December 21, 2001

RESS VoL LXXXI

No. 15

Omaha, ME

§Tevet,5762

December 21,2001

SERVING NEBRASKA AND WESTERN IOWA FOR 80 YEARS

is is Israel's Reality oy JAN PhRELMAN, Executive Director, Jewish Federation of Omaha,

Each time I have returned to Israel during the past 24 months, it . '. seemed as if things couldn't get more diffi- . """' cult for the Israelis. Yet, . -' • each time, I am wrong. . T . "• The constant threat of terrorism, of which we ,4 Americans have only had ..'--/ a taste since Sept. 11, is ' .•_ intensified by their feel- " " ' " I ings of isolation from the ,' rest of the world. Terror- . .• ism has also resulted in tremendous economic hardships caused by the lack of tourists to the country. It's not like what j ou see on CNN. in fact, it's much the opposite. The empty just six days after the terrorist suicide bombings killed 28 streets of- -Jerusalem . TH, u are * T young Israelis. Photo by Tom Friedman. eerny quiet. The hotels, The day before we departed for Israel, a suicide restaurants and holy sites are empty of visitors, bomber killed 26 young Israelis on one of the most except for the UJC (United Jewish Communities) popular streets in the heart of Jerusalem. When we missions and a few other American Jewish organi- met up with the rest of the mission participants at zations who continue to try and bring American JFK airport on Sunday evening, I felt an amazing Jews to Israel. sense of pride when I saw that only 14 of the 488 parEarlier this month. I was one of 13 Omahans who ticipants had decided nottogo on the mission. joined with 475 other individuals from Jewish comThese senseless., suicide bombers, along with the munities across the-country on a five-day Solidarity rapid economic decline over the past 16 months, Mission to show support for Israel during these dif- have taken a tremendous toll on Israeli spirits. ficult times. Omaha's own Joel Alperson, Central Twenty hotels have closed and 20,000 Jobs have Region FED (Financial Resource Development) for been lost. Overall, Israel's economy has lost over the UJC, did an incredible job as the overall mis(Continued on page 8) sion chairman.

Maccabi Torch Passed to Omaha DDCPC

Above: Israeli schli'cha. Zlil Chen Saks, left, passed the Maecabi Torch to B'nai B'rith Henry Monsky Lodge President Gary Javitch, co-sponsor of the annual Haimkkah Hun "with the <Jewish Community Center. Below: Lighting the Harmkkafa candles oa Sunday were Saks, left, Jody Malashoek, Cochair of the Maccabi Games; Lisa Shkolnick, tJCC Maccabi Games Director; Javitch; Harley Schrager, Honorary Maccabi Games Chair; Steve Rf ekes, Chairman of the Run.

The Project Dreidel Chronicles

Out of Work, But Not Out of Optimism by PAM MONSKY, Federation Communications Director %

The story you are about to read is true, and used with permission. The names have been changed to respect privacy. Welcome to the fourth installment of "The Project Dreidel Chronicles." Each person depicted in these stories has graciously agreed to share their story with the community to increase public awareness of the programs and services of Jewish Family Service that have made such a tremendous difference in their lives. Through Project Dreidel, JFS provides Hanukkah gifts and Jewish holiday meals to families in our area who cannot afford them. But sometimes, families and individuals have unexpected emergencies that require immediate intervention. JFS is there to provide the financial and emotional support needed Photo by Jen Crates to get back to normal, and that support costs money Lieberman is modest compared to most of us. year 'round. Your gift to the Jewish Federation of Omaha's "Getting by" for this 50-sometbing Jewish bachelor 2002 Annual Campaign, along with donations to means being able to keep up the $400 monthly payJFS tzedakah' fund, is what allows us to take care ments on his small house. It means being able to of each other. Despite our best efforts, our communi-buy food for himself and bis dog, Baxter, his only ty's, needs continue to outpace the increase in gifts tocompanion. It means having enough money for bus the Annual Campaign. Your increased campaign fare to and from bis two part-lime jobs. gift ensures that every Omaha Jewish community It means being able to go to Friday night services member will have access to professional and com- and giving whatever tzedakah he can because he passionate help in a Jewish environment. knows that there.are people who "are much worse To find out how you can help make a difference in off than me. Some are homeless and don't have the lives of others, please contact JFS at 330-2024, anyone. I have Baxter and my friends at work and or the Jewish Federation at 334-6431. In this week'sat synagogue. I consider myself lucky!" story, a man just tries to "get by." >. ' Lieberman has always been a simple man. He is grateful for bis good health and never wants to be a If you were to ask Mike Liebennan* what makes burden to anyone. You'd never know by talking to him happy, he'd answer, "just being able to earn him just how much he's had to overcome. enough money to get by." "Getting by" for He was born to German immigrant parents in the

Bronx, New York. His parents were very poor and very bitter about their circumstances. They had fled Germany in the mid 1930s, just in the nick of time, and made their way to the United States hoping for the American Dream. His father often complained that Ms bosses were anti-Semitic and that they were treating him unfairly. He blamed them for keeping the family in poverty. Lieberman doesn't know if this was true or not, but he. does have vivid recollections of his father's excessive drinking, which always led to a litany of how he was being wronged and taken advantage of. Lieberman recalls that when drunk, his father could not be reasoned with. He yelled at his wife, at Mike, and his older sister, Arlene. He remembers being hit a couple of times. Mike doesn't want anyone to feel sorry for him, and one gets the feeling that there's a lot more to the story thatfs being left unsaid. By the time he turned 13, Lieberman had watched his father drink himself to death. (Continued on page 12)

3NSSDE: Bible Quiz Winners..

.....Page 7

Friedel Notebook.—,..,

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UJC Aids Terrorist Victims..,

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

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December 21, 2001

ConsuCtantsfor thejiging

Joseph the Prognosticate!* by RABBI MYER S. KRIPKE — - — —

Parasfaat VaYiggash The Bible has many interesting characters. One of the most fascinating is Joseph. He is a man of complex character, indeed, since we first learn of him as an arrogant young snip, and we leave him as a seasoned, mature man, a help to his brothers, whom he had alienated, and the lifesaver to them, to all Egypt, and to the whole world that relied on Egypt. His career involves the question of dreams and their meaning. He, himself, was a dreamer, and in his dreams, he saw himself not merely as the head of his family, but as the head of a whole section of mankind. There is some thought that a dreamer actually influences the history of the times that pass by his dreaming mind. This was true of Joseph, for he interpreted correctly the dreams of Pharaoh's servants, and then the dreams of Pharaoh himself. Did his interpretations result in the actual completion in reality of the dreams themselves? If he dreamed of periods of plenty, did that mean that Pharaoh brought .on the years of plenty? And if he dreamed of famine, did that in itself bring on the years of famine? We will have to leave the answers to these questions to the students of Freud. In the meantime, we will read of Joseph the prognosticator, Joseph the manager, Joseph the provider, Joseph the manipulator, Joseph the forgiver, Joseph the man of many parts. Every year when we read of him, we find new and fascinating aspects to his character. His mind processes unfold themselves before us, each year anew. And now, Judah approaches him, approaches Joseph the Man, apprehensive, worried, desperate —and yet, hopeful. Each year, the reader awaits Joseph's decision.

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President Bush Lights Hanukkah Candles

CLIP & SAVE

CALENDAR c

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QTYG Winter Conclave, 7 a.m., thru Sunday YES Program, 10 a.m.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27 BBYO Winter Regional Convention through Dec. 30 i in KarisasCity Yiddish Club, 1p.m. LOVE Monthly Meeting, 7 p.m.

