Skip to main content

December 6, 2002

Page 1

Vol. LXXXII

No. 14

Omaha, NE

1 Tevet, 5763

December 6,2002

SERVING NEBRASKA AND WESTERN IOWA FOR 81 YEARS

lntroducing»ayicliael Silverman by CAROL KATZMAN, Editor —

Position: Executive Director Jewish Senior Services Education: BS in business administration from the State University of New York (SUNY), Oneonta, NY; Master's in Public Administration from C.W. Post, Long Island University. Experience: Vice-president of Operations, Jewish Home for the Elderly, Fairfield, CT; licensed nursing Mimi and Michael Silverman home administrator in CT; member of American College of And, of course, my mom was rightHealth Care Executives, American It is very rewarding. College of Health Care JP: When your mother described Administrators, and Connecticut your rnanagement skills, what did she Association of Not-for-Profit Providers mean by that? Didn't you enter the for the Aged. nursing home field right after college? Personal: MS: Actually, no. I worked in retail Married to Mimi Silverman, two sons: after getting my degree in business Adam and Jeremy. administration from SUNY-Oneonta. After working my way up the corpoJewish Press: What attracted you rate ladder, I realized that personal to the field of providing long term care and professional growth in retail would be limiting, and I did not find for the elderly? Michael Silverman: I give all the many challenges in the field. I decided to make a career change and dedicredit to my mom! She asked me, like most mothers, cated my free time towards the goal of "What do you want to do when you obtaining my master's and focusing grow up?" but she also help me see the on my future. While I was working answer. She suggested that a nursing 50-60 hours a week, I met Mimi and home administrator is a fulfilling job; obtained my master's in public adminit's a position that gives back to the istration at CW Post at night. Managing employees and the cusJewish community. And she added that, with my management skills, it's tomer service component are both applicable to nursing homes. So when a great fit! My brother, who's a pulmonologist in an internship at the Fairfield Home Connecticut, also serves on the staff of opened up, it was a perfect fit! (Continued on page 10) a nursing home.

Book Event to Feature Fried on The New Rabbi by DIANE AXLER BAUM

Stephen Fried, a n ; investigative journalist whose new book h a s made national impact, will highlight this year's Jewish Book Fair with a lecture on Sunday, D e c . 15, 7 p.m., in the JCC auditorium. The program is free and open to t h e community. The New Rabbi: A _ Congregation'"' Stephen Searches for Its Leader is a triple memoir that simultaneously records the career of a legendary rabbi, the evolution of a powerful synagogue, and Fried's personal return to his Jewish roots. On one level, this non-fiction work is a "juicy" behind-the-scenes peek at synagogue life. On other levels, the book is a statement on leadership and a commentary on organized religion, particularly Judaism, in America today. Fried's religious journey began in Philadelphia in February, 1997, when he decided to say kaddish after the untimely death of his father. In a recent interview, he said daily minyan showed him the comfort and power of the mourner's prayer. "It opened my eyes, as a journalist and a Jew, to what shul can mean," he recalled. The following autumn, Rabbi Gerald

I Wolpe announced his • planned resignation • after 30 years as. chief \ rabbi of a large, influ• j ential synagogue on j Philadelphia's wealthy '"Main Line." Fried, who, as a boy, was a member of Wolpe's conn in 'approached the rabbi ! about an idea for a •« book. '• "I'm a persuasive J guy," explained Fried, Fried who managed to gain access to Wolpe's final four years as a pulpit rabbi. He became privy to Wolpe's inner reflections, reconnected with the rabbi's wife, and watched, first hand, the eventful unfolding of the search for a replacement. In the pages of The New Rabbi he shares numerous theological and spiritual debates, complex inner workings of the search process, and issues relating to what Rabbi Gerald Wolpe calls "the retail business of religion." While The New Rabbi is "fun" and reads like a fast-paced novel, it is "true in every detail," he noted. It pleases him that the Reform movement's Hebrew Union College in Cincinnati has added his book to its Spring, 2003, curriculum. He expects other Jewish and Christian seminaries to follow suit. (Continued on Page 7)

The Project Dreidel Chronicles

The Season of Miracles by PAM MONSKY, Federation Communications Director

(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 last 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 334-6431.

For Sarah and Hugh, celebrating Thanksgiving and V: Hanukkah this year was not even on their radar screen. They'd only been married for a year and already life was handing them one \\V blow after another. Sarah was raised in Omaha's Jewish community and met Hugh while they were attending college here. Soon after they were married, they moved to Minneapolis where Hugh landed his first big job. They were thrilled when they found out Sarah was pregnant a short time later. But right after their son was born, Hugh lost his job. Tragically, almost simultaneously, their beautiful baby boy Noah was diagnosed with paralyzed vocal chords and a bi-cusped aortic valve in his heart. But it's the paralyzed vocal chords that are the most serious condition. It makes it impossible for the baby to be outside or around other people because of his severe susceptibility of serious infection. Any kind of infection or virus that could cause swelling could constrict the opening of the baby's throat, cutting off his breath. They need to be careful with feedings, too, because

the opening to Noah's throat is so -.mall that he CM n easily choke. If he wouldn't breathe, the only option was a tracheotomy. Noah was receiving medical treatment at the nearby Mayo Clinic. But with Hugh out of a job, it didn't look like they'd be able to keep paying for their son's lifesavi ng medical care. Sarah's only option was to quit her job and care for Noah, further compounding their financial situation. While it was difficult staying in the apartment all the time, (Sarah could only manage one quick trip to the mailbox per day), it was a sacrifice she was willing to make. - While Hugh was job-hunting, Sarah spent every day alone in their two-room apartment, in a new city where she knew no one, and cared for her son. After two months, when they (Continued on Page 9)

INSIDE: Friedel Teen

Notebook Age

Last House Party.

page page

7 3

page 12


Page 2

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Sir Speedy

December 6, 2002

PRtHTING, COPYING and DIGITAL NETWORK

3706 South 132nd Street •{402)330-5050 Letterhead • Brochures * Newsletters Business Cards * Mailers • Postcards

Consultants foriheAging Snoel991

A Registry Prouiding Companions, Home Health Aides, Nurses Aides and Nurses Affordable rates with no minimum hours Omaha 398-1848

Lincoln 488-3771

7701 Pacific Suite 100

6211 "O", State "B"

CLIP & SAVE

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6 Visions Board Meeting, 9:30 a.m. CDC Family Hanukkah Program, 11 a.m. at the CDC Shabbat Hanukkah Dinner, 7 p.m.at Beth El aATURDAY, DECEMBER 7 Shabbat Lunch with Joel Alperson, 12 p.m. at Beth Israel Melavah Malkah 7th & 8th Grades, 4:30 p.m. at Beth El Family Night, 8 p.m. at the OCTL House SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8 Super Sunday Committee Meeting, 10:30 a.m. Kids'Snack and Learn,ll:30 a.m. at Beth El Yaehad Gathering, 12 p.m. BeUevue Artists Association Reception, 2 p.m. MONDAY, DECEMBER 9 YES Program, 10 a.m. Florence Melton Adult Mini School, 11 a.m, & 7 p.m. Jewish Press Committee Meeting, 5 p.m. Beyt Shalom Adult Education with Rabbi Kripke, 6:30 p.m. Talmud Class with Rabbi Kutner, 7 p.m. at Beth Israel

C L I P

S A

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10 Federation Women's Campaign House Party #4 at the Home of Audi Willensky, 10 a.m. & 7 p.m. Visions Western Heritage Tour, 10 a.m. BBYO Night, 6 p.m.

All events held at the JCC unless otherwise indicated. The Jewish Press Is no! responsible for the accuracy of events. To keep calendar accurate or for questions, call Marlene Hert at 334-6437. FOR A COMPLETE LISTING, VISIT THE FEDERATION'S WEBSITE: www.JewishOmaha.org (click on calendar)

iiii

Joseph, Haoukkah and the Good Society by RABBI MYER S. KRIPKE — — — (Editor's note: this column was originally published in the Jewish Press on Dec. 22, 1995.) P a r a s h a t Mikketz—Shabbat Hanukkah There is a subtle connection of idea between a word in our Sidra and the famous lesson of our Haftara, the Haftara for Shabbat Hanukkah. When Joseph is hastily summoned before Pharaoh to interpret the dreams that so troubled the monarch, he had the opportunity to lay claim to the skills and insights given to no one else in all the land of Egypt, indeed in whole, the whole of the region. Instead, he demurs, modestly, and says, "Biladai..." "It is not in me." And he goes on to say that it is God who has permitted Pharoah to know what is about to happen. Earlier, when he was installed as major domo of Potiphar's household, and he resists the advance of Potiphar's wife, he told her that it would be an offense to his master, which she knew, but that it was also an offense against God. This was new to an Egyptian. No: Although this famous Joseph story is told from a secular point of view—no altars, no cult, no prayers—Joseph twice reminds himself and those about him that he is a Hebrew: In the end, it is God Who rules and God Who is the source both of wisdom and morality. Now to our Haftara. It is widely understood that the first Hanukkah, when the Maccabees cleansed the Temple and began an eight-day celebration, in effect they were celebrating a delayed Sukkot, and that Hanukkah was a victory celebration in a Sukkot mode. Under their Greek rulers, it would have been impossible to have circumambulations (hakafot) about the altar, but now, everything was restored. The rabbis in later times were uneasy about Hanukkah as a victory festival. They were not enamored of the ill-fated Maccabean kingdom which followed the victory. They saw little point in this increasingly religiously corrupt kingdom, which ignominiously fell under the rapacious rule of the Romans. Hence they chose as the Haftara for this Shabbat of Hanukkah a Haftara which quietly and unobtrusively, but powerfully, hammered home the point that political and military conquest may bring jubilation, celebration, demonstrations with parades of lulavim, but it is neither power nor physical strength that matters: only the Spirit of the Lord. It is this subtle connection of idea-Hebrew, Jewish to the core-to which I call attention. The narrator of the Joseph story at two critical points insisted that it is God Who stands solid as the source of the moral life for mankind. And in our Haftara, the prophet's words, carefully chosen by the rabbis, became a clarion call to human understanding: there is no purpose to military victories and political achievements, except to establish a godlike society, established on deeply felt religious values.

MARGARET ROBINSON The first woman elected to the University of Nebraska Board of Regents, Margaret Robinson, died Dec. 1 at the age of 79. Services were held Dec. 4 at Temple Israel. Robinson, who retired as chairman of the Norfolk Iron and Metal Company of Norfolk, NE, led the company's growth from a small business with one location to one of the largest steel service centers in the U.S. She was named Nebraska's Small Business Person of the Year in 1979 and inducted into the Business Hall of Fame in 2001. She also served as a member of the Norfolk Board of Education, the Norfolk Junior College, Nebraska COuncil of Economic Education, NEBRASKALand Foundation, Norfolk Family YMCA, and Governor's Committee for Small Business. Robinson was preceded in death by her husband, Arnold, brothers Leo and Martin Rundell and a grandson, Michael Burney. She is survived by daughters and sons-in-law, Gwenn Robinson and Dwight Burney of Albuquerque, NM, and Barbara Robinson and Brian Dunn of Okemos, MI; daughter, Diane Robinson of Kansas City, MO; son and daughter-inlaw, Richard and Betti Robinson of Norfolk; sisters, Florence Moser of Evanston, IL, and Eve Raden of Dallas, TX; and grandchildren, Jennifer and Sarah Burney, Arnold, Jeffrey and Evan Robinson, Jacob and Aaron Dunn. Memorials to the University of Nebraska Foundation or the Alzheimer's Association, 5601 So. 56 St., Suite 201, Lincoln, NE 68512.

