March 21, 2003

Vol. LXXXII

No. 29

Omaha, NE

17 Adar 2, 5763

March 21, 2003

PRE-PASSOVER FOOD ISSUE COMING NEXT WEEK!

As Jewish Groups Brace for War, Security and Policy Top the Agenda by MATTHEW E. BERGER WASHINGTON (JTA)--When Scud missiles fell on Tel Aviv at the beginning of the 1991 Gulf War, David Harris was there. “We did not want Israel to face Iraqi Scud missile attacks alone,” said the Executive Director of the American Jewish Committee. Now, though he does not know what's in store for Israel as U.S. forces return to battle against Iraq, Harris plans to be back in Tel Aviv next week, leading a small contingent of his group’s leaders as a show of support for the Jewish state. Harris is one of many in the Jewish community returning to familiar roles, as the Jewish world again joins the rest of America in gearing up for war. Jewish organizations are engaged in intense planning for everything from security measures to policy statements--to how to talk to children about war. In part, they are relying on how they handled the 1991 war and the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks as guides for what they will do and say--and not say--in the weeks and months ahead. By the same token, times have changed, requiring new thinking and strategy to deal with the yetunknown, organizational leaders say. Some of the changes are obvious, such as the ubiquity of e-mail in aiding the communications process. Others are more substantial, including having to deal with the post-Sept. 11 threat of terrorist attacks on American soil and against Israel and Jewish institutions. In his ultimatum to Saddam Hussein on Monday that he go into exile or face military action, President

Bush alluded to the threat of attacks. “In desperation, he and terrorists groups might try to conduct terrorist operations against the American people and our friends,” Bush said. “These attacks are not inevitable. They are, however, possible. And this very fact underscores the reason we cannot live under the threat of blackmail.” As the nation went on high alert again this week, there were no new specific warnings to Jewish institutions. Most Jewish facilities already bolstered their security following the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. Still, several national Jewish groups, which take their cues from law enforcement, are informing their constituents to review and maintain security measures. The Jewish Community Relations Council of New York issued a security alert Tuesday morning, reminding its constituent agencies to be vigilant. Referring to Osama bin Laden’s fatwa, or religious edict, against “Jews and Crusaders,” David Pollock, Associate Executive Director of the New York JCRC, said there’s “no reason to believe that there’s anything that has changed his mind.” The Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations is coordinating an emergency alert system for its member organizations. Malcolm Hoenlein, Executive Vice-chairman of the Conference of Presidents, said war could elicit attacks by Islamic fundamentalist groups such as Hamas or Hezbollah as well. And the Anti-Defamation League rushed out an advanced edition of its manual, Keeping Your Jewish

An American living in Israel, Michal Silverstein, tries on a gas mask Sunday at a Jerusalem mall, as an Israeli soldier holds her wide-eyed 11-month-old baby, Tova. Photo by Brian Hendler/JTA. Institution Safe, in response to anxiety by Jewish communities around the country. As they strategize over policy during war, Jewish leaders are reviewing what they said and did in 1991, and how it can be improved this time around. “`We had processes in place in ’91,” Hoenlein said. “We had constant consultation, were convening regularly and we had regular communication." Conference calls and emergency meetings are expected to coordinate the messages that emerge from the organized Jewish community again. The goal is to form a consensus, but little has been decided in advance because of the belief that developments will dictate the response.

While many Jewish leaders support the goal of regime change in Iraq, the Jewish people in the United States are divided, with many having participated in anti-war rallies over the past few months. That makes it even harder for the Jewish community to give a statement. “There are concerns about the Jewish community speaking out, being highly visible,” Hoenlein said. As in 1991, Jewish leaders are apprehensive that military action against Iraq is being perceived as being done for the benefit of Israel. The goal, leaders say, is to express support for American troops and a peaceful conclusion, but without giving the impression that the Jewish (Continued on page 2)

Israeli Artist Luba Bar Menachem to Visit Omaha by JEWISH PRESS News Service A resident of the Old City in cuts it out with Jerusalem and a friend of many in the a surgical knife Omaha Jewish community, Israeli or scalpel, artist Luba Bar Menachem will visit paints the the city April 4-7. Omaha is one of sevdesign with eral cities on her exhibition tour. gouache, waterHer works will be on display and color, and gold available for purchase during a receppaint, and fintion hosted by Shirley and Buddy ishes it with Goldstein, Fran and Jerry Milder, handwritten Cheryl and Ron Cooper and Ann and c a l l i g r a p h y. Donald Goldstein. The reception, open Luba Bar Menachem Recently, she to the community, will be Saturday evening, April has begun to make limited 5, 8-10 p.m. and Sunday, April 6, 12- 5 p.m. at edition laser cuts and 9856 Devonshire Drive. museum-quality art Bar Menachem made aliyah to Israel from Russia prints, using the latest technology of giclée printing in 1971. She has been working in the field of art, which closely matches the original artwork. Judaica and papercutting for the past 20 years, conCurrent works, as well as personal pieces belongcentrating on producing handmade ketubot (mar- ing to several Omahans will be exhibited during her riage contracts), Megillot and illuminated scriptur- visit. She welcomes custom orders. al verses. Her work is widely known and hangs in For further information about Bar Menachem’s many private art collections as well as public insti- works or the reception, call Ann Goldstein at 391tutions. 1050 or Cheryl Cooper at 391-7514. In creating her papercuts, Bar Menachem first The text of the paper cut, above, is taken from draws the original design on paper or parchment, Samuel I, 25:6. Entitled “Peace Be to You,” it is

a limited edition of 450 and is 10x12”. The number seven holds a special place in Judaism, according to artist Luba Bar Menachem, as in other cultural traditions and mythology. In the papercut, the seven birds serve to remind us of the traditions associated with this number--such as the seven days of creation, the seven spheres of heaven, the seven colors of the rainbow and the seven blessings recited at Jewish weddings.

INSIDE: Woman Behind DNA Discovery ........... page 8 Small Businesses in Times of Crises: Shop Shalom Comes to Omaha ............ page 9 Read It & Eat .......................................... page 11

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

March 21, 2003

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Third Grade Consecrated at Beth El

FRIDAY, MARCH 21 Visions Luncheon, 12:30 p.m.at Venice Inn Elinor A. Whitman Book Appreciation Contest Awards, 2 p.m. C L I P & S A V E

SUNDAY, MARCH 23 Visions at the Playhouse, 2 p.m. MONDAY, MARCH 24 YES Program, 10 a.m. Florence Melton Adult Mini School, 11 a.m. & 7 p.m. Talmud Class with Rabbi Kutner, 7 p.m. at Beth Israel

by JEWISH PRESS News Service C L I P & S A V E

TUESDAY, MARCH 25 BBYO Night, 6 p.m. BBYO Advisor Appreciation Dinner, 6 p.m. Federation Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m.

C L I P & S A V E

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26 Melton Mini-School, 11 a.m. Jewish Educational & Library Services Budget Meeting, noon B’nai B’rith Breadbreakers, noon at the Park Inn Regency Lodge Federation Planning & Evaluation Committee Meeting, 7 p.m. THURSDAY, MARCH 27 Walk-in Drop-in Activity, 10 a.m. Yiddish Group Meeting, 1 p.m. NCJW Book Club, 7 p.m. All events held at the JCC unless otherwise indicated.The Jewish Press is not responsible for the accuracy of events.To keep calendar accurate or for questions, call Marlene Hert at 334-6437. FOR A COMPLETE LISTING,VISIT THE FEDERATION’S WEBSITE: www.JewishOmaha.org (click on calendar)

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Parashat Tzav/Parah Somehow the word “heifer” seems like a more acceptable animal than “cow.” Not being a farm person by background, I don’t distinguish between a heifer and a cow. But red is red. This red heifer had to be all red. Any hairs of other colors at all would disqualify an animal from the purpose ascribed to it. There is one rabbinic statement that only three such cows had been found in all history! The Book of Leviticus had opened with the description of the principal sacrifices offered in the ancient sacrificial cult, and this description is continued in our Sidra; but we are interested only in the red heifer and Shabbat Parah, the second of the four special Shabbatot before Passover. This special reading for Parah gives instructions on how to prepare for ritual purity before Passover. We are no longer attuned to the idea of ritual purity or impurity. Notice the stress on ritual: this has nothing to do with cleanliness as such. We are talking about an ancient ritual. In our day, we are more or less astonished at our ancestors’ obsession with ritual purity and impurity, a subject much discussed in rabbinic Judaism. An American student, coming for the first time into this world of ritual purity and impurity is at a loss to understand what goes on here. The intricacies of ritual purity and impurity are enough to make his head swim and to leave him unhappy with this whole subject. And yet, traditional Jewish education of the past took the small child, ready at last for biblical study, and plunged him into this kind of study. Traditional Jews said that the pure Jewish child should be immersed in the study of purity. I leave to educators the question of educational theory. You might think that pride of place would go to lions and tigers and bears. It’s the dumb, grasschewing, placid heifer which captures our attention and wanders into our Sidra. But it has to be red. We may not discriminate by color--except here, in this ancient, long extinct ceremony.

C L I P & S A V E

Recent third grade consecration participants at Beth El Synagogue included: Alex Kirshebaum, left, Kevin Adler, Elizabeth Salkin, Sam Kohll, Hal Emas, Emily Giller, Max Saferstein-Hansen, Bradley Kutler, Lauren Cooper, Daniel Schlessinger. The Consecration Ceremony marked the youngster's formal induction into the study of Hebrew and Prayer. During the service, Rabbi Mordechai Levin and Education Director Anna Besser presented each student with a copy of Seymour Rossel’s Sefer HaAggada--a book that teaches Jewish values by retelling the wisdom legends of the sages.

EARLY DEADLINE NOTICE The Jewish Press office will be closed the first two and last two days of Passover, Thursday and Friday, April 17-18, and Wednesday and Thursday, April 23-24. Deadlines for upcoming issues are as follows: Issue Deadline April 11 Passover issue--no regular news April 18 Wednesday, April 9 April 25 Monday, April 14 May 2 Monday, April 21 Questions? Call 334-6448.

DEATH M. RAY MARSH, M.D. Dr. Ray Marsh died March 11 at the age of 84. Services were held March 13 at Temple Israel Cemetery. He is survived by daughter and son-in-law, Michele Marsh and John Terry of Omaha; daughters, Teri Marsh, Washington, D.C., Vicki Arnould, Florence, MA, Kim Olsen, Loudon, NH; son and daughter-in-law, Jonathon Marsh and Rita Jane, New York; son, Andrew Marsh, Boston, MA; grandchildren, Margaret, Caroline and Alex Terry of Omaha, Meghan, Holly, Caitlin and Dylan Arnould of Florence, MA, Bradley and Rachel Olsen of Loudon, NH. Memorials to the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home.

