July 21, 2006

Vol. LXXXV No. 45 Omaha, NE

Celebrating 85 Years of Service to Nebraska and Western Iowa

25 Tamuz, 5766 July 21, 2006

War in Israel Affects Omahans National ADL by CAROL KATZMAN Editor of the Jewish Press While rockets continue to fall on Haifa and other locations in the Northern and Western Galilee, Omahans make and remake travel arrangements. ARTZA, the Jewish Community Center’s teen trip to Israel, came home four days early. The ARTZA group was in Haifa when the first katyusha rockets hit; they moved to Tiberias and encountered more rocket fire. So when the JCC Association was alerted that El Al was adding a flight, Lisa Shkolnick, JCC Assistant Director, said they had to make a quick decision. “Three of the four JCC teen group returned a few days earlier than planned,” A Nahariya resident is taken to the hospital as more katyusha rockets landed on the Western Credit: ISRANET she told the Press on Galilee town Wednesday morning, killing one man in the street. Monday. Esther Katz, one of the chaperones, reported from Ramah that Joel Rich shared with the Jewish Press. “We are watching the news hourly with sadness and that “while the teens weren’t scared and really didn’t want to leave Israel, they were disappointed their activities were revulsion as events in Israel unfold,” noted Jan disrupted.” ARTZA was unable to spend a week in the Goldstein, Federation Executive Director. “Our Jewish community stands united with our friends and family in Western Galilee, Omaha’s Partnership for Israel region. Other teen trips stayed in Israel, including one spon- Israel in full support of this defensive war against all terrorist organizations--in Gaza, Lebanon, Iran and elsesored by Ramah, in which Seth Rich is participating. “We are ready to make adjustments in the program, if where. The Israelis, once again, are doing what they necessary, due to the security situation... and we are con- have to for Israel and the Jewish people, and we will do sulting with the Situation Room. Each program is being what we must do to support them. Our hearts go out to reexamined with regard to its safety and security. Since the civilians, soldiers and their families, who are so hor1962 there has always been a Ramah Seminar in Israel-- ribly affected by this conflict.” Back in Omaha, Partnership chairman Stacey even in the toughest of times. We will continue to take care of your children as if they are own and make sure Rockman and Center for Education Administrator Mary they are protected. But we also want them to go home Sue Grossman were supposed to leave Sunday for the with a once-in-a-life time experience,” said the e-mail Continued on page 2

Beth Israel Awards Epstein Scholarships to Two Recent High School Graduates by MARY BORT for Beth Israel Synagogue One of the tasks faced by many post-secondary students and their families is to make the necessary arrangements that will enable students to pursue their Judaic studies after high school graduation. Scholarships are one of the ways that can assist students to make the Avi Katzman most of their experiences after high school. After careful deliberation of this year’s pool of excellent applicants, the Beth Israel Synagogue scholarship committee selected two motivated students who are actively continuing their Jewish studies. The 2006 Sidney Epstein Scholarship Fund winners are Avi Katzman and Rebekah Priluck. The Epstein Fund was established by Gert Epstein and her sons in honor of the volunteer efforts in the Jewish community by the late Sidney Epstein. Up to two $2500 scholarships are awarded each year to students continuing their Jewish studies at a college or university, or at a post-secondary program in Israel. Applicants are required to write an essay stating how they are pursuing Jewish studies, and how they will incorporate what they learn in their studies into how they will lead their lives.

Inside Opinion Page see page 8

See Front Page Stories at: www.jewishomaha.org, click on ‘Jewish Press’

Learning Continues for Beth El Educators: Pages 6-7

by OZZIE NOGG Bob Wolfson’s 18 years of service as Regional Director of the Anti-Defamation League’s Plains States Regional Office and the Community Relations Committee of the Jewish Federation of Omaha will be recognized at a citywide L’Chaim Dinner on Aug. 17 at the Hilton Hotel, 10th and Cass. Jan Schneiderman is General Chair of the tribute event. The gala evening will toast Wolfson whose work in Holocaust education, prejudice elimination and hate crimes legislation has impacted every segment of the community. In April of this year, Wolfson--local boy made good-assumed the position of Associate National Director of Regional Operations for ADL, based in New York City. Abraham H. Foxman, National Director of the AntiDefamation League and world-renowned leader in the fight against anti-Semitism, bigotry and discrimination, will be the featured speaker.

Abe Foxman, National ADL Executive Director

“We were impressed by both candidates’ essay applications,” said Beth Cohen, Beth Israel’s Executive Director. “Both young women have just graduated. They’re active and successful students who are going on to even greater things, and they exemplify what the Epstein scholarship is all about.” Avi is the daughter of Rebekah Priluck Michael and Carol Katzman. She is a 2006 graduate of Westside where she was an onscreen and behind-the-scenes staff member of WTV (Warrior Television) and the design editor for The Shield, the WHS yearbook. Katzman, inducted into the Quill and Scroll Journalism Honorary Society, was a member of the Art Club and the Gay/Straight Alliance. She also participated in ADL’s Manhigim program and held leadership positions in NCSY on the local and regional boards. During the summer before her junior year, Katzman participated in a teen program, Achva Europe/Israel, that included six weeks of travel to London, Italy and Israel. “Before this program, I had only visited Israel with my family,” Katzman wrote in her application essay. “I found out by going on my own I would see the land in a different light.” Continued on page 2

This Week: Life in Israeli Bomb Shelters: Page 3

Director Foxman to Highlight Wolfson’s Farewell

Born in Poland in 1940, Foxman was saved from the Holocaust by his Polish Catholic nursemaid who baptized and raised him as a Catholic during the war years. His parents survived the war, but fourteen members of his family were lost. He arrived in America in 1950 with his parents. A graduate of the Yeshiva of Flatbush, Brooklyn, NY, Foxman has a B.A. in political science from the City College of the City University of New York, graduating with honors in history. He holds a JD degree from New York University School of Law, and did graduate work in advanced Judaic studies at the Jewish Theological Seminary, and in international economics at The New School for Social Research. He joined ADL in 1965. Foxman was a member of the President’s United States Holocaust Memorial Council, appointed by Presidents Reagan, Bush and Clinton. He has participated in official Presidential delegations to special events in Europe and Israel, and regularly confers with elected officials and community leaders here and abroad. A passionate supporter of the State of Israel and a voice for peace in the Middle East, Foxman has consulted with Palestinian leaders on problems of ethnic hatred, violence, terrorism and promoting democracy. Foxman appears frequently on national news programs and is quoted often in The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, Time and Newsweek, among other media. He is the author of Never Again?: The Threat of the New Anti-Semitism. Continued on page 7

Coming Next Month: Back-to-School Issue on Aug. 18 Familiar Israeli Guide to Brief Omahans, Recruit for Missions: Page 7

Dance Director Wallace Leaves the JCC; Katz to Replace Her: Page 12

Page 2

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

July 21, 2006

War in Israel Affects Omahans

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS

C L I P & S A V E

C L I P & S A V E

FRIDAY, JULY 21 Summer Hebrew Class, 9 a.m. at Beth Israel Visions Luncheon Meeting, 12:30 p.m. at Venice Inn SUNDAY, JULY 23 ARTZA Returns, 8 a.m. Nashir Choir, 10 a.m. at Beth El Adult Education, 11 a.m.-noon at Beth El TUESDAY, JULY 25 CJE Class “Israel Now,” 11 a.m. BBYO Night, 6 p.m. Adult B’nai Mitzvah Class, 6:30 p.m. at Temple Israel Maccabi Parent/Athlete Meeting, 7 p.m. CJE Conversational Hebrew - Level 2, 8 p.m. THURSDAY, JULY 27 Walk-in Drop-in, 10 a.m. Yiddish Group, 1 p.m. Federation Internship Dinner, 5:30 p.m. CJE Conversational Hebrew - Level 2, 8 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)

