Vol. LXXXII
No. 12
Omaha, NE
17 Kislev, 5763
November 22,2002
SERVING NEBRASKA AND WESTERN IOWA FOR 81 YEARS
Alpersoo Insists: "We Are Answerable
Attorney in Roe v* Wade Case
to"th"e"Next Generation" Speaks in O m a h a N e x t M o n t h by RITA SHELLEY
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For Joel Alperson, visiting Israel on missions and as a tourist is part of practicing his faith. He has traveled there six times in the last two years. Alperson will talk about those travels, and share some of his observations about demands that current world politics currently place on American Jews, at a Shabbos luncheon Saturday, Dec. 7 at Beth Israel Synagogue Traveling to Israel has both emotional and intellectual appeal for Alperson, whose list of local, national and international activities on behalf of Jewish causes is lengthy: He has co-chaired Jewish Federation missions to Israel and chaired the United Jewish Appeal (UJA) Young Leadership Cabinet. (Continued on page 8)
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On a mission to Israel in October, Joel Alperson met with Prime Minister Ariel Sharon at Sharon's residence. He said the mission helped him gain a sense of what's happening in Israel, to learn what social needs are there, and to see how funds raised worldwide are making a difference.
by SALLY ZIPURSKY NCJW Public Relations Vice-president •
Before 1973, abortion was illegal in Dr. Weddington has the United States. Women seeking to received numerous honors terminate a pregnancy either had to and awards. In 2001, she obtain permission of a hospital comwas presented the mittee (often admitting to mental illSpeaking Out for Justice ness) or fly out of the country to places Award by the American like Mexico, the Bahamas or Puerto Association of University Rico. Women. In 1999, she was featured for her "Courage Sarah Weddington changed all that. to Challenge" in Women of In 1973, Weddington successfully Courage: Inspiring argued the landmark Roe v. Wade case before the U.S. Supreme Court. She Stories from the Women is believed to be the youngest person Who Lived Them by ever to win a case before the U.S. Katherine Martin. She Supreme Court. Since that time Dr. has received the Planned Weddington has dedicated her career Parenthood Federation of to work on issues affecting women in g a r a h W e d d i n g t o n w a s t h e a t t o r - America's Margaret her many roles as attorney, legislator, n e y o f r e c Q r d i n t h e n o w famous Sanger award, its highest Presidential advisor, professor and R o e v# W a d e c a s e w M c h e s t a b l i s h e d honorand has been feat u r e d i n :7Tme Ma nafaonal media expert. abortion rights in the U.S. S^me, The National Council of Jewish Ladies Home Journal, Women, Omaha Section will present a Benchmark Working Women and the Washington Post. event for the entire community featuring Sarah Additionally, Sarah Weddington has been a guest on Weddington at on Tuesday, Dec. 3, 7 p.m. at the The Today Show, Good Morning America, CBS Jewish Community Center. The event is open to Morning News, and CNN. the public and free of charge. Weddington received her law degree from the NCJW was the first national Jewish women's University of Texas School of Law in 1967 and is a organization to advocate for a woman's right to Distinguished Alumna of McMurry University. choose, adding it to its national resolutions in 1969. From 1981-90, Dr. Weddington was a Distinguished From 1978-81, Weddington served as Assistant to Lecturer at Texas Woman's University and an President Jimmy Carter, directing his Adjunct Professor in the History and Government Currently, she is an Adjunct Administration's work on women's issues and lead- Department. ership outreach. From 1983-85, Dr. Weddington Professor at the University of Texas, where she served as the first woman Director of the Texas teaches "Gender-Based Discrimination" and Office of State-Federal Relations. Dr. Weddington "Leadership in America." Weddington writes and was the first woman from Austin in the 150-mem- travels extensively, speaking on the development of ber Texas House of Representatives; she was elect- leadership skills, and is currently working on a (Continued on Page 8) ed in 1973 and served three terms in that office.
The Project Dreidel Chronicles
The Gambler by PAM MONSKY, Federation Communications — — -
(Editor's note: The story you are about to read is true, and used with permission. The names have been changed to respect individuals' privacy.) Welcome to the second installment of "The 2002 Project Dreidel Chronicles." Each person depicted in these stories has graciously agreed to share his or her story with the community to increase public awareness of Jewish Family Service's programs and services 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 to get back to normal, and that support costs money year round. Your gift to the Jewish Federation's 2003 Centennial Campaign, along with donations to Jewish Family Service tzedakah fund, is what allows us to take care of each other. Despite our best efforts, our community's needs continue to outpace the increase in gifts to the Annual Campaign. Your increased campaign gift ensures that every Omaha Jewish community member will have access to professional and compassionate help in a Jewish environment. To find out how you can help make a difference in the lives of others, please contact JFS at 330-2024, or the Jewish Federation at 334-643.1.. .
circumstances." "He was describing my family," said Levy "The column struck a chord, but I still carried a copy of it around with me for two weeks" before I worked up enough nerve to call." The Levys could be anyone. Daniel and his wife, Lori, are both professionals with promising, goodpaying careers. They have two kids, Max, 16 and Samantha, 12. They live in a nice four-bedroom house in a West Omaha sub-division. As you read this, you can probably think of a dozen families like the Levys who live in our Jewish community. Like Stiel's column said, it could happen to anybody. Daniel was up against the proverbial wall. He could no longer deny the fact that his gambling problem had led the family down the road to finanDaniel Levy read the column about tzedakah writ- cial ruin. The phone calls from creditors were ten by Jewish Family Service Director Steve Stiel in. becoming increasingly more frequent and threaten(Continued on Page 8) its latest newsletter three times. The article described how difficult it i.« for many families to a<-k for help when they are in crisis. INSIDE: "Whenever someone comes to JFS for h(;lp, I Acco Youth Ensemble to Perform page 7 j always find it to be a humbling experience," Sliul wrote. "As I listen to the talo of hardship and misRead It and Eat page 11 ; fortune, I am aware that with a twist of fate, it could just as easily be me sitting in that chair havTemple Israel brings New York Times * ing to ask for help. The.-*? are average people who are facing a financial setback due to any number of Columnist page 12 f
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
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SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 23 Pre-Hanukkah Dinner, 5 p.m., at Beth Israel & Jewish Film Festival, 8 p.m. S A
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 24 V BESTT Special Hanukkah Program, 10 a.m., E atBethEl JFS Project Tzedakah, 10 a.m. BBG Scavenger Hunt, 1 p.m. Visions at the Orpheum for-"Miss Saigon" Performance, 3 p,m.
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 25 YES Program, 10 a.m. Melton Adult Mini School, 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. JFS Project Tzedakah, 1 p.m. TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 26 JFS Project Tzedakah, 8 a.m. BBYO Night, 6 p.m. Talmud Class with Rabbi Kutner, 7 p.m., at Beth Israel Federation Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m. I WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 27 V Melton Adult Mini School, 11 a.m. E Chabad House Adult Education Class, 7 p.m. All events held at the JCC unless otherwise indicated. The Jewish Press is not responsible for the accuracy of events. To keep calendar accurate or (or questions, call Marlene Hert at 334-6437. FOR A COMPLETE LISTING, VISIT THE FEDERATION'S WEBSITE: www .lewishOwaha.org (click on calendar)
LYNN WEINER Lynn Ellen Misle Weiner died Nov. 12 at the age by RABBI MYER S. K R I P K E — — - — . of 52. Services were held in Lincoln with burial at (Editor's note: this column originally appeared in Mount Carmel Cemetery. the Jewish Press on Nov. 22, 1991.) She is survived by her daughter, Sara Beth Parashat Vayishlah Weiner; her mother, Helen Misle of Lincoln; sisters In our Sidra, Jacob returns to Canaan after 20 and brothers-in-law, Dr. Gale and Ron Sosnick of years in Mesopotamia, where he lived with his San Francisco, CA, Linda and Howard Shrier of uncle and later, father-in-law, Laban. Now he faces Omaha, Marsha Misle-Haugland and Sam a great unknown: how will his brother Esau, before Haugland of Lincoln; brother and sister-in-law, whom he fled two decades ago, receive Mm? Jacob Howard and Tamara Misle of San Jose, CA. is full of fears and doubts. He doesn't wish to flee Memorials to Tifereth Israel Synagogue or and hide, for fear of offending a possibly friendly Methodist Hospice. Esau. Yet he dare not come unprepared for fighting, ADELE MANDELL lest Esau come at him with murderous intent. Adele Mandell died Nov. 17 at the age of 79. Services A 19th century Italian commentator (Isaac were held Nov. 19 at Fisher Farm Cemetery. Samuel Reggio, a many-faceted, widely-educated She is survived by her husband, Nathan Mandell writer and educator) offered an interesting inter- of Omaha; daughters, Terri Mandell, Eugene, OR, pretation to Jacob's prayer, as he returned to face and