Jewish Groups Brace for War (Continued from page 1) community is embracing military action. American Jewish groups want their support to be seen from an American standpoint, not a Jewish one. “I don’t think the fact that we are Jews should mandate one way or another on how we react to war,” Foxman said. “It’s a moral issue.” Among the other issues Jewish leaders will be watching for is a resurgence of interest in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Some Jews are concerned that Israel could be forced to make concessions by the United States, in order to garner support for the war in the European and Arab worlds. Bush’s address last Friday--in which he said the “road map” for peace would be distributed to the parties after a Palestinian prime minister with real authority was confirmed--raised eyebrows among some Jewish leaders because of its timing, just days before the deadline in Iraq. On the grass-roots level, synagogue leaders are preparing for questions that will inevitably come from their own congregations. Many religious organizations have distributed suggested prayers that synagogues can recite for the American troops, for Israel and for peace.

LINCOLN CENTER Israel After Its Elections: What’s Next? by CHERYL KRUID The new government recently formed in Israel includes a stanch secular party that vows to decrease the power of Orthodox and ultra-Orthodox Judaism, two parties that are committed to expanding settlements on the West Bank, and a Primce minister who delares his willingness to make painful concessions to the Paslestinians in order to secure a pecae deal. If you’re wondering what policies the new Israeli government will pursue, then come to Lincoln to hear Jeff Spinner Halev, Schlesinger Professor of Policital Science and Judaic Studies, on Thursday, March 27, 7:30 p.m. The lecture will take place at the Nebraska Union, 14th and R Streets on the campus of the University of Nebraska. Looming over the mix in Prime Minister Ariel Sharon’s cabinet as well as the Knesset is the possible United States Invasion of Iraq, which the Bush Administration suggests will transform the Middle East. Spinner-Halev is a frequent visitor to Israel and will be spending the 2003-04 academic year as a research fellow at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. For more information, call 472-9561.

Upcoming Events Thursday, April 3, 7:30 p.m.: The 2003 Henry and Gretl Wald Lecture series presents Alicia Ostriker, who will speak on “Vision and Revision: the Bible and Contemporary Midrash” at the Great Plains Center Art Gallery, 1155 ‘Q’ St. Tuesday, April 29, 7:30 p.m., Cantor Leo Fettman, Cantor Emeritus of Beth Israel Synagogue, is the featured speaker for the Nebraska Holocaust Commemoration in the State Capitol Rotunda. Survivors in the Omaha area are welcome to participate in the candle lighting ceremony. For transportation, call Chairman Marcia Kusher at 402-489-5957.

March 21, 2003

SYNAGOGUES

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 3

Candlelighting Friday, March 21 .............................................. 6:19 p.m.

TEMPLE ISRAEL

BETH ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE

BETH EL SYNAGOGUE

Member of the Union of American Hebrew Congregations

Member of United Synagogues of Conservative Judaism

7023 Cass Street, Omaha, NE 68132-2651 556-6536 templeisrael-ne.org

Member of Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America

1502 No. 52 St., Omaha, NE. 68104 -5013 556-6288 BethIsrael@novia.net

14506 California Omaha, NE 68154-1980 492-8550 WEB--www.bethel-omaha.org

FRIDAY: Men’s Club, 11:45 a.m. All male members of Temple Israel are invited to a weekly informal get together at Spirit World, 7517 Pacific St. Join us for some relaxation and great conversation; Shabbat Comes to You, 3:45 p.m. Rabbi Craig Marantz and OTYG will lead a Shabbat service at Remington Heights; Early Worship Service, 5:30 p.m., Rabbi Marantz and Jeffrey Taxman will officiate using the Union Prayer Book; Family Service, 5:30 p.m., Rabbi Aryeh Azriel and Cantor Wendy Shermet will officiate. SATURDAY: Bagels and Sacred Books, 9:30 a.m., in the Milder Center. Please join us as we continue study of Traditional Prayers, Modern Commentaries: The Amidah; Morning service, 10:30 a.m. Matthew Baker Heyman, son of Betsy Baker and Richard Heyman, will celebrate his Bar Mitzvah. SITTER SERVICE Sitter Service is available each Friday evening at the 5:30 service, Saturday mornings when there is a bar or bat mitzvah, as well as Sunday mornings when there is religious school. Charge is $2 per family. Please make reservations with the office. SUNDAY: Purim Carnival, noon-2 p.m. Tickets sold at the door, good for both food and games. The carnival, sponsored by the Temple Israel Youth Group, is open to the community. ADULT EDUCATION TUESDAY, March 25: “Taking Leave: The Jewish Roots of Christianity”, 7-8:30 p.m. John Dacey will lead this Jewish Journey Group’s examination of how Christianity adapts Jewish concepts to its faith tradition and where Judaism differs. WEDNESDAY, March 26: The Jews of Spain: History and Culture, 6:45-8:15 p.m. with Prof. Guy Matalon. THURSDAY, March 27: Beyond Basic Hebrew, 9:15-10 a.m.

Office hours: Monday through Thursday, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Fridays, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Services conducted by Rabbi Howard Kutner. FRIDAY: Kabbalat Shabbat, 6:25 p.m.; The West Minyan is at the home of David and Janet Kohll, at 6:25 p.m. A weekly e-mail update is now being sent out, listing synagogue events. Please e-mail the office to be on the list. SATURDAY: Morning Services, 8:45 a.m. Free babysitting begins at 10 a.m.; Junior Congregation, 10:30 a.m., Kiddush is sponsored by Sisterhood. Mincha, 6:15 p.m., followed by Shalosh Suedot and Ma’ariv; Havdalah, 7:20 p.m. SUNDAY: Services, 9 a.m. and 6:25 p.m. WEEKDAYS: Services, 7 a.m. and 6:25 p.m

FRIDAY: Come join a joyous, musical Kabbalat Shabbat service, 6 p.m. A THOUGHT FOR SHABBAT To receive Rabbi Levin’s weekly “Thought For Shabbat” e-mail message, please send your e-mail address to Exec@bethel-omaha.org. This message is free and open to the entire community. SATURDAY: Morning services, 9:30 a.m., Bat Mitzvah of Jacklyn Saferstein Hansen, daughter of Jeffrey Hansen and Rhonda Saferstein. The family will host Kiddush after services. Rabbi Levin’s Torah Class, 6 p.m. informal discussion and snack, followed by services at 6:30 p.m. SUNDAY: The Totally Crazy Purim Carnival, 11:30 a.m., is sponsored by BILU-USY and offers food, games and prizes for the whole family (the Beth El Youth Chorus will not meet); Evening services and study session, 5:30-6 p.m. This relaxed, informal minyan led by Gastón Bolgomolni, explores the structure of daily services and the meaning of specific prayers. This Sunday’s topic: S’firat Ha-Omer: What’s Behind the Counting of Omer? ADULT EDUCATION WEDNESDAY: Adult B’nai Mitzvah class, 7 p.m., with Cantor Berkovitz. This week, Rabbi Levin will discuss The Way Into Jewish Prayer: Why and How We Pray with the class. THURSDAY: Rabbi Levin’s Introduction to Judaism Class, noon-1 p.m. The current focus is Uncovering the Deep Messages of the Jewish Holidays. Lunch is available by reservation. SPECIAL EVENT Saturday, March 29: Hazak sponsored luncheon following services with Ritual Director, Gastón Bolgomolni in “Gastón Talks About Music.” Call Natalie Rubin, 334-5893, for reservations.

TIFERETH ISRAEL Member of United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism

3219 Sheridan Blvd., Lincoln, NE 68502-5236 tiferethisraellincoln.org

423-8569

Services conducted by Rabbi Stanley M. Rosenbaum. Minyan, Monday & Thursday, 7:15 a.m. FRIDAY: Services, 8 p.m. SATURDAY: Morning service, 9:30 a.m., Junior Congregation, 11 a.m. followed by Kiddush. MEN’S GROUP Meets at The Knolls every Wednesday at 12:30 p.m. SAVE THE DATE Thursday, May 1, Friday, May 2 and Sunday, May 4: Congregants may bring their “stuff” to the synagogue after Passover for Tifereth Israel’s Garage Sale.

CONGREGATION B’NAI JESHURUN SOUTH STREET TEMPLE

B’NAI ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE 618 Mynster St., Council Bluffs, IA 51503-0766 Phone: 322-4705 e-mail: doc jeb @aol.com FRIDAY: Evening Service, 7:30 p.m. Oneg will follow.

BEYT SHALOM

An Affiliate of the Jewish Reconstructionist Federation

3012 S. 119th St., P.O. Box 241130 Omaha, NE 68124-5130 660-2395 http://welcome.to/beytshalom/ SUNDAY: Religious Hebrew School, 3:30 p.m. at the JCC. TUESDAY: Religious Hebrew School, 4 p.m. at the JCC.

Member of the Union of American Hebrew Congregations

2061 S. 20th St., Lincoln, NE 68502-2797 435-8004 jewishnebraska.org FRIDAY: Shabbat service, 7:45 p.m., led by Maria Cadwallader. David Rosenbaum will give the sermon, followed by an oneg. SATURDAY: Morning Service, 9:30 a.m., Deborah Swearingen will lead services; Torah Study, 10:30 a.m. SUNDAY: No Religious School. MONDAY: Hebrew, 7 p.m. at Temple TUESDAY: Hagaddah class with Rabbi Milder begins, 7 p.m. WEDNESDAY: AA Meeting, 7 p.m. in the Library. THURSDAY: B’nai Mitzvah class, 5 p.m.

OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE SAC Memorial Chapel 301 Lincoln Highway, Offutt AFB, NE 68113 294-6244 FRIDAY: Services, 7:30 p.m..

CHABAD HOUSE An Affiliate of the Worldwide Chabad-Lubavitch Movement

1866 So. 120th St., Omaha, NE 68144-1646 Phone: 330-1800 E-MAIL--chabad@aol.com WEBSITE: www.nebraskajudaism.com Services conducted by Rabbi Mendel Katzman. Monday-Friday, services at 7 a.m. SATURDAY: Morning Service, 9:30 a.m., followed by a Kiddush luncheon. SUNDAY: Morning Service, 8:30 a.m. ADULT EDUCATION TUESDAY: Parsha HaShavuah (weekly Torah portion), 7-8:30 p.m., led by rabbinic student Mendel Hecht. To register for any class, please call Jennifer at 330-1800, or e-mail chabadoffice@aol.com.

