June 3, 2005

Vol. LXXXIV No. 39 Omaha, NE

Nebraska’s Attorney General Returns from Trip to Israel by JOAN K. MARCUS Jon Bruning’s first trip to Israel was in 2003. “I told you then,” he said to the Breadbreakers group last week, “that I was a friend of Israel and that feeling has only been strengthened by my second trip, arranged by the America/Israel Friendship League. “This organization gives people like me a glimpse of Israel we hadn’t had before,” he explained. Israel “is a free country and it is not treated fairly by the American media” or news outlets like CNN. You learn when you go over there that Arabs in Israel are freer than they are in the Arab countries. At age 34, Bruning is the youngest attorney general in the United States. Before being elected to office in 2002, he created a thriving private law practice and was twice elected to the Nebraska Legislature. In 2001, he was elected by his fellow senators to chair the Nebraska Retirement Systems Committee, one of only 14 standing committees in the Unicameral. He attended the University of Nebraska for his underContinued on page 3

Jon Bruning talked to Breadbreakers last week about his recent trip to Israel and other topical issues.

Celebrating 84 Years of Service to Nebraska and Western Iowa

25 Iyyar, 5765 June 3, 2005

JewishOmaha.org Now Omaha’s On-line Jewish Community by PAM MONSKY Federation Communications Director Are you tired of wandering around the Jewish web? For members of the Omaha Jewish community, the long journey is over. The Jewish Federation of Omaha’s new and improved website, www.jewishomaha.org, is filled with information tailored expressly for the Omaha Jewish community. The Jewish Federation of Omaha has extended an invitation to the entire Jewish community to log on to www.jewishomaha.org and experience for themselves what the site has to offer. As an extra incentive, visitors who log on and register on the website between now and June 16, will be entered into a drawing for three fantastic prizes donated by local businesses. First place is a $200 gift certificate from Brodkey’s Jewelers; the second place winner will receive a Cardio Sport heart monitor (a $119 value), courtesy of Nova Health Equipment, and for third place, the winner will get a two-week trial membership, including the Health Spa, to the Jewish Community Center of Omaha (a value of more than $50). To enter the drawing by phone, please call 334.8200. The winners will be drawn June 17. The newly formatted Federation website uses a state-ofthe-art web solution, called FedWeb, developed by United Jewish Communities (UJC). FedWeb allows the Federation to provide a unique combination of local news and events along with timely national and international content. JewishOmaha.org’s homepage is updated daily with breaking Jewish news as well as feature articles written by some of the world’s leading Jewish personalities.

But what makes www.jewishomaha.org standout from other Jewish websites is the vast amount of useful information unique to the Omaha Jewish community. The website maintains a comprehensive list of community resources featuring local Jewish organizations, links to area synagogues and a directory of programs and services that address a variety of needs for the broad spectrum of community members. The “New to Omaha” section makes it easy for newcomers to get involved and connect with the Omaha Jewish community. There’s also useful information, FAQs (frequently asked questions) and resources designed especially for prospective newcomers who may be considering relocating to the Omaha Jewish community. Four of the Federation’s agencies: the ADL-CRC, Jewish Educational and Library Services, Jewish Family Service and the Jewish Press have their own sections on jewishomaha.org (see related story about the Jewish Press online on page 2). Sections for the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation are in development; the Jewish Community Center and Jewish Senior Services each have independent websites (go to www.jccomaha.org for the JCC and log on to www.rbjh.com for for Jewish Senior Services), though they are linked to www.jewishomaha.org as well. The website also features a selection of free contemporary Jewish and secular-themed e-cards, on-line tribute cards, resources for Israel advocacy and travel. If you’re tired of wandering around the Jewish Internet, remember that you’re always welcome at www.jewishomaha.org. And make sure you register to be automatically entered in the drawing. For more information, please contact me at 334.6431 or e-mail: pmonsky@jewishomaha.org.

Temple Israel Installs New President Beth Israel’s First Female President and Looks Ahead to New Building to Serve Second Term by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Temple Israel Communications Coordinator Wendy Goldberg was installed as president of the Temple Israel Board of Trustees at the congregation’s 134th annual meeting on May 29. She succeeds Gary Kaplan who has been president for the past two years. At the meeting, attended by approximately 150, Kaplan thanked volunteers and staff and reported on Temple’s anticipated move to a new home. New officers were installed and Goldberg offered a glimpse into her vision of the role of Temple’s leadership in the coming year. Kaplan described his administration’s response to young families who asked that Religious School be moved from Wednesdays to Thursdays, a new Saturday morning Siddur created by Cantor Wendy Shermet, the board’s acceptance of land at 168th and West Dodge Road on which to build a new synagogue, and the need for increased planned giving. Bob Freeman was given Temple’s highest honor, the Pillar of Temple Award, for taking on “extremely difficult tasks and for being our trusted attorney, negotiator, peace maker, confidant, champion, and a mentor to presidents, rabbis, and staff since 1988.” Kaplan also thanked Maria Neesman, chairman of the Religious School Steering Committee, and announced that

Inside Opinion Page see page 8

Wendy Goldberg succeeds Kaplan as president of Temple’s Board of Trustees. she is the recipient of this year’s Presidential Award. Kaplan honored the religious school teachers and coordinators for their dedication by inviting them to be his guests at dinner and receive recognition from the entire congregation. He thanked the board officers and Temple’s clergy and staff. In addition, he expressed his gratitude to all of the committee chairs and volunteers. Lastly, he conveyed his appreciation to his wife Sally and their family. Rabbi Aryeh Azriel also gave his Continued on page 2

while serving as by MARY BORT President. She also is the for Beth Israel Synagogue direct supervisor of the Consider this list of Executive Director and occupations: lawyer, docRabbi. tor, mother, teacher, synWhile some might think agogue president. What that a woman would not do these roles have in be allowed to serve as common? We can say that president of an Orthodox each position serves an synagogue, in actuality, important purpose, and women serve in a variety that each role requires of leadership positions in particular skills and Orthodox congregations knowledge. around the country. Or, we can simply say “I’m happy that the “Bonnie Bloch.” Bonnie Bloch membership of Beth Dr. Bloch’s extensive background has proven useful during the Israel is aware of important leadership past year as she fulfilled her duties as roles that are available to women within President of Beth Israel Synagogue. Beth orthodoxy, and am glad they are taking Israel’s first female president, Bloch was advantage of that“ said Beth Israel’s recently elected to serve a second term as Rabbi Jonathan Gross. Interestingly, Bloch seems rather nonPresident of the synagogue’s Board of Commissioners. Her duties encompass a chalant about the fact that some might find it unusual for a woman to serve as wide assortment of responsibilities. “It’s essential to take care of congre- President of her synagogue. To her, this gants,” she explained. “Working to fol- role seems like a sensible step in life. Law low-up with their interests and concerns school, medical school, getting married, is an important part of what the president raising children, volunteering in synadoes. I think it’s important to let them gogue activities, becoming a science know what has been done as a result of teacher--her various experiences provide a solid base from which to serve Beth their suggestions.” Programming improvements, cemetery Israel. She acknowledges that as a beautification, synagogue membership, woman, she might be initially judged by and addressing congregant needs are just some with different “lenses.” some of the activities that Bloch works on Continued on page 2

This Week: JDC and Chabad Help Tsunami Victims: Page 12 Coming Next Week: Father’s Day/Graduation Issue Jewish Press Online Gives Sneak Peak to Readers: Page 2

Volunteers to be Honored at Best of Beth El Show: Page 5

Jarring Images Haunt March of Living Participants: Page 6

In My Opinion, Bob Wolfson Address Face of Memory: Page 9

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

June 3, 2005

Jewish Press Online Gives a Sneak Peek to Readers

Alan & Marty Cohen

social announcements by by CAROL KATZMAN clicking there and filling out Editor of the Jewish Press the appropriate form. When It began with a request from Jewish the ‘send’ button is hit, the Press supporter and committee memcompleted form is automatiber, Steve Simon. “I hate waiting for cally e-mailed to the Press for my Press to arrive when I’m in publication. Phoenix for the winter,” he said. “So “In time,” added KooperI asked if there was anyway I could Schwarz, “we hope to be read it online.” able to post social announceAfter a number of trials and errors, ments, like engagements, the new FedWeb program has marriages, births and so on, allowed Press staff to post stories and as well as regular features like photos directly to the website. Every ‘Teen Age’ or columns from Thursday, Lori Kooper-Schwarz our contributors.” manipulates the lead local articles of Will the entire Jewish Press the current issue for online production. someday be online? If so, will “It’s a different way of thinking,” out of town readers drop explained Pam Monsky, the their subscriptions? What Federation Communications Direc- Assistant Managing Editor Lori Kooper-Schwarz about advertising? tor who trained Kooper-Schwarz on works on the Jewish Press pages on www.jew“These are all questions the software. “The number of pages ishomaha.org. that remain to be explored,” in the newspaper version of the Press is established by the noted Joanie Jacobson, Jewish Press Chairman. “We’ve total advertising dollars for that week. The website is been publishing a newspaper for more than 85 years and ‘cyberspace’, so our expansion is almost unlimited. have no intention of stopping now! But recent surveys “This will allow the Press to publish four-color photos indicate that young people are not reading newspapers-on the website that appear in black and white in the at least not in the traditional sense. They’re reading them newspaper,” she added, “as well as photos that couldn’t online. We’re just trying to take advantage of new techappear at all due to space limitations, like this week’s nology to ensure that we have readers in the future,” photos from the March of the Living--from Gloria and Jacobson added. “And the Press staff and committee are Howard Kaslow, Danny Krantz and Carol Katzman.” willing to take risks to make that happen.” To see these photos and more, go to www.jewishomSteve Simon no longer has to wait. “Now I know aha.org and click on Jewish Press. Readers can also post what’s going on in Omaha--even when I’m not there!”

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Beth Israel’s First Female President

CLIP & SAVE

CALENDAR OF EVENTS SATURDAY, JUNE 4 Israeli Military Overnight for Teens (Camp Out), 5 p.m.

C L I P

SUNDAY, JUNE 5 Community Jewish Singles with Glenn Fineman, 3:30 p.m. at Beth El MONDAY, JUNE 6 JSS Senior Luncheon, 10 a.m.

