Vol. LXXXV No. 50 Omaha, NE
Celebrating 85 Years of Service to Nebraska and Western Iowa
Federation Taps Gordman and Sullivan as Young Leaders by LISA LIEB Federation Communications Director Giving back to the community is second nature for Jay Gordman and Louri Sullivan. They’ve had a tremendous impact within our community, which has earned them the 2005 Bruce Fellman and Lois Jeanne Schrager Young Leadership Awards. Presented by the Jay Gordman Louri Sullivan Jewish Federation of Omaha, these awards are nity and his willingness to devote his time given annually to honor young leaders and energy to the project at hand. who exhibit personal commitment, dedi- “Growing up, I witnessed the whole cated involvement and exemplary leader- Gordman family play an active role in so ship qualities. A committee of past hon- many aspects of the Jewish community,” orees selects the award recipients. says Gordman. “I learned at an early age For more than a decade, Jay Gordman the importance of giving back.” has displayed outstanding leadership for “As a young leader in our community the Jewish Federation of Omaha. His Jay began early on to dedicate his time, years of service have involved a variety of interest and skills to Federation work,” roles including volunteering on the says Jan Goldstein, Executive Director of Board of Directors and Executive the Jewish Federation of Omaha. “His Committee, co-chairing Super Sunday ability to analyze information and to for the annual campaign and co-chairing think outside the box is nothing short of Jewish Omaha Leadership Training. He amazing, and he shows leadership qualicurrently co-chairs the Strategic Planning ties well beyond his years.” Leadership Subcommittee and chairs the “Because I’m so busy, I simply can’t do Budget and Allocation Committee. everything I’d like to do,” Gordman Those who have worked closely with responds. “My family’s dedication to the him remark on Gordman’s dedication to Jewish community has had a big impact his role as a leader in the Jewish commu- Continued on page 9
Peter Himmelman Headlines Young Leadership Awards by LISA LIEB Federation Communications Director Peter Himmelman has made quite a name for himself in the world of music. Rolling Stone refers to Himmelman’s album This Father’s Day as “stunning.” USA Today proclaims Himmelman “one of Rock’s most wildly imaginative per formers.” He received an Peter Himmelman Emmy nomination for his work on Judging Amy. But though he’s highly sought-after for concert tours, you’ll never attend a Friday night concert. You see, Himmelman is an observant Jew. The Jewish Federation of Omaha is bringing Himmelman to Omaha for a concert on Tuesday, Sept. 12, 7 p.m., immediately following the YJO Young Leadership Awards Ceremony. This program will take place at the Ozone Club, 7220 “F” St. Sharon Kirshenbaum, Young Leadership Director, is thrilled that Himmelman is coming to town. “Peter Himmelman is a role model, an inspiration to us all,” she says. “And he’s an incredibly talented musician! Although this concert is a Young Jewish Omaha event, music lovers of all ages are welcome to attend.” Continued on page 9
Inside Opinion Page see page 16
1 Elul, 5766 August 25, 2006
In Surprise Announcement at ADL Gala, New Project for Interfaith Affairs Launched Ed and Sally Malashock to Fund by CAROL KATZMAN Editor of the Jewish Press Amidst all the hoopla and congratulations of last Thursday night’s ADL gala, came an announcement about which only a handful of insiders knew: the creation of the Edward and Sally Malashock Project for Interfaith Affairs. Though the Great Plains Region of the AntiDefamation League has Dr. Edward and Sally Malashock are congratulated by ADL been involved in this area for National Director Abe Foxman for their support. “We hope that the Project will serve as years--and, in fact, is sponsoring a conference on Sept. 10 to address the concerns both a bridge to connect and build compost 9-11--the generosity of the munity among the different religious Malashocks will give it a home--and a communities in our area and as a resource name--with the ADL’s long list of pro- for credible training and information on religious diversity issues,” said Alan grams. The Project’s mission is to work with Potash, ADL Plains States Regional religious groups, educators and all mem- Director in announcing its launch during bers of the community to promote a the gala last Thursday. The gala, originally planned as a celedeeper understanding of and respect for the religious diversity in our area. The bration of Bob Wolfson’s 18 years as Project will provide innovative educa- Executive Director of the Great Plains tional and community-building programs Region office in Omaha, became a including, but not limited to, training, farewell, when it was announced that he Continued on page 6 dialogues and study circles.
Trickling Back to Kiryat Shmona, Residents Survey Scene of Wreckage ceiling of one of the city’s by DINA KRAFT main shopping malls. KIRYAT SHMONA Nurit Masiky, 43, got (JTA)--The entire Gigi off a bus after almost family was cleaning out three weeks of wandering Hamburger House, a between family and varismall fast-food restaurant ous hotels, and could not along Kiryat Shmona’s stop smiling. main road. “I want to kiss the Jars of condiments, ground. This is what we cases of orange soda and have been waiting for,” stainless-steel pans lined the sidewalk as the family she said, her two daughprepared for its reopening ters by her side. Across the road, a new, Wednesday, after the restaurant closed during a cream-colored house with month of war. red-shingled roof lay in Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert made a visit to the north of Omri Gigi, 25, who silent disarray: A katyusha Israel to see for himself the devastation caused by the recent opened the restaurant just had crashed rocket Hezbollah rocket attacks on the region. Olmert's reception in more than two years ago, through its roof and Kiryat Shmona was very cool and many residents were critical of hopes its reopening will through the second floor. the government’s handling of this latest war. After hostilities have herald better times in his Most of the shingles lay come to an end, many small businesses are on the verge of closhometown. scattered in the garden ing down. Copyright: ISRANET “It will be hard, but we below. Exposed silver have to keep going,” he said. roof beams reflected the harsh afternoon sun. The streets of Kiryat Shmona still were largely empty The family that lives there had yet to return. But a Tuesday, with only a handful of residents trickling back neighbor from an adjacent house arrived home Tuesday since a cease-fire was declared Monday in Israel’s war and tried to grasp the new landscape of the city he has with Hezbollah. lived in since he immigrated from Iraq in 1956. Bus loads of residents who took shelter in the center of “Kiryat Shmona has been destroyed,” said Yehuda the country slowly are making their way back to the city. Yehuda, 75, looking at the house and then to the nearResidents, some of them gone for the entire month, had a by hills, where forest fires have destroyed what was a chance to survey the damage--the shattered windows and view of endless green. crumpled ceiling of a ceramics shop, the gaping hole in the Continued on page 4
This Week: Monthly Calendar for September: Pages 10-11 Coming Next Month: Jewish New Year’s Issue Sept. 22 See Front Page Stories & More at: www.jewishomaha.org, click on ‘Jewish Press’
Federation Past President to Chair Partnership: Page 2
One-on-One with the ADL’s Abe Foxman: Page 7
Omaha’s JCC Maccabi Team Returns with Medals: Page 20
Page 2
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
August 25, 2006
No Rest for Federation’s Past President, Riekes Now to Chair Partnership
I. Robert “Bob” Wolfson Congratulations on your New Position Thank You for your Gift to All of Us, Leaving Omaha a Far Better Place to Live Best Wishes The Kuklin Family Gary
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will be used to rebuild by CAROL KATZMAN and refurnish the shelters. Editor of the Jewish Press Another critical need Even before Zoe Riekes finished her term as is rebuilding the Western President of the Jewish Federation of Omaha, Galilee Hospital, where she had another job lined up--chairman of the katyusha rockets were a Western Galilee Partnership with Israel. daily fact of life and critiShe’s no stranger to the Partnership. She cal care patients were was appointed by JFO President Forrest moved into the hospital’s Krutter to serve as Omaha’s representative underground bunkers. from 2000-02 and then was named Chairman According to Judith of the Social/Cultural Sub-committee from Jochnowitz, International 2002-04. She then became part of its Advisory Liaison for the hospital, Board. there was one bright spot But the whole structure of the Partnership during the hostilities. has changed, according to Riekes, in order to Earlier this month, a make planning, programming and allocations former Russian oleh easier and more consistent--and to strengthen the relationship with the 14 American cities underwent a corneal associated in the Central Area Consortium. transplant at the hospital. Zoë Riekes Those cities: Omaha (chaired Recently widowed, she by Stacey Rockman), Akron, was operated on in 2002, Canton, Dayton, Toldeo and but could not see anyYoungstown, OH; Indianthing at all with her right apolis, Northwest Indiana eye. Now she is able to and South Bend, IN; read large print. This Louisville, KY; Des Moines, donation was possible IA; and Dallas, Ft. Worth due to the hospital’s conand San Antonio, TX, pronection with the Central vide the $500,000 annually Area Consortium; Dr. directly out of community Edward Brockman in campaign funds. Louisville, KY, arranged Riekes’ former role--as for the express shipment Chairman of one of the of corneal tissue. Partnership’s sub-commit“Despite the war,” tees--has been abolished, in wrote Jochnowitz in an efavor of seven smaller, more mail, “there was no fear directed committees: arts, of going ahead with the community, higher educasurgery. Our modern tion, education, medical, operating rooms are fully regional development and Map shows the Omaha’s Partnership with Israel--the Western protected for conventionmarketing. And Riekes, who Galilee--which includes Acco, Rosh HaNiqra, and Mateh Asher al and unconventional now oversees it all, says it’s (the area of kibbutzim, moshavim and small villages outside the warfare.” made the Western Galilee larger towns). Another recent respite Partnership a model for our partnership regions. from the fighting was when four Israeli teens and their “We’ve done things no other partnership has,” Riekes chaperone were able to fly to Omaha to join their said in a recent interview with the Jewish Press. “We built Omaha counterparts for the annual JCC Maccabi Games an emergency command center in the Western Galilee so (see related article on page 20). “We were thrilled these residents can call one number for fire, police and rescue. kids could have a badly-needed break,” said Riekes, “and The Israeli government is replicating this project compete with our kids in Phoenix, AZ. By the time they returned to Israel, the cease fire was nearly in place.” throughout other areas of the country.” Though the annual allocations meeting originally (Readers can learn more about this project in next week’s Jewish Press as Lisa Lieb interviews Stacey scheduled for July was cancelled when Hezbollah kidRockman, Omaha’s representative to the Partnership, in napped two Israeli soldiers and began shelling the the final part of the series about her recent trip to Israel Western Galilee, Riekes feels confident the meeting will with her husband, Jonathan, during the conflagration take place. Each year, the consortium meets once in the United States and once in Israel. The next meeting, set with Hezbollah.) Efficiency, communication and collaboration are high for the end of this month in Indianapolis, is just for the on Riekes’ list of priorities. Riekes wants to make Central Area Consortium representatives and their staff focused planning an objective of her term. “It’s my top partners. A joint steering committee meeting of Israelis goal,” she said, “especially now, after the recent and Americans is scheduled in December in Dayton, OH. Meetings cover a range of issues, from evaluating upheaval.” Residents of the Western Galilee were forced out of current programs and discussing new ones, to allocating their homes and into shelters for up to 32 days. Those funds and developing leadership. “The Israelis meet all the time,” said Riekes, “but we who could afford it fled south to stay in hotels, but many--the elderly, the sick and infirm, special needs chil- have to make-do with conference calls. It’s very impordren and young adults, and those who couldn’t afford tant to meet face-to-face to develop and maintain these the cost of transportation and hotel--had no choice but special relationships with our counterparts in the 14to stay behind. Shops and businesses were closed; member cities and with our Israel partners.” Though the Partnership was supposed to celebrate its shelves of food and supplies like diapers, medicine and 10th anniversary (it was founded as Partnership 2000-basic necessities were depleted at local markets. “It’s time to get back to our core projects,” Riekes or P2K as it was first known--in 1996), the recent war said, rattling off a list from the ERG conference has eliminated the possibility of a large celebratory gala. (Emergency Response Group) which brings medical However, the Oct. 22-29 mission scheduled by this professionals like Omahans Dr. Alan Kricsfeld and Dr. community will spend two-and-a-half days in the Wayne Lainof to the Western Galilee Hospital, to Western Galilee. And the Family Mission next June, Kefiayada, an exchange camp program for Israeli and 2007, will be preceded by the combined Partnership meeting of Israeli and American chairmen. Central Area Consortium young adults. In June, five Omaha Jewish college students spent sevOther programs, like House on Wheels (a traveling group that holds personal conversations with area resi- eral weeks volunteering in the Partnership. (You can dents, offers maintenance and workshops), educator read Anne Muskin’s interview with them on page 5 of exchange programs and Hafouk al Hafouk, a coffee this issue.) “I want people to know that the Western Galilee is house for troubled youth in Acco, were on hold during the war in Lebanon, but Lohamei Hagetaot, the Ghetto synonymous with the Jewish community of Omaha,” Fighters’ Museum did continue to operate, often serv- Riekes said. “That means when representatives visit here ing as a brief respite for soldiers from the northern front. from our Partnership in Israel, I really want Omahans to To ease the financial burden of the cost of human suf- come out and get to know them. fering, the Central Area Consortium has committed an She smiled and added, “If you want to understand our additional $176,000 in emergency funds. Much of that Partnership better, come with me to see it!”
August 25, 2006
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 3
Part II
Omaha Couple Gets First Hand Look at War Zone in Israel the color coded floors helps them feel comfortable. by STACEY ROCKMAN The Israel Emergency We take the elevator to the red (fourth) floor to (Editor’s note: It’s been the ophthalmology wing where a katyusha hit visit more than three weeks since Campaign has raised the day before. The damage is staggering and one is Jonathan and Stacey more than $227 million thankful the patients previously had been moved to Rockman have returned from to date. Every dollar the reinforced underground shelter.The windows are Israel during the recent war gone; ball bearings have ripped holes through the with Hezbollah in Israel’s raised will go directly and Western metal walls. It looks like machine gun fire has gone northern to help the people of off all over. Broken glass and metal are everywhere, Galilee--Omaha’s Partnerthe ceiling is hanging down as if by a thread and ship with Israel region. Their Israel cope with the is shattered into many pieces. trip, originally planned as a consequences of terror. equipment What kind of people purposely attacks a hospital? Partnership with Israel meetTo donate, go to: We are surprised that the nurse’s station below is ing for Stacey followed by a destroyed. The quietness of a hospital devoid of also vacation for the couple, www.jewishomaha.org. patients and the surrounding scenery we see outside turned into a United Jewish is unbelievable. Communities Solidarity We gaze at the Mission, after the Partnership Mediterranean Sea, the meeting was cancelled. The hills of Lebanon, the borcouple recently were named as der and green agricultural Omaha’s Chairmen of its fields. All appears peaceIsrael Emergency Campaign, ful, but sadly it is not. a $1.5 million drive to raise Before this conflict, badly-needed funds to repair the below-ground area and reconstruct Israel’s north had been used for trainand boost human and health ing and physical therapy. services to the thousands of Now it is a haven of activIsraelis who were forced to flee ity. A day care center is set their homes--or stay behind in up for children whose shelters. In her own words, parents work at the hospiwhat follows are excerpt’s tal. Russian, Hebrew, English and Arabic are from Stacey’s blog and photos Photos from top: A car is destroyed by the ball bearings heard. During the day, 150 kids are here, and at from a trip that became even from the katyusha rocket in addition to the rocket itself. The rocket landed just three meters away. Stacey gives a crying night, 30-40 children sleep here while their parmore meaningful.) ents work and help the patients. On our first trip north to child some Play Dough in the shelter at Moshav Avram; his Bomb victims arrive shaken. When the conflict the Western Galilee, our tears immediately stop.The ophthalmology wing at Western began they were put into wheelchairs; the staff friend, Avi, takes us to Galilee Hospital is damaged beyond use and will have to be realized that patients became sicker and did poorNahariya and shows us rebuilt. Jonathan Rockman takes a break at the Ahava ly. Quickly the staff found that if they helped where the katyusha rockets (‘love’ in Hebrew) sculpture at the Israel Museum. them walk out of the ambulances patients became hit. Some had done very little damage. Other rockets Jewish Agency for Israel repstronger with each step. When the staff moved destroyed a greengrocer and many shops. The beautiful resentative who runs the patients below ground, many patients who were sandy beaches are totally deserted. Jonathan walks Central Area Consortium able were taken home. New mothers went home around and doesn’t see anyone. These same beaches and the Northern New Jersey as early as possible. The beds are reserved for would typically have thousands of people on them this partnerships of the Western those desperately injured. time of year. We did, however, see three Israeli Navy Galilee and Nahariya); Avi Naiman (Chairman of the Back in Jerusalem again, we visit the Israel ships protecting the harbor. At Moshavim Avram, Avi shows us the bomb shelter. New Jersey partnership); and Judith Jochnowitz, Museum and the model of Jerusalem during the second Temple period. What an irony that we are visiting on This moshav operates a kitchen cabinet factory, now (Western Galilee Hospital’s international liaison). We have to go through security, similar to American air- Tisha b’Av, a holiday recalling the destruction of closed. The shelter is painted white; the temperature is not too cool and definitely has an odor, but the kids ports. The floors at the hospital aren’t numbered, but are Judaism’s First and Second Temples. have smiles on their faces. We distribute toys and play different colors. Arabic and Hebrew are both spoken at Part III of the Rockman’s trip will be published in the hospital and patients are evenly divided between the next week’s Press. Read more and see more photos on the with the children but have to drive back to Jerusalem. A few days later, we meet up with Damon Rose (the two. In addition, many of the patients are illiterate and web at www.jewishpress.org, click on ‘Jewish Press.’
