February 6, 2004

Vol. LXXXIII No. 23 Omaha, NE

Celebrating 83 Years of Service to Nebraska and Western Iowa

14 Shevat, 5764 February 6, 2004

One Year ‘Boots on the Ground’ for Omahan in Iraq

by CAROL KATZMAN Editor of the Jewish Press While Nebraskans shiver in below zero temperatures, Omahan Jay Benton is also looking forward to spring. He’s been in Iraq for more than six months, serving with the Military Police after being called up from the reserves more a year ago--Jan. 22, 2003, to be exact.

Benton is hard to miss. The six-foot, two inch 41-year-old graduated from Benson High School and went immediately into the Air Force. After his four years, he “re-upped” for two more and has served in the Army Reserves ever since. When he’s not in uniform, Benton, son of Bonnie Hines and brother of Penny Cody Cox, works for Asset Appraisal Service in Omaha.

His family is very proud of him, said his sister last week. “We just miss him a lot,” she added, hoping that the military sticks to its word that her brother will indeed be home in April. “They can make him stay for up to two years,” Cox explained, “so who knows for sure!”

Sgt. Benton arrived in Iraq last summer, where the temperature reached 140º during the day and gusting winds blew sand onto and into everything. He was based at Camp Bucca in southern Iraq, not far from the Kuwaiti border.

Around Thanksgiving, his unit, the 530th Military Police Battalion, moved further north, to Ashraf. But all mail was delivered to Camp Anaconda; sometimes he and his buddies could get there and

Staff Sargent Jay Benton and his reserve unit, the 530th Military Police Battalion out of Omaha, were called up for a tour of duty in Iraq more than six months ago. pick it up--sometimes it just had to wait.

He’s been “filing” entries from the journal and shared some of his thoughts with the Jewish Press.

“The coalition forces gathered up all the Iranian Freedom Fighters scattered around Iraq and put them here (in Ashraf),” Benton wrote in November.

“They offered no resistance, so they are under house arrest...they are free to come and go within the village and if they need to leave for any reason, we (the Military

Police) escort them. There are a few thousand men and women here.

“They are listed as a terrorist group with the FBI. Their main goals though, are not unlike ours here in Iraq. They wish for freedom in Iran and would like to see the current Iranian ruling regime toppled. This is why they must hide out in Iraq and we are only about 30 miles from the Iranian border.

“In the past Saddam used them as his mercenaries.”

Beth Israel Hires New Rabbi

Notice to Snowbirds: Stay Where You Are!

As of press time more than 21 inches of snow was on the ground in Omaha, with a possibility of six-plus more for Wednesday night into Thursday. If that snow does fall, it will

Inside

make the snowiest February on record for eastern Nebraska!

Above, Jewish Press Production Assistant Lori KooperSchwarz surveys the piles of snow in front of the JCC.

This Week: Teen Age Features Teens of Lincoln: Page 11 Lincoln’s B’nai Jeshurun Plans Purimspeil: Page 2

The military, like any culture, has its own language, sort of a shorthand of either initials or nicknames for people, places, groups and even activities. MEK represents the Iranian Freedom Fighters; LSA is Life Support Area. Readers should recognize MREs--short for Meals, Ready to Eat--but IEDs are a new one, even to us: Improvised Explosive Devices. Our friends and family in Israel, however, know them as terrorist bombs.

The MEK, said Benton, “are very peaceful, helpful and easy to get along with; they have no qualms with us or we with them. It is somewhat of a symbiotic relationship, as we rely on them for some of our basic needs like water and electricity.

“Our LSA or camp site is located out in the wide open sands, off from the main part of the village. I have been told that Ashraf is approximately 36 square kilometers in size.

“We are about 90 miles north by northeast of Bagdad and about 20 kilometers north of a town called BaQubah.

We are not really isolated, but we are by ourselves with only a armored tank unit here as well. If we need anything, we must go to bases nearby to get it.”

As military police, Benton is part of a unit that controls access at the main gate, searches vehicles, checks for weapons and monitors who comes and who goes.

They also provide security for the many convoys that go in and out of Ashraf Continued on page 4

America Decides: 2004 What Went Wrong for Lieberman?: page 5

by BETH COHEN Executive Director At the January meeting of the Board of Commissioners, Rabbi Jonathan Gross was approved unanimously for hire as the new rabbi of Beth Israel Synagogue.

Rabbi Gross and his wife, Sara, will be moving to Omaha sometime this summer.

Rabbi Gross is a graduate of Yeshiva University with a degree in mathematics. He was part of Sara and Rabbi Jonathan Gross the Sephardic Studies program while earning smicha (rabbinic ordination) from Yeshiva University’s Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary.

Rabbi Gross is currently the Assistant Rabbi in Beth Jacob Congregation of Los Angeles, one of the largest Orthodox synagogues in North America. At Beth Jacob, in addition to other rabbinic responsibilities, Rabbi Gross was placed in charge of creating daytime programming. The goal there was to make the shul into a learning center for retirees and others who had free time during the day.

Continued on page 4

Coming Next Month: Home & Garden Issue on Feb. 20 FJA & JNF Celebrate TuB’Shevat page 7

Conference on Gibson Film Still Leaves Concern: Page 16

Page 2

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

February 6, 2004

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 7 BELLS Speaker Jean Cahan, noon at Beth El Grade 2 & 5 Tu B’shevat Seder, 2:30 p.m. at Temple Israel “Central Dance Theatre” Performance, 8 p.m.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 8 Men’s Club 10 a.m. at Temple Israel WRJ Cradle Roll Event, 10:30 a.m. at Temple Israel Bible Study Group, 11 a.m. at Beth El “Central Dance Theatre” Performance, 2 p.m.

WRJ Friendship Tea, 2 p.m. at Temple Israel Girl Scout Troop Meeting, 3 p.m.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 9 YES Program, 10 a.m.

“Soul of the Text” Adult Ed. Class, 11 a.m.

JELS Teacher Training Program, 7 p.m.

C L I P & S A V E

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 10 Adult Education, 8:30 a.m. at Temple Israel Adult Education, 6 p.m. at Temple Israel BBYO Night, 6 p.m.

Executive Committee Meeting, 7 p.m. at Beth El WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 11 JELS Program “Jewish Thinkers on Jewish Subjects”, 10 a.m.

“Patter” Program, 10:30 a.m. at Beth El Crash Course in Hebrew Reading, noon C Adult Education, 6:30 p.m. at Temple Israel Adult B’nai Mitzvah Classes, 7 p.m. at Beth El L I THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12 P Walk-in Drop-in, 10 a.m. & Adult Education, 10 a.m. at Temple Israel S “Jewish Wisdom for the 21st Century” with Rabbi Levin, noon at Beth El A Yiddish Group, 1 p.m.

V “Live from the 92nd Street Y”, 7 p.m.

E All events held at the JCC unless otherwise indicated.The Jewish Press is not responsible for the accuracy of events.To keep calendar accurate or for questions, call Marlene Hert at 334-6437.

FOR A COMPLETE LISTING,VISIT THE FEDERATION’S WEBSITE: www.JewishOmaha.org (click on calendar)

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by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Temple Israel Communications Coordinator Nearly every day, said Rabbi Aryeh Azriel of Temple Israel, congregants, facing issues of death or the loss of expectations, dreams and, visions come to him “for solace, help and comfort.”

To assist in this healing process, Rabbi Earl Grollman, who has devoted himself to writing and lecturing on the subject of how to respond to grief and crisis, will serve as a scholar-in-residence, Feb. 20-22, at Temple Israel to discuss the topic, “When Life Isn’t Always Fair.”

“Sooner or later, all of us are touched by loss and in order to prepare oneself for life, one needs to deal spiritually and intellectually with this topic,” Rabbi Azriel observed.

On Friday night, Feb. 20, Rabbi Grollman will give the D’var Torah on “Turning Stumbling Blocks into Stepping Stones,” at Shabbat Worship Services which begin at 7:30 p.m. at Temple.

That evening, Temple Israel’s Caring Committee will initiate its newest project, the Shul Shuttle, which will embark on its initial trip transporting seniors from their own homes, apartments, or retirement centers to Temple for Shabbat services and then back home again after services. There is no cost to ride the shuttle bus which is being loaned by Jewish Senior Services for the evening.

Please call the Temple office at 556-6536 by Thursday, Feb. 19, to make a reservation for the first ride. Shelly Fox, Chairman of the Caring Committee, said the shuttle service will be available once a month on a three-month trial basis.

On Saturday morning, Feb. 21, at Temple, Rabbi Grollman will lead the Bagels and Sacred Books study group at 9:30 a.m. prior to the 10:30 a.m. Shabbat Worship Service. That afternoon, he will conduct a workshop, “Dealing with the Inevitable Losses of Life” at 3 p.m. and conclude with havdalah at 5 p.m.

On Sunday morning, Rabbi Grollman will meet with the kindergarten through sixth grade religious school teachers at 9 a.m. and then speak on “Children Mourning,” how parents, family, and the community can help children cope with loss, at a 10 a.m. session open to the community.

“So many families have experienced tragedies in their lives,” continued Rabbi Azriel, “from the loss of dear ones, to miscarriages, divorce, and illness that there is a need to find a time during the year for cleansing and recharging ourselves. A speaker of the caliber of Rabbi Grollman can help us move on with the rest of our lives.”

Marla (Goldberg) Cohen was only 13 when her moth-

er died. She didn’t receive counseling at that time, “but (the late) Rabbi (Isaac) Nadoff (who was the rabbi then at Beth Israel Synagogue where the Goldberg family were members) was very supportive and kind to our family,” Cohen recalled. “It was a good 15 years before I went for help,” she said.

Heartbreak struck again in 1993 when Marla and her husband, Bob, lost their 22-month-old son, Harry, from a head injury. When her son died, Marla was seeing a therapist. “Miraculously,” she now believes, she became pregnant soon after Harry’s death. Her son Josh was born in December 1993. “I was grieving while I was pregnant and waiting for Josh to die.” She continued with therapy.

People “have a right to grieve--it is not a sign of weakness but a sign of strength,” stressed Rabbi Grollman.

Marla Cohen said she agrees with him “absolutely!”

Eventually, Marla and Bob Cohen had three more children. Marla stayed home to raise her children while working on her master’s degree in counseling. She also stayed in counseling and even now, “I still go for therapy--more now to grow,” she said. She is now a therapist herself, specializing in grief work including counseling families who lost loved ones on September 11.

“Where does the renewal begin?” asks Rabbi Grollman. “It begins with ourselves.” He recommends regular health care, exercise and adequate rest; guiltfree vacations unencumbered by unread journals and leftover work; reconnecting with family, friends, and colleagues; time alone to reflect and meditate; and of paramount importance, a pursuit of interest beyond our parochial, personal life.

Marla Cohen agrees that “taking care of yourself” is vital to healing. She also suggests looking for people who are non-judgmental, spiritual, and flexible.

However, she feels attracted to others who are going through grief and advises reaching out to them. “It’s painful but uplifting.” She also believes in the healing power of “cherishing the present moment--the ordinary moment.”

“Ultimately,” in grief counseling, “we get more out of it than we give,” according to Rabbi Grollman. He admitted that his work “takes a lot out of you but makes you feel more needed.” He finds that helping others search for the answers and sharing their “pilgrimage of pain teaches me what life is all about.” He also feels that his work helps him find priorities in his own life.

Rabbi Azriel described Rabbi Grollman as “so eloquent, caring, and compassionate. You’re never the same after you listen to him.”

Lincoln Congregation Learns from Noted Reform Educator, Plans Purim Spiel

by BARB STRAUS B’nai Jeshurun to Unveil Purim Spiel from God, and it is a mitzReligious School Director vah to develop our minds.

Save Sunday evening, March 7, 7 p.m., for this year’s celeCongregation B’nai Jeshurun Regarding participation in bration of Purim at Lincoln’s South Street Temple-Teachers, teenagers, and Judaism, given the enorCongregation B’nai Jeshurun--an updated production of parents of Lincoln’s B’nai mous freedom we have in Norman Roth’s musical spoof, The Megillah According to Jeshurun had the opportuniour society, “every Jew is a Broadway. ty to meet and study with Jew by choice.”

This year’s players are Callie Feingold, Kitty Fynbu, Glenn, Rabbi Jan Katzew, Director The second--intergeneraSusan, and Becky Ledder, Elaine Monnier, Melissa Murkins, of Lifelong Learning for the tional--session was held for Michelle, Louis, Ben and Shoshana Schreiber, June Segal, Union of Reform Judaism, in post-B’nai Mitzvah students Clarissa Siegel, Emily Stanfield, Deborah Swearingen, Susan two sessions. The first sesand their parents, as well as Tribby, Jamie, Jerry and Zoe Watch, David and Katy Williss. sion was a teacher developother interested adults from Playing music for the spiel are: keyboardist Carla ment workshop entitled the congregation and McCoulough, guitarist Scott Stanfield, and director Maria “Developing Enduring Tifereth Israel Synagogue, Cadwallader.

Understandings” and also in Lincoln.

The cast of characters includes a Modern Reform Rabbi, “Making Menschen: Why We Rabbi Katsew taught Kids, the Fiddler/Jester, King Ahasuerus--the Not So Bright, Do What is Wrong When We about the importance of the the Too-Wise Guys, Vashti of the shoes, Mordecai Gump, Know What is Right.” lifelong struggle to identify Orphan Esther Nolastname, Marge & Tina, villainous Haman, Rabbi Katsew told the one’s principles and preferHaman’s Henchmen, the tried and true Virgins, and the crowd, “Among the most ences, for example: “When Ladies, Men, and Narrator. important ways a school to stand up, what to stand Numerous other volunteers also make this show possible by works is to teach lessons for, and what you won’t helping with cue cards and child care: Molly and Jack Fynbu, that students will bring with stand for” is a major part of Kim Hollibaugh, Josh and Kitra Monnier, Jen Williss, and them into adulthood. We being a mensch, a humane Dean Cadwallader. will know if we have been person, your best self. successful with our students in about 40 years!”

