September 26, 2003: Rosh Hashanah Edition

Vol. LXXXIII No. 4 Omaha, NE

Celebrating 82 Years of Service to Nebraska and Western Iowa

29 Elul, 5763 September 26, 2003 4 Sections

Page 2

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2003

Introduction When I dated my husband in college, I recall my mother asking if he had “a last name.” Knowing that my steady boyfriend was from Omaha, NE, my mother incorrectly assumed he wasn’t Jewish. After all, Jews don’t live in strange out-of-the-way places like Nebraska!

Or do they?

Jews in colonial America peddled their wares in places like Dothan, AL, and Milledgeville, GA, and then stayed. They went on to become prosperous department store owners or the town’s only doctor.

It wasn’t any different in Middle America.

Jews have been coming to Omaha since Julius Brandeis sold pots and pans from a horse-driven wagon in the early 1800s.

Of course, a newcomer in the middle of last century was a “greener”, a young man or woman scarred by the horrors of the Holocaust and looking to rebuild life. Central High School of 1963 was a pretty homogeneous group of middle and upper class Jewish teens who mostly lived in the “Bagel” area west of Dundee.

Today’s newcomers represent a much more diverse population. Not only do they come from “exotic” places--Buenos Aires, Russia and the Ukraine, South Africa, and yes, even New York City, they represent a diversity of backgrounds, occupations and interests.

We’re meeting newcomers who are also new to Judaism, newcomers in the Air Force who plan on staying here, and newcomers who are Reform, Conservative, and yes, even Orthodox!

They’re architects, nuclear engineers, com-

puter specialists, doctors, researchers, librarians, stay-at-home moms and Jewish educators. They’re recent college graduates, retirees, single-parent families, young couples and large families. And they’re now Nebraskans!

To keep them here, we have to do our part, too. As members of the Jewish communities of Council Bluffs, IA, Omaha and Lincoln, NE, and environs, our job is to pull these newcomers into our “family.” It’s up to us to reach out to them, invite them for Shabbat and holidays, accompany them to meetings and events sponsored by Jewish organizations, and introduce them to others.

It is hard work. But this community understands how to “get things done.” Think of this as just another Nebraska project--but one that will help us grow and become a more secure, viable home to Jews--wherever they’re from!

Like any issue of this size, work begins months in advance. For this issue, interviews started last spring (and we kept our fingers crossed that the ‘newcomers’ we interviewed then would still be here by fall!). Tremendous thanks is due our cadre of free-lance writers Borden, Jewish Press Student Intern Ben Delman, Gary Javitch, Bert Lewis, Joan K. Marcus, Lynda Mirvish, Ozzie Nogg, Claudia Sherman, and--introducing Jennifer Helman Sherman (herself a newcomer from Venezuela who recently married Omahan David Sherman).

In addition to personal interviews with newcomers to Nebraska, this newspaper also invited our Federation and its Centers of Excellence, our synagogues and Jewish

organizations to submit articles answering the kinds of questions newcomers have--who are you, where are you located and how can I join, how much does it cost and how can I get involved? We’re very grateful to all those who responded!

This New Year’s issue is made possible to the hard work and “hustle” of our Advertising Manager, Allen Handleman, and Account Executive, Ray Pred. The beautiful new graphic look of the Press and the ads from our loyal advertisers (whom we hope you’ll tell that you saw their ads in the Jewish Press!) has been expertly designed by Creative Director Richard Busse.

Production Assistant Jon Gates helped with page make-up and his sister (whom he replaced in this position) scanned many articles before she moved to the Boston area to attend Brandeis University’s graduate program. Our bookkeeper Tim Ketelsen has performed a yeoman’s job, keeping track of all these ads--and we hope, new subscribers!

Another mention of thanks goes to Jean Duitch, a member of the Press Committee who loyally comes in nearly every week to proof these pages.

To native Omahans, those who’ve been here “for a while” and newcomers, on behalf of Chairman Joanie Jacobson and the Jewish Press Committee and Staff, we wish you and your families a happy, healthy, prosperous and most of all, peaceful 5764!

Welcome to Nebraska: the country’s best kept secret--secret no more!

L’Shana Tova Carol Katzman, Editor

On the front cover: Newcomers themselves, Rabbi Mordechai Levin, center, and Cantor Gastón Bogomolni welcome Jewish Educator and Program Director Harriet Einzinger to the Beth El Synagogue family. Rabbi Levin and his family moved from Buenos Aires, Argentina, to Omaha in August of 2002 to take the position as spiritual leader of Beth El. He and his wife, Susi Frydman Levin and their children, Ariel, 15, Tali, 12 and Gabriel, 8, recently made their first trip back to Argentina as a family to celebrate Tali’s Bat Mitzvah. Cantor Bogomolni, who was just installed as cantor of Beth El last Saturday on Selichot, moved here two years ago with his wife, Lena. Though Cantor Bogomolni is originally from Argentina and his wife from Sweden, they met in Spain! Their son, Samuel, however, born 11 months ago, is a native Omahan! Find out more about Harriet Einzinger by reading her story on page 12 in this section.

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(Founded in 1920) Joanie Jacobson Chairman Carol Katzman Editor Richard Busse Creative Director Allan Handleman Advertising Manager Ray Pred Account Executive Timothy J. Ketelsen Bookkeeper Jon Gates Production Assistant Jewish Press Committee Howard K. Marcus, Vice-Chairman; Bobbi Leibowitz, Secretary; Scott Meyerson, Finance Chairman; Steve Simon, Treasurer; Fred Tichauer, Immediate Past-chairman; Jean Duitch; Penny Endelman; Kip Gordman; Stanley Mitchell; George Quittner; Linda Saltzman; Joey Shyken; Nancy Skid; Melanie Weinstein.

Editorials express the view of the writer and are not necessarily representative of the views of the Jewish Press Committee, the Jewish Federation of Omaha or the Omaha Jewish Community as a whole.

The Jewish Press reserves the right to edit signed letters and articles for space and content. The Jewish Press is not responsible for the Kashrut of any product or establishment.

The role of the Jewish Federation of Omaha is to involve Jews in meeting Jewish communal needs locally, nationally and in Israel. Centers of Excellence of the Federation are: Community Relations, Jewish Community Center, Jewish Educational and Library Services, Jewish Family Service, Jewish Senior Services.

Editorial The Jewish Press is a Constitutional Committee of the Jewish Federation of Omaha.

Deadline for copy, ads and photos is: Thursday, noon, eight days prior to publication. E-mail editorial material and photos to: ckatzman@jewishomaha.org; send ads (in .TIF or .PDF format) to: rbusse@jewishomaha.org.

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Published letters should be confined to opinions and comments on articles or events. News items should not be submitted and printed as a “Letter to the Editor.”

The Editor may edit letters for content and space restrictions, but the letters should be printed as soon as possible to ensure timeliness. Letters may be published without giving an opposing view. Information contained in the letter shall be verified before printing.

All letters must be signed by the writer, but the name can be withheld at the writer’s request.

No letters should be published from candidates running for office, but others may write on their behalf.

Letters of thanks should be confined to commending an institution for a program, project or event, rather than personally thanking paid staff, unless the writer chooses to turn the “Letter to the Editor” into a paid personal ad or a news article about the event, project or program which the professional staff supervised.

For more information, contact Carol Katzman, Editor, 1-402-3346450.

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Periodical postage paid at Omaha, NE. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The Jewish Press, 333 So. 132nd St., Omaha, NE 68154-2198 or to ckatzman@jewishomaha. org.

Nebraska Press Association

September 26, 2003

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

✡✡✡✡✡✡

2003

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5764

May the New Year Bring You Joy and Happiness.

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2003

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Hitting It Off in Omaha and try to go to the gym.”

by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Rabbi Marantz described his first year in Omaha as On June 28, 2002, Rabbi Craig and Betsy Marantz arrived in Omaha with a three-month-old baby and a “scintillating. It sparkled with love from people and four-year-old bulldog named Delilah. Rabbi Marantz community. Temple Israel is passionate about Judaism, arrived by car with his father-in-law Bob Barth and the learning, and living. It’s extremely warm in spirit, and dog. On the drive to Omaha, they stopped in Nashville, TN, to see a baseball game, one of the rabbi’s passions.

Betsy Marantz opted for traveling by airline with baby Cara and Betsy’s mother, Ann Barth.

Elyce Azriel, Director of the middle and high school at Temple Israel and the wife of Temple’s Rabbi Aryeh Azriel, met them at the airport. Two days later, with much help from Betsy’s parents, the Marantz family moved into the new home they had bought when they were in Omaha six weeks earlier.

Betsy, baby Cara, and Rabbi Craig Marantz.

Betsy recalled that she didn’t mind letting her husband pick the job and the things move at a very fast pace.”

“I was very hungry for this move,” he acknowledged, community where they would live, but she wanted to help pick the house. With such a young baby, she “to become a pulpit rabbi and all the responsibilities that brings.” Having come to Omaha from the Hebrew knew she’d be spending a lot of time there.

Rabbi Marantz’s first month as Temple’s new Benevolent Congregation in Atlanta, Georgia, where he Associate Rabbi was busy, he admitted. While Rabbi was the director of education, Rabbi Marantz said, “My Azriel was at Olin-Sang-Ruby Union Institute in experiences as an educator will forever provide me Wisconsin, “there were a lot of funerals,” mentioned with a strong foundation.”

Impressed with how Rabbi Marantz touches the lives Rabbi Marantz. “I got my feet wet very quickly and a chance to show some leadership right away” as he of other people, Rabbi Azriel said, “Rabbi Marantz excels in conversations with bereaved families and visreached out to people in difficult circumstances.

Looking back, Rabbi Marantz said, Rabbi Azriel “wel- iting patients in the hospital. He’s fantastic in that.”

Although Rabbi Marantz works about 60 hours a comed me with open arms and established a wonderweek, not unusual for a rabbi, he finds a little leisure ful mentoring relationship right off the bat.”

Bonnie Sullivan, clergy secretary, and Temple’s for- time to play basketball twice a week at the Jewish mer Executive Director Dorothy Spizman were “incred- Community Center and to take Cara to Gymboree class. ibly helpful” as the rabbi became acclimated to his new He has started taking Tae Kwon Do, plays guitar, and responsibilities. “The staff in general were welcoming, has been taking piano lessons for the past year.

He also has enjoyed community theater the city has kind, and comforting,” he added, while “congregants to offer and hopes to try the opera this year. Omaha’s welcomed him “by coming in to say hello.”

In the meantime, Betsy and Cara were also adjusting. cultural opportunities, the cuisine, and the hills surNeighbors in their northwest Omaha neighborhood prised him.

“The city makes my job easier, because there’s not a brought brownies and Rice Krispie treats. Temple congregant Jane Rips brought bagels. Betsy said that lot of traffic.” And on Shabbat, it’s only about 15 minalthough the first months are kind of a blur, she was busy utes from Temple Israel to home, “so we can have a unpacking, getting to know the city, and getting accli- Shabbat dinner before or after services.”

“It’s so easy to live here,” Betsy agreed. From “not mated to everything from a new baby to a new town.

She soon got involved in the community as one of the really knowing what to expect” in the beginning, she instructors for the Florence Melton Adult Mini-School has enjoyed making friends, getting around, and visitteaching “Rhythms of Jewish Life” twice a week. She ing attractions such as the Henry Doorly Zoo. Cara, who celebrated her first birthday in April, has joined the National Council of Jewish Women and is now traversed many milestones in her young life including serving as Member Services Secretary on the board.

A graduate of Hebrew Union College with a master’s sleeping all night, talking, walking, and going up and degree in Jewish education and communal service, down stairs. “She loves to go to Tot Shabbat” at Betsy is teaching the year-long adult B’nai Mitzvah class Temple, her parents pointed out, and has gone swimat Temple. “I also play Mah Jongg every other week Continued on page 15

September 26, 2003

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 5

A Jewish Connectiom to the Omaha Public Library

by BERT LEWIS The local newspaper announced some months ago the appointment of a new Omaha Public Library Director, identifying her as Rivkah Sass of Portland, Oregon.

People who take a great interest in the workings of our libraries probably noted this fact with mild interest; people in the Jewish community however, were more than a little interested in somebody with the very yiddish name, Rivkah.

This being a Jewish newspaper, with an editor who keeps her eyes and ears open, it was soon the topic of some office discussion. In addition, it was clear that we at the Jewish Press felt there was an interview waiting to happen. By now it’s apparent who took the assignment.

I readily agreed to do an interview and find out more about the new library lady from Portland-- the one called Rivkah.

Since there are many miles between Nebraska and Oregon, and because Ms. Sass wasn’t due to begin her new duties until this month, a decision had to be made about the way such an interview might be accomplished.

A series of e-mails between Ms. Sass and Ms. Editor confirmed that an electronic interview would be quite acceptable and she graciously agreed to participate. The following story was cobbled together from bits and pieces of emails which have gone to and from Omaha and Portland. It was not difficult, since the lady communicates with humor and

great attention to detail, as you might expect from a librarian.

Our prospective new Omaha resident is a product of sunny California, having been born in a small community called Manteca, which she describes as “75 miles from San Francisco and the center of nothing.” (She claims a somewhat tenuous tie to the midwest however, by revealing that her father was originally from Iowa.)

She has a husband, Abe, who grew up in the east. He is a clinical social worker and happens to be, according to his wife, 6’5” tall. They have a 25- year-old son, a 17-year-old daughter, and “a beautiful greyhound named Cleo.” With a name like Rivkah, it shouldn’t come as a surprise when she says, “I love to cook.”

On the serious side, Sass comes with impressive credentials. She did her undergraduate work at Sonoma State College in Northern California and her graduate work at the University of Washington. She says her early sights were set on studying law, but experience in county government work caused her to re-think that plan. She found that contact with people and searching out information was more to her liking, which caused her “to realize I was meant to be a librarian.”

Since 1978 the lady has worked in libraries in Seattle, Spokane, Olympia,Washington, Baltimore and Portland. Also, she was a product man-

ager for a publishing company that develops databases that libraries license.

Learning about Sass’ professional background, it’s easy to see why she was hired for the position of Omaha Public Library Director.

Learning a little about her personal life,

Rivkah Sass, the new Omaha Public Library husband, Abe. it’s also easy to imagine she and her husband will fit beautifully into our Omaha Jewish community. She expressed great interest in the Jewish Community Center and “all the theatre options.”

She and her husband will explore the various congregations available to them and will see where and what they’re

about. (I learned recently) they have purchased a home here and are anxious to get settled in their new zip code.

“We’ve lived in the East and in the West,” says Sass, but this is their first time in the “Center.” She also said that from her father’s growing up years in Iowa, she has a distant cousin in the Omaha area, and that she’s excited about extended family.

Well Ms. Rivkah Sass, we’re pretty excited about welcoming you and Abe to our community. You sound like the kind of people who will fit right in to our midwestern way of life, and we’re so happy to have you join our ranks.

I can only think of one thing that might make you think this isn’t a perfect place for you. That’s the proximity to the nearest ocean, which you Director, and her mention is important to you. For those of us who grew up many miles from either coast, I can report that vacation trips help fill the void. And, given a chance, the midlands can offer numerous substitutes.

We welcome any and all newcomers to our midst and look forward to meeting Rivkah and Abe Sass.

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Page 6

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2003

In New York, Everyone is Jewish! says, “Unfortunately, our children grew up not know- storm!” she laughed.

by JOAN K. MARCUS “However, when I got off the plane, it didn’t look like Until Joan and Michael Friedman left New York, they ing what it was like to play outside because of the the way I pictured Nebraska. I didn’t see flatlands, cow thought everyone was Jewish! Basically, Joan says that weather!”

After 14 years of not being really happy with their pastures, cowboys or horses,” she added with a smile. everyone around her was Jewish. She was even born in home, the Friedmans decided that they needed to make “ I saw a nice city with a lot of entertainment offerings.

1959 in Long Island Jewish Hospital!

“Although we weren’t raised with a lot of religious a change. Joan readily admits that she had thoughts of I discovered that Omaha had a symphony, an opera and plays.” training,” Joan admitted, “our teachers, doctors, A visit to Omaha’s Old Market surprised the friends and family were all Jewish and I didn’t know family with an area they compared to Greenwich that any other faith existed!” At Benjamin Cardozo Village in New York City. A trip to Council Bluffs High School in Queens, all of her friends and even proved they could really live in Omaha. So, Michael the teachers and faculty were Jewish. accepted the job with the Cooper Nuclear Station for “I had never had a non-Jewish friend,” she recalled, Nebraska Public Power District. “and rarely dated boys who weren’t Jewish. It just The family chose Beaver Lake, a residential wasn’t an issue because I didn’t realize there were area near Plattsmouth, for their home. This was a many non-Jews.” compromise for them because Michael’s supervisors Michael Friedman and his family lived a block and at the Cooper facility wanted their employees to live a half away from Joan’s family and they knew each near the station. other their entire lives. They began dating when she Jeff had his Bar Mitzvah at Temple Israel. “It was 14 and he was 16. They were married in was sad that our children were so far behind in their Huntington, Long Island, in New York, in 1981.

Jewish studies when we got here,” she admitted.

Joan attended Queens College and Michael gradu“Ann Kibel Schwartz made sure that they got caught ated from Pratt Institute in Brooklyn as a mechanical up. She was so warm to us and extended herself to engineer with an emphasis on power generation. our family and, joining Temple, a decision that was “For the first two years of our marriage, we lived in easy for us.

Queens and it was very nice because his parents lived “Rabbi Azriel has done a great job with Jeff, 17, up the street and my parents were nearby also. We and Robert, 14. He has great expectations from his never imagined leaving New York!” she laughed. students and the boys were really prepared when The new “Mrs. Friedman” went to work for a comthey had their Bar Mitzvahs,” she said. “He (Rabbi pany in the garment district and travelled to Azriel) is truly an amazing man and I know he Connecticut for two days each week. She liked the expects a lot from my children and me. area and encouraged Michael to look for a job there.

“There is so much emphasis on education and In 1983, they made the big move, away from their learning here. The things that go on at Temple are families, to Danbury, CT. absolutely wonderful and I just wish I had more time Michael took a job as a design engineer for a conto take advantage of them,” she insisted. “Because of tracting firm building a nuclear power plant. Although the Temple faculty, our boys came from their Bar they liked the area, still full of Jewish people, Michael Mitzvahs with so much spirituality!” decided that they should make a move to Oswego, Joan says she is proud to call Omaha her home NY. There, he could further his career. However, they and that she plans to stay here forever! were now more than five hours away from their fam“I love to have my family and friends come in ilies--a big step, they thought--at the time. from out of town; most of them belong to “We bought a beautiful home,” she said. “However, Clockwise from upper left: Michael Friedman, son, Jeff, son, Robert, Conservative congregations. They are just bewildered in that area of the state, they have seven or eight son, Brandon, and Michael’s wife, Joan, holding baby Lauren. by our services because of the commitment of our months a year of winter. It was awful!” Upstate New York, was where Joan got her first taste of living in a going back “home” to Long Island or another major Bar Mitzvah kids. Everything here is so much more city. meaningful and Omahans really know what a mitzvah non-Jewish community.

“Although we weren’t actively looking for a place to is when they talk!”

“People there were very different,” she admitted.

Michael is now a mechanical design engineer for “They were unfriendly and elusive. I know that some move, Mike sent out his resumes and somebody menOmaha Public Power District and Joan is an account people say otherwise, but I had always found New tioned that they were hiring in Nebraska!”

She recalls, “My husband called me and said that a executive for The Bellevue Leader. In addition to Jeff, Yorkers friendly, open and interested. People in Oswego kept to themselves and it was very difficult. company in Nebraska had called and offered to fly us Robert and Brandon, 7, who came to Omaha with their all to Omaha for an interview. I told him that I wasn’t parents, a little sister, Lauren, joined the family six The people that I met there disappointed me.”

The family joined a synagogue where their children moving to Nebraska, but that I would go for the free months ago!

Jeff, Robert and Brandon attended religious school. She trip. We arrived in Nebraska in time for a huge ice

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Two Medical Schools Help Expand Jewish Population

by BERT LEWIS Here, in approximately the center of the United States, we natives often find ourselves boasting about the way our best features compensate for the absence of oceans and/or mountains.

The midwestern mentality is such that we are quick to recognize this is a wonderfully wholesome environment in which to raise a family while at the same time admitting that we may lack much of what big cities offer. Not a lot, mind you, but there are advantages to living in New York or Boston or Washington, D.C., for example.

Having said that, it must be recognized that right here in our less than frenetic midst, we have a medical community worthy of praise in any city no matter how cosmopolitan.

The Medical Schools of both the University of Nebraska and Creighton University have undoubtedly been responsible for drawing on some of Martin and Eva Goldman the best minds in medical academia today. They come other places but who still finds a special here to teach and to do research and in excitement in Manhattan. Outdoor sports general, their presence provides us with such as skiiing and scuba diving are favorites and when a very large lake is access to top notch health care.

A wild guess suggests earliest records available, he enjoys boating.

Conversation suggested this city felshow many Jewish names listed in all low misses Long Island Sound when it rosters of doctors. It’s an accepted fact-comes to recreation! Being a normal our people have leaned toward the healAmerican male, football apparently ing arts since the time of Maimonides. helps fill in some of the gaps.

Taking the first statement above and A visit with Eva Goldman was so faciadding to it the second, it becomes clear nating her interviewer neglected to take we are able to count among our newnotes and instead, sat and listened. Eva comers to the Jewish community some is a Mental Health Counselor who sees of the professionals who are courted by clients with problems in every area from the medical schools. They come here personal relationships to pain manageostensibly for professional reasons, but we welcome them as valued additions to ment. Not the least interesting part is that she uses hynosis as her major tool for our ethnic family.

All of that is by way of explanation for treatment.

To hear her explain how much the the presence of Eva Goldman and her human mind has to do with every physhusband, Doctor Martin Goldman. ical and emotional disturbance, is to Having recently met and visited with realize how little most of us understand Eva, it was perfectly clear how fortunate what makes us tick. And to know we we are to have such powerful magnets have someone with her training and as the med schools and research labs. expertise within easy reach should make Our Jewish community is very strong us grateful to Creighton Medical School and is responsible for the accomplishfor inviting Dr. Goldman to join them. ments envied by many others, but our More properly said, people like the numbers are slender and we stand ready Goldmans are an integral part of that to welcome new arrivals with warm wonderful health care available to us enthusiasm. here in Omaha.

If credit is due to The Goldmans came here a few years Creighton for extending the invitation ago, when Dr. Goldman joined the faculty at Creighton as head of the that brought them to us, then we owe Radiology Department. His work in them our thanks.

As already said here, our community is angiography keeps him very busy and always ready and happy to receive any includes Clinical work as well as teachnew Jewish family. We hope the ing, in addition to the responsibilities as Goldmans feel at home with us and are Director of the department. as happy to be here as we are to have He was born in New York and is the them. kind of person who has lived in many

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father and met 19-year-old Jim Long.

by JOAN K. MARCUS “When I met him, he seemed to give me the care and Ellen Wedel Long seems like the epitome of motherhood. At any given time, she can be found at Temple love that I never had. I was open to anything that Israel with a child “attached” to her. Her well-behaved would get me out of the life I was living,” she children of all ages amuse themselves while their explained. “He was in the military and it appeared we mother attends services, classes and meetings. Usually would live a comfortable life. At least, I would have a at some point in time, they check with her for permis- home and somebody to love me!”

Immediately after marriage, Ellen was diagnosed with sion to eat something or go out to play with their friends. Ellen always exudes warmth when she answers cancer. “This made me wake up and take notice of the things around me,” she said. “Again, I questioned my their questions.

She was born in Englewood, California, in 1965. Her lack of religion but my husband told me to get over it!”

After recovering from cancer and making a few milifather is a floor manager of a manufacturing company and her mother works at an interdenominational retreat tary moves, the children followed in rapid succession: facility in the dining room. Sadly, Ellen describes her Samantha was born in 1987, Sarah in 1990, Melanie in childhood as “unpleasant and abusive with both par- 1992, and Vincent in 1994.

“When they got old enough for school, I sent them to ents being alcoholics.”

At one point, Ellen remembers being attacked by her vacation bible school but, I hadn’t thought about mother who literally attempted to kill her, adding, “My Judaism. I did try to give the kids a sense of God.” After living in California, South Dakota, South mother’s theory was that she had given me life and she Carolina and then back to California, the family moved could take it away.”

Ellen’s upbringing was completely secular. Neither of to Japan in 1992 and lived there for six years. In 1995, her parents, now divorced, attended any kind of church Jim became physically and emotionally violent.

“Up until then, I was able to cater to all of his needs. and she doubts that either of them believed in God. “My mother was raised as a devout Presbyterian and After I had four children, they took up a lot of my time she decided to forget any kind of religion when she and he was angry with me because of it,” she said. grew up,” she said.

She admits that as a child she always said prayers that her verbal and physical abuse would end.

“My prayers weren’t asking for material things, but to help me to understand why my life was so unbearable,” she recalled. “When I was in high school, a boy from our class brought his father, a rabbi, to speak to our class. I was fascinated with the idea of Judaism, but erased it from my mind.”

Occasionally, she would attend church services with her aunts, uncles and grand- Ellen Long, center, and her family: Samantha, Sarah, Melanie and Vincent. mother. Her interaction with “I thought this was the natural evolution of a marthem was sporadic and church visits always warned her riage,” she explained, “and, when things began to turn she was “a sinner and born a sinner.”

