January 3, 2003

JEWISH PRESS Vol. LXXXII

No. 18

Omaha, NE

29 Tevet, 5763

January 3,2003

CELEBRATING 82 YEARS OF SERVICE TO NEBRASKA AND WESTERN IOWA

Lectures, Interviews, Panels and Readings Broadcast Live via Satellite by RACHEL BLUM, JCC Program Director The spring season of the r

JCC's newest program-' ming, "live from the S2nd {* VJ; Street Y" has people talk- j ing. Through satellite; transmission, the Jewish L- t Community Center is able f\ | to broadcast live lectures ' ''* and interviews from the £ ."j; 92nd Street Y in New York' City. Joe and Hadassah Founded in 1874, the Lieberman 92nd Street Y is one of the oldest Jewish Community Centers in the country. Offering a series of lectures, interviews, readings, and panel discussions from some of the best-regarded and most exciting thinkers of our time, the 92nd Street Y has set the standard for outstanding cultural and educational programming. And with the latest in satellite technology, we are able to bring that programming to the Jewish community here in Omaha. The next satellite broadcast features an interview with Joe and Hadassah Lieberman and is scheduled for Sunday, J a n . 19, 6:30 p.m. in the JCC Theater. Now in his third term in the United States Senate, Connecticut's Joe Lieberman has earned a national reputation as a thoughtful, principled, and effective legislator. A nationally recognized leader of

the Democratic Party, ia 2000 he was the Democratic candidate for Vice-president, becoming I the first Jewish-American I to be nominated for that i office. In addition, he [received more votes for j Vice-President than any I Democrat in history. Lieberman and his wife, Alan Dershowitz Hadassah, have written a memoir of the campaign and how their Jewish identity became a focus of public scrutiny. Their story raises essential questions of the relationship between personal beliefs and public service. Also coming in January through satellite transmission is a lecture by Alan Dershowitz, who will deliver his "State of Anti-Semitism Address' on Thursday, Jan, 30, 6:30 p.m. in the JCC Theater. A Brooklyn native who has been called "the nation's most peripatetic civil liberties lawyer," and "the best-known criminal lawyer in the world," Dershowitz is the Felix Frankfurter Professor of Law at Harvard Law School. His lecture, presented in cooperation with the Simon Wiesenthal Center, takes on the complex and troubling issue many thought was behind us—anti-Semitism. (Continued on page 6)

After Delays, Israeli Fighter Pilot Poised to Soar into Space with NASA by IRENE BROWN CAPE CANAVERAL, Ramon, who has made a FL, (JTA)~For 25 years, career in risky endeavors. Han Ramon strapped himUpon graduation from self into fighter jets to high school in Tel Aviv, help protect the country of Ramon, like most Israelihis birth, Israel. born youths, was drafted Soon, the Air Force into the military. He then colonel will have a chance attended flight training to view his embattled | school. When he was just homeland from a perspec! 19 and still a pilot-intive never before seen by a | training, Ramon was sabra. Ramon, a 48-year- [ tapped to serve in the old father of four, is going I 1973 Yom Kippur War. to space. The danger, however, did "Every time you are the [ nothing to quench his first, it's meaningful,"' desire for flight. Ramon said during an "I love to fly," said interview at the Johnson Ramon, who moved on to Space Center m Houston. The first Israeli set to travel in space, Han _ . ,. . _ . _, U U I U > U U , right, poses with fellow crew mem_, , . . ., Probably the fact that I m , ±n. T \. o n x - T T 4. craft training and opera,, „ __ , , bers at the Johnson space Center in Houston. ,. , . T „ of Israel's F-16 fightthe son ot a Holocaust sur» , , , „ „ . tions beforefirst becoming part er squadron. . . . , Photo by NASA. "Flying aircraft-fighter aircraft-is great and I vivor is even more symbolic" than usual. I'm proof that even with all the hard was very happy." Ramon served two stints as deputy commander for F-16 and F-4 squadrons, times we are going forward." Ramon, who is flying as a guest research scientist sandwiching four years of college at Tel Aviv aboard the space shuttle Columbia, is scheduled to University in between his command posts. He studied electronics and computer engineering, spend 16 days orbiting Earth with six career U.S. astronauts, including an Indian-born engineer and earning a bachelor's of science degree. Ramon's last bout of schooling was a Squadron Commanders an African American payload commander. Course, which prepared him to lead an F-16 The launch is scheduled for Jan. 16. Ramon and his crewmates have learned patience. squadron and then move up to head the aircraft In the 2l/2 years since they began training, NASA branch in the Air Force's Operations Requirement has had to delay their, mission several times to Department. accommodate more pressing flights. (Continued on page 6) The last delay, triggered by a fleet-wide problem with the space shuttle's fuel systems, lasted six months. NASA's caution, however, site well with

"Shalom" to Art Grossman by CAROL KA7ZMAN, Editor He ended every Young Energetic Seniors/ Oldtkaers column with "Shalom; on Dec. 29, the community said its goodbye to Arthur Grossman. who died on Dec. 27 at the age of 90. Services were held at Beth El Cemetery; Grossman was buried nest to his wife, Anne,, who died in 1995. Though he started out in the liquor industry, as owner of Art's Package Liquor Store, his real love was writing. He pursued a second career freelancing Arthur Grossman for both the Beverage Anah-st of Colorado and Nebraska and won more than 500 prizes for his slogans, names, essays, poetry and jingies during the last 50 years. He even started a club for people interested in entering contests and taught them how to participate, entering in their names until they won! Even at the end, he was still writing. Unless he was not feeling well, he submitted a weekly column to the Jewish Press on the "goings on" of the more senior members of the Jewish community, commenting on the issues of the day, the entertainment at weekly Y.E.S. gatherings and holding a moment of reverence for that week's list JQ£departed.

But it was Grossman's volunteer work that led to his being honored by the Jewish Federation as Humanitarian of the Year in 1996. Not only did Grossman serve as President of both Y.E.S. and Gldthners, often leading the Early Bird discussion group, his staunch support of the Federation's Annual Campaign, soliciting and collecting donalions, was an inspiration. The phrase, "Eyeball to eyeball, kneecap to kneecap," became a Grossman trademark in how to correctly solicit members of the Jewish community. His volunteer commitment came at an early age. More than 70 years ago, Grossman began collecting nickels and dimes for the Jewish Philanthropies, as it was called then, from his friends in AZA #1. He's chaired the Super Sunday telethon three times and the Oldtimers division of the Annual Campaign so long he couldn't remember. Kathy WatMns, Federation Executive Assistant, and someone who knew Grossman longer than any other professional in the Federation, described him as "the most dedicated volunteer I ever had the privilege to work with. "There was never a day, however, that Art didn't speak about his wife, Anne. He's at peace now, with his beloved wife." Grossman is survived by his son, Dr. Ronald Grossman of New York City; son and daughter-inlaw Larry and Linda Grossman of Omaha; and daughters, Roberta Grossman of Omaha, and Arlene Gittles of Highland Park, EL; three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Memorials to Beth El Synagogue, Rose Blumkin Jewish Home or the Multiple Sclerosis Society. In his last interview with the Jewish Press, written by Joan K. Marcus for the New Year's issue, Sept. 6, 2002, Grossman insisted that he just wanted "the world to remember him for doing good." There's no doubt that Grossman will get his final wish. "Shalom."

INSIDE: The History Footprint,-..

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-page 9 Divaira Quartet at Cantors' Concert..page 12

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January 3, 2003

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Four Stages of National Self-Knowledge

Central Alum Premieres Film at New York Festival

by RABBI MYER S. KRIPKE

by CAROL KATZMAN, Editor

Rabbi Aryeh Blum Certified Mohel •

Studied and certified by the Chief Mohel of the State of Israel Trained at the world renowned Sharee Tzedek Hospital Available for consultation ,

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Howard Weinberg is a familiar name to Omahans who attended Central High School in the late '50s; for those who are active in the alumni association, his name should ring another bell-he was honored last year when he was inducted into its Hall of Fame. Omaha has only figured indirectly in his work. Apart from a profile of "The World's Largest Indoor Jungle at the Omaha Zoo" for CBS Sunday Morning, and videotaping Yo Yo Ma and Emmanuel Ax playing at Joslyn's Tuesday Musical series for a profile of Yo Yo, Weinberg's work has mostly centered around arts and culture as well as politics, education and public policy elsewhere in the country. The 1958 CHS graduate has just produced yet another documentary, Sid at 90, which will have its premiere at the New York Jewish Film Festival, a collaboration between the Jewish Museum and the Film Society of Lincoln Center. The film opens wJan. 14,1 p.m. and 6 p.m.; it will also be broadcast on Howard WLIW public television on Jan. 18 , 21 and 27. "Sid at 90 is a labor of love," noted Weinberg, who made the documentary over a period of three years with the help of several interns. The 90-minute film is the story of actor/comedian Sid Raymond, a veteran of the Catskill Mountain circuit and summer stock, who appeared on Broadway and in Hollywood. Sid "is an inspiration for actors, older Americans and anyone who has ever clung to a passion," Weinberg noted. This latest documentary joins a long list of Weinberg's achievements. As an independent documentary film and television producer, writer and director, Weinberg has created significant programming in television. He was founding producer of the MacNeil/Lehrer Report, executive producer of the Dick Cavett Show, creator and producer of Assignment America with Studs Terkel and executive producer of Listening to America with Bill Movers, He's been honored with the Emmy, Peabody, DuPont and Polk awards and has taught courses on television news magazine production and documentary filmmaking as an adjunct professor at Columbia University's Graduate School of Journalism.

