February 25, 2005

Vol. LXXXIV No. 25 Omaha, NE

Celebrating 84 Years of Service to Nebraska and Western Iowa

Beth El’s 75th Anniversary Celebration Continues

Cantor’s Concert Brings Together Synagogue’s Past, Present

by JILL BELMONT conducted by D. Anthony Beth El Publicity Coordinator Trecek-King, will perform A remarkable evening three selections, plus one awaits the entire communirendition with each cantor. ty on Monday, April 4, as “The gathering of these “The Voices of Beth El” will four special cantors, the fill Beth El Synagogue’s participation of the magnifisanctuary during an unforcent Masterworks Choir, gettable Cantor’s and the professionalism of Scholarship Concert. The the quartet of musicians will past and present will come make this two-hour evening together in a musical event incredibly enjoyable,” honoring the synagogue’s Cantor Bogomolni said, 75th anniversary, and will adding that “the program feature Beth El’s Cantor Larry and Diane Malashock are co-chairing this year’s will include selections from Gastón Bogomolni, former Cantor’s Concert at Beth El Synagogue. opera to Broadway, from Beth El Cantor Emil Berkovits, Cantor Wendy Shermet the Italian shtetl to the Polish shtetl, from Tango to of Temple Israel, and Cantor Ray Edgar, son of the late Gershwin, from choral to Klezmer, from American to Beth El Cantor Aaron Edgar, who led the congregation Israeli.” from 1936 to 1972.

Having the participation of the three guest cantors Diane and Larry Malashock are serving as chairmen each with a different background and perspective -- is of the event. The cantors will be accompanied by a gift- especially gratifying to Beth El’s cantor. “Ray Edgar, ed quartet of musicians, including Tuffy Epstein on whose deep baritone will fill the sanctuary, will perflute and clarinet, pianist Yulia Kalashnikova, violinist form some of his father’s favorites, as well as some Sachiko Watanabe, and cellist Patty Ritchie. In addition, pieces that his father arranged himself. Ray represents the Nebraska Choral Arts Society Masterworks Choir, Continued on page 2

Cantor Gastón Bogomolni

Cantor Emil Berkovits

Cantor Ray Edgar

Cantor Wendy Shermet

16 Adar, 5765 February 25, 2005

Ron Jaworski to Headline B’nai B’rith Sports Banquet

by GARY JAVITCH President, Henry Monsky Lodge To celebrate the 51st Anniversary of its charity banquet, B’nai B’rith announced that ESPN NFL Analyst, Ron Jaworski would be their guest speaker. “Jaworski, a former pro football NFL quarterback, will bring a unique insight to our dinner,” says Gil Cohen, Banquet Chairman.”

The Lodge annually honors the most outRon Jaworski standing Metro area high school male and female student-athlete of the year and presents them with their prestigious Bert Render and Earl Siegel Memorial Awards.

The award recipients will receive $1500 scholarships provided by sponsor WaittMedia. KETV has signed on as the television sponsor, and Noddle Development, Grubb Ellis Pacific Realty and Omaha Beef Football will help underwrite the charity event.

Another highlight of the May 11 evening event features the return of popular Omaha media personality, Otis XII, who will reprise his insightful and humorous role as Master of Ceremonies.

Jaworski is primarily seen on ESPN’s Pro Gameday as a lead analyst, reporting on all aspects of the game. Before his current assignment with ESPN, Jaworski served as an analyst for WTOG-TV in Tampa Bay and for ETN in Philadelphia. He also provides pro football reports for ESPN Radio.

Jaworski has become one of the most distinguished NFL analysts on television and radio and also gives fans a weekly in-depth insiders view of the NFL through EA Sports NFL Matchup.

Continued on page 5

Special Care Unit will Surround Residents with Comforts of Home

by RITA SHELLEY JSS Publicity Coordinator Editor’s Note: This is the first of a series of articles highlighting important features of a proposed re-building of the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. Watch for next week’s article for details about a new facility for short-term care and rehabilitation services.

A capital campaign on behalf of Jewish Senior Services (JSS) and the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home is an opportunity for donors to help fund a Special Care Unit dedicated to the unique needs of individuals with diseases that cause memory loss. Along with improved, separate facilities for short-term Residents, and a third unit for extended stays of Residents who primarily need skilled nursing care, staff will be able to further customize the care that they provide.

“There still is a great deal we do not know about causes and treatments of these progressive, degenerative disorders, including whether a cure will ever be found,” said Mike Silverman, Executive Director of JSS and the Home.

Inside Opinion Page see page 8

“But what we do know is that research increasingly makes a strong connection between whether a facility captures the spirit and comfort of ‘home,’ and the well-being of the residents.”

Plans call for a 20bed Special Care Unit of private rooms, bathrooms and bedrooms with the ambience of home, family-style dining rooms and Staying connected...A new Special Care Unit will be designed to areas for group activ- better support Residents with dementia and their families while ities involving two to providing care adapted to individual needs. benches and shade for wandering, restfive people at a time.

Special Care Unit Residents can look ing, or visiting.

“They can enjoy freedom of movement forward to such normal everyday activias they go about their days in a safe, ties as waking up with the morning secure environment. Schedules will paper and coffee. Their rooms will be focus on activities Residents are still able connected to a secure garden with paths,

This Week: Monthly Calendar: Pages 6-7 Only Five Openings Left on JCC Maccabi Team: Page 3

Friedel Hosts Open House: Page 5

to enjoy, Silverman said.

All details, including floor coverings, color schemes, furnishings and lighting, will be designed to meet the specific needs of Special Care Residents. This will include a setting that is secure without being restrictive, indoor and outdoor walking paths, and activities geared to the abilities of each individual.

“We know that a carefully designed physical and social environment, along with features that enhance function and quality of life, can assist and support residents and their families throughout the course of illnesses such as Alzheimer’s,” Silverman added. “The facility we are proposing will allow us to better incorporate this increasing knowledge into the daily care that we provide.”

As research continues to evolve into the best way to meet the individual needs of people with dementia, Omaha’s Jewish community can count on increasingly state-of-the-art care, he added.

“We’re catching up with the present, as well as preparing for a bright future,” Silverman said.

Coming Next Month: Spring Home & Garden Issue: March 11 NJHS and ADL Looking for Veterans: Page 11

Temple Participates in Women’s Conference: Page 12

Page 2

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

February 25, 2005

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After Stand-off, CIA Will Release More Documents on Nazi Dealings

by CHANAN TIGAY proof will be in the pudNEW YORK (JTA)--The ding,” Holtzman told JTA CIA’s decision to interpret a after the meeting. law requiring national agenThe CIA already has discies to divulge information closed some 1.2 million about Nazis more broadly pages of documents under has raised hopes that a the law. But working group more accurate picture of members and others had American dealings with complained that the agency Nazi war criminals may be was keeping many relevant around the corner. documents under wraps “This is a major developbased on a misinterpretation ment, one that could finally of the law as requiring fully open the book on our declassification only of docgovernment’s close ties to uments from the period of Nazis,” said Rep. Carolyn the CIA’s predecessor Maloney (D-N.Y.), who Rabbi Michael Miller, left, executive vice president of the organization, the Office of sponsored the Nazi War Jewish Community Relations Council of New York, Rep. Strategic Services.

Crimes Disclosure Act, a Carolyn Maloney (D-N.Y.), center, and former congress- That narrow reading, they 1998 law, in the U.S. House woman Elizabeth Holtzman speak during a news conference said, did not force the of Representatives. in New York on Jan. 31, to say that the CIA has withheld doc- agency to release docuMembers of the Nazi War uments relating to Nazi war criminals. ments having to do with Crimes Interagency Working recruitment, Credit: Chanan Tigay/JTA American Group, U.S. legislators and employment and protection Jewish officials expressed outrage last month at the of Nazis during the Cold War that the working group CIA’s refusal in recent years to declassify what could sought. amount to hundreds of thousands of pages of informaFurther, they said the CIA was using too narrow a tion on Nazi war criminals. definition of “war criminals” and so was refusing to But the intelligence agency made an about-face late give up materials dealing with some members of the SS last week, sending a letter to the chairman of the work- and the Nazi party. ing group essentially acceding to their demands for a “The CIA was saying that just being a member of one more liberal reading of the Disclosure Act and a more of those organizations was not enough to make the extensive declassification. A copy of the letter was documents fall under this law,” Amanda Flaig, spokesobtained by JTA. woman for Sen. Mike DeWine (R-Ohio), told JTA. “Our goal is to be as flexible and as forward-leaning “Sen. DeWine worried that we’d almost have to have as possible in the review and declassification of these Nuremberg again to prove that” some of the people documents,” CIA spokesman Paul Gimigliano told JTA. about whom the working group was seeking informa“The question we ask ourselves in dealing with issues tion were war criminals. She was referring to famous of review and declassification is not what can we with- war-crimes trials held in Germany after World War II. hold, but what can we release.”

DeWine is a member of the Senate Judiciary commitThe 1998 legislation requires the CIA and other tee. He had threatened to call Porter Goss, the CIA national agencies to release classified information director, to appear at hearings on the document matter. about Nazi war criminals to the working group, which “The CIA is now willing to use the definitions that we publicizes the information in reports and at the prefer,” Flaig added.

National Archives.

Those involved say hearings may no longer be necOn Monday, members of the working group met with essary and that the working group’s mandate is likely the CIA in Langley, Va., a meeting that Elizabeth to be extended by two years.

Holtzman, one of the working group’s three civilian “We’re cautiously optimistic that the CIA’s cooperamembers, said was “a sign of cooperativeness and pro- tion in this regard will yield results,’’ said Michael fessionalism instead of obstructionism and bureaucratic Miller, executive vice president of the Jewish naysaying” on the CIA’s part.