She added that “this was always distasteful to me and, bad, I began to pray again. I had talks with my children when I heard that rabbi talk, I thought that he sound- about being strong and independent.

Unfortunately, they saw I was neither of those ed different. As I grew up, I questioned Christianity, but my mother said that religion was for weak-minded things,” she admitted.

In 1998, the couple separated and Jim came to people. I didn’t have anyone that I could talk to about Omaha to live near his sister. Ellen, thinking the marmy thoughts.”

By the time Ellen became a teenager, her parents had riage could be saved, followed him here.

She discovered he was sharing an apartment with divorced and her siblings had moved away to live with their father. “By this time, I was the only child at home another woman and filed for divorce. “I kept telling my and a lot of my life was based on sheer survival. I had children that we needed to have faith in God, even though it was becoming more difficult.” a stepfather by then and things were even worse!”

When she was 16-years-old, she went to visit her Continued on page 14

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September 26, 2003

Omaha Gets Navy Family for Two Years These newcomers want to bring their daughter up in the Jewish faith and already belong to Temple Israel. Ken joins Mara in celebration of the High Holidays, but will observe his holidays ,so McKenna will get a picture of the two religions.

Their daughter McKenna may have aspirations as an artist. During the 40minute interview, she quietly occupied herself drawing pictures while her parents talked. On an occasion, she offered a polite comment.

Now with his reassignment to Offutt, Ken and Mara will have two years together without long periods away from home. That left them time to make the necessary moving decisions together.

Good thing, too, since they have been very busy since arriving in Omaha on Aug. 10!

Their first task was to find a school for their kindergartner whose classes were scheduled to start just four days later!

While it was easier to buy, they did want to rent. After a short search, they found a nice home on base. They moved in on Sept. 8.

They loved living in California, making their home in Point Mugu, a small city just north of Los Angeles. They had gotten used to living in the Golden State, where they made a home for the last five years.

The climate there was great. The city was on the Ken, McKenna and Mara Bates. other side of Santa Monica Indeed, during their time together, he Mountains and--there was no smog. has had five deployments. His last two California, they observed, is the home tours of duty lasted, respectively, seven of Hugh Hefner, Arnold months (patrolling near Afghanistan) Schwarzenegger, and Gray Davis. It was and five months (sailing in the western fun living there! Commenting on the curPacific). rent political scene, they remarked that Before being a full-time Mom, Mara California seemed like a “state of people was an administrative analyst for the in chaos.”

Washington County Court System in They were uncertain about “Arnold’s” Oregon. She helped modernize their prospects. Their initial thoughts were judicial system by streamlining the that he could have started out his govrecords division for imaging court docu- ernment career at a lower level. Still, ments for judges. politically, he successfully took on the She also developed a flow chart sys- after-school initiative for kids. Their tem so important documents could be thoughts when he announced for govereasily retrieved anywhere within its pro- nor--“What the heck are you doing?” cessing path To further aid the justices, They will wait and see what transpires. she even made it possible for the judges When they learned of the Nebraska to scan their notes directly into the com- assignment, they asked themselves, puter. That was a challenge.

“What do we know about Omaha?” They Ken flies an E2C Hawkeye plane. It is knew it had all the weather extremes; it the Navy’s all weather, carrier-based tac- could be cold. But did they have good tical warning and control system aircraft. schools and good healthcare?

It is the only propeller plane that can So far, they love the greater Omaha land on an aircraft carrier. area. Their biggest surprise was that According to the Navy’s website, the Omaha had lots of hills--and they are Hawkeye provides airborne early warn- looking forward to seeing the sights. ing and command and control functions They found an awesome library for for the carrier battle group. Additional their daughter to use and were missions include surface surveillance impressed at the number of MP3 books coordination, strike and interceptor con- and its computer system. This library is trol, and search and rescue guidance very updated; the director had a Masters and communications relay. in Library Science, and it boasted a great On a personal note, Ken enjoys read- children’s section. Those were all factors ing, especially history books. Mara, on in their choosing Leonard Lawrence the other hand, enjoys making cards and Elementary in Bellevue for McKenna scrapbooks. They both like to exercise, The couple has a two-year tour of duty especially running and swimming. in Omaha. Their next stop is unknown.

McKenna likes gymnastics and Torah Their prime concerns are their daughter School. and getting involved in Temple Israel.

They met one Thanksgiving through One thing they won’t have to worry friends, and they’re an interfaith couple. about...finding nice people in Omaha!

Ken is Protestant and Mara is Jewish.

by GARY JAVITCH Serving your country is truly a family affair. While Lt. Commander Ken Bates, 35, was spending 14 of the last 18 months on training missions, his wife, Mara, 35, was literally holding down the fort. His wife took full responsibility for their adorable five-year-old daughter, McKenna.

Ken and Mara have been married for nine years, and dated for two and a half years before they tied the knot. Since Ken was a career naval officer, they wanted to see if marriage was workable with all of his international duty assignments.

Dining

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 9

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Page 10

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2003

Looking for a Loving Community... and Finding It in Omaha

by JOAN K. MARCUS Marcie and David Rowe had no intentions of leaving their home in Mercer Island, Washington. Their son, Zach, age 12, was anxiously awaiting his Feb. 28 Bar Mitzvah. But just a few months ago, the Rowe family relocated to Omaha.

Now, Zach says, “We’re going to play it by ear. Maybe I’ll have a whole new set of friends and a Bar Mitzvah here. Or, maybe we’ll go back to the suburbs of Seattle and have it with family.”

They came here from Mercer Island, right in the middle of Lake Washington-a city of 20,000 people. Marcie Buckner Rowe grew up in Seattle. After graduating from the University of Washington with a degree in psychology, she went on to cantorial school at Hebrew Union College in New York City.

“Psychology is a fascinating field, but I never wanted to be a psychologist,” she said with a big smile. “It was just a major.” She spent time working in New York and moved to San Francisco where she got a job as a business consultant.

“I had already decided to move back to the Seattle area when I met David Rowe on a blind date,” she added. “He was working in construction project management in the San Francisco Bay Area.” They became engaged six weeks and six days after their first meeting.

They were married in 1987 and he moved with her back to Seattle.

David had grown up in South Africa and came to live in the United States about 20 years ago. The apartheid system of discrimination against the African

people was in full swing and he decided that there was no future for him in South Africa. Since he had come from a family that was politically active in the movement against apartheid, he didn’t see an end to the problem and decided to leave the country.

He finished his education in construction project management at Florida International University.

After their marriage, Marcie and David had three sons. Mickey, the oldest, is 15 and is a freshman at Westside High School. He is a professional magician who works at fairs, parties and school functions. He likes to mountain unicycle and has attended international conventions.

Zachary, in addition to studying for his Bar Mitzvah, likes to ski and dive. He also bicycles and hopes to join the bike race through Iowa next summer. He has started at Westside Middle School and has mixed emotions about his new home. “It was a little sad to leave my friends but I’m looking forward to making new ones,” he admitted.

His favorite slogan is: “Be nice to nerds! Chances are you’ll be working for one!”

Daniel, age nine, will attend Swanson Elementary School. He aspires to be either a mechanical or electrical engineer.

According to family, he has managed to open and close his bedroom door by remote control and has set up an intercom system throughout the house.

“We save everything for Daniel. He takes the motors out of old lawnmowers and would like to take apart old cars.

the Internet and began to search for information.

She felt she already knew a little about the Midwest because of a close relationship with Omaha cousins, Helen and Tuffy Epstein.

“The Epsteins had visited us in Seattle and we figured that, if everyone in Omaha was as nice as they are we would be all right,” she insisted.

“The one thing that I consistently heard was that the people were wonderful!

The Rowe boys: Zachary, left, Mickey, and Daniel, in front. When we got here, it was When given his father’s old palm pilot, prettier than we expected. We were he fixed it within three minutes and sold expecting flat land and no trees. We it back to his father!” she laughed. were delighted to see the rolling hills Both Mickey and Zachary have and beautiful landscape.” appeared in performances of The Seattle After exploration trips to the Henry Opera Company. They are anxious to Doorly Zoo, the SAC Aerospace check out Opera Omaha and other dra- Museum, the Old Market and the Drive matic opportunities in the Omaha area. through Safari, Mickey, Zachary and In June of 2003, Physician’s Mutual Daniel all asked, “When are we moving?”

Insurance Company offered David a Marcie replied, “We can’t wait to position in their information and tech- explore. We are amazed at the diversity nology department. of the land, the parks and camping facil“David had been working with the com- ities. I have been impressed with the pany as a consultant and he liked the peo- friendliness of the people who have ple and loved what they were doing,” called and offered advice.”

Marcie explained. “He was excited about She added, “Our hope is to make some the possibility of taking the job!” nice friends and begin to establish a Since the position seemed to be a sense of community. We came from a good “fit” for him, the family began to loving, loving wonderful place and I consider leaving the Seattle area. Marcie hope that we find the same thing here in admits that she didn’t know much about Omaha. the Omaha area and that she explored “I’m pretty optimistic we will!”

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September 26, 2003

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 11

Rosh Hashanah Greetings

Young Couple Joins the Team at Beth Israel

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Iris and Marty Ricks

by JENNIFER SHERMAN Beth Israel Synagogue strives to perpetuate the legacy of Torah Judaism in the modern world. This open and current vision makes them look forward to maintaining a variety of religious, cultural and social programs.

In order to keep this promise to congregants and renovate their educational methods, Beth Israel is counting on a new, very prepared couple: Rabbi Binyomin Pesach and his wife Rocheyl Simon. They just moved a few weeks ago to Omaha from Des Moines, where they spent the last year working for the Jewish Community there.

“Within two years after I started studying in a fulltime post-high school yeshiva, I realized that while teaching mathematics is a tremendous thing, I wanted to dedicate my life to teaching Judaism,” Rabbi Simon insisted. “When you teach secular subjects, the most you can do is increase people’s knowledge, but when you teach Judaism, the hope is that you are also involved in inspiring people to want to better themselves.”

He was born in Philadelphia, and there “grew up in a small Jewish community where everybody knew and was friendly with each other,” he continued. “Then I moved to New York, where I went to college and I realized that people around me didn’t seem to care about other people all that much, so I decided that when I got married I would like to raise my kids in a small city around good people with good values,” Rocheyl stated.

For them, it is also a great opportunity to work in Omaha and share their knowledge and experience with Beth Israel’s congregation.

“Here we have the choice to blend formal and informal education, so there is a lot of potential for us. We both come from larger cities, so we realize that in a small town it’s easier for one person to make a difference, and certainly the people are more open to listening,” Rocheyl added.

The Simons are very excited to be in a very highly affiliated community, which means that people desire to be involved in Judaism and want to gain religious and spiritual knowledge.

As Rabbi Simon explained: “We take our long-standing traditions and heritage, and try to show that it still has a practical application in our modern times. That’s the miracle, that our religion is structured with the built-in ability to adapt to each every society that Jews have lived in without simultaneously losing our integrity as a people.”

“The Orthodox community in Omaha is very active. It’s a small number of people, but so many of them are actively involved in what’s going on. Even though Beth Israel is the smallest congregation in Omaha, with around 250 families, on Shabbat a lot of people show up, as many as might be at other congregations for Rocheyl and Rabbi Simon and their children, the High Holidays,” said Cohen.

Yisroel Meir, 4, and Emuna Shalva, almost 18-months-old.

“We have been looking forward to recruiting “It was great to hire them as a couple because they more people, with this extraordinary new couple, we work together, and they both have a lot of different will be offering more attractive activities, so we hope experience teaching and working with kids,” explained other people get interested and join our congregation.

Beth Cohen, the Executive Director of Beth Israel.

“In addition, next year in February we are planning “Rocheyl worked in the past with the NCSY groups and to move into our new building, which is really located Rabbi Simon taught at the day school in Des Moines. where the center of Jewish life is now in Omaha. The “It’s just what we were looking for, somebody who population has moved out, so we want to be closer to was young and can bring in a wealth of ideas about where the people live, that way it will be easier for how to get kids excited about being Jewish, and feel every body,” Cohen insisted. attract to come to our programs. They are also used to A whole new generation is growing, and as the chilliving in the Midwest, so they are familiar with our fam- dren change also programs have to be updated. ily and community values,” Cohen added.

“Besides the responsibilities that we already have Rabbi Simon grew up in Los Angeles, CA, in an intel- with the Beth Israel youth programs and at the Friedel lectual environment; his parents both academics, taught Jewish Academy, we have many great ideas for prohim the “ropes” of being knowledgeable. He always grams and educational opportunities that we could knew that he wanted to be a teacher, but he was plan- implement,” Rabbi Simon said. “However, rather than ning to become a mathematician like his father.

Continued on page 15

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2003

Unfazed by the Move to Omaha, New Program Director Takes Reins at Beth El

by LYNDA MIRVISH Harriet Einziger is going back to school.

Okay, so are millions of other students and scholars, but in her case this is a very different “back to school.”

Because Harriet Einziger is starting her new position as the full-time Adult/Family Program Director and Educator at Beth El Synagogue in Omaha.

According to Gloria Kaslow, interim chair of BESTT, Beth El Synagogue Talmud Torah--its school board, “In addition to her academic credentials, a Masters degree in Jewish Studies from Spertus College, Mrs. Einziger brings with her to Omaha a passion for teaching.”

Kaslow continued, stressing the fact that this is the first time the synagogue has had a professionally-trained educator. “So,” she explained, “We are really very excited to have such an enthusiastic and accomplished individual join us at Beth El.” Einziger’s passion for Jewish learning and imparting that learning are evident from the first moment one meets her. She expresses her teaching philosophy this way: “Judaism is like a precious jewel. Most of us are familiar with the facets on the surface, but the many facets underneath are what add brilliance to the sparkle. And I like to highlight those facets of Judaism.”

She is comfortable with all branches of Judaism. She speaks of how, when, as a child of three, she went with her father to his Orthodox synagogue, and first felt a strong need to explore Judaism. She went to a Conservative synagogue Hebrew school, and her first teaching job was at a Reform congregation.

“Each group adds something to the fabric of Judaism,” she said.

Originally from New York, Einziger completed her undergraduate studies at the State University of New York at Albany where she met her future husband, through a group for young Jewish adults that she helped organize. “Ninety percent of the members met and married through this group,” she mused.

Harriet Einzinger At different times, the Einzigers have lived on the East Coast, the West Coast and in the Midwest, and with every move Harriet has enjoyed meeting the new challenges and opportunities each community offers, and believes in becoming involved in the religious and civic life around her.

“In each new place, I know there are a lot of friends

I haven’t met yet,” she insisted.

When they lived in Idaho Falls, Einzinger took up quilting, gardening and was active in her children’s school activities and Girl Scouts.

In Richland, WA, she served on a citizens advisory board and on the strategic planning commission. She was also active in the Women’s League of Conservative Judaism and served as principal of the religious school there.

“But,” she said, “Everything I ever did had to be on an educational basis--it’s the most important thing I could and can do.”

Harriet, and her husband, Robert, a solid state physicist, are parents of two grown daughters and have two young grandsons. For the past five years they have lived in the Chicago area, where Harriet taught at a Reconstructionist Synagogue school, while completing her studies towards earning a Masters Degree in Jewish Education at Spertus College.

In spite of her hectic schedule, Harriet keeps grounded with own private avocation--writing. Her first published work was a paper on “Sociology of the Family”, but today she confines her talent to poetry, children’s stories, and stories about synagogues. She has completed one novel and is presently working on another.

“I hope we haven’t overwhelmed Mrs. Einziger,” Kaslow said, “She will be teaching ‘Holidays’ to the third grade, a course on ‘When a Jew Prays’ to fifth graders, Torah to the sixth grade, and she will be teaching the eighth graders a course on Jewish values from the textbook, It’s a Mitzvah.” Einzinger will also conduct classes for the High School.

None of this fazes Harriet. She simply turns to a favorite poem by Mignon L. Rubenovitz and quotes, “I am bearer of an ancient tradition but also part of the world of today.” The poem is entitled “How Goodly is My Portion” and that is precisely how Einziger is looking forward to her future life in Omaha.

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September 26, 2003

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 13

Amazed at Omaha!

by JOAN K. MARCUS Tamara Schulman Say, licensed registered architect, has worked with clients in Denmark, Paris, Scotland, Okinawa, Korea, Saudi Arabia and London. However, she is impressed with Omaha and glad that she came here 10 months ago to live.

“The more I get out and about in Omaha, I see how much there is here. I couldn’t believe that (the group) Manheim Steamrollers came from here. I thought they were from Europe! There are world-class artists living right here in The Old Market! There are incredible and intellectual people living right here!” she exclaimed.

Say was born in Richmond, Virginia, in 1969 to parents who were both from New England. Her father is a psychologist and her mother, a social worker. She and her sister, Nadia are what Tamara calls, “Bagels and lox” Jews.

“We were a typical classical Reform Jews. There was a Jewish community in Richmond, but it was difficult to be Jewish there,” she admitted. “Either you were very Orthodox or completely the other way.” The family attended a temple that met on Sunday and was very assimilated.

After graduation from high school at age 17, Tamara began college at the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology. “I really wanted to be an astronaut,” she smiled, “but there was an inner conflict between what I wanted to do. I loved architecture classes better than engineering. So, after a year, I decided to be an architect.”

In college, Judaism became different for her because she remembers that it was more “gray.” In other words, she identified more with Jews who were Conservative or “middle of the road.”

In 1991, she graduated from MIT with a Bachelor of Science in architecture. Since the economy for architects wasn’t good at that time, she took $2500 and moved to Paris!

Although Tamara admits that she had few Jewish ties while living in Paris, she says, “I still remembered I was a Jew and said the Sh’ma every night, like I have since I was 12!”

In order to remain abroad with very little money, she used her skills as an architect. One example: she participated in the designing of an interactive learning environment for children.

Since it was necessary for her to eat, she allied her-

self with an American barbeque restaurant and helped them redesign their restaurant in exchange for meals.

The designing of a garden in Scotland earned her two more weeks of room and board!

While doing architectural work, she worked as a “nanny” in order to extend her time in Europe. She laughed, “When I returned to the States, I only had $50 to my name!”

Upon arriving back in Richmond, Tamara found that,

Tamara Say because of a recession, there was still no work for her as an architect. She did, however, find work as a translator while she entered architectural competition. In 1993, she won the Virginia Architectural Competition: “Building Better Communities”, sponsored by the Richmond Better Housing Coalition.

This competition led to offers of jobs in the Richmond area. However, by this time, Tamara was

anxious to “see the world.”

After many suggestions from family members that she join the United States Air Force, she decided, “What have I got to lose?” So, in 1994, she enlisted and became an officer.

“I was treated very well and I had great mentors,” she explained. “It’s unbelievable how many professionals are in the military. I had such different perceptions about people in the service and their level of intelligence and it all changed!”

She served as Installation Military Architect with the Air Force for six years and worked her way up to the rank of captain.

During her military career, she designed the Peace Garden at the 1945 site of the surrender of Japan to the United States, in Okinawa, Japan.

The garden was dedicated at a ceremony on the 50th anniversary of The Air Force. This is an internationally acclaimed project and is visited by residents of Japan and the U.S.--including ambassadors and highranking officials.

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2003

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Continued from page 8 Ellen admitted, “I was unsure of my own capabilities as a person, but I always knew that I would be able to be a good mother. They didn’t ask to be born and I am responsible because I don’t want them to grow up the way I did.”

During the divorce settlement, Ellen was told that she has to remain in Omaha.

“That was devastating to me because I had no family here,” she noted. “For a while, we struggled with being so far away from any family. That was when I decided that we all needed a foundation--a religion!”

She explained that “a friend of mine, ‘George’ (Georgine) Koom, was talking about being Jewish and I began to ask her some questions about Judaism. She told me to go to Temple Israel, so I came up and knocked on the door! I had all the kids with me, but (then Program Director) Iris Ricks showed me around and told me to call and set up an appointment.”

She later was connected to Rabbi Aryeh Azriel and admitted, “I started to cry and tell my story; he said, ‘Why don’t you clean up the mess that you’ve made with your life and get back to me when you’re done with that.’”

“I decided Rabbi Azriel was right and that I needed to clean up my life,” she added. “So, while I was doing that, I decided to come to services. I always brought the kids and was so amazed with the service that I cried the whole time.

“I couldn’t believe this was here all of the time. The service was so beautiful and so was the music,” she

exclaimed. “As I started to come on a regular basis, it seemed as though the sermons were directed at me!”

After coming for several months, she recalls that Temple’s then Associate Rabbi, Debbie Stiel, came directly down from the bima and asked if she could be of any help. She gave Ellen some books to read and told her to call if she needed any further assistance.

“When I decided that I had cleaned up my life enough, I called to make an appointment with Rabbi Azriel,” Ellen recalled. “He wasn’t available, but, remembering the kindness Rabbi Stiel showed me, I made an appointment with her and that began my conversion process.”

Ellen is now a member of the adult B’nai Mitzvah class at Temple and, in 2004, Samantha, Sarah and Melanie will all celebrate their Bat Mitzvahs. Vincent, at age eight, decided on his own that he wanted to be circumcised, too, so he could be Jewish.

All four children, like their mother, have the desire to be educated Jews and know the reasons and history behind the rituals.

“For them, being able to find reasons behind the things, makes them feel stronger,” she explained. “It helps them to move forward in a positive way.”

Ellen and her family became Jewish together; she insisted that “being Jewish isn’t just about God. It’s about the community and people being capable and responsible for themselves. You can’t just sit back and blame God for what happens.

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Continued from page 13 While stationed in North Dakota, Tamara met B-52 navigator pilot, Rhon Say. His specialty is Electronics Warfare and he’s originally from Texas. This graduate of the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, CO, was transferred and the couple decided that they wouldn’t have a “long distance romance.” However, in spite of themselves, they wrote letters every day.

They were married in 1998 in an interfaith ceremony immediately before Tamara left the Air Force. Rhon left for the base in Shreveport, LA, and Tamara went to live in New Orleans.

Tamara received her master’s degree in architecture from Tulane University in 2001. That same year, she was listed in “Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges.”

“After we were transferred to Minot, North Dakota, we were told that we were moving to Offutt Air Force Base in Omaha,” she smiled. “Well, living in North Dakota had been a little difficult for a Jew and I was apprehensive about coming to Nebraska!

“In North Dakota, members of the synagogue met only during the High Holidays and that was demoralizing for me. Although it was a smart group of people and nice, too,” she admitted, “it was so remote and it was hard to live there! We were concerned about coming to Nebraska and we were unbelievably surprised!”

She admits that, when she saw the Jewish

Community Center in Omaha, it looked like the United Nations Building to her.

“I am so happy here with the people, my job and the Jewish community!” she raved.

Tamara is a Licensed Registered Architect. She is a senior staff architect at Omaha’s well known architectural firm of Bahr Vermeer and Haecker. In her spare time, she is a flamingo dancer and participates in dance classes at the JCC and the Omaha Academy of Ballet.

She specializes in international team building and design project management and has lectured at conferences in Boston, New Orleans and Phoenix. In 2001, she was awarded the American Institute of Architects “Adams Fund Award for Excellence” in the study of architecture.

Tamara’s latest project was to enter the competition for the memorial that will be built on the site of 9/11 in New York. She competed against 13,000 other architects, and in the end Daniel Libeskind was selected to design the project. The Berlin-based Jewish architect just celebrated the opening of Berlin’s Jewish Museum, a facility he designed.

To Tamara Say, however, just “showing up for the competition was half the battle!”

In December, Rhon and Tamara will add another achievement to her resume--they will become parents!

They are both pleased that the new “Say” will be born in Omaha.

September 26, 2003

Hitting It Off in Omaha Continued from page 4 ming for the first time.

“The Midwest is a big void when you live in the East,” Betsy confided. And although she misses her family, a few of her favorite stores such as Nordstrom and Crate & Barrel, and having more food delivery services other than pizza, there’s a “sense of community here--of belonging and interacting” that has impressed her.

Rabbi Marantz, a native of Los Angeles, misses family, too, and wishes the area had “a tad more ocean.”

But “person for person, this is a more active community” compared to others where they have lived “in participation, dollars raised by the Federation, and the financial investment in adult education.

“This is a town,” Rabbi Marantz insists,

“where people feel a large amount of personal responsibility for the success of Jewish life. In larger communities, the sense of responsibility is not as acute.”

“Omaha is everything we wanted the experience to be,” he added. “It has lived up to and exceeded our expectations. We’re learning about being a rabbinic family. This is a perfect place to learn how to balance our lives between family and vocation.”

“You can say the word community here and not inflate its meaning,” agreed Betsy Marantz. “People really do take care of each other.

“We’re so glad we moved here,” she smiled. “Our family is better off.”

Not only are they better off, their family is growing. In February, the Marantz family is expecting a new baby.

Young Couple Continued from page 11 imposing our ideas on the community, we feel that it makes more sense to meet first with the congregation and ascertain their needs. After working within the community for several months, we will be able to set more concrete goals to address the educational needs of the congregation.”

One thing is for sure, they have the tools and the skills to teach kids in different aspects, because teaching is a process of continued learning.

For this young couple working with children is a challenge as well as a joy, as Rocheyl says, “Young people usually have their minds open to learning, and they get excited about new things. I really enjoy sharing my ideas and my knowledge with kids; it’s a miracle to

see their eyes sparkling when they learn something new, because you realize they really care.”

