March 5, 2004

Vol. LXXXIII No. 27 Omaha, NE

Celebrating 83 Years of Service to Nebraska and Western Iowa

Tears of Joy, Feelings of Anger: Viewers React to The Passion

12 Adar, 5764 March 5, 2004

92 ST Y Broadcast Puts Perspective on The Passion

by JTA Staff Report The film made waves in unlikely places. In New NEW YORK (JTA)--In parts of the United States, The York, the movie interrupted the sports chatter on radio Passion of the Christ is the biggest thing since the station WFAN as afternoon hosts Mike Francesa and Beatles. Churches are bringing enough congregants to Chris Russo devoted time to the film on Feb. 26. sell out theaters and some movie-goers are weeping Around the country, some Jews and non-Jews alike during Mel Gibson’s controversial film about the death found fault with Gibson's work. of Jesus. “`I hated the movie,” said Tillie Tice, a member of “It wasn’t sugarcoated at all,” said Jonathan Swiger, Myers Park Baptist Church in Charlotte, N.C. “It frightwiping away tears after seeing The Passion in ened me to death.”

Cincinnati. Gibson, he said, “did it perfect--and it’s Many Jewish viewers were disgusted not only by the about time somebody did it.” violence depicted but by the active role that Jews in the Jennifer Tufaro had a similar experience in Los film play in Jesus’ crucifixion.

Angeles. “The whole movie I was, like, shaking,” Jewish high priests are shown in The Passion as forcTufaro said. “I’m still disturbed by it. I’m not very reli- ing an ambivalent Roman governor, Pontius Pilate, into gious right now, but as a child growing up I was, so I nailing Jesus on the cross. In one scene, Pilate offers learned all the stories. And seeing it was a whole dif- Jews a choice between releasing Jesus and releasing ferent experience.” convicted murderer Barrabas. The Jews choose freeWhether or not the two-hour, bloody portrayal of dom for Barrabas.

Jesus’ final days is accu“It was worse than I rate is in the eye of the expected,” said Marcia beholder, but Gibson's Kushner of Lincoln, NE. film certainly proved its “For those Christians who financial clout in its first find this movie spiritually week at the box office: uplifting and inspiring The movie took in $117.5 and plan to use it as a million through the teaching tool, I hope weekend. they feel obligated to The amount was the also teach that hatred of second highest five-day Jews must not be a result total for a film that of this depiction. opened on a Wednesday.

“I fear it will do the “People spoke; they Jews great harm, particuwanted it,” Bruce Davey, Crowds gather to see and protest The Passion outside a larly in Europe and the one of the film’s producers, Manhattan movie theater on the film’s opening night.

Arab world,” she added. told The New York Times.

Credit: Rachel Pomerance/JTA Continued on page 8

by RACHEL BLUM JCC Program Director On Tuesday, March 16, 7 p.m., the Omaha JCC will be broadcasting a live satellite discussion from New York City’s 92nd Street Y about the controversial film, The Passion of the Christ. The Broadcast is titled, “The Passion: The Truth about the Jews and Jesus,” and features Rabbi Eugene Korn, Father John Pawlikowski, and Newsweek managing editor Jon Meacham.

Even before it entered production, The Passion, directed and produced by Mel Gibson, released many fears and anxieties in the Jewish community, and in many Christian communities as well.

Many consider its graphic depiction of Jesus’ last hours to be his- Rabbi Eugene Korn torically incorrect and biased against the Jews of that day. The panel discussion will include two of today’s finest theologians and historians of the period as they examine the truths and myths behind the story of Jesus’ death, and the context from which the film emerges.

Also joining the discussion is Newsweek magazine’s managing editor, Jon Meacham, who was the author of its cover story on the movie a few weeks ago.

Rabbi Eugene Korn is the former Director of Interfaith Affairs for the Anti-Defamation League. Fr. John Fr. John Pawlikowski Pawlikowski is Professor of Social Ethics and Director of Catholic-Jewish Studies at the Catholic Theological Union. His scholarly interests cover the range of theological and ethical aspects of Continued on page 8

Beth Israel: Building Its Future

by CAROL KATZMAN Editor of The Jewish Press “Sunrise, sunset; sunrise, sunset...swiftly flow the years.” These words, made famous by the Broadway play and then film, Fiddler of the Roof, certainly come to mind with the opening of the new Beth Israel Synagogue at 12604 Pacific.

For more than 50 years, the Orthodox synagogue made its home on 52nd and Seward. But in 1978, Rabbi Isaac Nadoff, then spiritual leader of the congregation, took long-time member Joe Kirshenbaum, who had just become President of the shul, to look at a piece of property on 126th and Pacific.

A small country school then sat on that land, donated to Beth Israel by Dr. Irving Shapiro--whose only caveat was that Beth Israel could have the land by taking over the mortgage of the building, as long as the country school was used for Jewish education.

“Rabbi Nadoff told me that day, more than 20 years ago, that Beth Israel should move west,” recalled Kirshenbaum, who is co-chairman of the Building Committee along with Dr. Paul Shyken. “We’re a little late, but I think

he’d be very happy!”

For a long time, Beth Israel West housed the shul’s Talmud Torah. Then in 1983, at the request of the Omaha Jewish Day School’s board of directors, the property was leased to them. Thanks to a generous endowment by Phyllis and Leonard Friedel, the day school was renamed the Friedel Jewish Academy, and in 1995, moved into the 10,000 square foot Gordman Educational Center on the campus of the JCC, thanks to another donor--Jerry Gordman.

“The building on 126th and Pacific stood empty and certainly tempted vandals,” recalled Shyken. When the inevitable happened, insurance paid for the 1996 demolition of the small country school--turned Talmud Torah--turned day school. And that, he added, paved the way for the congregation to again consider the proposal made by the late Rabbi Nadoff some 20 years before.

Open only a few weeks now, the synagogue’s leadership hopes this move, to what they consider the heart of the Jewish community, will bring former members back and potential members to Continued on page 14

Right: The perochet, or curtain over the Ark, completes the symbolic composition of Jonathan Nix’s frieze, with an expression that intertwines the Torah and the letter Aleph, the first letter of the Hebrew alphabet, of the Ten Commandments, and of G-d’s name in Hebrew.

Inside

This Week: Salute to Beth Israel’s New Building Starts on Page 13 Bob Eisenberg Sends Temple Kids to Camp: Page 3

The Man Behind Israel’s Security Fence: Pages 4-5

Coming Next Month: Passover Issue: April 2 Film Review of The Passion: Page 8

Teen Age Features Temple Israel’s OTYG: Page 11

Page 2

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

March 5, 2004

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS FRIDAY, MARCH 5 Visions Board Meeting, 9:30 a.m.

C L I P & S A V E

SATURDAY, MARCH 6 OTYG Event, 6 p.m. at Temple Israel Purim Family Box Dinner & Service, 6 p.m., followed by Megillah Reading and Beatles Megillah, 6:30 p.m. at Temple Israel Megillah Reading, 7:30 p.m., followed by a dairy dinner at Beth Israel C SUNDAY, MARCH 7 Social Justice Forum, 10 a.m. at Temple Israel Hebrew Crash Course, 10 a.m. at Beth El Bible Study Group, 11 a.m. at Beth El Purim Carnival, 11:30 a.m. at Beth El Visions at the Lied Center in Lincoln for Fame, noon Purim Carnival, noon at Temple Israel Community Purim Seudah, co-sponsored by Beth Israel and Chabad House, 5 p.m. at Beth Israel

L I P & S A V E

MONDAY, MARCH 8 YES Program, 10 a.m.

NCJW Bookclub, 7 p.m.

TUESDAY, MARCH 9 BBYO Night, 6 p.m.

Executive Committee Meeting, 7 p.m. at Beth El Susan Aizenberg class, 7 p.m. at Temple Israel Sisterhood Meeting, 7 p.m. at Beth El Sisterhood Meeting featuring gemologist Lois Wohlner, “Gemstones of the Bible,” 7:30 p.m., at Beth Israel

C L I P & S A V E

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 10 Rabbis and Presidents Meeting, noon Rabbinic Council Meeting, 1:30 p.m.

Grade 9-11 Girls’ Tikkun Olam Event, 6:30 p.m. at Temple Israel Grade 6-8 Girls’ Workshop, 6:30 p.m. at Temple Israel Grade 6-12 Boys’ Workshop, 6:30 p.m. at Temple Israel

C L I P & S THURSDAY, MARCH 11 Walk-in Drop-in, 10 a.m.

A Yiddish Group, 1 p.m.

V All events held at the JCC unless otherwise indicated.The Jewish Press is not E 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 Rabbi William Cutter, as far as he knows, is “one of the few people who has successfully gotten people to read poetry and use it as a window on a world that is very important to us as Jews--even if it is not part of our day-to-day life.” Director of the Kalsman Institute on Judaism and Health which is part of the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in Los Angeles, California, Rabbi Cutter uses poetry to illuminate themes in modern Jewish life.

There will be three opportunities to hear Rabbi Cutter the weekend of March 19-21 when he is a scholar-inresidence at Temple Israel. His residency, entitled “Israel: Realizing the Ideal and Idealizing the Real,” is sponsored by the Hermene Zweiback Center for Lifelong Jewish Learning.

On Friday night, March 19, Rabbi Cutter will give the D’var Torah at Shabbat Worship Services which begin at 7:30 p.m. He will discuss “Apollo, Elvis, and the Rabbis: Israel’s Struggle Between Secular Culture and the Culture of Faith.”

“The Apollo-Elvis image has to do with two icons who have tempted Jews--one in the nineteenth century and one in the contemporary world of Israel--to engage with the Western values of enlightenment, sometimes to the detriment of Jewish continuity,” said Rabbi Cutter. “I will discuss these images as examples of that seduction every modernizing group feels about the attractions of another world. Apollo represents the dehumanization of the early intellectual pioneers; Elvis, the de-Israelization of today’s Israeli kids.

“On the other hand,” he noted, “ the very fact that the poetry in which this strain or these strains are reflected is Hebrew, and Hebrew is resonant with the tradition even when the subject matter is anti-traditional.”

On Saturday morning, March 20, 9 a.m., Rabbi

Cutter will join the Bagels and Sacred Books group at Temple for a discussion on “A Poetry and a Language of their Own: The Search for a Modern Hebrew Culture.” According to Rabbi Cutter, “We tend to concentrate on the political news and the important civil rights issues for religion in Israel, and we continue to lend support of all kinds. But the truth is our relationship to Israel is and has to be far more complex.”

Worship services in the sanctuary follow Bagels and Sacred Books at 10:30 a.m.

On Sunday, March 21, 10 a.m., at a bagel brunch in the Milder Center, Rabbi Cutter will focus on the topic, “The Poetry of War and Peace: The Transforming Power of Art.” “We will be talking about Yehuda Amichai, the most well known poet of the post war period, and of others as well: escapees from the Vilna ghettoes, early migrants from Odessa, the first successful woman poet, young poets who have reintroduced religion into modern Israeli art, and some novelists like Amos Oz,” who was a speaker at Temple Israel in November.

Rabbi Cutter said he will read poetry written by poets who are in favor of war as well as those who have tended to be on the pacifist side.

Yehuda Amichai, born in Germany in 1924, emigrated to Israel in 1935. His first volume of poetry was published in 1955 and aroused serious interest in readers and critics alike. This and later works revealed that Amichai was engaged in a distinctly modern literary enterprise both in content and in language. One of Israel’s leading contemporary Hebrew poets until his death in 2000, Amichai’s innovative use of the Hebrew language reflects his sense that language, including poetic language, emerges out of modern technological society rather than classical texts only. He won the Israel Prize in 1982.

Temple Israel welcomes the community to attend Rabbi Cutter’s discussions throughout the weekend.

Singer Memorial Fund Requests Due March 22

Controversial Believer Shows at Jewish Film Festival

by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Foundation Public Relations Coordinator Providing funding for programs that address problems and issues facing Jewish youth who live in the Omaha metropolitan area, the Lazier L. Singer Memorial Fund for Youth Grants Committee will meet April 27. Harriett Singer established the Singer Memorial Fund in 1996 in memory of her husband Lazier.

Requests will be reviewed from organizations that have submitted proposals by Monday, March 22, 1 p.m., to the office of the Foundation of the Jewish Federation. Eight copies of each completed request should be submitted. No applications for grants will be accepted after that time. No exceptions will be made.

Members of the grants committee are interested in making allocations for programs or events that deal, for example, with problems of alcohol and drug abuse, sexuality, eating disorders, intra-family relations, violence and gangs, suicide and depression, and issues of Jewish identity. These programs can be both preventive and remedial and can serve youth and their families.

Organizations are requested to submit a letter of explanation and a detailed outline of expenses.

Favorable consideration is given to programs that involve collaboration among Federation centers of excellence, synagogues, Jewish youth organizations, and other Jewish community groups.

In addition to Harriett Singer, other members of the grants committee are Mark Singer, Sandy Kutler, Gloria Kaslow, Fran Blumkin, Elyce Azriel, and Irving Veitzer.

The Singer Memorial Fund is administered by the Jewish Federation Foundation. For more information, call Laurie Peatrowsky at 334.6439 or Marty Ricks, Executive Director of the Foundation at 334.6440.

EARLY DEADLINE NOTICE Due to the closing of the Jewish Press office the first two and last two days of Passover, deadlines for articles, photos and ads are at noon as follows: Issue Deadline April 9 Monday, March 29 April 16 Monday, April 5 April 23 Wednesday, April 14 There is no regular news in the April 2 Passover issue. For more information, call 334.6448.

by GARY KATZ Assistant Librarian, Kripke Library The second film for the 2004 Jewish Film Festival will be The Believer, on Thursday, March 18, 7 p.m., in the JCC Theater.

Never shown before in Omaha and winner of the Grand Jury Prize at the 2001 Sundance Film Festival, The Believer is a daring and controversial portrayal of a young Jewish man living an impossible contradiction as a staunch neo-Nazi. The film was inspired by the true story of Daniel Burros, a highly visible member of the American Nazi Party in the 1960s who committed suicide in 1965 after his Jewish identity was revealed.

The film is the story of Danny Balint (Ryan Gosling) and his struggle between destroying his own people and being drawn back to Judaism. Danny is unique among anti-Semites. He understands Judaism, can read Hebrew and argues articulately why he thinks Jews are destined to be persecuted and annihilated. “If you hate something, you study it so you know why you hate it,” he explains when the truth about his roots is exposed.

Ryan Gosling’s critically acclaimed performance as Danny, has been compared to Robert De Niro’s portrayal of Travis Bickle in Taxi Driver. The Believer was written and directed by Henry Bean. Hoping to attract a larger audience than independent distributors could promise, Bean elected to sell his film to Showtime.

Scheduled to be broadcasted in September 2001, it was delayed in the wake of 9-11.

Tickets are $5 at the door or by calling the Film Festival Box Office at 334.6462. Upcoming films include: Nowhere in Africa on March 20, 8 p.m., Hidden Children and In Vienna They Put You in Jail on March 25, 7 p.m. A special Kid’s Matinee will be held March 21, 2-4 p.m. The Festival is made possible with support from the Avy L. and Roberta L. Miller Foundation by Lindsey Miller-Lerman and UNOmaha Journal of Religion and Film.

March 5, 2004

Federation Accepting Nominations for Community Volunteers

by PAM MONSKY Federation Communications Director The Jewish Federation of Omaha is now accepting applications for community volunteer awards to be presented at their 101st Annual Meeting of the Jewish Federation of Omaha on Monday, June 7, 7 p.m., in the Jewish Community Center Theater. Along with honoring our community’s volunteers, Federation and agency officers will be elected and installed.

The Annual Meeting is open to the entire Omaha Jewish community.

Members of the Jewish community are invited to submit nominations for the following awards: Humanitarian of the Year, the Bruce Fellman and Lois Jeanne Schrager Memorial Young Leadership Awards, the Jewish Teen Leadership Award and the Community Service Project Award. Volunteers of the Year for the Federation and its Centers of Excellence will also be honored.

For a nomination packet, please contact me at the Federation office at 334,6431 or e-mail met at: pmonsky@jewishomaha.org. Nominations are due no later than Friday, March 26.

CORRECTION In last week’s issue, the cost of general admission tickets to Beth El’s Cantor's Concert on March 28 was inadvertently omitted. The following includes all ticket prices: “All donations are tax-deductible: General Admission ($18), Patron ($36), Agent ($50), Manager ($75), Investor ($100), and Executive Producer ($500). Contributions include four concert tickets for Executive Producers and two for all other categories. Bring the kids: Prodigy, ages 13-19 ($3), and Apprentice, ages 12 and under ($1). Supporters’ names will be listed in the program if payment is received by March 15.

“Please mail checks to Beth El’s Cantor’s Concert, P.O.Box 540430, Omaha, NE 68154-0430.”

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 3

Donor Makes It Possible for All Temple Students to Go to Jewish Camps

by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Temple Israel Communications Coordinator Through the generosity of Bob Eisenberg, an endowment fund has been established to provide stipends of up to $1,000 to every third grader, in good standing, enrolled in Temple Israel’s Religious School to attend his or her first overnight Jewish summer camp, affiliated with a recognized Jewish movement, beginning this year.

These are not needs-based scholarships. “I think the camp experience is an excellent way of transmitting Judaism,” said Bob recalling his own camp experiences as a youngster. But noting that camp is expensive, “no one has to ask” for this scholarship “making it an option for everyone no matter how affluent they are.”

Temple students will have until their senior year in high school to use the scholarships.

New students whose families join Temple Israel after third grade will also be eligible.

“This is a wonderful example for my generation to step forward and make this kind of financial commitment to Temple and the things it stands for,” emphasized Gary Kaplan, president of Temple’s Board of Trustees.

Camp strengthens every child’s Jewish identity, agreed Rabbi Aryeh Azriel. “Spending two weeks or a month in a Jewish setting during the summer will enhance the child’s experience in our religious school.”

He hopes children will use their stipends long before their senior year.

“Camps supplement the work of our Temple and the work of the religious school,” explained Rabbi Azriel.

When summer comes, “it’s not time to take a vacation from Judaism but instead for the youth to immerse themselves in a fun and joyous way.”