(This column was originally published in the Jewish Press on Jan, 10, 1986.) 402/320-8055 402/551-9959 P a r a s h a t Va'era blujn_mohel@rnsn.com Our Sidra contains the famous four-tiered promise of redemption from Egyptian slavery. Rabbinic interpretation takes these four expressions of the Lord's bounty to enslaved Israel as the LynneM.Pbpp basis of the four cups of wine required during the Passover seder. The Torah text has it that the Lord Educational Therapy, Inc assures Moses that the promises made to the M.S. in Learning Disabilities, A.E.T. Patriarchs were about to be realized, that the Land Educational Assessments of Canaan would belong to their descendants. Workshop Presenter • Dyslexia And Moses is instructed to tell the suffering • Teacher Trainer • Educational Therapy Children of Israel of the Lord's promise: "I will free you from the burdens of the Egyptians." "I will 4405 North 156th Ave. Circle deliver y o u from their bondage." "I will redeem Phone: 402/498-8708 FAfc 445-0433 you with an outstretched arm." "And I will take E-mail: slpbppl@cox.net you to be My people and I will be your God," The passage has received much Midrashic treatment, and much more interpretation over the centuries, And it deserves it. For the Hebrew words EYE ESSENTIALS imply a good deal about the self-consciousness and self-knowledge of a people. We make a difference In the first place, it should be apparent that a in the way you view the world. slave people cannot develop a sense of national purpose, nor even appreciate a native culture. In our ' 8111 Dodge Medical Center • Suite 140 • 354-8195 own day, we know of many national "liberation" >8111 Dodge Medical Center • Suite 331 • 354-8175 movements, designed to "free a people from the bur(Contact Lens Dept.) dens of subjection" to another. Where these move16120 West Dodge Road * Health West • 354-0670 ments are spiritually motivated, where they refrain from violence for the sake of violence, where they • 4242 Farnam St. • Dr.'s Building Suite 141 • 558-8961 eschew terrorism, where they are based on legiti> 10060 Regency Circle • Physician's Clinic • 354-1371 mate grievances, they generally win the approval of (Contact Lens Dept.) the democratic free world. The Lord's promise, first of all, was to "free" Israel (Formerly Contemporary Eyeivear from the burdens of the Egyptians, to make possi& 8111 Optical) ble the beginning of a sense of national identity. A second stage, "I will deliver you," begins to touch the spirit as well as t h e body. Not only are the CLIP & SAV£ immediate burdens removed, but now intellectualemotional slavery is excised, the slave mentality, the sense of dependency and worthlessness. The third stage is "I will redeem you." Here begins FRIDAY JANUARY 8 the sense of human freedom, and exultation in the Visions Board Meeting, 9:30 a.m., at RBJH feeling of humanness, which the slave and the • SUNDAY JANUARY 5 '• politically oppressed cannot actualize. NACS PushkiA Club Meeting, 2 p^m. It is the fourth stage, in which full self-consciousC Beyt Shalom, 3 p.m. ness and full self-appreciation are reached. "I will c L Boy Scout Recognition Dinner, 4 p.m. L take you to be My people..." At this point in a peoI P MONDAY JANUARY 6 ple's life, there is an appreciation of its national P YES Program, 10 a.m. - ' self-purpose and idealism. & * Melton Adult Mini School,' 11 a.m, & 7 p.m. In. religious terms, such, as those before us in the s Talmud Class with RabbiKutner, 7 p.m. S case of Israel in Egypt, this is put in terms of a relaat Beth Israel A A tion of mutuality with God: He is our God and we TUESDAY JANUARY 7 E are His people. Put in popular terms, a people at Sisterhood Board Meeting, 10 a.m. at Beth Israel this stage feels its at-home-ness in the world, a Beyt Shalom, 4 p.m. national pride, a realization it has intrinsic worth BBYO Night, 6 p.m. and that its values are legitimate and worth seekPriedel Jewish Academy Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m. ing. WEDNESDAY JANUARY 8 Individuals might test themselves, as individuals Melton Adult Mini School, 11 a.m. against these steps of spiritual advance, here FriedelJewish Academy Book Bunch, 11:30 a.m. attached to peoples. For peoples are made up of Federation/Synagogue Presidents & Rabbis individuals—and it is in the spiritual strength of Meeting, noon individuals that the spirit of a people lies. Board of Commissioners Meeting, 7:30 p.m. at Beth Israel Ahad HaAm, that brilliant essayist who died in the 1920s, wrote on "Slavery Within Freedom." He THURSDAY JANUARY 9 meant that Jews were not slaves physically—but _ Women of Worth Chodesh Series, 11:30 a.m. C had not yet emancipated themselves spiritually. L at the Chabad House L Is it still true of us? Are we still too much worried I I Walk-in Drop-in, 10 a.m. P p Yiddish Group Meeting, 1 p.m. about public relations to allow full reign of the NC'JW Board Meeting, 7 Jewish spirit? Sid Raymond, left, with Vic Damone and & Artist'sReception, 7. p.m. Arthur Godfrey. B'nai.B'rith Henry Monsky Lodge meeting, •

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A • V All events held at the JCC unless otherwise Indicated, The Jewish g Press is not 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.JewlshOmaha.prg (click on calendar)

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JEWISH PRESS NOTICE All photos used in prior New Year's and Passover issues of the Jewish Press must be picked up at the office before Jan. 17. Those photos remaining will be turned over to the Nebraska Jewish Historical Society archives. Photos may be picked up during regular business hours, Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.5 p.m. or call 334-6448 to make other arrangements.

Weinberg's mother, Sylvia was a resident of the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home for several years; she; died a little over a year ago, in October, 2001, at the age of 92. His father, Al, died in 1966. Howard does still visit Omaha-his sister, Marilyn Weinberg lives here (she's a longtime employee of the Omaha Public Power District), so do his first cousins Margo Rosen, Steve Neesman and their families. There's another Omaha connection for'Weinberg-he once researched an article for the World-Herald on literary and theatrical references to Omaha. Ho found this Rosalind Russell line in Gypsy: "Vaudeville dead? What a lot of banana oil. "There'll always be Omaha!"

January 3, 2003 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

SYNAGOGUES

Page 3

Candleltghting Friday, Jan. 3

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TEMPLE ISRAEL

BETH ISRAEL. SYNAGOGUE

BETH ELSYNAGOGUE

Member of the Union of American : Hebrew Gongi'egations 7023 Cass Street, Omaha, NE 68132-2651 556-6536 tenipleisrael-ne.org

Member of Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America 1502 No, 52 St., Omaha, NE. 68104-5013 556-6288 Bethlsrael@novia.riet

Member of United Synagogues of Conservative. Judaism 14506 California Omaha, NE 68154-1980 492-8550 WEB--www.betliel-omaha.org

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. Evening service, 5:30 p.m., Rabbi Aryeh Azriel will officiate. He will give the D'var Torah. 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 Amidali; Morning service, 10:30 a.m. CRADLE ROLL Sunday, Jan, 5, 10:30-11:30 a.m. in the Milder Center. Cradle Roll will present a Shabbat program for families with infants through pre-kindergarteners. One member of the clergy attends each Cradle Roll program to talk to participants, sing, or read a story. The families also work on a craft project and enjoy a snack. There is no charge to attend, but families are requested to RSVP if possible to Jill Goldstein at 614-6090 or to Temple at 556-6536. ADULT EDUCATION Thursday, J a n . 9: Beyond Basic Hebrew, 9:15-10 a.m.; Adult Study with Rabbi Azriel, 10-11:30 a.m. Rabbi will focus on the writings of the Scholars-inResidence who will join us this year. • SHABBAT COMES TO YOU Friday, Jan. 10, 3s45 p.m. Rabbi Craig Marantz and members of OTYG will lead a Shabbat service at Remington Heights.