&

& S A V E

C L I P

TUESDAY, JUNE 7 Visions Cooking Class, 1 p.m. BBYO Night, 6 p.m. B’nai B’rith Board Meeting, 7 p.m. Board of Directors Meeting, 7 p.m. at Friedel Jewish Academy JELS Conversational Hebrew Class Level 1, 7 p.m. and Level 2, 8 p.m. JCC Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m. TLC “Growth Through Torah”, 7:30 p.m. at private residence

S A V E

Continued from page 1 However, she relishes the opportunity to offer different perspectives, and share her skills and enthusiasm with Beth Israel. When Bloch was elected as President last year, and reelected this year, the “issue” of her being a woman was not the impetus for why the Board voted for her to serve in the role. As Executive Director Beth Cohen explained, “When the idea presented itself, Beth Israel went with it. Actually, while it appears to be very progressive for an Orthodox synagogue to have a woman serve as President, it’s really about getting the best person for the job. “It’s almost too bad to think this is ‘progressive’ of Beth Israel,” she added, “because there are lots of ways for women to participate and contribute. Women play very vital roles in Orthodox synagogues.” It’s been important to Bloch to be an active member of Beth Israel. She and her husband, Dr. Howard Gendelman, moved their family to Omaha in 1993, when Gendelman took a position at UNMC. “We lived in Silver Spring, Maryland, for almost 10 years, where there is a huge Jewish community,” said Bloch. “In bigger communities, it’s not essential for everyone to be involved so much. But in Omaha, we’re smaller and everyone needs to volunteer.” So, Bloch became involved with Jewish youth activities and NCSY. And as her children became older, she had more time to volunteer for Beth Israel, Friedel Jewish Academy, and the Jewish Federation. She eventually was

elected a member of Beth Israel’s Board, served as Administrative Vice-President, and now as President. Bloch’s presidency coincides with a unique time in Beth Israel’s history. During 2004, the synagogue moved to a new building and brought in Rabbi Gross as their new spiritual leader. “Our goals are to continue to revitalize,” explained Bloch. “We are doing an amazing job in that respect. Beth Israel has more families, more participation and more events. Everything is moving in the right direction. There is excitement and enthusiasm with our new building and new Rabbi.” Bloch added that “Rabbi Gross has the biggest task in meeting the goals and he deserves credit for what he has been doing.” Bloch is quick to acknowledge all of the people who have volunteered their time for years on behalf of Beth Israel. She knows she is just one person out of many who serve the synagogue. “We need to appreciate all the people who have worked all these years,” she said. “Volunteers are the important factor.” In the coming year, Bloch looks forward to helping maintain the momentum of Beth Israel’s recent growth. After teaching a special anatomy and physiology program at Burke High School for the past few years, she has decided to take a hiatus from teaching. This will enable her to devote more time to her volunteer interests in the community, including her role as Beth Israel’s President. “It will be terrific to continue with our successes,” she added.

Temple Israel Looks Ahead C L I P & S A V E

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8 Beth Israel Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m. THURSDAY, JUNE 9 Walk-in Drop-in, 10 a.m. Adult Education, 10 a.m. at Temple Israel Yiddish Group, 1 p.m. JELS Conversational Hebrew Class Level 1, 7 p.m. and Level 2, 8 p.m. Best of Beth El Musical Review Community Event, 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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Continued from page 1 remarks highlighting Kaplan’s presidency, reiterating his advocacy for “a sound and clear endowment strategy.” The rabbi emphasized Kaplan’s commitment to looking at the big picture. John Waldbaum, chairman of the Building and Grounds Committee, noted the board completed acquisition of the site at 168th and West Dodge Road through “a wonderful set of donors” and that the process of gathering ideas for the design of the building is beginning. Goldberg, upon being installed, spoke of people coming to the synagogue “for life’s transitions, for life cycle events, for difficult crossings, looking to let faith, community, and tradition help us find strength. Our goal as a congregation is to transmit tradition and Torah, build community, and to be the best we can be,” she said. Goldberg stressed that she and the board must listen to the other congregants and that as Temple transitions from past traditions to the future, “great team work” will be required.

Other volunteers who were honored included Sheila Tomps for her gemilut chasadim, acts of loving kindness, and Jake Bleicher, outgoing president of Omaha Temple Youth Group.

Bob Freeman, left, was named the recipient of Temple’s Pillar of Temple Award by out-going President Gary Kaplan at Temple's annual meeting.

June 3, 2005

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

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Nebraska’s Attorney General Returns from Trip to Israel Continued from page 1 graduate education and received his J.D. with distinction from UNL in 1994. He is chairman of the Nebraska Commission on Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice and serves on the Board of Pardons. His aggressive agenda includes tougher penalties for violent offenders, increased prosecution and penalties for the manufacturing and trafficking of met amphetamines. “It’s unbelievable the access we got to the highest levels of government while in Israel,” Bruning continued. “There were two attorneys general and 15 lay people on our tour and we got an hour with the president of the Supreme Court. Can you imagine that kind of a group getting time with Supreme Court Justice Renquist?” An Israel Defence Froces colonel acted as a guide for the group, taking them up to the Golan Heights where the Syrians had been repelled during the 1973 Yom Kippur War. “For me, it was probably the most compelling, gripping realization of the risk that Israelis face every day,” Bruning said. “Our guide told the story of a battle when the Israelis were at the top of the hill with their 25 tanks. I looked down the hill and the Syrians were coming up with 1500 tanks, a fuel truck and repair trucks for each of the tanks. So, there were 5000 vehicles rolling. “Those Israelis figured out with their 25 tanks and 30 or 40 guys, how to repel the Syrians. They backed up the tanks and did it in different places to make the Syrians think that there were more tanks,” he added. “When they ran out of bullets, they went down the hill with 10 tanks and the Syrians turned around and ran back to Damascus. It’s an amazing story!” Bruning insisted that the United States needs to continue to fund and support the

defense of the State of Israel. “The wolves Nebraska senator. “My office was asked are surrounding Israel,” he added, “and its this week about the legality of impeachdefense is critical to the future of America. ing someone for an act that took place The Middle East is already at enough risk before taking office. The impeachment and it’s important that we maintain that statutes say that a person can’t be impeached for something they’ve done light of freedom in Israel. “I look forward to the opportunity to before they are elected,” Bruning be more helpful on a national level,” he explained. “The legislature could said, annoucing his plans to run for attorney impeach him, but it would then go to the general again “because I know I can’t beat Supreme Court for a trial. It would Tom Osborne in a gubernatorial race. I’ll require five of the seven judges to vote wait until Tom serves one term and then, ‘yes’ in order to convict him.” When I’ll take my Bruning was turn.” asked to comAfter his ment on the comments issue of stem about Israel, cell research, Bruning went he responded on to answer that “this questions issue is a diffifrom the audicult one for ence. The first me. I am was about the grateful not structure of to be in the the legislative legislature so system of that I don’t Israel. “ A h a r o n Omaha attorney Steve Riekes, left, chats with Attorney have to make that decision. Barack, the General Jon Bruning after Breadbreakers. “I am pro-life and I want to see us conpresident of the Supreme Court, has made the judiciary in Israel independent and well tinue to spend money pursuing other respected. The legislative branch under- options such as cord blood (from the stands that the judiciary is not going to be umbilical cords) of newborns or rapid autopsies. There are other ways to get intimidated by anyone. “Barack has made good and right deci- stem cells that are useful. “As attorney general, I haven’t had to sions for many, many years,” Bruning continued. “He is very modest about all deal with the subject. I struggle with it that he has done and it’s amazing to me because I see both sides.” The next issue raised was about legislahow modest Israeli leaders are in comparison to the way we ensconce ourselves tion banning same-sex marriages. Bruning commented, “It is part of a conhere in this country.” Another question launched a discussion stitutional amendment passed by 70% of about the possible impeachment of a the voters in 2000. So, it never went

Affect Israel’s Future

through the legislature. It was almost immediately challenged and Judge Joe Battalion found it unconstitutional. “This (new amendment) goes a bit further,” he added. “I believe it will be found constitutional. When we get to the Supreme Court of the United States it’ll win. Bans on same-sex marriage have been supported--not only in Nebraska. “Oregon just passed one by a similar margin. You would typically define Oregon as being more clearly to the left. Even people who define themselves as moderate--or even less than moderate-are nonetheless voting in favor of these statutes. I think that people want to preserve that definition. We already have a statute here in Nebraska but people didn’t see it as enough. “As a state,” he added, “I’m not sure that we want to sanction ‘choice’ in marriage. Marriage is a religious institution.” The Republican Party of Texas recently adopted a platform stating that the United States is a Christian nation. A member of Breadbreakers asked Bruning to address the evangelical approach the party seems to have adopted. The AG answered, “I think it’s ridiculous! We need to have room for everyone in the Republican Party--a big tent. And, that means people who are homosexual as well. I have friends who are gay and I have people on my staff who are gay! Bruning summed up his feelings by saying, “We can’t define ourselves as Christians or as ‘straight’ people. The reason I’m a Republican is because it’s a ‘free’ market. “I want to see government get out of the way and let people worship how they want and run their businesses the way they want.”

Featuring Yossi Klein Halevi

International Syndicated Columnist and Author

2005 AIPAC Nebraska Cocktail Reception Sunday, June 5, 2005 at 5:30 p.m.

AIPAC Annual Event Committee 2005

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David Gilinsky, AIPAC Council Co-Chair Jan Schneiderman, AIPAC Council Co-Chair Michael Miller, AIPAC Council Vice-Chair Tom Fellman Nancy & Harlan Noddle David Friedland Larry & Sivi Roffman Gary Javitch Todd Simon Murray Newman

9709 Ascot Drive, Omaha, NE 68114 Members and non-members welcome. Please RSVP by May 27th by contacting AIPAC’s Nebraska office at 303864-9464 or yborukhova@aipac.org.

Yossi Klein Halevi is a contributing editor and internationally renowned Israel correspondent of the New Republic. He has been a regular contributor on Israeli affairs to the Los Angeles Times, and a contributor to the New York Times and the Washington Post. His books include "At the Entrance to the Garden of Eden: A Jew's Search for God with Christians and Muslims in the Holy Land" and "Memoirs of a Jewish Extremist", the story of his teenage attraction to Rabbi Meir Kahane and his subsequent break with Jewish militancy. He is currently a senior fellow at the Shalem Center, where he is writing a book about the Israeli paratroopers who reunited Jerusalem in 1967. Born and raised in New York, he moved to Israel in 1982. He lives in Jerusalem with his wife, Sarah, a geneticist, and their three children.

AIPAC - “the most important organization affecting America’s relationship with Israel.”