Named after Bob’s father, the Erwin Eisenberg

Campership Fund will get kids turned on to Judaism and their heritage earlier, Bob hopes. “Overnight camp provides an immersion effect,” he said.

“Bob is definitely a pioneer in the way he thinks about strengthening Jewish identity among the youth in our community,” Rabbi Azriel pointed out. “We still need more friends like him!

Bob was also instrumental in securing a gift from the Jewish Federation for each youngster celebrating a Bar and Bat Mitzvah.” The Federation gives each student two $500 Jewish experience grants to be used the summer before the child’s Bar or Bat Mitzvah or up to two summers Bob Eisenberg afterwards at approved Jewish residential camps. These gifts can be combined with the Temple Israel scholarship.

Rabbi Azriel said that additional scholarships are also available for families who need them, and he encouraged them to call him, Executive Director Michelle Shkolnick, or Youth and Informal Education Director Stephanie Grossman at Temple, 556-6536, for more information on the Erwin Eisenberg Campership as well as other scholarships.

“Summer camp registrations are filling up quickly,” indicated Rabbi Azriel, “so I encourage you to register as soon as possible.” Brochures on Olin-Sang-Ruby Union Institute, Shwayder Camp, and other Jewish camps are available at Temple.

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Page 4

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

March 5, 2004

He’s Not the Messiah, Just the Man Behind the West Bank Security Fence the West Bank. pected infiltrators are armed.

For now, Mashiah says, there is no choice but to In a few places--where the army says there is a risk build the fence. of sniper fire on Israeli roads--concrete walls as high as “I believe in peace,” he says, “but without the option 28 feet have been built. Concrete walls also are being for it, we need to defend our land.” used to separate some Palestinian villages that abut Israel says it had no other Jerusalem, such as Abu Dis, choice to protect its citizens from the city proper.

by DINA KRAFT from the suicide bombings Mashiah said there were no existing buildings or TEL AVIV (JTA)--Every week, Nezah Mashiah drives and other terrorist attacks property destroyed along to the West Bank and surveys the largest building proj- that have marked the Palestinian intifada, which is the fence’s route, except for ect in Israel’s history. one building where the The project--a high tech network of sensors, barbed well into its fourth year.

Palestinian owner had wire and cement walls--is Israel’s new security barrier, Nearly 1,000 Israelis have requested compensation, the thing that Israeli citizens and politicians hope will been killed in the intifada, the overwhelming majority but that in the future there save the country from the ravages of terrorism. will be a “buffer zone” of Mashiah--whose name translates roughly as “eternal of them civilians.

Built as a “multilayered 100 yards around the fence messiah”--is the man in charge of its construction. within which no buildings International condemnation of Israel’s decision to fence system” in Defense can be built taller than two build a security fence inside the West Bank has been in Ministry parlance, the barrithe headlines for months. But the fence’s actual con- er is designed effectively to Nezah Mashiah, at front left, meets with military analysts stories.

About 20 percent of the struction quietly has drawn the interest of a few foreign separate Israel from the from American television networks during a 2003 mission governments--for reasons having nothing to do with Palestinian population of to Israel sponsored by the America-Israel Friendship League. workers building the fence Credit: Israel Defense Ministry, the West Bank. are Palestinian, their jobs politics. courtesy of America-Israel Friendship League.

The structure--which has putting them at odds with According to Mashiah, a number of countries--he would not identify them-- have consulted Israel on the an average width of about 164 feet--is made up of sev- many of their own people and their own political coneral components. Among sciousness. fence’s technology and conthem is a stack of six coils of The fence is proving a humanitarian and practical struction with an eye to simbarbed wire, a ditch six to hardship for Palestinians, separating some from farmilar projects at home. eight feet deep aimed at land and jobs and others from relatives, schools and Since Israeli Prime blocking vehicles from local hospitals.

Minister Ariel Sharon’s crossing and roads on either Palestinian leaders denounce the fence as an Israeli Cabinet decided to embark side of the fence so army land grab that is swallowing up land Palestinians want on the project in July 2001, patrols can pursue infiltra- for a future state. some 124 miles have been tors.

Some 10,000 Palestinians living in the so-called “seam built to separate Israel from At the center of the system zone,” the area between the fence and the pre-1967 the West Bank. is what officials call “a metal boundary known as the Green Line, will have to apply At first, the barrier was to intrusion detection fence,” for permits to live in their homes. Visitors also need be 50 miles long. Then, citfeaturing sensors to warn special permits. ing the intensification of against incursions. If someIn the West Bank Palestinian village of Masha, where Palestinian terrorist attacks, one tries to cross, a warning a fence separates the village from neighboring Jewish the government said it is sounded. settlements, two Palestinian workers are putting up an would build a longer barrier The fence is not electri- Arabic-language danger sign warning residents not to to run from Beit Shean in cally charged, and the approach the fence for risk of being shot. the north to Arad in the Defense Ministry maintains One worker who identified himself only as Faras says Negev Desert. that no one can be harmed he has spent the last year and a half building the fence.

Now the government is by touching it.

He motions toward his home village, a collection of calling for a total of some Strips of sand nearly 10 houses on an adjacent hillside.

500 miles of fencing by the feet wide have been placed “I don’t have any opinions,” he says. “I’m just doing end of 2005, at an estimated alongside the fence to this for the money. For me it’s a good job.” cost of $4.15 million a mile. detect intruders’ footprints.

Faras earns about $815 per month after taxes for the Mashiah distances himself Finally, there are watchtow- work--more than double the average salary of West from the politics of the ers, cameras, heat sensors Bank Palestinians. He agrees with friends and relatives fence and the controversial decisions behind its route--it Completed (black) and proposed (grey) sections of Israel's and touch detectors. The who say the fence is not good for the Palestinian peocameras are rigged for long- ple, but says he has no alternative to working on the bows into the West Bank in West Bank security fence. places to incorporate major Credit: Map provided by Israeli Consulate in New York, distance viewing and can construction crew.

Israeli cities and towns in modified by JTA detect whether or not sus- Continued on page 5

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March 5, 2004

Man Behind Israel’s Security Fence Continued from page 4 the project. While hiring proceeded, “I say, if you give me money I will stop light aircraft were sent out to survey the working here. That is the truth,” he says. area. Using computer and mathematical But “if there is no money, there is no life.” modeling, topographical maps were In an eastern Jerusalem neighborhood made that became the basis for planning that will be on the Palestinian side of the the fence, based on a route decided by fence, another Palestinian construction Israeli government officials. worker offers a different view.

Notices were posted on trees and elecMahmoud rumbles by in an orange tricity polls in areas where the fence earth mover, shuts off the roaring engine would be built, alerting landowners. The and tells a reporter he is in favor of the landowners were given a week to file fence. appeals in court if they Israel says it had no other opposed the project.

“I’m building the borders of the Palestinian choice to protect its citizens If they opposed the state,” he said. “How from the suicide bombings planned building, landmany U.N. resolutions and other terrorist attacks owners were given seven have dealt with the issue? working days to file an that have marked the How many millions of appeal to the Defense Palestinian intifada, which is Ministry. If they were not Arabs have not improved the lives of the well into its fourth year. satisfied by the ministry’s Nearly 1,000 Israelis have answer, they had another Palestinians?”

After a long period of been killed...most of them seven days to file an u n e m p l o y m e n t , civilians. appeal to the Supreme Mahmoud recently joined Court. a fence construction crew made up As long as a case is in legal dispute, entirely of Palestinians and Israeli Arabs. the army does not build on that section He is happy with his monthly salary. of land. Hundreds of appeals currently Mashiah, a civil engineer by training, are pending at the Defense Ministry, and spent 23 years in the army working in several dozen have been filed at the construction. He returned to the military Supreme Court. fold from his job as general manger of The pace intentionally was fast. road construction at Solel Boneh, one of “That was the logic,” Mashiah says, to Israel’s largest construction companies, give notice and begin construction “in to take on what he calls the “ultimate parallel, and do it quickly.” mega-project.”

He said Israeli authorities were trying Sitting in his office at the Defense their best to make life better for Ministry compound in Tel Aviv, facing a Palestinians affected by the fence. large map of Israel and the West Bank, Meanwhile, he said, the fence holds the Mashiah describes the organization fate of both peoples. behind the massive undertaking.

“It’s a good fence,” Mashiah says, his The management team’s first task was eyes falling upon the map on the wall. to put notices in newspapers advertising But whether “it will bring good neighcontract bids. Mashiah then hired 25 bors, we will see in the future.” contractors, who in turn hired crews for Next week: Jerusalem.

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 5

Hundreds of Hamantaschen, Thousands of Hamantashen...!

From left, Gilda Pieck, Julia Edelstein (back to camera), Ellene Edelstein and M’Lee Hasslinger were up to their elbows in flour recently while preparing hamantaschen for Beth El Synagogue Sisterhood’s annual sale. Their efforts, along with 19 other Sisterhood members, produced 3,800 of the tasty Purim pastries.

LINCOLN CENTER Tifereth Israel Presents Another ARTrageous Evening of Art

by BARBARA KENYON for Tifereth Israel More than 250 works of art will be available for auction Saturday, March 13, when Tifereth Israel Synagogue will be holding its third annual ARTrageous Evening of Art, beginning at 7:30 p.m.

The collection includes works of upand-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-dimen-

sional cast paper will be available.

All of the pieces are framed and most 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 as a door prize that evening, one of those being a piece by Marc Chagall.

Admission to the event is $5 in advance and $7 at the door. This includes complimentary spirits, hors d’oeuvres, and desserts. Checks for reservations, payable to Tifereth Israel, can be mailed to me at: Kenyon, 6229 Barbara Lane, Lincoln, NE 68512.

Sunday, March 14, 10:30 a.m., is “Take a Second Look.” For information, call me at 423.2678.

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March 5, 2004

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EDUCATION DIRECTOR WANTED Beth El Synagogue is looking to hire an experienced educator who is able to develop learning communities with children, parents and teachers.

APPLICANTS This enthusiastic individual must possess excellent administrative skills as well as be able to enrich our teachers with curriculum ideas, training, coaching and evaluation. The incumbent will be expected to provide excellent curriculum in all areas of learning and oversee children of early childhood through 12th grade as well as assist in developing family education and parallel education for parents.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS INCLUDE: • Masters degree in Jewish Education with a minimum of 3-5 years • experience as a congregational Hebrew School or Jewish Day School • Director.

• Classroom teaching experience as well as experience training and • coaching teachers.

• Knowledge of and agreement with principles of Conservative Judaism.

• Solid Knowledge of Hebrew language.

• Strong interpersonal skills.

• Team player.

APPLY Via e-mail to: Larry DeBruin, Beth El Synagogue, exec@bethel-omaha.org

Sun, Sun, Sun, Here We Come Snowbirds Please let the Jewish Press know in advance when you are leaving and when you are returning.

Sometimes several papers are sent to your “old” address before we are notified by the Post Office.

Every time they return a paper to us, you miss the Jewish Press and we are charged 70¢! Use the form on page 23 or email us at jpress@jewishomaha.org.

Class High of 2004 School Seniors...!

We need your graduation photo and the following information for our annual Graduation Teen Age to be published on June 4, 2004: Name: _________________________________________ Parent(s)’ Name(s) ________________________________ _______________________________________________ Current High School ______________________________ Plans after graduation _____________________________ _______________________________________________ _______________________________________________ Send by May 1 to: The Jewish Press 333 So. 132 St. Omaha, NE 68154

Beth El Families to Play, Eat on ‘Funday Sunday’

“Christianity Through Jewish Eyes” Begins at Temple Israel

by DIANE AXLER BAUM for Beth El Synagogue Beth El places high priority on bringing families of the Synagogue together to participate in a wide range of activities. This is one of the goals that led program director Harriet Einziger to propose “Sunday Funday,” for March 21, 4-6 p.m.

“We’re always looking for opportunities to socialize, have some fun, and share a meal. Besides, we know our moms--and especially our moms with young children--welcome a change of pace,” said Einziger. “Our forthcoming afternoon event promises to fulfill all of the above.”

Adults and kids are encouraged to bring their favorite games, such as Monopoly, Sorry, Yahtzee, Rummy Q, Parcheesi, Mah Jongg and Scrabble. Some players will form into same age groups; others will be intergenerational. The event will close with a casual, “kid friendly” dinner prepared by Beth El’s own Lucy.

Cost of the dinner is $5 per family. For reservations, or more information, please contact Einziger, at 4928550 or programming@bethel-omaha.org.

by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Temple Communications Director

BOOK REVIEW

by E.B. SOLOMONT NEW YORK (JTA)--From Persia to Wall Street, there’s a lot to be learned from Queen Esther, the heroine of the Purim story.

Call it the Esther effect or call it good business--it’s the practical businesswoman’s guide to success, starring Queen Esther.

In a book by two female authors- Barbara Smalley, a writer, and Connie Glaser, a businesswoman--Queen Esther of Persia deftly imparts timeless lessons on “palace politics” to modern readers.

Connie Glaser The stuff of biblical tales, it seems, has become the stuff of good business.

While Jews will be taking a lesson from the story of Esther to celebrate Purim on March 7, Glaser and Smalley’s new book, What Queen Esther Knew: Business Strategies From a Biblical Sage, says there are lessons about business strategy to be learned.

Glaser says she had an “Aha moment” when she realized that the heroine of the Purim story embodied the characteristics she had been teaching women for years as a corporate-communications consultant: poise, effective communication and the conviction to stand up for what you believe in.

“The story of Esther is not only about miracles, but also about intellectual and spiritual resources,” Glaser said in an interview.

In their pithy, pocket-sized book, Glaser and Smalley focus on the story of a Jewish girl who becomes the queen of Persia and goes on to save her people from the wicked Haman, as well as the principles gleaned from Esther’s tale, and the authors’ modern-day Esthers.

“The book weaves together ancient wisdom and modern insights,” Glaser says. “There is a truth here as valid today as it was 2,400 years ago.”

That truth is neatly packaged into chapter-sized lessons for Glaser and Smalley’s readers: Dress to take over the throne. Carry yourself like a queen. Establish a royal presence. Deal effectively with life’s Hamans.

Beyond the catchy phrases and nuggets of wisdom is some good advice. With the help of biblical consultants and their colleague’s success stories, Glaser and Smalley dispel gritty how-to’s to today’s driven women.

“In addition to the overarching lessons one learns about having courage of one’s convictions and taking on leadership when called upon, there are more practical strategies about communications and plotting strategy that could have been in the Harvard Business Review,” Glaser tells JTA.

By Glaser’s estimate, the book’s most significant chapter teaches communication skills--of which Queen Esther was a master.

When she addresses her husband, King Ahasuerus, Esther dresses royally--modern readers, think power

Rabbi Aryeh Azriel and Rabbi Craig Marantz will present a series of four teaching sermons about Christianity from a Jewish perspective beginning tonight, March 5, at Shabbat worship services. “We see this as an opportunity, as a result of the showing of Mel Gibson’s movie, The Passion of the Christ, to enhance the knowledge of the congregation about Christianity,” said Rabbi Azriel.

“This is not a critique of the movie,” pointed out Rabbi Azriel. Rather, he and Rabbi Marantz plan to take a look at how Judaism views Jesus, Christian theology, the gospels, and the Jewish view of a Messiah.

“Christianity Through Jewish Eyes” will start tonight at the 7:30 p.m. evening service with Rabbi Marantz presenting the topic, “Basic Concepts.”

On March 12, 7:30 p.m., Rabbi Azriel will discuss, “Jesus, The Man,” followed by “A Taste of the Gospels and their Significance” by Rabbi Marantz on April 2, 7:30 p.m. Rabbi Azriel will present the last in the series, “The Jewish Messiah,” on Friday, April 9, 6 p.m. Members of the community--Jewish or of any other religion--are invited to attend all of these Shabbat services.

From Persia to Wall Street, Queen Esther’s Star Shines suit. In preparation for asking the king to save the Jews, she invites him to her quarters--“Negotiators today know you have more clout and control on your own turf,” Glaser says.

Esther learns that the king is indecisive--“Study palace politics or corporate culture.” Esther befriends the castle eunuchs who advise the king--“Don’t make the mistake that the receptionist, the janitor and administrative assistant aren’t important!”

But is Queen Esther today really a business model, rather than just a Purim costume?

“Esther is emblematic of women’s journey to selfempowerment,” Glaser says.

In the booming industry of business guides, taking lessons from biblical characters is not new. Several years ago, Rabbi David Baron wrote Moses on Management: 50 Leadership Lessons from the Greatest Manager of All Time. There’s even a book called Jesus CEO: Using Ancient Wisdom for Visionary Leadership.

This is not Glaser and Smalley’s first collaborative effort. They’ve co-authored four other books together, including a well-known guide for businesswomen, Swim With the Dolphins.

They’ve included some of the same in “What Queen Esther Knew” supplying anecdotes about their own business heroes-like Sherron Watkins, who went public with her knowledge of Enron’s accounting scandal, and Cynthia Cooper, the whistle-blower at WorldCom. Glaser says Esther can be as iconic as the costumes she inspires for girls each Purim. The story includes sound Jewish values like having compassion, having the courage of one’s convictions and standing up for one’s beliefs.

“We all have, at some point in our lives, a time like this --when we are called upon to meet the challenge and take the mantle of responsibility. Ultimately, that defines who we are and it reveals our character,” Glaser says.

In the story of Purim, Esther is transformed from a deferential, meek girl into a vessel of confidence who alters the course of Jewish history.

“I think therein lies the greatest truth of the story, that she became empowered as a queen when she had courage of her convictions,” Glaser says.

What Queen Esther Knew: Business Strategies From a Biblical Sage is published by Rodale (www.rodalestore.com). It’s also available at the Kripke Jewish Federation Library.

March 5, 2004

Rabbi Grollman Brings Message of Healing and Hope

by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Temple Israel Communications Coordinator

Rabbi Earl Grollman, center, Temple Israel’s scholar-in-residence last month, speaks with Speedy Zweiback, left, and Thomas Belford Jr., following a healing service and havdalah. Rabbi Grollman’s residency was co-sponsored by Temple’s Hermene Zweiback Center for Lifelong Jewish Learning, Belford, and John A. Gentleman Mortuaries.