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, 4:55 p.m.; The West Minyan is at the home of David and Janet Kohll, at 4:55 p.m. 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. Mincha, 4:45 p.m., followed by Shalosh Suadot and Ma'ariv; Havdalah, 5:54 p.m. SUNDAY: Services, 9 a.m. and 4:55 p.m. WEEKDAYS: Services, 7 a.m. and 6:30 p.m MONDAY: Talmud Class with Rabbi Kutner, 7 p.m. WEDNESDAY: Board of Commissioners Meeting, 7:30 p.m. The entire congregation is invited to attend,

Office houi-s are: Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Shabbat Services are conducted by Rabbi Mordeehai Levin, Cantor Emil Berkovits and Ritual Director Gasttin 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, 4:25 p.m. informal discussion and snack, followed by services at 4:55 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»oinaha,org. WEEKDAY SERVICES: Sunday, 9 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.; weekdays at 0:55 a,m. and 5:80 p.in. ADULT EDUCATION Thursdays, nocm-1 p.nft, Rabbi Levin's Introduction to Judaism Class. Lunch is available, call the office to reserve. , SPECIAL.EVENTS.. . .• •. . ' Fridayi Jan, 10i Congregational Shabbat Dinner honoring BESTT 3rd and 4th graders. Thursday, Jan,-lit- BELLS luncheon following Shabbat morning services with Guy Matalon.

CONGREGATION B'NAI JESHURAN :. . '• V S O U T H S T R E E T T E M P L E

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Mi'ntln'i' of tluv Union of American Holii'o.w ('ongi('(;iUiitn»

20(51 S. 20th. St., 'Lincoln, WE «8ii()2-27!)7 4:15-8004 jewishnebniska.oi'g FRIDAY: Shahbat-'services, 7:45 p.m. Rabbi Joshua Taub will lead services and play guitar. Callie Feingold will lead the Vahavta and Jeri Kohn will lead the T'fillah. SATURDAY: Morning Service, 9:30 a.m. Rabbi Taub will load and play guitar; Tbrah Study, 10:30 a.m. led by Rabbi Taub.

Dr. Howard Gendelman to Discuss the Human Brain at Temple Men's Club by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Temple Israel Communications Coordinator"

Dr. Howard B. Gondoinmn, from the. University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC), will be the SAC Memorial Chapel speaker at the Temple Israol Men's Club meeting on 3012 S. 119th St., P.O. Box 211130 301 Lincoln Highway, Offutt AFB, NE.08113 Sunday, J a n . 19,10 a.m. Omaha, NE 68124-5130 592-4082 Ho is chief of the Laboratory of httpi/Aveleoittislo/beytshalutn/ Neurorcgoncration and Microbiology, director of the FRIDAY: Services, 7:30 p.m. Center for Ncurovirology and Neurodogencrativc Please contact Beyt Shalom for schedule. Disorders at UNMO, professor at UNMC'a Eppley Institute for Research, and holds the David T. Purtilo Distinguished Chair of Pathology. TIFERETH tSRAEL ROSE BLUM KIN JEWISH HOME "Repair of the Human Brain" will be Dr. Member of United Synagogue of • Oonsorvntivu •JiKliiisiu Gendehnan's topic at the meeting reflecting his 3210 Sheridan Blvd., SATURDAY: 9 a.m., services, conducted by Lincoln, NE G8502-52!H» work which focuses on developing prevontative and 42:J-85(i!» Marty Shukert, are open to the community. regenerative vaccines for neurotlegcnerntivo disorServices conducted by Rabbi Stanley M. Roaenbaum. ders, Ongoing works include research on bloodMinyan, Monday & Thursday, 7:15 aan, brain barrier function and therapeutics and reflect FRIDAY: Services, 8 p . m . leukocyte migration and drug development for GHABAP HOUSE SATURDAYS Morning service, 9:30 a.m., Junior brain disease. An Affiliate of the Worldwide Cliiibncl-Liiluivitch Movwnwil Congregation, 10:lS a.m. "We're really excited he's coining and helping us 1866 So. 120th St., Omaha, NE«8144-164(> bring Men's Club back into the forefront of the Phone: 330-1800 E-MAII>-chabad@aoKcoin Temple Lsrac) community," said Harry Gates, WEBSITE: www.riebrasktyiidaisin.com President of Men's Club. Reservations are not Chech out our NEW website, above. required to attend the meeting in tho Milder Services conducted by Rabbi Mendel Kataman. Center. A bagels and )ox buffet will be available. Monday-Friday, services at 7 a.m. Everyone is welcome to attend. There is a $3 charge SATURDAY: Morning Service, 9:30 a.m., folfor non-members of Men's Ctub lowed by a Kiddush luncheon. A gmduale of Pennsylvania State University SUNDAY: Morning Service, 8:30 a.m. College of Medicine, Dr. Gcndelinun has worked at by OZZIE N O G G • • .u •,,•--:.••--•• ..i. , „•,„,.„, , . , , „ • ADULT EDUCATION The next session of BELLS-Both El Lunch &' The Johns Hopkins University Hospital, the TUESDAY? Parshaa HaShavuah (weekly Torah Learn on Shabbat—will meet on Saturday, J a n . 11, National Institutes of Health, Walter Reed Army portion), 7-8:30 p.m., led by rabbinic student immediately after Shabbat morning services and Institute of Research, and the Wei/.munn Institute Mendel Hecht. Kiddush. Those gastronomic and educational of Science in Rehovot, Israel, as well as many other THURSDAY, J a n . 9: 11:45 a.m.-l:30 p.m., The opportunities are open to tho entire community. institutions. lie has been with UNMC since 1993 meeting will begin with kmch and include a discusThe topic is "The Song of Songs: Allegory or All and. • was co-director of the Nebraska Center for sion of Rosh Chodesh (beginning the new month) About King Solomon's Love Life?" Guy Mataltm, Virology which includes the University of Nebraska To register for any class, please call Jennifer at Assistant Professor of Judaic Studies at the at Lincoln, Creighton University, mul the UNMC 330-1800, or e-mail chabadoffice@aol,com.. University of Nebraska at Omaha, will lead the dis- Consortium. cussion and examine the Song of Song text which has long been a subject of rabbinic and philosophic debate. Cost for the luncheon and .study session'is $7.50 PERSONAL for adults and $fi for children under 32. Free bnbyI would like to thank family and friends for their nitl.iun' is iivfiiliibk* by advance reservation from cards, calls, gifts and mainly for their kindness as FRIDAY: Evening Service, 7:80 p.m. Discussion 12:4f>-l.:4r> p.m. they helped me celebrate my 6CMh Birthday. I am Ui'Hfrvalions (or the HELLS luncheon .should hu topic will fat* "Does Liberalism lead irreversibly to very blessod. Agnosticism, or does ritual have a healing balm?" made by Wednesday, Jim. 8, by calling l.he }Wh Kl Mark Silberstein synagogue oflfu:e'--4{)2-8f>H0. Oneg will follow.

BEVT SHALOM

An Affiliate ol'tiltJewish Hci-diistriU'liouiM Fcdtn'tttioti

OFFUTT AIR FORGE BASE

Beth El BELLS Will Ring

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 4

January 3, 2003

Predictions for 2003

EDITORIAL If the secular papers can predict Oscar contenders for 2003 and the tabloids can foretell future floods and famine (and if Michael Jackson really is an alien) then so can wel Here are some predictions for 2003 from the Jewish Press. Don't forget to remind us next December how right (or wrong) we were! • Yasser Arafat dies of heart failure and is replaced by a pragmatic moderate who negotiates a agreement with a new leader of the Israeli government (Ariel Sharon has taken early retirement). Small, isolated settlements in the West Bank are uprooted and all settlements and kibbutzim in the Gaza Strip are dismantled. For the three months following the signing-again on the White House lawn-there is not a single incident of violence, • Because of the new peace accords in the Middle East, Israel's Arab neighbors turn their attention to Iraq, Saudi Arabia and Syria join forces to assist the Iraqi opposition in overthrowing Saddam Hussein and establishing a democratic parliament in Iraq. Saudi Arabian leaders break down and decide to follow their own advice in their .country as well. • Beth El Synagogue and the Jewish Federation figure out a way to help Argentinian Jews immigrate to Omaha. Not only do they find secular professions here, but several of the Argentines start teaching in our religious schools and at Priedel. • Jewish Senior Services announces the lottery for

New Year's eve, is a national public holiday widely observed as a part of Russian culture.. For them it has nothing to do with religion. Observed one: "For us this is not a Christian or holy day. It has nothing to do with the birth of Jesus on Dec. 25. The important thing is the birth of a new year; it is a completely atheistic holiday for us--a time for family celebrations." Just as many Americans here mark Thanksgiving Day, the Russians regard this season as part of the life style to which they were accustomed before they came to Israel. These two groups constitute a large market which enterprising merchants are quick to exploit, hence the colorful shop window displays. The local branch of a well known toy chain advertised: ""Whoever purchases Christmas toys to a value of 250 shekels or more will obtain delivery of the merchandise to his home by Santa Claus on Christmas eve." In addition, some young sabras> revolutionary by nature, seize upon Christmas as an opportunity to demonstrate their opposition to what they regard as religious domination here. For them Santa Claus serves as a symbol of their protest. Bethlehem, where it all began, was long the center of Christian celebration, but no longer to.the same extent. For one thing, Muslim domination of the town has resulted in a constant and systematic emigration of the Christian Arabs. Ton years ago there were about 40,000 Christians resident there. Today, there are less than 10,000, con-

