Sponsored by the Benjamin and Anna E. Wiesman Family Endowment Fund AN AGENCY OF THE JEWISH FEDERATION OF OMAHA
Attack near Eilat kills 7
August 26, 2011 26 Av 5771 Vol. 90 | No. 50
This Week
by MARCY OSTER of the Mubarak regime in JERUSALEM (JTA) – After Egypt last winter, the Sinai -a deadly string of terrorist the part of Egypt that abuts attacks in southern Israel, southern Israel -- has become officials in Jerusalem are on an increasingly lawless place. the alert for how instability in Militants have attacked and neighboring Egypt may be disabled the gas pipeline that opening up more avenues for runs from Egypt to Israel terrorists intent on attacking multiple times, and Bedouin Israel. smugglers run a brisk trade Thursday’s coordinated under the border between attacks left seven Israelis dead Egypt and Gaza, which is con-- six civilians and one soldier trolled by Hamas. -- and seven terrorists were On Thursday, Israeli media killed in subsequent firefights reported that some of the with Israeli soldiers. attackers had fled across the Palestinian gunmen attacked border into Egypt, and that two buses and two cars travelEgyptian border troops ing near the southern resort opened fire on the terrorists. city of Eilat just after noon Egypt said it was not involved Thursday, according to the in the attack. Israeli soldiers carry an injured person on a stretcher at the Soroka Medical Center in Israel Defense Forces. When The attack began with the Beersheba following a Palestinian terrorist attack near the Egyptian border, Aug. 18, 2011. Israeli troops arrived, roadside ambush of Egged bus 392, Credit: Shay Levy/Flash 90 bombs planted by the terrorists which runs between detonated. More than 40 people were the Sinai Peninsula and the expan- believe that they can attack our citi- Beersheba and Eilat. Gunmen also sion of terrorist activity there,” zens and get away with it, they will attacked a car whose passengers reported injured in the attacks. At the same time that the vehicles Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barak soon learn how wrong they are,” he included two young children on near Eilat came under fire, said. He added that Israel’s military said. “We will exact a price, a very their first-ever trip to Eilat. Palestinians in Gaza fired rounds of will retaliate against the attacks, heavy price.” One of the Egged buses shown on Israeli officials believe that Israeli television had several of its mortar fire at Israeli soldiers work- which he said “originate in Gaza.” Prime Minister Benjamin Palestinian terrorists crossed from windows shot out and bullet holes ing near the security fence where Netanyahu in a statement also spoke the Gaza Strip into Egypt in order to on its side. The driver managed to Gaza, Egypt and Israel meet. infiltrate Israel’s border near Eilat, keep the bus on the road during the The attacks “demonstrate the of harsh retaliation. “If the terrorist organizations some 150 miles away. Since the fall Continued on page 2 weakening of Egypt’s control over
Backyard Concert Series to feature The Tara Vaughn Band Page 5
The RussianAmerican Jews of Russian Dolls Page 6
Performer Ruvane Kurland to lead Rockfilah
Top gymnast gives Hava Nagila a perfect 10 Page 12
Inside Point of view Synagogues In memoriam
Next Month Rosh Hashanah See Front Page stories and more at: www.jewishomaha.org, click on Jewish Press
8 10 11
by SANDRA KURLAND Singer/songwriter and Council Bluffs native Ruvane Kurland’s 2011 Summer Tour will bring him to the area Friday, Aug. 26 at 7:30 p.m. to lead Shabbat evening services at B’nai Israel in Council Bluffs, followed by two concerts; Cellar 19 located at 928 Valley View Dr., Council Bluffs on Saturday, Aug. 27, 7 p.m. and Sugar Clay Winery at 1446 240th St. in Thurman, IA on Sunday, Aug. 30, 2 p.m. Branded as “Rockfilah”, Kurland has shared his musically intensive, accessible, ethereal service around the country. “I hope to offer a musical vehicle to help congregants pray in a more meaningful way,” Kurland said. “The goal is to offer a service that people can feel comfortable participating in, whether it’s singing
along, humming, or just letting the music wash over them.
Ruvane Kurland Although Kurland has written numerous liturgical melodies, his concerts are purely secular. Kurland, now living in Ohio, was raised in Council Bluffs, and has been touring the Midwest for nearly 15 years. His music has been described as acoustic rock. He is recognized for his passion, honesty and entertaining stage presence, as he skillfully takes his fans on a musical journey with his visual lyrics. Always looking for new ways to create a rich, layered sound, Continued on page 4
Friedel makes a move by MARY SUE GROSSMAN CJE Associate Executive Director The Kripke Jewish Federation Library will be an extra busy space each Tuesday during the school year. The Friedel Jewish Academy library has moved to the Kripke Library, and the students will have
act and called the Center for Jewish Education. The answer was an immediate “absolutely, let’s make this happen,” and the project was underway. In July, it was a great team effort involving the JCC maintenance staff, Friedel staff, Center for
From left to right: Matan Shapiro, Danny Denenberg, Rachel Aoki, Rachel Kricsfeld, and Doron Margalit. library time “down the hall” instead of in the former library space at Friedel. With Friedel’s enrollment reaching an all-time high for the new school year -– there are now 59 students! -– additional classroom space was immediately needed. The idea had been floated some time ago about moving the Friedel library to the Kripke Library. When the enrollment number came through, Ron Giller, Friedel’s principal, realized it was time to
Jewish Education staff and volunteers making the move a reality. Joyce Stranglen, the Friedel librarian, and Lisa Stephan, administrative assistant, had perhaps the most daunting task, going through the Friedel collection, boxing the materials and preparing for the move down the hall. “We had great help in making the transition and we are very pleased with the move,” commented Ron Giller. “The former Friedel Continued on page 3
2 | The Jewish Press | August 26, 2011
A primer on Palestinian statehood
Luxury Living in the Westside School District 8440 Loveland Drive | $1,450,000
This outstanding 2.5 story home is tucked away on a private lot just a 1/2 block from Westside High. The custom built home contains majestic pillars, professional landscaping, a timber front porch, a 20x40’pool, and many other opulent finishes.
844 S 96th Street | $440,000
You really need to see this sprawling 4 BR, 5 BA Ranch in Regency. The home has a massive fenced yard, tons of storage, a side load garage, hardwood floors, tons of built-ins, and two master suites! Huge lower level Rec Room.
605 S 94th Avenue | $399,900
Location. Location. Location. Massive, well landscaped backyard. Large rooms throughout - main floor Family Room. Beautiful hardwood floors. Lots of storage and plenty of closet space. Finished basement. A very well maintained home!
Find more information at OmahaHouses.com
402-496-7499
“We like our mom living at Remington Heights because the staff cares about her.” – Steve and Hugh Sons of Louise A., a happy resident of Remington Heights
Call 402.493.5807 today to schedule your personal tour.
1.11
12606 W. Dodge Rd. | Omaha, NE 68154 www.remingtonheightsretirement.com
by URIEL HEILMAN Israel to dig in its heels. NEW YORK (JTA) -- On Sept. 20, when the annual sesBeyond that, Israeli experts have warned, Israel may consion of the U.N. General Assembly opens, Palestinian sider the unilateral Palestinian bid for U.N. recognition an Authority President Mahmoud Abbas is expected to ask abrogation of the Oslo Accords, which stipulated that the U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon to present a framework for resolution of the conflict be negotiations Palestinian request for statehood recognition to the U.N. between the two parties. If the Oslo Accords, which proSecurity Council. vides the basis for the limited autonomy the Palestinians The long-anticipated request will kick off a chain of events currently have in the West Bank, are nullified, Israel may rethat some analysts are warning could result in a new parox- occupy portions of the West Bank from which its forces have ysm of violence in the Middle East. withdrawn, end security cooperation with the Palestinian Here is a guide to what might happen, and what it might Authority and withhold hundreds of millions of dollars in mean. tax money it collects on behalf of the Palestinian Authority. What do the Palestinians want the United Nations to recWhat are some of the other possible negative conseognize? quences for the Palestinians of U.N. statehood recognition? The Palestinians want recognition of the state of Palestine The U.S. Congress has threatened to ban assistance to the in the entirety of the West Palestinian Authority if it Bank, Gaza and eastern pursues recognition of Jerusalem. The West Bank statehood at the United -- an area controlled by Nations. That could cost Jordan from the end of the Palestinians as much Israel’s War of as $500 million annually, Independence in 1949 potentially crippling the until it was captured by Palestinian government. Israel in the 1967 Six-Day What’s the plan for the War -- includes lands on day after the U.N. vote? which Jewish settlements It’s not clear. The now sit. Eastern Jerusalem Palestinian leadership was effectively annexed by doesn’t seem to have a Israel, but the internationplan. The Palestinian pubal community views it as lic is expected to stage occupied territory. In total, mass demonstrations. Israeli soldiers scuffle with Palestinians during a demonstration more than 600,000 Jews Israel is preparing for a near the West Bank village of Beit Omar, Aug. 13, 2011. Some anareside in eastern Jerusalem host of worst-case scenarlysts have warned that a U.N. vote on Palestinian statehood could and the West Bank. ios, including violence. set off a new wave of Palestinian-Israeli violence. What’s the legal process If the United Nations Credit: Najeh Hashlamoun/Flash 90 for becoming a state? does endorse Palestinian The U.N. Security Council’s approval is required to statehood in some form, it will be seen as a public relations become a U.N. member state. The United States, which is victory for the Palestinians. But in the absence of progress one of the 15-member council’s five permanent, veto-wield- on the ground in the Middle East, a U.N. vote could set off ing members, has promised to veto a Palestinian statehood popular Palestinian protests against Israel that could escaresolution. late into another Palestinian intifada. Is there a way for the Palestinians to overcome a U.S. No one knows what another Palestinian intifada will look veto? like. It’s possible that soon after a U.N. vote, Palestinians will Not in the Security Council. However, the Palestinians march on Israeli settlements and military positions much still could seek statehood recognition at the U.N. General like Palestinians in Syria and Lebanon marched on Israel’s Assembly. While a General Assembly vote in favor of borders in mid-May to commemorate Nakba Day -- the day Palestinian statehood would not carry the force of law, the marking the anniversary of the “catastrophe” of Israel’s passage of such a resolution would be highly symbolic and founding. represent a significant public relations defeat for Israel. Or a U.N. vote could unleash a new wave of violence, with Is there any benefit short of full statehood recognition attacks and counterattacks that destroy the relative calm that that the Palestinians can obtain at the United Nations? has held between Israel and West Bank Palestinians since Yes. The Palestinians already have non-member perma- the second intifada waned in 2004. nent observer status at the United Nations, which they The outbreak of violence, however, could undermine obtained in 1974. Palestinian interests. In the relative absence of Palestinian This time, the General Assembly could vote to recognize terrorism in recent years, the Palestinians have managed to Palestine as a non-member U.N. state, which would put get increased economic assistance, established upgraded Palestinian U.N. membership on par with that of the diplomatic ties with nations throughout the world, rallied Vatican. While being a non-member state wouldn’t give the more global support for their cause, and seen a considerable Palestinians much more than they have now as a non-state rise in their GDP and quality of life in the West Bank. They observer, it would be another symbolic victory. don’t want to throw that all away. If the Palestinians can get a two-thirds majority in support That may leave the Palestinians and Israel back where they of statehood in the General Assembly, they also could put started before talk of U.N. recognition began: at a standstill. forward a so-called Uniting for Peace resolution. This nonbinding, advisory resolution could provide legal cover to nations wanting to treat Palestine as a state -- for example, allowing sanctions and lawsuits against Israel to go forward. The Uniting for Peace option was first used to circumvent a Continued from page 1 Soviet veto in the Security Council against action during the attack and drove to the nearest Israeli army checkpoint Korean War, and it was employed during the 1980s to prowhile soldiers riding the bus exchanged fire with the tect countries that sanctioned apartheid South Africa from attackers, according to reports. being sued under international trade laws. After the attacks near Eilat, Israeli jets reportedly carWhy are the Palestinians seeking statehood recognition ried out an airstrike on a site in Rafah, in the Gaza Strip, from the United Nations rather than negotiating directly that killed the head of the Palestinian Popular Resistance with Israel? Committees and five other members of the group, the The Palestinian leadership has eschewed renewed peace Palestinians said. The group reportedly was responsible talks with Israel, either because Abbas believes that talks for the attacks. The IDF did not confirm the strike. with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu won’t proMeanwhile, Ynet reported that the Iron Dome missile duce desired results or because Abbas believes he has more defense system intercepted a rocket fired at Ashkelon to gain by going to the international arena -- or both. from Gaza. Abbas essentially is gambling that the U.N. move will give The Prime Minister’s Office urged Israeli citizens to him more leverage vis-a-vis Israel, making it more difficult heed travel warnings against visiting the Sinai. for the Israelis to stick to their current negotiating positions Opposition leader Tzipi Livni called for retaliation and and establishing the pre-1967 lines as the basis for negotiasaid her Kadima Party “will support the government tions. when it comes to anti-terrorism operations and closing What tools does Israel have to respond to the Palestinian the border.” bid? The White House in a statement said, “We condemn Israel’s strategy now is trying to persuade as many nations the brutal terrorist attacks in southern Israel today in the as possible -- as well as the Palestinians -- that a U.N. vote strongest terms.” It also said that “The U.S. and Israel favoring Palestinian statehood would set back the peace stand united against terror, and we hope that those track. The argument is that it would make it less likely that behind this attack will be brought to justice swiftly.” Israeli-Palestinian negotiations would succeed, forcing