ROSE BLUMKIN JEWISH HOME SATURDAY: Services, 9 a.m., conducted by Marty Shukert. All services are open to the community.

Beth El Hosts Congregational Shabbat Dinner by OZZIE NOGG On Friday evening, March 28, following the 5:30 p.m. Musical Kabbalat Shabbat Service, Beth El members, their families and friends, will join together to share a traditional Shabbat meal. The dinner will honor BESTT fifth and sixth graders. According to BESTT Director, Anna Besser, “Beth El’s Kabbalat Service is very popular--warm and welcoming. The dinner promises to be filled with laughter and song, too, and we invite all ages to come and have a good time.” Cost for the dinner is $11.50 for adults and $6.50 for children ages 5-12. Children up to age five are free. Reservations may be made with the Beth El office--492-8550.

B’NAI MITZVAH Jeri Lein Kohn, daughter of Rick and Cindy Kohn, celebrated her Bat Mitzvah on Friday, March 7, at Congregation B’nai Jeshurun. A seventh grade student at Pound Middle School, she enjoys swimming, fencing and writing. For her Mitzvah Project Jeri is making a donation of Pizza to the IDF. Jeri has a sister, Elizabeth, 17, and a brother,

Benjamin, 19. Grandparents are Ralph and Darlene Harris of Bullhead City, AZ, and the late Jerrold and Dorothy Kohn. Adam Samual Tuvman, son of Annie and Ken Tuvman, celebrated his Bar Mitzvah on Saturday, Feb. 8, at Adath Jeshuran Congregation in Minneapolis, MN. Adam has a brother, Isaac. Grandparents are Rachel and Carl Rosenberg of Omaha, and Estelle and Bernie Tuvman of Los Angeles, CA.

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

March 21, 2003

Where’s Queen Esther Now That We Need Her?

EDITORIAL In 1991, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, then head of the worldwide Chabad Lubavitch movement, predicted that the (first) Gulf War would end on Purim and that Israel would suffer minimal damage and few deaths. He was right on both counts. Twelve years later, another Gulf War has started, this time beginning on Purim. Coincidence? Depends on whether you believe in hashgacha protis--divine intervention. Since we just read the Megillah a few days ago, the story is fresh in our minds. King Ahashverous rules 127 provinces in ancient Persia. His wicked adviser, Haman, tries to persuade the king to kill all the Jews in his kingdom, but is thwarted by the pious Mordechai who gives his guidance to the beautiful Jewish Queen Esther. When the plot is revealed, Haman and his 10 evil sons are hanged and the Jews are saved--hence the celebration. By the way, Haman is supposedly a descendent of the biblical Amalek who tried to wipe out the fledgling people of Israel by attacking the weak, aged and young trailing as the last members of the wandering tribes--someone who can easily be compared to Hitler who started the Holocaust by killing the mentally and physically challenged--and Saddam Hussein who wiped out more than 20,000 of his own citizens with lethal nerve gas. Of course, even though God’s name is never mentioned in the Megillah, Esther’s own name (which is a play on the word, hester--hidden), suggests the God is behind this divine plan. George W. Bush--who believes in a world of good

BEHIND THE HEADLINES

and evil, right and wrong--also has a plan. And, there’s no question he believes he is on the “good” side, though many disagree with him (especially those with short memories who mostly live in Europe). Whether his plan will work remains to be seen, and, if we believe in the story of Purim, then we know the outcome is not really in our hands anyway. Regardless--the time for debate has ended and the second (and we hope final) Gulf War has begun. More than 350,000 American soldiers and support personnel are in this dangerous neighborhood. More than five million Jews live nearby in Israel. Patriot missile batteries (pictured on the front page of last week’s Jewish Press) line the beachfront in Tel Aviv--not the ordinary tourist site--but then, what is these days? (And kudos to 100+ young men of Yeshiva University, who arrived in Israel on Monday to stand in solidarity with their Israeli brothers and sisters and to perform any needed volunteer assistance.) We pray, that like in times of old, this story has a happy ending--that not only will our troops be spared and Israeli lives be saved, but that a wise Mordechai and clever Queen Esther will emerge for the Iraqi people--to overthrow the evil dictator and bring peace and freedom to their people. And may the wings of peace and democracy spread to all 127 provinces of ancient Persia--that would include of course Iran, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, the Palestinian people, and of course, Israel. And may we all say, Amen.

As Possible Strike on Baghdad Nears, Some Say U.S. is Fighting Israel’s War

by MATTHEW E. BERGER WASHINGTON (JTA)--An increasing number of people are blaming the looming Iraq war on Jewish officials in the Bush administration. The sentiments echo those made in 1991 by conservative commentator Patrick Buchanan, who said the Persian Gulf War was being touted by “the Israeli Defense Ministry and its amen corner in the United States.” Given widespread skepticism of the U.S. motives for a strike on Baghdad, some Jewish leaders say there is a potential for the “amen corner” comments to gain as much--if not more-traction as they did a decade ago. “There is a greater potential for mischief on this issue now than 11 or 12 years ago,” said Abraham Foxman, National Director of the AntiDefamation League. Signs at recent demonstrations opposing U.S. action in Iraq have made clear that some on the left believe that the war would be fought for the Jewish state. This sentiment is not confined to the protesters. Already, the ADL has had to chastise a member of Congress for saying that strong support for this war in the Jewish community was the catalyst for U.S. action. Ever since military action against Iraq became a possibility, the American Jewish community has been treading lightly, so as not to give overwhelming backing to the military

effort and fuel criticism that the war Dov Zakheim. would be for Israel’s benefit. The comments are predominantly in Many are cognizant of the backlash the international media--specifically against Buchanan after he made his in Europe and the Arab world--but are comments in 1991, and want to keep also finding their way into print in the Israel as much out of the mix as possi- United States. And, as opposed to ble. Israel itself has tried to stay out of 1991, the attacks on Jewish officials it, and the Bush administration has have come from the liberal as well as only mentioned the benefits for Israel the conservative media. after Arab leaders asked for details “They use code words,” Lawrence about the Kaplan, senlong-term ior editor of ...the problem is not that effects war The New would have people are saying a war with Republic, on the Iraq would help Israel, it’s the said of the IsraelicommentaPalestinian insinuation that Jewish and tors. “Very conflict. rarely does Zionist members of the Bush President anyone come B u s h ’ s administration are drumming out and say speech to the it’s a bunch A m e r i c a n up the war for Israel’s benefit. of Jews.” Enterprise In a Institute late last month is the most Washington Post editorial last month, public example of the administration Kaplan chastised University of Illinois responding to this Arab pressure. professor Paul Schroeder for comments But that has not stopped some from he made in Buchanan’s magazine--The characterizing Jewish leaders in the American Conservative--that suggested Bush administration as the strongest the war would be fought for Israel’s advocates for war, and making the benefit and is being pushed by Jewish implicit case that their support for neo-conservatives. Israel is the rationale. But Schroeder says he is trying to Among those being targeted are walk the fine line between criticizing Deputy Secretary of Defense Paul policy that can benefit Israel and Wolfowitz; Defense Policy Board being viewed as anti-Semitic. He Chairman Richard Perle; Douglas wants Americans to realize that Israel Feith, the undersecretary of defense has more to gain from this war than for policy, and Pentagon Comptroller the United States. (Founded in 1920)

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“Any reasonable risk assessment and cost-benefit utility analysis made in regard to the prospect of war for America and for Israel comes out very differently,” Schroeder told JTA. “For the United States, this is a high-risk, high-cost venture. For Israel, this is a very low-risk, low-cost venture with potential for great benefit.” Schroeder, who says he is a strong supporter of the American-Israel alliance, says he is not opposed to the war because of Israel, but because a war “would destroy our position in the world.” He says he wrote his article hesitantly, because of concern that he would be pegged as anti-Semitic. “There’s a kind of self-censorship that goes on here,” he said. “You’re afraid people will take your comments one way.” But Kaplan says the problem is not that people are saying a war with Iraq would help Israel, it’s the insinuation that Jewish and Zionist members of the Bush administration are drumming up the war for Israel’s benefit. “Rather than being a matter of correlation, they’re making it causation,” he said. He note that there are many non-Jewish advocates for war in the Bush staff--such as Bush’s national security adviser, Condoleezza Rice, and Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld--but they are never mentioned in these articles that speak of Israel’s interests. (Continued on page 5)

JEWISH PRESS COMMITTEE Joanie Jacobson, Vice-Chairman; Penny Endelman, Secretary; Steve Simon, Treasurer; Elyce Azriel; Jill Belmont; Jean Duitch; Kip Gordman; Bobbi Leibowitz; Howard K. Marcus; Scott Meyerson; Linda Saltzman; Joey Shyken; Melanie Weinstein; Amee Zetzman; George Schapiro (Honorary Committee Member). Editorials express the view of the writer and are not necessarily representative of the views of the Jewish Press Committee, the Jewish Federation of Omaha or the Omaha Jewish Community as a whole. The Jewish Press reserves the right to edit signed letters and articles for space and content. The Jewish Press is not responsible for the Kashrut of any product or establishment.

March 21, 2003

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 5

by HARRY ALLEN

Some Say U.S. is Fighting Israel’s War

By the time this is printed, the war with Iraq may of my closest colleagues--friends with whom I had have begun, it may be over, or it may never have shared many visions of the University. started--such are the imponderables of our current So I was shocked when one of them dragged out reality. the canard that Israel was responsible for all the Though the battle over Iraq may be the quintes- troubles in the Middle East. “We are losing patience sential issue of the day, for us as Jews and Israelis with you people” was his exact phrase. another seminal issue occupies our thoughts and Make no mistake about it. The worldwide rise in clouds our vision. That issue is the growing and vir- anti-Semitism camouflage as anti-Israel constitutes ulent anti-Semitism which has been spawned by a major victory for the irredentist streams of Islam. the Muslim world and has now infected much of Unfortunately, much of the liberal community has Europe, and unfortunatebought into the scenario. ...one of them dragged out ly much of the liberal and Muslim propaganda tells academic community in the world that Bush the canard that Israel was America. wants to destroy not only More and more, the Iraq but also the Muslim responsible for all the arguments about the war world to satisfy Israel and revolve around “the need troubles in the Middle East. Jewish interests--and too to solve the Israelimany accept the idea. Palestinian conflict.” We see articles that hint--and Even Michael Lerner, Editor of Tikkun magazine not very obliquely--that the presence of so many and one of the most outspoken advocates of Israel’s Jews in the administration is a major factor in the concessions was told not to come to an anti-war Bush policy. In other words, if it happens, it will be demonstration. because of the Jews and Israel. It is a curiosity to me that a Palestinian state is a The rhetoric sounds much the same as the sine qua non of peace in the Middle East, even garbage spewed by the America First committee in though there were no “Palestinians” prior to 1948. the run-up to American entry in World War II. But a Kurdish state is impossible, even though the In the fall of 1941 as a university student, I was Kurds have been a viable ethnic group for centuries. stunned when a much admired professor told me But there is no Kurdish-Israeli (Jewish) issue, so it that “the Jews are dragging America into a war to is okay to be against the Kurdish state, but one save their co-religionists in Germany.” I left his must be for a Palestinian one. class and never returned. It seems to this distant observer that regardless In the fall of 2002, I had lunch with a group of fac- of how things turn out in Iraq, regardless of what ulty at the University of Nebraska in Lincoln. It kind of farce takes place in the new “League of was a group that had lunched together every week Nations” (the U.N.), the terrible genie of antifor the 22 years I was in Lincoln and included some Semitism will be hard to force back into the bottle.