JEWISH PRESS

National Newspaper Association

FUTURE

•,'-,.,,

Haifa-In many years Hanukkah and Christmas are close to overlapping. This year, Dec.25 occurred. almost three weeks after the last of the eight candles has gone out. As a result, observance of the Yuletide was all the more conspicuous, In Tel Aviv and other cities many stores displayed Santa Claus images in their show windows, together with plastic Christmas trees and a wide assortment of tinsel tree decorations. In Christian Arab towns, and in the Wadi Salib neighborhood of Haifa, streets were illuminated with gay Christmas lights. Why shouldn't Christmas be observed in this country? After all, this is where it all started, isn't it? The explanation for what may appear to many as an odd phenomenon in the Jewish state lies in the identity of those who mark the holiday. For one thing, there are some 300,000 foreign workers here, many with their families. Traditionally, Christmas is their major holiday, and even though far from home, they insist on observing it, with all its trimmings. One area in Tel Aviv, around the new bus station, is so thickly populated by foreign workers of the Christian faith that the windows of home after home twinkle with appropriate colorful decorations. Further, it is now common knowledge that tens of thousands, some say hundreds of thousands of the Russian immigrants are not Jewish. But even the Jews among them are frequently among the celebrants. For them the last week of December, culminating in

Nebraska Press Association

I'M UVIW6

Hanukkah's Over

OUR MAN IN ISRAEL by C A R L A L P E R T

Dr j Bones

residence in the future Assisted Living Facility is oversubscribed. A waiting list is created and construction begins (somewhere?) on this campus. • The Federation reports an increase in the 2004 Campaign by October. Due to a steadily improving economy, new biotech discoveries which boost the stock market, and a large gift from a Power-ball winner in the Jewish community, the Federation leadership is able to finally hire a Marketing Director and kick off its coast-to-coast Newcomers Campaign. • The Newcomers Campaign, which doesn't begin until late in 2004, gets another boost from ah influx of young Jewish couples and families from both the East and West coasts, looking for an affordable, welcoming Jewish community in which to put down roots. • AH the Democratic contenders throw their support behind Sen. Joe Lieberman, the frontrunner in the race for President. He chooses Patty Murrray, Senator from Washington State,, as his Vice-president, thereby locking up the women's vote and the vote from three key Western states, President Bush, riding high on his leadership in the Middle East and on the economy, replaces Dick Cheney with Christie Todd Whitman, challenging Lieberman on both the women's vote and Northeast states. You don't think this is realistic? We can dream, can't we!

stituting a small percentage of the population. Further, the security situation and the prevalence of terrorism, have discouraged all but a relatively small number of tourist pilgrims. Hotels in Israel which do cater to the Christian pilgrims seek to provide them with a holiday atmosphere, but have come into conflict with the rabbinate. The compromise -reached is that Christmas trees may be set up in hotels, but only in private rooms, and not in the public lobby. There are legitimate interests of Christians who live here, and each year the Jewish National Fund, trimming its forests, makes young trees available without charge to members of the diplomatic corps, U.N. staff, the foreign press and local monasteries.

In addition, a local entrepreneur, Eli Gulbary, has imported from the U.S. and now cultivates what he calls an Arizona pine, perhaps more like the traditional fir tree. Last year, he told us, he sold a thousand trees. This year he expects to sell 5,000, The coat ranges from 150 to 300 shekels each, depending on the size. Like the Russian immigrants, native Israelis regard New Year's eve as a legitimate holiday. It is known here as Sylvester, a name once used in some central European countries to memorialize a fourth century saint. We understand that the name has long since been abandoned in Europe, but it is still in common usage here, and Sylvester parties are fairly common in many Jewish circles.

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JEWISH PRESS COMMITTEE Joanie Jacobson, Vice-Chairman; Penny Endolman, Secretary; Steve Simon, Treasurer; Elyeo Azriel; Jill Belmont; Jean Duitch; kip Gordman; Bobbi Leibowit/,; Howard K. Marcus; Scott Meyerson; Linda Snlteman; Joey Shyken; Melanie Weinatein; Amee Zetzman; George Schapiro (Honorary Committee Member), Editorials express the view of the writer and are not neeessarity'representative of the views of the tfewish Press • Committee, the Jewish Federation of Omaha or the Omaha Jewish Community as a whole. The Jewish Press reserves the right to edit signed letters and articles for space and content. The Jewish Press in not responsible for the Kashrat of any product or ortftWlahniont. 1

January 3, 2003 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Dilemmas for Democracies Under Fire by MOSHE RAM —

«

On Thanksgiving, as people throughout the United States prepared to celebrate this nation's free, prosperous and progressive society, citizens of another democracy were once more under attack: Israelis had been targeted by terrorists in Kenya as well as in Israel proper. Only a miracle prevented the death toll from being in the hundreds. The murder of Israeli civilians by Arab terrorists has become, sadly, almost numbingly routine, meriting only a brief mention on nightly newscasts. However, the bombings of an Israeli-owned hotel in Kenya, accompanied by a failed attempt to bring down an Israeli airliner traveling from Mombassa to Tel Aviv with 271 on board were notable for two reasons: because of the possibility that, for the first time, the Al-Qaeda terrorist network was involved in a direct attack on Israelis, and second, that a shoulderfired missile had been used to try to bring down a civilian airliner in flight. Both attacks marked dangerous new stages of escalation in the war waged by terrorists against Western democracies. However, while the attack in the town of Beit She'an in northern Israel and the killing of six Israelis seemed, at least in the eyes of the media, to be far less newsworthy, it sent a symbolic message that must not be ignored. The targets of this shooting attack by two Palestinian gunmen were Israeli members of the Likud party waiting to cast a vote in the primary election that would decide the party's leader and therefore the candidate for Prime Minister in the Jan. 28 general electionsTerrorists, for whom this political process is anathema, murdered Israelis exercising their democratic mandate. The grim reality of Israel as a democracy under fire could not have been demonstrated more clearlyHow does a democratic country conduct itself in the midst of such a continuous campaign of terror? How does a democratic country with a real concern for political and human rights balance the protection of those rights with the protection of its citizens from terrorism that targets citizens in hotels, restaurants, discos and religious celebrations? In essence, by maintaining a semblance of normalcy under very abnormal circumstances. The attacks did not stop the elections. Israel's vigorous, raucous election campaign continues. Israel has again shown the strength of character and stubborn perseverance that has enabled the embattled state to continue to confront such brutal terrorism for dozens of years and yet remain a lonely light of freedom in n region whore most of its neighbors are dictatorships Indeed, critics of Israel tend to forget that it is an island of democracy with diverse (and combative)

•

FROM ISRAEL

>

political parties, a free press {including the most open Arab press), and an independent judiciary, including a Supreme Court that sometimes overturns cabinet decisions. It is a society of lively, sometimes acrimonious, public debate-debate that touches upon the most basic issues of national security arid the very future of the existence of the state. Israel, as a democracy under siege, is constantly confronted with decisions concerning the proper balance between the need to preserve security and the need to protect civil rights. This question is not unique to Israel. It has been raised repeatedly since Sept. 11, and not only by President Bush and other American officials. Just last week, Prime Minister John Howard of Australia, whose citizens had been butchered in terrorist bombings of Bali nightclubs, said he would order pre-emptive strikes against suspected terrorists if they were plotting attacks against his country or countrymen. Canberra has even called for the United Nations Charter to be changed to allow member states to launch pre-emptive anti-terror strikes in foreign soil. The entire democratic world must ask how far civil rights (and national .sovereignty) can be infringed in the struggle to protect innocent citizens and their country's security. In Israel, against the background of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, this question, has taken on an existential significance. In just one example of tho hundreds of dilemmas with which Israeli democracy must struggle in the age of terrorism: Intelligence ia received that a suicide bomber is on his way to blow up a bus full of innocent civilians. Tho army sots up roadblocks in an effort to intercept this licking human bomb. There nw tho.se who see tho careful checking of motorists as a violation of their right of free movement. Is the bus passengers' right to live inferior to tho right of people delayed at a roadblock to travel freely? Israeli Supreme Court nan given a clear answer: "Human rights cannot receive complete protection as if there were no terrorism, and state security cannot receive complete protection as if there were no human rights. A delicate and aensutivo balance is required. This is the price of democracy. It in costly, but worthwhile. It strengthens the state. It provides a reason for its struggle," (High Court of Justice, Sept. 3, 2002) This is the complex reality of Western democracy in an age of terrorism: a fundamental clash of values and ideologies where the battle pits ballots against bullets and bombs. Perhaps when tho forces of freedom and progress have prevailed, Thanksgiving will be a holiday celebrated around the world.

Critics of Israel tend to forget that it is an island of democracy with diverse (and combative) political parties, a free press (including the most open Arab press), and an independent judiciary— including a Supreme Court that sometimes overturns cabinet decisions.

Moshe Ham is Consul General of Israel to the Midwest.