Community Relations Council of New York.

“This is very good news in my view, but of course the

Beth El’s 75th Anniversary Celebration Continues Continued from page 1 the beginning of Beth El Synagogue; he grew up there,” Cantor Bogomolni said, adding that “Emil Berkovits will use his sweet voice to bring back good memories for all of us. Wendy Shermet will share her powerful soprano voice and will certainly add a rich dimension to the whole concert.

“Each cantor has a different perspective, a different talent, a different style and character. We will all sing our favorite selections, and I know that it will be a delightful evening of joy and togetherness.” Cantor Shermet commented on the importance of the Jewish community joining together to celebrate Beth El’s milestone anniversary.

“Omaha has a very strong Jewish community, and part of the continuity has to do with the sharing that occurs between the Jewish organizations here,” she said. “Many families have members at all three ‘main’ synagogues, or themselves have memberships at more than one. There is pride and a sense of heritage here, and Beth El’s anniversary is a significant part and reminder of this. The more we all share, the stronger we will remain.”

Cantor Edgar commented that “My interest in participating in Beth El’s 75th stems from two sources: my father, may he rest in peace; and Cantor Bogomolni, whose freshness, youth, and sincerity impressed me greatly when I attended a great Friday evening service a couple of years ago.

“Beth El was literally my second home growing up in Omaha through high school,” he added. “My participation [in the Cantor’s Concert] is my way of bringing back the spirit of my father to a new generation that did not know his charm, his love of Judaism and cantorial music,

and his loving devotion to Beth El. I cannot separate Beth El from my father. They are one.”

Cantor Berkovits, who currently serves Temple Israel in Swampscott-Marblehead, MA, said he looks forward to his participation in the upcoming Cantor’s Concert. “I could not imagine not saying ‘yes,’” he said. “More than half of my professional life as cantor was spent at Beth El, and I felt compelled to participate in some way in this memorable year. I am grateful and honored that my dear colleague Cantor Bogomolni has asked me to participate in the concert.”

Funds raised at the Cantor’s Concert will benefit the Beth El Youth Scholarship Program, which provides opportunities for young people to attend Jewish summer camps, visit Israel or attend Jewish youth conventions.

Tickets categories and prices follow: Single, $18; Patron, $36; Agent, $50; Manager, $75; Investor, $100; Executive Producer, $500; Director, $1,000. Cost for students, $5; children ages 12 and under, $1.

Contributors to Patron, Agent, Manager and Investor categories will each receive two tickets. Contributors to Executive Producer will receive four tickets, and donors in the Director category will receive six tickets. Names of all supporters will be listed in the program if payment is received by March 15.

For reservations, please mail payment to Beth El Synagogue Cantor’s Concert, Beth El Synagogue, 14506 California St., Omaha, NE 68154.

“Special thanks go to Harlan and Nancy, Jeffrey and Linda, and Allan Noddle, for generously underwriting this year’s Beth El Cantor’s Concert,“ Larry Malashock noted, “in loving memory of their parents, Robert and Edith Noddle.”

February 25, 2005

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 3

Only Four Spots Open Tifereth Israel Presents for JCC Maccabi Games! Another ARTrageous Evening of Art

by RACHEL BLUM JCC Program Director Some 36 Jewish athletes have already registered for the 2005 JCC Maccabi Games in Dallas this summer, leaving only five positions to be filled by local teens! The Games are a week-long sporting event, which include Judaic education, community service projects, and social programming for teens, ages 13-16. Omaha athletes will participate in team sports of boys’ basketball and girls’ soccer, and a variety of individual sports, including bowling, dance, golf, swimming, table tennis, and tennis.

In addition to our own 40 athletes, Omaha will host three athletes from Israel. For the fourth consecutive year, Omaha is participating in the JCC Maccabi Sister City Program. It was established to create more significant and meaningful opportunities for participants in the JCC Maccabi Games to interact, learn about, and share some warm experiences with their Israeli counterparts. North American Delegations have an opportunity to work with and build on their existing relationships with their Partnership with Israel communities in Israel. This experience of meeting a peer from a different country is interesting and special to all of the teens involved, and it is especially exciting for our local teens to identify with the common heritage which Jewish teenagers from around the world share. Omaha will be hosting three teens and an adult chaperone from our sister city of Akko in the Western Galilee.

The following teens are part of Team Omaha: Daniel Canfield, Eliza Cowan, Lauren Davis, Michelle Elkin, Olga Elkin, Alex Epstein, Brad Frank, Michael Friedman, Spencer Gallner, Nimrod Ginsburg, Becca Gordon, Ben Gordon, Rachel Gordon, Daniel Grossman, Justin Jacobson, Lauren Josephson, Caroline Juster, Max Katz, Jeff Malashock, Rachel Martin, Steven Meyer, Aaron Murow, Jackie Neesman, Aaron Passer, Arielle Pilley, Josh Pilley, Daniel Rahmani, Danny Raznick, Mitchell Sanford, Dylan Saferstein, Sarah Spooner, Zach Spooner, Talia Tene, David Trubnikov, Effie Tsabari, and Dylan Wertheim.

For more information about the JCC Maccabi Games, please contact me at 334.6404.

by BARBARA KENYON for Tifereth Israel More than 250 pieces of artwork will be available for auction Saturday, March 12, 7:30 p.m., when Tifereth Israel Synagogue will be holding its fourth annual ARTrageous Evening of Art. The collection includes works of up-and-coming artists from Latin and South America, Europe, and Asia, as well as those by established masters.

Agam, Behrens, Chagall, Dali, Delacroix, Kinkade, Lautrec, Miro, Neiman, Picasso, Raad, Rockwell, Scott, and Vasarely are among the artists whose works will be auctioned. Various media such as oils, enamels, engravings, batiks, silkscreens, watercolors, drawings, and three-dimensional cast paper will be available.

All of the pieces are framed and much of the collection is in the $50-$250 price range. There will be some pieces from the ‘Collector’s Corner” valued at $350$5000. Two paintings will be given away that evening,

one of those being a piece by the Israeli artist Patricia Govenzensky.

Admission to the event is $5 in advance and $7 at the door.

This price includes complimentary spirits, hors d’oeuvres, and desserts. Checks for reservations, payable to Tifereth Israel, can be mailed to me at: Barbara Kenyon, 6229 Barbara Lane, Lincoln, NE 68512.

All guests who have reservations in by March 1 will receive two free raffle tickets for the Patricia painting.

On Sunday morning, March 13, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. there will be a ‘Take a Second Look’ for those who cannot be there Saturday evening.

For more information please call me at 423.2678.

Experience New “Living Hebrew” Class Sunday Mornings at Beth El

by JILL BELMONT Levin said. “Through conversational Beth El Publicity Coordinator Hebrew, we will decode new and known Adult education is all the rage at Beth El words, find their roots and enlarge our Synagogue, and the month of March will knowledge.” offer the entire community yet another She added that “Hebrew was the language exciting new course entitled “Living of our ancestors and the language that tied Hebrew.” The intermediate-level Hebrew Jews around the world during the years of course, taught by Susi Frydman-Levin, will Diaspora. Hebrew is the language of the begin Sunday, March 6, 11:10 a.m. to Torah and our prayer books. Hebrew is the noon, and will be geared to those who official language of the State of Israel and the language that identifies us as Jews. I already know how to read Hebrew but want to expand their vocabulary and reading Susi Frydman-Levin hope everyone who is interested will attend - it will be a great experience!” skills.

For more information about the class, please call “Our goal will be to increase participants’ fluency in reading and understanding of Hebrew texts,” Frydman- Harriet Einziger at 492.8550.

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

February 25, 2005

ORGANIZATIONS TORAH LEARNING CENTER All classes are taught by Rabbi Tuvia Hoffman. Please call him at 981.0569 for more information.

Mondays, 7:30 p.m.: “The Siddur: The bestselling book of Kaballah” in the Omaha Room of the JCC. Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m.: “Growth Through Torah” at a private residence.

Thursdays, 1 p.m.: “Meaning of Life & Other Business” based on The Way of G-d by Rabbi Chaim Luzatto, also in the Omaha Room of the JCC. LOMIR REDN YIDDISH Come to the Yiddish meeting at the JCC on Thursdays, 1-3 p.m. Call Anne Skolkin at 343.1638.

VISIONS Reminder: Visions Board Meeting is Friday, March 4, 9:30 a.m. in the conference room of the Rose Blumkin Home.

Come with Visions on a tour of antiquities at UNO: “Silent Spectators of the Sacred” on Wednesday, March 9, 11:30 a.m. Meet at China Road (132 and Dodge) for lunch (on your own). Carpool to UNO and view the exhibit with the curator as our guide.

Suggested donation is $2 single or $3 for couple. Send reservations and check, made out to Visions, by March 2 to: Sandy and Fred Bromley, 13419 Marinda St. Omaha, NE 68144.

Membership dues for 2005 are now due. Please mail your $5 check to: Visions, Beverly Gilinsky, 1406 No. 126 St., Omaha, NE 68154.

JEWISH SENIOR SERVICES JSS presents a Mezzo Soprano Concert with Shelley Waite on Thursday, March 24, 1 p.m., at the JCC. The concert is free and open to the public. Waite’s solo performances have included 17 appearances at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Call Maggie Conti for reservations at 334.6521.

BREADBREAKERS Steve Pederson will speak at Breadbreakers on Wednesday, March 2, noon, at the Park Inn Regency, according to Gary Javitch. Pederson, UNL athletic Director, will give us an insightful look at Athletics on the UNL campus. Cost is $11 for a full lunch and $3. for beverage service only. The community is invited to attend.