Attack near Eilat kills 7
August 26, 2011 | The Jewish Press | 3
Enriching summer conventions energize Beth El teachers by JILL BELMONT Beth El Publicity Coordinator While Beth El students were enjoying their relaxing summer and not thinking about school, several of their religious-school teachers were thinking of nothing but Hebrew school, as they participated in continuing-education programs for Jewish educators. The Coalition for the Advancement of Jewish Education drew Beth El Synagogue Talmud Torah (BESTT) teachers Annie Rifkin, Maya Wertheimer and Deborah Kronick to its annual convention held July 31-Aug. 3 in Greensboro, NC. Every summer, NewCAJE (“new” was added to the name to reflect the organization’s new agenda for Andy Greenberg the 21st century), the largest North American Jewish educators’ organization, brings together over 1,000 educators to learn together, celebrate together and enhance their professional development. According to the NewCAJE website, convention participants include classroom teachers, principals, rabbis, cantors, camp and youth work personnel, academicians, writers, artists, students and lay leaders. Attendees and presenters come from North America, Israel, Europe, Australia, the U.K., Central and South America, and Africa, and represent Orthodox, Conservative, Reform, Reconstructionist and secular humanist backgrounds. Rifkin, a first-time attendee, said she went to the convention because, “I have been wanting to find new ways to teach Hebrew and Torah stories to my Pre-Kindergarten kids and new programs to do with the BBYO teens. Judy [Rubin, BESTT Education Director] mentioned it during a staff meeting and encouraged me to go. She thought I’d really enjoy it and get a lot out of it, and she was right.” Rifkin’s workshop sessions dealt with topics such as learning new ways to engage families and teens in collecting tzedakah and helping homeless people; plus examining Jewish morals and moral dilemmas in TV and movies. She was also inspired by a workshop titled “Torah Alive,” which involved the use of play-acting to teach Torah to preschool students, as well as another session which presented ways to utilize everyday children’s books to teach Jewish morals and values. Rifkin cited the convention’s nightly concerts, featuring contemporary Jewish singers such as Julie Silver and Michelle Citrin, as memorable highlights of her trip. “My favorite thing about these concerts was that we weren’t just sitting and listening to someone talk or sing; we were all singing together and the performers were always inviting other performers to come sing with them. It was like
Out
Dining “since 1920”
Deborah Kronick
Annie Rifkin
Among the workshops that resonated with her was one which used creative melodies to teach the Sh’ma, as well as art projects to help students connect with the feelings and meanings of that prayer. “I hope to blend many of the new ideas I learned about at NewCAJE throughout the year,” Kronick said. She added that thanks to technology, “Many of the presenters are sending their PowerPoint presentations to us via email, which makes it even more accessible for us to remember and make useful throughout the school year.” At the end of July, Andy Greenberg, a longtime BESTT teacher, headed to Siegal College in Cleveland, to attend Moreh L’Morim, a four-day summer institute devoted to Judaic and educational growth for Jewish educators. From the get-go, he was drawn to the atmosphere, the workshops and their presenters, according to BESTT Education Director Judy Rubin. “On the first day of Andy’s conference, he texted me about
how wonderful the courses and the experience of being at a Jewish educators’ conference for the first time was for him,” she said. “It brought a smile to my lips and tears to my eyes. The staff at BESTT is passionate about what they do and I was so happy to be able to send them this summer.” It was pointed out to attendees that in secular education, students are taught to answer questions; in Jewish education, they’re taught to ask questions, so teachers should encourage questions, as well as an exploration as to why Judaism is important and why one benefits from following Jewish traditions, laws and spirituality. During another workshop which focused on Jewish prayer, spirituality, plus Torah and Talmud, “The unexpected outcome was the elevation of my own spirituality and understanding of the subject matter and nuances found in Jewish texts,” Greenberg said, crediting the facilitator who was able to communicate the subject matter from Conservative, Reform, Orthodox and Reconstructionist approaches. “Each morning at minyan he presented material in such a way to the congregants that it appeared that the words of the prayer book leaped off and directly impacted our emotional, spiritual and physical being,” he said. “Frankly, none of us wanted to see the minyan end, yet the feeling that we had established lasted and blessed us the entire day. “As a teacher, my responsibility to students and parents is to duplicate that feeling for each of us every day.” Rubin noted that attendance at these summer conventions was made possible thanks to a grant from the Herbert Goldsten Trust; she also expressed pleasure that these continuing-education experiences had such a powerful impact on her teachers. “These summer conventions are a wonderful way for educators to connect with each other and share fresh, creative ideas,” she said, “and I know that our students will benefit greatly from the inspiration these teachers have brought home with them.”
Friedel makes a move Continued from page 1 library space is now our 3rd and 4th grade combination classroom. And the JCC’s Omaha Room, which we used last year as our 2nd grade classroom, will be used this year as a Hebrew classroom and music room.” He continued, saying “Community members tell me they love seeing the students, and the library move gives them the chance to see our kids that much more.” Located next to the Kripke Library’s children’s section, the Friedel shelves fit right in and were supplemented with existing library shelving from which materials had been
relocated. Friedel materials are clearly delineated for use by Friedel students, families and staff. The Center for Jewish Education staff is very excited to welcome the Friedel staff and students to the library. In addition to their Friedel materials, students are encouraged to check-out and utilize the library’s collection. We hope students and families will come to the library after school as well. The Kripke Library’s hours have recently expanded and are now 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Thursday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday.
ces.
i e erv ceiv rsing S E e M r I DT Nu and ITE W -homets only LIM O ll N * inNew Clien Ca * FE OF
10%
3151/2 So. 16th St.
CANTONESE FOODS and CHINESE FAMILY-STYLE DINNERS • Luncheon Specials 11-2 Mon-Sat • DINNER SERVED 5-9 Mon-Sat • Take Out Orders Available to 9 pm OPEN Daily 11 am-9 pm CLOSED Sundays & Holidays
402-341-3437
Fine Indian Cuisine and Indian Fusion Check our new extended wine list
12 different wines by the glass, 10 by the 1/2 bottle and 137 by the full bottle. Lunch Thurs, Fri.: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Dinner Sun.-Thurs.: 5 - 9:30 p.m. Dinner Fri., Sat.: 5 - 10:30 p.m.
Rockbrook Village 108th and Center Streets
www.jaipurbrewhouse.com
a song session at camp or BBYO conventions, and I loved it.” For Kronick, the NewCAJE convention provided her the opportunity to pick up new ideas for both her BESTT classes and “Say Shalom to Shabbat,” a monthly Shabbat celebration for six- to 10-year-old children, which she leads at the synagogue.
402-392-7331
Outdoor Patio Now Open!
R
off
When you want the best of care rely on
Custom Care Home Nursing “Angie knew exactly what needed to happen and how to make it happen. Suddenly all focus shifted from crisis to purpose, with an experienced set of eyes to guide us through unfamiliar terrain. Fortunately, there was someone on the scene making sure nothing was overlooked, making sure I was comfortable, that I was getting my medications exactly on time, and that everything was taken care of.” | Bruce A. Simon; President/CEO, Omaha Steaks
You’ve worked hard to build a lifestyle that affords you the freedom to enjoy the finer things in life. You want to be at home in an environment where you are comfortable. That’s where we come in. We specialize in working with clients just like you to provide the highest quality care, dedicated personal attention, and a commitment Serving Omaha to confidentially and discretion. Our goal is to augment the life you’re already living For more information about our by providing the help you need to keep doing what you love. This is why you elite in-home nursing care services, want Custom Care. call us at 402.320.3700 www.customcarenursing.com Raising the Standards of Serving Excellence
4 | The Jewish Press | August 26, 2011
Engagement
B’nai B’rith offers half-price sale in New Year’s membership drive by BETH GERSHOVICH B’nai B’rith Administrative Assistant The Henry Monsky Lodge has a very proud history and tradition in Omaha. Known as the “Lodge of Presidents,” two of its members, Phil Klutznick and Henry Monsky, went on to lead B’nai B’rith at the international level. In addition, for over 60 years, the Lodge has held a weekly lunch session, called Breadbreakers. “It’s like a mini press conference,” Gary Javitch, the current chair said. “Over the years, we have had some great speakers, as we seek out ‘the prominent and pre-eminent, the interesting and influential.’ “We have been able to get speakers from Omaha, across the state and around the country. The best thing is that the noon meeting is free and open to the public; an optional lunch is available for $10.” Past guests included the Chief Justice of the Nebraska Supreme Court (Norm Krivosha), governors (Nelson, Johanns, and Heineman), university leaders (Perlman, Fr. Schlegel, and Christensen), world renowned scientists (Drs. Gendelman and Cowan), as well as people from all walks of life. Javitch, who is also the local lodge’s President Emeritus, said, “We are looking for additional members to continue
the legacy of the Lodge. So we are having a half-price New Year’s sale to make joining very attractive.” “We are offering special membership prices to new B’nai B’rith members from now through Oct. 10, right after Yom Kippur. One year memberships for individuals (35 and under) are $23; for Couples (35 and under) are $34. Other memberships for individuals are $45 and for couples, $68.” Howard Shandell, the chair for the 58th Annual B’nai B’rith Charity Sports Banquet, added that we are also seeking volunteers to help for the May 9, 2012 event. Open to both men and women, the Monsky Lodge is one of the most active in the country. The proceeds from the membership and the banquet support BBI and the local B’nai B’rith Youth Organization. Lodge funds also provide scholarships, youth programming, and social action activities. At the international level, funds are used for disaster relief (most recently to help in tornado-ravaged Joplin, Missouri, and tsunami-devastated Japan through IsraAID), fighting anti-Semitism, especially in Europe and South America, and to subsidize Jewish Senior Housing. “Through our many Lodge activities, you can be heard, be effective and be involved,” Javitch concluded. For more information, call Beth in the B’nai B’rith office at 402.334.6443.
Essence of Judaism
A Guy’s view GUY MATALON, Jewish Federation of Omaha Scholar in Residence It is clear that we have multiple interpretations of Judaism. Beyond the denominational definitions of what Judaism is, there are multiple, if not infinite, differences as to how Jews understand Judaism. This diversity of definitions, from Reform, Conservative, Reconstructionist, Modern Orthodox, Orthodox, Hasidic, Humanistic and Secular, sometimes causes confusion and serves as a source of debate. The Jewish Press published several articles, by Joel Alperson and Rabbi Eric Yoffe, about what works or doesn’t work when it comes to Jewish futures. The argument, as I see it, is not so much about what will ensure Jewish survival but what is the essence of Judaism. That is, is there a core that all Jews share or ought to share? What are the basic teachings of Judaism that should serve as the common denominators for all Jews? The essence of Judaism is the idea that God has estab-
lished a covenant or agreement with us as individuals and as a people. The covenant has responsibilities; those responsibilities are called mizvot (commandments) and although there are many of them, we can categorize them into two major categories for our convenience: responsibilities that we have toward God and responsibilities that we have toward fellow human beings. Our purpose, in a narrow sense, is to fulfill our responsibilities to both God and human beings. There needs to be a balance between them – that is, we should not privilege one category at the expense of another. Our responsibility to God and other human beings is equal and a balance must be maintained. Judaism without God is just as hollow as Judaism without social justice. But if truth be told, there is an order to things. To quote the Prophet Isaiah, “Purify yourselves; remove your evil deeds from My sight. Cease to do evil; learn to do good. Devote yourselves to justice, aid the wronged, uphold the rights of the orphan; Defend the cause of the widow.” (1.16-7) Tikkun Olam begins with self-reflection and introspection about how we live our lives that leads to a more ethical and moral life. It then requires a commitment to Jewish learning in order to perform good deeds. Once that process has begun, it is appropriate to begin on a course of repairing the rest of the world.
!"# !
VASKO/SPATZ Tina Marie Vasko and Benjamin Michael Spatz announce their engagement. The bride-to-be graduated from University of Nebraska at Omaha with a Banking and Finance Degree. She is a Senior Financial Analyst for First National Bank of Omaha. She is the daughter of Jenna and Ted Vasko and the granddaughter of JoAnn and Rudy Vasko and Joan and the late Edward Hayes of Springfield, NE. Her fiancé received his BS in Chemistry and Minor in Economics from Northwestern University. He works for Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics as a Sales Representative. He is the son of Gale and Ken Spatz of Cornelius, NC, and the grandson of the late Belle and Eugene Spatz, and the late Elaine and Sol Hiller. A wedding is planned for Oct. 22, 2011 at the Dowd Memorial Chapel at Boys Town followed by a reception at Omaha Country Club.