According to the rabbi, ultimately, the most imporHe spoke about the role of education in Jewish life tant interpersonal value is chesed, loving kindness--the of the past 2,000 years. It has been central and close to willingness to be non-judgmental and forgiving, to do mandatory and universal for Jewish males, but now so without expecting anything in return, to recognize Jewish education is voluntary. Learning is valued for its another’s pain and do something to alleviate it, to make own sake, imbued with the ideas that the mind is a gift the world better because we were here.

February 6, 2004

Who Makes the Decisions When Caring for the Elderly?

by JILL BELMONT for Jewish Family Service Tackling sensitive issues facing aging parents can present a difficult challenge for adult children.

Juggling health and safety needs, while at the same time honoring and respecting the parent’s need for independence, can be a delicate process. How do you tell a parent that it may be time to move to a retirement home? That it’s time to turn over the car keys? That financial matters need to be handled by someone else?

Who makes the final decision?

These issues will be discussed at a special “Munch ‘n’ Learn,” on Tuesday, Feb. 17, 7:30 p.m., at the home of Helen Epstein, 2223 No. 100th St. The event, chaired by Epstein and this writer, is being co-sponsored by Jewish Family Service and Jewish Senior Services.

The evening’s featured speaker will be Susan V. Murray, a social worker who has specialized in geriatrics and gerontology for the past 19 years at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Murray, author of “The Community Resource List for Older Adults and Family Caregivers,” has spent her professional career assessing and strengthening the family caregiver system for vulnerable older adults.

She has worked closely with the Midlands Chapter of the National Alzheimer’s Disease Association and is a founder of the Living Room Caregiver’s Support Group, the first community-wide support group in the Omaha area for family caregivers of older adults. In addition, Murray has worked as a practicum instructor for students at the UNO School of Social Work and the UNO Gerontology Certificate Program, and has served as a guest lecturer at UNMC and UNO. Shane Kotok, Director of Community Outreach for Jewish Senior Services, will also be on hand during the evening to answer questions about Jewish Senior Services and the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. Kotok holds an M.S. in counseling, specializing in gerontology.

The event is free and open to the community.

Reservations are required and may be made by calling the Jewish Family Service office at 330.2024.

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 3

What to Do When Controversy Arises

FROM THE DESK OF THE PRESIDENT

by STEVE PITLOR, President of the Jewish Federation of Omaha Every so often members of our Jewish Community ask me why the Jewish Federation of Omaha does not become more visible and/or vocal concerning controversial issues that arise from time to time.

I do remind them that the Jewish Federation, its agencies as well as our affiliate organizations are constantly monitoring local, national and international events and determine appropriate responses when we feel it is in the best interest of our community. Some people become very uncomfortable and quite concerned when an issue arises that seems to hit on a sensitive nerve, particularly a Jewish nerve. It may be a remark quoted in the press, a Mel Gibson movie or an international event that has anti-Semitic overtones.

Whatever the case, individuals sometime feel at a loss as to how to respond or react. I have a few specific suggestions to assist you if you find yourself in this position.

At anytime I urge members of our community to contact our Director Jan Goldstein if they are in need of further facts or clarification of a current event issue. We all know the press is notorious for distorting facts from time to time, reporting things as they see it or utilizing shock journalism to promote wider circulation and viewership.

It is both incumbent and necessary to clarify the facts and consider the sources before one reacts or responds. Jan and her staff have at their disposal many resources from the local level to the international level that can be accessed to clarify the real facts surrounding an issue. In addition, Jan and her staff may be able to refer you to a source that can further inform you on a particular matter.

Most everyone is aware of the ADL office that serves the Mid Plain states which is headquartered right here in Omaha. We are fortunate to have individuals such as its Executive Director Bob Wolfson and his staff available to address or respond to controversial and concerning issues that arise. You are urged at anytime to

contact Bob with your questions and concerns as well as seeking suggestions as to how to respond or react.

The one avenue that I constantly encourage people to utilize more is personal response, something that doesn’t get used enough.

It is important and effective for the community at large to personally and publicly respond to issues of importance. Whether it is writing to the World Herald’s Public Pulse, calling a local radio talk show or contacting your duly elected representative, you would be surprised how effective this can be.

If you are unsure of facts that make you hesitate to be vocal then utilize the Federation services mentioned above. Keep in mind though that you don’t have to be a historian or expert on local and world politics to be effective. A passionate opinion or a pointed response to distorted or inaccurate reporting or tasteless remarks by others will serve not only to educate and inform others but help to balance the playing field of public opinion. Best of all it will make you feel good to exercise your right of free speech and take advantage of the privileges that are afforded to us in our great nation.

There are members of our Jewish community who make it a regular practice to respond to media issues that arise particularly when the facts need to be set straight. I applaud these individuals for stepping up to the plate on all of our behalf and encourage the rest of you to type a letter, pick up a phone or write an e-mail when you feel passionate about an issue, particularly one that strikes that Jewish nerve.

Contact us if we can assist you.

Beginning Monday, the Jewish Federation will be conducting a community needs assessment survey. MSR Group, a local marketing and research firm, will call a random sampling of community members to ask questions about Omaha’s Jewish community needs. The survey was developed and recommended by the Federation’s Planning and Evaluation Committee, chaired by Sandy Friedman. The sub-committee includes Harry Berman and David Goldberg. “The key to the accuracy and success of this survey is the willingness of people in our community to participate and respond honestly and openly,” said Friedman. All responses will be held in confidence. Contact Julee Katzman at 334.6428 or jkatzman@jewishomaha.org for information.

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Page 4

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

February 6, 2004

Omahan in Iraq Continued from page 1 each day for supplies like food and fuel.

The convoys travel to Camp Anaconda, Camp Warhorse and a place called B.I.A.P or Baghdad International Air Port.

“As you may have heard, these roads are not the safest,” Benton writes. “There are frequent attacks on coalition forces.

The most ‘popular’ type of attack has been what we call I.E.D. or improvised explosive devises.

These devices are placed on or near a road frequented by military vehicles and are detonated when either an army truck or other vehicle hits it or when its detonated by remote control.

“Fortunately,” notes Benton, “we ride in armored Humvees, which are not totally protective, but have been proven to save lives.”

Benton is also involved in special operations. A predawn raid was conducted on a village north of Ashraf.

“An air assault unit was dropped, in as well as tanks and other armored vehicles,” he explained. “We drove all night through the desert to get to the far side of the town before dawn. Our job was to clear the main road for the other units to move in and then set up a road block so no traffic could get in or out while the raid was conducted.

“It sounds exciting, but it really wasn’t.

We had been up all day working in our LSA, then got the word and had to get all ready to go. We had to meet up with others, driving in the dark in a line over hills and through ravines and who knows what. I was in the passenger seat, so you can imagine riding a roller coaster in the dark for hours and hours.

“It was fun for about the first 10 min-

utes,” he wrote. “When we got to the But in January, Benton wrote, “Our “As you may have heard on the news town and the raid was on, we set up our internet and phone service has been there have been many bombings in and roadblock and stood there for six hours- more down than up. We have been get- around Baghdad. Fortunately none of -boring! ting some improvements around camp. our soldiers have been hit while on the “When it was over, it was a crazy traf- They started putting some gravel around road,” Benton told the Press. “We have fic jam with us stuck in the middle!” our tent, so we don’t have to tramp been very lucky and I hope our luck Benton says life at Camp Ashraf is sim- around in the mud as much. Shower keeps up. It is very quiet here at Camp ple. It’s been cold and they have no tents have been completed with hot Ashraf, we don’t get attacked by mortars heat. water heat- or suicide bombers.

“It rained ers, electriciAs Military Police, Benton’s unit is two days and ty, sinks and called on to do anything and everything. nights in a mirrors. But They help build tents and floors, but if row, so it was the showers you want a door or a shelf or a table very muddy,” only work made, you are on your own, Benton B e n t o n when we says. They have to shovel and wheel wrote, adding have water gravel, help out in the kitchen (KP that he and and there’s duty), do the maintenance on the vehihis unit “are only a on/off cles--“not just checking the fluid levels now cold and handle, so either. I mean re-do breaks, get underwet and you can’t neath and grease the drive train and susmuddy. adjust the pension,” which Benton considers only “It reminds temperature. fair since other soldiers pull guard-duty me of some Sgt. Benton rides a bus as part of a convoy to another base. It was once in a while. of the old extremely hot The latest on his unit going home is WWII or Vietnam war films,” he added, the last time I used it!”

72 days (from the date Benton wrote to “with the soldiers and trucks sloshing Benton’s unit also set up a laundry the Press). “We aren’t holding our back and forth in ruts of mud with mud service so clothes can be everywhere.” cleaned, but there are probBenton’s unit only has electricity in lems with this as well. “The their tents from about 7 p.m. until 7 in clothes come back damp the morning, but no heat. They do have and wrinkled sometimes warm sleeping bags though, though he and occasionally an article admits it’s “very confining to for some- or two doesn’t come back at one like me who tosses and turns a lot!” all! There are half-a-dozen The soldiers get one hot meal a day at washers and dryers, but the dinner, cold cereal and juice for break- washers only work when fast, and always available--the loved we have water (like the “bowel-blocking” MRE. showers).

“On the brighter side,” Benton added, “They are still working on “Things can only get better. The sun getting us more heat in our returned today and it stopped raining for tents, At least it’s not freeznow. The internet and phone service is ing here now, but it still gets better than Camp Bucca!” cold when the sun goes down.”

Last month, Benton’s squad had escort duty. They Sgt. Benton poses on the banks of the Tigris River, in front of travelled to Abu Qariab near Camp Victory, outside Baghdad.

Baghdad, spent two nights there because there was no room at two breath.. Our one year ‘boots on ground’ other bases, BIAP or Camp Victory. date is April 4. Near the end of March we “Abu Qariab gets mortared frequently, should be heading to Kuwait and then to mostly at night,” Benton writes, “but the Ft. Riley, KS, where we’ll spend five to next day, we where there when they nine days before returning home. shelled us at three in the afternoon.

“Well that’s about it for now,” Benton Surprisingly, none of the mortar rounds concluded. Keep us in your prayers.” came close to us or anyone else.

We will, Sgt. Benton; we will.

CINDY CHUPACK & RABBI JEN KRAUSE Cindy Chupack is a writer and executive producer of HBO’s Sex and the City and the author of The Between Boyfriends Book.

New Rabbi

Rabbi Jen Krause is a teacher and spiritual leader.

Judaim relationships Judaism has has always always known that relationships are a challenge, challenge, and andwhen whenyou’re you’retrying tryingtoto find, maintain maintain or orjust justfigure figureout outlove loveininthe the city that that never never sleeps, sleep, you’re boundto tohave have you’re bound questions keepingyou youup upnights. nights.IsIshonesty honesty questions keeping always the best best policy? policy?IsIsthere therean anideal idealway way always the to break up? up? If If relationships relationshipstake takework, work,how how do you kno knowwhen when you’ve logged much you’ve logged tootoo much overtime?

How does doesJudaism, Judaism,and andhow howdodo overtime? How you, tacklethese thesequestions? questions? you tackle

Continued from page 1 In addition to his work at Beth Jacob, Rabbi Gross was selected to be the Joseph B. Soloveichik Fellow this past year from the Soloveichik Institute in Boston. As a Fellow, Rabbi Gross was involved in doing research on some of the teachings of this great Jewish leader, philosopher, and Torah scholar of modern history. Many Omahans remember Rabbi Gross from his previous three trips to Omaha when, as a rabbinic student, he was part of the staff of the Yeshiva University Summer Torah Tours sponsored each year by Beth Israel.

Rabbi Gross expresses his enthusiasm about his new position in Omaha, “My goal is to apply my knowledge and experience to help Beth Israel continue to grow into a thriving institution, a center of sophisticated Torah learning, and a magnet for people young and old, charging them with excitement and passion for their heritage and religion.”

Rabbi Gross’s wife, Sara, graduated with a degree in Biology from Stern College/Yeshiva University. Following graduation, she worked for a year as a teaching assistant with first graders at Manhattan Day School, prior to starting medical school at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles.

Sara will start her fourth year of medical school this summer, although she is still undecided on her specialty. She is looking forward to completing most of her fourth year and residency in Omaha.

“We are delighted with the enthusiastic support of the congregation in the selection of Rabbi Gross,” said Julee Katzman, chairman of the Interview Committee. “Our interview committee, representing a broad spectrum of the congregation, sent a strong endorsement of Rabbi Gross to the Board of Commissioners. After his interview we also provided an occasion for congregants to meet him personally. This process proved to be an opportunity to involve the congregation and be as inclusive as possible.”

David Kohll, President of Beth Israel Synagogue added, “We are fortunate to have the opportunity to hire such a knowledgeable, vibrant rabbi. We are so appreciative for the time many of us in the congregation had to spend with Rabbi Gross when he was a rabbinic student visiting Omaha.

“Those visits give us added confidence in our decision that Rabbi Gross is a perfect fit for filling the needs of our congregation.”

For more information, call 556.6288.

February 6, 2004

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 5

From Favorite Son to Latest Casualty: What Went Wrong for Joe Lieberman?

AMERICA DECIDES 2004

by MATTHEW E. BERGER WASHINGTON (JTA)--Four years ago, he was the toast of the Jewish world, the favorite son who became a symbol of opportunity for American Jews in the United States.

But when he went out on his own this time around, Sen. Joseph Lieberman (D-CT) failed to catch on as a top-tier candidate.

Now the question will be asked for years to come: What went wrong?