OMAHA CHAPTER OF HADASSAH On Hadassah’s national “Date with the State” lobby day, Thursday, March 3, 10 a.m., members will travel to Lincoln to meet with State Senator Dr. Joel Johnson of Kearney. He has introduced LB580, advocating continued use of stem cell research in Nebraska.

For more information, or to join the group, call Sandy Kohll at 391.5603.

IN THE NEWS Tom Aronson, who graduated from the University of Michigan in 2001, was recently accepted into the Anderson School of Business MBA Program at UCLA. He worked for the advertising firm TBWA Chiat/Day in the Los Angeles area for two years where he oversaw the Apple Computer account. He was then transferred to their New York office to oversee the Nextel account.

While working for TBWA Chiat/Day, he was recruited

by Grey Worldwide to oversee the Nokia account which he has been involved in since last summer.

He is the son of Allison and Bob Aronson and the grandson of Harvey and Phyllis Aronson and the late Lenore Aronson.

Melissa Josephson graduated cum laude from Northeastern University in Boston, MA, with a B.S. in criminal justice. Prior to attending graduate school next fall, she is interning with the Johnson County Juvenile Detention Center in Olathe, KS. She is the daughter of Debbi and Larry Josephson.

Her grandparents are June Goodbinder and the late Harry Goodbiner and Harold Becker of Cedar Rapids, IA, and the late Arlene Becker.

A Wealth of Knowledge Awaits at Beth El’s “Jewish Parenting 101” Class

by JILL BELMONT Beth El Publicity Director Beth El Synagogue’s ‘Jewish Parenting 101’ class offers something for everyone--from those with very small children to more seasoned moms and dads.

Speakers during the eight-week course have included Drs. Michael and Karen Cohen, who discussed children’s health, Rabbi Mordechai Levin, who Dr. Michael Shnayder spoke about Jewish rituals, and attorney James Tews from the law firm of Abrahams Kaslow & Cassman LLP, who addressed legal wills.

Upcoming speakers include Dr. Michael Shnayder, who will discuss children’s oral health on March 3; Alan Parsow, sharing his financial planning expertise on March 10; early-childhood educator Helen Epstein, on March 31; and Lena Bogomolni, addressing children’s language development on April 7. The Thursday classes run from 10:30-11:30 a.m. and are open to the community, free of charge. To register for any of the classes, please contact Harriet Einziger at 492.8550.

YOU DO HAVE ACHOICE! WE HOPE YOU CHOOSE WISELY.

Temple Scholar to Uncover Jewish Road to Seeking Haven in America

by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Temple Israel Communications Coordinator In 1998, the Los Angeles Times proclaimed that Jews “live in extraordinary times, when American women have transformed their status in Judaism, creating one of the most dramatic cultural shifts in centuries of Jewish history.”

By the end of the twentieth century, Jewish women had redefined how they lived their Judaism. Religious ceremonies welcomed the birth of daughters; girls marked their bat mitzvahs; Jewish women gathered for feminist seders and even became rabbis. Their transformation is described by Pamela S. Nadell, professor and director of the Jewish Studies Program at American University in Washington, D.C., in her book, Women Who Would Be Rabbis, A History of Women’s Ordination, 1889-1985.

“Nobody before has uncovered as much information as Pamela Nadell has about these women and nobody before has integrated the stories of these individuals into a coherent and highly readable narrative.This promises to be the definitive study of ‘the road to women’s ordination’ in Judaism,” said Jonathan D. Sarna, professor at Brandeis University and chief historian to Celebrate 350, the national celebration of the 350th anniversary of America Jewish life. Together, Professor Nadell and Professor Sarna co-edited another book, Women and American Judaism, Historical Perspectives.

Prof. Nadell, who will be a scholar-in-residence, March 4-6, at Temple Israel, has played a significant role with the Commission for Commemorating 350 Years of American Jewish History which is a partnership of the Library of Congress, the National Archives, the American Jewish Historical Society, and the Jacob Rader Marcus Center of the American Jewish Archives. Her topic at Temple will be “From Haven to Home: Celebrating 350 Years of Jewish Life in America.” She’ll begin by giving the D’var Torah on Friday, March 4, 7:30 p.m., at the Shabbat worship service on “Remembering the Celebrations of the Past.”

On Saturday morning, March 5, 9 a.m., Prof. Nadell will lead the Bagels and Sacred Books weekly study session which precedes the morning Shabbat service. The topic will be “Seeking Haven and Making Lives” which will add a key component of cultural history to “350 Years of the Jewish American Experience,” Temple Israel’s theme of study this year. The Hermene Zweiback Center for Lifelong Jewish Education supports the scholars and other speakers, adult classes, and Jewish Journey Groups at Temple on this theme and others.

On Sunday morning, March 6, 10 a.m., Prof. Nadell will talk about “America’s Jewish Women” at a bagel brunch. “Many of the central themes and controversies in American Jewish religious life have revolved around the position of women in Judaism--both literally and figuratively,” according to the introduction in Women and American Judaism. “Viewed in retrospect, (the boundaries of gender) underscore the extent to which women’s history and its gendered twists and turns have marked the history of American Judaism as a whole.”

Temple Israel invites the community to listen and to take part in the discussions with Prof. Nadell.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT UNO’s Heartland Philharmonic Orchestra will present ”Sweatin’ to the Oldies” on Sunday, March 8, 7:30 p.m., in the Strauss Performing Arts Center Recital Hall on the campus of the University of NebraskaOmaha. For ticket information, call 554.3427.

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The Opera Omaha Guild will present its 14th annual Wine Seller Weekend, March 4-5 at the Omaha Hilton, 10th and Cass. Events include a Vinter’s Dinner on March 4, 6:30 p.m.; wine seminars on March 5, 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m., and, at 6 p.m., a wine tasting and charity auction. For ticket information, contact Opera Omaha at: 346.4398.

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Emmanuel Ax and Yefim Bronfman are the featured performers for the Tuesday Musical Series, Wednesday, March 9, 7:30 p.m., in the Witherspoon Auditorium of Joslyn Art Museum. The two world renowned pianists will perform works by Schumann, Debussy, Ravel and Stravinsky. For tickets, call 551.2234 or e-mail: TuesMus@aol.com.

February 25, 2005

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Off the field, Jaworski hosts an annual celebrity golf tournament that has raised close to $1,000,000 for the United Way “Jaws Youth Fund.”

“As last year, Henry Monsky Lodge of B’nai B’rith will hold the event at the Holiday Inn Convention Center Ballroom,” Cohen added. The cocktail hour begins at 5:45 p.m. with the dinner following an hour later, according to Cohen. Tickets are $100 and are available by calling the B’nai B’rith Office at 334.6443. Special VIP reception/dinner tickets are $150. The banquet will include the addition of a raffle prize of a large screen tv.

Previous banquet speakers have included Howard Cosell, Lou Holtz, John Madden, Joe Paterno, Barry Switzer, David Stern, Mike Ditka, Bob Devaney, Keith Jackson, Bobby Knight, Bill Walsh, Dick Vitale, Bobby Bowden, Joe Theismann, Lee Corso, Terry Bradshaw, Dr. Tom Osborne, Roy Firestone, Dick Schaap, Steve Spurrier, Greg Gumbel, Dan Patrick and last year, Trev Alberts.

Henry Monsky Lodge is part of B’nai B’rith, an international Jewish service organization that promotes brotherhood, fights discrimination and works for community improvement. The Jewish service organization, distributes a portion of the proceeds to local charities and their youth programs.

Page 5

o

Continued from page 1 From the launch of his stellar career at Youngstown State through his glory days as an All-Pro quarterback, Ron Jaworski has been a standout.

Nicknamed the “Polish Rifle” for the strength and accuracy of his arm, Ron has set numerous passing records in the NFL, primarily for the Philadelphia Eagles, whom he led to the Super Bowl.

A second round draft choice, the New York native spent four years with the Rams before being traded to the Eagles in March 1977. Under Coach Dick Vermeil and behind Ron's arm and enthusiastic field leadership, the Eagles advanced to the NFC Playoffs in 1978 and 1979.

In 1980, “Jaws” led the Eagles to a 12-4 record, the NFC Championship, and their first-ever berth in a Super Bowl (Super Bowl XV vs. the Oakland Raiders). Ron Jaworski finished the 1980 season as the No. 1 rated passer in the NFC. In recognition of his brilliant season, he was selected to the Pro-Bowl and won the “Bert Bell Trophy” as the NFL’s MVP. Jaworski is the all-time Eagles’ leader in many passing categories, including career TD passes and career passing yardage. Overall, Jaworski’s career statistics include 28,190 passing yards and 179 touchdowns.

fata’s Ca La

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

th

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2005

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More than 50 newcomers to the Omaha Jewish community gathered at the JCC recently for a brunch and introduction to representatives from area synagogues and organizations.

The brunch was sponsored by the Community Development Department of the Jewish Federation of Omaha. Above left: two former Omahans have arrived home with their husbands: Matt and Melissa Shapiro and Stephanie and Rew

Johnson. Right: Community Development Director Janie Murow says hello to newcomer Jennifer Altman and her oneyear-old Adie. Jennifer and her husband, Dennis, moved to Omaha from England where the couple was stationed at Mildenhall Air Force Base, near Cambridge. Newcomers to Jewish Omaha can contact Murow at: 334.6566 to be added to the Federation mailing lists.

Friedel Hosts Open House 2005 Beth El’s Adult B’nai Mitzvah

by JORDANA L. KURTZMAN Friedel Jewish Academy will open up its doors to wel- Class To Begin Next Week come prospective families on Tuesday, March 8, 7-8:30 pm. This event is open to the entire community, and Friedel’s principal, Cookie Katskee, hopes many families who have always wanted to take a peek at Friedel will take this opportunity to do so.