Ruvane Kurland Continued fron page 1 Kurland has incorporated looping technology into his live shows -- enabling him to play an electric guitar, ukulele and beat box over acoustic guitar loops that were created live in front of his audience. Drawing comparisons to such acts as Jack Johnson, John Mayer and Dave Matthews, Kurland has performed for Hillary Clinton, and has made several radio and television appearances. His song I Don’t Know was featured on the Chicagoland Musicians Compilation CD. Kurland’s recording studio, “Atmosphere Room” is based in his Reynoldsburg, OH, home where his 2009 release, Life in 360º was recorded. Good Morning, a cut from that album, featured Jimi “Jazz” Prescott (G. Love and Special Sauce) and was recently incorporated into a product launch for the restaurant chain Noodles and Company. His music has also been featured in the WGN show Around the World for Free. All are welcome to attend the special musical service at B’nai Israel Synagogue and the performances at Cellar 19 and Sugar Clay Winery. For more details visit www.ruvanekurland.com. Please send all articles, photos and ads to the Press by Thursdays, 9 a.m., for all regular issues. Questions? Call 402.334.6448.
Out
Dining
JIM & JENNIE’S GREEK VILLAGE Traditional Greek Dishes
!"#$% !""'(
♦ Roast Lamb ♦ Fish Plaki ♦ Stuffed Grape Leaves ♦ Chicken Reganato ♦ Souviaki ♦ Mousaka
TAKE-OUT
♦ Sanganaki ♦ Spanakopita ♦ Lamb Kabob ♦ Chicken Kabob ♦ Seafood Specialties ♦ Full Bar
CATERING
3026 No. 90th St. • 402-571-2857
(!"#+)0# (8/! )8, 7469: ;<!,/#+ + <## +&) # 7:: 8=!>!? ,# 467@:
EL ALAMO
%#!& ' ()*#+ ), &,#-.#/ #0 .(!/#+1
“Best Mexican Food”
ilumin is more than specialized care from board-certified ophthalmologists. And it’s more than just a warm cup of coffee and a comfortable space to spend your family’s precious time. It’s a premier eye care experience.
<#A#,/' (8/! )8, BC: <#A#,/' .!<"D!' +&) # 77: 8=!>!? ,# 4677B
Nachos • Guacamole • Tacos • Fajitas Burritos • Shrimp • Enchiladas Combination Dinners Carnitas • Tostadas Tamales • Arroz Con Pollo • Machaca MEXICAN BEER Corona • XX • Bohemia • Tecate • Carta Blanca Open for Lunch and Dinner 11 a.m.-9 p.m. OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK
Take a look inside at iluminBeauty.com or call 402.933.6601. specialties • medical + surgical eye care, including laser treatment routine eye exams • cataract surgery • cornea surgery • macular degeneration therapy • retinal + vitreous disorders • diabetic eye care
2345677
4917 South 24th St. • 402-731-8969
Backyard Concert Series: Something for everyone by SHERRIE SAAG Community Development Associate, Jewish Federation of Omaha The Backyard Concert Series kicks off in a few short weeks with musical acts covering jazz, funk, rock, and blues. Those who follow the local music scene will be familiar with some of the bands, while those of us not so up-to-date can enjoy the music for the first time and choose our favorites. Each week features three local bands performing from 5-8 p.m. The line-up includes: Sept. 11 Jorge Nila’s The SuperNinjas, The Tara Vaughn Band, and the Klezmorim Sept. 18 Mezcal Brothers, Solid Goldberg, and the RB Zone Sept. 25 Polydypsia, The Mitch Gettman Band and The Brad Cordle Band The series begins with The SuperNinja’s, a Latin Jazz big band whose members hail from as far away as Chile and Mexico to New York City and of course, Omaha. They blend modern Latino rhythms with classic harmonies, in combination with modern jazz influences. The Mezcal Brothers of Lincoln, NE, take the stage on Sept. 18. Together seven years,
their style of roots rock and rockabilly is cemented on their fourth and most recent album, Go Go Rhythm. Recently returned from a European tour, they signed with Spinout Records of Nashville. On Sept. 25, Polydypsia, meaning “extensive thirst,” takes the stage with its blend of jazz, funk, and rock. With influences from Frank Zappa, George Benson, Miles Davis, and Ramsey Lewis, their music evokes sounds from an ‘80’s jazz hit list. Polydypsia performs almost exclusively in Omaha and Lincoln but have recently expanded their reach to play festivals like Wakarusa and 10,000 Lakes. More band reviews to come, but in the meantime, plan to round up your family and friends, grab your lawn chairs and blankets, pack a cooler and come on over to relax in our backyard. You’ll be glad you did. And, if you forget the cooler, no worries... Star Catering will be selling hot dogs and hamburgers right off the grill. The Backyard Concert Series is presented by the Jewish Federation of Omaha and generously sponsored by the Sokolof Javitch Music Fund of the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation.
MARIJUANA
August 26, 2011 | The Jewish Press | 5
IS A DRUG.
HELP YOUR KIDS UNDERSTAND.
PRINTING, COPYING and DIGITAL NETWORK
3706 South 132nd Street • 402-330-5050
For more information call 1-800-648-4444 http://www.prevlink.org
Letterhead • Brochures • Newsletters Business Cards • Mailers • Postcards
SEWING CENTERS 10144 Maple (Maple Village)
402-572-1212 Mon & Thur: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. • Tues, Wed, Fri & Sat: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
The right choice for personalized assisted living in a comfortable, home-like environment Social, recreational and cultural opportunities • Restaurant style dining • Transportation • Wellness center, library and game room •
Organizations B’NAI B’RITH BREADBREAKERS Will Barney, Executive Director of the Empowerment Network will speak on Wednesday, Aug. 31, noon at the Blumkin Home. An optional buffet lunch costs $10; beverage service is $3. For more information or to be placed on the email list call 402.334.6443 or bnaibrith@jewishomaha. org. LOMIR REDN YIDDISH Yiddish teaches an optimistic vision that allows us to view the world with joy and hope. Come join us at the Blumkin Home, every Thursday in the board room, at 1 p.m., to reap “The Joys of Yiddish!” For information call Anne Skolkin at 402.343.1638. MAINSTREETERS Stretching and Balance Exercise Class with Sharon Rowe on Wednesdays, Sept. 14, 21 and 28 at 9:30-10:15 a.m. at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home (Simon Chapel). Flexibility exercises can improve overall ease of movement, decrease stress on the joints and reduce risk of injury. Sharon is a certified exercise leader and Pilates coach and has been teaching a variety of exercise, wellness and health classes for 30 years in her business Body by Rowe. Cost is $15 per series which
includes three 45 minute sessions. Send reservation with full payment to: Mainstreeters, c/o Maggie Conti, 323 S. 132 Street, Omaha, NE 68154. Make check payable to Jewish Social Services. Call Maggie Conti at 402.334.6521 for questions. Basic Word Processing (only 6 students per class) on Tuesdays, Sept. 6, 13 and 20 at 1:30 -2:30 p.m. at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home (Learning Center) with instructor Phyllis Gentry, Jewish Senior Services Executive Assistant. Learn the basics and a little more of Microsoft Word. Cost is $10 per series which includes three one hour classes. Send Reservation to: Mainstreeters, c/o Maggie Conti, 323 S. 132 Street, Omaha, NE 68154. Make check payable to Jewish Social Services. Call Maggie Conti at 402.334.6521 for questions. Mainstreeters Luncheon on Monday, Sept. 19 at 12:30 p.m. at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home (auditorium). Come give a warm welcome to Aaron Rosenfeld the new JCC Executive Director and hear a snapshot preview of all the future plans of the JCC. Send reservation to: Mainstreeters, c/o Maggie Conti, 323 S. 132 Street, Omaha, NE 68154. Make check payable to Jewish Social Services. Call Linda Abrams Tederman at 402.468.4939 for questions.
In the news UNO’s Moving Company will offer ‘Reach for it,’ a dance program for people who have Parkinson’s disease. Sessions will take place from Sept. 9 to Nov. 18. Classes are from 11 am to noon, at the JCC, Dance Studio A. Cost is $50, to be paid at the first class. Participants will dance and have fun while working on balance, strength, flexibility, and coordination. For more information, and to reserve your spot, please call 402.554.2670. The Heartland of America Band will commemorate the tenth anniversary of 9/11 with an event in Midtown Crossing’s Turner Park. The concert will start at 6:30 p.m. on Sept. 11, and is free to the public. The Omaha Symphony will partner with the Heartland of America Band’s Brass in Blue, and vocalist Ronan Tynan will perform. The event is scheduled to last 90 minutes;
in case of inclement weather, it will be moved to the Holland Center. For more information, please visit www.american spiritomaha.com. Stanford Lipsey was recently appointed to the board of the Korean War National Museum, headed by Buzz Aldrin. The Museum, currently located in Illinois, is expected to move to New York City. The museum’s mission is to educate future generations about the Korean War, and the troops’ services, sacrifices, and lasting contributions to peace and freedom. During the Korean War, Stan Lipsey served in the Air Force; upon his discharge, he was appointed chairman of the Military Affairs Committee of the Omaha Chamber of Commerce. Lipsey was also a founding member of the Strategic Air and Space Museum.
Save This Date
168th & Blondo • 402-614-5222 HeritagePointeOmaha.com
Tuesday, October 25, 2011 The Thirteenth Annual Shirley and Leonard Goldstein Lecture on Human Rights
“The Black Swan of the Middle East”
by
Sarah Leah Whitson
Executive Director, Middle East and North Africa Division Human Rights Watch
7:00 p.m.
Thompson Alumni Center at UNO 67th and Dodge Public Welcome
The University of Nebraska is an affi rmative action/equal opportunity institution. For special accommodations please call 554-2628.
6 | The Jewish Press | August 26, 2011
The Russian-American Jews of Russian Dolls by ALLISON HOFFMAN mixed up with the Russian traditions.” (Tablet) -- In the first episode of Russian Dolls, a new She added that getting a reality show is proof that the Lifetime reality show billed as a cross between Jersey Shore Russian community has arrived -- as the show’s promo says, and the Real Housewives franchise, 23-year-old Diana Kosov in block letters, “The Russians aren’t coming, the Russians spends a lot of time fretting about her new boyfriend, Paul, are here.” The goal was to broadcast some hallmarks of who drives a Maserati and lavishes her with flowers but who Russian-American life without getting too deeply into the is unfit to bring home to her parents. The problem? heavy details of the Cold War. Later episodes include nods “He’s Spanish and I’m to Jewish life in Brighton, Russian,” Kosov explains. “In including a fashion show benthis community, if I date efiting an Israeli charity. someone who’s not Russian, “We tried to explain as much it’s a big deal.” as possible without being borLater, her mother, Anna, ing,” she said. “There’s no shows up to prove the point. Russian history, but we “I would like you marrying explain what a banya is and Russian guy,” she tells her some of the customs.” daughter, as they practice “There are people who are making borscht. “We have anti-Semitic who will say this same kultur. It’s very imporone is only half-Russian,” tant, you understand?” explained Michael Levitis, The astute viewer will notice one of the show’s main charthat in both interludes, Kosov acters. “The only person who is wearing a large Star of David makes this distinction is antiDiana Kosov on Russian Dolls. Credit: Giovanni Rufino/ pendant that dangles above Semites and Communists.” Lifetime Entertainment Services, LLC her dramatically pushed-up The Brighton Beach nightcleavage. In a recent phone interview, she said the message club Levitis runs with his wife, Marina, is called Rasputin she heard was clear: “I’m looking for a Russian Jewish guy.” and operates in high Moscow style, with a cabaret dinner But on the show, the word Jewish never enters the dia- show and a menu of shellfish and other treif luxuries. logue -- not in an aside to the camera, not with Kosov’s “To American people, especially outside of New York, if mother and not, eventually, with Paul, who gets the heave- you came from Russia, you’re Russian,” Marina Levitis said ho over a plate of tuna tartare. on the phone. “They don’t care if you’re Jewish or Christian “My parents, they came to America for a reason,” Kosov or ethnically Russian or not.” But, she added, “We don’t presays earnestly. tend to be Russian Russian. We don’t pretend to be anything “To look for Russians?” Paul retorts. other than what we are.” “Yeah,” Kosov replies, without elaboration. She’s right: As with Kosov’s Star of David necklace, there The pattern repeats itself throughout Russian Dolls, which are plenty of subtle clues that the Levitises are Jews. They are is centered in Brooklyn’s Brighton Beach, long a Jewish introduced on the show with a montage that includes a wedneighborhood and today dominated by Russian Jewish emi- ding glamour shot in which Michael sports a large velvet gres. Its characters, almost all of them Jewish, arrived in the kipah, and the camera pans over a mezuzah nailed to their largest historical movement of Jews in the postwar era - but front doorpost. But the show doesn’t explain that they met as aren’t explicitly introduced as Jews. students at Jewish high schools and send their own children It’s tempting to chalk up the disconnect to the producers’ to a yeshiva elementary school. Instead it plays up their minidesire to expand their potential audience or, equally plausi- oligarch habits. In an on-camera shopping spree, Marina ble, to head off criticism from the Jewish community in tries on a $28,000 pair of 11-carat diamond bangles, noting Brooklyn, which circulated petitions last winter objecting to approvingly, “Big and blingy and definitely Russian style.” the program’s display of outrageous materialism. Meanwhile, Michael’s 56-year-old mother, Eva, reveals her But it turns out this show, as trashy and juvenile as any- long-dormant dream to be onstage and enters her Slavic thing else in the reality genre, reveals a deeper sociological belly-dancing act in a local talent show. truth about its subjects: These Soviet Jews, singled out and “I was in Russia engineer,” Eva tells Marina. “All my life I in some cases persecuted in their native country for being loved to sing and dance, but I never had a chance to do this Jews, didn’t come to New York for the freedom to live as in Russia.” Jews - or, for that matter, to assimilate as Americans in the In New York, she does. tradition of their Eastern European predecessors. What Russian Dolls confirms is that 20 years after the collapse of the Soviet Union, its Jewish exiles have found in America a place where they can finally live freely as Russians. “For most Russian Jews it’s so entangled,” said Alina Dizik, one of the show’s creators, about religious and national identity. “You really can’t separate one from the other, and most by DR. GUY MATALON of us are so secular that a lot of the Jewish traditions get The Schwalb Center for Israel and Jewish Studies is proud to join with the Jewish Federation of Omaha to bring a wonderful opportunity to the community. Thanks to the Israeli Consulate in Chicago, we will host Dr. Haim Koren, the Ambassador of Israel to Turkmenistan for two public lectures. Dr. Koren is a published expert on the Middle East, and Sudan in particular. On Thursday, Sept. 8 at noon, he will speak at UNO on Sudan and Darfur. The Lecture will take place in the Milo Bail Student Center, in the Umoho room on the third floor. On Thursday evening, at 7:30 p.m. Dr. Koren will speak at the JCC on “Globalized Terrorism.” The event will be in the Social Hall. Dr. Koren, who is from Haifa, is a seasoned diplomat serving many different roles for the State of Israel including establishing the Arab Media Division in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He also served as a diplomat in Kathmandu, Nepal, and Alexandria, Egypt. Dr. Koren received his doctorate from the University of Bergen in Norway; his research focused on the role of Islam in Western Sudan. His expertise spans many areas such as the ideology of Radical Islam, Egyptian Radical Islam and Terrorism, Arab Media, Islam in Africa, Islam in Central Asia and many other topics. by ADRIENNE KITAGAWA His expertise and diverse experience in representing RBJH Activity Director Israel to the Arab press will make his talks very compelling. RBJH resident Betty Goldstrom and mascot, Casey, pose Dr. Koren will bring an interesting perspective to underfor a photo opportunity on Wednesday, Aug. 10 at Werner standing issues such as terrorism and the spread of radical Park, home of the Omaha Storm Chasers. Rose Blumkin Islam. Activity staff organized an outing for an afternoon of Established in 2009, The Natan and Hannah Schwalb baseball and lunch at the ballpark. Taking in the last day Center for Israel & Jewish studies’ mission is to create, game of the season, the Chasers played a good game and coordinate, and promote an interdisciplinary program managed to win by one run. A good time was had by all. focusing on teaching and scholarship in Jewish and Israeli history, politics, culture and society.