Marci Mandell, San Rafael, CA; daughter and his brother Esau. Jacob addresses the Lord in a son-in-law, Paula Mandell and Steve Christensen of familiar verse: "I am not worthy {"qato'n'ti") of all Omaha; granddaughters Lauren, Tess, and Abby the mercies and all the truth Thou hast shown unto Mandell; sister and brother-in-law, Thelma and Thy servant; for with my staff I passed over this Steve Lustgarten; nieces and nephews. Jordan, and now I am become two camps." Memorials to the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home or What Jacob is saying is that he left Canaan with Temple Israel. nothing but his staff. But with the Lord's blessing BETTY J . JACOBSON he has now become a wealthy man, head of a large Betty Jacobson died at the age of 81. Services family and a substantial retinue of hired helpers to were held Nov. 1 at Temple Israel Cemetery. tend his flocks and his herds. She is survived by her husband, Milton Jacobson Reggio interprets "qato'n'ti" differently, Literally, of Omaha, many nieces, nephews and cousins. it means "I am too little," thus "I am not worthy." Memorials to Temple Israel or the Blumkin Home. But without doing violence to the Hebrew, it can also mean "I have become little." NEWLY RENOVATED MIKVAH OPENS Thus, Reggio says that Jacob, a poor man, staff in The community mikvah, located in the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home, will re-open as scheduled today, Nov. 22, after extensive hand, alone and lonely, left Canaan into the renovations and improvements. Details about the renovation will unknown, but with faith in God. He was sure that be in an article in next week's issue. To make an appointment, the Lord would help him in the ordeals that lay please call Marlene Hert at the Federation, 334-6437. before him. Returning now a wealthy man, Reggio sees Jacob made little, little and fearful, because of his wealth and stature as head of a family! Before, Jacob was determined and full of confidence. Now he is uncertain and fearful. He has been by CLAUDIA SHERMAN made little by his aggrandizement, "qato'n'ti!" By Temple Israel Communications Coordinator——' my grandeur, I am diminished. Temple Israel congregants will again join with Add to Reggio's sharp understanding, the incisive five other area congregations to celebrate the spirit mark of Frances Bacon: "Children are hostages to of Thanksgiving and community at an interfaith fat." service Wednesday, Nov. 27, 7:30 p.m. at First Add further, from Pirke Avot, a famous teaching United Methodist Church, 7020 Cass Street. of Hillel: "The more flesh, the more worms; the Rabbi Aryeh Azriel will participate in the service more possessions, the more worries...the more along with members of the clergy from the other Torah, the more life; the more study, the more wis- congregations to bring messages that are meaningdom." ful to both adults and children. One other consideration: Do not we all know peoCantor Wendy Shermet and musical directors of ple who have been "spoiled," made little, by their each church have planned the choral portion of the acquisition of wealth? It is good to become big, pro- service which includes three pieces: "Hand in vided it does not make one little! Hand" by Yair Rosenblum, "Thanks" by Carroll McGruder, and "Thanks Be to Thee" by George F. Handel. In addition, a bell choir and the Shofar Choir will perform, and Cantor Shermet will chant from Deuteronomy. In addition to Temple Israel and First United by JEWISH PRESS News Service -~^~-—^^~-^ Methodist Church, the other congregations are Train of Life will be the final film presented for Dundee Presbyterian Church, First Christian the first annual Jewish Omaha Film Festival series Church, St. Margaret Mary's Church, and this Saturday night, Nov. 23. Described as a comic Underwood Hills Presbyterian Church. In keeping with the Thanksgiving theme of sharfable, Train of Life is the fictional story of a tiny Jewish community in France in. 1941 faced with ing, everyone who attends is asked to bring cans of shocking news: the Nazis are coming. But Shlorno, food to donate to a local food pantry. Monetary conthe not-so-foolish village idiot has a plan to save tributions can be donated after the service. them all. Train of Life is rated R and presented in All participating congregations will host a dessert French with English subtitles. Tickets are $5 and reception at the conclusion of the service. Tenrple are available at the door. Showtime is 8 p.m. at the members who would like to bake for the reception Jewish Community Center Theater. can call Sandy Passer at 330-4289.
Temple to Participate in Annual interfaith Service
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 3
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FRIDAY: Shabbat evening service, 7:30 p.m., Guest speaker Rabbi Donald Gpor, senior rabbi at Temple Judea in Tarzana, CA, will give the sermon, "A Time to Give Thanks: An Ancient Covenant-A New Beginning" in honor of the installation of Rabbi Craig Marantz. The Oneg Shabbat is sponsored by Linda and Rod Sadofsky in honor of the Bat Mitzvah of their daughter, Sarah Sadofsky, and by the Women of Reform Judaism. SATURDAY: Bagels and Sacred Books, 9:30 a.m., in the Milder Center. Please join us as we continue study of Traditional Prayers, Modern Commentaries: The Amidah; Morning service, 10:30 a.m. Sarah Sadofsky, daughter of Linda and Rod Sdofsky, will celebrate her Bat Mitzvah. SITTER SERVICE Sitter service is available each Friday evening at the 7:30 p.m. service, Saturday mornings when there is a B'nai Mitzvah, as well as Sunday mornings whe there is Religious school. Please make a reservation through the Temple office so we may plan accordingly. Cost is $2 per family. There are no facilities for infants. MITZVAH FAIR AND CAMP SUNDAY SUNDAY, NOV. 24,10 a.m.-noon. Temple Israel will sponsor a Mitzvah Fair to expose families to organizations in the community that rely on volunteers and would benefit from their involvement throughout the year. Jerry Kaye, director of the Olin-Sang-Ruby Union Institute in Oconomowoc, WI and gifted storyteller, will be at Temple to talk about camp to children and parents. COMMUNITH THANKSGIVING INTERFAITH SERVICE Wednesday, Nov. 27: Temple's clergy will join neighborhood clergy and their congregations in an hour of choral singing and messages of Thanksgiving designed for both childrena nd adults. This year's host congregation is First united Methodist Church, 7020 Cass, at 7:30 p.m. To celebrate the theme of sharing and abundance, everyone is asked to bring a can of food as a donation to the Omaha Food Bank. A dessert reception, hosted by all the congregations will follow the service. To volunteer to bake, call Sandy Passer, 330-4289.
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. FRIDAY: Kabbalat Shabbat, 4:45 p.m.; The West Minyan is at the home of Leon and Dani Shrago.- — —• SATUEDAYrMorning Services, 8:45 a.m. Freubabysitting begins at 10 a.m.; Junior Congregation, 10:30 a.m., Kiddush is sponsored by Sisterhood; Mincha, 4:35 p.m., followed by Shalosh Suedot and Ma'ariv; Havdalah, 5:44 p.m. SUNDAY: Services, 9 a.m. and 4:45 p.m. Why wait to celebrate? Come to Beth Israel's Hanukkah dinner, 5 p.m. Cost is $12 for adults, $6 for children. Call the office to reserve. WEEKDAYS: Services, 7 a.m. and 6:30 •p.m MONDAY: Talmud Class with Rabbi Kutner, 7 pan. WEDNESDAY-SUNDAY, Nov. 27-Dec. 1: the office will be closed for Thanksgiving. Saturday, Dec. 7, National leader Joel Alperson will speak during Shabbos lunch about the plight of Israel. He serves on the national board of United Jewish Communities. Lunch is $7.50 for adults and $4.50 for children. Reserve by Dec. 3.
Office hours are: Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Shabbat Services are conducted by Rabbi Mordechai Levin, Cantor Emil Berkovits and Ritual Director Gaston Bogomolni. FRBDAYt-Gomejoin-a joyous, musical Kabbalat Shabbat service, 6 p,m. """" SATURDAY: Morning services, 9:30 a.m.; Kiddish sponsored by Beth El. Rabbi Levin's Torah Class, 4:15 p.m. Everyone is invited for the informal discussion and snack, followed by Evening services at 4:45 p.m. A THOUGHT FOR SHABBAT To receive Rabbi Levin's weekly "Thought For Shabbat" e-mail message, please send your e-mail address to Exec@bethel-omaha.org. WEEKDAY SERVICES: Sunday, 9 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.; weekdays at 6:55 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. HANUKKAH BASH Sunday, Dec. 1, 6-8 p.m. Congregational Hanukkah party with traditional festival food, music, dancing and games. For reservations, call Kathy Schmitt at 492-8550. KTOS' SNACK AND LEARN Sunday, Dec. 8, 11:30 a.m.: Crafts and snacks for kids, ages three and four, and their parents.
f^^^ FRIDAY: Friday Shabbat services will begin at FRIDAY: Family Shabbat ServicesforYoung 7:45 p.m. Please join us for the Bar Mitzvah of Stephen Ganz, son of Pam and Doug Ganz. An Children and their families, 7 p.m., at the synagogue. Oneg Shabbat follows. SATURDAY: Celebrate Sarah Sadofsky's Bat SATURDAY: Morning Service, 9:30 a.m.; Torah Mitzvah at Temple Israel. Study, 10:30 a.m. SUNDAY: Religious Hebrew School, 3:30 p.m. SUNDAY: Hebrew School, 9 a.m.; Religious School, 10 a.m. Join Tifereth Israel for the Sunday at the JCC. ' MONDAY: Book Club Discussion of "Modern Afternoon Book Club, 3 p.m. THURSDAY: Interfaith Service at Vine Jewish Thinkers" at the Kripke Jewish Federation Library, 6:45-8:15 pan. Congregational Church, 10 a.m. Friday, Dec. 6: Early service, followed by a TUESDAY: Religious Hebrew School, 4 p.m. at the JCC. . potluck Hanukkah dinner. Friday, Dec. 6: Hanukkah Party, 7 p.m. Bring EVENING HONORING RABBI WEISSER a dessert, your menorah and candles. Community Saturday, Dec. 7: Save the date! guests and students welcome for the last night of Hanukkah!