Renovation Renders Mikvah "Heavenly" by PAM MONSKY Federation Communications Director—

*"':'.«,

Renovation Project Chairman Suzanne Singer watches painter James Bond put the finishing touches on the community mikvah which opened last week. The mikvah now boasts a serene night sky complete with the moon and stars surrounded by a Jerusalem stone look and vines. The restroom was also updated with a new vanity and ceramic tile. The renovation was funded by the Jewish Federation. For more information, contact Marlene Hert at 334-6437.

Scholar to Tell the Untold Story of Spanish Jews

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11 Mah Jongg Club, 11:30 a.m. Kripke Library Book Fair Luncheon, featuring Francis Klagsbrun, 12 p.m. Federation/Synagogue Presidents & Rabbis Meeting, 12 p.m. Edward Zorinsky B'nai B'rith Bible Quiz & Dinner, 6 p.m. Jews of Spain Ctass, 6;30 p.m. at Temple Israel Chabttd, House Adult Education Class, 7 p.m. Board of Commissioners Meeting, 7:30 p.m. at Beth Israel THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12 Walk-in Drop-in, 10 a.m. Women of Worth Chodesh Service, 11:30 a.m. at Chabad House Yiddish Group, 1 p.m. Akko Youth Ensemble, 7 p.m.

SPARKSFROMTHE W O R D i DEATH

P & S A V

by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Temple Israel Communications Coordinator -»•»———.—— Known primarily as the year Christopher On Saturday, Dec. 14, 9 a.m., prior to worship Columbus discovered America, 1492 was also the services in the Livingston Chapel, Brooks will disyear many Jews chose to convert and take their cuss "Jewish Contributions to the Renaissance: An Judaism underground rather than accept expulsion Untold Story," at Bagels and Sacred Books in the Milder Center. from Spain. Brooks will describe the life of Dona Gratia Nasi, Andr6e Aelion Brooks, Temple Israel's next scholar-in-residence, will introduce the strange and the woman who defied kings, at a bagel brunch on haunting story of these people when she speaks at Sunday, Dec. IS,.10. a,m,, m..ike.MildjerX!.enter at Shabbat Worship Services on Friday, Dec. 13, 7:30 Temple. At a time when the terrors of the Inquisition were especially cruel, Nasi used the p.m. at Temple. Brooks, a former New York Times columnist and financial muscle of her shipping empire to close news writer, author, and lecturer, has researched down the Papal port of Ancona in Italy after how the conversos or marranos of the Spanish Inquisition officials burned 23 Jews. She had Inquisition lived and survived. She will describe the learned to deal in a man's world not only challenglives of these Jews, about whom Jewish history has ing kings, but rabbis, princes, and popes as well. been so silent, as she elaborates on the topic All the scholar-in-residence events are open to the "Putting the Pieces Together: The Survival of community. They are sponsored by the Hermene Sephardic Jewry After 1492," Zweiback Center for Lifelong Jewish Learning.


December 6, 2002 1

S

•

J

'

l

Friday, Dec. 6 4:37 p.rrt, Hanukkah candles should be lit before Shabbat candles.

1 u ll

il 1

1

'tl/

> i.» •

I'I •

I * * ' I*

Page 3

Candielighting

•*

I \

'

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

I

••!'•

"*

1 i . .1

t

1111 I OH( I

I

II

,

I . \ l

f

J

|

'. '

- . . i : .H U , I

I

I I Ij I ft _

x t i

't'lfo

1> IIISIJI.II 1

I

I 111 I-

• 1*J ••' .

_

FRIDAY: Men's Club, 11:45 a.m. All male members of Temple Israel are invited to a weekly informal get together at Spirit World, 7517 Pacific St. Join us for some relaxation and great conversation. Family Hanukkah service, 7:30 p.m., Rabbi Aryeh Azriel, Rabbi Craig Marantz and Cantor Wendy Shermet will officiate. The Kol Rina Choir will participate. The Oneg Shabbat will be sponsored 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. Michael Howard Vann, son of Leslie Vann and Tom Vann, will celebrate his Bar Mitzvah. PANCAKE BREAKFAST Sunday, Dec. 8: Women of Reform Judaism, Omaha is again sponsoring a pancake breakfast, featuring Jim the Pancake Man, 9-10 a.m. Bring the whole family before the children attend Religious School and adults attend the Four Bs program. Cost is $4.25 for adults and $3.50 for children 12 and under. ADULT EDUCATION Sunday, Dec. 8: The Four Bs: Behaving, Belonging, Believing and Bagels, 10-11:30 a.m. Topic will be "Why Shabbat: It's a lot more than Challah and Havdalah." Shani Katzman and Rabbi Azriel will explore the role of Shabbat in our lives. Family Prayer Assembly following. Wednesday, Dec. 11: The Jews of Spain: History and Culture, 6:45-8:15 p.m. with Professor Guy Matalon. Class will meet at the JCC, for this week only. Thursday, Dec. 12: Beyond Basic Hebrew, 9:1510 a.m.; Adult Study with the Clergy, 10-11:30 a.m. Rabbi Aryeh Azrael will focus on the writings of Temple's Schoiars-in-Residence. SCHOLAR-EN-RESIDENCE Andree Aelion Brooks will be at Temple Dec. 1315. See article on page 2 for details.

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, 4:40 p.m.; The West Minyan is at the home of Leon and Dani Shrago. SATURDAY: Morning Services, 8:45 a.m. Free babysitting begins at 10 a.m.; Junior Congregation, 10:30 a.m., Kiddush is sponsored by Sisterhood; A lunch featuring Joel Alperson follows kiddush; he will speak after lunch on the plight of Israel and his recent experiences there. Mincha, 4:30 p.m., followed by Shalosh Suedot and Ma'ariv; Havdalah, 5:41 p.ni. SUNDAY: Services, 9 a.m. and 4:40 p.m. WEEKDAYS: Services, 7 a.m. and 6:30 p.m MONDAY: Talmud Class with Rabbi Kutner, 7 p.m. FAMILY SHABBAT DINNER Friday night dinner at the JCC, Dec. 13, 6 p.m. Cost to Beth Israel members is $12 for adults, free to children. Non-members of Beth Israel are invited at no charge. Reservations due by Dec. 9. SHABBOS HOUSE Saturday, Dec. 14, 3-5 p.m. .Shabbos House is at the home of Donald and Maggie Gerber. This ongoing monthly program continues to draw rave reviews from participants. All school-aged children are invited t o enjoy a Shabbos afternoon of schmoozing, snacking and learning at the homes of Beth Israel members. Sessions are facilitated by Regional NCSY advisors, synagogue members and community leaders and focus on areas of formal Jewish learning (including the weekly Torah portion) as well as age appropriate sessions on Jewish values, traditions and customs and how they are incorporated into everyday life. Parents are encouraged to attend.

FRIDAY: Evening Service, 7:30 p.m. Topic will be "How Does One's Prayer Effect One's True Status — Or Does It?" Oneg will follow.

FRIDAY: Services, 7:30 p.m.

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 Gastdn Bogomolni. FRIDAY: Come join a joyous, musical Kabbalat Shabbat service, 6 p.m. SATURDAY: Morning services, 9:30 a.m.; Kiddush sponsored by Beth El. Rabbi Levin's Torah Class, 4:10 p.m. Everyone is invited for the informal discussion and snack, followed by Evening services at 4:40 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. RABBI LEVTN'S INTRO TO JUDAISM CLASS Thursdays, noon, call 492-8550 to reserve. KIDS' SNACK AND LEARN Sunday, Dec. 8, 11:30 a.nu: Crafts and snacks for kids, ages three and four, and their parents. BELLSOLUNCH AND LEARN ON SHABBAT) Saturday, Dec. 14, following services. Guest speaker Dr. Terry Clark, professor of Political Science at Creighton University, will discuss "The War on Terror From a Holistic Perspective." Call 492-8550 for luncheon reservations. HAZAK LUNCH Saturday, Dec. 21, after Shabbat services. Rabbi Levin will speak in an informal "Fireside Chat." For more information and to make reservations, call Gloria Goodman at 333-3351.

Services conducted by Rabbi Stanley M. Rosenbaum. Minyan, Monday & Thursday, 7:15 a.m. FRTDAY: Mincha-Ma'ariv, 8 p.m. SATURDAY: Morning service, 9:30 a.m. Men's Group meets every Wednesday, 12:30 p.m. at the Knolls. LINCOLN FEDERATION MEETING Sunday, Dec. 15, 4 p.m. The community is invited to attend the meeting at Tifereth Israel.

SilsBliilliNiiliiilllllB

FRIDAY: Early Shabbat services will begin at 6 pan. followed by a potluck Hanukkah dinner. SATURDAY: Morning Service, 9:30 a.m.; Torah Study, 10:30 a.m.; 5:30-7:30 p.m., the community will honor Rabbi Weisser. SUNDAY: Hebrew School, 9 a.m.; Religious School, 10 a.m.

lhttp^ FRIDAY: Hanukkah Party, 7 p.m. Bring a dessert, your menorah and candles. Community guests and students welcome for the last night of Hanukkah! SUNDAY! Hebrew School at the JCC, 3:30 p.m. MONDAY: Book Club Discussion of "Modern Jewish Thinkers" at the Kripke Jewish Federation Library, 6:45-8:15 p.m. TUESDAY: Religious Hebrew School, 4 p.m. at the JCC.

Services conducted by Rabbi Mendel Katzman. Monday-Friday, services aT7 a.m. SATURDAY: Morning Service, 9:30 a.m., followed by a Kiddush luncheon, hosted by Rabbi Mendel and Shani Katzman in honor of daughters, Estie, Shevi and Mushka who are visiting. SUNDAY: Morning Service, 8:30 a.m. WOMEN OF WORTH MONDAY: 11:45 a.m.-l p.m., Bringing Heaven Down to Earth, led by Shani Katzman. Lunch will be served. TUESDAY: Crown of Creation, 9:30 a.m., through Dec. 24, led by Shani Katzman. THURSDAY, Dec. 12: Chodesh Series, subject of the day: Hanukkah, 11:45-1:30 a.m. ADULT EDUCATION TUESDAY: Parshas HaShavuah (weekly Torah portion), 7-8:30 p.m., led by rabbinic student Mendel Hecht. WEDNESDAY: Navigating the Talmud, 7-8:30 p.m., led by Rabbi Katzman, at the JCC. TORAH TOTS Wednesdays, Mommy and Me, 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. To register for any class, please call Jennifer at 330-1800, or e-mail chabadoffice@aol.com.

SATURDAY: 9 a.m., services, conducted by Andrew Greenberg, are held in the Herbert Goldsten chapel and are open to the community.