An internationally recognized bereavement counselor, Rabbi Earl Grollman spoke several times throughout the weekend on subjects related to “When Life Isn’t Always Fair.”

“An interesting statistic that Rabbi Grollman shared was that only one out of 17 men have a true friend that they can talk to,” noted Mardee Brechwald. “I’m glad I’m a woman who has been blessed with such incredible caring friends. My advice to all men is to open up your hearts and share your feelings with a friend. It’s very rewarding and one of the most important things you’ll discover in your life.”

Don Greenberg found him to be “marvelous, charismatic. He gets everybody ‘tuned in’” at the beginning of his talk.

Cathy Christensen and her daughter, Jesie, also heard Rabbi Grollman speak. Jesie, 25, is a medical student at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Rabbi Grollman “was very interesting and made a good point for doctors to touch patients,” she said. Medical students “are always worried about what to say to a patient.” But as Rabbi Grollman pointed out, “being there is what’s important--not what is said,” she noted.

“It was really nice to go with Jesie and see it through her perspective,” said Cathy. “Perhaps we need to think of the continuum that Rabbi Grollman talked about and where we are,” she added, “so we don’t wait until the end of life to say, ‘I wish I’d done this or that.’ We should make changes while we can.”

Living with Loss

by Jewish Press News Press Jewish Senior Service and Jewish Family Service is offering a monthly grief support group for anyone who has lost a loved one within the past three years. It is designed to facilitate a sense of a caring community in the midst of the many feelings of the mourning process and to suggest Jewish resources that may offer comfort to those grieving a loss.

The group will meet the second Wednesday, 4:155:15 p.m. of each month. The next group will meet March 10. All monthly meetings are held in the JFS conference room. Shane Kotok, M.S., C.S.W. and Steve Stiel, L.C.S.W. will co-facilitate. To register or for more information call Kotok at 334.6529 or Stiel at 334.6492.

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Part I

BACKGROUND INFORMATION FROM THE ADL

Religion in our Nation's Public Schools

by I. ROBERT WOLFSON Executive Director, Plains States Region Anti-Defamation League Several years ago, Anti-Defamation League published and widely distributed a special back-to-school report on Religion and the Public Schools. With the many significant Supreme Court decisions which have occurred since our earlier report, ADL and its Legal Affairs Department have prepared this list of frequently asked questions about religious activities in the public schools with answers about what is and what is not permissible.

The current national debate on religion in public schools highlights the fact that many Americans wrongly believe nearly all religious expression and activities are banned in our nation's public schools. In fact, private religious student expression in the public schools is almost always protected, while any school endorsement of religious expression is always prohibited.

ADL combats racial and religious prejudice and adheres to the principle of safeguarding the religious liberties of all people. The League consistently advocates a strict interpretation of the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment which separates church and state, because history has demonstrated that the inevitable result of a union of government and religion is the destruction of freedom for those who believe differently from the majority.

SCHOOL PRAYER Q. Is organized prayer permitted in public schools?

A. No. The United States Supreme Court has clearly ruled that organized vocal prayer and ceremonial reading from the Bible are unconstitutional practices in the public school classroom and at athletic events.

Furthermore, organized prayer is not permitted at student assemblies or other special programs.

Q. Is private student prayer permitted in public schools?

A. Yes. Students have the right to engage in individual prayer which is not coercive and does not substantially disrupt the school’s educational mission and activities. For example, all students have the right to silently say a prayer before a test or grace before a meal. However, school officials must not be involved with private student prayer in any way, since any school promotion or endorsement of a student’s private religious activity is unconstitutional.

Q. Is organized prayer permitted at public school graduation ceremonies?

A. No. The United States Supreme Court in a 1992 decision, Lee v. Weisman, determined that organized prayers at public school graduation ceremonies are unconstitutional even if the prayers are voluntary and non-denominational. The Supreme Court was specifically concerned that students would be coerced, as a result of public and peer pressure, into participating in such prayer.

Q. Is student-initiated organized prayer permitted at

public school graduation ceremonies?

A. No. Based upon the Supreme Court’s reasoning in its 1992 graduation prayer case, Lee v. Weisman, student-initiated graduation prayer is also unconstitutional. While one Federal Appeals Court has determined that it was permissible to include a student-led graduation prayer which a senior class voted to include, its decision is inconsistent with the Supreme Court's ruling in Lee and is also inconsistent with other Federal court opinions.

Q. May baccalaureate services include prayers?

A. Yes. As long as they are privately led, baccalaureate services which are voluntary and not part of the official graduation ceremonies may constitutionally include prayers and religious sermons. School endorsement of such baccalaureate services is not permitted.

Q. Are “moments of silence” constitutional?

A. Federal Courts have determined that “moments of silence” which have either the purpose or effect of promoting prayer are unconstitutional. In a 1985 case, Wallace v. Jaffree, the United States Supreme Court struck down Alabama's moment of silence statute.

STUDENT RELIGIOUS CLUBS: THE EQUAL ACCESS ACT Q. What is the Equal Access Act? A. The Equal Access Act (EAA) requires Federally funded high schools to treat student-initiated religious clubs in the same way they treat other extracurricular, student-initiated clubs.

Q. Under EAA, are school officials required to allow all student clubs to meet, including student-initiated religious clubs?

A. No. School officials can disallow all extracurricular clubs, including religious ones. However, religious clubs may not be singled out and denied the opportunity to meet.

Q. May school officials lead or support student religious clubs under the terms of EAA? A. No. The EAA is only applicable if the religious group is student-initiated, sponsored and led, and participation in the group is voluntary. School personnel may not initiate, sponsor, promote, lead or participate in religious club meetings, but school officials have the right to monitor club meetings to ensure compliance with the EAA. Q. What precautions should school officials take when student-initiated religious clubs meet under the EAA? A. School officials must ensure that there is no appearance of school sponsorship or endorsement of religion. Officials may issue disclaimers clearly stating that the school is not sponsoring, endorsing or promoting any extracurricular student group.

Part II: Religion in Curriculum, Creationsim and Censorship will appear in next week’s Press, with Part III: Distribution of Materials by Outsiders, and by students, and School Vouchers will appear in a subsequent issue. For more information about any of ADL’s publications, call the Omaha office at 333.1303.

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All prayers will be sent to Jerusalem to be inserted into the real Western wall.

Join us on Sunday, March 7th at Omaha’s largest Community Purim Party.

At Beth Israel Synagogue’s New Location 12604 Pacific Street Megilla Reading 5 PM Meal and Festivities 5:45 PM Don’t miss it! To RSVP call 556-6288 or reserve online at www.nebraskajudaism.com. A PROJECT OF CHABAD HOUSE & BETH ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE.

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

March 5, 2004

Film Review:

Gibson’s Bloodthirsty Passion Indicts Jews First, Romans Second

As long as I’m cataloguing Gibson’s

by MICHAEL FOX An unrelentingly bloody and brutal offenses, it’s worth noting that he choosslog through the last 12 hours of Jesus’ es to give screen time only to the two life, The Passion of the Christ is tinged weakest (Jewish) disciples--Judas the with neither spiritual enlightenment nor betrayer and Peter, who lacks the courage to stand with Jesus after the latreligious inspiration.

But then it’s not intended to engage ter’s arrest.

The most worrisome “artistic flourish,” the cerebrum or the soul. This is a movie designed to work purely on an emotion- however, is the recurring appearance of al level, from the first ominous notes of Satan--creepy and silent--in the crowd of foreboding on the soundtrack to the final Jews. These are the uncomfortable moments I alluded to earlier. shot of Jesus’ hand wound as he rises from The most worrisome Satan is introduced in the film’s opening scene as a the dead.

And that is the most “artistic flourish,” how- menacing, seductive presence who senses the vulnerworrying aspect for Jews. ever, is the recurring able Jesus’ impending doom Director, producer and co-writer Mel Gibson appearance of Satan-- and crisis of faith. Jesus rejects Satan’s overtures, but knows perfectly well that the hooded figure reappears every horror movie or creepy and silent--in from time to time in the thriller requires a villain the crowd of Jews. course of Jesus’ painwho threatens the hero-and here the primary bad guys are the wracked journey to crucifixion.

Jews. This telling of the Christ story does And he is always shown gliding among not abound with shades of gray, and its the Jews. depiction of the Jews is simplistic, visThis creepy image, this association of ceral and unflattering.

Jews with evil incarnate, is what I fear Yet I confess to some ambivalence. will stick with some viewers more than With the exception of a couple of any other image or line of dialogue. moments, I did not feel uncomfortable as I should note that, in the gruesomely a Jewish viewer. So it would be unfair to graphic scene where Pilate’s soldiers offer a blanket denunciation of the film take sadistic delight in whipping and as an anti-Semitic screed. flagellating Jesus, Satan’s stroll through But the more I think about the movie- the Jewish observers ends with him -and I write this a few hours after leav- standing with the soldiers. Gibson would ing the theater--the greater my impres- no doubt cite that shot as proof that he sion that it is a nasty piece of work. doesn’t hold Jews solely responsible for The power of movies sometimes lies Jesus’ suffering, nor view them as the in a single memorable image, and some- devil’s brood. times it derives from the gradual and Indeed, the Roman soldiers are shown subtle accretion of impressions. The as far more sadistic than the Jews. They Passion skillfully makes use of both. take great pleasure from Jesus’ pain (not For starters, all of the Jews (or only during the whipping scene, but durPharisees, to use the press kit’s euphe- ing Jesus’ long trek with the cross). The mism) are dark, bearded and not to be Jews, on the other hand, seem scared or trusted. The stout High Priests are threatened by Jesus, and seemingly find wealthy and cunning, while ordinary more relief than delight in gaining the Jews are scraggly and mean-spirited. upper hand.

Except for two scenes between the High But when all is said and done, I can’t Priests and Judas--where the disciple shake the unsettling feeling aroused-reveals Jesus’ location for a fee and, later, deliberately--by Gibson’s placement of desperately recants his actions and returns Satan among the Jews. the money--the Jews are always shown as Here’s some good news, at last: The thea frothing mob eager for Jesus’ blood. atrical release of The Passion of the ChristIndeed, at one point the Roman governor -or at least the print that was screened for Pilate refers to them as a “filthy rabble.” the press Monday in San Francisco--does In a stab at historical accuracy, Gibson not include the freighted line, “His blood has the Jews speak Aramaic and the be on us, and on our children.” (It will be Romans use colloquial Latin. (The interesting to see if Gibson restores that Passion is subtitled.) Although Latin isn’t line for the DVD release. If so, it would heard much on the street these days, give new and offensive meaning to the Aramaic bears more than a passing term “director’s cut.”) resemblance to Hebrew. The effect is to It would be presumptuous of me to greatly reduce the distance--if not com- imagine the effect that Gibson’s opus pletely erase the centuries--between the will have on non-Jewish audiences, or Jews who clamored for Jesus’ life and on Christian-Jewish relations. To the contemporary Jews. degree that Christian moviegoers identiWhether that will register with the fy with Jesus’ tortured journey--and average non-Jewish moviegoer on a sub- strive for a more profound connection to liminal or subconscious level is a matter what he supposedly went through for of conjecture. them--their thoughts about both Jews

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92nd St. Y Presents Panel on The Passion Continued from page 1 the Christian-Jewish relationship and public ethics. He is a leading figure in the Christian-Jewish dialogue and is currently President of the International Council of Christians and Jews.

Following the broadcast, Bob Wolfson, Director of the AntiDefamation League in Omaha, will help

answer any questions that audience members may have concerning the movie and its effects on the Jewish community here in Omaha.

Tickets are available in advance by contacting JCC Member Services at 334.6426. For more information about the broadcast and all “92 ST Y” programming, please call me at 334.6404.

Viewers React to The Passion Continued from page 1 For many Christian viewers, that reaction simply misses the point.

“If they’re going to sit here and point fingers at a movie for their behavior, I think that’s pretty sad, and that’s totally missing the message of the movie,” Cincinnati resident Jill Puryear said.

Olivia Gonzalez, who saw the film in a Tucson, AZ, theater, agreed. The Jews were “just the people there at the time.

It could have been anyone,” she said.

The differences in the way the movie is being seen reflects differences in religious backgrounds--but it also may reflect changes among American Catholics since the 1965 Second Vatican Council absolved Jews of decide, or responsibility for killing Jesus.

“Non-Jews genuinely don’t see the anti-Semitism,” said Rabbi Mark Levin of Congregation Beth Torah in Overland Park, KS. “That means that the decide charge really does not register with them. I think they are seeing how, in their view, they killed Jesus.”

Gibson is a member of a fundamentalist Christian sect that does not accept the Second Vatican Council’s decision.

“Mel Gibson is not an anti-Semite, but he is using the Jews as a club in interChristian debate. His opponents are liberal Protestants and, more so, postVatican II Roman Catholics,” said Rabbi Lewis Eron of southern New Jersey.

In the Dallas area, Arch Bonnema, a businessman, bought out 20 screens and handed out 6,000 free tickets.

Bonnema, a member of Prestonwood Baptist church, spent the morning in the glow of television klieg lights explaining his motives to reporters from news out-

lets including CNN, The Associated Press and the major television networks.

“I had a chance to see this movie about two months ago,” he said. “When I came out of the movie, when I saw the sacrifice that Christ made for me, I thought I have to do something more significant with my life. I have to be a better person. I thought: If it affected me that way, it’s going to affect other people that way.”

“All non-believers should see this,” said Dorothy McRae of Winter Park, FL. “It’s very true to Scriptures.”

Father Jon R. Donahue, a professor of New Testament studies at St. Mary’s Seminary and University, disagreed, as he told an interfaith group in Baltimore after seeing the film.

“I want to protest against the inaccurate historical portrayal given in the film,” said the scholar, whose doctoral research compared the four New Testament Gospels. The Gospels served as the basis for Gibson’s film.

“The portrayal of the Jewish high priests is a travesty, and I think the historical structure of the film is really a travesty and really portrays Jewish people of that time in a horrible light,” Donahue said. “It contains many things that are not in any gospel at all.”

In New York, activists with the Jewish group Amcha showed up outside a Manhattan theater, some clad in striped outfits meant to evoke concentrationcamp uniforms.

(The Charlotte Jewish News, the American Israelite in Cincinnati, the Kansas City Jewish Chronicle, the Jewish Press of Omaha, the Arizona Jewish Post, the Jewish Community Voice in Cherry Hill, N.J., the Texas Jewish Post, the Jewish Journal of Greater Los Angeles and the Baltimore Jewish Times contributed to this report.)

Out

Omaha Magazine--2002

431-0066

to do just that.

So it is incumbent on ministers and priests to use "The Passion" as a starting point for deeper and more complex discussions of faith.

The rest of us can take some comfort in the fact that it is just a movie, a stone skipping across the fast-moving river of American pop culture that will soon be supplanted by a celebrity arrest, campaign snafu or natural disaster.

Michael Fox is a film critic and freelance writer based in San Francisco, CA.

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But those who relate to The Passion" only as a movie about a good guy and his venal enemies may be ruled by their baser emotions, and take the low road of despising those portrayed as persecuting the hero.

Given the blood-spattered way in which Christ’s last hours are depicted, and the over-amped soundtrack that pushes the movie past melodramatic to hysterical, and the lack of philosophical, metaphysical or intellectual discussion, viewers are encouraged to a large degree

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March 5, 2004

IN THE NEWS At its recent annual meeting, the membership of the Omaha Press Club elected Howard K. Marcus to serve as its President for 2004. Marcus, supplements editor at the Omaha World-Herald, joined the club in 1987. He became a member of the OPC board of directors in 1998 and was elected Secretary in 2001. He served as Treasurer in 2002 and President-elect in 2003.

Over time, Marcus has been part of nearly all of the club’s committees, and served as chair or co-chair of the Publications Committee for the past six years.

In 1991, he began singing in the annual Press Club Show. Seven years later, Marcus was a member of a subcommittee that designed the OPC Hall of History.

Marcus is also President of the C. Louis Meyer Rehabilitation Foundation and Vice-chairman of the Jewish Press Committee.

Omaha Jaycees named Jon Blumenthal as one if its “Ten Outstanding Young Omahans.” The awards exist to honor those individuals who strive for excellence and have a strong commitment to service in the community as well as personal and professional development. Blumenthal is a partner with the Baird Holm law firm and is a member of the firm’s financial transactions section and real estate practice group. He focuses his practice on real estate, secured lending and bankruptcy law and also serves as the firms Summer Associate Coordinator. Blumenthal received a BA in Political Science from the University of lowa and his Juris Doctor from the University of Kansas School of Law. His community and professional involvement includes: Leadership Omaha graduate; Omaha Bar Association; Nebraska State Bar Association (in which he serves on the Real Estate Practice Guidelines Committee); Iowa State Bar Association; American Bar Association; Family Housing Advisory Services, Board Member; Omaha Habitat for Humanity and the Boys Scouts of America.

Weizmann Holds Sweetheart Dance Last month, Chaim Weizmann AZA #1510 held its 40th Annual Sweetheart Dance. The dance was entitled

ORGANIZATIONS Y.E.S. Members will meet Monday at the JCC. Play bingo at 10 a.m. with Eileen Remer or exercise with Stacey Paskert at 10:30 a.m. Bring articles to share for “YES Talk” at 11 a.m. Following lunch at noon, Rabbi Craig Marantz, from Temple Israel will speak. For transportation call Dee Dee at 330.4272.

Call Maggie for all reservations at 334.6521.

Venezuelan lunch and the Movie Under the Tucson Sun on March 18; Bluffs Run Casino on March 25, Ventriloquist, Vern Wirka on March 22; Spring Party with Michael Walker on March 29.

WALK-IN, DROP-IN For those members going on the Mystery Trip on Thursday, please meet at the JCC main entrance at 11 a.m. For transportation call Maggie Conti at 334.6521.

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

VISIONS Reminder: For those members going to Lincoln to see Fame, The Musical at the Lied Center for Performing Arts, please meet at the JCC main entrance at 11:45 a.m. Caniglia’s Venice Inn is the site for our Membership Luncheon, Friday, March 19, 12:30 p.m.