-The New York Times

A I PA C

THE AMERICAN ISRAEL PUBLIC AFFAIRS COMMITTEE America’s Pro-Israel Lobby www.aipac.org

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June 3, 2005

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Last Days and New Beginnings for Temple Students by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Temple Israel Communications Coordinator Temple Israel’s senior class was confirmed and graduated at Shabbat worship services on last month. This year’s class, below, together with Temple’s clergy and

Anderson, Social Action Vice President; Jackie Neesman, Membership Vice President; Anne Rips, Junior Youth Group Liaison; Sean Bernstein, Secretary; Ashley Bernstein, Special Projects Coordinator; and Chelsea Taxman, Regional Communications and Visual Vice President. May 22 was the final day of religious school at Temple -undoubtedly one of the

Middle/High School Director Elyce Azriel, included, top row: Rabbi Aryeh Azriel, left, Jake Bleicher, Joel Passer, Rabbi Craig Marantz; bottom row: Elyce Azriel, Jeremiah Bleicher, Meagan Katelman, Naomi Fox, Adam Trubnikov, and Cantor Wendy Shermet. New officers for Omaha Temple Youth Group were installed that night. They are Caroline Terry, President; Sarah Bleicher, Programming Vice President; Sam Long, Religious and Cultural Vice President; David

most entertaining--as special guest Robbo, above, sang his original songs for a sanctuary full of elementary school-age children, their families, and teachers. Robbo invited numerous children and adults to perform with him throughout his show as the audience applauded, laughed, and swayed to the antics. Religious school resumes on Sunday, Aug. 28, at Temple Israel for kindergarten through sixth grade and on Wednesday, Sept. 7, for Middle/High School.

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Beth Israel Sisterhood Selects Officers and Moves Forward on Playground Project by MARY BORT for Beth Israel Synagogue During last week’s Sisterhood open board meeting, the following women were elected: Co-Presidents, Janet Kohll and Toba Cohen-Dunning; Fundraising Vice President, Bette Kozlen; Membership Vice President, Maggie Gerber; Programming Vice President, Annette Fettman; Kitchen Vice President, Julee Katzman; Recording Secretary, Susan Polack; Corresponding Secretary, Sophie Schulman; Financial Secretary, Shirley Goodman; Treasurer, Susie Shyken; and Directors, Jane Cohen and Jeanette Nadoff. All previous Sisterhood Presidents are also members of the Board. Specific details about the Sisterhood’s Playground Project were finalized. It was reported that the group raised more than $1,600 during last fall’s Donor event

and received a $2,000 Esther K. Newman/Carolyn Kully Newman Foundation Grant. Sisterhood is close to its fundraising goal and will present a playground plan to the Beth Israel Board at the June board meeting. Once they obtain final approval, Sisterhood will proceed with ordering Rainbow Play Systems playground equipment. They also decided upon rubber mulch as the ground cover for the playground, which is highly rated for safety in the industry. Playground construction will take place this summer. The meeting also included a report by Margie Alperson and Bette Kozlen about the upcoming Sisterhood Style Show and Luncheon scheduled for Sept. 13. The show will include fashions from Draper’s & Damon’s and Pish Posh.

Learning at Temple Israel on Shavuot to Reflect on “Broken Tablets: Restoring Commandments and Ourselves” by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Temple Israel Communications Coordinator Just as Passover has its memories of the past and its symbols taken from spring, Shavuot, as the May or summer festival, offers its garlands of flowers and green boughs as was customary with our forefathers, according to Dr. Fred Krome, academic associate at the American Jewish Archives. In modern times, Shavuot is also an opportunity to remember and to be grateful to God for giving the Ten Commandments to Moses. Every generation has its chance to stand at Mount Sinai to receive the Torah anew, said Rabbi Aryeh Azriel of Temple Israel. Each person of Israel receives the Torah in his own way and in his own time. “Every year we need to re-enter into the covenental relationship that we Jews have with God,” explained Rabbi Azriel. “Shavuot is the holiday that asks us to stand erect to fulfill the commandments that are our pathway to a meaningful, purposeful life.” On Erev Shavuot, Sunday, June 12, 7 p.m., Temple’s clergy: Rabbi Azriel, Rabbi Craig Marantz, and Cantor Wendy Shermet will lead a service in the sanctuary in celebration of the Torah. The service will be followed by a dairy reception. After the reception, the clergy, partnering with members of the congregation, Dr. Leslie Joseph and Jeff Schweid, will lead Tikkun Leil Shavuot, a discussion of “Broken Tablets: Restoring the Ten Commandments and Ourselves.” Dr. Joseph, a Ph.D. in counseling psychology, is a licensed Nebraska psychologist who worked at the Nebraska State Penitentiary, Omaha Public Schools, St. Joseph Center for Mental Health, and Alegent Health. He now works with individuals, 12-years-old through adulthood, and families. His specialties include relation-

ship counseling and diagnostic psychological testing. Jeff Schweid has earned degrees in biochemistry, food science, and business management. He has been with ConAgra Foods for 15 years and is manager of specifications with the food giant. He is also on the board of Temple Israel, a choir member, and chair of the adult education committee. Study will focus on the fourth commandment in a conversation about “The Meaning of Shabbat: A Virtual Domain in Time.” “You Shall Not Commit Adultery: Sacred Boundaries,” will be a discussion of the seventh commandment. The tenth commandment, “You Shall Not Covet: Desire,” will also be given attention. Dr. Leonard Greenspoon, Klutznick Chair in Jewish Civilization at Creighton University, will give an introduction to set the stage for the discussion of these three commandments. “The Ten Commandments are as much in the public eye today as they have been at any time since they were given at Mt. Sinai on what was, from the traditional Jewish perspective, the first Shavuot. “It is not my intention,” Dr. Greenspoon said, “to enter into the political debate over whether and in what context the Ten Commandments might or might not be displayed in public buildings. Rather I want to affirm that, whatever else they are, the Ten Commandments are profoundly religious.” He plans to offer his “10 comments or commentaries on the Ten Commandments in order to appreciate the religious, cultural, historical, and even linguistic traditions that have developed over the centuries and also to explore their applicability in today’s society.” Monday, June 13, 10:30 a.m. is a Shavuot Service and Yizkor. Names to be read during Yizkor should be called in to the office (556.6536) by Thursday, June 9.

June 3, 2005

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

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The Beat Goes On at Beth El During 75th Anniversary Musical Salute by JILL BELMONT Beth El Publicity Coordinator Thursday, June 9 is the day; 7 p.m. is the time, and the entire community is invited to attend this unforgettable evening celebrating “The Best of Beth El.� From start to finish, this 75th anniversary event will have the audience clapping their hands, “oohing� and “ahhhhing,� reminiscing and laughing--this evening’s got it all and it’s absolutely free! Kicking off the festivities will be the light-hearted, joyful “The Best of Beth El� musical salute, directed by Joanie Jacobson and featuring more than 70 Beth El men, women and children, who will sing and dance their way through a variety of much-loved songs performed at the synagogue through the decades. Musical accompaniment will be provided by the five-piece “Diamond Anniversary Show Band.� “This is community at its finest,� Jacobson said, applauding the cast, crew and musicians for their hard work. “Shows like this are very special, especially with this talented, multi-generational cadre of congregants which has rehearsed at least twice a week for five weeks, mostly at night, after a long day at work or school or taking care of their families. “Rehearsing is hard work, but the work

Thirteen songs, each with its own peris also our play,� she continued. “Rehearsals have been full of laughter, sonality, its own rhythm and feel. “We’ll sing from beginning to end, wonderfully creative suggestions, amazup dance teaming storm, make work, a lot of you smile, talent and our warm your own brand of heart, touch unconditional soul, your love. The cast and make you has been really feel inspirational. good about Accompanied being Jewish by our great in Omaha, band, they Nebraska,� remain ready, she added, willing and “whether delightfully you’re a able to go on member of stage in front Beth El or of 400 of not! Free and their ‘nearest open to the and dearest,’ community, and give everyone in Just who are these mysterious masked men and what exact- it’s all about the audience ly are they pondering? Their dance steps, perhaps? Find out spirit...and we a great time!� on June 9, as these “shul men� join dozens of other per- offer you the “best.� The show formers during “The Best of Beth El� musical revue! During the evening, the synagogue will will offer a variety of musical styles, Jacobson added, asking, “So, what’s your also recognize annual award winners for pleasure? Rock, show tunes, folk, stan- their dedication to Beth El and to dards, gospel, ballads or the best of Judaism (see accompanying article); American pop Jewish music? We’ve got it. applaud the chairmen of the past year’s

Volunteers to be Honored During “Best of Beth El� Show ed marvelous event chairmen, who, in turn enlisted more dedicated volunteers who made every event a great success! For their endless hours, days and months making this anniversary one for the history books, we’re pleased to honor and thank Joanie and Jim.� Dan Levitan is the 2005 recipient of the Selwyn Roffman Award, which recognizes congregants for religious growth. “During the past several years, Dan has taken it upon himself to supplement his Jewish education, joining several of our adult education classes, participating in the Adult B’nai Mitzvah class and learning Hebrew for the B’nai Mitzvah ceremony (for which he made his own tallit) last Sukiennik November,� noted. “Dan’s dedication to Jewish Joanie Jacobson Jim Fried study is evident, and his enthusiasm has inspired his wife, Gale, to join the current B’nai Mitzvah class. His deep commitment to Judaism makes him a very deserving recipient of this award. For her innovative and dedicated service to Beth El, Toby Schonfeld will receive the Earl Siegel Award, given to an outstanding board Dan Levitan Toby Schonfeld member. Sukiennik comSynagogue President Hyman Sukiennik mended Schonfeld for bringing social has announced that this year’s President’s action to the forefront at Beth El, as well Award will be presented to Joanie as spearheading the Beth El Association Jacobson and Jim Fried, who have served for Mitzvot (BEAM) group last year. as general chairmen of Beth El’s mile“Toby has done a wonderful job bringstone 75th anniversary year celebration. ing people together and personifying the “Joanie and Jim have orchestrated an saying that ‘it takes a village...’� historic year of festivities, from presenta- Sukiennik said. “For her dedication to tions by Ron Wolfson and Rabbi Harold Beth El, her enthusiastic leadership and Kushner to the Newcomers’ Shabbat, to the countless hours she has spent bringthe elegant Diamond Anniversary Gala, ing people together and giving to others, the hysterical Pour ‘em Shpiel and the we honor her with the Earl Siegel Award rollicking ‘Best of Best El,’� Sukiennik and thank her for being such a vital part said. “With great foresight, they recruit- of our synagogue.� by JILL BELMONT Beth El Publicity Coordinator Every year, Beth El Synagogue gratefully recognizes several congregants who have made significant contributions to the synagogue during the past year. This year, four very deserving individuals will be honored during the “Best of Beth El� show on Thursday, June 9, 7 p.m., and the entire community is invited to applaud their devotion to Judaism and to Beth El!