“We are very exited to start our new job here and we feel very lucky to be here around people who care about Judaism,” Rabbi Simon added, “and they realize that one of the central things important in our religion is that we have character and be good people,” For them, it is a big responsibility to serve at a synagogue such as Beth Israel, a congregation with strong religious and spiritual values. At the same time, they also feel blessed to join a friendly community where they can feel at home, and belong to a “new” big family.

We welcome the new couple and all the people who want to make religion a part of their lives.

Friedel Jewish Academy

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 15

There Are Jews in Omaha?

COMMUNITY C ONNECTION

by JANIE MURROW People have probably asked you this question numerous times. Omaha is a mystery to many people, so they are pleasantly surprised at how much we have to offer. Many don’t know what state our city is in, and they know even less about Omaha’s strong Jewish community. But those of us who have lived here for a while agree that Omaha is a well-kept secret. And the time has come to let that secret out!

I left Omaha, as many of our young adults have done, to attend the University of Illinois. It took me 18 years to return and call it my home again. The move for my family was for opportunities: to start a business, be near family, and improve our quality of life.

Omaha has a lot to offer, and as the Community Development Director, I will be working to promote Jewish Omaha to job seekers and to families in larger cities who are looking for a better place to raise their children.

The main objective of this position is to grow and strengthen the Omaha Jewish community by creating programs for newcomers and welcoming them, and by marketing Jewish Omaha outside of the metro area to other cities.

We have a lot to be proud of. Omaha boasts a state-of-the-art Jewish Community Center that houses many of the Federation’s agencies, as well as programming opportunities for all ages. We have synagogues with strong congregations, who are continually improving

their buildings and programs.

The Jewish infrastructure in Omaha is in place.

Now our task is to work with the synagogues and Jewish agencies to identify newcomers, and begin to involve them in our community.

Because of the well-known and highly respected corporations, universities, and medical centers here, we have an unprecedented opportunity to attract people for professional reasons. As a way to connect these professionals to our Jewish community, I will be working to establish networking opportunities for those who relocate to Omaha.

We are planning a newcomer event for the fall. As this edition of the Jewish Press has highlighted, we have many new people in town. If you, or someone you know, has moved to Omaha during the past two years, please contact me so we can begin to communicate with these new arrivals and invite them to community events.

I also welcome any ideas you may have for involving newcomers in all the wonderful things that Jewish Omaha has to offer.

I am looking forward to meeting the challenges of my new position, but mostly I am thankful for this opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to the Omaha Jewish community.

I’ll be keeping you informed about newcomers to the community and events through a regular column in the Jewish Press beginning next month.

In the meantime, I can be reached at the Federation offices at 402.334.6566 or via e-mail at: jmurow@jewishomaha.org.

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September 26, 2003

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NCSY of Beth Israel Synagogue National Confernece of Synagogue Youth Dr. Bonnie Bloch, chapter advisor For more informationm of to be added to the NCSY mailing list, contact the synagogue office at 556-6288 or <BethIsrael@novia.net> Teens from all synagogues are invited to attend NCSY events.

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The Committee and Staff of warmly welcome Newcomers to Nebraska and Western Iowa!

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2003

Watch Out Republicans!

by JOAN K. MARCUS When new Omahan, Barry Rubin, was a little boy, he wanted to be a doctor.

But after he began college, he soon realized that he liked politics better than medicine!

He was born in Washington, D.C. and raised in suburban Rockville, Maryland.

Although he hates to admit it, Barry says, “My father was actually a big Reagan Republican. That was very typical of upper middle-class white men. Nobody at that time liked paying taxes and Reagan was very appealing to Democrats and Republicans.”

Barry, along with his wife, Erica and son, Jack, moved to Omaha on July 25.

Barry came to Omaha to be the new Executive Director of the Nebraska Democratic Party.

After graduating from high school in 1990 and still thinking about medicine, Rubin went on to be a pre-med student at the University of Delaware. However, he admits, “I figured out that I wasn’t a math and science kind of student and that my talents were more in English and history. I was disappointed because I hoped I could work with people by being a doctor.”

He added that “politics was always an interest of mine and it really is along the same lines as medicine--because it’s a people business. So I took some electives along the way and ended up getting a degree in political science.”

After college, Barry took a job working for Parris Glendening, a 12-year veteran of county politics in Prince Georges County of Maryland. He describes Glendening’s position as “county executive” as being something like the mayor

of one of the larger counties in senior advisor for labor manageMaryland. Shortly after he ment relations. After a re-elecbegan working there, tion campaign, Rubin was Glendening decided he named Maryland’s Assistant would run for governor.

Sec’y of Labor.

Barry explained, “The D.C. area suburbs had not elected a governor from their area for the last 100 years.

They had always come from the Baltimore area. This guy was unknown throughout the state, yet we ran a successful campaign.

“Glendening was the only Democratic governor elected in 1994-and with a 57,993vote margin!”

At the young age of 22, Rubin went to work in the Washington, D . C . , office of the governor of Maryland.

His office w a s Barry and Erica Rubin and their son, Jack. responsible for advocating for the Glendening In 2002, Kathleen Kennedy Townsend administration on Capitol Hill and asked Rubin to run her campaign for worked with the federal delegation to governor. The campaign was unsuccesshelp bring dollars back to the state. ful but Barry admitted, “It was a great Rubin was later named deputy director learning experience because there has of the office. never been a woman elected in a guberBecause labor unions are prominent in natorial race in Maryland. Even a Western Maryland, Rubin later became a Kennedy!”

After the unsuccessful election, Barry did consulting, lobbying and grass roots organizing.

“My resume was on file at the Democratic National Committee and I got a call from someone in Nebraska asking if I would be interested in a job.”

He was told they had 55 applicants and was surprised. “The Democrats got their teeth kicked in during the last election,” he observed.

“Originally, I thought it was silly to come out here,” Rubin admitted.

“When I got here, however, I met with a lot of Democrats and was overwhelmed with the response. I was pleasantly surprised with Omaha in general. Even though I found it less cosmopolitan, I’m okay with that because I’m ready for a change of pace.”

In 1999, Rubin married Erica Rothstein, a CPA from Baltimore.

She will continue to do her previous job--electronically--from Omaha. Their two-year-old son, Jack, has already begun to make friends at the JCC’s Pennie Z. Davis Child Development Center.

Barry hopes to make the state Democratic party a self-sustaining professional organization and to rebuild, from the ground up.

“Historically, the state party becomes a depository for federal and state candidates to run their campaigns,” Rubin explained. “After the election is over, the state party kind of disappears.

Now, they will become a more powerful force in state politics--not just Democratic politics!”

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A Letter to ‘Warren’ Brings A Newcomer to Omaha

by OZZIE NOGG the Hudson River.

When you meet Ian Jacobs, the Toronto-born 26“Nearly everyone thought I was moving to year-old who recently moved to Omaha, he’ll give you Oklahoma, not Omaha, and some actually confused a warm smile and insist you call him Shami, the short Nebraska with Alaska. In all honesty, my geographical version of his Hebrew name, Shmayahu. The story skills weren’t much better. I’d never been to Omaha behind the nickname reveals much about this new before the job, and my chances of finding Nebraska on member of our community. a map couldn’t have been better than 50/50,” he “I’m named after my great-grandfather, who passed laughed. away the year before I was born,” Shami explained.

“My family had some concerns about the move, but “He had commissioned a Torah scroll to be dedicated they were really supportive. Now that they know I’ve to a shteibl (small shul) that he’d established in found good people who’ve made me feel so welcome, Toronto. On the day it was dedicated, on the holiday my parents are excited and happy for me. Besides, we of Shavuot, he died while carrying the scroll in the cer- all believe that it’s easier to get involved with a smaller emonial dedication procession.”

Jewish community than a gargantuan community like Shami Jacobs has followed in his great-grandfather’s the one in New York.” footsteps by following Torah all of his young life. An When asked how he envisioned his involvement, observant Jew, he will continue his own “ceremonial Shami gave a typically candid answer. “I think it would procession” in Omaha. be pretty tough to be a wallflower in the Omaha Jewish Shami’s mother Evelyn Heller was born in London. community. Everybody I’ve met is an activist, one way His father, Paul Jacobs, in New York City. When the couple married they moved to Toronto where Mrs. Jacob’s extended family had settled. Shami was born there in 1976. He has an older brother and a younger sister, both married and living in Boston.

Shami received his undergraduate degree in Economics from Yeshiva University in New York City. “I worked on Wall Street for a few years, but one day,” he admitted, with a grin, “I regained my senses and headed to Columbia Business School to work on my MBA.” It was a job with Warren Buffett and Berkshire Hathaway that led Shami from New York to Shami Jacobs, left, and his friends in New York City.

Omaha.

“Soon after starting here, I was taken to meet Bella or another. I’m really amazed by the vitality and particEisenberg at her gallery,” Shami continued. “She is one ipation, and the openness and warmth with which I’ve of the world’s most wonderful people. Bella suggested been welcomed tells a lot about what makes up the that when I returned to New York I should look up fabric of this community. I think Omaha can teach Debbie Denenberg, who still lived there at the time. I other communities a lesson or two about Hachnasat followed Bella’s advice, and Debbie and I became Orchim, showing hospitality to strangers. I can’t wait to good friends.” get involved in any way that I can be helpful and to On subsequent business related trips back to Omaha, make as many friends as possible.”

Shami met Debbie’s parents, Eunie and Norm who, The suggestion that living an observant Jewish life according to Shami, “practically adopted me, and I am can be more difficult in Omaha than it is in New York truly thankful for that. I really feel like I’m moving to or in other metropolitan areas doesn’t phase Shami.

Omaha with family, which makes the adjustment much “My friends don’t know what they’re missing. All the easier. I can’t say enough nice things about the amaz- things that make living a Jewish life more ‘difficult’ also ing Denenbergs.” make it a life more involved and interesting. I’m not Leaving family and old friends to find one’s place in going to minimize the challenges, but there is somea new community isn’t easy. And when Shami told peo- thing tremendously rewarding about being a part of a ple he was moving to Omaha, their response was typ- small but dedicated community.” ical of some Easterners who think the world stops at Continued on page 30

Watch Out Continued from previous page Rubin hopes to go back to basics. He plans a grass roots reorganization of the party “We’re not going to win a communications war, but we’re going to fight one,” he explained. “We’re going to integrate some new technologies and find new ways to contact the voters.”

In order to do well as a Democrat in Nebraska, you need to appeal to Independents, Republicans and unaffiliated voters, according to Rubin. “In Nebraska, the Democratic registration is only 36%, but there is a road map for successful candidates here.”

Rubin cites United States Senator Ben Nelson as a good example of a Nebraska Democrat.

“Senator Nelson is an independent, populous candidate and that’s what I think Nebraska voters expect,” Rubin continued. “The bottom line for the Nebraska Democratic Party is to help Democrats win elections!

Nelson’s first concern is Nebraska and he takes a pragmatic approach to governing. He knows what Nebraska voters want and he brings resources from Washington back to the state.”

Rubin plans to provide more services to candidates through better contact services and communications.

He also plans a fundraising campaign to make money available for more innovative things for the state party.

Although he says the Nebraska Unicameral is not really non-partisan, Rubin is impressed with its effectiveness. “I’ve been watching Governor Johannes and the ‘dog and pony show’ with the senators during this last budget year. Mike used to be a Democrat and, now he is just pretending not to be!” Rubin laughed.

Barry plans to challenge all candidates. “When the Vice-president of the United States comes to town and doesn’t even get the name of the Representative from the Second Congressional District right, that shows that (the congressman) isn’t exactly an influential member.”

Rubin says people will be surprised at the quality of some new Democratic candidates. He has already begun recruitment of candidates for state and federal offices.

“Candidates are excited about the organization of a state party that will support them in all aspects of their campaigns,” Rubin insisted. “We are recruiting hard and we’re going to be very aggressive in all races. We’re finding candidates who have the experience and vision that Nebraska voters will appreciate. And we’re going to fight the fights that are winnable and put up fights everywhere we can. The State Democratic Party is going after--in a strategic manner--specific targets. We will be a huge force in all the election campaigns!”

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September 26, 2003

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Rachel and Josh Levitsky and daughter, Mia.

by JOAN K. MARCUS Dr. Josh and Rachel Levitsky are not new to the Midwest. Josh was born in Washington D.C. after his parents moved there from Sioux City, Iowa. And they’ve moved here from Chicago, where Rachel’s mother lives.

Josh’s father, Melvin, worked for the government, so the family moved a lot.

Josh spent the first three years of his life living in Moscow. (That’s Moscow--as in Russia!)

Melvin later became the Ambassador to Bulgaria. After spending his first two high school years in Austria, Josh moved back to Washington, D.C., with his family.

After graduation from high school, Josh went on to attend the University of Michigan. By this time, he had decided that he had an interest in medicine and declared biology as his major. It was during his freshman year at Michigan that he met the woman who would eventually be his wife--Rachel, a student in the school of social work.

They parted after graduation and Rachel went to get a Masters in Social Work at Penn State. They married in August of 1997 and their daughter, Mia, is now 15-months-old.

He went on to medical school at The Albert Einstein School of Medicine in the Bronx, one of New York City’s five burroughs. Josh added that “it’s actually part of Yeshiva University in New York City.”

A residency in Internal Medicine at hospitals associated with the University of Chicago was the next step for Josh, followed by a fellowship in Gastroenterology and a residency there.

During his fellowship, he became interested in diseases of the liver. And, he discovered, the University of Nebraska Medical Center is famous for their transplant center.

“The liver disease and transplant department at UNMC is special and I decided to come here for further training,” Josh explained. “I will be training in the medicine part of liver transplants-not the surgical.”

The Lied Transplant Center at UNMC opened in late 1998. Through July of 2003, they have performed 118 transplants of which 48 have included livers.

The Lied Center is part of UNMC and the Nebraska Health System. It is a national model for solid organ and bone

marrow transplant programs. The building itself has 14 levels and 251,000 square feet. It cost around $61.3 million dollars to build.

The Center uses an innovative concept called “Cooperative Care” with transplant research and education. This system focuses on the needs of patients by the use of patient support systems, including family and friends.

At just 15-months-old, baby Mia Levitsky is practically a Nebraska native!

Dr. Levitsky explained, “We knew that moving to Omaha would be a huge lifestyle change from Chicago to Omaha.

We were living in the city and the change to suburban life is certainly different. But people here have really reached out to us.”

Rachel added, “For me, it wasn’t so much about where we were going, but that we were leaving. My mother lived around the corner from us in Chicago and she helped with the baby. We had a life in Chicago and it was hard to leave.

We could have chosen a couple of other places, but Omaha is close to Chicago.

“This,” she insisted, “is a nice place to raise children.”

Josh and Rachel have joined Temple Israel and have begun attending Shabbat services They both agree, “The service was really nice. It was welcoming and intimate and many people (took time to) greet us.”

The Levitskys look forward to using the facilities at the Jewish Community Center. They both hope that since they chose a smaller city it will be easier for them to make friends.

Welcome, Rachel, Josh and Mia!

September 26, 2003

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 21

Grateful to God

by JOAN K. MARCUS Sarah Schondelmeyer seems like any other young woman who enjoys life. She loves a good party, animals, and seems like she is always happy. Perhaps she is-but up until the last few years, she has spent most of her life on oxygen and in the hospital.

Sarah was born in Sedalia, Missouri, in l976 and was raised “kind of Catholic.”

Because of her depressed immune system, she rarely went to large church services. And, she says when she did go, she felt like she was in the wrong place.

She recalls “never really felt like I was doing the right thing in church!”

She was home-schooled because she was too ill to attend public school.

However, her mother, a nurse, was determined that Sarah would receive no special treatment. From the very beginning, it was decided that little Sarah would never be treated as though she had a disability.

Her mother, Gayle, took in foster children and Sarah would stay at home, do her schoolwork and help take care of the babies.

“Taking care of those babies gave me a reason to get up in the morning,” she admitted. “If we hadn’t had them, I know I would have died!”

The family had close to 35 ill babies over the years. “My mom took in ‘crack and cocaine babies’, those addicted to drugs and others with severe problems,” she recalled. “We never had normal, healthy babies. We had the ones who were sick and cranky and screamed a lot!”

They stopped taking babies eventually because they became so attached to them and it was hard to say “goodbye” when they went back to their families or

Sarah and her sister, Espie Schondelmeyer. were adopted.

“We had a little boy we called ‘T’ and we were going to adopt him. The authorities said we would have him forever and I really loved him. Everything was fine until ‘Black Homes for Black Children’ came along and said that we couldn’t have him because we were white,” she explained. “He was the last baby we had!”

She was unable to attend public school because she was born with Cystic Fibrosis--or at least all of the symptoms of the disease. Tests in later years show that she doesn’t have the gene for CF, but still shows all the symptoms.

“I really wanted to go to school, but they wouldn’t let me because they said that it would be too scary for the other kids,” she said sadly. “And, it would have been too much of a liability for me to be there. They ended up letting me go to

school for only a couple of hours a day.”

When it came to religious o b s e r v a n c e , S a r a h recalled that she “felt like I was somewhere I shouldn’t be. I didn’t know why because it was supposed to be this good place.”

Even when she was able to attend Catholic school, she was always at odds with the teacher. She didn’t understand “the Jesus thing” and was sent to the priest many times.

After completing her high school requirements for a diploma, Sarah decided to attend college. Since she had defied all of the doctors’ predictions, she decided to attend Creighton University.

The weather and medical care in Omaha seemed reasonable and the family made the move here in 1991.

“I decided that I would go to Creighton and then I could figure out what I was missing with the ‘Christianity thing.’ I was sure somebody there could help me!” she added. “However, the only thing that I did finally figure out was that I wasn’t meant to be a Christian!”

After graduating from college with a degree in biology in 2000, she went to work at the Nebraska Humane Society as the Foster Care Coordinator. Her job was to find homes for orphaned puppies and kittens--animals that have been injured or are diseased.

On September 10, 2001, Sarah was again very ill and had to be hospitalized.

She woke up and had dreamed that she was in a synagogue at a service.

“The rabbi kept talking about Jews in America today and keeping the mitzvot,” she insisted, about the dream she had the day before 9-11.

She recalls walking into to a house where everybody kept kissing the doorbell! “There was all of this wonderful food,” she smiled, “and chopped liver!”

One week later, she had the same dream and decided she needed to look into Judaism. But, she didn’t know anyone who was Jewish and didn’t know where to start.

She abandoned her curiosity about Judaism when her health began to decline. “Steroids had taken a toll on my body. I was weak and my immune system couldn’t fight anymore. I could barely get up and down the stairs until someone mentioned that doing Bikram Yoga might help my condition,” she explained. “The steroids that kept me alive were ruining my bones.”

Doctors thought that yoga certainly couldn’t hurt and that it might help. So they suggested Sarah find a teacher instead of using videos. Friends recommended Tippi Denenberg.

After beginning yoga, the pain went away and muscles began to heal. “Doing yoga everyday is better (for me) than 10 years of physical therapy,” she added.

Page 22

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2003

A Native Son Returns, While Two More Young Men Try Nebraska’s ‘Good Life’

by BEN DELMAN Jewish Press Student Intern To Nebraska residents the green, rectangular sign over the I-80 bridge is a familiar marker. It is inscribed with the motto: “Nebraska: the good life”.

The sign serves as a signal to Nebraska travelers that they have come home.

To many young people in the Jewish community, Nebraska serves only as a temporary home. They see it as a place in which to grow up and then move out.

In the years 2000, 2002, and 2003, 75 percent of Jewish high school seniors went to colleges out-of-state.

While there are many who leave from Nebraska, there are those who move to the state as well.

These are the stories of three such people.

Lincoln native Daniel Friedman is one of the many who went elsewhere for college. He attended Macalaster University in St. Paul, Minnesota. He has since moved back to Lincoln where he works in his father’s law office.

“When you come back (from college), you return as an adult. It’s the same places, but you have different ideas about them,” Friedman said.

Moving back home has required a bit of an adjustment. Friedman says he misses some of the more plentiful cultural events that a large metropolitan area such as Minneapolis has to offer.

“With more people, there are bound to be more things to do,” Friedman said.

However with more people come drawbacks as well.

“Here there are no crowds or pollution. It’s more pleasant. Life is simpler and calmer,” Friedman said.

Friedman sees the local Jewish community as “close, tight-knit, and familyoriented.” Most of the activities of the

Lincoln native Daniel Friedman community are centered around the family, Friedman said. This gives young single Jews less opportunity to connect, especially in a small Jewish community like Lincoln.

Friedman says he is better off for having gone to school out-of-state. “Move away for school. You’ll get to expand your horizons, experience life outside of Nebraska. It’s beneficial for you because you’ll gain a greater world perspective.”

Having been out into the world, Friedman is happy with his life back in Lincoln.

“It’s great to be home.”

Another new Lincoln resident is Josh Gitlitz.

Gitlitz was born on New York’s Long Island. He studied as an undergraduate at Binghamton University in upstate New York. He moved to Lincoln where he is in the doctoral program at the University

of Nebraska-Lincoln, studying for a Master’s in Business Administration.

In addition, Gitlitz has begun working with the Gallup Leadership Development program, which specializes in consulting in leadership training.

Despite the small size of the local Jewish community, especially in comparison to the one Gitlitz grew up in on Long Island, Gitlitz describes the community as “vibrant”.

He cites the warmth of the people and the sense of togetherness as strengths of the community.

Because of the older demographics of the Jewish community Gitlitz says, it can be difficult to attract younger Jews to move here. He says that will change as more and more businesses move into the area bringing more of their younger workers.

In addition to his work at Gallup, Gitlitz is also trying to jump-start Hillel-the college group for Jewish students--at

Ex-New Yorker Josh Gitlitz

S I N .

A T I M CEMETERY

L’Shanah Tovah Greetings from the Board of Directors: Leon Wintroub, President; Harry Alloy, Vice-president; Kevee Kirshenbaum, Treasurer; Phyllis Aron, Secretaty; Marc Delman, Louie Fedman, Sam Fedman, Mike Feldman, Jerry Gordman, Dan Greenfield, Joe Guss, President Emeritus, Joe Kirshenbaum and Dr. Paul Shyken, Board Members

UNL. He’s still collecting names, addresses, phone numbers and e-mail addresses for students--not only at UNL, but also for those attending UNO, Creighton, Metropolitan Community College and other area colleges and universities.

If you’re a student who falls into that category--or a parent of a student, you can reach Gitlitz via e-mail at: jgitlitz@unlnotes.unl.edu or at work: 402.472.2086.

“We started out with a group of seven or eight people in the spring,” Gitlitz said. He says they are going to increase that number in the fall by increasing the Hillel’s visibility.

One of the functions of Hillel is to provide religious services to students on campus. Because most of the Jews at UNL are close to their home synagogues in Lincoln or Omaha, Hillel isn’t in great demand for that purpose.

Another problem is population.

According to Hillel’s web site, there are roughly 100 Jewish students at UNL. “In terms of people that self-identify as Jewish, the numbers are small,” Gitlitz said. Gitlitz remains determined. “If they are here, we’ll find them.”

And in Omaha, Major Bill Schmittel has found us!

He’s moved around quite a bit in his young life. Born in Detroit, he attended University of Michigan. He earned his law degree from the University of Detroit. He then earned an LLM from the University of Virginia’s JAG (Judge Advocate General) school.

While at the University of Michigan he became involved in the ROTC (Reserve Officer Training Corps). He continues to serve in the military at StratCom Air Force in Bellevue, NE--a 15-minute drive from his apartment in the Old Market.

Continued on page 30

September 26, 2003

“Look Grandpa!

I’m Carrying The Torah!” years.” But they separated in 1982.

Being a housewife and mother was very satisfying to her until she began to be a teacher’s aide at a local school.

“One of the principals at the school told me that I was a natural teacher and suggested I go back to school and get a degree,” she explained. She went to college in Westchester County and earned a bachelor’s degree in education.

Going back to school again for a master’s seemed perfectly natural for Debbie. However, just as she was about to earn her advanced degree, she was diagnosed with a brain tumor.

“It was the size of a large lemon and it was right there,” she said, pointing to the front of her head. “My only symptom was terrific pain. The tumor was growing; it would have eventually killed me!”

Debbie said of her recovery, “I consider that I have had 19 extra years to do mitzvot. My only lasting effect from the surgery is some short-term memory loss. I am very fortunate!”

Debbie’s first child was born in 1960; younger daughter Elaina was born in Mount Vernon, NY, in 1962.

She has happy memories of visiting her grandparents on Passover.

“Occasionally, my grandparents came to our house and we went to services for the High Holy days.

Otherwise, we only knew we were Jewish because we ate bagels!” she joked.

“When I was in the fourth grade, my parents decided that I needed a religious When sofer Rabbi Moshe Druin came to Temple Israel to repair Torahs and write a new scroll education so they threw us of Ruth for the Women of Reform Judaism, Elaina Ozeroff, left, her son, Benjamin, and her into a Temple program where friendships and mother, Deborah Alpert, couldn’t wait to participate. cliques were already Although Debbie knew she was a Jew, there was no formed,” Elaina recalled. time for Jewish education in the single-parent house“My sister and I were absolutely miserable; we were hold. “We ate bagels and we went to my grandmother’s so far behind that we had no idea what was going on house for Pesach,” she recalled. and never went back!”