Jewish leaders are reaching out to senior Bush administration officials, asking them to think about the ramifications their comments on any possible strike could have for the Jewish community. But because Jewish leaders do not see the rash of remarks as a conspiracy, they say it is easier to address each comment individually, rather than speaking out publicly. “People will always say these things,” one Jewish official said. “It holds as much water as the reports that Jews were responsible for the attack on the World Trade Center.” This hasn’t stopped those who want to make the link from trying to do so. Israel is not the only rationale given by anti-war protesters for the impending military action--they also cite Iraq’s oil reserves as well as the personal vendetta Bush may have because Iraqi President Saddam Hussein tried to assassinate his father. But the comments about a war for Israel could cause an anti-Jewish response if the war goes poorly. “If, God forbid, the war is not successful and the body bags come back, who’s to blame,” Foxman asked. “There’s a potential for anti-Semitism and scapegoating for people in a situation where it’s not conducive.” Kaplan said that even if the war is successful, the statements lead to a perception that the United States is placing the interests of another country ahead of its own. “It lays the blame or credit to this war at Israel’s doorstep, when really this is a war for America’s interests,'” he said.

LETTER FROM ISRAEL

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(Continued from page 4)

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

March 21, 2003

ORGANIZATIONS B’NAI B’RITH BREADBREAKERS Bruce Friedlander and Rich Juro will speak Wednesday, March 26, noon, at the Park Inn Regency, according to Gary Javitch, Chairman. Both long time Omaha grocers, Friedlander and Juro will discuss the “Omaha Supermarket Wars.” Cost is $9for lunch and $2 for beverage service only. Breadbreakers is open to the community. Y.E.S. Members will meet Monday at the JCC. Play bingo at 10 a.m. with Eileen Remer or exercise with Stacey Paskert at 10:30 a.m. Bring articles to share for “YES Talk” at 11 a.m. Following lunch at noon, Rabbi Craig Marantz, from Temple Israel, will speak. For transportation call Dee Dee at 334-6521. WALK-IN, DROP-IN For those members going to the Bluffs Run Casino on Thursday, please meet at the JCC main entrance by 8:45 a.m. For transportation call Maggie Conti at 334-6521. LOMIR REDN YIDDISH The Yiddish Conversation Group will meet on Thursday, 1-3 p.m. at the JCC. Call Anne Skolkin for information at 343-1638. VISIONS The Marvelous Wonderettes at the Omaha Community Playhouse is Sunday, March 23. Please pick up tickets at the theater by 1:30 p.m. Dinner on your own at the Olive Garden follows the show. Visions Minneapolis Getaway is July 8-10. Cost is $172 per person (based on double occupancy). Tour includes transportation, two nights at Mystic Lake Casino, Mall of America and dinner and play at Chanhassen Dinner Theater. Send reservations with $50 deposit by May 1 to Betty Sanford, 9205 Western Ave, #127, Omaha, NE 68114. Depart from the JCC at 8 a.m. on July 8 and arrive back in Omaha on July 10 by 6 p.m. Make check payable to Visions. OMAHA CENTER FOR TORAH LEARNING Rabbi Aryeh Blum leads a parasha shiur at the OCTL House, 1313 No. 58 St., March 22, 5:10 p.m. Torah Tots is Monday, March 24, 10 a.m. with Shari Blum (parents can learn with Rabbi Blum at the same time); Time for Talmud with Rabbi Blum is 7:30 p.m.; Beit Midrash meets on Tuesday, March 25, 7:30 p.m. The Wednesday Women’s Class is March 12, 7:30 p.m., all at the OCTL house. Join OCTL for the weekly discussion of the Torah portion at Lunch ’n Learn, Wednesday, March 26, noon, at the Kripke Jewish Federation Library; the Wednesday Teen Class meets at 7:30 p.m. at the home of Brooke Shrago, 805 So. 120 Ave. Save theses dates: Tuesday, April 1, 7:30 p.m., Rabbi Yehuda Kahan speaks in Omaha; and the following Monday, April 7, 7:30 p.m., noted educator Rabbi Noach Orlowek will be here as well. For more information about OCTL or to arrange one-on-one learning or small group sessions, call Rabbi Blum at 320-8055.

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UNO Archaeologist to Teach History of Biblical Israel by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Temple Israel Communications Coordinator Dr. Rami Arav, a Biblical archaeologist who teaches at the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO), will guide a Lunch and Learn series in April at Temple Israel on “The History of Israel in the Biblical Period.” Beginning with the Golden Age of David and Solomon, Dr. Arav will lead a journey through Biblical Israel that explores the history of the divided kingdoms of Israel and Judah and their collapse. Intended for a general audience, the course will follow Biblical narration, archaeological finds, and Biblical research on topics such as the United Monarchy, the Divided Monarchy, and the Assyrian campaigns and collapse of the Kingdom of Israel. Dr. Arav will cover Israel under David, the Northern Kingdom of Israel, the collapse of the Kingdom of Judah, and the destruction of the first Temple among other subjects. Dr. Arav received bachelor and master degrees in archaeology of the Near East and history of art from Tel Aviv University. He earned a Ph.D. from New York University. His doctoral dissertation, entitled “Palestine in the Hellenistic Period,” was published in 1989 in London. Dr. Arav “rediscovered” the Biblical city of Bethsaida in 1987 and serves as director of the international consortium that was formed to oversee Bethsaida’s excavation, research, publication, and development. The project includes 15 universities and

BIRTHS Barbara Forbes-Lyons and Jonathan Lyons of Tallahassee, FL, announce the March 11 birth of their son, Avner David Lee. Grandparents are former Omahans Marshall and Toby Forbes, now of Milwaukee, WI, and Richard and Patricia Lyons of Miami, FL. Great-grandparents are Herbert and Jeanette Simon of Miami and the late Herbert Lyons, the late David and Rose Raznick and the late Isadore and Gittel Forbes.

colleges in the United States and Europe. UNO serves as the lead university. Bethsaida is widely acclaimed among scholars and laymen as a key site to understanding Biblical history. Dr. Arav has also excavated at other sites in Israel. Author of Dr. Rami Arav numerous books Photo by Ophir Palmon of and articles, Dr. Artistic Visions Arav, along with former Omahan Dr. Richard Freund, wrote Bethsaida, A City by the North Shore of the Sea of Galilee, a four-volume publication of the research done by the consortium scholars. “The History of Israel in the Biblical Period” will meet on Tuesdays, April 1, 8, 22, and 29, 12-1 p.m. Contact Temple’s Program Director Rosie Zweiback by e-mail (rzweiback@qwest.net) or call her at 556-6536 to register. The class is open to the community.

Beth El Plans Second Seder by JEWISH PRESS News Service

Leslie and Todd Mogil of Houston, TX, announce the March 7 birth of their son, Elijah Nathan. Grandparents are Charlcie and Jim Hopkins of Taylors, SC, and Suzi and Mike Mogil. Great-grandmother is Ethel Mogil.

CORRECTION Donations in memory of Dr. Melvin Sommer should be sent to the Aspen Music School, #2 Music School Rd., Aspen, CO 81611, not “Music Rd.”, as originally submitted for the Feb. 28 issue.

Shown planning the menu for the communitywide Second Seder sponsored by Beth El Synagogue are Kathy Schmitt, Beth El Program Director, left; Lucy White, head-honcho of the synagogue’s kitchen; Carole Lainof, Seder Chairman; and Larry Hasslinger. Reservations for the Seder, scheduled for Thursday, April 17, in the Beth El Social Hall, may be made by calling the synagogue office at 492-8550.

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Noted Rabbi/Educator to Speak in Omaha by RAE TRAYNOR Rabbi Noach O r l o w e k , Mashgiach (Dean of Students) at Jerusalem’s Yeshiva Torah Ore and author of several books on educating and raising Jewish children, will be in Omaha next month. Omaha Center for Torah Learning will host this electrifying speaker on Monday, April 7, 7:30 p.m., at the Omaha Center for Torah Learning. The topic for Rabbi Orlowek’s talk is “The Dynamics of Self-Renewal,” a discussion of freedom, Passover, renewal of life during spring, and gratitude for a fulfilling life.” The talk is free and open to the entire community. According to Rabbi Aryeh Blum, Director of the OCTL, “Rabbi Orlowek is one of the foremost leaders in Jewish education today. His philosophy of raising Jewish children in today’s spiritual-robbing world will drastically change the attitudes of Omaha parents and grandparents.” Author of My Child, My Disciple (about education in the home) and My Disciple, My Child (about education in the classroom), Rabbi Orlowek recently published Raising Roses Among the Thorns, concerning raising spiritually sensitive children in today’s world. Rabbi Orlowek was educated in New York, California and Jerusalem and teaches at several yeshivot and seminaries in Israel in addition to his duties at Torah Ore. He was also one of the leading educators at Aish HaTorah in Jerusalem. He is a frequent guest at educational conferences and workshops, having spent several days in Moscow, Antwerp, Amsterdam and Melbourne concentrating on discovering the strengths and weaknesses of a single school and recommending

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 7

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898-0746 improvements. Last February, 2001, Rabbi Orlowek addressed the two-day convention of the Association of European Headmasters and served as the scholar-in-residence for the Bureau of Jewish Education in Los Angeles last fall. “Rabbi Orlowek’s talk is a must for anyone who views life as synonymous with growth,” he added, “We’re extremely fortunate to have the opportunity to hear this amazing educator, author and rabbi!” OCTL will also host Rabbi Yeshuda Kahan on Tuesday, April 1, 7:30 p.m. at the OCTL House. Rabbi Kahan is Dean of Students at the Bat Ayin Yeshiva and former Educational Director of Livnot U’Lehibanot in Tzfat. His talk, “Leap Months and Pregnant Years: Jewish Time as a Spiritual Discipline”, is free and open to the entire community. For more information about this program, or other OCTL programs, call Rabbi Blum at 3208055.