75th anniversary events, for making each occasion so memorable; and enjoy an irresistible dessert reception coordinated by mother/daughter duo Bobbie Epstein and Melissa Schop and their baking brigade. And if that’s not enough, the evening will be punctuated by the much-anticipated unveiling of the synagogue’s 75th anniversary quilt project “Living an Ageless Story.� Four colorfully unique and magnificent quilts, all bordered by the names of Beth El congregants past and present and created by congregants Julie Phillips, Karin Levine, Barbara Rennard, Ozzie Nogg and Susi FrydmanLevin, will be displayed in perpetuity in honor of this milestone anniversary. As Jacobson noted about the evening, “Opportunities like this are rare; something Jewish and familiar for people of any age, but out of the ordinary and extremely entertaining. What a combination! It’s irresistible!� So, if you’re looking for the best in entertainment, the best in original artwork and the best in delectable eats, the “Best of Beth El� will serve it all up this coming Thursday night. This is an evening not to be missed--bring your family and friends and join the celebration!

JEWISH PRESS NOTICE The Jewish Press office will be closed Monday and Tuesday, June 13-14, for Shavuot and again on Monday, July 4, for Independence Day. Pictures from the Passover issue and from next week’s “Salute to High School Seniors� may be picked up in the Press office during regular business hours. Questions? Call 334.6448.

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

June 3, 2005

MARRIAGE GITLES/DEUTSCH Rebecca Elaine Gitles and Clifford Chicago. The groom, the son of Oscar and Mina William Deutsch of Chicago were married April 1 at Congregation Beth Shalom in Deutsch of Surprise AZ, is a graduate of Northbrook, IL. Rabbi Carl Wolkin offi- Illinois State University, Normal IL. He is the manager of EPublishing at WW ciated at the afternoon ceremony. Grainger in Lincolnshire IL. The bride is the daughter of Marcia Gitles of Redondo Arlene Grossman Gitles and Ed Beach, CA was the maid of Hammerman of Northbrook, IL honor for her sister. Paige and the late Burton Gitles. Gitles, sister-in-law of the The bride’s grandparents were bride, was matron of honor. the late Arthur and Anne Groomsmen were the Grossman. Linda Grossman of groom’s brothers, Ron Tucson AZ, the bride’s aunt, Deutsch of Los Angeles, prepared Shabbat dinner at the and Jack Deutsch of New home of the bride’s parents. York City, and Chuck Gitles A dinner dance was held on April 2 at the Garfield Park Conservatory of Glenview, IL, brother of the bride. Brandon Gitles, the bride’s nephew, and in Chicago. The bride received both Bachelors and Rosamund Deutsch, the groom’s niece, Masters Degrees in Advertising from the were ringbearers. The couple honeymooned in British University of Illinois. She is a digital media producer at Pro Active, Inc., in Columbia and reside in Chicago.

Beth El’s June Rosh Hodesh Meeting Promises to Whet Appetites for Jewish Cooking by JILL BELMONT Beth El Publicity Coordinator A tasty Rosh Hodesh meeting will be served to the women of Beth El on Wednesday, June 15, 7 p.m., with an evening exploring Jewish cooking, at the home of Pam Friedlander, 1376 So. 137 Ave. All those planning to attend “Beyond Matzoh Balls: Jewish Foods and Their Role in Our Lives” are encouraged to bring their favorite Jewish recipes and cookbooks, as well as fond and funny cooking memories from days past and present, said Friedlander, who will treat

attendees to a strudel-making demonstration. In addition, participants are welcome to prepare a favorite Jewish dish in advance and bring it to the meeting for all to sample. (Anyone wishing to bring food is asked to call Friedlander prior to the meeting.) The evening will begin with a social hour, followed by the meeting at 7:30 p.m. Reservations are needed and may be made by contacting Friedlander at 334.8773, or via e-mail at pfriedla@ cox.net

Jarring Images Haunt Participants of March of the Living by CAROL KATZMAN Editor of the Jewish Press Look at a map of Poland. Now imagine it a century ago when many of our grandparents left there for America--the Goldene Medina. There was no nation of Poland then. A hulking giant of Russia lay to the east of Poland; Prussia to the West and the Austro-Hungarian Empire to the South. At one time, Poland also had to contend with the Vikings of Scandinavia, the Tatars and Mongol hordes of the steppes, the Ottoman Empire (and before that the Roman Empire) and of course, the Nazi regime to the West in the 1930s and ’40s. Armies have marched across Poland for centuries and history has piled up in layers. Our first encounter was the medieval period in Krakow, exemplified by the 600-year-old cemetery, castle on the hill, old churches and monasteries and ancient town square. But right outside Krakow is, of course, the Placzow concentration camp; dozens and dozens of other camps sit side-byside with other Polish cities: Majdanek outside Lublin and Auschwitz/Birkenau next to the town of Osweicim. And so the layer of World War II and its horrific history is never very far away.

Remnants of life before World War II include: above, a former synagogue in Warsaw, and below: the medieval town square of Krakow.

Above left: Danny Krantz wraps himself in the Israeli flag after the March from Auschwitz to Birkenau; a survivor explains where the uprising occurred in the Warsaw ghetto to Marcel Kahn, above. Soviet-era apartment blocks, at left, can be seen behind the monument to the Warsaw Ghetto Fighters at Mila 18. A construction boom, below, is taking place in Warsaw, where American firms like KFC, McDonald’s, Marriott, Holiday Inn and Ramada do brisk business. Photos by Danny Krantz

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Across the street from Placzow or adjacent to the Mila 18 memorial in Warsaw are crumbling Soviet-era apartment blocks. Squatting squarely above historical sites, the buildings are grim reminders of the oppressive Soviet domination that followed the Nazi rule of Poland. And finally, there is the newly emerging democratic nation of Poland, free barely 16 years after the fall of the Berlin Wall. In addition to some of the most contemporary architecture being constructed in Warsaw, evidence of modernization included billboards advertising Playboy and Lexus, cable television programs like MTV, CNN, a Polish version of Home shopping Network and CSI dubbed in Polish. Internet cafes are visible on nearly every corner and Starbucks will surely follow. These images bang up against one another constantly. As our group moved from Krakow’s town square to the crematoria of Majdanek, from a monument

to the Warsaw Ghetto Fighters to a likeness of Moscow University replicated in Warsaw (and six other sites across the former Soviet Union), from the gravesite of Rabbi Moshe Isserles--the Rama--to the Marriott and McDonald’s, it was no wonder we all felt jostled by the history of centuries pressing down on us. This was a hard trip--too short to adjust to Polish time, filled with long days and sleepless nights, disturbed by the harsh reality of the Holocaust--yet we are grateful we had the opportunity to go.

Out

Dining

June 3, 2005

ENGAGEMENTS FELDMAN/MILLER Lisa Erin Feldman, daughter of Ron and Pam Feldman and Deb and Paul Hoffman, and Nicolas Hale Miller, son of William and Robin Miller, have announced their engagement. The bride-to-be graduated from the University of Kansas and earned a Masters of Occupational Therapy Texas Women’s from University. She is currently employed at Pate Rehabilitation as an Occupational Therapist in Dallas, TX. She is the granddaughter of Lillian Feldman and Hugh and Corinne Levin. Her fiancé graduated from Baylor University with a degree in Business Administration. He is a sales representative for Integrative Packaging Solutions in Dallas, TX. He is the grandson of Margaret Bowling of Bowling Green, OH. An October 1 wedding in Dallas is planned.

ORGANIZATIONS YOUNG ENERGETIC SENIORS Join the group on Monday for the One Man Show Papa Joe at the JCC auditorium at noon. Cost for lunch is $6 per person. Bingo with Eileen Remer will begin at 10 a.m. in the auditorium; exercise at 10:30 a.m., and the discussion group at 11 a.m. Call Dee Dee for transportation at 330.4272. Call Maggie at 334.6521 for reservations to the Bluffs Run Casino on June 30. The cost is $5 per person LOMIR REDN YIDDISH Come to the Yiddish meeting at the JCC on Thursdays, 1-3 p.m. Call Anne Skolkin at 343.1638. VISIONS Reminder: Cooking Demonstration at That's Amoré in Bellevue is June 7, 1 p.m. Meet at the JCC at 12:15 p.m. for carpooling. The group will leave at 12:30 p.m. JEWISH SENIOR SERVICES JSS presents two free concerts; vocalist Billie James will perform on Thursday, June 16, 1 p.m. at the JCC auditorium. During her 40-year career in Australia, she worked with a large number of jazz groups and was honored as the “Night Club/Cabaret Entertainer of the Year” in 1978. The Iowa Western Community Band will present a Summer Welcome Concert with Swing Time Favorites on Tuesday, June 21, 7 p.m. at the JCC auditorium. Call Maggie Conti at 334.6521 for reservations. BREADBREAKERS Ross Robb will be the guest speaker at B’nai B’rith Breadbreakers on Wednesday, June 8, noon, at the Park Inn Regency, according to Gary Javitch, chairman. Robb will speak about the new Riverfront Place development and other downtown innovations. Cost is $11 for a full lunch and $2 for beverage service only. HADASSAH New members, new Life Members and prospective members will be treated to a style show and dairy dessert tea at the Sunset Valley Country Club on Tuesday, June 21, 7 p.m. The event is also open to board members and those who have encouraged others to join Hadassah. Mainstream Fashions in Bel Air Plaza will provide the clothing for children and adult models. For more information, call Sandy Kohll, 391.5603, or Sherry Taxman, 397.5816.

BIRTH Claudia and Richard Sophir of Leawood, KS, announce the May 6 arrival of their daughter, Ava Elizabeth, born April 22 in Omaha. Rabbi Arthur Nemitoff of B’nai Jehudah will officiate at at a baby naming ceremony at the Sophir home on June 5. Grandparents are Robert Shepherd of Warrensburg, MO, Nancy Shepherd of Kansas City, MO, Audrey Sophir and the late Alfred Sophir.