Shortly before the death of her grandfather, he had After graduating from high school, Elaina says she taken Debbie to the synagogue. “It was a little tiny shul “tried college for two weeks and was disillusioned” so downstairs in a basement someplace,” she remem- she quit and went to work in a pet shop. bered. “I was carrying the Torah and he was holding “Animals were and still are my first love,” Elaina onto the top of it so I wouldn’t drop it. A little old wrin- admitted. “I worked for pet shops and veterinarians kled witch said something to him in Yiddish and spat and got quite an education about exotic animals. in front of me three times.

However, I didn’t have the math or science skills to go “Grandpa spoke right back to her in Yiddish and told to veterinarian school.” her I had a right to carry the Torah,” she insisted. “I Later, when she decided she couldn’t support herself have a feeling I was the first girl to ever carry a Torah working in pet shops, she went back to a technical there. I also think she had tried to put a curse on me school to learn about computers. until Grandpa told her off!”

“I finished and went to work at a place that was so Like many Jewish girls of her generation, when she boring and tedious that a chimpanzee could have done graduated from high school in 1955, she began looking it! I felt completely useless,” she laughed. for a job, instead of applying to college.

At that point, she walked into an Air Force recruiters Since she had studied bookkeeping in high school, office and said, “‘I want to do electronics.’ So, they she went to work for a bank. In 1958, she married, made me an electrician; joining the Air Force was the Allan Alpert, her high school sweetheart. “He lived in best thing I ever did!” the neighborhood,” she said, “and I had known him for Continued on page 32

by JOAN K. MARCUS This is a story about two women who have moved to Bellevue, Nebraska, from New York City. However, more than anything else, it is the story of love and respect between a mother and a daughter---Debbie Alpert and Elaina Ozeroff.

Deborah Stein Alpert was born in New York City in 1937. When she was 12-years-old, her beloved grandfather, Benjamin Rosenberg, died and her father “left.”

This left Debbie and her mother, Ida, with no male figures in their lives and no money. Though Ida was welleducated, she had no marketable skills and she and Debbie were left to survive on their own.

In a time when women didn’t work outside the home, Ida taught herself accounts receivable and worked herself up through Franklin Stores in New York to a fairly high position.

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No Compromises Synagogue, too, and once

by BERT W. LEWIS Asking a newcomer to again found a welcoming place in which to worship.

Omaha about moving from elsewhere is apt to bring a Seth, the eldest of the three boys, has made friends variety of answers. Often there and expresses a more the answer indicates it was than a casual interest in the difficult to displace the fambenefits of two congregaily and re-group in comtions. pletely strange surroundSeth’s enthusiastic ings. If the newcomer hapapproach is one of the reapens to be the child of a sons Debbie and Michael career military man, the find themselves answering response is likely to be fairall sorts of questions and ly casual. introducing their family to Deborah Hirsch Carver is ancient customs and tradiexactly that--a woman who tions. was born in Florida when It was suggested that her father was stationed at Michael and Deborah Carver.

Debbie might one day find Eglin Air force Base. There were many moves during her childhood, which may herself keeping kosher, and she smiled and explained have prepared her for the transition when she and hus- how Seth had asked questions about the kosher sign found on appropriate foods. band Michael came here from Richmond, VA. Her childhood memories of arriving at a new address She explained about the hechsher and this young include those of finding a synagogue and a Jewish con- man decided all edibles should be marked with the nection. She explains it wasn’t so important which proper insignia. She says the hechsher is prominently branch of Judaism the shul practiced as it was to just seen in her kitchen now!

This young family are surely a valuable addition to make the connection. Her father, the son of observant European-born parents was and remains a man very our Omaha Jewish community. Michael’s work as the Director of Six Sigma program at Union Pacific is what committed to Jewish life.

Today, a grown woman, the mother of three little brought them here from Richmond, but Virginia’s loss boys and the wife of a Jew-by-choice, she and her hus- is our gain.

The Carvers are a bright and energetic couple who band emulate many of the values she learned growing up. She stresses her home is that of a Jewish family, will continue to satisfy curiosity about everything and with no “compromises” such as double celebrations of who are teaching their boys the best way to answer a question is to find out all there is to know about it.

Hanukkah and Christmas.

Debbie’s past work experience includes an interestMichael Carver came to Judaism as a college-age young man, before he met Debbie in an honors pro- ing four years as the owner, manager, teacher and gram at the University of Houston. He was befriended maven-of-all-trades in the field of daycare. This unusuby an Israeli couple, who probably were responsible al item in her resume came into being because of her complete reluctance and inability to leave her new for sparking his great interest in the religion.

As Debbie and Michael became a couple they found born first baby in the care of strangers.

Because her income would be sorely missed if she themselves more and more drawn to Judaic practices until, as Debbie says, it “became our way of life.” didn’t go back to the lucrative job she left on materniToday, as a married couple with a family, they are part ty leave, she decided to open a daycare service, which would facilitate her at-home presence as well as bring of whatever Jewish community in which they reside.

When Michael’s work brought them to Omaha sever- some revenue to the family coffers. With pride she al years ago, Debbie was occu- relates her program was fully accredited and very sucpied with a very cessful. It was with great regret she terminated the young infant service when the Carvers left the area.

When Debbie was asked her feelings about being whose health i s s u e s here in Omaha and how difficult it was to become kept her acclimated to a new environment, she said she wished a busy more had been available to them when they first m o m . arrived. That is, more in the way of services known as Still, she “outreach programs”, to lend help or direction to newf o u n d comers.

Her experiences were made more difficult time because she was dealing with an infant with perpetual colic and the ability to cry for hours on end-not an easy task.

(At the risk of editorializing, I add the following: Our Jewish community is able to provide a great deal of assistance, but the person seeking aid must know how to access that help. Perhaps there are lessons here for those of us Seth, left, age eight is the oldest of the Carver boys; Noah is five and the baby, Jonah, is two. who are in a position to ask to look around and find a synagogue she thought some pertinent questions of those who might have the answers. What greater mitzvah than to offer help when would satisfy the spiritual needs of her little family.

Beth El seemed a good fit and the Carvers became and where it’s sorely needed?)

To sum up the story of this nice young family, we participants in both children’s activities as well as adult.

In fact, last year Debbie taught a Sunday School class, should add their name to the list headed “Assets”. If we continue to welcome folks like this into our Jewish thoroughly enjoying the experience.

Interestingly, because all aspects of Judaism beckon community, we can only grow and be an even better to them, they decided to investigate Beth Israel example to the community at large.

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by DIANE AXLER BAUM “What a difference a day makes, 24 little hours,” crooned a once-popular singer decades ago. For Audrey and Richard Wiener, the lasting truth of those lyrics took on a new reality only recently.

Audrey and Richard both hold doctorates in psychology, and he also has a Masters of Legal Studies. Her area of expertise is forensic clinical psychology.

His work overlaps the fields of psychology and law.

It was in 1983 at St. Louis University that Richard Wiener, an Assistant Professor of Psychology, met Audrey Feldman, a new graduate student. Early on it became clear the relationship was bashert (meant-to-be).

“We were a couple by 1984,” she said in a recent interview. They married three years later in Bayside, N.Y., Audrey’s home town.

The couple continued on their respective career paths before and after starting their family. Samantha was born in 1995; Elissa, two years later. When Rich accepted the Chair of the Department of Psychology at Baruch College, the young family moved to New York, where

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Centers. In addition, they looked forward to raising their children in a kosher home, joining a vibrant Conservative synagogue, and encouraging the girls to be involved in Jewish youth groups.

So it was much to their relief and delight, when one single day in Omaha erased their hesitations.

They look back on those 24 hours with deep feeling. A short tour of Omaha gave them an immediate sense of comfort, and seeing Beth El Synagogue clinched it.

“West Omaha and the West County of St. Louis are very similar,” Rich explained.

“One look at Beth El and we fell in love with the place,” Audrey added.

Even though they were unable to tour the building that first day, they were touched by the beauty of the exterior and its similarity to their synagogue in St. Louis.

Of course, they also reacted positively to Omaha’s Jewish Community Center, which on the day of their visit bustled with activity in honor of Yom Ha’atzmaut. They were impressed with the J’s many facilities, including the Kripke Jewish Federation Library. They recognized in the JCC an ideal place for Samantha and Elissa to benefit from high quality after-school care and summer day camps.

Their positive first impressions of Omaha prompted them to obtain all the information they could about the city in general and Jewish Omaha in particular. Later, they searched for and found a comfortable home.

At this point Rich has lived in Omaha a little over a year; Audrey and the girls, about nine months.

Already they’re sure they made the right decision by coming to Nebraska.

Samantha and Elissa are thriving at a Millard District elementary school.

Audrey and Richard Weiner with daughters, Audrey has a satisSamantha and Elissa. fying position at Audrey pursued work as a forensic clin- Omni Behavioral Health, which provides ical psychologist. foster care, group homes, and other Thus, life had evolved for the Wieners services for youngsters with “high somewhat predictably for a number of needs.” Richard is challenged by the years, but in 2002, an extraordinary position at UNL that led them here in the opportunity changed everything. first place.

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln Perhaps even more important, Audrey offered Richard the position of Director said, Jewish Omaha offers opportunities of the Law and Psychology Program. “to steep themselves in their religion and “There are only a few programs like it culture.” in the country,” he pointed out.

One focus is Beth El, which she The program at UNL “is the ‘most describes as “the warmest shul we’ve renowned’ and ‘the best in the country.’” been associated with in years.” They all Audrey felt “there was no question from loved the Purim Carnival last spring, a professional standpoint,” that her hus- Samantha and Elissa fit right in at the band should accept the offer. school, and Audrey has become Even so, they hesitated. acquainted with “so many neat women” Why? They were unsure Nebraska in the Rosh Hodesh Group. could offer them the Jewish life they Perhaps most important, services at wanted--for themselves and their daugh- Beth El provide a meaningful way for ters. her family to “share the gift of Shabbat,” For starters, as a working mom and Audrey said. dad they were accustomed to “parenting In Omaha, every week, they treasure a in partnership” with Jewish Community day that makes a difference.

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Page 26

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2003

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by JOAN K. MARCUS Rabbi Tuvia Hoffman, his wife, Ariella, and their daughters, Bayla and Gila, came to Omaha from Israel on Memorial Day. They are the second “couple” with the Omaha Center of Torah Learning, lead by Rabbi Aryeh Blum and his wife, Shari, newcomers who also came from Israel just a year before the Hoffmans.

Tuvia Hoffman was born in Detroit in 1970 and grew up in a traditional Jewish family. “My mother kept a kosher home; I had a Bar Mitzvah,” he said, “and attended a Hebrew high school.

“I always knew that I wanted to be a writer, however, and, by the time I was in college (at Wayne State University in Detroit) I was already writing and producing plays. They were short plays--comedies--and I was somewhat successful,” he added with a smile.

After college, he served as the artistic director for Miniature Sun Productions.

Rabbi Hoffman describes himself as “somewhat of a scholar who was always interested in learning.”

“I picked up the Five Books of Moses thinking this would help me find the ‘key’ to opening up my study of Judaism,” he explained. “That’s when I decided to go to Israel,” where he began nine years of learning.

His studies took him to Yeshivat Darshe Noam where he received smicha, rabbinic ordination and studied Talmud, philosophy, Jewish Law and Torah.

“I studied and also worked at a Jewish website,” he said. “I helped to find answers from various rabbinic authorities for the ‘Ask the Rabbi’ website column.”

At the same time, he studied at Ner L’Elef (which translates as “candle to the thousands”), an Israeli organization that trains rabbis and their wives for outreach work in the Diaspora. During the last six months of their stay, they were sent out to different towns in Israel in order to do teaching and rabbinic work.

While Rabbi Hoffman was on his Jewish journey, a young woman from Texas was finding her own way in Judaism.

Ariella Wheeler originally wanted to be a professor of cultural anthropology. She went to the University of Texas at Austin, where her minor was in religion; she decided to go to Israel after graduation.

“It was part of a larger trip,” she added. “I was traveling around Europe and the Mediterranean and finally ended up in Israel. When I got there, everything came together and I knew I had finally found what I was looking for!”

Ariella recalled that in college, “I read a lot and was very interested in growing within Judaism but didn’t feel like what I experienced in the synagogue was clicking with what I read in the books. The whole experience in Israel was what I was looking for,” she added. “I started to become more observant. It was a process of growth because I didn’t just wake up one morning and decide ‘Hey, I’m Orthodox!’”

In 1998 she made aliyah from Houston to Israel. She spent five hours each day learning Hebrew.

“I started going to the seminary in the afternoons because I felt like I wanted to be around more religious people. That’s where I met a woman who invited me for Shabbat dinner,” she said with a smile. “When I got there, Tuvia was sitting across the table from me. I thought that he was nice and very handsome, but I wasn’t ready to date anyone yet!”

Couples don’t date until in the Orthodox world they are ready to get married and find a partner for life.

Since Ariella had just moved to Israel, she wanted to get settled before beginning a relationship. But after her first year there, the two finally began to date.

They were married in Houston in 2000 in an Orthodox ceremony.

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“I originally went to Israel for three months,” Rabbi Hoffman recalled. “I was hoping that, maybe, I would be able to stay for a year. However, I was so astounded by the beauty of Judaism--the endlessness and the many different levels. I found the whole thing so meaningful that I was totally caught up in it for a long time!”

He says his studies didn’t produce a “mystical” experience, but that it was all “fun”! Added the rabbi, “Sometimes, when people go to the Western Wall, they cry or they’re surprised when they don’t.

“However, I didn’t have that kind of experience. It was kind of like knowing that the answers in Judaism were inside a bottle of Shabbat wine,” he insisted, “and I needed to have the corkscrew to open the bottle!”

Rabbi Hoffman remained in Israel because, “I just kept going deeper and deeper until there was so much to learn I knew I could never stop! It was curiosity that was beyond being intellectual! When you know that something is meaningful, you have to investigate it!”

“It was wonderful! There were people dancing everywhere!” She laughed.

They returned to Israel after their marriage. Daughter Bayla was born in 2001 and Gila followed in 2002.

Ariella has continued to study and learn along with her husband. She hopes to work with women as well as young Jewish high school and college students.

One of her joys is gourmet kosher cooking and she enjoys inviting guests over for special meals. There is even a rumor of a possible kosher cooking class now that she has come to Omaha! Maybe even kosher sushi, Mexican or Indian! Or, to quote Ariella, “We can just teach people how to make gefilte fish and kugel if that’s all they want to learn!”

In addition to running her home, she manages the website for OCTL and specializes in making and selling her own natural soaps and lotions, from organic herbs she grows in her own garden.

Continued on page 34

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September 26, 2003

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 27

“Funny, You Don’t Look Jewish”

by JOAN K. MARCUS When Dr. Tony and Arlene Adelson and their family lived in Florida’s oldest city--St. Augustine--in 2000, they detected a small amount of anti-Semitism.

Tony was often told, “Funny, you don’t look Jewish” by the other doctors.

Tony was born in Southfield, Michigan, in 1962. He and his sister, Beth-Ann, grew up in an atmosphere that he describes as “fairly observant.” He recalls that most of his friends “were Jewish and we grew up with a strong Jewish identity.”

He knew two things for sure while he was growing up. The first was that there were really good corned beef sandwiches in Detroit and the second was that he wanted to be a doctor!

After graduating from Wayne State University in Detroit with a B.S. in Psychology, he went on to medical school at the same university. He remained in Michigan for his residency in Radiology at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit. He specializes in Interventional Radiology, a sub-specialty of Radiology where he uses tubes, catheters and stints for biopsies and uses imaging, CAT scan and ultrasound.

“What I do is very patient oriented, diagnostic and therapeutic,” he explained. “I treat people everywhere but the heart!”

He treats people who have had strokes by looking at the arteries in the brain.

Injecting dye into the arteries identifies bleeding aneurysms. He studies kidney and liver diseases by looking at the arteries located in those organs. This can also identify problems associated with leg pain.

“We know where to put a stint in order

Arlene and Tony Adelson and their daughters: Jaclyn, left, and Lori-Anne (not pictured, son Matthew). to open up the arteries and treat the He added, “What I do is cool!” pain,” he explained. Unlike other radiolOn a blind date while in medical ogists, he is on his feet all day working school, Tony met and, according to him, directly with the patients. “fell head over heels in love with beautiMany times, he diagnoses and identi- ful Arlene Stone!” She was a young fies types of cancer and sometimes treats divorceé at the time, with two children: patients by administering chemotherapy Matthew, then age 9, and Lori-Anne, directly into an artery, as opposed to then 7. Tony insists he married her in intravenously.

1988 for the kids! Another daughter, “Today we can go into an artery with a Jaclyn, was born in 1990. catheter and put medicine directly into a “The package was just right!” he tumor,” he added. “This is instead of put- laughed. “I was busy in medical school ting in an IV where the whole body gets and studied a lot. Also, I hadn’t had the chemotherapy. Now you can elimi- much of a childhood; I grew up pretty nate all of the side effects of chemo.” fast with lots of responsibility in a home

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“So, Arlene’s kids were a ready-made family and I had been very lonely,” he admitted. “We just all hit it off right away and I got do things with them for my first time--kid stuff like celebrating Halloween!”

The Adelsons finally left Michigan in 1993 when they went to Jackson Memorial Medical Center at the University of Miami for a fellowship.

“There’s a strong Jewish presence in South Florida,” he noted. “Many people come from other states so we were in a situation where most people were friendly. Everyone knows what it’s like being from somewhere else and it’s easier to make friends. People don’t have roots when they come from all over!”

In 1998, the family went to live in St. Augustine, Florida, where Tony was accepted for a position at St. John’s Radiology Flagler Hospital.

“When I interviewed for the job, I didn’t think to tell them I was Jewish. But, when we got there, we discovered that there very few Jews,” he recalled. “There was only one other Jewish doctor and other doctors had a real curiosity about how a Jew looked. I don’t think that they would have hired me if they had known I was Jewish.”

In 2000, they decided that being Jewish was more important to their family than they realized and they began to think about leaving St. Augustine.

The medical environment in North Florida wasn’t doctor-friendly either, according to Tony.

“The malpractice insurance costs were Continued on page 34

Page 28

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

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by JOAN K. MARCUS At age 22, Jonathan Rathsam is more mature than most young men his age. He recently moved to Omaha to be part of a masters and doctoral program at the University of Nebraska at Lincoln. The program, in acoustics, is located on the UN-Omaha campus.

Rathsam was born and raised in a small community north of the San Diego area. His father is a mechanical engineer and his mother tutors Bar and Bat Mitzvah students. He describes his upbringing as “normal Reform.”

His grandparents were founding members of the synagogue where he grew up.

“My father built an ark that they used for several years, and my mother, who lived in Israel for two years, taught in the Hebrew School,” he noted.

Jon began playing the violin when he was four-yearsold and then began to study piano. After studying piano for 10 years, he began to take private voice lessons, too.

“It was the beginning of my senior year in high school when the cantor at our Temple asked me to fill in for her when she was gone,” he recalled.

After graduation from high school, Rathsam, chose to attend Grinnell College in Grinnell, Iowa.

“I wanted to go to a small school and see what life would be like in other parts of the country,” he admitted. “A lot of my friends went to the universities in California because they feel that there isn’t anything but California!

“As soon as I arrived in Grinnell, I contacted the Reconstructionist rabbi who lives there. They didn’t have anybody to chant the High Holiday services, so my cantor at home faxed me all of the music,” he explained, and it “was great!” he said of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.

After graduation with a BA in Physics from Grinnell, Jon decided he would begin cantorial school. During the spring and summer of his junior year, he studied languages, the Passover Haggadah and other independent Jewish studies: writings of Martin Buber and the influence of Buddhism on modern Jewish thought.

But it was a trip to Berlin--Germany--that solidified his future. There, he interviewed 10 students about their feelings about being Jewish in a post Holocaust Germany.

“That was fascinating to me because sometimes it is worrisome the way the Jewish community closes itself off from non-Jews,” he explained. “I feel like that leads to mistrust or difficulty in understanding.

“I’m very much in favor of the Jews being open with non-Jews and the larger community. I think that it’s important for there to be lot of contact between Jews and non-Jews,” he insisted.

Also while in Germany, Jon interned with three cantors. He had the opportunity to get college credit for accompanying cantors as they met with B’nai Mitzvah students, officiated at funerals, chanting festival services and doing public performances.

“I observed them (at work) and got a chance to visit with them. When I got back from Germany, I was positive that I was going to cantorial school,” he smiled. “I sent away for applications from Hebrew Union College (the Reform movement’s seminary) and I considered the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College. I even looked at the Jewish Theological Seminary (of the Conservative movement).”

But, in November of last year, Jon “got an e-mail from a friend of mine at Grinnell. He told me about a program in architectural engineering at the University of Nebraska-Omaha.”

The program came about when architects began branching out into the “aesthetic side” of the field. Jon’s program deals directly with the acoustics--the location

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“There’s a professor here (at UNO) who came from Penn State, where they have the biggest acoustics program in the country,” Jon added. The program deals with any physical place in which sound is generated-from commercial buildings and terminals to cars, airplanes and schools.

He pondered his situation and decided he could always go to cantorial school, but that he may not get the opportunity again to be part of the research in which acoustics graduate students participate. He applied and was accepted as one of only three PhD candidates in the program, one that is fully funded by the National Science Foundation.

Prior to coming to Omaha, however, Jon studied Hebrew in New York for two months. He participated in a two-month intensive program at JTS in Manhattan.

The program is mainly for Jewish students who might pursue religious vocations. Although he enjoyed his studies there, he is pleased to be in Omaha--where he has his own apartment and is able to choose his own level of observance.

“If I had gone to cantorial school, I would have taken a year off to study Hebrew anyway,” he admitted.” I still have this huge love for the cantorate and it is in no means diminished because I’m studying acoustics.”

While here in Omaha, Jon hopes to be able to keep up with some of his other interests. He has spent time studying the development of Reform Judaism by tracing its roots as early as 1796 in Amsterdam. He also is interested in the introduction of “vernacular in the services.”

“Even then, people didn’t know all of the Hebrew,” he explained. “I’m interested in the languages in the liturgy when the people began moving out of the ghetto and living other places. They couldn’t all walk to shul and they needed the money they made by working on Shabbat.”

Jonathan Rathsam He added thoughtfully, “I don’t know if I’ll want to go on to cantorial school after attending school for five more years at UNO. However, I certainly want to be involved Jewishly and be able to sing. I am looking forward to being part of the octet at Temple Israel for High Holidays.

“Continuing to learn is still a huge priority for me.”

MAY the NEW YEAR BRING PEACE, HEALTH & HAPPINESS

Taste the Tradition!

September 26, 2003

Every Jew Has to Take a Step Forward

by JOAN K. MARCUS cancer patients, received a faculty appointment at the Dr. Yaffa Podbilewicz-Schuller and Dr. Dan Schuller Washington University School of Medicine. She develare many miles away from their original home in oped support systems for women who experience Mexico City. breast cancer. As a “psycho-oncologist,” she also In 2002, they relocated their family to Omaha, where worked with many other cancer patients and people Dan is an Associate Professor of Medicine, Chief of the with acute or chronic illnesses and with their families.

Pulmonary and Critical Care division and Director of “I had grants to develop a training site for doctoral the intensive care unit at students so that they Creighton University could do a practicum in Medical Center. psycho-oncology,” she It’s quite a change. explained. “It was a wonThey were both born derful experience and I and raised in the large really enjoyed it.”

Jewish community of Dan was a doctor in 50,000 in Mexico City. the Washington Unlike many other Jews University School of in that city, they each Medicine in the pulattended one of the monary and critical care seven Jewish day schools department of Barnes from kindergarten Jewish Hospital. through high school.

They agree they were During their studies “doing well in St. Louis-there, they learned four both professionally and languages--Spanish, with our family. Then, Hebrew, Yiddish and Creighton University English! recruited Dan and Their lives also foloffered him an opportulowed a similar course nity to have a great when they each decided impact on the medical to go to Israel for a year community here.” after high school graduaYaffa and Dan have tion. high standards, however, “It was pretty routine in of what it means to be a Mexico for high school “good Jewish communigraduates to Israel to ty, with excellent work on a kibbutz for schools” for their chilthat year between high dren. On his first visit school and college,” here, Dan toured the Yaffa explained. “Since Jewish Community Zionism is very strong in Center and returned with Mexico, we grew up with brochures to show Yaffa.

Yaffa and Dan Schuller with their children Ygal, 12, a strong connection to After visiting Beth E1 Eliana, 4, and Yael, age one.

Israel. Kids participate in Synagogue, seeing their Zionist youth groups and it’s even common to go with afternoon religious school program, watching the JCC’s your youth group or your school on a trip to Israel.”

Child Development Center in session, and visiting pubDan met Yaffa Podbilewicz when she returned from lic schools, Yaffa decided Omaha would be a good Israel. She was a psychology student at Anahuac place to live, after all.

University. They were married in 1986 and moved to “Omaha is a small Jewish community and ‘small’ has Detroit, MI. She finished her BA degree there at some problems, but also some great benefits,” she Oakland University. commented. “In a larger Jewish community, you can After living in Israel, Dan had returned to Mexico City hide. In a small community, you can’t. Every Jew has to and to attend medical school at National Autonomous take a step forward and work for one another.

University of Mexico. He received his medical degree Everybody has to be active and stay involved.” and did his residency in internal medicine in Detroit.