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
August 25, 2006
A Year After Gaza Withdrawal, Ex-settlers Still Feel Pain and Anger by DINA KRAFT YAD BINYAMIN, Israel (JTA)--Eti Tsur shows off her spacious home with pride--its high, sloping, redshingled roof, its verdant green lawn. But it exists only as a memory captured in a photograph, displayed in an exhibit of other photographs of homes from her former Gaza Strip settlement. “This is like memorial candles for our homes, which are no longer,” said Tsur, who was among the founders of Ganei Tal when it was established in 1977. Ganei Tal’s memorial exhibition was held at a hall in the small southern Israeli settlement of Yad Binyamin, where most of the community has resettled. The exhibit displays the remaining physical memories of the lush settlement that once housed sprawling geranium greenhouses, graceful homes and quiet streets, and which in recent years had become the target of Kassam rocket attacks from neighboring Palestinians. Among the items on display were keys to the settlement’s former offices, sports trophies won by its basketball team, fliers advertising local events and a wooden sign that pointed to the settlement’s synagogue. A year has passed since Israel’s historic withdrawal from the Gaza Strip, which saw some 8,000 Jewish settlers removed from their homes, some of them with force by Israeli soldiers and police. It was hailed as a watershed moment, the first time Israel had withdrawn unilaterally from territory seized during the 1967 SixDay War. The religious right tried but failed to mobilize Israeli public opinion against the withdrawal. Embittered, they felt betrayed by the government and the army. But the first anniversary of the Gaza withdrawal came as a full war raged in northern Israel and across the border in Lebanon, making it difficult to speak of “the
expulsion army” and a nation divided. “It’s painful. What can we say--we told you so? That sounds childish to say, but here is Lebanon with all these weapons and in Gaza it will now be the same,” said Ita Frieman, 56, standing next to a model of her former garden bursting with green and dotted with ficus and jacaranda trees. David Hazony, Editor-in- Chief of Azure, the journal of the Shalem Center, a conservative research institute in Jerusalem, said the religious right is more frustrated than angry a year after the withdrawal. “They’ve been stunned into silence because, from their perspective, their worst prophecies have come true,” he said. “Many of the people who opposed disengagement now believe that, just as the withdrawal from Lebanon laid the groundwork for a renewed war with the Palestinians in 2000, so too did the withdrawal from Gaza lay the groundwork for the war we face now.” Hazony suggested that the Palestinians’ election of Hamas, the increase of Kassam rocket fire into southern Israel and the war in Lebanon are prompting Israelis on both the left and the right to question the wisdom of unilateral withdrawal. Many former settlers have reacted angrily to Prime Minister Ehud Olmert’s recent comments that he still plans a unilateral withdrawal from the West Bank. “It’s hard for us to see a prime minister who sends soldiers into battle and then says, ‘Soon we will give back more territory.’ It makes us feel rage when we know many of the soldiers are potentially those who will be expelled,” said Moti Sender, who used to live in Ganei Tal and has continued to run a website called Katif-Net for residents of Gush Katif, formerly the main Jewish settlement bloc in Gaza. Eli Farhan, who before disengagement lived in the
northern Gaza settlement of Elei Sinai, wrote to Olmert after he learned that the Israeli army was using his former settlement and others during recent raids into Gaza to disable the Kassam rockets being launched into southern Israel. It’s time to “fix the mistake and regain control of the buffer zone that was abandoned,” Farhan wrote. “The Palestinians need to understand that they have things that they could lose,” he added. “The only way to re-establish our deterrence is to show that there are concessions that can be reversed. In the northern Gaza settlements, all the infrastructure still exists--all we would have to do is rebuild our homes.” Other former settlers from Gush Katif also yearn for a return. “We will return to every community” is a slogan popular especially among youth who grew up there. But most are focusing on building new lives in their new homes. The largest concentration of evicted settlers lives in Nitzan, north of Ashkelon. Some families live in matching mustard-yellow prefabricated houses with small lawns and freshly paved sidewalks. Most of the former settlers from Gaza and four West Bank settlements that also were evacuated have been moved into temporary housing. Some spent months in hotels before getting temporary housing. The government also is in the process of paying compensation to evacuated families. Families are supposed to receive between $200,000 and $250,000, an amount that can increase depending on the size of their previous homes and property and how long they lived in Gaza, but most families say they have received only partial payouts so far. Government officials have estimated the total price tag of the Gaza withdrawal, including settler compensation and military costs, at about $2 billion.
Residents Survey Scene of Wreckage Continued from page 1 Nearby, Shaked Perets, 23, sat in the ruins of her father’s ceramics shop which before the war sold bathtubs, tiles and building supplies. The store’s large showroom was empty; all the merchandise had been destroyed when the store took a direct hit from a rocket. “I think of all it took to build this business, and now it’s all destroyed and we’ll have to start again,” she said. Perets wondered out loud if government compensation would come in full. She said she resents the government for giving partial payments at first, forcing people to pay out-of-pocket with money they don’t always have. Sitting on a black leather couch, the one piece of furniture that remained unscathed, Perets said she feels numb. Not only were her father’s shop and her own apartment damaged, but she’s grieving the death of a
Israelis gather in the center of town for late night reunions as life slowly returns to normal, Aug. 15, in the northern Israeli border town of Nahariya. Credit: BPH Images/JTA
friend, killed in Lebanon over the weekend, just before the cease-fire went into effect. “This is just property,” she said, looking at the remains of the store. “Nothing compares to the lives taken.” Outside of the store, whose windows were blown out, a few drivers navigated down the street. Most businesses were still closed, some of them shuttered. One of the few businesses open was a small barber shop owned by Shai Buhbut, 30. A long line of young men sat on the bench inside, waiting for haircuts. Buhbut said he had lost a lot of money in the month he was not working, but was sure he’d be able to recover financially if the cease-fire held and fighting indeed stopped. “If it happens again I will have to consider moving to the center of the country,” he said. He turned toward a customer, and continued buzzing the side of his hair.
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August 25, 2006
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 5
Connect, Grow, Learn, Live: The Challenge for Omaha College Students in Israel’s Western Galilee by ANNE MUSKIN but “In that short period of time, I did get to meet and Jewish Press Editorial Intern get to know some Israeli’s, brighten the lives of some The Players: Leora Azriel, Sara Cowan, Rachel Israeli children and teens, and perhaps, most important, infinitely strengthen my personal bond with Israel.” Flatowicz, Jeff Gates, and Sara Rips. I asked the participants about the recent violence in The Program: Partnership with Israel (formerly Partnership 2000.) A program of the Jewish Agency for Israel in the cities where they lived and worked. Israel and the UJC developed to promote people to peo- Flatowicz commented that she is very concerned about ple relationships through 14 Jewish communities in the the people she met, and had difficulty communicating U.S. and Israel’s Western Galilee through cultural, with them because of the bombing. Cowan added, “It seems unbelievable that only about social, medical, educational, and economic programs. The partnership provides volunteer placement, housing, six weeks ago, we were there living and working among people who have to fear for their lives daily.” Hebrew lessons, and local trips. The mission should they choose to accept it: Volunteer with the communities of the Western Galilee, connect with Israel, connect with each other, grow, change, learn…live. Accept it, they did. “We stayed in a small apartment in Nahariya, a city that was bombed by Hezbollah. We volunteered with two different groups at a center for handicapped youth. The first group were kids Photos from top left: Jeff Gates, Leora Azriel was quiet when the students were there; Sara who were completely and Sara Rips were among the group of five Rips, the students’ tour guide Shmuli, Leora unable to function Omaha college students who volunteered in Azriel and Sara Cowan; Leora and Rachel on their own in soci- Omaha’s Partnership with Israel region, the Flatowicz in the apartment the students ety. The second were Western Galilee; the border Israeli/Lebanese shared. Rips, Azriel, and kids who were ineliGates were actually in gible to do military Israel when the kidnapservice either because pings occurred and the of physical or mental bombing began. “I was in problems. Our job Israel when Gilad Shalit was to hang out with was kidnapped. Unforthem, get them to tunately, this is life in meet Americans, and Israel, and life must go have fun,” Rips said. on,” Rips offered. She This was the first went on to say, “I never felt like I was in the midst of a time Omaha has participated in this particular program. The program ran for war. There was concern, but I never felt truly worried. I three weeks, but participants could chose to stay for one, have never felt more safe than I did in Israel.” Sara Rips also bravely discussed her perspective on this two, or the full three-week time. Flatowicz and Cowan stayed for one week and the others spent the full three round of conflict. “A lot of the issues are old ones with and additional time touring Israel and participating in a new face,” she told me. “Do I think that Israel was overreacting? Yes and no. I wish that diplomatic measUlpan classes. “We did arts and crafts, played games, and drank ures had been used, but there are now three kidnapped instant coffee,” Flatowicz said. The most memorable Israeli soldiers and tons of people fearing for their lives part for her was going to the Weizman Elementary in the North.” She continued without hesitation, “Does that justify School in Akko. “My job was to help this girl (a first grader) complete her story booklet. She couldn’t draw, the suffering in Lebanon? No, but everyone has to so the teacher had me draw the pictures and she colored understand the situation and know that Israel is not them in. We were able to take recess with all the kids, wanting to punish the Lebanese, but they have to stop and I played marbles with some of the kids. I had so Hezbollah in order to guarantee the safety of the Israelis.” much fun!” Azriel concluded, “It was evident that they needed This school was by far the most memorable for the participants. “This school was full of underprivileged more volunteers like us because it seemed a happier children who came from impoverished neighborhoods place for them to be during the day,” and Flatowicz also around the city. This school had little to no supplies, emphasized the importance of this program and visiting walls that were falling apart, and not so clean facilities. Israel in general. “The history is ...so real,” she said. Growth? Check. Change? Check. Learn? Check. Yet, I have never met teachers with such patience and care towards their pupils. They were so grateful for our Live... mission accomplished. services and I felt that we made such a great connection (Editor’s note: Gates was not available for comment as with this school,” Azriel commented. he is rounding out his summer as a counselor at OlinCowan said that she wished she could’ve stayed longer, Sang-Ruby Union Institute in Oconomowac, WI.)
CJE Sponsors Back to School Night The Center for Jewish Education hosted a “Back to School Night” for all religious school teachers last week in the Kripke Jewish Federation Library. Fifteen area educators turned out for a tour of the library with Administrator Gary Katz and an overview of teacher resource materials. Mary Sue Grossman, Administrator, spoke about upcoming events and educational and scholarship opportunities for community teachers. The library is remodeling the children’s section and recently removed hundreds of books to update the collection. Stop by the Kripke Library for a sale of used children’s and young adult books. Also included are several new books: On Burning Ground by Michael Skakun, I Have Lived a Thousand Years by Livia Bitton-Jackson, Heroes of the Holocaust and many others. The sale continues until Sept. 8. For information, call 334-6462 or e-mail gkatz@jewishomaha.org.
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Malashock Project for Interfaith Affairs Launched Continued from page 1 was assuming the position of Associate National Director of Regional Operations for ADL’s national office in New York City. Omaha residents Dr. and Sally Edward Malashock decided to give this gift to the ADL as a result of both their deep commitment to interfaith advancing affairs and their great respect for Wolfson. “We have always felt the need for the religious faiths to understand and Above: At a reception preceding the ADL gala, Beth Seldin relate to each other. Our Dotan, left, Director of the ADL’s Institute for Holocaust respect for Bob Wolfson, Education, and Beth Katz, Director of the newly named his accomplishments and Malashock Project for Interfaith Affiars, talk about the effect his enthusiasm has moti- the new project will have on Jewish-Catholic relations with vated us to turn our com- Father Steve Boes, Executive Director of Girls and Boys Town. mitment to furthering Below: Frances Blumkin spends a moment in serious discussion interfaith relations into with Creighton University Preident Father John Schlegel at last positive action with this Thursday’s gala. gift,” said Dr. Malashock. “We hope this project will improve the understanding and thought of individuals religions of different towards each other. Recent Middle East developments reawaken us to the importance of interfaith relations at all levels--local, regional, national and international,” he added. Beth Katz, ADL Plains States Director of Interfaith Affairs and Community Education, will oversee the growth and article below about the Project’s Sept. 10 development of the Malashock Project. conference.) For a complete listing of Malashock Katz already has a diverse array of interfaith programs slated for this fall, includ- Project programs or for more informaing a Nov. 1 educator training on manag- tion, contact Katz at the ADL office, ing issues of religious diversity in a public 402.333.1303, or e-mail bkatz@adl.org school setting, and a Dec. 10 Jewish- or visit the ADL Plains States website at Christian-Muslim study circle. (See the www.adlplains.org.