Was his religion a factor--especially for Jews? Are his politics out of sync with Democratic voters? Was it his style?

After a poor showing in New Hampshire last week, Lieberman was holding out hope for a last-minute turnaround in one of Tuesday’s primaries. But it didn’t happen. By midday, Lieberman officials were preparing plans for Lieberman to drop out of the race and gathering his troops for a final post-primary event in Virginia Tuesday night. Lieberman returned to his home state Wednesday to announce he was no longer a candidate after Tuesday night’s debacle for his campaign.

Even Lieberman's mother, Marcia, has acknowledged that her son’s campaign “didn’t catch on.”

When Lieberman announced his candidacy in January 2003, he had the best name recognition among the Democratic hopefuls, because of his national exposure as the vice presidential nominee on the 2000 ticket with Al Gore.

But even as he was leading in the polls then, political analysts did not consider him in the top tier of candidates.

“Name recognition that he earned from the national race four years ago never persuaded me he was a credible contender for the nomination,” said Stuart Rothenberg, an independent political analyst.

There are many explanations for Lieberman’s fall.

Some say it was political. Lieberman is a moderate on social, economic and political issues, someone who supported the Iraq war and was campaigning among a Democratic electorate angered by the Bush administration’s handling of Iraq and his domestic policies.

Others say it was strategic, suggesting that Lieberman had a sense of entitlement about the race, because of the election controversies of 2000, and therefore did not lay the groundwork for his candidacy the way his

I’m Florence Brody

SUPER SUNDAY

opponents did.

Jewish community's political sophistication hurt In the Jewish community, analysis of his demise Lieberman’s chances. sparks passion--and even anger.

“Many leaders of the Jewish community, the politiSome say he was let down by his own. cally invested people, had already made commitments,” While no one expected Lieberman to receive the full he said. support of American Jews, some Lieberman loyalists Indeed, many seasoned political donors in the Jewish say they did not anticipate the extent to which his can- community had ties to other candidates--such as Sen. didacy would be rejected by some in their community. John Kerry (D-MA) or Rep. Richard Gephardt (D-MO).

Rabbi Irving “Yitz” Green-berg, president of the Even those who were giving to more than one candiJewish Life date --in some cases includN e t w o r k ing Lieberman--were not Foundation, giving him their full backand his wife ing.

Blu, were cirOthers may have seen culating an opLieberman as too conservaed to Jewish tive on many issues, such as newspapers the war in Iraq or his supthis week, port for faith-based initiaarguing that tives. It was much easier to Jews were actsupport Lieberman in 2000, ing as antiwhen he was not running Semites would, against other Democrats. casting LieberNot all Jewish analysts man aside believe Lieberman was hurt because of his by his community. He still Jewishness. galvanized many Jews who “The commu- Sen. Joseph Lieberman (D-CT) and his wife, Hadassah, campaign door-to- may not have given in past nity blinked,” door Jan. 25, 2004, before the New Hampshire primary, with media and political races to donate, Yitz Greenberg supporters in tow.

Credit: Matthew E. Berger/JTA they say, but did not get the said, suggestsupport from others ing that his policies were “a good fit” for Jews. because of his moderate politics.

A rise of anti-Semitism and anti-Zionist sentiment “Jews were happy for Lieberman, happy he could run around the world brought old fears to the surface for for president, but sadly, just didn’t embrace his polimany Jews, he argued, and Jews looked for a safer tics,” said Steve Rabinowitz, a Democratic media stratechoice for president. gist with ties to the Jewish community.

“The community made a huge mistake,” he said. “A Rothenberg suggested that if Lieberman were a victory for a Jew in America would have been a Baptist, he would have done worse. tremendous refutation of anti-Semitism.”

But no one suggests that the mixed reaction Some Jewish donors said they would have given Lieberman received from Jews is behind the complete to Lieberman, based on his political stances, but did not downfall of his candidacy. want to support a Jew at this time, fund-raisers say.

Many say the candidate did not work hard enough to It was easier to support Lieberman as a vice pres- build off of the name recognition and exposure he idential nominee, some Jews say, because he was blaz- received as Gore's running mate in 2000, reaching out ing the trail without being the center of attention. to party contributors in key primary states.

But as his own candidate--and at a time with “Unfortunately, he spent two years not doing anyincreased tension in the Middle East and an uptick in thing, resting on that flash reputation,” Rabinowitz said. international anti-Semitism--hesitancy grew.

“He didn’t develop it, he didn’t go out and meet big Marvin Lender, a member of Lieberman’s campaign givers and local leaders and mayors.” board who raised funds for him in the Jewish commuSome argue that Lieberman’s problems went beyond nity, suggested that Lieberman aides had anticipated strategy. Many point to Lieberman’s moderate to conraising more money from the Jewish community. servative policy positions, calling them out of touch He blames the fear as one element, but says the with the Democratic party base.

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February 6, 2004

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Beth El Sanctuary Filled to Honor Rabbi Kripke

by DIANE AXLER BAUM for Beth El Synagogue Beth El Synagogue provided an appropriate stage for celebrating and paying tribute to Rabbi Myer S. Kripke, on Shabbat morning, Jan. 17, upon the occasion of his 90th birthday. Kripke served as Beth El’s spiritual leader for nearly 30 years, has been Rabbi Emeritus since 1975, and is loved and honored by members of the congregation. They turned out in huge numbers, joining Kripke’s relatives, friends and admirers, both Jewish and Gentile, from Omaha, across the country, and around the world.

After services, several speakers offered moving remarks that led to standing ovation and long applause.

The event closed with a festive luncheon.

Rabbi Kripke’s daughter Netta Stern, nephew Ned Kripke, and cousin Joan Kripke all performed major roles in the Shabbat morning service as did the honoree, who chanted the Haftorah. Special guests included Rabbi Aryeh Azriel, sitting on the bima; Jane Brooks, wife of the late Rabbi Sidney Brooks; and the Reverend Alva Clark, Pastor Emeritus of St. Paul Methodist Church.

Beth El arranged for Rabbi Jules Harlow of New York City to offer the keynote, in which he looked back on Rabbi Kripke’s life and accomplishments. Other speakers were former Omahan, Rabbi Jonathan Rosenbaum, currently President of Gratz College in Philadelphia, and “native son,” Dr. Ron Wolfson, a Vice-president at

the University of Judaism in Los Angeles and founder of Synagogue 2000. Congregation President Dick Fellman and Beth El’s Rabbi Mordechai Levin also presented tributes.

Repeatedly, the speakers made reference to the significance of Rabbi Kripke’s given name “Myer.”

Fellman, for example, pointed out that in Hebrew, “Myer” means “a light, a guiding light, a lamp of wisdom, all of which describe Beth El’s Rabbi Myer Kripke.”

Rabbi Levin shared with the audience that during his student years at the Latin American Rabbinical Seminary in Buenos Aires, he first knew of Rabbi Kripke through the wonderful books for children by his late wife, Dorothy Kripke.

“I’ve now lived in Omaha for a year and a half and have had the privilege of getting to know Rabbi Kripke,” he said. “I have also had the opportunity to learn from him.”

“Today’s parasha, Shemot, means ‘names,’ Levin noted, and he continued with mention of a rabbinic source: “People are called by three names: One is the name the person is called by his father and mother; one is the name people call him; one is the name he acquires for himself. The best one is the one he acquires for himself.”

To this, Rabbi Levin added, “Rabbi Kripke, my honored senior colleague, you have acquired for yourself a distinguished name and also the crown of a good name.”

A standing room only crowd greeted Rabbi Myer S. Kripke, above right, when he walked into the chapel of the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home Jan. 18 to dedicate two Torah mantles. After the congregation, led by Marti Nerenstone, sang “Hineh Ma Tov”, Rabbi Kripke had the honor of changing the Torah covers. Miles Remer, left, Co-president of L.O.V.E. (League offering Volunteers for the Elderly) and Rabbi Maximo Shechet walked through the congregation, making

sure everyone had a chance to see the Torahs. After moving to the dining room for tea time, all sang “Happy Birthday” to rabbi in English and Hebrew. Anna Mosenkis entertained with lively tunes on the clavinova. The covers were needlepointed by Sylvia Jess and Charlotte Zipursky, as part of L.O.V.E.’s redecoration project of the chapel and lounges in the Home. This birthday celebration was sponsored by L.O.V.E. and Beyt Shalom. Reconstructionist Synagogue.

493-3893

Beth Israel Synagogue will be moving into our new building the week of February 9th. Our phone service will be interrupted on February 10th as we transition into the new building.

After February 10th, you may reach us in the new location at our “old” number.

Gary Cohen Cell:850-8030• Email:gcohen@piercetechnologies.com

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Shakiest Yad in the West

WITH A GRAIN OF SALT

by JILL BELMONT My years in Hebrew school were spent trying to not be in Hebrew school. Early on, my attendance was respectable; the juvenile delinquency reared its ugly head around age 12. At that point, my game plan revolved around sneaking out early, slithering down the side driveway at Beth El, and high-tailing it to Cris’ Rexall, where I spent as much time as possible reading teen magazines. (A belated ‘thank you’ goes to Don Klein and his pharmacists for not ratting me out to my parents.) By the middle of ninth grade, I dropped out of Hebrew school altogether, because I obviously knew everything I needed to know about Judaism.

If someone back then had told me that as an adult, I would enjoy attending classes at the synagogue and reading Torah as often as possible, I would’ve clutched my chest in horror and called for an exorcist.

But here I am, a living example of the old adage that you really can teach an old dog new tricks. I proved this to myself several years ago when I learned to read Torah for my oldest daughter’s Bat Mitzvah, and found something deeply meaningful, almost magical, about being able to chant.

Years ago, I listened to my Kushner cousins in Lincoln read Torah at Tifereth Israel, and I always marveled at their skill, as well as the graceful confidence with which they read. I remember feeling a pull to join that club, though I didn’t fully realize it at the time. Now, I have found a quietly personal connection that draws me toward text and trope, keeping me reading month after month.

The odd thing is that I dread speaking publicly.

Even at a small meeting filled with friendly faces, speaking up requires a few written prompts, some deep breathing, and a quick prayer that when all eyes

turn to me, I won’t lose the ability to speak in complete, comprehensible sentences.

So while I always look forward to studying my Torah portions, the actual reading never fails to absolutely terrify me. From the time I wake up on those fateful Shabbat mornings, I’m looking to ride the first rail out of town. Walking up to the bima, I become the shakiest yad in the West, convinced that my goose is cooked and I’ll be destined to stare blankly at the Torah, sing terribly off-key or otherwise humiliate myself for life.

The fact that I haven’t fallen spectacularly on my face hasn’t seemed to deter this irrational crash-and-burn mentality, and I receive little consolation in knowing that no one will actually fall on the floor laughing if I mess up. (I believe that people are kinder than that; they’ll wait until they’re in the privacy of their own homes.)

One source of comfort is knowing I’m not alone in this nail-biting nervousness. I’ve spoken with several others who admit to feeling quite jittery before they read. And my favorite story by far, is about a friend who was recently preparing to read Torah for the first time in decades. Worried about not singing the trope properly, he joked that if he blanked, he’d simply sing his portion to the tune of “Oh, What a Beautiful Morning.”

“Broadway on the Bimah,” anyone?

I used to run away from the synagogue; now I feel myself gravitating toward it. Though I’m no scholar, I’ve retrieved my long-lost attention span and curiosity, and find that this old dog wants to pick up what she so cavalierly discarded years ago. I have so much to discover, so many questions to be answered.

I hope to continue plugging away at my Torah reading, sweaty palms and all. Maybe with time, the nerves will subside and I’ll chant with the casual ease so many others exhibit.

Until then, I have one request for Lucy White at Beth El: on the days that I’m reading, would you please put those shots of whiskey out on the Kiddush table before the service? A grateful congregant thanks you.

Jill Belmont can be reached at: BeanK2@aol.com.

February 6, 2004

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 7

JNF Commemorates Ilan Ramon with Tu B’Shevat Celebrations in Schools and Congregations, Friedel Academy to Participate

by SARINA ROFFE for the Jewish National Fund Hundreds of congregations, Jewish day schools and Hebrew schools are taking part in Jewish National Fund’s (JNF’s) Tu B’Shevat Across America 2004 program celebrating Tu B’Shevat, the New Year of the trees, on February 7th.

To commemorate the one year anniversary of the death of Colonel Ilan Ramon, Israel’s first Jewish astronaut who along with six colleagues lost his life in the Columbia Space Shuttle disaster, special Ilan Ramon tree certificates will be used for JNF’s Tu B’Shevat program. Prior to his death, Colonel Ramon expressed his wish that 13 million new trees be planted in Israel and JNF has worked to help fulfill the Israeli hero’s dream.

Tu B’Shevat embodies the strong dedication to ecology, environmentalism and conservation that JNF has always championed. It falls on the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Shevat--Feb. 7 this year--a time when trees start drinking the New Year’s rainwater and the sun renews itself.

“Over the years, this holiday has taken on the theme of planting trees in Israel, making it JNF’s holiday,” explained Bob Levine, JNF’s National VP for Education.

“Perhaps no other organization is as strongly associated with a holiday as JNF is with Tu B’Shevat. Over the past 100 years, Jews have come together to plant

over 240 million trees through JNF, providing luscious belts of green covering over 250,000 acres of land in Israel.”

During the early pioneer movement in late 18th and early 19th century

Palestine, Jewish pioneers linked the environmentalism of Tu B’Shevat specifically with the practice of planting trees in the land of Israel.

In recent years, Jewish environmentalists adopted Tu B’Shevat as a “Jewish Earth Day,” involving organized seders, tree-plantings and ecological restoration activities as a way to express a specifically Jewish commitment to caring for nature and protecting the environment.