For the first tiiin1 in \iiici-iosin history, the H a n u k k a h me no rail wan lit at (l*<- White House residence, said President George W. Bush at the ceremony. Photo by Eric Draper

FLOYD JANDL Services for Floyd Jandl, who died suddenly in a car accident on Dec. 13, were held Dec. 18. He was 79. After retiring, Jandl took a second career as. a maintenance worker with FBG at the Jewish Community Center; he was then hired full-time by the JCC, where he worked for more than 10 years. Survivors includf his wife, Beatrice; son, Eugene Barn- %..• hart; sons and daughters-in-law, Rick and Katie Barnhardt, Craig and Paula Barnhart, and Scott and Donna Krueger; daughter and son-in-law, Danette and Rick Davis; brother, Charles Jandl; brother and sister-in-law, Russel and Lorraine Jandl; sister, June Patterson; sister and brotherin-law, Darlene and Jim Meinert; 13 grandchildren; and two great-grandsons. Memorials to the Jewish Family Service, earmarked for the Jandl family. MONROE D. ROSENBERG Monroe D. Rosenberg died Dec. 15 at the age of 79. Services were held Dec. 17 at Mount Sinai Cemetery. A retired insurance executive, he was honored for 50 years of service as a Master Mason by the Grand Lodge Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Nebraska. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Pearl Schneider Rosenberg. Survivors include his wife, Helen Brown Rosenberg; sons and daughters-in-law, Maynard and Syliva Rosenberg and Howard and Kathlene Rosenberg of Chevy Chase, MD; daughter and sonin-law, Marilyn and Steve Tipp; step-sons and daughters-in-law, Lawrence and Roberta Brown of Las Vegas and Bill and Laurie Barron of Chicago; seven grandchildren; five step-grandchildren; and one great-granddaughter. Memorials to the American Heart Association or the American Cancer Society. VIOLA MAY EISENBERG Viola Eisenberg died at the age of 79. Services were held Dec. 17 at Temple Israel Cemetery. She was preceded in death by her husband, Hy; Survivors include daughters, Sandra Somr of Santa Cruz, CA, and Barbara Smith of Mesa, AZ; grandchildren, Ariel Brown and Robin Brown; brother, Gene, Somr of Henderson, NV. Memorials to Temple Israel, SAMUEL GELENTER Sam Gelenter died Nov. 28 in Hollywood, FL, at the age of 90. Survivors include his wife, Lucille, also of Hollywood; daughter and son-in-law, Carol and Steve Bloch; son and daughter-in-law, Bob and Gayle Gelenter of New York City; grandchildren, Jenny and Scott Meyerson of Omaha, Michael and Melissa Bloch of Reno, NV, and Alyce and Jaclyn Gelenter of New York City; and two great-grandchildren. Memorials to the National Council of Jewish Women, the Alzheimer's Association, or charity of choice.

JNF Remembers Victims of Terror in New York and Israel

c .MONDAY, DECEMBER 31 °L l " YES Program, 10 a.m. p Youth Dept. New Year's Eve & Overnight, 6 p.m. s A

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All events held at the JCC unless otherwise Indicated. The Jewish " Press Is not responsible for the accuracy of events. To keep calendar V V accurate or for questions, call MarleneHert at 334-6437. _ C E FOR A COMPLETE LISTING, VISIT THE FEDERATION'S WEBSITE: www.Jewi3hOmal1n.org (click on calendar)

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Left: At Ground Zero, Israel's Prime Minister Ariel Sharon presented New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani with a Jewish National Fund (JNF) tree certificate, announcing the dedication of 5000 trees fn American Independence Park in Jerusalem. The trees are being' planted in memory of the victims of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks on the United States.

Right: The following week in Israel, New York Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani and Jerusalem Mayor Ehud Olmert pointed out where they planted two trees together in Jerusalem recently, during a ceremony arranged', by JNF in memory of victims of recent terrorist acts, including the suicide: bombings in Haifa and on Ben Yehuda St.

December 21, 2001

SYNAGOGUES

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 3

CANDLEUGHTiNG Friday, Dec, 21.

4:40 p.m.

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FRIDAY: Shahbat Evening Service, 8 p.m. Rabbi Aryeh Azriel will officiate. Jeffrey Taxman is the soloist. Rabbi Azriel will give the sermon. Oneg Shabbat sponsored by the Women of Reform Judaism. SATURDAY: Bagels and Sacred Books, 9:3010:15 a.m. Please join us as we continue our study of "Traditional Prayers, Modern Commentaries: The S'hma and Its Blessings;" Services, 10:30 a.m. SITTER SERVICE Available for Shabbat evening, 7:15 p.m. or 8 p.m. service, Saturday mornings when there is a Bar or Bat Mitzvah. Also, Sunday mornings when there is Religious School. Make a reservation with the Temple office. No facilities for infants. Cost is $2 per family. ADULT EDUCATION Due to winter break, there will be no classes.

Services conducted by Rabbi Mendel Kntzman. MONDAY-FRIDAY: Services, 7 a.m. SATURDAY: Services, 9t30lp.m. SUNDAY: Services, 8:30 a.m. MONDAY: Prophets jUtnch, 11:45 a.m.- 1p.m. TUESDAY: The Womanly Art of Prayer, 9:80-' 11 tun,; Torah Tots, 1-2:30 p.m. WEDNESDAY: Mommy and Me, 9:804! a.m.

Office hours: Monday through Thursday, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Fridays, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Sendees conducted by Rabbi Howard Kutner. FRIDAY: Kabhalat Shabbat, 4:45 p-m.; The West Minyan is at the home of David and Janet Kohll, 107 S. 128 Pk, 4:45 p.m. SATURDAY: Shabhos .services, 8:45 a.m.; Bar Mitzvnh of Brent Benjamin Saltzman., son of Errol and Lynne Saltzman; Kiddush lunch sponsored by the Saltzmans; Mincha, 4:35 p.m.; followed by a Shalosh Suedot sponsored by the Saltzmans, and Ma'ariv; Havdalah, 5:45 p.m. SUNDAY: Services, 9 a.m., and 4:45 p.m. WEEKDAYS: Services, 7 a.m., and 6:30 p.m. TUESDAY: Shacharit, 9 a.m. WEDNESDAY: Talmud class with Rabbi Kutner, 7 p.m. (NOTE change of date for this week)

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FRIDAYS Shabbat in the Home. No Religious School classes during winter break.

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Services conducted by Rabbi Stanley M. Rosenbaum. Minyan, Monday and Thursday, 7:15 a.m. FRIDAY: Services, 8 p.m. SATURDAY: Services, 9:80 a.m., Junior Congregation, 10:15 a.m. ROSE BLUMKIN JEWISH HOME Saturday Morning Services, 9 a,m,, led by Marty Shukert, followed by Kiddush.

Services officiated by Rabbi Michael Weissor. FRIDAY: Shabbat services, 7:48 p,m. SATURDAY: Services, 9;30 «um.t Torah Study, 10:80 ft.m, SUNDAY: Religious School Classes resume Jan. 6. MONDAY: Adult Hebrew Study, 7 p*m. WEDNESDAYS: AA Meeting, 7:30 p.m., in the Library. THURSDAYS* Purim rehearsal night, 7-9 p.m.

'Hop to It' at Beth El by OZZIE NOGG

_

On Saturday, Jan, 19, you can relive the '50s and '60s at "The Sock Hop," sponsored by Beth El Synagogue Sisterhood. The event is planned to run from 7 p.m.-mulnight. The $12.50 per person cost will include music, dancing and grilled-on-the-spot 'drive-in' food.

According to co-chairmen Julie Stein and Kathy Weiner, "This will be American Bandstand, a dance in the gym and Tiner's rolled into one. From Mo Town to The Supremes to Elvis, we promise theru'll be a whole lotta shakin' goin' on!" For more information, call Julie Stein at 4969964, or Kathy Weiner at 397-8028.