Cost is $9 per person. Special musical entertainment is provided by John Rathsam. Esther Wax will accompany him. Send reservations with payment to: Mickey and Tootie Simon, 8725 Izard St., Omaha, NE 68114. For information, call Harry Alloy, 697.8709. Make check payable to Visions. Deadline is March 12.

JEWISH SENIOR SERVICES The Scarlet and Cream Singers from the University of Nebraska at Lincoln will perform a Jazz and Blues Review and a 50s Show on Wednesday, March 31, 7 p.m., at the JCC. There is no admission fee. The singers are ambassadors of goodwill for the University of Nebraska. The 14-member show choir is accompanied by a five-piece band and two technicians. The group is celebrating its 30th anniversary. Call Maggie Conti at 334.6521 for reservations.

B’NAI BRITH BREADBREAKERS Bob Danenhauer will speak at Breadbreakers on Wednesday, March 10, noon, at the Park Inn Regency, according to Gary Javitch. Danenhauer is the Athletic Director at UNO. Cost is $9 for lunch and $2 for beverage service only. Breadbreakers is open to the community.

OMAHA CENTER FOR TORAH LEARNING A crash course in Hebrew Reading with Rabbi Hoffman meets Wednesdays at noon in the Federation Conference Room; Advanced Hebrew Comprehension meets at 7 p.m. at the OCTL Beis Midrash. For upcoming classes and programs, call 981.0569.

Sam Long “Weizmann: Reloaded at 40”, after The Matrix Reloaded movie and was held at the Jewish Community Center.

This year’s Sweetheart candidates were Jodi Levine, Anna Turetsky, Sara Munzesheimer and Sam Long. Honorary Sweethearts include Becki Smedlund, Amy Saylan and Becky Kahn. Shayna Kurland, the 2003-2004 Sweetheart passed her position to 2004-05 Sweetheart, Sam Long.

ENGAGEMENT PERKINS/BENNETT Shannon Marie Perkins and Russell Wayne Bennett announce their engagement and upcoming wedding on Wednesday, March 17.

The bride-to-be is the daughter of Debby Perkins of Omaha and Terry and Ione Perkins of Kansas City, MO. She earned a BS in psychology at Iowa State University and is employed at Active Community Treatments.

The future groom is the son of Sandy and Bruce Gordon, and Norm and Theresa Bennett of Benson, AZ. He is pursing a business degree at the University of Nebraska-Omaha and is a Lance Corporal in the United States Marine Corps reserve. He is employed at Nebraska Furniture Mart in Omaha.

Judge Larry Gendler will preside over the ceremony.

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Chaplain to Relate War Experience

by GARY JAVITCH and IRIS RICKS In the early fall of last year, Air Force Chaplain Kalman Dubov went on T.D.Y. That’s military vernacular for “temporary duty.” The rabbi’s assignment: to minister to our military forces in the war zones.

His five-month journey took him into eastern Africa, the Middle East, and parts of the Former Soviet Union.

He has now safely returned. On Tuesday, March 9, noon, in the Community Room of the JCC, Major Dubov will share some of his experiences on that journey with members of the community.

The chaplain’s presentation will be part of the Tuesday Lunch ‘N’ Learn sessions popularly known as “The Guy and Bob Show.” The hour-long program features Bob Wolfson, the well-known Director of the Great Plains Region of the ADL and Guy Matalon, UNO professor and Executive Director of the Federation’s Jewish Educational and Library Services.

The Dubov program is sponsored by the ADL, JELS, and B’nai B’rith, and provides an informal opportunity to discuss topics relating to Jews and has ranged from current events to book reviews. This session is being promoted for residents of the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home and is open to all members of the Jewish community. Attendees should bring their own lunches and beverages.

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

March 5, 2004

Temple Offers Teen Workshops to Deal with Gender Related Issues

by Claudia Sherman and attitudes of boys and men. The only way to preTemple Israel Communications Coordinator vent most violence, according to Katz, is to redefine the Pioneering educator Jackson Katz will address the very idea of what it means to be a man. His award-wintopic, “More than a Few Good Men: A Lecture on ning educational video for college and high school stuAmerican Manhood and dents is entitled Tough Guise: Violence Against Women,” Violence, Media, and the Crisis in when he speaks to sixth Masculinity. through 12th grade boys Published widely in academic and their fathers (or other journals and newspapers, Katz has significant adult) at Temple appeared on numerous radio proIsrael on Wednesday, grams in the United States and March 10, 6:30 p.m. His Canada as well as on television acclaimed program inspires programs including The Oprah young people to confront Winfrey Show, Good Morning one of the most serious America, Montel Williams, CBS problems facing society: Evening News, MSNBC, and ABC men’s violence against News 20/20. women.

Focusing on the lives and attiBut this won’t be the typitudes of boys and men, Katz’s leccal lecture about behaving tures interpose irreverent humor badly. Katz, a former threewith unpleasant reality and have sport high school athlete and been described as “eye opening, football player, became, in mind blowing, and life changing.”

1982, the first man at the The program is sponsored by University of Massachusettsthe Robert and Ellen Gordman Amherst to earn a minor in Donor Advised Fund of the Jewish Jackson Katz women’s studies and went Federation Foundation, in associaon to earn a master’s degree from the Harvard Graduate tion with Jewish Family Service. Members of the comSchool of Education. He founded the Mentors in Violence munity are invited to attend the Katz workshop at no Prevention (MVP) Program at Northeastern University’s cost.

Center for the Study of Sport in Society in 1993.

While the boys are interacting with Katz, the girls in MVP is the first large-scale attempt to enlist high sixth through eighth grade and their mothers (or anothschool, collegiate, and professional athletes in the fight er significant adult) will have the opportunity to meet against all forms of men’s violence against women. with Dr. Lynda Madison, a licensed psychologist and Today, MVP is the most widely utilized gender violence director of Family Support and Psychological Services prevention program in college athletics. It has been at Children’s Hospital in Omaha. Dr. Madison received implemented on more than 85 campuses and by the her doctoral degree from Emory University in Atlanta, New England Patriots football club.

GA, and completed her medical psychology internship Since 1997, Katz has directed the United States Marine training at the Oregon Health Sciences University. She Corps’ first ever gender violence prevention program. will aim some fun at the mother-daughter relationship, He is also a member of the Secretary of Defense Task exploring the joys and challenges of growing up and Force on Domestic Violence in the military. growing together.

“More than a Few Good Men” focuses on the lives Also an associate professor in the departments of

pediatrics and psychiatry at Creighton University Medical School, Dr. Madison will facilitate some games, role plays, and writing activities to help mothers and daughters know each other better, learn what sparks or settles an argument, and help them get (at least some of) what they want from each other!

Dr. Madison is the author of Keep Talking: A MotherDaughter Guide to the Preteen Years, Parents with Purpose, What I Wish You Knew, and the American Girl book, The Feelings Book: The Care and Keeping of Your Emotions among other books. She is also the mother of two teenage daughters.

Ninth through twelfth grade girls will attend a workshop of their own at Temple lead by JFS therapists Sally Kaplan, L.C.S.W., and Karen Gustafson, M.S., N.C.C., L.M.H.P. Mothers are invited to attend with their daughters as Kaplan and Gustafson discuss hidden alternative aggression in girls based on the book, Odd Girl Out by Rachel Simmons. It is not necessary to read the book before attending the workshop.

In Odd Girl Out, Simmons reveals how the secret world of girls’ aggression is just as harmful as aggression in boys. But in girls, aggression is harder to recognize. They are not encouraged to express their anger, and so it goes underground. For girls, losing friends or becoming the object of a clique’s derision can be devastating. Kaplan and Gustafson will help families see where this behavior comes from, identify warning signs, current problems, and solutions in dealing with the problems.

College Scholarship Applications Due March 15 The deadline for graduate and undergraduate college scholarship applications is March 15. While most scholarships are awarded based on financial need, high school seniors are eligible for a scholarship based on academic excellence. Please call or email Iris Ricks, Assistant Director of Jewish Educational and Library Services, for an application or information, call 334.6445 or e-mail: iricks@jewishomaha.org.

Coming in April 333 South 132 Street | Omaha, NE | 68154-2198 | Fax 402/334-5422

Passover2004

A Jewish Adventure in the Arts Issue Information Publishing Date: April 2, 2004 Space Reservation: March 8, 2004 Call Allan Handleman, 402/334-6451, or Ray Pred, 402/334-6559, to be included in this special edition.

TeenAge

March 5, 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 Omaha Temple Youth Group. Special thanks goes to adviser Stephanie Grossman, and assistant adviser Josh Katelman, for collecting the material.

“Mission Impastable” More Than Possible!

by CAROLINE TERRY Special Projects Coordinator, OTYG The Annual Spaghetti Dinner and Auction took place last month at Temple Israel, with the theme of “Mission Impastable.” My co-chairman was my sister, Margaret Terry; together we are the Special Projects Coordinators for OTYG.

homemade jelly, fresh-baked cookies delivered to your door, and a dessert a month for a year were all delicious additions to the live auction.

The event is an annual fundraiser sponsored by OTYG and Temple to benefit not only the senior youth group, but also the Junior Youth Group for seventh and eighth graders, Club 56 for fifth and sixth graders, and the new Club 34 for third and fourth graders, as well as Camp CoHoLo and Camp Rainbow.

Both camps are for children with cancer and blood disorders. CoHoLo, located near Gretna, NE, and Rainbow, near St. Louis, MO, are the highlight of the year for many children and one of the only times they become like “normal” children, if only for a week. At the Spaghetti Dinner, Jake, a six year old from Omaha and his mother spoke about the impact Camp CoHoLo has had on their lives.

This year, OTYG again raised more than $20,000 for these two camps and the youth groups!

Pictured (Left): Joe Goldberg, Rebecca Smedlund, and David Trubnikov Committee members included: Janet Baack, Sara Rips, Anne Rips, Molly Needelman, Jacquelyn Neesman, Adam Trubnikov and Nick Laudin. More than 40 businesses contributed goods or donations, as well as many families and individuals from Temple and the community.

The evening was made up of three parts: a silent auction, dinner, and a live auction. The silent auction offered 50 baskets, ranging from “family night out” items to “spa at home” to rainy day activities for kids, and even a tailgate party for sports afficionados.

Sports tickets were a big hit: UNO Maverick hockey, College World Series, Omaha Royals, and even two sets of Cornhusker tickets were available. Jim Farber was the auctioneer for the third year for the live auction. Favorite items included the ever-popular parking places and a viewing of The Passion, followed by a discussion with Rabbi Aryeh Azriel.

Homemade challah for six Shabbats, a year’s supply of

I Came; I Saw and Will Never Forget

by ARON NEESMAN Four years ago, I stepped off the bus into a world that would draw me in--NFTY--and in a much more broad sense: youth groups. Many people think the entire point of youth groups is for “nice Jewish boys” to meet “nice Jewish girls”, get married and make more nice Jewish boys and girls!

Aron Neesman After getting off the bus and not knowing a single soul, I became quite shy for most of that afternoon, and for those who know me, shy is not normal for me. That night while everyone was getting ready for Shabbat, our advisor told the newcomers these fateful words that broke me of my shyness: “You get out of NFTY as much as you put into it.”

Ever since then, I have put all my energy into NFTY. For four years, I have been going to conclaves, meeting new people, and since fall conclave my freshman year, I have been made close friends.

In NFTY there are two unwritten rules: don’t judge and friendship is unconditional. Fast forward four years and several conclaves later and I am on way out the door. I have lived NFTY, and, as my final regional events arrive, I realize how much of a profound impact NFTY has had on me.

I walk down the hall of Westside High School singing songs from conclaves. I return to school with no voice the Monday after and walk around with a big smile. For as long as I can remember, I’ve wanted to become a rabbi; NFTY has only helped solidify this. For those of us in youth group it is the ideal world no one judges you and everyone is a friend.

Pictured (Left): Brandon Thomas, Jake Bleicher, and Josh Bleicher

From the Desk of the OTYG President My fellow teens: I hope that everyone’s school year is going great. I am so excited with all the OTYG programs and projects we have this year.

We are in full swing now, planning Spring Chavurah hosted this year by Temple Israel in Omaha; we hope you all can attend this amazing weekend.

We are also busy planning some fun programs, like laser tag and progressive dinners. We recently had another remarkable Spaghetti Dinner (see article at left). We had a few people who went to JYG chavurah in St. Louis, MO, and a few more at Social Action Weekend in Boulder, CO. My goal this semester is for all of you to become involved and check out all that OTYG has to offer. Whether you are an avid sports fan or a book nerd there is something for everyone. Stop by our membership table on Wednesday nights before religious school at Temple and see what we have. Seeing you at a program or a conclave would make me and all the OTYG board members ecstatic! If you have questions, feel free to approach any member; we would be happy to help out.

B’Shalom, Janet Baack, OTYG President

Glory to Service

by MARGARET TERRY Special Projects Coordinator, OTYG Stepping onto the fresh grass, a little in need of mowing, crossing over to the gravel road, I have stumbled inside a room, a bubble rather, of my own home, hundreds of miles away from Omaha, Nebraska. I look upon the old white mansion, and its image slips quietly into the glove that is my eyesight.

As does its image, so does its name; the Bayit (house) elicits my most distant and yet most near memories. I wander along the well-trod path, with the looming Chadar Ohel, house of eating, dwarfing the more nostalgic buildings littered around it. For years in these buildings, I learned not only Hebrew vocabulary, but also how to make friends; I watched not only Disney movies, but also readings of sacred text; I painted not only canvases, but also my own personality.

Olin-Sang-Ruby Union Institute. For short, OSRUI. Here, one can expect the typical summer camp elements, archery, swimming, and sports. As well, one can find atypical elements, the Hebrew language, and a diverse environment pulling together Jews from the United States, Israel, Europe and Canada. These and many more aspects of camp, too numerous to put down on paper, contribute to its most important aspect, that it is a place of holiness, Kedushah. On the Sabbath one may find a concert better than even the Beatles exhumed and reunited. Shabbat Shira includes all of camp, with children ages eight to seventeen, sitting together and singing. There and then, I believe I found the highest concentration of holiness in my life.

My unit, Tiferet (glory), focused on drama, music, visual art, and dance. After swimming in the lake, we walked across the porch of the Bayit, the stately relic, to return to our cabins. Along the way, we passed the other seven units comprising this community. On the way to almost any activity, Hebrew class or sports, I found my eyes drawn to the beautiful, old ivory house, positioned with majesty overlooking the lake. One of the few places in camp I knew not everything about, was always in my sight.

My life as a camper was spent in the art center, delineating my young visions, punctuated with meals, showers, and sleep.

Returning home my third and final year with yet another portfolio of sketches and paintings, I always knew I would return.

Only in retrospect could I appreciate the sound basis for my Jewish identity that camp gave me. However, the elements now seem obvious: services twice a day in a beautiful outdoor sanctuary, prayers before meals, heavy emphasis on the Hebrew language, Israeli counselors.

With deep affection and appreciation that only matures with time, I applied for a position as a volunteer in the Avodah work/study program camp offers to teenagers entering their senior year of high school. Avodah is the Hebrew word for service---precisely what we did. Over sixty of us throughout the summer began returning the love and work that were gifted to us as campers. From physical endeavors in our daily janitorial work, to emotional ones, such as working with Chaluzim on their Hebrew on Friday mornings, Avodah was the most fulfilling experience I have ever had.

My first day, I found myself standing before the Bayit once more, having explored my childhood haven up to its front door.

Ironically contrasting the tiny white cabins my new unit slept in, only yards away, the Bayit stood as it always had. I entered, finding the carpet a little more worn than I remember, the decorations a little less elaborate. The feeling I felt walking into the Bayit once more was what I felt every day of this last summer.

I felt the way one does when returning to Disney World as an adult, and yet not. The magic was not lessened when I finally knew the inner workings of OSRUI. It was more impressive. The purity and holiness camp conceals with dingy showers and elderly cabins evinces itself through the Bayit. Its white paint filled in with color and morale, the holes in my being.

Spring Chavurah

by SARA RIPS Omaha Temple Youth Group is eagerly waiting for spring to come. No, this is not the season, but rather the North American Federation of Temple Youth-Missouri Valley Spring Chavurah on April 16-18 at Temple Israel.

The theme for the weekend is “Israel: Unplugged.” This chavurah is centered around the idea that there is more to Israel than what is seen on CNN, ABC, and other stations that only run the violence.

This event is being chaired by Daniel Gutman, Shira Kronick, and me. The three tri-chairs have been working hard to make this one of the best chavurot both in Omaha and the region. Daniel is planning the educational programming. Sara

is charge of the organizational component, both leading up to the weekend and of the event. I’m is charge of religious programming, which incorporates Friday night and Saturday morning services, havdalah and Torah Corps.

OTYGers are involved with the planning in the weekend.

They are active in creating and implementing programs, making “goodie” bags, writing services, and much more. The OTYGers also work on housing for the weekend.

During the weekend, kids from all over the Midwest will come to Omaha to participate in services, educational programming, social action programming, and the chance to see their friends. If you’d like to help--or want to attend--call Temple Israel at 556.6536.

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

March 5, 2004

We’re Invested in Jewish Omaha!

The following people have invested in Omaha’s Jewish community by making a gift to the Jewish Federation of Omaha’s 2004 Annual Campaign.

Donors who increase their gift are listed in bold. Donors who have maintained their gift are listed in regular print.