The Open House will include a presentation about what will be new to Friedel’s academic programs, including its curriculum and its initiatives with Israel. As there was at last year’s Open House program, there will be a panel of Friedel alumni of all ages who will discuss their personal experiences about attending Friedel as well as their transition into public middle school.

The teachers will discuss how they incorporate general and Judaic studies across the curriculum to both enhance the learning process and strengthen the Jewish experience at Friedel.

One of the subjects currently being taught in Anna Besser’s Judaic studies classes is archaeology. Besides learning about the scientific aspects of this topic, the children have been discovering that archaeology has current applications to Israel’s existence. Besser has been teaching the students how, in 1948, General Yigal Yadim was able to use his knowledge of Torah and archaeology to block an invasion into Israel by the Syrians.

The students’ artwork will also be on display throughout the school during this event. Julie Phillips teaches the art classes at Friedel, where the children create paintings, collages, sculptures, and other forms of multi-media art.

Friedel’s classes and curriculum offers individualized education, academic excellence, and a love of Jewish learning. If you would like more information about the Open House event or would like a personal tour of the school, please call Cookie Katskee or Mary Jane Tweedy at 334.0517.

by JILL BELMONT Beth El Publicity Coordinator If you’ve always wanted to become a Bar or Bat Mitzvah, jump on the educational bandwagon at Beth El and join our Adult B’nai Mitzvah class!

The year-long class begins Sunday, March 6, 11 a.m. to noon, and will be taught by Cantor Gastón Bogomolni, with guest lectures by Rabbi Mordechai Levin. Students must have basic Hebrew skills, and will focus on Hebrew prayers chanted during the Shabbat morning Torah service. In addition, Cantor Gastón will explore the meaning of individual prayers, Jewish rituals, customs and festivals.

Frances Gottlieb, who “graduated” from Beth El’s last B’nai Mitzvah class and became Bat Mitzvah last November, said she encourages all interested parties to take this class. “I would recommend that anyone who hasn’t become a Bar/Bat Mitzvah to go through this ritual. It cements their connection with the Jewish community and it makes them realize they have a greater responsibility to our community.”

For Gottlieb’s classmate Diane Malashock, “going from not knowing one letter of Hebrew to reading Torah during our B’nai Mitzvah celebration was great-a real accomplishment.” She expressed gratitude to Cantor Bogomolni, saying that “after spending oneand-a-half years with Gastón, I feel fortunate that I’ve gotten to know him as a teacher, a friend and a spiritual advisor.”

Anyone interested in attending the class is encouraged to contact Cantor Gastón at 492-8550. It’s never too late to become a Bar or Bat Mitzvah, take the plunge and prepare for one of the most meaningful experiences of your life!

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Here’s my ad for jBay: Name ________________________________________ Address _______________________________________ City, State and Zip _______________________________ Phone _______________ Check enclosed for $ _________ Mail to jBay, The Jewish Press, 333 So. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68154 The Jewish Press jBay classifieds are only for use by individuals–businesses should contact the Advertising Department– Allan Handleman, 334.6451 for display ads.

Page 6

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

February 25, 2005

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Adult Education, 10 a.m. at Temple Israel Jewish Parenting 101, 10:30 a.m. at Beth El Rabbi Levine’s Class, noon at Beth El Yiddish Group, 1 p.m.

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Senior NCSY Latte & Learning, 7:30 p.m. at Beth Israel FRIDAY, MARCH 4 Temple Israel JYG Chavurah (4th thru 6th grades) Tri-Faith Dialogue, 8:30 a.m. at Temple Israel Shabbat Across America, 5 p.m.

Third & Fourth Grade Shabbat, 6 p.m. at Beth El Scholar-in-Residence Pamela Nadell, 7:30 p.m. at Temple Israel

SUNDAY, MARCH 6 Pancake Breakfast, 9 a.m. at Temple Israel Scholar-in-Residence Pamela Nadell, 10 a.m. at Temple Israel Jewish Potpouri, 10 a.m. at Beth El Bible Study Class, 11 a.m. at Beth El Living Hebrew Class, 11 a.m. at Beth El Yachad, 1 p.m. at Strategic Air & Space Museum Teen Mitzvah Day Dinner, 6 p.m. at House of Hunan MONDAY, MARCH 7 JSS Senior Luncheon, 10 a.m.

TLC “Crash Course in Hebrew Reading”, 7:30 p.m.

TUESDAY, MARCH 8 BBYO Night, 6 p.m.

Friedel Jewish Academy Open House, 7 p.m.

TLC “Growth Through Torah”, 7:30 p.m. at private residence WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9 Patter, 10:30 a.m. at Beth El Visions Tour of UNO Exhibit, 11 a.m.

Rabbis & Presidents Meeting, noon Adult Education, 6:30 p.m. at Temple Israel Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m. at Beth Israel THURSDAY, MARCH 10 Walk-in Drop-in, 10 a.m.

Adult Education, 10 a.m. at Temple Israel Jewish Parenting 101, 10:30 a.m. at Beth El Rabbi Levine’s class, noon at Beth El Yiddish Group, 1 p.m.

TLC “Meaning of Life” Class, 1 p.m.

Temple Israel “Shabbat Comes to You”, 4 p.m. at Remington Heights Tot Shabbat, 6 p.m. at Beth El “The Whole Megillah” A Purim Class with Rabbi Gross, 7 p.m. at Beth Israel

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MONDAY, MARCH 14 Hadassah Mediscope Program, 7 p.m.

Women’s Rosh Hodesh, 7 p.m. at Beth El TLC “Crash Course in Hebrew Reading”, 7:30 p.m.

TUESDAY, MARCH 15 BBYO Night, 6 p.m.

Friedel Board of Directors Meeting, 7 p.m.

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SUNDAY, MARCH 20 Religious School Steering Committee Meeting, 8:30 a.m. at Temple Israel Jewish Potpouri, 10 a.m. at Beth El Bible Study Class, 11 a.m. at Beth El Living Hebrew Class, 11 a.m. at Beth El Purim Carnival, noon at Temple Israel Yachad at Purim Carnival, noon at Temple Israel Israeli Movie Day, 4 p.m.

Kripke Library “Sunday Night at the Movies”, 7 p.m.

MONDAY, MARCH 21 JSS Senior Luncheon, 10 a.m.

Hadassah Board Meeting, 1 p.m.

BEAM, 7 p.m. at Beth El Jewish Press Meeting, 7:30 p.m.

TLC “Crash Course in Hebrew Reading”, 7:30 p.m.

Youth Commission Meeting, 7:30 p.m. at Beth El

THURSDAY, MARCH 17 Walk-in Drop-in, 10 a.m.

Adult Education, 10 a.m. at Temple Israel Jewish Parenting 101, 10:30 a.m. at Beth El Rabbi Levine’s class, noon at Beth El Yiddish Group, 1 p.m.

TLC “Meaning of Life” Class, 1 p.m.

Kripke Library Book Discussion Group, 1 p.m.

Scholastic Book Fair, 6 p.m. at Friedel Jewish Academy

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TUESDAY, MARCH 29 AZA Elections, 6 p.m.

BBG Council Elections, 6 p.m.

Adult Education, 7 p.m. at Temple Israel TLC “Growth Through Torah”, 7:30 p.m. at private residence

SATURDAY, MARCH 19 Ma’agal Ha’rav (Gr. 7-12), 2:30 p.m. at Temple Israel Anniversary Purim Spiel, 7 p.m. at Beth El

THURSDAY, MARCH 24 Men’s Spirituality Group, 7:30 a.m. at Temple Israel Walk-in Drop-in, 10 a.m.

Adult Education, 10 a.m. at Temple Israel Jewish Parenting 101, 10:30 a.m. at Beth El Rabbi Levine’s Class, noon at Beth El Yiddish Group, 1 p.m.

TLC “Meaning of Life” Class, 1 p.m.

JSS Concert, 1 p.m.

Megillah Reading, 5 p.m. at Beth Israel Purim Family Box Dinner and Service, 5:30 p.m. at Temple Israel Chabad House “Purimania”, 6 p.m.

Megillah Reading & Purim Party, 6:30 p.m. at Beth El L.O.V.E Auxiliary Board Meeting, 7 p.m.

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SATURDAY, MARCH 26 JELS “Visions” Concert, 8 p.m.

MONDAY, MARCH 28 NCJW Book Club, 7 p.m.

TLC “Crash Course in Hebrew Reading”, 7:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 23 Patter, 10:30 a.m. at Beth El Hadassah HIES Fundraiser Program, 11:30 a.m.

NCJW Board Meeting, noon Social Justice Club (Gr. 7-12), 5 p.m. at Temple Israel Adult Education, 7 p.m. at Temple Israel

FRIDAY, MARCH 18 Scholastic Book Fair, 8 a.m. at Friedel Jewish Academy

FRIDAY, MARCH 25 Shacharit & Early Megillah Reading, 7 a.m. at Beth Israel Morning Megillah Reading, 9 a.m. at Beth Israel Beth Israel Megillah Reading, 10 a.m. at Remington Heights Purim Seudah, 5 p.m. at Beth Israel Shabbat Dinner, 7 p.m. at Chabad House

SUNDAY, MARCH 27 Jewish Potpouri, 10 a.m. at Beth El USY Purim Carnival, 11 a.m. at Beth El Bible Study Class, 11 a.m. at Beth El Living Hebrew Class, 11 a.m. at Beth El

TUESDAY, MARCH 22 Federation Executive Committee Meeting, 6 p.m.

AZA Elections, 6 p.m.

BBG Council Elections, 6 p.m.

Adult Education, 7 p.m. at Temple Israel Federation Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m.