She added that “one of the problems with a very large In 1988, Dr. Schuller decided to specialize in pul- community is there’s always something going on and monary medicine and critical care at Washington you don’t have to do it yourself for the program, the University School of Medicine in St. Louis, MO. Yaffa project, or whatever it is to be there and be successful. received her masters and PhD--also from Washington “Here, if you want something, you have to be active, University. she insisted. “I love that about Omaha and I also love The Schullers spent 14 years living and working in St. that it is a Midwestern city like St. Louis.”

Louis. Together, they were active in their Conservative Some of the other things the Schullers like about synagogue, B’nai Amoona, interestingly, designed by Omaha is that it is smaller and less hectic in terms of the same architect who worked on Beth El’s building the complexities of big cities. They use words like, here! Their son and two daughters were born St. Louis. “Family oriented with a friendly atmosphere.”

Ygal is 12 and will have his Bar Mitzvah in November.

Yaffa says, “I remember the first time that I walked Eliana is four and Yael is a just a year old. into Beth E1 Synagogue. Cantor Berkovits was singing.

Yaffa, a psychologist who specializes in the care of Continued on page 36

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

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Shami Jacobs has a deep appreciation for what it means to belong to a family and to the larger community.

“I’m one of nine grandchildren on my father’s side and one of 46 on my mother’s side!” Shami said.

“Some of my cousins live in Israel and some in London, but the bulk of the family is in Toronto, so it was rare if a week went by without a Bar Mitzvah or wedding or some kind of family simcha.

“Growing up, I spent lots of time with my grandparents, with aunts and uncles.

There was real sense of dor l’dor--from generation to generation.”

And how does he feel about that older generation?

“I’m blessed to have known many inspirational people from that generation--men and women who rebuilt their lives and the entire Jewish community following the War,” he explained.

“To me, Bella Eisenberg is a perfect example of a local heroine,” he added.

“When you grow up with people like that all around you, you tend to take it for granted, but when you think about what it entailed, everything else kind of pales in comparison.

“My grandparents and great-grandparents were part of that generation and they’ve had a profound impact on the way I think and live my life.”

Some details of how he chooses to live his life give us more insight as to what makes Shami tick.

“I happen to find work very relaxing.

There isn’t much else I’d rather do. But I’m also a vociferous reader and I really like the intellectual stimulation that comes with Talmud study. I try to set aside at least 30 minutes a day for studying a text,” he insisted. “I’m not a big TV person, but I do enjoy a good movie now and then.”

When the discussion turned to sports,

Shami Jacobs Shami said, “The last time I played football--I was 12--I scored a touchdown for the opposing team. I’ll definitely have to brush up if I’m to become a respectable Cornhuskers fan!” he laughed.

Becoming a respectable Nebraska football fan may be on Shami’s to-do list, but his top priority is to become an active and productive member of the Omaha Jewish community.

His role model is his paternal grandfather, Harold Jacobs.

“My late grandfather had this amazing ability to connect with every one he met and to make that person feel important.

People from all walks of life and backgrounds swore that Harold Jacobs was their closest friend. On top of that, he was also very community minded with a reputation for integrity, vision, clarity and intelligence,” Jacobs added.

“He was admired and respected by everyone he dealt with and really, really loved by everyone close to him. I recognize how fortunate I am to have learned so much from him. And for the record, I think my Dad and Mom are pretty great, too,” he admitted.

To Shami Jacobs we say, Baruch habah. Blessings to you who has come to Omaha. We look forward to the contribution you’ll make here.

Nebraska’s ‘Good Life’

No Frills Supermarkets Kevin & Kimara Clark Don & Bernice Cohen Harold Cooperman Richard & Fran Juro Steve Moskovits

Continued from page 22 Schmittel moved here in June and has taken up residence downtown. Since he arrived in Omaha, he also traveled to Europe.

Although he has been here for a short while, Schmittel has positive things to say about the local community.

“The people I have met here have been friendly,” Schmittel said.

He is also impressed with the many facilities at the Jewish Community Center. As a newcomer to the community, Schmittel says he is looking for Jewish activities that “help me to get to know the community better.” This could be community service projects or just groups getting together socially.

“In addition to a military community, I am looking for a faith community as well,” Schmittel said.

Although born Jewish, Schmittel says he never practiced. So now he is studying with Rabbi Craig Marantz, Temple Israel’s Associate Rabbi.

“I plan on trying to discover a community in Temple Israel,” Schmittel said, “And hopefully I will find one.”

When these people profiled came to Nebraska, perhaps they saw that sign over I-80. Then it symbolized the welcoming of a stranger. Now when they

Lt. Bill Schmittel see the sign, it’s a welcome to a friend.

They each came to Nebraska for different reasons. These young men had different expectations of what they would find when they came here, and came looking for different things.

What they all found is a warm and receptive Jewish community, one of the things that makes Nebraska, “the good life.”

September 26, 2003

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 31

One Woman Chamber of Commerce

by BERT LEWIS When I sat down with Carrie Fingold to interview her and ask about the reasons she and her husband Steven moved to Omaha, I had no idea what to expect.

As she began to answer my questions, I realized I should have had a tape recorder playing. Why? Well, in case she wanted to look for a job, she could take her taped answers to the Chamber of Commerce, where I’m certain they’d hire her in a heartbeat!

To begin, this very young couple came here to look us over, since Steven had been offered a very good job.

The company courting Steve was headquartered in Council Bluffs, but this couple didn’t have a clue about that city or Omaha either, for that matter. Naturally, being both intelligent and curious, they wanted to come here and see for themselves.

They came; they looked; they made inquiries in the right places and they liked everything they saw.

In fact, Carrie says one of the reasons they decided to say “yes” was the feeling of warmth and friendliness they felt from everyone they met. She said they “couldn’t get over the kindness and interest they received from total strangers.”

It must have been very persuasive, because this couple decided to pack up and move from their native Canada, leaving behind families and friends and everything familiar. Both were born and raised in Winnipeg and prior to the job opportunity, had no thoughts of leaving their hometown.

But that was before they met, for the first time, native Omahans!

Carrie explains certain things were very important and they had many questions to ask before their final decision was made.

First of all, she “wanted to know all about the Jewish community here.” She inquired about numbers and activities and synagogues and schools. It was vital to know that their natural tie to Judaism would remain intact.

She tells of being driven all around Omaha by one of our own real estate people, of not only seeing all there is to see, but learning a good deal about the area and its past. She mentions she wanted to see the “Jewish Section” and was surprised to be told there really isn’t a geographical location where most of us live.

Carrie says in her native Winnipeg, that’s not the way it is.

Well, when all was said and done, after two or more trips here, the die was cast, the Fingolds said “yes” and here they are.

Like all newcomers, they are welcomed with enthusiasm by all who meet them. Over and over, Carrie tells of the wonderful people who have made them feel

mark

almost like family.

They came here in October of last year and on Thanksgiving Day were guests at the table of a lovely couple they had only recently met. A friend in Winnipeg who knew somebody in Omaha, made a phone call and the Omahan responded. Voila!

Carrie says it never ceases to amaze her, the way folks here go out of their way to be friendly.

Listening to Carrie, I knew she might well become the best spokesperson this city ever had--in addition, she could become a one-woman recruiter for the Jewish community! (Jewish Federation Newcomers’ Committee: take note!)

She admits though she loves it here, it is hard to be so far from family, but says they manage to get “home” fairly often. And, both sets of parents have found how easy it is to get from Winnipeg to Omaha.

They expect the visits to become more and more frequent, since Carrie is expecting the couple’s first child in November. Whoever keeps statistics for our Jewish community should take note: we didn’t just get two Fingolds, but soon there will be three.

Carrie says they love it here, period.

They’ve made a wonderful circle of friends and are enjoying the company of every one of them. They have joined the JCC and are greatly impressed with our handsome facility. In fact, Carrie says parts of the new JCC in Winnipeg were patterned after ours, but she says theirs isn’t nearly as grand as 333 So. 132nd St. She praised the help, advice and input from people she contacted at the Federation when they first came here. Carrie says without their guidance she isn’t sure they could have found the right people to help direct them.

Steven is happy in his position as Director of Sales for the American Stamp Company and for six months of the ‘almost year’ they’ve been here, Carrie worked as a substitute Hebrew teacher at Friedel. She said she had

been invited back, but the impending arrival of her baby precludes taking the job.

So here is another of our newcomer families, and we can only hope they continue to find us the kind of people they want to live amongst. They don’t complain about missing much, although the Canadian summers are not as oppressive as ours and they do miss summer lake vacations.

About winter?

Carrie laughs and says they loved the winter here-she waved it off as hardly noticing it was cold. Good.

Winters here often scare people off, so it’s nice to know the Fingolds weren’t fazed by ours.

They’re very young, this nice couple, and very excited about soon becoming parents. They only wish the future grandparents were closer, but we’re certain they’ll visit often, once that baby is born. We hope everyone will continue to find this as a place they want to live, especially after they become a family of three.

After all, it would only make sense, since their child will be an American!

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September 26, 2003

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Continued from page 21 One day, when Sarah was making an appointment for yoga, Denenberg mentioned something about Yom Kippur.

Sarah picked up on the comment and began asking questions about Judaism.

Her questions were further answered and when she met Deirdre Evans, a friendship began. But Sarah wondered, “I kept saying that I needed to go to a synagogue and people kept telling me I should wait,” That changed in October of 2001.

“When I went to Temple Israel, I was amazed,” Sarah admitted. “For the first time in my life, I felt like I belonged. I’ve gone nearly every Friday night since!”

Although she received a lot of discouragement, she knew that it was the right thing to convert to Judaism.

“The only thing that I knew about being Jewish was eating chopped liver!

Because I had always had severe milk allergies, I had always eaten food with the “OU” on the package. I always thought the “OU” was something that they put on packages for people with milk allergies!” she laughed. “I was actually keeping kosher without knowing it!”

Sarah now enjoys good health and she attributes it to her love of Judaism. Other important factors that make it possible for her to stay out of the hospital for long periods of time include the Bikram

Yoga and her love of animals.

It is never unusual for her to come downstairs and find a box full of kittens, puppies or injured animals on her doorstep. People seem to “just know.”

Sarah said matter-of-factly, “The connection with animals is very strong.”

Seven birds, two cats, two dogs, a bunch of fish and a turtle named “Dumpy” live with Sarah. Some of the birds talk and one of them, “Charlie”, speaks Hebrew.

Charlie has discovered that he get to eat only after Sarah says the S’hma each morning! In order to speed up his breakfast, he and three other birds recite the prayer every day while Sarah is still sleeping. They’ve figured that they will get their breakfast sooner if they say the prayer!

Sarah Schondelmeyer was a child who wasn’t supposed to live to be very old because of the disabilities of her disease.

Because of her faith, she insists, “I love life and what I do. There were so many years that I couldn’t do things and I’m so grateful I’m healthy and I can now do most anything I want.

“I’m grateful to wake up every morning. God put me on this course and this last year has been the first time I have ever been healthy.

“I’m a full-time Jew,” she added, “and I’m very proud of it!”

Carrying the Torah Continued from page 23 After being injured, Elaina was crosstrained in computer graphics. “I absolutely loved it,” she asserted, “and got all kinds of letters of recommendation for it.”

Before leaving New York, she met Shepard Ozeroff. They were married in New Hampshire in 1989. Their son, Benjamin (named for his grandfather) was born in 1990.

“The Air Force closed the base in New Hampshire and told me that I had a choice,” Elaina explained. “I could go either to Texas or Nebraska. I didn’t think that was much of a choice, but I chose Nebraska because I knew a couple of people who had come here before me. When we drove into Omaha, it was 104 degrees and I couldn’t imagine what I had done to deserve this!”

It seemed that the family would live “happily ever after.” However, Shep broke his back and, because he had diabetes, it was very slow to heal.

“Things got compounded over time and he ended up with severe diabetes and acute pain all of the time. He suffered from kidney failure, failing eyesight and his feet that were getting infected.”

Shep died on Sept. 11, 2000.

“Everybody wanted to know if I was going to move ‘home’ after Shep died, but I told them that I was home!”

One day, Elaina was trying to find a memorial candle. “I picked the name of Temple Israel out of the phone book to find out if I could buy a candle there. I wandered around Omaha for hours looking. I was driving down Cass Street and-there it was! I drove in, went into the office, and was introduced to Dorothy Spizman, then Executive Director.”

Dorothy said to me, “We’re having a big Purim Carnival on Sunday. Why don’t you come?”

“We went, Ben had a blast, and I felt comfortable. So, I decided he would start Sunday school as soon as he started public school,” Elaina recalled. “I wasn’t going to wait until he was in fourth

grade like my parents did!”

The year before, Elaina’s mother Debbie had a premonition that her sonin-law was near death and remembered thinking, “‘Elaina won’t have anybody with her when he dies.’

“I knew that as soon as I retired from teaching, I needed to move to Omaha,” Debbie added. “I spent all my vacations looking at places to live when I moved here. My friends thought I was crazy to move to Nebraska, but I needed to be here with my daughter. Many people in New York assumed we would both move back!

“When I came in 1999, I went to Dorothy and told her that I needed to join Temple Israel and needed Jewish friends,” Debbie recalled. “I attended classes and then decided that I was going to drag Elaina. I didn’t give her a chance to say that she wouldn’t go!”

Debbie insisted that “we’re going to stay here. I have discovered that while some people wonder how we left New York with all of its ‘wonderful culture,’ there are phenomenal things here--the symphony, the playhouse, Joslyn Museum. There’s enough culture here and the prices are so much better.

Parking is easy, too.

“In New York, if you can’t park your car in your back pocket, don’t take it!”

In January, Benjamin will celebrate his Bar Mitzvah with his mother and grandmother at his side. Debbie, now a teacher at Temple’s Religious School, has begun teaching second graders there.

Elaina, with the encouragement of her friend, Ellen Long, has joined the adult B’nai Mitzvah class at Temple. However, before she entered the class, she said, “Mom, you’re doing it with me!”

Debbie and Elaina admit to a great love and friendship between them. They both agree, “We take turns holding each other up!”

Next June, when they celebrate their B’nai Mitzvahs and march around the sanctuary at Temple Israel, Debbie will look up and say, “Look Grandpa, I’m carrying the Torah!”

September 26, 2003

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 33

Finding Family

by JOAN K. MARCUS When Sharon and George Quittner moved to Omaha three years ago, real estate maven Bobbi Leibowitz asked them, “How important is it that you live close to a synagogue?” They told her that it wasn’t important at all because they had never really felt part of any Jewish community and, they probably wouldn’t go anyway!

Of course, all that changed once they settled in to life in Nebraska. Today, the Quittners are active at Temple and George joined the Jewish Press Committee in June.

George was probably born farther away from Omaha than anyone in this edition. In 1947, his parents, survivors of the Holocaust, lived in a displaced persons camp in Pocking, Germany, south of Munich, where George was born. His father had been in a labor camp and his mother lived in a ghetto.

The couple had been moved out of their home and shuffled to Jewish sections of the city. Since George’s mother was an American citizen, the Germans didn’t know what to do with her. So, they kept moving her in and out of prisons and into different ghettos.

George’s father, escaped from a labor camp and was sent to a hospital with his wife. When the Germans asked him what he did, he answered, “I’m going to college!” The Germans thought that every Jew who went to college was in medical school. Therefore, they sent him to a hospital where he hid as a doctor and his wife, as a nurse. They even assisted in operations and delivered babies.

After their masquerade in the hospital--and World War II--ended, they moved to the DP camp. In 1949, the family wanted to go to Israel, but couldn’t get papers to go there , so they settled on going to the Bronx, one of New York City’s five burroughs, where they had cousins.

George, an only child, grew up with family around him. “I was always around my group of cousins because that was all we had,” he recalled. “My parents had a few friends, but family was very important to us.”

As a child, George has happy memories of a kosher home full of “Jewish things” and traditions. “My mother’s cleanliness and the way that she does things all revolve around what she wasn’t able to do while she was growing up,” he explained.

“We always had Shabbat candles and Friday-night dinner--being Jewish was very important to our family.

However, we didn’t speak of it when we were outside the house,” he said. “That was a throwback to their experiences during the Holocaust.”

He attended the Bronx High School of Science for exceptional students. He said he was active in high school projects and had many friends. However, he admitted, “I was never career focused because there were no professionals in our family. I just went to

son!’” he laughed. They went swimming on the weekend of the famed Woodstock rock concert and have been together ever since. They were married in 1971 in the Bronx.

“Our Temple didn’t have a big enough place for weddings, so we went someplace strange,” he said. “And, by the way, our own rabbi didn’t officiate at our wedding. It was so cold there--I had was no attachment to the religion, the Temple or anything else.”

Sharon Kass Quittner was born in 1950 in the Bronx to first-generation American parents. Unlike George, she didn’t attend services when she was a child. “My father went to Temple and the women stayed home and made the food!” she admitted.

The Quittner family: George and Sharon, son, Adam, and daughter, Michelle.

She didn’t go to school because my parents said it was important.” In Hebrew school or have a Bat Mitzvah either. Sharon says addition, he worked in his father’s delicatessen on it was important for the boys to attend services, but not weekends. for the girls. Her father was in the furniture business and George remembers going to Hebrew School and her mother became a schoolteacher in later life.

Hebrew High School at a Conservative synagogue. “It She described her family as “‘gastronomic Jews!’ We was a different kind of closeness, but, as I got older, my ate Jewish food and had family gatherings. However, friends changed and I gravitated away from Jewish we were secular when it came to prayer. people,” he said.

“When George met my family, he almost ran away After high school, George went to City College of because there were so many of us,” she laughed. “He New York and majored in biology. had never seen such a big family with so many aunts “I was going to go into medical research and become and uncles!” a scientist until I got enthralled with business,” he smiled.

She went to the Bronx High School of Music and Art “However, I didn’t change my major because I would to study piano and voice. However, she joked, “When have been drafted, so I graduated with a BS in biology.” I got there and discovered such talented people, I He went to work on Wall Street for an insurance com- decided to become a biology major instead. I sang to pany and later for a large corporation. “That company the rats in the laboratory.” put me through graduate school at Iona College, where After high school, she also attended City College of I got a Masters in Business Administration.”

New York, but jokes that she didn’t know George. She According to George, it was love from the beginning has worked in research for 20 years and is now an when in 1969, a customer in his father’s delicatessen advocate for customer issues for Gambro B.C.T., a fixed him up on a blind date with petite, brown-eyed company that sells machines to separate platelets from Sharon Kass. the rest of the blood.

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2003

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A Chance to Learn Continued from page 26 The couple started Etz Chayim, a preschool that is part of the national day school organization--Torah U’Mesorah. The school has what the Hoffmans call “an integrated Jewish education. It will focus on forming good character traits and our Jewish heritage.” Shari Blum is the ‘lead teacher’ and Ariella will teach along with assistant Brooke Shrago.

Rabbi Hoffman, who is the Administrative Director, says, “This is more than just a regular preschool.

Parents will have the opportunity to come with their children to learn. And, if they do come, we will give them a good discount on their children’s tuition!”

Preschoolers meet on Tuesdays and Thursdays and their parents will learn in a separate class. Ariella added, “This gives parents an opportunity to know what their little ones are doing. They will be able to sing along with them and discuss what they learned in school that day.”

Rabbi Hoffman has already formed several “chavrusas” or study partners. Each day, he and a study partner learn from texts such as: Pirkei Avot, the ethics of the fathers, Talmud and The Chumash--the Five Books of Moses, with commentary by Rashi.

Rabbi Hoffman says that studying Torah for three hours everyday with Rabbi Blum is one of his most important jobs.

“The truth is that if I’m not growing, I can’t expect other people to grow,” he insisted. “And part of my job is to teach people how they can grow! If I’m stagnant, I can only teach people to be stagnant, too!”

In addition to his chavrusas, Rabbi Hoffman is in the midst of teaching Hebrew to beginners in time for the High Holidays. Part II of that class, Hebrew Reading America, in conjunction with the National Jewish Outreach Program, will start on Wednesday, Nov. 12,

for five weeks. That class will follow up with instructions on how to follow basic songs and prayers--like Adon Olam--in the regular Shabbat service.

The Hoffmans are impressed with Omaha and the “nice” people who live here.

“People in the South are supposed to be known for their hospitality,” Ariella added. “But, I have to tell you-coming from Houston to Omaha, people are much friendlier here!”

The Hoffmans plan to return the hospitality offered to them in their few short months here by hosting a Singles Shabbat on Oct. 13 at their home. She’ll also be teaching “women-to-women” classes, like one on exploring women’s roles and spiritually in Judaism.

That class starts Sept. 30 at her home.

How she manages to teach, grow organic herbs, create lotions and lip balms from scratch, take care of two small daughters and remain calm is a wonder. She’s a very “together” young woman, however, who seems to see the good in every Jew and every situation. Not once did she seem fazed by a two-year-old’s tantrum or a one-year-old’s plaintive after-nap cries. And she thinks Omaha’s Jewish community is “full of potential.”

Rabbi Hoffman, too, with his background in theater and entertainment, seems to take delight in making Judaism enjoyable for Jews. In fact, he’s looking forward to teaching classes on how to find happiness by getting rid of angry or jealous feelings, learning how to sing with joy, and discovering the obstructions to finding joy in Judaism.

“There is one Jewish people,” Rabbi Hoffman insisted. “But, there are really two types of Jews. There are those who are growing and those who are not.

“You can’t blame people for not being more knowledgeable about Judaism when they’ve never had the chance to learn.”

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Continued from page 27 out of control. Practices had so many patients and reimbursements from insurance companies were so poor that doctors were forced to see a lot of patients in order to make a decent living,” he explained.

“I was upset. I’m so conscientious about work, so that and the lack of a Jewish presence, plus suspicions of anti-Semitism made me want more for my family!”

Arlene and Tony looked to go back to Michigan.

However nothing seemed to be available in the Midwest--except for a position in Omaha.

“It sounded so different--neither one of us knew anything about Omaha,” Tony admitted. “I thought we’d check it out and keep an open mind.

“When we got here, we found it to be a very good situation,” he acknowledged. “Medicine is much different here in Omaha. Insurance is very reasonable; people are nicer. Also, the reimbursement is better, so we don’t have to cram in more patients.”

The Adelsons were also impressed that a small community like Omaha boasted two medical schools, a dental school and a pharmacy school, plus research institutions that have attracted lots of federal grant funding.

“There is a big medical community here,” Tony noted. “What attracted me to the University of Nebraska Medical Center is the quality of medicine they practice...and the ability to teach residents.”

Tony is an Assistant Professor at the UNMC--and interim section head of Interventional Radiology.

Before moving to Omaha, they investigated the

Jewish community, too, because, according to Arlene, “We weren’t going to move into another area that was sparsely populated with Jews. Our roots are important and we need to be around people who share those roots.”

Although it is sometimes hard to break into an established community, the Adelsons have realized the need to work hard to make themselves fit into the Omaha Jewish community.

Both Arlene and Tony agree that “Temple Israel is a friendly environment and we have felt very accepted.

When you move out of town and don’t have family nearby, you can get pretty lonely.

“We’ve been more involved in Temple activities here than we have anywhere else we’ve lived,” Arlene added. “They did a fabulous job of educating Jaclyn for her Bat Mitzvah. The rabbi saw that she was gifted and they just let her go!”

She added that it can be “difficult when you come into a community where there aren’t a lot of newcomers. However, people here have embraced and welcomed us. Any move that you make takes three or four years until you feel like you belong. You can never feel like you’re ‘home grown’ when you’re not! But we feel fortunate because we now know where we’ll be on the holidays!”

They both agree on one more thing. “When you move to larger cities, cell phone are ringing, beepers are going off and people are loud.

“We like it here,” the Adelsons insisted, “because it’s more laid back. We really like our life here!”

NEW YEAR GREETINGS May the New Year bring lasting peace and good health

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September 26, 2003

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 35

Move to Omaha a Good Match Michael loves his job. He “feels challenged everyday.

by CLAUDIA SHERMAN “There’s something really special happening in I go home every night with a sense of accomplishment Omaha,” Michael Silverman, Executive Director of that I made a difference for folks.” One year later, he Jewish Senior Services (JSS), told his wife Mimi after his reports, “It’s been a great match.” interview here in March 2002.

“I haven’t done as much (communally) as Mimi,” “The friendliness really attracted me,” he said after his Michael acknowledged. “My work doesn’t allow me to first visit to Omaha to consider filling the position as get all of it done at the office.” At home, when everyDirector of JSS, which had become available when for- one goes to sleep, he’s often at his desk in the basemer Director Barbara Gottlieb accepted a position in ment doing paperwork. But he’s found some time to Pittsburgh, PA. unwind playing basketball at the JCC “with a great Originally from Long Island, New York, the group of guys.”

Silvermans were living in Woodbridge, CT, at the time Adam, now three-and-a-half, and Jeremy, 15 months, of his interview. Michael met 40 to 50 people from the learn and play at the Pennie Z. Davis Child Jewish community during his interview here.

Development Center.

“They were friendly and warm and took me all over “They are really happy there,” their mother noted. town,” he noted.

Adam started going there a week after the family Michael and Mimi and their two young sons, Adam moved to Omaha. “I’m really thankful that was an and Jeremy, moved to Omaha on a scorching 104º day option for us right off the bat,” Mimi said. in June 2002.

As new members, the Silvermans have started getting But, “we had great support,” Michael reported. involved at Temple Israel. They recently went to the “Members of the JSS Board were helpful even when we outdoor service at the Frohm Pavilion behind the JCC were still in Connecticut, and when we came here, the and have taken the boys to Tot Shabbat. Michael entire community was fantastic.” People stopped by attended the congregational meeting to vote on explorwhile they were unpacking and even “brought bagels ing the possibility of building a new synagogue. over. We couldn’t have asked for a better scenario.”