MEN’S MAJOR GIFTS Michael Abramson Joel Alperson Harvey Aronson Baker Family Tom Baker ◆ Bruce Baron Harold Bernstein Steve Bloch Irv Blumkin Ron Blumkin Barry Broder Marc Brodkey Sherman Brodkey Jack Cohen Harold Cooperman Henry Davis Steve Denenberg Gary Epstein Harold Epstein Paul Epstein Joe Erman Michael Erman Tom Fellman David Friedland Ted Friedland ◆ Sandy Friedman ■ Willard Friedman David Gilinsky Larry Gilinsky Bennett Ginsberg Mort Glass Dick Glazer Jim Glazer John Glazer Bruce Goldberg Don Goldstein Leonard Goldstein Herbert Goldsten Trust Jeff Gordman Nelson Gordman Don Greenberg David Gross Paul Grossman Gary Javitch Arnold Joffe Howard Kaslow Maurice Katzman Kavich Charitable Foundation Jeff Kirshenbaum Kevee Kirshenbaum Jerry Kohll Howard Kooper Forrest Krutter Marshall Kushner John Lehr Marty Lehr Jay Lerner Leonard Lewis Livingston Foundation Trenton Magid ◆ Ed Malashock Bernie Meyers David Meyers Jerome J. Milder Michael Miller Allan Murow N. Pitlor & Sons Sherman Neff (in memory) Bob Newman Murray Newman Allan Noddle Jay Noddle Noddle Development Harlan Noddle Joe Kirshenbaum Steven Nogg Omaha Bedding Co. Omaha Steaks Ann and Alan Simon Eve and Fred Simon Kathryn and Steve Simon Stacy and Bruce Simon Todd Simon Alan Parsow Sol Parsow Eric Phillips Michael Platt Carl Riekes Henry Riekes Steve Riekes Lynn Roberts Int Andrew Robinson Mark Robinson Jonathan Rockman Blaine Roffman Larry Roffman Charles Schneider Harley Schrager Phil Schrager Richard Schrager Millard Seldin Ted Seldin Bruce Shackman Norman Sheldon Jack Shrago Steve Silver Stuart Simon Gerald Simons Milton Simons Mark Singer Slosburg Family Charitable Trust Jerry Slusky Phil Sokolof Charles Sullivan Swartzbaugh FarberAssociates, Inc Isidore Tretiak Maurice Udes Tom Vann John Waldbaum

MEN’S MAJOR GIFTS Arnie Weitz Speedy Zweiback

MEN’S CAMPAIGN Harold Abrahamson Alvin Abramson Tony Adelson WOMEN’S MAJOR GIFTS Morris Adler (in memory) Margie Alperson Jeffrey Aizenberg Anonymous ● Joel Alexander Phyllis Aronson Leon Alexander Judy Baker David Alloy Frances Batt Harry Alloy Sandra Belgrade Bernie Altsuler Carol Bloch James Anderson Susie Blumkin Izrail Aronchik Paula Boggust ◆ Peter Astor Bess Brodkey John Atherton Jane Brooks Rabbi Aryeh Azriel Esther Canar Mikhail Basov Anne Cohen Donald Baum Marcia Cohen Robert Beber Toba Cohen Gene Beckerman Babe (Sylvia) Cohn Jim Belgrade Susie Cohn Ben Belmont Cheryl Cooper Mark Belmont Eunice Denenberg Lenny Bergman Sandy Epstein David Berman Ruth Erman Gerald Berman Elaine Feldman Harry Berman Judy Feldman Julius Bernstein Darlynn Fellman Thomas Bernstein Frances Fried ● Ralph Biniamow Nancy Friedland Morris Birenbaum Roz Friedman Marvin Bittner Thama Friedman Larry Blass Maggie Gerber Mike Blatt Deanna Gilinsky Pearl Richman Giventer Mike Blum Howard Borden Janet Glass Vasili Borovski Phyllis Glazer Bob Bournstein Ann Goldstein Morris Bresel Jan Goldstein Bruce Brodkey Shirley Goldstein Lawrence Brodkey Linda Gordman Pete Brodkey Linda K. Gordman Ron Brodkey Caryl Greenberg Jack Brody Nancy Greenberg Sanford Brophy Deborah Greene David Bucksner Rose Gross Larry Budwig Carol Hahn ✦ Sam Bukenholts Phyllis Hoffman Leroy Canfield Joanie Jacobson Jeffrey Cannon Karen Javitch Fritz Cassman Fran Juro Jay Chasen Joan Kaiman Robert Chenoweth Suzanne Kaplan Jerry Chesen Gloria Kaslow Dave Chorney Renee Kasner William Christensen Carol Katzman Irving Chudacoff Madeline Katzman Alan Cohen Andi Kavich Bob Cohen Maxine Kirshenbaum Carl Cohen Sharon Kirshenbaum Don Cohen Gail Kohll Gilbert Cohen Sharon Kooper ♥ Marc Cohen Shirley Kulakofsky Marty Cohen Barbara Kushner Michael Cohen Sandy Kutler Sheldon Cohen Joanie Lehr William Cohen Sandra Lehr ◆ Edward Cohn Bobbi Leibowitz Gerald Cohn Karin Levine Stephen Cohn Susan Levine Travis Cohn Bert Lewis Frank Comisar Deana Liddy David Cooper Thelma Lustgarten Jeff Cooper Linda Mann Justin Cooper Ducky (Lois) Milder Ronald Cooper Fran Milder Sam Cooper Lori Miller Meyer Coren Pamela Monsky ✦ Sheldon Coren Jeannie Neff John Dacey Phyllis Newman Doug Davidson Sharee Newman Ross Davidson Kim Noddle Manuel Delgadillo Nancy Noddle George Demidovich Patty Nogg Patrick Denny Ruthie Nogg Jack Diamond Carol Parsow Boris Dobin Ramona Pepper Jacque Dolgoff Marcia Pitlor Gary Doty Barb Platt William Dreyfus Arlene Richman Gregory Dubov Dorothy Riekes Arthur Dutky Margo Riekes David Dvorkin Zoë Riekes Brian Eades Barbara Rips George Eisenberg Jane Rips Iosif Elkin Kimberly Robinson ● Gary Emenitove Julie Rochman Bob Endelman Stacey Rockman Randy Endelman Mimi Rogers Robert Engel Cynthia Schneider Arnold Epstein Jan Schneiderman Gary Epstein Beth Schrager Howard Epstein Terri Schrager Irv Epstein Hannah Schwalb ✦ Jack Epstein Beverly Seldin Melvin Epstein Sarah Seldin Richard Epstein Anne Shackman Ronald Epstein Helene Shrago Sam Epstein Linda Shrier Abram Erlich Esther Simon Richard Erlich Eve Simon Leonid Etus Harriet Singer Steven Evans Suzanne Singer Abraham Faier Ellen Slosburg Scott Farkas Martha Slosburg Louis Fedman Audrey Sophir Sam Fedman Melissa Steiner ◆ Ronald Feldman Louri Sullivan ✦ Dick Fellman Selma Tretiak Stanley Feltman Gail Veitzer Cantor Leo Fettman Joodi Veitzer Paul Fine Mimi Waldbaum Glen Fineman Amee Zetzman Joel Finkel Doug Finnicum

MEN’S CAMPAIGN Hersz Flatowicz Pierre Flatowicz Jim Folsom Irving J. Forbes Harold Fox Joe Frank Joseph Frank Thomas Frank Alan Fredricks John Freeman Melvin Freeman Robert Freeman Jim Fried Marshall Fried Stuart Fried Bruce Friedlander Walter Friedlander Arthur Friedman Lloyd Friedman Michael Friedman Morris Friedman Scott Friedman Steven M. Friedman Thomas Friedman Robert Fromkin Julius Froom Harry Gates Andrew Gelbman Larry Gendler David Gerber Donald Gerber Paul Gerber Robert Gerelick Moshe Gershovich Ron Giller Stu Giller Lawrence Ginsburg Arkadiy Ginzburg Pete Godwin Sherman Golbitz Bob Goldberg David Goldberg Frank Goldberg Marvin Goldberg Richard Goldberg Gene Goldman David Goldstein Gary Goldstein Herman Goldstein Howard Goldstein Brad Goldstrom Larry Goldstrom Mark Goldstrom Rabbi Allan Gonsher Alan Goodman Robert Goodman Tom Goodman Jay Gordman Kip Gordman Peter Gordon Eddie Gorelick Steve Gorelick Gary Gotsdiner Steve Gottlieb Saul Graetz Richard Grant Lonnie Graul Brad Green Gary Green Andrew Greenberg Barton Greenberg Henry Greenberg (in memory) Dan Greenfield (in memory) Bill Greenhill Bud Greenspan Gerald Gross Gerald Gross Alex Grossman Barry Grossman Joe Guss Vic Gutman Bruce Gutnik Mace Hack Patrick Hale Howard Halperin Michael Halsted Jeff Hansen Sheldon Harris Larry Herman Richard Heyman Donald Hoberman Jerry Hoberman Kenneth Hoberman Michael Hoberman David Hoffman Todd J. Hutton Philip Itkin Richard Ivers Lewis Izenstat Eli Jabenis Jon Jabenis Morris Jabenis Adam Jacobs Arthur Jacobs Sam Jacobs Art Jacobson David Jacobson Leonard Jacobson Richard Jacobson Allen Kahn Marcel Kahn Herbert Kaiman Howard Kaiman Jerome Kaiman Leo Kamisar Gary Kaplan Lazar Kaplan Myron Kaplan Robert Kaplan Yale Kaplan Sandy Kasin Robert Katleman Jerry Katskee

MEN’S CAMPAIGN Melvin R. Katskee Milton Katskee Gary Katz Ralph Katz Rabbi Mendel Katzman Michael Katzman Rick Katzman Leslie Kay Louis Kazor Larry Kelberg Adam Kirshenbaum Corey Kirshenbaum Joe Kirshenbaum Kevee Kirshenbaum Max Kirshenbaum Tom Kirshenbaum Donald Klein Harry Klein Milton Kleinberg Alan Kohll Harvey Konigsberg Doug Koom Joseph Kosinovsky Harold Kosowsky David Kotok Jack Kozlen Marc Kraft Howard Krantz Leonard Krasne Lloyd Krasne Manfred Kreitstein Alan Kricsfeld Stanley Krieger Rabbi Myer Kripke Gary Kudym Abram Kukawka Alan Kulakofsky Eugene Kulik Gregory Kulik Robert Kully Allen Kurland David Kutler Howard Kutler Sol Kutler Stuart Kutler Wayne Lainof Alan Langnas Morey Landman Ben Lebowich Michael Leibowitz Martin Leiserowitz Robert Lepp David Lercher Gary Lerner Richard Lerner Ben Levin Hugh Levin Rabbi Mordechai Levin Mike Levine Michael Levine Steve Levinger Dan Levitan Jason Levy Roland Lewis Dmitriy Libov Michael Liddy Eugene Linde Michael Linn Ruben Lippett Harvey Lipsman Boris Litvin Stephen Lubman Jerry Mack Ben Magzamin Ben H. Magzamin Larry Malashock Neal Malashock Robert Malashock Nate Mandell Stanley Mandler Harold Mann Justin Manvitz Rabbi Craig Marantz Dan Marburg Gerald Marburg Irv Marcus Milton Marcus Myron Marko Mark Marshall Howard Martin Leon Martin Victor Mashbein Sheldon C. Masnek Guy Matalon Harold Maurer Boris May John McGauvran Dan Meiches Gennadiy Menkov Gerald Meyer Bruce Meyers Joe Meyers Jon Meyers Marty Meyers Larry Meyerson Scott Meyerson Troy Meyerson Carl Milder Paul Militzer Ben Miller Sidney Mirvish Stanley Mitchell Henry Monsky Gordon Moshman Jack Moskovitz Stuart Muskin Alexander Nakhimovich Leonid Nakhimovich Ira Nathan Paul Nathan Howard Needelman Jeff Newman Alan Nogg Alvin Nogg Anthony Nogg

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WOMEN’S CAMPAIGN Rose Katzman Shani Katzman Nancy Kavich Helen Kay Renee Kazor Betty Kelberg Sharon Kerr Frances Kimmel Yulia Kinarsky Hedy Kirke Jenn Kirshenbaum Myrna Kirshenbaum Janet Klein Marsha Kleinberg Harriet Klopper Ms. T. Klotz Loree Koester Diane Kohler Sandra Kohll Betty Kolnick Marilyn Konigsberg Patty Koom Gertrude Korney Leah Kosinovsky Alice Kosowsky Dorothy Kotok Shane Kotok Bette Kozlen Charlotte Kraft Ruth Kraft Edythe Krasne Peggy Krasne Cheryl Kricsfeld Debbie Kricsfeld Florence Kricsfeld Angie Krieger Frieda Krizelman Robbi Kudym Traci Kugler Rita Kulik Connie Kully Sandra Kurland Harriet Kutler Nancy Kutler Carole Lainof Pauline Landman Geraldine LaPierre Betty Laser Barbara Lashinsky Grace Lebowich Susan Lehr Cheryl Lerner Martha Lerner Judith Levin Bonnie Levinger Barbara Levitan Gale Levitan Lisa Lewis Marilyn Lewis Rocky Lewis Vera Lewis Margarita Libov Marina Libov Libby Lincoln Marjorie Lincoln Lydia Linde Louise Lippett Marcia Lipsman Anna Litvin Bonnie London Ellen Long Sarah Lohrman Doris Lubman Fritzi Luefshuetx Ruth Luttbeg Candee Mack Carolyn Magid Diane Malashock Jody Malashock Norma Malashock Paula Mandell Wendy Manvitz Betsy Marantz Deb Marburg Judy Marburg Harriet Marcus Joan K. Marcus Harriet Marko Joan Martin Julie Martin Debra Maschino Alice Mashbein Sally Masnek Elinor Matalon Beverly Mauer Khaya May Kathy McGauvran Esther Meiches Marybeth Meiches Sarah Meyer Tina Meyers Deenie Meyerson Jamie Meyerson Jenny Meyerson Miriam Meyerson Roberta Michalski Renee Micklin Bernice Milder Rhoda Milder Harriet Miller Marian Miller Sue Millward Lynda Mirvish Evelyn Mitchell Ethel Mogil Susan Mogil Anna Mogilevskaya Beverly Moore Anna Mosenkis Ann Moshman Rebecca Moshman Ann Moskovits Barbara Mueting Janie Murow Bettie Muskin

WOMEN’S CAMPAIGN Linda Muskin Elaine Nachman Jeanette Nadoff Randi Nanfito Laura-Lee Needelman Patricia Newman Babe Nogg Manya Nogg Marian Nogg Sandra Nogg Ann Noodell Susie Norton Norma Novak Rita Novak Tatyana Novikov Donna Olesh Reva Oruch Ruth Oruch Ann Osborne Bede Ostrow Sandy Ostrow Karen Oyler Jean Paley Joyce Palm Sylvia Parilman Margo Parsow Gilina Pashchenko Lucille Paskowitz Fefe Passer Sandra Passer Ella Patkovsky Magda Peck Betty Perelman Vicki Perlmeter Sofiya Pesetsky Gerri Phillips Julie Phillips Shelly Pichik Gilda Pieck Kimberly Placzek Ellen Platt Karen Plotkin Suzanne Pocras Yaffa PodbilewiczSchueller Sheila Polikov Karen Pollak Corinne Polsky Ruth Potash Sharon Quittner Irina Raksin Kathryn Rapoport Jeanne Raznick Debbie Recht Dolores Redler Karen Redmond Amy Ref Lola Reinglas Eileen Remer Barbara Rennard Juliana Reno Amy Reynolds Floraine Rice Jeanne Rice Diane Rich Mary Rich Rosa Richtman Iris Ricks Caryn Rifkin Paula Robinson Judith Roffman Phyllis Roffman Silvia Roffman Marcelyn Rogers Ann Roitstein Debbie Roitstein Margo Rosen Rebecca Rosen Rita Rosen Rose Rosen Sheila Rosen Toni Rosen Marti Rosen-Atherton Rachel Rosenberg Rose Rosenberg Shirley Rosenberg Anne Rosenblatt Sue Rosenblatt Dottie Rosenblum Julie Rosenquist Willis Ann Ross Bunny Rothenberg Susan Rothholz Faye Ruback Marcia Ruback Alla Rubezhin Betty Rubin Natalie Rubin Monica Sacks Marina Sadofsky Selma Sadofsky Mary Saferstein Rhonda SafersteinHansen Linda Saltzman Lynne Saltzman Rosalie Saltzman Lynn Samuel Betty Sanford Vicki Sanford Rosalie Saylan Julia Schapiro Bea Schimmel Nancy Schlessinger Kathy Schmitt Beatrice Schneider Carol Schneider Margy Schneider Heidi Schneiderman Melissa Schop Lillian Schrager Sarah Schreiber Sophie Katz Schulman Kim Schwartz Phyllis Schwartz

WOMEN’S CAMPAIGN Lori Kooper-Schwarz Andrea Scioli Tanya Seina Dalma Seitelbach Lois Selner Trudi Selner Diana Senik Diane Shandell Audrey Shapiro Genya Shapiro Jeanne Shechet Suzy Sheldon Claudia Sherman Debra Sherman Patty Sherman Usha Sherman Cantor Wendy Shermet Lisa Shkolnick Lois Shkolnick Phoebe Shkolnick Josephine Shrago Doris Shukert Cindy Shulewitz Susann Shyken Leah Siegel Simmy Siegel Sissy Silber Esther Silver Susan Silver Janis Silverberg Lorraine Silverman Mimi Silverman Susan Silverman Gail Silverstein Josephine Simon Tootie Simon Judy Simons Maxine Simons Mary Siref Linda Siref-Simons Nancy Skid Andrea Skolkin Renee Sloan Marion Slosburg Charlotte Slutzky Koom Debi Smedlund Gloria Smith Helen Soiref Susan Somberg Cari Sommer Penny Sophir Stacie Spies-Matz Dorothy Spizman Gayle Spooner Edith Stein Frances Stein Lorraine Stein Georgiann Steinberg Phyllis Steinberg Rocky Stern Rabbi Debbie Stiel Esther Stoler Dorothy Strauss Marion Strauss Jill Swanberg Susan Swartz Sylvia Swartz Lynn Sweet Barbara Taxman Linda Tederman Elaine Tepperman Helena Tichauer Pearl Tieger Marilyn Tipp Ellina Tomchin Margarita Treskunova Alice Trustin Eadie Tsabari Judy Tully Lucy Turetsky Margaret Turetsky Sally Venger Yuliya Vishnevskiy Mary Walker Patsy Wallace Marilyn Warren Phyllis Wasserman Helen Weber Joye Wees Kathy Weiner Shirley Weinstein Melany Weinstine Alice Weiss Anne Weitz Audrey Wiener Allyson Wilczewski Andi Willensky Linda Wilson Laura Wine Janet Wintroub Sally Wintroub Sara Wisnia Shelley Wisnia Nancy Wolf Bernice Wolfson Sara Wolfson Sibby Wolfson Annette Yaffe Phyllis Zabin Barbara Zacharia Terri Zacharia Rosalyn Zeffren Dorothy Zevitz Paula Ziegman Rose Ziegman Linda Zimmerman Sally Zipursky Nora Zoob Bev Zuber Judith Zucker Debbi Zweiback Rosie Zweiback

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March 5, 2004

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 13

Beth Israel: B U I L D I N G

O U R

The “new” Beth Israel Synagogue was designed by Marty Shukert and Bob Krupa, architects at RDG Schutte Wilscam and Birge, with construction completed by The Weitz Company, and Beth Israel’s owner’s representative, Cliff Levitan of CL Enterprises. This special section, saluting this momentous occasion, was conceived

by Jewish Press Advertising Manager Allan Handleman and Account Representative Ray Pred to offer businesses connected with the opening of this new building and others, the opportunity to congratulate the congregation and the Jewish community on this move.