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All events held at the Jewish Community Center unless otherwise noted. This calendar does not include all community events. For a complete listing, visit the Federation’s website: www.jewishomaha.org (click on calendar). To keep calendar accurate, call Marlene Hert at 334-6437. The Jewish Press is not responsible for the accuracy of the below events.

SATURDAY, MARCH 5 Scholar-in-Residence Pamela Nadell 9 a.m. at Temple Israel Newcomers Shabbat, 9:30 a.m. at Beth El

Page 7

offering an assortment of Judaica Pottery

Community Calendar FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 25 Fifth & Sixth Grade Class Shabbat, 6 p.m. at Beth El

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 30 Patter, 10:30 a.m. at Beth El Bereavement Group, 6 p.m. at Beth El Adult Education, 7 p.m. at Temple Israel THURSDAY, MARCH 31 Walk-in Drop-in, 10 a.m.

Adult Education, 10 a.m. at Temple Israel Jewish Parenting 101, 10:30 a.m. at Beth El Rabbi Levine’s class, noon at Beth El Yiddish Group, 1 p.m.

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Page 8

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

February 25, 2005

Opinion Where to Send Your Jewish Teen to College Senior year for most students is stressful enough without adding the latest component: anti-Semitism on college campuses. Yes, you read that right--there is growing anti-Semitism on the campuses of some of our most prestigious universities.

Columbia Unbecoming, a documentary about pro-Israeli students being harassed by their professors, led to the appointment of a panel that will report its findings by the end of this month. Columbia, is, of course, the home of the late Prof. Edward Said, who claimed to Palestinian, but was, in fact, born to wealthy parents in Cairo. Alan Dershowitz, who spoke at his alma mater earlier this month, told JTA that “Columbia is Europe on the Hudson,” referring to Europe’s increasing anti-Semitism. “It’s the wave of the future, unless something can be done,” he added.

And let’s not forget the current controversy on the campus of the University of Colorado, where Nick Churchill, a professor who called those who died in World Trade Center attacks, “little Nazis.”

So what’s a parent to do? Here are some suggestions, including some from Hillel’s Guide to Jewish Life on Campus: • Research the schools to which your child is applying. Nearly every school has a website; if you’re concerned about Jewish life there, “google” the name of the school and anti-Semitism and see what pops up. If there

have been any controversies at schools on your teen’s list, call the president of the school to discuss it. If he or she is upfront about what happened and can assure you appropriate action has been taken, you may feel better about having your child apply. If the president waffles--tell him or her why your child will not be applying. Schools will soon get the message that anti-Semitism is not acceptable.

• Send your child to Israel for a year.

Every one of the American Jewish movements have year long programs in Israel, any many of them include college credit, as well as touring, work on kibbutzim and volunteering. Your teen can still apply to college-and obtain a deferment for a year while they’re in Israel--learning Hebrew, reinforcing their Judaism and growing their love for the land and its people. It’s not scary--in fact, your child will come home more independent and better able to face the challenges of college life--including any anti-Semitic confrontations.

• Think about looking at Catholic universities. Sounds strange, but these religious institutions require such courses as religion, philosophy, language and history--all of which can be

(Founded in 1920)

obtained on a variety of programs in Israel designed for high school graduates. Not only do Catholic universities welcome students who have taken a year off to accomplish something, they often give full credit for the coursework taken in Israel. (There are other universities who are also generous in accepting Israel credits, including the state universities in New York and the University of Maryland; most private universities--except for the Catholic ones--do not.)

• And finally, ask questions of students who already attend those schools to which your teen is applying. Think about it: it’s four years of your child’s life. Would you go to a community where anti-Semitism was acceptable? So why should you send your child?

A Purim Fantasy...

Bush’s Budget Boosts Foreign Aid, Slashes Funds for Jewish Programs

BEHIND THE HEADLINES

by MATTHEW E. BERGER WASHINGTON (JTA)--President Bush’s controversial budget includes no surprises in aid for Israel, a dramatic increase for the Palestinians-and drastic cuts in domestic programs that affect Jewish programs and Jewish lives.

The $2.57 trillion plan, which landed on Capitol Hill last week, calls for a one percent cut in domestic spending, which includes a severe reduction or elimination of 150 programs.

While much of the voluminous budget has yet to be deciphered, many Jewish organizations are expressing concern that funds for programs that aid elderly and impoverished Jews -- as well as other Americans--would decline dramatically and it would be hard to launch new programs.

“A one percent cut doesn’t matter if a program has been flush for a number of years,” said Stephan Klein, director of governmental affairs at the United Jewish Communities.

“But it is a problem if programs are already bare bones.”

Under Bush’s proposal for fiscal year 2006, which begins Oct. 1, the total amount of nondefense, non-homeland security discretionary funds would remain frozen for the next five years. Given the rate of inflation and population increase, this would amount to a 16 percent cut, Klein said.

“If it were to be implemented, it would be devastating,” Klein said of the freeze in total funding. “Many of our programs are dependent on these discretionary funds.”

Of particular interest to the Jewish community, the president’s budget request includes: • $2.52 billion in economic and military aid for Israel, part of an overall 14 percent increase in foreign aid spending; • $150 million for the Palestinians; an additional $200 million is expected to be part of a separate supplemental budget request from the administration; • A $60 billion cut over 10 years in funding for Medicaid, which is the largest funding

source for Jewish nursing homes and hospi- the role of government.” tals, providing more than $2 billion a year; Some groups also expressed concern about • A $6 million cut in funds for independent Bush’s budget requests for programs that blur living in retirement communities. The pro- the line between church and state, and about gram, which was cut by $31 million last year, the growing reliance on faith-based initiais used by more than 100 federation facilities, tives, which fund social service programs at to provide assisted living facilities, communal religious institutions. meals and other programs for the elderly; and Among the budget items are a $1 million • $29.3 billion in funds for homeland secu- increase for a pilot voucher program in rity, an Washington and $50 increase million in new funding of $258 to develop new school million choice programs or 1 pernationwide. c e n t In addition, there is from last a $508 million increase y e a r , in funding of the which Individuals with could Disabilities Education include Act grant to states, additionwhich can be used for al funds parochial schools. over the Some Jewish groups $25 milremain concerned that lion now American foreign aid in the Middle East, as proposed in President school choice proe a r - Bush’s 2005 and 2006 fiscal year budget requests. Israel is also grams take funds away m a r k e d slated to receive $40 million to aid in settling Ethiopian refugees. from public schools for highCredit: JTA and allow federal risk nonfunds to be used for profit sites, including Jewish institutions. religious instruction.

Many of the earmarks for specific programs “The increased reliance on charter schools of interest to the Jewish community are added and other school choice schemes is a further by lawmakers in Congress when they tackle abdication of American public schools,” said the budget. They are not in the president’s Mark Pelavin, associate director of the budget proposal.

Religious Action Center for Reform Judaism.

There is some hope that many of the proBut Orthodox groups back funding of priposed cuts in programs will be salvaged by vate school programs.

Congress. That has happened in the past.

Abba Cohen, Washington director and Several Jewish groups already are prepping counsel of Agudath Israel of America, said he for a fight with Bush and congressional was pleased with increases in remedial eduRepublicans over plans to transform Social cation funding for the disadvantaged and Security and cut Medicaid by $60 billion over increases in special education funding. the next 10 years.

“Yes, programs were eliminated and “I think there is a philosophy in this admin- reduced, but at the same time, other proistration that says that government is not grams have been boosted,’’ Cohen said of the responsible for providing a safety net for peo- budget in general ple,” Marsha Atkind, president of the National Some groups expressed concern about a Council of Jewish Women, said, echoing the growing reliance on faith-based programs. view of several Jewish organizations.

Many Jewish groups, except for the “We believe very strongly that programs like Orthodox, oppose faith-based initiatives, saySocial Security are programs people need and is Continued on page 9

Joanie Jacobson Chairman Carol Katzman Editor Richard Busse Creative Director Allan Handleman Advertising Manager Lori Kooper-Schwarz Assistant Managing Editor Barbara Kirkpatrick Bookkeeper 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; Michael Siegal; Nancy Skid; and Melany Weinstine.

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 constitutional 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.

The Jewish Press reserves the right to edit signed letters and articles for space and content.

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February 25, 2005

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 9

As Situation Stabilizes and Hope Grows, Israelis Think Economy Will Grow as Well “Just allowing the entry of Israeli Arabs into the markets of the West Bank would give us a real boost,” Hisham Awartani, director of be the Center for Private

by GIL SEDAN Sector Development in Ramallah and Nablus, told JTA. “This is not a big concession for Israel, but for towns JERUSALEM (JTA)--One party follows another at the like Jenin, Nablus, Tulkarm and Kalkilya it could mean Tel Aviv stock exchange, and the brokers just keep a 180-degree turn.” smiling. Tuesday was a typical day at the exchange.

Yet many remain skeptical of the rosy forecasts. After Right after trade started, the market jumped .2 percent. while the dreams are promising, they’re hardly new.

And that’s not all: The latest report from the Central They’re the same dreams that were common until Bureau of Statistics showed the Israeli economy grew four and a half years ago, when the Palestinians turned 4.3 percent last year, as the credit-rating agency Fitch to violence and terrorism, prompting Israeli counterupgraded Israel’s domestic currency forecast from neg- measures and security closures. The intifada has led to ative to stable. a precipitous drop in the Palestinian stanAnd, as Prime Minister dard of living, and contributed to several Ariel Sharon and Palestinian years of recession in Israel.

Authority President “I am cautiously optimistic, but things Mahmoud Abbas met for could easily go back to where they were,” their summit at Sharm elAwartani said. “People hope that this will Sheik, an international change, but no one is confident after the tourism convention opened traumatic experience of the last four and a in Tel Aviv. Delegates from half years.”