Israeli Diplomat to speak at UNO and JCC
RBJH at the ballpark
Your Look... Your Lifestyle Hairstyling Manicuring Pedicuring Waxing
A Full Service Salon for Men+Women
Countryside Village Pacific at 87th | 402-392-2039
Jade Garden Chinese Restaurant CARRY OUT AVAILABLE
402-498-8833 Beer and Wine Available 2068 N. 117 Ave.
North Park (117th & Blondo) M-Th: 11-9:30 • Fri & Sat. 11-10:30 • Sun. Noon-9:30
Silver Memories, Inc. Assisted living for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, memory loss and other forms of dementia in the comfort of a real home. Now serving Omaha at two locations. Our original location at 80th & Maple and our newest in the heart of Leawood West near 126th & Pacific.
402-689-2800
Cohen’s Computer Club David M. Cohen, Ph.D., President
Learnbasic computerskills! phone: 402-637-3935 www.CohensComputerClub.com email: dmc@ieee.org
FOR A LIMITED TIME!
nal o i t sa
n e
S
CD Rates Ask an Enterprise Banker about our latest CD Special and let us help put your money to work for you! 12800 West Center Road
330-0200 402-330-0200 210 Regency Parkway
392-0400 402-392-0400 N.A., MEMBER F.D.I.C.
August 26, 2011 | The Jewish Press | 7
September
Driven. Trusted. Reliable. And always available 24/7.
Community Calendar FRIDAY, AUGUST 26 Beth El Brings Shabbat to the Blumkin Home, 2:30 p.m. Birthday Blessings, 6 p.m. at Beth El SATURDAY, AUGUST 27 Sparks Beneath the Surface, 9:15 a.m. at Temple Israel SUNDAY, AUGUST 28 Temple Israel OTYG Rush Grades 9-12, 7 a.m. First Day BESTT Classes PreK-7, 9:45 a.m. at Beth El Adult Education Class with Andy Greenberg, 10 a.m. at Beth El Weekly Bible Study, 10 a.m. at Beth El Beth El’s YAC Kickoff Event, 5 p.m. at Schmidley’s Kripke Library 2011 Film Festival Deli Dinner & Movie, 6 p.m. MONDAY, AUGUST 29 Teleconferencing Mishnah Class, 10:30 a.m. Monday Moadon - Grades 2-7, 4:30 p.m. at Beth El Jewish Press Board Meeting, 7 p.m. TUESDAY, AUGUST 30 Eye on Israel, noon BBYO Night, 6 p.m. Rabbi Mizrahi’s Weekly Class, 7 p.m. at Beth Israel Kripke Library 2011 Film Festival Movie, 7:30 p.m. Rabbi Weiss’s Weekly Class, 7:30 p.m. at Beth Israel WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 31 First Day BESTT Classes, 4:30 p.m. at Beth El Omaha Jewish Chai School, 6:30 p.m. Kripke Library 2011 High School Film Festival Night, 7:30 p.m. THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 1 Women of the Torah, 9:30 a.m. at Beth Israel Lomir Redn Yiddish, 1 p.m. Mainstreeters Warner Park Baseball Game Departs from JCC at 5:15 p.m. SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 3 Sparks Beneath the Surface, 9:15 a.m. at Temple Israel SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 4 No BESTT Classes at Beth El Adult Education, 10 a.m. at Beth El Beth El Family Fun Day, noon at JCC End-of-Summer BBQ, 5 p.m. at Beth Israel MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 Labor Day Holiday JCC Fitness Center Open 9 a.m. to 5p.m. Teleconferencing Mishnah Class, 10:30 a.m. TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 Eye on Israel, noon BBYO Night, 6 p.m. Open Arms Cooking Class, 6:30 p.m. at Beth El Rabbi Mizrahi’s Weekly Class, 7 p.m. at Beth Israel NCJW Board Meeting, 7 p.m. JCC Board Meeting, 7 p.m. Rabbi Weiss’s Weekly Class, 7:30 p.m. at Beth Israel WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 7 BESTT Classes, 4:30 p.m. at Beth El Omaha Jewish Chai School, 6:30 p.m. BESTT 8th Grade Class, 6:45 p.m. at Blumkin Home THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8 Women of the Torah, 9:30 a.m. at Beth Israel Mainstreeters at the Orpheum Theatre for Jersey Boys & Jason’s Deli, 12:45 p.m. Lomir Redn Yiddish, 1 p.m. Dr. Guy Matalon Lecture, 7:30 p.m.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9 BBYO Council Kickoff 9th & 10th Dr. Guy Matalon Lecture, 8 a.m. Let’s Do Lunch with Beth El’s Rabbi Levin, noon at the Blumkin Home Star Deli Shabbat on the Green, 6 p.m. at Beth El SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 10 Sparks Beneath the Surface, 9:15 a.m. at Temple Israel Junior Congregation (Grades 2-7), 10 a.m. at Beth El SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 11 BBYO World’s of Fun Trip, 8 a.m. BESTT Classes PreK-7, 9:45 a.m. at Beth El Sunday Breakfast Scholar’s Series, 10 a.m. at Beth El Weekly Bible Study, 10 a.m. at Beth El WRJ Meeting, 10 a.m. at Temple Israel Pizza & Parasha with Cantor Beth, 12:30 p.m. at Bagel Bin LOVE Grandparents Day Community Celebration, 1:30 p.m. Backyard Concert Series: Jorge Nila’s The SuperNinjas, 5 p.m. MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 Teleconferencing Mishnah Class, 10:30 a.m. Monday Moadon - Grades 2-7, 4:30 p.m. at Beth El Lets Wine About It! with Cantor Beth, 6:30 p.m. at Fox & Hound, 120th & Dodge Eye on Israel, noon TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 ADL/CRC Executive Committee Meeting, noon BBYO Night, 6 p.m. Grade 1-6 Curriculum Night, 6:30 p.m. at Friedel Rabbi Mizrahi’s Weekly Class, 7 p.m. at Beth Israel Rabbi Weiss’s Weekly Class, 7:30 p.m. at Beth Israel WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 14 ADL Educator Breakfast & Program, 7:30 a.m. AIPAC Nebraska Kickoff Community Lunch, 11:45 a.m. BESTT Classes, 4:30 p.m. at Beth El Board Meeting, 6:30 p.m. at Beth Israel Omaha Jewish Chai School, 6:30 p.m. BESTT 8th Grade Class, 6:45 p.m. at Blumkin Home THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15 Women of the Torah, 9:30 a.m. at Beth Israel Dorothy Kaplan Book Discussion Group, 1 p.m. Lomir Redn Yiddish, 1 p.m. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 16 L’Dor V’Dor - 20 Year Celebration, 5:30 p.m. at Beth El SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 17 Sparks Beneath the Surface, 9:15 a.m. at Temple Israel Junior Congregation (Grades 2-7), 10 a.m. at Beth El Shabbat Yoga, 10:30 a.m. Beth El SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 BESTT Classes PreK-7, 9:45 a.m. at Beth El Adult Education, 10 a.m.-noon at Beth El L’Dor V’Dor - 20 Year Celebration, 2 p.m. at Holland Basham Architects (Original Beth El Building) Artist’s Reception for Deenie Meyerson, 4 p.m. Backyard Concert Series: Mezcal Brothers, 5 p.m.
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 JFS Project Tzedakah - Rosh Hashanah, 8 a.m. Teleconferencing Mishnah Class, 10:30 a.m. Lion of Judah Luncheon, 11:30 a.m. at Crave, Midtown Crossing Mainstreeters Luncheon Program, 12:30 p.m. Monday Moadon - Grades 2-7, 4:30 p.m. at Beth El TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 JFS Project Tzedakah - Rosh Hashanah, 8 a.m. Eye on Israel, noon Board Meeting, 5:30 p.m. at Friedel BBYO Night, 6 p.m. Rabbi Mizrahi’s Weekly Class, 7 p.m. at Beth Israel BESTT School Committee Meeting, 7 p.m. at Beth El Rabbi Weiss’s Weekly Class, 7:30 p.m. at Beth Israel WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 BESTT Classes, 4:30 p.m. at Beth El Omaha Jewish Chai School, 6:30 p.m. BESTT 8th Grade Class, 6:45 p.m. at Blumkin Home THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 Women of the Torah, 9:30 a.m. at Beth Israel Lomir Redn Yiddish, 1 p.m. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 USY Shabbat Dinner, 6 p.m. Beth El Tot Shabbat & Say Shalom! to Shabbat!, 6 p.m. at Beth El SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 24 Sparks Beneath the Surface, 9:15 a.m. at Temple Israel Junior Congregation (Grades 2-7), 10 a.m. at Beth El Selichot Services, 8:30 p.m. at Beth El SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 BESTT Classes PreK-7, 9:45 a.m. at Beth El Adult Education, 10 a.m. at Beth El NCJW Great Omaha Chocolate Festival, noon at the UNO Fieldhouse BESTT Chaverim Welcome Back, 12:45 p.m. at Beth El Beth El Sisterhood Family apple picking, 3 p.m. at Ditmar’s Orchard Backyard Concert Series: Mitch Gettman Band, 5 p.m.
8420 West Dodge Rd, Ste 113 Omaha, NE 68114 Office: 402-991-5153 Cell: 402-578-0008 Fax: 402-884-7386 www.mtg-specialists.com E-mail: brent@mtg-specialists.com
Brent Rasmussen, CRMS, President
ENTERTAIN
FIRST CLASS WITH
HONEYMAN RENT-ALL The Party Place
FOR THE FINEST IN ENTERTAINING ACCESSORIES, HOW CAN YOU THROW A PARTY AND NOT INVITE US? • Tables • Chairs • Linens • Skirting • China • Glassware • Champaign Fountains • Chafing Dishes • Party Canopies • Wedding & Church Displays • Dance Floors • BBQ Grills • Coat Racks • Candelabras • Margarita Machines • Chocolate Fountains
Our Visit room w o Sh
Granite & Tile
11226 Wright Circle (1 Block South of 114th & Center)
402-333-2882
Wed Di ding & S splays upp lies
Design Flexibility and Quality– For every project we offer the perfect selection
Quartz Zodiaq® Radianz® Cambria® SileStone® Family owned and operated since 1970
Solid Surface
Call Tony Nogg 9101 Military Road • Omaha
Corian® Staron® Hi-Macs®
402-572-4044 www.MartinsCountertops.com
Life Captured Photography
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 Teleconferencing Mishnah Class, 10:30 a.m. Monday Moadon - Grades 2-7, 4:30 p.m. at Beth El Jewish Federation Campaign Major Gifts Kick-Off, 5:45 p.m. at Blumkin Home
Live for a moment... Capture for a lifetime!