Trees defend against the greenhouse effect, improve air quality, prevent soil

erosion and protect areas that feed into water sources.

Jewish schools, like the Friedel Jewish Academy in Omaha--will celebrate Tu B’Shevat by planting trees in Israel, conducting a Tu B’Shevat Seder using the brightly colored JNF Haggadah, Branching Out, reciting the blessings and eating fruits and grains from Israel (wheat, barley, grapes, fig, pomegranate, olive and dates), dancing the mayim-the Jewish dance for water, and doing the activities in its educational newsletter, A New Leaf.

For an $18 tree purchase, students can receive one Ilan Ramon Tree Certificate for themselves and designate a second one for an honoree.

Additional certificates can be purchased at a special student rate. In addition, a Limited Edition Ilan Ramon Commemorative Stamp Set is available to Jewish schools.

Another aspect of this exciting program is JNF’s work with congregations to bring together families across the U.S. to celebrate this holiday. JNF developed a Tu B’Shevat sermon book, which is a collection of sermons from rabbis around the country about the importance of this environmental holiday. Hundreds of

congregations will participate in Tu B’Shevat Across America by holding a JNF Shabbat tonight and tomorrow and Tu B’Shevat seders during this week.

“As the environmentalist movement grew, people really started saying, ‘What is the Jewish response?’ But there already was a Jewish response,” Levine says.

“Tu B’Shevat reminds us that no matter what happens, we all have to share this planet and care for it.”

For more information, visit www.jnf.org.

Below: Judaic Studies teacher, Naama Artzi, kneeling left, and General Studies teacher, Denise Bennett, standing right, work with the older students at Friedel Jewish Academy: Anna Kohll and Jesse Reno, kneeling, and Dylan Werthheim, standing, to prepare for today’s Tu B’Shevat celebration with the entire school.

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Page 8

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

February 6, 2004

Kitchen Quickies

ORGANIZATIONS

by M. Caratozzolo & J. Abrams (SquareOne, $14.95)

BREADBREAKERS Robert J. Hallam will speak at Breadbreakers on Wednesday, Feb. 4, noon, at the Park Inn Regency, according to Gil Cohen. Hallam is President and CEO of the Omaha Symphony. Cost is $9 for lunch and $2 for beverage service only. Breadbreakers is open to the community.

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. Abbie Erpelding, a student intern from Dana College, will lead the discussion group. Wear purple and a red hat as members of the Red Hat Society will join us for a fun and crazy lunch. Myrna Kost and Treva Nyquist of the Razzle Dazzle Doozies will talk about this unique club. For transportation, call Dee Dee at 330.4272.

Celebrate Presidents Day with a special concert by Robyn Lensch as she performs patriotic music and show tunes on Feb. 16. Call Maggie for all reservations at 334.6521: Bluffs Run on Feb. 26.

Abraham Lincoln Live is Thursday, Feb. 19, 1 p.m., in JCC auditorium. Lee Williams will come in character as he emphasizes on Lincoln’s character, humility, determination, humor and compassion. There is no charge for the performance. Lunch will be served at 11:30 a.m. for $6 and must be paid in advance. Make check payable to JSS and send to: Maggie Conti, 323 So. 132 St. Omaha, NE 68154. A dessert reception, sponsored by Jewish Women International, will follow.

WALK-IN, DROP-IN Members will meet on Thursday at the JCC. Exercise and bingo will begin at 10 a.m. Bring a dairy sack lunch to eat at 11:15 a.m. in the Social Hall. The movie, Radio, will be shown in the Blumkin Home auditorium at noon. For transportation, call Maggie Conti at 334.6521.

VISIONS: In Search of Shangri La, the Dick Walter’s travelogue is Friday, Feb. 27, 2 p.m., at the Joslyn Art Museum.

Visions members price is $6 per person. Join us for lunch on your own at noon at Le Cafe Durham. Send reservations with payment to: Sandy and Fred Bromley,134l9 Marinda St., Omaha, NE 68144. Deadline is Feb. 19. No reservations taken after this date! Make checks payable to Visions.

Membership dues to Visions for 2004 are due. Please

BIRTHS

LOMIR REDN YIDDISH Want to have a “Freylichen Tog”? Come to Yiddish meeting at the JCC on Thursdays, 1-3 p.m. Call Anne Skolkin at 343.1638 for information.

NJHS Save this date (not the Aug. date inadvertently submitted to the Press for last week’s issue): Wednesday, April 14, 7 p.m. The Nebraska Jewish Historical Society will show the award winning film, The Lost Wooden Synagogues of Eastern Europe. This film, winner of five awards at film festivals, is narrated by Theodore Bikel and tells the story of the synagogues, the life that surrounded them before World War II and what happened to them in the last 50 years.

OMAHA CENTER FOR TORAH LEARNING “Hidden Dimensions of Psalms,” organized by Shirley Goodman meets at the home of Annette Fettman on Tuesdays, 4:30 p.m. Rabbi Tuvia Hoffman will explore the meaning of Psalms.

A crash course in Hebrew Reading with Rabbi Hoffman also meets Wednesdays at noon in the Federation Conference Room; Advanced Hebrew Comprehension meets at 7 p.m. at the OCTL Beis Midrash; call 981.0569 for more information.

NATIONAL COUNCIL OF JEWISH WOMEN The February board meeting will take place on Wednesday evening, Feb. 11, 7:30-9 p.m., at the JCC Federation conference room. Please, RSVP to President Kim Noddle, 391.7022.

JEWISH EDUCATIONAL AND LIBRARY SERVICES Join Guy Matalon, Executive Director of JELS, for an informative six-week course focusing on the teachings of Maimonides. In this course, the first in a series entitled, “Jewish Thinkers on Jewish Problems,” portions of Maimonides’ Guide of the Perplexed, Mishne Torah and his letters will be read. Discussions based on the texts of this renowned 12th century philosopher and physician will follow.

The class will meet Wednesdays, Feb. 11-March 17, 10-11 a.m., in the Kripke Library. The cost is $25.

Please contact Iris Ricks at 334.6445 or via e-mail at iricks@jewishomaha.org if you would like to register or need more information.

R EAD IT AND EAT Reviewed by LOIS FRIEDMAN Want to enjoy meals that aren’t frozen dinners or fast foods? Just when you thought there weren’t enough hours in the day here comes a quick cookbook with over 170 recipes, with no more than five ingredients plus staple ingredients that you have in your pantry, that take from 15 to 45 minutes to prepare from start to finish, have less than 5 grams of fat and are low in sodium.

The Basics of Kitchen Quickies covers fast and easy cooking, pantry staples, equipment and is followed by the chapters on food categories. Numerical complete, simple instructions are aimed for “anyone with the most basic cooking skills could follow with ease”, tips on speeding food preparation, and nutritional facts are included with the recipes.

Try this savory soup for tomorrow night or anytime.

EASY TURKEY-CARROT SOUP Time: 30 minutes, Yield: 4 servings Main Ingredients: 8 ounces 99% lean ground turkey (Feel free to use cubed pre-cooked turkey or chicken instead of ground for this hearty soup) 2 medium carrots, peeled and thinly sliced 1/2 cup small shell pasta Staples: 6 cups reducedsodium, fat-free chicken broth 1 teaspoon dried parsley 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme 1/4 teaspoon fresh ly ground black pepper Coat a 4-quart pot with cooking spray, and preheat over medium heat. Add the turkey and cook, stirring to crumble, for 4 minutes, or until no pink remains.

Add the broth, carrots, parsley, thyme and black pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Bring the ingredients to a second boil and add the pasta.

Reduce the heat to low, cover and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked. Serve immediately.

Lois Friedman can be reached at: readitandeat@yahoo.com

Visions Elects Steering Committee for 2004

Andee and Anthony Scioli announce the Jan. 22 birth of their son, Jack Morton (Baruch Lazar), named after great-grandfathers, Bernard Weiss and Louis Nisenholtz.

Grandparents are Bruce and Pam Friedlander, Judi Scioli of Philadelphia, PA, and Frank Scioli of Bethesda, MD. Great-grandparents are Marjorie Weiss and the late Bernard Weiss, and Rhoda Nisenholtz-Blane and the late Louis Nisenholtz.

Gary and Liat Shyken of Baltimore, MD, announce the Jan. 16 birth of their son, Shmuel Aaron, named for greatgrandfathers, Sam Shyken and Abraham Kalwerisky.

Grandparents are Paul and Susie Shyken, Jeff and Debbie Kalwerisky of Atlanta, and the late Avie Kalwerisky.

Great-grandparents are Ilene Pachman, Winnie Kalwerisky of Atlanta; Makie Waks of Tampa, FL, and Joyce and Alec Rogoff of Durban, South Africa.

Dining

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Mike Silverman, Jewish Senior Services Executive Director installed the new 2004 Visions board members recently at the Venice Inn: Howard Silber, left, Jean Elkon, Harry Alloy, Tootie and Mickey Simon, Ethel Goldston, Sissy Silber, Doris Parker, Jim Wax, Sandy and Fred Bromley, Gilda Pieck, Peggy Chasen and Anne Skolkin. Not pictured: Jack Noodell, Joan Marcus.

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT The Omaha Area Youth Symphony will perform their Winter Concert on Sunday, Feb. 8, 3 p.m., in UNO’s Strauss Performing Arts Building. Tickets to Youth Symphony, conducted by Aviva Segall, Music Director, are $10 for adults and $7 for students.

The Omaha Symphony announced its list of guests conductors for concerts this spring.

Saturday, Feb. 21, 7 p.m., and Sunday, Feb. 22, 2 p.m., at UNO, Stefan Sanderling, currently Music Director of the Florida Orchestra (Tampa), will conduct the Chamber Series. At the Masterworks Series on Friday and Saturday, March 5-6, 8 p.m., at the Orpheum Theater, Rossen Milanov will conduct. He is currently the on the staff of the world-renowned Philadelphia Orchestra as Assistant Conductor.

Thomas Wilkins will conduct the Chamber Series on April 10, 7 p.m., at UNO. He is currently Resident Conductor of the Detroit Symphony, having served previously in the same capacity at the Florida Orchestra in Tampa. The symphony will perform Respighi’s “Trittico Botticelliano”, a musical evocation of three works of the painter Botticelli.

And finally, at the Masterworks Series on April 1617, 8 p.m. at the Orpheum Theater, Edward Gardner will make his North American debut. Quickly rising on the European scene, Gardner is Assistant Conductor of the Halle Orchestra in Manchester, England, the first conductor ever to hold that position at the Halle Orchestra.

For ticket information, 342.3836, or online at www.omahasymphony.org.

Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing opens tonight at the Lincoln Community Playhouse. The acclaimed book

by Judy Blume features Bruce Mason’s adaptation about sibling “woes.” The show continues Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 7-8; Friday-Sunday, 13-15, 20-22.

Friday shows are at 7 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday shows at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m.

Smokey Joe’s Cafe--a tribute to Rock ’n Roll--opens March 12.

For reservations, call the LCP box office, 402.489.7529.

IN THE NEWS During the Golden Globe Awards show, Michael Douglas was given a special award. In his speech, Douglas acknowledged people who have helped him over the years; Nikko Grasso, the daughter of former Omahans Lorrie and Sheldon Bernstein, was among the few names he mentioned.

Jimy Webster and Cid Stinsor have opened a new deli at 24th and Cuming, across from Creighton University. The deli is called JC’s Chicago Style and features meat from the National Deli Co. Both Jimy and Cid stated that their “kosher-style sandwiches are a big hit with the students as well as their neighborhood patrons.” Catering and delivery services are available.

Dr. Cathy Christensen has been awarded a Service Key by Phi Delta Kappa International for her contributions to education. Service Keys are awarded to educators who contribute meritorious service and outstanding leadership in education. Dr. Christensen teaches for the International Reading Association in Kazakhstan and Hungary and teaches education classes at UNOmaha. She is currently principal at Washington Elementary School in Omaha.

Former Omahan Amy Nachman Potash of Austin, TX, was awarded the 2003 Garman Prize by the 2003 Student Prize Committee (three faculty members). This prize at the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana, is awarded annually to the student “who exemplifies former Prof. Phil Garman’s dedication to careful observations of actual workplace behaviors, intellectual insight and integrity, and concern for all participants in the employment relationship.”

The Garman Prize consists of a $750 cash award, a certificate, and the recipient’s name engraved on the Garman Prize plaque.

Allison Baker, daughter of Jeanatte (Reinglas) and Stephen G. Baker of Framingham, MA, has been named to the Dean’s List at Syracuse University. A junior majoring in advertising design and painting, she is currently studying in Florence, Italy. Allison is the granddaughter of Lola Reinglas and the late Irving Reinglas.

Politics--Now There’s a Timely Subject!

BERT’S EYE VIEW

by BERT LEWIS

As I write this, the Iowa caucus has finished and much attention turned to New Hampshire.

That’s reasonable, since things are starting to heat up and really get interesting. But I don’t want to talk about the prospective candidates here. The person I want to talk about is the wife of Howard Dean.

Much has been written about Dean, especially after it was reported that his wife is Jewish. I’m not going to go into all the stuff--what I want to talk about here is the lady herself, Dr. Judith Steinberg.

I have no idea what she’s like, never having met her, but I’m starting to get some ideas from what I read. To begin with, I give her a standing ovation for seeming to have the courage of her convictions. Clearly, she’s not a person who appears to have much interest in what her husband is up to these days.

She’s a physician who has been quoted as saying she’s a doctor and good at what she does She obviously is serious about her profession and it looks to me like she doesn’t plan to let her husband’s political ambitions interfere with her life. She’s been criticized for not showing up with him when he makes appearances, for not standing next to him, looking as though she admires every word he’s saying.

She’s been described as plain, business-like, no make-up (no make-up! Vay is meer!), wearing sensible low heels, dressing like a busy professional woman.