PERSONAL Thanks to all the family and friends who helped celebrate our 70th wedding anniversary on Thursday, November 14, 2002 at the Blumkin Home. 'Thanks for the wonderful party!" Dorothy and Max Platt

Happy Birthday Minette Katz Love from your children: Judi, Nancy, Steve, David & Betsy Sons-in-law: Norman & Ira Grandchildren: David & Lisa, Danny & Beth and their Mom, Evy


Page 4

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

December 6, 2002

EDITORIAL

Dry Bones

Life Goes On, Even in Israel Despite the continuing terrorism, Israelis have managed to go on with their lives as we do here: going to school and work, celebrating the holidays and simehaSj and taking care of the essentials, like grocery shopping. Cases in point: « A pair of rare hornbills arrived from Thailand recently for Ramat Gan Safari Park near Tel Aviv. The birds are only two years old and the first to be seen in Israel. Zoo authorities are hoping to breed the birds as the zoo has a good record in this area of scientific advancement. 0 Sales of sufganiot (Hanukkah fried donuts, often filled with jelly) are up. Even when terror strikes during Hanukkah, children (and adults), still want these annual treats. • Mogen David Adorn (MADA) has just signed a bilateral agreement with the American Ked Cross that covers mutual assistance in case of multi casualty disasters or attacks using weapons of mass destruction. The agreement, the first of its kind ever signed between MADA and a member of the Red Cross, also provides for training and planning preparedness. Working meetings are planned between the two organization twice a year in Israel and the U.S.

• Despite the serious security situation and the worsening economic outlook new immigrants still continue to arrive in Israel from all over the world. Recently, 554 immigrants arrived in Israel. Of these, 210 are from Russia, 97 from Argentina, 87 from Ukraine, 49 from Ethiopia, 41 from the Central Asian Republics of the Former Soviet Union, 10 from France, five from Spain, and the remaining 55 came from South Africa, Canada, England, Austria and other countries. • Both the Crusader city of Acco and the mountain fortress of Masada are now both officially listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites—the first sites in Israel to be listed. Inclusion on the list brings international recognition of a site's importance and ensures protection, preservation, and conservation. The three new locations now under consideration are: the Bauhaus buildings in Tel Aviv; the Biblical Tels including Hazor and Meggido; and the craters in the northern Negev. Thanks to Edgar Asher of ISRANET for helping the Jewish Press provide our readers with information about daily life in Israel—the real story—as well as hard news and breaking photo coverage of terrorist attacks, politics, the capture of arms and more.

BEHIND THE HEADLINES

AMD ALTHOUGH MAKJUCCAH

US

Militant Christianity?

by DANIEL PIPES —

Which of the world's largest faiths, Christianity or Islam, is experiencing the greater ideological reassertion and demographic surge? "Islam" is surely nearly everyone's answer. As American Christians experiment with ever-milder versions of their faith, Muslims display a fervor for extreme interpretations of Islam. As Europe suffers the lowest population growth rates ever recorded, Muslim countries have some of the highest. But, argues Philip Jenkins recently in the Atlantic Monthly, Islam is the wrong answer. He shows how Christianity is the religion currently undergoing the most basic rethinking and the largest increase in adherents. He makes a good case for its militancy most affecting the next century. "For obvious reasons," notes this professor of history and religious studies at Pennsylvania State University, "news reports today are filled with material about the influence of a resurgent and sometimes angry Islam. But in its variety and vitality, in its global reach, in its association with the world's fastest-growing societies, in its shifting centers of gravity, in the way its values and practices vary from place to place-in these and other ways it is Christianity that will leave the deepest mark on the 21st century."

What Jenkins dubs the "Christian revolution" is so little noted because Christians divide into two very different regions—North (Europe, North America, Australia) and South (South America, Africa, Asia)—and we who live in the North only dimly perceive the momentous developments underway in the South. Fortunately, Jenkins is there to guide us. Faith: The changes in the South "run utterly contrary" to those in the liberalizing North, where religious beliefs and practices are ever more removed from traditional Christianity. In the South, Protestant movements are mainly Evangelical or Pentecostal, while Roman Catholicism takes an orthodox cast. By Northern lights, the South's theology and moral teaching are "stalwartly traditional or even reactionary," what with their respect for the power of priests, their notions of spiritual charisma, their aspiration to direct spiritual revelation, their efforts to exorcise demonic forces, and their goal of re-creating a version of early Christianity. As "Southern Christians are reading the New Testament and taking it very seriously," increasing tensions then develop with the liberal Northerners. Demographics: "Christians are facing a shrinking population in the liberal West and a growing majority of

ffifc• JEWISH PRESS

the traditional Rest. During the past half century the critical centers of the Christian world have moved decisively to Africa, to Latin America, and to Asia. The balance will never shift back." The numbers are jaw-dropping: Nigeria already has more practicing Anglicans than any other country, with Uganda not far behind. The Philippines has more baptisms per year than France, Spain, Italy, and Poland together. By 2025, two thirds of all Christians (and three quarters of all Catholics) are expected to live in the South. (These numbers actually underestimate the contrast in growth rates, for many Southern Christians are relocating to the North. In London today, for example, half of all churchgoers are blacks.) If present trends continue, by 2050 the proportion of non-Latino whites among the world's Christians will fall to about one in five. Of course, the chasm between North and South is not complete (a fact that Jenkins hardly touches on); the United States, for example, contains substantial numbers of Christians with a "Southern" outlook. This said, the trends are clear: • Although Islam may appear to be the faith of choice for the world's poor, Christianity is faring at least as well

(Founded in 1920)

The role of the Jewish Federation of Omaha is to involve Jews in meeting Jewish communal needs locally, nationally and in Israel. Centers of Excellence of the Federation are: Community Relations, Jewish Community Center, Jewish Educational and Library Services, Jewish Family Service, Jewish Senior Services. The Jewish Press is a Constitutional Committee of the Jewish Federation of Omaha. ;•'" Deadline for copy^ads and photos is: Thursday, uo^ft, eight dayspr-ior to publicat£o». ••' . V-c" . "' ; • '

National Newspaper Association

- ; • ' .

-.

•••

- • • .

'

•"•

;

•

.. •

i . " " ^

•

•'•;-"•"

The Jewish Press (USPS 275620) is published weettyon Friday for.428 per calendar year U.S.; $32 foreign, by the Jewish Federation of Omaha. Phone: 402-334-6448; FAX: 402334-5422; e-mail editorial material, photos and address changes to: ckatzman@jewishomaha.org; send ads (in .TIF or .PDF format) to: rbusse@jewishomaha.org. Periodical postage paid at Omaha, NE. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The Jewish Press, 333 So. 132nd St., Omaha, NE 68154-2198. ' --.•-..

Fred Tichauer Chairman Carol Katzman Editor Richard Busse Creative Director Allan Handleman Advertising Manager Ray Pred Account Executive Timothy J . Ketelsen Bookkeeper Jen Gates Production Assistant George Schapirp Volunteer

among them. • Christianity is no longer predominantly a European and North American faith. • The experimentation and decline that pervades Northern Christianity is less important than it appears. 8 The concept of Christendom may re-emerge in the South, where political, social, and personal identities are being primarily defined by religious loyalties. 9 "An enormous rift seems inevitable" between North and South, possibly leading to a split in the Christian church, similar to what happened centuries ago between the Catholic Church and the Protestant movements. • Christianity and Islam are on a collision course, competing for converts and influence. Some countries "might be brought to ruin by the clash of jihad and crusade." To understand the future of Christianity, then, keep your eye on those Southern believers who reject the North's liberal outlook and who increasingly dominate the faith. Daniel Pipes is director of the Middle East Forum and author of Militant Islam Reaches America (W.W. Norton) and can be reached at: www.DanieIPipes.org.

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; Melanic Weinstein; Arnee Zetzman; George Schapiro (Honorary Committee Member). Editorials express the view*? the writerjanXl' art*, not. nee-'•< essarily repres&itatiye»pf the'.siews1.of th^'.^w^jShJ.Fyess Committee, the Jewish Federation of Oniaha d'r 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.


December 6, 2002 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

FOCUS ON ISSUES by SHARON BLOOME

Are We Waiting a

To the Editor: Your help is greatly needed for the following special volunteer program: The authority for the Civil Defense in Israel requests from Sar-El 80 volunteers a day for the next four months in order to prepare gas masks for the population. At present, we are sending them the maximum number we can, only 25, as there remains a need for work on other bases. As well as regular volunteers for our three-week program, we will also accept groups of 15 or more active executives and professionals for a one-week (Sunday through Thursday) commitment. These volunteers will be lodged in hotels, or perhaps at

the soldiers' recreation camp in Ashkelon, at the volunteer's expense. Sar-El will provide transportation. The workday hours may be extended at the request of the group. The registration fee is $80 per person. For these special workgroups, please be sure to coordinate the group arrival dates with us. In addition we have volunteer programs throughout the year Please look our website at: www.israelvolunteers.com. For Information, flights and air line tickets contact me at: laiTy@israeltour.coin. Larry Hitter Sar-El, New Jersey The National Project for Volunteers in Israel

Part-time . Adminstrative Assistant

"Speak Business?

Beth Israel Synagogue is seeking a friendly and efficient administrative assistant to fill a part-time position. 8:30 a m to 2:00 p.m., Monday-Friday. Contact Beth Cohen at 556-6288 or Bethlsrael @novia.net

Pulverente

Before yoweorje offers

you alcohol or other 4rugs, de^e what

MONUMENT (TO.