In a Post 9-ll World, Faith Groups Are Trying to Learn from One Another by BETH KATZ ADL Director of Interfaith Affairs and Community Education Only a few seats and days to register remain for the Anti-Defamation League’s community conference “Interfaith Dialogue in the Shadow of 9-11,” which will be held on Sunday, Sept. 10, 16:30 p.m. at the Skutt Student Center Ballroom at Creighton University. On the fifth anniversary of 9-11, the conference will critically examine why Jews, Christians and Muslims should engage in interfaith dialogue and what members of these three faiths can learn from each other. The ADL has partnered with the Kripke Center for the Study of Religion and Society at Creighton University and the Islamic Speakers Bureau of Nebraska to host this event. Dr. Philip Cunningham, director of the Center for Christian-Jewish Learning at Boston College, will discuss the importance of interfaith dialogue for Christianity including why Christians should be in dialogue with Jews and Muslims and how such dialogue adds to Christianity, Christian theology, and the Christian mission. Rabbi Gary Bretton-Granatoor, former national director of interfaith affairs and current national director of education for the ADL, will follow with an examination of why Jews should be in dialogue with
Christians and Muslims and what such dialogue contributes to Judaism, Jewish theology, identity and the community. Dr. Sulayman Nyang, professor of African Studies at Howard University and a scholar of Islam, will then present on what Islam can gain from dialogue with Jews and Muslims, how such dialogue contributes to Islam, and what Islam can contribute to Jewish and Christian theology. Finally, Reverend Dirk Ficca, executive director of the Council for a Parliament of the World’s Religions, will explore how we can start to engage people on these issues, successful models for interfaith dialogue, and how such learning or dialogue opportunities can shape our understanding of identity, faith, justice and/or ministry. This community conference is open to the public. Light refreshments will be served. Free parking is available in Creighton’s visitors’ lot located at 24th and Cass. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. The cost to register is $15 per participant. Registrations must be received at the Kripke Center by no later than Tuesday, Sept. 5. To download the registration form or for more information, visit the Kripke Center Web Site at http://moses.creighton.edu/CSRS/ or call Fran Minear at 402.280.2303
August 25, 2006
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 7
One-on-One with Abe Foxman
by CAROL KATZMAN Editor of the Jewish Press Prior to last Thursday evening’s gala honoring Bob Wolfson, outgoing Executive Director of the Great Plains Region Anti-Defamation League, the Jewish Press had the opportunity to sit down with Abraham Foxman, ADL National Director, for a one-on-one conversation. Against a backdrop of global terror, increased numbers of anti-Semitic attacks in Europe and North America, future nuclear threats from Iran, an unstable Iraq, the recent war against Israel by both Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Press had one question for Foxman: Are we in trouble? “Trouble is the wrong word,” Foxman responded. “The Jewish condition has always meant being the object of hatred, jealousy, religious and political intolerance. It’s a condition of history. But we’ve always overcome. It depends on how you look at it.” Foxman, a Holocaust survivor who was hidden by his nanny during World War II, describes himself as an optimist. “As a survivor, I don’t have the luxury of being a pessimist.” Even this most recent war faced by Israel, he said is not a loss despite the fact that Israelis are calling for an investigation into its handling. Foxman emphasized prior wars to make his point. “Egypt declared victory in 1967,” Foxman said, even though Israel defeated its army and air force in six days. “Again in ’73, Egypt said they won,” he added, despite the fact that Israeli troops were poised to cross the Suez Canal, stopped only by America’s urging to pull back. “Perhaps Egypt--and other Arab states--need to make those statements in order to mollify their citizens at Service home and make peace abroad.” He added, however, that he’s a “realistic optimist,” noting that he’s “not blind to illusions. I know our enemies are out there.” Foxman said that time and time again, dictators have ✔ Northeast Southeast Western ntral used the Jews as scapegoats, drawing attention away from the ills at home to a well-worn strategy of antiSemitism. “We’re a convenient vehicle,” he said, “to camouflage and substitute.” Convenient, yes, for President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad to point a finger at the Jews for the cause of the world’s ills, Foxman noted, and not much differHow was ent from recent anti-Semitic statements made by former your day? U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Andrew Young, except perhaps that Iran is on its way to developing an arsenal of nuclear weapons. In fact, just after Foxman completed this interview, he took a call from the New York Times for a comment about Young’s position representing Wal-Mart (he’s since been let go) for remarking that neighborhood stores, once owned by “Jews,
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then Koreans, then Arabs” Jewish People Policy instisold shoddy merchandise tute’s conference at which and ripped off consumers. Foxman was a participant, So, according to Foxman, Prof. Shalom Salomon Wald this is nothing new. distilled the rise and fall of “In the Hagaddah, we states throughout history read every Passover that ‘In and applied those factors to every generation a tyrant will the Jewish people. What arise’, but v’he shei amda, made them great civilizabecause of our faith, we shall tions? What were the interendure,” he said. “We do nal and external causes of control our destiny because their demise? He came to we’re responsible for one the conclusion that “the another.” Jews are alive and well and Remarking again that he strong,” said Foxman. calls himself an optimist, In fact, Foxman added, Foxman pointed to the there’s a more powerful lesemergency campaigns estabson there. “There’s a conlished almost immediately sensus that ‘to want to be after Hezbollah began firing Jewish’ exerts an influence missiles at northern Israel. that allows the Jewish nation “Two months before that, to continue to exist. We look at how polarized the want to continue; we want Jews were. We were apathetto be. We want to not only ic. Israelis were criticizing care” about the human conthe one-year anniversary of dition, he added, “we want disengagement, but during Abe Foxman, National Director of the Anti-Defamation to do” something about it. the fighting, former IDF League, described his view of the world today to a group of In his job as the long time general Eitan--a sharp critic ADL board members and Federation and Centers of national director of the of Ariel Sharon--said ‘We Excellence staff, prior to last Thursday night’s ADL gala. world’s most prominent have one country and one army; we can always have dif- organization fighting hate and bigotry, Foxman added ferent governments.’ But look how quickly we came that coming to communities like Nebraska brings him together,” he said, “and put our differences aside. great joy. “Unlike the ’30s and ’40s, we have Jews who Phrases like ‘We Are One’ are real.” are not afraid to fight. We’ve broken down the Iron He acknowledged that the last five years “haven’t been Curtain, freed a million Soviet Jews, brought thousands so great for the Jewish condition.” But, he added, we’re of Jews out of Ethiopia because of the ‘Omahas’ and not worse off than we were in the 1930s. And it is fright- because we have the ability to change peoples’ hearts ening that Jews--like Wall Street Journal reporter Daniel and minds,” he said. That night, speaking to more than 450 ADL supportPearl, like French Jew Ilan Halimi--are being killed just because they’re Jewish. “Could we imagine that today a ers, community leaders, politicians and notables at the head of state would say that Israel should be wiped off gala, Foxman paid tribute to the “firsts” created by Bob Wolfson in the Great Plains Region office: the only the map?” he asked. But, it’s not 1939 and today’s U.S. State Department Institute for Holocaust Education in the country and a actually has an official project to develop programs new Project for Interfaith Affairs. “If Bob could inspire you, think of how he can inspire against anti-Semitism. That’s a sharp change from the World war II era when the bureaucrats at Foggy Bottom our staff,” he said of Wolfson’s new position as an fought against raising the quotas to let more Jews into Associate National Director. “Bob and I share the understanding of our mission: to spend our waking and this country. And, of course, in 1939, there was no State of Israel. sleepless nights trying to make a difference. It’s our mis“Despite the wars, despite being under continual threat, sion to get the good people of this world to stand up, say ‘No to Hate, No to Bigotry,’ and people like you we do have a homeland,” he added. Foxman said we only have to look at one professor’s give us the strength,” he said.“If I didn’t have faith in take on history to prove how Jews have overcome. At a mankind, I couldn’t come to work each day.”
Page 8
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
August 25, 2006
Crowd Pays Tribute at ADL Gala
Photos from top left: David Gilinsky, President of the ADLCRC, left, greets Westside Schools Superintendent Ken Bird and Omaha Mayor Mike Fahey at a reception prior to last Thursday night’s ADL gala honoring recent ADL Director Bob Wolfson; Alan Potash has replaced Wolfson as Great Plains Region ADL Director; Judy Cooper, left, and Lavonne Curtis, former ADL employees, came to honor Wolfson; former Omahan Larry Raful, left, Dean of the Touro Law School in New York, and Dr. Ron Wolfson, Fingerhut Professor of
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reception for staff, Rabbi Myer S. Kripke, center, a longtime friend of the Wolfson family, joins in gentle ribbing after Federation Executive Director Jan Goldstein thanks Wolfson; Bob’s brother Doug Wolfson gives the motzi; Wolfson and Nancy Noddle; friends and ADL supporters Joanie Jacobson, Sandy Epstein and Anne Cohen; and Rep. Lee Terry, Robyn Terry and Dick Fellman celebrate at the gala. Credit: The Picture Man and Carol Katzman To order photos, visit www.photoreflect.com, click on ADL.
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Jewish Studies at the University of Judaism in Los Angeles, present Wolfson with an award for 18 years of service; Jan Schneiderman, Chairman of the ADL gala, introduces National ADL Director Abe Foxman, right, to U.S. Senator Ben Nelson and his wife, Diane; Sibby and Bob Wolfson get a kick out of humorous stories about Bob’s “shpilchosis” and college adventures recounted by Bob’s brother, Ron, during the evening’s speeches; Foxman and Wolfson thank honorary gala co-chairmen Murray and Sharee Newman; at a farewell
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Gordman and Sullivan Tapped for Awards Continued from page 1 on setting my priorities. The Jewish community is absolutely where I want to spend my time.� Gordman has a very demanding career and a family with two young children, but he always makes time to fulfill his volunteer obligations. “I was volunteering for quite some time before I got married and had kids,� explains Gordman. “It was already a part of me, and fortunately I have a very understanding family. I hope my kids learn the importance of giving back to the community, and that a willingness to help others will become a core value for them.� Gordman is articulate. He has demonstrated the ability to lead a discussion to a positive conclusion, providing strong leadership and guidance. This is particularly important in chairing the Budget and Allocation Committee, which involves a great deal of work and attention to detail with a large group. His work on B&A is a passion for Gordman. “I’ve been part of the committee for the past 10 years,� he says. “While B&A can be a very challenging undertaking, it’s a critical role. We’re charged with making sure that the community’s money is spent wisely.� Another memorable volunteer experience for Gordman was his work as co-chairman of the Jewish Omaha Leadership Training program. Gordman had the opportunity to interact with a diverse group of community leaders and help create programming that will continue to develop future leaders. “We need strong leaders. Developing leadership is critical in helping us chart our future,� Gordman says, “in addition to keeping us focused on the day-to-day business at hand.� Described as a visionary leader who can see the “big picture,� Gordman has been put in a position of top leadership at a young age. He has become an integral part of the decision-making process, earning the respect and admiration of more senior community leaders. Though recognition is furthest from his mind during the countless hours he spends volunteering for the Jewish community, Gordman was very pleased when he learned that he was this year’s recipient. “It’s wonderful to be recognized for my efforts,� Gordman says. “I really appreciate the acknowledgment by my peers that the work I’ve done for the past several years has made a difference to the Omaha Jewish community.� “There is no doubt that Jay Gordman has the leadership skills and qualities that make him a natural candidate for the Young Leadership Award,� says Goldstein. “We are fortunate to have someone of his ability in a key position. We are thrilled to have young leaders like him who give tirelessly of their time to the Jewish people.� Louri Sullivan’s resume is large enough to humble the most dedicated volunteers. She chaired the Federation’s Ben Gurion Division, leading a group of young people to Israel to encourage them to make larger commitments to the Jewish community. She chaired a fundraising committee, and along with a small group of other volunteers, was instrumental in planning and developing the Pennie Z. Davis Child Development Center. She cochaired Temple Israel’s Religious School Volunteer Committee, redesigning and rejuvenating an almostnon-existent volunteer parent program. All the while raising four children and taking on key leadership roles in several secular volunteer organizations. “From the moment Louri returned to Omaha, she has jumped in to building our local Jewish community and
Page 9
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The rare lung disease,Western which has been recently For questions regarding these ads, the Ben Gurion Society. “In my heart, the Jewish comSpecial Order referred to as “popcorn worker’s lungâ€?, consists of a serious and irreversible please call the NPAS at: munity is always very important,â€? saysto Sullivan. “It’s Your newspaper has agreed inflammation of the airways that lead to the lungs. If you or a loved one has suf1-800-369-2850. young Jewish community to step up to the time for our in the Nebraska Display participate fered as a result of exposure to diacetyl from microwave popcorn, please contact These are toabout run ONE TIME, plate, and feltads good asking. There are many AdI Network program by running attorney Greg Jones for a free, confidential consultation at 1-800-388-2815. 21,only 2006the Jews give Aug. beginning Week of places you canads your money, but these inthe the main news section Advertisers Name For thegive ad, ________________, Greg Jones & Associates’ principal office is at 3015 Market Street, Wilmington, NC 28403. causes, so that must be first to the Jewish of your newspaper (NOT theand foremost.â€? Just call this newspaper today to place your classic the Advertiser has requested Mr. Jones is licensed in NC, SCor &motorcycle GA and associates nationwide. newspaper has agreed to Sullivanclassified andYour hersection fatherofplanned a trip to Israel as an car, truck for with salelocal adattorneys and photo on the your newspaper). Section Name placement in your _______________ midwestclassiccars.com web site for only $25. Or go to participate in the Nebraska Display encourage young people to increase their incentive to At times, advertisers may request 1-800-388-2815 the site to find your dream car. It¡s your connection to section. Network program by involvement in the Federation. Therunning trip a Ad specific section, however, thewas completely classic vehicles for sale throughout the Midwest. these ads in the main news section August 25 - September 4, 2006 underwritten for anyone who increased decision is ultimately upName to eachtheir campaign Advertisers For the ad, ________________, Yes, for only $25 your ad runs until SOLD!!! of your newspaper gift to the Ben Gurion level. (NOT the newspaper. the Advertiser has requested For more information visit classified section of your newspaper). outstanding group of young people,â€? says “It was anAll ads designed and distributed Section Name placement in your _______________ At times, advertisers may request Your connection to classic car buyers throughout the Midwest. Sullivan about “We asked them to NPAS areparticipants. in SAU sizes. by the mission www.statefair.org section. a specific section, however, the make a difference in the Jewish community and keep [1 column = 2 1/16 inches] decision is Every ultimately to each has become Israel in their hearts. singleup participant Advertisers Name Ifthe your is using For ad, newspaper ________________, newspaper. in size, the community sincetoour return.â€? actively involved any other you may need the Advertiser has requested Allproject ads designed and distributed The CDC provided an opportunity for adjust these adsare toinfitSAU yoursizes. format. Section Name placement in your _______________ by the NPAS Sullivan to work on another project with Please remember quality is important, her father and section. [1 columnfor = 2children, 1/16 inches] Because you could to do something has always been a so please use the correctwhich tools and Thank you for using the Nebraska Display Ad Network! If your newspaper is using passion for her. “While I love being involved in my own get into the game for FREE. computer programs to ensure any size, need lives,other I also feelyou a strong commitment to help Service children’squality Nebraska Press Advertising reproduction ofmay these ads. to these ads to as fit your format. those whoadjust aren’t as lucky mine,â€? explains Sullivan. Please remember quality is important, herBILL to play key roles in Boys This commitment DO led NOT FOR PLEASE has so please use the correct toolsand andCub Scouts. and GirlsTHESE Clubs, Children’s Hospital ADS! computer programs to ensure Page ____ 3 recognized an opportunity at the CDC when SullivanPayment procedures have already City of Lincoln Parking Services quality reproduction of these ads. a her Statewide daughter Rachel first VISIT parkitdowntown.org 402/441-6472 Northeast 2x2 Network been handled by theattended. NPAS. “Since we wereCentral Southeast Western ✔ community with amazing assets, our facility should be Special Order DO NOT BILL FOR PLEASE the Nebraska Press amazing These too. It ads, was time to grow.â€? An unequivocal sucTHESE ADS! CDC is now monthly bursting bulletin, at the seams. Overall cess, the Association’s Payment procedures have already TIME, TheseStatewide ads to run ONE Classified andasmany asAds, well the percentage of hasare increased, enrollment Fee Req. $99.50 REF#P1011 been handled by the NPAS. 21, 2006 beginning Week other the items canofbeAug. downloaded Jewish children who attend. through theSullivan NEAT systemPress at: the Religious At Temple Israel, co-chaired These ads, the Nebraska Just call this newspaper today to place your classic www.nebpress.com Your newspaper has“The agreed topart of this project School steering committee. fun Association’s monthly bulletin, car, truck or motorcycle for sale ad and photo on the midwestclassiccars.com web site for only $25. Or go to was participate seeingStatewide all ofinthe parents who were willing and wantthe Nebraska Display Classified Ads, and many the site to find your dream car. It¡s your connection to For questions regarding these ads, ing to and giving them opportunity to be with Adhelp, Network program bythe running other items can be downloaded classic vehicles for sale throughout the Midwest. please call the NPAS at: theirthese kids ads in a in religious setting.â€? the the main news section through NEAT system at: Yes, for only $25 your ad runs until SOLD!!! 1-800-369-2850. “Louri iswww.nebpress.com annewspaper amazing volunteer of your (NOT that the just ‘gets it’ with all that she sets out oftoyour accomplish,â€? classified section newspaper).says Elyce Azriel, For questions regarding these Temple’sAtEducation Director. “It was ads, important for us times, advertisers may request Your connection to classic car buyers throughout the Midwest. Advertisers Name For thesection, ad, the ________________, please call NPAS at: the to have more volunteers within the school. Louri, a specific however, the Advertiser hasup requested together with Glazer and Katherine Finnegan, decision isJordana ultimately to each 1-800-369-2850. Section Name Â’ A 3 > B " placement in your _______________ formed a true partnership between the school and the newspaper. # " ² OQ`Sa ]TTS`SR W\ " ^O`QSZa section. parents.â€? Israel now has many active parent volAllTemple ads designed and distributed AOUcOQVS 1]Z]`OR] Advertisers Name For thewith ad,in________________, from planning a grade unteers that help everything by the NPAS are SAU sizes. 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Please remember quality is important, Advertisers Name For the ad, ________________, the Advertiser has requested I’ve heard about her. back,soI please thought everything E E E 8 > 9 7 < 5 1 = ; useabout the in correct tools and the Advertiser has requested Section Name placement your _______________ Ourcomputer families have been friends since I was in high school, programs to ensure 8S``g 1`OWU 9W\U) @SOZ 3abObS 0`]YS`) 8 > 9W\U /cQbW]\ 1] 7\Q Section Name placement in your _______________ 3fQZcaWdS >O`b\S` ]T EV]¸a EV] W\ :cfc`g @SOZ 3abObS section. and quality I can’t imagine any honor meaning reproduction of these ads. more to me.â€? section. Both Gordman andAdvertisers Sullivan Name will receive a stipend For the ad, ________________, you for using the Nebraska Display Ad Network! towards participation in a United JewishThank Communities PLEASE DO NOT has BILL FOR the Advertiser requested General Assembly Leadership Conference. THESE ADS! orin Young Section Name placement your _______________ Their names also will be engraved on a plaque, permaPayment procedures have already section. Fee Req. $99.50 nently displayed in the JCC lobby. The two will be honREF#P1011 been handled by the NPAS. Thank you for using the Nebraska Display Ad Network! ored at a ceremony and concert on Sept. 12.