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I^KfSI^&SWM^S Services conducted by Rabbi Stanley M. Services conducted by Rabbi Mendel Katzman. Rosenbaum. Minyan, Monday & Thursday, 7:15 Monday-Friday, services at 7 a.m. a.m. —-SATURDAY: Morning Service, 9:30 a.m., folFRIDAY:'Mincha-Ma'ariv, 8 p.m. lowed by Kiddush luncheon. SATURDAY: Morning service, 9:30 a.m., Junior SUNDAY: Morning Service, 8:30 a.m. Congregation, 11 a.m. WOMEN OF WORTH SUNDAY, 3 p.m. Sunday Afternoon Book Club MONDAY: 11:45 a.m.-l p.m., Bringing Heaven focuses on a discussion of Silence of Heaven by Down to Earth, led by Shani Katzman. Lunch will Amos Oz. Call Jean Cahan, 423-9462. be served. Men's Group meets every Wednesday, 12:30 TUESDAY: Crown of Creation, 9:30 a.m., p.m. at the Knolls. through Dec. 24, led by Shani Katzman. HANUKKAH LATKE PARTY ADULT EDUCATION Sunday, Dec. 1, 4 p.m. Bring the whole family TUESDAY: Parshas HaShavuah (weekly Torah for the taste and smell of this annual treat! portion), 7-8:30 p.m., led by rabbinic student Thursday, Dec. 5: Dr. Ilya Fabricant will discuss Mendel Hecht. "Microphysics and the Nature of the Universe." WEDNESDAY: Navigating the Talmud, 7-8:30 p.m., led by Rabbi Katzman, at the JCC. Wednesdays, Mommy and Me/Torah Tots, 10-11:30 a.m., led by Shani Katzman and Shirley Goodman. Join with other moms and kids to rediscover the excitement of Judaism. Cost is $8 per session. FRIDAY: Services, 7:30 p.m. To register for any class, please call Jennifer at 330-1800, or e-mail chahadoffice@aol.com.
Adam Krasne, son of Howard and Edye Krasne, will become a Bar Mitzvah on Saturday, Nov. 30, at Beth El Synagogue. A superior honor roll seveth-grader at Fremont r Middle School, Adam is a class representative in student council and is on the basketball team. He enjoys all sports and having fun with his friends. He has one brother, tJSL ^ Seth, 14. Granparents are Abner and Beverly Krasne of Fremont and the late David and Esther Rice.
Support Israel• Buy itecSe In Ssraei
liisf isiui kift jIlisilHllE! SATURDAY: 9 a.m., services, conducted by Rabbi Maximo Shechet, are held in the Herbert Goldsten chapel and are open to the community.
TO5"% FRIDAY: Evening Service, 7:30 p.m. Oneg will follow.
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE November 22, 2002
Dry Bones*
Thank G-d! . Thanksgiving and Hanukkah are times when families gather to give thanks for being alive, for making it to another year, for all the blessing received from our Creator, and for all the kindnesses we can bestow on others, When the economy is bumpy, when our government is considering war against Iraq, and when terrorists strike against worshippers walking home from Shabbat services (as they did in Hebron last Friday night), when we hear a friend or relative is seriously ill, the little annoyances in our lives seem trivial by comparison. So the carpool was late this morning or the manicurist cancelled. In six months, will it matter that a red towel ran on your white t-shirt in the washer? Is it really that important your kids get straight As and besides, who's going to ask them 50 years from now what their grade was in algebra? There are, however, members of our own community suffering right here among us--as we read on the front page in the continuing "Project Dreidel Chronicles," addicted to gambling, suffering from illness, lonely, sad, unable to control themselves or the events in their lives. There are also those who face daily challenges of getting out of bed or who are mad at the world for the hand
JUST
they've been dealt, and those who are unhappy—no matter what anyone else does or says. Those are the people who need acts of loving-kindness the most-and the hardest to help. It's not easy for any of them--and that makes our job more difficult. Not only do we need to reach out to people who might rebuff us, we need to do it with a smile, especially with a smile! As Rabbi Moshe Baruch Parnes said last Shabbat at Beth Israel, "We're all important people." Rabbi Parries, Outreach Director of the Atlanta Scholars Kollel, noted that G-d created the world to shower his kindness upon us. If we're created "bstelem", in the image of G-d, than how much more important is it for us to emulate that attribute of G-d! As "important people," we each have a role to play in this world, no more, no less than the next person. And thank Gd, we all do have something unique to contribute. That's what makes life interesting-and fulfilling; how boring if we all thought and acted alike! For those of us who have more blessings than we can count-offer a helping hand (whether it's behind the scenes with a donation to Jewish Family Service—or as a direct volunteer driving someone to the doctor or the grocery store). And then, say "Thanks!"
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Life Without Thanksgiving by TEDDY WEINBERGER ,
Everyone knows why Thanksgiving is so dear to American Jews: Here is a holiday that all of America's Jews can fully and actively enjoy. Spiritually, of course, giving thanks is praiseworthy in Judaism ("hakarat hatov," acknowledging the good, is the traditional Jewish term for this), and the ecumenical element of the holiday provides Jews with a veritable invitation into Thanksgiving. But what sets Thanksgiving apart for Jews is that they can actively participate in the central event of the day-the Thanksgiving meal. All of the classic elements of this meal (turkey and stuffing, cranberry sauce, sweet potato, pecan pie) may comfortably grace any Jewish person's table, whatever their observance of the kashrut laws. Then there are the holiday parades and the football games-more Thanksgiving ingredients that any American Jew can enjoy. I remember with great fondness going to the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade with my Dad and sisters and brother (Mom got the morning off to work on her doctorate in comp. lit.). How colorful and big and loud everything was: the huge cartooncharacter balloons, the pageantry of the floats, and the wonderful precision of the marching bands, led by the cute baton twirlers. By the end of the
parade, we were exhilarated but often frozen too, and my Dad would take us to the Bellmor Cafeteria for hot chocolate and for these small, hollow, milk-chocolate turkeys, which we would save to eat at home but which would inevitably end up melting upon one of our radiators. On Thanksgiving, I loved feeling integrally part of the much larger American experience. I loved doing what every other American was doing. We all yearn for this sense of belonging. Given the relative frailty and impermanence of human existence, we have a need to feel part of something bigger than ourselves, to feel part of a much larger group entity. As an American I most felt this way on Thanksgiving. I have not had a Thanksgiving in Six years. The closest I came was when our friends Mona and Yigal invited us over for a Shabbat turkey dinner a few years ago on the Friday night after the holiday. For someone like myself who loved Thanksgiving, the surprising thing is that I don't miss it so much. I think that the reason for this is that now that I am in a land where my national identity never conflicts with my Jewishness (this is not to say that Judaism validates all of Israeli politics, \ but that there is no inherent tension with being Jewish and being Israeli), I often have the
JEWISH PRESS
chance to experience the positive group feelings that in America I most associated with Thanksgiving. In other words, what I received from Thanksgiving in America, I receive here in the context of my observance of Shabbat, Jewish holidays, and Israeli national celebrations and commemoration. And let's not forget: while for many American Jews Thanksgiving is the highlight of their American celebratory year, for most other Americans Thanksgiving is but a festive interlude in the march toward Christmas. Even as a child I was aware of the price to be paid for the emotional high generated by Thariksgiving~I became more sensitive to my inability to participate in the post-Thanksgiving sweep toward Christmas. This "price" is epitomized for me by the grand finale of the Thanksgiving Day Parade, the appearance of none other than Santa Claus. Yes, even at the Thanksgiving Day Parade I was made to feel a little different from my fellow Americans who celebrate Christmas. This is why in Israel, where I have so many days for feeling unadulterated group spirit, I never really felt the loss of Thanksgiving. The baton twirlers, on the other hand, are another story. Happy Thanksgiving.
(Founded in 1920)
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To the Editor: A quick note to tell you I'm very grateful that you've decided to recycle columns by Rabbi Myer Kripke. I've read his columns for years and always look forward to his unique point of view. He writes with impressive wisdom and incisiveness...a true teacher and caring mentor. His "final" column a few weeks ago left me feeling loss, sadness, disappointment all at once. Something was going to be missing from my life. What a joy to find recycled columns by Rabbi Kripke in recent issues! Please keep them coming. To me, he's the Jewish counterpart of Charles M. Schulz~may his "Sparks" reappear like Peanuts! Hope P. Cramer West Palm Beach, FL To the Press: Kashrut.com now has a major upgrade to the alerts section of the website, at: www.kashrut.com/Alerts/. Based on the requests of our readers, we have added a search capability to the section listing alerts about mislabeled and recalled products. This adds to the usefulness of the site which includes a kosher travel section, information about kashrut and Passover and a recipe sections. Arlene Mathes-Scharf
JEWISH PRESS COMMITTEE Joanie Jacobson, Vice-Chairman; Penny Endelman, Secretary; Steve Simon, Treasurer; Elyce Azriel; Jill Belmont; Jean Duitch; Kip Gordman; Bobbi Leibowitz; Howard K Marcus; Scott Meyerson; Linda Saltzman; Joey Shyken; Melanie Weinstein; Amee Zetzman; George Schapiro (Honorary Committee Member). Editorials express the view of the writer and are not necessarily representative of the views of the Jewish Press Committee, the Jewish Federation of Omaha or the Omaha Jewish Community as a whole. The Jewish Press reserves the right to edit signed letters and articles for space and content. The Jewish Press is not. responsible for the Kashrut of any product or establishment.