This Space For Rent Call Allan Handleman 334-6451

Continued from page 1 bomb shelter just before a annual Partnership meeting rocket hit. in the Western Galilee. The University of Haifa “It was literally minutes has sent students to Hebrew before I walked out the door University, where Leora for the airport, when I got Azriel and Sarah Rips are the call,” said Grossman. finishing ulpan class (inten“Who can blame them? sive Hebrew). “It’s a good They have more pressing thing they volunteered in things to worry about.” the Western Galilee at the But Rockman and her husbeginning of their summer band Jonathan flew to Israel in Israel,” said Jane Rips. Wednesday anyway, joining a Her daughter’s attitude UJC Solidarity mission. “I changes day-by-day. “Today was so disappointed when she’s hunkering down and our meeting was cancelled,” insisting on staying,” Rips Rockman told the Press, “I Hadassah, which operates several Youth Aliyah villages in said, noting that as of press Israel, opened up Hadassah-Neurim, outside of Netanya, to time, the girls were schedreally want to be there.” to Judith 400 young people from Israel’s north, including recent uled to return Aug. 1. According Credit: Hadassah Jochnowitz, International immigrants from Ethiopia from Safed. Beth Israel’s Rabbi Liaison at Nahariya’s Western Galilee Hospital, in Jonathan Gross also is in Jerusalem until July 26, attendOmaha’s Partnership region, “Since the first rockets were ing a rabbinic seminar sponsored by the Orthodox fired on July 12, we have received more than 360 Union. He e-mailed congregants that he “had to learn wounded, of whom 22 are soldiers.” More than 250 about events from friends in the U.S.” patients have slept in the underground hospital with othAnd plans are still firm for recent high school graduers in above-ground shelters. In an e-mail on Tuesday, ates Marty Nachman, Avi Katzman and Nate Joseph. Jochnowitz wrote: “Every time I sit down at the com- Nachman is due to go on the Conservative movement’s puter, I hear the explosions of more rockets. My office is NATIV program; Katzman will be attending Young on an interior hallway with a four-floor concrete building Judaea’s Shalem program and Joseph hopes to go to Or above me, and I promise to stop complaining--there go Dovid, a yeshiva in Jerusalem. two more (explosions)--about not having a window.” “I’m a little nervous,” said Nate’s mother, Anne, “but if Since Hamas tunneled under the border between the program isn’t cancelled, Nate will go.” Gaza and Israel, killing two Israeli soldiers and kidnapPatty Nogg just returned from Israel on Monday, ping Cpl. Gilad Shalit, the situation has heated up. where she and Sharon Kirshenbaum, Federation Hezbollah, the Iranian-backed terrorist organization Campaign Director, joined the United Jewish which has been storing katyusha and other rockets in the Communities’ leadership seminar. “The only thing that south of Lebanon, crossed Israel’s northern border. changed on our program was that the Prime Minister Killing eight soldiers in a tank brigade, Hezbollah also couldn’t talk to our group,” she said, “and one of Israel’s captured two: Eldad Regev, 26, of Kiryat Motzkin, and mayors from the north had to cancel. But in Jerusalem, Ehud Goldwasser, 31, of Nahariya. there was no reason to be afraid.” Hezbollah has been firing rockets on scores of Israeli UJC launched the Israel Crisis Fund to help vulneracities, like Nahariya, where Argentinian immigrant, ble populations in Israel’s besieged north-- children, the Monica Zeidman, was killed and more than 125 have elderly and disabled, and immigrants in absorption cenbeen injured in the first two days. Eight workers were ters. To help, call Jewish Federation of Omaha at killed in a rocket attack on a Haifa train depot; a grand- 402.334.6429, or donate online at the website: mother and her five-year-old grandson were killed in www.jewishomaha.org. With events changing rapidly, Merom. Four Israeli sailors were killed when a Jan Goldstein, Federation Executive Director, has been Hezbollah rocket hit their ship in Beirut harbor and a sending e-mail updates. To be added to the list, contact Nahariya man was killed as he pushed his family into a Lisa Lieb at 334.6431, or llieb@jewishomaha.org.

Epstein Scholarships C L I P & S A V E

C L I P & S A V E

Continued from page 1 She noted, “I made friendships that will last a lifetime and an appreciation for Israel that will only grow.” When it became time to decide where she would go after high school graduation, Katzman decided to wait a year before going to college. Her brother and sisters had gone to Israel after graduating from high school. With her family’s encouragement and support, along with her prior experiences in Israel, she made the decision to go to Israel this fall. Katzman wrote, “This coming school year I will be traveling, once again, overseas to pursue Jewish and Israeli cultural studies on Young Judaea’s Shalem program. This is a nine-month program that focuses on volunteering as well as education about the country and Judaism.” She will spend three months volunteering in Bat Yam, take classes at Hebrew University in Jerusalem, and then will choose another volunteer position somewhere in Israel. Given Katzman’s experiences, education and commitment to Jewish studies--as well as her plans for the fall it’s understandable why her application for the Epstein Scholarship was selected. According to Katzman, when she found out she had been awarded an Epstein Scholarship, “I was very excited and thankful. It’s a big honor to win the scholarship.” When she returns from Israel, Katzman will continue with Jewish studies while attending New York’s School of Visual Arts to study graphic design and photography. When asked if she had any “words of wisdom” to share with current high school students, Avi Katzman said, “If you believe in Judaism and want to make it a part of your life, then you should do it. Don’t do what others think you should do.” The other winner is Rebekah Priluck. The daughter of Ira and Sheila Priluck, she was co-salutatorian of Burke’s class of 2006. She founded her high school writing club, was on the varsity tennis team, joined band and orchestra, was a member of the National Honor Society and Spanish Club as well as other organizations. Priluck was also a

ADL Manhigim Institute participant for two years. During Priluck’s high school years, she avoided doing activities that that would conflict with her observance of Jewish law, such as marching band performances held during Shabbat. As noted in her essay, Priluck wrote, “Although I could be upset that I was restricted from many activities that my peers enjoyed, I also became a stronger and more disciplined individual and discovered more about myself... I was able to accomplish many things and follow my traditional Jewish beliefs.” Priluck was thrilled to receive an Epstein Scholarship. “I was really excited; it was such a nice surprise.” she said. “It’s an honor to receive the award, and it’s great that Avi received it as well.” Priluck will put her scholarship to good use when she attends the University of Michigan this fall, majoring in English and Pre-Med. She chose the university for a number of reasons. “I knew U of M was good academically,” said Priluck. “And my brother went there.” Priluck was also pleased about her future living arrangements. “You can indicate, on the housing form, your religious observation requirements, so I’ll be living close to Hillel.” As part of her English studies, Priluck will study Jewish literature as well as Hebrew and Yiddish. Explaining her motivation to study Hebrew and Jewish literature, she stated, “It’s my heritage and I love learning languages. I want to learn more. I want to build upon my Jewish heritage.” This goal was also evident in Priluck’s essay, when she wrote, “... I know that I am proud to be Jewish. From my family and Beth Israel, I have built a firm Jewish foundation and aim to build upon my Jewish heritage at the University of Michigan.” Priluck’s suggestion to other teens echoes sentiments similar to Katzman’s. Priluck stated, “I read a book I got from NCSY and it talked about how sometimes you’re more interested in Judaism, and sometimes less. Interest can wax and wane for young people. You need to establish and nurture it and do whatever it takes to keep your involvement and keep interested. “Don’t be afraid to be true to yourself.”

July 21, 2006

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 3

As Israelis Hole up in Shelters, They’re Scared, Bored and Angry by LARRY LUXNER CARMIEL, Israel, (JTA)--Colorful rainbows, choo-choo trains and flowers decorate the walls of the neighborhood bomb shelter in Carmiel, but amid the overflowing toilets, foul smells and tension of war this weekend, nobody seemed to notice. On Saturday and then again on Sunday, more than 100 people crammed into the underground shelter as Katyusha rockets launched by Hezbollah terrorists rained down on Carmiel, a picturesque town nestled in the mountains of northern Israel. Crying babies and occasionally hysterical mothers added to the drama in a scene repeated throughout the Galilee region-from Nahariya, Acre and Kiryat Shmona in the far north to towns further south, like Rosh Pina, Safed and Tiberias, that had never before seen Katyushas. Between towns, the highways were virtually deserted as Israelis largely obeyed an order not to go outside unless absolutely necessary. “For me, I can go to hell, but it’s my family I’m worried about,� said Niso Levi, a 51-year-old engineer who emigrated from Albania in 1991, along with his wife, Matilda, and daughters Anna and Ilana. The shelter, known in Hebrew as a miklat, is a staple of every residential complex in Israel. And this one was supposed to protect residents of Carmiel’s Givat Ram neighborhood in the event of an attack. But neighbors complain that the shelter’s water pipes are broken, that the toilets don’t work--and that the shelter was locked by municipal authorities at the very moment it was needed the most. “This is ridiculous. We’re paying as much in taxes as anyone else!� Ilana Fleischman screamed, in full view of TV reporters that had come to cover the latest rocket devastation. “The pipes are broken, the bathroom stinks. Nobody wants to come here.�

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Not that anyone has a choice. With the distant booming of Katyusha rockets becoming louder and more frequent, only a few brave souls ventured out--and when one boom sounded particularly close, everyone rushed back into the shelter, some in near-hysteria. “In 1991, I was alone at home� when Scud missiles fell, “so for me, this is like a trauma,� said Fleischman, explaining her nervousness. “When we woke up this morning with a boom, everybody fell out of bed. Now my son doesn’t want to sleep alone.� Standing nearby was Aharon Armejanov, a short, wiry truck driver who was born in Azerbaijan and moved to Israel in 1974. “I am definitely not afraid,� he said. “At the same time, I’m not looking to be a hero. I have four children. I’m a veteran of the Lebanon War, so it doesn’t make any difference anymore,� he said, referring to the 1982 conflict. With boredom creeping in, political debates in the bomb shelters were inevitable, and Armejanov was quick to offer his opinions on the current crisis. “We made a big mistake when we withdrew from Lebanon. This gave Hezbollah time to build up their weapons,� he told JTA, voicing an opinion shared by many in the Galilee. “We need peace, but you must pay for this peace with blood,� Levi said. “The difference between us and Hezbollah is that we give them a warning first and we don’t attack civilians,� added Shuster Yafina, a recent immigrant from Moldova. Yet not all of Carmiel’s victims of Hezbollah’s aggression think Israel should launch a full-scale invasion of Lebanon. “We need our soldiers at home. They are our children,� said Ludmila Daich, then quickly changing the subject. “I’m very sorry but I don’t want to speak about politics. I can’t think about that