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These ads, the Nebraska Press Association’s monthly bulletin, Statewide Classified Ads, and many album, “Imperfect World.� leading to items his most other canrecent be downloaded “Going without or water 25 hours will tend through the food NEAT systemforat: to put you into a different frame of mind,� explains www.nebpress.com
Himmelman Headlines Young Leadership Awards’ Event Continued from page 1 With Himmelman’s highly improvisational shows no two performances are the same, and his ability to connect makes him a real crowd pleaser. An uninhibited stage performer, he has been known to talk with audience members and make up songs on the spot. “I’ll do whatever it takes to break down the barriers between myself and an audience,� says Himmelman. “I need the room to be turned into some kind of utopian community where time and space are completely transcended. If I can’t take you away from your job and your mortgage payments for a couple of hours, then I’ve failed as a performer.� Growing up in the Minneapolis suburb of St. Louis Park, Himmelman was eight-years-old when he first visited Israel. He describes the trip as galvanizing and recalls weeping at the Western Wall. Israel has had a special pull for Himmelman ever since. The first thing he did with the cash advance from his first album deal? Visit Israel, where he has performed several times throughout his career. Surprisingly, Himmelman credits Tisha b’Av--the saddest day on the Jewish calendar--with the creative spark
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
PLEASE DO NOT BILL FOR THESE ADS! Nebraska Press Advertising Service Payment procedures have already VISIT parkitdowntown.org handled by the NPAS. working been for the worldwide Jewish community,� says
Himmelman. The songs on “Imperfect World� are infused the blues, soul,these and reggae For with questions regarding ads, roots that are the underpinnings of Himmelman's style. please call the NPAS at: and playing music since the sixth grade, it’s Writing 1-800-369-2850. taken the purest faith and strongest set of priorities, for Judaism and Rock music to co-exist for Himmelman. With Advertisers deal he was offered a tour the signing first recordName For theofad,his________________, with the RodAdvertiser Stewart. He it down, unwilling to play hasturned requested concerts on Friday HavingName released 11 solo albums Section placement innights. your _______________ from this stance. to date, Himmelman has never wavered section. “If I wanted to be really famous, as opposed to successful, wouldn’t have been able to keep Shabbos,� Advertisers Name For Ithe ad, ________________, Himmelman acknowledged in the Advertiser has requested an interview with aish.com. “I haven’t given up my dreams. My dreams Section Name placement in your _______________ have just been reformed.� section. To RSVP for the concert and awards ceremony, please contact by Sept. 5 at 334.6485 or Advertisers Name ForSharon the ad,Kirshenbaum ________________, skirshenbaum@jewishomaha.org. the Advertiser has requested To hear some of his music, visit www.peterhimmelman.com. Section Name placement in your _______________
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333 South 132nd Street Omaha, NE 68154 or see bottom of page 16 for email address and Fax number
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
August 25, 2006
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All events held at the Jewish Community Center unless otherwise noted. This calendar does not include all community events. For a complete listing, visit the Federation’s website: www.jewishomaha.org (click on calendar). To keep calendar accurate, call Marlene Hert at 334-6437. The Jewish Press is not responsible for the accuracy of the below events.
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FRIDAY, AUGUST 25 JFS 40 Assets Program, 9:30 a.m. at the JCC SUNDAY, AUGUST 27 BBYO New Member Trip to Worlds of Fun, 7 a.m. Talmud Torah Opening Day of Classes, 10 a.m. at Beth El The Weekly Parsha - It’s All About Me?!, 10 a.m. at Beth El Adult Education, 10 a.m.-noon at Beth El Nashir Choir, 10 a.m. at Beth El LOVE Grandparents Day Celebration, 1:30 p.m. at the JCC MONDAY, AUGUST 28 JSS Senior Luncheon, 10 a.m. Hadassah New Member’s Games Night, 7p.m. TUESDAY, AUGUST 29 BBYO Night, 6 p.m. Farewell Reception for Uri Levin, Community Shaliach, 7 p.m. at the JCC WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 30 Jewish Women International Potluck Dinner to Honor New Members, 6 p.m. at Parkwood Club House Lecture by author Rochel Berman “Dignity Beyond Death”, 7 p.m at Beth Israel BESTT Hebrew High Begins, 7 p.m. THURSDAY, AUGUST 31 Yiddish Group, 1 p.m. SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 3 Adult Education, 10 a.m.-noon at Beth El Yachad, 1:30 p.m. at Royals Baseball Game
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 Eye on Israel, noon at Kripke Library BBYO Night, 6 p.m. Federation Board Meeting, 6 p.m. Creating Your Own Book of Life class, 7 p.m. taught by Daniel Christensen at Beth El Federation Volunteer Award Ceremony, 7:30 p.m. WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 Abba, Eema and ME, 9:30 a.m. at Beth El THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7 Women of the Torah class with Rabbi Gross, 9:30 a.m. at Beth Israel Walk-in Drop-in, 10 a.m. Yiddush Group, 1 p.m. Open House/Ice Cream Social, 6:30 p.m. at Friedel Jewish Academy ADL Youth Leadership Mission, 7 p.m. JCC Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m. Advanced Parshah Study with Rabbi Gross, 9 p.m. at Beth Israel SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 9 Shabbat Tunes and Tales, 11:15 a.m. at Beth El SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 10 Adult Education, 10 a.m.-noon at Beth El Nashir Community Jewish Choir, 11 a.m. at Beth El Limmud Omaha Program, 12:30 p.m. BESTT Chaverim Trip, 1:30 p.m. at Skateland MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 11 JSS Senior Luncheon, 10 a.m. JSS Senior Exercise, 10 a.m. NCJW Book Club, 7 p.m.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 ADL/CRC Executive Committee Meeting, noon Eye on Israel, noon at Kripke Library BBYO Night, 6 p.m. Creating Your Own Book of Life class, 7 p.m. at Beth El YJO Young Leadership Awards and Concert, 7 p.m. at Ozone Club WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 Rabbis & Presidents Meeting, noon at the JCC Lewis and Clark Festival with Darrel Draper and Music,7 p.m. at the JCC Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m. at Beth Israel THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 14 Women of the Torah, 9:30 a.m. at Beth Israel Jewish Women International, noon at the Rainbow House Yiddush Group, 1 p.m. Executive Board Meeting, 5:30 p.m. at Friedel JFS Love & Logic Parent Workshop, 6 p.m. at JCC Federation Executive Committee Meeting, 6 p.m. NCJW Board Meeting, 7 p.m. Board of Directors Meeting, 7 p.m. at Friedel Advanced Parshah Study, 9 p.m. at Beth Israel FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 15 USY Leadership Training Institute at Beth Shalom Synagogue, Overland Park, KS, Sept. 15-17 Visions Luncheon Meeting, 12:30 p.m. at Venice Inn Tot Shabbat Services & Dinner, 6 pm at Beth El
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 17 BESTT 7th Grade Family Program, 10 a.m. at Beth El Adult Education, 10 a.m.-noon at Beth El Nashir Community Jewish Choir, 11 a.m. at Beth El Basketball Parent Meeting, 1 p.m. Beth El Sisterhood Health Symposium, 2 p.m. at the JCC Milton Wolsky Art Reception, 3 p.m. at JCC Gallery Hazak New Member Event, 4:30 p.m. at Beth El Sugihara, Conspiracy of Kindess, Film and Program, 6 p.m. at JCC
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 Eye on Israel, noon at Kripke Library BBYO Night, 6 p.m. Creating Your Own Book of Life class, 7 p.m. at Beth El JFO Young Leadership Event with Rob Mann, 7 p.m. Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m. at Temple Israel WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 Abba, Eema and ME, 9:30 a.m. at Beth El Lecture by Dr. Kenneth Stein, “Where Will the Israeli-Lebanese War Take Us,” 7 p.m. at JCC
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 JCC Closes at 6 p.m. for Rosh Hashanah SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 AND SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 24 JCC Closed for Rosh Hashanah
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 Eye on Israel, noon at Kripke Library BBYO Night, 6 p.m. Creating Your Own Book of Life class, 7 p.m. at Beth El Federation Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m. WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 Beth Israel Tachlich Picnic, 5 p.m. at Elmwood Park THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 28 Women of the Torah, 9:30 a.m. at Beth Israel Yiddush Group, 1 p.m. JFS Love & Logic Parent Workshop, 6 p.m. at JCC Advanced Parshah Study, 9 p.m. at Beth Israel
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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 Women of the Torah, 9:30 a.m. at Beth Israel Walk-in Drop-in, 10 a.m. Yiddush Group, 1 p.m. JFS Love & Logic Parent Workshop, 6 p.m. at JCC Advanced Parshah Study, 9 p.m. at Beth Israel
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 JSS Senior Luncheon, 10 a.m. JSS Senior Exercise, 10 a.m.
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 Hadassah Board Meeting, 1 p.m. Jewish Film Series, 7 p.m. at Beth El Chabad Challah-thon, 7 p.m. at Chabad House
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
August 25, 2006
IN THE NEWS
When you patronize these fine establishments, tell them you saw their ad in the Jewish Press.
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Gordmans, Inc., an Omaha-based apparel and home fashions retailer, announced that its La Vista store will be relocating to a new lifestyle shopping center in nearby Papillion. The company will build a 50,000-squarefoot store in the Shadow Lake Towne Center project under construction by RED Development of Scottsdale, AZ, and Kansas City, MO, in partnership with The Lerner Company of Omaha. Gordmans’ La Vista store at 8100 So. 84 St. will operate until shortly before the new Shadow Lake Towne Center store opens its doors next March. “At Gordmans, our mission is to delight our guests with big savings on name brands in fun, easy-to-shop stores,” said Jeff Gordman, president and CEO. “The new Shadow Lake Towne Center store will feature a larger, more contemporary floor plan specifically designed to create an exceptional shopping experience.” Gordmans operates 58 stores in 13 states in the Midwest and surrounding states. Gordmans currently operates eight Nebraska stores including two in Omaha and two in the surrounding communities of La Vista and Bellevue. Four more Gordmans stores are scheduled to open this fall in Memphis, TN; Lafayette, IN; and Lexington, KY. Todd C Johnson, an American Family Insurance agent, has been recognized for customer satisfaction excellence under the J.D. Power and Associates Distinguished Insurance Agency Program. Johnson joins other American Family agents who have demonstrated the highest level of commitment to outstanding customer service. Johnson has been an agent for American Family since 1995. His office is located at 155 No. 72 St. The service excellence distinction was determined through a two-part evaluation process. Only agencies that perform in the top 20 percent of all agencies nationwide based on cus-
OMAHA JEWISH SINGLES 40+ Enjoy dinner, drinks and comedy at the Funny Bone Comedy Club in its new location at Village Point on Sunday, Aug. 27, 6 p.m., to meet and mingle with other singles; then stay for the comedy show at 7:30 p.m. Please call the FunnyBone at 493.8036 and make your reservation as soon as possible. Tell them you are with the Jewish Singles Group. The cost is just $7 for a ticket to the comedy show (dinner and drinks on your own.). Any questions? Call Sandi at 895.1815 or email at srcomaha@aol. com. HADASSAH This is a reminder to all who are planning to attend Hadassah’s Mah Jongg night this coming Monday, Aug. 28, 7 p.m. at the JCC. Bring your mah jongg sets, playing cards or board games, and your group of players. There will be a “learning table” for those wishing to master the game or brush up on it. Light refreshments will be served. Call Nancy Wolf at 330.6736, or Patti Adler, 333.4047 to reserve your seating arrangement. YOUNG ENERGETIC SENIORS Members will meet Monday at the JCC. Join us for musical entertainment with the Aristocrats, featuring vocalist Micki Marr. Lunch is served at noon for $6 per person. Try your luck with bingo at 10 a.m. with Eileen and Miles Remer. For transportation, call Dee Dee at 330.4272. LOMIR REDN YIDDISH Come to the Yiddish meeting at the JCC on Thursdays, 1-3 p.m. Call Anne Skolkin at 343.1638.
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VISIONS Reminder: Visions Board Meeting is Friday, Sept. 1, 9:30 a.m. in the conference room of the Blumkin Home. Learn and do the ancient Chinese art of Tai Chi on Wednesday, Sept. 13 at the Parkwood Terrace Apartment Club House (93rd and Western) at 10 a.m. We will be led by an experienced local instructor. Lunch follows at the China Buffet (Miracle Hills Plaza). Cost of
In Omaha: 4409 Dodge Street • 553-3326 72nd & Q • 932-6420 I-80 & 13th • 934-8988 In Lincoln: 6800 Wildcat Drive • 402/435-1001
Dave Bonicatto of Hague Quality Water received the #1 salesperson award for the Great Plains Region and #4 nationally for the month of May. He is also ranked #6 nationally year-to-date. Hague Quality Water International has more than 300 dealers and 1000+ sales people across the country. Bonicatto has been with the company for three years. Hague Quality Water of Nebraska is owned and operated by Jeff and Kris White, who started the company in May of 2001. Hague provides service and sales of residential and commercial water conditioning equipment; water softeners, reverse osmosis drinking systems and bottleless water coolers for Southeast Nebraska, including Omaha and Lincoln. For more information, please contact Hague at 466.6800 (Lincoln), 991.1414 (Omaha) or visit www.haguewaterne.com. A Look Back, a homegrown documentary video, was released for purchase during John C. Fremont Days. Directed by Daniel Christensen and produced by Kathy Riggle of Visual Impressions, the film presents a recollection of the 1956 Fremont, NE, centennial through interviews with participants in the events of 50 years ago and includes film and still footage of the centennial parade, costumes and views of the downtown Fremont businesses. A portion of the proceeds will go to the Love Larsen Opera House and the Fremont Area Council on Tourism. A Look Back is available at the Blue Bottle Coffeehouse, 406 No. Main St.; Visual Impressions, 626 No. H St., or by calling Christensen at 719.4714 or Kathy Riggle at 721.1547. The film will be available at the Fremont Sesquicentennial events. “This is a great opportunity to have a visual, historical commemorative of the celebration of Fremont’s first 100 years and taste of life in the community mid-20th century,” said Christensen.
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$10 includes Tai Chi demo and lunch, tax and tip. Send reservations to Sissy Silber, 311 Oakridge Ct., Bellevue, NE 68005 by Sept. 6. Questions? Call Roasalie Meiches at 556.5507 or Doris Alloy at 697.8709. Visions luncheon is at the Westside Community Conference Center at 3534 So. 108 St (108 and Grover) on Friday, Sept. 15, 12:30 p.m. Join us for a musical program with Cantor Gaston Bogomolni and Esther Wax. Cost is $9.50. Send reservations to Tootie Simon, 8725 Izard St. Omaha, NE 68114 by Sept. 8. Visions is on the road again to picturesque Iowa to visit Hotel Pattee in Perry and the Boone Scenic Valley Railroad on Wednesday, Oct. 4. Cost is $68. Deposit of $30 is required; full payment is due Sept. 1. Send reservations with deposit to Anne Skolkin, 1010 Regency Parkway #302, Omaha, NE 68114. Make all checks payable to Visions. AMIT American Mothers for Israel and Torah will meet on Sunday, Aug. 27, 11:30 a.m. for brunch in the Livingston Plaza. Because of its size, Israel is one family. We are part of that family. Become a Mother-in-Israel. Please call Charlotte Kaplan for a reservation 551.5658. L.O.V.E. We’ll be scooping up root beer floats on Sunday, Aug. 27, noon, as LOVE (League Offering Volunteers to the Elderly) celebrates Grandparents Day. First to appear at the Jewish Community Center will be the Pancake Man. Down the hall the Omaha Symphony will provide hands on fun at the Instrument Petting Zoo. Kids of all ages will be able to touch the instruments and even play some of them from noon until 3 p.m. The great sounds of Dixieland Jazz and Ragtime provided by the Bob Woody Quartet will begin at 1:30 p.m. B’NAI B’RITH BREADBREAKERS Representative Lee Terry, candidate for the Second Congressional seat in the House of Representatives, will talk to Breadbreakers Wednesday, Aug. 30, noon, at Regency Lodge. Breadbreakers is open to everyone in the community. A full lunch is $11; beverage service is $2.