NJHS Announces Opening of Oral History Center

College Students Invited for Coffee with the Eahhi

by RENEE CORCORAN, Archivist

The Nebraska Jewish Historical Society has added an oral history center to its new facility. The growing collection of videos is made up of many interviews revealing the history of individuals, families, businesses, organizations and neighborhoods of the Jewish community here. A donation from Michael Korney, a trustee of the Jerome J. Beker Living Trust, has made this collection available for use by the NJHS and to share with the community. To view the videos, call NJHS at 334-6441, or .334-6442 for an appointment.

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 Cantor Emil Berkovits. FRIDAY; Services, 6 p.m. SATURDAY: Services, 9:30 a.m., Jeffrey Malashock, son of Diane and Larry Malashock, will become a Bar Mitzvah; Kiddush sponsored by Jeffrey's grandparents, Barbara and Stanley Malashock; TSS (grades 3-7), 10 a.m,; K'Tantan (K-3), 10:45 a.m.; Shabhat Story Time (pre-K & under), 11 a.m.; Humash Class with Rabbi Drazen, 4:X5p,wi.; Minha-Ma'ariv and Havdalah serviccn, 4;45 p.m. in the Chapel. SUNDAY; Services, 9 a,m. and 5:30 p»ra,; Pereh Yomi will meet next on Jan. 6, 2002. FREE SITTER SERVICE Available every Shabbat morning from 10 a.m..to the conclusion of services. Thie program is funded by the Early Childhood Development Committee and welcomes children apes 18 -months-kindergarten. WEEKDAYS! Services, 6:85 a.m. and 8:30 pan. Join us every clay for breakfast, after minyan. BESTT -. ' No classes during winter break; dans-ma resume Sunday, Jan, 6. .'' :

, 7JS0 p m. Discussion topic will be "Sunshine, the Movie," Oneg mid kiddush will follow.

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BAR MITZVAH Seth Rich, son of Mary and Joel Rich, will cele.<*•• .1 brute his Bar Mitzvah on Saturday, Dec. 29, at Beth El Synagogue. A seventh-grade honor student at BeveI ridge Magnet School, he participates in soccer and swimming. A graduate of Friedel Jewish Acfid-omy, he is a member of Bevoridge STARS (Select Theater jnbuKBiidors Reaching StudentH). Soth has a brother, Aaron, J9, He ia the grandson of the late Miipene and (Uuirlotto Rich, and Lyle inul Millie Blum of Newton, IA.

by CLAUDIA SHERMAN TEMPLE ISRAEL Communications Coordinator-

Temple Israel college students home for winter break are invited to "spill the beans" with Rabbi Aryeh Azriel on Thursday, Dec. 27, 8-5 p.m., at Espresso Mary's, 511.1 Leavenworth St. Hoping the college students-will meet hint for ti cup of coffee, see old friends and make now ones, Rabbi azriel said, "I miss them. All those students are also my friends, I hope they'll come by to schmooze about; life, college and relationships." Plea.se'RSYP to Temple Israel at 556-6530.

PERSONAL Sincere thanks to family and friends for the many contributions, flowers, cards, visits and prayers during my recent surgery sind recovory. Special thanks to Rabbi Azriel. Audrey Shapiro

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

December 21, 2001

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Celebrate!

Scrooge must be in his element this year. The economy is still in recession, the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11 still haunt Americans, and (as of press time) Osama bin Ladin and Mullah Omar are still cowering in the mountains of Afghanistan, What a shame. Even as Jews, we should welcome this time of year. Yes, we know the lights and decorations symbolize religious elements of Christmas, but they are beautiful, as is the music (from corny lyrics to classical hymns). And this season does seem to bring out the best in people, even in crowded shopping centers. People are more likely to give of themselves, making financial donations to worthy causes, delivering meals to shut-ins, and volunteering at facilities like the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home so the staff can spend a meaningful holiday with their families. It's not such a terrible thing to hope for a prosperous month, either! There are plenty of Jews in business who depend on healthy sales this time of year; without a good Christmas, their income is likely to suffer, too. So while Christmas is not our holiday, those Jews with strong faith and deep knowledge of their own heritage should not feel threatened by an overabundance of Christmas cheer. Americans need something to lift

their spirits, especially now, especially this year. Imagine the families of those who were brutally murdered in the attacks on Sept. 11. While there were many Jews, and even some Muslims and.Hindus among the dead and wounded, the vast majority were Christian. • It doesn't take away from our beliefs as Jews to hope our Christian friends and neighbors have a happy holiday. As the Hindus say, "there are many paths to the sun." Decorations in a classroom will not forcibly convert any of our children; a "Merry Christmas" greeting in the supermarket won't either. As Jews, we can appreciate the joy felt by others who revel in their holidays, whether it's Christmas now, Eid al Fitr (the end of Ramadan) celebrated last week by Muslims, or Kwaanza, a fairly new, but important, holiday among AfricanAmericans. We should thank God as Jews that we do live in a free and open society like the United States, where not only can we practice our own religion without fear, we can enjoy the beauty of the holidays celebrated by other religious groups. And while we're at it, we can join in the annual wish voiced by so many; this year, more than ever, we pray for "Peace on Earth and Good Will Towards Men (and Women!)"

Dry Bones

Searching for Bays of Hope

t>tIR MAN IN ISRAEL by CARL ALPERT

„. . Hajfar-If one were to juflge by the repeated extremist statements and throats of fanatical Muslim leaders, the world is destined to face a gloomy and hate-filled future that is not going to be eased by the elimination of bin Laden. Saad Mehio, writing from Beirut in the New York Times, warns that Taliban and bin Laden are not isolated cases, but manifestations of a complex and potentially durable phenomenon. The expected victory in Afghanistan does not spell the end of worldwide Muslim extremism. Until there are major changes in the Muslim world, he adds, "the passions, fears and hatred of the Talibans and the bin Ladens will remain alive among us." That is a gloomy prognostication, but the very fact that it can be voiced openly in the Arab world leaves room for hope. While it is true that most Muslim leaders in various countries prefer to remain silent in the face of the threat to the western world, there are some, though not many Courageous figures who dare to challenge the fanatical wave. An educator in Michigan, Dr. Muqtedar Khan, originally from India, and speaking as a Muslim, told readers of the New York Post that "Muslims have been practicing hypocrisy on a grand scale. They protest against the discriminatory practices in Israel, but are silent against the discriminatory practices in Muslim states." While acknowledging Israel's ill treatment of Palestinians, he wrote: "I must remind you that Israel treats its one million Arab natives with greater respect and dignity than most Arab nations treat their own citizens." He went on: "The culture of hate and killing is tearing away at the moral fabric of Muslim society....Islam

lxasjbeen hijacked bj^hate and calls for murder and mayhem." There are other Muslims like him who do not fear to be outspoken, but not many. A personality at the Al Azhar Mosque in Cairo is quoted as saying that the mosque has "sought to advise Muslims around the world that those who kill in the name of Islam are nothing more than heretics." Some have the courage to be even more outspoken. Shaikh Prof. Abdul Hadi Palazzi, SecretaryGeneral of the Italian-Muslim Association, is optimistic. "A new attitude is emerging among some Islamic thinkers," he declares. "Many of us are now ready to admit that hostility for Israel has been a great mistake, perhaps the worst mistake Muslims have made in the last 50 years." He adds that the Koran expressly recognizes that Jerusalem plays the same role for Jews that Mecca has for Muslims. He further quotes the Koran as recording God's promise that the Holy Land is destined for Israel. Tarek Fatah, who conducts a Muslim program on CTA-TV out of Toronto, dares to speak out against Islamic extremism, but admits that as a result he has received death threats. He reveals that there is an internal struggle between moderates and extremists in Muslim circles in the U.S. and Canada. Until the twin towers hideous act, the extremists appeared to have had the upper hand. Back in 1999 Shaikh Hisham Kabbani, a Muslim scholar and head of the Islamic Supreme Council of America, testified before Congressional and State Department committees about fanatical Muslim groups that were expanding rapidly. He warned then that bin Laden and others with ties in North