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right now, only my grandson. Baruch Hashem, we are alive.� Ludmila and her husband, Peter, were sitting in their modest home just across the street from the neighborhood shelter when a Katyusha ripped through the ceiling--leaving shattered glass all over their bed and shards of broken concrete in their front yard. “I was thinking of going to the shelter, but it was closed, so I came back Residents of Nahariya wait in the city’s underground shelters Credit: ISRANET here,� said Peter, a during recent rocket attacks. Ukrainian immigrant who settled in with one middle-aged man screaming Carmiel 10 years ago. “I was here with “Nasrallah, we’re not afraid of you! We my wife and daughter-in-law and her son. will destroy you!� before the TV cameras, They live in Ma’alot, but they came here referring to Hezbollah leader Sheik because she thought it would be safer in Hassan Nasrallah. Yet beaches south of Tiberias, along the Carmiel.� It was much the same story in Tiberias, shores of the Kinneret, were still packed which was slammed by eight Katyushas with vacationers unti they were evacuated by police. over the weekend. Zohar Oved, the mayor of Tiberias, Asher Ya’ish lives on the second floor of an apartment building in the city. One of says he believes his city was targeted by those missiles hit an apartment on the Hezbollah specifically because it’s an fourth floor; fortunately its occupants international tourist destination. “We are a special community and the were vacationing in Tel Aviv. “I was sitting with my kids on the bal- people believe our government is acting cony, looking out at the Kinneret,� said in the right direction. We cannot manage Ya’ish, 60. “Half an hour before it hap- tourism with a situation like this,� said pened, my daughter had arrived from Oved, noting that one Katyusha fell within a few yards of City Hall. Haifa, thinking it would be safer here.� Asked if more Katyushas will fall on But safety is a relative term, and Tiberias, he said, “Unfortunately, yes. nobody feels safe in Tiberias these days. “I can’t believe it. It’s like a night- We’re instructing the people to stay in mare,� said Ya’ish. “I never thought this their homes.� Smadar Perach, whose brother’s 2002 could happen.� In fact, the last time a missile landed in this lakeside town of Audi was flattened by a Katyusha, said 45,000 was in 1971, and those rockets she’s getting used to the missiles. The very first minute, you panic. But then you came from Jordan, not Lebanon. After the mid-afternoon attack at the understand what’s happening. The peoresidential complex, a crowd quickly ple of Tiberias are cool,� she said. “There gathered at the site of the destruction, is no other way to react.�

Page 4

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

July 21, 2006

Developmental Assets Parenting Workshop to Be at Beth Israel

The Charles Bronfman 2007 Prize for Leaders Under 50 Announces Call for Nominations

by MARY BORT for Beth Israel Synagogue Beth Israel, in partnership with Jewish Family Service, invites the community to attend a free parenting workshop, Sunday, July 30, 10-11:30 a.m. The “Developmental Assets” workshop will be led by Karen Gustafson. Gustafson is a licensed therapist and parent instructor for JFS. “This is the second parenting workshop we’re able to provide to the community, in partnership with Jewish Family Service,” said Beth Israel’s Executive Director, Beth Cohen. “The workshop is part of Beth Israel’s ‘Parents Are Teachers’ program, made possible through a grant received from the Orthodox Union.” Developmental Assets are positive experiences and personal qualities viewed as being essential to raising healthy, caring and responsible young people. During the workshop, parents will be introduced to 40 developmental assets that are found to be valuable for the growth and development of youth. Twenty assets are external and focus on positive experiences that young people encounter. The other 20 are identified as internal and include positive characteristics and behaviors that pertain to values, social competencies and commitment to learning. An Asset Building manual will be made available at no charge to parents who make a reservation one week before the workshop. There will be concurrent children’s activities held while parents are attending the workshop. Parents must contact the synagogue office to reserve places for their children to participate in the activity group. For more information and to make reservations, contact 556-6288 or BethIsrael@OrthodoxOmaha.org. Non-members are welcome to attend.

by MICHAEL INLANDER for The Charles Bronfman Prize New York, NY--The Charles Bronfman Prize has announced the launch of its international quest for nominations of visionary young humanitarians for the 2007 award. Nominations for the 2007 Prize will be accepted between Aug.1 and Oct. 31. The Charles Bronfman Prize celebrates the vision and talent of an individual or team--under 50 years of age-whose humanitarian work has contributed significantly to the betterment of the world. The achievements of Prize recipients exemplify the Jewish values and regard for humanity that provide inspiration to the next generations. The Prize awards the recipient $100,000 and will next be announced in the spring of 2007. The Prize is an humanitarian award created and funded by his children--Ellen Bronfman Hauptman and Andrew Hauptman together with Stephen Bronfman and Claudine Blondin Bronfman--in honor of their father. “There are many qualified candidates who are brought to our attention through the open call for nominations,” said the prize founders who are inviting submissions. “The prize process has enabled us to reach an extraordinary generation of talented leaders doing exciting things in a variety of fields. We want to hear the stories of young people around the world whose humanitarian efforts merit recognition.” Charles Bronfman has spent a lifetime developing, implementing and supporting initiatives that help to strengthen the unity of the Jewish people. He has invested in young people to strengthen their knowledge and appreciation of their history, heritage and cultural identity, and has impacted on the direction of Jewish life and community.

Visions Gets Dazzled with Chicago More than 50 Visionaires enjoyed the musical Chicago at the Ralston Community Theater, including Social Chairpersons Ethel Goldston, left, and Rose Pitlor.

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In 2004, the inaugural prize was awarded to Jay Feinberg (now 38), a Leukemia survivor who founded and is the Executive Director of Gift of Life Bone Marrow Foundation. Through Feinberg’s work, over 90,000 donors have been registered with Gift of Life, and with the National Marrow Donor Program in the United States, as well as other national registries in Canada, Israel and around the world. Nearly 1,000 donor-recipient matches have been made through this vibrant and dynamic organization, facilitating transplants for patients on a global scale. “Through his tireless endeavors, Jay is truly an inspiration to the emerging generation of Jews and indeed to all those seeking to make a difference,” said Charles Bronfman. Dr. Alon Tal, who founded the Arava Institute for Environmental Studies in 1996 and recruited students from throughout the Middle East to pursue graduate degrees in environmental studies, was the 2005 winner. Tal’s impact is felt in many of Israel’s top environmental organizations and initiatives where he has become central to shaping the region’s environmental policy. Tal is now at Ben Gurion University and is Chairman of the Organizing Committee for the November, 2006 conference, Deserts and Desertification: Challenges and Opportunities, the first conference to be held in Israel under the auspices of the United Nations. His book, Speaking of Earth: Environmental Speeches that Moved the World, was recently published by Rutgers University Press. Nomination forms may be found at www.TheCharles BronfmanPrize.com. For further information, please contact Jill Collier Indyk, Executive Director, by e-mail at info@TheCharlesBronfmanPrize.com or by calling 212.931.0127.

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ORGANIZATIONS NEBRASKA JEWISH HISTORICAL SOCIETY Shirley and Leonard Goldstein will receive the Mary Fellman Award, the NJHS’s highest honor, at its annual meeting on Sunday, Aug. 6, 3 p.m. in the JCC Theater. The event, followed by a dessert reception, is open to the community. The NJHS created the Mary Fellman Award, named after the society’s founder, to honor a person or group in the community who reflects the qualities that have been an integral part of her life. These include multifacets and leadership, compassion and/or service impacting the history of the Jewish people of Nebraska and Western Iowa. The generosity and support of the Shirley and Leonard Goldstein Supporting Foundation have made it possible for the NJHS to purchase a TV quality camera, supplies, equipment and software used by Dr. Ben Nachman to conduct the oral history interviews. “Shirley and Buddy have more than demonstrated these qualities in supporting our oral history project, making it possible for the NJHS to collect these important interviews of our Jewish community and future generations,” says Helen Epstein, board president. In addition, Nan Katz will receive the Shirley Berman Outstanding Volunteer Award and new officers and board members will be honored. A new oral history documentary will also be shown. LOMIR REDN YIDDISH Come to the meeting at the JCC on Thursdays, 1-3 p.m. Call Anne Skolkin at 343.1638. VISIONS Brownville Concert Series presents Maude Maggart on Sunday Aug 20. Dinner follows at Farmer B’s Steak House. Cost is $40 per person. Send reservation to Rose Pitlor, 827 Dillon Dr., Omaha, NE 68132 by Aug. 1. For information, call Ethel Goldston at 393.7358. A Visions Summer Picnic is Sunday, Aug. 13, 1 p.m., at Chalco Hill’s Recreation Area. Cost is $6 per person. Please bring a side dish to share. Yesterdays Kids will perform. Send reservations to Ethel Goldston, 1108 No. 92 Plz., #101, Omaha, NE 68114 by Aug. 6. For information, call Rose Pitlor at 558.5144. Visions is on the road again to picturesque Iowa to visit Perry and the Boone Scenic Valley Railroad on Wednesday, Oct. 4. Cost of $68 includes coach bus, lunch at the Hotel Pattee and the railroad ride. Deposit of $30 is required by July 30; full payment is due on Sept. 1. Send reservations with deposit to Anne Skolkin, 1010 Regency Parkway #302, Omaha, NE 68114. Make all checks payable to Visions. B’NAI B’RITH BREADBREAKERS Dr. Terry Clark will speak at Breadbreakers on Wednesday, July 26, noon, at the Regency Lodge, according to Gary Javitch, chairman. Clark, Political Science professor at Creighton University, will discuss the death of terrorist leader Abu Musab al-Zarqawi. All men and women in the community are invited to attend. Cost is $11 for a complete lunch and $3 for beverage service only.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT This brainy, ingeniously edited documentary on a solitary past time, Wordplay, opening at the Mary Riepma Ross Media Arts Center on Friday, July 21, featuring New York Times and National Public Radio puzzle master Will Shortz, provides an extraordinary amount of crowd-pleasing entertainment and suspense, especially when it comes time for the annual tournament. Fifty million Americans do crossword puzzles each week, many in the venerable New York Times, which published its first puzzle in 1942. For the past 12 years, the man whose name has been indelibly linked to the Times crosswords is Editor Will Shortz. In Wordplay, director Patrick Creadon presents an entertaining and informative look at Shortz’s work and that of the puzzle constructors with whom he collaborates. “The film is made with a lot of style and visual ingenuity,” opines Roger Ebert writing for the Chicago SunTimes. Wordplay is showing at the Mary Riepma Ross Media Arts Center through Thursday, Aug. 3. Show times are available at www.TheRoss.org, by consulting your newspaper, or by calling the MRRMAC film information line at 402.472.5353. Wordplay also is playing at the Dundee Theater in Omaha.

