JEWISH PRESS Vol.LXXX
No. 10 Omaha, NE
4 KISLEV, 5761
December 1,2000
SERVING NEBRASKA AND WESTERN IOWA FOR 80 YEARS
The Mideast.. as President (?) Gore Sees it by TRUDE FELDMAN, White House Correspondent, Special to t i e Jewish Press.
(Editor's note: As of press time, neither Vicepresident Gore nor Governor Bush had been confirmed as the next President of the United States; however, we felt this story was an important one, regardless of who wins.)
Tel Aviv University Authority to Speak on Mideast Dilemma by DIANE AXLER BAUM
Prof. Aharon Klieman, holder of the Nahum Goldmann Chair in Diplomacy at Tel Aviv University, will provide a fresh look at the preblems in the Middle East on Thursday, Dec. 7, 7:30 p.m^ at the Jewish Community Center. He will explore "Fallen Pillars: Assessing What Has Gone Wrong with the Oslo Peace Process." In accepting the invitation from Jewish Educational and library Services (JELS) to apeak in Omaha, EUeman said he will "focus on a number of assumptions (Israeli, Palestinian and American) that are being sorely tested by post1993 and more recent events* In the region. He expects Ms analysis, lasting approximately 45 minutes, to "definitely generate a lively quesfiofl-andanswer period." KHeman has been a member of the TAU Political Science Department since 1969. He serves as Deputy Director of the Peres Institute for Diplomacy and Regional Development and is a Senior Research Associate at the Jaffee Center for Strategfe Studies. He is currently a visiting professor in the Political Science Department at the University of Michigan. His newest book, Worldly Politics: Essays in Honor of Professor David Vital, prepared with Prof. Abraham Ben Zvi, is now in publicationHe is also the author of: Compromising Palestine: A Guide to the Final Status Negotiations; JP: What's your assessment of the situation today? Gore: Clearly, the situation is very grave. A Constructive Ambiguity in Middle East Peace great deal of damage has been done to the belief on Making; Security Concerns: Insights from the either side that a peace with the other is possible. Israeli Experience (which he edited with Pajaiel Moderate people who hoped that peace "was possi- Bar-Tel and Dan Jacobson); Democracy: The ble have been shaken by the violence. And yet, I Challenges Ahead (co-edited with Yossi Shaist); and believe that it is possible for the violence to be Israel and the World After 40 Years. KHeinan's lecture, free and open to the public, is brought to an end. the last in a series of sessions on the Middle East, JP: .What do you think of the proposed Israeli co-sponsored by JELS and the Omaha Center for plan to pause temporarily with all negotiations Torah Learning. For more information, call the with Mr. Arafat? JELS office, 334-8445, or the OCEL, 551-1584. (Continued on page 5) Gore: I'm convinced that no solution in the Mideast can be imposed. Negotiations and agreement are the only answers. Despite today's crisis, at no time have we been closer to a solution than we are now and that's why I believe the U.S. should continue to be a part of this process. JP: What would be your specific policy in the Mideast after Jan. 21? Gore; That policy, as Fve said, is to bring down the violence and move to the table. There, four key issues need to be addressed: 1) refugees, 2) borders, 3) security, and the most difficult of all, 4) Jerusalem. I believe fair and equitable formulas can be found for each of these issues, but it must be the parties themselves who reach these solutions with the help of the U.S. as an honest broker. We can do that precisely because of the closeness and solidiiy of our ties to Israel and of our dedication to her security.
Albert Gore, Jr., was born sis weeks before the modern State of Israel was established, in May, 1948. In 1998, when both he and Israel turned 50, Vicepresident Gore was in the Jewish State for its golden jubilee. And throughout his professional life, Al Gore has shown unwavering concern for Israel's welfare. Today, this possible "President-elect" said one of his highest priorities will be to help bring about the cessation of the conflict between Israelis and Palestinians. "I want peace with security," the Vice-president said. "The best interests of both Israelis and Palestinians are in the peace process, not in the escalation of conflict. The violence must stop so that the two sides can build confidence and restart solid negotiations." He also expressed heartfelt condolences to the families of the dead and injured, both Palestinians and Israelis, who have suffered losses in the fighting. "My heart goes out to both peoples," he added. They must seek peace with justice and they themselves must decide on how to make that peace with justice a reality." In an interview shortly before the astonishingly close Presidential election on Nov. 7, Vice-president Gore gave his detailed views to me on the latest Middle East crisis. JP: What common goal is there in American foreign policy in the Mideast that both Arab and Jewish communities in the United States should be by BETH COHEN, Executive Director, Beth Israel — supporting? Beth Israel Synagogue announced that Rabbi Gore: The two communities know that there must be an immediate halt to the violence so that Yissocher Frand will come to Omaha for a Seholarnegotiations can restart. The goal remains the in-Residence weekend, D e c 15 and 16. Rabbi Frand began his association with the Ner same—a full and just peace with security for all. In the past, the parties have been close to some fundamental solutions. Now they must overcome the trauma of violence if they are to again build peace in the region. JP: How much and in what way were you involved in Mideast policy in the past eight years? And. as President after Jan. 21, 2001, what strategies would you use to bring about a comprehensive peace? Gore: Fve been close to all of the major foreign policy initiatives and have dealt with the crises around the world as well as in the Middle East as a genuine partner in the current administration. The U.S. role is to be a facilitator in this process and I believe this constructive role must continue.
Rabbi Yissocher Frand to Speak in Omaha
JP: Why should the U.S. continue to be a mediator? Is there a need now for a broader forum with other mediators like Russia or Europe to give assurances to aU parties that the U.S. is an honest broker?
Gore: Because both parties trust and accept the U.S. to play a constructive role, I believe the best hope we have for progress is to keep any negotiations simpler the parties themselves and a single country, trusted by both sides to work hard with them, but not to try to impose solutions of its own. JP:Why?