RICHSTONE/SALTZMAN Sarah D. Richstone and Scott J. Saltzman announce their engagement. The bride-to-be attends Stern College in New York, NY, where she is majoring in English Literature. She will begin Massage Therapy School in October, 2005. She is the daughter of Lee Richstone of Brooklyn, NY and the late Drew Rutherford, and the granddaughter of Stanly Richstone of Burbank, CA, and the late Charlene Richstone. Her great-grandmother is Doris Udes of Huntington Beach, CA. Her fiancé attends Touro College in Brooklyn, NY, where he is working towards a Business Management degree. He is the Assistant Manager of Midtown Greenhouse Garden Center in Queens, NY. He is the son of Errol and Lynne Saltzman, and the grandson of Selma Weber of Whitestone, NY, and the late Marty Weber. A summer 2006 wedding in Omaha is planned.

IN THE NEWS Former Omahan Larry Moldo was ordained a rabbi at the Academy for Jewish Religion. His senior project focused on “Pastoral Care: Unsuccessful Pregnancies and Neonatal Death.” At the Academy in New Jersey, Rabbi Moldo has served the Student Association in a variety of roles, most recently as its president. Last year he received the first Dr. Ora Horn Prouser Bible Scholarship. He studied at the University of Minnesota, majoring in Psychology and Education before receiving a degree in Jewish Studies. He has worked in Peoria, IL, as Youth and Education Director, in Omaha as Ritual Director at Beth El, and the greater Kansas City area where he volunteered at Congregation Ohev Sholom. For the past four years, Larry has served as spiritual leader to the Elmwood Park Jewish Center in Elmwood Park, NJ. The Grinnell College Athletics Department recognized excellence in athletics. First-year student-athlete Hannah Wolf was recognized as a Freshman Athlete of the Year Award winner. Wolf, a 2004-05 Second Team all-Midwest Conference selection in women’s basketball, collected the women’s award for a team sport. She is the daughter of Phil and Nancy Wolf. Former Omahan Sarah Raful graduated recently with a Master of Arts in Jewish Communal Service from Hebrew Union College and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Southern California. At the HUC graduation, she was awarded the Madelyn and Eugene Goodwin School of Jewish Communal Service Alumni and Friends Award. She will begin work as the Assistant Director of the Hess Kramer Camp of Wilshire Boulevard Temple in Los Angeles. She is the daughter of former Omahans Dinah and Larry Raful of Islip, NY.

Sharansky Autobiography Focus of Library Book Discussion Group Rabbi Jonathan Gross of Beth Israel Synagogue will lead the upcoming discussion of Nathan Sharansky’s book, Fear No Evil, on Thursday, June 16, 1 p.m. in the Kripke Jewish Federation Library. This remarkable autobiography of courage in the face of obstacles details the story of man’s survival against years of political oppression in the USSR. According to Nathan Sharansky Dorothy Kaplan, founder of the Book Group, “We are very fortunate to have Rabbi Gross lead this discussion. Fear No Evil is one of his favorite books and one which made a lasting impression on him.” Copies of the book, obtained through inter-library loan, are now available in the library. Several members of the Russian community will attend this discussion and will share their memories with the group. Call the library at 334.6462 to find out about the book selections for the upcoming meetings.

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 7

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

June 3, 2005

Connecting to the Jewish People It’s time for another “radical” suggestion: let’s allocate $1000 a year to any college student who wants to spend time in Israel. Nearly 20 years ago, the Jewish Federation of Omaha made a wise decision to subvent the cost of a summer trip to Israel for high school students. Regardless of each teen’s financial need, $1000 would be allotted for a trip sponsored by a recognized group such as USY, NFTY, NCSY, BBYO and the like. A few years later, the Passport of Israel program began with the class now entering its senior year in high school. Parents could choose to put $250 into an account which the Federation would match; another $500 would then be available from the teen’s home synagogue. The total amount could then be applied to a teen trip to Israel. And then, the rabbis wisely suggested a similar program for B’nai Mitzvah kids: $500 towards a Jewish summer camping experience the year prior to a child’s Bar or Bat Mitzvah and another $500 afterwards. Now it’s time for the Federation to consider adding college students to this list. While the birthright israel program is currently being funded by this community (the 10-day free trip to Israel for those 18-26-year-olds who have never been on a peer trip before), those college students who want to be in Israel for longer stays often have to scramble for funds. And there are only two scholarship funds available for longer programs in Israel--one is Rabbi Aryeh Azriel’s at Temple Israel, established in honor of his birthday--and the other is the Friedman Fund--both for students preparing for the rabbinate, cantorate, or in the case of Rabbi Azriel’s fund, a career in

Jewish education. There’s nothing else for financial aid--or to assist those who don’t qualify for scholarships, but know that year in Israel may mean extra expenses. Whether it’s a post- high school year in Israel in a yeshiva, seminary or programs like Nativ, NFTY or Young Judaea’s Year Course or a semester abroad as a junior in college, these longer stays have been proven to have a greater, more long-lasting effect than a teen trip in high school or birthright israel. If this community is really interested in securing the ties of its young people to the Jewish community, they need to consider adding this to its annual list of allocations. From past experience here, a maximum of only seven college students have spent a year in Israel (that was in 1996-97); the minimum is one in 2003-04. Even at funding of $6000 a year, surely the money could be found--or perhaps a generous donor would be willing to establish an endowment of about $130,000 that would provide the $6000 needed most years. And perhaps with the knowledge that $1000 of the costs would be covered for this extended stay in Israel, more of our young adults might be willing to go (so maybe $150,000 is a more appropriate amount for the initial funding). Like the Israel Experience, Passport to Israel and B’nai Mitzvah grants, there is no downside to this. And the positive benefits include long term data that suggest a closer tie to the

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Jewish people, a higher rate of marrying Jewishly, and a stronger commitment to the State of Israel. Aren’t these the qualities we want in our young people (in all of our people)? Instead of moaning about the high rate of assimilation or the lack of young people in Omaha who are connected to the Jewish people, this community could do something concrete to remedy that situation.

Israel Hoping Long-term Stays by Diaspora Youth Will Pay Dividends

FOCUS ON ISSUES by DINA KRAFT TEL AVIV (JTA)--Ben Russell helped deliver two babies, taught English to Druse children, worked with Ethiopian immigrants, led coexistence workshops with Arab students and met Prime Minister Ariel Sharon during his “year off” in Israel before college. “I always felt like I knew bits of Israel, but not well,” said Russell, who grew up in London and will study at Cambridge University in the fall. “I wanted to spend some real time here and get to know the country.” Russell, 19, is one of some 5,600 young Jews from around the world who came to Israel this year for long-term study or volunteer programs. The sense of connection and adventure these extended visits create are seen as a safeguard against climbing intermarriage rates and a drop in Jewish community involvement among young people. Israeli officials believe that longer stays in the country are the best way to cement Jewish identity and commitment to Israel--including an interest in aliyah--among the next generation of Jews. They don’t merely trust that such programs are the way to go; they're banking on them. On Sunday, the Israeli government and the Jewish Agency for Israel launched an ambitious program called Masa, or Israel Journey, in which they plan eventually to invest $100 million a year to help subsidize semester and yearlong programs for Diaspora youth. Program fees paid by participants are expected to reach another $100 million a year. The goal is to bring 20,000 young Diaspora Jews to Israel each year on long-term visits. Allan Hoffman, director general of JAFI’s

Education Department, said the goal of hav- our identities as Jews,” Sharon said. ing one in five young Jews from the Diaspora The program marks the first time the govin Israel for a long-term program will have a ernment has allocated such a large sum of “transformative impact on Jewish life. money specifically for the Diaspora, Cabinet “I believe this is one of the few avenues open secretary Yisrael Maimon said. to us to really build a next generation of “There is a lot of criticism of the governJewish people into the future,” he said. ment about the decision at a time when there Hoffman said coming to Israel for an is poverty and budget cuts,” Maimon said. extended stay takes the experience to a differBut citing the rise in intermarriage and the ent level than coming as a tourist. decrease of young Diaspora Jews remaining “You can have a wonderful experience as a active in their communities, Maimon said the tourist, but you're always an outgovernment decided it sider looking in,” he said. was time to act. Daniel Davidson and The gap can be narrowed, he said, Masa is the brainchild of Rebecca Murow spent a Sallai “if we can create a generation of Meridor, the outgoyoung Jews who feel like insiders in year and a semester ing head of JAFI. their experience with Israel and respectively in Israel; Meridor made an emoIsraelis.” tional speech to the Masa Joanna Kay leaves this Participants, aged 18-26, have participants. dozens of programs to choose from, month for ulpan and five “You, the Jewish youth, ranging from studying at Israeli uni- months with Livnot you are the future of the versities, yeshivas and music conserJewish nation. We all have vatories to volunteering on kibbut- Li’hibanot. Read Daniel’s just one country. We will zim, working with immigrants and and Rebecca’s stories in safeguard it forever. The underprivileged youths or doing next week’s Press. government of Israel and professional internships. the Jewish Agency are During the 2004-2005 school year, Masa’s with you in safeguarding the future of the pilot year, $10 million was invested in the pro- Jewish nation. We will bring together tens of gram. On Sunday night, more than 2,000 stu- thousands of Jewish youth to Israel,” he said. dents who had spent all or part of the year in The crowd applauded wildly with Meridor's Israel gathered at an amphitheater at Beit final words, “Am Yisrael Chai.” Guvrin National Park south of Jerusalem to Researchers have found that Jews who spend celebrate the official launch of Masa with extended stays in Israel when they are young music, dancing and speeches. have a higher chance of either making aliyah or Sharon met with the young people and becoming active, committed members of their encouraged them to continue their connection communities back home. to Israel, either by making aliyah or becoming According to a study of participants in the community leaders and supporters of Israel Young Judaea year course--a program for back home. North American high school graduates who “Today, we are taking a giant step toward spend a year in Israel before going to collegethe time when living in Israel for a period of -91 percent go on to marry Jews. A study of another post-high school protime will be an inseparable part of the life of every Jewish youngster around the world, just gram, Machon LeMadrechai Chutz LeAret-as the Land of Israel is an inseparable part of Continued on page 9