Education Program Offered to Caregiver Organizations by DUANE J. PIEPER Recognizing the need for a better understanding of the Jewish “special needs” population, Jewish Family Service secured a grant from the Phillip and Terri Schrager Supporting Foundation in order to offer a workshop on Judaism for the Omaha area caregiver organizations. In collaboration with the AntiDefamation League, a program was designed to assist these organizations to better understand their Jewish clients and more adequately accommodate their needs. Beth Katz, of the ADL, presented an enlightening overview of Judaism and offered suggestions on how to be more sensitive to Jewish cultural, religious and traditional practices, including lifestyle, dietary requirements and the Jewish holidays. In attendance were eight key members from five different organizations.

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Beth Katz gives the workshop attendees a tour of the JCC. JFS and ADL, are attempting to utilize their expertise to reach out and support families and organizations caring for those individuals with special needs. Building meaningful relationships and bridges between individuals and organizations is the key to this endeavor. An attitude of yachad, “togetherness” in Hebrew, is the means by which they hope to accomplish these goals and provide an important service to the larger community.

Opportunity Omaha Students Volunteer, Hear from Community Professionals and More by ELLIE KRASNE Federation Intern Last month, “Opportunity Omaha, It’s More Than Just a Job” participants met with Jan Goldstein, Federation Executive Director and Marty Ricks, Foundation Executive Director. The two spoke with students about how the Federation and Foundation support the Jewish community. In addition to telling the students about Jewish philanthropy, Goldstein and Ricks asked for input about a potential new program for Bar and Bat Mitzvah aged teens. The students offered feedback for the Foundation to use in implementing the new project. This event left the students eager to learn more and become further involved in Omaha’s Jewish community, as well as on their respective college campuses. The following week, students attended Shakespeare on the Green to watch Taming of the Shrew, and partake in one of Omaha’s favorite summer traditions. In addition to experiencing what Omaha offers, Opportunity Omaha participants went to the Siena Francis Home and did everything from setting tables, to serving food, and helping clean up. “I really enjoyed volunteering with my fellow Jewish college students. It was so easy, I don’t see why more people don’t do it,” said participant Alex Clark. The students plan on returning this Sunday with even more volunteers. Opportunity Omaha continues to provide Jewish college students with many social and cultural programs. On Thursday, July 27, an evening of movie shorts will be facilitated by Dr. Guy Matalon, Director of the Center for Jewish Education. Students can check e-mail, Facebook, Myspace and voicemail to find out about programs. If you have any questions, call me at 334-6461.

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School’s Out for Summer, but the Learning Goes on for Beth El Educators get-togethers are planned for Sept. 16, Oct. 14, Nov. by JILL BELMONT Beth El Publicity Coordinator 11 and Dec. 9. ‘Take STOC’ Offers Intensive Study If asked to write the proverbial essay about how they spent their summer vacation, several members of Beth El BESTT art specialist and high school teacher Daniel Synagogue’s Talmud Torah (BESTT) faculty could fill a Christensen journeyed to Los Angeles last month to parblue book. ticipate in the Take STOC program at the University of While their students have been soaking up the sun, Judaism. The acronym STOC represents the four areas Judy Rubin, Deborah Kronick, Eadie Tsabari, Daniel of study offered: Skills: The Spiritual Side of Special Christensen and Patty Nogg have attended summer Needs; Talents: Jewish Education and the Arts; conferences for Jewish educators, soaking up informa- Opinions: Rabbinic Texts and Ethical Dilemmas; and tion to enhance their expertise and curricula. Give them Craft: All Hebrew All the Time (Hebrew Immersion). an ‘A’ for enthusiasm; an ‘A’ for participation. Participants were given the option to study any of the four during the conference. Hava Nashira Provides Resource Christensen chose to study ‘Rabbinical Texts and Tsabari, a longtime Beth El teacher who leads the synagogue’s Junior Congregation program, and Nogg, early- Ethical Dilemmas,’ taught by Dr. Saul Wachs. Presented childhood specialist and ‘pied piper’ of the synagogue’s with a variety of thought-provoking situations, “we wildly popular Friday night Tot Shabbat service, attended learned how to teach students how to deal with ethical Hava Nashira at Olin-Sang-Ruby Camp in Wisconsin. dilemmas,” he said. “The methods we learned could be Last month’s five-day song-leading and music workshop used in a variety of subjects and apply to different situaserved as a resource for Jewish song leaders, songwriters, tions,” he added, noting that he plans to implement performers, music educators and all those involved in the some of those techniques during his BESTT high school transmission of Jewish heritage, religion and culture ethics class this fall. Saying he was impressed with the University of through music, according to Tsabari. Calling it “a wonderful program,” she said she attend- Judaism, Christensen said he enjoyed the intensity of focusing on only one class, as ed to learn more about Jewish music and different opposed to attending several ways to utilize it in the classcourses which touch on a room. “The part of the provariety of subjects, “but gram that was most signifidon’t really get into the meat cant to me was the ability for of the matter.” Being with the same people for over Jews, through music, prayer, eight hours a day “helped us dance and movement, to to develop a great comfort have such an emotional, spirzone,” he added. “We were itual, experience,” she able to share ideas and be remarked. critical or disagree without “We participated in many feeling threatened. I also different kinds of services, liked our instructor’s rule workshops, sharing sessions that ‘What is said in the class and ruach sessions with stays in the class.’” amazing, talented people. Cantors and very significant Fresh from her summer music workshop at Olin-Sang-Ruby, Trip Makes Partnership songwriters such as Debbie early-childhood specialist Patty Nogg (seen here leading a with Israel Connection Beth El Education Friedman, Craig Taubman, recent Tot Shabbat service at Beth El), will also lend her Dan Nichols, Cantor Ellen enthusiasm to the community's preschoolers as she leads Director Judy Rubin and Dreskin and Cantor Jeff the synagogue's new "Shabbat Tunes & Tales" program, BESTT sixth grade teacher Deborah Kronick spent time Klepper all participated in starting next month. in Akko, Israel, earlier this summer, as part of an educaand ran our workshops.” Never satisfied to rest on her laurels or rely on the tional exchange between three schools in Omaha and philoshopy of ‘that’s how we’ve always done it,’ Tsabari Akko, Israel, Omaha’s Partnership with Israel region. When Dr. Yehuda Peled, education coordinator for said she considers summer enrichment seminars critical for teachers “to refresh what they know, to see what is Partnership in the Western Galilee visited Omaha earlier new, and bring back to the classroom new and exciting in the year, “he introduced the concept of an educational exchange between Beth El Synagogue Talmud things to teach our youth.” Hava Nashira helped to prepare her for the upcoming Torah and two schools in Akko,” Rubin explained. “He explained that face-to-face school year, Tsabari added, noting that, “This seminar really did me a lot of good, personally. It touched me deeply meetings were essential in building relations between and I enjoyed every minute of it. What could be better than our two cities and respective schools. The idea intrigued to go to camp AND sing for four days with people who are me and I volunteered to go.” Both educators visited Hatomer Elementary School, a committed and blessed with so many talents?!” Nogg also returned home enthused by her Hava fine arts school, and ORT Aliya Shniya Middle School, Nashira experience. “It was fantastic just to see the tal- observing classrooms and meeting with principals and ent of the people out there--both educators and partici- teachers “to establish a course of action for twinning our pants --and it was great to learn what different people schools through mutual activities,” Rubin said. are doing with music at their synagogues and As a result of those meetings, Beth El will have an preschools,” she said. The lively, nightly song sessions exchange of student art with Hatomer Elementary. The and services led by professionals such as Friedman and exchanges, which will take place around the Jewish holiTaubman “just carried me away,” she added. days, will be coordinated by Daniel Christensen, as part of Inspired by her summer experience, Nogg will initiate his monthly art program at BESTT. In addition, BESTT’s “Shabbat Tunes and Tales,” a new Beth El program seventh graders will participate in internet exchanges with open to all Jewish families in the community, on ORT Aliya Shniya Middle School, and video-conferencSaturday, Aug. 19 from 11:15 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. ing may also be implemented, Rubin said. Geared to pre-school children and their parents (or “It was very important to see first-hand the people grandparents), this program will offer a joyful sing-along with whom we would be working and to explore the “just for the fun of singing, minus the structure of a Tot environment of the Israeli schools,” she noted. Shabbat service” she said. “It was wonderful to discuss our similarities and dif“We’ll use this time to learn songs and just sing for the ferences. When we met with a seventh-grade class at the pure enjoyment and love of being Jewish!” Additional Continued on page 7

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Learning Goes on for Beth El Educators Continued from page 6 middle school, the students questioned us for at least 30 minutes about what life was like in Omaha and what American kids like to do--what kind of music they like, how they dress, etc. She explained that “they wanted to know which famous Americans came from Omaha. They were keenly aware of Warren Buffet and his purchase of ISCAR in Northern Israel, as well as Bryan Greenberg (a former BESTT student) who appeared in the movie, ‘Prime,’ with Meryl Streep. When I asked them what I should tell our students about them, they answered in English, ‘We’re very clever!’ Those kinds of experiences are hard to duplicate in a letter or email.” Rubin expressed gratitude to the Jewish Federation of Omaha for underwriting the educational experience, which she

hopes will be the beginning for future exchanges. “Teachers (and principals) gain tremendously by attending seminars, conferences and hands-on exchanges such as ours in the Western Galilee. I cherish opportunities such as the one I had this past summer to ‘charge my batteries’ for the school year to come.” After spending years enriching the minds of Jewish youth, these educators’ dedication to providing quality education has not dimmed. They have shown that learning is not only for the students, but for the instructors as well. “The one constant in my life has always been Jewish education,” Rubin said. “The need for dedicated educators is more critical today than it was when I first entered the field. I am fortunate to have had as my peers wonderful role models throughout the years and I hope

that I will be able to inspire others to do the same.” Tsabari chimed in, adding that, “There is nothing more important than passing on knowledge to our children-- L’Dor V’Dor--in a way that makes them love to be Jewish. When parents come up to me and tell me that their child likes coming to Hebrew School (and that happens often), I know that I am doing my job. When I can say a few words and my class breaks into song and prayer, I know I have succeeded. “In the long run, my hope is to help mold Jewish adults who are Beth El Education Director Judy Rubin, left, and committed to their heritage and BESTT teacher Deborah Kronick, right, chat with two can function in a synagogue and seventh-grade students during their visit to ORT Aliya not be strangers to their true famiShniya Middle School in Akko, Israel. ly, Am Yisrael.”