Special thanks go to the staff at Beth Israel and to the Jewish Press Committee, and its Chairman, Joanie Jacobson, for their endorsement of this concept and assistance in producing it--Carol Katzman, Editor.

F U T U R E

Page 14

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

March 5, 2004

Beth Israel: Building Its Future Continued from page 1 consider joining.

“At the first Shabbos service in the new building, the noise was a bit loud,” Shyken admitted. “Some people noticed that, but it reminded me of when my wife, Susie, and I brought our eldest son, Gary, to services for the first time.

“He was a month old and began to cry.

I stood up to quiet him,” Shyken recalled, “but Rabbi Nadoff, of blessed memory, stopped his sermon and said, ‘Please don’t take him out. That’s the sound we need in the synagogue!’”

Moving a major institution--be it the old ‘J’ on 20th and Dodge in 1975 to its present location on 132nd St., or even Beth El Synagogue’s move in 1991 from 49th and Farnam to 144th and California-is never easy. There are memories, decades of family simchas, and just the ordinary resistance to change.

In Beth Israel’s case, it was difficult because of the Orthodox prohibition on driving on Shabbat and Jewish holidays.

Orthodox Jewish communities are created because people live within walking distance to a shul.

Mark Marshall, a member of the synagogue’s Board of Directors, who lives in the “east” neighborhood, said for those who aren’t moving or can’t move, “there is still an obligation to leave something behind.”

Beth Israel has made arrangements to keep the chapel of the 52nd Street building open on Friday nights, Saturday mornings and Jewish holidays until May, according to Shyken, when the board will re-evaluate the situation. Members who live near the new shul are inviting Jews from all over Omaha to stay with them for Shabbos and attend services at the new building.

That, according to Beth Israel’s Education Director, Rabbi B.P. Simon, “is one of the ways we are trying to reach out to the Jews in the community.

“The hope is that Jews in the east will eventually move to this neighborhood and strengthen the new shul,” he emphasized. “That’s what builds a Jewish community. However, we want our members who choose to stay east to still feel a part of the shul.”

Those are the key words here--echoed in the synagogue’s fundraising brochures since 1999, the very beginning of the process. “Building Our Future” means something very real to members of Beth Israel. It’s not just a slogan to them.

“With newness comes excitement,” Shyken continued. “the spark to propel the synagogue into an era of growth and the furtherance of Orthodox Jewry in Omaha.

Above: Executive Director Beth Cohen unpacks yet another box after the move West. Left: Max Rogers-Marcovitz, right, and Joe Shyken examine the chapel where morning and evening minyans are held. The room, with portable furniture, can also be used for classes and other programs, yet it also can be opened to expand sanctuary seating.

Rabbi Howard Kutner affixes a silver mezuzah to the doorway entrance of the chapel.

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“I think our presence on 126th and Pacific and new and exciting programming makes the future of Beth Israel bright,” he added. “We’ve brought the ‘noise’ back to the synagogue!”

Toba Cohen-Dunning grew up at the “old” Beth Israel. Her father, the late Jack Cohen, was President of Beth Israel almost 18 years ago.

Now married with a daughter of her own, she has fond memories of “the huge Purim carnivals, packed with young families who were excited about the games and costumes and food.

“It’s exciting to think all that is coming back with the new synagogue,” she said, “It’s seems appropriate that we’re doing this now--when it’s almost spring-because it’s a new beginning for Orthodoxy in the Jewish community.”

“Rabbi Nadoff,” Shyken insisted, “your dream has come true!”

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March 5, 2004

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 15

The Long, Proud History of Beth Israel Synagogue

by BETH COHEN Executive Director The presence of an Orthodox community in Omaha dates back to as early as 1883, when the “Litvische Shul,” or Beth Hamedrosh Hagdol, was built at 1407 South 13th Street. Other small synagogues were formed over the next few years, including B’nai Israel Adas Russia, better known as B’nai Israel (the “Kipplier Shul”), B’nai Jacob Anshe Sholom (the “Kapulier Shul”), and Beth Hamedrosh Adas Yeshurun.

Later B’nai Jacob Anshe Sholom and Beth Hamedrosh Adas Yeshurun merged to form B’nai Jacob Adas Yeshurun, but kept the nickname “Kapulier shul.”

Toward the middle of the century there was a growing attitude towards “modernism,” while many of the customs in the synagogues were increasingly being viewed as “old fashioned.” For the purposed of attracting members, B’nai Israel and BHH merged to form the Union of Orthodox Congregations of Omaha (the UOC), with the intention of eventually designing a new building.

In addition, the lot where B’nai Israel sat was bought by the city for the new Civic Auditorium, and B’nai Israel would eventually be forced to move. As a result, the new organization needed a place for a new synagogue, and in 1946 architect Clarence Kivett of the firm Kivett and Meyers (Kansas City) was hired to create a design.

The creation of Beth Israel was a major stepping stone in the history of Omaha’s

Jewish community. Grand events were centered on the construction of the synagogue, including a groundbreaking ceremony in September of 1948, a cornerstone ceremony in May of 1950, and, after the completion of the building, a dedication ceremony in September 1951.

Beth Israel was a major change to the Orthodox community due to its mixed-seating sanctuary and microphone system (the microphone was a large dispute due to the issue of whether or not its use is permitted on the Sabbath). Also, the building was a major advance in architecture; its large sanctuary and social hall spanned about 200 feet without any support columns.

The original design of Beth Israel was to include a school wing and a tower, however, construction of the school wing was postponed until 1961.

Meanwhile, BHH, at 19th and Burt Streets, was kept as a place to hold services for those who lived in the area and couldn’t move near the new synagogue.

Over the past decade, Beth Israel has realized that, though it is sometimes dif-

ficult, a synagogue must define itself and its standards. In this time, Beth Israel has moved toward being a more authentic orthodox synagogue, eliminating the use of a microphone on Shabbat and adding a mechitza, allowing for separate seating

and the Fund Raising Committee led by Joe Kirshenbaum, have realized the dream of building a new synagogue building with the help of Marty Shukert and Bob Krupa, architects at RDG Schutte Wilscam and Birge, our conThese photos, courtesy of the Nebraska Jewish Historical Society, show the 52nd St.synagogue, designed by award-winning architect Clarence Kivett, left, and the move into that building.

in the sanctuary for Shabbat and Holiday services.

In 1999, the membership of Beth Israel Synagogue approved the building of a new synagogue on property owned by the synagogue at 126th and Pacific Streets.

Since that time, the New Building Committee, headed by Dr. Paul Shyken and Rick Katzman and coordinated by Ann Moskovits, the Schematic Design Committee, chaired by Carol Katzman,

struction team with the Weitz Company, and Beth Israel’s owner’s representative, Cliff Levitan of CL Enterprises.

As Beth Israel looks toward a future as rich in heritage, community, and dedicated volunteerism as we have enjoyed in our past.

Jeff Katzman did the research for this article when he worked for the firm of RDG Crose Gardner Shukert; he was an intern for Marty Shukert, architect of the new Beth Israel building.

Welcome Home Beth Israel Owner

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General Contractor | Designer-Builder | Construction Manager The Weitz Company | 9711 M Street | Omaha, NE 68127 | 402-592-7000 | www.weitz.com

Page 16

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

March 5, 2004

Enhancing Spirituality Through Art

by BETH COHEN with MARTY SHUKERT It is a passage from the Book of Deuteronomy that inspired the art work in the sanctuary of the new Beth Israel Synagogue building.

“For this commandment that I command you today– it is not hidden from you and it is not distant. It is not in heaven, [for you] to say, “Who can ascend to the heaven for us and take it for us so that we can listen to it and perform it?” Nor is it across the sea, [for you] to say, “Who can cross to the other side of the sea for us and take it for us, so that we can listen to it and perform it?” Rather, the matter is very near to you – in your mouth and your heart–to perform it.” (Duet. 30:11-14).

“This is one of my favorite quotations of Torah, because it expresses its nearness and accessibility to all of us,” said Marty Shukert, an architect on the building project who developed the concept. “Torah is profoundly democratic–it is not so difficult that only peo-

ple with special abilities can observe it. It is not far away from us, but rather speaks to us from within ourselves–in our hearts and mouths.”

The eastern wall of the sanctuary is a composition in stained glass, painting, fabric, and stone that presents this most meaningful passage. The focal point of the sanctuary is the Menorah Window, which frames the Ark and is shaped and leaded in the form of the six branched candelabrum. To the right, the window has forms that reflect the heavens, while the left-hand window depicts the seas. The brilliantly-colored windows, designed by Marty Shukert and created by local stained glass artist, Mark Lambrecht, incorporates the Hebrew text into the design.

The message is completed in a frieze, a horizontal painting on wood mounted to the wall. This striking work, in paint with text in gold leaf, was designed and executed by Jonathon Nix, a noted liturgical artist from

Congratulations Beth Israel

Congrats Beth Israel!

on your new facility

Waltham, MA. The background of the frieze symbolically and abstractly represents the relationship between G-d and the people of Israel through the Covenant.

The perochet, or curtain over the Ark, completes the symbolic composition, with an expression that intertwines the Torah and the letter Aleph, the first letter of the Hebrew alphabet, of the Ten Commandments, and of G-d’s name in Hebrew.

This stained glass window designed by Mark Lambrecht is positioned to the right of the Aron Kodesh, mirroring another one to the left.

The other building walls complement these themes in the same materials. The new sanctuary has the traditional 12 windows representing the 12 tribes of Israel.

In the Beth Israel sanctuary, these windows are developed in stained glass, also designed by Marty Shukert and created by Mark Lambrecht. The windows, in dominant blues, purples, and aquas, contain the name of each tribe in flowing, organic letters.

The windows are located above the continued frieze, which includes two central texts of the revelation at Sinai: “If you will keep my Covenant, you shall be precious to me” and “You shall be a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.” The composition expresses the unity of Israel as the people stood together at Sinai and accepted the Torah.

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Above: A workman washes the windows outside the sanctuary in preparation for the first Shabbat in the new building on Feb. 13. Below: Another workman carefully hammers a wooden frame in place below Jonathan Nix’s colorful frieze in the sanctuary. The frieze runs on the East Wall, from the women’s section, past the Aron Kodesh and into the men’s section.

March 5, 2004

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 17

A Walk Down the Hall of History Right: Beth Israel has displayed a collection of photos and memorabilia in a hallway of the new building; yahrzeit plaques are in the sanctuary and the Simcha Board is located in the Social Hall.

by BETH COHEN Executive Director One of the fascinating components of the new Beth Israel Synagogue building is the Hall of History. This gallery brings the rich history of Beth Israel and the Orthodox synagogues of Omaha prior to 1946 to our new location at 126th and Pacific Streets.

Items in the Hall of History include the time capsule from the 52nd Street building, Simcha Boards from the 52nd Street building, historical photographs, plus other items of significance like tickets and programs from the synagogue’s Annual Citation Dinners held in the 1950s and 60s.

March 3, 1957, marked the date of Beth Israel’s Fifth Annual Citation Dinner. This annual event bestowed upon remarkable individuals a Citation of Distinguished Merit. The Fifth Annual Dinner, attended by 750 people, conferred this citation upon the Honorable Harry S. Truman, former President of the United States, citing him as an “outstanding humanitarian, distinguished statesman, and peerless patron of the sovereignty of Israel.” As President, Harry Truman was the first American official to recognize the new State of Israel on May 14, 1948, despite much opposition from many members of Congress.

The official invitation to President Truman was extended by a committee including Dan Gordman, Maurice Katzman and Harry Sidman, who called upon Truman in Kansas City in 1956.

Katzman recalled having phoned President Truman’s attorney and confidant, A.J. Granoff, who explained that President Truman hosted a lunch every Tuesday at the Muehlbach Hotel in Kansas City. He gave Katzman the President’s phone number in Independence, Missouri, suggesting that the committee try to get an invitation to a Tuesday lunch. Katzman reached the President at his home, and, in the course of the conversation, was invited with his committee to a Tuesday lunch.

The three Omahans traveled to Kansas City the following week. As reported in the Beth Israel Synagogue Bulletin of January 1957, Sidman said of President Truman, “His cordiality was so overwhelming that we were tremendously impressed by his unassuming greatness.” Within a week after this lunch meeting, Truman accepted, and arrangements were made for the date of the dinner.

The newsworthiness of President Truman’s acceptance of this honor was underscored by the fact that it was carried by every leading news service in the country, including the Associated Press, United Press and International News Service.

The program for the evening started with a benediction by Henry Appel and invocation by Maurice Katelman. Maurice Katzman served as Toastmaster, in addition to having been program chairman. Max Fromkin delivered the welcoming address. Arthur Gould spoke in acknowledgment of the many volunteers who worked to make this Citation Dinner a success, followed by words from Omaha Mayor John Rosenblatt and Jewish Federation President Dr. Abe Greenberg.

After the viewing of The Truman Story, courtesy of Universal Pictures, the attendees heard from Citation Dinner Chairman, Dan Gordman, and reminiscences by A.J. Granoff. Harry Sidman presented the Certificate of Merit to our 36th president. Following remarks by President Truman, Rabbi Benjamin Groner closed this memorable evening.

Maury Katzman recalled how he and his wife, Madeline, sat at the head table with President Truman.

Katzman remembers President Truman speaking only briefly, saying, “The President accepted our citation, and said that the wisest decision he ever made was the recognition of the State of Israel, and he knew he would never regret that action.”

President Truman, in speaking with Katzman following the dinner, said that the framed citation presented to him from Beth Israel would hang in his Presidential library in Independence. The synagogue also made a generous contribution toward the building of this Presidential Library, dedicated on July 6, 1957.

This Citation Dinner had more than 100 people serving on committees working to make this event a record setting one. The dinner menu included Caponettes in Continued on page 18

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March 5, 2004

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Hall of History Continued from previous page In the words of Harry Sidman, then white wine sauce, potato puffs, string President of Beth Israel, “We feel confibeans with almond slivers, and dent in predicting that the impact of Hamantashen for the upcoming Purim President Harry S. Truman’s visit to Beth holiday, was remembered fondly by Israel will be transmitted for decades to Charlotte Kaplan.

“There were so many people, we couldn’t use round tables. We could only fit everyone in the Social Hall in long tables that ran the length of the room. The whole meal was cooked at Beth Israel, and was served by waiters and waitresses.”

Kaplan served on the reservations committee, and has a copy of the evening’s program autographed by President Truman.

The day following the dinner, Katzman hosted a Annual Citation Dinner Chairman Harry Sidman, left presents breakfast with Truman the actual award to President Harry Truman, as Program and about 20 synagogue Chairman Maury Katzman looks on. members.

Katzman remembers President Truman spending come; we hope that the President will more than two hours with the group, find equal reason to remember with discussing world politics, and recalled, fondness the thrill of having been the “The President’s breadth of knowledge recipient of the Beth Israel Citation of the world was astounding, and very Award on March 3, 1957.” impressive.”

Scholar to Speak About the Bible’s Precious Gems at Sisterhood Program letters of each tribal name were

by SUSAN PALEY for Beth Israel Sisterhood inscribed on each of the stones. The Beth Israel Sisterhood will host a lec- High Priest would ask questions of G-d ture on gemology titled “Gemstones of and the stones would light up to signify the Bible,” on Tuesday, March 9, 7:30 His responses. p.m., at Beth Israel Synagogue. The “The Breastplate of Judgment was guest speaker, Lois Wohlner, currently used to atone for mistakes made by lectures on wide variety of topics related courts of judgment,” said Rabbi Howard to jewelry and gems including “The Kutner. “The stones played an important History of Jewelry”, “Birthstones”, and role in Biblical times. The tradition is still “Jewelry in Art.” with us today, found Wohlner attended in synagogues all the Gemological over the world, as Institute of America we still refer to the in Santa Monica, CA. silver breastplates, She was a member which adorn the of the Los Angeles Torah scrolls as ‘choMuseum of Natural sen.’

History’s Gem and “The idea of the Mineral Council from Torah coverings,” he 1985-2003. In addiadded, “was taken tion, she has been a from the garments cruise lecturer on the the High Priest wore.

Cunard Cruise Line.

Also, the Shulchan Her lecture for Oruch, the Code of Beth Israel will focus Jewish Law, calls on the gemstones of one of its four volthe Chosen Mishpat, umes the Chosen Lois Wohlner the Breastplate of Mishpat, and conJudgment, which the High Priest cerns monetary matters of the judgment (Kohane Gadol) wore. According to the of Jewish courts.”

Artscroll Humash commentary, the Cost for the event is $2.50 for dessert. breastplate consisted of 12 stones, one Reservations may be made by calling the for each of the 12 tribes of Israel. The synagogue at 556.6288.

from

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From the Board and Staff of the Omaha Center for Torah Learning

March 5, 2004

“Passover to Go!” One of Many New Services Offered by Beth Israel Synagogue

by BETH COHEN Executive Director Beth Israel will be kashering our new kitchen for “Passover To Go!” when caterer, Nancy Mattly, will cook what you need for Seder dinners, plus food you can use throughout the holiday. No, the office staff won’t come to your house and clean your oven, but we will prepare kosher-for-Passover meals so everyone can enjoy the holiday!