Joanie Jacobson Chairman Carol Katzman Editor Richard Busse Creative Director Allan Handleman Advertising Manager Lori Kooper-Schwarz Assistant Managing Editor Barbara Kirkpatrick Bookkeeper Jewish Press Committee Howard K. Marcus, Vice-Chairman; Bobbi Leibowitz, Secretary; Scott Meyerson, Finance Chairman; Steve Simon, Treasurer; Fred Tichauer, Immediate Past-chairman; Jean Duitch; Penny Endelman; Kip Gordman; Stanley Mitchell; George Quittner; Linda Saltzman; Joey Shyken; Michael Siegal; Nancy Skid; and Melany Weinstine. The role of the Jewish Federation of Omaha is to involve Jews in meeting Jewish communal needs locally, nationally and in Israel. Centers of Excellence of the Federation are: Community Relations, Jewish Community Center, Jewish Educational and Library Services, Jewish Family Service, and Jewish Senior Services. The Jewish Press is a constitutional committees of the Jewish Federation. Editorials express the view of the writer and are not necessarily representative of the views of the Jewish Press Committee, the Jewish Federation of Omaha or the Omaha Jewish community as a whole. The Jewish Press reserves the right to edit signed letters and articles for space and content. The Jewish Press is not responsible for the Kashrut of any product or establishment. Editorial The Jewish Press is a Constitutional Committee of the Jewish Federation of Omaha. Deadline for copy, ads and photos is: Thursday, noon, eight days prior to publication. E-mail editorial material and photos to: ckatzman@jewishomaha.org; send ads (in .TIF or .PDF format) to: rbusse@jewishomaha.org. Letters to the Editor Guidelines The Jewish Press welcomes Letters to the Editor. They may be sent via regular mail to: The Jewish Press, 333 So. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68154; via fax: 1-402-334-5422 or via e-mail to the Editor at: ckatzman@jewishomaha.org.. Letters should be no longer than 250 words and must be singlespaced typed, not hand-written. Published letters should be confined to opinions and comments on articles or events. News items should not be submitted and printed as a “Letter to the Editor.” The Editor may edit letters for content and space restrictions, but should be printed as soon as possible to ensure timeliness. Letters may be published without giving an opposing view. Information shall be verified before printing. All letters must be signed by the writer, but the name can be withheld at the writer’s request. No letters should be published from candidates running for office, but others may write on their behalf. Letters of thanks should be confined to commending an institution for a program, project or event, rather than personally thanking paid staff, unless the writer chooses to turn the “Letter to the Editor” into a paid personal ad or a news article about the event, project or program which the professional staff supervised. For more information, contact Carol Katzman, Jewish Press Editor, 402.334.6450. Postal The Jewish Press (USPS 275620) is published weekly on Friday for $31 per calendar year U.S.; $35 foreign, by the Jewish Federation of Omaha. Phone: 402.334.6448; FAX: 402.334.5422. Periodical postage paid at Omaha, NE. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The Jewish Press, 333 So. 132nd St., Omaha, NE 68154-2198 or e-mail to: jpress@jewishomaha. org.

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June 3, 2005

Long-term Stays by Diaspora Youth continued from page 8 which Russell was on this year--found that 40 percent of graduates have made aliyah. Elan Ezrachi, director of Masa, described birthright israel--the free, 10day trips to Israel for Diaspora youth--as an “appetizer” for Masa. On birthright, young Jews often get their first taste of Israel, but longer experiences are needed to cement the connection to the country and their Jewish identities, Ezrachi said. Russell said he was amazed by the range of experiences he had in Israel. He changed locations about every six weeks. Among the places he stayed was the city of Sefad in the Galilee. It was there that he volunteered to teach English to Druse children as part of the United Jewish Israel Appeal’s work in the region. The UJIA, Britain's largest Jewish philanthropy, invests in Jewish education in the United Kingdom and Israel. Like Russell, Robin Zebroitz, 23, of Atlanta also had a busy year--teaching swimming and English, hauling plants in an organic greenhouse and living in a center for new immigrants from Ethiopia, France, Sout Africa and Yemen. “It’s an absolutely phenomenal, invaluable experience,” Zebroitz said of her year in Israel. “The things I have done here, the friends I have made, the connections are something you can only do if you are here for longer.”

Director, Plain States Region Anti-Defamation League The face of memory is rapidly changing. With each day that passes, we lose more and more survivors of the deep night we call the Shoah--the Holocaust. Their unique ability to share stories will soon be relegated to memoirs and taped interviews. Even though these vital testimonials will aid us as we struggle in a plugged in world to capture the thoughts and minds of younger electronically oriented people, it is not enough. Although we have curricula and videos, testimonies and history books, college courses and memorials--these tools are not enough. While we have some living survivors (may they be healthy), liberators, hidden children and second generation children of survivors--they too are not enough. We must insure that we have the necessary resources to teach teachers how to approach this area of study. We must arm the teachers and students of tomorrow with what we have learned about this dark chapter of human history and its unique lens on the human story. We must insure that the history of religious intolerance is blended into the root causes of the Shoah. We must educate about the power of every single person to stand up in the face of hatred and bigotry. We must insist that education about the Shoah does not teach a view of Jews as victims. There is so much to be sensitive to, so many issues to address, that having resources for teachers and students, at whatever level and whatever age, is the center of our communal responsibility to remember! We in Omaha have been blessed to have Beth Seldin Dotan teaching through the Institute for Holocaust Education. But funding for this vital education has depended on a few very generous donors and the time has come to insure that whatever winds may come, the teaching

Page 9

Thank You Mrs. Bush and Hello Abu Mazen

BEHIND THE HEADLINES by TOM NEUMANN First Lady Laura Bush was in the West Bank, listening to Palestinian women wail about how Israel’s Security Fence has become a barrier to normal living for them. While apparently not unsympathetic, Mrs. Bush replied, “I also understand for Israel that if you think terrorists are coming into the country to blow up a pizza parlor every day, then there is a lot of hesitancy.” For the Schijveschuurder family, which lost five members in the Sbarro bombing, we imagine that was some comfort, but there is more than comfort for Israeli victims in Mrs. Bush’s remark. There is a vital if unspoken understanding that terrorism, planned, executed and venerated by Palestinians is the driving force behind not only the problems of the Israelis, but also the problems of the Palestinians. The Security Fence isn’t the source of Palestinian victimization; terrorism is the source. Israel isn’t the reason the Palestinians have economic problems; poor Palestinian leadership is the reason. In an odd news week leading up to Abu Mazen’s visit to the White House, Amnesty International and the World Bank showed rare signs of “getting it” as

The Face of Memory

IbyNBOBM Y OPINION WOLFSON

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

of these lessons is no longer dependent upon a few gifts but is endowed into the future. We must guarantee that teaching the Shoah is part of our communal tradition forever. There are many ways one can support Holocaust education, both local and national. These efforts should be applauded. The Six Million Lights Foundation has helped raise the bar for Holocaust issues creating a separate fund to help insure these efforts continue. You may support their efforts generally or by supporting their targeted efforts which concentrate on helping provide Holocaust related educational trips to students or support college professors teaching Holocaust courses at the college level. The Six Million Lights Foundation can also receive funds designated to support the Institute for Holocaust Education as we all try to ensure we do not duplicate services in our small corner of the world. Whether through the Six Million Lights Foundation, through direct contributions to the Institute, or through segregated funds at the Jewish Federation Foundation, we must work hard to insure the future of the existing and highly successful Institute for Holocaust Education. I urge every resource be directed to a permanent endowment for the staff and programming required to carry forward with the professionally directed educational efforts to effectively deliver continued Holocaust education in our area. Through this primary focus, we can make sure we have programming, whatever the winds of change, going forward. Once we endow and guarantee our existing work, there is no limit on the additional, significant work we can do as a community. Please join us in this most vital of efforts. We can insure that these resources are available for our community, for our educators and our students. “If not now, when?” Call 333.1303 to discuss how your support can help us make this communal dream and responsibility a reality.

well, if only at the margins. At least we’ve found margins. AI’s website has a 23 May release noting, “On May 22, a 15-year-old Palestinian child carrying explosive was arrested by the Israeli army at the Huwara military checkpoint, at the entrance to the West Bank town of Nablus. This is the third such incident this year... Palestinian armed groups have repeatedly shown total disregard for the most fundamental human rights, notably the right to life, by deliberately targeting Israeli civilians and by using Palestinian children in armed attacks.”

“...Palestinian armed groups have repeatedly shown total disregard for the most fundamental human rights, notably the right to life, by deliberately targeting Israeli civilians and by using Palestinian children in armed attacks.” Outgoing World Bank chief James Wolfensohn, now envoy for economic development in Palestinian areas, said the PA would have to address financial mismanagement problems to attract increased donor aid. “Financial management within the Palestinian Authority...

needs to demonstrate the sort of security... and the prudence of management I know [Finance Minister Salam Fayyad] would want to exert... If you had that, and transparency in expenditures, then I think what perhaps would be needed most would be some certainty about future levels of assistance on which they could plan.” Abu Mazen has gotten something of a free ride in Washington, based on his pragmatic understanding that violence against Israel has been counterproductive to Palestinian national goals--not necessarily wrong, mind you, but counterproductive. But he remains unable or unwilling (doesn’t matter which) to take steps to end the violence, or even end the incitement to violence emanating from PA media and mosques. And because of this, he has been unable to generate the commercial economic activity that would make international charity unnecessary. And because of this, children die. Mrs. Bush preceded Abu Mazen back to the White House and we trust discussed her observations about the burden of the responsibilities of the Palestinians with President Bush, and that he will follow her order of priorities. Tom Neumann is the Executive Director of JINSA, the Jewish Institute for National Security Affairs. To view this JINSA Report online, visit: www.jinsa.org.

Jewish Family Service wishes to thank the “Mitzvah Makers” of this community; for your time, effort and support of our 2004-2005/5765 Project Tzedakah and Project Dreidel Bag N’Save Bagel Bin Beth El Synagogue Burke High School Students Friedel Academy Students Individual and Private Donors JCC Child Development Center Packaging Corporation of America Temple Israel Visions Tzedakah Committee and Community Volunteers

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

June 3, 2005

Candlelighting Friday, June 3, 8:34 p.m.

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

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

Beth Israel Synagogue Member of Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America 12604 Pacific St. Omaha, NE. 68154 556.6288 BethIsrael@OrthodoxOmaha.org

Beyt Shalom An Affiliate of the Jewish Reconstructionist Federation 3012 S. 119 St. P.O. Box 390352 Omaha, NE 68139 660.2395 www.beytshalomomaha.org

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

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

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

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

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

The Neighborhood Minyan Torah Learning Center 1317 No. 57 St. Omaha, NE 68132 551.6609

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

If you’re looking at this space, so are others! YOUR AD CAN GO HERE...

to reserve space, call Allan Handleman, 334.6451.

B’NAI ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE FRIDAY: There will be no services on May 27 or June 3.