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Tidbits of Life In Israel During the Intifada by HARRY ALLEN

——*-—.

The Prospects of peace are looking better-Jane Fonda was here together with some local members , of some women's peace group, some cast members of the Vagina Monologues and other assorted "experts." She visited with bereaved parents in Ramallah, stood in the rain in Jerusalem with peace banners, visited recovering wounded from suicide bombings at Hadassah Hospital and left after three days, with the profound statement that the shedding of blood on both sides must come to an end. Thank you, Jane. This past week, the rains came with a vengeance and the level of the Kinneret will probably rise about a meter-still far far below what is needed, but then we may do better—rain wise in the coming months. Despite the driving rain, 36 people attended our Thursday morning Talmud class; most of our class members are senior citizens like ourselves. Shabbat we attended a Bar Mttzvah, the grandson of some good friends. Our luncheon table was fascinating: a retired rabbi of somo 135 years from Long Island, a lady from Norway who wan on the "kindortranflport" which rescued children from during WWII, another lady from Ireland whose brogue still shines through even in Hebrew, n retired furniture dealer from Pennsylvania, and the grandparents of the Bar Mitzvah from Union, NJ. And this was not an unusual gathering. Friday was my weekly art lesson with a very talented and charming young artist from Canada. I've taken to oil painting over tho past fow months-no Grandpa Moaos-but its fun. This week, we will travel on my round of evaluations for PEF: The Israel Endowment, Fund; this evening our book club meets. In the morning, our synagogue renovutioix committee mist with our architects. Oh, yes, we were invited out for Friday evening, will have American friends for dinner this week and hope to got to Ram at Rachel kibbutx for swim sessions. And that's tho way it goes living with the Intifada.

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

January 3, 2003

Israeli Poised to Soar into Space ( C o n t i n u e d from p a g e 1) •••—.-.-••••.i. > <, •

Rather than lighting candles, however, Ramon Ramon earned the rank of colonel in 1994 and took they made the effort to supply me," said Ramon, over control of the Weapon Development and whose lunch and dinner menus in orbit include such will have to content himself with running one of the Acquisition department--a post he held until 1997 delicacies as kosher old world stew and kosher . combustion experiments planned during the Columbia mission. when a colleague called and asked him if he'd like to chicken Mediterranean. become an astronaut. At first, Ramon thought the While Ramon won't keep strictly kosher, he won't Ramon will be working with about 140 payloads offer was a joke. mix meat and dairy foods and will avoid shellfish in all, including an Israeli-sponsored experiment to But with the blessings of the Clinton administration, and pork while in space. "Personally, I don't keep study dust • particles and how they affect Middle former NASA administrator Daniel Qoldin and the kosher and my family doesn't follow all the religious East weather. Israeli government ironed out an agreement for cooper- rules, but since I feel I represent all kinds of Israeli Discussions to continue the experiment aboard the ative space ventures between the two countries, includ- people and the Jewish community, I thought it space station after Ramon's flight are under way. would be nice if I could have kosher food." ing the training and flight of an Israeli astronaut. "We have a lot to offer," Ramon says, referring to "When I was a kid growing up, nobody in Israel The observance of Shabbat is another matter. Israel's budding aerospace program. ever dreamed—well most people wouldn't dream- of Ramon said he never even thought about marking As for his own future, Ramon is too focused on his being an astronaut because it wasn't on the agenda. the day of rest and was surprised when some rabbis upcoming spaceflight to dwell much on what lies So I never thought I would have been an astronaut. raised the issue with him. ahead. "I would like to see my mission as my first When I was selected, I really jumped almost to The discussion, however, became largely academ- one, not my last," he said. space. I was very excited," Ramon said. ic, as the impact on Ramon's crewmates if he didn't Mindful, however, that his journey may be a oncein-a lifetime experience, Ramon took care in choosIn 1998, Ramon, his wife, Rona, and their four work Shabbat would be too great a burden. children, who were between two and 10 years old at A small debate began, however, about how to mark ing the few personal possessions he is allowed to the time, packed up and relocated to Houston, leav- the seventh day, when sunsets are occurring every take to space. ing behind a close extended family. 90 minutes in orbit. Foremost among them is a drawing made by a 14"I think the solution was that since we, the astro- year-old boy named Peter Ginz, a Holocaust victim. A few of Ramon's relatives and friends plan to nauts" go by "Houston time, Central time, then that's The boy had drawn his vision of what the Earth travel to Florida to watch his launch. would look like from the moon. "It's related to space, "I'm not expecting a lot of people from Israel," said when Shabbat will be for me also," Ramon said. Ramon, who speaks fluent, of course, and I feel like Quick Glance at Israeli Col. Ilan Ramon I'm taking his vision and but slightly accented by Irene Brown English. "The hearts and his spirit of space," .said CAPE CANAVERAL, PL., (JTA)-Name: Israeli Ramon, who selected the the souls of the people from Air Force Col. Ilan Ramon Israel will be with me, but. drawing from Israel's Yad Personal: Age 48, married, four children maybe not the bodies." Vaahem Holocaust. Claim to fame: First Israeli astronaut Keenly aware that he is Memorial after talks with On the menu: Kosher Chicken and Noodles flying as a representative museum directors. Past excursions: Trekking in the Himalayas of Israel, Ramon, who | Ramon realizes his own, About adventures: "Wherever you are yourself view of the world is likely describes himself as a sec- j with nature, you get to think a lot about what are to change after his flight. ular Jew, asked NASA if! we, as human beings, doing here? What is impor- "When we go up to space, kosher meals might be | tant? What is not important? And you change. You Earth is one unity and no available for his flight. change in your way of thinking and your way of borders are seen from Although several Jewish' life." there. American astronauts have The first Israeli set to travel in space, Ham Orbital ambitions: "I didn't do anything to get flown in space before, none Ramon, right, poses with fellow crew mem"That's the vision that here. I think I was just in the right place in the NASA carries on and that had ever requested kosher bers at the Johnson Space Center in Houston. right time. That's all." meals. "I was amazed how Photo by NASA is my vision too," he said.

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NATIONAL COUNCIL OP JEWISH WOMEN Omaha Section (NCJW) will hold its monthly Board meeting Thursday, J a n . 9, 7 p.m. at the JCC. All NCJW members are welcome to attend. The Bylaws Committee will be presenting revised Bylaws and Policies & Procedures for review.

- LOMIR REDN YIDDISH The Yiddish Conversation Group will meet Thursday, 1-3 p,m. at the JCC, The guest speaker will be Gary Katz, Assistant Librarian of the Kripke Federation Library. Call Anne Skolkin for information, 343-1638.

B'NAI B'RITH BREADBREAKEBS Rabbi Mordechai Levin will speak Wednesday, Jan. 8, noon at the Park Inn Regency. He will discus's his background and Ms vision for Beth El. Cost is $9 for lunch and $2 for beverage service only. Breadbreakers is open to the community.

VISIONS Reminder: The Lion King at the IMAX is Wednesday, J a n . 8, 11 a.m. Please meet in the lobby of the IMAX at 10:45 a.m. Luncheon Meeting is Friday, J a n . 17, 12:30 p.m. at Caniglia's Venice Inn. Cost is $9 per person. Jewish Senior Services Executive Director, Michael Silverman, will install our new officers. Send reservations to: Marvin Gerber, 9318 Walnut St., Omaha, NE 68124. For information call Harry Alloy, 697-8709, Make check payable to JSS. Deadline is Jan. 10.

Y.E.S. Members will meet Monday at the JCC. Play bingo at 10 a.m. with Eileen Remer or exercise with Stacey Paskert at 10:30 a.m. Bring articles to share for "YES Talk" at 11 a.m. Following lunch, Hal France, Opera Omaha's Artistic Director, will speak and perform. For transportation call Dee Dee at 330-4272. Call Maggie Conti at 334-6521 for reservations to the following: deadline for Remember When with Lois Wine on Jan, 16 is Jan. 9; deadline for The Lion King at the IMAX, on Jan. 23 is Jan. 16; deadline for New York Deli Lunch on Jan. 27 is Jan. 20; deadline for Bluffs Run Casino on Jan. 30 is Jan. 28.