Selections can be made from the following items: brisket (8 oz. serving): $9; roasted chicken (1/2 chicken): $8; Mushroom-Onion Farfel Kugel (one pan with nine to 12 squares):$20; Vegetarian Tzimmes (sweet potatoes, carrots, squash, apples, prunes--one pan-9-12 servings): $25; Ashkenazicstyle Charoset (apples, walnuts, wine--per pound): $5; Moroccanstyle Charoset (dates, figs, apricots, walnuts, wine--per pound): $6.50; Gefilte fish loaf (8-10 servings): $10; Matzo Ball Soup (2 matzo balls with one cup of soup--per serving): $4.50.

“To Go”orders must be placed by March 25 by calling Jean Paley in the synagogue office, at 556.6288, and will be available for pick up on Monday, April 5.

On Sunday, March 28, 5:30 p.m., we'll hold our monthly “Let’s Go Out to Eat!” event, featuring a menu full of chametz. The cost is $12 for adults, free to kids under 12. There will also be Pesach activities for parents to do with their children.

Beth Israel will offer relaxing Shabbos meals as well on Friday and Saturday, April 2 and 3. Shabbat Dinner will be on Friday, April 2, 7:45 p.m., following Kabbalat Shabbat; lunch will follow Shabbat morning services and kiddush, Saturday, April 3, noon. Cost for

dinner is $10 for adults and $5 children; lunch is $8 adults and $4 for children. Kids under age four are free.

Make reservations at the synagogue office, 556.6288.

Bagel Bin, which normally closes early on Sundays, will re-open April 4, 5- 7 p.m. for your last taste of chametz! Tell all your friends--and be sure to thank Bagel Bin! In preparation for Passover, the synagogue will be offering Holiday Workshops. This Sunday and next, March 8 and 15, 7-7:45 p.m., Rabbi B.P. Simon will teach “Passover: It’s History, Laws, and Traditions.”

What is real chametz? What is kitniot? In what way do they differ? If we eat matza because the dough on the back of our ancestors did not have time to rise when they left Egypt, then why were our ancestors already eating matza on the night before they left? Find out the answers to these questions and more.

Then on Mondays, March 22 and 29, 7:15-8 p.m., Rabbi Simon will lead a class on “The Haggadah: There’s a Lot to Tell.”

Why is the order of the Haggadah set up in the order it is? How has the Passover Seder been central to Jewish continuity for the last 3316 years? We’ll take from the Kiddush to the Chad Gadya (one baby goat) and we’re not kidding!

For those congregants (and members of the community interested in learning the melodies to the prayers sung during services, join us for “Tunes of Tefillah” on Wednesdays, March 17 and 24, 7:15-8 p.m. Classes are led by Rabbi Howard Kutner, Donald Gerber, and Rabbi Simon.

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 19

Masks, Merrymaking and Miracles

by BETTE KOZLEN for Beth Israel Synagogue Hear ye, hear ye! There will be no ‘shoosh-ing’ in Shushan this year. It has been decreed by Beth Israel Synagogue and Chabad of Nebraska that everyone shall eat, drink and be merry on this Purim holiday.

The “shake your graggers” reading of the Megillah-the Scroll of Esther, begins this Sunday, 5 p.m., followed by a “fill your tummy” dinner at 5:45 p.m. at the new Beth Israel Synagogue, 12604 Pacific St. On display will be a replica of the Western Wall where merrymakers can write their own personal prayers. All prayers will be sent to Jerusalem to be inserted in the real We s t e r n Wall. Enjoy the fun-filled antics of clowns armed with lots of balloons and ready to paint faces of young and old. Live music and loads of games are included along with a costume contest for children and adults. A Purim CD-ROM will be given to each family as a gift.

Join the festivities by making reservations for dinner and/or costume rental by calling 556.6288 or online at www.nebraskajudaism.com. Cost is $l0 per person, children ages 12 and under are free; Gold Patrons are $180. This is a joint project of Beth Israel Synagogue and Chabad of Nebraska.

Page 20

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

March 5, 2004

Opinion A Purim Believe It or Not It turns out that a story circulating recently about a copy of the infamous Protocols of the Elders of Zion being displayed next to a Torah in a museum in Cairo was not entirely true.

Dr. Ismail Serageldin, Director of the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, responded in the Egyptian Al-Ahram Weekly to reports by MEMRI. And thanks to the Middle East Media Research Institute, an independent, non-profit organization that translates and analyzes the media of the Middle East, who provided us with these news items.

“Preliminary investigations determined that the book was briefly displayed in a showcase devoted to rotating samples of curiosities and unusual items in our collections. The book was never displayed alongside the Jewish Torah...The book is well-known as a 19th century fabrication to foment anti-Jewish feelings,” Dr. Serageldin explained.

“The book was promptly withdrawn from public display, but its very inclusion showed bad judgment and insensitivity, and an internal administrative review is underway,” Dr. Serageldin continued.

“The Bibliotheca Alexandrina is profoundly committed to its role as a center of learning and a place promoting tolerance, dialogue, and understanding between peoples, cultures, and civilizations. We are honored to work with distinguished international partners in promoting these universal ideals.”

The above actually is a true story--the kind we’d like to see coming out of the Middle East. Here are some others--all true.

“It is unfortunate that many Muslim religious scholars have a mindset that belongs to the distant past,” wrote Raid Qusti, a colum-

BEHIND THE HEADLINES

by MOSHE RAM The International Court of Justice at the Hague convened hearings last month on the legality of the controversial barrier Israel is building on the West Bank. The United Nations General Assembly asked the court for an “advisory opinion.”

Here is one perspective on the debate.

On Jan. 29 and again on Feb. 22, Israelis again started their day forced to face shocking pictures of dead commuters, the victims of yet another suicide bomber.

Israel’s anti-terrorism fence could have prevented this massacre. When the International Court of Justice convenes today in the Hague, the question submitted to it by the United Nations contains a glaring omission. In the many documents presented, there is not a single word on the subject of Palestinian terrorism.

Any discussion of the consequences of the fence must take into account the sole reason for its existence: to save lives from the continuing tidal wave of Palestinian terrorism that, since September 2000, has left almost 1000 Israelis dead and thousands more maimed for life. Suicide bombings alone have accounted for 430 dead.

This silence concerning Palestinian terrorism is reason enough to seriously question the legal legitimacy, not to mention the impartiality, of these proceedings.

(Founded in 1920)

nist for the Saudi English daily Arab News.

“In earlier times, Muslim rulers called for translations of Greek and Roman works in order to use their knowledge. Building on what they learned, Muslims were pioneers in astrology, medicine, geology, physics, mathematics, and biology at a time when Europe was struggling in the Dark Ages.

“The first step, as many Saudis who debated fiercely in the National Forum for Dialogue held in Makkah, is to change our school textbooks. Not only are the books breeding a sectarian culture but they fail to encourage diversity, dialogue, tolerance and harmony among different groups of Saudi society,” he wrote in another article.

“The second step should be a change in the methods of teaching.

And the third--this may be the most important--is to teach that those who differ with our opinions, even when it comes to religious matters, are not our enemies. Differences of opinion are signs of a healthy society, not a backward one. Early Muslim societies were models of tolerance and we would do well to emulate them,” In early February, 700 Syrian intellectuals signed and circulated a petition on the Internet with the aim of collecting one million signatures before presenting it to Syrian authorities.

Journalist Sha’ban ‘Abboud wrote in the Kuwaiti daily Al-Rai Al-’Aam about the resistance to change within the Ba’ath Party: “It is not surpris-

ing that every day there is an increase in the number of Syrian intellectuals and writers signing the petition that calls for an end to the state of emergency imposed in Syria in 1963 and [raises] additional demands for other democratic rights for citizens who have lost patience with the slowness of the promised reforms.”

Wishful thinking? A Purim Spiel? Or is the world really changing? Would that it were so!

Happy Purim everybody!

Israel’s Barrier: Build It; It’s Necessary Protection from Terrorists Indeed, it is inconceivable that the ICJ should be requested to give an advisory opinion on this issue at the behest of the Palestinian Authority, the party that hard evidence has proved to be culpable for the planning, financing and execution of many of the terrorist attacks that have made the building of this anti-terrorism fence an unavoidable necessity.

Another cause for alarm is the language in which the case has been framed for the court by the UN General Assembly. In titling the case: “Legal consequences of the construction of a wall in the occupied Palestinian territory,” a politicized and prejudicial terminology has been adopted.

The use of the term “wall,” when in fact less than five percent of the fence is a concrete barrier and more than 95 percent consists of wire fencing with dozens of access and crossing points, is clearly propagandistic.

Moreover, the point that should be of greatest concern to those seeking a peaceful resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is that the request for an advisory opinion flies in the face of the roadmap. This plan is the only initiative for resolving the conflict that has been accepted by both sides and approved by the inter-

national community.

The roadmap was carefully negotiated and represents a delicate balance of concern for the interests of both sides. The submission to the court undermines this balanced approach by seeking to prejudge matters mutually agreed to be subject to negotiation and undermines the carefully constructed framework for resolving the conflict.

The fence will be needed until Palestinian political and religious leaders stop encouraging hatred of Israel and Jews in their media, mosques and schools, reject terrorism, and respect the Jewish state of Israel’s right to exist.

In taking this case, the ICJ would also be giving a green light to further attempts to bring the dispute piecemeal to the court and thereby completely circumventing the negotiating process. This would set the dangerous precedent that the disposition of other regional conflicts could well suffer the same fate: conflict resolution by judicial decree rather than mutual agreement.

Israel is cognizant of the criticisms expressed about the fence and its route. Many of these issues are under review. And, while every effort is being made

to minimize hardship to the Palestinian population, it cannot be stressed too strongly that while the fence can be moved or dismantled, lives lost cannot be restored. Israel must place the right of its citizens--Jews and Arab alike--to live free from fear above any other consideration.

The fence will be needed until Palestinian political and religious leaders stop encouraging hatred of Israel and Jews in their media, mosques and schools, reject terrorism, and respect the Jewish state of Israel’s right to exist.

The fence will be needed until Palestinian police officers commit themselves to enforcing law and order instead of creating chaos and death on Israeli buses.

The fence will be needed until terrorist masters stop sending young women so brainwashed by their desire to destroy “Zionists” that they choose to blow themselves up instead of watching their children grow up.

When that happens, Israel will fulfill its commitments and make painful concessions for peace.

Until then, Israel will not risk the lives of its people on empty promises to fight terrorism. When the Palestinians have torn down the wall of blinding anti-Israel hatred and violence, Israel will be more than willing to exchange the fence for bridges to peace.

Mosher Ram is Israel’s Consul General to the Midwest, based in Chicago.

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March 5, 2004

BEHIND THE HEADLINES

by MATTHEW E. BERGER WASHINGTON (JTA)--A U.S. Supreme Court ruling allowing states to deny scholarships to theology students drew praise from Jewish civil liberties groups and outrage from Orthodox Jews.

The 7-2 decision last week ruled that it was constitutional for the state of Washington to deny Joshua Davey a state-sponsored college scholarship because he was majoring in pastoral studies.

The ruling may have major implications for the crafting of school voucher programs and other church-state issues.

Jewish groups had filed briefs supporting both sides in Locke v. Davey.

Those supporting Washington had argued that denying the student the aid does not restrict free expression of religion and maintains the separation of church and state.

Orthodox groups had argued that the state was discriminating against students studying religion. The Orthodox Union called the decision a “frontal assault” on the U.S. Constitution.

Supporters of the separation of church and state were concerned that a ruling for Davey would have set the standard that religious institutions must be funded in the same manner as non-religious entities.

“The court said it would have been constitutional to extend the aid to Davey and it also said it didn’t have to,” said Marc Stern, a lawyer for the American Jewish Congress. “That’s going to drop everything into the hands of the legislatures.”

The ruling is not likely to affect whether state and local municipalities create voucher programs, because the high court already has said they are constitutional. However, last week’s ruling could affect the crafting of such programs because it clarifies that religious teachings need not be included in government funding of education.

The issue also could affect faith-based initiatives, which deal with whether government funds can be allocated to religious institutions.

Chief Justice William Rehnquist wrote in the majority opinion that Washington was not forcing students to choose between their religious beliefs and receiving a government benefit. And it was not discriminating against the study of religion, only denying a benefit for the pursuit of training for religious professions.

“Training someone to lead a congregation is an essentially religious endeavor,” Rehnquist wrote. “Indeed, majoring in devotional theology is akin to a religious calling as well as an academic pursuit.”

Rehnquist also said that denial of the scholarship was not a heavy burden for Davey.

“It imposes neither criminal nor civil sanctions on any type of religious service or rite,” the opinion read. “It does not deny to ministers the right to participate in the political affairs of the community.”

Justices John Paul Stevens, Sandra Day O'Connor, Anthony Kennedy, David Souter, Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Stephen Breyer joined Rehnquist.

U.S. Supreme Court Ruling Divides Jewish Organizations Justice Antonin Scalia, in a dissent joined by Justice Clarence Thomas, argued that withholding a benefit to some individuals solely on the basis of religion was a violation of the Free Exercise Clause.

“The First Amendment, after all, guarantees free exercise of religion, and when the state exacts a financial penalty of almost $3,000 for religious exercise-whether by tax or by forfeiture of an otherwise available benefit--religious practice is anything but free,” he wrote.

Davey was denied a taxpayer-funded Promise Scholarship after he opted for a double major in pastoral studies and business administration. The state argued that the policy was in keeping with its constitutional mandate that no public money go to religious instruction.

The scholarship did not forbid Davey from taking the same course load, only from declaring his major to be pastoral studies.

Davey lost his lawsuit in U.S. District Court, but the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit reversed the lower court’s ruling, saying it violated Davey’s right to the free exercise of religion.

Orthodox groups expressed anger at the high court’s ruling, “Today is a sad day for America’s ‘first freedom’ of religious liberty,” said Nathan Diament, Director of the O.U.’s Institute for Public Affairs. “Our nation’s highest court has approved state action which denies a person a government benefit solely upon the basis that the person is engaged in what the court acknowledges is constitutionally protected religious exercise.”

Briefs filed by the Orthodox Union and Agudath Israel of America suggested that liberties of those studying theology were being compromised.

David Zwiebel, Agudath’s executive vice president for government and public affairs, said there was a silver lining in that the court went out of its way to soften the impact of the case.

Rehnquist noted in his opinion that Washington's scholarship “goes a long way toward including religion in its benefits.”

It allows money to be used for religious-studies classes and at predominantly religious schools.

Orthodox officials believe this statement suggests the court is open to government funding of religious schools and programs as long as it is not theology.

The Jewish groups supporting Washington included the American Jewish Committee, the American Jewish Congress and the Anti-Defamation League.

Leaders of these organizations suggested that the ruling prevented a major defeat for church-state separation but does not represent a regression from recent rulings allowing religious schools to receive vouchers and other federal aid.

“The court has really adopted an unremarkable perspective that simply to say a religious activity may be funded is not to say it must fund all programs,” said Richard Foltin, legislative director of the AJCommittee.

Leaders of these organizations suggested that the ruling prevented a major defeat for church-state separation but does not represent a regression from recent rulings allowing religious schools to receive vouchers and other federal aid.

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 21

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR To the Editor: The National Conference of Community and Justice, NCCJ, has a 75year history as a national organization of standing with a strong voice for all people, without regard to race, religion or gender. NCCJ believes that any vehicle which intentionally or unintentionally promotes anti-Semitism or anti-Muslim sentiments is dangerous and irresponsible. Over the centuries, Passion Plays have been used as vehicle to inflame relationships between Jews and Christians, resulting in violence against millions of Jews across the globe.

NCCJ shares the concerns many Jews have expressed, worldwide, that Mel Gibson’s unrelenting violent portrayal of the last 12 hours in the life of Jesus may cause an increase in anti-Semitism or provoke anger and vengeance rather than peace and reconciliation.

Let us seize this moment to become advocates for reason and justice.

Throughout our human history, the consequences of perpetuating contempt have been catastrophic. From the Holocaust to 9-11, we are reminded of how quickly any individual or group of people can become scapegoats and targets of violence because of fear and ignorance.

What is the essential message of Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ ? Is it love or is it hate?

NCCJ’s purpose is not to critique a film. We simply hope that during this holy Christian season, any discussion around Gibson’s film reflects contemporary teachings and the letting go of old myths and beliefs that have no relevance

in today’s world, a world where peace and harmony rests upon the shoulders of those with the courage to denounce hatred and embrace understanding.

Whether one chooses to see the film or not, the release of Gibson’s film is an opportunity to accept our individual responsibility to think and act with fairness and respect, to have the courage to speak the truth, and to become allies for anyone whose life has been damaged by bigotry.

NCCJ supports positive expressions of belief and faith that inspire people, not divide them. We challenge each of us to examine with open minds and hearts, not only Passion plays, but any form of expression that has the potential to profile and stereotype people.

There are many ways to discuss theology and religion that promote understanding and respect; NCCJ dedicates itself, regionally and nationally, to furthering understanding, respect and acceptance, which are, after all, the core values of most religions.

Barbara M Angelillo Executive Director NCCJ-Midlands Region To the Editor: The Feb. 27 coverage of The Passion situation was brilliant--from your excellent editorial to Rabbi Debbie Stiel’s “Sparks from the Word” column.

Especially interesting, albeit controversial, was Rabbi Daniel Lapin’s take. His piece provided needed balance to the Abe Foxman/ADL position.

Congratulations.

Howard Silber

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Page 22

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 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

PERSONAL My dear friends, my warmest and grateful thanks to the many good people who sent me get well cards, beautiful flowers, phone calls, personal visits and gifts to help me towards a full recovery. I love all of you. Please come visit me.

Mary Fellman

March 5, 2004

Synagogues B’NAI ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE FRIDAY: Purim Services, 7:30 p.m. with potluck oneg to follow.

Full reading of the Megillah, 7:30 p.m.; Purim Carnival to benefit USY, Sunday, Mar. 7, 11:30 a.m.

BETH EL SYNAGOGUE

BETH ISRAEL 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: Morning Services, 9:30 a.m.; “Alternative Service,” 10 a.m. featuring spirited singing, several new English readings, and an interactive Torah discussion; Kiddush sponsored by Beth El Synagogue.