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America posed an immediate throat to U.S. security. Who paid hoed to his warning in 1999? Bassnm Eid, a Palestinian human rights crusader, speaking on BBC, blamed the Palestinians for shooting at the Israelis and insisted Palestinian violence was counterproductive. He said the signed agreements with Israel were to "end the conflict" via a process of talks, not shooting. His host on the BBC show quickly shut him up. Among other similar statements, the Middle East Media Research Institute (MEMRI) translated from the London based Arabic daily, Al-Hayat, the words of S'ud Ibn Muhammad Al-'Aqili of the King Fahd National Library in Saudi Arabia: "If all the Arabs together have not succeeded in defeating Israel in past wars, it will certainly not be defeated through the intifada. There are those who justify the intifada by saying that it exhausts Israel, but the consequences today are in Israel's favor," Who is there, closer to home, who has a constructive approach? Sari Nusseibeh was recently appointed by Arafat as Palestine Commissioner for Jerusalem Affairs, despite differences between them. Nusseibeh is on record as having advocated that the Palestinians should give up their demand for return of the refugees. He has also been critical of the intifada. However, during the present crisis he has apparently decided to be silent and wait. These are a few examples, emanating from the other side, of a more hopeful view of the situation. What is needed is many more who dare speak up in this way. Perhaps they exist, but are still too fearful to oppose the fanatics.

Fred Tichauer Chairman Carol Katzman Editor-in-Chief Maureen LaPour Managing Editor Allan Handleman Advertising Manager Ray Pred Account Executive Timothy J. Ketelsen Bookkeeper Jen Gates Production Assistant George Schapiro Volunteer

JEWISH PRESS COMMITTEE Joanie Jacobson, Vice-Chairman; Penny Endeiman, Secretary; Steve Simon, Treasurer; Lloyd Roitstoin, Immediate Past-chairman; Elyce Azriel; Jill Belmont; Jean Duitch; Kip Gordman; Gary Kudym; Bobbi Leibowitz; Howard K. Marcus; Linda Saltanan; Howard Silber; Amee Zetaman; 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 J«wi«h Press retwrves the right to edit1 letters and artictea. for apace and content. The Jewish Press is not responsible for the Kashruth of any product or establishment.

December 21,2001

End 'Castor Oil* Approach t o Religious Schools-

— — - — —

BOSTON (JTA)-After generations as the whipping boy of the American Jewish community, Hebrew schools have become the latest cause of the Reform movement. In his Shabbat sermon at the Union of American Hebrew Congregations' biennial conference here last week; Rabbi Eric Yoffie, the President, said congregational schools "have fallen victim to the plague of low expectations." Yoffie's sermon is usually viewed as the centerpiece of the biennial, where major priorities for the following two years are announced. The last two biennial sermons have focused on adult Jewish literacy and revitalizing prayer services. Both became major initiatives for America's largest stream of Judaism, which boasts 914 congregations and 330,000 households across North America.

For many par» ents9 Yoffie said, religious school is Hhe castor oil of Jewish life, a bur* den passed from parent to child, with the following admonition; 'I hated it, you'll hate it, and after your Bar Mitzvah, you can quit"9

Page 5

Reform Leaden

iliiiiiiiHiiiii by JULIE WIENER •

Jewish Press, O*naha,NE

Yoffie acknowledged that "a quality religious school alone cannot guarantee that our children will be Jewish." But since religious school servos "the largest number of children for the longest period of time," it is "the key that opens the door to the grand adventure of Jewish learning and Jewish life." Yoffie called on Jewish philanthropists to create a "Jewish Marshall Plan for the religious school" and urged the Reform movement to invest in improving its congregational schools, which enroll 120,000 students. But while money is important, he said, vision and commitment are more important. "Faced with a hunger for Torah and schools adrift," he said, Reform Jews must "mobilize ourselves for religious education as we have in the past For the State of Israel and the fight against discrimination." He announced the development of n now Reform curriculum called "Ohai Learning for Jewish Life," suyiu^ it offers n full course in Hebrew hui' gunge, focuses on "text and celebration" and de-emphusisseB "the • Holocaust and history of Jewish suffering." He also called for increased teacher training and said the UAH(5 will exempt from temple dues to the movement all expenses related to teacher training. In addition, Yoffie urged the following steps to revitalize Hebrew schools: • Engage lay leaders in the work of the religious schools, particularly in overseeing policy and evaluation. • Recruit and train wynagoguo members and parents to help teach, and make BUCIX work an "obligation of synagogue leadership." • Require all religious school par-

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ents to attend school with their chil- garnered in recent years. dren at least six times per year; and But Yoffie's push for congregational • Impose standards—"flexible stan- . schools comes amid several other dards, to be sure, but standards national efforts to strengthen Hebrew nonetheless. Even the youngest chil- school education. dren should know that Reform JESNA is sponsoring a 50-person Judaism makes demands on us; it "think tank" this week to look at "critdoes not mean doing whatever you ical success factors in congregational please." education," develop "new strategies Yoffie emphasized that he supports for advancing congregational educaJewish day schools as well, an area tion and creating a more dynamic that has boomed in recent years. system," Flexner said. There are 18 Reform day schools in The Conservative movement is also North America. But he noted that the revamping its Hebrew school curricumajority of non-Orthodox American lum. And the Experiment in CongreJews do not—and likely never will- gational Education, a synagogue attend day schools. transformation initiative operated out Yoffie's announcements were well- of the Reform movement's Hebrew received at the biennial, generating Union College-Jewish Institute of frequent applause. Religion, is launching a pilot project Paul Flexner, who recently staffed a early next year in San Francisco and task force on improving congregation- Kansas City aimed at improving conal schools for the Jewish Education gregational schools. Service of North America, praised The experimental initiative is also Yofne for making this issue a priority. working to help synagogues replicate However, he said that, improving l.h(" success of sovenil innovative conschools wilt require a local at* well tvs gri'KulUmuL schools. a national commitment. Among the models are family proYoffie's Hpecch "rniaoH l,hc level of grams that nu'et on Shabbat,; Kosher, importance mid significance of thin an ufter-Hrhool day euro program in agenda itom on tho local agendas," Cambridge, MA, that incorporates Flexner m'u\. "By his making it the Jewish learning and camp-like activimain thrust of the movement, he's ties; and weveral programs in which {.jiving a push to the local institutions students ctm choose from a choice of to aay we better do something." schedules. Congregational schools have not yet Robert Weinberg, executive director attracted the kind of mega-philan- of the initiative called Yoffie's new focus thropic support that other Jewish on congregational schools "terrific." renaissance efforts, such as day "The notion of putting more attenschools, campus Hiliels rmd syna- tion into congregational education is gogue transformation efforts have vital," he said.