30 countries forecast greater While Israel’s economy has bounced and greater windfalls for the back, the Palestinians are sinking further industry. into poverty, handicapped until recently The air is saturated with by an inept and corrupt government that dreams and promises. Some misused billions of dollars in international seem to feel that the sky is aid and invested in terrorism rather than the limit. development.

This week, Tourism Terrorists often have targeted precisely Minister Avraham those areas that provide jobs for the Hirschsohn and his P.A. Palestinians, such as joint industrial zones counterpart, Matri abu-Aita, on the Gaza-Israel border. Their rationale meet with Pope John Paul II seems to be that anything that increases in an attempt to increase Palestinians’ hardship will further embitter Christian pilgrimage to the them against Israel.

Holy Land.

Still, most economic analysts agree The Tourism Ministry A surveyer checks the site of almost complet- that for the first time in four years, recent expects about 700,000 ed high priced apartments in the Jerusalem developments in the region present a Christian tourists this year neighborhood of Bayit Vegan, Tuesday, Feb. good chance for economic progress and Credit: Brian Hendler/JTA collaboration. and thinks that about 15.

250,000 of them will be pilgrims. Last year Israel hostAnalyst Ya’acov Sheinin, president of Economic ed 500,000 Christian tourists, including 150,000 pil- Models Ltd., one of Israel’s foremost economic consultgrims. ing firms, predicts that if the region remains stable, The Israel Hotel Association expects some 1.8 million Israel’s economy will grow at 6 percent a year. tourists in Israel this year, up from 1.5 million last year.

But Awartani said Palestinians would benefit only if Charter flights from Europe to Eilat and other resorts are laborers were allowed back into Israel in large numbers. on the upswing as well. Issta Lines, a travel company, is “No one talks about the good old days when some again marketing tourism packages from Britain, Holland 150,000 Palestinian laborers entered Israel daily,” and France to Eilat, Sinai and Aqaba in Jordan --all for Awartani said. $1,000 for a 10-day tour, including air fare and taxes.

“We can’t go back to where we were, but imagine If the situation remains quiet and tourism picks up, what a change it would make if some 50,000 laborers the Palestinians stand to gain right away. Now that would find work in Israel within the next three Jericho is about to be returned to Palestinian Authority months,” he said. “What a change it would make in the control, the company operating the casino is consider- political climate.” ing reopening it.

Awartani said he had just met a woman and her nine In the two years that it was open, the casino drew children who live in Nablus on two dollars a day.

825,000 visitors, 99 percent of them Israeli. The casino, “They told me they live on bread and tea,” he said. which closed shortly after the intifada began in fall “And these are exactly the people who used to find 2000, made a profit of about $54 million in 1999. work in Israel. You cannot imagine the depth of poverPalestinian restaurants in cities such as Ramallah and ty in the territories.”

Bethlehem used to draw thousands of Israelis, many of For the first time in six months, Israel opened the them Arabs, on the weekends. If the restaurants Erez checkpoint into the Gaza Strip, which was closed reopen, they could boost the economy in Palestinian after Palestinians carried out a terrorist attack there. areas near Jerusalem.

“The decision to open the border to Palestinian

BEHIND THE HEADLINES

991-5335

laborers offers an immediate boost to the construction industry,” said Aharon Cohen, president of Israel’s Builders Association.

The forecast for the Israeli economy is bright. Shraga Brosh, president of the Manufacturers Association, estimated that foreign investments in Israel could reach $3 billion this year, three times last year’s figure.

But it will take longer for investors to return to the Palestinian territories, Awartani warned: They’ll have to be convinced that the stability is real.

Any improvement in the Israeli-Palestinian economy is likely to improve economic relations between Israel and the Arab world. Signs show that such a change already has begun.

Israel is expected to conclude a gas deal soon with Egypt that would make Egypt the Israel Electric Company’s main gas supplier for the next 15 years for a total of $2.5 billion.

“Warming up relations in the region, while strengthening the relations between Israel, Egypt and Jordan and improving the political and security relations with the Palestinian Authority, will lead to a dramatic upsurge in trade between Israel and the Arab countries and the return of direct foreign investors in Israel,’’ Brosh said.

Israel exported about $180 million to the Arab world last year, an increase of 48 percent from the prior year, and bought $82 million worth of goods, an increase of 20 percent.

The highest jump was in sales to Iraq, with last year’s figures 10 times higher than they were in 2003. Most of the customers were Americans, however; the U.S. army bought security products, transportation goods, rubber and plastics.

Brosh estimated that Israeli exports to Arab countries would increase by another 40 percent this year.

Bush’s budget Continued from page 8 ing it crosses the line of separation of church and state, and if misused could create state-funded proselytizing or worship.

While many Jewish communal officials expressed frustration with some of Bush’s domestic choices, several said they were impressed with Bush’s proposals to fund new efforts to combat AIDS and provide international debt relief.

In fact, Bush’s budget includes a 14 percent increase in foreign assistance, totaling $18.5 billion.

Under the Bush plan, Israel would receive $2.28 billion in military aid and $240 million in economic assistance. Those numbers, down from a combined $2.58 billion last year, are in keeping with a restructuring plan agreed to by Israel and the United States, which raises military aid by $60 million each year and decreases economic aid by $120 million.

Israel would also receive $40 million for the resettlement of Ethiopian refugees, a drop of $10 million because of a decline of Jewish immigrants to Israel.

The budget calls for $1.795 billion in aid for Egypt, down $40 million from last year, in accordance with a similar restructuring plan for Israel; and $456 million to Jordan, which reflects no change from last year. The White House also doubled economic assistance to the West Bank and Gaza Strip, to $150 million.

Page 10

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 12604 Pacific St. Omaha, NE. 68154 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 www.beytshalomomaha.org

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

Congregation B’nai Jeshurun 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

The Neighborhood Minyan Torah Learning Center 1313 No. 58 St. Omaha, NE 68132 553.5397

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

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

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to reserve space, call Allan Handleman, 334-6451.

February 25, 2005

Synagogues B’NAI ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE FRIDAY: Services followed by Oneg, 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: Musical Kabbalat Shabbat Service, 6 p.m. Fifth and sixth grade students will help to lead the service.

SATURDAY: Morning service, 9:30 a.m.; Junior Congregation (37), 10 a.m.; K’tantan (K-2), 10:45 a.m.; Kiddush sponsored by Beth El; Evening Service, 6 p.m.

WEEKDAY SERVICES: Sunday, 9 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.; Weekdays, 6:55 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.

SUNDAY: Jewish Pot Pourri Class, 10 a.m. Bible Study Class, 11 a.m.; Hebrew Crash Course, 11:10 a.m.

WEDNESDAYS: PATTER (Parents & Toddlers, Torah, Exercise, Recreation) with Helen Epstein, 10:45 a.m.

THURSDAY, noon: “The Most Important People and Ideas of the Hebrew Bible,” with Rabbi Levin.

“JEWISH PARENTING 101”: Thursday, March 3, from 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m., led by Program Director Harriet Einziger, along with guest speakers providing expertise in different areas.

Babysitting will be available upon request.

PASSOVER CANDY SALE: BESTT’s PTA will be taking orders for Barton’s Passover candy through Feb. 27. Order forms are available at the BESTT office 498.0904, at the Beth El web site, www.bethel-omaha. org, or through BESTT students.

SISTERHOOD MAH JONGG GAME DAY: Sunday, Feb. 27, 1 p.m. Come for an afternoon of games, meeting and snacks.

RSVP: Caryn Rifkin 334.7216.

LIVING HEBREW CLASS: A new, intermediate-level Hebrew course will begin Sunday, March 6, 11:10 a.m.-noon. For more information, please call Harriet Einziger. (see full story on page 5) ADULT B’NAI MITZVAH CLASS: The year-long class begins Sunday, March 6, 11 a.m.-noon. (see full story on page 5) NEW MEMBERS SHABBAT: On Saturday, March 5, we will honor the newest members of our Beth El family at a special New Members’ Shabbat. New congregants will help lead services; a Kiddush luncheon will follow.

BETH ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE Office Hours: Monday-Thursday, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Fridays, 8:30 a.m-2 p.m. Services conducted by Rabbi Jonathan Gross.

FRIDAY: Mincha and Kabbalat Shabbat, 6 p.m.

SATURDAY: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Free Babysitting, 9:30 a.m.; Junior Congregation, 10:30 a.m.; Kiddush is sponsored by Howie, Lesley, Sierra and Adam Gendelman in honor of Bonnie Bloch’s birthday; Mincha, 6 p.m.; Havdalah, 6:54 p.m.; Ma’ariv,

7:15 p.m.

SUNDAY: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Call the synagogue office for Mincha/Ma’ariv service time.

WEEKDAYS: Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Call the synagogue office for Mincha/Ma’ariv service time.

WEDNESDAY: Business Ethics Lunch and Learn, noon, at the office of Joe Kirshenbaum. A Bagel Bin lunch is available for $5 by making a reservation with the synagogue office.

BEYT SHALOM FRIDAY: Shabbat in the Home SATURDAY: Pot luck dairy/veggie Havdalah ceremony, 6 p.m. at the home of Robin Hellwig, 9058 Charles Street. Open to all who enjoy a musically spirited end of the Sabbath celebration. Please call 660.2395 for more information.

SUNDAY: Religious School, 3-5 p.m. at the JCC.

CHABAD HOUSE Services conducted by Rabbi Mendel Katzman.

FRIDAY: Services, 7 a.m.

SATURDAY: Mamarim class, 9 a.m.; Services, 9:30 a.m. followed by a Kiddush luncheon.