Israeli Guide Returns to Omaha to Promote Missions Alex Fleischer, a name familiar to many Omahans, will visit Omaha Aug. 8-10. On Tuesday, Aug. 8, 7 p.m., the Jewish Federation and the Center for Jewish Education will host a special “Eye on Israel” in the Kripke Library. Fleischer will join Dr. Guy Matalon, CJE Executive Director, in discussing the latest news in Israel and the Middle East. The panel will also feature Alan Potash, newly- appointed Plains States Regional Director for the Anti-Defamation League, who has an extensive background in Israel advocacy. “In this time of crisis, the quality and unity of this nation has revealed itself in a beautiful way,” Flsicher said in a phone call Tuesday morning. “Not only are our soldiers doing a great job, but tens of thousands of civilians have offered to host families from the North until it’s safe to go back home. This nation is united in its support of our government.” In addition to serving as Omaha’s Israeli

missions’ for guide many years, Fleischer is an accomplished artist whose work has been exhibited at the JCC. He has studied at Jerusalem’s Bezalel Art Alex Fleischer School and London’s Royal College of Art. As a tribute to his long-standing relationship with Omaha, Alex will present one of his Israeli landscapes to its Jewish community at a reception immediately following the “Eye on Israel” program. On Thursday, Aug. 10, 7 p.m., Fleischer will join Federation staff members at the Kripke Library to lead an information session for the eagerly antici-

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pated Family Mission, June 3-13, 2007. “Family missions offer a great way to experience the wonders of Israel,” explained Julee Katzman, Federation Assistant Director. “At the same time, there will be a variety of activities geared towards making Israel come alive for children.” The mission will feature visits to traditional sites such as the Dead Sea, Masada, the Western Wall, Jerusalem and Yad

Vashem. The group will also participate in typical Israeli outdoor activities, such as kayaking on the Jordan River, exploring underground Jerusalem, touring the Golan Heights by jeep, and visiting a wildlife refuge. Activities will be geared towards specific age groups and a special youth guide will accompany the group. For more information, contact Sharon Kirshenbaum at 334.6485.

Wolfson Dinner Continued from page 1 The Anti-Defamation League was founded in 1913 “to stop the defamation of the Jewish people and to secure justice and fair treatment to all.” Now the nation’s premier civil rights/human relations agency fighting anti-Semitism and all forms of bigotry, ADL defends democratic ideals and protects civil rights for all. On Aug. 1, Alan Potash will become the

new Regional Director of the Plains States ADL/CRC office in Omaha. Potash opened ADL’s first office in Austin, TX, where he also served as Community Relations Council Director for the Jewish Community Association of Austin. The ADL’s Aug. 17 L’Chaim dinner honoring Bob Wolfson begins at 7 p.m. with cocktails at 6:30 p.m. For more information or to make a reservation, please call the ADL office, 333.1303.

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

July 21, 2006

Where, When, How Will It End? As Israel defends itself against the unprovoked rocket attacks from Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon, many world leaders are backing Israel for a change. Saudi Arabian Prince Faisal criticized Hezbollah for its “miscalculated adventure...creating a dangerous situation” and added that “these elements should bear the full responsibility of these irresponsible acts.” And even the presidents and prime ministers attending the G-8 summit in St. Petersburg, issued a statement, that “requires the return of the Israeli soldiers in Gaza and Lebanon unharmed; an end to the shelling of Israeli territory; an end to Israeli military operations and the early withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza; and the release of the arrested Palestinian ministers and parliamentarians.” (Notice the statement’s order: that the three kidnapped IDF soldiers had to be returned and Hamas and Hezbollah’s end to shooting rockets before Israel was required to cease its military operations.) Our guess is that whatever else is being said publicly (despite the usual rhetoric urging “restraint by Israel” and its “disproportionate use of force”), most world leaders would be very happy to see Israel blow Hezbollah and Hamas off the map. Oh, it’s not because the world loves Israel. It’s more a case of self-preservation. Tony Blair already knows the harm Islamofascists can do; the one year anniversary of the subway bombing in London was just two weeks ago. And France had its hands full last year as well, with Muslim youth rioting in the streets, burning cars and, finally brutally beating, torturing and killing a young Jewish man, Ilan Halimi. Even Vladimir Putin (who’s sell-

ing arms and nuclear technology to the Iranians) knows that the lunatics in Syria and Iran could easily turn their attention northward to Russian’s riches and its former Muslim republics. It wouldn’t take much, as Putin already knows firsthand from his experience with Chechnya. America knows all too well the results of this nihilistic philosophy, with the five-year anniversary of 9-11 in just seven weeks. So it’s no wonder that the G-8 members are secretly hoping Israel’s IDF will put an end to the flexing of Iran’s muscles through its puppets in Gaza and Lebanon. In fact, the United States is tacitly allowing Israel to inflict as much damage to Hezbollah as possible by delaying the arrival in the Middle East of its Secretary of State Condaleeza Rice. The weaker Hezbollah, the more concessions Israel can extract, and the more the West can contain Iran. Palestinians can forget about further withdrawals in the West Bank as Israelis now know that Iranian-made missiles could be aimed right at the heart of Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Prime Minister Ehud Olmert declared that “Israel would not return to the status quo that prevailed before recent events in which the security of Israeli citizens was threatened.” Yet throughout this war, Israel has continued to supply Palestinians with basic needs, opening the crossings at Karni and Nahal Oz on Wednesday to allow 154 trucks through, carrying food, gas and diesel. Even though Iran has been emboldened in this misadventure, it’s not an Arab country and is not loved by Egypt, Jordan, or Saudi Arabia. Jordan has the most to lose with a bor-

der with Syria to the north and Israel to the West, leaving it vulnerable to an enlarged conflict. Egypt and Jordan do not want this to become a regional conflagration. Frankly, neither does Lebanon. But none of them, it appears, has any political capital with Syria or Iran. That’s where the French and Russians could use their influence and, if they ponder their own demographics, they should. But if Israel retreats to appeasement mode, and doesn’t clean up Gaza and southern Lebanon, it will have to continually fight this battle. With a soon-to-be nuclear Iran looming in the Middle East, maybe, just maybe, the rest of the world has finally awakened to the reality that Israel has faced for 58 years.

BEHIND THE H EADLINES by DAVID BROG WASHINGTON (JTA)--Large Christian conferences have not always been good news for the Jews. There was, for example, the Council of Oxford in 1222, which prohibited the construction of synagogues in Christian Europe. The Synod of Breslau in 1267 required Europe’s Jews to live in ghettos. The Council of Basel in 1434 barred Jews from receiving academic degrees. The list goes on. But this month, on July 18-19, there was a Christian conference that is very good news for the Jews and people who care about Israel. On these two days, Christians United for Israel held its national summit in Washington, bringing together more than 1,000 Christian activists from across the United States to lobby Congress in support of Israel. While this outpouring of Christian support for Israel may seem laudable, many in the Jewish community will not cheer the conference. They will instead assert that what seems like support for Israel is merely a conspiracy to convert the Jews and continue the work of Christian conferences past. More specifically, they will claim that the goal of the conference and Christian Zionism in general is to reinstate the edict of the Synod of Breslau and once again place all Jews into a ghetto--one called Israel--so that Jesus can return and convert or kill the whole lot of us. Why does this conspiracy theory have such a strong hold on the Jewish imagination? Why do thousands of Jews who have never even met an evangelical Christian or read the New Testament know with such certainty that Christians are hiding dark motives under their

As the storm clouds gather and new threats to Israel loom, we Jews should get to know our new friends before judging them. What many Jews fail to realize, however, is that there has been an epochal shift in Christian theology toward the Jews. Because of this shift, evangelical Christians in America today have nothing to do with the Christians who persecuted us in the past. For most of Christian history, the dominant Christian theology toward the Jews was “replacement theology,” which held that when the Jews rejected Jesus as their messiah, God rejected the Jews as his chosen people. The church replaced the Jews as the “Israel” to whom so much is promised in the Bible. Once the Jews were thus removed from God’s love, the door was opened to man’s hate. And this was a door through which generation after generation of Christians walked. The Christian conferences referenced above were the practical application of this negative theology. But ever since the Reformation, there have been some small groups of Protestants who

Jewish Press Committee Bobbi Leibowitz, Vice-Chairman; Stan Mitchell, Secretary; Scott Meyerson, Treasurer; Michael Siegel, Finance Chairman; Joanie Jacobson, Immediate Past-chairman; David Herzog; Susan Lehr; Jamie Meyerson; George Quittner; Melissa Schop; Michael Sigmond; Jim Simon; Nancy Skid; and Dorothy Spizman. 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, Center for Jewish Education, Jewish Family Service, and Jewish Senior Services. The Jewish Press is a constitutional committee of the Jewish Federation. Editorials express the view of the writer and are not necessarily representative of the views of the Jewish Press Jewish the Committee, 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.