BETH EL SYNAGOGUE FRIDAY: Musical Kabbalat Shabbat Service, 6 p.m. SATURDAY: Morning service, 9:30 a.m.; Kiddush is sponsored by Jodi and Gary Epstein, in honor of their daughter, Dayna, becoming a Bat Mitzvah; Evening Service, 8:45 p.m. WEEKDAY SERVICES: Sunday, 9 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.; Weekdays, 6:55 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. THE SCHOLAR-IN-RESIDENCE WEEKEND with Rabbi Jack Riemer, originally scheduled for this June 3-5, has been cancelled due to a death in Rabbi Riemer’s family. COMMUNITY JEWISH SINGLES: Established for single Jewish adults (ages 45-65) throughout the community, this group will meet at Beth El on Sunday, 3-5 p.m., for a presentation by Glen Fineman. “BEST OF BETH EL”: As part of the synagogue’s 75th anniversary celebration, the entire community is invited to attend this giant musical salute to Beth El on Thursday, June 9, 7 p.m. This event is free of charge. SHAVUOT CELEBRATION: The community is invited to mark Shavuot with an evening of study, led by Professors Leonard Greenspoon and Guy Matalon. Services begin at 5:30 p.m., followed by an optional 6 p.m. dinner; Greenspoon’s session, “Engendering the Text: Do Jews Need an Egalitarian Bible for the 21st Century?” will begin at 6:35 p.m., and Matalon will lead “Talmudic Sage and Kabbalistic Master: Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai,” at 7:30 p.m. Dinner is $9.50 for adults, $6 for children ages 4-12. Reservations are needed by Tuesday, June 7; call Program Director Harriet Einziger at 492.8550. SHAVUOT SERVICES Sunday, June 12, 5:30 p.m.; Monday, June 13, 9:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.; Tuesday, June 14, 9:30 a.m., including Yizkor and dedication of memorial plaques;

Evening service, 8:55 p.m. ROSH HODESH MEETING, Wednesday, June 15, 7 p.m., at the home of Pam Friedlander, 1376 So. 137 Ave. Explore Jewish cooking during “Beyond Matzoh Balls: Jewish Foods and Their Role in Our Lives.” Reservations may be made by calling Friedlander at 334.8773, or via e-mail: pfriedla@cox.net.

BETH ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE Office Hours: Monday-Thursday, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Fridays, 8:30 a.m-2 p.m. Services conducted by Rabbi Jonathan Gross. FRIDAY: Kabbalat Shabbat, 7:30 p.m. SATURDAY: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Free Babysitting, 9:30 a.m.; Junior Congregation, 10:30 a.m.; Kiddush is sponsored by Howard Gendelman and Bonnie Bloch in honor of Adam’s high school graduation. A birthday cake for Betty and Oscar will be served at Kiddush; Mincha, 8:45 p.m.; Havdalah, 9:44 p.m. SUNDAY: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Contact the synagogue office for Mincha/ Ma’ariv service time. WEEKDAYS: Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Contact the synagogue office for Mincha/Ma’ariv time. WEDNESDAY: Board of Commissioners’ Meeting, 7:30 p.m. Make your reservations for Shavuot meals. Contact the office to reserve your place for the Erev Shavuot dinner on June 12 and the Shavuot dairy lunch on June 14.

BEYT SHALOM FRIDAY: Shabbat in the Home.

CHABAD HOUSE Services conducted by Rabbi Mendel Katzman. FRIDAY: Services, 7 a.m.; Ima & Me, 10:30–11:45 a.m. SATURDAY: Maamar class, 9 a.m.; Services, 9:30 a.m., followed by a Kiddush luncheon in memory of Leona Kohll. SUNDAY: Services, 8:30 a.m. Mishneh class, 9:30 a.m.; Aleph Champion and Little Scholars Programs, 10 a.m.-noon. WEEKDAYS: Services, 7 a.m. MONDAY: Halacha, 7 p.m. TUESDAY:Torah for Teens,

4:15 p.m. THURSDAY: Pirkei Avot Ethics of Our Fathers, 7 p.m. Programs are open to the community. For information or to register, call the office or visit: www.nebraskajudaism.com.

CONGREGATION B’NAI JESHURUN Rabbi Debbie Stiel will be in Lincoln two weekends a month. Please call her at 402.416.2321 or e-mail: dstiel@everestkc.net to set up appointments. FRIDAY: Shabbat Evening Service, 7:45 p.m., led by Amy Zlotsky with oneg following. SATURDAY: Torah Study, 10:30 a.m. led by Stephanie Dohner. MONDAY: Religious School Merger Committee, 7 p.m. Saturday, June 11, 1:30-3:30 p.m.: Join us in making your own Challah cover. The cost will be between $15-20 per cover. GARAGE SALE The Temple Garage Sale is scheduled for Sunday, June 12, 9 a.m.-noon to coincide with the neighborhood garage sales. Bring your items to the Temple on the Thursday, or Wednesday, Friday, between 1-5 p.m., before the sale.

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

ROSE BLUMKIN JEWISH HOME SATURDAY: Shabbat Services, 9 a.m. led by Andy Greenberg,

TEMPLE ISRAEL Join Temple’s clergy for “hot” worship-study discussions on “Praying in the 21st Century,” every Fridays, 6 p.m., June 3Sept. 2. FRIDAY: Shabbat Evening Service, 6 p.m. Rabbi Aryeh Azriel and Cantor Wendy Shermet will officiate. SATURDAY: Bagels and Sacred Books, 9:30-10:15 a.m.; Shabbat Morning Service, 10:30 a.m. Nikolas Schrager, son of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Schrager, will celebrate his Bar Mitzvah.

ADULT EDUCATION THURSDAY, June 9: “Adult Study with the Clergy” with Rabbi Azriel, 10-11:30 a.m. SHAVUOT Sunday, June 12, 7 p.m. Join us for a service in celebration of the Torah, followed by a dairy reception. Monday, June 13, 10:30 a.m. If you would like to have names of your loved ones read at the Morning Yizkor Service, call the Temple office with the names to be read by Thursday, June 9. (See full article on page 4.) ROSH HODESH GROUP: “Jewish Women Wonder: A Tallit of Our Own?”, Tuesday, June 7, 7 p.m. The topic will be the meaning of the tallit and how women might like to make it part of their worship experience at the home of Susan Rothholz, 1349 So. 101 St., #206. RSVP to the Temple Office or mkube@templeisraelomaha.com. CONVERSATION WITH THE RABBI: Parents of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender Jews are invited to the Bernstein home on Monday, June 8, 7 p.m. (See full article on page 11.)

THE NEIGHBORHOOD MINYAN AT TLC FRIDAY: Kabbalas Shabbos, 7 p.m. SATURDAY: Shacharis, 9 a.m., Mincha/Ma’ariv, 8:15 p.m.

TIFERETH ISRAEL Services conducted by Rabbi Stanley M. Rosenbaum. Minyan, MONDAY & THURSDAY, 9 a.m. FRIDAY: Services, 8 p.m. SATURDAY: Morning service, 9:30 a.m. WEDNESDAY: Men’s Lunch Group will meet at the Knolls, 12:30 p.m. Contact Yale Gotsdiner at 423.7066. NJHS NEEDS MEMORABILIA The Nebraska Jewish Historical Society is gathering synagogue memorabilia from Lincoln and out-state. Contact Renee Corcoran at 402.334.6442 or njhs@jewishomaha.org.

BAR MITZVAH Dayna Michelle Epstein, daughter of Jodi and Gary Epstein, will celebrate her Bat Mitzvah on Saturday, June 4, at Beth El Synagogue. Dayna will be a eighthgrade honor roll student at Kiewit Middle School. Her interests include cheerleading, tennis, and shopping. Dayna has a sister, Melissa. Her grandparents are Aileen Fish of St. Louis, MO, and Audrey Epstein, the late Willis Epstein, and the late Donna Epstein.

Benjamin David Gordon son of Sandy and Bruce Gordon, will celebrate his Bar Mitzvah on Saturday, June 11, at Beth El Synagogue. Ben will be a eighthgrade honor roll student at Kiewit Middle School. He is a member of HAL Program (high ability learner). His interests include Kadimah USY, golf, cooking, and playing the clarinet. He will be attending the JCC Maccabi Games in Dallas this summer. For his mitzvah project, Ben

collectd items to be sent to his brother Russell during his deployment in Iraq. Ben has two sisters, Rachel and Becca, and brother and sister-inlaw, Russell and Shannon Bennett. His grandparents are Annette and Malcom Gordon of Del Ray, CA and the late Betty and Maurice Weiss. Rebecca Ann Gordon daughter of Sandy and Bruce Gordon, will celebrate her Bat Mitzvah on Saturday, June 11, at Beth El Synagogue. Becca will be a eighthgrade honor roll student at Kiewit

Middle School. Her interests include Kadimah USY, dancing, art, tumbling, and cooking. She will be attending the JCC Maccabi Games in Dallas this summer. For her mitzvah project, Becca collectd items to be sent to her brother Russell during his deployment in Iraq. Becca has a sister, Rachel, and a brother Ben, and a brother and sister-in-law, Russell and Shannon Bennett. Her grandparents are Annette and Malcom Gordon of Del Ray, CA and the late Betty and Maurice Weiss.

June 3, 2005

Wire to Find God

SPARKS FROM THE WORD by RABBI MYER S. KRIPKE Parashat Bamidbar The famous 139th psalm reminds us that we are always in God’s presence: “Where can I escape form Your spirit? Where can I flee from Your presence? If I ascend to heaven, You are there; if I descend to Sheol, You are there, too. If I take wing with the dawn...” Jonah, the reluctant prophet, found that out when he took shop from Jaffa to Tarshish. He thought to escape the Lord’s commission, but the raging sea storm brought him back to land and to his duty. Our Sidra reminds us, too, that the Lord’s presence is always about us. The late Rabbi Morris Adler, reading the opening verse of our Sidra, about the Lord speaking to Moses in the wilderness of Sinai, exclaimed: “What a place to meet God!” God is in the wilderness? In the desert? Yes, there, too. It well behooves us to remember the Torah narrative: the Torah weas given to Israel (as we remind ourselves June 12, on Shavuot) in the wilderness. Sinai was not at the confluence of two great rivers, nor at the intersection of two great ancient commercial highways. Sinai was the desert, a no-man’s land. Even now, if one visits the traditional, but unlikely, site of Mt. Sinai, he finds himself near no great cities, no centers of civilization--just rocks and crags and sand. Was the the place to meet God? Note further that the Biblical narrative assumes that Israel stayed at Sinai during all the accounts of the end of the Book of Exodus, all of Leviticus and a good part of the Book of Numbers, where our present Sidra is. So much of the Torah in the wilderness? Yes, the Midrash says--no place better: for here no one is master except the Master Teacher Himself. The wilderness land belongs to no one. It is literally a noman’s-land. All the world may come and take. Torah is for everyone. God’s gifts are for all mankind together. Even the Children of Israel, to whom Torah was entrusted and who look upon the Torah as their heritage, may not claim it as their own exclusively. It belongs to mankind, for all share equally in God’s love. (Editor’s note: this column was originally printed in Rabbi Kripke’s book: Insight and Interpretation, available in the Kripke Jewish federation Library.)