SUNDAY: Services, 8:30 a.m.

Mishneh class, 9:30 a.m.; Aleph Champion and Little Scholars Programs. Innovative, interactive learning for kids, 10 a.m.-noon.

WEEKDAYS: Services, 7 a.m.

MONDAY: Halacha, 7 p.m.

TUESDAY: “W.O.W: The Mystery of Marriage,” 9 a.m. The class is on themes explored in our January bridal pageant “I Am My Beloved’s…” and will focus on martial relationships as reflected in the relationship of G-d and the Jewish people. Married or not, this class offers much for every one. Women only; babysitting available on request; Torah for Teens, 4:15 p.m.

WEDNESDAY: Spirit and Spice of Jewish Cooking Club. Learn new and innovative ways to enhance your Purim celebration. Women only. Babysitting available upon request, 9-11 a.m. Kabbalah:The Mitzvah of Love, 7 p.m.

Programs are open to the com-

Candlelighting Friday, February 25, 5:52 p.m.

munity. For information or to register, call 330.1800 or visit our website: http://www.nebraskajudaism.com.

CONGREGATION B’NAI JESHURUN Rabbi Debbie Stiel will be in Lincoln two weekends a month.

Please call her at 402.416.2321 or e-mail: dstiel@everestkc.net to set up appointments.

FRIDAY: Shabbat Evening Service, 7:45 p.m. led by Rabbi Stiel assisted by the sixth and seventh grade class, with Oneg following provided by Nancy Intermill.

SATURDAY: Shabbat Morning Service, 9:30 a.m.; Torah Study, 10:30 a.m. all led by Rabbi Stiel.

SUNDAY: Hebrew School, 9 a.m.-noon; Purim Spiel Practice, 1-3 p.m.; Winter Lecture Series, 7 p.m. at the Unitarian Church, 6300 ‘A’ St. The topic is “Politics, Nationalism and Conflict in the Middle East Region since 1918” with Dr. Jeff Spinner-Halev, UNL Depts. of Political Science. For information, call 483.2213.

ADULT EDUCATION Sundays, Feb. 27 and March 13, 10-11:15 a.m.: Book discussion led by Rabbi Debbie Stiel on Broken Tablets: Restoring the Ten Commandments and Ourselves, Edited by Rachel Mikva.

$18, members; $25, non-members.

SUNDAY: The 4 B’s: Behaving, Belonging, Believing and Bagels.

Join us as we look at aspects of Christianity through Jewish lenses., 10:30 a.m.-noon.

TUESDAY, March 1, noon: It All Begins in Genesis. Congregant Katherine Finnegan will lead this Jewish Journey Group through an understanding of the stories in the first book of the Bible.

WEDNESDAY, March 2, 6:30-8 p.m.: Lost Tribe – Jewish Fiction from the Edge - UNL Professor Gerald Shapiro will lead a threepart discussion group focusing on the short story collection.

THURSDAY, March 3: “Adult Study with the Clergy” with Rabbi Marantz, 10-11:30 a.m.

TOT SHABBAT, Friday, March 4, 6 p.m. RSVP to the Temple office, tisrael@templeisraelomaha.com or 556.6536.

SCHOLAR-IN-RESIDENCE, March 4-6: Professor Pamela Nadell discusses “From Haven to Home: Celebrating 350 Years of Jewish Life in America” (see full story on page 4).

THE NEIGHBORHOOD MINYAN AT TLC FRIDAY: Mincha/Kabbalat Shabbat, 5:50 p.m.

SATURDAY: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; followed by Kiddush Luncheon and Mincha, 1:04 p.m.

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

ROSE BLUMKIN JEWISH HOME SATURDAY: Services, 9 a.m. led by Robert Mosenkis.

TEMPLE ISRAEL FRIDAY: Shabbat Evening Service, 7:30 p.m., Rabbi Craig Marantz will officiate and give the D’var Torah.

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

ADULT EDUCATION SUNDAY, Feb. 27, 10:15 a.m.: Beyond the Aleph Bet. Colleen Kennealy will teach Ivrit. Class is

TIFERETH ISRAEL Services conducted by Rabbi Stanley M. Rosenbaum. Minyan, MONDAY & THURSDAY, 9 a.m.

FRIDAY: Services, 8 p.m.

SATURDAY: Morning service, 9:30 a.m.

WEDNESDAY: Men’s Lunch Group will meet at the Knolls, 12:30 p.m. Contact Yale Gotsdiner at 423.7066.

ADULT EDUCATION MONDAYS: Introduction to Judaism with Rabbi Stanley Rosenbaum, 7:30-9 p.m.

SUNDAYS: (during Hebrew School days): Jewish Law through the Ages with Rabbi Rosenbaum, 10-11:45 a.m.

Cooking Class at Chabad to Feature Food and Fun of Purim

by Cheryl Lerner for Chabad of Nebraska Festive food plays an important part in the celebration of Jewish holidays. To focus on this aspect of Jewish life, Shani Katzman and Chabad “Women of Worth” offers a series of cooking classes for women in the community. The next cooking session will be Wednesday, March 2, 911 a.m., and will feature the Festival of Purim.

An elaborate menu including some Mediterranean foods will be presented. Shani Katzman of Chabad said, “Purim is a time for the ultimate feast. We chose Mediterranean cuisine because the story of Purim took place in Persia.

Since no Purim celebration is complete without a good drink of wine, we will sample a variety of kosher wines, too.”

The cooking class does not limit its focus to food. In addition, each session in the ongoing series features ways to enhance the holiday through family activities, table ideas and other holiday customs.

“We have some marvelous ideas for Mishloach

Manot (gifts of food traditionally sent on Purim) that can also serve as a beautiful centerpiece,” said Katzman. Some ideas for children's Mishloach Manot will be shared as well.

The hostess for the class is Lynne Saltzman. “I chose to host this particular session because it’s fun. So many holidays are serious and somber. In our family, we love to dress up, deliver tons of Mishloach Manot, and just enjoy ourselves.”

Though much of the outward appearance of Purim can seem to be pure fun, the spiritual messages are not to be overlooked. “The day of Purim is, once again, a celebration of the triumph of survival of the Jewish people,” Katzman added. “And again, it is Esther, a woman, at the helm, the lead part in the story. Jewish women today can be empowered by the message and example of Esther.”

The cost for the class is $10. Babysitting is available by reservation, $3 per child. To reserve or to receive more information about this or other education programs, contact Carol at 330.1800.

February 24, 2005

From Sinai to Idolatry to Torah

SPARKS FROM THE WORD

by RABBI MYER S. KRIPKE Parashat KiTissa It seems difficult for us to contemplate that the people who had been stunned to hear the Divine Voice at Sinai were shortly to hear the voice of the people singing to the golden calf.

But it is true that the human mind can be shaken from truth to falsehood in only a moment’s carelessness. Further, it is true that the passionate embrace of falsehood is as vigorous as the passionate embrace of truth.

But with Moses that swift change was impossible, impossible even to contemplate. He could not abide the idea of a people worshipping a natural being, golden or not. He had been in the mountain for 40 days in close company with the exalted, unseen Being. Now he could not stomach the vision of people actually singing praises to a Thing that they had themselves built.

If all of this is astonishing to us in this ancient tale, we must recognize that we do very much the same thing in our own society. Do we not “worship” the bottom line? Are we not in worshipful attendance at the way things turn out to be? Do we not put numbers ahead of values?

Moses saw through this reduction of truth from values to things and numbers. He stomped the gold in the golden calf to powder and slung it into a stream.

Our Sidra thus reminds us, forever, that there is an unbridgeable distance between value on the one hand, and numbers and things on the other. The lesson was meant primarily for ancient Israel; but it bridges the generations and the centuries. It is for us, too.

NJHS and ADL Plan Tribute to Veterans

by RENEE CORCORAN NJHS Executive Director In conjunction with the 350th Anniversary of American Jewry, the Nebraska Jewish Historical Society, and the ADL with the cooperation and support of the local synagogues are planning a special tribute to the Jewish men and women who have and are currently serving our country in the U. S. Armed Forces.

On Sunday, Sept.11, Jewish veterans and active duty personnel will be honored at a reception and exhibit at the Jewish Community Center, open to the entire community.

We are inviting veterans and current military personnel to be interviewed about their experiences so that the information can be shared with the community and added to the NJHS archival collection. Each veteran who participates will be featured on photo panels to be displayed at the JCC. The exhibit will then travel to Beth El Synagogue, Beth Israel Synagogue and Temple Israel.

Whether you served overseas, during wartime or on American soil, we want to hear your story. Please contact me at 334.6442 to participate in this special project.

The deadline to sign-up is April 1. If you’d like to help in the planning of this celebration or have any questions please contact event co-chairman Kevee Kirshenbaum at 393.6146 or Howard Silber at 292.8062.

Two Scouts to be Honored at Eagle Ceremony on Sunday

by DR. MARK PILLEY Scoutmaster, Troop #218 Two more Boy Scouts have achieved the rank of Eagle: Josh Pilley and Jon Lerner.

Both organized, designed, and managed an Eagle projects for the Henry Doorly Zoo. Josh’s project involved the design and construction of Gorilla Hammocks and Jon’s involved the design and construction of a “Better Mouse Trap” to assist the Dessert Dome area with rodent control.

The entire community is invited to attend the Eagle Court of Honor ceremony, Sunday, Feb. 27, 4 p.m., at the Tree Top Restaurant at Henry Doorly Zoo. Dr. Lee Simmons, the zoo’s Executive Director, will be the guest speaker, along with Ralph Erwin, a graduate of the U.S. Army War College. To RSVP, call Richard Lerner at 445.4091 or me at 493.1077.