There are a few things that the Silvermans miss or With the help of Omaha Realtor Alan Cohen, Michael that have surprised them. found a home for his family in Pacific Meadows in “I was not prepared for some of the weather issues,” southwest Omaha. He bought it without his wife see- Michael admitted. For someone who has never even ing it. But according to Mimi, “He did a great job! We seen hail, to hear tornado sirens wailing and then to go have fantastic neighbors.” And although she misses the scurrying for a shelter area “were quite an event,” he ocean--even the scent of it--a good pastrami sandwich, confided. the New York skyline, and the subway (“it’s always an “I would always be in favor of a professional sports adventure), I think we made the right choice,” she team,” he added with a smile, realizing that that was smiled.

“We didn’t connect as much in Connecticut,” Michael added. “You’re not even a number there.

Whoever you are, you’re a special person here.

“Every Jew matters here.

No one even knows when a new Jew moves to town” in Connecticut, he admitted.

“Here, they know about you even before you move!”

“It’s small enough and it’s big enough at the same time,” Mimi added.

“Nothing’s far away.” In the time it takes to get from one end of Omaha to the other, Mimi told her friends, she passes three shopping malls.

“It takes 20 minutes just to get to a mall in the East,” she laughed.

After moving here, Mimi The Silverman family: Michael, Mimi, and their sons, Adam and Jeremy. enrolled in the Florence Melton Adult Mini-School, where she “met a lot of peo- “pretty much out of the question.” And although he ple of all ages, a diverse group.” conceded that the best corned beef sandwich he’s ever With a bachelor’s degree in fine arts and a master’s in had was at Ironwood Golf and Country Club, “a big art education, Mimi is interested in painting, sculpture, Jewish deli would be fantastic!” and photography. Although she has worked in insur“I was totally surprised about everything in Omaha,” ance and as a stock broker, “I’m really trying to become Mimi recalled. She assumed there wouldn’t be “any an artist again,” she explained. She’s setting up a studio shopping” and wondered if “there would be places to for herself at home. go out to eat” but was amazed by the number of superMimi enjoys working out at the Jewish Community markets in the area.

Center (JCC). “It’s terrific and the staff is fabulous!” she “But it doesn’t get any better as a Jewish community insisted. She has joined the National Council of Jewish than it is here,” Mimi now believes. She enjoys the Women and was elected as a Director on the Board of advantages of a small community--both Jewish and the Omaha Section for 2003-04. secular.

“I’ve also started playing Mah Jongg.” She laughed as “We’re here a year now,” Michael commented. “I she described trying to buy a Mah Jongg card at a local think this is the best decision I’ve ever made--aside Hallmark store. The clerk asked if that was “like a deck from picking my wife. It has been outstanding for us. of cards.”

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Page 36

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2003

Take a Step Forward Continued from page 29 I remember listening to his voice and telling myself that I wanted to listen every week. Afterwards, during the kiddush, people came up and offered to hold the baby and they welcomed us.”

Yaffa has decided she will not work outside of her home for her first year in Omaha.

“My job for the time being is to make a community for our family,” she insisted. “I have to do whatever I can to be connected to the Jewish community. It is important for us to have friends--and for our children to have play dates and friends and feel like they belong here.”

Her main job is to do everything that she can to strengthen the Jewish education for her children. She has become involved with the education committees at Beth El and its religious school-BESTT. In addition to those committees, she serves on Beth El’s Early Childhood Education Committee and is a very active member of the women’s Rosh Hodesh Group.

The women meet on the first day of

the Jewish month. The group gathers to be away from their daily lives, stresses and obligations. This is a chance for rejuvenation that is central to Jewish life.

Leaders choose a topic the multi-generational group of more than 40 women study each month.

Since Yaffa is very anxious for her daughters to have a good education at a Jewish day school, she serves on the board of the Friedel Jewish Academy, too.

“We’re working very hard to strengthen the school,” she insisted.

Some of her other activities include helping with the summer program at Chabad House and encouraging Eliana and Yael to participate in a program run

by Shani Katzman, wife of Chabad of Nebraska’s director, Rabbi Mendel Katzman, a 16-year-veteran of the Omaha Jewish community.

Yaffa concluded by adding, “I have a wonderful profession and I derive great satisfaction from my work.

“But for now, this is my priority and where I want to put my energy!”

Finding Family Continued from page 33 Sharon and George have moved eight times since their marriage. They began in Monsey, New York, then they moved to Princeton, New Jersey; Bangor, Maine; Fort Lee, New Jersey; Buffalo, New York; Glenwood Springs, Colorado; back to Princeton and then to Golden, Colorado.

All of the moves were made because of George’s jobs.

Their children are: Adam, 21, a graduate of Whittier College in California and Michelle, 24, a student at the University of Colorado.

When they moved to Omaha, George came to work for ENRON, but left before the company collapsed (Sharon says, “Thank God!”) to work as Director of Purchasing and Properties for Commercial Federal Savings and Loan.

“When ENRON wanted to move me again, all of a sudden, I decided I didn’t want to leave the Jewish community in Omaha,” he explained. “Omaha Jews were very warm and open. A lot of people jumped in to make us feel welcome and that did not happen in other cities.”

They also found their Jewish experience in Omaha’s Reform congregation was more spiritually and intellectually rewarding than anywhere else.

“We started weighing things and we decided we could replace the job and house--but we couldn’t replace Temple Israel!” Sharon added.

They both recall moving to Omaha one week before Rosh Hashanah. They called Temple Israel to see if they could “buy” tickets to come to services, something common in other cities.

“We were told to come and not worry about paying. That conversation represented a huge ‘welcome’ to both of us.”

Sharon and George later came to services on Saturday morning and they recalled walking in “and there were six or eight people sitting there. Everybody was so friendly. People invited us to their homes and into their families.

“That’s what made us decide,” George insisted.

“Now, we have a family and we’re part of a community. That makes a huge difference!”

Making Newcomers Feel Welcome

by CAROL KATZMAN, Editor As a former newcomer myself, having moved to Omaha in October of 1979, I can sympathize with those who are trying to find their niche in this Jewish community. It’s not always easy, but there are steps newcomers can take and offers Omahans can make to ease the transition. Here are some tips for newcomers: • Contact Janie Murow, the new Community Development Director at the Jewish Federation of Omaha, at 402.334.6566. She’ll be able to answer your questions--and direct you right to the source for answers about Jewish education, synagogue life, JCC membership, Jewish organizations, and more. If you

don’t already have a realtor, the Federation also maintains a list of men and women who’ve offered their services.

• Be open to joining. If you moved from a community that doesn’t have a Section of National Council of Jewish Women or a chapter of Hadassah or Jewish Women International, find out about what they do--and which one is right for you. Don’t forget--the JCC, Federation and synagogues also have committees which can help you integrate into the community. Volunteering is a great way to meet people of like interests--plus you’ll be doing a mitzvah!

• Relax--and learn to adapt to what Omaha has to offer--a lower cost of living,

access to moderately priced theater, opera, concerts and museums, a worldclass zoo, high quality schools and outstanding medical facilities. You and your out-of-state families will help support the airlines, too, when they visit!

We know Omaha’s not New York or L.A., heck it’s not even St. Louis! But we’re very proud of what the Jewish community--and Omahans in general-have accomplished here. Yes, I still miss the smell of the ocean, but I sure don’t miss Miami’s traffic!

• Help us grow. Tell your friends and families to move here. We certainly have the infrastructure to add 1000 more Jews here without breaking a sweat!

Happy, Healthy New Year

Now, two hints for Omahans: • Call a newcomer today! Invite him, her or them to your home for a Shabbat dinner or holiday meal. Introduce them to others--and, if you’re active in an organization, tell them you’ll pick them up to attend an event together.

• Don’t drop newcomers after one phone call. Newcomers can experience ups and downs. Families with young children or elderly parents can often feel isolated, especially during the winter.

Call back and check in with them. Offer to run errands or invite them out.

Newcomers don’t have to remain newcomers. Live here long enough and they’ll be real Omahans before long!

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Couple Overcomes Hurdles to Find Love traveling to Guatemala to be a nanny.

(Her neighbors owned a door company in Guatemala, and she was going to help them with their kids.)

It seemed like their schedules and the miles between them would end their relationship before it began.

Nevertheless, before they parted, she gave him her telephone numbers in the states and for her Central American destination as well.

While neither wanted to make a commitment quite yet, they did want to keep in touch, although both worried they might never see each other again.

Their backgrounds were very different, too.

Both of Esther’s parents worked at the University of Pennsylvania. Their family was very close.

Her dad worked in the veterinary school, while her mother, a biologist, did cancer research.

Amazingly, her father, an observant Episcopalian is very knowledgeable about about Jewish rituals and prayers.

He speaks great Hebrew, too according to Esther.

Esther’s mom came from a modern Orthodox background and the couple decided to raise Esther in the Jewish faith.

Both parents wanted Esther to learn about the other’s religion. So, Phillip Katz and his fianceé, Esther Massey--at--where else?-- Esther attended Sunday Omaha’s Eppley Airport on Valentine’s Day, 2003. school and church and Promised Land was for a three-week went to Sabbath services and synagogue. tour. She met Philip at Kibbutz Ma’alei In fifth grade, she stopped going to Ha Chamisha (The Five Brothers church on a regular basis and in 10th Kibbutz). That night her group was host- grade, Esther elected to keep kosher. ing Shabbat for newcomers. When he Esther, 22, a fifth-year senior and edufirst saw her, Philip noticed that Esther cation major will graduate from Temple had many people around her. She University in December. She loves kids observed his “beautiful green eyes,” and and eventually wants to earn a graduate shortly left her group and went over to degree in special education in the field chat with him. of autism.

Because the time for Shabbat services Philip’s background was quite differwas approaching, she invited him to join ent. His parents had been divorced since her at a Conservative service. When it he was two. He rarely saw his father, a was cancelled, they ended up going psychologist. His mother was a classical together to the Orthodox prayer session. pianist. Born in Milwaukee, Philip lived Ironically, they did not get to sit togeth- in other cities, including Atlanta. His er, nor did they see each other after the grounding in Judaism was not that service. The mechitza, the curtain (a row strong. He is still finding and developing of plants at this kibbutz) that separated a deeper Jewish identity, a process the men from the women, also split enriched by his summer trip. them up. Following the service, they He studied history and American lost track of each other as they left to be Indian studies at the University of with their friends.

Wisconsin at Milwaukee, where he gradAs chance would have it, they did uated in May of 1999. Kids have been meet again the next day. Both went on a important in Philip’s life, too. He volkibbutz tour. Both randomly ended up at unteered one day a week at a private the pool where Philip recognized her. American Indian school as an assistant She was surrounded by a number of and, when he eventually became certiboys vying for her attention. She saw fied, he taught there for three years after Philip, too, and, after distracting her that. He also worked as a cook/chef in admirers, the attractive young lady qui- five-star restaurant in Milwaukee etly slipped away to talk with her new throughout his undergraduate career.. acquaintance.

While Philip returned to Milwaukee When Shabbat ended, they met again after Israel, Esther prepared for at the Havdalah service formally ending Guatemala. They had agreed to commuthe Sabbath. They danced the whole nicate via e-mail. He sent her e-mails, evening. They returned to the kibbutz, but because of some kind of a glitch, she walked, and talked until 5 am. couldn’t receive them.

Ironically, the budding relationship Unaware why he wasn’t responding to was awkward for them both. She had her communications, she thought the just ended a relationship and so had relationship was over. Perseverance prePhilip. vailed: they finally reached each other There were other complications. His and managed to talk everyday until she trip was nearly concluded and she was Continued on page 39

by GARY JAVITCH He grew up in Milwaukee. She was raised in Philadelphia. They first met on a kibbutz in Israel. It was not quite love at first sight, but it was close to it.

Moreover, they had a strong initial attraction to each other.

How they came to be engaged is an interesting story.

It was May 2002. Philip Katz’s 13-day visit to Israel was his first to the Middle East. He was traveling there on a Birthright Israel program and would be starting Creighton Law School in the fall.

Esther Massey’s fourth trip to the

New Year Greetings Gerald B.Simons,M.D. 402/552-3020

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 37

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2003

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“To-by or not To-by”

by MAUREEN BORDEN ...that is the question. Dr. Toby Schonfeld is used to asking questions. As a philosopher focusing on medical ethics at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, she reflects on some of the most provocative and controversial issues of our time. But she is no reclusive scholar caught in a quagmire of private indecision.

Toby loves interaction.

Last fall she joined the faculty of the Florence Melton Adult Mini-School where she taught a course on the “Ethics of Jewish Living.”

One of her students was Dr. Howard Needelman.

“I’ve had the pleasure of learning from this remarkable teacher both through the Melton program at the Dr. Toby Schonfeld and her dog, Anna.

JCC and through a seminar at UNMC,” Dr. Needelman notes. “Toby has an enthu- left over from in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedures or siastic, down to earth style that makes even difficult to have extra eggs harvested specifically for the purtopics easily understandable and enjoyable to investi- pose of the creation of stem cells? Clearly not; every gate. She conveys her own feelings and beliefs in a situation is different….Advising a patient on a course of comfortable nonjudgmental way. I think this trait real- action is more than simply touting ‘party line;’ rather it’s about applying the rules in a way that demonstrates ly adds to the richness of studying with her.”

If you attended Toby’s lectures at the “J” last month knowledge of and caring for her particular situation. It (“Clones, Cures and Cancer: A Foray into Jewish is for this reason that individuals are urged to seek out Medical Ethics”), you may have been aware of another not just any rabbi when making a difficult decision, but of her staunchest admirers--Steve Riekes, chairman of their rabbi. The idea is that this established relationship the College of Jewish Learning and head of Beth El’s is important in both determining right action and coming to terms with the decision once it’s been made.”

Jewish education programs.

Relying on halacha--Jewish law--as the basis for “I believe she is one of the finest instructors I’ve had the privilege to meet,” Riekes noted. “She brings her action is best tempered with a bias towards knowing students an astonishing wealth of information and ideas the facts of the moment. Toby’s fully aware of the chaland lets you participate in discussing all the various lenge of making Talmudic law relevant to contempoviews. And she’s not inflated with academic ego. Not rary life.

When asked if she ever thought of becoming a rabbi Toby. I’ve said to our communal leaders…to our rabbis--and this is not to diminish their status--but I’ve said herself, Toby replies, “For about two weeks.” She felt, to them, ‘You could learn from this young woman. You however, she could better contribute to society by ought to be attending her lectures. There’s a great deal underpinning her interest in religion with a degree in philosophy. “My parents were frantic because they of wisdom there.’” thought I’d never be gainfully employed,” she smiles.

Similarly, Toby thinks we’re pretty smart, too.

And then two years ago she came to Omaha as an “One of the things I like about Omaha is that people are so open to new ideas both in the Jewish commu- Assistant Professor in the Department of Preventive and nity and at large. They’re hungry to find some way to Societal Medicine at the Med Center. That her energy divide the wheat from the chaff regarding bioethics. As and focus resonate is an understatement for this oversuch arguments become less and less secular and more achiever.

A sampling: Toby teaches general medical ethics to polarized, in terms of religion, people want to know what does Judaism tell us about this? What does first- and second-year medical students and to students Judaism say about cloning and stem cell research; in the School of Allied Health Professions (x-ray technicians, dietetic interns, etc.). She’s developed an about abortion and care at the end of life?”

Toby believes that Biblical principle as well as prac- online course in medical ethics for these allied health tical examination (looking at the specifics of any case) professionals because their time demands are so varied, are each enhanced by a method of decision-making and she serves on the Institution Review Board (IRB) known as “an ethic of care.” This is particularly true in which oversees all the research at UNMC assuring that medicine which is as much art as science--where right thousands of protocols protect human subjects.

An associate at the Med Center, Dr. Virginia Aita, recalls actions are not only precipitated by rules and data but by the relationship between the caregiver and the Toby’s arrival. “She persuaded us with her sincerity, recipient. This relationship is often complex, not sharp mind and sense of humor and one thing in particalways equal, but vital when key decisions must be ular gave me critical insight into her character. We wanted to introduce her to Omaha and inquired about her made.

Take Judaism and embryonic stem cells, for example. interests. She immediately suggested she’d like to tour the “Does the obligation,” Toby asks, “to engage in stem city and see the local synagogues. cell research require couples to donate extra embryos Continued on next page

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Couple Overcomes Hurdles Continued from page 37 left for Guatemala. The relationship was starting to deepen.

Philip found his first year at Creighton law school challenging and the scholarship recipient had a little difficulty adapting to the more conservative culture.

“Fortunately, (law professor and former dean) Larry Raful and his wife, Dinah, befriended me,” Philip said.

They really helped me adjust.”

At the same time, Esther was having difficulty, too.

A dancer, she injured her back and had to drop out of three different dance companies. Despite the distance between them, they were there for each other, talking frequently on the phone to ease the disappointments they were experiencing.

Still, it was very hard being apart. Long distance relationships can be very wearing. The cost of visiting was expensive and they could only see each other once a month. They resourcefully took advantage of every opportunity. Philip even voluntarily bumped himself off a flight to gain a free flight so that he could see her.

The time finally arrived when Philip knew that Esther was the girl for him. Ever a romantic, he asked Esther’s parents for permission to marry their daughter. He had met his beloved on a Shabbat and wanted to ask her to marry him on a Shabbat.

While the Shabbat timing did not work out quite right, he did complete his mission successfully, and on bended knee, he made his request, which she accepted. So in October of 2002, they got engaged. Esther moved to Omaha seven months later and is completing her student-teaching here. Phil, 26, and now in his second year of law studies is interested in criminal and Indian Law. They both like Omaha and consider the Jewish community its biggest plus.

In spite of all the obstacles, the couple developed an enduring relationship. They have always felt God’s presence and it was an important component in their coming together. Next May, Esther Massey and Philip Katz will ask for His blessing, two years after first meeting.

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 39

“To-by or not To-by” Continued from previous page “Not being Jewish, that was not the response I expected, but it opened up a wonderful day to us, “ Dr. Aita added. “ Not only was it fun to organize the tour this way, but I got a real sense of the kind of person Toby is and was excited about her moving here--not just because of the professional gifts she would bring to our work but got a real sense of the kind of person Toby is and was excited about her moving here--not just because of the professional gifts she would bring to our work but also because I knew she would become a valued member of our outstanding Jewish community and the Omaha community at large.”

You can find Toby Saturday mornings at Beth El Synagogue. She says there’s an ease about the service, a feel which speaks intrinsically to her.

Rabbi Levin reveals that Toby’s “a devoted member and an avid participant in reading from the Torah.”

And Larry DeBruin, Executive Director, shares his perceptions. “Toby always has a smile and an enthusiasm that’s contagious. From the first time I met her, it was clear that this woman, although new to Omaha and the Beth El family, would leave her mark.

“She hit the ground running and has not stopped involving herself in a myriad of activities. She recites haftarah, helps ensure we have a minyan and has taken a key leadership role in promoting activities for young Jewish adults in the community.”

Riekes has more to say about Toby’s genuineness.

“She’s a solid and practicing Jew. I’m so impressed with her character.”

In her studies, Toby is beset by questions on character. What, for instance, defines a good person. “In halacha,” she offers, “you need to make the right choices when contemplating an action, but you also need to continually ask yourself what kind of person do I want to be…to show my loved ones…to show the world? How do my actions not only reflect upon me but upon Judaism?”

One of the reasons Toby lives out west is to be near Beth El, the “J” and her friends, all sources for an

engaging mind. Yet she relishes the drive to the Med Center where she can just toodle in traffic.

“I like the commute. That’s the Northeasterner in me!” she smiled.

Toby grew up in Allentown, Pennsylvania, north of Philadelphia, in a Jewish community comparable in size to ours. Through the years, she’s become a hockey and basketball fan and remarks with a certain amusement, “I keep going from one big sports school to another.”

Toby’s undergraduate work was at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill known for its basketball program. She earned masters and doctorate degrees from the University of Tennessee where football is big and now, of course, she’s in Husker country.

While the words to the Nebraska fight song may not be part of Toby’s repertoire, she does sing praises to another institution: the Orpheum Theater. She thinks any production at this landmark well worth seeing and particularly enjoys the opera.

Other favorite haunts are the libraries. As a professional reader, Toby gives high marks to Omaha’s public libraries. She’s at the Millard branch often and whenever she’s visited at Swanson, she says it’s been packed with people. Will there be a swan song for this branch or others? And if they do remain open, will their hours be accessible to the community? Toby hopes the city council reaches a far-sighted consensus. From her perspective, this means asking the right kinds of questions.

A natural conclusion for her given the framework of her training in ethics. To penetrate facades. Reveal consequences. To plumb for meaning. Suspend disbelief.

To answer, like all good philosophers, “It depends.”

Moreover, Toby is ever mindful of a connection between science and religion…between the empirical and the spiritual and is unafraid to speak when a voice is needed.

Isaac Asimov once wrote, “Never let your sense of morals keep you from doing what is right.”

Almost immediately we sense this about Toby. And if we’re lucky, Omahans will have the privilege of seeing this newcomer turn old-timer.

Page 40

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2003

JEWISH WAR VETERANS

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Wishing all our friends a “Shana Tova U’metuka.” May G-d grant us all our most fervent wish - A glorious year in which we will merit the coming of Moshiach.

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September 26, 2003

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by LISA SHKOLNICK Assistant Executive Director Jewish Community Center of Omaha You Belong Here.

You’ve seen this message in the JCC Centerpiece, posters throughout the building and in our programming mailings. It’s more than a marketing slogan. It’s the goal of the Board of Directors and staff--to get the community to not only join the “J” but to provide a welcoming, comfortable and safe environment.

Since the completion of the campus renovation and expansion, our membership has increased dramatically.

Our programming continues to expand and grow. No other facility in the area offers the depth and quality of programming for the entire family as the Jewish Community Center.

The Center’s basic support comes from its membership dues and activity fees. It is our hope that every member of the Jewish community will support the Center through membership.

The JCC is a beneficiary agency of the annual Jewish Federation campaign and endowments, and of the United Way of the Midlands.

The JCC is open Monday-Thursday, 5:30 a.m.-10 p.m., Friday, 5:30 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday, 1 p.m.-7 p.m., Sunday, 7:30 a.m.-7 p.m.

JCC Membership Fees for 2004 are: Family: includes the Anne Shackman stretches before husband, wife and all Phil Sokolof Fitness Center. unmarried children under age 24, annual fee is $834; monthly fee is $69.50.

Premium Family with one Health Spa: $1,194, $99.50; Premium Family with two Health Spas: $1,484, $123.67; Couple includes the husband and wife: $752, $62.67; Premium Couple with one Health Spa: $1,112, $92.67; Premium Couple with two Health Spas, $1,402, $116.83; Individual must be over age 13. Premium Individual member must be over 18: $611, $50.92; Premium Individual with Health Spa: $971, $80.92; Single Parent Family includes a parent with children under age 24: $623, $51.92; Premium Single Parent with Health Spa: $983, $81.92; Senior Individual, available to anyone age 70 and over: $250, $20.83; Premium Senior Individual with Health Spa: $610, $50.83; Senior Couple available to a couple with either partner age 70 and over.

Senior Couple Membership: $292, $24.33; Premium Senior Couple with one Health Spa: $652, $54.33; Premium Senior Couple with two Health Spas: $942, $78.50.

Adjusted rates may be available for those who are financially unable to pay the full membership fee.

Please contact me at 334-6425, and request an appoint-

ment. Your interview will be kept strictly confidential.

RENTAL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES From business meetings and lectures to family dinners, wedding receptions, bar mitzvahs, and birthday parties, the Jewish Community Center is a great place to gather together. We work with you to make your event experience exceptional by providing expert service in tailoring your event to meet your specific needs.

For more information contact the Community Services Associate, Laura Peet at 334-6418.

JCC DEPARTMENTS AND PROGRAMS Athletics The JCC athletic program is like no other in the city.

Dedicated and talented staff year round work with children and adults in having fun, perfecting their skills, and creating a love for the game, whatever it may be, including basketball, soccer, flag football, volleyball, tball. Each season, the JCC Men's Basketball League fills with members who want a fun and competitive environment.

Aquatics With two adult and two children’s pools, the Aquatics Department has room for everyone. The outdoor Olympic-size pool is open from Memorial DayLabor Day. The indoor pool offers lap lanes for fitness swimmers and space for water aerobics and swim classes. Swim lessons are available for youth from beginners to advanced.

There’s even a Swim Team beginning her routine at the for swimmers to compete in citywide leagues.

BBYO and Teen Programming The B’nai B’rith Youth Organization is the largest Jewish youth group in the country, and was founded here in Omaha. In fact, AZA celebrated its 75th anniversary here just a few years ago! BBYO provides teens with a peer group that reinforces Jewish identity and links with the community. The AZA and BBG chapters meet every Tuesday night at the “J” at 6 p.m.

Programming is also provided for fifth-eighth grades.

There is always something to do during the summer and winter breaks at our Specialty Camps, and during the year teens can participate in Jr. Maccabi events scheduled each month. The teen department also offers teen trips to Israel and organizes the Omaha team for the JCC Maccabi Games held annually in locations around the country.

Dance The Dance Department offers ballet, jazz, tap and drill team classes for beginning to advanced participants. Performing opportunities include the annual Hanukkah Theater and a biennial recital. Dance instructors are among the best in Omaha and our ballet classes are accompanied by a pianist.