November 22, 2002 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 5
New Senate Chairmen Could Aclvance3 Stall Jewish Agenda
by MATTHEW E. BERGER
WASHINGTON (JTA)--A Republican Senate means Republican committee chairmen, and for many Jewish organizational leaders, a step backward toward more defensive lobbying tactics. Jewish lobbyists say that when the Republicans take control of the full Congress in January, they will need to respond more to legislation they oppose rather than help craft laws that fit with their priorities. They say they will need to work hard to remove elements of some measures that are seen as too conservative, such as those related to charitable choice, which allows federal funds to religious organizations to provide social services. And they will work with lawmakers to construct measures that address their agenda, such as hate crimes legislation. Still, many are holding out hope that there will be wiggle room to get some items on their agenda through the 108th Congress. "It's a mixed bag," said Reva Price, Washington representative for the Jewish Council for Public Affairs. "I see that, by and large, these are all people we can work with." Among the people expected to head key committees are: Sen. Judd Gregg (R-NH). who will chair the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pension Committee; Sen. Orrin Hatch (R-UT), who takes over the Senate Judiciary Committee and Sen. Ted Stevens (RAlaska), who will head the Senate Appropriations Committee. On foreign issues, where Jewish leaders say the debates are often more
bipartisan, the Senate Armed Services Committee will now be chaired by Sen. John Warner (R-VA) and the Senate Foreign Relations Committee will be manned once again by Sen. Richard Lugar (R-IN.), who first chaired it in 1985 and 1986. Jewish groups say their relationship with Gregg will be important in the next Congress. His committee is expected to take up school voucher issues, which most Jewish organizations oppose, and will likely shape the debate on prescription drugs and Social Security-privatization, Jewish activists say they have worked with Gregg on several issues, and have had a running dialogue with his staffers over the Workplace Religious Freedom Act. The legislation would strengthen federal civil rights laws by requiring employers to grant employees greater accommodation for religious observances, such as taking time off for religious holidays and wearing religious garb. "My sense was that they were not, in principle, opposed to it, but there were issues he wanted to get worked out," one Jewish official said of the legislation that has long been a top legislative priority for Orthodox groups and is supported by most Jewish groups. However, the community is more divided on the contentious issue of vouchers, which provides federal funds for students to attend private or parochial schools. Many said they believe Gregg will
push for some type of voucher program. Gregg's position was strengthened by a Supreme Court decision earlier this year that deemed school vouchers constitutional. Leaders of many Jewish groups that oppose vouchers say they understand their position is at odds with Gregg's and they will need to work to try and prevent the legislation from being passed in the full committee. But Orthodox officials support Gregg's stance. David Zweibel, executive vice president for government and public affairs at Agudath Israel of America, said the Orthodox community would work with Gregg to expand the federal special education law to broaden the use of vouchers for special education children. Gregg supports the use of vouchers for private schools if the public school is not suitable for them. "We have a lot of problems with the existing law for children enrolled in non-public schools," Zweibel said. Washington lobbyists say Gregg has a unique personality that they will have to work with. "He's very territorial," one lobbyist said. "He's got a formula and you have to be very careful." It will be a big transition from Gregg's predecessor, Sen. Edward Kennedy (D-MA), with whom Jewish leaders had a very strong working relationship. On judiciary issues, Jewish leaders are gearing up for a flood of new judicial appointments that are expected
now that Hatch is chair. While his predecessor, Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-VT), stalled several nominations that were deemed too conservative, Hatch had been a vocal opponent of that policy and is expected to lead the charge toward swift approval of new conservative judges. Zweibel said he has always found Hatch to be sympathetic to the Jewish community—the Mormon senator wears a mezuzah around his neck for good luck- and he hoped that the logjam of judicial nominations would be eased under Hatch's leadership. The major judiciary policy debate is expected to revolve around the Local Law Enforcement Enhancement Act, which stalled in the Senate last year and would provide hate crime protections that Jewish groups have been seeking. Hatch has "made impassioned speeches" about the need for hate crimes laws and does not join other conservative Republicans in opposing provisions against discrimination based on sexual orientation, said Michael Lieberman, Washington counsel for the Anti-Defamation League. But Hatch is a vocal opponent of the bill on the grounds that it takes away states rights and because he fears that rapes and other attacks against women would all be classified as hate crimes, Lieberman said. "It's going to require some creative negotiating with Chairman Hatch," Lieberman said. "There may be a way to move a bill which is attentive to his concerns."
7
"Celebrating a Century of Jewish Community' Proud to be Centennial Patrons!
The following people have made increased gifts to the 2003 Centennial Campaign, Names in bold indicate an increased gift of $100 or mom in honor of the Centennial of the Jewish Federation of Omaha Senior Division donors are automatically included when they make their gift to the 2003 Campaign. MEN'S MAJOR GIFTS JoelAlperson Barry Broder JocErman Mike Ennan TbmFeHman WiUard Friedman Richard Glazcr Don Goldstein Herbert Goldsten TVust Don Greenberg Ike & R m Friedman Family Foundation Gary Javitch Arnold Joffe Howard Kaslow Jerry Kohll Howard Kooper Forrest Knitter MartinLehr Bernie Meyers Jerry Milder N.HUor&Son Sherman Neff Murray Newman Jay Noddle Steve Nogg Omaha Bedding Company SoIParsow CarlRiekes Henry Riekes Steve Riekes Bruce Shackman Norm Sheldon* Stuart Simon Gerald Simons PhilSokolof Swartzbaugh FarberAssodates
WOMEN'S MAJOR GIFTS Margie Alperson Phyllis Arohson Sandra Belgrade Sandy Epstein RuthErman JudyFcldman Roz Friedman Tham Friedman Jan Goldstein** Deborah &Arthur Greene** JoanfeLehr Frances Milder Lyra Ann Monsisec** JeanieNeff Sharee Newman Patty Nogg Carol Parsow Dorothy Riekes Zoe Riekes BethSchrager Ellen Stosburg GailVeitzer JoodiVeitzer
MEN'S CAMPAIGN Alvin Auramson JcffAi-floiberg George Aufsecser Jim Belgrade MarkBelmont Jeny Benran MlkcBbtt Albert Btoch Howard Borden Morris Bresel PeteBrodkey RonBrodkey SamButenholts Jeff Cannon Alan Cohen Martin Cohen Paul Cohen Gerald Conn • Jerry Dann Randy Endelman Howard Epstehi JodFmkel Harris Finkelstein Robert Freeman Ted Friedland Stanford Friedman Judge I j u r y Gcndler David Gilinsky Bennett Ginsberg Jim Glazer David Goldberg Bob Goldberg Jeff C o n t a i n Richard Grant Joshua Greenbaum Jerome Grossman Victor Gutman Michael HaLsted BobKalm Jerome Kaiman Robert Kiiplan John Katelman RickKHelmnn Harry Klein Milton Kleinberg David Kotok
"
MEN'S CAMPAIGN (cont.) Howard Kraut/. Allen Kurland Howard Kutler Sol Kutler PaulLandcw MtkeLeviiie Steve Lcvinger Roland Lewis Todd Manvitz John McGauvran Joseph Meyers Larry Meyeraon Michael MiHer Stanley Mitchell Henry Monsky Michael Norton Harold Novak DonNovkoff Steve flerelman Steve Roller Marty Ricks DickRochman Lloyd Roitslein BUI Rosen Jerry Rnsinsky Michael Sadofsky Mark Sanford Edward Schneider Michael Schwartz Jeflrcy Schweid Rabbi Maximo Shechot Dan Sherman Midmel Shricr PaulShyken Howard Sibler MikeSiegcl Norman Smecrin Inn Spooner RaySomberg Scott'Jiitelman Frcdilchauor LazarTurctsky Guentlier Wesch Irvin Yafie Harold Zabin
WOMEN'S CAMPAIGN Susan Aizenbcrg Phyllis Aron Joyce Ashley Madeline Aufcceser JfllBarou Robyn Belgrade MaryBerman Chris Blumkta Marian Bookcy Midge Bowers StadeBrodkey Florence Brody Esther Canar Sharon Cannon Arlene Cohen FJberta Cohen LeonaEvelofi" Judith Feigin Amy Friedman Patty Gilinsky BarbGilter Cheri Ginsourg Jordana Glazcr Judi Goldstein Dora Goldslrom Rini Gonshcr Andie Gordman Giryl Greenberg Ethel Grossman Pauline Guss Ida Halperin MendyHalstcd Joaniejacobson Joanie Kaimnn Dorothy Kaplan Fnrnkie Kasin Leona Kasin Sharon Kirshcnbaum Gail Kohll Angle Krieger Helen Kulakolsky Sandra Kurland Nancy Kuller Pauline Liindmim Sara landsman GeraldincUpienK