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It is doubtful that many, people even in library circles remember Hannah Logaaa. It is the historian's job to refresh the memory. The name Hannah Logasa has an exotic ring. I may have first come across it at the age. of 18 when I shelved books in a Los Angeles branch library. Or I could have first seen it perhaps 20 years ago when starting my interest in local Omaha Jewish history. Her name has cropped up a few times and curiosity dictates satisfaction. Hannah Logaaa was born in 1879 in Rock Island, IL» the oldest of four children. Her mother, Ida died, and her Russian immigrant father, Soth, moved the family to Omaha. She took care of her younger siblings and did not attend high school. A self-educated reader she held her first library position in 1904 at the Omaha Public Library. The library built in 1893 at 1823 Harney St. was a scaled down version of the Boston Public Library, This building, on the National Register of Historic Places, houses my law office. My knowledge about Omaha's library comes from a study of Charles Diet?;, an Omaha businessman who had lumber and coals yards across the state. He and his wife, Nettie, traveled more than a dozen times to Egypt and the Nile. They collected some 15,000 books and Charles served as the President of the Omaha Library Board during the first third of the 20th century. Hannah Logasa commenced her library career just as women's clubs, local government and Andrew Carnegie and his richly endowed Carnegie Foundation were recognising the need to make the most effective use of expanding literacy by providing working Americans of limited means with information, literature, and knowledge. Libraries were the tools for self improvement and a guide to future prosperity in America. In 1906 Hannah attended summer school library training classes at the State University of Iowa. At this time summer school was a popular and effective way for people to improve their skills and qualifications. She later earned a degree in Philosophy and a Phi Beta Kappa key at the University of Chicago. Education paid off. In 1.91,'] slit1 became the; librarian of the Univwsil-y of Chicago High School, a laboratory for secondary education. Hy 191ft,slio was organizing luitiomil coMli'rt'iu'os to promote high school librarian. I lor mission was to make the school library a tool for life lung learning.

Hannah Logasa: Librarian Extraordinaire

Page 7

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OMAHA CENTER FOR TORAH LEARNING Rabbi Aryoh Blum loads a parcmha shiur at the OCTL House, 1313 No. 53 St., Saturday, J a n . 4, 3:25 p.m. Torah Tots resumes on Monday, Jan. 6, 9:80 a.m, with SJuiir Blum; Time Cor Talmud wiih Rabbi Blum is at 7 p.m.; loam at tluv Ik>is Midrash, Tuesday, J a n . 7,.7::?0 p.m., all ill t lie OCTI, houso. The weekly Lunch'n Lc-nrn resumes Wednesday, J a n . 8, noon, at Uu1 Kripke Jewish Federation Library; th« Wednesday Teen Class I'CHMUOS WALK-IN, DROP-IN Wednesday, 7:.'J0 p.m. at. the- homo of 13moke Members will meet Thursday at the JCC. Shrago, 805 Ho. 120 Avo. Wednesday evening's Exercise and bingo will begin at 10 a.m. in the Women's Claws resumes at 7:I$0 p.m. at the OCTL Social Hall; bring a dairy sack lunch to cat at 11:30; at noon, enjoy Divine. Secrets of The Yu-Ya House, For more information about. OCTL or to Sisterhood, For transportation call Maggie Conti at schedule one-ou-ouo or small group learning, call Rabbi Blum at 320-8055. 334.0521.

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A website calls her the "School Librarian Pioneer" who "bridged the gap botwnon theory and application. " By the late 1920s tmo WHH teaching Library Science for the University of Chicago. Her ideas, fundamental to developing American aecondary school pedagogy, appeared in her booka The High School Library: Its function in Education (1928) and The Study Hall in Junior and Senior High Schools (1938) were. She wanted students to use their reading Lime effectively, Never married, Call for our RENTAL SPECIAL ,934-5253 she retired in 1939. 2 blocks north of j She published authoritative bibliographies of books that should be in school libraries, such us A 170th &. Westmanaged .CenterbyRd,. : 'v^\ Professionally Guide to Historical Fiction and Historical NonVacant! & Randazzo Companies Fiction for the use of schools. They went through many editions. She published a five volume An Index to One-Act Pfuys. In 1907, shortly before her death at the ago of 88, her juvenile book, Science farYouth, appeared. Logasa^'a library and book knowledge hud a practical political impact. Robert MeMorri.s, a long time columnist for the Omaha World Herald, wrote in 1967, that Hannah Logasa, a shy, fives foot tall H0McMillan • pound women, who lived in retirement in an effiCunipmiTs, Maihematlcs & Communications Monday, Jan. 13 • 6:30-8:00 p.m. • All ncm-aaulemy students arc ciency apartment in the Commodore Hotel, had a eligible to apply unique friendship with former Israeli Prime King Science & Technology C«ntcr Minister David Bon-Gunon and his wife, Paula. Thursday, Jan, (6 • 6:50-8:00 p.m. • All snidenbi grades 5-H an1eligible Hannah apparently had given the Israeli governto apply ment good HUgge.stion.4 on castor bean and soy bean Bevcrldge • Visual & Performing Art/Global •• International Studies Thursday, Jan. 16 • 9:00-11:00 a.m. • All academy.student arc cultivation. eligible to apply A website about significant women librarians credits Hannah with an outstanding accomplishCrestridgc • fnlumationalAilobal Blue Zone: ment: "It is safe, to say that libmriaiiship in the Studies, Foreign LanRUiges Skinner- Mathematics, Computers Tuesday, Jan. 14 United States would not be, the same without her. and Communication Arts 10:00-11:00 a.m. This self-educated daughter of a Russian immilUesdsiyJwi. H 6:00-8:00 p.m, Yellow Tone: grant was instrumental in bringing books to students and teachers across the world, and in making Western Hills • IWvnstyPaitraishlp Fullerton • Communication Skills & Rlcctronic Media Tuesday, Jan. H the school library an integral part of the education Tuesday, Jan. .14 7:00-8:00 p.m. process." 7:00-8:00 p.m. Orange Zone: Hannah's will was probated by William Uitlirop • Science, Spanish & Catlln • Visual & Performing Arts • Grodinsky, a son of Omaha's famed Rabbi Henry Technology Tuesday, Jan. 14 lurcdayjan. 14 Grodinsky. William and Henry Monsky had been 10:00-11:00 a.m. 10:00-11:00 it.it). law partners. She was generous to her nieces and Spring Lake • Math, Spanish & nephews and the Slate of Israel. Several smaller Technology Tuesday, Jan. 14 bequests spoke loudly about, her gratitude and debt 9:30-1 li}0a.m. to literacy, She left money to Omaha Public Library. I'Ink Zone: Hadassah Study Group, t he* University of Chicago, Concstogji • Main & Economics the American Friends of the Hebrew University, T k yj H and iVIu Sigma Study Group, an Omaha wwman'.s .•»:00-5:0O p.m. reading dub founded in 1MW3.

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Page 8 .

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

January 3, 2003

Applications Now Available for.Bronfman Youth Fellowship Program in Israel

Temple Youth Group Plans Service Celebrating Diversity

by JEWISH PRESS NEWS SERVICE

Diversifying their activities, mem- entire congregation is welcome. "It bers of Omaha Temple Youth Group will be an exciting service with a lot of (OTYG) planned a Flashback Flurry meaning," he added. Dance in December and are now Beginning at 5:30 p.m., the service preparing for a Shabbat Worship will be followed by a Shabbat dinner Service on Friday, Jan. 10, that will at 6:45 p.m. Reservations for the dincelebrate diversity. ner are needed by Jan. 6, and can be Joel Passer, a member of OTYG who made by calling Temple, 556-6536. helped prepare the worship service, Leora Azriel, OTYG Programming said he hopes it will "make people Vice-president who planned the more aware of different people and December dance, was pleased with different cultures and create respect the "nice turnout" which included for all of them." Others who worked members of B'nai on the service included Josh Bleicher, B'rith Youth Organization and United Caroline Terry, and Molly Needelman Synagogue Youth invited to attend by •whose artwork is printed in the serv- OTYG. "I hope they'll also come to the ice booklet. Jan. 10 service," Leora said, Youth Jeremy Passer, OTYG Co-advisor, groupers are also encouraged to invite said the group spent a lot of time and their non-Jewish classmates and effort on the service to which the friends to the service,

•

ALBANY, NY-Applications are now available for the 2003 Bronfman Youth Fellowships in Israel. ' The Fellowships, now in their 17th year, offer an opportunity for 26 students entering the twelfth grade to spend five weeks in Israel this summer. Fellows, chosen from the entire spectrum of the North American Jewish community, will be chosen on the basis of character, intellectual interests, special talents and leadership qualities. In the competitive selection process, merit, not financial need, is the stan2002 Fellows At the Baha'i Gardens dard for selection. While living outside Jerusalem and be chosen after a rigorous election traveling throughout the country, the process and represent a cross-section Bronfman Fellows participate in sem- of contemporary Israeli society, will inars and dialogues with a diverse have their own educational program-rabbinic faculty, representing a wide ming as well as a week-long encounter range of Jewish perspectives. They with the American Fellows. explore Jewish text against the backIn explaining the purpose of the ground of Israel's land, culture and Fellowships, Edgar Bronfman said, customs and meet with some of "Our hope is to open lines of commuIsrael's prominent political, cultural nication among a group of outstandand literary figures to examine con- ing young people on the major issues temporary issues in light of Jewish confronting the Jewish people in all history and tradition. its diversity. In that process, we believe, they will discover that there In addition, for the sixth year, The is a common Jewish agenda that tranBronfman Youth Fellowships in Israel will also sponsor a parallel group of scends the differences among them." The Bronfman Youth Fellowships in outstanding young Israeli High School students, called Amitei Israel is a program made possible by Bronfman. The Israeli Fellows, who, Edgar M. Bronfman through The like their American counterparts, will Samuel Bronfman Foundation, Inc.

by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Temple Israel Communications Coordinator -—— ••

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Janet Baack, Sam Anderson, and Samantha Long helped Leora decorate the social hall at Temple Israel for the dance which raised close to $300 for OTYG projects.