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December 21, 2001

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Ciciulla, Jr. I was in a store, browsing around, looking for bingo at 10:15 a.m. with Eileen Remer, or exercise with Stacey Paskert at 10:30 a.m. Bring articles to something specific. From nowhere, I suddenly share for "YES Talk" at 11 sum. Following lunch at heard a small voice, obviously that of a child, noon, enjoy the music of Eve Handleman as she speaking either to herself or to somebody I couldn't Introducing a totally new hole! concept In Omaha. plays the clavinova. For transportation, call 330- see. Actually, I couldn't see the child either, 4272. Make reservations with Maggie Conti at 334- because of her size, but finally after looking down around me, I spotted an adorable toddler, blond 6521. Reminder: Membership dues to Y.E.S. are due. curls all over her head, holding a toy cell phone, Please mail your check, payable to Y.E.S., for $4 and carefully pushing the numbers to "make a per person, to Frieda Krizelman, 331 So. 93rd Ave., call". As I watched, she then put it to her ear and I heard her say, "Hi. I'm at Gordman's now and I'm Omaha, NE 68114. busy shopping. I'll call you later." A Retreat in the City I guess little kids have been playing with these WALK-IN, DROP-IN Members will meet Thursday at the JCC. child-sized cell phones for quite a while, but I Exercise and bingo start at 10:15 a.m. in the social hadn't been aware they even existed. And why A full service, upscale hold fcaiuring resort amenities Hall. Join us for Pizza & Game Day at 11:80 a.m. wouldn't they, since all of our kids had toy phones in west Omaha. Book your special event now. For transportation, call Maggie Conti at 334-6521. way back when. Of course, they had cords and "Padfte Slretl at tO7th Avenue dials, but they were used and enjoyed by the little 404-397-8000 1!PRaridnir ones, since they looked a lot like real telephones. These little cell versions are another story, at least to this grandma. I walked away; no wait, I didn't walk away by ART GROSSMAN — — - — — rather the little kid walked away, all the while ATTENTION." Our recent meeting opened with a three-shalom chattering, probably exactly as her mom doea. She salute honoring Hanukkah, Festival of Lights, was very cute and attracted the attention of a few All Temple Israel commemorating a mighty victory by the Maccabees other shoppers, most of whom watched and shook' over mad Syrian king Antiochus, who had dese- their heads in wonder! College Students! crated the Temple in Jerusalem. I was reminded of an old Yiddish expression I Rabbi Azriel invites you to "Spill the When the Temple was ready for rededication, the hadn't heard in a very long time. It was usually Beans". . . or just drink them. Please priests discovered only one small jar of oil that was said with a touch of sarcasm, and went something come by for a cup of joe, to see old sealed and unpolluted by the enemy. Fearing it like "eiph mir ah mensch," Translated it •means would burn for jtist a brief time, swift messengers "look who's acting like a big, important person" or friends and make some new ones. were sent to get more oil to light the great meno- something close to that. The little girl with the toy rah. But the light burned until the messengers Cell, phojae, absolutely personified that old phrase. Thursday, Dec. 27 returned with fresh oil—eight clays later. Hence, There really wasn't any reason for jne to be so the lighting of candles for that many days. Espresso Mary's astonished when I first noticed the scene. After all, At our party, Rabbi Myer Kripke chanted the children always emulate their elders, and it's per5111 Leavenworth St. brachas as well as the after-meal benchen. fectly reasonable to assume this child haa seen 3-5 p.m. Hanukkah gifts were distributed. (and heard) an adult using a cell phoiie while walkEntertainment was provided by the Omaha ing around a store and shopping (which would take R.S.V.P. to International Folk Dancers, a trio of porformers me, if I gave in to the temptation, off on another who portray the dancing styles of various coun- tangent about people using cell phones every place Temple Israel tries, including Israel. from the mall'to restaurants). However, I swore oft' 556-6536 At the discussion class, we explored the battle in nagging on the subject didn't I? Afghanistan, particularly the hunt to capture So I have nothing more to Bay, except that the litOsama bin Ladin. At this talk session, an unusual tle kid was so darn cute. I couldn't resist telling revelation was observecf. Most of the group's par- you all about her. My imagination went into action ticipants ure women, so rarely do we include news watching her, and I could almost hear her Baying, of athletic events. 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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 7

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ers and a former memFor the first time, 20 Omaha-area Jewish ber, of the Jewish high school students .)< Family Service Resetput their knowledge of tlement Committee. the Bible to the test in "I remember meetthe annual Edward ing them at the airZorinsky Bible Quiz. port late one night," Sponsored by the Mitchell recalled. "It's Henry Monsky Lodge amazing how well the of B'nai B'rith, the whole family has done quiz offered $10 cash here. We're very proud to every teen who of Robert and the rest answered at least of the contestants." three questions cor Gary Javitch, B'nai rectly, and an extra Bible Quiz winners and organizers included Steve Bntl ""*'* uav . lw:il> eon$25 to the winner. Sterxiberg, left, Gloria Kaslow, Ariel S h u k e r t ) resident, ^ The four finalists Robert Mosenkis, Steve Riekes and Brandon Rich, gratulated all the winners, and recognized included Brandon Rich, son of Phil and Diane Rich, first-place winner of $500; Steve Sternberg, son of judges Leonard Greenspoon and Rabbis Aryeh Walter and Mary Sternberg, second-place winner of Azriel, Paul Drazen and Howard Kutner, He also $300; Robert Mosenkis, son of Igor and Anna gave special thanks to Gloria Kaslow, Ron Gordon, Mosenkis, third-place winner of $200; and Ariel Lois Epstein, Stan Mitchell and Steve Riekes for Shukert, daughter of Marty and Aveva Shukert, their work on making the annual event a success. "I want to give special thanks to Rachel Blum, fourth-place winner of $100, BBYO Director," Javitch added, "for helping us garMosenkis emigrated to this country with his parner the largest group of contestants in the history ents and sister, Fiorina (now a senior at of the Bible Quiz, We look forward to another Washington University) about 13 years ago, according to Stanley Mitchell, one of the contest orguniz- record-breaking group of kids next year!"

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Israel's Reality (Continued from page 1) — — — — — — — $3.5 billion as a result of this latest intifada. despite all our wars, despite all the terror of the past The situation has been difficult for some time; few years, Israel has not stopped evolving and proshotels, restaurants, shops and tourist sites are vir- pering. Israeli society is surviving within a tragic tually empty. But this time, the sorrow of the reality that Americans have only just begun to comIsraelis was overwhelming for all of us. We all prehend. It can only be described as miraculous. agreed that we never felt threatened. We felt safe Although we heard a lot of bad news, each speakdespite the ominous safety precautions that were er left us with some reason for hope. Burg told us, evident everywhere we went. There were armed "The situation is depressing, but we cannot be security guards on every bus and at the hotels. We depressed. There is reason for optimism. Today, we frequently saw bomb-sniffing dogs, and each build- are a unified government, and the lines between ing we entered was carefully searched. political parties have blurred when it comes to the This is Israel's reality--a reality that we, in the overriding issues of national security and peace." United States, can only begin to imagine since the And Sharansky added, "If you only look at the terrible events of Sept. 11. But, ever since the intifa- last few weeks and what has happened to us as da began in September, 2000, we have seen evidence Israelis and as Jews, it's easy to be pessimistic. of the remarkable strength and resolve of the people But if you look at what has been built over the past of Israel, and of all of us as Jews, as well. 53 years in this great country, there ig reason for Our UJC mission was fortunate to hear from hope. We have made enormous accomplishments: some of the best political and military sources in the great struggle of Soviet Jews, the absorption