WOMEN'S CAMPAIGN (cent) Barbara Lasliinsky KarinLerinc FtilziLuefshuctz Thelmal.ustgarten Linda Mann 'Kathy McGauvran r Iliia Meyers Rhcda Milder SueMfilvranl. EvicMildiell Pam Monsky Mary Beth Muskin Ruth Nogg Rita Novak , DodiRedler Barbara Rips Nancy Rips Mimi Rogers^SusioRnUihotz. Monica Sacks Marina Sadofsky Diane Shandell Susie Silvenran Edith Stein Elaine Teppcnnan Selma'IVetiak EiidieTsabari Beth Walts DcvorahWcsch GaKnaYurikov
MEN'S SENIORS Bill Abrahams SaniAUov Jack Brody David Dvorkin Abraham Faier Canter Leo Fedman Hersz FlatowFcz. Irving Forte StuartFried Walter Briedlandcr Julius Froom Saul Grate Dan Greenfield Gerald Gross Joe Guss Art Jacobsoq Manfred Kreilstcm Abram Kukawka Morey Umdman Ben Lebowidi Irving Maicus Reverend Mendel Landsman NatcMandell Carl Milder Den Miller Paul N a t a l Phil Ratner Ben Schneider Harold Siporin Richard Spiegal Eli Stone
WOMEN'S SENIORS I lelen Abrahamson Doris Alloy Millie Altaian Millie Bernstein Doris Gnhn Minnie Cutler Rose Davis : Jeanne Dvorkin Kayftrer : : •:•'. i :•; Annette Fettman \ Rose Fine : PaufctteFlatowicz Ida Forbes Sonia Forbes JeanGendler AnneGerber Beniice Gcrber Hilda Gottlieb Sara Harding Pauline Hoberman CliarloUc Kaplan Myllee Kiitelman EvcKatskce Betty Kelberg Rulh Klein Myma Kirshenbaum Gertrude Komey Dorothy Kotok Peggy Krasne Frieda Krizelman I lairiet Kutler Grace Lebowich Marjorie Lincoln Louise Lippett Marcia Lipsman Ann Margolin Bemia; Milder RcvaOnich GildaPicck Lola Reiug las Fioraine Rice; : Marjoric Rosen Natalie Rubin , Reva Rudoinan Audrey Schapiro
WOMEN'S SENIORS (cont) Lillian Schrager Sophie Schulman . Celia Schwartz
Doris Statat Leah Siegal EstherSilver Helen Sqiref Marion Strauss Sally.Venger •
. . . :•
Julia S c h a p i r o :•;' •'-,• \>?:?',.,
* New Pacesetter ($6,000 and above) ** New Lion of Judah ($5,000 and above) To fie generous supporters of the Men's and Women's General Campaign: In honor of the Centennial year of the Jewish Federation of Omaha, we hope you'll consider;:* I-;,'"; becoming a: Centennial ;Pgittn. If you raise your pledge $100 or more, your name will be listed and highlighted in this "PROUD TO BE A CENTENNIAL RATRQN'* adF yf yptj J h f | ^ ^ j ^ ( f e i ^ | ^ l e s s than $100, we will be proud to list your name as a contributor tts awonderful way to celebrate 100 years of success in our community arid •
^ 0 ::ifWm-"khe 2003 Jewish. Federation of Omaha'Centennial Campaign 333 South 132nd Street Omaha, NE 68154
402/334-8200
www.jewishomaha.org
Campaign Hotline 334-6594
The Jewish federation of Omaha 1903-20O3 * ( 5 6 5 r a ) a ' ' /
Page 6
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
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November 22, 2002
1 MACK/GUROCK Jerry and Candee Mack of Omaha have announced the engagement of their daughter, Amanda, to Josh Gurock, son of Noah and . Peggy Gurock of Pasaic, NJ. The bride-tobe graduated summa cum laude from Stern College in New York City, where she was also on the Dean's List. She is currently studying for her master's degree in psychology at Columbia University. She is the granddaughter of Morris Bresel and the late Jean Bresel. Her fiance is majoring in English at Yeshiva University and will graduate in the spring of 2003. He plans on pursuing a career in education. A June 15, 2003, wedding is planned in Fairlawn, NJ.'
Y.E.S. Members will meet Monday at the JCC.Play bingo at 10 a.m. with Eileen Reiner or exercise with Stacey Paskert at 10:30 a.m. Bring articles to share for 'YES Talk" at 11 a.m. Following lunch at noon, Bob Wolfson, Director of the ADL, will speak. Call Maggie Conti for reservations at 334-6521 for the Hanukah Party on Dec. 2. WALK-IN, DROP-IN YIDDISH CLUB There are no meetings Thursday due to Thanksgiving. VISIONS Reminder: Miss Saigon is Sunday, Nov. 24, 2 p.m. at the Orpheum Theatre. Join us for an escorted tour of "The American Presidency: Inside the White House" (history in miniature) on Tuesday, Dec. 10, 10 a.m. at the Durham Western Heritage Museum. Cost is $3.50 per person. Following the tour, lunch (on your own) is at Piccolo Pete's Restaurant. Deadline is Dec. 2. Make check payable to Jewish Senior Services. Send reservations to: Fred and Sandy Bromley, 13419 Marinda St., Omaha, NE 68144. OMAHA CENTER FOR TORAH LEARNING Rabbi Aryeh Blum will give the Parasha Shiur on Shabbat afternoon, Nov. 23, 3:25 p.m. Upcoming events: Saturday, Dec. 7,8 p.m., OCTL will host a "Family Night" featuring music, games, and delicious food. Next Shabbat dinner, Dec. 20, 6 p.m. For information, call Rabbi Blum, 320-8055. B'NAI B'RITH BREADBREAKERS Chuck Arnold, Executive Director of the Council Bluffs Senior Center, just built a brand new building. He will speak about it Wednesday, Nov. 27, noon, at the Regency Park Inn. Cost is $9 for lunch; $2 for beverage service only. The program is open to the community.
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There's No Business Like... Josie Shrago, right, was among 56 Visionaires who enjoyed a day trip to Brownsville to see Kela Blackhurst, an actress, singer and comedienne, who sang a tribute to the late Ethel Merman.
Nobbies has a great selection of paper goods, giftware, decorations and specialty items for Hanukkah. Visit Nobbies today to make this Hanukkah one to remember!
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Naomi Rennard and Nathan Fineman were among 40 high school sophomores selected for Youth Leadership Omaha, sponsored by the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce. Naomi, daughter of Dr. Stephen and Barbara Rennard, attends Central High School; Nathan, son of Glenn and Hollie Fineman, attends Millard North. Richard Fellman was awarded a Silver Beaver, the highest honor the Mid-America Council can present to a volunteer. Fellman is an Eagle Scout, attended World Scout Jamboree in Austria in 1951, coordinated a 10 Commandment hike, board of trustee member and council committee member.
Gaston and Lena Bogomolni announce the Oct. 16 birth of their son, Samuel Natan. Grandparents are Liliana Parvex of Stockholm, Sweden, and Mirta Serebrinsky and Gabriel Bogomolni of Buenos Aires, Argentina. Great-grandmother is Raquel Braylan, also of Buenos Aires.
Everything the Traffic Will Allow earned the first Special Achievement Award from Time Out New York Magazine, as well as the 2002 Manhattan Association of Cabaret and Clubs award for Best Female Vocalist.
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Rotary Club of Omaha/Suburban awarded Stan Widman the Suburban Rotarian of the Year award for 2001-02. The award is presented to the club member who best exemplifies truth, fairness, the building of goodwill and friendships and living life in a way that is beneficial to all concerned-the Rotary International "Four Way Test."
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From earliest childhood, as we learn to communicate; we learn the importance of the weight our words carry. We've all heard somebody say, "It wasn't what you said. It was the way you said it." As we become more proficient with language usage, we discover how useful it is to develop a good vocabulary. Having said this, I'd like to go on and explore what happens when we examine words that have been grouped into phrases. Let me give you an example or two of some phrases familial- to our English language, phrases capable of causing all sorts of reactions. For instance, can you remember how you felt when somebody opened a conversation with you by saying, "We have to talk."? Is it fair for me to guess that you thought, "Oh Lord, now whnt?" and maybe even hold your breath for n second or two. until the. topic came tn light. Then lhero's flu- incredible five-second fright that follows ".swear you won't repeat this to a soul." How many times has that been followed b\ a story that yon wish you hadn't heard? , When a friend says. "I wanted yon to hear thin from me first," you instinctively know there's heartrending news coming, probably news which will
sadden more than a few. Remember when you were a kid and either your mom or your dad could paralyze you with fear just by saying, "Didn't you hear me yell, 'Stop'?" Or that other famous phrase, calculated to make your face break out, "Because I said so!" These two are perfect examples of how some phrases relate more to certain age groups than others. .;.... When a teenager says to a friend, "I've got something really important to tell you," it's likely to be more frivolous than when one mature adult says that to another. It's of earth-shaking importance to both, even if the kid is talking about somebody who cheated on an exam. Yes, everyone needs to be able to express thoughts and feelings clearly, in order to always be understood. That's no doubt why those learning English •.us ti second language) find some of our idiomatic expressions so difficult. A parental question/expression popular a while back always made me laugh, but also made me admire it. for it's unmistakable meaning:';What. part of 'no' didn't you understand?" I think that savs it all.