Also attending the event were (left to right) Alex Raksin dancing with Chelsea Taxman, Jake Bleicher, Samantha Long, and Emily Sternberg,

Exceedi ex 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: m Over 50 undergraduate majors in the College of Arts and Sciences, " College of Business Administration, and School of Nursing m Graduate School and professional programs in Medical, Dental, Law, Pharmacy and Allied Health Professions (Physical and Occupational Therapy) • Extensive Study Abroad opportunities n Internships-for-Credit • Leadership Program in the College of Business Administration : • Direct Entry for freshmen into the School of Nursing , .

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January 3, 2003 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

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Page 9

A Weekend of Conclaves and Conventions!!!

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Left Photo: BBYO's Cornbelt i ' ,"•. .H Council "Spirit" session fea- |, " .,, ',', tured Max Fine, -left, of st, flif • v.'^ £,„.. Louis, and Omahan's Shayna Kurland, Lana Klnarsky and Jen Cooper. Shayna holds valentines made for the elderly at Remlnston Helshts and crowne Villa. Middle photo, BBYOers make peanut butter and jelly sandwichesforthe Sienna Francis House, lydia House and Open Door Mission as their second coir munity service activity. Above, Taml Barber instructed BBYOers in some stretches before solns on to Tai Bo Over 200 RBYOe-rs attended the convention.

Above photo, riinily StoinLcin "in limbo" -i( thf HcJWJiidii 'touul; left- Alli« V/illeniky ond hei Iriend cheer for Western dt the Wc.lern/Sl IID bnsketboil yciniK, below, Molly Needelmun and ->oro Rip*; wriit fot their plant; home from Denver. NFFYites were in attendance, co-hosled lemple Sinai and Consrcjiation Cmanuel.

Seventeen OTYGers attended Winter Conclave; Back row, from left: Emily Sternberg, Aron Meesman, Margaret Terry, Allie Willensky, Rabbi Aryeh Azriel, Sara Rips, Chelsea Taxman, Zev Elsenberg, Youth Director Stephanie Grossman, and Aliya Gordon, Temple Israel's OtYGer from Sioux City, !A. Middle: Leora Azriel, Caroline Terry, Lauren Freeman, Molly Needelman; Front row: Samanthd Long, Becky Sternberg, Jake Bteicher and Lexie Newman.

Page 10

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

January 3, 2003

Worries About Security

BIRTHS

by JOAN K. MARCUS —

United States Senator E. Benjamin Nelson says the 108th Congress will have to deal with two types of security. "We've learned what it's like to be unprepared!" In an address to the B'nai B'rith Breadbreakers, he said we need to concern ourselves with national and homeland security. In other words, congress will be dealing with the issue of physical security to keep citizens out of-harm's way from unexpected terrorist attacks. The second kind of security is our financial, health, pension Sen. Ben Nelson greets B r e a d b r e a k e r s chairman for December and social security well-being. Madeline Aufseeser. This type of security doesn't deal with a tax that there is a deficit budget and the fund is tapped, could be levied. "Think about it. If your social secu- there will be a "payback plan." Talk about privatizrity or pension was about to evaporate, you would ing Social Security suggests to Nelson that we need be in danger in a different way, but no less exposed. to protect what we have and not destroy the program, "This is also true of your health security." "We need to focus on how we keep from busting According to Nelson, there will be a lot of bickering—back and forth between Democrats and the budget," he added. "We need to protect the Republicans about who is doing best on the security American economy so that we don't bust the bank problems. He urges that we not listen to the rheto- while trying to protect it from robbers!" ric, but focus on who introduces the legislation and More needs to be done to protect pensions. how people use their priorities to vote, "Clearly, more needs to be done to help people who "It's not so much about talk but it is about the have been adversely impacted by big companies such as Enron and World-Com," he added. action!" In regard to the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict, What we're seeing with our military forces today, is called "transformation." In other words, we don't Nelson said, "We have to find a way so the enemies want to get so modernized that we're so far ahead of of our friends don't automatically become our enethe game. In other words, we need to have people mies. It's going to be impossible in certain areas for who are prepared and ready to deal with a less mod- this to happen but we ought to be striving for it, If em approach. we're going to solve Middle East problems, the peo"We need to be able to fight what we call a tradi- ple who are there need to be among the 'problem, tional war. We could lose with all of the best tech- solvers.'" nology if we don't have people who are prepared!" We haven't looked toward how we bring the Senator Nelson supports the Missile Defense groups together in order to help them satisfactorily System. However, he would rather not deploy it resolve their problems. "We have to be patient and until all of the research and development has been provide opportunities for the groups to come togethdone on it. This development will be expensive but er because we can't make it happen!" Nelson insistwe should continue because wo need to be on the ed. "These people are destined to live in the area leading edge of technology. together.. But will it be in peace? I don't know the "Where we are the most exposed for a hit by an answer.". incoming intercontinental ballistic missile? We Senator Nelson, originally from McCook, says he need to be sure we don't spend all of our resources sees a bright future for the Democratic Party in fighting with a high tech system. We need to be Nebraska. realistic and realize that the enemy may come in We'll have to make a better future by having betwith some low tech attack," he insisted. ter 'grass roots' organization than we've had recent"We need to have a realistic idea about what ly. The Democratic Party in Nebraska has been in national defense is and what it is that we need to do transition for a long time," he explained. "It used to to protect ourselves. We could spend all of our budg- have heavy-duty labor support and that's less and et on deployment of a missile defense system and less. The national trend may not be as totally not be doing what we should in the fight against Republican as the last election showed. terrorism." "If you get out your party base and you have a Every dollar that is spent today, above the bal- message that appeals on a local level, it's possible to anced budget, comes out of the Social Security Trust win. Local issues can win without lots of television Fund. ads. When asked about the resignation of former sen"If we're going to go into debt one way or the other tq fight a war, is it going to protect the human secu- ate majority leader Trent Lott (R-MS) Nelson says rity side as well?" Nelson asked. "If we aren't care- he has worked well with Lott and hated to see him ful, we won't be able to put together a good pre- leave. scription benefit for seniors. If you're a senior and "He has apologized and I called him personally to your prescription drug costs are gobbling up your tell him that I didn't agree with the comments he income, you're at risk in another way. You have to made," Nelson added. worry about how to make ends meet." "Maybe something positive will come from all of Nelson is trying to find a mechanism so that if this!"

Debbie Denenberg announces the Nov. 21 birth of twins, Rebecca Molly and Lev Samuel. Grandparents are Eunie and Norm Denenberg. Great-grandparents are the late Louis Newberg and Ruth Newberg Kirshenbaum and the late David and Fannie Denenberg.

ENGAGEMENT CORN/PECK Heather Corn and Brian Peck, both of Brentwood, MO, have announced their engagement. The bride-to-be is the daughter of Natalie Corn of Las Vegas, NV, and the late Cantor Jay William Corn. Her grandparents are the late Belle and Murray Rosenthal and the late Harriett and David Corn. She graduated from Hofstra University, Uniondale, Long Island, NY, where she was a member of Kappa Delta Pi, She earned a bachelor of arts and communication in elementary education and currently teaches it the city of St. Charles School District. Her fiance, son of Barb and Bill Peck of Chesterfield, MO, is the grandson of the late Phil and Marian foitler and Ben and Dorothy Peck, of Chesterfield, MO. He is a graduate of Webster University in St. Louis, MO, where he earned a bachelor of arts in elementary education. He also won the Dean's Service Award, a special education award, and the Moolah Shriner award. He teaches in the city of St, Charles School District.

Can You Identify This Photo? by JEWISH PRESS News Service

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Once again the Nebraska Jewish Historical is asking for help from readers of the Jewish Press. If anyone knows the identity of this family, whose photo was taken in Omaha, probably in the early part of the 20th century, please contact NJHS Director Renee Corcoran, 334-6442.

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January 3, 2003 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 11

92nd St.. Y (Continued from page 1)

Thursday, Jan. 80, 6:30 p.m. • Joan Rivers Wednesday, March 12, 7 p.m. • President William Clinton, Thursday, March 13, 7 pan, • Alice Walker, Wednesday, March 19, 7 p.m. • "Biased or Balanced? Israel & the Media," Thursday, March 20, 7 p.m. • Jewish-Christian Relations in the New Millennium, Thursday, April 8, 7 p.m. • Karen Armstrong, The History of Islam Monday, April 14, 7:15 p.m. • Bernard Lewis, "Jihad & Contemporary Politics," Thursday, May 22, 7 Lectures, Interviews, Panels and Readings Broadcast Live via Satellite from the 92nd Street Y p.m.