August 25, 2006
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 13
Beth El Talmud Torah Program Gears Up for Reading, Writing and Ruach
ENGAGEMENT STRAUSS/RICKS Elisa Strauss and Marc Ricks, both of New York City, announce their engagement. bride-to-be, The daughter of Dr. Elton and Karen Strauss of East Hills, NY, earned a BA from Vassar College and graduated from the Institute of Culinary Education. She is the owner/chef of Confetti Cakes. She is the granddaughter of Dr. Carl and Shirley Strauss of Brooklyn, NY. Her fiance, son of Marty and Iris Ricks, and Sandi and Marc Scholnick of Portland, OR, earned a BA from Princeton University and an MBA from the Harvard Business School. He is the Senior Policy/Acting Chief of Staff in the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Economic Development and Rebuilding for the City of New York. He is the grandson of Pauline Lecker of Sacramento, CA.
BIRTHS Jon and Laura Fischer announce the July 4 birth of their son, Benjamin J. Fischer. He has a sister, Allison, age 7, and a brother, Harrison, 5. Grandparents are Esther Meiches and the late Herb Meiches, and the late Bernie and Dorothy Fischer.
by JILL BELMONT Beth El Publicity Coordinator After a quiet summer, the halls of Beth El Synagogue will be filled with the voices and footsteps of children of all ages, as the synagogue’s Talmud Torah (BESTT) kicks off this year’s classes this Sunday morning at 10 a.m. The school staff is geared up for an exciting and fulfilling year for students from pre-kindergarten through high school, said BESTT Education Director Judy Rubin. “We’re planning another dynamite school year with a superior teaching staff, offering our students the opportunity to learn on multiple levels,” she said. “BESTT provides a wonderfully nurturing environment for all of our students.” Each new year represents a fresh beginning, she continued, saying “Parents buy new clothes and school supplies for their children, and teachers prepare their lessons to spark their students’ imaginations and touch their souls. We anticipate that the expectations of all our families will equal our enthusiasm.” Rubin announced the following staff members for the upcoming year: Eve Randone, Pre-K; Holly Weill, kindergarten; Jill Simon, first grade; Annelise Ocanto, second grade; Eadie Tsabari, Deborah Kronick, Sara Juster and Sindie Katskee, third grade; Tsabari, Margo Riekes, Juster and Katskee, fourth grade; Tsabari, Kronick, Andy Greenberg and Joan Cooper, fifth grade;
Susan Paley, Maya Wertheimer, Cantor Gastón Bogomolni, Tsabari and Kronick, sixth grade; Diane Malashock, Sorin Juster, Paley and Kronick, seventh grade. High school faculty will include Daniel Christensen, Glen Fineman, Susan Paley, Gloria Kaslow, Beth Seldin-Dotan, Dr. Leonard Greenspoon, Rabbi Mordechai Levin, Dr. Rami Arav, David Herzog and Eadie Tsabari. To help kick off the first day of religious school, Beth El’s Men’s Club will provide a continental breakfast for all BESTT families and staff at 9 a.m.; the first night of high school, Wednesday, Aug. 30, will be marked by a 6 p.m. dinner for all students, prior to 7 p.m. classes. Guest speakers during dinner will include participants of this summer’s ARTZA trip, as well as chaperone Diane Malashock. “Serving as the Education Director of Beth El Synagogue Talmud Torah has been a highlight of my career,” Rubin remarked. “The Talmud Torah faculty is motivated to provide the best possible Jewish education for our students, and we have included talented and distinguished members of the academic and professional communities on our high school staff. “We’re thrilled that parents and students have been very receptive to the types of programs that our religious school has provided,” she added. “It’s a real pleasure to see such a high level of learning and know that we are making a difference in the lives of our students.”
Plans Unveiled to Federation,
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Paula and Matt Boggust announce the July 21 birth of their daughter, Emma Catherine. She has two sisters, Annie, 71/2, and Jane, 21/2, and a brother, Harry, 51/2. Grandparents are Nancy and David Friedland, and Marilyn and Jack Boggust of DelMar, CA.
EARLY DEADLINE NOTICE Due to the Post Office now sending the Jewish Press to Des Moines, IA, for sorting before returning the newspapers to Omaha for delivery, we have been forced to move up our our deadline. Please send all articles, photos and ads to the Press by Thursdays, 9 a.m., for all regular issues (early deadlines for special issues and to accommodate office closings for holidays will be announced in advance). Deadline for the Sept. 8 issue is Wednesday, Aug. 30, 9 a.m. Questions? Call 334.6448.
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Howard Kooper, back row, was the counselor at Camp Brewster (run by the JCC in about 1958 or ’59). Three campers have been identified: Sanford Friedman, second from left, Bob Batt, third from right, and Ron Blumkin, right. If you can identify the others, please call the Nebraska Jewish Historical Society at 334.6442.
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Mike Silverman, Executive Director of Jewish Senior Services/Rose Blumkin Jewish Home, “walks” staff members of the Jewish Federation and Centers for Excellence through a virtual tour of the new Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. After a four-year study, the JSS Board of Directors is planning to remodel two residents’ rooms as models in preparation for future construction.
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Page 14
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
August 25, 2006
Part II: Reforming Europe
The Fall--and Rise--of Reform Judaism in Germany tional monolith. would continue to speak with one voice. by TOBY AXELROD Second, after a seven-year court battle, the While some critics argued that the council’s real BERLIN (JTA)--They were as German as their nonJewish neighbors. They loved Goethe and Mendelssohn. motive was to maintain control over the millions of dol- Administrative Court of the German state of SaxonyTheir synagogues had organs like those in the best lars in government-administered funds funneled Anhalt ruled in 2004 that the Reform congregation of churches. “Yekkes”--German Jews, the originators of through their organization each year, others maintained the city of Halle was entitled to funding from a stateReform Judaism- were, and are, proud of their heritage. that the Reform groups were driven by a desire to grab level Jewish governing body. The conflict came to a head in 2004 after the World Much of that heritage was lost in the Holocaust. For a slice of that same pie. A minority of Jewish leaders the most part, the few remnants of the “original” complained that the outsiders blatantly disregarded vir- Union threatened to sue Germany for the alleged failure German-Jewish community were dispersed across the tually all Jewish law and traditional customs, which of the Central Council--the government’s contractual partner--to support all streams of Judaism. Last-minute globe, and the brand of progressive Judaism their pred- Reform leaders steadfastly denied. For example, former Munich Jewish community negotiations, however, averted what could have been an ecessors had created became virtually extinct in the land board member Ulrich Siegel wrote a sharply worded let- ugly courtroom brawl and paved the way for resolution of its birth. So who would imagine that Reform Judaism would ter in 2001 to the lord mayor of Munich, arguing that of the impasse. Eventually, under the leadership of Paul Spiegel, then Reform practices such as mixed-sex prayer and the one day return to Germany? head of the Central Council, who died earlier this Well, it has--thanks to a momentous political deciyear, the Council opened its doors to World Union sion in 2004 that was decades in the making. congregations in 2004 rather than risk further splinWhere there were no fully functioning Reform tering the Jewish community into warring factions congregations 10 years ago, today there are 20. Of and seriously diffusing communal power. Germany’s 120,000 identifying Jews, some 4,000 “We Jews should speak with one voice, openly and attend Reform synagogues, according to a politically,” says Dieter Graumann, newly elected spokesperson for the seven-year-old Abraham Geiger Vice-president of the Central Council, and represenCollege in Potsdam, Germany’s progressive Jewish tative of the Jewish Community of Frankfurt. “And seminary. we in the Central Council have to understand that Not only has the movement achieved new recogwe can only have unity if we accept diversity.” nition in Germany; in September, its new seminary Although the Reform movement is no longer perwill be the first to ordain rabbis in Germany since ceived as a threat to German Jewish unity, other sec1942. tarian controversies have arisen to fill the vacuum. For Rabbi Walter Jacob of Pittsburgh, who fled A case in point: In December, Genadi Man, an Nazi Germany with his family, it is a dream come official with the World Congress of Russiantrue. Germany is “rebuilding a really solid Jewish Speaking Jews and a member of the Jewish commulife, and it is a pretty good beginning,” says Jacob, nity of Cologne, told the newspaper Die Welt that 76, president of Geiger College. “My ancestors for 16 generations were rabbis in Germany and Central the Central Council “must be Russified” or face Europe. I am glad that there will be new generations competition from a parallel umbrella organization Executive Director of the World Union of Progressive Judaism, Uri Regev, representing the needs of new immigrants. of rabbis.” The new rabbis will be the beneficiaries of a left, then-German Interior Minister Otto Schily, second from left, and Meanwhile, the World Union says its next task is recent decision by the Central Council of Jews in then-WUPJ President Ruth Cohen attend the opening night program of to convince Germany’s state-based Jewish associaGermany--the secular body representing Jews the group’s 75th anniversary conference in Berlin, July 10, 2003. tions to kick in their fair share of funding for Reform Credit: Toby Axelrod/JTA congregations. The allocation is based on the numhere--to legitimize non-Orthodox Judaism by accepting virtually all Reform congregations as members. employment of female rabbis “makes it impossible for a ber of members in local congregations, some of which Intended to be a unified political voice for all Jews in traditional community like ours to host the Liberal have been accused of padding their membership rolls. Germany, the council was established in 1950, a period Community in our rooms.” Progressive leaders shrug off the charge. As it turns out, Siegel was writing at a time when there when the handful of Jews who had survived World War Despite these and other challenges, the current state II were establishing Orthodoxy as the national congre- already were a handful of egalitarian congregations and of affairs is a vast improvement over the situation that gational norm, thus enabling any Jew to worship in the one Conservative female rabbi--Bea Wyler--working existed not long ago, according to Jacob, who is also under the Central Council umbrella. country’s few remaining synagogues. rabbi emeritus of Congregation Rodef Shalom in Still, a series of battles ensued over whether Reform Pittsburgh. Still, small groups of progressive-oriented Jews met informally, influenced in part by liberal British and congregations should be accepted by the council, and “Germany has changed radically and made a real effort American military chaplains who first attracted a follow- thus qualify for state funding. The World Union for to help this rebuilding--far more than any country that ing during the post-World War II occupation of Progressive Judaism, the Jerusalem-based umbrella has persecuted us or killed us or expelled us,” he says. Germany. The progressive groups eventually coalesced group, launched a media blitz, pointing out to both the “So that augurs well for the future.” American and German public the apparent inequity of into fledgling congregations. Granted, Graumann of the Central Council concedes, Pressure for change mounted as the Jewish population the situation. Leaders of the American Reform move- it was easier for the German Jewish community to speak of Germany began to expand exponentially due to an ment met with the German ambassador in Washington with one voice when there were only 30,000 Jews in the influx of former Soviet Jews who arrived after German and German consular officials elsewhere to plead their entire country, as there were just before reunification. unification in 1990. Today, in fact, roughly 80% of case and try to convince a reluctant German govern- Now there are at least four times that many. Germany’s Jews have roots in the former Soviet Union. ment to mediate the dispute. “We are happy that there are more of us,” he says. Meanwhile, two German legal rulings changed the “These are healthy problems.” As recently as 1997, however, the Central Council barely acknowledged the existence of the budding pro- course of the Reform movement in that country and perhaps throughout Europe. gressive congregations. JTA correspondent Dinah Spritzer in Prague conFirst, in 2002, Germany’s Federal Administrative tributed to this story. Part I of ‘Reforming Europe’ But as these congregations grew and sought official recognition, the council’s leaders defended their exclu- Court ruled that the term “Jewish community”--in appeared in last week’s paper; to read Parts III and IV, sionary stance on the grounds that they were trying to other words, the Central Council of Jews--implies a visit the Jewish Federation of Omaha website at: preserve Jewish unity by ensuring that the community diversity of Jewish movements rather than a denomina- www.jewishomaha.org, and click on ‘Jewish Press.’