DEATH IDA FEDMAN Ida Fedman died on Feb. 14 at the age of 81. Services were held Feb. 15 at Mount Sinai Cemetery.

She is survived by her husband, Sam Fedman; daughter, Phyllis Terjal; daughter and son-in-law, Linda and Mark Abrahamson; grandchildren, Amy Roseland and Julie Kestner; a great-grandson; and sister, Mollie Kosowsky.

GERALD GRANT Gerald Grant died on Jan. 31 in Chicago.

He was a President of the Jewish Federation of Lincoln, Tifereth Israel Synagogue, B’nai Brith Lincoln Chapter, and University Club; served on the Board of Directors of the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce; and was a member of Kiwanis. He was a CPA specializing in auditing and taught that subject at UNL. He is survived by his wife, Dorothy Grant; brother, Robert Grant; daughters, Joanne and Barbara; grandchildren, Richard, Lauren and Alexis.

Memorials to Tifereth Israel Synagogue or to the UNL Foundation directed to the Jewish Studies Department.

Movie “Scavenger Hunt” Held at Beth Israel Synagogue

by MARY BORT for Beth Israel Young people experienced a fun Junior NCSY “Movie Night” at Beth Israel Synagogue on Saturday, Feb. 19.

Attendees enjoyed watching the movie “Jumanji” and participated in a “Movie Scavenger Hunt” while they watched the film. According to Rabbi Jonathan Gross, the challenge for creating a fun “Movie Night” and “Scavenger Hunt” is in picking an entertaining movie that isn’t too recent. “Since we wanted to make the Scavenger Hunt more of a challenge, the task was to find a movie that that would be fun and appropriate, yet had not likely been recently viewed by our Junior NCSY’ers. After sorting through a stack of movies from the 1980s, the action-packed film ‘Jumanji’ ended up being a great choice that would meet all our goals. It turned out that we all had a terrific time on Saturday night.” Audrey Gerber found the most items on the “Jumanji” scavenger hunt list, winning a gift certificate to Blockbuster Video.

Junior NCSY activities are open to everyone.

Synagogue affiliation is not required. The next Junior NCSY event will be Ice-Skating on March 27. For more information, contact Joey Shyken, NCSY Advisor, at 556-6288.

JTA NEWS BRIEFS • The United States commended Israel for its decision to stop demolishing the homes of Palestinian terrorists. Israel’s decision last week came partly in response to Palestinian Authority measures to stop terrorist attacks, and partly because an internal military review found the policy was counterproductive.

“We do support efforts like this to build confidence, and we think they contribute to the goal of two states living side-by-side in peace and security,” Richard Boucher, the State Department spokesman, said last Friday. Israeli Defense Minister Shaul Mofaz said the decision could be reconsidered if the current optimism in the region proves illusory.

• A recent poll by the Presbyterian Church USA shows lay members oppose the leadership’s decision to divest from Israel. Some 42 percent of members and 46 percent of elders oppose “selective phased divestment,” which was approved by the church’s General Assembly in July. Some 28 percent of members and 30 percent of elders supported the move, according to a survey taken in November 2004 and released this month. However, pastors favor divestment by 48 percent to 43 percent. More of the pastors and clergy were aware of the decision than the lay members, who mostly were unaware.

The Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations welcomed the findings. “We hope church leaders will be guided by the sentiments reflected in their own poll. These statistics support much anecdotal evidence that the decision to launch a divestment campaign against Israel was not seriously debated at their General Assembly, but was adopted with little thought to its inherent political bias,” the group said in a statement.

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 11

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

February 25, 2005

Women of Faith Celebrate Educating, Inspiring, and Praying with Each Other

by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Temple Israel Communications Coordinator Nearly 250 women of several faiths attended the 20th anniversary celebration of Women of Spirit last month at the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) Milo Bail Student Center. The day-long gathering of Muslim, Jewish, and Christian women was sponsored by the Campus Ministry of Creighton University, Countryside Community Church, First United Methodist Church, the Islamic Speakers Bureau, Knowles Mercy Spirituality Center, Soul Desires Bookstore, Temple Israel, and UNO. Women of Spirit began as a bimonthly breakfast meeting and faith-sharing in the early 1980s. Believing that the feminine format of sharing stories profoundly impacts women’s faith development, the group called themselves Women of Faith in Transition. In 2000, the name was changed to Women of Spirit, but the purpose and philosophy remained the same. The annual conference to celebrate women’s spirituality has drawn more than 2,600 women since the 1985 Women of Spirit gathering.

“I loved it!” said Rita Paskowitz, who was the emcee, a member of the planning team, and a reader this year.

“This is only the second time that Jews and Muslims were invited,” Rita pointed out. “That’s what makes it so special and so important, because the dialogue just keeps getting bigger. We were there to learn from each other. We put new faces on these old religions. I sensed a hunger in the community among women to learn and to connect.”

Paskowitz felt that she was not alone in her desire to know more about other religions. “Everybody had questions about fundamentalism and how it’s being dealt with in each of the three faiths.” She came away with a strong conviction that “if we want to have a future, we have to have it together or we’re not going to have one at all.”

Beth Katz, a 26-year-old native Omahan who returned recently from the University of Michigan where she was active in interfaith activities and in an

Community at the Union for Reform Judaism. She gave the D’var Torah at Temple Israel Shabbat worship services the night preceding the Women of Spirit celebration.

In addition to discussions with the keynoters, attendees sang and prayed from a booklet of inter-faith liturgy, shopped at an on-site bookstore, browsed an art show, and enjoyed a buffet dinner.

“I thought it was great,” said Jennifer Glazer attending for the first time. “All three speakers were interesting and had wonderful things to say. It just felt good to be in a room with women of all different faiths who were sharing, warm and friendly, and wanted to be there.” She described the event as “positive, uplifting, and educational.”

Fidelma O’Leary, left, and Dru Greenwood were presenters at last month's Women of Spirit gathering along with Dr. Maryanne Stevens, president of Leslie Norman was attending for the secthe College of St. Mary in Omaha. O'Leary, daughter of devout Catholics, ond time. “I just felt that each of the speakbegan a quest for the Divine Will as a teenager which led her to adopt Islam. ers was informative, interesting, and enterGreenwood has taken a leading role since 1981 in the Reform Movement's taining and generous with their information outreach efforts. About 64 Women of Spirit enjoyed a Shabbat dinner at and stories,” she observed. Indicating that she enjoyed the first Women of Spirit gathTemple Israel on Feb. 11 and then attended worship services. ering she attended, she added that the international social justice group, was also on the speakers this year were “even more articulate. I thorWomen of Spirit planning committee and was a reader. oughly enjoyed it.”

She described the day as “moving and inspiring. It gave Lee Needelman was also involved on the planning me confidence that there are committed individuals team of Women of Spirit, and Noni Selner was in the from the major faith traditions in Omaha who are willchoir. ing to work to strengthen the relationship between Beth Katz is setting up an interfaith book club for these communities and who understand that by interyoung adults (21-35) which will meet for the first time acting with other faiths, it strengthens your own sense Thursday, March 24, 6:30 p.m. at the Bookworm in of who you are and what you believe.”

Countryside Village, 87th and Pacific. For more inforThis year’s keynoters were Fidelma O’Leary, an assomation, contact Beth at katzba2004@yahoo.com or ciate professor of biology at St. Edward’s University in call Soul Desires Bookstore at 898.7600.

Austin, Texas; Maryanne Stevens, RSM, president of the Interfaith breakfast meetings are usually on the third College of Saint Mary since 1996; and Dru Greenwood, Thursday of the month at 7:30 a.m. in varying locations. director of synagogue renewal at the United Jewish For more information, call Rosie Volkner at the Mercy Appeal-Federation of New York and, until recently, Spirituality Center at 359.4288. director of the Department of Outreach and Synagogue

LIVESatelliteBroadcast jewish

Sunday, Feb. 27th at 6:30 pm

TheDaVinci Code: Facts and Fallacies Dan Burstein, Bart D. Ehrman and Dr. Jenny Driver Phyllis Tickle, moderator Questions proliferate on the issues raised in Dan Brown’s The DaVinci Code. This gathering of scholars and authorities will discuss the implications for religion and private faith when ‘God talk’ moves into pop culture, and popular entertainment becomes a mode of education. Panelists will discuss the early Christian church, the role of women in the early church, the objectives of organizations like Opus Dei and how the Christian church has changed through the ages.

Dan Burstein is the editor of Secrets of the Code. Bart D. Ehrman chairs the department of religious studies at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and wrote The Truth Behind the DaVinci Code: A Historian Reveals What We Really Know About Jews, Mary Magdalene, and Constantine.

Dr. Jenny Driver is a geriatric oncologist and instructor at Harvard Medical School and a member of Opus Dei. Phyllis Tickle is the former religion editor at Publisher’s Weekly, author of some two dozen books and an expert in the field of religion and popular culture.

community

center

theater

Wednesday, March 2nd at 7:00 pm

AbrahamFoxman State of World Jewry Lecture Abraham Foxman, one of world Jewry’s most influential leaders, offers his insights into contemporary challenges and his vision for world Jewry’s future. A Holocaust survivor and hidden child, Foxman has been at the forefront of issues ranging from the controversy over Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ to Middle East diplomacy. Foxman is the national director of the Anti-Defamation League.

CO-SPONSORED BY:

The Henry Monsky Lodge of B’nai B’rith

CO-SPONSORED BY:

Young Jewish Omaha Tickets $5.

Order tickets by calling Cindy Reed, Registration Associate at 334-6419.

For any additional information, contact Rachel Blum at 334-6404.

FUNDED IN PART BY THE SHIRLEY AND LEONARD GOLDSTEIN SUPPORTING FOUNDATION