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 Eye on Israel, noon JFO Executive Committee Meeting, 6 p.m. BBYO Night, 6 p.m. Rabbi Mizrahi’s Weekly Class, 7 p.m. at Beth Israel Rabbi Weiss’s Weekly Class, 7:30 p.m. at Beth Israel JFO Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m.
Specializing in Wedding Photography, Senior Portraits, and Sports Action Photography.
THURSDAY, SEPETEMBER 29 Women of the Torah, 9:30 a.m. at Beth Israel
Seasonal Comfort
Class of 2012: Help me build my Senior portfolio get 12% off of your session when you book in August or September! CDs come with all sessions.
Sarah Bryan 402.533.4464 www.facebook.com/LifeCaptured.bySarahBryan | www.life-captured-photos.com
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30 Birthday Blessings, 6 p.m. at Beth El
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 above events.
Comfortplus
Available in widths from AA-EE with a removeable footbed.
SHOE CENTER
Certified Pedorthists On Staff
535 N 155th Plaza
6450 O Street
Omaha • 402-392-2952
Lincoln • 466-7463
Pepperwood Village by Baker’s
North Side of O Street
Monday-Friday 9-6 • Saturday 9-4:30 • Phone orders welcome
8 | The Jewish Press | August 26, 2011
Point of view
American Jewish Press Association Award Winner
Nebraska Press National Newspaper Association Association Award winner 2008
Damascus 101
by ANNETTE VAN DE KAMP-WRIGHT Editor of the Jewish Press I’ve written it before: these days, it’s hard to keep track of what goes on where. Maybe things have always been this way, I don’t know; perhaps we just have become so used to the 24/7 news cycle that we can’t imagine not knowing everything. But we don’t: the world is a big place, and unless we are tuned in all the time, there are more things we miss than we know. Besides, we still need sleep, work, and relaxation. Having said that, there are certain things we must pay attention to, which is why we’re including an abbreviated history of the conflict in Syria this week. Because, after our initial enthusiasm for that Arab Spring, and all the time we spent talking about Egypt, revolution-fatigue has set in and we’re not really paying much attention to Syria. And because Arab Spring is starting to sound a little bit like the title of a crappy B-movie. You know, the type that features Brendan Fraser, an army of fake sheiks, and a luscious vixen with smoldering eyes and too much eyeliner. The Syria chapter of the Middle East uprising started in January of this year, when Hasan Ali Akleh from AlHasakah protested his government by pouring gasoline on himself and setting himself on fire. That fire ignited massive protests, “Days of Rage,” and demands for government reform, including the President’s removal, for the ruling Baath party to allow other political parties, an end to torture, freedom of the press, and equal rights for Syria’s various ethnic and religious minorities. To name but a few. Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad instructed his security forces to strike back, hard: since the beginning of the unrest, the death toll has risen to somewhere in the neighborhood of 2400 people, and thousands have been arrested. Soldiers killed other soldiers when they refused to shoot at protesters, and the border with Jordan was closed. Water and electricity were shut off in several cities, the army began confiscating
food, and widespread human rights violations escalated beyond belief. Assad’s father, former President Hafez AlAssad (author of the 1982 Hama massacre which killed some 80,000 civilians), would be proud. To be fair, the younger Assad was never supposed to succeed his father. In fact, he studied medicine in Great Britain, and was well on his way to becoming an ophthalmologist when his older brother Bassel died in a 1994 car crash. When the elder Assad passed in 2000, the Syrian parliament changed the constitution, and Bashar found himself in power. The current President views himself as more moderate than his father, but there is nothing moderate about his regime. It’s more of the same, really, and the Syrian people are sick of it. On Thursday August 18, President Obama called for Assad to step down: “The future of Syria must be determined by its people, but President Bashar Al-Assad is stading in their way,” he said in a written statement. “We have consistently said that President Assad must lead a democratic transition or get out of the way. He has not led. For the sake of the Syrian people, the time has come for President Assad to step aside.” (www.cnn.com) Obama isn’t the only one: the European Union member states have expressed similar sentiments, as have select Arab states. Sanctions, imposed by European nations, the United States, and Canada include freezing Syrian government assets in America, banning new American invest-
ments in Syria, and the prohibition of any U.S. transactions relating to Syrian petroleum products. Will continued pressure and sanctions from the west –and select Arab states—eventually end Assad’s reign? Probably. However, there is one problem with that: a dictator is just one man. No one man can cause such systematic terror by himself; for that, he needs thousands of followers, who buy into his madness and have a lot to gain from the continuation of that terror. To improve life for everyday Syrians, removing Assad from power will not be enough. It will merely cause a power vacuum, which can be filled by anything and anyone. Removing Assad is necessary, yes, but it is merely the beginning. He is not the real cause of the problem, he is only a symptom of a much more debilitating disease.
Obama isn’t being treated fairly on Israel
Focus on issues MARC STANLEY WASHINGTON (JTA) -- I was amused by Adam Serwer’s recent blog post, titled “Is Bibi anti-Israel?” in which he pointed out that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu conditionally offered this month to negotiate with the Palestinians using the pre-1967 borders as a framework. Amazingly, there was no outcry by American Jews that Netanyahu was abandoning Israel by suggesting a return to supposedly “indefensible” borders. As Serwer noted, this was in stark contrast to the negative accusations hurled at President Obama after his May 19 State Department address during which he restated -against a backdrop of supportive statements about Israel’s security -- longstanding U.S. (and, frankly, Israeli) policy that Israel’s negotiations with the Palestinians should take place along “1967 lines with mutually agreed swaps.” Obama’s statement was unremarkable for many reasons: President George W. Bush said as much in 2005 while standing next to Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas in the Rose Garden; Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton reiterated the same formula in 2009; and Netanyahu even issued a joint statement with Clinton using that exact phrase last November. In fact, this common understanding has been the basis of bipartisan negotiations for at least 12 years, if not more. So why was Obama vilified over this statement, but his critics remained silent as Netanyahu took the exact same position? And why do Obama’s critics insinuate that the
(Founded in 1920) Andrew Ruback President Annette van de Kamp-Wright Editor Richard Busse Creative Director Allan Handleman Advertising Manager Lori Kooper-Schwarz Assistant Managing Editor Barbara Kirkpatrick Bookkeeper Emily Giller Intern
Jewish Press Board Eric Dunning, Vice President; Jason Epstein, Treasurer; Bobbi Leibowitz, Past President; Marc Brodkey; Phyllis Brown; Daniel Christensen; Mel Epstein; Scott Farkas; Michael Kaufman; Paul Rabinowitz; Caryn Scheer; Mark Senal; Nancy Wolf. The role of the Jewish Federation of Omaha is to involve Jews in meeting Jewish communal needs locally, nationally and in Israel. Agencies of the Federation are: Community Relations, Jewish Community Center, Center for Jewish Education, Jewish Family Service/Jewish Senior Services, and the Jewish Press. Guidelines and highlights of the Jewish Press, including front page stories and announcements, can be found online at: www jewishoma-
Israeli government -- Netanyahu in particular -- has concerns with the president and his commitment to a safe and secure Jewish state? Why haven’t Netanyahu’s quite favorable remarks about the current status of the U.S.-Israel relationship been covered in the media? In a recent speech in Tel Aviv, the Israeli leader extolled the current U.S.-Israel relationship, noting that the United States has “provided invaluable diplomatic, moral and military support. Diplomatic support, in our quest for a negotiated peace … grounded in security but grounded also in mutual compromise that can only be achieved in face to face negotiations. America is very, very clear on this point. And I think President Obama has spoken eloquently about this.” Netanyahu then talked about the great military support that Israel receives from the U.S. “We just had a successful deployment of the Iron Dome system. And we’ve intercepted seven missiles that were fired over the skies of Beersheva and Ashkelon,” the prime minister said, “and this was made possible by generous American military support; funding that was approved by the Obama administration.” After we have all received scurrilous e-mails to the contrary, I imagine many American Jews will be surprised to learn that Netanyahu is pleased with and deeply grateful for the “diplomatic, moral and military support” his government has received from Obama. The president’s critics surely are not going to bring this up. On an unprecedented level, and truly on the width and breadth of issues they face together, Obama and Netanyahu agree. You can see it in the words they speak, but you can see it even clearer in the everyday actions taken by the Obama
administration to help secure Israel. High-level security cooperation, including funding the critical Iron Dome? Check. Heavily sanctioning Iran to block its pursuit of nuclear weapons? Definitely. Committing to stop a unilateral declaration of Palestinian statehood at the United Nations in September, as well as blocking other efforts to undermine Israel’s legitimacy in world bodies? Absolutely. From the Gaza flotilla to missile defense cooperation, the list goes on and on. So are critics being fair to President Obama when they intentionally misquote him and spread lies about his positions? Are they being fair when they portray a rift between the U.S. administration and the Israeli government in the face of clear evidence to the contrary? And are they helping Israel by trying to use Israel as a wedge issue for partisan gain? While some work to tear down the bipartisan pro-Israel consensus that we’ve built over decades, Obama and Netanyahu continue to work as partners in every sense to secure Israel and ensure lasting peace for the Israeli people. On top of the extensive list of agreements regarding policy and security cooperation, add the fact that Netanyahu has reiterated his support for this longtime basis for negotiations. Don’t listen to the noise; look at the record. Prime Minister Netanyahu and President Obama are truly on the same page. Marc Stanley is the chair of the National Jewish Democratic Council.
ha.org; click on ‘Jewish Press.’ Editorials express the view of the writer and are not necessarily representative of the views of the Jewish Press Board of Directors, the Jewish Federation of Omaha Board of Directors, 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.
and space restrictions, but it 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. The Jewish Press will not publish letters that appear to be part of an organized campaign, nor letters copied from the Internet. 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
Editorial The Jewish Press is an agency 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: avandekamp @jewishomaha.org; send ads (in .TIF or .PDF format) to: rbusse@jew ishomaha.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: avandekamp@jew ishomaha.org.. Letters should be no longer than 250 words and must be single-spaced 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
news article about the event, project or program which the professional staff supervised. For information, contact Annette van de Kamp-Wright, Jewish Press Editor, 402.334.6450. Postal The Jewish Press (USPS 275620) is published weekly (except for the first week of January and July) on Friday for $37.50 per calendar year U.S.; $80 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 email to: jpress@jewishomaha.org.
August 26, 2011 | The Jewish Press | 9
Israelis awakening to the power of grass roots activism
Behind the headlines DAVID BOROWICH YA’ARI MODIIN, Israel (JTA) -- On a recent Saturday night, my wife and I waded into a sea of 6,000 protesters in Modiin as part of 12 other similarly staged rallies across Israel to demand social justice and greater accountability from our elected officials in Israel. This was Modiin, the newly created suburban retreat of the middle class -- a far cry from the social challenges facing the country. Amid a wave of upwardly mobile suburbanites, we found common cause with the hundreds of thousands of protestors who believe that Israel must provide greater social mobility and opportunity. It was a dream come true. When I lived in New York, I said that people deserve the government they elect and that real change will come about only when average people take to the streets and demand better. In Israel this is happening. As one of the most heavily taxed nations in the developed world, Israel (with compulsory military service) extracts an incredible price from its population. The Israeli people have the right, and indeed the responsibility, to demand that their government be accountable and responsive to the needs of its people. Just a few months ago I was inspired by young Arabs who
took to the streets in capitals from Cairo to Damascus to demand dignity, economic opportunity and democracy. They risked far more than we do in a free and democratic state; they risked their lives. Today we are witness to young Israelis taking to the streets to demand more from their government and greater social equality in their society. Many voices make up this movement, including many with political ambitions, but there is something different about it. These protests demonstrate a younger generation seeking ownership of our society. The young protesters understand that to have social justice requires a greater level of social cohesion. The purposeful spread of the protests from urban to rural areas reflects the desire for a movement that stretches across Israeli society and is both inclusive and comprehensive. It is also the cry of desperate masses of middle-class citizens who want and deserve a better life. When average citizens and upper-middle-class citizens can barely finish the month with their salaries, they are unable to invest in their futures and the futures of their children. When young people with a college degree cannot find meaningful jobs, our entire society suffers from a deficit in human capital. The people of Israel deserve more attuned leadership and are finally mobilizing to demand a more accountable government that will lower oppressive taxes. Until our elected representatives understand the burdens placed on Israeli citizens and fix the system of taxation without limits, this
movement will endure. Taxes, social justice and Jewish values have a deep connection. How a government collects and spends its tax revenue reflects the priorities of the society and the government itself. A more accountable and transparent system of taxation will result in a shift of government expenditures to areas that offer support for the middle class, reduce economic inequality, and enhance Israeli democracy and increase faith in the government. The drive for social justice ultimately will come from the people themselves. The protests in Modiin and other cities are resonating across Israeli society, uniting young and old, religious and secular. It is a movement rooted in the Jewish values of our faith and in the teachings of the Ethics of our Fathers. While the specific demands of the student protest leaders are unclear, and legislative change and affordable housing remain uncertain, what is clear is that student sentiment has tapped an untouched nerve in Israeli society. Whether the results of the protest movement yield new elections, new legislation, new housing or none of the above, Israeli society has awakened to the power of grass roots activism. What happens next is anyone’s guess, but like the seasons of the year, change is coming, like it or not. David Borowich Ya’ari is the CEO of Hillel in Israel. He made aliyah with his wife and family in 2009 and lives in Modiin.