you are going

If only a bit of oil really could burn for eight days popularity of SUVs, among'the worst gas guzzlers. and nights-as it did when the Macabbees defeated We asked them to rapidly develop and implement the armies of Syria—we would hardly be in the technologies-some of which are ready for producpredicament that we find ourselves in today. tion—that can reduce global wanning pollution and It turns out that an abundance of oil could end help bring about global justice. up being more dangerous than a shortage. Why? At the same time, we have asked religious leaders The oil we burn is dangerously polluting our to reach out from their pulpits to the pews and planet. Not to mention sending big bucks to encourage their congregants to view buying a car as nations which sponsor terror and are distorting a moral choice. The message: don't check your faith American foreign policy. at the door when entering a dealership, understand As we celebrate Hanukkah, the miracle of the oil that the choices we make have consequences for all marks a stark contrast between our lives today and creation. We as Jews have an opportunity to be or those of our ancestors over two millennia ago. Oil I'goyim, a light unto the nations, to bring a new was then a coveted resource. Today we take it for awareness, and in turn, a new sense of responsibilgranted, burning it with abandon as we drive ity, to this often ignored issue. increasingly large vehicles. Why have we taken fuel economy standards into The latest figures on global warming show us our own hands? Because last March the Senate that it is the single biggest threat on earth. This watered down to nearly nothing what would have warming of our planet that will bring rising seas, been beneficial legislation to force automakers to droughts, floods, and migrating diseases is the increase the miles per gallon (mpg) of their cars. In result of greenhouse gas emissions. When we did- rejecting the revisions of the Corporate Average n't know that excessive burning of oil was warm- Fuel Economy (CAFE) Standards (the guidelines ing the planet, who could blame us? Now that we that set the miles-per-gallon level that a corporate know, continuing to do so is careless. Some would fleet of cars must meet), our Congress proved that it even argue criminal. It's clearly not the Jewish is incapable of making the right decision on this thing to do. issue. By virtue of our covenant with God, Jews are At a time of acute awareness about the dangers of charged with being stewards of creation. That's our dependence on oil, members of Congress yieldsomething people of virtually every faith believe. ed to the automakers' P.R. campaigns and lobbying Whether as Jews or as members of the community influence. Without a true grassroots movement to of faith groups, we have hardly proved our mettle. change public opinion, fuel economy will not get the Twenty-five percent of greenhouse gas emissions attention it requires, and we will continue to endancome from the United States (we only make up four ger the earth. percent of the world population). Further, 25 per- Improving vehicle fuel efficiency is an issue that cent of our enormous contribution comes from pas- demands our full attention. As a people that see senger vehicles. Plainly put, the cars we drive are God's earth as an inheritance to our children, we poisoning the planet, and it's time to do something run the risk of leaving them-and all the other chilabout it. dren on Earth—empty-handed. I can't think of anyThe Interfaith Climate and Energy Campaign, thing less in keeping with Jewish tradition than an alliance of Jewish and Christian religious lead- that. ers is working to right this wrong. Led by the The Maccabees had to fight against powerful Coalition on the Environment and Jewish Life forces to liberate the Temple. Today, we must (COEJL) and the National Council of Churches, muster a similar strength to work against powerful the campaign sent a coalition of religious leaders forces to liberate ourselves from reliance on oil—and to Detroit last week with an open letter to the Big the foreign powers that control it. Three automakers. As we wait for automakers to respond, we can look We traveled around town in a hybrid gasoline- at the eight days of Hanukkah as eight days to take electric cars (Toyota Priuses), owned and driven by action. While we commemorate a tiny bit of oil outnuns, in an effort to bring the moral imperative to lasting even the greatest expectations, we should increase fuel economy into the public eye. In meet- heighten our own awareness of how we can help ings with Bill Ford, Jr. and other executives at both make our own oil go further. Unfortunately we cannot rely on a miracle this Ford and General Motors we urged automakers to consider the environmental and geo-political effects time. Sharon Blootne is the Chairman of the of poor fuel economy (now at its lowest level since 1980). We talked about the ethics of their marketing Coalition on the Environment and Jewish Life strategies, which have led a dramatic rise in the (COEJL).

We provide technology solutions." • Specializing in networks • 20+ years of diagnostic experience.

Frank L Ciciulla Jr.

Having the facts can you

60 Years Experience With Jewish Lettering and Memorials

For wore i call

1439 So. 13th

341-2452

Residential Cleaning )\ Weekly • Biweekly Insured Free Estimates

VJB Enterprises Valerie * 492-2696 Support Israel ® Buy Made In Israel

Quality Crafted Jewelry Imported from Israel www.shirtal.com Oakview Mall - Lower Level Younker's Wing

On r? 7) (T ^

^

!lair jrir<

i

f

i. II • , V C'JI tkiii'4

Give your loved one the « . . Gift of Time and the Joy Of Compailionship

^Raditi^,

M

,,

•w-hupjmis; Vwii> * Sirdrtiiujr * n-mii 11< i

j^;!pf|£i^^:j»^

LAKESIDE, APARTMENTS

Rent starting at $615 Elevator Buildings Maintenance Free Living Heated Indoor Parking Paid Trash Pick-Up at Your Door One Mile Garden Walk Around the Lake Close to Shopping, Restaurants, and Professionals & Pacific

Tcrtintitagy support fur your buiinaSi

" "ir

Partners i«. <* *™* ^«-/ / '.>.,•,» - , , . . . . \',rl.

Contact Gary Cohen at 884-0030 for your free consultation.

Office: 834-0030 • Celt: 680-8740 • nepl@cox.net

Page 5


Page 6

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

December 6, 2002

HHMNHHNI

ORGANIZATION HADASSAH Y.E.S. The Omaha Chapter of the Women's Zionist Members will meet Monday at the JCC. Play Organization of America, invites the community to bingo at 10 a.m. with Eileen Remer or exercise with its post-Hanufckah tea, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2 p.m. at Stacey Paskert at 10:30 a.m. Bring articles to share the JCC. Cantor Emil Berkovits and Ritual for ""YES Talk" at 11 aan. Following lunch at noon, Director Gaston Bogomolni of Beth El Synagogue Volunteers Intervemng for Equity (V.I.E.) will preswill perform, accompanied by Esther Wax on the ent the "Stop Medicare Fraud and Waste." piano. In addition, Rose Gross will be honored for Participants will receive a free personal health care Her many years of generosity to Hadassah. journal. For transportation call Dee Dee at 330There is no charge for the program, but because 4272. For reservations for day trip to Bluffs Run refreshments will be served, please RSVP to Bette Casino on Dec. 19, call Maggie Conti at 334-6521. WALK-IN, DROP-IN Kozlen, 333-1621, or Esther Wax, 393-4442, by Dec. 12. For those members gong on the day trip to the Mormon Trail Center please meet at the JCC by OMAHA CENTER FOR TORAH LEARNING Rabbi Aryeh Blum leads a parasha shiur at the 9:45 a.m. OCTL House, 1313 No. 58 St., Saturday, Dec. 7, LOMIR REDN YIDDISH 3:15 p.m. At" 8 p.m., OCTL will host a "Family The Yiddish Conversation Group will meet on Night" featuring music, games, and delicious food. Thursday, 1 p.m. at the JCC. Call Anne Skolkin for There is no charge for this event, which is open to information at 343-1638. the entire comm unity. Torah Tots resumes with Shari Blum on Monday, UNL Distinguished Alum Dec. 9, 9:30 a.m.; Time for Talmud is with Rabbi Speaks t o Y.E.S. Blum on Monday, Dec. 9, 7 p.m.; learn at the Beis Midrash, Tuesday, Dec. 10, 7:30 p.m., all at the by MAGGIE CONTI, Older Adult Director, JSS OCTL house. The next Community Shabbat dinner is Friday, Dec. 20, 6 p.m. Cost is $15 for adults and $7.50 for children under age 10 (there is no charge for toddlers). For information about OCTL or to reserve for the Shabbat dinner, call Rabbi Blum, 320-8055. B'NAI B'RITH BREADBREAKERS Debbie Aliano will speak at Breadbreakers on Wednesday, Dec. 11, noon, at the Park Inn Regency, according to Madeline Aufseeser, Chairman. Aliano, is the General Manager of KVNO radio station on the UNO campus. Cost is $9 for lunch and $2 for beverage service only. Robin Abrams, center, daughter-in-law of Edith Breadbreakers is open to the community. Abrams, left, and niece of Reva Oruch spoke recently to the Young Energetic Seniors on VISIONS "Shared Experiences from Around the World." Reminder: Visions board meeting is Friday, Dec. Abrams was in Nebraska to receive an 13, 9:30 a.m. at the Blumkin Home. For those Honorary Masters from t h e University of members going on the escorted tour of "The Nebraska-Lincoln. She i s an attorney and has American Presidency: Inside the White House, on been the CEO of several high-tech companies Tuesday, Dec. 10, please meet at the Durham during the last 20 years. She and her family Western Heritage Museum at 9:45 a.m. have lived in. Asia and traveled the world.

IMMUNOLOGY

Qo*we*ue*U

f

and /id£tma Roger Kobayashij M.D. James Tracey, D.O. Brett J . Kettelhut, M.D. Lakeside HealthPark Westgate • Fremont Papillion •• Council Bluffs (402)391-1800

Gary Novotny

BRIONI 2ANELLA • ST. CRO1X • JHANE BARNES • HHDKEY FREEMAN « BURBERRY - IKE BEHAR

Owner/President

§|^^|f|||||^||^§f §|^^|f|||||||^

Allison Baker, daughter of Jeanatte (Reinglas) and Stephen G. Baker of Framingham, MA, has been initiated as a lifetime member to Phi Eta Sigma, National Collegiate Honor Society. Allison is a sophomore at Syracuse University in Syracuse, NY, majoring in Creative Advertising and Graphic Communications Design. She is the granddaughter of Lola Reinglas and the late Irving Reinglas. Sheldon and Jim Harris, partners in Harris, Feldman Law Offices, and Hauptman O'Brien, Wolf & Lathrop, PC, broke ground earlier this month for a two-story 24,000 square foot contemporary office complex. The two firms will share space in the building, just north of 108th and Pacific, designed by Mark Sanford.

' -' '

*

-e

-i

.

i

I

Attending t h e groundbreaking are: Ron Cizek, left, Mark Sanford, Sheldon Harris, Jim Harris, Gordon Hauptman, Dave Lathrop, Barbara Medbery, Matt Lathrop, Mark Alan Forehand, Tim O'Brien and Steve Lathrop. Harold M. Maurer, M.D., chancellor of the University of Nebraska Medical Center, has been named one of 12 members of the newly formed Biodefense Council of the Association of Academic Health Centers. Comprising current or former CEOs, the council also will examine how academic health centers are partici- § pating in the development and operation of defenses against bioterrorism and other defense-related threats.

Immediate Opening for Part-time Principal Friedel Jewish Academy M.Ed or M.Ed Admin and 5 years teaching experience required. Inquires, contact Margo Riekes, Chairperson 391-7612 #311 or 333-8498 Send resumes to: Margo Riekes, FJA 335 South 132 Street Omaha, NE 68154

LAKESIDE HILLS

Residential Mortgage

Luxury Apartment Homes 1 Bedroom $895 • 2 Bedrooms $1100 Heated Garage w/ remote 9' Ceilings/ Crown Molding Gourmet Kitchen Controlled Access Entries Elevator Service Fireplace 7,000-sq.-ft. Clubhouse Terrific Workout Area and Pool Walking distance to new Baker's Store, Super Target, restaurants, banks, medical and wellness center and many more shops. Oak View Mall only five minutes

Professionally managed by Vacanti & Randazzo Companies

Take advantage of today's • low mortgage rates! >TM

Cleaning Senriees • • * • •

Homes Apartments Hallways Clubhouse Move In's/Out's

• • • •

Special Occasions Hourly Rates Available Offices Fully Insured & Bonded

Fast, Affordable and Reliable Service Free Estimates Over 15 Years ist the Business Locally Owned Gift Certificates Available Call Julie Dolan, Owner • 733-5570

8

Consolidate Debts

e We'll make getting your mortgage "pointless." • Apply for your mortgage and check rates at: www.residentialmortgages.com


December 6, 2002 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

THEFRIEDEL

Academy Reaches Out with Visitation Week, Survey by DIANE AXLER BAUM-

The Board and parents of Friedel have come to recognize that a single '"open house" evening cannot meet the needs of today's busy families. To assure that all interested members of the community have an opportunity to see what the Academy offers, we are designating Jan. 27-31, 2003, as "Friedel in Action Week." During these five days, individual families or small groups of families will be able to tour and visit byappointment. Parents and children will have a chance to observe the general studies classrooms and to enter the world of Tal Am, where Friedel students are learning fluent Hebrew according to the method of total language immersion. If their schedules permit, visitors will be able to join our students for lunch, including prayer before and after the meal, and to share the fun and creativity that fills the Art Room. Can't wait? Then, call or e-mail for more information: 334-0517, or jewishacademy<§>jewishomaha.org. * * * The Academy is involved in another outreach project, and for this we ask your help. We are eager to find out

how our entire community feels about Jewish Day Schools in general, and about Friedel Jewish Academy in particular. We seek the opinions of all, not only parents whose children are elementary-school age. In this issue of the Jewish Press you will find a short survey in the form of a self-mailer for your convenience. Please take a few minutes to fill out this survey, and send it back as soon as you can. We thank you, in advance, for your cooperation. Our faculty and staff take pride in educating the heart and the intellect of every child in the school. Indeed, we live our basic Jewish values in all that we do. It's been said, and rightly so, that "Friedel makes menschen." One of the many ways we carry out deeds of loving kindness takes place on a monthly basis, when we walk to the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home to celebrate Shabbat with the residents. We light the candles, say the blessings, and give of ourselves by joining the residents for lunch. Young and old alike benefit from the warm relationships we're forging.