Israel Rabbinical Seminary in Baltimore as a student in 1963. He is now on the faculty of Ner Israel, and teaches a daily tahaud class to rabbinic students. The scholar-in-residence weekend is chaired by Mort and Janet Glass, Mike and Judy Feldman, and Joe and Maxine Kirshenbaum. Over the years, Rabbi Frand has gained wide recognition for his popular weekly shiur (lecture) in. the Baltimore community, which has rapidly grown to be the largest of its kind anywhere in North America- Rabbi Frand is a world renowned inspirational speaker. He has been invited to speak all over the world from Amsterdam to Australia, Jerusalem to Johannesberg. He has been the keynote speaker at national conventions, including Agudath Israel of America and Torah U'mesorah. His lectures have drawn large crowds. Rabbi Frand will speak three times at Beth Israel during the course of this special Shabbat. Following the Friday night dinner, his evening topic will be "The Scariest Word in the English Language." He will give the sermon during Shabbat morning services, and, following lunch, will speak on "The Tip of the Iceberg: How We View Others." Cost for the meals is $10 adult/$6.50 child for dinner; and $7.50 adult/$4.5O child for.lunch. Make your reservations by calling the synagogue office at 556-6288, or by e-mailing Rabbi Yissocher Frand Betfalsrael@novia.net. Photo by: J. Wadro Photography
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
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Visions Board Meeting, 9:30 a.m. ^ S ^ Beth Israel Shabbos House, 3 p.m., at the home of Maggie & Don Gerber SUNDAY^ DECEMBER 3 L.O.V.E. Hanukkah Fair, 9 a.m. Pancake Man, 9 a.m. at Temple Israel "Alternative Models of Spirituality," 10 a.m., at Temple Israel i MONDAY, DECEMBER 4 YES Program, 9:30 a.m. • LOVE Hanukkah Fair, 9 a.m. Jewish Press Committee Meeting, 5 p.m. Beginning Hebrew Class, 7 p.m, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 5 LOVE Hanukkah Fair, 9 a.m Beginning Hebrew Class, 10 a.m. BBY0Night,6p.m. JCC Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m. FJA Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m. Renewal/Healing Service, 7:30 p.m., at Temple Talmud Class with Rabbi Kutner, 7:30 p.m., at Beth Israel WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 6 "Torah Tots," 9:30 a.m. at Chabad House THURSDAY, DECEMBER 7 Adult Education, 10 a.m., at Temple Israel Follow up to Ken Stein, 7 p.m. Adult B'nai Mitzvah class, 7 p,mf, at Temple Synagogue 2000 Meeting, 7 p.m,, at Temple Ail events held at the JCC unless otherwise Indicated. The Jewish Press is not responsible for the accuracy of the events. To Keep calendar accurate or for questions, call Marlene Hert at 334^6437.
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December 1, 2000
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IDABELMONT Graveside services for Ida Belmont were held by RABBI MYER S. KRIPKE Nov. 26 at BHH Cemetery. She was 92. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jack. Parashat Toledot Survivors include sisters, Babe Dobrofsky and December's tone is set each year, in the United Sophie Kimmel, both of Omaha; and nieces, States at least, by the approaching great holy day nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. ; of our Christian friends and neighbors. Memorials to LOVE, c/o the Rose Blumkin But this year, there may be a repeat of the millenarian hope that this is the year of the return of Jewish Home. the Redeemer. Since it didn't happen as the year 2000 dawned, it will probably be when 2000 years really will have passed, i.e., at the beginning of Jewish Press Announces 2001. (Notice that 2001 has only two zeroes. My home Winners of HanukkaSi telephone number ends in 8000, We get about 30 Coloring Contest wrong numbers a week by people who are calling Lexie Newman, a seventh-grader at Westside 8001, 8002, 8003, etc, and who insist on putting Middle School, will have her drawing reproduced three zeroes before the final digit—and the tele- in four-color on the cover of next week's Hanukkah phone apparatus pays attention only to the three Gift Guide. She is the daughter of Sharee and zeroes, not the final digit, and calls our number. Murray Newman. Since I am not at home a lot, I am not annoyed Emily Newman, daughter of Patricia and Jeff enough to change our phone number.) Newman; and Caroline, Samantha and Ariel The millenarians get their name not by, eagerly Juster, children of Sara and Sorin Juster, were the waiting for years that number even thousands, but first to submit their entries. by the New Testament expectation that there will All five will receive gift certificates to Border's be a thousand years of peace, serenity, joy, and Books, courtesy of the Jewish Press. blessing when the Redeemer comes. Indeed in the year 100, and again in 200, already then, there were millenarians who closed their homes, brought their families out into the fields, there to meet the Saperstein to Speak Christ, the anointed one. by IRIS RICKS - * • " " >> ' • <»<••<••• I suppose it is perfectly natural for human beings Dr. Marc Saperstein will be the guest speaker for the likes of us to want something better than the the Sidney H. Brooks Memorial lecture at the world our parents left us, and to want to leave University of Nebraska at Omaha. The lecture, something better to our children. This gives rise to which is entitled, "Jews and Christians: Lessons the hopes of a Messiah (anointed one) to do with from the Middle Ages," is Thursday, Deo. 14, semi-divine power what we have been unable to 7:30 p.m., at the UNO Alumni Center, do. Although the Bible has very little of this hope, The lecture was established to honor Rabbi rabbinic and later folkloristic Judaism are full of Sidney H. Brooks whe had a close relationship this kind of expectation. Jews ran out of this kind with the University. Rabbi Brooks served Temple of unrealistic assessment of history with the debaIsrael as Rabbi and Rabbi Emeritus from 1952 cle of the Sabbatai Zevi excitement of the 17th cenuntil his death in 1999. tury. He had named 1666 as the year of the millenDr, Saperstein is an expert in Jewish-Christian nium. A sizeable number of European Jews left relations in the Charles E. Smith Professor of their homes to follow him. There were some who Jewish History and Director of the program in still believed in him as the Messiah even after he Judaic Studies at George Washington University. died—preceded by his conversion (under pain of The lecture is open to the community. death) to Islam. What fools we mortals be! Well, the Messiah will come when he is no longer needed. That is to say, when we have finally Talking History Schedule learned to live with each other, when we have created a world by give-and-take and necessary com- for December promise, and by learning that others also have "Talking History" airs on KIOS-FM 91.5 each rights and needs and demands, then the Messiah's Monday at 10 a.m. Following are the programs duties have already been accomplished by us, and for December: he can come or not as he pleases. We may still Monday, Dec. 4, marking the 200th anniversary keep the pious hope for his coming in our prayers, of the Library of Congress, James Conaway will but we will be sophisticated enough to know that talk about the Library; Nancy Kranich will provide this is the literary expression of a hope that can be a complementary commentary. fulfilled only by an enlightened humankind. Monday, Dec. 11, Terry Clark of Creighton If all the actors are in place and the curtain is University's History department will discuss ready to be raised, let the action begin! Let the Lithuania, where he has just spent a year. first day of the millennium dawn! Meanwhile, let Monday, Dec. 18, Historian Stephen Ambrose us go back to our daily tasks and help the millenni- will talk about the Trans-Continental Railroad; um arrive! Gary Marks will provide a commentary.