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JFS Kicks off Annual Friends Campaign by SHARON BARGAS JFS Program Director A crisis can strike anyone at any time. It can be a lost job, violence in the home, a diagnosis of cancer, or the sudden loss of a loved one. When these or other crisis situations occur--the community turns to Jewish Family Service (JFS) for help. Now in its 95th year, JFS offers a multitude of programs from family life enrichment to counseling services for all ages. The Agency relies on contributions to our annual Friends Campaign to maintain its existing programs and develop new ones to meet the changing needs of the community. Recently, JFS sent out a letter to loyal contributors as the organization launched its annual “Friends of JFS Campaign” in August. “The campaign is vital to our ability to fund programs,” says Karen Gustafson, director for JFS. “Our hope is that everyone will be a friend of JFS.” The overall goal of the campaign is to continue providing Jewish families and individuals support services throughout our community, particularly to those in need, in ways that promote human dignity, enhance selfsufficiency and reflect enduring values of Jewish traditions. Last year, more than $70,000 was spent on assistance
Carlene Carter, Bobby Lewis, Rhonda Vincent, Dusty Owens,
THESE ADS! Larry Cordle, Bob & Sheila Everhart and many more! Payment have already Nebraska Press Advertising Service ALL DAY PASS: $14 (Discount pkgs. available) These ads areprocedures to run ONE TIME, for needs been suchhandled as gas by vouchers, For more information call: 712-762-4363 the Aug.extensive 21, 2006 medical bills beginning the Week of NPAS. and rent to Jewish individuals suffering through unexThese ads,Donations the Nebraska to Press Project Tzedakah pected hardships. Page 2bulletin, Your newspaper has ____ agreed to Association’s monthly enabled JFS staff and volunteers to deliver kosher meals SEPTEMBER 7-10, 2006 participate in the Nebraska Display Classified Ads, andand many Statewide 2x2 56 Network Southeast Western items to some families individuals dur- Central ✔ Northeast and other Statewide NELIGH, NE Network program by runningto this program, other items can beIn downloaded Special Order ing the Ad 2005 holiday season. addition ads was in the main news sectionfood through the NEAT system at: and gifts to •BAKE-OFF •CRAFT FAIR •LIVE BANDS Project these Dreidel created to provide of your newspaper (NOT the www.nebpress.com •CLASSIC CAR SHOW many needy children during Hanukkah year after year. TIME, These section ads areoftoyour run ONE classified newspaper). visit www.neligh.net for more information makesthe a difference in the lives of the indiEvery dollar Aug. 21,ads, 2006 beginning Week of At times, advertisers maythese request For questions regarding viduals JFS serves on a daily basis. Through the genplease call the NPAS at: a specific section, however, the erosity of the community over the years, the agency conYour newspaper up hastoagreed to decision is ultimately each 1-800-369-2850. SEPTEMBER 7-10, 2006 tinues to be an advocate for strengthening and enhancparticipate in the Nebraska Display newspaper. ing the community. Tax deductible contributions will NELIGH, NE Ad ads Network program by running All designed and distributed continue tomain offernews essential services to the help the JFS Advertisers Name For the ad, ________________, these ads in the section by the NPAS are in SAU sizes. •BAKE-OFF •CRAFT FAIR •LIVE BANDS Jewish community. Anyone wouldthelike to make a of newspaper (NOT theyour Advertiser haswho requested •CLASSIC CAR SHOW [1 column = 2 1/16 inches] can contact at 330.2024. For more contribution classified section ofJFS your newspaper). Section Name placement in your _______________ visit www.neligh.net for more information If yourJFS newspaper is using information on programs, visit www.jewishomaAt times, advertisers may request section. Bob & Sheila Everhart’s any other size, you may need to ha.org. a specific section, however, the adjust these ads to fit your format. 31st Annual “National” Old Time “The Jewish community’s ongoing support helps us Advertisers Name decision is ________________, ultimately up to each For the ad, Please remember quality is important, daily remain focused onhas ‘tikkun olam,’ repairing the newspaper. the Advertiser requested please use the correct tools like and world,”sosays Gustafson. “We would All ads designed and distributed Section Nameto thank everyplacement in your _______________ computer programs to ensure August 28 - September 3, 2006 • Missouri Valley, IA one for their confidence for their support of by the NPAS areininJFS SAUand sizes. section. quality of community. these ads. Through your workreproduction we do in our the good 10 Stages • Over 600 Performers
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remember is important, section. Beth Israel's “Shabbos House” Designated beenPlease handled by thequality NPAS. Country & Bluegrass the Nebraska Display AdFestival Network! and Contest so please use the correct tools andThank you for using computer to Press ensure for Afternoon Enjoyment for Younsters--and Parents August 28 - September 3, 2006 • Missouri Valley, IA These ads, Their theprograms Nebraska by MARY BORT During the summer months, Beth Israel has held a monthly “Shabbos House” on Saturday afternoons for youth and their families. Held at members’ homes, the event has been geared for different age groups each month. The last “Shabbos House” of the season will be held on Saturday, Sept. 2, 3:30-5:30 p.m. at the home of Gary and Liat Shyken. The Labor Day weekend “Shabbos House” has been designated for children under the age of five and their parents, and older siblings are welcome to attend. “Shabbos House is a chance for kids to enjoy an afternoon of playtime while their parents socialize,” explained Beth Israel’s Youth Director, Brooke Shrago. “It’s a nice way to get out of the Shabbos afternoon ‘rut’ before Mincha and Ma’ariv, with some food and fun for kids and grown-ups.” According to Shrago, the Shyken’s home is a perfect location for pre-schooler’s and toddlers. “They have an amazing enclosed backyard with lots of space and a swing set. And their home is already ‘toddler friendly’ so parents can have more opportunity to enjoy the after-
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monthly Shrago also noted howbulletin, grateful she and Beth noon.”Association’s Statewide Classified Ads, andand many Israel werePLEASE to the Shykens, Leon Dani Shrago and DO be NOT BILL FOR other items can downloaded Josh and Amanda Gurock for opening their homes this THESEthe ADS! through NEAT system at: summer. Payment procedures have already www.nebpress.com As the mother of a by nearly three-year-old daughter, been handled the NPAS. Shrago looks forward to the upcoming “Shabbos For“IThese questions regarding these ads, don’tads, know anybody House”. theabout Nebraska Presselse, but by 4 please call the NPAS at: we’vebulletin, read our books and p.m. on Shabbat afternoon, Association’s monthly played 1-800-369-2850. ourStatewide games and are looking formany something more Classified Ads, and to do. ‘Shabbos House’ is great because it gets us both other items can be downloaded thesomething NEAT system out of the through house with fun to at: do.” Advertisers Name Forno thecharge ad, ________________, There is www.nebpress.com to attend and you don’t have to be theofAdvertiser requested Fruit, snacks and members Beth Israelhas to participate. Section Name placement in your _______________ regarding these ads, to make my “I also plan beverages For will questions be provided. section. please callchip the NPAS at: bars that are a favorite ‘famous’ chocolate cookie 1-800-369-2850. among parents and kids alike,” said Shrago. Advertisers Name Foroff thethe ad,new ________________, To kick year, the next special age-approthe Advertiser hasand requested priate event for toddlers pre-schoolers is scheduled Advertisers Name For the ad, ________________, Section Name Toddlers” holds placement in your _______________ “Travelin’ for Tuesday, Oct. 10, when the Advertiser has requested section.sukkah dinner with “Ollie-the-Trolley.” a progressive Sectioncontact Name Shrago at in yourplease _______________ information, For more placement Advertisers Name For the ad, ________________, section. 556.6288.
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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Considered by many to be opera’s greatest politicallycharged romantic thriller; Puccini’s Tosca kicks off the 49th season of Opera Omaha. Performances run Sept. 27 and 29, 7:30 p.m., and Oct. 1, 1:30 p.m. at the Orpheum Theater, Slosburg Hall. Tickets are $11 to $91 and are available through Opera Omaha at 402.346.7372, online at www.operaomaha.org, or at the box ffice at 17th and Farnam. Tickets are also available through Ticket Omaha at 402.345.0606. “Tosca is my absolute favorite Puccini opera. It is edge of the seat thrilling and charged with realism. Despite the exciting yet sad ending, you can’t help but leave the theater humming,” says Opera Omaha General Director Joan Desens. Tosca is made possible by a sponsorship from Omaha Steaks. Visitors to the Durham Western Heritage Museum will get a rare treat as the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of Natural History opens its vaults and presents select items from its gem and mineral collection. Gems and Minerals from the Smithsonian Collection opens tomorrow, Aug. 26 to feature 47 items of precious and semi-precious stones, jewelry, sculpture, and specialty pieces. Many are in their rough, unfinished state, but many are also brought to their full beauty and color through cutting, polishing and setting. The selection is all the more unique since it was assembled exclusively for the museum, said curator Luis Vasquez. The exhibition includes two special events. Jeff Post, chief curator of the National Gem and Minerals Collection, will visit the museum on Monday, Sept. 18, to address a luncheon meeting of the On Track Guild. “Ladies and Gems,” a benefit for the museum, begins with a viewing of the exhibit at 11 a.m., followed by the
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On Tuesday, Sept. 19, Post will speak on the subject of gems and minerals in the Swanson Gallery in conjunction with the Durham’s “An Evening with the Smithsonian” series. The lecture is open to museum members and visitors, but reservations are required; all 402.444.5071.For more information on the Durham Western Heritage Museum and its exhibits, visit us at www.dwhm.org.
Butterflies and shoeboxes, neon rivers and steel trees. These are just some of the fanciful, creative and innovative pieces of public art that are coming soon to a library near you. The Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts announces the completion of its Art 4 Omaha & Council Bluffs public arts project. TEAM, “Together Everyone Achieves More,” has created eleven pieces of unique public art for all ten of the Omaha Public Library branches as well as the Council Bluffs Public Library. This project has brought public high school students, community members, business leaders and local artists together to celebrate the rich history and diversity that exists throughout our area. On Saturday, Aug. 26, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., a TEAM LAUNCH takes place with eleven public receptions in honor of each location’s unique piece of public art. These TEAM receptions are free and open to the public. For a schedule of events, call 341.7130
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
August 25, 2006
It’s Nice to Know We Have Friends Gazing around the Hilton Hotel’s ballroom last Thursday evening, it was heartening to see so many people of so many different backgrounds coming together to celebrate the work of the Great Plains Region of the AntiDefamation League. The occasion was a farewell to its Executive Director Bob Wolfson after 18 years of service, an introduction to the community of ADL’s new point man, Alan Potash, and the opportunity to hear from ADL’s National Director Abraham Foxman. Tribute after tribute were paid to Wolfson and to ADL. Mel Clancy, UNO’s Director of Project Achieve, called the World of Difference program “a rich and powerful curriculum,” while Larry Raful, a former Omahan now Dean of the Touro Law School, noted that Wolfson has spent 18 years here “not just fighting against intolerance and hate, but fighting for tolerance and acceptance.” Notables from Fr. Stephen Boes, Director of Girls and Boys Town, to Fr. John Schlegel, President of Creighton University, were there to honor their friend, along with elected officials, the extended Wolfson family, rabbis, community leaders, and just ordinary folks. There were poignant moments when Foxman made a beeline across the room to hug longtime former ADL employee Lavonne Curtis, or when Murray Newman, one of the evening’s honorary co-chairmen, expressed his sadness at bidding goodbye to “an Omaha icon.” But it wasn’t all sadness; many expressed
their pride in his new position in the ADL national office, where he’ll use the skills and experiences gained here to hire, train and supervise senior staff in regional offices all over the country. “More than anyone I know, Bob is painfully aware of the precarious state of this world on the most complicated level,” said Katherine Finnegan, wife of ADL President David Gilinsky, “yet he is one of the happiest guys I know.” Perhaps the funniest portion of the evening came as older brother, Dr. Ron Wolfson, recounted stories about growing up with Bob and Doug, all sons of Bernice and Alan Wolfson. “From our grandmother, Bob learned how to work the phones,” he said. “We call it the ‘bubbe net.’ And from our grandfather he learned generosity, when every December Louis Wolfson gave food and xmas trees away to the poor.” And so, it appears that Bob Wolfson is the only ADL director in the country who can tell the difference between a Scotch pine and a Douglas fir! Why is this all important? In a day when the head of a country wants to wipe Israel off the map, when the SecretaryGeneral of the United Nations accuses Israel’s military for deliberately targeting UN forces, when the world yawns about a Holocaust cartoon exhibit, and Jews are attacked--once again--for just being, it’s reassuring to look around a room and see so many friendly faces. As Ron Wolfson said, “I’ve watched Bob
become one of the most admired professionals in one of the most admired organizations in the world.” Wolfson and the ADL have made it their business to reach across boundaries, developing relationships with good people of faith to talk, to learn, to grow, to change. Today, more than ever, we need friends-friends who will fight alongside us--and for us. For that alone, we say toda raba, Bob--thanks!
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.
There Is Hope for Your Future
FOCUS ON ISSUES by RABBI AVI SHAFRAN Many wrenching images have arrived from the Middle East of late: dead and mourning Jews, dead and mourning Lebanese, the taunting “talking turban” of Sheik Hassan Nasrallah--the ultimate cause, with his followers, of all the death and destruction. Civilized people the world over take heart in Israel’s military expertise and determination, but there are, of course, no guarantees in geopolitics. Advanced weaponry can wreak advanced destruction; yet large and well-armed forces have not infrequently yielded to smaller ones less endowed. Military actions, moreover, are no more immune than any actions to the nettlesome law of unintended consequences. And when the enemy wears no uniform, is impervious to reason and has no regard for innocent lives--of either their targets or the civilians among whom they themselves hide-soldiers and ordnance are far from decisive. Even the Jewish State’s unspoken “trump card”--its unacknowledged but commonknowledge nuclear capability--may soon, G-d forbid, be equaled by an “Islamic bomb.” And while one might imagine that the Cold War concept of Mutually Assured Destruction will dissuade Islamists (not a bet I’d make), can anyone be certain that Hezbollah does not have conventional missiles that can reach Tel Aviv or Jerusalem? Or that it cannot obtain them from their generous patrons to the east? Confidence tastes good, but realism is healthier. We do well to remember that here are a billion Muslims, and millions of others, who would be happy--some of them wildly so --to live in a world without a Jewish State. To be sure, military wisdom and experience, superior weaponry and strategic planning are all necessary and proper in the natural scheme of engaging an enemy. But Judaism requires Jews to recognize something more: that, as King Solomon wrote, the race is not necessarily “to the swift, nor the battle to the strong.”
Our ultimate prevailing derives from our having earned it with our spiritual commitment. It is that realization itself, in fact, that allows the military efforts to succeed. Which brings us to the welcome fact that, along with the harrowing images of a nation at war, there were heartening images as well. Like the photographs of Israeli tank crews solemnly reciting the “traveller’s prayer” before embarking on their mission into crazed Hezbollah hornets’ nests; of soldiers stealing time as the sun rises to don tefillin and say the morning prayers; of Jewish eyes in helmeted heads turned upward toward heaven. Indications, all, that there are Jews on Israel’s dangerous borders who remember who they are. Similarly encouraging was the speech Israeli
The soldiers must fight and the leaders must lead. But what will ensure their success is something more sublime. Prime Minister Ehud Olmert delivered to the Knesset on July 17, shortly after Israel began its attacks on the terrorist army that, unprovoked, had killed seven Israeli soldiers and kidnapped two others. His explanation of why he had ordered the attack and his outlining of the military campaign’s goals were expected. What was remarkable, however, was his quoting from an Israeli rabbinate prayer beseeching G-d to “cause the enemies who rise up against us to be struck down” and to “preserve and rescue our fighters” and “grant them salvation and crown them with victory.” The unfortunate norm among all too many Israeli leaders (Menachem Begin was a laudable exception) has been to play up the El Macho and play down the Almighty. Even today, many of us wince when we hear Israeli politicians or military men strut and boast of how superior weaponry or military skills will see them through. It is therefore encouraging to see the “Jewish” in the “Jewish State” no longer quite so missing in action. Olmert not only offered a public prayer for
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Israel’s soldiers, but concluded his address with the poignant but hopeful words of the prophet Jeremiah: “A voice is heard on high, wailing, bitter weeping, Rachel weeps for her children; she refuses to be consoled for her children, for they are gone...Thus says G-d: Restrain your voice from weeping and your eyes from tears; for there is reward for your accomplishment… and they will return from the enemy’s land. There is hope for your future… and your children will return to their land.” The future toward which the prophet directs our hearts is the messianic era, when, Jewish tradition has it, all the world’s peoples will have come to recognize G-d, and the Jewish nation will live in peace and security in its ancestral land. And the key to that future is the Jewish people’s collective recognition that, in the end, Jews’ true protection, in Israel and anywhere, is not of our making. It is, rather, of our Maker. The soldiers must fight and the leaders must lead. But what will ensure their success is something more sublime. May Prime Minister Olmert’s speech prove but the beginning of a new, truly Jewish attitude, in Israel and throughout the world. A smile from heaven may have arrived in the form of an ancient manuscript of Psalms discovered in an Irish bog mere days after Olmert’s speech. The survival and legibility of the book, which was dated as more than 1000 years old, shocked archaeologists. What brightened countless religious Jews, though, was the chapter that it was reported to have been open to: Psalm 83. That would be the first of three Psalms that, at the behest of the Council of Torah Sages, have been recited by Jews worldwide over recent years as a prayer for the Jews in Israel. It speaks of how a conglomerate of nations aims to destroy the Jewish people and take over their land, and implores G-d to vanquish them, and bring them to “seek Your name.” In the merit of our knowing Who protects us, may the day arrive soon. Rabbi Shafran is Director of public affairs for Agudath Israel of America. His op-ed comes courtesy of Am Echad Resources; he can be reached at: Shafran@agudathisrael.org.