Be a role model; the person you want your kid to be. What stronger antklmg message is there?

Home Delivery,

For mere information caii: 1-8O064&4444 h ' i k

metro area:

The New Rabbi

•HHlii that specializes in home delivery!

call

733-3216

A FREE Sendee Advising Seniors of Independent living Facilrties In the Metro Area Calf Bill Williams at

77BSBO2

illiams Consulting, Inc.

Category

One Shop now for the Holidays Ask about our Holiday Gift Registry

Holida FREE Gift Wrap

Friedel students Audrey Gerber, dlelighting and lunch with Babe left, Alyssa Gerber, and Lilly Dobrofsky, longtime Blumkin Phillips sit down for Shabbat can- Home resident.

GOWBERG

PHARMACIST For

Page 7

Accessories for good living

Gourmet Items Include: All Clad'Wusthof BakeCookwatB • Gfassivare Linens * Dinnerware Bar& Wine Accessories PLUS Coffees & Teas Jams & Jellies • Sauces Mustards • Breads • Salsas Bridal Registry Available

too much to do... too Little time...

NORMS

let us take care of the details

GARAGE DOOR SPECIALISTS

10-9 10-8 10-6 12-6

{2 blocks south of Dodge)

WHY NOT DO IT THE EASY WAY?

mm SERVICE

M-Th Fri Sat Sun

•personal gift shopping •custom gift wrap •pick up and delivery

20OPF I Holiday Gift | j Baskets j i

!

i

Baskets over $25

• i I Valid with coupon through 12124/02. •

ifiii

P

' 1 11

•Over 25 Years (Continued from page 1) < Experience Fried looks forward to speaking to Pennsylvania, he said he mentored SALES AND SERVICE • Installation COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL this Jewish community, answering there with the late writer Nora Parts & Repairs RESIDENTIAL \ questions, and meeting Omaha's rab- Magid. Currently, he is preparing new 9 Custom Work bis, old and new. "I want to thank book proposals and teaching at the e Sandblast Designs them" (for doing the work they do), he Columbia University School of 6200 South 90TH St. Visit Our Showroom said. His appearance on Dec. 15, part Journalism in New York City. He at 90th & Washington Craft of the Jewish Book Fair sponsored by lives in Philadelphia with his wife, Omaha, Nebraska Shower Doors the Kripke Jewish Federation author Diane Ayres. presentations custom gift wrap & delivery Library, will be followed by a recepFive days prior to the lecture, the 778-9596 402/331-8920 tion in the JCC Gallery. While annual Community Luncheon, on 402.672.2357 13237 BSt •Omaha, NE refreshments are served, the author Wednesday, Dec. 11, noon, will also will be available for informal chat and take place at the JCC. Francine book signing. Klagsbrun will keynote the event with a Beth Israel Synagogue For more than 20 years, Fried has talk on her new book, The Fourth invites yon to a made an award-winning career of going Commandment: Remember the Sabbath behind the scenes to provide insight. In Day. Cost of the luncheon is $12. "Traditional Family Nadine Kutner, library chair, two earlier books, Thing of Beauty: The Shabbat Dinner Tragedy of Supermodel Gia and Bitter emphasized that men as well as Pills, he revealed, respectively, the dark women are invited to attend both proFriday, December 13 side of the modeling industry and the grams. "While you're here, visit the dangers of adverse reactions to pre- Book Fair, where new and used books 6:00 p.m. at the JCC wasmmr\^& for every member of the family are on scription drugs. He was a reporter and editor at display and sale," she pointed out. Philadelphia Magazine. His writing "They make the best Hanukkah gifts." Kabbalat Shabbat services will be at 4:30 at the JCC. also appears in Vanity Fair, The For luncheon reservations or more Washington Post Magazine, Glamour information, please contact the and GQ. Federation Library, at 334-6461, or A graduate of the University of jewishlibrary^jewishomaha.org. Gefilte fish, matzo ball soup, roasted chicken, oh, my!

Greenblatt & Seay's Schoolhouse Performance Series features a concert by "7 Straight Mondays" in the Old Avoca Nebraska Schoolhouse on Sunday, Dec. 8, 2:30 p.m. Admission is $4 for adults, and $1 for children and students. For more information, call 402-275-3221, or e-mail: g-s@alltel.net.

"The Impolite Science of the Human Body" opens Dec. 14 at the Omaha Children's Museum with a book signing by James Solheirn, author of It's Disgusting-and We Ate. It! The exhibit uses sophisticated animatronics and imaginative exhibits to explain bodily functions.For more information, call OCM at: 342-6164.

!

This dinner is free to guests of Beth Israel Synagogue. Cost for synagogue members is $12 for adults, and free for children. Reservations appreciated. 556-6288 or Bethlsrael@novia.net Beth Israel Synagogue, affiliated with the Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America, strives ID perpetuate the legacy of Torah Judaism in the modem world. Beth Israel welcomes all persons of the Jewish faiih ID join.


Page 8

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

December 6, 2002

A Different Outlook on Life by Emily Sternberg simple fact, in itself, has taught me a lot All my iife I *?" about myself and others.' have wanted I expected to make a difference in the to d o somechildren's lives but the opposite happened. thing pheThe Ethiopian children made a lasting nomenai, imprint on my life. Their enthusiasm to such as learn, have fun, and just be normal children change the was contagious. Whenever 1 was around world or them, 1 couldn't help smiling. Even though make a differtheir lives are tremendously difficult as a ence in peoresult of migrating to a foreign country ple's lives. where nothing was guaranteed, their posiOne of the tive outlook on life never faltered. most challenging, yet memorable experiDuring the short period of time I spent ences of my life was volunteering with with these children I learned many valuEthiopian children while I was Israel. Two by.Becky Stemberg â&#x20AC;˘ summers ago, I had the opportunity to go able lessons, one of which is, 1 shouldn't Some people say that to Israel for a month, which presented to take things for granted. I am very fortunate Disney World is the happime many activities and placed me in many to have all of the opportunities and mateest place on. earth. I feel situations that I wouldn't have participat- rial possessions that I do. sorry for those people; they They also taught me that I should use the ed in otherwise. My group, JMAX, had have never experienced the opportunity to be able t o work with things that I am privileged to own and share true happiness, the happiEthiopian children and I jumped at it. I them with others. What good would it do ness that one can only was interested to see how children would if someone has all the money in the world experience at a place as react and adapt to other people and their and no one to share it with? People need magical as Camp Rainbow. to help others. People have to help others. cultures through fun games and activities. Camp Rainbow is a sumIt is the only way Fulfilling my oblimer camp for kids with canthat the world is gation in regards to cer and/or blood disorders; ever going to the children was the Camp is purely funded change. Someone much more diffiby volunteers so the can make a impact cult than I initially campers d o not have t o on other people's expected. The Becky with her camper, Brett. pay for anything. For one lives, just like the Ethiopian children d i d I sometimes need his help keeping my week a year Babler State Park, a park just Ethiopian children had recently behavior in line but sometimes he needed outside of the city limits of St. Louis, did to me. moved to Israel, so my help as well. This allowed me to work Missouri, is converted into the happiest I know that whattheir knowledge of on helping him by helping to keep him place on earth. ever] end up doing the Hebrew lanbehaving in a way that portrayed him in This past summer 1 was lucky enoush to the positive light. I think that if I am able to with my life will guage was very experience that place for myself. Camp take care of a young child for as long as I covered in the 'ther- c h a n g e the world, limited. Similarly, I E m i ( y a n d n e r helped me to become a better person; did and still come out smiling, there is not don't know a lot of apeutic' mud at theDead Sea. because I will conhelped me understand people better,- much that I can't handle with a smile. My Hebrew either. Due to our lack of a com- tinue to make a difference in people's helped me to see what needs to b e parenting experience 'also caused me t o mon language, w e had to communicate in lives and the world by caring about them. done in our world. other ways. realize that think I am definitely a dependMy experience of being a surrogate par- able person because without dependI was able to "tell" the children what was Emily is a senior at Millard West High ent for one ten-year-old boy has enabled ability I never could have trusted myself to happening by using different gestures and School, a member of Temple Israel and OTYG. She has applied to University of me to realize my potential more fully. I take care of Brett as well as I d i d . movements. I was able to communicate Kansas at Lawrence (for which this essay was not the perfect role model at times, to others in a way I never knew was possiAfter working for nine days at Camp was written), University of Minnesota in and when 1 was doing less than my best, Rainbow, I can see the problems that ble. I could affect people's lives without Minneapolis, UNL, Augustana in Sioux Falls, there were always people there to help need to be solved, not only within myself verbally communicating with them. This SD, and University of Missouri, Columbia. me get back on track. I always tried to d o and others, but within society as a whole better the next time and all in all I think I as well. This ability has allowed me t o did a good job. I worked to set good realize that one of the main problems our examples and to show Brett only the most society faces is people sitting around and admirable qualities I could. complaining about how things aren't as Children are like sponges and whatever good as they used to be. That in and of Explore Spend this summer in they see done, they will mimic in their itself though is a major part of the probYour Jewish Roots Hungary exploring your behavior, so I was extra careful not to let lem: nothing is gained by complaining. I In preparation for the Jewish roots and meethim see me do anything that I would mind think that it is an important attribute of my trip, Fellows explore ing Jewish students from seeing him do. ability to serve that not only d o I see probtheir own family history around the world... I learned that when you have another lems in our society; but I can see a possiand genealogy, turning Every summer, 2000 human. relying on you to see that their ble solution to them as well. the experience into a Jewish teenagers from even/ need is fulfilled, there isn't much I am happy to go out and make a differpersonal journey. The over twenty countries margin for error. I learned how to manage ence in the lives of others. If I didn't enjoy program includes guidcome together to explore my time and how to put my needs second giving myself, I never would have been ed tours of Jewish hertheir Jewish roots and celto someone else's. At first, this was very able to tell myself that it wasn't always itage sites in different ebrate Jewish life at the difficult, but after I got a feeling for what I about what I wanted, that there was cities in Hungary. The Lauder/JDC International was doing, I wouldn't have traded this someone else out there depending on me Jewish Summer Camp in Fellows also study the experience for anything. to make the right choices for his sake as Szarvas, Hungary. The Rachel Katzman, 2002 Alum language and geography My experience at Camp has helped to well as mine. of the different countries Szarvas Fellowships promake me become more aware of the It has been a good 1 six months since North represented at the camp. gram provides 60 exceptional needs of others. Becoming aware of othCamp ended and I can still see Brett's American high school students with this Eligibility and Applications ers wants and needs is one of the hardest smiling face when I close my eyes. To this opportunity of a lifetime. The program is open to North American parts of leadership to learn because it is day I an still feel the impact that he had on Meet Jews from all over the world... high school students from all Jewish culthe one that we are taught the least about. my life, and how it is always better to run Since it opened in 1990, the camp has tural and religious backgrounds. It is We are socialized only in the ways of our to places, take a detour and still get there welcomed Jewish kids from more than 25 intended for those who will be completfamilies and of our cultures,- therefore, on time, and of course with a smile. countries, including India, France, Turkey, ing 10th or 11th grade this year. The prolearning to work with people from differCanada, Russia, Ethiopia, Austria, Romania, gram is kosher and Shomer Shabbat. ent walks of life and different social class- Becky is a senior at Mlllard West High and Israel. Szarvas Fellows pursue an Applications are due February 15th, 2003. es can sometimes pose a very daunting School, a member of Temple Israel and intensive two-week exploration of the his- For more information or to apply, visit task. I feel that learning this skill early is OTYG. She has applied to University of tory and iife of Jewish communities in dif- www.szarvas.org, which includes picone of the beneficial things for a young Kansas at Lawrence (for which this essay ferent parts of the world. In the warm, tures, press articles, videos, application was written), Kansas State University, leader can hope for. beautiful camp setting, they meet their forms, and more. The experiences t gained from working Northwest Missouri State and the University The Szarvas Fellowships are adminispeers from the different countries, make of Missouri, Columbia. with my camper showed me that not only lifelong friends, and personally engage in tered by The Ronald S. Lauder Foundation, the challenges facing Jewish communities in cooperation with the American Jewish §|i||f|e^^ Joint Distribution Committee. around the world today.