Shoot the Jewish Senator in the Face: Not News?
Focus on issues LORI LOWENTHAL MARCUS If a Jew -- and a senior-ranking US Senator at that -- is targeted with violence and nobody bothers to report it, does it still count as news? Well, that’s what happened. Dmitry Dyatlov, a 23 year-old Philadelphia resident originally from Uzbekistan, wrote in his rambling and frequently offensive personal blog that although watching a Rammstein (Teutoniceurometal rock band) concert is so great it’s even “better than killing Jews,” that “there is, at least, one Jew, who we absolutely must shoot in the face (many times), ASAP: Joe Lieberman.” In addition to his being Jewish, Dyatlov “hates” Lieberman, he wrote, because he is “liberal,” doesn’t like two of Dyatlov’s musical idols (both of whom are ultra-liberal), and because he finds it to be a threat that Lieberman is on the Senate Homeland Security Committee. What else does Dyatlov put up to the peephole of the Internet? On “Competitive Collaboration” his blog (which was still online as of this writing), he wrote that Adolf Hitler was really just an artist who used blood instead of paint, and anyway he did that because “some stupid Jews” stifled his ambition. Dyatlov’s blog contains many entries about various women, much of it apparently fantasy, some of it brutal. His writing is relentlessly narcissistic and grandiose with touches of sociopathy. Although he is now an American citizen, there are repeated refrains in which Dyatlov lashes out at America and Americans (“I Know that i could rape and murder A*L*L of “your” families, America.”) On Aug. 2, the day that he posted the threat to Lieberman, agents from the FBI went to Dyatlov’s apartment and questioned him. He admitted writing the blog but, according to the affidavit, claimed he did not plan to shoot the senator, although he “didn’t care if someone else killed” Lieberman because of what he posted on the Internet. After they left, Dyatlov blogged about the FBI visit, writing that they came to him “because I told them that Joe Lieberman is a sick f*ck who should be shot in the face many times.” Dyatlov was later arrested. At his pretrial detention hearing, on Aug. 9, 2011, Dyatlov’s attorney argued his client needed to be released and have access to a computer in order to conduct his job search. The federal magistrate ordered Dyatlov to remain in his apartment and told him that his computer was going to be fitted-out with electronic monitoring equipment. Dyatlov was then released on $50,000 bail. Let’s hope his
Attention Farm and Agriculture Workers Money is available for tuition through a program grant for farm workers. Includes but not limited to migrant farm workers and their families, farm families and others who rely on agriculture as their source of income. Tri-State Nursing Learning Center offers the following courses: • Renal Technician • Pharmacy Technician • Nursing Assistant • Medical Coding and Billing Specialist For more details on how you may be eligible for educational funding, call 800-727-1912.
apartment is also being monitored. The FBI learned about Dyatlov from his former employer, Accenture Consulting, one of the world’s premier consulting companies. After he failed to show up for work for a week, someone from Accenture looked at Dyatlov’s blog. After reading the threat to Lieberman, the company contacted the authorities and then, apparently, fired him. It is possible that this 23 year-old former IT analyst and University of Michigan grad is a seriously deranged and possibly dangerous individual, or could it be that his stream of consciousness, unfiltered blogging is the kind of standard fare that dribbles through the synapses of many post-adolescent pre-marital males? Either way, threatening - and encouraging others - to attack an elected official, especially after the shooting of Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords and a crowd of others just eight months ago, is undoubtedly news. Who could forget the feeding frenzy the media engaged in trying to figure out whether there were early signals given by the accused shooter in Texas, Jared Loughner, that should have been recognized, thereby averting that terrible tragedy. The same is true for the bloodbath in Utyoeya, Norway -was Anders Breivik writing or saying things before July 22nd that should have tipped off an alert friend, neighbor or public authority? Now add into the mix some hostile racial or ethnic or gender-preference term coupled with violent expressions by a Loughner or a Breivik: news or ho-hum? Well, most of the major newspapers this time came down on the side of hohum. The “shoot the Jew in the face” story did not make it into the New York Times, the Los Angeles Times or the Wall Street Journal. There was a small story written by the AP wire service that was picked up by the Washington Post and about two hundred smaller media outlets, although none gave it significant play. And of those outlets that did include the story, when any reason was given for the threat, none of them included the fact that Dyatlov specifically referred to Lieberman as “one Jew”: all reproduced the nonsensical list from the blog post, which begins by labeling Lieberman “a liberal.” But here’s the part that is really odd. Given that the man arrested lives in Philadelphia and the threat was made there, both of the major Philadelphia papers ran the story, as did Philadelphia Magazine. The really strange thing: the Philadelphia Inquirer, the Philadelphia Daily News and the magazine each ran the same AP wire service story that the other media carried. But there was one difference. Although the stories in the Philadelphia media stated that Dyatlov threated to shoot Lieberman in the face, in each, the word
DRIVERS NEEDED
Daws Trucking OTR Company drivers for newer Inc. needsneeds OTR company and owner operators for Peterbilt trucks and late model Flatbed Great atbed and curtain trailers. Paid by miles.trailers. Great bene!ts beneÞts pkg. Must be 23 years 2old, at experience, least 2 years package. Need current CDL-A, years experience, have a current CDL and a clean MVR. MVR.EOE Drug and alcohol testing required. O/O clean Welcome! Contact Gayle 800-372-4801 M-F 8am-4pm Milford, NE EOE
Jew was excised and the name “Lieberman” was substituted. What? Is it that the word was not significant, or is it that it was too significant? Imagine what these same media would do if instead of “Jew” some other ethnic minority was targeted. It may be a welcome relief not to have everyone jumping all over any mention of ethnicity and blowing it up into a federal offense, except, of course, that this actually is a federal offense. So why the blackout? Why the lack of interest? It cannot be that the issue is being soft pedaled for fear of race riots -- when was the last time Jews stood up together on their hind legs to defend one of their own? Right. Maybe that’s the problem. Lori Lowenthal Marcus is the president of Z STREET.
Letters TO THE EDITOR Letter to the Editor I was particularly annoyed at the coverage the Jewish Press gave to the meeting of NCCV (Nebraska Coalition for Constitutional Values, ed.) involving the appointment of Federal Judges [in the 8/12/11 edition, ed.]. To people like Schneiderman, the vetting process of candidates has no meaning. Rather, when she called for “...timely action” what she meant was timely action in favor of left wing candidates like Goodwin Liu. I’d bet my bottom dollar that Carol Bloch and Schneiderman would lobby in support for the world’s longest fillibuster if a conservative jurist was waiting his or her turn in the confirmation process!! Simon Noel Omaha
In other Jewish newspapers: Battling ‘bacon bombs’ by DANIEL TREIMAN When pork attacks: Rabbi and technophile Eli Garfinkel has devised a smartphone app called “Treyf Invaders!” that he describes as “a shoot-’em-up game that teaches players which animals are kosher according to Halacha and which are not.” The New Jersey Jewish News notes that players had best beware of “bacon bombs.”
BREAD ’N JAM FESTIVAL SEPTEMBER 10, 2011 NELIGH, NE
•BAKE-OFF •CLASSIC CAR SHOW & SHINE •LIVE ENTERTAINMENT•CRAFT FAIR
visit www.nelighlibrary.com or call 402.887.5140 for more information
10 | The Jewish Press | August 26, 2011
Synagogues B’NAI ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE 618 Mynster Street | Council Bluffs, IA 51503-0766 | 402.322.4705 email: CBsynagogue@hotmail.com FRIDAY: Musical Kabbalat Services led by Ruvane Kurland followed by Oneg, 7:30 p.m.
BETH EL SYNAGOGUE Member of United Synagogues of Conservative Judaism 14506 California | Omaha, NE 68154-1980 | 402.492.8550 www.bethel-omaha.org Services conducted by Rabbi Mordechai Levin, Rabbi Steven Abraham and Cantor Beth Schlossberg. FRIDAY: Beth El brings Shabbat to the Blumkin Home, 2:30 p.m., Rabbi Levin and Cantor Schlossberg will join Blumkin Home residents for a special, musical Shabbat celebration; Kabbalat Shabbat, 6 p.m. During this service, we wil offer a special blessing for everyone who has celebrated a birthday during the past month. SATURDAY: Morning service, 9:30 a.m.; Kiddush given by Roni Reiter-Palmon and Ophir Palmon in honor of their son, Tomer becoming a Bar Mitzvah; Evening Services, 8 p.m. WEEKDAY SERVICES: Sundays, 9 a.m. & 5:30 p.m.; weekdays, 7 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. SUNDAY: BESTT Classes begin, 10:15 a.m.; Men's Club will sponsor a 9 a.m. breakfast that day for all parents and children. A family assembly will be held each Sunday morning at 9:45 a.m., and all parents are encouraged to participate with their children; A World without Jews? class, 10 a.m., join teacher Andy Greenberg for this new monthly class, as he explores contributions Jews have made to the world and what the world would’ve been like if Jews never existed. Registration fee is $36 for Beth El members; $45 for non-members. To register or for more information, contact Margie in the office, or at programming@bethel-omaha. org; Young Adult Event, 5 p.m., at Schmidley’s Family Golf Range, 4700 N. 120th St. All young adults (married or single) are invited to a fun evening of Sand volleyball, a driving range, munchies and a cash bar will be on tap for all in attendance. Cost to attend: $12 per person; $20 per couple. To RSVP, contact Jeremy Friedman at Jeremy.friedman@ gmail.com; Mark Kelln, at markkelln@yahoo.com; or Melissa Shapiro, at smallshap@aol.com. MONDAY: BESTT Monday Moadon, an after-school program for all Jewish students in the community in grades 25, begin, from 4:30-6:30 p.m. WEDNESDAY: BESTT mid-week classes for grades 2-7 begin from 4:30-6:30 p.m.; BESTT 8th grade classes begin from 6:45-8:30 p.m. at the Blumkin Home. FAMILY FUN DAY/PICNIC: On Sept. 4, 3–7 p.m., Men’s Club and Sisterhood will sponsor a family fun day and picnic dinner at the JCC pavilion – all families in the Jewish community are welcome. Cost: $5 per person or $18 per family. To RSVP, send a check to the synagogue. For more information, contact Margie Gutnik at programming@ bethel-omaha.org. HIGH HOLIDAYS COOKING CLASS: Beth El’s Open Arms Initiative will sponsor a special cooking class, led by Howard Shandell and featuring a traditional Yom Kippur break-the-fast meal, on Tuesday, Sept. 6, at 6:30 p.m. Open to all adults in the Jewish community. Cost to attend: $10. To RSVP, contact the synagogue office.
All classes and programs are open to everyone in the Jewish community.
BETH ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE Member of Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America 12604 Pacific Street | Omaha, NE. 68154 | 402.556.6288 www.BethIsrael@OrthodoxOmaha.org Office Hours: Mon.-Thurs., 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Fri., 8:30 a.m-2 p.m. Services conducted by Rabbi Jonathan Gross and Rabbi Yitzchak Mizrahi. FRIDAY: Kabbalat Shabbat, 7:30 p.m. SATURDAY: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Free babysitting, 9:30 a.m.; Children’s Classes begin with Torah Parade, 9:45 a.m.; Kiddush is a Sheva Bracha for Rachel and Joey Shyken, sponsored by their friends; Veshinantam, a learning program for children and parents, 5:30 p.m. with a kid-friendly dinner served at 6:15 p.m.; The Laws of Shabbat, 5:45 p.m.; Advanced Parshah Study for Kids (ages 10 and up), 6:45 p.m.; Mincha, 7:45 p.m. followed by Seuda Shlishit; Havdalah, 9 p.m. SUNDAY: Gemara class, 8 a.m., learning tractate Kiddushin; Shacharit, 9 a.m. followed by breakfast. WEEKDAYS: Shacharit, 7 a.m. MONDAY: Weekly Teleconference Mishnah Class, 10:30 a.m. with Rabbi Gross. Contact the office for information on how to call-in to the conference call. TUESDAY: Rabbi Mizrahi’s Weekly Class, 7 p.m.; Rabbi Weiss’s Weekly Class, 7:30 p.m. THURSDAY: Women of the Torah class, 9:30 a.m. with Rabbi Gross.