Not the Same Christians: D.C. Plenary Backs Israel purported embrace of the Jews and the Jewish state? The answer is history. Jews are prepared to believe the worst about Christian motives because this view corresponds with everything they have learned about Jewish life in Christian lands. For almost 2000 years, Christianity was responsible for a series of anti-Semitic atrocities from the Crusades to the Inquisitions to the countless Easter Day pogroms. And during these difficult centuries, those claiming to be the most devoted Christians were typically the ones leading the charge against the Jews. Jews have learned to equate zealous Christianity with mortal danger.

(Founded in 1920) Howard K. Marcus Chairman Carol Katzman Editor Richard Busse Managing Editor Allan Handleman Advertising Manager Lori Kooper-Schwarz Assistant Managing Editor Terri Greenwood Advertising Executive Barbara Kirkpatrick Bookkeeper Anne Muskin Editorial Intern

have rejected replacement theology and who believe--as Jews do--that the word “Israel’’ in the Bible means the Jews. Under this reading, the Jews continue to be the beneficiaries of God’s love and promises, and the Bible becomes an exhortation to Zionism and philoSemitism. If the Jews are still beloved by God, then Christians wanting to do God’s will on earth will likewise want to embrace the Jews. In early 20th-century United States, the nascent fundamentalist movement embraced this minority view and rejected replacement theology. As this movement grew and spread across the country, the number of Christians who adhered to this theology grew as well, to the point that it is the ascendant strain of American Christianity today. Thus fundamentalist/evangelical support for Israel is not a continuation of past persecution by other means but an expression of an entirely different view of the Jews. The upcoming conference is the practical application of this new, philo-Semitic theology. For centuries, Christians insisted on punishing Jews for the alleged sin of their ancestors in crucifying Jesus. And for centuries, Christians spoke with great certainty about the evil contents of a Talmud that they had never read. We Jews, of all people, should be careful before we make presumptions about someone else’s theology or project onto such people the sins of their ancestors. As the storm clouds gather and new threats to Israel loom, we Jews should get to know our new friends before judging them. We make a mistake when we see echoes of the past in the conference of Christians United for Israel. Instead, we should see signs of a very different, and very bright, future. David Brog, a committed Jew, is the author of the just-published book, Standing With Israel: Why Christians Support the Jewish State. He is also the Executive Director of Pastor Hagee’s group, Christians United for Israel.

Editorial The Jewish Press is a Constitutional Committee of the Jewish Federation of Omaha. Deadline for copy, ads and photos is: Thursday, 9 a.m., 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.; $36 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. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68154-2198 or e-mail to: jpress@jewishomaha. org.

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When Friends Aren't Really Friends: Be Wary of Evangelical Support for Israel

BEHIND THE H EADLINES by RABBI BARRY BLOCK SAN ANTONIO--American Jews should be wary about engaging with extreme right-wing Christian supporters of Israel. As a congregational rabbi, serving in San Antonio--home of the leader of Christians United for Israel, the Rev. John Hagee--I am most wary of these efforts. No, I am not worried that Hagee will try to convert us in the process. The entire American Jewish community may trust the reliable testimony of my Orthodox colleague in San Antonio, Rabbi Aryeh Scheinberg, who insists that Hagee doesn’t utilize his pro-Israel activities to proselytize Jews. Hagee has earned the enmity of some colleagues in the process. Even as we may be comfortable with Hagee himself on this one matter, we can not rest easy, simply on the basis of Hagee’s successful insertion of anti-missionary language into the Christian group’s foundational documents. Hagee’s colleagues among the group’s leaders may not share his record or commitment in this regard. Instead of conversionary activity, my concerns revolve around my everyday labor, engaging mainstream Christians-Catholics and mainline Protestants, as well

as mainstream evangelicals-in support of our Jewish homeland and all the causes that we American Jews hold dear. To the Christian colleagues with whom I work most closely, Hagee is a charlatan. He and his group’s partners hew to a theology that mainstream Americans of every faith reject and often abhor. Even as they speak to large congregations, Hagee and his ilk are repudiated by tens of millions of Christians, including evangelicals, and for good reason. The group’s advocacy for Israel will harm everything we hold dear, as Israel and the Jewish people are tarnished by association. Our people, though, cannot be our only concern. No Jew can hear Hagee’s sermon series, “Allah and America,” and still support his efforts. Yes, the terror-supporting fundamentalist Islam that dominates the Muslim world today is worthy of condemnation. Hagee, though, vilifies Islam itself, demonizing Allah and the prophet Mohammed. Having lived through centuries when our own faith was similarly mocked, we can not partner with today’s preachers of hate. When we embrace Hagee and the like, we may be seen as joining or at least tolerating their repugnant extremism. When we work with these folks, we legitimize them as political players, strengthening

their impact on agendas we find anathema, from their opposition to the First Amendment’s guarantees of religious freedom to their callous opposition to programs most critically needed by the poorest among us. Unlike the Catholic Church, for example, with which we disagree on the important concerns of sexual and reproductive freedom, the only issue on which we agree with the extremist fundamentalists in Hagee’s group is our shared support for Israel. They work hard to oppose our priorities and American Jewish interests every day. Jews in San Anto-nio are deeply and personally affected by the actions and advocacy of Hagee and his minions. Most harmed are young people from our synagogues, attending public schools. They are proselytized at lunch and subjected to Christian prayer in their extracurricular activities. If we hear our young people’s pain--as I do, regularly--we cannot stand with the very people who inflict it. Finally, understand that Hagee’s group is no “Christian AIPAC.” His group is not pledged, as AIPAC is, to support all acts of the Israeli government. To date, its leadership has been cagey about whether it might actively oppose “convergence,’’ the policy of the current Israeli government, so recently elected by a convincing margin.

When we embrace Hagee and the like, we may be seen as joining or at least tolerating their repugnant extremism.

The Timely War? FOCUS ON ISSUES by AARON LERNER Assuming that the Olmert team doesn’t blink (or perhaps more accurately, that Hezbollah continues to create a situation that makes blinking domestic political suicide) there is a genuine chance that Israel may actually succeed in ridding itself of a dangerous threat to the Jewish State before circumstances make such a move considerably more expensive. Today Iran has no nuclear bomb. Egypt is neither lead by a radical Islamic regime nor does Egypt’s leadership appear to feel compelled to divert public attention from its current domestic difficulties via an open clash with Israel. Ditto for Jordan. Add to this that since Israel has yet to retreat from most of the West Bank thus apparently leaving its most populous central area out of immediate massive rocket exposure (with a national budget not yet burdened with the debt such a retreat would cost) and it can certainly be said that Hezbollah has picked a good time for a mini-war for Israel. And what if, indeed, Olmert declines to blink and then

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To the Editor: Sort medical supplies; pack food for the Israel Defense Forces, perform other non-combatant jobs with the Volunteers for Israel (VFI) program. Founded in 1982, the mission of VFI is to connect Americans to Israel through volunteer service. VFI sends American volunteers to Israel for two or more weeks at a time to work in hospitals, nursing homes, and as non-combatant volunteers on non-combatant military bases. In this current crisis, VFI volunteers are continuing to sort medical supplies, pack food for the IDF, and perform other non-combatant but crucial tasks on non-combatant bases through Sar-El, the National Volunteer Program for Israel. At this time there is no change in VFI operations. Volunteers are being accepted and placed according to the current published schedule. VFI is monitoring the situation in Israel and are in touch with the SAR-EL office about any possible changes. Visit our website www.vfi-usa.org/ for more information or call 1.866. 514.1948 for updates. George Iversen for VFI

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Barry Block is the senior rabbi at Temple Beth-El in San Antonio, TX.

LETTER goes on to apply the same newly found intestinal fortitude to the challenge he faces today in the Gaza Strip? Will the episode then give him the credibility to push through his retreat plan or, alternatively, will it be seen as evidence of the folly of retreat? Regardless of how ideal the outcome, Olmert’s spin team can certainly be counted on to try to achieve the former. Far fetched? Hardly. Thanks to Israel’s then considerably greater strategic depth at the time of the horrific surprise Yom Kippur War of 1973 and a generous serving of good fortune, it was able to absorb the devastating opening invading attacks and ultimately conclude the war 101 kilometers from Cairo and on the road to Damascus. One would think that the experience of the Yom Kippur War would be seen as proof positive that retreat is a mistake, but retreat proponents point to Israel’s ultimate victory in ’73 as some kind of proof of the IDF’s invincibility regardless of the opening conditions. One can only hope that Israel will soon find itself focused on debating the lessons of its victory in the conflict now unfolding. Dr. Aaron Lerner is Director of IMRA, Independent Media Review & Analysis, and can be reached through its website at: www.imra.org.il.

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Hagee has said that his group will support the Israel government; but, for years, he has inveighed loudly against all disengagement from occupied territory. Israel does not need a powerful Washington lobby attempting to influence Israeli policy or asking the United States to do so. As the president of the Union for Reform Judaism, Rabbi Eric Yoffie, has pointed out, if the group were to oppose the moderate and peace-seeking policies embraced by the large majority of Israelis and pursued by the Olmert government, then these extremists’ efforts would actually oppose the Jewish state they claim to support. A word of comfort: Hagee’s group is not altogether bad. Today’s anti-Israel left and isolationist right, taking cues from classic anti-Semitism, claim that American support for Israel is the result of the allegedly improper, outsized influence of American Jews, as though we hold Congress and the president in our pockets. The group’s voice will remind all Americans that support for Israel runs deep in this country. Like all Americans, the extreme religious right has the privilege to lobby for its beliefs. Let them do so, as they wish, as Christians, without the involvement of the organized Jewish community. Let us keep far away, with our eyes open. For our own future as Jews in America. For our souls. For Israel.