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BETH ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE
TEMPLE ISRAEL i M c i n l M 1 ! ' o t d u ' I iiion tilAnii'i i<;in
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7021] Cass Street, Omaha, NE 08132-2(»51
Member of Union of .Orthodox Jewish Synagogues of America 1502 No. 52 St., Omaha, NE • 68104 -5013
(.enipleisrael-ne.org; FRIDAY: Tot Shabbat, 7 p.m. A short service of song and prayer, followed by cookies and juice, will be held for toddlers through children in the primary grades and their families. Evening Services, 8 p.m. Rabbi Aryeh Azriel and Cantor Jennifer Blum will officiate. Rabbi Azriel will give the sermon. SATURDAY: Bagels and Bible, 9:30-10:15 aan. Join us as we continue our study of Maccabees. Services, 10$0 a.m, SUNDAY: Pancake Breakfast featuring 'Jim the Pancake Man,' sponsored by the Women of Reform Judaism, 9-10:80 a.m. Bring the family for breakfast before the children go to Religious School. Cost is $4.25 for adults; $3.50 for children 12 and under. SITTER SERVICE Available for Shabbat services Friday evening and Saturday morning, as well as Sunday mornings when there is Religious School. Please make reservations through the Temple office, Cost is $2 a family. Sorry, there are no facilities for infanta. HEALING AND RENEWAL SERVICE • Tuesday, Dec. 5,7 p.m.; Are you .or your family coping with illness, loss or grief? Are you looking for a special opportunity for spiritual renewal through prayer, song and reflection? Join us for this beautiful and inspirational bimonthly service. ADULT EDUCATION SUNDAY, DEC. 3: Alternative Models of Spirituality in Judaism> facilitated by Guy Matalon, 10-11:30 a.m. This course will look at different ways of understanding and practicing spirituality within Judaism. THURSDAY, DEC. 7: Adult Study with the Rabbis, 10-lliSO aauui, Rabbi Azriel will focus on the writings of the scholars-in-residence who will visit Temple this year; Adult B'nai Mitzvah class, 7-9 p.m. •' ' SCHOLAR-IN-RESIDENCE Rabbi Eugene B. Horowitz's topic for the weekend is The Theology and Practice of Modern Reform Judaism, Friday, Dec. 8, 8 p.na. (Sanctuary): "The Last Hundred Years; What Has Happened to Reform Judaism and American Jewry?" The Temple Israel Outreach Committee will host Shabbat dinner, 6:80 p.m. Cost is $7.50 for Adults and $4 for Children. RSVP with payment to Temple Israel by Dec. 4. Sitter service is available for the 8 p.m, service. Please confirm with Bonnie at Temple. Saturday, Dec. 9, 9:30 a.m., Bagels and Bible (Milder Center): a Assimilation and Tradition; Comparing and Contrasting Maccabean and Modern Times?" Morning Services in the Chapel, 10:80 a.m,, "The Daily Texture of Living Our Reform Judaism" This program is sponsored by The Hermene Zweiback Center for Lifelong Jewish Learning. All events are open to the community at no charge. CONGREGATION B'NAIJESHURAN
Ik'thlsiiael@novia.ru"t
l8<H»So. 120th St., OmaJ'ia, NEOi Phone: 330-1800 E-(MAIL--chabad@aoi.t:«»m WEBS!Tltl: www.cliabadc'i'iitoi's.coiu/oinuha Services conducted by Rabbi Mendel Katzman. Monday-Friday, services, 7 a.m. MONDAY: Hebrew Reading, 9:80-11 a.m.; Genesis Lunch Serins, 11:45 a.m.-1 p.m.; Advanced Talmud Study, 0-7 p.m. TUESDAY: 613 Mitzvahs, 8-8:46 A.m.; Exploring the Tanya, 9:30-11 a.m. WEDNESDAY: Torah Tots, 9:30-11 a.m.; An overview of Jewish History, 7-8:80 p.m. TIFUBSDAY: Parsha Club,10-ll am.