The absence of high style as much as her absence from Howard’s public appearances have made her the subject of many articles.

Well you know what? I say you go girl! I have nothing but admiration for that lady, who has probably heard her man rant and rave enough to know when she needs to be there and when she doesn’t. What married lady, after 20-some years, doesn’t know her man better than he knows himself?

I’ve read she’s been heard to say “calm down Howard.”

I’ll betcha that’s a fact. I have the feeling she isn’t taking this too seriously and doesn’t expect to have to decide how the position of first lady would interfere with her profession.

Some critical columnist recently wondered “how would she be seen in the White House? In jeans and sweaters, without make-up, looking like the New Englander she is.” Right. The woman hasn’t granted any personal interviews that I’ve heard about, nor made any statements regarding her feelings on what’s going on. in her husband’s busy world. It looks to me like she’s minding her own business and trying to avoid as much of that hoopla as she can.

I’m sure she’s a devoted wife...don’t get me wrong. It’s just that she knows what she wants, she knows (obviously) what her husband wants, and she’s going about her life as calmly as she can, under the circumstances. She’s not looking to be known as the “anti-Laura”, she wants to be Dr. Judith Steinberg.

What’s wrong with that? I’ll bet she’s got a long list of patients who hope Howard’s most fervent wish isn’t granted. People who don’t want to worry about losing their doctor...heaven forbid!

Well, I’m not going to tell you who I hope ends up as the candidate for the Democratic Party, but I will say this much. I hope that nice looking lady doctor who doesn’t wear make-up and who wears sensible shoes doesn’t have a lot of aggravation by next November. I hope she’s able to continue doing what she was educated to do, what she clearly loves doing and that nothing causes her to feel she has to sacrifice any of it.

Now please don’t accuse me of being an unsupportive wife. I’m a card-carrying professional you know, with a spotless record. But I can’t and won’t hide my admiration for Dr. Judith Steinberg and others like her, who worked hard to get where they are and love being there. If I knew her address, I’d send her a note telling her to hang in there.

About her husband? I keep remembering the only thing I’ve ever read that she’s been heard to say to him is, “Calm down Howard...”

I’d say those three words speak volumes.

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

February 6, 2004

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Beth El’s Cantor Arranges First Total Shabbaton for ‘Kadimaniks’

by DIANE AXLER BAUM preceded a meaningful, for Beth El Synagogue interactive discussion on the Beth El’s younger teens subject of maintaining recently shared a unique Judaism from generation to adventure, complete with generation.

Bringing opportunities for strengthShabbat to a close, the parening their personal and ticipants hiked a mile into collective Jewish identities the quiet woods to celebrate and developing bonds a beautiful havdalah. Older among all the teenagers in and younger teens, all on a the congregation. new level of friendship and Months ago Cantor closeness, gathered around Gastón Bogomolni began USYers and Kadimaniks join with Cantor Gastón Bogomolni a fire under the stars, to sing plans to offer a Shabbat in the special Ruach of singing and dancing after a Shabbat together accompanied by retreat off synagogue prem- meal (Foreground, clockwise): Cantor, Brian Altman, Alex their cantor’s rich voice and ises for students in grades Solomon, Josh Sweet, Naomi Rennard, Sam Edelstein, vibrant guitar. six to eight. He was deter- Henry Ginsburg, Ari Levin, Aaron Murow, Ben Gordon, “This Shabbaton for our mined, he said, to give the Macklin Emas, and Salo Cemaj.

Kadimaniks was a tremenmembers of Kadima “a total Shabbaton,” on a par with dous success, and we hope to continue with two each experiences available to students in grades nine to 12 year. I am grateful to the many, many people who through USY (United Synagogue Youth). Toward this made it possible,” Bogomolni said. end he felt it was absolutely necessary to remove them He expressed sincere thanks to Rabbi Mordechai and “from their everyday environment.”

Susi Levin, Andy Greenberg, Mark Kelln, and Youth In the broadest terms, his goal was to instill in the Director Rachel Katskee for “their support of the idea kids “an appreciation for Judaism and a desire to live a from the start,” and to the following adults and USYers Jewish life.” He orchestrated the weekend according- for their help in planning and attending the event: ly, with a concentration on Jewish history and customs Eadie Tsabari, Ben Shapiro, Michael Hoberman, Ophir and a focus on Shabbat ritual and prayer. He incorpo- Palmon, Ellene Edelstein, Harry Weiner, Carole rated singing, hands-on learning, and sharing of ideas. Greenberg, Toby Schonfeld, Josh Sweet, Seth Rich, Sam He made use of team efforts, physical outlets, appreci- Edelstein, Naomi Rennard, Aliya Katskee, Brian Altman, ation of nature, surprises, fun, and ruach (spirit).

Ari Levin, Shira Kronick, and Dan Murow in addition to Scene of the Shabbaton was a YMCA camp on the Kelln, Greenberg, and Katskee.

Elkhorn River. Thirty-eight members of Kadima, accompanied by Beth El adults and USY volunteers, set out JCC to Present Basketball Awards by bus on a Friday afternoon in January to arrive well before sundown. After dinner and services, Bogomolni at Upcoming Ceremony surprised and delighted the “Kadimaniks” with letters On Sunday, Feb. 15, 7 p.m., all first through fourth-grade from parents and grandparents. The letters to each parboys and girls who ticipant, obtained through Bogolmoni’s concerted participated in the efforts in advance, reflected on the significance of JCC Basketball Shabbat and included personal Shabbat anecdotes to program will hear be shared with the group. from guest speakSaturday started with brief services, brought to life by ers, receive the teens, as they divided into groups to prepare skits awards, and have based on the Torah portion. Highlights of the afteran autograph sesnoon ranged from playing volleyball and basketball to sion with some of creative enrichment and learning. A history lesson on the area’s top colthe Spanish Inquisition, for example, took the form of lege basketball players and coaches. Also, MVP, an enactment of “secret Jewish ritual” as forced upon Sportsmanship, Defensive, and Memorial awards will be the Jews of Spain in 1490. distributed to the fifth through eighth graders.

And a series of written exercises on Jewish identity

The Opportunity of a Lifetime Jeffrey Newland

289/314-9817

by BEN REIS for Szarvas Summer Fellowships Applications are currently being accepted for a unique International Jewish Summer Fellowships Program for high school students across North America. Every summer, 2,000 Jewish teenagers from around the world attend the world’s largest international Jewish summer camp, The Ronald S. Lauder Foundation JDC International Jewish Summer Camp in Szarvas, Hungary.

This summer, 60 exceptional student leaders will be selected to represent North America at the camp as Szarvas Fellows. They will have the unique opportunity to meet, celebrate, and share experiences with their Jewish student peers from as far as India, Israel, Turkey, Eastern Europe, France and the former Soviet Union. Fellows will tour Budapest and other sites, too.

The applications deadline is March 1. For more information, visit www.szarvas.org or call or 212.362.3361.

Nationwide ACT Test Set for April 3; Registration is Feb. 27

by JEWISH PRESS News Service College-bound high school students can take the ACT Assessment on April 3, the next nationwide test date. The registration postmark deadline is Feb. 27.

Late registration postmark deadline is March 12 (an additional fee is required for late registration).

For more information, including registration forms and test locations, contact your high school guidance counselor or register online on ACT’s website-www.act.org. The website also has helpful information, sample tests and the opportunity to order test prep materials.

Fellman and Kooper Scholarship Applications Due

by JEWISH PRESS News Service The Bruce M. Fellman Charitable Foundation Trust and the Robert H. & Dorothy G. Kooper Charitable Foundation Trust announced the availability of scholarships for the 2004-2005 academic year. The scholarships will be based on financial needs of students pursuing their post-secondary education.

Bruce, son of Tom and Darlynn Fellman, was a 1982 graduate of Westside High School. He was active in BBYO and served as President, Vice-president, Secretary and Treasurer of Chaim Weizmann AZA. He attended George Washington University in Washington, D.C. and was participating in the University of Pittsburgh’s Semester at Sea at the time of his death in 1984.

Trustees for the Fellman Foundation are Darlynn Fellman, Terri Schrager, and Howard Kooper.

Robert Kooper had a long history of service to the Jewish community. He was elected B’nai B’rith President in 1929; headed Beth El Synagogue in 1941; was President of Highland Country Club in 1951; and President of the Jewish Federation, 1958-60. He died in 1961. Mrs. Kooper was a strong supporter and worked with the Jewish Federation and Beth El Sisterhood. She passed away in May, 1995.

Applications may be obtained by contacting Mr. Kooper’s office in writing at 809 No. 96 St., Omaha, NE 68114. The application packet will be mailed out and must be received back in the office no later than April 1.

“Awarding a scholarship to a young Jewish person is a very appropriate way of honoring my parents,” Howard Kooper noted. He and his wife, Sharon, fund the Kooper Charitable Foundation Trust. Tom Fellman also serves as trustee for the Foundation.

TeenAge

February 6, 2004

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 11

underwritten by THE MURRAY H. & SHAREE C. NEWMAN SUPPORTING FOUNDATION

Editor’s note: This month’s Teen Age features the Teens of Lincoln from B’nai Jeshurun and Tifereth Israel synagogues. Special thanks goes to Rabbi Debbie Stiel and Rabbi Stanley Rosenbaum, for collecting the material.

Lincoln Teens Hosts Their Own Version of Iron Chef

by JOSH GEFFEN What kinds of things do the USYers in Lincoln do for conventions? If you’ve been wondering, then I’m here to fill you in. Although our chapter may be small, that doesn’t keep us from having some serious fun.

groups. Everyone was given large amounts of chocolate, ranging from syrup to chips, chunks to cookies.

After being given time to create five different ‘courses,’ the groups were graded on look, taste, and Jewishness, to name a few categories. Some of the concoctions we came up included: a chocolatey Mt. Sinai, complete with graham cracker commandments, and chocolate chips praying at a marshmallow fluff Western Wall. Of course, all the foods used were kosher, so we got to eat the food afterwards. But not the Cocoa Puffs swimming in strawberry syrup to symbolize charoset!

Marci Rosenberg, left, Callie Feingold, Jeri Kohn, Eli Evnen, Sol Eppel, Casey Weiss, Carly Feldman, Joshua Geffen, Michael Evnen, and leaning on the table Emily Stanfield.

Iron Chef competitors were: Ben Boomer, left, Rachel Wallick, Casey Weiss and Eli Evnen Lately, the USY chapter of Lincoln, called LUSY, got together with many of the high school students from the Reform Temple, B’nai Jeshurun, and we two dozen teenagers had one serious convention.

At the USY regional convention called LTI, or Leadership Training Institute, the many Jewish teens from around the region took part in an activity called ‘Iron Chef,’ modeled after the popular television show on the Food Network. In this activity, approximately 100 USYers from around our region were broken into

My Summer Camp Adventure

by CLARISSA SIEGEL-CAUSEY I went to a Jewish camp last summer. I went to Camp Interlaken, a JCC camp located in Wisconsin. To get there I took a six hour bus ride from Chicago to Wisconsin. Unfortunately I was the only girl my age on the bus. All the other girls my age were on another bus coming from Milwaukee.

Everyone made friends right away. I also learned nicknames fairly quick and received a nickname of my own; “Nebraska”. Most people came from Chicago, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and Texas.

Right away we unpacked in our cabin.

With 17 girls in our cabin we had the one; our cabin’s name was Leah. We were also the closest cabin to the girl’s washhouse -- pretty gross, but what I expected. The washhouse was usually filled with daddy longlegs and once there was even a bat, but it was pretty nice compared to other camp experiences.

Every morning we woke up to loud music. We had about 30 minutes to get ready but I usually had about 15 because I was always so tired. After breakfast we had a little time to clean the cabin, which got really messy. We would go to our daily activities which we signed up for on the very first day. Then we had rest time which meant that we had to be silent and could write letters, read, or sleep. After the two other meals our day was pretty much over.

The weather there varied; sometimes it was really cold and sometimes very hot. The lake was very cold on the hot days and warm on the cold days.

Left photo: Glenn Ledder directs music for the Purimspiel at B’nai Jeshurun. Pictured on the right are Callie Feingold, Clarissa Siegel, Becky Ledder, three of the teen cast members of the South Street Temple Purimspiel.

Photos taken by Emily Stanfield

More Iron Chef-wannabees included: David Solomon, left, Sadye Evnen, Marci Rosenberg and Jeri Kohn.

My Vice-President and I decided to take a note from LTI, and we set up an Iron Chef on a smaller scale in Lincoln. Starting off with a rousing game of Twister, we then moved on to introductions, along with a humor-

Dream Boy

ous icebreaker involving tricking someone into mooing out loud. We then moved on to the main event, where everyone’s true creativity could be unleashed.

With only 20-some teens, and a very different choice of foods, we did manage to come up with a delicious chocolate and pretzel ‘latke’ recipe, not to mention the whipped cream Dead Sea or the incredibly realistic Tower of Babel, which collapsed while being judged.

Finally, we held a meeting to discuss what other things we could do together later. By then it was time to leave, but we promised to meet again soon.

It’s easy to tell that we had lots of fun. Hopefully that fun is just starting, and we’ll be sharing this great adventure with many others.

A D’var Torah

by MICHAEL HAMICKSBURG Swimming Judaism in the United States is dwindling. The averin the lake

by Rachel Wallick age age is going up and the number of children in every day Jewish families that become observant Jews is going was not my I think about you day & night. down. Teenagers in this decade and in decades and favorite part You’re my dream boy centuries long past do not put much stock in organized about camp I gaze into your eyes wondering. religion. We put more stock in short-term things-- things but it could You’re my dream boy where we can see the effects. Faith is a long-term and sometimes I see you everywhere. indefinable concept. Teens have to know “why” in conbe fun.

