (Continued from page 1) $1,200 a month -- more than the typical salary of a Palestinian policeman and a decent sum even for blue-collar Israeli workers. A few years ago, he worked on the printing press at The Jerusalem Post. When he lost his job, he received $500 a month in unemployment benefits for several months. "Arafat won't pay me unemployment benefits or social security," he said. "We cannot say it openly but we prefer Israel." For Israelis, it is unclear what the practical ramifications of any agreements on Jerusalem would be. Jerusalem Mayor Ehud Olmert, who opposes any compromise on the city, has spoken out repeatedly against any compromise in Jerusalem, mostly on historical and religious grounds. In an op-ed piece in Yediot Achronot, Israel's largest mass circulation newspaper, Olmert alluded to the potential problems of sharing sovereignty with the Palestinians. "The Israeli government is constantly talking about separation, but in practice this produces an idea that has no ground in reality, of Israeli sovereignty and Palestinian administration on the ground," wrote Olmert. "There is no such animal in reality, just as there is no joint sovereignty in any municipal area, and certainly not in a city so complicated and complex like Jerusalem." Yet when asked by JTA for more detail, Olmert's spokesman's office snid the mayor would not comment on the possible practical ramifications of compromise in the city, and how it could affect the lives
of Jewish residents. "The question is irrelevant since the mayor is against any division of Jerusalem," said an official at Olmert's spokesman's office. In any case, said the official, Olmert could not respond in more detail until an accord was announced. However, the increasing roster of prominent figures now speaking out in favor of a compromise on Jerusalem includes people who say Israelis would feel absolutely no change in their lives if some form of sovereignty is granted to the Palestinians in eastern Jerusalem. "Practically speaking, there is no problem for Palestinians to officially take over their affairs in Jerusalem," said Arieh Amit, a businessman who served as Jerusalem police chief between 1994 and 1996 and who has published papers supporting a compromise. "There will be no change whatsoever for Israelis, since they do not go to those places that would be handed over to the Palestinians," Amit argues that the city is already divided in reality because during the past few years the Palestinian Authority has quietly started providing civil sex*vices and even begun to take control of security affairs in Arab neighborhoods of eastern Jerusalem, He even predicts improvements in security for Israelis if the city is divided, due to increased cooperation between Israeli and PalfiHtinian forces, and expects Palestinians to continue to work freely with Jews.
Blumkin Home receives excellent survey for third year In. a row! by Barbara Gottlieb, Executive Director
Representatives from the Nebraska Health and Human Services System spent sovon days surveying all aupecta of life and nursing care at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Homo, The stnff and residents were thrilled to loam that the Home received a "deficiency-free inspection." This wonderful honor is a culmination of superb care by the staff of the facility and constant support by the Board of Directors. Nancy Hauschild, a Registered Dietician, and Marva Honea, n Registered Nurse, explained to the staff at the exit conference that the three most important aspects of care within the nursing facility are exercise, nutrition and toileting. Along with some extremely helpful comments, the two surveyors gave a tremendous amount of positive feedback on the daily operations of the home. Both Nancy and Marva commented that as soon as one enters the Home, you realize you are in a wonderful place. You are greeted with warmth, friendliness and an extremely colorful and cheerful staff, i.e., Marlyss Knust, the Home's receptionist and Lenora Lancaster, Executive Assistant, They explained that the residents who reside in the Home have a good quality of life and good nursing care. The nurses were praised for their nursing skills and judgment, i.e., with patient treatments, distributing medications, etc. The certified nursing assistants were praised for their gentleness and ability to give residents the ability to make choicus in HO muny pnrlu of their daily lives.
Theso two surveyors had never been in a nursing facility that waa striving to become "Edon Certified.1* They rnot several times with Janet Herman, R.N., and Durltmo Golbitz, R.N., both of whom tiro charge nurses, regarding goals for our ]<!don environment. Tho.y enjoyed watching the children from the Peunie Z. Davits Child Development Center visit daily, and loved the interaction between the pots and our seniors. They noted that the physical environment and laundry facilities were clean and orderly, giving off an excellent finished product. They found that the recreation programs were both uplifting and meaningful; the infection control procedures and education wore montionod as being superior. "One of the greatest rewards of this survey was tho special comments that tho surveyors made about our staff. As the Executive Director of the Home, I was absolutely kvelling that so many individuals who work so hard daily are recognized by our licensing agency and qualified professionals," Silvia Roffman, President of the Board of Directors, stated, "The Jewish Senior Services Board is very proud that the entire staff is recognized for its professionalism and compassion and we know that everyone working at the Home is always looking for now ways to support our residents.
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 15
Congressional candidate visits Blumkin Home
Shelley Kiel, right, stopped to visit residents of the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home as she campaigned in West Omaha, Kiel is the Democratic candidate for Congress in the Second Congressional District,
721 N. 132nd St 963-9595
MEDITERRANEAN
Persian and Middle Eastern Cuisine
Discover Omaha's Best Kept Secret
We Do CATERING! | * Bar/Sat Mte/ahs •Recaptions • Any-Oecasion Parly Casual Dining A Cocktails Open Mon-Sat Lunch & Dinner Take Out Available Serving Israeli Wine Try a variety of Kabobs
1712 North 120th St.
493-3080
(Candlewood Shopping Center)
Certified Angus Beef for Filet Mlgnon, slow roasted Prime Rib and our specially Steak Diane Frn.li seafood, chicken, pork ami pasta intensive wine list ami specially liquor* "Best Sunday Brunch" Kmutrr
imperial ^Palace
mult >'••.•
V
.