Junior Congregation for grades four to seven, 10 a.m.; K’tantan, 10:45 a.m.; Evening Services, 6:10 p.m.

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

SITTER SERVICE During Friday Night and Saturday mornings services, on a drop-in basis, at no charge.

ADULT EDUCATION SUNDAY, 10 a.m. Session three of eight-week Hebrew Crash Course, in the library; 11 a.m.

Adult Bible Study Group, with Dr. Leonard Greenspoon, continues with The Book of Samuel, in the library.

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

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

SPECIAL PROGRAMS THURSDAY, March 4, noon: “A Jewish Perspective on Jesus” with Rabbi Levin. A mini-course open to the entire Jewish community. To reserve a place, please call Harriet Einziger, 492.8550.

Young Omaha Jewish Singles for those ages 18-25 (our newest group) will sponsor a bowling party at Cougar Lanes, Saturday, March 13, 7:30 p.m.

SATURDAY, March 6: Mincha, 6:10 p.m., followed by abbreviated reading of Megillah, approximately 6:45 p.m.; “The Megillah According to the Beatles” program, 7:30 p.m., with songs, ice cream, beverages and costume parade.

Office Hours: Monday- Thursday, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Fridays, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Services conducted by Rabbi Howard Kutner.

FRIDAY: Kabbalat Shabbat, 6 p.m.

SATURDAY: Morning Services, 8:45 a.m.; Free babysitting, 9:30 a.m.; Tot Shabbat programs for ages 18 months through six years, 10 a.m.; Junior Congregation, 10:30 a.m.; Kiddush sponsored by Maggie and Donald Gerber in honor of the anniversary of Ben Gerber’s Bar Mitzvah; Megillah reading, 7:30 p.m. followed by a free dairy dinner.

SUNDAY: Morning Service, 9 a.m. with megillah reading to follow; Megillah reading with Seudah to follow, 5 p.m.

Weekday Morning Service, 7 a.m.; Weekday Evening, 6:30 p.m.

MONDAY: Passover Workshop led by Rabbi Simon, 7 p.m.

TUESDAY: Sisterhood program, “Gemstones of the Bible”, 7:30 p.m.

Services will take place in the new building with the 52nd St. Chapel Minyan open for Kabbalat Shabbat and Shabbat morning services.

BEYT SHALOM FRIDAY: Shabbat in the Home SATURDAY: Purim Party and Havdalah, 6 p.m. at the synagogue. Come in costume and enjoy a pizza and ice cream supper, followed by a special outing for religious school students.

SUNDAY: Religious School, Purim Party at the Blumkin Home, 1:30 p.m. Call the synagogue for details. Religious School, 2-3 p.m.

CHABAD HOUSE 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.

The Journey Begins: a Women’s Seder

by ALLISON LATENSER Preparations are being finalized for the community-wide Women’s Seder on Wednesday, March 17, at the Jewish Community Center. This unique seder will provide opportunities for learning, fellowship, spiritual renewal, singing, laughing and...shopping!

The gift shops of Beth El and Temple Israel will offer seder plates, matza covers and other Passover items. Those who want to bake for Passover can find new ideas in Unleavened. This cookbook offers more than 90 recipes from some of the best cooks in Women of Reform Judaism.

Those who would rather by their desserts pre-made can taste some Passover desserts available this year from Bag ’N Save.

“The committee has worked very hard to create this amazing program,” said Chairman Rosie Zweiback. “It has been wonderful to bring talented women together from every synagogue and Jewish women’s organization.”

Reservations are due by March 8. For more information, call Andi Willensky at 493.6393. To reserve a copy of Unleavened contact the Temple office at 556.6536. The cookbook is $18 and may be paid the evening of the Women’s Seder.

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 Service, 7:45 p.m. Oneg Shabbat hosted by Ruth Nisse.

SATURDAY: Torah Study, 10:45 a.m. led by Robert Friedman; Carnival Set-Up, for more information call the synagogue.

SUNDAY: No Religious School; Purim Service and Carnival, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.; Purim Megillah Shpiel Performance, 7 p.m.

INTRODUCTION TO HEBREW Class begins Tuesday, March 9, 5:45-6:45 p.m. and continues for seven weeks until April 27. You may still enroll by calling Temple secretary, Barb at 435.8004.

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

ROSE BLUMKIN JEWISH HOME SATURDAY: Services, 9 a.m.; led by Marty Shukert.

SUNDAY: Beyt Shalom Reconstructionist Congregation Purim Celebration, 1:30 p.m.

TEMPLE ISRAEL FRIDAY: Male members of Temple Israel are invited to a weekly informal get together at Spirit World, 7517 Pacific. Join us for relaxation and conversation, 11:45 a.m.; Tot Shabbat, 6 p.m.

Join Rabbi Aryeh Azriel and special surprise visitors for a Purim adventure; Shabbat Evening Service, 7:30 p.m. Rabbi Craig Marantz and Cantor Wendy Shermet will officiate. Rabbi Azriel and Rabbi Marantz will present a series of four teaching sermons about “Christianity through Jewish Eyes”, starting with Rabbi Marantz’s sermon this evening, entitled, “Basic Concepts”.

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

Jory Goldstrom, son of Carol and Larry Goldstrom, celebrates his Bar Mitzvah at Shabbat Services.

Candlelighting Friday, March 5, 6:02 p.m.

SITTER SERVICE Available at each Friday evening service, Saturday mornings when there is a bar/bat mitzvah, as well as Sunday mornings when there is Religious School. Please make a reservation through the office so we may plan accordingly. Cost is $2 per family. Sorry, no facilities for infants.

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

THURSDAY: Adult Study with the Clergy with Rabbi Aryeh Azriel.

TUESDAY, March 9, 7 p.m.: Poetry of Holocaust. Susan Aizenberg, Creighton University Assistant Professor, will present what has been called “the poetry of witness” by several survivors. The presentation is open to the community and is sponsored by the Hermene Zweiback Center for Lifelong Jewish Learning.

PURIM BOX DINNER AND MEGILLAH READING SATURDAY, March 6: Box Dinner and create your own masks, 6 p.m.; Purim Spiel, costume parade, Megillah reading and Oneg Shabbat sponsored by the Women of the Reform Judaism, Omaha, 7 p.m. For reservations: tisrael@qwest.net or call 556.6536.

SUNDAY, March 7, noon: Purim Carnival, Fun for the whole family--food, games, prizes.

Tickets will be sold at the door, good for both food and games.

The Carnival is sponsored by the Omaha Temple Youth Group and the Women Reform Judaism, and open to the community.

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. with a Kiddush to follow afterward.

SUNDAY: Purim Carnival and Adult Purim Social.

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

THURSDAY, March 11, 7:30 p.m., Mindstretchers Series SATURDAY, March 13, 7:30 p.m., for the third annual ARTrageous Evening of Art.

BAR MITZVAH Nathan Wesley Wolf, son of Nancy and Phil Wolf, will celebrate his Bar Mitzvah on Saturday, March 13 at Temple Israel.

Nathan is a seventh-grade honor roll student at Russell Middle School.

He enjoys playing basketball, and video games. He also enjoys bowling, reading and spending time with friends.

For his Mitzvah project, he worked as a Junior Counselor at Camp Gan Israel at Chabad Summer 2003. He also attends meetings with Yachad thru JFS. Nathan has a sister, Hannah, and a brother, Alexander.

His grandparents are Harriett Wolf of Wheeling, IL and the late Aaron Wolf, and Donald Lindow of Grosse Pointe Woods, MI and the late Helen Lindow.

March 5, 2004

Be Happy! It’s Adar!

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FLORENCE JEANETTE WEINER Florence Weiner died Feb. 28.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Max I. Weiner, and her daughter, Rayola Jean McCurdy.

She is survived by sons and daughters-in-law, Dennis and Karen Weiner and Harry and Kathy Weiner; seven grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and three greatgreat-grandchildren.

Memorials to the Alzheimer’s Association.

EARLY DEADLINE NOTICE Due to the production of the April 2 Passover issue, all synagogue schedules are due in the Jewish Press office no later than Monday, March 22; also, there is no “regular news” in that issue. For more information, call 334.6450.

There’s Something for Everybody Enrolled in Adult Education at Temple Israel

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by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Jewish, folk, and rock tunes.

Temple Israel Susan Aizenberg, an assisCommunications tant professor at Creighton Coordinator University, will illuminate Adult education being a facets of the Holocaust priority at Temple Israel, through her presentation at classes are in session on Tuesday, March 9, 7 Tuesday through Thursday p.m., of “the poetry of witnights. History buffs have ness,” written by survivors been studying “Israel in the of the Shoah.

Middle East: Modern and Coming up this spring on Contemporary History” with Thursdays, beginning University of Nebraska at March 25, 7 p.m., is a Omaha Professor Moshe Jewish Journey Group on Gershovich Tuesday nights.

“Blame and Bloodshed: For those who wanted to Ethics of the Israelirefresh their prayer Hebrew Palestinian Conflict.” Dr. and enhance their appreciaToby Schonfeld, University tion of the liturgy and music of Nebraska Medical Center, of Shabbat, like Ellen Long will lead the group. and Sarah Schondelmeyer, In addition to these eduthere was Cantor Wendy cational opportunities, adult Shermet’s “Prayer Hebrew are enrolled in Basic and Music” class on Judaism and Family School Thursdays nights. as well as several daytime For a lighter touch, Bette classes. Rosie Zweiback, Evans, Adam Rosen, Mike Temple’s program director, Walts, Karen Delgadillo, promises many of this year’s and Gary Kaplan met on favorites will be back next Thursday nights for “Jews year along with new classes and Guitars.” It’s too cold based on the adult educafor campfires, but not for Students in Prof. Gershovich’s class, top photo, Cantor tion theme: “350 Years of camp music including Shermet’s, middle photo, and Jews and Guitars.

Jews in America.”

Old Address ________________________________________

s.c o m

MAX PLATT Max Platt died Feb. 29 at the age of 91. Services were held March 2 at Beth El Cemetery.

Platt was active for many years in B’nai B’rith.

He is survived by his wife of 71 years, Dorothy Margolin Platt; son and daughter-in-law, Michael D. and Barbara Platt; daughter, Connie Stillwell; grandchildren, Jeff and Ellen Platt, Kim and Jay Noddle, Lisa and Julian Leopold of Sioux City, IA; Jill and Bill Swanberg of Leawood, KS; Joe and Katy Platt of Chicago, IL; Scott Singer of Seattle, WA; Carolyn and Lyle Zastera; and Margie Singer of Dallas, TX; and 10 great-grandchildren.

Memorials to the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home.

60 Years Experience With Jewish Lettering and Memorials

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Parshat Tetzaveh This week’s Parsha, Tetzaveh, speaks about the sets of special garments worn by the Priests, and the inauguration of the Tabernacle, the portable sanctuary for the Israelites in the wilderness. G-d speaks to Moses, saying, “Tetzaveh” which means “you will command” the children of Israel to bring pure olive oil for the menorah in the Mishkan, the Tabernacle.

The portion focuses on the inclusion of all the people of Israel to bring them to a deeper closer relationship with G-d, who ultimately promises to reside among them. The people provide the materials for the Tabernacle and its decorations; the various craftsmen fashion all the necessary items; the Kohanim perform the services, and G-d of course is the source of all the commands.

The Kohanim, the Priests, wore beautiful, distinguished clothes as they performed their Avodah, their services in the Temple, and these regal garments served to remind the Israelites to behave respectfully toward each other and the Kohanim. Aaron, the High Priest, wore a golden headband or tzitz, on his turban. It was inscribed with the words”Kodesh laHakodesh, holy to G-d”, to show the people to behave properly, to refrain from Lashon Hara (gossip) and to atone for their sins.

Another gorgeous aspect of the Kohen Gadol’s vest-

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Pulverente MONUMENT CO. ment was the Choshen, the breastplate of beautifully woven material. It contained 12 precious gems, upon which were engraved the names of the 12tribes of Israel. When Aaron the Kohen Gadol prayed, he asked G-d to help and bless all the people of the tribes.

The Kohen wore a me-il, a coat of woven blue wool with tinkling golden bells around the bottom hemline.

These bells served in part to announce to the Israelites that the Kohen was doing his Avodah on their behalf and they should be praying at that time, too.

Parsha Tetzaveh also includes one of the themes of Purim. People generally respond with more enthusiasm to new experiences than to routine ones. We’ve all seen the glow of a Bar or Bat Mitzvah on his or her day celebrate their obligation to do Mitzvot. But how many of us continue to perform our Jewish responsibilities every day with such joy? G-d understands this challenge to our human nature, and in this Parsha, charges the Jewish people to overcome their listlessness. Aaron and his sons, the Kohanim, carry out their tasks with joy and fervor, and so too, the holiday of Purim requires us to celebrate with energy and zest.

We observed the Yahrzeit of Moses on the seventh of Adar. One of his greatest accomplishments was imparting G-d’s laws to the people and preparing them to take responsibility for themselves after his death. We now move into the celebration of Purim, the time to deepen our sense of spirituality.

Go to your synagogue; dress in costume; sing and dance and “Be Happy, It’s Adar!”

Rini Gonsher is a longtime Jewish educator who teaches at Temple Israel and Beyt Shalom. She is married to Rabbi Allan Gonsher.

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by RINI GONSHER

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

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March 5, 2004

Young Judaea Year-Course Participants Meet with Israeli Prime Minister

by DANIEL KEEBLER mean that the normal, Young Judaea’s Year everyday problems in this Course in Israel country have suddenly disOur meeting with the appeared. Nor does the government representatives relentless terrorism mean last month turned out to be that Israel can forget the war a trial run for taking the disbeing waged against the cussion to higher officials, Jewish homeland from namely, Prime Minister abroad. The anti-Israel force Ariel Sharon. Our job was is growing on campuses to show the Prime Minister across the United States. and his officials that our Sharon said it bluntly, year in Israel has made a “The situation on the unisignificant impact both on Young Judaea Year Course participants met Prime Minister Ariel versity campuses is bad.” the communities in Israel Sharon, center, and his advisors, from left, Meir Sheetrit, Recently mock Israeli Assistant Minister of Finance; Salei Meridor, Director of Jewish checkpoints have sprung and on our own lives.

My Young Judaea Agency; Yisrael Maimon, Secretary to the Prime Minister; and up on campuses. AntiShalem group worked Tzipi Livni, Aliyah and Absorption Minister, included Seth Israeli activists have conwith a group of disabled Gildenblatt, left, Cincinnati, OH; Emma Katz, Eugene, OR; structed their own version adults in the small city of Amanda Vojcak, Glenview, IL; Keith Berman, Director of Year of Israel’s security barrier, Arad. Many of the adults Course; Josh Hantman, Great Britain; Mark LaVine, Augusta, GA; mislabeling it as an in the disabled group had Jared White, Dunedin, FL; Daniel Keebler, Mercer Island, WA; “apartheid” wall. Students been born and raised in Dan Krakow, Director of Young Judaea in Israel; Mara Posner, have even caused such Arad without ever leaving Brooklyn, NY; Jeremy Seeff and Debbie Danon, Great Britain. strong anti-Israel commothis small city in the Negev. Every day, they go to day- tion that Israeli ambassadors have been forced to cancare, where they sew, knit, paint, draw, and play cel speeches on campuses due to security risks. If games. Every day, the same routine; they never did anti-Israel student activists won’t let Israeli ambassadors anything special. fight for Israel, then we Jewish American students must.

So our group organized a field trip. Since many of I stared into the Mr. Sharon’s eyes as I explained the them had never been anywhere in the Jewish importance of long-term programs in Israel: “We are the Homeland--except for Arad--we decided to take them only people who can lead pro-Israel activities on camto “Mini Israel,” a theme park that displays all of pus. We are the only ones who can say, ‘I’ve been Israel…in miniature format. there; I’ve seen the situation; I have the facts.’” I will I was glad to show the Prime Minister that we were always remember his parting words to us: “Israel is a making a difference here. That was the point--to show difficult country to live in. But we can say it is ours.” how important long-term Israel programs are. My friends For more information about spending a year in Israel (including Omahan Rachel Katzman, who, like Daniel, after high school graduation, visit: www.studyspent several months volunteering in Arad) and I may not abroad.com/content/portals/Israel_port.html or be able to solve the terrorist situation, but there are other www.wzo.org.il/en/programs/; for information problems that need attention. about Young Judaea and its programs, visit Just because Israel is surrounded by terrorism doesn’t www.yearcourse.org.

Omaha Youth Groups Plan “Shabbat Across America”

by RACHEL BLUM JCC Program Director Next Friday night, members of the Omaha Jewish Youth Groups, BBYO, NCSY, OTYG, and USY will bring their families to the Jewish Community Center to participate in the eighth year of the National Jewish Outreach Program’s Shabbat Across America/Canada.

The goal of the national program is to renew interest in the fourth of the Ten Commandments--observing

the Sabbath. Omaha teens are planning to meet this goal through everyone’s favorite emotion…laughter!

“Our theme is based on Saturday Night Live, only on a Friday,” explained Shiri Tene, the BBYO committee representative. “We’ve thrown all sorts of comedy into the evening, including top ten lists, Jewish jokes, paper bag skits, and so much more.” Avi Katzman, NCSYer added, “We’re hoping this factor will attract teens from all youth groups, as well as their family members.”

Our teens will be joining approximately 700 synagogues across the continent that will simultaneously open its doors to practicing and non-practicing Jews alike, so they may join together to experience and rejoice in a traditional Shabbat service and festive meal.

Prompted by the growing rate of Jewish assimilation in North America, NJOP hopes that a memorable and rewarding experience will infuse thousands of nonpracticing Jews with a sense of a greater commitment to Judaism.

The evening will be held at the Jewish Community Center, on Friday, March 12, and will begin with a song session at 5:30 p.m., followed by candlelighting, a Shabbat Service, and a kosher dinner. With the support of the Esther K. Newman/Carolyn Kully Newman Foundation, the cost for the evening is only $5 per person. Reservations are due by this Sunday, March 7, and can be made by contacting me at 334.6404.