You’re my dream boy crete terms, which, by definition, conflicts with faith.

Every Parents can connect with their children only so much, Friday night I just want to touch you. because the experience of being a teen does not stay we would You’re my dream boy fresh forever. Teachers, both in Hebrew Schools and get ready Your hands are as soft as butterflies wings.

Jewish Day Schools, have the same problem. This is not for Shabbat.

You’re my dream boy to say that they should not try. Without the influences We would I sit & hope that one day you will come alive. of parents and teachers, teens would have no Jewish take showAnd you won’t just be my dream Boy. life whatsoever. ers and get Jewish youth group and camp experiences are some all dressed of the most important things for a young adult Jew. up.

Then we would do our Shabbat walk to the Camp is the experience of living as a Jew, while youth groups focus on what it is outside meeting area where we would to be Jewish.

USY is one of these groups. United Synagogue Youth is the essence of being a do our prayers. We had a great dinner and wake up late the next day to go to Jewish teenager. USY is helping your community from a Jewish standpoint, going to conventions to meet Jews from all over the region. Helping the community is obviSaturday morning Shabbat services.

Going to camp was a great experience ously a good thing, but what about these conventions?

With Kinnus fresh in our minds, many of my fellow USYers would love to tell you for me. I learned tons of new songs and handclaps. I can’t wait to go back and about all of their great fun and new friends. But listening to the many tales would see my friends. Even though I know I only let you glimpse the Jewish companionship aspect. The more important one is will be sad again on the last day and be overlooked by convention goers and listeners alike.

As I said, Jewish teens like to know “why” in concrete terms. During Shabbat this away from my parents for a whole month, I am definitely going back. I love Kinnus, we gathered into groups. One staff member, who had probably been in USY doing stuff with my friends who aren’t within the last five years, would guide our discussion and offer their own wisdom Jewish, but camp let me spend time with on the topic. What topic? Faith. We talked about faith, the meaning of it in our own people who are more like me. It gave lives and how we were affected. We shared what we viewed to be important about me the chance to feel what it is like to being Jewish. We learned from each other, teens like ourselves, what it was all have one thing that is less different from about. I’m not saying that this is the revolutionary action that will fix everything. I’m everyone else. I hope you get to do saying that if all Jewish teens attended a Jewish youth group, be it USY, BBYO, or any other, the number of observant Jewish young adults would skyrocket. some special activity like me.

Page 12

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

February 6, 2004

Opinion Let It Snow!

No; make it stop!

While it may look pretty from inside our warm homes, this seemingly never ending snow has put some crimps into a few plans in the Jewish community recently.

The B’nai B’rith Youth Organization had to postpone their Jan. 25 BBYO4Israel fundraising auction to the following Sunday because of the snowstorm that hit the city and closed schools and many business thenext day. Who knew that the Feb. 1 date would also turn out to be a washout as well?

Through no fault of their own, our Jewish youth didn’t achieve the fundraising results they wanted. And it means their donation to Israelis will be less. The funds, while not a huge amount, are to help Israeli shopkeepers whose businesses have suffered in the last several years because of the ongoing terrorism perpetrated by the Palestinians and the resulting drop in tourism.

With a dozen tables set up in the Jewish Community Center’s auditorium last Sunday and several anxious BBYO leaders watching the clock, only 50 people finally showed up.

BBYO’s original goal of $3000 was $1895 short of the mark. The money goes to Shop2Give, an organization which raises awareness about the plight of Israeli shopkeepers; the funds raised are used to purchase items from the shopkeepers and then donated to needy fami-

BEHIND THE HEADLINES

by MITCHELL BARD The plight of Jewish students on college campuses has appropriately received increasing attention in the last two years. Highly publicized incidents, such as the mob that surrounded Jewish students at San Francisco State, the shouting down of Bibi Netanyahu at Concordia, and checkpoints and guerrilla theater at schools such as Georgetown and Berkeley have created the false impression that such behavior is the rule rather than the exception on college campuses.

For educators and the professionals who work on campus, the greatest challenge is not training students to respond to Israel’s detractors, but educating them about the history and politics of the Middle East so they can become independent thinkers who love and understand Israel, warts and all. This challenge is not being met because of the absence of scholars who can imbue this knowledge, and because most of the faculty teaching about the Middle East today are hostile toward Israel.

The prevalence of outspoken anti-Israel professors is the most insidious danger to Israel’s standing on the campus. Students and advocates come and go, but faculty remain for years and shape the campus environment and the minds of students. I can tell you the person who taught my course on the ArabIsraeli conflict at UC Santa Barbara 20-odd years ago was incredibly biased.

I was back to speak there last year and discovered to my chagrin that the same professor is still teaching! So that professor has had 20 years to pollute students’ minds, which is far more dangerous than the nonsense that students may engage in. UCSB also has a beautiful new Middle East studies center. All you need to know about that institution is that the inaugural speaker was Hanan Ashrawi.

Faculty critical of Israel also tend to be extremely vocal and active while pro-Israel faculty usually are reluctant to participate in campus debate. This is certainly not true on all campuses, but it is the case on the majority. For a variety of reasons, including intimidation, lack of knowledge, political correctness, and concern for their image on the campus and in their

(Founded in 1920)

lies in Israel--a win-win for all.

But you can still help--if you’re not planning a trip to Israel, you can make a direct donation to BBYO for this effort.

Just make your check out to BBYO and earmark it for BBYO4Israel. Send it to BBYO Director Rachel Blum, JCC, 333 So. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68154. Anyone who donates $10 or more, will also receive a free BBYO t-shirt!

As to the snow--as of press time, six to 10 more inches of snow were forecast to fall Wednesday night and Thursday (we send this paper electronically to our printer on Wednesday afternoon; it’s printed Thursday morning and delivered to the downtown Post Office by 7 p.m. every Thursday in order to guarantee delivery to Omahans, at least, by Friday).

If you live in Omaha and you don’t get your paper this Friday, you can assume the snow fell and either our printer couldn’t get to the Post Office--or your postal worker wasn’t able to get his batch of papers for Friday delivery.

If the Jewish Press does arrive Friday--you can thank our printer: The Times Publishing Company--and the United States Post Office!

It’s not often that we thank the USPO; we’re often on the complaining end--on behalf of those of you in town and out who don’t receive this paper on a regular basis. But readers should now that the Press has a wonderful relationship with the bulk mail depart-

ment of the Omaha Post Office. Even when our account is low on funds, the postal workers there know “the check’s in the mail” (for real!) and they let us mail the Press anyway.

Our printer, too, has only missed a Thursday delivery twice in the last decade.

So let it snow; wait--on second thought...!

Jewish Press Committee Howard K. Marcus, Vice-Chairman; Bobbi Leibowitz, Secretary; Scott Meyerson, Finance Chairman; Steve Simon, Treasurer; Fred Tichauer, Immediate Past-chairman; Jean Duitch; Penny Endelman; Kip Gordman; Stanley Mitchell; George Quittner; Linda Saltzman; Joey Shyken; Nancy Skid; and Melanie Weinstein.

Faculty Pose the Greatest Danger to Israel on Campus fields, pro-Israel faculty are hesitant to engage in public or even private support for students, or to take on their colleagues. While some antiIsrael faculty in subjects completely unrelated to the Middle East will use their classrooms as forums for propaganda, such behavior by proIsrael faculty is unheard of.

Here are a few examples of the problem:

The prevalence of outspoken antiIsrael professors is the most insidious danger to Israel’s standing on the campus. Students and advocates come and go, but faculty remain for years and shape the campus environment and the minds of students.

• 1,500 academics signed a petition warning of a possible impending crime of humanity; that Israel would expel large numbers of Palestinians during the fog of the Iraq war.

• Swiss academic Tariq Ramadan, a grandson of Muslim Brotherhood founder Hassan al-Banna, who was accused by French Jews of fomenting anti-Semitism, has been hired to teach peace studies at Notre Dame.

• A professor in Columbia’s Department of Middle East and Asian Languages and Cultures gave a lecture in which he argued that Zionism is a European colonial system based on racist principles with the goal of eradicating Palestine, and that Zionists are the new Nazis.

• At American University, an anthropology professor used a comic book as a text that is in the vein of Der Sturmer. Another professor crossed out the word “Israel” on a student’s exam and wrote in the margin, “Zionist entity.” Another handed out maps of the Mideast without Israel on them.

• At Clemson University, a philosophy professor teaches a Humanities course entitled, “Living under Occupation.”

Though Jews comprise a significant share of academic positions, very few are involved in teaching about the Middle East, and some of those who do are unsympathetic to Israel.

Joanie Jacobson Chairman Carol Katzman Editor Richard Busse Creative Director Allan Handleman Advertising Manager Ray Pred Account Executive Timothy J. Ketelsen Bookkeeper Lori Kooper-Schwarz Production Assistant

It is possible to point to positive experiences in institutions that have, for example, strong visiting scholar programs in which Israelis can often have an exponential impact in a short period of time on a particular campus.

A handful of influential (Jewish and nonJewish) U.S. scholars has also been active and often had an impact beyond their campuses.

Overall, however, a severe shortage exists of scholars who are qualified to teach about Israel and who have any sympathy for their subject.

The Israel on Campus Coalition, as well as a separate task force of individuals with experience in academia and working with students, are studying the problems with faculty and proposing treatments for what ails the academy. This is a long-term project and one that is not meant to be a panacea. Certain aspects of the academic structure and culture, such as the ingrained anti-Israel bias in Middle East studies departments, and the perception that academic freedom is a license to teach almost anything about Israel, will be difficult, if not impossible, to reverse.

Rather than try to fight these endemic structures, the best strategy is to provide alternatives for educating students about Israel. This requires the creation of endowed chairs in Israel studies, creating a fund to support graduate training in Israel studies and related fields, training scholars whose specialities may be in other fields, but who could be taught enough about Middle Eastern affairs to allow them to offer courses through their departments, and establishing programs for visiting Israeli diplomats to teach in local colleges.

The Jewish community adopted a similar approach to respond to the failure to teach about Jewish history and the Holocaust by successfully establishing dozens of departments of Jewish and Holocaust studies and supporting research and providing scholarships. It is time to do the same for scholarship about Israel.

Dr. Mitchell G. Bard is chair of the faculty task force of the Israel on Campus Coalition and author of 17 books including The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Middle East Conflict and Myths and Facts. He can be reached at: mgbard@aol.com.

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, and Jewish Senior Services. The Jewish Press and the Foundation are constitional committees of the Jewish Federation.

Editorials express the view of the writer and are not necessarily representative of the views of the Jewish Press Committee, the Jewish Federation of Omaha or the Omaha Jewish community as a whole.

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February 6, 2004

BEHIND THE HEADLINES

by RON KAMPEAS WASHINGTON (JTA)--Now that the “road map” peace plan has failed him, President Bush may be ready to ask for directions.

The Bush administration is quietly folding up the Israeli-Palestinian road map, the U.S.-led peace plan that was never enthusiastically embraced by either Israel or the Palestinians.

In recent statements, top Bush officials have made it clear that the plan is moribund and that, for the most part, the Palestinians are to blame.

And after leading with tough talk for two years, the Bush administration is uncharacteristically asking for help and advice from the Israelis, some Arab nations and Europe.

Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon is due to visit Washington in March, and topping the agenda is his contingency plan for unilateral disengagement from the Palestinians--an unimaginable scenario just months ago. Additionally, the administration has overcome hesitations it had about weighing in on Israel’s side on the issue of the West Bank security barrier at the International Court of Justice at The Hague.

U.S. Vice President Dick Cheney is discussing alternatives with European allies during his tour of Europe this week, and the administration has watched with interest news of a Saudi proposal that addresses Israeli anxieties about the prospect of a mass influx of Palestinian refugees.

The new tone first was adopted by U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell at a news conference two weeks ago announcing his outlook for the new year.

Powell repeated his allegiance to the road map, which envisions a Palestinian state and an end to terrorism by next year-but he made it clear he was waiting for the Palestinians to take action first.

“What we need right now is for the prime minister of the Palestinian Authority to get control of the security forces and to use those forces and use other tools available to him to put down terror and to put down violence,” Powell said. “Then I’m confident that we can move forward on the road map.”

Since then, U.S. officials have made clear that they have not seen signs of a crackdown. In fact, they say, Powell got his answer the day after his talk, when a suicide bomber killed four Israelis at the Erez crossing at the Gaza-Israel boundary.

“The attack in Erez made people less sympathetic to the Palestinians, more sympathetic to Israeli security,” said one

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 13

U.S. Folds up ‘Road Map,’ Blaming the Palestinians U.S. administration official. Especially aggravating, the official said, was the Palestinian Authority’s refusal to condemn the attack.

Cheney echoed the disappointment this weekend at an economic summit in Davos, Switzerland.

“Peace will not be achieved by Palestinian rulers who intimidate opposition, tolerate and profit from corruption, and maintain ties to terrorist groups,” Cheney said.

The most stunning evolution was in John Wolf, the Assistant Secretary of State who was appointed Bush’s envoy to the region last year. He started out believing more in the optimistic outlook represented by then-P.A. Prime Minister Mahmoud Abbas than in Sharon’s skepticism. But that changed on Aug. 19, when a suicide bomb attack on a Jerusalem bus killed 21 Israelis, many of them children.

Wolf said he had persuaded Israel to allow the Palestinians a few days to crack down on terrorists after the attack.

“I have to say on the Palestinian side it was all talk and no action,” Wolf said at a forum here last week hosted by Princeton University’s Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International A f f a i r s .

“There was no real effort by the Palestinian Authority to stop the violence.”

The frustration was exacerbated by Abbas’ resignation in September-viewed by the Bush administration and by Israel as a triumph for P.A. President Yasser Arafat, whose support for terrorism has made him an unacceptable partner for the United States and Israel.