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

July 21, 2006

Candlelighting Friday, July 21, 8:33 p.m.

Synagogu e 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 southstreettemple.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 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

PERSONAL A loving thank you for my wonderful family and friends for their contributions, flowers, cards and remembrances for my recent surgery. I am truly grateful. And a special thank you to the physical therapy department as well as the rest of the personnel at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. Ann R. Kaiman

B’NAI ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE FRIDAY: Services followed by Oneg, 7:30 p.m.

BETH EL SYNAGOGUE FRIDAY: Musical Kabbalat Shabbat service, 6 p.m. SATURDAY: Morning Service, 9:30 a.m.; Kiddush sponsored by Beth El Synagogue; Evening Service, 8:50 p.m. WEEKDAY SERVICES: Sunday, 9 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.; Weekdays, 6:55 a.m./5:30 p.m. ADULT EDUCATION SUNDAY: Bible Discussion Group, 10 a.m. SHABBAT DINNER FOR YOUNG ADULTS: All Jewish adults in their 20s and 30s are invited to a special Shabbat dinner, “Mexican, Margaritas & Music,” on Friday, July 21 following Kabbalat Shabbat services. Cost is $10 per person (babysitting will be provided, free of charge). For more information, contact Margie Gutnik in the synagogue office, or at programming@bethel-omaha.org. K’TANTAN PLUS: Our summer program, led by Daniel Christensen, meets in the chapel from 10:45-11:45 a.m. Our next session will be held, July 22. The program is open to children in K6, and offers opportunities to take roles in leading Shabbat services, as well as the parasha discussion. For information, call Judy Rubin at 498.0904. WOMEN’S ROSH HODESH MEETING: Planned for Wednesday, July 26, 7 p.m., at the home of Carol Parsow, 2222 Skyline Dr. The theme is “L’Chaim: to Health!” and will focus on good nutrition and exercise. RSVP by July 23 to Parsow at cparsow@aol.com. HAZAK INSTALLATION DINNER: Thursday, July 27, 6 p.m.; following installation, a musical program will be presented by Cantor Gaston Bogomolni and Jonathan Rathsam, accompanied

by Esther Wax. Cost: $12.50 for adults; $8 for children six-12; no charge for children ages five and under. RSVP by July 24 to Natalie Rubin, 2004 So. 138 Ave Cir., 68144. SISTERHOOD ANNUAL HONEY SALE: Now through Aug. 21, orders are being taken for Rosh Hashanah honey and holiday greetings. For more information, call 301.7321 or e-mail chai.honey@cox.net. BBQ AND BASEBALL: Join Men’s Club & Hazak on Sunday, Aug. 6, for a barbecue luncheon at 11 a.m. at the synagogue, before going to an Omaha Royals baseball game at Rosenblatt. Cost is $10 per person (includes lunch and game admission). RSVP to Natalie Rubin, 2004 S. 138 Ave. Cir., 68144. Vegetarian requests will be honored.

BETH ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE Office Hours: Mon.-Thurs., 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Fri., 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.; Children’s Classes, 10 a.m. (contact the office for class schedule); Kiddush is sponsored by Harry Wolfson in commemoration of the yahrzeit of his wife, Cleo Wolfson; Shabbos House, 5:30 p.m. at Dani and Leon Shrago’s home. This Shabbos House is for Junior and Senior NCSY’ers (5th through 12th graders) and their parents; Mincha, 8:30 p.m.; Havdalah, 9:40 p.m. SUNDAY: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Summer Sing-A-Long with Seth, 10 a.m. Children of all ages and their parents are invited to the playground for a sing-a-long with our rabbinic intern Seth Nadel; Contact the office for Mincha/ Ma’ariv service time. WEEKDAYS: Shacharit, 7 a.m; Contact the office for

Mincha/Ma’ariv time. Rabbi Gross was selected to attend the Israelite Institute Rabbinic Fellowship program in Jerusalem through July 26. Rabbi’s regular Thursday classes are canceled July 27.

BEYT SHALOM FRIDAY: Shabbat in the Home.

CHABAD HOUSE Services conducted by Rabbi Mendel Katzman. Office hours: Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-4:30 p.m. FRIDAY: Service, 7 a.m.; Shabbat Dinner and Prayer Service, 7:30 p.m. for the 15th Biennial National Conference on Osteogenesis Imperfecta, 7:30 p.m. in the Hill room at the Hilton Hotel. Join us in extending a warm Omaha welcome to these special visitors. For more information call 330.1800 or email CHABAD@aol.com. SATURDAY: Maamar class, 9 a.m.; Service, 9:30 a.m.; Kiddush luncheon follows the service. SUNDAY: Services, 8:30 a.m.; Torah Studies-Journeys exploring the Book of Bamidar (Numbers), 10 a.m. WEEKDAYS: Minyan, 7 a.m. MONDAY: Halacha class, 7 p.m. TUESDAY: Women of Worth Prayer Circle, 9 a.m. WEDNESDAY: Kabbalah Circle, 7 p.m. THURSDAY: Jewish Thought, 12:45 p.m. All events and programs are open to the community. For information or to register, call www. 330.1800 or visit Ochabad.com.

CONGREGATION B’NAI JESHURUN Services conducted by Rabbi Ilan Emanuel. FRIDAY: Shabbat Evening Service, 7:45 p.m. with oneg provided by Sheldon and Roberta

Stick. SATURDAY: Shabbat Morning Service, 9:30 a.m. led by Stephanie Dohner; Torah Study, 10:30 a.m., led by Rick Kohn. The Temple office will be closed July 24-27. During the month of August, the Social Action Committee is collecting school supplies to donate to Saratoga School. Place them in one of the boxes in the Social Hall. Thank you from the Social Action Committee and especially from the students!

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

ROSE BLUMKIN JEWISH HOME SATURDAY: Services, 9 a.m.

TEMPLE ISRAEL FRIDAY: Shabbat Service, 6 p.m.; “Shema Temple Israel: Many Stories, One Congregation”; d’var Torah by Jonathan Rathsam: “Going Away to Find Yourself.” SATURDAY: Sparks Beneath the Surface, 9:15-10:15 a.m.; Shabbat Morning Service, 10:30 a.m.

NEIGHBORHOOD MINYAN FRIDAY: Services, 7:30 p.m. SATURDAY: Services, 9 a.m.

TIFERETH ISRAEL Services conducted by Rabbi Royi Shaffin. Minyan, MONDAY, & THURSDAY, 9 a.m. FRIDAY: Services, 7:30 p.m. followed by a light oneg. SATURDAY: Parashat Hashavu’a class, 8:30 a.m.; Morning service, 9:30 a.m. followed by Shabbat lunch and Talmud class. WEDNESDAY: Men’s Lunch Group will meet at the Knolls, 12:30 p.m. Contact Yale Gotsdiner at 423.7066.

Chabad Rabbinic Interns Reach Out to Jews in Small Communities by SHANI KATZMAN From Sioux City, Iowa to Kearney, Nebraska Jewish faces are brightened and their spirits revived. Laden with information, Tefilin, Shabbat candles, literature, and most importantly warm hearts, two young rabbinic interns are making the trek across the Midwest. Visiting Jewish communities and small towns, the rabbis encourage and inspire whomever they meet. This signature Global Chabad program, now in its 62nd year has brought joy, hope, support, and inspiration to millions of Jews in far flung communities throughout the world. Initiated by the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, the Shluchim network comprises of both permanent and temporary emissaries. During their summer vacation, legions of rabbinic interns fan out to every corner of the globe. “We won’t rest until the flame

of every Jew shines forth with pride,” says Rabbi Baruch Davidson, newly ordained rabbi from Oak Park, MI. After seven years of intense study in international yeshivas Davidson received his smicha this past fall. “He is full of energy and his smile is contagious,” said Rabbi Mendel Katzman, who is mentoring and sponsoring this team. Under the guidance of Rabbi Katzman, the young rabbis reach out to Midwestern towns where isolated, scattered Jews find themselves without organized, Jewish life. Picking up clues from Jewishsounding names in phone books, in addition to data provided by Rabbi Katzman, the rabbis make contact. Armed with a car bursting with Judaica and books on every Jewish subject, the rabbis go from door-to-door, offering a taste of Judaism. They also offer assistance in any possible way. In some cases, affix-

Zelig Katzman, center, and Boruch Davidson visit Rabbi Green in Sioux City, IA. ing mezuzot on the doorframes. In others, it’s a gift of candlesticks for Shabbat. In yet others, a discovery of an impoverished family brings forth gifts of nutritious food and sundry items. “It’s about the connection we have with one another,” says Rabbi Bronstein. Bronstein, Davidson’s partner, is a soft spoken young man from Miami

Beach, FL. Rabbi Bronstein studied in yeshivas in France, Brooklyn, and finally graduating from the PHC Rabbinical Seminary in Pretoria, South Africa. “At this critical time in the Holy Land, when all of us want to do something positive, the feedback from those we meet is heartwarming,” he says. “When you see their expressions, their joy of being part of a global experience, you know the whole universe is smiling along. We are all one big mishpocha and our mitzvahs here-really have an affect and protect our brothers and sisters in Israel.” Rabbi Davidson adds, “Since its inception, the summer shluchim have touched the lives of Jews throughout the world. For many, these summer visits are their only contact with Jewish life.” If you or anyone you know would like to schedule a visit with the rabbis, call 330.1800 or email rabbi@ochabad.com.