I l i M h S U P.O. Box 2111.:.{( Oinahsi. Nt ; :(JBI21-.>i;i0 p h o n e : 758-02M .http://\vt.!U:oin<.:.t'.o/I.Hr.vtshalom/
FRIDAY} Kabbalat Shabbat, 7:80 p.m. SATURDAY: Potluck dairy-vegetarian dinner and havdalah at the synagogue, 5:30 p.m. SUNDAY & TUESDAY: Religious School at the JCC. FREDAY, Dec. 8* Tot Shabbat, 7 p.m. SATURDAY, Dec. 9: Services in the Rose Blumkin Home Chapel, 9 a,m. B'NA! ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE 0.18 Mynster St., Council Bluff*, IA • 5150::!-07(i«
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1450(>C'alifoinia Omaha, NE (i8154-l})80 :
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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 Berkovita and G. Michael Horwifcz. FRIDAY* Services, 6 pan. SATURDAY: Services, 9:30 a.m. Kiddush following services; Sitter service, 10 a»m.; K'tantan (K-3 grade), 10:45 a.m.; Shabbat Story Time (pre-K and younger), 11 a.m.; Mishnah study session, 4 p.m.; Minha-Ma'ariv and Havdalah, 4:40 p.m. SUNDAY: Services, 9 a.m,; Perek Yorni "Read a Chapter a Day" group at 10:15 a.m. WEEKDAYS: Services at 6:55 a.m. and 5JS0 p.m. ADULT B'NAI MITZVAH CLASS The class will continue on Wednesday, Dec. 6, 7:80 p.m. KIDDIE LUNCH AND LEARN "Hooray for Hanukkah" is tho theme for Kiddie Lunch and Learn for children 2-kindergarten, accompanied by an adult. Lunch and Hanukkah menorot making will be Friday, Dec. 8, noon.. YOUNG COUPLES GROUP Progressive dinner for the Young Couples Group on Saturday, Dec. 9. Call Havszan Horwitz for information. HAZAK Hazak, United Synagogue organization for mature Jews 65 and over, will have a deli lunch and entertainment on Sunday, Dec. 10, 12:15 p.m. For more information and reservations, r.nll r.fmiln LmnaPnl. '29n-0!W.l, ortfu«i<*Dmxen fit 402-8550. TIFERETH ISRAEL ,'<nisi>rvtitivc- J u d a i s m
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Office hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, 2-4 p.m. Services conducted by Rabbi Stanley M. Rosenbaum. Minyan on Monday & Thursday, 7:15 a,m. FRIDAY: Services, 8 p.m. SATURDAY: Services, 9:80 a.m., Junior Congregation, 10:15 aan. JEWISH PRESCHOOL Preschool is twice a month. For more information, call Elyza Richmon Halev at 435-5230. OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE 2 5 t h a n d C a p d i a r t , O m a h a , NK (iB! t;i-50(HI • ' 2J)4-«'»05'.l -..: : •..''..•
FRIDAY: Services, 7:30 p.m. :
Phone: 322-4705.e-mail: docjel»@aol.«bom FRIDAY; Services, 7:80 p.m. Dr. Eugene Freund will discuss "The Jewish reaction to the present dilemma in U.S. politics." Oneg and Kiddish will follow.
Happy Hatiukkah! Services officiated by Cantor Michael Weisser. FRIDAY: Sabbath Eve service, 7:45 p.m. SATURDAY: Torah Study, 10 ajtn.-noon NOTE: On the second Sabbath of each month, there will be services at 9:30 a.m. On these occasions, Torah Study will start half an hour later (10:30 a.m.) SUNDAY: Hebrew School, 9 a.m.; Religious School, 10 a.m. MONDAY; Adult Hebrew Study/Movies, 7 p.m. TUESDAY, Adult Education, 7:30 p.m. WEDNESDAY: AA Meeting in the library, 7:80 p.m. THURSDAY: New Be^inninga, 7:30 pan.
BETH EL SYNAGOGUE
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Office hours; Monday through Thursday, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Fridays, 8:30 a.m,-2 p.m. Services conducted by Rabbi Howard Kutner. FKIDAY: Kabbalat Shabbat, 4:45 p.m., the West Minyan will be at the home of Donald and Maggie Gerber, 426 So. 126th St., 4:45 p.m. SATURDAY: Shabbos services, 8:45 a.m., Kiddush sponsored by Sisterhood. The Shabbos House, a new program providing a place for children and family to schmooze and study on Shabbat afternoon, 8-5 p.m., at the Gerbers. Insights into the Parsha, 4 p.m..; Mincha, 4s80 p.m.; Havdalah, 5:41 p.m. SUNDAY: Services, 0 a»m. and 4:40 p.m. WEEKDAYS: Services, 7 a.m. and 4:40 p.m. TUESDAY: Talmud class with Rabbi Kutner, 7:80 p.m. Rabbi Yissocher Fraud will bo a Scholar-inResidence Dec. 16 and 16. Call or e-mail the synagogue office for reservations.
• ';J.•;•'/•
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
ROSE BLUMKIN JEWISH HOME SATURDAY: Services, 9 a.m., led by Andrew Greenberg. Members of the community are welcome. Services are held in the Herbert Goldsten Chapel, followed by Kiddush, A memorial service is held on the last Shabbat of each month in memory of residents who have died,
by JILL C. DOYLE, JCC Member Services •
During the month of December, please stop by the Member Services desk at the Jewish Community Center to fill out an entry form for tho Hanakkah Drawing, Dec. 21-28. Local businesses are donating prizes, including movie passes and gift certificates and more. The celebration of Hanakkah lasts eight days. The drawing will be held each night during tho first seven days. On the eighth day of Hanakkah, it is traditional to give instead of receive. During the entire month of December, membern arts «ncourafjed to drop off toys, coats, clothing, to donate to the Lydia House.
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Page 4
Ah, politics! As the American people patiently wait to see who our next President will be, the candidates continue to battle it out in the courts, this time in the highest court in the land, the United States Supreme Court. Luckily, Americans have tired of the postelection analysis by the talking heads of the all-news television networks. Instead, they're going about their normal lives...attending school, pursuing careers, and doing their holiday shopping. At this point, it's apparent that those who voted didn't want either Vice-president Gore or Governor Bush to be their next President. And whoever Finally does take the oath of office on Jan. 20, 2001, will face a small Republican majority in the House and a Senate that is either 51-49 Republican or 5050 Democratic. Neither is exactly a mandate for overwhelming change. The message, therefore, from the American people is their desire only for incremental change - no big tax cuts, no major alterations to Social Security. We like things just as they are, thank you very much; so, no matter who you are Mr. President, please remember that four years from now, weil probably throw you out anyway!