The final straw was the Palestinians’ failure to uncover who was behind an Oct. 15 bombing in Gaza that killed three people traveling in a convoy with Wolf. U.S. officials were appalled that the Palestinians did not even make an effort to find the killers.

Wolf, who is visiting Israel this week, is in the region for the first time since the Oct. 15 attack. He and David Satterfield, the Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Near East affairs, are pointedly avoiding the West Bank and Gaza, meeting

instead with Palestinians in Jerusalem.

Before he left, Wolf insisted the meetings would be routine consultations and said he was not bringing anything new to the sides. Satterfield, however, said he would discuss broader questions of how to revive the peace process in meetings with European allies.

The evolving sympathy for Israel helped make the case for two emissaries who arrived here last week to argue Israel’s case for the security barrier it is building in the West Bank--and for the separation plan from the Palestinians that Sharon now favors and that the fence implies.

High-level meetings between administration officials and Dov Weisglass, Sharon’s top adviser, and Yoav Biran, the Foreign Ministry’s director-general were positive, Israeli officials said. They scored a partial victory: a softening in U.S. rhetoric on the security fence.

The fence’s route has been a U.S.Israel sore point for months because Bush officials believe Sharon wants to use the fence to set parameters for a Palestinian state that would not be viable.

Biran and Weisglass also apparently have won a U.S. commitment to file a legal brief on Israel’s behalf at the International Court of Justice at The H a g u e , which is considering the issue of the fence next month.

The United States is planning to submit the brief by the Friday deadline, an administration official said, saying that hearing the issue now “would undermine rather than encourage direct negotiations between the parties to resolve those differences.” It would express existing U.S. concerns about the barrier, but would add, “this is the wrong way and the wrong time to address these issues.”

By late Wednesday, the brief was undergoing an interagency review. The administration official said Elliot Abrams, Bush’s top Middle East adviser, would deliver the news.

State Department officials also promised the Israelis that criticism of the fence in the department’s annual human-rights

The final straw was the Palestinians’ failure to uncover who was behind an Oct. 15 bombing in Gaza that killed three people traveling in a convoy with Wolf. U.S. officials were appalled that the Palestinians did not even make an effort to find the killers.

report would be “soft.”

Best of all for Sharon, U.S. officials found sympathy for his plan to begin unilateral separation from the Palestinians unless the Palestinian Authority cracks down on terrorism by midyear. That set the stage for Sharon’s visit in March, when Bush will at least entertain Israeli plans for disengagement.

In their meetings, Biran and Weisglass emphasized the collapse of the road map. One Israeli official likened it to a new product produced by Kibbutz Hepzibah, a chemically treated gold fish that can survive in a plastic bag for a year--but not much longer.

There are those in the administration and in Congress who are quick to remind Israel of its responsibilities, and who hanker for the road map’s survival.

In a speech Jan. 13 at a State Department symposium on the 1967 SixDay War, Satterfield said Israel clearly had more to lose if the road map failed, implying that Israel bore greater responsibility for keeping it alive.

He underscored settlement building in the West Bank as a principle obstacle.

“Settlements continue to grow today, encouraged by specific ongoing government policies and at enormous expense to Israel’s economy,” he said. “And this persists even as it becomes clearer and clearer that the logic of settlements and the reality of demographics could threaten the future of Israel itself as a Jewish democratic state.”

And in Congress, a powerful Republican called on the administration to defy the traditional election-year squeamishness at dealing with foreignaffairs initiatives.

U.S. Rep. Frank Wolf of Virginia, who chairs the subcommittee that funds the State Department, called on Bush to appoint a high-level diplomat to get the road map back on track.

“What is now needed is someone whose only job is to implement the plan, whose sole responsibility is to encourage peace in the region, who can at a moment’s notice fly anywhere in the world to talk, listen, assuage, mediate, cajole and console,” he said.

That’s not likely to happen for a while, said David Makovsky, an analyst with the Washington Institute for Near East Policy.

“There’s a growing realization Arafat is pulling the strings again. On the American side, it’s an election year, on the Israeli side there’s talk of unilateralism,” he said.

“Any way you look at it, that’s not a combination that’s going to go.”

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Synagogue Listings B’nai Israel Synagogue 618 Mynster St. Council Bluffs, IA 51503-0766 322.4705 email: CBsynagogue@hotmail.com

Beth El Synagogue Member of United Synagogues of Conservative Judaism 14506 California Omaha, NE 68154-1980 492.8550 www.bethel-omaha.org

Beth Israel Synagogue Member of Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America 1502 N. 52 St. Omaha, NE. 68104 -5013 556.6288 BethIsrael@OrthodoxOmaha.org

Beyt Shalom An Affiliate of the Jewish Reconstructionist Federation 3012 S. 119 St. P.O. Box 390352 Omaha, NE 68139 660.2395 http://welcome.to/beytshalom/

Chabad House An Affiliate of the Worldwide Chabad-Lubavitch Movement 1866 S. 120th St. Omaha, NE 68144-1646 330.1800 nebraskajudaism.com email: chabad@aol.com

Congregation B’nai Jeshrun South Street Temple Union for Reform Judaism 2061 S. 20th St. Lincoln, NE 68502-2797 435.8004 jewishnebraska.org

Offutt Air Force Base SAC Memorial Chapel 301 Lincoln Highway Offutt AFB, NE 68113 294.6244

Rose Blumkin Jewish Home 333 S. 132 St. Omaha, NE 68154

Temple Israel Union for Reform Judaism (URJ) 7023 Cass Street Omaha, NE 68132-2651 556.6536 templeisrael-ne.org

Tifereth Israel Member of United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism 3219 Sheridan Blvd., Lincoln, NE 68502-5236 423.8569 tiferethisraellincoln.org

If you’re looking at this space, so are others!

YOUR AD CAN GO HERE... to reserve space, call Allan Handleman, 334-6451, or Ray Pred, 334-6559.

February 6, 2004

Synagogues B’NAI ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE FRIDAY: Services, 7:30 p.m.

BETH EL SYNAGOGUE Office Hours: Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

FRIDAY: Join us for a musical Kabbalat Shabbat Service in the Chapel, 6 p.m.

SATURDAY: Traditional Morning Services, 9:30 a.m. in the Sanctuary; Alternative Morning Service, 10 a.m. in the chapel; Kiddush sponsored by Beth Ginsberg.

Junior Congregation, 10:30 a.m.; K’tantan, 10:45 a.m.; Evening Services, 5:35 p.m.

BELLS Luncheon and talk by Prof. Jean Cahan, 12:30 p.m. Call the synagogue for reservations.

SITTER SERVICE Friday Night and Saturday Morning Sitter Service provided at no charge on a drop-in basis.

WEEKDAY SERVICES: Sunday, 9 a.m. and 5:30 p.m., Monday to Friday, 6:55 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.

ADULT EDUCATION SUNDAY, 11 a.m. Adult Bible Study Group, with Dr. Leonard Greenspoon, continues with The Book of Samuel, in the library.

Hebrew Crash Course: Always wanted to learn to read Hebrew?

Free “Crash Course” for adults, starting Sunday, Feb. 8, 10 a.m. in the library. To sign up, call Harriet Einzinger.

WEDNESDAY, 7 p.m.: Adult B’nai Mitzvah class with Cantor Bogomolni.

THURSDAY, noon: “Jewish Wisdom for the 21st Century” with Rabbi Levin. Optional lunch available at 1 p.m. For more information, call the synagogue.

FEATURED PROGRAMS PATTER (Toddlers & Parents Torah, Exercise, Recreation) session with Helen Epstein, Wednesdays, 10:45 a.m.

COME & DANCE! Israeli Dance for everyone (no experience required) Thursdays, 7:30 p.m. For information, Cheryl Lerner, 334.8430 or cldancer@aol.com.

To receive Rabbi Levin’s weekly “Thought for Shabbat” message, please send your email address to exec@bethelomaha.org. Free and open to the community.

BETH ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE

CHABAD HOUSE

Office Hours: MondayThursday, 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 Services, 5:30 p.m. West Minyan is at the home of Susan and Dennis Paley.

SATURDAY: Morning Services, 8:45 a.m.; Free babysitting, 9:30 a.m.; Junior Congregation, 10:30 a.m.; Kiddush sponsored by Beth Israel Synagogue in honor of Jack Diamond and Ben Heisler in recognition for all they have done for Beth Israel.

SUNDAY: Morning Services, 9 a.m.; Mincha, 5:20 p.m. NCSY Seniors will cheer on the Mavericks at 7:45 p.m.

Weekday Morning Services, 7 a.m.; Weekday Mincha and Ma’ariv, 6:30 p.m.

Beth Israel will be moving into its new building the week of Feb. 9.

Please do not stop by either location without first reaching the office to make sure someone is available to help you. Phone service will be interrupted on Feb. 10 as we transition into the new building. After Feb. 10, you may reach us in the new location at our “old” number, 556.6288.

Opening Shabbat in the new building is Feb. 13-14. Join us for Kabbalat Shabbat on Friday night and Shabbos morning services on Saturday. Morning services will be followed by lunch; cost is $5 for adults, free to children 12 and under. Please make your reservations with the synagogue office.

Services through Friday morning, Feb. 13 will be held in the Chapel at 52 St. Beginning with Kabbalat Shabbat Services on Friday, Feb. 13, all services will take place in the new building with the addition of 52 St. Chapel Minyan for Kabbalat Shabbat and Shabbos day services.

E-Mail Address Update: Mail sent to BethIsrael @novia.net and BethIsraelSynago@ quest.net is now received at BethIsrael@OrthodoxOmaha.o rg. The old accounts have been cancelled as of today.

Services conducted by Rabbi Mendel Katzman.

Monday-Friday, Morning services, 7 a.m.

SATURDAY: Mamarim class, 9 a.m.; Services, 9:30 a.m.

SUNDAY: Services, 8:30 a.m.

Mishneh class, 9:30 a.m.

MONDAY Halacha Intermediate level, 7 p.m.

CONGREGATION B’NAI JESHURUN Rabbi Debbie Stiel will be in the office Tuesdays and Thursdays, all day. You may reach her 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays at 416.2321 (local for Lincoln), or at rabstiel@aol.com.

FRIDAY: Shabbat Shira, 7:45 p.m. with oneg to follow. Guest vocalist Dr. Tamara Field will lead the music for the service. In addition, Dr. Field and Rabbi Stiel will share history, music and insights on the Mi Camocha during the Sermon in Song.

SATURDAY: Torah Study, 10:30 a.m.

SUNDAY, Feb. 8: Federation Meeting, 1 p.m.; Megillah Practice, 1 p.m.

TUESDAY, Feb. 10: Board Meeting, 7:15 p.m.

INTRODUCTION TO HEBREW Are you interested in a beginning Hebrew class if offered? If you are please call Temple secretary, Kristi at 435.8004.

JEWISH SUMMER CAMP Don’t forget to register your children for Jewish summer camping experiences. There are still funds available from the Lincoln Jewish federation Campship Fund. Call Jaine Graham at 481.8499.

UPCOMING EVENTS Friday, Feb. 13, 6 p.m.

Potluck dinner, followed by Family Service at 7 p.m. Please RSVP to the Temple office.

OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE FRIDAY: Services, 7:30 p.m.

ROSE BLUMKIN JEWISH HOME SATURDAY: Services, 9 a.m.; led by Alan Shulewitz

BEYT SHALOM FRIDAY: Shabbat in Home SATURDAY: Tu B’Shevat Seder, 5 p.m. at Synagogue SUNDAY: Religious School, 3-5 p.m.

TEMPLE ISRAEL

sports and going to summer camp in Wisconsin.

For her Mitzvah Project, she tutored students at the South Omaha YMCA. Lauren has a younger brother, Cameron, age 9.

Grandparents are Florence Davis and the late Pennie Davis and Katherine Sternberg of Traer, IA, and the late Lester Sternberg.

Saturday, Feb. 7, at Temple Israel.

Aaron is a seventhgrade student at BrownellTalbot. He enjoys music, playing guitar and piano, fishing flying and woodworking.

For his Mitzvah Project, he played his guitar for local resi-

FRIDAY: All male members of Temple Israel are invited to a weekly informal get together at Spirit World, 7517 Pacific St. Join

Candlelighting Friday, February 6, 5:28 p.m. us for relaxation and great conversation, 11:45 a.m.; Tot Shabbat Service, 6 p.m. A short service of song and prayer is followed by cookies and juice.

Toddlers through children in the primary grades are encouraged to bring their families. Enjoy songs and a story with Rabbi Craig Marantz; Shabbat Shira Service, 7:30 p.m. Join Rabbi Joe Black, senior rabbi of Congregation Albert in Albuquerque, NM, on Shabbat Shira, the Shabbath of Song.

SATURDAY: Bagels and Sacred Books, 9:30 -10:15 a.m.; Shabbat Morning Service, 10:30 a.m.

Aaron Bleicher, son of Sandy and Joel Bleicher, will celebrate his Bat Mitzvah at the Shabbat Morning Service.

SUNDAY: Sidney H. Jane Brooks Friendship Tea, 2-4 p.m.

Invite your friends, family, coworkers, neighbors and your child’s teacher to join us. Please RSVP to the office, 556-6536.

ADULT EDUCATION TUESDAY: Intensive text study with Rabbi Azriel on The Guide for the Perplexed, the writings of Maimonides, 8:30-10 a.m.

WEDNESDAY: “History of Israel” with Prof.

Moshe Gershovich, 6:45-8:30 p.m.; Join Gary Kaplan & Mike Walts to learn classics of Jewish Rock & Roll and the Jewish Youth Movement, 7-8:30 p.m.