Informal Jewish Education The JCC offers many Jewish Cultural and Educational Programs for children and adults, including community wide celebrations such as Yom Ha’Atzmaut, Hanukkah Festival and others. This department also schedules exhibits in the JCC Art Gallery, where contemporary Judaic and Israeli art is displayed, along with the works of local and regional artists.

Continued on next page

Rabbi Aryeh Blum

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 43

You Belong Here Continued from previous page Through the latest in satellite technology, the JCC of Omaha is partnering with the “92nd Street Y” in New York in order to bring the best of their programming to our community. Join us for remarkable series of lectures, interviews, panels and readings broadcast live via satellite from the 92nd St. Y. Massage The JCC offers a first class massage program to our members. Six licensed massage therapists are certified and specialize in a variety of massage techniques. Our staff is extremely talented and dedicated to providing a relaxing and soothing massage experience at a time that is convenient for you. Weekend and evening hours are available.

Men’s and Women’s Health Spas The Health Spa is available for an additional fee on your JCC Membership. Both the Men’s and Women’s Spas feature a whirlpool, steam room, and sauna.

Members receive their own private lockers, towel service, a grooming or vanity area, discounted rates on massage, and much more. The spa offers adults a chance to take a break from their busy schedules to work out and then relax in a pampered environment.

Pennie Z. Davis Child Development Center The Pennie Z. Davis Child Development Center provides a top quality early childhood program to JCC families with children from six weeks to five-and-a-half years. Our program provides an educational experience which emphasizes age appropriate activities designed to build self confidence and prepare youngsters for the formal school

Natalie and Alex Pichik, daughters of Shelly and Michael Pichik, enjoy a quiet moment together at the JCC’s Pennie Z. Davis Child Development Center. environment. The curriculum incorporates Judaic culture and values to enhance Jewish identity.

Phil Sokolof Fitness Center The Phil Sokolof Fitness Center offers state-of-the-art cardio-vascular and resistance machines, and free weights with professional staff to orient you to the equipment and get you started on the road to a healthier lifestyle! We also provide personal training for that additional encouragement, support and expertise.

Sport and Fitness Programs We have a lot to offer our members of all ages, from free Aerobics and Spinning classes, to Yoga and Pilates. Our Sport and Fitness program includes racquetball, squash and a first class tennis program for children and adults. Youth sport programs for preschoolers include Gym and Swim and other fun activities.

Youth Services The Youth Services Department specializes in serving school age youth from

kindergarten through sixth grade. In addition to a kindergarten enrichment program, and before and after school programs; Youth Services provides special programs for children when school is not in session. School Break Specials offer field trips and activities to keep children active and entertained.

We also offer a variety of special classes and events after school, Saturday evenings and Sunday afternoons. During the summer, Youth Services offers JCC Summer Camp. Our day camps and travel camps are fully accredited by the American Camping Association.

To learn more about JCC programming, or how to become a member of the Center, please contact me at: 3346425, or Denise Ipock, Member Services Director at 334-6552.

We welcome the opportunity to visit with you, and are available to give a tour of our facility to show you first hand why “You Belong Here.”

JCC BOARD OF DIRECTORS President: Jeff Kirshenbaum; Immediate Past-president: Richard Jacobson; President-elect: Gary Epstein; Vice-presidents: Bob Belgrade, Susie Norton, Kimberly Robinson; board members: Ben Belmont, Marla Cohen, Paul Cohen, Debbie Friedman, Tom Friedman, Maggie Gerber, John Glazer, Cindy Goldberg, Robert Goldberg, Don Goldstein, Jeff Hansen, Marti Harris, Larry Kelberg, Don Klein, Jody Malashock, Michael Miller, Janie Murow, Bruce Muskin, Sherman Neff, Marcia Pitlor, Steve Pitlor, Marv Polikov, Natalie Rubin, Mark Sanford, Norm Sheldon, and Fred Tichauer; Executive Director: Jeff Aizenberg.

Wishing the Community a Happy and Meaningful New Year Senator Ben & Diane Nelson

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Page 44

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2003

“Best Jewish Library Between Chicago and Denver”

by GARY KATZ Assistant Librarian The Kripke Jewish Federation Library was founded in 1945 by Paul Veret. Thanks to his dedication and the continued support of the Jewish Federation of Omaha and the entire Omaha Jewish community, the Library is now among the finest Judaic libraries in the Midwest.

The Library’s collection, which contains more than 40,000 volumes, covers every aspect of the wide spectrum of Judaism. It also offers a diverse assortment of DVDs, videos, compact discs and audio books, ranging from popular to scholarly. The Library subscribes to approximately 75 journals and has many comfortable seating areas in which to enjoy them.

The children’s area consists of young adult and a younger children's sections. In addition to books, our younger users will also find video cassettes, audio cassettes, audio books and compact discs.

In 2000, the Library received the Jane Geske Award for “exceptional literary contributions” from the Nebraska Center for the Book. The Library is open to the public and free of charge. The Kripke Library is located in the Jewish Community Center.

For more information, visit us online at: www.jewishomaha.org/library/index.htm or call the Kripke Library at: 334-6462.

JEWISH FEDERATION OF OMAHA President: Steve Pitlor; Vice-presidents: Zoe Riekes and Bob Lepp; Secretary: Norm Sheldon; Treasurer: Steve Nogg; Immediate Past-president: Forrest Krutter; board members: Joel Alperson, Joanie Bernstein, Steve Bloch, Justin Cooper, Sandy Friedman, David Gilinsky, Ann Goldstein, Joanie Jacobson, Richard Jacobson, Sara Juster, Jeff Kirshenbaum, Joe and Maxine Kirshenbaum, Todd Manvitz, Michael Miller, Marv Polikov, Margo Riekes, Jan Schneiderman, Rabbi Aryeh Azriel, Rabbi Howard Kutner, and Rabbi Mordechai Levin; Executive Director: Jan Goldstein.

FOUNDATION OF THE JEWISH FEDERATION Chairman: Steven Bloch; Vice Chairman: Jay Noddle; board members: Henry Davis, Barbara A. Epstein, Michael M. Erman, David L. Friedland, Donald Goldstein, Joseph Kirshenbaum, Murray H. Newman, Steve Pitlor, Blaine Y. Roffman, Larry E. Roffman, Ted M. Seldin, Norman M. Sheldon, Stephen H. Simon, and Norman Veitzer; Ex-officio Past Chairman: Harley D. Schrager; Executive Director: Marty Ricks.

Jewish Family Service Helping Jews Since 1911

by STEVE STIEL sons for the older chilJFS Executive Director dren in the CDC on Jewish Family Service developmental, social has been helping the and emotional issues, Jewish community since and conduct talks on 1911. Its first services therapeutic topics for provided for family welyouth groups, synafare, unemployment gogues and churches. assistance and aid to In addition, JFS protransients. While situavides programs for peotions have changed over ple with a developmental the years, the purpose of disability and their family the agency has remained members. the same, helping people As a licensed child in their time of need. placement agency, JFS Every year through conducts home studies Project Tzedakah JFS for domestic and internaprovides food baskets for tional adoptions and Rosh Hashanah, searches for biological Hanukkah and Passover family members. to individuals and famiFor nearly 20 years lies in need. In addition, JFS resettled families financial assistance is from Russia. During this made available throughtime hundreds of Russian out the year to Jews who Preparing for last year’s Project Dreidel, JFS Executive Director families were welcomed are unable to meet their Steve Stiel and tzedakah coordinator Jennifer Meyerson organize into the Omaha Jewish daily living expenses. volunteers to purchased, wrap and deliver Hanukkah gifts for community.

The year More than 100 families Jewish families. JFS also distributes holiday food packages prior to 2001 marked an end to are helped each year. an era when the last Rosh Hashanah and Passover.

Jewish Family Service refuge Russian family provides counseling on a sliding fee scale to people in requesting to come to Omaha was resettled. both the Jewish and general community. Services In the past 90 years, JFS has grown from a staff of one include assistance with issues of family relationships to four full-time and four part-time professionals, but such as parent/child interaction or general family the purpose of the agency is primarily the same--to predynamics. serve a sound family life.

JFS also addresses issues of individual adjustment To learn more about Jewish Family Service or to find such as job problems, relationships, various life out how you can get involved, call 330-2024. changes, depression and anxiety. More than 200 people seek our counseling service each year and the JEWISH FAMILY SERVICE BOARD OF DIRECTORS number is steadily increasing. Currently, there is an President: Justin Cooper; Vice-president: Lisa Lewis; even split between Jewish and non-Jewish clients.

Treasurer: Todd Simon; Immediate Past-president: Jewish Family Life Education programs are offered by Patricia Newman; Honorary Vice-President: Gloria JFS and cover issues from birth to death and everything Kaslow; board members: Elyce Azriel, Jill Belmont, in between. It includes parenting classes, grief support Helen Epstein, Ruth Erman, David Goldberg, Barry groups, interfaith couple workshops, and education- Grossman, Mike Hoberman, Jarold Kohll, Bob Kully, al/prevention programs for youth.

Susi Levin, Rabbi Craig Marantz, Carol Parsow, Sheila Licensed therapists offer training in child abuse Rosen, Bunny Rothenberg, Anne Shackman, Jake recognition and prevention, and classroom behavior Slosburg, and Andi Willensky; and Executive Director: management for teachers. They provide guidance les- Steve Stiel.

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September 26, 2003

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The Kirshenbaum Business Wall

The Riekes Museum

Page 45

d

by RENEE CORCORAN youth groups, organizations, businesses, NJHS Executive Director etc. can be preserved and recorded for The Nebraska Jewish Historical Society the future generations with the knowlwas established a little more than 20 edge and wisdom of their elders. years ago to collect, publish and display The list of histories is impressive and materials which pertain to the family, includes businessmen, housewives, and business and social histories of the the well-known and ordinary citizens of Jewish Community of Nebraska and the community. Recently, a documentary Council Bluffs. of these videos was comThe NJHS is a nonpiled which NJHS has profit organization locatavailable to community ed at the Jewish service clubs and organiCommunity Center. Our zations to be utilized as mission is to preserve the an educational tool of histories of the Jewish our heritage. families who settled in The NJHS has many Nebraska and Council visions for the future Bluffs, Iowa. The NJHS including the formation promotes the acquisition, of a genealogy club and cataloging and use of the Art Jacobson volunteers in the special events and collection materials NJHS office. exhibits. This year, with which depict this history by: the funding of a private foundation, the • participating in conferences; Society was able to prepare another • providing community programs and addition of Memories of the Midwest, a exhibits in varied formats; publication containing various historical • issuing publications to members and topics of interest to the Jewish ommuprofessionals; nity. The NJHS would like to continue to • fostering research; this publication on a regular basis.

• and, promoting museum projects and The L 'Dor V'Dor, “from generation to related educational cultural activities. generation” newsletter is written and Through the years the Society has had published by the NJHS. On a quarterly many memorable exhibits including: basis, this newsletter keeps our mem“Monsky/Flanagan: Men of Vision”; bership informed of activities and ven“Weddings and Brides”; “Jewish Women tures of the organization as well as other in Business”; and “Memories of Jewish pertinent inforrnation.

North 24th Street.”

Volunteers are a very vital and imporThere are also permanent exhibits tant part of the Nebraska Jewish located on the walls and in the hallways Historical Society. The dedicated Board of the JCC: a “Youth Exhibit”, “The 50th of Directors meets every other month Wedding Anniversary”, and “Family and is instrumental in overseeing various Reunion Exhibit”, as well as the projects and events. Volunteers are “Kirshenbaum Business Wall.” always needed and most welcomed in The NJHS maintains and gives tours by the NJHS office to assist with different appointment to the Dorothy and Henry projects and research requests.

Riekes Museum--an incredible replica of The Nebraska Jewish Historical Society the old Kapulier Synagogue. The muse- receives no funding from the Jewish um also contains a timeline of syna- Federation of Omaha and depends gogues in Omaha, Lincoln and Council entirely on donations and memberships Bluffs. for funding. Memberships to the NJHS Last year the NJHS opened another are available by calling 334-6441 or permanent Exhibit: Remembering our 6442.

Rabbis, which depicts the history of our Memberships are: Basic (one year) $25; religious leaders. This exhibit is located Sponsor (one year) $50; Patron (one year) in the corridor between the JCC and $100, Life Member $500; and Benefactor Livingston Plaza. $1000. The Society also has tribute cards The Carl Frohm Archival Center, locat- available for a donation of $5. ed in the NJHS office, is a collection of Please plan to visit the Nebraska organizational, businesses and syna- Jewish Historical Society. The NJHS gogue records as well as artifacts, certifi- office hours are Monday through cates and photographs from personal Thursday, from 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. and family collections.

NEBRASKA JEWISH HISTORICAL The archival center grows daily with the SOCIETY BOARD OF DIRECTORS help of donated materials. Community President: Helen Rifkin; Vice-presimembers, institutions, organizations and dent: Helen Epstein; Secretary: Rocky all others having materials relevant to the Stern; Treasurer: Bob Belgrade; collection are encouraged to donate their Membership Chairman: Kevee items to the Archival Center. The NJHS Kirshenbaum; Past-president: Louise has an additional storage that is specially Abrahamson; board members: Joanie climate controlled, located on the lower Bernstein, Midge Bowers, Ron Brodkey, level of the JCC. Tuffy Epstein, Lois Friedman, Caryl In 1997, the NJHS established an oral Greenberg, Janie Kulakofsky, Sheldon video program, which to-date has approx- Kushner, Scott Meyerson, Ben Nachman, imately 20 videos in the collection. The Max Neiden, Caryn Rifkin, Larry purpose of this program is to interview Roffman, Judy Tully; Co-founders: Mary the elders of the community so that the Fellman and Oliver Pollak; Executive memories of their families, synagogues, Director: Renee Corcoran

Wis hin g

Preserving the Past

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 46

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2003

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JSS and RBJH: an Alphabet Soup of Vital Services

by MICHAEL SILVERMAN Executive Director Jewish Senior Services The Rose Blumkin Jewish Home (RBJH) and its predecessor, the Dr. Sher Home, have been providing senior care to the Omaha Jewish community since 1947.

RBJH was built in 1982 at its present location--323 So. 132 St in Omaha--with an original capacity of 88 beds.

The Home currently operates with 108 licensed beds, each of which are duly certified for Medicaid and Medicare residents. The present resident population of the Home includes approximately 30 individuals with a primary or secondary diagnosis of dementia.

The Home offers a comprehensive array of services to meet the care needs of our residents. A remodeled therapy suite, which provides a full scope of Physical, Occupational and Speech treatments, is staffed by a highly qualified and dedicated outside contracted firm.

Radiology and laboratory services are provided at the Home though vendor contracts.

Activities at the Home remain a primary focus in our continuing efforts to provide the highest quality of life for those we serve. Daily programming consists of bingo, ceramics, music, movies, sing-a-longs--well, the list goes on and on! Additional programs include an annual Grandparents Day, family dinners, Shabbat services led by volunteers from the community, Passover sederim and more.

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Annette Fettman, left, visits frequently with her mother, Fannie Sherman Chunovic, at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. Chunovic became a great-great-grandmother a few months ago!

1902 1903

2002 2003

It just goes to show, a lot can happen in 100 years. Borsheim’s congratulates the Jewish Federation of Omaha for a century of tireless dedication to progress in the community. Your achievements serve as a shining example to us all.

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We are so much more than just excellent nursing home care in Omaha!

RBJH employs the principles of the “Eden Program”.

This concept surrenders the institutional point of view and adopts the human habitat model that makes plants, pets and children the pivots for daily life in the nursing home.

Several times each week, children will visit or participate in an activity at the Home as part of an intergenerational approach to daily life in our facility. Sports fields on the campus also provide an opportunity for residents to share in the enjoyment of children at play.

In addition, the Home is filled with beautiful plants and dozens of fish, birds and cats.

Our facilities embrace of the “Eden Program” has helped to enhance the quality of life for our residents.

Though we realize that visiting a loved one in a nursing home can be stressful and difficult, this approach makes it easier.

The Home functions according to Jewish customs and traditions. All food prepared in the Home is done according to the laws of kashrut and is overseen by the Jewish Federation’s Va’ad HaKashrut. The facility, therefore, consists of separate dairy and meat kitchens.

All rabbis in the community are invited to board meetings and provide guidance on issues that may affect the religious environment of the Home.

Continued on next page

September 26, 2003

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 47

Alphabet Soup of Vital Services Continued from previous page A beautiful synagogue is also located in the facility and provides services to residents and the community during the High Holy Days, Shabbats and other festivals. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve even held the occasional bris in our chapel--a real treat for our elders!

Community Outreach Services are provided by personnel and resources located within RBJH and include kosher meals on wheels, senior group programming and geriatric counseling.

Transportation is provided to the community as well as to the residents.

Jewish Senior Services provides approximately 1350 meals on wheels per month, stimulating programs that include musical performances, trips and guest lectures for literally hundreds each month, and helps to provide geriatric care counseling for individuals that require advice regarding aging and declining health.

JSS is not just a resource for those in need--we remain a resource for families struggling with these issues.

To reach our staff to inquire about any of the services we offer or the facilities of the Blumkin Home, call us at 330-4272.

JSS BOARD OF DIRECTORS President: Joanie Bernstein; Vice Presidents: Bob Belgrade and Harold Mann; Secretary: Morton Glass; Treasurer: John Lehr; Immediate Pastpresident: Sivi Roffman; members-atlarge: Suzanne Singer and Norman Veitzer; board members: Mike Abramson, Rabbi Aryeh Azriel, Jerry Dann, Sandy Epstein, Jim Farber, Sam Fried, Bruce Goldberg, Gary Javitch, Toby Kagan, Marcel Kahn, Joan Kaiman,

Top photo: Sara Lohrman enjoys one of the monthly family dinners with her husband, Bill, at the Blumkin Home. Below: Y.E.S. members enjoy an outing to the new desert dome at the zoo: Betty Kelberg, left, Sylvia Davis, Evelyn Finklestein, Esther Simon, Rose Rosenberg, Ilene Pachman, and Millie Altman.

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Maxine Kirshenbaum, Rabbi Howard Kutner, Rabbi Mordechai Levin, Nancy Noddle, Mike Platt, Eileen Remer, Dr. Larry Roffman, Stan Silverman, and Norman Smeerin; Executive Director: Michael Silverman.

YOUNG ENERGETIC SENIORS President: Ilene Pachman; Vice-president: Norm Zevitz; Recording Secretary: Millie Altman; Treasurer: Gerald Meyer; Membership Dues: Frieda Krizelman; chairpersons: Kay Ferer, Hilde Gottlieb, Dan Greenfield, Charlotte Kaplan, Jean Marshall, Reva Oruch, Julie Schapiro, and Sally Venger; Adult Program Director: Margaret Conti.

VISIONS Executive Chairman: Jim Wax; Advisor: Harry Alloy; Chairpersons: Fred and Sandy Bromley, Bill and Doris Cohen, Jean Elkon, Ethel Goldston, Joan Marcus, Jack Noodell, Doris Parker, Gilda Pieck, Betty Sanford, Howard and Sissy Silber, Mickey and Tootie Simon; Staff Director: Margaret Conti.

L.O.V.E. AUXILIARY BOARD Co-presidents: Miles and Eileen Remer; Vice-presidents: Judy Brookstein and Pam DePorte; Recording Secretary: Dinah Raful; Corresponding Secretary: Rocky Lewis; Treasurer: Esther Wax; Chairpersons: Merrilee Rimmerman, Ellen Platt, Carole Greenberg, Kathy Weiner, Anthony Scioli; board members: Helen and Tuffy Epstein, Dora Goldstrom, Gloria Goodman, Renee Kazor, Marsha Kleinberg, Wendy Manvitz, Harriet Marcus, Judi Moore, Carol Parsow, Iris Ricks, Sheila Rosen, Sherry Shapiro, and Lorrie Stein; and Jewish Senior Services Volunteer Director: Lois Wine.

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Page 48

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Dining

September 26, 2003

Out When you patronize these fine establishments, tell them you saw their ad in the Jewish Press.

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Setting, Values, Education Make Friedel ‘A Treasure’

by DIANE AXLER BAUM for Friedel Jewish Academy Whether a long-time Omahan or a newcomer to the city, the visitor to Friedel Jewish Academy is struck immediately by its physical setting.

The Academy, housed in the Gordman Education Center, is comprised of a commons room, library, art room, office, and spacious classrooms. Beyond these, hallways and stairs connect FJA to the entire Jewish Community Center Campus, so that students benefit from the JCC’s gallery, theater, gym and pool, in addition to the Nebraska Jewish Historical Society, Riekes Shul, Kripke Jewish Federation Library, and Rose Blumkin Jewish Home.

The range and richness of the facilities are an impressive backdrop to what the Academy stands for, and what it’s become. As the visitor hears from Principal Cookie Katskee, she quickly discovered at Friedel a “passion for education,” and so many other important characteristics, that she refers to the school as “a treasure within our community.”

speaking Hebrew, and only Hebrew, in the Tal Am and Tal Sela classroom. Total language immersion, prescribed by this renowned two-stage method, is a tremendous success at Friedel. Parents report their children are conversing, talking and singing in Hebrew at home as well as at school.

After the tour, the visitor might wish to speak with Maggie Gerber, who recently became President of Friedel’s Board. Gerber has had a long association with FJA, both as a Board member and the mother of two accomplished graduates.

Gerber believes the Academy is on solid ground. She cites the new reading series and new math series, introduced this year thanks to the work of the Curriculum Committee, headed by Pam Cohn, Principal of the Marrs School in the Omaha Public Schools. The new curriculum has scope and sequence, with appropriate assessment in place.

In addition, Gerber is highly impressed with Friedel’s new Principal, who offers Friedel nothing less than “credibility.” Prior to starting at Friedel last January,

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At Friedel Jewish Academy, returning classmates and friends Cleo Rogers-Markovitz. Right photo: Isaac Rogers-Markovitz, enjoy outdoor recess during the first week of the 2003-04 left, Aaron Nissen and Uriah Wertheim. school year. Left photo: Eva Phillips, left, Alyssa Gerber and The Academy is accredited in accordance with the newest Nebraska standards, and 95% of Friedel students scored above the 85 percentile on the most recent CAT norm-referenced test.

Moreover, in the higher grades, the advantages of a Friedel education include extraordinary opportunities for written and verbal expression, group science projects, individual research, and studies in advanced math.

Equally important is Friedel’s role as a culturetransmitting place and an identity-building place. “We can offer every Jewish child in our community,” Katskee says with quiet pride, “a superior, fully-rounded sec- At a prayer service in the adjoining Riekes Shul, Friedel students hold their siddurim (prayerular education integrated books) decorated for them by their parents, with the help of Julie Phillips. She directs the with Jewish heritage, cul- Academy’s art room and provides a program of creativity and self-expression in all grades. ture, ethics, and values.”

During a short tour, the visitor observes numerous Katskee enjoyed a 36-year career as a teacher and examples of Friedel’s excellence, starting with the fam- administrator in OPS. She earned an outstanding repily-like, nurturing environment and low student-teacher utation in Omaha’s educational circles and a network ratio. In the Academy’s small classes, each student has of resources that benefit Friedel in numerous ways.

“Our Cookie is a smart cookie,” Gerber states. “She the power to advance according to individual strengths.

At the same time, each receives prompt support and has the ability to get to the bottom line, and that line is educating our kids. That’s her mantra, and she’s doing help when required.

A peek into the Art Room introduces the visitor to the it.”

If you would like to become a visitor to Friedel ongoing occasions for creativity and self-expression provided by Julie Phillips, an artist and Friedel mom. Jewish Academy, or receive more information, please She introduces students in every grade to a variety of call 334-0517 or or e-mail: friedelacademy@jewmedia and takes them on field trips to the Joslyn ishomaha.org.

Museum. When possible, she focuses on celebrated FJA BOARD OF DIRECTORS artists who are Jewish, as a means of building positive Margie Alperson, Bonnie Bloch, Pam Cohn, Bob Jewish identity.

Important Jewish values, such as tzedakah (charity), Eisenberg, Maggie Gerber, Jay Gordman, Jerry and mitzvot (commandments) are evident everywhere. Gordman, Joe Kirshenbaum, Janet Kohll, Kim Novak, The visitor participates with students in a prayer ses- Eric Phillips, Yaffa Podbilewicz-Schuller, Joel Rich, sion in the Riekes Shul, and later learns that Friedel stu- Margo Riekes, Lloyd Roitstein, Ben Shapiro, Lynne dents regularly go to the Blumkin Home to share lunch Shkolnick, Aveva Shukert, and Kathy Weiner; Ex-officio: Rabbi Aryeh Azriel, Rabbi Howard Kutner and and Shabbat observance with the elderly residents.

Finally, the visitor marvels at students and teachers Rabbi Mordechai Levin; Principal: Cookie Katskee.

September 26, 2003

B’nai B’rith’s Henry Monsky Lodge Continues Tradition While Exploring New Paths ly span the globe. We work closely with diplomats,

by GARY JAVITCH presidents, monarchs, and the Vatican. Leaders in for Henry Monsky Lodge “In October 1843, 12 German-Jewish immigrants met Washington, D.C., Jerusalem, and around the globe call on New York’s Lower East Side to help others like us on issues affecting world Jewry. themselves. Pooling their ideas and their funds, they B’nai B’rith, for example, has been involved with the founded what would become the most enduring serv- United Nations since its founding. ice organization in the United States. Its name--B’nai Today, we’re the only Jewish organization with a fullB’rith, ‘Children of the Covenant’--mirrored its idealistic time presence at the U.N. and the increasingly impormission: uniting Jews in service to their community and tant European Union in Brussels. In London, we the world.” recently opened our Bureau of International Affairs.