That brings us to our lives here in Omaha. And we're doing just fine here, as well. For example, the Foundation of the Jewish Federation of Omaha was recently recognized for having one of the largest increases in assets among North American Jewish communities. Our Building for the 21st Century is nearly complete and the JCC announced its coup: Omaha will host the regional Maccabi Games in August of 2002. The Federation's Annual Campaign is in full swing and, once again, donors appear to be making generous financial commitments to fund programs and projects in Omaha, as well as assisting those in need in the former Soviet Union and in Israel. Despite the continuing anti-Israeli rhetoric and violence by Palestinians, birthright israel will still take some 7500 college students to Israel during winter break. Omaha's own Gary Shyken, who works for the Cleveland Hillel Foundation, will accompany a planeload of young people from Ohio colleges and universities. Regardless of the outcome of today's Supreme Court ruling, the answer to the question, "So, nu?" is, for the most part, "Baruch Hashem," thank G-d, we're just fine!
Dry Bones FROM UTM£
Willy Nifiy: Whither Arab-Israeli Negotiations
NEWS ANALYSIS by KENNETH W. STEIN
If the name Bill Clinton offends you under any and all circumstances, stop reading this column, because under no circumstances will you accept the following argument. Regardless of whether it is "Al Bush" or "George Gore," Washington's preeminence in future ArabIsraeli negotiations will not abate. A "Gush-Bore" administration might just want Clinton around as special Middle East envoy. There is a case to be made, but if his values, his wife, his legacy, and his tawdry behavior in the Oval Office offended you, move on. CONTINUITY Come noon on Jan. 20, 2001, Clinton, Albright, Berger, Rosa, and a number of other key personnel will no longer be directing Arab-Israeli diplomacy. Instead, they will be writing memoirs, participating in book tours, publishing OPED pieces, and pulling down large speaking fees. Some of the bureaucrats and ambassadors will remain at key decision-making posts, but continuity at the top will suffer; it usually does for a half a year or more during presidential transitions. This transition is already late in sifting through resumes for more than 6000 political appointments all of whom need background checks and half, Senate confirmation. Normally, it takes four to six months to make these appointments, confirm them, and put foreign and domestic policy programs in place. PRAGMATISM During this campaign, Clinton was despised by Bush supporters and distanced by Gore. But the thin reed on which the president-elect will perse-
JACKSON
vere will require reaching out to the other party's senior statesmen, e.g. Gore could appoint John McCain as head of the Federal Election Commission and Bush might appoint Sam Nunn Defense Secretary. Why would the president-elect not want to delegate this toughest of foreign policy issues to that person most familiar with the issues, Middle Eastern leaders, and pitfalls? Even if only for half a year, it makes sense. Clinton will know the occupant in the White Hougie is the ultimate decision-maker of American foreign policy. Too often, this country has put its trained and experienced personnel, bureaucrats, and governmental leaders out to pasture too quickly after their days in office abruptly ended. Their accumulated talents go to waste. PERFORMANCE RECORD More than any president except Jimmy Carter, Clinton fervently dove into Arab-Israeli negotiations. However, Clinton set new records: he had more meetings with Arafat, visited the region more frequently, presided over more Arab-Israeli summits, made more phone calls to Middle Eastern leaders, negotiated more Middle Eastern agreements, and had his foreign policy team more immersed for a longer period of time than any previous administration. CREDIBILITY Up until the last six months, no president enjoyed more trust by Israeli and Palestinian leaders alike. And even with the recent violent Palestinian-Israeli convulsions, Clinton is still
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The role of the Jewish Federation of Omaha is to involve Jews in meeting Jewish communal needs locally, nationally and in Israel. Centers of Excellence of the Federation are: Community Relations, Jewish Community Center, Jewish Educational and Library Services, Jewish Family Service, Jewish Senior Services. The Jewish Press is a Constitutional Committee of the Jewish Federation of Omaha. Deadline for copy, ads and photos is: Thursday, noon, eight days prior to publication. The Jewish Press (USPS 275620) is published weekly on Friday for $28 per calendar year U.S.; $32 foreign, by the Jewish Federation of Omaha. Phone: 402-3346448; FAX: 402-334-5422; e-mail editorial material, photos and address changes to: <ekatzman<g>jewishomaha.org>; send ads to: mlapour^jewishomaha.org Periodical postage paid at Omaha, NE. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The Jewish Press, 333 So. 132nd St., Omaha, NE 68154-2198.
Dr. Kenneth W. Stein teaches Middle Eastern history and politics at Emory University, Me is the author of Heroic Diplomacy: Sadat, Kissinger, Carter, and the Quest for Arab-Israeli Peace (Routledge, 1999); Dr. Stein spoke in Lincoln and Omaha last month on the election and its implications on Mideast peace. FURNACE
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nudging Barak and Arafat to wind down their physical and verbal testiness. Clinton's ability-to convey commitment and sincerity in peace-making remains a special quality that should be harnessed. THE WHITE HOUSE "MUST-DO" Agreements do not just arrive at the address of the Arab-Israeli conflict; they need to be earned. None in the past evolved without a high degree of American association or involvement. Even the Oslo Accords were signed on the White House lawn, not in Paris, at the UN, or in Norway, When the White House (Carter and Clinton) or its surrogates (Kissinger, Baker, and Shultz) are engaged, enraged Arab-Israeli thinking and acts tend to be less. With Arafat and Barak respectively sliding on domestic ice, it makes even more sense. In dealing with Arabs and Israelis together, creativity is necessary and attention is demanded. Just as you might require dual or divine sovereignty to solve the 'issue of an undivided Jerusalem, go with performance, pragmatism, continuity, and credibility. Let Clinton wrangle, cajole, and be a nudge on behalf of the new president, Of course, Clinton might be appointed, but not be confirmed by the Senate. And if he isn't confirmed, demand a recount and include dimpled chads. That too might be garish, but not if you read this to the end.
Lloyd Roitstein Chairman , Carol Katzman Editor-in-Chief Maureen LaPour Managing Editor •, Larry Axelrod Advertising Manager Allan Handleman Account Executive Barbara Frankel Rocky Stem Sales representatives Jenina Stewart Bookkeeper Jen Gates Production Assistant George Schaplro Volunteer
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JEWISH PRESS COMMITTEE Fred Tichauer, Vice-Chairman; Joanie Jacobson, Secretary; Howard Saber, Treasurer; Elyce Azriel; Jill Belmont; Jean Duitch; Penny Endelman; Kip Gordman; Gary Kudym; Howard K. Marcus; Linda Saltzman; Steve Simon; Amee Zetzman; George Schapiro (Honorary Committee Member). Editorials express the view of the writer and are tvot mxessarily representative of the views of the Jewish Press Committee, the Jewish Federation of Omaha or the Omaha Jewish Community as a whole. The Jewish Pr«8« reserves the right to edit letters and articles for space and content. The Jewish Press is not responsible for the Knflhruth of . any product or establishment.