Parents of Gays and Lesbians Invited to Conversation with Rabbi Azriel by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Temple Israel Communications Coordinator “To connect with and celebrate our growing, diverse congregation,” explained Wendy Goldberg, president of Temple Israel’s Board of Trustees, Temple invites parents of gays and lesbians to chat with Rabbi Aryeh Azriel on Wednesday, June 8, 7 p.m., at the home of Tom and Mary Bernstein, 8700 Douglas St. In a relaxed environment, parents can share coffee, cake, and conversation as they celebrate diversity and envision a society that embraces everyone. Goldberg added that Temple’s Outreach and Synagogue Community is sponsoring the gathering to help “provide support, education, and advocacy to end discrimination and to secure equal rights.” Temple anticipates that sharing reflections and insights and offering suggestions will help promote the well-being of the gay and lesbian community, their families and friends. Susie Silverman, a parent who plans to attend the meeting, said the evening is an opportunity for a group that’s outside the mainstream “to schmooze and discuss our experiences. There’s so much going on in every state, including ours, to relegate gays and lesbians to second class citizenship as far as equal rights under the constitution. “But same sex marriage and insurance for couples in committed relationships is not always the issue,” she pointed out. “A lot of families still can’t accept that their child is gay or lesbian. Those parents need support from other parents, and they may feel more comfortable with other Jewish parents.” Anyone from the Jewish community is welcome to attend. Please call the Temple office at 556.6536 or send an email to mkube@templeisraelomaha.com to make a reservation.

DEATH JUDITH ANN DANDY Former Omahan Judith Ann Dandy died after battling scleroderma on May 18 in Milton, FL, at the age of 61. Services were held May 22 at the Lewis Funeral Home in Milton. The founder of two successful businesses in Atlanta, GA, Refinery and Kids Kloset, she later started Singles of Size, a program to introduce the plus-size community through monthly dances. She is survived by her mother, former Omahan Pauline Gendler of Milton, FL; son and daughter-inlaw, Jeff and Amy Dandy of Bozeman, MT; daughter and son-in-law, Lisa and Greg Sutton of Jay, FL; grandchildren, Gabriel, Chrysa, Moriah, Samuel and Micah; and brothers. Neil and Alan Gendler of Santa Monica, CA. Memorials to the Scleroderma Foundation, 1.800.722.HOPE.

To Submit an Obituary Notice: Send full name, age, date of death, location of service and burial site to the Jewish Press via e-mail: ckatzman@jewishomaha.org; fax, 402.334.5422; or mail, 333 So. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68154. Or visit the Jewish Federation of Omaha’s website: www.jewishomaha.org, and click on Jewish Press and go to ‘Submit Announcements.’ Complete form and click on ‘send’; it will automatically be sent to the Press--or call 402.334.6448 for guidelines and the form.

Chabad Hosts Lag B’Omer Festivities

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 11

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Chabad House commemorated the joyous day of Lag B’Omer (the 33rd day of the Omer between Pesach and Shavous) with a wonderful picnic and Israeli-style bonfire, complete with marshmallow roasting. Children and adults participated in group games, above, with Shani Katzman, and went on a treasure hunt. Afterwards, everyone was treated to a sing-a-long led by Donald Gerber on the guitar.

JELS Summer Conversational Hebrew Class Date Changes by MARY SUE GROSSMAN Administrator Jewish Educational and Library Services The start date for the JELS Summer Conversational Hebrew classes has been changed to Thursday, June 16. Classes will now run through the first week of August. The course dates will be June 16, 21, 23, 28, 30, July 5, 7, 12, 14, 19, 21, 26, 28, and Aug. 2 and 4. Classes will be taught by Maya Wertheimer and are divided into Level I and Level II sections. Level I is for those who are able to read Hebrew comfortably and are ready to take the next step and begin to learn the basics of the conversational side of the language. By the end of the class, participants should have the ability to follow a conversation and give basic responses. Level II is the next step and is for those who have the ability to follow a conversation comfortably and need to improve their speaking skills. The goal for Level II participants is to become better readers and be more fluent in oral communication. All classes will be held in the JELS classroom at the Jewish Community Center. The cost of the class is $60, plus the cost of materials. For more information and to register, please call me at 334-6445 or via e-mail at: mgrossman@jewishomaha.org. Information is also available on the JELS pages of the Jewish Federation website at: www.jewishomaha.org.

The Jewish Press 333 South 132nd Street Omaha, NE 68154 or see page 8 for email address and Fax number

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Page 12

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

June 3, 2005

It’s Backpacks and Playgrounds as Groups Helps Tsunami Victims by PETER EPHROSS NEW YORK, (JTA)--One Jewish organization is looking to the children as it works to help those affected by the tsunami in Sri Lanka. Together with the U.S. Agency for International Development and a Sri Lankan group known as Sarvodaya, the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee is working to rebuild and upgrade 40 children’s parks and playgrounds that were destroyed by the Dec. 26 tsunami. The tsunami killed more than 200,000 people across the Indian Ocean region, including more than 30,000 in Sri Lanka alone. The project is part of the JDC’s effort to provide both immediate aid and longterm help in Sri Lanka and elsewhere in the region. The program is “on the border between rebuilding and development,”

Eliot Goldstein, 32, told JTA by telephone from Sri Lanka. With his wife, Rebecca Bardach, also 32, Goldstein is launching the JDC’s efforts in Sri Lanka. The couple will work on that phase of the project through early July. The JDC already has brought in experts from the United States and Israel to help design safe and creative play spaces for Sri Lankan children. About $500,000 from the more than $18 million the group collected for tsunami relief--money that came from individual donors, foundations and Jewish federations (including the Jewish federation of Omaha)--is likely to be pledged soon to the playground project, JDC officials said. The federations involved pitched in beyond what they normally give to the JDC. The project is not without controversy,

however: It’s running up against laws passed after the tsunami that seek to prevent building near the water. Those laws are an attempt to prevent some of the devastation that occurred when the tsunami ripped through homes and schools that were too close to the Indian Ocean. But Goldstein said the comments he heard about the program from Sri Lanka’s prime minister, Mahinda Rajapakse, last month were positive. Rajapakse said the law was targeted at schools and homes, not at outdoor areas such as playgrounds, Goldstein said. The JDC also is working to help victims of the tsunami in Indonesia, India and Thailand. In Sri Lanka, where the JDC is working in southern and eastern coastal areas, it has given backpacks full of staple--soap, shampoo and school uniforms--to 2,000

kids in 20 villages. The group also is rebuilding a primary school in the town of Ahangama and helping to fund a Sarvodaya program that helps children develop strategies to cope with the trauma of the disaster. “We want to leave a lasting legacy,” JDC spokesman Joshua Berkman said. “We want communities to know that the Jewish people were here in their time of need.” As initial relief efforts give way to longer-term development, the JDC also is working to help the large community of fishermen and others whose livelihoods were wiped out rebuild their lives. Difficult questions must be faced there as well. For example, “When we rebuild a printing school, are we going to upgrade it for desktop publishing?” Goldstein asked.

Chabad Sponsors Toy Drive for Victims of Tsunami

Left photo: Rabbi Yosef Kantor passes out toys to young Thai tsunami survivors during a festival sponsored by Chabad of Thailand on Phuket. Right: Children enjoy a festival sponsored by Chabad of Thailand on tsunami-devastated Phuket on May 8, 2005. Credit: Chabad.org

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#I5417A. 13k miles, Auto, Leather, Sunroof, Loaded. Very Sharp!

2004 BMW X-5 3.0 $

37,900

#I6693B. 17k miles, Sport Package, 18" Alloys. Many Additional Options.

$

43,900

#P4470. 18k miles, Cold Weather Package, Rear Climate. All Options Including Park Distance Control.

Why?

Cell 402-672-0766

in accordance with a comprehensive inspection check list.

2004 BMW X-3 2.5

6 Years or 100,000 Miles.

✓ Come with BMW Roadside Assistance. ✓ Are supported by BMW of North

2003 BMW Z-4 2.5 $

2003 BMW 530I $

American and a nationwide network of BMW carriers.

33,900

$

34,900

#I5743. 10k miles, Leather, Panoramic Sunroof, Dual Climate. Save Big Over New!

#P4461. 42k miles, Cold Weather Package, Xenon Headlights. Rare Manual Transmission!

2003 BMW 325I

2003 BMW 330I

33,900

#P4501. 13k miles, Sport Package, Power Top, Auto. Summer Special!

$

29,990

#P4738. 14k miles, Leather, Sunroof, Cold Weather Package. Very Nice Car!

$

6833 Telluride Drive Lincoln, Ne 27th Street & I-80 Intersect.

800-204-0846 PER MONTH

*

#I5825A. 31k miles, Cold Weather Package, Xenon Headlights. Very Sharp!

2002 BMW 530I $ 639

PER MONTH

ner ry a o L E FRE p & Deilve s k-U And Picervice Vehicleastern of S where in E ny A ka m o r F Nebras

31,900

#I6559A. 27k miles, Cold Weather Package, Xenon Headlights, Premium Sound System.

BMWof Lincoln 2002 BMW 525I $ 549

G.S. “Jerry” Chesen 402-479-7600 1-888-427-4234

Why BMW Certified Pre-Owned? ✓ Are Certified by BMW-Trained Technicians ✓ Have available lease financing. ✓ Are backed by a Protection Plan. Up to

BMW of Lincoln

*

#L4424. 33k miles, Premium Package, Park Distance Control. Extremely Nice!

*36 Month Lease, 10k Miles Per Year, $2,500 Down (Cash or Trade) Plus 1st Payment and Security Deposit W.A.C. 3.9% On Select Vehicles. All Vehicles Locally Owned.

6701 Telluride Dr. Lincoln, NE 68521

ONLY 22 M The Gretnianutes From , NE Exit!