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. 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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As Conflicts in Middle East Heat Up, So Does Anti-Semitism Worldwide goats for Israeli policy, and increases their chances of coming under attack. Despite the recent spate of incidents, members of the Jewish community continue to lead their lives, Gardner says. by JENNIFER JACOBSON “There isn’t panic,” he says. Anti-Semitic incidents also have risen in WASHINGTON (JTA) -- Since the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah the United States in the wake of fighting began in mid-July, a form of hate older in Lebanon. According to the ADL’s annual audits, than the Jewish state increasingly is rearanti-Semitic incidents in the United ing its ugly head: anti-Semitism. July saw an attack against a synagogue States had declined slightly before the in Sydney, Australia, vandalism of syna- war began. The ADL’s most recent audit gogues and Jewish businesses in Miami recorded 1,757 anti-Semitic incidents in and a fatal shooting at Seattle’s Jewish 2005, slightly down from 1,821 incidents in 2004, the highest level of U.S. antiFederation. August brought more of the same: Semitism in nine years. Foxman expects that when the group Molotov cocktails and rocks were thrown at a synagogue in Brazil, a menorah was tallies the number of incidents for 2006, smashed at a Jewish chapel near Los the figure will again be higher. Still, that doesn’t mean anti-Semitism Angeles and anti-Israel vandals defaced here will approach the levels of Europe some 20 Jewish shops in Rome. It’s no coincidence that the number of during the intifada. In the United States, there’s “less tolerattacks against Jews and Jewish institutions spikes at a time of violence in the ance for racism, bigotry and anti-Semitic Middle East, as people sympathetic to the behavior,” Foxman says. And Americans Arab cause often take out their anger at are much quicker than Europeans to condemn such behavior, calling it “unIsrael on Jews closer to home. Jews in Europe typically bear the brunt American, immoral, un-Christian.” Other experts on anti-Semitism agree. of attacks far more than U.S. Jews. After In the United States, “it’s really hard to the Palestinian intifada began in September 2000, anti-Semitic incidents find a Jew who cannot participate in their society either individually in Europe skyrocketed. or collectively on a day...Foxman contends “This country does not to-day basis because of have the tradition of the United States has of anti-Semitism,” political violence and made sure perpetrators fear says Jerome Chanes, extremism that Europe author of A Dark Side of has,” says Abraham pay the consequences History: Anti-Semitism Foxman, National for anti-Semitic acts. through the Ages. Director of the AntiMeanwhile, he says, whatever antiDefamation League. The United States also has fewer frustrat- Semitic expression there is in Europe is ed and angry immigrants from Arab and related to the state of security of Jews there, Muslim countries, he says. More impor- which is not the case in the United States. While the Seattle shooting was directly tantly, Foxman contends, the United States has made sure perpetrators pay the conse- related to the Middle East conflict--the shooter, a radical Muslim, said he acted quences for anti-Semitic acts. But even if Israel’s war in Lebanon out of anger toward Israel--Chanes resumes, American Jews’ security will not emphasizes that it’s still a single incident be threatened significantly, say Jewish in a country of 280 million people. Neil Kressel believes he knows why leaders, who already have stepped up security measures at community organi- there haven’t been more such attacks. In publications and religious sermons comzations. That may not be true for Jews in ing out of most Muslim countries, “you find hate on the level of Nazism in terms Europe and elsewhere, however. Britain in particular has seen a spike in of demonization of Jews,” says Kressel, a anti-Semitic incidents following the start professor of psychology at William of the war in Lebanon. The Community Paterson University of New Jersey and Security Trust, which monitors the secu- author of Mass Hate: The Global Rise of rity of British Jewry, has recorded at least Genocide and Terror. “That hatred does 90 such incidents during July, says Mark not appear as much in Western Muslim populations or mosques.” Gardner, the group’s spokesman. The chance that frustrated Muslims will The incidents are primarily nonviolent and tend to involve abusive rhetoric, turn hateful words into violent actions is much greater in Europe, given its history threats, e-mails and graffiti. There’s “a range of things being said,” of Nazism and the fact that its social conGardner says, “most commonly, sympa- tract and application of free-speech laws thy for Hezbollah and calling Israel differ greatly from America’s, says Shai ‘Nazis,’ and at the same time saying Franklin, director of international organHitler should have finished off the Jews.” izations at the World Jewish Congress. “We give people more latitude in what In an average month, when tensions in the Middle East are not running high, they say,” he says. “In Europe, the effect Gardner says the Trust records 20-40 anti- of words can be a lot more incendiary, Semitic incidents. During the 1990s, and the political atmosphere, the press before the intifada, those figures were sub- atmosphere is much more critical of Israel.” stantially lower, some 15-25 per month. Rabbi Marvin Hier is frustrated at the In 2004 the Trust saw a record high of 532 incidents. In 2005 that number importance pundits place on trying to dropped to 455, still the second-highest find out why. The founder and dean of total since CST began recording such the Simon Wiesenthal Center has grown weary of the constant refrain that the incidents in 1984. Gardner calls conflicts in the Middle West must understand the root causes of East “trigger events.” When accusations Islamic fundamentalism and that these against Israel intensify--some in Britain people are really angry over injustice at have accused Israel recently of propagat- the hands of the West. “Why should we understand the root ing a massacre in Lebanon -- people “take their hatred out on any Jew they causes?” Rabbi Hier asks. “They’re the only people in the history of the world can find,” Gardner says. In Britain, anti-Israel sentiment has who’ve been angry? Other people do not become conflated with anti-Semitism, he behave in that manner. That’s what we says. This results in Jews becoming scape- should understand.”
FOCUS ON ISSUES
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 17
No Knockout Blow for Israel, But It Still Was a Victory on Points
BEHIND THE H EADLINES by URI DROMI JERUSALEM (JTA)--After a month of fighting, a cease-fire under the auspices of the United Nations has left all of us wondering: Is Israel better off than before the war with Hezbollah began? The answer depends on whether you’re an optimist or a pessimist -but I, for one, am a sworn optimist, and believe that recriminations aside, Israel has come out ahead. It’s true that the expectations Israeli leaders raised at the outset were exaggerated. Utterly destroying Hezbollah was an unrealistic goal: This is not a regular army with fixed targets that can be hit easily either from air or through ground operations. Rather, Hezbollah is a unique creature -- a terrorist organization that uses guerrilla tactics, with a secure territorial base in southern Lebanon and the backing of two states, Iran and Syria. In the six years since Israel evacuated southern Lebanon, Hezbollah managed to build a well-equipped, elusive army that could launch thousands of rockets from the yards of houses and mosques, using Lebanese civilians as human shields. By amassing rockets that can be launched with simple timers, Hezbollah managed to outwit Israel’s military superiority and harass northern Israel pretty effectively. “Israel will not agree to live with rockets fired on its citizens,” Prime Minister Ehud Olmert said when he addressed the nation on July 17 for the first time since the war began. But we must admit that even on the last day of fighting, Hezbollah launched 250 rockets--its single-day record during the war--with thousands more still ready to launch. Of course, there was a way to put an end to the Katyusha threat: All we had to do was declare that every Lebanese village from which a rocket was launched would be turned into a heap of rubble. But a democracy--even when fighting against an enemy that takes advantage of that democracy’s sensitivity to human life --shouldn’t aspire to resemble its enemy. Therefore, the Israel Defense Forces had to try to distinguish between Hezbollah militants and simple Lebanese citizens. Even with these self-imposed restrictions, the results were impressive: Most of Hezbollah’s long-range rocket launchers were destroyed, together with the group’s operational and logistic infrastructure, built up meticulously over the years; armed drones launched against Israel were shot down; and approximately 500 Hezbollah fighters were killed, perhaps a quarter of Hezbollah’s fighting force. Yet Hezbollah’s immediate losses are only part of the picture. With U.N. Security Council Resolution 1701, the situation in Lebanon has changed:
Hezbollah was forced to accept the Lebanese army’s deployment in southern Lebanon, augmented by a multi-national force, something the group had resisted for years. Israeli troops are still deployed in southern Lebanon, ready to act if Hezbollah refuses to disarm--as, indeed, it indicates that it will. The two Israeli soldiers kidnapped by Hezbollah on July 12, sparking the war, haven’t been returned, but Israel took captive enough Hezbollah fighters to make a swap possible. Voices in Lebanon now openly blame Hezbollah for the destruction it brought on the country, which had been rebuilding and returning to prosperity after 15 years of civil war. Last but not least, Hezbollah’s reckless adventure damaged its patron state, Iran: Not only was Iran’s forward outpost weakened, but the world is now much more aware of Iran’s sinister plans in the region. Israel suffered more than 150 casualties and a lot of physical damage. Yet contrary to Hezbollah leader Sheik Hassan Nasrallah’s prediction that Israel would prove as weak as a spider web, it didn’t collapse. Despite 4,000 rockets launched on their cities and towns, Israelis -- both on the home front and the battlefield -turned out to be as resilient as ever. As for Israeli deterrence, Israel has shown it still has the will to strike back. And if Syria or any other enemy should conclude that Israel has lost its military edge, they’re in for a bitter surprise: Chasing little pipes called Katyushas, hidden in garages, is one thing; destroying military formations and infrastructure, shooting down aircraft and hitting tanks is totally different. We don’t have a Six-Day War here, with Arab armies entirely defeated in a matter of hours, or an Entebbe raid, where a problem is swiftly and neatly solved. Israel didn’t score a knockout, as its leaders rashly promised at the outset of the war, but it definitely won a victory by points. Of course, that won’t stop Nasrallah from declaring victory himself. But it’s noteworthy that he did it from his hiding place, and only time will tell whether he will ever again be able to address his followers in city squares, or whether he’ll finish like Saddam Hussein or even meet a different fate altogether. Meanwhile, Olmert declared in the Knesset last week that Israel would continue to chase Hezbollah’s leaders, and would make them pay for their aggression. That may be true, but if I were Olmert, I’d subscribe to the memorable line from “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly”: “When you have to shoot, shoot. Don’t talk!’’ Col. Uri Dromi, a retired Israeli air force pilot, is director of international outreach at the Israel Democracy Institute in Jerusalem.
Page 18
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
August 25, 2006
Candlelighting Friday, August 25, 7:50 p.m.
Synagogue Listings B’nai Israel Synagogue 618 Mynster St. Council Bluffs, IA 51503-0766 322.4705 email: CBsynagogue@hotmail.com
Beth El Synagogue Member of United Synagogues of Conservative Judaism 14506 California Omaha, NE 68154-1980 492.8550 www.bethel-omaha.org
Beth Israel Synagogue Member of Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America 12604 Pacific St. Omaha, NE. 68154 556.6288 BethIsrael@OrthodoxOmaha.org
Beyt Shalom An Affiliate of the Jewish Reconstructionist Federation 3012 S. 119 St. P.O. Box 390352 Omaha, NE 68139 660.2395 www.beytshalomomaha.org
Chabad House An Affiliate of Chabad-Lubavitch 1866 S. 120th St. Omaha, NE 68144-1646 330.1800 nebraskajudaism.com email: chabad@aol.com
Congregation B’nai Jeshurun South Street Temple Union for Reform Judaism 2061 S. 20th St. Lincoln, NE 68502-2797 435.8004 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
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Poems for all occasions
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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 Becki and Tom Kahn, in honor of their daughter, Marissa, becoming a Bat Mitzvah; Evening Service, 8 p.m. WEEKDAY SERVICES: Sunday, 9 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.; Weekdays, 6:55 a.m./5:30 p.m. K’TANTAN PLUS: Aug. 26, 10:45-11:45 a.m. The program is open to children in K-6. For information, call Judy Rubin at 498.0904. ADULT EDUCATION SUNDAY: Bible Discussion, 10 a.m. LIVING HEBREW: Begins Sunday, Sunday, Aug. 27, 10 a.m., taught by Susi FrydmanLevin. “THE WEEKLY PARASHA: IT’S ALL ABOUT ME?!”: New class led by Andy Greenberg, begins Sunday, 10 a.m. Make a personal connection with and discover the ongoing relevance to weekly Torah readings. JEWISH POT POURRI: Class begins Sunday, 11 a.m., led by Frydman-Levin. All yearlong classes are $36 (with the exception of Bible study); to register or for more information, contact Margie Gutnik in the synagogue office, or at programming@bethel-omaha.org. “CREATING YOUR OWN BOOK OF LIFE”: Art class taught by Daniel Christensen, beginning Tuesday, Sept. 5 at 7 p.m., and scheduled for every Tuesday in Sept. Create your own Jewish memories. Cost is $18; for more information, contact Margie Gutnik in the synagogue office. BESTT: Classes begin Sunday, 10 a.m. Men’s Club will serve breakfast to all BESTT families. BESTT High School of Jewish Studies will begin on Wednesday, Aug, 30, 7 p.m., preceded by 6 p.m. dinner. ABBA, EEMA & ME: New learning play group, geared to
children from birth to three years old, and their parents, will begin Wednesday, Sept. 6, 9:30-11 a.m. Offers age-appropriate activities, singing and play time. All families in the Jewish community are invited to attend. For information, call Holly Weill at 493.5126, or Margie Gutnik at 492.8550.
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 330.1800 or visit www. Ochabad.com.
BETH ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE
CONGREGATION Office Hours: Mon.-Thurs., B’NAI JESHURUN
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 this week, but, sshh, it’s a surprise; Mincha, 7:30 p.m.; Havdalah, 8:50 p.m. SUNDAY: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Contact the office for Mincha/ Ma’ariv service time. WEEKDAYS: Shacharit, 7 a.m; Contact the office for Mincha/Ma’ariv time. WEDNESDAY: Beth Israel hosts Rochel Berman, author of Dignity Beyond Death, as a guest lecturer at 7:30 p.m. Her lecture is sponsored by the Jewish Funeral Home and is open to the community. THURSDAY: Women of the Torah class, 9:30 a.m. Babysitting is provided at no charge; Advanced Parshah Study, 9 p.m.
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. 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 Devorim (Deuteronomy), 10 a.m.; Aleph Champ for Adults, 10 a.m. WEEKDAYS: Minyan, 7 a.m. MONDAY: Halacha class, 7 p.m. TUESDAY: Women of Worth Prayer Circle, 9 a.m.
Services conducted by Rabbi Ilan Emanuel. FRIDAY: Shabbat Evening Service, 7:45 p.m. led by Rabbi Emanuel, with oneg provided by Mary and Bob Nefsky. Please Note: Our babysitter has resigned, and we are looking for a new sitter. In the meantime, there will be no sitter service available at Friday evening service. SATURDAY: Shabbat Morning Service, 9:30 a.m.; Torah Study, 10:30 a.m., all led by Rabbi Emanuel. THURSDAY: Choir Rehearsal, 7 p.m.; LJCS Back-to-School Curriculum Night, 7 p.m. at Tifereth Israel. For more information, contact Shoshanna Shaffin at 423.9455 or shoshinromania@ yahoo.com or Tracy Gordon at 477.0388 or tgordongjc@yahoo. com. The first day of religious school for all classes is Sunday, Sept. 10. 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.
OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE FRIDAY: Services, 7:30 p.m.
ROSE BLUMKIN JEWISH HOME SATURDAY: Services, 9 a.m. led by Andy Greenberg.
TEMPLE ISRAEL FRIDAY: Shabbat Service, 6 p.m. Rabbi Aryeh Azriel, Rabbi Eric Linder, and Cantor Wendy Shermet will officate. D’var Torah: Cantor Wendy Shermet. SATURDAY: Sparks Beneath the Surface, 9:15-10:15 a.m.; Shabbat Morning Service, 10:30
a.m. Samuel Noddle, son of Kim and Jay Noddle, will celebrate hisr Bat Mitzvah. SUNDAY: Teachers grades K-6 In-service, 8:30 a.m.–10:30 a.m. at Temple; Madrichim, 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. at Farmhouse Café. GOLF OUTING, Monday, 1 p.m. Shotgun start Ironwood Country Club. Call Dennis DePorte or Misty Heller at the Temple office to reserve your tee time in this day of fun and sun. TUESDAY, Aug. 29: Life Long Learning, Adult B’nai Mitzvah, 6:30–8 p.m. in the Temple Israel Library. Mark your calenders for Sunday, Sept. 10: First Day of Religious School.
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: Weekly Parashat 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. THURSDAY: Choir Rehearsal, 7 p.m.; LJCS Back-to-School Curriculum Night, 7 p.m. at Tifereth Israel. For more information, contact Shoshanna Shaffin at 423.9455 or shoshinromania@ yahoo.com or Tracy Gordon at 477.0388 or tgordongjc@yahoo. com. The first day of religious school for all classes is Sunday, Sept. 10. CONGREGATIONAL PICNIC Sunday, noon-4 pm. at the Brockman’s home for a kosher lunch, swimming, and fun. Bring a swimsuit and towel. If you can help, contact Julie Brockman. The Talmud classes will be held after the kiddush lunch on Shabbat starting Aug. 26. They will be led by Professors Bloom and Cahan.
B’NAI MITZVAH Grace Zweiback Hack, daughter of Rosie Zweiback and Mace Hack, will become Bat Mitzvah on Saturday, Sept. 2, at Temple Israel. Grace is an eighth-grade Distinguished Scholar Honor Roll student at Westside Middle School. Grace plays flute in the Hot Jazz Band at her school. Her interests include piano, basketball, and being a madricha for the Temple Israel Religious School. She spent one month in Israel studying Hebrew
at Ulpan Akiva in Netanya this summer. For her mitzvah project, Grace at the Mary volunteered Catherine McAuley Center for women and families. She brought games and art projects to do with the children who live at the shelter. For two hours each week, she led an activity, served a snack and played with the kids on their playground. She has a sister, Abby and a brother, Joe. Grandparents are Debbi and Speedy Zweiback, and Renee and Robert Hack of Greenwich, CT, and the late Hermene Zweiback.