July 21, 2006

Tetrateuch? Pentateuch? Or Hexateuch? SPARKS FROM THE WORD by RABBI MYER S. KRIPKE Parashiyot Mattot/Masei (Editor’s note: this column first appeared July 24, 1998.) With our two Sidrot, we bring to a close our reading of B’Midbar. Thus we also end the the Tetrateuch--the first four books of the Bible. This is a natural ending, since Deuteronomy is a kind of appendix, completing a Pentateuch (five books) and bringing to an end the leadership of Miriam, Aaron and Moses. And yet, since the Pentateuch doesn’t get the Israelites into the Promised Land, there are those who think that the natural division should be a Hexateuch (six books), including Joshua, so that our ancestors actually get into the Holy Land! As Jews per se, not worrying about what scholars and critics worry about, we love the Torah as we have it, a Pentateuch ritually read from a hand-indited Scroll. Think, for a moment, how much we would have lost if the Torah had ended with our reading today, the end of B’Midbar. Those great “sermons” of Moses that fill Deuteronomy are among the most impassioned and glorious chapters of the Bible, not surpassed by the ethically sensitive and literarily soaring addresses of the great prophets. Indeed, we need not hesitate to recognize that the great author(s) of Deuteronomy had the teachings of the great eighth century prophets before him/her/them. At this stage of the game, it is unimportant--in a practical sense--that most of the place names in our current Sidrot, the places where our ancestors passed through on their way from Egypt to Canaan, cannot be identified. In a practical sense, it is also unimportant whether or not they were joined in escaping Egypt by other nonIsraelite slaves. It is also unimportant whether or not they were joined in Canaan by other non-Israelite local inhabitants who were impressed with the idea of a God Who makes-for-freedom. But something is important.

What is important is that there emerged a people-Israelites--which, in time, produced a religious civilization that called for justice, freedom, and concern for humanity. This civilization, this culture, this way of living under a particular appraisal of human life before God, left the legacy that inspires and informs Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. As we unroll the sacred Scroll next week, from B’Midbar to Deuteronomy, we are continuing and emphasizing the cultural and spiritual legacy of ancient Israel, upon which so much of the modern world bases its highest ideals. How good it is to be a Jew! Mah yafo yerushateinu-How beautiful is our heritage!

Jewish Community Rallies for Israel

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Several thousand protesters descended upon the United Nations Monday in support of Israel. The rally, sponsored by the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations and the Jewish Community Relations Council of New York, was the second one in New York within a week: Michael Miller, left, Executive Vice-president of the JCRC of New York; Amb. Dan Gillerman, Israel’s Permanent Representative to the UN; Malcolm Hoenlein, Executive Vice-chairman of the Conference of Presidents; Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton; Amb. Aryeh Mekel, Israel’s Credit: Lorenzo Ciniglio Consul General in New York.

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MIRIAM NOVAK MAYER Miriam Novak Mayer died July 13 at the age of 82. Services were held July 16 at Beth El Cemetery. She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Mayer. She is survived by her daughters and sons-in-law, Sharon and Howard Kooper, Sandra and Gregory Meyerson of Phoenix, AZ, and Sue and Rocky Lipsman of Wausau, WI; grandchildren, Lori Kooper-Schwarz and Wayne Schwarz, Robyn Kooper, and David Meyerson of Phoenix, AZ; and one great-granddaughter. Memorials to Robert and Dorothy Kooper Charitable Foundation Trust, c/o Jan Roos, 809 No. 96 St., Suite 1, Omaha, NE 68114 or favorite charity.

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Send full name, age, date of death, location of service and burial site, as well as other pertinent information to the Jewish Press via e-mail: ckatzman@jewishomaha.org; fax, 402.334.5422; or mail, 333 So. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68114. Obituaries--as well as engagements, marriages, commitment ceremonies, and births--also can be submitted at the Jewish Federation of Omaha’s website. Just go to: www.jewishomaha.org, click on Jewish Press and click on “Submit Announcements.” Guidelines also are located on the Jewish Press home page; just click on the box at the lower right.

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by GARY JAVITCH President, Henry Monsky Lodge #3306 If you could do something to help change someone’s life, would you? B’nai B’rith is offering the entire community that chance. Last August, two former members of the Israel Defense Forces told the Breadbreakers lunch group how scholarships they received from the Friends of the IDF Organization lifted them out of poverty, altered and improved their lives. It was inspirational! To perform that act of kindness required raising just $4,000 a year for four years or investing a total of $16,000 to improve--quite dramatically--someone’s life. Excited by the prospect of making a difference in some-

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one’s life, a few Lodge members came to the B’nai B’rith Board and pledged funds. The Board itself then stepped up to launch the effort with a $3,000 donation. Along with pledges for $8000 and an offer from someone to match funds, more than $11,000 has been raised. Now the Lodge needs only $1250 a year ($5,000 total). But they need additional help to reach that goal. The Lodge is asking members of the community to join in and support this great program. The deadline for this campaign is July 31. Please send a check or a pledge to the B’nai B’rith office, c/o the JCC of Omaha, 333 So. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68154.

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

July 21, 2006

JCC Dance Program: a Smooth Transition by LYNN BATTEN JCC Publicity Associate From her beginning role as a part time ballet instructor and through all the parts she has played in between, Leslie Wallace has always loved each part. Now, after 21 years of service, she is preparing to take her final bow as the Jewish Community Center’s Dance Director. At the end of July, Wallace will relinquish her role as Dance Director to Esther Katz, a current instructor within the program. Wallace and her two sons, Chet and Reed, are set to relocate to K e a r n e y, NE, where she is planning a marriage to Jon Abegglen. Leslie Wallace Although she is excited for her new beginning, Wallace knows her transition won’t be easy. She recognizes the significance of what she’s leaving behind. “We have some of the best dance instructors in Omaha,” she states. “They are a very talented staff that is creative with their choreography and what they do with the kids is amazing. It all combines so that everybody takes part. Specific students have his or her strengths and we cater to that. Everybody gets a chance. We have some kids who may not be very strong in one area, yet they get solos in the recital because of their strengths in another.” As she continues to discuss aspects of her dance program, it becomes increasingly obvious that Wallace is proud of the program she has established. She takes gratification in knowing that the program offers many facets that are becoming increasingly hard to find at other locations. She sites a strong individualized attention to students, the diverse dance experience and knowledge of her instructors, and the live pianist that accompanies ballet classes, as critical components of what sets the JCC dance program apart from the rest. “It’s been a great place for me to be. I’ve felt very lucky that I could do what I loved and get paid for it,” Wallace said, surrounded by the photos and files that have accumulated over the past 21 years. Her office is full of such evidence, marking the impact she has had on the community. Still, you get the sense that the most valuable items to Wallace are her memories. Throughout her career, Leslie was able to witness countless moments of triumph and victory with her students, memories which Wallace will always keep with her. “Watching those kids who have struggled with the things they can’t do and then one day they walk in and they finally get it. There is something magical about that.” Wallace also has confidence in the education that her students are receiving. “I’ll never forget the day a dad dropped off his daughter for lessons,” Leslie recalled. “All of the kids were running around like they do right before the start of class. He smiled and looked at me and said, ‘Do you really think you’re going to make professional dancers out of these girls?’ “I said ‘no,’” she added. “I know most are not going to leave here to become professionals, but I know they will leave with higher self esteem, an understanding

and appreciation for art and dance, and the knowledge of what dance is supposed to be about.” With her plethora of skills, there is no uncertainty that Wallace has successfully taught these traits to her students. She also has helped to educate the community through her productions of conventional dance numbers. Since her arrival, the JCC dance program has performed numerous story ballets, all of which have worked to accomplish Wallace’s goal of exposing audience members to a traditional dance experience. Through all of her career at the JCC, Leslie has served as an example for others. The reflection of Esther Katz her determination and dedication can easily be seen in her staff. Wallace is excited that Esther Katz, an existing member of her staff, has been chosen to fill her position. “Esther is going to be great. She knows the philosophy of the program, knows the direction in which this program should be going. She’s young, organized and full of great ideas. I think if an instructor outside the program came in and took over, the kids would be apprehensive of a stranger. The staff is excited that Esther is taking over.” With her extensive experience in dance and working with children, Katz should have no problems filling Wallace’s shoes. Dance has always been a part of her life. She was trained at the Professional Children’s School in Philadelphia and also studied at Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet, Joffrey Ballet, Koresh Dance, and University of the Arts. She was admitted to Temple University with a dance scholarship. Her ballet training includes both the Cecchetti and Vagonova methods and her modern dance background is in Graham, Anthony, and Horton. Katz was a founding member of the junior dance company, Fusion2. Throughout her senior year of high school and college, Katz was a member of three independent dance companies in Philadelphia. Katz taught ballet and modern dance at the Professional Children’s School for seven years before moving to Omaha, with her husband, Philip, in June, 2003. Upon her arrival, she was asked to perform with the Omaha Modern Dance Alliance in its January 2004 show. She taught in the Omaha Public School Special Education program for three years and has been teaching ballet at the JCC for two. When asked if she had any advice to pass on to Katz, Wallace smiles. “Order your costumes early,” she says laughing. “No, I’d tell her to just enjoy it. Enjoy the kids and enjoy the staff.” The students and staff are the things that Wallace says she is going to miss the most. “This was a great place to be, not just for me but also for my kids. I’m very sad to be leaving.” As the curtain closes on Wallace’s career at the JCC, you can rest assured that she will move ahead with the same grace and determination she presented at her job every day. Such characteristics are what she built the dance program upon, all of which assures that even though she is leaving her impact will always remain.

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