November 22, 2002 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Beth El's Amazing ianukkah Bash Set for December by OZZIE NOGG
Beth El Synagogue's annual Hanukkah celebration is scheduled for Sunday, Dec. 1, 6 p.m. Participants are encouraged to bring their Hanukkiahs and candles for use in a festive congregational lighting ceremony. "An appetite for Lucy's Luscious Latkes would also be a good thing to bring!" said Kathy Schmitt, Program Director. People attending the Amazing Hanukkah Bash are asked to be part of another Beth El seasonal tradition. "As in past years, we hope everyone will bring gently used toys and warm winter clothing for donation to Siena/Francis House," Schmitt added. In addition to candle lighting and a
traditional Hanukkah dinner, the evening will include a Dreidel Spinning Contest and a mini-version of the JCC Maccabi Games held this past summer in Omaha. "We won't run races," Schmitt continued, "but we will have a cartwheel competition, a hearty game of Twister plus mental Maccabi Mind Benders for those who like brain-teasers. There will be activities for every age and every persuasion-intellectual or physical." Cost for the Hanukkah Bash is $11.50 for adults and $8.50 for children ages 3-12. To reserve dinner for your family and friends or volunteer to organize a game, please call Kathy Schmitt at 492-8550.
Page 7
Israeli Youths to Perform at JCC by PAM MONSKY, Federation Communications Director
An inspiring night of *T~^> " . .**,*u raeli and classical I % "'" Israeli music will be performed £*.:>.v-.-..•..'.•:' by the Mateh-Asher Cello Quartet and Vocal Ensemble on Thursday, Dec. 12, 7 p.m. in the Jewish Community Center Theater. The performance is free and open to the entire community."'The "members of both groups, all between the ages of 16 and 20, live in Omaha's Partnership 2000 j region in the Western *, ' Galilee of Israel. ' ~z Partnership 2000 is a The Mateh-Asher Cello Quartet and Vocal HAFTAROT, Commentary by Michael Fishbane program of United Ensemble will be in Omaha next month. The JPS Bible Commentary Jewish Communities and the Jewish in Northern Israel, including the Federation of Omaha that pairs up Clore Center, the Emek Yizarael (Philadelphia: Jewish Publication Society, $75) Jewish communities in the United School for the Arts and the Tivon Reviewed by DR. LEONARD GREENSPOON— — — : — — • States with similar communities in Conservatory, in addition to his work This is a magnificent resource-well to which the rabbis linked it. Israel for the purpose of enhancing at Mateh-Asher. He also teaches at conceived, brilliantly executed, and Moreover, Fishbane introduces his the social, educational and business master courses organized by the beautifully presented. audience to the plain sense of each relationships between American and "Matan" organization. Michael Fishbane, a professor at the haftarah, which he appropriately Israeli Jews. The Vocal Ensemble was founded in University of Chicago, took upon him- understands to include extensive lexiMembers of the Mateh-Asher Cello 1998 and performs frequently in the self a mammoth task: to produce a com- cal and textual discussions, and to the Quartet are advanced students of Uri Western Galilee region. Many memmentary on the haftarot, the Prophetic extensive tradition of creative inter- Chen, who is unofficially known as bers of the ensemble study at the music portions chanted after the prescribed pretation that has always marked the "father of all young cellists in department at the Manor-Cabri High Torah readings at synagogues each Jewish readings of the Bible. Northern Israel." Chen is a senior School, and most are voice students at Sabbath as well as on the High If this were not enough, Fishbane, teacher at the Mateh-Asher music the Mateh-Asher Music School. Holidays, other festivals, and fast days. ever the sensitive and experienced school, and in addition to his work as Zoe Riekes, Chairperson for the Since the Prophets encompass the teacher, is intent on exploring the many a cello teacher directs the Senior Partnership 2000 Midwest books from Joshua through Malachi ways each individual unit connects the- String Ensemble, the cello quartet Consortium Social/Cultural Commitin the Hebrew Bible, the material cov- matically, theologically, and literarily and the senior string quartet. tee said, "These young musicians are ered in the haftarot is wide indeed. with other portions of the Hebrew Bible. A dominant figure in the Israeli cello exceptional. Their school is located on But typically haftarot cover only Fishbane and the JPS are to be con- community, Chen played for many the Lebanese border, which is a high selected verses from a much larger gratulated for the service they provided years with the Kibbutz Chamber security risk area. Even so, they have book, such as Judges and Isaiah. For through the production and publication Orchestra. Since his retirement from never missed class due to security this reason, Fishbane does not limit of this volume. We hope many readers the Orchestra in 1996, he has dedicat- concerns. They are impassioned and his comments to a given passage, but will accept their invitation to fully ed himself to teaching. dedicated musicians." also locates it within its respective engage the text, so we "can be addressed For more information, please conChen teaches cello and coaches book and ties it in to the Torah portion anew by (its) innate power." chamber music at many music schools tact Kathy McGauvran at 334-6427. Before soweone offer* you alcohol or other 4rii9h decide what , .you are j o i n * to ray. the facts can you
In celebration qfthe Jewish Federation of'Omaha's lOOthAnniuersanj, we am taking alookback at major international, national and local events in Jewish history. Each column will feature important Jewish events fhatoccuired in the corresponding week during the last 100 years.
November 25, 1940 The immigrant ship, Patria, carrying 1,771 illegal immigrants, sinks in Haifa Harbor, where 271 passengers drowned. November 26, 1944 During the last phase of World War II, the Germans decide to hide all evidence of mass destruction and are
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ordered to blow up the gas chambers and crematoria. November 29,1947 The United Nations takes control over Palestine. A UN plan for dividing Palestine into two countries-one Jewish, one Arab, with Jerusalem as as international zone, is presented to delegates.
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Page 8
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
November 22, 2002
Alperson insists
Roe v. Wade Attorney
(Continued from page 1) He is a recipient of the JAFI International Young Leadership Award, serves on the UJA board of trustees and was 2000 Omaha Jewish Federation fundraising campaign general chairman. He continues to serve as national chairman for a network of 360 Jewish communities that are too small to support a Federation. "I'd be lying if I didn't say I love being in the place that is the home of my Jewish people," he said. "But it also helps me to grow as a Jew to push myself a bit more. Being present, letting the world know that Jews will still come to Israel, sends a message that says Sve're not going away.'" Each time he visits Israel, Alperson is reminded that there are no easy answers to resolving conflicts in the Middle East. "One of the biggest questions is "What do we as American Jews need to do?' This is a rare time in Jewish history in which we're living right now. What's the appropriate response? A letter to our congressman? An additional donation to Israel? A visit to Israel? "It's important that we ask ourselves these questions and to think about what we could be doing," he said. "We are answerable to the next generation." As individuals, we face difficult questions. Israel's leaders continue to face seemingly impossible challenges as well, Alperson added. "It isn't enough that Israel survive. It must survive as an ethical state based in Judaism," he said. "How do you survive, and maintain vitality and humanity, when we are dealing with forces that have publicly sworn that they want to destroy you? "One of the meanings of the word 'Israel' is 'to wrestle with G-d," Alperson added. "The times we live in certainly provide us ample opportunity to wrestle with G-d, and to wrestle with important questions about how we as individuals can make a difference." The luncheon will follow Shabbat morning services at the synagogue. Cost is $7.50 for adults and $4.50 for children. Reservations are due by Dec. 3. For more information, call 556-6288.
(Continued from page 1) on a book on the topic of leadership and self renewal. Dr. Weddington's visit is sponsored by NCJW and its Benchmark Campaign. In addition to the evening event, she will be the keynote speaker at an invitation-only luncheon Tuesday afternoon aimed at building a coalition of Pro-Choice advocates from across Nebraska and Western Iowa to support Benchmark: NCJW's Campaign to Save Roe. Benchmark is a campaign to educate, mobilize and advocate for a federal judiciary that will protect fundamental freedoms, including women's right to reproductive choice. It is a combination of grassroots and national efforts that will reach out to the decision-makers on judicial appointments—our U.S. Senators—who vote to confirm all federal judicial nominees. In its historic 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling, the Supreme Court affirmed women's constitutional right to abortion. In the decades since, the Supreme Court and federal appeals courts have chipped away at that right. Likely vacancies in these courts make the right to choose even more vulnerable. Over the next few years, more than 30 percent of federal appeals court seats and, very likely, some Supreme Court seats will become available to life-
time appointees. NCJW is committed to ensuring the judges who fill these positions hold firm to the constitutional principles so essential to our democratic way of life. Wendy Goldberg and Susie Norton serve as cochairmen of. the local Benchmark committee. "Bringing Sarah Weddington to Omaha is an extraordinary way to bring Benchmark to the forefront in Omaha. Building a coalition of like-minded, Pro-Choice advocates will strengthen the impact of Benchmark's message with Nebraska's congressional delegation," stated Norton. "The timing of this event after the results of the November elections couldn't be better," added Goldberg. "It is vital to educate the entire community on wliat each individual can do to protect our constitutional rights." For more information on the event or Benchmark, please contact Goldberg or Norton.