Specidl College Essdy Issue

Camp Rainbow^* The Happiest Place on Earth

THE INTERNATIONAL SUMMER EXPERIENCE Szarvas Fellowships

2 WEEKS . 20 COUNTRIES . 2,000 JEWISH KIDS WWW.SZARVAS.ORG


December 6, 2002

Project Dreidel ( C o n t i n u e d from p a g e 1) ••-» -—• •«—-»—— were down to their last few dollars, H u g h w a s offered $500 to help finance their move. It was a generous a good job in Denver. H e h a d to s t a r t w o r k right gift, but it wasn't enough for the move. away, b u t S a r a h couldn't leave Minneapolis because The next day, Karen told Jewish Family Service Director Steve Stiel about her friend and their situof the baby's health. Now she w a s utterly alone.

She was going to have to pack up the apartment herself, but how would they get their belongings from Minneapolis to Denver? Hugh couldn't even afford to come back on weekends. In between caring for Noah and numerous doctors' appointments, Sarah was somehow able to pack up their things...but now what? They were hoping to leave Minneapolis to join Hugh in Denver in just a few weeks and there was no money to hire a moving company. Just before Thanksgiving, when Sarah was at her lowest, she got a call from Karen Gustafson, a friend of hers from Omaha. Karen also just happens to be a therapist for Jewish Family Service. When Karen asked how Noah and she were holding out, Sarah explained that they were essentially stranded in Minneapolis until Noah was stable enough to endure the move. As soon as they hung up, Karen called Jewish Family and Children's Services in Minneapolis. They were able to give Sarah and Hugh

ation. JFS was able to provide the rest of the money for their move. Sarah and the baby will join Hugh in Denver in a few weeks. Sarah and Hugh were overwhelmed by the generosity of Jewish Family Service in Omaha as well as in Minneapolis. But Karen was still worried about the two weeks Sarah and the baby would be spending alone in Minneapolis before they moved, especially during Thanksgiving and Hanukkah. Karen also correctly guessed that buying and preparing a holiday meal was out of the question since all of Sarah's energy was focused on the move and Noah. So Karen spent one Sunday searching out a restaurant in Minneapolis that would deliver a Thanksgiving dinner to Sarah's apartment. It wasn't the same as being together as a family, but Sarah will always remember how grateful she and Hugh felt for the all the compassion they were shown by Jewish community members in both Minneapolis and Omaha.

Tuesday "Lunch and Learn" Will Resume In January by JEWISH PRESS News Service

™_

The popular Tuesday "Lunch and Learn" series, which features discussion about current issues facing Israel and the Jewish world will not meet in December but will resume on J a n . 14, noon, in the Kripke Library. The Lunch and Learn series is sponsored by Jewish Educational and Library Services, The College of Jewish Learning, the Anti-

defamation League and the Kripke Library. The discussions are facilitated by ADL Director Bob Wolfson, UNO Judaic Studies Professor Guy Matalon and UNO Department of History Professor Moshe Gershovich. For more information, contact Harris Finkelstein, Kripke Library Director, at 3346461.

Young Israeli Musicians To Perform by JEWISH PRESS News Service

A special performance by the Mateh-Asher Cello Quartet and Vocal Ensemble, a group of talented young musicians from Israel, will be held Thursday, Dec. 12, 7 p.m. in the Jewish

Community Center Theater. The performance is free and open to the entire community. For more information, please contact Kathy McGauvran at the Jewish Federation of Omaha, 334-6429.

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

B5nai B'rith Bible Quiz to Have Big Turnout by LOIS EPSTEIN

—

Twenty-eight Omaha area teens have signed up to compete in the 17th Annual Edward Zorinsky B'nai B'rith Bible Quiz. "This is the biggest contestant list ever," said Steve Riekes, a Trustee of Henry Monsky Lodge. "It's a lively contest and is open to the public." The Bible Quiz is slated for Wednesday, December 11, 7 p.m. at the Jewish Community Center. The contest is specifically designed for Jewish high school students in Omaha. This year, it will test the teens' familiarity with portions of the Books of Genesis and Jonah. The Lodge will award first, second and third place scholarship money for use at college or a Jewish camp. For the second year, at the conclusion of the contest, the Lodge will give out a $10 cash prize to all participants who answer three questions correctly. The winner will receive $25. There is no charge to attend. Quiz committee members Gloria Kalsow and Stan Mitchell prepared the questions for the contest. Members of the Omaha Board of Rabbis will lend their expertise as judges, along with Dr. Leonard Greenspoon, the Klutznick Professor of Jewish Civilization at Creighton University. Participants include: Nathan Fineman, Adam Gendelman, Ben Gerber, Trevor Gerson, Keith Graul, Josh Grossman, Sarah Grossman, Stephanie Lehman, Steve Lercher, Sarah linn, Dan Morris, Robert Mosenkis, Sara Munzesheimer, Aron Neesman, Joel Passer, Kym Pitlor, Alex Raskin, Naomi Rennard, Jason Rich, Alex Salkin, Amy Saylan, Emily Sternberg .Rebecca Sternberg, Josh Sweet, Shiri Tene, Adam Trubnikov, Gal Tsabari, and Alex Wolf.

At Creighton, you can expect challenges, opportunities, personal attention and success. Expect to receive an excellent education through rigorous academics and motivation in a values-centered environment. Expect to push beyond your limits and exceed your expectations in all areas of your life—in mind, body and spirit. Creighton offers students: H Over 50 undergraduate majors in the College of Arts and Sciences, College of Business Administration, and School of Nursing H Graduate School and professional programs in Medical, Dental, Law, Pharmacy and Allied Health Professions (Physical and Occupational Therapy) m Extensive Study Abroad opportunities B Internships-for-Credit • Leadership Program in the College of Business Administration m Direct Entry for freshmen into the School of Nursing U.S. News "and World Report has ranked Creighton the Midwest's #1 Regional University for the fifth year in a row!

^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^

Page 9

CREIGHTON UNIVERSITY


Page 10

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

December 6, 2002

Introdudng—MichaelSilverman For aUyour catering needs

We cater parties big and small M

• Bar Mitzvahs * Wedding Receptions • • Fund Raisers • Corporate • Barbeques •

.s.

For your next event call Bassam Abou-Nasr "Sam"

402/208-9809

o

When people mention Jack & Mary's, they're talking

Chicken! JACKS' RESTAURANT

Lunch and Steaks • Seafood Dinner Chicken Old Mill Shopping Center 108th & Dodge 496-2090

When you patronize these fine establishments, tell them you saw their ad in the Jewish Press. Teach Y01*1 kids it's easier to never start. It's up to you to provide the information they need to say no to drugs.

1-800-648-4444

You are the most powerful Influence In your child's dally life. Kidsv/ho learn from their parents or care-givers about the risks of drugs are: • 36% less likely to smoke marijuana than kids who don't • 50% less likely to use inhalants • 56% Sess fikely to use cocaine • 65% less likely to use LSD

For more information call:

1-800-648-4444 ?, http://vvww.prevlinlcorg

1EIJING GATE The finest Chinese cuisine in Omaha 2859 South 168 Street 778-9322 • Fax 778-9515

imnnHTraramnB!^^ * ¥eurUfe! \ «

Come chne with us in a quiet, elegant atmosphere.

"Big portions of wood fired, friendly food that's a Little spicy, somewhat saucy and full of robust flavors/' Sunday-Thursday 11 a.m.-lO p.m. Friday-Saturday 11 a . m . - l l p.m.