• > > . . ••>•-
"Diner's Choice" - Oiiuibtt World llvmld
.•»)
RESTAURANT & LOUNGE
"Experience authentic Chinvse dishes in our Spectacular I'alae«" Lvtuh Man • I'rl Dinner 7 Days A Wetk Sunday Lunch fimtt 32 Noon
» Lunch • Dinner * Sunday Brunch
Private Party & Banquet Rooms RcniMviliun-i & Cany Out Dcliveiy Available In The livening
112th'& Davenport|»_OidMil! South,Omaha » 330-3888 3 Star
Catering and Carry'Out also available
VISIT OUB 10CONVEN1EWT EXf»RESSJ,:O«ATIp^S: flours of d
CrowwJa M.ill Council Stuffs. IA
i !tl •Wlain
, NE
UMIMLIV v (>m
•MUM r t w i
Frtmont Mull fismoflt.Ne
CoflMtogiNM G K M Miami, NB
< Ng
HillWp U«tt y, HE
liiiiiii
I mlti SittittU i (
i |>iu 10 p m
Page 16
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
July 28,2000
Irv and Geri Epstein to be honored at Chabad13
Birthright Israel announces grants for inno¥ative post-trip programs
by Devra Bram Irv and Geni
Epstein will be honored on Sunday, Aug. 13, 5 p.m-, at the Embassy Suites downtown, at the Chabad 13 Bari Mltzvah Ban-I quet dinner.! They are being honored, along with Maury and Joan Udes, for their loyal support of Chabad and contribution to the community. irv Epstein has always been active in the Omaha Jewish Community. As a young man, he delivered services at the former Bnai Israel. He attended Creighton University for Ms law degree and, following a stint as a U.S. Air Force Captain in Korea, worked as Deputy City Attorney for 7 years. In his private practice, he championed all different causes, including representing Rabbi Nadoff in the Kashruth Controversy with a local trial judged by the Boston Beth Din. He has acted as the Chabad of Nebraska's attorney, providing his counsel and friendship through the years. His wife, Geri, attended Southern Methodist University and Wayne State University. She was active in the National Council of Jewish Women and was President of the Lewis and Clark PTA. An artist, she taught oil painting out of her home and had Geri's Art and Sculpture Gallery for 25 years. She now operates the gallery by appointment only. The community, family and friends will gather to celebrate the Epstein's accomplishments on behalf of Chabad. For more information about tickets to the Chabad 13 Bar Mitzvah Dinner, call Elizabeth at Chabad House, 330-1800.
byTmaUrfeansW
New York, NY—Birthright Israel announced it is accepting innovative proposals for grants to conduct post-trip programming activities for its alumni. The grants have the goal of continuing the social, cultural and educational mission of the Birthright Israel gift. The grants will range from $2,500 to $15,000 for participants in the Winter and Spring 2000 educational trips as well as the forthcoming Winter 2001 trips. "Our goal for innovative post-trip program grants is to encourage a continuing education process, to continue to connect young North American Jewish youth to Israel, and to renew and strengthen thenJudaism, individually as weE as within their communities," said Marlene Post, North American Chairperson of Birthright Israel. "The Mad of innovative activities we are looking for can include reunions, retreats, educational and religious activities, service projects, online forums and other unique and interesting ideas." The grants are one part of a larger follow up project for college-age alumni that Birthright Israel is undertaking jointly with Hillel: The Foundation for Jewish Campus Life. Any agency or group of individuals can submit a grant proposal. "The grant proposals are expected to be diverse in nature and will be judged on the merit of the idea, their ability to be replicated, the viability of implementing the project and cost efficiency. If a group of students submit a proposal, the proposal should include at least one Birthright Israel alumni and
the proposal should he submitted in cooperation with a sponsoring agency. Proposals far Winter and Spring 2000 trips must be received by Aug. 15 and proposals for Winter 2G01 trips must be received by Oct31. Grant •reeipients will be aansaneed shortly thereafter. "Oar hope is feat £he post-trip program grants will preside Birthright Israel participants with an opportunity to sustain and enhance their Israel experience," said Arlene Kaufman and her husband, Sandy Baklor, who are funding the Birthright Israel grants for post-trip programs. "We look forward to seeing the innovative ways grant winners will turn the 10-day educational program to Israel into a lifetime of reliving and sharing the spirit of the Birthright Israel initiative." Grant proposals snould be ao more than three pages and should be submitted to: Birthright Israel Post Programming Grants eta Dr. Steven J. Noble 111 Eighth Ave., Suite 11-E New York, NY 10011 Birthright Israel's mission is to present lifelong Jewish values to Jewish young adults worldwide through a first peer group trip to Israel. The Birthright Israel gift is an unprecedented $210 million partnership between local Jewish Federations worldwide, a group of prominent philanthropists, and the people of Israel through their government. For mere information on the Birtteight Israel gift, visit our website a t www.blrthrigfa£israel,eom.
SAFETY ZONE Heip make the world safe from 40 neuromuscuiar diseases.
Muscular Dystrophy Association
1-800-572-1717
NARK THIS DATE #N YOUR CALENDAR! Wednesday, September 2 7 The annual Shirley and Leonard Goldstein Lecture on Human Rights
Introducing the Cadillac Escalade.The only luxury SUV featuring Auto Trac™-a drive system with five selectable operating modes allowing the driver to match the driving mode to current conditions of the road. Of course inside, the Escalade offers an abundance of handcrafted personal and cargo space. So get comfy on the Nuance leather seating, turn up the BoseAcoustimass audio system, and travel that road less traveled.
Featuring
KENNETH ROTH HUBER CADILLAC • OMAHA, NE
Executive Director
402-496-0220
Human Rights Watch