The Project Dreiclel Chronicles ( C o n t i n u e d f r o m p a g e 1) ——•••«»»•—••<«••<-•--••-•—-—
The credit cards were maxed out. The balance in the checkbook was always on the brink of causing overdrafts. The strain and worry affected everything Daniel did....he snapped at Lori and the kids, he couldn't sleep and at work he was becoming less and less productive. Daniel recalled that he read the newsletter column one more time and called Jewish Family by JEWISH PRESS News Service — Service before he could change his mind. "I was afraid of what people in the Jewish community would think if they knew how bad our finances had become... .1 felt like a complete failure and I tried to hide the situation from Lori and the kids. I was so stressed out from lying and worrying, that I literally couldn't function. That's when I broke down and called Steve. Then I told Lori everything. "That was the hardest part," he confessed. Lori knew that Daniel liked to go to the casinos...in fact they often went together on the weekends. But they never went crazy, and Daniel quit if he lost $50. What Lori didn't know is that Daniel spent his lunch hour gambling almost everyday, and he often lied to her about his whereabouts in order to gamble. Sure, he tried to stop. But it's tough to break the cycle. "The casinos are masters at marketing. Once they Efrat Chief Rabbi Shlomo Riskin, left, accepts pull you in, they work hard to keep you coming the donation of a bullet-proof bus from Malcolm Hedding, Executive Director of the back. They send vouchers for free meals and money ICEJ, a Christian group which brought more to gamble with, sometimes as much as $125," explained Stiel. "If you have a gambling addiction, than 2500 visitors to Israel last month. it's awfully hard to resist that kind of temptation. Photo by ISRANET.
Christian Group Donates Bulletproof Bus to Efrat
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Most people say to themselves that they'll just go and get their free meal, or only gamble until the free chips are gone and then leave. Of course, once they're there, they find that they can't leave." When Daniel and Lori arrived at Jewish Family Service for their appointment with Steve, they were visibly nervous and afraid. "I told them that they were not alone and that we would get through this together. Families face financial difficulties more often than we think. It doesn't matter whether it's catastrophic illness, job loss or gambling, Jewish Family Service is here to help. Our staff is highly-professional and of course, confidentiality is paramount," said Stiel. Stiel set to work and contacted a 12-step program for Daniel, along with regular therapy sessions through JFS. He staved off the creditors by contacting them and explaining the situation. He worked with both Lori and Daniel on financial management. "It isn't easy and it takes a long time," said Daniel. "But I think we can see a light at the end of the tunnel. This was a real wake-up call for us. Once she got over the shock and hurt of what I had done, Lori and I have become closer as a couple. Don't get me wrong, we still have a lot of trust issues to work out, but I know we'll get there." Of his experience with Jewish Family Service, Daniel could only say, "It was humbling to be in the position of asking for and accepting help when we were used to being the ones giving help. But all I can say is how grateful I am that JFS was there."
November 22, 2002
Federation Foundation Giving Seminar
by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Temple Israel Communications Coordinator •
by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Foundation Public Relations Director-—--——
Following a professional advisors seminar, "Planning in a Time of Tax Law Change," sponsored by the Foundation of the Jewish Federation and the Omaha Community Foundation in October, panelists participated in a charitable giving workshop. The seminar was planned for attorneys, accountants, financial planners, life insurance agents, investment advisors, and anyone dealing in estate planning. Approximately 75 people attended from the Jewish and greater Omaha communities. Marty Ricks, Executive Director of the Jewish Federation Foundation, said, "The panel members were very candid in their passion for supporting various organizations in the city. The presentation was extremely impressive." The Yale Richards Professional Education Endowment Fund, established by the Milton S. and Corinne N. Livingston Foundation in honor of Yale Richards, a senior partner in the law firm of Marks, Clare & Richards, provides funding for the Jewish Federation Foundation to participate in seminars, including the one in October, for professional advisors.
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Shwayder Camp Director to be at Temple in December
Co-Sponsors Planned
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Panelists included Murray Newman, left, Rol Otis (at the podium), Richard Graeme, all three philanthropists, and Dave Wilson, an attorney with Marks, Clare & Richards.
Zim Zimmerman, [7 camp director ofl_ Shwayder Camp locat-F ed on the slopes of Mt.; Evans in the Rocky" Mountains, will be at; Temple Israel, Dec. 3On Tuesday, Dec. 3, Zimmerman will be at Family School which meets at 6:15 p.m. at Temple. Then on Wednesday, Dec. 4, he'll be available during Religious School hours, 6:30-8:30 p.m., to talk to middle and high school students about Shwayder. On the following day, Thursday, Dec. 5, the camp director will be at Temple during Religious School hours, 4-6 p.m., to talk to parents and children. Operated under the auspices of Denver's Congregation Emanuel, Shwayder offers children, who will be entering grades three through 10, oneweek (for third and fourth graders only) and twoweek options. Relationships with friends and God are emphasized, all within the framework of building a community that values everyone and where all campers have a chance to excel. Youngsters have an opportunity to discover what Judaism means to them on a personal level and to go home with the desire to continue exploring their Jewish identity. As a religion-based community, the staff structures camp activities to follow principles
such as compassion, tolerance, and understanding. Hiking, backpacking, archery, basketball, Softball, horseshoes, volleyball, a ropes course, and horseback riding are also offered. Creative arts including music, drama, Israeli dance, arts and crafts, creative wi*iting, videography, and guitar round out the~camp"prDgram-.- - . : Emily Friedman, 13, whose family belongs to Temple Israel, has attended Shwayder for about five years 1 including last summer. She said, "It's „•;! a fun camp with a good atmosphere of ,'J',1 happiness. The people—both campers •'• .' and staff-are very nice there." j Aly Friedman, 14, has gone to ,~ Shwayder for the past six summers. T" •; Also a family member of Temple, she .-,F .j likes to "chill with my'friends, hike, horseback riding, and do the ropes course at camp," Like Emily, Aly's favorite reason to go to Shwayder is the friendliness of the people. "They are energetic and very nice," she said. Zimmerman said he grew up at Shwayder and, over the past 11 years, has gone through the entire program first as a camper and then as a staff member for the past five years. Next summer will be his second as the director. He is also the NFTY (North American Federation of Temple Youth) Missouri Valley Regional advisor and will meet with OTYG (Omaha Temple Youth Group) prior to Religious School on Wednesday, Dec. 4. For further information, call Stephanie Grossman, Temple Israel director of youth and informal education, at 556-6536.
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November 22, 2002
Retreat Participants Focus on "What's Important" by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Temple Israel Communications Coordinator ————•»,„.•——-_-**,^
Starting with a Shabbat dinner, approximately 60 adults from Temple Israel gathered at the Lied Conference Center in Nebraska City on a crisp autumn day in early November for this year's retreat: "Growing in Soul - A Spiritual Retreat." Danny Maseng, master storyteller and Jewish educator, returned to lead the retreat after receiving "tremendously positive" reviews from last year's retreat, said Rosie Zweiback, Temple's program director. A playwright and actor, Maseng is also the spiritual leader of Congregation Agudath Achim in Livingston, New York. After dinner, Maseng and Rabbi Aryeh Azriel led Kabbalat Shabbat Services. Andie Gordman, attending her first retreat, said, "I thought Danny was outstanding. He provided a new angle at looking at prayers." She attended the retreat because she is interested in "the opportunity for adult education." She also enjoyed "just being able to spend time with members of the congregation and getting to know them better." Jerry and Sylvia Kaiman were also first-timers at the retreat. "It was very good," she said. "I enjoyed it very much. It felt like a real Shabbat-learning at the same time that I was enjoying Shabbat and being with everyone." After a breakfast buffet and an optional yoga ses7TVT" y " ~
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was seated with people she has seen but hadn't mi and Marcy saw "some of her old youth groi friends." After worship services on Shabbat, the group h lunch together and then studied Torah with Masej or went for an outdoor walk. Following that, th divided into Jewish Journey Groups which Frc said was her favorite part. "It gave me a chance to air some of my views" ai hear the points of view of others. "It ended up beii quite interesting. You could say whatever you war. ed in a non-threatening atmosphere and people li tened." As the retreat ended, participants observ* Havdalah which was Mike Makoid's favorite part the day-and-a-half experience. "I guess I could li ten to Danny Maseng sing forever," Makoid said. This year's retreat was sponsored by the Hermei Zweiback Center for Lifelong Jewish Learning. Photos below, from top left: Danny Maseng le the singing. Attending the retreat were Roi Meyers, left, Beth Brodkey, Betsy Marant and Susie Silvennan. Mike Walts, left, Debl Josephson, John Dacey, Sally Kaplan, an Andi Willensky prepare for Jewish Journe Groups. Howard and Lee Needelman, Je: Schweid, and Sharon Sobel also attended.