December 1,2000
The Mideast... (Continued from page 1) •• •• ••» » Gore: I respect Mr. Barak's judgment, but I hope it will be possible to resume the talks based on an end to the ongoing violence. JP: What are your relations with Mideast leaders? Gore: I have good relations with Israel's Barak, Egypt's Mubarak and Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince. I have not yet met Syria's new President Bashar Assad and Jordan's King Abdullah. JP: What would you say to ArabAmericans who have strong feelings about the Mideast crisis? Gore: I believe any peace that is reached must be fair and just and that means in the eyes of both sides. Despite the setbacks and current violence, I believe all Arab-Americans share the desire for a peaceful settlement where violence an.d conflict are no longer seen as the only means to resolve the ancient problems of the region. You know I met with some 25. ArabAmericans in October in Dearborn, MI. That was our third meeting in the past year and we had a good discussion on a range of issues. I left with the feeling that they were comfortable with what we talked about, JP: What would you do if Chairman Arafat unilaterally declares a Palestinian state? Gore: Mideast peace can only come through negotiations and common agreement, not through unilateral actions. I welcomed Mr. Arafat's decision to postpone his commitment to declaring a state. JP.* What roles do you think Syria, Jordan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia or Lebanon can play in the Mideast at this crucial period? Gore: Saudi Arabia, through its close relations with Syria and the Palestinians, can be influential in helping them work out a positive
solution to the current crisis. Egypt's Mubarak organized the recent conference at Sharm el Sheik and played a major role in getting the parties to agree to work to stop the violence and get the peace process re-started. Syria can play a crucial role in influencing organizations like Hezbollah not to attack Israel. JP: To what extent does oil play a role, in the current Mideast powder keg? Gore: Major Mideast oil producing states share our view that the oil market should remain stable with reasonable prices, for the long-term good health of the world economy on which they themselves depend. JP: Many countries either side with Mr. Arafat or refuse to condemn his addiction to the use of violence because, in doing so, it might affect the availability of reasonably priced mideast oil. How do you live with this reality? Gore: We should not be afraid to condemn violence whatever its source because of concern over oil. Mideast oil producers themselves, for good reason, do not want to use oil as a weapon. JP.' Saddam Hussein still looks dangerous. W/iat can we do about it now? Gore: Hie military strength has been greatly reduced by a combination of his losses and the effect of sanctions. He is dangerous; we have to keep our guard up and work closely with our friends in the region. • JP: What additional steps would you take on intensifying threats of terrorism throughout the world? Gore: The U.S. continues to be alert to terrorism the world over and randy to defend its people and to retaliate when the time comes, We will never relent in our effort to find and bring to justice those who bring harm to us. The terrorist attack against the USS Colo will not go unpunished.
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE Page 5
Planting Flags Instead of Trees
Yechiel Leket, JNF Chairman, left, Robert Levine, Russol Robinson, Executive Vice-president of U.S., and Shlomo Gravetz, JNF Co-Chair, plant symbolic (lags in the Horashim Forest. Photo by ISRANET. Ilorashim Forest, Israel-During the first half of October, 277 fires were reported in Israel's forests. The cause was partly arson and partly due to the extreme dryneas and high temperatures all over Israel during early part of the month. Coat of rehabilitation of the 2,600 acres of planted and natural forest that were destroyed in the period will be in the region of $6 million. The amount of fire retardant chemicals and foam that were used to control the fires was more material than has ever been used in fighting Israel's forest; fires to date.
Many representatives of Jewish organizations around the world, who have come to Israel as part of the Unity Missions to show solidarity with Israel, attended a special ceremony at the Horashim Forest in th^ Sharon area. A symbolic rehabilitation ceremony took place in the forest which was devastated during the continuing Palestinian riots. Aa this year is Shemitah year (sabbatical year when the land lies fallow) when no trees are planted, the delegation planted flags to symbolize the trees that will be planted at the conclusion of the Shemitah year.
GENIE CHAIN GLIDE ANTl BURGLARY!
GET READY, SET, PACK!! Applications for Israel Experience Grants and financial aid for Israel trips are currently available. These grants are one-time gifts from the Jewish Federation of Omaha for high school-age students going on an approved Israel study summer trip, If you have not received your application in the mail, you may obtain one by calling the Jewish Educational Services office al: 334-6445, or e-mali khirsnman@jewishomaha.org There is a mandatory prepartory class that begins on Jan. 7, 2001. All students expecting to receive a grant must participate in these classes. All applications must be returned to the JELS office no later
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
December 1,2000
ORGANIZATIONS
INTHENEWS Avery Hannah Lehr, daughter of John and Sandy Lehr, is in the Omaha Theater Company | for Young People regional production Miracle on 34th Street. She plays the part of Janey (Jimmy, in the movie of the same name) in the Blue Cast. The play j runs through Dec. 17 at [ the Rose Blumkin Performing Arts Center; tickets are available by calling ! the box office, 345-4849.