THURSDAY: Adult Study with the Clergy with Rabbi Craig Marantz, 10-11:30 a.m.. Prayer Hebrew and Music with Cantor Shermet, 11:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m.

OTYG SPAGHETTI DINNER Sunday, Feb. 22: Silent auction begins at 10 a.m.; dinner and live auction at 5 p.m. Cost is $9 adults; children, ages 3-12, $4.

RSVP to the office by Feb. 13.

Proceeds benefit OTYG, Camp Rainbow and Camp Co-Ho-Lo.

TIFERETH ISRAEL Services conducted by Rabbi Stanley M. Rosenbaum. Minyan, Monday & Thursday, 7:15 a.m.

FRIDAY: Services, 8 p.m.

SATURDAY: Morning Service, 9:30 a.m.; Junior Congregation, 10:15 a.m.

WEDNESDAY: The Men’s Lunch Group will meet at the Knolls, 12:30 p.m.

UPCOMING EVENTS Friday, Feb. 27, 8 p.m.

Federation Shabbat.

B’NAI MITZVAH Lauren Bethany Davis, daughter of Mary Kay and Henry Davis, will celebrate her Bat Mitzvah, Saturday, Feb. 14, at Temple Israel.

Lauren is a seventh-grade honor roll student at We s t s i d e Middle School.

She enjoys dancing, w a t e r

Aaron Bleicher, son of Sandy and Joel Bleicher, will celebrate his Bat Mitzvah on

dents in nursing homes.

Aaron has three sisters, Alison and Kate Eggers, and Sarah Bleicher.

Grandparents are Dorothy and Don Tawzer of Lincoln and the late Dr. Jerome and Freda Bleicher.

PERSONAL I would like to thank all my dear friends and family for all their caring during my recent hospitalization.

Adele Hornstein

February 6, 2004

Plant a Tree!

SPARKS FROM THE WORD

by RABBI MORDECHAI LEVIN Parashat Beshalah/TuB’Shevat Beshalah is always read just prior to or, as is the case this year, on the festival of Tu B’shevat (15th of Shvat), the Festival of the Trees. Tu B’shevat is mentioned briefly in the Mishna as the legal date to regulate tithing (and other agricultural obligations set out in the Torah) and as the New Year of fruit trees. But in our time it has become a day that reminds us of our responsibility to take care of the earth, to raise awareness about the environment and to care for it.

As it is written in the Torah (Genesis 2:9, 15): “From the ground God caused to grow every tree that was pleasant to the sight and good for food . . . And God took the man and placed him in the garden of Eden, to till it and tend it.” To these verses the midrash added (Kohelet Rabbah 7:28): “God said to the first human, Look at how lovely and outstanding all my work has turned out to be. Please note that everything I’ve created I have created for you. Think about this carefully and don’t damage or destroy my world, for if you do, there is no one to repair it.”

Trees are vitally important natural resources, and the contribution they make to improve the quality of the air we breathe is of great value. The many benefits that trees bring to the environment are well known, and it is our duty to ensure that we, as well as future generations, are able to enjoy these benefits.

Trees are also a symbol. The tree as a symbol of hope and the future is illustrated in the following story (Vayikra Rabbah 25:5).

It is told that the Emperor Hadrian once passed along a path on the way to Tiberias and saw an old man planting shoots of fig trees.

Hadrian said to him, “If you had risen early to do this work when you were young, you would not have had to work so late!”

The old man answered, “I have worked early and am working late, and let the Lord of Heaven do as it pleases Him.” Hadrian asked the man, “How old are you?”

“One hundred years old,” he answered.

And Hadrian said, “You are one hundred years old and still planting shoots of fig-trees! Do you ever hope to eat the fruit of them?”

To which the old man replied, “If I am worthy I shall eat, and if not, then as my forbears have worked for me so will I work for my children” Trees are a symbol that what we plant today may bear fruit in future generations. When people plant a tree, they don’t necessarily expect to benefit from it during their lifetime. They may do it for their children.

If this is the case, then what kind of tree should we plant? There is one that we should not forget.

When we return the Torah scroll to the Ark, we sing a passage from the Hebrew Bible (Proverbs 3:17-18) about a special tree--Etz Chayim Hi La’machazikim bah. “Precious teaching do I give you. Never forsake My Torah. It is a tree of life for those who grasp it, and all who uphold it are blessed. Its ways are pleasantness, and all its paths are peace.”

We must plant the seed of the tree of life--our Torah --for future generations. If we want to plant something that will last forever, let us plant the values, beliefs and practices of Judaism in the hearts of our children and grandchildren!

Let us plant the tree of Torah today. Future generations will appreciate it and benefit from it!

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RABBI MENDEL LANDSMAN Rabbi Mendel Landsman, a survivor of the Holocaust and Auschwitz concentration camp, died Feb. 1. Burial took place in Israel on Feb. 3.

He is survived by his wife, Sara, four children and their spouses who live in Far Rockaway, NY; Chicago, IL; Detroit, MI; and Jerusalem, Israel; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

A complete obituary will be published in a future issue.

CORRECTIONS In the Jan. 23 issue of the Jewish Press, the article about the Women’s Seder incorrectly listed Rabbi Amy Katz as a member of Yachad, the Travelling Tefillah Band. She is not a member of the band, but will be facilitating the Women’s Seder on March 17 at Temple Israel with the band. And Bette Kozlen’s name was inadvertently omitted from the photo caption of the committee members.

In the Jan. 30 issue, the date of the Rogers/Farkas wedding was incorrectly listed as April 13; it is April 3.

Also, the phone number for JC’s Chicago-Style Deli was incorrect; the correct number is: 884.4092.

The Jewish Press regrets the errors.

Audience Braves Cold to Enjoy “Rabbi Turned Comedian”

by LYNDA MIRVISH for Beth El Synagogue In spite of sub-zero temperatures and a winter storm watch, more that 320 hardy souls came to Beth El Synagogue to enjoy the warm wit and whimsical humor of Rabbi Bob Alper, the world’s only practicing clergyman who does stand-up comedy, intentionally.

Alper’s routines gently poked fun at the absurdities of Jewish life in America, his battles with trying to learn colloquial Hebrew, his experiences as a father, pulpit rabbi, and a Jewish comedian who doesn’t speak Yiddish! The appreciative audience responded with volleys of laughter and applause as each hilarious oneliner followed yet another rib-tickling story.

“This fundraiser for Beth El Synagogue Talmud Torah (BESTT) was, by any standard, a huge success,” said Marilyn Tipp, general chairman for the event. “We had

Page 15

PEOPLE WHO READ NEWSPAPERS ARE

DEATHS DR. JAY JOEL MILDER Former Omahan Dr. Jay Milder died Jan. 16 in Port Hueneme, CA, at the age of 71. Services were held Jan. 18 at the Ted Mayr Funeral Home with Rabbi Lisa Hochberg-Miller of Temple Beth Torah officiating.

Dr. Milder was a graduate of Creighton University’s Dental School and trained to be a periodontist at Walter Reed Hospital in Washington, D.C. while serving in the U.S. Air Force. He completed his training at the Letterman Army Medical Center in San Francisco and was stationed all over the U.S., as well as in Korea and Germany.

Following his marriage to Sarah Begas in 1980, the couple moved to Israel for the next 10 years and spent time “travelling the world.” He returned to California, where he was an active member of the Los Angeles Jazz Photographer Association.

Dr. Milder is survived by his wife, Sarah Milder, Port Hueneme, CA; son and daughter-in-law, Dr. David Milder and Dr. Theresa Milder of San Diego, CA; daughters and sons-in-law, Elizabeth and Reed Galloway of Simi Valley, CA, and Rachael and Scott Blunk of Ft. Collins, CO; and grandchildren, Melissa, Megan, Benjamin, Emma and Calvin Forrest.

Memorials to the Jewish Community Center of Omaha’s Sokolof Fitness Center.

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

an outstanding evening, achieved our financial goal, and will be able to use the funds to purchase supplies, teaching aids, and equipment to help our students continue to receive an excellent Jewish education.”

Tipp credits much of the success for the evening to the hard work of her committee of volunteers and Beth El staff who helped arrange the event and planned the post-show reception. They included Larry and Hanna DeBruin, Harriet Einziger, Buddy and Gloria Goodman, M’Lee Hasslinger, Les Kay, Cheryl Lerner, Lynda Mirvish, Natalie Rubin, and Lynne Shkolnik. Lesli Shrago chaired the silent auction team, who organized and acquired items for the silent auction.

“Special thanks are due,” Tipp added, “to the members of USY and the Men’s Club who worked the coat room and the bar!”

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

February 6, 2004

Super Sunday Focuses on Jewish Needs

Conference on Gibson Film Leaves Participants Concerned have seen it have heralded it as a triumph of contemporary evangelization. The Pope has seen it and his response has been variously reported. The Pope does not comment on works of art but an earlier report said that he said, ‘It is as it was.’”

In his talk, Hamm said that his charge for the symposium was to address the question, “Are the gospel accounts of the passion of the Christ anti-Semitic?” He answer was, “Yes and no!”

“If the question means ‘has the reading and dramatization of the gospel accounts occasioned anti-Jewish attitudes and actions?’ Then the answer is, of course, ‘yes.’

“If our question means ‘were the gospel accounts written with intent to provoke negative or hostile attitudes and actions against Jews? Then the answer could be a careful ‘no.’”

The final speaker of the morning was Dr. Adele Reinhartz, Dean of graduate studies and research at Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada.

Dr. Reinhartz, who is Jewish, called an end to movies about Jesus and raised concerns about anti-Semitic themes that are sometimes used in Passion Plays to fuel violence and hatred against Jews.

“My own view is that filmmakers do have a responsibility to think through the potential negative consequences before deciding to tackle Jesus Passion.

Personally, I would prefer that they simply not tackle it!” Dr. Reinharz insisted.

She believes that the high media focus on the Palestinian-Israeli conflict has also created situation in which public anti-Semitism is occurring more frequently.

by JOAN K. MARCUS Speakers at the daylong symposium about Mel Gibson’s new movie, The Passion of the Christ, all agreed that they were speaking about a movie that few have seen. The event was sponsored by Creighton University’s Center for the Study of Religion and Society, the ADLCRC, the Journal of Religion & Film, the Klutznick Chair of Jewish Civilization, the Journal of Religion & Society and the Jewish Educational and Library Services.

Representatives of two Jewish groups who have attended screenings of the movie said that it contained offensive stereotypes about the Jewish role in the crucifixion of Christ. Jewish groups have been worried that Gibson’s script would ignore modern teachings by the Roman Catholic Church and other denominations that Jews were not collectively responsible for Jesus’ death.

The notion of Jewish guilt has fueled anti-Semitism for centuries.

Concern centers around the use of the line from the Book of Matthew that comes after Pontius Pilate washes his hands of the crucifixion. Matthew says, “And all the people answered, ‘His blood be on us and on our children.’”

The film, scheduled to be released on Feb. 25, has already caused a stir.

According to Fr. Dennis Hamm, some scholars have written responses to an allegedly purloined copy of the script.

Others, on the other hand, have written in response to private screenings of early editions of the film--one of them hosted

by Gibson himself for a gathering of California Jesuit priests last summer.

Said Fr. Hamm, “Some Evangelicals who

by PAM MONSKY Federation Communications Director On Super Sunday, Feb. 15, dozens of volunteers will meet at Omaha Steaks Telemarketing Center to call members of the Omaha Jewish community and ask for their support of Jewish programming and services by making a gift to the Jewish Federation of Omaha’s Annual Campaign.

But Andie Gordman and her brother Jay, serving as 2004 Super Sunday Co-chairs, want to make sure that all donors to the Annual Campaign know how their contributions impact the quality of Jewish life here in Omaha and all over the world.

Super Sunday is the largest division of donors in the Annual Campaign, raising more than $50,000 every year. Super Sunday also serves as the unofficial finale to the Annual Campaign, which this year has a goal of $3.2 million. At this time, the Federation is very close to reaching that goal and the Super Sunday donors play a key role in the Annual Campaign’s success.

It is through donations to the Annual Campaign that the Federation is able to provide the programs and services that benefit every member of our Jewish community. Here are just a few examples of what we are accomplishing thanks to our Campaign donors: Our children benefit from a $1,000 Bar and Bat Mitzvah Grant ($500 to use for two years) for a Jewish experience, services and support for “special needs” children and their parents and Israel Experience Grants for Teens. In addition, 350 children attend JCC Day Camps; 500 kids participate in Jewish athletic programs; and 125 teens belong to BBYO. Our synagogues are provided with com-

munity teachers for their religious schools, partial subsidies for their Hebrew school teacher salaries, the Needy Funeral Fund and access to Holocaust educators through the ADL/CRC. We support Jewish education with teacher training in-service workshops through Jewish Educational and Library Services, building and maintaining an up-to-date teacher resource center in the Kripke Federation Library, and providing academic and financial aid grants and scholarships for students of all ages. In fact, last year 119 students qualified for and received financial aid or were awarded academic scholarships.

We strengthen our Jewish community through innovative programming such as Leadership Development. We bring top quality, nationally known speakers to the community to address relevant, current Jewish issues. We also have access to the most trusted and up-to-date Israel advocacy resources.

Through Super Sunday, your Annual Campaign contribution not only takes care of our local needs, it reaches across the oceans to help Jews in Israel and more than 60 other countries around the world.

About 37% of the dollars raised from the Annual Campaign go towards improving the quality of Jewish life worldwide, caring for those in need and rescuing Jews in danger. Next week we will focus on how our contributions meet the needs of Jews in Israel and overseas.

So, when your phone rings on Feb. 15, Super Sunday Co-chairman Andie Gordman and her brother Jay urge you to answer the call and make an increased pledge to the 2004 Federation Annual Campaign! For more information, please contact me at 334.6431 or pmonsky@jewishomaha.org.

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