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v lth ^u/\ Rubin jeiioat pjinicip int- nnlh( ii (1 loi nioinimr Mialib it woi>hip -c ivicctj 11 v i>i mrnintf and -.piiitual, fl'j-(.nhcd l\.j.un."> ft kli »O>K1 D.inn\ - loalb good ar \iJiai IK dor^ ^usan Ildthliol/, aKo attLiidmu hci lii^f iPiie.it had hc.ud good llung-. about 1,1^1 \LVCU'1- I Thought all of n was (Mollriu SIIL -aid I thought Dtinn' Masenif \\a- wondcj hil lie t-oundod like Noil Diamond' She not onh (rrjo\eil h^tering fo Mascng »hc aKo helpi'd wnte the Fnda\ niglit Shabb.it ^oivico learned a lot Liom that she remarked I \.ent to laM: •> eai \ icheat, said MIUL Makiud ^ho Attended \\ ith his \\ lie Bette Evans. "It was absolutely wonderful last year and I expected it to be this year. And it was. It was an opportunity for Bette and me to get away from all our mundane things and focus on what's really important." Makoid, who made a 12-minute video of the retreat, has been studying for about 15 years with Rabbi Azriel and converted to Judaism about one and a half years ago. "Danny's music kept me going," Makoid explained. "I really connected with what he says." His wife Bette Evans said, "'If God has a voice, it has to be like Danny Maseng's." Marlon Frost attended the retreat "to meet some people." She came with her daughter Marcy who is active in her Temple in Minneapolis. Frost said she
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
UJC Pulls Plan to Release NJPS after Learning Some Data Was Lost
Simply Delectable by Sharon Glass (Graphic Arts Center, $24.95) Reviewed by LOIS FRIEDMAN
The many cooking hats of Sharon Glass are the background of the beautiful cookbook...Hollywood caterer, cooking school teacher and even as a personal assistant to Danny Kaye. This cookbook is all about recipes with almost as many glorious color photographs (100) as terrific recipes (125) in the chapters: Hors D'Oeuvres, Soups, Salads, Fish, Pasta, Meat, Poultry, Vegetables, Desserts, Baking, and Pulses & Grains. Recipes are listed at the beginning of eaeh chapter and in the alphabetical index. Straight forward instructions with notes, handy tips and servings are listed. A menu, conversion and substitution chapters are included. Join Glass in enjoying "the honest objectivity and praise of all my family each and every Friday night." Try this recipe soon. GRILLED VEGETABLE SALAD 1 eggplant, sliced lengthwise 4-5 baby zucchini, sliced lengthwise 3 carrots, sliced lengthwise 8 oz button mushrooms 1 packet mixed salad greens 1 packet butter lettuce, broken Shavings of parmesan (if desired) Dressing: 1/2 cup olive oil 1/2 cup sunflower oil 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar 11/2 tsps salt Freshly ground black pepper To broil vegetables: Salt eggplant, place in colander for half an hour and then rinse and pat dry Brush all vegetables with a drop of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper and grill on a baking sheet directly under broiler for a few minutes or until golden. Cool. Toss salad greens with dressing. Top with grilled vegetables. Drizzle with more dressing.
by JOE BERKOFSKY — — —NEW YORK (JTA)-Much-anticipated parts of the National Jewish Population Survey will not be released as expected next week because some of the data has been lost. The United Jewish Communities, which is funding the $6 million study, is canceling all events about the 2000-01 NJPS at the Philadelphia gathering of its General Assembly, which began Tuesday. And the UJC, the umbrella of the North American federation system, is launching an independent investigation into the lost data, JTA has learned, "It is true we are delaying the release of the "study," Stephen Hoffman, UJC's president and chief executive officer, told JTA. "The reason is there have been some questions raised that I don't believe we have adequate time to get answers to." The revelations could cast doubt on the entire NJPS, the most extensive and costliest demographic study ever conducted of the American Jewish community. The lost data apparently concerned methodological details about who was surveyed, rather than their responses to survey questions. "Some people with serious reputations believe the study is sound and it could have gone forward and will stand up to the test of time," Hoffman said. "That could be the case-but I didn't feel comfortable with these questions to go forward" with releasing further NJPS data next week as planned. Last month the UJC released initial findings from the NJPS, showing the American Jewish population declined 5 percent to 5.2 million since the last study in 1990, and that birth rates were dropping and the community was aging. Hoffman said that had he known of the missing data before the release of that information, he would not have approved the release of those initial conclusions. "There may be aspects of it" that are inaccurate, he said, referring to the initial data released. "I don't know," he said. Hoffman said he only learned of the missing data one week hefore the information from the NJPS about Jewish identity and intermarriage was due to get released at the annual UJC gathering, which brings together much of the organized American Jewish world.
"I feel it would be irresponsible to go ahead an release the study while these questions are sti unresolved," Hoffman said. "There will be som people who will be disappointed," Hoffman said c the implications for the G.A. "I'm personally disaj pointed." But there "are other things in Jewish life," he sai that delegates are focusing on. At the heart of the mystery was that Hoffman onl learned Tuesday that the firm conducting researcl for the NJPS.JRoper Audits & Surveys Worldwide lost some data for the study two years ago-durini initial telephone calls. One source familiar with the NJPS said the miss ing data concerned lists of those people telephone! for the survey, their phone numbers and how oftei they were called. Two-thirds of that data was lost according to the source. But the source maintained that while this infor mation was important in determining the accuracy of the survey's methodology, he did not think that r would undermine the ultimate conclusions, specifr cally those relating to Jews and Jewish identity. After the General Assembly, the UJC will secure "an outsider" who is "totally objective" to launch ar investigation into the missing information. The investigative team might include UJC staffers as well, Hoffman said. Such a probe would presumably attempt to learn exactly what information is missing, how it got lost. how significant it is, who knew about the missing information and why they did not inform senioi UJC officials. A spokeswoman for Roper, June Wallach, said the company would have no comment at this time. Hoffman said he had no idea whether the UJC would take action against Roper, Roper apparently lost the information from its computer system. Stephen Bayme, national director of contemporary Jewish life for the American Jewish Committee, said he had heard of the delay, but preferred waiting until the UJC got to the bottom of the issue. "I'd rather not have the data than have data that is mistaken," Bayme said.
T A V E R N
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Temple Hosts New York Times Columnist on Sephardic Jewry by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Temple Israel Communications Coordinator
Sephardic history and Andree Aelion Brooks, culture "is totally a neglectauthor, lecturer, and a coned and misunderstood area tributing columnist with - "_ of Jewish history. It's not The New York Times from being transmitted. It's 1977-95 who has also writeither ignored or so acaten for many other publicademic. Every Jew probably tions including Glamour has some Sephardie ancesand McCalls magazines, '' . try," explained Brooks who will be Temple Israel's said her own background is scholar-in-residence Dec. '^'^ partially Sephardic. 13-15. She will discuss top• * • St ics on the theme: "Putting " '"„•'-.•" "Ashkenazic and Sephardic the Pieces Together: The - ' X ' \ ' \ Jewry have melded togethSurvival of Sephardic .•' *<-• t er for centuries." Jewry After 1492." | \ ' '" > *'v In 2001, Brooks received a special award from the Born and raised in p \ Consulate General of Israel London, Brooks became an ? * in conjunction with the American citizen in 1986. -•' L She came to New York City American Sephardi in the 1950s " for advenFederation for her work in ture and to spread my .<' - v s* Sephardic Jewish history. wings." A journalism major "* Prior to that, the American in college, she graduated "~ Jewish Committee Andree Aelion Brooks from the journalism school bestowed her with the affiliated with London University. She has always American Jewish Woman of Achievement Award. "If we are going to reintegrate Sephardic history been interested in news and public issues and was elected to a county government position in England into Jewish history, we have to start by introducing the topic to children," she said. In 2000, her video, in 1972. "I come from a journalistic background-telling sto- audiotape, and CD, Out of Spain, were published by ries." She said her interest in writing "started early Hitchcock Books. and never wavered." Among her writing honors, "It is exhilarating to read an exciting textbook for Brooks received an outstanding achievement award ten through 12-year-olds about Sephardic Jewry, a from the National Federation of Press Women. somewhat neglected subject," wrote Murray Levine While on one of her frequent visits to London in in a review in the Jewish Spectator Review of Books, "Using my journalistic skills to teach kids," Brooks the early 1990s to visit family, Brooks attended an international conference there of Judeo-Spanish described Out of Spain as "learning through enterscholars concerned with the preservation of the tainment. It's been tremendously successful," and is Ladino language and other aspects of Sephardic cul- being used in at least 200 Jewish congregational ture and history. Subsequently, "My career took an and day schools throughout the United States and abrupt turn. It's now totally centered in the Jewish Europe, Brooks said. world." She also wrote Children of Fast Track Parents She left news reporting in 1995 to develop the about the challenges of raising over-privileged chilWomen's Campaign School she had founded in 1993 dren and the consequent effects on their personaliand which she served as its first president. Run ties and development. She plans to publish an hisunder the auspices of Yale University's Law School, torical novel in 2003 about a Bolshevik spy in New the Women's Campaign School is designed to propel York who infiltrates the opera and ballet. more women into elective office. An Associate Fellow Brooks has lived in Westport, CT, for the past 30 at Yale since 1989, Brooks said between 1000 and years. She has a daughter who lives near Seattle, 2000 women from about 12 countries have been WA, a son who lives in Singapore, and two grandtrained at the Campaign School through short daughters. courses that help bridge the gap from professional to Sponsored by the Hermene Zweiback Center for political life. Lifelong Jewish Learning, Brooks will speak at But the school wasn't the only reason Brooks took Temple Israel during Shabbat Worship Services on a new path in life. She also wanted to use her con- Friday night, Dec. 13, at Bagels and Sacred Books nections, talent, and status to further knowledge of at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 14, and at a bagel the Sephardim, "to fill in some of the gaps," she said. brunch at 10 a.m. on Sunday, Dec. 15. :
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