ZACHARIA/FKIEDLAND Jamie Zacharia, daughter of Terri and Dick Zacharia, and Ted Friedland, son of Nancy and David Friedland, announce their engagement. The bride-to-be earned a B.S. in Family Studies from the University j of Arizona, where she was a member of Kappa .Kappa Gamma sorority. She is a sales representative for All! Makes Office! Equipment. She is the grand-1 daughter of Mrs.| OLDTIMERS/YE.S REVIEW Edwin Milder and the late Edwin Milder and the by ART GROSSMAN • late Minnette and Sam Zacharia. It took some time to establish an annual Her fiance graduated from the University of Thanksgiving Day, but after President Lincoln set Colorado with a degree in Business and Marketing. it as the last Thursday in November, each presi- He is a sales supervisor for United Distillers dent followed his example until 1939 when Products Co. Franklin Roosevelt set an earlier date. He is the grandson of the late Evalyn and Paul Thus on Nov. 20, though a Monday, we met in Blotcky and the late Rose and Maurice Friedland. observance of the holiday with pur traditional lunAn April, 2001, wedding is planned at Temple cheon. Entertainment was provided by Hazzan G. Israel in Omaha. . Michael Horowitz, accompanied by Esther Wax at the clavinova, I had the delight of announcing our "house mother," Maggie Conti gave birth to a new BIRTHS kewpie doll, Marie Theresa Conti! Michael and Randi Poscover of St. Louis The Early Bird discussion was dominated by the announce the Nov. 18 birth of Zachary Epstein battle for Florida's Electoral College cotes that will Poscover. determine the next president. In a random drawZachary has two siblings: Rebekah, 31/2, and ing, Anne Rosenblatt won a lap robe, knitted by Jacob, 23 months. Sophie Kahn, We stood in memory for Betty Mintz Grandparents are Mel and Lois Epstein and and Lilyan Goldman-Weiskopf. Shalom. Maury and Lorrie Poscover of St. Louis. Great grandparents are Dave and Jeanne Dvorkin of Omaha, the late Harry and Sophie Epstein, Edward and Ann Poscover, and Morris and Gussie Wexler.
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Y.E.S. Members will meet Monday at the JCC. Exercise with Stacey Paskert, Personal Trainer, at 10:30 a.m. Or try your luck at bingo with Eileen Remer at 10:15 a.m. Bring articles to share for "YES Talk" at 11 aan. Following lunch, join us for musical entertainment with Steve Bauer on guitar and harmonica. For transportation, call 330-4272. Join us for the annual Hanukkah Party on Dec. 18 at noon with special musical entertainment by Maxine Noodell accompanied by Esther Wax. For reservations, call Eileen Remer at 334-6521 by
OMAHA CENTER FOR TORAH LEARNING
SATURDAY, DEC. 2, a t 3:15 p.m. Rabbi Shlomo Levin will host a class on the weekly Torah portion at his home, 2001N. 56th St. MONDAY, DEC. 4, noon, "Not only for Lawyers" Lunch 'n Learn, hosted by Richard Fellman at his law office, 100 Continental BLDG, 209 S. 19th St. Our topic will be "Inequalities between men and women in Jewish divorce law."Lunch available for $5. MONDAY, DEC. 4, 7 p.m., and TUESDAY, DEC. 5,10 a.m,, Modern, spoken Hebrew, co-sponsored with JELS, meets at the JCC, Cost is $25 for the five-week session. Level one is for beginners and level two for those familiar with the Hebrew alphabet, offered at both times. WEDNESDAY, DEC. 6, noon, Lunch 'n learn meets in the Kripke Jewish Federation Library; the topic is "What does the kosher certification on frozen meat mean?" Please bring a lunch. Talmud, Tractate Shabbat meets at Beth El, 7p.m., THURSDAY, DEC. 7, 10 a.m.,ftTorah Time for Tots," led by Hadas Orbach at her home, 1215 Fawn Pkwy near 120th and Pacific. This is geared for one or both parents and babies and toddlers. For more information about Torah Time for Tots or teen programming with Ariel Orbach, call 6975531, or call Rabbi Levin, OCTL Director, at 551Melissa and Michael Bloch of Reno, NV, 1564. B'NAI B'RITH BREADBREAKERS announce the Nov. (5 birth of their son, Theodore Steven Bloch. Otis XII of KKAR-Radio 1290 will speak Grandparents are Carol and Steven Bloch of Wednesday, noon at Regency Best Western, Omaha, Suzanne Adams of Seattle, WA, and according to chairman Ron Gordon. Cost is $9. Barbe and Steven Pulver of Midland, ML
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Temple ScholaMn-Residence Speaks on Violence
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
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by JEN GATES — Recently, Mark Singer Many parents have a spoke to parents of fifthhard time believing that a 3706 South 132nd Street • (402 330-5050 12 graders in Temple child would openly exLetterhead • Brochures '•' Newsletters Israel's Chapel. His topic press the desire to kill and was violence, and in order no one would tell. Look at Business Cards * Mailers •'. Postcards to allow open discussion, it this way. Children have at his request, the audibeen, trained to go to an ence was adults only. adult when a friend talks One of the hottest topics of taking his/her own life, in the media the past few and this training has years has been violence in worked. But when it schools. According to his comes to taking the lives studies, school is one of of others, not many chilthe safest places for children will say a word. dren (although there are They have been told not to Greek Specials Dally Greek Beer & Wine always exceptions). The "tattle", or'be a "snitch". Homemade Pastrtes Dine In/Carry Out g real danger occurs at Dr. Mark Smgw-on teens and violence. Also, a suicidal person E : Party Room We Cater Too! home and in the child's neighborhood. He stated would probably not go after a peer if they told an r ', Full Service Bar that when a fight occurs in a school, the crowds add adult. In the case of overhearing a desire to kill, \ Mon.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Frl.-Sat,, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. the chaos and violence therefore making the size the children observing are most likely fearful of Sun., 11 a.m.-ep.m. and severity of the fight exaggerated. But in this their own safety. H5i t i l tlT'tjTBi mfcUm & in EU cd.F un tu fcinSTBTErBJ situation, a fight cannot last more than a couple of Singer gave statistics on guns as well, saying minutes before faculty breaks it up. that easy access is the biggest problem, but felt In most homes, there is considerably less adult that spending more time on the issue would be supervision. It used to be a concern that children redundant. He recommends, among others, the were being raised by daycares and after-school pro- book, Fist Stick, Knife, Gun by Jeffrey Canada. grams. Today, parents feel more comfortable sim- One last point he made was that guns have a lot to ply leaving their children home alone. Singer stat- do with power. ect that one of seven violent juvenile crimes hapThe last topic ho touched on was violence in the. pens from 8-7 p.m. on schooldays. There is a signif- media: television and internet. His main point was icant increase in other activities which thrive with- that media really does have both positive and negaMonday through Friday; out parental supervision; there is an increase in tive influence on behavior. One example was one of Lunch 11 aiTi.