HAZAK Lunch Features Gastón Bogomolni by OZZIE NOGG Beth El’s HAZAK Chapter--the synagogue’s group for “seasoned citizens”--will sponsor a luncheon on Saturday, March 29, following Shabbat morning services. The program features Ritual Director, Gastón Bogomolni, in “Gastón Talks About Music.” He will discuss the role of the Hazzan and explore Jewish music throughout history by giving examples of the differences between Sephardi, Ashkenazi and Mizrachi styles. According to Jim Wax, President, “HAZAK is a national organization within the Conservative Movement of Judaism. Our group represents the youthful seniors here at Beth El, and we get together almost monthly for Jewish learning and to have some fun. We’re looking forward Gastón’s presentation and to our next event--The Dynamite DeliNight where we’ll serve up a great deli meal and sit around and schmooze. HAZAK membership dues are just $5 a year per person, and for those who join between now and Aug. 1-- the start of the HAZAK fiscal year--the cost is only $2.50. I invite all Beth El members 55 and over to join us.” Cost for the March 29 lunch" is $7.50 for HAZAK members and $9 for non-members. Reservations should be made by March 26 by calling Natalie Rubin, 334-5893.

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IN THE NEWS K.C. Ruback, son of Marcy and David Ruback, was featured in a recent article in the Omaha World-Herald, highlighting his work with the Millard West High School boys’ basketball team. K.C., who has cerebral palsy, operates the timeclock for the Wildcats games. Outside of school, he participates in wheelchair basketball for the Nebraska Red Dawg junior varsity and baseball in the Challenger Little League. Sarah Raful, the Student Life Coordinator at Hillel of The George Washington University in Washington, D.C., has been accepted to the dual degree Masters program in Public Administration (USC) and Jewish Communal Service (Hebrew Union College) with a Dean’s Merit Scholarship. She’ll be moving to Los Angeles in June. Anna Raful, working for Plaza Productions in New York City had just completed a run of Land That I Love when the lead dropped out five days before the first show of The Diary of Anne Frank. Anna stepped in and is now playing the lead role of Anne Frank in the show. Sarah and Anna are the daughters of Larry and Dinah Raful. Harold M. Maurer, M.D., chancellor of the University of Nebraska Medical Center, has been named as the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award of the Children’s Oncology Group, a National

Cancer Institute-supported clinical cooperative cancer treatment and research group. Dr. Maurer will be presented the award on March 28 at the Children’s Oncology Group meeting in Atlanta. He is being recognized for his contributions to pediatric cancer research, specifically his work with the Intergroup Rhabdomyosarcoma Study Group, which he helped form in 1972. He chaired the group for the next 25 years, becoming the world’s foremost expert on the disease. Sandy and Paul Epstein are the Honorary Chairmen of the Friends of Make-a-Wish Blue Jean Ball. The annual event will be held Saturday, March 29, 6:30 p.m. at Happy Hollow Country Club and features dinner and a silent auction. Proceeds from the fundraising event will allow the organization to grant approximately 60 wishes to children across the state who have life-threatening illnesses. The cost is $100 per person.For tickets, call Carmen Clark at the Make-a-Wish office, 333-8999. Bruce Goldberg was recently honored with the Champion of Hope award given by the Hope Medical Outreach Coalition in Omaha. He helped to establish their pharmacy program. Hope is a non-profit organization that coordinates volunteers who provide health care to the underserved, low income uninsured and homeless in the Omaha and Council Bluffs Metro Area.

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NOVA Explores Role of the Woman Who Paved the Way for the Discovery of DNA by JONATHAN S. RENES On April 25, 1953, the science journal Nature who faced rigid gender barriers in her pursuit of a announced that James Watson and Francis Crick scientific career. She earned a PhD in physical had discovered the double helix structure of DNA, chemistry at the University of Cambridge and the molecule that is fundamental basis of life. But became one of the world’s foremost experts in X-ray absent from most accounts of their Nobel Prize-win- crystallography--the difficult art of probing the ning work is the contribution made by a rival scien- inner structure of molecules with X-rays. tist--molecular biologist and crystallographer In 1951 she accepted a post at King’s College Rosalind Franklin--who would never know that London to study the structure of DNA with Wilkins. Watson and Crick had seen a key piece of her data The two didn’t get along and pursued their work without her permission separately, with Franklin and that it would lead discovering two different them to the double forms of DNA and making helix. detailed X-ray pictures of Fifty years later, each type. NOVA unravels the Her Photo 51, which mystery behind the disrequired 100 hours of expocovery of the double sure in May 1952, was excephelix and investigates tional. The following the seminal role that January, without her knowlRosalind Franklin and edge, Wilkins casually her remarkable X-ray showed the image to Watson, photographs played in who was unofficially working one of the greatest dison the DNA problem with coveries in the history of Crick at Cavendish science on Secret of Laboratory in nearby Photo 51, airing Cambridge. Tuesday, April 22, 7 “My mouth fell open and p.m. on PBS (check local my pulse began to race,” listings). Watson recalled in his The program draws on famous memoir, The Double extensive interviews Helix (1968). The distinctive with major surviving Rosalind Franklin in her lab in Paris. pattern in Photo 51 proCredit: Rachel Glaeser/Image provided by the American participants in the DNA claimed that the structure Society for Microbiology. drama, including had to be a helix. Back at Franklin’s lab partner Maurice Wilkins, who passed Cavendish, Watson and Crick quickly took the next on her data to Watson and Crick; Raymond Gosling, steps by working out a structure that accounted for Franklin’s PhD student with whom she made Photo Franklin’s data and other pieces of the puzzle. 51; and Nobel Prize recipient Sir Aaron Klug, The discovery won Watson and Crick the Nobel Franklin’s last and closest collaborator, who inherited Prize in 1962, which they shared with Wilkins. her notebooks. Klug analyzes Franklin’s notebooks Sadly, Franklin was not eligible since she had died for NOVA to demonstrate just how close Franklin in 1958, at 37, from ovarian cancer; the Nobel is not came to making the double helix discovery. awarded posthumously. Also appearing is award-winning biographer Even so, it is impossible to say if Franklin would Brenda Maddox, author of Rosalind Franklin: The have been honored had she lived, since another stipDark Lady of DNA (2002)--on which the film is par- ulation is that the Nobel Prize cannot be split more tially based--praised by Scientific American as than three ways. Ironically, her role in one of the shedding “new light on one of the key characters in most important discoveries in the history of science the tale of the double helix.” was hidden even from her, since she never knew Born into a prominent Jewish family in London in that Photo 51 sparked the final insight that led to 1920, Franklin was a mathematically gifted student the solution of the double helix.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Victor’s Russia, the annual performance of music by Russian composers, is tonight and tomorrow, March 21 & 22, 8 p.m. at the Orpheum Theater. This annual Omaha Symphony Masterworks concert feature’s music from conductor Victor Yamplosky’s homeland, such as Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1 and Rachmaninoff ’s First Symphony. Yampolsky grew up surrounded by some of Russia’s greatest talents. Son of the famed pianist Vladimir Yampolsky, he was a star pupil of David Oistrakh of the famed Moscow Conservatory. Yampolsky was associate conductor of the Moscow Philharmonic at age 23 until his brother immigrated to Israel. When his career was effectively ended by that “political statement,” Yampolsky applied for a visa and was able to enter the United States. For ticket availability, call the box office, 342-3836 or purchase tickets online at: www.omahasymphony.org. Opera Omaha concludes its season with Gilbert and Sullivan’s famed HMS Pinafore on April 9 & 11, 7:30 p.m. and April 13, 2 p.m. at the Orpheum Theater. This production is made possible by grants from the Phil and Terri Schrager Foundation, Eve and Fred Simon and Omaha Steaks. For ticket information, call 346-7372 or online through Ticketmaster.com.

“Starlab--A Space Odyssey” has opened at the Omaha Children’s Museum Starlab is a portable planetarium, an inflatable dome capable of holding up to 35 students or 25 adults. A projector in the center creates a night sky on the inside of the dome. For museum hours, call OCM at 342-6164. Ragtime: The Musical opens tonight, March 21, 7:30 p.m. at the Lincoln Community Playhouse and continues through April 13. Ragtime intertwines three stories that illustrate history’s contradictions of wealth and poverty, freedom and prejudice and love and hate. Tickets are $30 for adults and $15 for students. For ticket information, call 1-402-489-7529 in Lincoln. Eve Ensler’s The Vagina Monologues premiers in Omaha, April 8-13, at the Rose Blumkin Theater for the Performing Arts. This provocative play which has become a cultural phenomenon worldwide was originally produced as an OBIE-Award winning run in 1996 and later opened OffBroadway. Based on interviews with more than 200 women, the play explores the humor, power, pain and wisdom--hidden in that most mysterious part of the female anatomy. Two of the three leads have been announced: Starla Benford and Amy J. Carle; a third performer will be announced shortly. Tickets, priced from $27.50 to $40 are available by calling The Rose box office, 345-4849 or online at www.rosetheater.org.

March 21, 2003

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 9

Small Business in Times of Crises: How to Run a Company with Terrorist Bombs Across the Street by PAM MONSKY, Federation Communications Director Shop Shalom, Omaha’s first-ever Israeli shopping event, will bring shop owners and artists and their merchandise from Israel to our community May 14. The reason for this event is obvious. The intifada has destroyed Israel’s vibrant tourist industry and left small businesses and shops in shambles. These once thriving, middle class people are now wondering how they will feed their families the next month, the next week and even the next day. One of those affected is Jerry Stevenson, owner of “Mr. T” Army-Navy Surplus store on Ben Yehuda Street in Jerusalem. Stevenson’s shop has been a mainstay for 25 years on Ben Yehuda, Jerusalem’s main shopping and dining destination. In fact, if you’ve been to Israel on a Federation mission, no doubt you’ve shopped there yourself to pick up some souvenir T-shirts and IDF memorabilia. Stevenson is one of the vendors who will be participating in Omaha’s Shop Shalom. As I have been corresponding with the merchants, I have been overwhelmed by their stories as they literally struggle to survive. I would like to share with you Stevenson’s moving account of a recent terrorist bombing on Ben Yehuda Street and the neverending aftermath. “We manufacture, wholesale, retail and e-commerce original Israeli T-shirts and Israel Defense Force Products. Our company has been around for over 25 years on the Ben Yehuda Mall in Jerusalem. We’re an institution, or so thousands of customers have said over the many years we’ve been standing.