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Left: Some 200 Israeli soldiers stand ready to tion of Ramadan. Right: An apartment in Gilo ; * H E 1ft IC&fftV• «CM«tti«:K C deter potential stone-throwers at the Kotel is fortified with sandbags to protect residents during the final day of the Muslim celebra- from sniper and mortar fire. 54th & L St. •1-800.735-5402! •734-5402 the country. We heard form notable speakers like into Israel of nearly one million people, which www.jimSdodgecouritry.com Avraham Burg, Speaker of the Knesset; Natan changed the world, and our continued fight against Sharansky, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the anti-Semitism that still persists throughout Housing and Construction; Professor Gadi Wolfs- Europe and the Arab nations." feld, a leading political analyst for Hebrew UniverToday, Israel's Jewish population is eight, times sity, and Minister Dan Meridor, a participant in what it was in 1948. Israel built the world's greatthe peace talks with U.S. Negotiator Colonel est high tech and military industries from scratch. Anthony Zenni, Prime Minister Ariel Sharon and Even with the influx of just 2000 new olim (immi» the Palestinian Authority. grants) to Israel since January, 2000, Israeli eulThe reality of the situation is painful. One posi- ture, music, theater, art and film have flourished. tive outcome is that the Israelis are truly unified, All agree that it will be a long arid arduous for the first time, behind their government's process. Burg insisted, "This is the biggest collision national policy for fighting terrorism. Repeatedly, of two civilizations ever encountered in recent histhe speakers we heard made it clear that this is a tory: one civilization that values human life, fight for Israel's very existence. Many likened this believes in freedom and democracy; and one that is current crisis to the 1948 fight for independence. shaped by terror, fear, oppression and the suppresThe theme was the same: Israel's War of sion of human rights and freedoms." Independence is not over because too many Arabs But the strength of the Israeli people comes from believe that Israel does not have the right to exist. the support of Jews worldwide, most importantly All agree that the only solution is the establish- from the unique relationships Israelis have with ment of two states. However, Arafat and the American Jews and the United States government. Palestinian people must not think that a Minister Sharansky compared this support to the Palestinian state can be born of "blood..and fire." incredible achievements of the Soviet Jews who We Were reminded that the role of the United endured unimaginable oppression before the breakStates is to insist on stability in the region and do up of communist Russia. Sharansky, himself a whatever is necessary to wipe out terrorism. notable refusnik, described how the only way he Prof. Wolfsfeld said, "For the first time, after the was able to survive as a Jew in the former Soviet suicide bombing in Jerusalem on Dec. 6 that killed Union was with the incredible support from the 26 young Israelis, America has not asked Israel to American Jewish community. The Jewish people exercise restraint in retaliation. The American gov- have a steadfast belief in human dignity, and the ernment realizes that since Arafat will not publicly subsequent victory over communism in Russia is renounce terrorism, Israel must protect its citizens." reason enough for optimism in Israel today. (Continued on page 9) As Jews, we must stay focused on the fact that

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Armed with a fascinating siide presentation, the Bible event co-chairs Suzanne Richards Bruce Feiler recounted some of his experi- Singer, left, and Susan Rothholtz get their ences, which ranged from weird to funny and book signed. After the lecture, people waited poignant, as he attempted to follow in the in a long line, but agreed it was well worth footsteps of the people in the Torah. Walking the wait.

December 21, 2001

Israel's Reality

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(Continued from page 8) —• ' i • i-n' Sharansky emphasized *?',,' that this kind of resolve, *"•'i combined with our active ||1pj support, is what American Jews can do to help i , Israel win the fight • against terrorism, as well as secure its right to exist in the Middle East. One message came through loud and clear. Our Israeli guide, Alex Fleischer, said it best, Some of the Omaha Solidarity Mission, contin"The lesson of Israel is gency at the Western Wall: Gary Nachman, left, that in spite of the threat The December Na- Kim Schwartz, Shelly Rips, Debbi Brown, to the Jewish people, we tional Solidarity Mis- Howard Goldstein, J a n Perehnan, Lourdes do not give up. We will sion was chaired by Ocanto, Craig Hoffman and Tom Friedman. succeed if we understand J o e l AJperson. Mission photos by Tom Friedman. the reality and confront those who want to destroy their children in Eretz Israel. We must ask ourus. The Israeli people are strengthened by the selves this question: Is this land and the Jewish unique relationship with our American Jewish people worth fighting for? community and the government of the United My deepest gratitude goes to my fellow travelers States." from Omaha: Solidarity Mission National ChairThis five-day trip was jam-packed with a tremen- man Joel Alperscm, ADL/CRO Assistant Director dous amount of information. We didn't come away Debbi Brown, Amnon Dotan, Tom Friedman, with any answers, but we have a great deal to Howard Goldstein, Phyllis Hoffman and her son, digest. We were presented with credible, first-hand Craig, Wayne Lainof, Gary Nachman, Lourdes information from high-ranking officials. We saw, Ocanto, Larry Raful, Shelly Rips and Kim with our own eyes, the devastating economic effects Schwartz. the intifada has inflicted on Israel. One thing I am sure'of-not one of us regretted takAnd we had honest, gut-wrenching conversations ing the opportunity to go on this mission and reprewith the people of Israel. They will not give up. sent our Omaha Jewish community. It was a priviThey will continue to work, play, shop and raise lege to be hi Israel at this crucial time in history,

Jewish Feud in Afghanistan Garners Global Media Spotlight by RACHEL P O M E R A N C E

' •"'*•'•• • '

Jewish Press, Omaha, NJE Page 9

•

» " - ---

NEW YORK (JTA)-It sounds like an ancient rab- joked Simantov. "Those people prove that." binic parable' traversing generations of oral tradiJoking anido, Simantov lunicntcd, "They're fighttion: The.infighting of the last two remaining Jews ing for nothing, and the uowHinen are taking of a village costs them their Torah. advantage. In the meantime, we lost the Sefor But it's a modern-day tale that takes place in the Torah becauHc of this stupidity." heart of war-torn Afghanistan, Simantov aaid the antique Torah in very vnluablc And it's making headlines in the premier news -perhaps worth half a million dollars, organizations of the world. When the Taliban was still in control, it waft With all eyes focused on Afghanistan, why have rumored to bo advertising its sale in Pakistani the media-including CNN-narrowed in on a per- papers. But with the Taliban now defeated by the U.S,-led coalition, the fate of the Torah is unknown. sonal, Jewish feud? In the CNN report, Taliban officials denied pos"Because Jews are news," said Elan Steinberg, session of the sacred scroll. Executive Vice-president of the World Jewish Apart from the oddity of their strained relationCongress. Put simply, he said, "there is a fascination that the Jewish people are a constant theme of ship, the question for many is why the two men — who both have family in Israel-have continued to recorded history," Steinberg also believes that people instinctively live in Afghanistan. Rabbi Jacob Nasirov of the Afghani Congregation realize the direct relationship between the health Anshei Shalom in Queens, said, "I don't know how of a nation and its Jewish community. "I think anyone who has an understanding of history they can sleep every night, you don't know what looks at that," Steinberg said, calling the fall of Spain happens every hour of life." Nasirov said he heard that Levin remains in after its expulsion of Jews in 1492 a "classic example." "I don't think it's an accident that Afghanistan, Kabul to care for the synagogue, but "even our which is, by all means, flat on its back, doesn't have Bible says your life is before everything." Naairov said the Afghan community in Israel has a Jewish community there." made several offers to fly the men to Israel, and his Ishak Levin, a Persian Jew in his 70s, and 42community can't understand "even one percent" year old Zebulon Simantov live in separate rooms why they stay. of Kabul's synagogue and are said to be the counHe said that with the fall of the Taliban, ho hopes try's last remaining Jews. The community once efforts to convince them to leave will be renewed. numbered as many aa 40,000, but by the itrid-20th Simantov guessed that Levin, a healer with century, about 5,000 remained. Most of them, however, left in the 1950s) and ancient antidotes for many afflictions, Hluyn in 1960B after the creation of the State of Israel. The Kabul because he is comfortable there. rest left shortly after the Soviet occupation in the He lives in the synagogue for free and in making money, said Simantov. late 1970s and early 1980s. "They don't like Jews," he said. Still, \w. said, According to Simantov'a cousin, Mayer Simantov, who lives among a 200-family strong Afghan "somehow they use us because they think wt> have Jewish community in the Queens section of New more wisdom, or sechel." As for his cousin, he said, Simantov wants to York, the fight began about three years ago when he said his cousin tried to send the synagogue's leave Afghanistan, and he is trying to help him. But no one in his family has been able to reach him Torah to a friend in Israel. Simantov, who said he was excited to see images of since shortly after Sept. 11. Amir Shaviv, who oversees many rescue operahis old synagogue when CNN reported the story, said tions as the Assistant Executive Vice-president for the story goes like this: Levin reported Simantov to special operations of the American Jewish Joint the Taliban government for ostensibly stealing his Distribution Committee, confirmed that the Afghan Torah whereby the government then confiscated the' community in Israel tried for years to move the Torah and jailed and tortured both men. Levin, however, has accused Simantov of asking two, but they refused vehemently. : "I think the week of Hanukkah m about, minithe Taliban to take the Torah for safekeeping, •<:les,M Aviv said. "This is an inverted miracle of • according to The Associated Press. "You ever heard of two Jews, three synagogues?" Jews who insist on staying in a hostile country."