y

646 North 114th Street • 49B-0804

J

(Continued from page 1) —•"••""-—— JP: The Fairfteld Home in the good nursing homes. Connecticut has a national reputaEven the report just issued by Tommy tion. Tell us about it. Thompson, head of the Department of MS: Dennis Magid, who just Health and Human Services, can be retired, was my mentor. He was the . misleading. For example, it noted that first and only CEO of that institution the Blumkin Home had a 2% reporting for 30 years. It's a large facility with of residents using restraints. The clas600 full-time and part-time staff. sification is misleading, as we utilize a He taught me patience, understand- number of devices that do enable resiing different opinions and needs, and dents to move freely throughout the listening. For example, he'd walk facility. Unfortunately, some are classidown the halls and not only greet fied as restraints. every employee by name, but every JP: What other proactive steps are resident and every volunteer. I you taking at the Home-or in the comthought I had a decent memory until munity outreach services-to improve I met him! the delivery of services to the elderly of It doesn't sound like a big deal, until our community'? you realize how many CEOs of large MS: Proactive is definitely the institutions can't or don't do that. The approach. We want to stay ahead of end result is that each person feels spe- the curve—that's why I issued that cial, and their individual contributions report about conditions at the Home to the organization are important. prior to Thompson's visit to Omaha— From Dennis I also learned to get as to let our community know we're much input into a decision as I can. aware of the report and are here to That way there's support from the staff, answer any questions they may have board of directors and families of resi- about the statistics and percentages. dents. He loved to share information And, of course, the community has and I've found people make better deci- heard that we are investigating the sions when they have all the informa- possibility of building an ALF or doing tion they need to deliberate. some remodeling here at the Home. JP: So what trends do you see in We've brought in a number of local nursing home care, government poli- and national nursing home architects cies, changes in Medicare and and designers to make presentations. Medicaid that will affect the Rose No decisions have been made yet, but Blumkin Jewish Home? we heard some unique design concepts. MS: The trend is towards more resiOur board indicated they've really dential style housing or care. Twenty enjoyed the process and got an educayears ago, when the Blumkin Home was tion. The presentations took a lot of built, the formal Assisted Living their time-each presentation was a Facilities (ALF) model didn't exist. ALF half a day—but this community knows have replaced the old Intermediate Care what it wants—the finest services and level of nursing homes, where residents the best nursing home the Jewish require minimal care and support, but seniors in our community. have the comfort of knowing their- medLook at what you can do to raise the ical needs and personal security are level of awareness of trends in nursing overseen, by qualified professionals. home care without spending a dime! Today, assisted living facilities are For now, we're making an effort to attractive options for seniors as they spruce up the current facility in many also allow residents to age in place for ways. One, in particular, is through some time until they exceed the care- our photo project. We've asked memgiving expertise of the facility. That is bers of the community to submit phowhere nursing homes like the tos (and negatives, if possible) of landBlumkin Home fit in. scapes, birds and animals, scenes of Adjusting to an assisted living facil- Israel, and the like that we can ity is difficult enough. When leaving enlarge to a standard size and then a traditional home after raising a rotate throughout the Home. family and spending decades in familThis project serves two purposes: iar surroundings, relocating to an the residents see an ever-changing ALF is hard on many, and ultimately visual display that may evoke memoan additional transition to a long- ries and stimulate their senses—and term care facility is even harder. the people who donate the photos may That's too many adjustments to come to the Home more often to '"visit" expect the elderly-and their families- them! The donors, just by being in the -to make. They get comfortable and Home, provide another level of stimudon't want to leave. And most ALFs lus for the residents. have a majority of their residents in JP: Have your expectations of life in private-pay, which means assets can ' Omaha—and the job as Executive be exhausted within a very short Director of JSS--been met? time, and then the ALF can ask the MS: The staff of the Home is excelresident to leave! lent. When I toured several months So here they are, savings gone, and ago, I noticed they listened to the resthey need skilled care. Of course, the idents and literally touched them. I'm Blumkin Home supports the Jewish very impressed with the board's elderly in our community, regardless of knowledge of the nursing home industheir ability to pay. State and federal try. That's very unusual. financial support for nursing home resI'm hoping the Federation and its idents is consistently under scrutiny Newcomers and Planning and and reimbursement rates in many care Evaluation Committees will identify categories barely cover expenses —and ways of making Omaha attractive to some not at all. The future of reim- Jews in other communities. bursement programs are continually Mi mi's busy with, our two young discussed by legislators, and the uncer- sons, but she's taking the Melton tainty of future support pushes non- classes and works out regularly at the profit providers-to build endowments. JCC's Fitness Center. We must do all we can to ensure we can Both sets of relatives have visited--, provide the best for our Jewish seniors. and they're impressed with the comThere's another issue—nursing homes munity. The shopping's been a pleasget a lot of *bad press.1 You always read ant surprise here—and we've even about the institutions where there's learned about tornados! abuse or neglect. You don't hear about Now, we're just waiting to experithe wonderful level of care provided by ence winter in Nebraska!


December 6, 2002 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 11

Children,, Adults Get Ready for Hanukkah by JEWISH PRESS News Service •

The Hanukkah Menorah

Still Flickers Irs Council Bluffs: Part n

Beth Israel welcomed Hanukkah early this year with a dinner and entertainment at the synagogue. Photos from top left: Donald Gerber, right, joined Rabbi Howard Kutner and Shirley Goodman (not pictured) in a musical sing-along. Top right: Sandy Kohll,

chairman, left, and her husband Marvin, was assisted by Janet Kohll, Children's Games' chairman, and Shirley Goodman, Storytelling Chairman. Bottom right: even the babies had fun! Beth Cohen, left, holds her daughter, Zoe, while Maggie Gerber holds Jack Kohll.

Greighton Scholar to Speak at BELLS Luncheon by OZZIE NOGG

;

•

Dr. Terry D. Clark, a professor of political science and director of the graduate program in international relations at Creighton University, will be the guest speaker at the Saturday, Dec.14 BELLS-Beth El Lunch & Learn on Shabbat. Dr. Clark 's topic is: "The War on Terror From A Holistic Perspective." Dr. Clark received his B.S. from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1973, his M.A. from both the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 1988 and the University of Oklahoma in 1986, and his PhD. from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 1992. A specialist in comparative politics and international relations, Dr. Clark has been instrumental in developing Creighton's exchange program with universities in Eastern Europe and is the faculty leader for its Summer Study Abroad in Lithuania. An active scholar who has published three books and numerous articles in major journals devoted to the study of post-communist Europe, Dr. Clark's research interests include the development of democratic institutions and the evolution of public opinion supporting such institutions in Lithuania and Russia.

;

'

by OLIVER B. POLLAK — — It was a confident Jewish community. Council Bluffs Hadassah produced a wonderful kosher cookbook in the early 1950s that revealed the Jewish community a significant component of the Council Bluffs economy. The congregation produced The Golden Book of B'nai Israel, 1904-1954 to commemorate its 50th anniversary, David Korb "was the rabbi and Allen Stearns, the cantor. The synagogue expanded in the early 1960s to include an educational wing. A Jewish Community Center opened at 244 So. Eighth Street. B'nai B'rith and AZA were active. The names Tepperman, Gallner and Telpner were synonymous with Jewish leadership in Council Bluffs. I wrote in 1983 that Jewish "organized religious life in Council Bluffs hovers on the brink of extinction." My prediction was premature. A score of years later due to the valiant and loving efforts of Dr. Jerome Bleicher, Allen Kurland, and their supporters, the Hanukkah Menorah still flickers on Mynster Street. While Friday night services barely eke out a minyan, the High Holy Days may see 45 in the pews, including three generations of the same family joining with other nostalgic coreligionists. The names on the Bronze Memorial echo over 100 years of Jewish vitality. The 72-year presence of Hadassah ended in May 2002. Maynard S. Telpner, attorney and mayor of Council Bluffs in 1963, contributed "Is Council Bluffs Jewry a Disappearing Act?" to the Ramsey and Shrier volume. Maynard reports that B'nai Israel served 175 families in 1950. There was as many as 135 Jewish-owned businesses. Maynard and his wife, Sally, moved in 2002 to Ashland, OR, to be closer to the children and grandchildren. Ramsey and Shrier quote Dr. Allen Kurland, somewhat younger that Maynard Telpner, stating, ~ "B'nai Israel will survive. It is the last Jewish institution in Southwest Iowa, and it won't die. We won't allow that to happen." The force of tradition, the nostalgia for Council Bluffs roots, the cemetery and yahrzeit, and a dramatic local economy may refresh B'nai Israel's mortar and membership. (Thank you again Harold, a strong supporter of B'nai Israel, for bringing this very new book about the olden days to our attention.)

His scholarship has won him considerable recognition, including major research grants from the Fulbright Committee, the MacArthur Foundation and the Kennan Institute. His most recent grant, a Fulbright Lecturing Award, took him to Lithuania for the 19992000 academic year. Some of the courses taught by Dr. include Dr. Terry D. Clark Russian government, politics and foreign policy, comparative politics, international regimes and international relations. He has been recognized for outstanding teaching by both the Creighton College of Arts and Sciences and the University of Illinois. The BELLS session begins immediately after Shabbat morning services and Kiddush and will finish no later than 2 p.m. Lunch costs $8 for adults, $5 for students under 12, and is available by advance reservation only. Free babysitting from Oliver B. Pollak can be reached at: OBPOM12:45-1:45 p.m. is also available by reservation. NI@aoI.com. 8

Northern Indian Tandoori Cuisine • Regional Specialties 9 Vegetarian Favorites • Lunch & Dfaner

JIM a JENN§ES GREEK VILLAGE Greek Gyros «Stej Phillies • Burgers

#1 Food hi the Midwest 4409 Dodge Street • 553-3326

•

Jade Garden Chinese Restaurant CARRY OUT AVAILABLE

498-8833 Beer and Wine Avedlable

2068 N. 117 Ave.

D,

• • • • • 4

Roast Lamb Fish Plaki Stuffed Grape Leaves Chicken Reganato Souviaki Mousaka

4-Saganaki. • Spanakopita • Lamb Kabob •' Chicken Kabob • Seafood Specialties • Fuli Bar

TAKE-OUT Mil CATERING 3026 No, 90th St • 571-2857

Open 7 Days a Week

North Park (117th SBIondo) M-Th: 11-9:30 • Fri & Sat 11-10:30«Sun. 13-9:30

Traditional Greek Dishes

•

lOlOHowaidSt'OldMafe-3424856

E L ALAMO "Best Mexican Food"

"TUBvsb Nachos • Guacamole • Tacos • Fajitas Burriios • Shrimp • Enchiladas Combination Dinners Carnitas • Tbstadas Tamales • Arroz Con Polio * Machaca MEXICAN BEER Corona • XX • Bohemia. • Tecate • Carta Blanca Open for Lunch and Dinner 11 a.m.-9 p.m. i OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 4917 South 24th St. « 731-8969

Steaks • Prime Rib • Chicken Pasta • Burgers • Salads • Fresh fish

Location:

West Dodge & Boys Town Omaha, NE 402/431 -0023 ToGo Available -All Major Credit Cards Accepted


Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 12

December 6, 2002

If the Spirit Moves You

mm m

by JILL BELMONT — If you think you have to go to your One does not have to be in t h e syna- public's heightened search for spirituplace of worship to find spirituality, gogue or temple to experience spiritu- ality. "People are getting back to the basics, check out. Andi Willensky's house on ality, Levin said; rather, it can b e Tuesday, Dec. 10, 10 a.m. and 7 found in nature, in seeing a baby coming back to hearth and home, bringp.m. Spirituality, its.' ' hi-ing born, in comforting a ing back worship and lookmeanings and manifesta•'(.'•\ing child. "There a r e ing for some special base tions, will be the subject of • .i^.ay different ways to find within their lives," said the day as Willensky hosts' ' Kutner, wife of Beth Israel w ,.-1 lirituality, many places, "'Kindred Spirits," the' riiiiny times," s h e said, Synagogue's Rabbi Howard final "90-Minute House : - •. ' . .uiding, "spirituality i s Kutner. The Jewish faith is : i Party" presented by the I •t , ' :vc-i'.ing, b u t you have t o "something of beauty," she ; ; Jewish Federation | • .'" , . allow yourself to feel it." noted, and "whether we / ,i To Shani Katzman, wife were born into it or chose it, Women's Campaign. '.. •:."•' : ')f Chabad House's Rabbi we need to explore it. We i The party to be held at [ ' \ '". ' '_ •.-,-' i Mi'ndel Katzman, women's have a tremendous spirit I 16299 California St., at 10 ' a.m. and 7 p.m. (to accom- „ . _ , spirituality is natural a n d within ourselves, and we T 1 B e t s v , sched, , S u s i F r y d m a n L e v m . , ... . , have to draw it out and Biodate everyone's mi „ „-.!.„ •>intuitive. There is a real build on it." ules), will ™ be led»by ourJ local rabbis' Spirituality and mitzvot are closely wives, including Susi Frydman Levin, palpable desire for spirituality that Elyce Azriel, Nadine Kutner, Shani every woman clearly experiences." intertwined, said Blyce Azriel, wife of Rabbi Aryeh Azriel of Temple Katzman and Betsy Marantz. In She added that she believes "spirituIsrael. According to Azriel, addition to Willensky, the event is ality needs to be nourthere is great spirituality not being hosted by Karin Levine and ished by feeding it with godliness." To Katzman, only in ritual mitzvot-the Susie Shyken. partnership and the Spirituality has a variety of defini- that nourishment comes covenant with G-d-but also tions and presents itself in different from study: "studying our ethical mitzvot, including ways to different people. For Susi Jewish heritage, the acts of tikkun olam (repairFrydman Levin, wife of Beth El secret of our survival, the ing the world), and acts of Synagogue's Rabbi Mordechai Levin, characteristics of our lovingkindness, caring for spirituality is not logical or intellectu- Jewish matriarchs and others. al; it is inherent in the soul, some- heroines. It feels good thing "that flows from your fingers. It when we get in touch "You become spiritual by Azriel is inside of you; it's very personal, and with our Jewishness." doing—by how you live," Katzman and Nadine you have to open your eyes and your she said. "All of us have a different Kutner both cited the terrorist attack focus on spirituality; that's what's so mind to feel it." of 9-11 as a motivating factor in the