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“However, it is certain that our brand name and logo is recognized in every Jewish community in the world. We have worked with every Jewish organization, Jewish youth group, volunteer organization, students and even pilgrims, the Pope and U.S. Presidents! “In a normal political scene, in a secure peaceful country, the above would guarantee a pretty successful business. I live in Israel. My corporate offices are in Jerusalem. The only thing this guarantees is I get the Jewish holidays off and my business is making it but with lots of variations on the theme of ‘How to make a Business Work #101.’ “First, it’s impossible to make a long-term business strategy or even a ‘tomorrow’ strategy. Some mad man living in a small Arab village could blow himself up in a bus, at a cafe house, in a pizza parlor and you have terror too grim to even begin to describe. And when this terrible incident happens the media goes into high gear almost instantly. “My store was blown up in 1997 with three of my workers wounded. “The first pictures start coming on television. CNN is there, Fox, too. Everyone is running around, screaming, ambulances, sirens, the police, the dead, the wounded, blood, lots of blood. “Over there is a broken doll, on the seat we see a small teddy bear. The names of the dead start coming in. And then we see the dead, in happy moments, in the papers on television. Giant close

ups...each one with a short brief biography. He was a star student...she was getting married next week...He had just finished the army and was planning a trip to the far east next week...both he and his son had just returned from a fun day in Tel Aviv...she was pregnant. “Finally we and the world are a witness to the funerals. More sobbing, screaming, beating of breasts. “The above scenario happens, unfortunately much too often here. I won’t even discuss now what the Israel Army’s reaction to this is. Only that there is more death, more violence, more funerals...and everything is seen all over the world. “And so our lives are effected, and our businesses. Most of our money is going into the defense of the country, taxes are high, unemployment is high, normal salaries are low. There is no tourist industry to speak of. The economy is a disaster. People are afraid to walk downtown...stores are daily closing on the Ben Yehuda Mall and on and on. “Those that have a business and run it on a war crisis mode, constantly, can succeed. And that’s one of the reasons I’m visiting Omaha during the beautiful month of May. We are adjusting to the situation (the Matzav) and if that means going to where potential customers will buy your products...so be it. If you want your business to succeed in Israel you have to adjust to working in a war climate.” If you think the situation in Israel is hopeless and there’s nothing you can do about it, think again. Shop Shalom will bring a tremendous variety of Israeli merchandise to Omaha and all you have to do is buy. All proceeds from Shop Shalom will benefit the vendors. Proceeds from raffles and the suggested entrance fee will be donated to an Israeli charity. Shop Shalom hours are Thursday and Friday, May 1 and 2, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Park Inn Regency Lodge, 909 So. 107 Ave., and Sunday, May 4, 12-6 p.m., at the community Yom Ha’Atzmaut celebration at the Jewish Community Center. A special Saturday night “Ben Yehuda Street After Hours” event is also being planned for May 3. For more information, or to volunteer, please contact the Shop Shalom Steering Committee, Traci Kugler, Sandy Kutler, Jamie Friedland and Terri Zacharia, the Federation office at 334-6431, or visit our website at www.jewishomaha.org.

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Page 10

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

March 21, 2003

KING KONG Beth El Rosh Hodesh Group Meets Again Greek Gyros • Steaks Phillies • Burgers

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by OZZIE NOGG To usher in the think we’ve started Hebrew month of something very special Nisan, Beth El for the women of Beth Synagogue’s Rosh El--a place to come Hodesh group will meet together, to share, to on Wednesday, April make a connection with 2, 7:30-9 p.m. Joanie each other.” Jacobson and Patty “The get-together Nogg will be hostesses ended with a sing-along at the Nogg residence-with Jill on the guitar,” 1425 No. 135 St. The Susi Frydman Levin topic for the evening is: added. “We all felt a “Turning 50- or 40- or genuine spirit of 70. And That Affects togetherness. It was a My Life How?” wonderfully warm In explaining the Beth El’s Rosh Hodesh program was inaugurated evening and we’re sure topic, Jacobson said, on March 3 with the arrival of the Hebrew month that future Rosh “Some birthdays are of Adar. The first session was hosted by Susi Hodesh programs will simply pages in our Frydman Levin, left, and Jill Belmont. be like that, too.” lives, others are whole chapters. To age is to be And, according to Susi Levin, there was another, blessed. All time is sacred. How can we learn to find personal payoff. “One of the nicest aspects of planning meaning in every year, cope with emotional and this Rosh Hodesh meeting was the time Jill and I physical changes, celebrate all that is good and spent getting to know one another, and even though somehow gain strength and wisdom from that the event is past, we plan to continue meeting often which is not? What does it mean to grow older? Let’s for breakfast!” talk about it.” The Rosh Hodesh group is free and open to all “A wonderfully diverse group of women attended,” Beth El women looking for personal, spiritual or Jill Belmont said, “35 in all--ranging in age from the educational growth and enlightenment. mid-20s to the 70s. We shared personal thoughts Reservations are a must; please make them on or and stories about our lives and by the time we left, before March 26 by calling Kathy Schmitt at the no one was a stranger. I felt very good about that. I synagogue office, 492-8550.

Program Examines Dead Sea Scrolls with UNL Scholar by OZZIE NOGG Beth El’s Lunch and Learn on Shabbat--BELLS-will continue on Saturday, April 5, when Dr. Sidnie Crawford presents “Not According to Rule: Women, the Dead Sea Scrolls and Qumran.” In her remarks, Dr. Crawford will explain the archaeological evidence that proposes a new solution to the question of whether or not women were present in the Qumran sect. Dr. Crawford is Professor of Hebrew Bible and Chair of the Classics and Religious Studies department at the University of Nebraska, Lincoln. She is also President of the W. F. Albright Institute of Archaeological Research in Jerusalem, has published extensively in Dead Sea Scrolls scholarship, and is a contributing editor to the Oxford Press series, Discoveries in the Judaean Desert--the official vehicle for the publication of the Dead Sea Scrolls In describing her BELLS presentation, Dr. Crawford said, “Shortly after the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls in the 1940s, scholars identified the Jewish group behind the scrolls with the Essenes. According to the Jewish historian, Josephus, the Jewish philosopher Philo, as well as

the Roman geographer, Pliny, the Essenes were an all-male, celibate group. “The excavations at Qumran in the 1950s seemed to confirm this view. Therefore, for the first 40 years of scrolls' scholarship, the Qumran sect was thought of as all- male and celibate--an anomalous phenomenon within Judaism. However, in the past 10 years, scholars have found material in the scrolls that referred to women, especially laws concerning marriage and sexual conduct. “In addition, archaeologists found female corpses the cemetery at Qumran, all of which leads us to challenge the identification of the Qumran group as all-male and celibate,” she added. “I look forward to discussing these theories at the BELLS luncheon.” The BELLS lunch and discussion with Dr. Crawford begins immediately after morning services and kiddush. The program will finish no later than 2 p.m. Lunch is $8 for adults, $5 for students under 12, and is available by reservation only. Free babysitting--from 12:45-1:45 p.m.--is also available by reservation. Please make your reservations by March 28, by calling Kathy Schmitt at 492-8550.

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March 21, 2003

THE KOSHER CONNECTION

Chasing the Chometz

by PAM MONSKY, Federation Communications Director (This is the first of a three-part “Passover Blitz” about the laws of preparation for Passover.) Passover is an eight-day Jewish holiday of Torah origin. It marks the birth of the Jews as a people and their emergence as a nation. As most of us know, Passover preparation can be daunting as well as complex. Today’s Kosher Connection will focus on “chasing the chometz” or getting all of the grain products out of your home in time for Passover. Chometz results when one of the five species of grain (barley, rye, oats, wheat and spelt) is allowed to remain undisturbed in the home. This includes foods like bread, cake, crackers, cereals, pasta, whiskey, beer and all other grain products. Prior to Passover, every Jew is required to remove all chometz from their homes and property. When the pressure of Passover cleaning has reached a frenzied level, we do not differentiate between things we have to do and things we want to do. For example, we may not want to move the refrigerator to check for any chometz that may be under there. Besides, we can be reasonably sure that nobody would eat what they might find back there anyway! But we move the refrigerator and clean behind it for Passover to remove all chometz.

One interesting tradition concerning chometz is selling it to a non-Jew. The rabbi may act as an agent for this transaction, with the understanding that the chometz may be repurchased after Passover. “Bedikas chometz” is the formal, and often fun, search for undiscovered chometz. On the night before the first seder, the 14th of Nissan, the house is examined thoroughly for hidden chometz by candlelight (flashlights are okay) and a feather! Some people place 10 pieces of bread around the house before the search. Then the blessing is recited commanding us to destroy the chometz. Following the search, the chometz is set aside and left to burned the following morning. (Editor’s note: Bag ’n Save will host a Passover Holiday Food Fair on Sunday, March 23, 2-4 p.m. at its 78th and Dodge Street store. And on Sunday, March 30, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Baker’s will sponsor a Taste of Passover at the Pepperwood store only, located at 156th and Dodge. You’ll find all the latest Passover products, an opportunity to taste new items and learn new recipes. Support our advertisers and do your Passover shopping early!) Next week…preparing your kitchen!

Purim Around the Heartland by JEWISH PRESS News Service

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 11

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Pennie Z. Davis Child Development Center paraded in the halls of the Jewish Community Center last Friday all the way to the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. Photos from Purim activities will be featured in upcoming issues.

Holiday Cooking Around the World by Kari Cornell ( Lerner Publishing)

Reviewed by LOIS FRIEDMAN The people of the world celebrate some of the most sacred and spectacular holidays during four months of the year from December to March. Many countries and religions celebrate in their own unique way. This charming little book touches on many of these celebrations, the symbolism and more. Dishes represent unity and prosperity--long noodles for long life, hard boiled eggs for life, celebrations of birth and thanks for bountiful harvests--celebrations during the rest of the year. Whatever the reason for the holiday, food plays an important role in the festivities around the world. The introduction covers briefly many world wide celebrations and some of the customs. The chapters, Appetizers, Soups, Side & Main Dishes and Desserts, contain 18 recipes each. The one-recipe-to-a-page format has both the English and the foreign name of the recipe. Turkey Mole (Mole de Guajalote), Russian Pirozhki, Linguine with Pesto celebrates the Italian Basil Festival. North African Chicken Soup (Marak Off Mizarachi), is a soup dish for Passover eaten by the Sephardic Jews who are allowed to eat rice at Passover. “The Jews of Eastern European origin, called Ashkenazim, are forbidden to eat rice on Passover.” The recipes feature headnotes describing the significance of the dish, list the recipe and include numerical instructions. This recipe will be a crowd pleaser at Passover or a dessert to use matzos anytime.