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Page 10

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

December 21, 2001

'No Ceiling9 is Key to Learning at Friedel by DIANE AXLER BAUM

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An ambitious academic project under way in the Ask Karin Levine what's most significant about Friedel Jewish Academy, and she'll tell you, "At sixth grade classroom demonstrates another example of "no ceilings." With encouragement from Friedel, there are no ceilings." It's a response from the dual perspective of edu- teacher Denise Bennett, students are moving stepcator and mom: Levine, a faculty member at by-step to produce research papers of high caliber. "The key objectives are the use of a variety of Greighton University's School of Education, is also resources, preparation of an outline and note cards, the mother of an extremely bright, articulate sixthand completion of a research report, including a grade student at the Academy. "In larger classrooms, the best and brightest find everything too easy, and they lose their spark. Often they start to go through the motions and spit out easy answers," she said. "But, at the Academy, students get individual attention and teachers continually motivate them to undertake new learning challenges. Friedel students are excited about learning, and their teachers keep the excitement strong," She's not suggesting FJA teacher Denise Bennett, center, works on independent projects all Friedel students with students Elina Yurikov, left, Andrew Taylon, Rachel Reno and excel in everything. "In Arielle Levin. the Academy's small, nurturing classrooms, the table of contents, the main body and a bibliograteachers are thoroughly acquainted with every stu- phy," Bennett explained. To launch the assignment, she asked students to dent. When students need additional support in a think about three or four topics in the fields of particular area, they get it." Teacher Barbara Sather agrees. "We have many either social studies or science, including invenstudents working at the top of their grade level, so tions, and to discuss the possibilities with their we adjust the lessons accordingly," she said. "But, parents. Then they did worksheets that illustrated when our faculty met a challenge on the other end why certain topics would be too broad, and others, of the spectrum, we faced it successfully. We had a too narrow. Throughout the process, their teacher student from another city who entered Friedel in helped them remain focused. the third grade not yet able to read English. Within Students, taking the selection process seriously, one school year, we had this student reading at made choices as individual as they are: Elina .grade-level." : , ,"' Yurikov decided qiH'ckJy to explore the Warsaw Two Friedel families are responding with particu- Ghetto as her topic. Arielle Levitie targeted the lar enthusiasm to the Academy's "no ceilings" BMW Motorcycle. Rachel Reno vacillated, at first, approach. In the kindergarten classroom, for exam- between concentrating on the Orca whale or the ple, teacher Diana Zeman noticed Eva Phillips Rhodesian Ridgeback dog. Andrew Taylon finalized moving far ahead in both reading and math. She a decision between Jessie Owens and Jim Thorpe. began planning an individual curriculum for her. The sixth-graders told Bennett they're looking for"To me as a parent, it was a relief that my child's ward to pursuing their research during winter break. teacher noticed her progress, was excited about it, "I can't imagine," she said, "that a young person and was able and willing to go to extra work to could become more excited about learning than this." make sure she would continue to develop academically," said Eva's mother, Julie Phillips. For Jenna Gerber, Friedel's nurturing environ- BIRTH ment offered "no ceilings" in terms of important social development. According to Joell Gerber, her Matt and Sue Levin of Las Vegas announce the daughter entered the Academy as "a very shy, very Dec. 4 birth of their son, Michael Ryan, named for little girl" who would have been "lost in the crowd" his paternal grandfather, Howard Levin, and his at public kindergarten. maternal great-aunt, Reva Singer. After a short time at Friedel, Jenna blossomed. Michael has twin sisters, Ashley and Chelsea. "Mrs. Zeman is so caring, sweet and soft-spoken. She Grandparents are Phyllis Levin of Santa Cruz, built up Jenna's self confidence, and Jenna opened CA, and former Omahans Bennett and Zena up* stated Gerber. "When I look back over the years, Fishbain of Las Vegas. I can't believe she was that shy little girl."

Omaha Hosts USY Kinnus by REBECCA MUROW

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A delegation of 501 USYers from across the Midwest gathered at Omaha's Holiday Inn Central Thanksgiving weekend for Emtza Region's annual Kinnus. The convention commenced with a lively opening ceremony that gave the USYers an exciting glimpse of what to expect from the weekend. USYers displayed their incredible ruach by dancing and singing, while donning their chapter's regalia. With lights flashing, music blaring and 500 teens cheering, regional board members, convention co-chairmen and chapter presidents were introduced to the region. Extreme energy filled the room, certainly emitting a strong sense of enthusiasm from all attendees. An overview of the past 50+ years of. USY was presented Thursday night in the form of a multimedia presentation. Many interesting facts about the history of USY were presented. (The first Kinnus was held at Beth El in Omaha!) This was followed by a "Walk Through the Decades," which included rooms such as candle-making and tiedying to represent the '60s, a disco symbolizing the '70s, and an online regalia store for the '90s. Despite Friday morning's rainy weather, everyone had an enjoyable time sightseeing at the Henry Doorly Zoo. Upon return to the hotel, participants prepared for a social action Carnival and Holiday Party which was created for underprivileged children in the Omaha area. Each brought a gift to be donated to these children. Some USYera had their faces painted and dressed as mifcxvuh clowns to entertain the children. Following a lovely Kabbalat Shabbat service and Shabbat dinner (which concluded with a lively shira session), Emtza region had the opportunity to hear a guest speaker from Israel, Neil Lazarus. Lazarus spoke about current events in Israel and the importance of supporting the country by traveling there. He also led several group study sessions : throughout'the weekend.' ' : (Continued on page 11)

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December 21,2001 Jewish Press, omaha, NE

Omaha USY Hosts Kinnus

Canyon Ranch, Cooks

10)

At the conclusion of a relaxing Shabbat was a reflective Havdalah service and a dinner/dance, "2001: A Space. Odyssey." When the teens grew tired of dancing, they participated in numerous "space" activities such as laser tag, spaceball and moonwalks. Many community members from Omaha and Lincoln chaperoned throughout the weekend, and their help was greatly appreciated. Feedback from the convention thus far has been positive. USYers enjoyed the programming and learning about how to incorporate Shabbat (the study theme of the convention) into their weekly schedules. New friends were made, and new experiences were had to create long-lasting memories for all who attended Kinnus 2001, "What a Difference a Day Makes."

Attending Kinrnue were: Jessica HnssUnger, •left, Rebecca Murow, Sarah Edclstoin, Leah Raful and Rachel Javitch. CORRECTION Robert Cox was incorrectly named as JCC Chief Financial Officer; he is CFO of Jewish Senior Services, Tho Jewish Press regrets the error.