-3p.ni teenage sexual activity at this time, increased drug his children and the movie Searching for Bobby 1 1 Pancakes • Omelettes Rlssotto • Salmon Burger use, and more. Fischer. Ho practically had to drag them to the • French Toast • Wild Rice w/Artichokes My parents, like most others, used to (and I sup- movie and yet, afterwards, they not only loved it 1259 So. 120th St. (402) 334-7172 pose still do) worry that! was out getting into trou- but wanted to play chess. ble after dark. According to Singers statistics, why On how children and even teenagers become would teenagers bother, when their home is nice drawn into the television; he gave an example of and empty right after school? where MTV got their influence: Sesame Street. The But what about the school shootings, you say? As entire network's programming is based on the a result of these recent tragedies, the FBI is doing attention span of a toddler. studies and has created an offender profile (a Cate. Qmsuftantsfor After talking about finding recipua for bombs aad guess, not a science), and no, it does not include explosives on the internet, along with encouragesporting trench coats as on© of the signs. Singer ment to blow things up, Singer gave a simpler solusaid that if a number of the following signs are tion than high-tech child safety internet restricSince 1991 seen in a child, there may be reaaoa to worry. tions, Put the computer and TV in a communal room such as the living room or kitchen. • Cruelty to animals (lack of empathy) « Fascination with firearms/explosives His solution works for most other problems also. 'ffonw ('arc a I ii's (Iksl • Feels that violence is the only solution to Watch your children. Spend time with them. Talk A Registry Providing to them, problems Companions, Home Health Aides, It always seems like the hardest solution, but it's • History of acts of aggression at school Nurses A ides and Nurses the one that works. • Openly expressed desire to kill Affordable rates with no minimum hours
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NB December 1,2000
Rabbi Borowitz to Talk About the Balance Between Modernity and Judaism by CAROL KATZMAN, Editor —
.
"You can't understand the Reform movement •without understanding Judaism in general," said Rabbi Eugene Borowitz, renowned American Jewish philosopher, " a n d you can't understand American Jewry without understanding the history of the last 200 years." Rabbi Borowitz, Professor of Education and Jewish Religious Thought at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in New York City, will be Temple Israel's Scholar-in-Residenee, D e c &-9. In a recent interview with the Jewish Press, he explained the course of the Reform movement and American Jewry and raised some questions he will address in his three lectures, F r i d a y night a t 8 p . m . ; Saturday, 1&30 a-m. and 4:3© pan. According to Rabbi Borowitz, when the Jews of Europe were given the opportunity to integrate into the general socieiy, many of them took "bold and adventurous" steps. That's how Reform Judaism was born," he noted. "No one had to push those Jews; they rushed" to it. It did leave, however, a question that still dominates conversation among serious Jews today. How does one balance being modern with being Jewish? "The modern world keeps changing on us," he added. "From about 1800 through the 1960s, the most valuable asset of Judaism was its sense of ethics. As long as you were ethical, you were fine." But in the last 30 years, people have begun asking for more from their religion — Christians and Muslims, as well as Jews, "Who knew 50 years ago that today, modern Jews want to learn more about Kabballah and Jewish mysticism?" Rabbi Borowitz asked. "Even most Orthodox Jews weren't learning' these books then. After all, he noted, modernity is what counted. People didn't want to be associated with anything that appeared to be superstitious. But as our culture began to change at a quicker pace, and with
-
the advancement in technology, even these socalled modern Jews began to question this priority. The Reform movement came into being to address the problems 200 years ago of how to be modern and Jewish. If today, modernity does not have all .the answers, then today's Jews are not wrong in seeking the answers to life's questions in the Jewish side of the equation, he noted. When asked if he feels gratified by the current response to the changes occurring within t h e Reform movement, Rabbi Borowitz answered, "yes, in the short range. "Given how difficult" it is to move "people, there are wonderful things going on here," he added. But, the long range answer is still out. T h e r e are sMH people who don't participate.'' Since Rabbi Borowitz is a historian, not a prophet (he •wrote Renewing the Covenant: A Theology for the Postmodern Jew, and edited Sh'ma magazine for more than 20 years), he would rather concentrate on the current state of American Jewry, rather than predict the future. °No one would have predicted 50, even 20, years ago where Judaism would be today," he said, referring to the marketing of Judaism,' the innovative programming occurring within synagogues today. Ttfs wonderful to watch the marvelous American spirit, the great Jewish talent which bring new approaches on any given problem. "We shouldn't disparage these (secular) talents, especially when if s put to the needs of the Jewish community in order to get their fellow Jews to participate,'' he added. "One never knows where leadership will arise. Omaha has produced several distinguished leaders, including Phil Khitznick. "I'm just trying to call attention to oar greatness," he said in closing. I t ' s so easy to complain, b u t let's celebrate what's happening i n t h e American Jewish community!"
• *
Hadassah Donates $5,000,000 to birthright israel by JEWISH PRESS News Service
Chicago — Hadassah, the Women's Zionist Organization of America, officially gave $5,000,000 to birthright israel at the United Jewish Communities General Assembly in Chicago. "As the largest women's and Zionist organization in. the US., Hadassah is pleased to be a birthright israel donor," said Bonnie Lipton, National President of Hadassah. This is a vital program because our youth are not only the future of the Jewish community but of Zionism. And the best way we know how to raise committed Zionists is by allowing them to touch and be toadied by the people and the land of Israel As birthright israel gears up to send another 10,000 Jewish college students to Israel this winter, Melcbior added, "This is an investment in the future of the Jewish people."
Hadassah National President Bonnie Lipton, center, signed a c o n t r a c t recognizing Hadassah as a p h i l a n t h r o p i s t in t h e birthright israel program. At the signing were Charles Bronfman, co-founding chairman of birthright israel, left, and Rabbi Michael Melchior, Israeli Cabinet Minister.
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