PASSOVER MATZO LAYER CAKE UGAT MATZOT (Israel) The best halva is made from almonds, but you can also buy sesame and peanut halva. Halva can be purchased at any Greek, Middle Eastern or Jewish market. 6 tbsp. sugar 4 squares unsweetened chocolate 1 c. water 1 stick (1/4 lb.) butter or margarine, cut into pieces 6 oz. halva, cut into small pieces 2 tbsp. cornstarch 6 large matzos colored candy sprinkles for decoration In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, chocolate, and water. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring constantly, until chocolate is completely melted and mixture starts to bubble. Add butter and halva. Continue stirring until mixture just begins to boil, then remove pan from heat. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with 2 tbsp. water and stir into chocolate mixture. Cook over medium heat, stirring until mixture thickens. Remove pan from heat. Put one matzo on a platter large enough to let it lie flat. Spread an even layer of chocolate over matzo. Place another matzo on top. Cover with chocolate. Repeat with remaining matzos, finishing with a layer of chocolate. Scatter sprinkles over cake for decoration. Refrigerate cake overnight. To serve, cut cake with a sharp knife into 1-by 2-inch rectangles. Preparation time: 20 minutes. Serves: 10.

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Page 12

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

March 21, 2003

“Celebrating a Century of Jewish Community” Proud to be Centennial Patrons! THANK YOU to the following people who have made increased gifts to the 2003 Centennial Campaign. Names in bold indicate an increased gift of $100 or more in honor of the Centennial of the Jewish Federation of Omaha. Senior Division donors are automatically included when they make their gift to the 2003 Campaign. MEN’S MAJOR GIFTS Joel Alperson Baker Family Norman Batt Harold Bernstein Steven Bloch Irv Blumkin Ron Blumkin Barry Broder Marc Brodkey Sherman Brodkey Jack Cohen Harold Cooperman Henry Davis Gary Epstein Harold Epstein Paul Epstein Joe Erman Mike Erman Tom Fellman David Friedland Willard Friedman Ike & Roz Friedman Family Foundation Morton Glass Richard Glazer Don Goldstein Herbert Goldsten Trust Nelson Gordman Don Greenberg David Gross Gary Javitch Arnold Joffe Howard Kaslow Maurice Katzman Kavich Family Charitable Foundation Jeff Kirshenbaum Kevee Kirshenbaum Jerry Kohll Howard Kooper Forrest Krutter John Lehr Martin Lehr Leonard Lewis Livingston Foundation Lynn Roberts International Edward Malashock Bernie Meyers Jerry Milder N. Pitlor & Son Sherman Neff Murray Newman Robert Newman Allan Noddle* Jay Noddle Steve Nogg Omaha Bedding Company Omaha Steaks Anne and Alan Simon Eve and Fred Simon Kathryn and Stephen Simon Stacy and Bruce Simon Todd Simon Alan Parsow Sol Parsow Carl Riekes Henry Riekes Steve Riekes Andrew Robinson Blaine Roffman Larry Roffman Harley Schrager Bruce Shackman Noddle Development Joe Kirshenbaum Harlan Noddle Millard Seldin Ted Seldin Norm Sheldon* Jack Shrago Stuart Simon Gerald Simons Milton Simons Mark Singer

MEN’S MAJOR GIFTS cont. Slosburg Family Jerry Slusky Phil Sokolof Swartzbaugh Farber-Associates Isidore Tretiak Maury Udes John Waldbaum Benjamin & Anna E. Wiesman Family Foundation Arnold Weitz Speedy Zweiback Tim Zweiback

MEN’S CAMPAIGN cont. Paul Cohen William Cohen Edward Cohn Gerald Cohn Stephen Cohn Travis Cohn Jerry Dann Arthur Davidson Larry DeBruin William Dreyfus Gregory Dubov Arthur Dutky Scott Eisenman Gary Emenitove Randy Endelman Robert Engel WOMEN’S MAJOR GIFTS Howard Epstein Margie Alperson Irv Epstein Phyllis Aronson Ronald Epstein Judy Baker Abram Erlich Frances Batt Leonid Etus Sandra Belgrade Richard Fellman Marcia Cohen Paul Fine Susie Cohn Steve Fingold Sandy Epstein Doug Finnicum Ruth Erman Joel Finkel Judy Feldman Harris Finkelstein Darlynn Fellman Glen Fineman Nancy Friedland Pierre Flatowicz Roz Friedman Jim Folsom Carol Gendler Robert Freeman Janet Glass Sam Fried Jan Goldstein** Ted Friedland Nancy Greenberg Bruce Friedlander Deborah & Arthur Friedman Arthur Greene** Sanford Friedman Rose Gross Scott Friedman Andi Kavich Harry Gates Maxine Judge Larry Kirshenbaum Gendler Sharon Kooper Donald Gerber Bobbi Leibowitz Moshe Gershovich Joanie Lehr David Gilinsky Frances Milder Kevin Gilinsky Lyra Ann Ron Giller Monasee** Bennett Ginsberg Jeanie Neff Arkadiy Ginzburg Phyllis Newman Sherman Golbitz Sharee Newman Bruce Goldberg Nancy Noddle Bob Goldberg Patty Nogg David Goldberg Carol Parsow Richard Goldberg Dorothy Riekes Jim Goldfaden Zoë Riekes Herman Goldstein Jan Schneiderman Howard Goldstein Beth Schrager Joseph Goldstein Terri Schrager Michael Goldstein Bev Seldin Brad Goldstrom Sarah Seldin Larry Goldstrom Anne Shackman Mark Goldsrom Ellen Slosburg Robert Goodman Gail Veitzer Thomas Goodman Joodi Veitzer Jay Gordman Jeff Gordman MEN’S CAMPAIGN Kip Gordman Alvin Abramson Gary Gotsdiner Jeff Aizenberg Richard Grant James Anderson Brad Green George Aufseeser Joshua Greenbaum Rabbi Aryeh Azriel Barton Greenberg Dennis Baack Bud Greenspan Irving Babendir Leonard Tom Baker Greenspoon Jim Belgrade Alexander Grossman Mark Belmont Jerome Grossman David Berman Victor Gutman Harry Berman Michael Halsted Jerry Berman Alan Handleman Mike Blatt Richard Heyman Albert Bloch Donald Hoberman Howard Borden Kenneth Hoberman Morris Bresel David Hoffman Bruce Brodkey Mark Hoffman Pete Brodkey Todd Hutton Ron Brodkey Ron Ipock Joel Brezack David Jacobson David Bucksner Richard Jacobson Sam Bukenholts Sorin Juster Jeff Cannon Fred Kader Jerry Chesen Bob Kahn Dave Chorney Marc Kahn Gary Christensen Jerome Kaiman Alan Cohen Gary Kaplan Bob Cohen Myron Kaplan Martin Cohen Robert Kaplan Michael Cohen Yale Kaplan

MEN’S CAMPAIGN cont. John Katelman Rick Katelman Gary Katz Ralph Katz Rabbi Mendel Katzman Richard Katzman Leslie Kay Adam Kirshenbaum Joe Kirshenbaum Scott Kirshenbaum Don Klein Harry Klein Milton Kleinberg Sidney Klopper John Kolm Alan Kohll David Kotok Jack Kozlen Howard Krantz Barry Kricsfeld Rabbi Myer Kripke Gary Kudym Allen Kurland Ben Kutler Howard Kutler Sol Kutler Rabbi Howard Kutner Paul Landow Wayne Lainof Jeffrey Laudin David Lercher Michael Leibowitz Robert Lepp Rabbi Mordechai Levin Michael Levine Mike Levine Steve Levinger Roland Lewis Dmitriy Libov Trenton Magid Ben Magzamin Neal Malashock Robert Malashock Harold Mann Todd Manvitz Rabbi Craig Marantz Dan Marburg Howard Martin Leon Martin Jose Martinez Sheldon C. Masnek Guy Matalon Dmitriy Masyuk John McGauvran Bruce Meyers Jon Meyers Joseph Meyers Marty Meyers Larry Meyerson Paul Militzer Michael Miller Efraim Milestone Sidney Mirvish Stanley Mitchell Henry Monsky Allan Murow Alan Muskin Anthony Nogg Don Nogg Michael Norton Harold Novak Don Novicoff Mark Ocheretyanskiy Dennis Paley Marvin Parilman Jeffrey Passer Mark Passer Steve Perelman Eric Pisetsky Aleksandr Poluektova Merle Potash Dave Radler Lawrence Raful Leonid Raksin Matthew Ray Gerald Raznick Steve Redler Rob Reiss Don Rice

MEN’S CAMPAIGN cont. Tom Rice Joel Rich Phil Rich Louis Rich Marty Ricks Sheldon Rips Dick Rochman Paul Roffman Lloyd Roitstein Bill Rosen David Rosen Gerald Rosenblatt Stephen Rosenberg Jerry Rosinsk Steven Rothenberg Altan Ruback Michael Sadofsky Mark Saferstein Ernie Saltzman Kevin Saltman Mark Sanford Milton Saylan Joel Schlessinger Edward A. Schneider Seymour Schneider Steven Schneider Scott Schneiderman Anthony Schrager Dan Schuller Michael Schwartz Jeffrey Schweid Richard Schrager Mark Schwartz Anthony Scioli Howard Shandell David Shapiro Oleg Shats Leonard Shefren Rodney Shkolnick Rabbi Maximo Shechet Dan Sherman Leon Shrago Howard Shrier Michael Shrier Martin Shukert Alan Shulewitz Paul Shyken Howard Sibler Mike Siegel Mike Silverman Paul Silverstein Mickey Simon Larry Siref Jeffrey Smedland Norman Smeerin Stuart Smoler Barry Snyder Nicholas Spellman Jim Spooner Ray Somberg Steve Stiel Walter Sternberg Mark Sweet Charles Sullivan Scott Tatelman Alain Taylon Charles Taylon Gady Tene Fred Tichauer Max Tomchin Gregory Tsyrlin Lazar Turetsky Michael Walts Jim Wax Raymond Weinberg Guenther Wesch Larry Widman Scott Widman David Willensky Norman Wine Ernest Wintroub Bob Wolfson Doug Wolfson Irvin Yaffe Harold Zabin Jerome Zeffren Ted Zetzman Todd Zimmerman Igor Zinkov Steve Zuber WOMEN’S CAMPAIGN Doris Abramson Bettie Adams