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Page 11

Review by LOIS FRIEDMAN —

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Everyone is looking for terrific books to help Preheat overt to 400". them carry out their New Year's resolutions for a In a large bowl, combine eggs, egg whites, salt, healthier lifestyle. Here are a pair of new books chives and milk; mix well. Place canola, oil in a hot off the press from the Canyon Ranch. non-stick, oven-proof saute pan. Swirl to distribute The Canyon Ranch Cooks by the Canyon Ranch the oil as you heat pan over medium for 30 seconds. Staff ($35), In September, just before publication, I Add egg mixture. Using a spatula, move egg mixtaught a fabulous fundraising cooking/demonstra- ture so that it cooks evenly for about SO seconds, or tion class, in the beautiful home of Jill Erman, until eggs begin to set. Remove from heat. using the recipes from this cookbook, with the Spoon cheese by tablespoons over egg mixture. incredible help of Judy Zwieback, that knocked- Top with diced lox. Place pan in oven and bake their-soclts-off! until slightly browned, about 15-20 minutes. This is a dazzling array of food, and now you can Remove from oven and cut into four equal wedges. own this new cookbook with 214 recipes created by The Canyon Ranch Guide to Living Younger the chefs and staff of the three Canyon Ranch loca- Longer by the Staff of Canyon Ranch (Simon & tions, Tucson, the Berkshires and Las Vegas. The Schuster, $30), with a forward by Andrew Weil and three-ring binder format ia bigger and better than introduction by Mel Zuckerman, contains 10 chapever (1995 was the last cookbook, Great Tastes) to ters contributed by more than 20 members of the accommodate upcoming supplements. professional staff. Fabulous color photographs and graphics, food The expertise of this dazzling group results in tips, sidebar information, cook's and nutrition what the Canyon Ranch offers, its resources and notes are all included. The first of the book has ter- how you can achieve your goals in creating a rific reading about nutrition and 'ready-set-cook' healthy, full, satisfying life and overall wellnesa. with very readable information about individual Terrific reading is packed with strategies, tips, unique needs, nutritional and kitchen intelligence, hints, how-to-photos, phone numbers, e-mail hints to spruce up your kitchen, marketing, stock- addresses, fallacies, techniques, illustrations, ing your pantry; even the tab pages are loaded with guidelines and much, much more. information. The Canyon Ranch has moved from deprivation Not only are these well-written recipes healthy, to moderation. Balance, mindfulness and plenty of and many that can be made in 80 minutes or less, knowledge are emphasized. The Dangers of Dieting they're delicious! This cookbook will move to the and the Five Principles of Healthy Eating cover top of your favorite cookbook list. Now go cook. . .a food, exercise and "the care of a balance life in delicious start to your healthy day. mindfulness," Check out this website: wwwJiveyoungerowilljae.com., and try one of recipes.• LOX AND CREAM CHEESE FRITTATA 8 whole eggs . RED. DEVIL'BRINK . 3/4 c u p sparkling mineral water 8 egg whites Pinch of salt 2 lAi cups sliced strawberries • . . 1 Tbsp* chopped chives .. '• . . • " . ' ' 4l/i cups orange j u i c e ' ' • ' ' .•.•':.;' 1/2 cup 2% milk Place all ingredients in a blender container and 1 tsp. canola oil puree until smooth. Serve over ice. Makes 10 (3/4 1/2 cup Ncufchatcl cheese cup) servings. 2 ox. diced lox

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Page 12

-Jewish PRess, Omaha, NE

December 21,2001

--Disperses $1,8 Million! for Victims of Terror

The Project Dreidel Chronicles (Continued from page 1}

•

••— •—

Mike, his mother and sister were alone with very little money, and even smaller prospects of earning any. The two teens dropped out of school and picked up whatever jobs they could. Their mother also worked until she became too sick. Lieberman doesn't know what made her sick because they couldn't afford professional medical care, but he thinks now It was cancer, because she seemed to disappear before his very eyes. At age 14. Mike and Arlene, age 18, left New York soon after their mother died. Over the next few years, they made their way west, doing every kind of work to survive. Arlene eventually met and married a very kind Jewish man in Cleveland. Mike's life settled down after that. He had a steady job and became part of his sister's new family. Flash forward to 1997. Arlene succumbed to cancer, just like their mother. Her children, Mike's niece and nephew, were grown, with lives of their own. lieberman was ready to move on. He heard about a good job in Omaha through a co-worker, and at an age when most people are thinking about retirement, he decided to try a new life. When Lieberman arrived in Omaha, he found that the job his co-worker told him. about didn't exist. But he was not deterred. Lieberman's needs are simple and his wants are few. He found a part-time janitorial job and was able to rent, and eventually own, his small house. He got another part-time job to help make ends meet. His one indulgence was his dog, Baxter. For the most part, Lieberman was getting along fine. His da3*s were filled with work, taking care of Baxter and going to weekly services. Late last year, however, Baxter developed a serious skin condition that required veterinary care and expensive medications. Lieberman had to pay the $300 vet bill in three installments.

They say that calamity strikes in threes, and lieberman can attest to that. Right after paying off Baxter's medical bills, one of Mike's part-time jobs was eliminated. That same week, a water pipe burst in Ms batiiroom, causing over $300 in repairs, With only half Ms former income and the money be scraped together for Baxters vet bill, Lieberman was in a terrible position. If he paid the plumber, he wouldn't have enough money for his utilities that month. Not knowing what to do, Mike paid the plumber and put off paying his MUD bill. Two weeks later, Mike received, a shut-off notice and was forced to ask for help. That's where Jewish Family Service Executive Director Steve Stiei enters the picture. Stiei says that Lieberman called him in desperation and shame. Steve asked Mike to come to the JFS office and they talked for a long time. Steve says he was impressed with Mike's optimistic outlook and he could sense Mike's honest work ethic. It was apparent that Mike was a simple man who was happy living a simple life. Stiei sent MUD the $288 so that Lieberman's heat wouldn't be shut off. Hearing t h e rest of Mike's story, Stiei felt compelled to help him find another part-time job to replace the one he had recently lost. Lieberman was overjoyed with -the help lie received from Jewish Family Service. When Steve asked what else they could do, a grateful Mike told him he had everything he needed. Stiei keeps in contact- with Mike, who continues to be happy with his simple life. Lieberman says he hopes he never needs to ask Jewish Family Service for assistance again, but it's comforting just to know that the Omaha Jewish community cares, and will help Mm out unconditionally if he ever needs it.

for

by TINA URBANSKf — • — ; ; New York—United Jewish Oommuaities (UJC) has so far dispersed $1.8 million from, i t s Emergency Piisd to aid those affected by the terrorist attacks against the United States on Sept. 11 and to support agencies providing services. Donations collected locally through t h e Foundation of the Jewish Federation of Omaha reached $22,750, according to Marty Ricks, Executive Director. **0nee more, in the face of tragedy, whether local, national or international, the Omaha Jewish eommunity reacts quickly and generously to help nameless people who suffered tremendous losses," Ricks noted. Funds sent to the Foundation and transmitted to UJC came from 21 donor-advised funds: the Foundation will continue to accept donations,, as will the Jewish Federation, according to Executive Director Jan Perekaaa. •The initial allocations, made recently by the UJC Emergency Fund Committee,.includes $1.5 million to the UJA Federation of Jewish Philanthropies of Hew York, and $302,258 to Jewish federations and communities in New Jersey and the Combined Jewish Philanthropies of Greater Boston for direct cash assistance, counseling and other supportive services. To date, the Emergency Fund has collected $4.7 million from nearly 8G federated Jewish communities,'including-Omaha, and 14 non-federated Jewish communities.- In addition, about 4600 dorters have made direct donations to the fund and others have contributed tlirough the website. The $1.6 million dispersed to the UJA Federation of New York is part of a comprehensive plan to provide services to Jewish and non-Jewish residents of the New York metropolitan area who have been affected by the terrorist attacks, UJC continues to accept donations to the Fund, by check payable to UJC Emergency Relief Fund and sent to UJC. I l l 8th Avenue, Suite H E , New York, NY 10011 or a t wwwJiberfyunites.org-.

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