Alex Kirshenbaum, son of Barb and Scott Kirshenbaum; Ryan Kirshenbaum, son of Marcy Noodell and Corey Kirshenbaum; and Bradley Kutler, son of Debi and David Kutler, will become B’nai Mitzvah on Saturday, Sept. 2, at Beth El. Alex is a seventh-grade student at Beadle Middle School. His interests include baseball, basketball, video games, and hanging out with friends. He has a sister, Rachel
and a two brothers, Kevin and Jacob. Grandparents are Shirley and Max Kirshenbaum, and Betty Gillogly and the late Bernard Gillogly. Ryan is an eighth-grade Superior Honor Roll student at K i e w i t M i d d l e School. His interests include soccer, basketball and baseball. He has a sister, Kylie. Continued on page 19
beginning the Week of Aug. 21, 2006
“It Was Elul” SPARKS FROM THE WORD by RABBI MYER S. KRIPKE Parashat Shoftim In traditional circles, the 27th Psalm is added to the daily service the whole month of Elul. And it continues to be recited until the High Holy Day season has been concluded. It is often called a “penitential psalm,” but the reader will note that it is a psalm of steadfast faith, rather than an appeal for forgiveness. Steadfast faith and unfaltering courage. I remember (when I was young and still impressionable!) hearing a rabbi preach on the first Shabbat of Elul. He was known as an architect with words and a spellbinder. He prided himself on building whole structures of religious ideas and concepts, sometimes profound, with the sheer power of his rhetoric and dramatic delivery. It need hardly be noted that this style of preaching is largely out of vogue among Jews and we tend to appreciate straightforward delivery and clear ideas rather than intoxicating word flow and dramatic voice and gesture. But this was long ago, comparatively. It was the day of the silver-tongued orator, and the rabbi whom I had heard on the subject had prided himself on the high sterling content of his delivery. “It was...Elul.” He went on to paint a word picture of the coming of Elul to the shtetl. It was profoundly disturbing emotionally to the simple-minded, religiously motivated Jewish faithful among our grandparents.
DEATHS SHEILAH RAE ISGUR KOCHEROV Sheilah Rae Isgur Kocherov died Aug. 15, in Kansas City, MO, at the age of 64 of metastatic breast cancer. Services were held Aug. 17, at Congregation B’nai Jehudah in Overland Park, KS. Born in Sedalia, MO, she attended Stephens College and the University of Missouri in Columbia, MO. She moved to Kansas City and commenced a life-long career working for the Jewish community, beginning with The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle and the Jewish Community Center. She also taught religious school and managed the school office at Temple Beth El. After joining Temple B’nai Jehudah, she worked in the religious school office and, in 1981, became a full-time administrative professsional. She is survived by her brother, Jack Isgur; son, J.T. Kocherov of Kansas City, MO; daughter and son-inlaw, Lesli and Michael Shrago; and grandsons, Ethan and Noah Shrago. Memorials to Congregation B’nai Jehudah, 12320 Nall, Overland Park, KS 66209, or to a cancer charity of your choice. EVELYN SPIEGAL VICTOR Evelyn Spiegal Victor died Aug. 19 in Highland Park, IL, at the age of 90. Services were held there. She was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Sam Victor. She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, John and Carol Victor; daughters and sons-in-law, Denise and Steve Krug and Debbie and Marty Shuster, all of Highland Park; six grandchildren; and her sister, Peggy Chasen. Memorials to Temple Israel.
B’NAI MITZVAH Continued from page 18 Grandparents are Shirley and Max Kirshenbaum, and Maxine and Jack Noodell. Bradley is a seventh-grade Superior Honor Roll student at Kiewit Middle School. His interests include basketball, and going to Herzl Camp in the summer. He has a two brothers, Adam and Matt. Grandparents are Harriet Kutler and the late Ben Kutler, and Shirley and Max Kirshenbaum.
at midwestclassiccars.com Jewish Press, Omaha, NE Page 19
Pulverente
August 25, 2006
Your newspaper has agreed to participate in the Nebraska Display Network program running Ad of judgment was atby hand. Thirty days ahead, The time these in the main news section approaching. butads relentlessly and ineluctably to be sure, of and yourTishrei newspaper the It was Elul was not(NOT far behind. classified section of your newspaper). For previous generations, none of this was taken lighttimes,ofadvertisers maywas request ly. The greatAt “Day Judgment” a day of judgment. a specific section, however, the or Virtue and sinfulness were the themes--expressed is ultimately up to each decision unexpressed--in everyone’s thinking. newspaper. The theme of teshuvah, repentance, ran through and All ads designed and distributed charged the whole atmosphere, for repentance was the by the NPAS are in SAU sizes.
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key to forgiveness. The very breeze, the sunlight, the lin[1 column 2 1/16 inches] gering shadows of=evening, the mysterious noises of the your using If night, all whispered:newspaper teshuvah. It is was...Elul. other size, you may need to to the new any Both nature and human nature responded adjust these ads to fit your format. page on the calendar. It was Elul. Please remember quality is important, The older colleague whom I heard deliver that sermon so please use the correct tools and is long gone, and so is his style of oratory. To be brutalcomputer programs to ensure most ofreproduction us would consider today, ly frank, quality of thesesuch ads. a sermon Nebraska Press Advertising well, corny. We would wonder whether the preacher was Service honest, sincere, genuine, or was he simply PLEASE DO NOT BILL FOR painting a picture fromTHESE number to number? ADS! There Payment is a “but.” ThePage “but” is 1that there was sincerity ____ procedures have already Fee Req. $99.50 in the listeners, and a simplicity of spirit that was reli-Central REF#P1011 Western been handled2x2 by Network the NPAS. Statewide ✔ Northeast Southeast gious in a true sense. The Holy Days approaching were Special Order the Yomim Noraim, of Awe. These ads, the Days Nebraska Press monthly bulletin, Those Association’s of us who have lost that simplicity, as a child ONE TIME, are to run These adsClassified Ads, and many it with someloses his Statewide innocence, must strive to replace Microwave popcorn factory workers have been diagnosed with the fatal lung disother itemsthecan be ofdownloaded effective, spiritually, on 2006 a more profound thing equally Aug.if 21, beginning Week ease bronchiolitis obliterans. The rare lung disease, which has been recently basis. through the NEAT system at: referred to as “popcorn worker’s lung”, consists of a serious and irreversible www.nebpress.com It is now Elul, Tishrei is The 27th Psalm Yourand newspaper hascoming. agreed to inflammation of the airways that lead to the lungs. If you or a loved one has sufends: “Hope in the in Lord be strong./Take courage; participate the and Nebraska Display fered as a result of exposure to diacetyl from microwave popcorn, please contact For questions regarding these ads, hope in the Lord.” Ad Network program by running attorney Greg Jones for a free, confidential consultation at 1-800-388-2815. please callthis the column NPAS at:was originally printed in (Editor’s note: these ads in the main news section Greg Jones & Associates’ principal office is at 3015 Market Street, Wilmington, NC 28403. 1-800-369-2850. Rabbi Kripke’s Insight of youranthology, newspaper (NOTand theInterpretation, associates A3 >attorneys B nationwide. " Mr. Jones is licensed in NC, SC & GA and with local publishedclassified in 1988.) section of your newspaper).
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by the NPAS areSynagogue in SAUName sizes. • Prague’s Jerusalem will mark its 100th Advertisers For the ad, ________________, & ##& #"$" anniversary with an exhibition on [1 column = 2 1/16 the Advertiser hasinches] requestedthe history of the S t a t e w i d e C l a sEsEiEf 8i >e9d7 < 5 1 = ; city’s Jewish The photo exhibit at the synaIfcommunity. yourinnewspaper is Name using Section placement your _______________ ATTENTION ADVERTISERS! For3abObS $195/25 classified can advertise in over 8S``g 1`OWU 9W\U) @SOZ 0`]YS`)word 8 > 9W\U /cQbW]\ you 1] 7\Q gogue, where services are held regularly, opens Sept. 10 any other size, you may need to 3fQZcaWdSFor >O`b\S` EV]¸a EV] W\ contact :cfc`g @SOZ section. 170 Nebraska newspapers. more]T information the3abObS Jewish Press at 334-6448 and will feature a rare glimpse of the city’s Jewish ghetadjust these ads to fit your format. or call 1-800-369-2850. to beforeFor it the was mostly demolished at the end of the Advertisers Please remember quality isName important, ad, ________________, Because could online. Call this newspaper to place your or motorcycle you YOUR classic car, truck in an to modernize 19th century so please useeffort thehas correct tools and the area. The SELL the Advertiser requested ad on the national www.midwestclassiccars.com web site for only $25.00 Your ad runs get into the game for FREE. Jerusalemplacement Synagogue was built in the Moorish style by computer in programs to ensure Section Name until your vehicle is sold! your _______________ quality reproduction these ads.a leader in the Viennesesection. architect WilhelmofStiassny, 1965 MUSTANG GT Fastback to be auctioned at the 25th Annual Cox Collector Car Viennese Jewish community. The exhibition at the Thank yousynfor using theBranson, Nebraska AdConsignment Network! Auction, Missouri,Display October 20-21. or bidding information: 800PLEASE DO heated, NOT BILL FORas long as the 335-3063. www.bransonauction.com. agogue, which is not will run THESE ADS! weather allows.
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to press the International Red Cross to ensure the safeThese ads, theIsraeli Nebraska PressCanadian Sen. ty of three kidnapped soldiers. Association’s Jerry Grafstein, who ismonthly Jewish, bulletin, and U.S. Rep. Alcee Classified Ads, many Hastings Statewide (D-FL) each wrote toand their respective counotherofitems canCross be downloaded tries’ branch the Red asking for pressure to be through the NEATRed system applied on the International Cross at: to inquire about www.nebpress.com and ensure the safety of Ehud Goldwasser and Eldad Regev, captured by Hezbollah, and Gilad Shalit, capFor questions regarding these ads, tured by Hamas. please call the NPAS at: “As an organization of enormous credibility and sta1-800-369-2850. tus, the ICRC can use their moral authority to verify the health and safety of the Israeli soldiers,” Hastings wrote in a July For 28 letter Jack McGuire, Advertisers Namethe American Red the ad,to________________, Cross chief executive. Hastings and Grafstein have met the Advertiser has requested through their work at the Organization for Security and Section Name placement in your _______________ Cooperation in Europe, a regional security organization section. with 56 participating states. Hezbollah and Hamas have allow Cross access refused toFor Advertisers Name to the captives, in the the ad, Red ________________, violation of international norms.
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the Advertiser has requested Section Name placement in your _______________ • A new restaurant in India is named after Hitler and section. has swastikas on its walls. The owner of the Hitler’s Cross restaurant in Bombay told Reuters that he just Advertisers Name For the ad, ________________, wanted to stand out from the crowd. India’s Jewish the Advertiser has requested community is protesting the Section name. Name
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August 25 - September 4, 2006 For more information visit U.S. MEAT Animal Research Center, near Clay Center, NE, has openings for truck drivers, tractor operators, livestock and labor positions. Jobs open through harvest and fall www.statefair.org
FULL-TIME technician needed to perform service work in power sports business. Send resume to: Attn: Scott, Kearney Yamaha, 511 2nd Ave. South, Kearney, NE 68847.
calving season. $11/hour, overtime after 50 hours. Call 402-762-4151 or send resume to: Terry Madson, U.S. Meat Animal Research Center, PO Box 166, Clay Center, NE 68933. UNL is committed to EEO/AA and ADA/504. Call if accommodation is required.
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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 are located on the Jewish Press home page; click on the box at the lower right.
DRIVERS: CDL training: $0 down, financing by Central Refrigerated. Drive for Central & earn up to $40K+ 1st year! 800-727-5865 Ext. 1110. www.centraldrivingjobs.net. TRUCK DRIVERS: CDL training. Up to $20,000 bonus. Accelerate your career as a soldier. Drive out terrorism by keeping the Army National Guard supplied. 1-800-GOGUARD.com/truck ATTN: COMPANY drivers! New pay package. Average $42,000 plus! $50 tarp pay. Bonuses for mileage, fuel, referral/retention. Great benefits. E.W. Wylie Corp. 1-877-9677648. www.wylietrucking.com. GOT TERMITES? Call Bear Termite Co. 29 years in business. We’ve earned the B.B.B. Excellence Award the last 6 years. Phone 800-241-7179.
Page 20
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
August 25, 2006
JCC Maccabi Games Athletes Heat Up Phoenix by RACHEL BLUM JCC Program Director Garnering medals in all three colors, 20 Omaha Jewish teens and three Israeli teens from the Western Galilee, our Partnership with Israel, competed in the 2006 JCC Maccabi Games in Phoenix, AZ, earlier this
audience of nearly 10,000 people about his experience and how he survived the terrorist attack upon his teammates. The athletes were touched by his words. Competition continued throughout the week, interspersed with community service, social and Judaic activities. Though the temperatures reached 110º, our
Team Omaha gathers for a quick photo before entering the parade of athletes at U.S. Airways Center--wearing, of course, their Nebraska “corn” hats.
Omaha athletes Dan Canfield, left, Ygal Schuller, and Cameron Stern enjoy the water at Big Surf Water Park in Phoenix.
month. The experience was one they will not soon forget, as they made new friends with 1300 of their peers from the United States, Mexico, Great Britain, Venezuela, and Israel. The Games began with Opening Ceremonies, which included the traditional Parade of Athletes. Teens circled around U.S. Airways Center as the Phoenix Jewish community welcomed each delegation. As a special tribute to the 11 Israeli athletes who were killed at the 1972 Olympics in Munich, survivor Dan Alon spoke to an
athletes played hard. Team Omaha brought athletes to play: Boys Basketball, Bowling, Golf, Soccer, Swimming, Table Tennis, and Tennis. Our athletes and medal winners are: Roie Amster, Table Tennis, two golds; Colin Belmont, Basketball; Daniel Canfield, Golf, bronze; Josh Danon, Basketball; Michelle Elkin, Tennis, gold; Michael Friedman, Golf, two golds; bronze; Andrew Godwin, Basketball; Justin Idelman, Basketball; Joey Kahn, Golf, bronze; Rachel Martin, Table Tennis and Racquetball, two golds; Dan Mayost, Tennis, silver; Arielle Pilley, Bowling; Josh Pilley, Bowling; Daniel Rahmani, Tennis; Mitchell Raznick, Basketball; Gil Rosi, Bowling; Jack Schrager, Basketball; Ygal Schuller, Table Tennis and Racquetball, silver; Zach Spooner, Table Tennis and Racquetball, bronze; Cameron Stern, Swimming; Alex Terry, Basketball; Effie Tsabari, Swimming; Nathan Wolf, Bowling, two golds, a silver, and a bronze. Planning for the 2007 JCC Maccabi Games has already begun. For information about how your teen can participate in the JCC Maccabi Games, please contact me at 334.6404.
Omahan Competes in His Second Maccabiah
Israeli members of the Omaha JCC Maccabi Team include 15-year-old teens from the Western Galilee, Omaha’s Partnership and Israel chaperone Eliran Asraf, second from left, Gil Rosi, left, Roi Amster, and Dan Mayost.
LAST CHANCE
Ben Jacobson, second row, right, returned from the recent international Maccabiah Games in Sydney, Australia, with a gold medal in basketball, won in competitions with Canada, Australia and another USA team. He was reunited with four of his teammates from the 2002 Maccabiah Games in Israel, when he played for the USA team.
LAST CHANCE
Send A Rosh Hashanah 36 Greetings B $
This year you can send your greetings through these very special ads that will run in our annual Rosh Hashanah issue. Each ad can be personalized with your name, the names of your children or your grandchildren. Just fill out the form below and send or bring it to the Jewish Press office. But hurry these ads will only be accepted through August 31, 2006.
Rosh Hashanah Greetings Form Name ___________________________________________________________________________________ Address _________________________________________________________________________________ City ____________________________________________ State ____________ Zip ____________________ Check the size of ad you would like: ❍ A ❍ B ❍ C Use the lines below to list your family members names you would like on your Rosh Hashanah ad. __________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________
LAST CHANCE ROSH HASHANAH Greetings from
Your names go here
Rosh Hashanah Greetings from Your names go here
$
47
C $
70
Greetings
Rosh Hashanah from
_______________________________________________________________________________________
Please send a check for the amount listed along side the different sized ads or you can drop the form and payment off at the Jewish Press office in the JCC. Jewish Press, 333 South 132 Street, Omaha, NE 68154
Your names go here