CHABAD HOUSE An Affiliate of Chabad-Lubavitch 1866 South 120 Street | Omaha, NE 68144-1646 | 402.330.1800 www.OChabad.com | email: chabad@aol.com Services conducted by Rabbi Mendel Katzman. Office hours: Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-4:30 p.m. FRIDAY: Service, 7 a.m. SATURDAY: Shabbat Minyan, 10 a.m.; Youth Minyan, 10:30 a.m.; Mini Mensch title will be awarded. Kiddush luncheon follows. Join Rabbi Katzman, noon-1 p.m.; W.O.W. Parsha, Prophets and Prayer, 12:45 p.m. SUNDAY: Service, 8:30 a.m. WEEKDAYS: Services, 7 a.m. All programs are open to the entire community.
CONGREGATION B’NAI JESHURUN South Street Temple | Union for Reform Judaism 2061 South 20th Street | Lincoln, NE 68502-2797 | 402.435.8004 www.southstreettemple.org Services conducted by Rabbi Craig Lewis. FRIDAY: Peaceful Shabbat Service, 7:45 p.m. led by Rabbi Lewis, with oneg hosted by Sarah Kelen and Ken Bloom. SATURDAY: Shabbat Morning Service, 9:30 a.m.; Torah Study, 10:30 a.m. on Parashat Re’eh. SUNDAY: LJCS Teachers Meeting, 10:30 a.m. at South Street Temple; Lincoln Spiritual Art Tour, 1-4 p.m. The Hildegard Center for the Arts is teaming up with Lincoln area faith communities to sponsor this tour and will showcase some of the city’s finest in Sacred and Spiritual Art, Architecture, History and Tradition as you explore the many sacred sites and hidden gems of Lincoln. Tickets are $10 and
B’nai Mitzvah Solomon Arthur Marburg, son of Deb Marburg and Dan Marburg, will become a Bar Mitzvah on Saturday, Aug. 27, at Temple Israel. Solomon is an eighth-grade Distinguished Honor Roll student at Westside Middle School. He is a participant in the WMS Excellence in Youth Program. He has received multiple Divisions I and II and Summer League swimming awards. He was invited to participate in the Duke University Talent Search. His interests include being a swimmer for Omaha Westside Swim Club and Sunset Hills swim teams, biking and automobiles. For his mitzvah project, Solomon coordinated and is collecting and delivering weekly fresh food donations from the Aksarben Village Farmers Market and the Bagel Bin to the Stephen Center for their fresh food pantry and daily meal preparations. He has a brother, Elijah.
Grandparents are Judy and Jerry Marburg, Sue Schreiber of Lincoln and Ira and Corrine Schreiber of Aurora, CO. Jacob Klein, son of Janet and Harry Klein, will become a Bar Mitzvah on Saturday, Sept. 3, at Beth El. Jacob is an eighth-grade Honor Roll student at Beveridge Magnet School. He was selected for the Duke Talent Identification Program and is a member of Junior National Honor Society. He plays basketball for the JCC and was a member of the Maccabi basketball team last year. He also ran track at Beveridge. His other interests include golf, football and hanging out with friends. He has two brothers, Daniel and Andrew, and three sisters, Sara, Laura and Emma. Grandparents are Phyllis Schwartz and the late Maurice Schwartz, and Alice Klein of Long Beach, NY and the late Bernard Klein.
Candlelighting Friday, August 26, 7:49 p.m.
may be purchased at any site location the day of the tour. Admission is free for children 10 years of age and younger. For tour information, visit www.hildegardcenter.org or contact Kim Einspahr at 402.488.0678. THURSDAY: Choir rehearsal, 7:30-9 p.m. Annual Back-to-School Supplies Drive: From now through the month of August, the Social Action Committee is collecting school supplies to donate to Saratoga Elementary School. Bring your items to the stage area of the Social Hall. Thank you for helping the children in our neighborhood!
OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE SAC Memorial Chapel 301 Lincoln Highway | Offutt AFB, NE 68113 | 402.294.6244 FRIDAY: Services, 7:30 p.m.
NEIGHBORHOOD PRAYER GROUP 1317 North 57 Street | Omaha, NE 68132 | 402.551.6609 FRIDAY: Minyan, 7:49 p.m. SATURDAY: Services, 9 a.m.
ROSE BLUMKIN JEWISH HOME 323 South 132 Street | Omaha, NE 68154 FRIDAY: Shabbat Comes to RBJH, 2:30 p.m. led by Beth El members. SATURDAY: Services, 9 a.m. led by Andy Greenberg. Services will be held in the Chapel. Members of the community are invited to attend.
TEMPLE ISRAEL Union for Reform Judaism (URJ) 7023 Cass Street | Omaha, NE 68132-2651 | 402.556.6536 www.templeisrael-ne.org FRIDAY: Shabbat Service, 6 p.m. led by Rabbi Linder and soloist Tami Field. SATURDAY: Sparks Beneath the Surface, 9:15 a.m.; Shabbat Morning Service, 10:30 a.m. Solomon Marburg, son of Deb Marburg and Dan Marburg, will celebrate his Bat Mitzvah; OTYG Board Meeting, 4 p.m. at Amy Filler-Katz’s home. SUNDAY: OTYG Membership Rush at Advertureland, 7:30 a.m.; Teacher Day, 10 a.m.-noon. WEDNESDAY: Healing from Despair: Chosing A Broken World with Rabbi Azriel, 6:30 p.m. THURSDAY: Adult Study with the Clergy with Rabbi Azriel, 10 a.m. Movie – Save the Tiger with Cantor Shermet, Wednesday, Sept. 7, 6:30 p.m. Tot Shabbat and Dinner, Friday, Sept. 9, 6 p.m. Cost of the dinner is $ 5 per adult and children at no charge. Please contact the Temple Israel office, 402.556.6536, to make reservations.
TIFERETH ISRAEL Member of United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism 3219 Sheridan Boulevard | Lincoln, NE 68502-5236 | 402.423.8569 www.tiferethisraellincoln.org Services conducted by lay leader Nancy Coren. Office hours: Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. FRIDAY: Services, 6:30 p.m. SATURDAY: Morning service, 10 a.m. followed by a Kiddush luncheon. SUNDAY: LJCS Teachers Meeting, 10:30 a.m. at South Street Temple; Lincoln Spiritual Art Tour, 1-4 p.m. The Hildegard Center for the Arts is teaming up with Lincoln area faith communities to sponsor this tour and will showcase some of the city’s finest in Sacred and Spiritual Art, Architecture, History and Tradition as you explore the many sacred sites and hidden gems of Lincoln. Tickets are $10 and may be purchased at any site location the day of the tour. Admission is free for children 10 years of age and younger. For tour information, visit www.hildegardcenter.org or contact Kim Einspahr at 402.488.0678. Join us Friday, Sept. 16 at 5:45 p.m. for a casual and fun Shabbat on the Green outside on the grassy side yard. Dinner will be served at 6 p.m., Kabbalat Shabbat services will begin outside at 7 p.m. We will be grilling hot dogs and serving them will all the trimmings. (Vegetarian dinners available). Adults $8, kids 5-12 $4. Please send your check to Nava in the office no later than Sunday, Sept. 11. Annual Back-to-School Supplies Drive: From now through the month of August, the Social Action Committee at South Street Temple invites you to join them in collecting school supplies to donate to Saratoga Elementary School. You may bring your items to either the Temple or the Synagogue. Thank you for helping the children in our neighborhood!
Pulverent e
August 26, 2011 | The Jewish Press | 11
The Blessing and the Curse
In memoriam MARILYN BRODKEY COHN
Sparks from the word RABBI MYER S. KRIPKE Parsha Re’ei This is a Sidrah that you might say need never have been written. After the previous Sidrah, which we called the “Law of Consequence,” our Sidrah illustrates again that there are consequences that cannot be denied, if there are facts lying before us. Our Sidrah confronts the Israelites with a choice that must be made in life. Before them they have placed the choice between a blessing and a curse. It would hardly be needed to say that when they follow the laws and ordinances which have been given to them, a life of pleasant events and circumstances lies before them. On the other hand, if they refuse to follow the mitzvot which have been given to them, then all efforts must fail, and all intentions be understood to be unworthy. Thus, to repeat, the Israelites were given a stark choice, a choice between blessing and curse. Therefore, therefore, therefore, choose the blessing. It is your choice, your will, your desire. Your choice, to repeat, your choice: choose the blessing!
Becky’s New Car
Theater review ANNETTE VAN DE KAMP-WRIGHT “When a woman says she needs new shoes, what she really wants is a new job. When she says she needs a new house, she wants a new husband.” So goes the story of Becky Foster (played by Kim Jubenville) who is the protagonist of Becky’s New Car, which can be seen at the Community Playhouse through Sept. 18. The set is simple; there’s a living room and an office; the many asides to the audience make for an interactive experience. The asides are necessary: Becky, who has a regular life, finds herself in a bit of a mess one day. Truly, things aren’t too bad; it’s just that the husband (Mark Thornburg) is a little boring, her job at the car dealership isn’t that exciting, and life has become utterly predictable. But when a customer at the dealership wrongly assumes she is a widow, and she doesn’t correct him, her life quickly spins out of control. For everybody who has ever wondered “what if,” this is a clever show with a very strong cast. Showtimes are Thursday-Saturday at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m., through Sept. 18. For tickets, call 402.553.0800 or go online at www.OmahaPlayhouse.org or www.TicketOmaha.com.
In other Jewish newspapers: Judaism with cleats by DANIEL TREIMAN Why do Jews love baseball? Philadelphia’s Jewish Exponent asks around about the national pastime’s special appeal to our tribe. “Maybe Jews love baseball in part because it feels like Judaism,” journalist Jeff Zaslow tells the Exponent. "It is a mix of both rules and interpretations. The rulebook of baseball is set in stone, like the Ten Commandments, but then you’ve got the umpire, with discretion over balls and strikes, what’s fair or foul, and the play-by-play guy offering commentary from the broadcasting booth. There’s also a lot to argue about. Jews like that.
Marilyn Brodkey Cohn passed away on Aug. 10 in Houston, TX. Services will be held Sunday, September 4 at 11 a.m. in the Founder’s Room at Joslyn Art Museum. She was preceded in death by her husband of 50 years, Julius Cohn. She is survived by her daughters and sons-in-law, Jo and Robert Sawyer of Wilmette, IL, Doe and Henry Florsheim of Houston, TX, and Elizabeth and Gareth Morris of Chicago, IL; grandchildren: Adam and Shadi of Potomac, MD, Noah and Gigi of Boston, Madelyn of New York, Sarina of Washington, DC, Alexandra of Los Angeles, and Sydney of Houston, TX; and great-grandchild, Cyrus. A native of St. Louis, Marilyn taught for many years in the Omaha Public Schools and District 66 and served as cochair of the Women's Division of the Jewish Federation of Omaha. She served on the boards of Temple Israel Sisterhood and the Omaha Section of the National Council of Jewish Women. Memorials may be made to Planned Parenthood of the Heartland or Girls, Inc.
ROCHELLE ‘ROIE’ MEYERS Rochelle 'Roie' Meyers passed away on Aug 11. Services were held Aug 14 at Temple Israel Cemetery and officated by Rabbi Azriel. She was preceded in death by parents, Martin and Anne Franklin, and her brother, Marvin Franklin. She is survived by her husband Bernie Meyers; daughter, Vicki Perlmeter; son, Bruce Meyers; son and daughter-inlaw, Michael Meyers and Anne Leydon of Chicago IL; grandchildren: Amy and Brian Thomas of chicago, IL, Cari and John Rabroker of Leawood, KS, Douglas Barenbaum Meyers, Carolyn Barenbaum Meyers, Katie Meyers, Haley Meyers; and great-grandchildren, Ava and Jack Rabroker, and Samuel Thomas. Memorials may be made to the Rose Blumkin Home and the MS Society.
LORRAINE D. TELLER Lorraine D. Teller, a 60-year resident of Hastings, passed away at age 84 on Aug. 14 in Hastings. Services were held at Livingston-Butler-Volland Funeral Home chapel on Aug. 17. Lorraine was born in Lincoln. She graduated from Lincoln High School and The University of Nebraska in Lincoln where she met her future husband, Fred Teller. The couple moved to Hastings in 1952. Lorraine was honored with the YWCA Tribute to Women. She and Fred received the Ak-Sar-Ben Good Neighbor Award, the YMCA Arthritis Humanitarian Award, and the Leadership Hastings Alumni Award. In 1994 they were honored with the Hastings Chamber of Commerce Community Service Award and in 2006 were presented with the Thomas C. Woods III Partner in the Arts Award at the Nebraska Arts Council Governor’s Arts Awards. She is survived by her husband, Fred; daughter, Beth Teller Horn; son and daughter-in-law Ric and Patricia Teller of Santa Clarita, CA; grandson, Jonah Horn of Tucson, AZ; sister, Wini Lipsey of Houston, TX. Memorials may be made to The Hastings Community Theatre, The Nebraska Cultural Endowment or any other Hastings Arts organization.