For more information, about the programs, contact me at 334-6404. For information about sponsorship opportunities available, contact Jeffrey Aizenberg at 334-6417. A schedule of the Live from the 92nd Street Y spring broadcasts is listed below. All events are in the JCC Theatre. • Joe & Hadassah Lieberman, Sunday, J a n , 19, 6:30 p.m. • Alan Dershowitz, "The State of Anti-Semitism,"

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Today's paper (this is written three-fourths of the way through December) carried a most unusual article, which caused me to stop and re-think some old ideas. Since it's holiday season, naturally there's a, lot being said about family gatherings and occasions to "get together." However, the article I read had some very negative things to say about that. The gist of it was simply that people these days aren't so enthused about traveling any distance, long or short, to join a meeting of family members. I found that hard to believe, but that may be because I'm so big on nostalgia.,,! mean, nobody enjoys looking around her dining room table and seeing family and friends more than I do! Plus all tine stories told and re-told. The story stressed the fact that people aren't HO inclined to inconvenience thomaolvcH at a busy Lime, just to sit around the tree and sing seasonal songs. And open beautifully wrapped gifts, then sit down to a huge meul together and ovor-ent. Clearly, this group doesn't Jnivo names like Epstein, Goldberg, Kalzinau or Bernstein, for example. What I moan is, thoy wuron't talking about us. That is, I hope they woren'l! Hut lot's look into this a little more carefully, just, in case. As our high holidays approach, one of Lho first things we think about (that's a feminine we, by the way) is "who shall wo invite to share and enjoy our Rosh Ilashonah meal with us?" To mo, an important part of the holiday arc lho traditions that go

with it-like family gatherings. What would a Passover seder be without the table stretched beyond capacity, to accommodate everyone from Bubbe to great uncle Itzie? What's the matter with those people? Don't they know how important it is to assemble everyone for these occasions? It's true, I suppose, that the December holidays might be happily spent skiing on a mountain far from the homo of grandparents, but it doesn't seem right, no matter what you think. Sure, it's fun to sit in front of a fireplace and compare notes about the snow this year and last year, but wouldn't those wonderful potato lathes be missed? Maybe a person, just thinks he wouldn't miss hearing Auntie Ghana toll that same story about the kitchen tiro and the brisket, but I wouldn't bet on it. No. 1 don't buy it. Holiday time is family gathering time, no matter to which congregation you belong. Maybe even the folks who live in really warm climates enjoy digging out the warm clothing and heading buck homo, where they can bo sure the miowmen in tho yard will bo mudc> of real snow and not tjtyrofoain. No mutUu1 how much kvtslching ia done about how cold it is, the warmth generated by a family group crowded around the table is more than adequate, In fact, to me it's very special. So to all yo nayaayers out (.here, you're wrong. Maybe your grandma would rather go to Bermuda, but this grandma votes for being with her mishpacha. You can take that to tho bonk.

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IN THE NEWS At the 20th annual convention of the National Association of Retired Reform Rabbis, in San Diego, CA, Jan. 9-12, Jane II. Brooks will be honored. She worked with her husband, the late Rabbi Sidney H. Brooks of Temple Israel, to create an organization intended to serve the special interests of retired rabbis and their spouses, providing them vyith opportunities to keep up with recent developments in the rabbinate and .Jewish world find to share advice on making retirement into a now and fu I (i lling career. Currently Secretory of NAOKRK, Jane Brooks played a key role: in many different communal organizations, educational activities and social service agencies. She has two children, Miriam and

Philip Wright of Cambridge, MA, and Joel and Naomi Brooks of Tampa, PL, and a grandson, Joseph Brooks. Matthew Ueling will advance to the highest Boy Scout rank, Eagle Scout, this Sunday, J a n . 5, 5 p.m. at the JCC. A member of troop #218, whose chartered partner is tho Jewish Community Center, Matthew began his scouting career there as a tiger cub. lie has earned 21) merit badges, completed a service project, served the troop as patrol leader and chaplin and has earned the Nor Tamid religious award and the order of Arrow. Tho son of Barbara and Fred Ueling, Matt is currently a freshman at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, studying vocal, music performance and math.

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The Pcnnio Z. Davis Child Development 1'iiHtmini will be heard J a n . 17-18, 8 p.m. at the Center will host Caroline! Kigiel and Danny Jones Orphoum Theater, when Grammy-nominated vioin a "Kids Value Concert" on Monday, J a n . 20, IJ-4 linist Robert McDuffic will perform with the p.m. in the Theatre of (In; Jewish Community Omaha Symphony. Playing "poetry" on oiii' of only 100 (luarticri v'wOenU'i1, The concert i.^ free ;md open to the community and geared for children in preschool through Jitus .still in existence today, McDuiTio will perform third grade. For more information, contact Rabbi Bench's "Concerto No. 1 for Violin in (r Minor, Opus y(5," under tlus direction of Victor Yhmpol-sky. Debbie HUH, ,'!;S44>fi47. For ticket information, call the box office, 1-102The rare sounds of a I7.'if> Guarneri Del Oe.su vio- ;M2-H5(5O or purehiimj online, at: www.omahasymlin once owned by the great Italian musician N'ioolo phony.org.

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Page 12

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

January 3, 2003

Divahn Quartet Highlights Cantor's Concert Beth El and Temple Israel Co-Sponsor Evening of 'SephanBc Flavored Music by OZZIE NOGG— — — • Anyone who thinks Jewish music means only klezmer will be in for a nice surprise on Saturday night, J a n . 18, when Divahn-an. all-female foursome—brings its special blend of Sephardic/Mizrachi grooves to the Cantor's Concert at Beth El Synagogue. The event, co-sponsored by Beth El and Temple Israel, begins at 7 p.m. in the Beth El Sanctuary. Divahn's name—a term common to Persian, Arabic and Hebrew—means a collection of songs or poetry. Through their intricate and intelligent arrangements and compositions, Divahn captures the comingling of diverse Middle Eastern cultures in its music while adding its own distinctively American Southern flair, originality and spirit. Blending the best from across the Jewish Diaspora, the group sings hi Hebrew, Ladino {a Hebrew-flavored dialect of Spanish), Persian and Aramaic, and draws from the traditions of Iran, Turkey, Iraq, Spain, Israel, and even American Appalachia. Led by classically trained lead singer Galeet Dardashti, who plays guitar and hand drum, Divahn also features Emily Pinkerton on violin, rabel, banjo, old-tune American fiddle and vocals; Lauren DeAlbert on Indian and Middle Eastern percussion, didgeridoo, and vocals; and Michal Raizen, a gifted Israeli-born cellist and singer.

Together, the women take their listeners on an exotic voyage through the history of Jewish music. The four women joined forces two years ago ia Austin, Texas, and since then have made numerous live radio appearances and performed before standingroom only audiences throughout the country. Reviewers called Divahn's first CD, "a stunning debut and flat-out thrilling record." The liner notes for the CD-titled, simply, Divahn ~ say much about the quartet's musical inspiration. The notes recognize the fact that since the destaietion of the First Temple in 586 B.C.E., Jews have had a strong presence in the Middle East in sach countries as Iran, Iraq and Syria. During Islamic restrictions on music in many periods, Jews were the primary group permitted to serve as professiQBal musicians. Clearly, Divahn feels a closeness to tibese Mizrachim (Middle Eastern and North African Jews) who were influenced by the cultures within which they lived for thousands of years and who played an important role in perpetuating the musical traditions of the area. Divahn also pays homage to the Sephardim (Spanish Jews) who flourished in Spaia for several centuries, spoke Ladino amongst themselves and composed songs in that language. When the Sephardim were expelled from Spain hi 1492, many

settled throughout the Mediterranean, the Middle East and North Africa, which is why Sephardie music reflects both Spanish and Moorish influences. The Divahn repertoire for the concert in Omaha will* be a potpourri of Sephariie and MizraMri-influenced Jewish music. The program includes Iraqi Shabbat songs from the 10th century, traditional Iranian arrangements of religious hymns, Ladino love songs, light-hearted Turkish folk songs, MizrakM wedding songs and Psalms set to music. All the selections successfully blend andeat and contemporary Instruments and showcase gorgeous vocal harmonies that often end In a dervish of darting, stabMag riaytfam and melody. In the words of Galeet Dardaslafi, "Some of our songs are lyrical and JhauatlBg, wMle we rock out on others." The concert will be followed by a dessert reception sponsored by both congregations. Ticket price options include: Maestro: $500 (4 tickets); Benefactor: $100 (2 tickets); Donor: $75 (2 tickets); Sponsor: $50 (2 tickets); and Patron:.$36 (2 tickets). Student tickets are available at $2.50 for High Schoolers and $1 for students 12 and under. All proceeds benefit the Beih El Synagogue Cantor's Scholarship Fond and Ifemple Israel's Music Fund. Eeservations can be made by calling Beth El at 492-8550 or Temple Israel a t 556-6536.

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