unique about all of us. We are all at different stages in our lives—different ages, different career and life choices. Spirituality varies for each one of us, "depending on our life circumstances." For Omaha newcomer Betsy Marantz, being a rabbi's wife doesn't give her an inside track on the meanings and mysteries of spirituality. "I'm no different than anyone else," she said. \j "I have the same ques—' tions about spirituality that everyone else does." Marantz, wife of Temple Israel's assistant rabbi, Craig Marantz, added that "because it is not something that we discuss day-to-day, it is difficult to find the right words to discuss spirituality, and I look forward to sharing ideas with and learning from other Jewish women in our community." The "Kindred Spirits" house party is free to all women in the Jewish community, and there will be no solicitation of funds. Reservations are required, and may be made by contacting Marcy Noodell at 697-1262, or via e-mail, at fanofthejayhawks@hotjnail.com. Be sure to attend on Dec. 10~if the spirit moves you.

"Celebrating a Century of Jewish Community" Proud tofoeCentennial Patrons! Hie following people Itave made increased gifts to the 2003 Centennial Campaign. Names in bold indicate an increased gift of $100 or more 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 JoeiAIperson Barry Broder JoeErmaii Mike Erman TomFdlman Willard Friedman Richard Gfazer Don Goldstein Herbert Goldstei Trust Don Greenberg Ike & R < B Friedman Family Foundation Gary' Ja«tch Arnold Jofft Howard Kadow Jerry Kohll Howard Kooper Forrest Knitter Martin Lehr Lt'onard EA"\HS Bemie Meyers Jerrv Milder

N. mm & Son

Sherman NefT Murray Newman Jay Noddle Steve* Nogg Omaha Bedding Company Sol Parsow Carl Riekes Henry Riekes Steve Riekes Bruce Shackman Norm Sheldon* Stuart Simon Gerald Simons Jerry Slusky FhilSokelof S\vartzbau£h Karbw-

Assodates

WOMEN'S MAJOR GIFTS Margie Alperson Phyllis Aronson Sandra Belgrade Marria Cohen Sandy Epstem Ruth Erman Judy Fddman Nancy Friedland Roz Friedman Jan Goldstein** Deborah & Arthur Greene** Sharon Kooper JoanieLehr Frances Milder Lyra Ann Monasce** JeanieNeff Sharee Newirtan Maxiue Kirshenhaum Patty Nogg Carol Parsow Dorothy Riekes Zoe Riekes Belli Schrager Ellen Slosburg Gail Vcitzcr Jootli Veitecr

MEN'S CAMPAIGN AlvinAbramson JeffAizenberg George Aufeeeser Jim Belgrade Mark Bdmom Jerry Berman MikeBIalt Albert Bioch HowaKiBorden Morris Bresei PeteBrodkey KonBrodkcy Sain Bukenholts Jeff Cannon Alan Cohen

Martin Cohen Pad Cdieii Gerald Colin • Jerry Dunn Arthur Davidson Randy Enddmsin Howard Epstein Paul Fine JodFmkd Harris Finkdstein Robert Freeman TedFrieriland Sanford Friedman Judge I-arry Gendler Diuid Gilinsky Bennett Ginsberg Jim Glazer David Goidterg Bob Goldberg JcffGordman Richard Grant Joshua Greenhaum Barton Greenberg Jerome Grossman Victor Gutman MichacUIalaed David Hoffman Richard Jacohson BobKahn Jerome Kaiman Robert Kaplan John Katelman RickKatdman Harry Klein Milton KMiberg

MEN'S CAMPAIGN art WOMEN'S CAMPAIGN SnsanAizenberg Sol Kutler PaulLandow Phyllis Aron JeftreyLaudin " JoyceAshley Mike Levine ^fadclinc AufseestT Jill Baron Sieve Levinger Diane Baura Roland Lewis Kathryn Beaucliaine Todd Mmvitz Sheldon C. M a s * * Robyn Belgrade Jolin McGaiivran Marj' Bennan Rache! Blum Joseph Meyers Larrv Meyerson Chris Blumkin Marian Tkxssy Midiael Miller 1 Midge Bowers Stanley Mitchell Henry Monsky Beth Brodkey Michael Norton Stade BrodkejHarold Novak HorenceBrody Don Novicorr Elaine Bukenholts Steve Perdman Esther Canar Sharon Cannon Steve Ridlcr Marty Rides Edi* Qiesen Dick Kodtman ArleneCcijen Elbcrta Cohen LJnyd Roiutcin Bill Rosen Maria Cohn Jerry Rosinsky Eunie Dtnenberg Michael Sadofsky Penny EreJdman Ernie Salztman Leora EvelofT EstelleFaicr Mark Sanford Judith I'dym Edward Schneider Mtdiotl Schwuru Claire Hatnwicz Jeffrey Schweid Fmnces Fifed Rabbi Maximo Slicchet Amy Friedman Dan Sherman IXWiie 1-rieJinan Michael Shriar Paliv Ciilinsky Paul Shjkcn BarbGilUT Howard Sibler Qn-'ii GinsbuiB Joniirci Glazer N-fikeSiegel Larry Sircz Judi Goldstein Dora Goldsticm Norman Smeerin SluartSmoler Rini Gondier Jan Spooner Dee Goodman RaySomberg AndicCordman Scott Tbidmaii Slierri Green Carole Greenberg Frcdlldnucr Caryl Greenberg LazarTmttsky Shirley Greenbcrger GuentoWesch irvinYaETe Ethel Grossman Harold Zabin Pauline Guss IdaHalperin MendyHaJsted Bonnie Ho Awcfa

JohnKobn David Kotok Howard Krantz Allen Kuriand Howard KuUer

*NewPacesetter($6,000 and abow) ** New Uon of Judah($5,000and above)

JoanicJacobBon - SaraJuster . . Joanie Kaiman DordhyJiapJaji

FrankieKasin .

:•

WOMEN'S CAMPAIGN cert. IJMKI Kasin NanKatz Kale Kfehenbuam Sharon Kirshenbaum Gail Kohll SIutneKotdc AngieKrieger RobbiKudym Helen Kulakofsky SJiirtey Kiilakof*y Sandra Kuriand Nancy Kutler Pauline Landman S;irj Landsman GenJdine Lapierre Baibara I ^shinsky Karin Irvine BanniL' LevingL'r Friizi laidihui-tz Tfidma Lustgarten Linda Mann Sally NLisek Katliy McGouvran Tina Meyers Miriam Mevason Rhoda Milder SueMillward iivie Mitcliell Pani Monsky Mary Beth Muslin RutliNogg Rila Novak Sandv Passer Shelly Pichik Enid Pollack DodiRedler Juliana Reno Barbara Rips Nancy Rips Miml Rogers Susan Rot hliolz Monica Sacks MariiaSadofeky RosalieSaltunan Diane Sliandell Susie SBvcnnan Sujanne Singer KathyStref CariSommer Edith Stein Esther Simon Susan Swartz • BaineTepperman Sheila Tomps SelmaTretiak

WOMEN'S CAMPAIGN cot EadieTsabari Mimi Waldbaum Beth Walts Devorah Wesch K m Workman Galina Yiirikov Phyllis Zabin TerriZacharia DebbiZweiback

MEN'S SENIORS BillAbntams Sam Alloy JackBrody David Dvorkin Sam Epstein Abraham Faier Canter Leo Fx-ttman Hers?FlaDOTCz living Forties Stuart Fried WalisrFiiedlander Julius Froom Saul Graeu Dcin Greenfidd Gerald Gross JoeGuss An J:tL'obson Lecnx'd Krasne M^iiinxi Kreitstein Ab:;im Kukawka Nfcicy Landman BC:M Lt.'U)wich In ing Marcus Ki'VuiuiJ Mendel Landsman Bai H. Magzamin Nate Mandell Carl Milder Ben Miller Paul Nathan PhilRainer Ben Schneider Harold Siporin Ricliard Spieaal Eli Stone

WOMEN'S SENIORS Helen Abrahamson Doris Alloy Millie Altaian Millie Bernstein DorisCohn Minnie Cutler Rose Davis Jeanne Dvorkin KayFerer Annette Fettman Rose Fine PauIetteFiatowicz Ida Forbes SoniaForbes Jean Gendler AnneGeiber BemiceGerber Hilda Gottlieb Sara Harding Pauline Hoberman Charlotte Kaplan Myllee Kaselman Eve Katskee Betty Kelberg Rufli Klein Myma Kii'shenbaum Gertrude Korney Dorothy Kotok Peggy Krasne Frieda Krizelman Harriet Kutler Grace Lebowich Marjorie Lincoln Louise Iippelt MardaLipsman Ann Maigolin Bemice Milder Reva Onich GildaHeck LolaReinglas FloraineRice Marjorie Rosen Natalie Rubin RevaRuderrnan Audrey Schapiro Julia Schapiro. Lillian Schrager Sophie Schulman CeliaSchwarte Doris Shukert LeahSiegal Esther Silver Helen Soiref Marion Strauss Sally Venger

• :

To the onerous supporters of the Men's and Women's General Campai&i: In honor of the Centennial year of the Jewish -Federation erf Omaha, we hope you'll consider becoming a Centennial Patron, tf you raise your ptedgD $100 or more, your name will be listed and highlighted in this "PROUD TO BE A CENTENNIAL PATRON? ail. 'if you Increase your pledge by less than $100, we will be proud to list your name as a contributor. Ifs a wonderful way to celebrate 100 years of success in our community and a meaningful waytoguarantee its-future! '{'• :'

The 2003 Jewish Federation of Omaha Centennial Campaign 333 South 132nd Street Omaha, NE 68154 402/3348200 www.jewishonnha.ors Campaign Hotline 334-6594

The M i l l Federation of Omahj )


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
December 6, 2002 by Jewish Press - Issuu