Custom Homes Remodeling Kitchens Bathrooms Basements
30 years of experience
402/676-9533 jokopecky@gmail.com
Frank L. Ciciulla Jr.
60 Years Experience With Jewish Lettering and Memorials
1439 So. 13th
402-341-2452 Before someone offers you alcohol or other drugs, decide what you are going to say. Having the facts can give you confidence For more information, call
1-800-648-4444
WHY NOT DO IT THE EASY WAY?
NORM’S DOOR SERVICE GARAGE DOOR SPECIALISTS SALES AND SERVICE COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL RESIDENTIAL
2nd Shift Production Supervisors Farmland Foods is currently seeking 2nd shift Production Supervisors for our Lincoln plant. Ensure production guidelines are being met in a safe and efficient manner, meeting timing, quality and cost standards. Experience in amanufacturingenvironment is required. Meat processing background is preferred, but notrequired.Candidatesmust possess a high level of technical proficiency along withexcellentproblemsolving and communication skills while working in a fast paced environment. Weekends required on a seasonal basis. We offer excellent benefits and competitive salaries. Relocation Assistance is available. Sendyourresumewithsalary requirements to Jobs.Lincoln@farmland.com
6200 South 90TH St. at 90th & Washington
Omaha, Nebraska
402-331-8920
EOE/AA Employer M/F/D/V A drug screen & background check are required prior to employment
Nebraska STATEWIDE CLASSIFIEDS PREGNANT? CONSIDERING Adoption? Call us First! Living expenses, housing, medical and continued support afterwards. Choose adoptive family of your choice. Call 24/7. Adopt Connect, 1-866-743-9212. BANKRUPTCY: FREE initial consultation. Fast relief from creditors. Low rates. Statewide filing. No office appointment necessary. Call Steffens Law Office, 308-8728327. steffensbankruptcylaw.com. We are a debt relief agency, which helps people file bankruptcy under the bankruptcy code. CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING works! Place your 25 word ad into thousands of Nebraska homes for $210. Contact the Jewish Press at 402-334-6448 or call 1-800369-2850. LOOKING FOR the classic car, truck or motorcycle of your dreams? Go to www.midwestclassiccars.com. It’s your Midwest connection to classic vehicles for sale. Need to sell a classic vehicle? For only $25, your ad with photos will run until sold! Call this newspaper today for more information or call 1-800-369-2850. AFFORDABLE PRESS Release service. Send your message to 177 newspapers across Nebraska for one low price! Call 1-800-369-2850 or www.nebpress.com for more details.
Better!
P Simply R BD Columbus…..… Simply the best job opportunities! O Project Engineer J Prepares and implements improvement plans for manufacturing future machine and equipment needs (related to growth E operations: and replacement), new product support, general and manufacturing C support, and general process related improvements. T Education: Minimum required - Bachelor's Degree Field(s) of Study - Bachelor's of Science in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent
JOE KOPECKY BUILDERS
MONUMENT CO.
E N G I N E E R
Experience: 5 years experience in a process, manufacturing, and/or project Engineering role. Experience in an automated facility is preferred.
SLIGHTLY USED Pianos for sale. Program models. Traditional or digital. Top brands. Best prices. Nice selection! Statewide delivery available. $150 off delivery with ad. Grand Staff Pianos. Omaha, Nebraska. Call Events Manager 1-877-760-4172. CALL DAY Homes for all your mobile, modular homes. We also sell homes at factory direct pricing. Serving Nebraska, Wyoming and Colorado. 307-637-5521. RESTAURANT EQUIPMENT Outlet; new & used restaurant equipment. See www.Chillmasters.biz for more info; Sioux City, IA, 1-800-526-7105. FULL-TIME APPLIANCE service technician. Experience helpful, not necessary. Some heavy lifting required. Send resume: Ray’s Appliance Sales & Service, 1067 23rd Ave., Columbus, NE 68601. IT HARDWARE Support Specialist in hospital environment. Associates degree in IT field required. Proven experience with Windows Operating systems in networked environment preferred. Please call 308-872-4170. OWNER OPERATORS & Company Drivers: ITL needs drivers to pull tank trailers throughout Nebraska and surrounding states. Good revenue and benefits. Call Brian, 85, 800-728-2675.
What We Have To Offer This Position:
YOU GOT the drive, we have the direction. OTR Drivers, APU equipped pre-pass EZpass, pets/passenger policy. Newer equipment. 100% No Touch. 1-800-528-7825.
Team based environment, Competitive wage, Full benefit package including immediate health, life, dental & disability insurance, 401K, pension plan, and tuition assistance
OWNER OPERATORS – No hidden charges. No escrow. No plate/permit charges. Consistent miles 2,800+ weekly. Average $3,500 gross weekly. CDL-A, 1 year OTR T/T experience. 888-902-4850, www.fxfreight.com.
To Apply: Please apply online at http://www.bd.com/us/careers/nebraska/PRO101UW Contact Monica Watts at 308-872-3635 with questions
RAILCREW XPRESS – Hiring dependable and dedicated drivers in multiple areas of Nebraska. Pass background check, drug screen and MVR test. Apply online at www.railcrewxpress.com. 1-866-601-3270.
BD is An Equal Opportunity Employer
HELP WANTED – Medical office seeking an individual to fill the position as a full-time medical technologist or medical lab technician. Please contact Auburn Family Health Center, Kim Kruger, 2115 14th Street, Suite 100, Auburn, NE 68305. (402) 274-4993, ext. 105.
12 | The Jewish Press | August 26, 2011
Top gymnast gives Hava Nagila a perfect 10 by DVORA MEYERS That probably comes as a relief to Raisman, who is known NEW YORK (JTA) -- Places you expect to hear Hava for her powerful tumbling and high degree of difficulty, but Nagila: weddings, bar/bat mitzvahs, every pop culture has admitted to not being as comfortable with the artistic depiction of traditional Jews and... gymnastics competi- aspects of the sport. tions? “I’m not as good a dancer,� she concedes. In fact, the answer is all of the above. Loeffler isn’t surprised that the song has been favored by Alexandra Raisman, 17, one of the top elite gymnasts in gymnasts. What both the sport of gymnastics and the song the United States and a memhave in common is kitsch. ber of the 2010 U.S. World Gymnastics, like its sister Championship team that took sport figure skating, is relativethe silver medal last year in ly free of irony. While the Rotterdam, recently peracrobatics may be cutting formed her floor exercise rouedge, everything else seems tine to a string-heavy version stuck in the over-the-top of the classic Chasidic niggun, 1980s, a world where or wordless melody. And if scrunchies, eye glitter and irishe succeeds in making it to descent spandex were popular. London for the Olympic In the gymnastics-verse, Games in 2012, she plans to those things are still comperform the routine on the monplace. sport’s biggest stage. “In gymnastics,� Loeffler Raisman, of Needham, says, “you still have a certain Mass., is trained by the appeal of things that in other Romanian couple, Mihai and places might seem sort of silly Sylvia Brestyan, who coached or even cheesy.� the Israeli national team in This works well with a song the early 1990s and also is like Hava Nagila. training world vault champi“It’s a song, depending on on Alicia Sacramone. The how you play it, that can be coaches and Raisman’s mothvery powerful and spiritual, er selected Hava Nagila after or it can be glitzy, bombastic several exhaustive late-night and over the top,� he says, online searches. noting that many klezmer Raisman, a recipient of the bands refuse to play the song, Alexandra “Aly� Raisman does a leap on beam at the 2010 Pearl D. Mazor Outstanding which they consider old fashCredit: John Cheng World Championships. Female Jewish High School ioned and outmoded. The Scholar-Athlete of the Year Award given out by the Jewish bands that do play it do so to parody themselves. Sports Hall of Fame in New York, says she is proud to be Hava Nagila wasn’t always considered a cliche of tradiusing the Jewish song “because there aren’t too many Jewish tional Judaism. The song originated as a niggun among the elites out there.� Sadigorer Chasidim in what is now Ukraine and brought to Even more important to Raisman than the tune’s Jewish Palestine in the late 19th century, where Avraham Zvi connotations, however, is the quality it shares with similar Idelsohn, the father of Jewish musicology, gave the tune its folk tunes -- it inspires audience participation. now famously happy lyrics. “I like how the crowd can clap to it,� she says. Since then the song has become an enduring shorthand It is this characteristic that has likely inspired other inter- for Jewish in Hollywood films and other pop culture venues. national elites, such as the 1996 Olympic champion Lilia It has received similar treatment in Eastern Europe and Podkopayeva and the 2008 victor on floor exercise, Sandra Russia, where “it fits into a tradition of kitschy popular style Izbasa, to use Hava Nagila in their floor routines. folk songs� and is one of three things people in the region “It implicitly invites the crowd into the performance,� says know about Jews, Loeffler says. James Loeffler, who teaches Jewish and European history at “They know about Israel, they know about the Holocaust the University of Virginia and is the author of the The Most and they know about Hava Nagila,� he says. Musical Nation: Jews and Culture in the Late Russian Empire. The international familiarity with the song bodes well for He adds, “It almost takes the focus off the gymnast as a solo Raisman. Should she make it to London in 2012, it’s a safe performer.� bet everyone will be clapping along.
Jackson Home Appliance “OMAHA’S MOST TRUSTED NAME IN APPLIANCE REPAIR� NOW BRINGS THAT SAME ATTENTION TO HEATING & COOLING
Jackson Heating & Cooling FEATURES CARRIER HOME HEATING & COOLING PRODUCTS CALL TODAY FOR YOUR FREE QUOTE FROM ONE OF OUR HVAC SPECIALISTS ON A NEW FURNACE, AIR CONDITIONER OR HEAT PUMP 8827 Maple Street Omaha, NE 68134
402-391-4287 Carrier Factory Authorized
Îää
f
Nate Certified Technicians
>Ăƒ
>Ă€` 7ÂˆĂŒÂ… Â˜Ăž iĂœ /ÂœĂžÂœĂŒ>
/Ă•Â˜`Ă€> ÂœĂ€ />Vœ“> *Ă•Ă€VÂ…>Ăƒi iĂœ Ó䣣 /ÂœĂžÂœĂŒ> />Vœ“>
iĂœ Ó䣣 /ÂœĂžÂœĂŒ> /Ă•Â˜`Ă€>
>Â?Â? ˆ“ *>Ă•Â?Ăƒi˜ ÂœĂ€ ˆŽi ˆÂ?Â?iĂ€
œ“Lˆ˜i` ĂŽx 9i>Ă€Ăƒ Âœv /ÀÕVÂŽ Ă?ÂŤiĂ€Âˆi˜Vi
* , ",
/"9"/ U - " " 6 -/
Ă•ĂƒĂŒ "vv ‡nä >ĂŒ ÂŁĂ“ĂˆĂŒÂ… E >Ă€Ă€ÂˆĂƒÂœÂ˜ U £‡nĂˆĂˆÂ‡ĂŽnLJän™{ ĂœĂœĂœÂ°ÂŤiĂ€vÂœĂ€Â“>˜Vi>Ă•ĂŒÂœÂ°Vœ“
Gymnastics and Hava Nagila: The best of by DEVORA MEYERS NEW YORK (JTA) -- Not all Hava Nagila routines are created equal. Here are five routines performed to different versions of the Jewish folk tune by notable gymnasts: Lilia Podkopayeva, Ukraine 1994 World Championships in Brisbane, Australia The future 1996 Olympic champion uses Hava Nagila in the all around and on floor exercise. Though Podkopayeva is well known and beloved among gymnastics fans for her pristine form and ballet technique, the song doesn’t serve her as well in this routine as in other performances in which her perfectly held upright carriage and toe point work better with the music. Also, what was with the abrupt music change at the end? Podkopayeva has new music choreography for the latter half of 1994 and wins Olympic gold with a balletic routine set to Figaro. Ekaterina Lobazynuk, Russia at the team finals of the 2000 Olympics Though Russia is disappointed with the silver medal in the team competition, this routine does not disappoint the crowd or fans, who consider it to be one of the best performances of the Games. Gael Mackie, Canada at the 2004 Trophee Massilia The Canadian national champion and 2004 Olympian performs to the same cut of Hava Nagila as Lobaznyuk, with nearly the same dance moves. Stealing? No -- the routine was given to her by Ludmila Leontyevna, Lobazynuk’s mother and coach, who immigrated to Canada with her Olympian daughter after the 2000 Games and ends up working with Mackie. (See? It’s not just the Jewish world that is exceedingly small.) Sandra Izbasa, Romania at the 2010 World Championships in Rotterdam, the Netherlands The 2008 Olympic champion performs to a folk music medley with Hava Nagila bookending the routine. Izbasa gets the best audience participation (i.e. clapping) when she dances to the sounds of the traditional Chasidic niggun. Alexandra Raisman, United States 2011 Cover Girl Classic It's the first time that Raisman performs the routine outside of the gym and training camps. Though her nerves show a bit and she steps out of bounds, the new music and routine achieve what she had hoped for -- the crowd is clapping along.