WOMEN’S CAMPAIGN cont. Bernice Adler Charlotte Adler Susan Aizenberg Dena Altman Phyllis Aron Joyce Ashley Madeline Aufseeser Debra Baack Shelly Ban Sally Barenbaum Jill Baron Diane Baum Kathryn Beauchaine Robyn Belgrade Jill Belmont Mary Berman Helene Blair Carol Bloch Margaret Block Rachel Blum Chris Blumkin Susie Blumkin Paula Boggust Marian Bookey Midge Bowers Beth Brodkey Helen Brodkey Sharon Brodkey Stacie Brodkey Florence Brody Heather Bucksner Elaine Bukenholts Maralyn Burr Esther Canar Sharon Cannon Edith Chesen Vicki Chesen Laurie Clark Penny Cody-Cox Anne Cohen Arlene Cohen Beth Cohen Elberta Cohen Elizabeth Cohen Karen Cohen Marla Cohen Toba Cohen Doris Cohn Jennifer Cohn Linda Cohn Pam Cohn Soralee Cohn Cheryl Cooper Rose Cooper Janey Dann Hanna DeBruin Eunie Denenberg Minde Diamond Beth Dotan Esta Dubov Julia Elkin Penny Endelman Renee Engel Edith Epstein Etta Epstein Harriet Epstein Helen Epstein Jean Epstein Lisa Epstein Jill Erman Leona Eveloff Estelle Faier Ida Fedman Judith Feigin Bev Fellman Mary Fellman Carrie Fingold Helen Finkel Lois Finkle Kate Finkelstein Hollie Fineman Deborah Finnicum Claire Flatowicz Jill Folsom Frances Fox Shelly Fox Sally Fredricks Robyn Freeman Alison Freifeld Frances Fried Phyllis Fried Amy Friedman Debbie Friedman Sheryl Friedman Jamie Friedland Pam Friedlander

WOMEN’S CAMPAIGN cont. Mandy FrostBecker Jennie Gates Linda Gates Beth Gaynes Ginsberg Patty Gilinsky Barb Giller Kaye Giller Julie Ginsberg Cheri Ginsburg Larisa Ginzburg Pearl Richman Giventer Jordana Glazer Phyllis Glazer Darlene Golbitz Cindy Goldberg Sandra Goldberg Wendy Goldberg Dorothy Goldfaden Ann Goldstein Jill Goldstein Judi Goldstein Dora Goldstrom Rini Gonsher Dee Goodman Allison Gordman Andie Gordman Danielle Gordman Sherri Green Carole Greenberg Caryl Greenberg Shirley Greenberger Rosalie Greenspan Ethel Grossman Stephanie Grossman Pauline Guss Margie Gutnik Debbie Hale Ida Halperin Mendy Halsted Janice Harris Eve Heisler Robin Hellwig Phyllis Hoffman Lorraine Hopson Bonnie Horwich Denise Ipock Joanie Jacobson Nancy Jacobson Karen Javitch Linda Jess Sheryn Joffe Debbi Josephson Fran Juro Sara Juster Ilse Kahn Kimberly Kahn Roxanne Kahn Joanie Kaiman Sylvia Kaiman Dorothy Kaplan Bea Karp Frankie Kasin Leona Kasin Gloria Kaslow Cookie Katskee Beatrice Katz Frances Katz Nan Katz Carol Katzman Julee Katzman Madeline Katzman Rose Katzman Shani Katzman Helen Kay Leann Kelberg Gail Kenkel Kate Kirshenbaum Myrna Kirshenbaum Sharon Kirshenbaum Janet Klein Marsha Kleinberg Harriet Klopper Gail Kohll Georgine Koom Shane Kotok Bette Kozlen Cheryl Kricsfeld Florence Kricsfeld Angie Krieger Marcy Krigsten Traci Kugler

WOMEN’S CAMPAIGN cont. Robbi Kudym Helen Kulakofsky Shirley Kulakofsky Sandra Kurland Nadine Kutner Nancy Kutler Pauline Landman Sara Landsman Geraldine Lapierre Barbara Lashinsky Allison Latenser Nancy Milder Lazer Sandy Lehr Susan Lehr Susana Levin Karin Levine Susie Noddle Levine Bonnie Levinger Barb Levitan Bert Lewis Marilyn Lewis Deana Liddy Fritzi Luefshuetz Thelma Lustgarten Jody Malashock Wendy Manvitz Linda Mann Betsy Marantz Deb Marburg Sally Masnek Elinor Matalon Kathy McGauvran Marcia Meyers Tina Meyers Jamie Meyerson Jenny Meyerson Miriam Meyerson Renee Micklin Rhoda Milder Lori Miller Sue Millward Evie Mitchell Pam Monsky Anna Mosenkis Janie Murow Linda Muskin Mary Beth Muskin Jeanette Nadoff Randi Nanfito Patricia Newman Jordana Nissen Kim Noddle Babe Nogg Marian Nogg Sandy Nogg Susie Norton Rita Novak Tatvana Novikov Ann Osborne Elaine Ozeroff Susan Paley Marlene Parilman Fefe Passer Sandy Passer Magda Peck Vicki Perlmeter Shelly Pichik Helen Pisetsky Marcia Pitlor Barb Platt Enid Pollack Larisa Poluektova Mariya Poluektova Ruth Potash Debbie Powers Sharon Quittner Irina Raksin Eve Randone Dodi Redler Wendy Reiss Juliana Reno Iris Ricks Margo Riekes Caryn Rifkin Helen Rifkin Barbara Rips Nancy Rips Kimberly Robinson Paula Robinson Julie Rochman Stacey Rockman Mimi Rogers Rita Rosen Rose Rosen

WOMEN’S CAMPAIGN cont. Rachel Rosenberg Dottie Rosenblum Edith Ross Bunny Rothenberg Susan Rothholz Faye Ruback Jayne Ruback Jennifer Rubin Suzy Rubin Monica Sacks Marina Sadofsky Linda Saltzman Lynne Saltzman Rosalie Saltzman Chantel Samuel Vicki Sanford Deborah Saulsbury Rosalie Saylan Nancy Schlessinger Carol Ann Schneider Margy Schneider Heidi Schneiderman Tracy Schrier Kim Schwartz Phyllis Schwartz Yaffa Schuller Andi Scioli Janette Shaffer Diane Shandell Usha Sherman Cantor Wendy Shermet Dani Shrago Cindy Shulewitz Susie Shyken Lisa Shkolnick Helene Shrago Sissy Silber Mary Silver Mimi Silverman Susie Silverman Esther Simon Tootie Simon Judy Simons Maxine Simons Suzanne Singer Kathy Siref Nancy Skid Martha Slosburg Cari Sommer Audrey Sophir Penny Sophir Harriett Sperling Edith Stein Melissa Steiner Rocky Stern Mary Sternberg Phyllis Steinberg Marlene Sukiennik Louri Sullivan Jill Swanberg Susan Swartz Sherry Taxman Elaine Tepperman Helena Tichauer Ellina Tomchin Sheila Tomps Selma Tretiak Eadie Tsabari Galina Tsed Jane Tsyrlin Elizabeth Tully Hazel Turchen Margaret Turetsky Yuliya Vishnevskiy Mimi Waldbaum Patsy Wallace Beth Walts Esther Wax Helen Weber Shirley Weinstein Devorah Wesch Andi Willensky Sibby Wolfson Sara Wolfson Keri Workman Dena Yosfan Galina Yurikov Phyllis Zabin Terri Zacharia Amee Zetzman Inna Zevakin Paula Ziegman Linda Zimmerman Debbi Zweiback

MEN’S SENIORS Bill Abrahams Morris Adler Sam Alloy Jack Brody Irving Chudacoff Samuel Cooper Jack Diamond David Dvorkin Bob Endelman Jack Epstein Sam Epstein Abraham Faier Canter Leo Fettman Hersz Flatowicz Irving Forbes Jerry Freeman Stuart Fried Walter Friedlander M. Robert Fromkin Julius Froom Saul Graetz Robert Gerelick Henry Greenberg Dan Greenfield Gerald Gross Joe Guss Yale Halperin Ben Heisler Art Jacobson Leonard Jacobson Kevee Kirshenbaum Leonard Krasne Manfred Kreitstein Abram Kukawka Morey Landman Ben Lebowich Irving Marcus Reverend Mendel Landsman Ben H. Magzamin Nate Mandell Victor Mashbein Carl Milder Ben Miller Paul Nathan Stanley Passer Joseph Polonski Phil Ratner Elmer Rimerman Abe Schloff Ben Schneider George Shafer Harold Siporin Morton Soiref Richard Spiegal Eli Stone Maynard Tatelman Zeph Telpner Kenneth Weiner George Weise Norman Whitman Harry Wolfson Norman Zevitz

WOMEN’S SENIORS Helen Abrahamson Louise Abrahamson Doris Alloy Millie Altman Sally Clayman Doris Cohn Minnie Cutler Rose Davis Jeanne Dvorkin Kay Ferer Annette Fettman Rose Fine Paulette Flatowicz Ida Forbes Sonia Forbes Esther Graetz Jean Gendler Anne Gerber Bernice Gerber Hilda Gottlieb Sara Harding Pauline Hoberman Toby Kagan Charlotte Kaplan Myllee Katelman Eve Katskee Betty Kelberg Ruth Klein Charlotte Slutzky Koom Gertrude Korney Dorothy Kotok Peggy Krasne Frieda Krizelman Harriet Kutler Grace Lebowich Vera Lewis Marjorie Lincoln Louise Lippett Marcia Lipsman Ann Margolin Bernice Milder Harriet Miller Reva Oruch Betty Perelman Gilda Pieck Lola Reinglas Floraine Rice Marjorie Rosen Natalie Rubin Reva Ruderman Audrey Schapiro Julia Schapiro Lillian Schrager Sophie Schulman Celia Schwartz Doris Shukert Leah Siegal Esther Silver Helen Soiref Marion Strauss Sally Venger Rosalyn Zeffren

$3.0 Million $2,991,775 Million

2003 Campaign Update

* New Pacesetter ($6,000 and above) ** New Lion of Judah ($5,000 and above)

If you haven't made your 2003 Campaign pledge, there's still time! Help us reach our goal! Call the Federation office at 334-6431 to make your pledge today! "Thank you, Jewish Omaha, for coming through again!" — Joanie Kaiman and Jerry Kohll, 2003 General Campaign Co-chairs

The 2003 Jewish Federation of Omaha Centennial Campaign 333 South 132nd Street Omaha, NE 68154 402/334-8200 www.jewishomaha.org Campaign Hotline 334-6594