Soon to celebrate the 160th anniversary, the oldest We also enjoy non-governmental status at the Jewish organization in the United States plays a signifi- Organization of American States and in South America’s cant local, national, and international role. new economic development bloc.

On a local level, our Henry Monsky Lodge (and the In addition, B’nai B’rith has been active in the land of Cornhusker Lodge which merged with us) has a very Israel since 1865. Today, our B’nai B’rith World Center proud history and tradition in Omaha. Over the years, in Jerusalem serves as an important forum for issues we have made a significant community impact. affecting Israel and the Jewish people.

Annually, the Henry Monsky Lodge #3306 holds the largest banquet in Omaha, which in 2004 will celebrate its 50th anniversary. At the dinner, the Lodge announces the most outstanding metro area senior high school male and female scholar-athlete and features a nationally known sports figure as our keynote speaker.

Past notables include football coach Steve Spurrier, broadcasters Terry Bradshaw and, most recent- Above: B’nai B’rith’s International’s President Joel Kaplan, second from left, was in Omaha ly, ESPN’s Dan Patrick. last fall to open the exhibit on the life of Phil Klutznick--the late Omahan who once served as Banquet proceeds help International President; Kaplan also met with Lodge leaders Gary Javitch, Incoming underwrite many local B’nai President, left, Adam Jacobs, President, and trustee Steve Riekes. Below: Guests at one of B’rith youth programs, as the weekly Breadbreakers luncheons included ADL Executive Director Bob Wolfson, left, and well as other community radio personality Kent Pavelka, who spoke about their week-long trip to Israel last spring.

Marty Ricks, Executive Director of the Foundation of the Jewish Federation, served as chairprojects.

Another important lodge man of the meeting. tradition has been our weekly Wednesday Breadbreakers lunch series. For more than 40 years, our mini-press conferences have featured interesting and influential speakers, which have included such personages as the former chief justice of the Nebraska Supreme Court, top university leaders, our governor, senators and representatives, as well as leading newsmakers.

New this last year is our Tuesday Lunch and Learn series with Israel information updates on a periodic basis, co-sponsored with other Jewish organizations.

Bringing us additional renown in the community is our co-sponsorship of Creighton University’s Klutznick Symposium; we also hold a bible quiz for local high school students and a community-wide Jewish trivia quiz. And we do much more.

B’nai B’rith has earned a strong reputation across Finally, our Disaster Relief Fund has helped survivors America, launching the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), of the war in Kosovo, the 1999 Turkish earthquake and Hillel and the B’nai B’rith Youth Organization (BBYO). other calamities.

Since 1913, the B’nai B’rith has fought discrimination You can be a part of this! against Jews and opposed bigotry, when it created the As we are always looking for new members, we ADL. Hillel is the largest Jewish campus organization invite you to become a lodge member and further in the world. Acting through the Foundation for enhance our impact. Still, all of our programs are Jewish Campus Life, “Hillel provides opportunities for open to the community. However, as a member, Jewish students to explore and celebrate their Jewish active or inactive, your support will help sustain all that identity through its global network of over 500 region- we do. That’s why we would like you to consider al centers, campus Foundations and Hillel student being an official part of our organization. organizations.”

It matters not whether you embrace Reform, When teens sought a group to call their own--an Conservative, or Orthodox traditions, we want you to organization that transcended orthodox, conservative join us. As a member of Henry Monsky Lodge, you can or reform boundaries--B’nai B’rith was there. We pio- be heard; you can be effective; you can be involved. neered outreach to young people through our BBYO, And, you can make a difference. To join us, call our which began in 1923 and now serves 30,000 world- office at the Jewish Community Center at 334-6443. wide.

Portions of the international and national segAs times and needs have changed, so has B’nai B’rith. ments were adapted from the BBI and Hillel webOnce we sponsored hospitals and libraries. Now we sites. carry out global programming in five key areas: public B’NAI B’RITH BOARD OF DIRECTORS policy, Jewish identity, community action, and youth President: Gary Javitch; Immediate Past-President: and senior services.

Adam Jacobs; Chairmen: Gil Cohen, Martin Ricks and Active in 58 countries across the planet, B’nai B’rith Aaron Weiner; Guardian/Warden: Gerald Meyer; International is the voice for Jews in Europe and South trustees: Alvin Abramson, Mike Abramson, Richard America and also speaks loudly for Jews in Israel and Diamond, Rich Juro, Myron Kaplan, Larry Kelberg, in other parts of the world.

Steve Riekes; Lifetime trustee: Arthur Jacobs; Director: In recent years, our efforts for Jewish security literal- Lois Epstein.

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2003

Boy Scouts Induct a Record Number of Eagle Scouts

by DR. MARK PILLEY Scout Leader The performance of JCC Scout Troop 218 shows that the “Engine of Leadership” is alive and well among the Scouting youth of our Jewish community. We need to take an opportunity to to acknowledge and support those accomplishments that have been achieved by some of our Jewish Boys Scouts as we enter a New Year.

JCC BSA Troop 218--Soaring Eagle District, recognizes those Jewish Boy Scouts who have achieved the rank of Eagle Scout, the highest rank in the Boy Scout program during this last year: Matt Uehling, Aron Neesman, Joel Passer Marty Nachman, and Trevor Gerson.

This is an achievement that is above and beyond the call of duty. It is also an achievement that signifies a willingness to contribute to the betterment of our community and country through a selfless act on kindness.

The Troop has donated $75 toward the purchase of five trees to be donated to Ben Nachman’s Eagle Scout project.

Aron Neesman was presented his Eagle Scout Award during Friday night Shabbat Services at Temple Israel last week. Aron has shown great leadership and has also received his Ner Tamid Jewish Scouting Award.

Trevor Gerson is our newest Eagle Scout. His Eagle Scout Award Ceremony has not been scheduled yet but will be announced in the near future. He, too, has shown leadership in his willingness to contribute to his community and has

Josh Pilley completed these badges: Riflery and Wilderness Survival. He also completed the COPE course and was a advanced from Brave to Warrior in the Camp Cedars Tribe of Nani Ba Zu, as well as was promoted to Senior Patrol Leader. He too be came an Arrow man in the Order of the Arrow (OA) by completing his OA Ordeal.

David Trubnikov completed the following merit badges: Camping, Environmental Science, First Aid, Woodcarving, and Archery. He was promoted to Patrol Leader.

Danny Pachman completed the following merit badges: Fishing and Participating at Camp Cedars this summer were: Jon Lerner, standing left, Lou Pachman and Dr. Mark Leatherwork. He also particPilley, Scout Leaders of Troop #218, Josh Pilley, Alex and David Trubnikov; seated: Danny Pachman and Ariel ipated in Kit Fox, as a first Brodkey. year camper, and completed also received his New Tamid Jewish at Camp Cedars. The following Scouts the rank of Tenderfoot while at camp.

Scouting Award. achieved these honors.

Ariel Brodkey completed the Fishing Last May, Trevor graduated Burke High Jon Lerner completed badges for merit badge. He also participated in Kit School and was promoted to Brigade Citizenship of the World, Wilderness Fox as a first year camper and completCommander of the OPS ROTC program. Survival, and Shotgun. He also complete ed the rank of Tenderfoot while at camp.

He is now attending Creighton the COPE course which is the Challenge We have an active year of camping and University as a freshman through the of Personal Endeavor. He was nominat- fun planned and scheduled. All Jewish Army ROTC program and is participating ed as a Brave in Camp Cedars Nani Ba boys and boys who are members of the in the Active Army Reserves. He is also Zu tribe and promoted to Assistant JCC, ages 11-21, are welcome to join and one of our newest Assistant Scoutmasters Senior Patrol Leader. He has also participate in JCC Troop 218’s BSA Troop Troop 218. become an Arrow man in the Order of and Venture Crew activities.

This summer we had five boys and the Arrow (OA) by completing his OA Those interested in Jewish Scouting three adult leaders attend summer camp Ordeal. can call me at 493-1077.

Happy New Year

May the New Year bring Peace, Health and Happiness to you and yours.

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September 26, 2003

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 51

JWI’s Domestic Abuse Conference You A Healthy, Rejuvenates the Anti-Violence Movement Wishing Prosperous New Year

by JENNIFER KAROTKIN for Jewish Women International Washington, D.C.--It was a rare picture of Jewish solidarity as the first-ever international conference on domestic abuse in the Jewish community convened in July in Baltimore, MD. Pursuing Truth, Justice and Righteousness: A Call to Action, sponsored by Jewish Women International (JWI) and more than 75 partners, was one of the most progressive efforts yet in the fight against domestic violence.

Some 450 attendees arrived-a figure far greater than the projected headcount. In fact, nearly every aspect of the conference exceeded the expectations of conference planners. Religious leaders, social workers, doctors, activists, artists and abuse survivors from all over the world produced the mosaic of perspectives that was needed to make the Jewish domestic violence movement whole.

“Every point of view--orthodox and secular, lay and professional, survivor and service provider, medical and spiritual, gay and straight--was shared and respected among this incredibly diverse group. That speaks volumes about our unity,” said JWI Executive Director

bittersweet hope to the conference that was deeply felt by all in attendance.

“Having community and having sisterhood is a big piece of what allows me to heal,” said one of the dozens of survivors who shared their stories, some for the very first time. Another woman recalled, “As a child growing up in a violent traditional Jewish home, I had no words for what was happening to me. Now I feel privileged to live at a time when there are words.”

“When an Orthodox woman comes to our shelter...she has to be desperate because of the stigma she faces in her community,” said Esti Palant, director of the Bat-Melech Shelter for Religious Battered Women in Jerusalem, during a session on domestic abuse in Israel. “Women are often abandoned by their families when they enter the shelter.”

Author and activist Paul Kivel noted that, “We need to raise boys...to develop a sense of how they are feeling; to show them how to listen and understand and pay attention to other people’s feelings.”

Pursuing Truth, Justice and Righteousness: A Call to Action succeeded in drawing the Jewish domestic violence movement together and creating a model to

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Photos from top left: JWI celebrated its 60th anniversary last May. Beth El Synagogue’s Cantor Gastón Bogomolni entertained members and guests (Bogomolni is a newcomer to Omaha, having arrived with his wife, Lena, less than two years ago). JWI President Frieda Krizelman presents members with a anniversary cake (Esther Wax in background).

Loribeth Weinstein. “We knew, as a community, that we would find strength in our numbers. What an inspiration it was to find such strength in our differences.”

At the core of the conference was the “Call to Action”, built on the idea that individual and organizational acts, motivated by unified goals, will galvanize the movement against domestic abuse.

The Call to Action is two-fold: First, a vision statement of principles which includes public acknowledgement of abuse, relationship education for youth, clergy training, abuser accountability, and a commitment to increase funding; And second, a call for personal commitments to fight violence in individual communities worldwide. Written responses to the Call to Action poured in at the close of the conference, with many more arriving by e-mail.

In the coming months, the Call to Action will be strengthened by a number of new JWI initiatives: A National Needs Assessment, which studies critical information about the needs of Jewish communities around domestic violence; and a proposed education and outreach program with training modules tailored for clergy, service providers and young people.

In all, there were nearly 75 events-plenaries, caucuses, workshops, discussions, performances and moreled by speakers from all walks of life. Among those who lent their voices to Pursuing Truth, Justice and Righteousness: A Call to Action were Yael Dayan, former Knesset member and longtime human rights activist in Israel; Maryland Congressman Benjamin L. Cardin; actress and activist Naomi Ackerman; and a surprisingly large group of abuse survivors who brought a

Locally Owned move it forward. A follow-up conference is planned for 2005. In the interim, JWI and others involved in the Call to Action will build on the work at hand, then measure its success at their next convening.

JWI is a community of more than 75,000 women joining hands, hearts and minds to promote peace-in families and communities in the United States, Israel and around the world.

Details about the conference and the Call to Action are available online at: www.jwicalltoaction.org. To request a brochure or lean more about JWI, call Kayla Nicolay at 1-800-343-2823 or 202-857-1300.

In Omaha, JWI held its annual Donor Luncheon last October, celebrating the 60th anniversary of the Children’s Home in Israel. The group sponsors an annual “shower” for the Children’s Hospital Rainbow House in Omaha and entertains the residents of the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home in February. JWI’s biggest fundraiser, its annual Mah Jongg tournament, is held yearly in October.

For more information about JWI or about membership, please call Frieda Krizelman at 391-0661, or Esther Wax, at 393-4442.

JWI BOARD OF DIRECTORS President: Frieda Krizelman; Fundraising Vice-presidents: Rosalie Greenspan and Beth Friedman; Membership: Lila Jacoby; Treasurer: Esther Wax; Financial Secretary: Dora Goldstrom; Recording Secretary: Shirley Brody; Corresponding Secretary: Corinne Levin; Chairmen: Sylvia Davis, Betty Goldstrom, Maxine Noodell, Alison Latenser Pachman, Rose Rosenberg, Anne Skolkin, and Elaine Tepperman.

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2003

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Interview with the OCTL

by RABBI ARYEH BLUM, Director Omaha Center for Torah Learning I’m not an Orthodox Jew, won’t I feel out of place?

Our Adult Education program is mostly attended by non-orthodox Jews. In fact, are classes are masterfully geared for Jews of all backgrounds, or no background at all. We offer everything from basic Hebrew to philosophy to classical texts; and that’s just a smattering.

In fact, knowledge of Hebrew is not required for any of our classes. The most impressive aspect of our program is that everyone feels included.

Whether you come to just listen and learn or participate in discussion, everyone who comes feels a part of something special.

I wasn’t “turned on” by my religious education growing up, why go through the hoops again?

When I was young, I hated eating fish, though at times, I was compelled to eat it. After a number of years of abstinence from fish, I gave it another try. To my delight, my palette became more sophisticated and my appreciation for fish cuisine was kindled.

Try your religion once again; you may find yourself far more sophisticated than you were when you attended Talmud Torah.

I’m not really the class-going type. How else can I access your resources?

We fully recognize that different people connect to their Judaism in different ways. That is why we offer a number of different learning media. Besides formal classes, we offer one-on-one learning as well as the opportunity to avail yourself of our extensive Hebrew and English Library. Tuesday night is open study; just come yourself or with a friend, pick up a book or bring your own. We have something for everyone.

The cost of education isn’t cheap; how can I afford to pay for the classes?

There is no cost to attend any of our classes and most of our events. We exist solely as a service to the Jewish community. Take advantage of us.

Whom do I contact for more information?

You can call me at 402.320.8055 or blum_octl@msn.com or Rabbi Tuvia Hoffman at 402.553.5397 or tuviamoshe@earthlink.net.

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by RABBI TUVIA HOFFMAN Administrative Director The emphasis at the Etz Chayim Preschool is on good character traits through traditional Jewish thought. In addition to topics taught in most preschools, such as sharing, alphabet, the five senses etc., Etz Chayim will also include giving charity, the Jewish holidays, nutrition and blessings, Hebrew words, etc.

Classes started Sept. 4 and are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays between the hours of 9 a.m.-12 p.m. The preschool class is for three and four-year-olds.

Torah Tots--for two-year-old children, will be on Tuesdays for an-hour-and-a-half.

For any parent who learns three hours a month with the rabbinic staff, there will be a $50 reduction per month. Class times will be scheduled to allow even the busiest parent an opportune time to learn Who better than a parent, can create an atmosphere of warmth and love for their children? It is for this reason that traditionally the responsibility of Jewish education is given to a parent, who would be best able to transmit the love and warmth of Judaism with great vigor.

Today, however, the modern Jewish parent is struggling to make sense of Judaism for him or herself, let alone transmit heritage to their children. In fact, I recall a large poster made by a Jewish leadership group that showed a scrumptious bagel with lox and cheese. The caption read, “Is this the culmination of 3,000 years of Jewish history?!” Sad but true, there are many Jews whose only connection to Judaism is lox and bagels

Children played during the Open House at Etz Chayim preschool, while parents asked questions about the program.

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The ‘Who, Want, Where, When and Why’ of Etz Chayim Preschool

Above: At one of the many OCTL scholar-in-residence Shabbosim, Rabbi Aryeh Blum, left, played guitar while Devra Bram performed on violin and guest scholar Rabbi Moshe Parnes of the Atlanta Scholars Kollel, lead the singing. Rabbi Blum, his wife Shari and daughter Meira, are also newcomers to Omaha, having arrived in July, 2002.

Their son, Akiva, was born less than two months ago--making him a native Omahan! Below: Jewish singles enjoyed “Make Your Own Pizza Night” at the Bagel Bin, sponsored

by OCTL. Singles Night in the Sukkah is Tuesday, Oct. 14.

OMAHA CENTER OF TORAH LEARNING BOARD OF DIRECTORS President: Allan Gonsher; Vice-president: Leon Shrago; Treasurer: Michael Katzman; Director: Rabbi Aryeh Blum.

Therefore, to promote family learning Etz Chayim Preschool is also offering a unique Family Learning Incentive, because Jewish tradition emphasizes the importance of parents being involved with their children’s education.

Classes for parents will be offered once a week on Tuesdays or Thursdays when the children are in session. To accommodate the busy schedules of parents, nighttime classes will also be offered on a night to be announced. If a parent has difficulty matching this schedule, other arrangements may be made by calling me.

The curriculum of the parents classes has a two-fold purpose. First, the curriculum will provide the parent with a mature understanding of our heritage based on foundational Jewish texts such as the Torah and Talmud. Secondly, it will give the parents tools so that they can share in the education of the children with the Etz Chayim staff.

Classes will include: philosophy of Jewish Parenting; Hebrew; the Jewish calendar; and more. Classes will be designed according to the need of the parents, and the possibility of the parents designing the curriculum with me is also possible.

The school is located at 2646 N. 90th St., south of the Bag’n Save Supermarket on the corner of 90th and Maple Streets.

The cost is $175 per month for the 3-4 year olds (which consists of 32 hours). If parents commit to learn three hours per month with the rabbinic staff, there will be a $50 reduction. Torah Tots will cost: $45 per month (six hours at 11/2 hours a week). If parents commit to learn, the cost is reduced to only $35 per month.

For more information about the Preschool or Torah Tots or to arrange a visit to the school, please contact me at: 384-2032.

ETZ CHAYIM PRESCHOOL BOARD OF DIRECTORS President: Leon Shrago; Secretary: Dani Shrago; Administrative Director: Rabbi Tuvia Hoffman.

September 26, 2003 B’NAI B’RITH YOUTH ORANIZATION BBG COUNCIL BOARD AZA COUNCIL BOARD N’Siah: Alana Kinarsky; S’Ganit: Becky Godol: Robert Mosenkis; S’Gan: Jon Kahn; Mit-Mom: Gal Tsabari; Gates; Moreh: J.J. Friedman; Mazkirah/Gizbarit: Kylie Zacharia; Mazkor/Gizbor: Nathan Fineman; Sh’licha: Becky Smedlund.

Shaliach: Stephen Lercher.

EDIAR BBG #710 N’Siah: Meagan Katelman; S’Ganit: Marissa Epstein; Mit-Mom: Jodi Levine; Gizbarit: Hamutal Ginsburg; Mazkirah: Abby Ginsburg; Sh’licha: Gal Tsabari.

MZ YOSHANAH BBG #2053 N’siah: Shayna Kurland; S’ganit: Betsy Goodman; Aym Ha’Chaverot: Naomi Fox; Gizbarit: Aly Friedman; Mazkirah- Anna Turetsky; Sh’licha: Sarah Munzesheimer.

MOTHER CHAPTER AZA #1 Godol: Nathan Fineman; Moreh: Andy Siref; Mazkir: Brad Abramson: Gizbor: Corey Green; Shaliach: JJ Friedman CHAIM WEIZMANN AZA #1510 Godol: Jon Gates; S’Gan: Philip Hirshman; Moreh: Alex Wolf; Mazkir: Adam Trubnikov; Gizbor: David Martin; Shaliach; Josh Sweet.

BBYO Director: Rachel Blum.

AMIT WOMEN, KALAH FRANKLIN CHAPTER President: Charlotte Kaplan; Treasurer: Fundraising Chairman: Sara Reva Ruderman; Secretary: Jean Epstein; Landesman; Adviser: Jeanette Nadoff.

JEWISH WAR VETERANS MORGAN EPSTEIN POST Commander: Jay Benton

Sr. Vice-commander: Gerald Siegel

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 53

Providing Jewish Education to the Community

by GUY MATALON, JELS Director Jewish Educational and Library Services is one of the several Centers of Excellence of the Jewish Federation of Omaha. The agency’s mission is to provide quality Jewish education to the Omaha Jewish community and offer support to the communal educational institutions.

We offer financial assistance, scholarships and grant programs for youth, undergraduate and graduate education, JCC camps and preschool, music and cultural arts programs, Israel summer programs, Jewish summer camps, Friedel Jewish Academy, and academic excellence scholarships.

The scholarship programs are handled

by Kathy Hirshman, Assistant Executive Director.

JELS supports the congregations of our community through financial assistance to four religious schools. It supports the community Day School, Friedel Jewish

Academy. The agency offers a teacher training program to train teachers for the religious schools and offers a Special Needs teacher to meet the needs of all of our community.

The agency offers a variety of adult learning opportunities such as lecture series, Klutznick Harris Symposium, Film Festival, Hebrew reading and language courses, Lunch & Learn series with Bob Wolfson, ADL Executive Director.

The Kripke Federation library is also managed by Jewish Educational and Library Services. The library houses one of the largest collections of Judaica material in the Midwest. The collection is over 40,000 volumes which include books, films, music, journals and magazines. The library includes one of the largest collections of Russian material outside the East Coast.

Executive Director: Guy Matalon; Assistant Executive Director: Kathy Hirshman.

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2003

More Than a Century of Service to “Faith and Humanity”

by KIM NODDLE President, Omaha Section National Council of Jewish Women NCJW, founded in 1893 in Chicago by Hannah G. Solomon, came to Omaha just three years later. Now entering its 107th year as a “volunteer organization inspired by Jewish values,” Omaha Section “works through a program of research, advocacy and community service to improve the quality of life for women, children and families, and strives to ensure individual rights and freedoms for all.”

Already Omaha Section has begun planning for the upcoming year. The board has worked very hard over the summer months to offer NCJW members many activities for community involvement.

Here are some highlights: Monday, Oct. 20, NCJW will host its seventh annual Dictionary Day. NCJW volunteers will present Omaha Public School, fourth graders in approximately 25 schools, brand new dictionaries.

This year we are proud to have Henry Davis, of Greater Omaha Packing Company, Inc., as our community partner. We are also excited to be working again with the Bookworm, an independent bookstore, located in Countryside Plaza.

Tuesday, Oct. 21, NCJW will co-sponsor “Live from the 92nd Street Y” with the Jewish community Center, with “An Evening with Anita Diamant.” She is the author of The Red Tent and will be

speaking on her new book, Pitching Our Own Tent. This evening will feature a lovely dinner before the broadcast and, for those attending, a signed copy of Diamant’s new book.

During the month of November, NCJW will have a RAFT Kick Off Day. After five years of working on the fourth edition of Resources Available For Teens (RAFT), the RAFT guidebooks will be distributed to eighth, 10th and 12th grade students through out the Omaha area. This should be an exciting day!

Also during the month of November, NCJW will be sponsoring another Benchmark event.

On Wednesday, Nov. 12, NCJW, Omaha will bring David Rosen to speak on civil freedoms, before and after Roe vs.

Wade. This event will be held at the UNO Alumni House. Last year, we had such a successful Benchmark event--with Sarah Weddington, the attorney of record for the Roe v. Wade case argued before the Supreme Court. NCJW will continue to update its members on this issue.

We will end the calendar year with another fundraiser. Again NCJW volunteers will be wrapping gifts at area bookstores during the holiday season.

As you can see, there is a reason for everyone to become involved. Women are an increasingly powerful force.

Please see what is going on in NCJW, Omaha Section, and get involved!

Become a women who believes in her head and her heart that things can and will become better. Courageous women,

On a national level, NCJW sponsors an annual meeting each year. In 2004, delegates can attend the Washington Institute, a four-day session in the nation’s capital in March dealing with the topical issues of the day. NCJW members attending the 2001 Washington Institute included: Sally Zipursky, left, Carol Bloch, Ann Moshman, a legislative aide, Sara Juster, Beth Friedman, Susan Rothholz and Karin Levine. who know the power of meaningful action, working together, can make a difference!

If you have a vision of making our community better, and a desire to make that vision real, please call Membership Vice-president Deb Marburg at 398-1601 for information about joining. You can also visit NCJW’s website, for information about our national projects and projects in Israel: www.ncjw.org.

NCJW BOARD OF DIRECTORS President: Kim Noddle; Vice-presidents: Karin Levine, Deb Marburg, Linda

Saltzman, Keri Workman, Sally Zipursky and Rosie Zweiback; Treasurer: Jill Baron; Financial Secretary: Shelly Pichik; Member Services Secretary: Betsy Marantz; Recording Secretary: Pam Friedlander; Parliamentarians/By-laws: Carol Bloch and Susie Norton; Directors: Leslie Eades, Tina Meyers, Kim Schwartz, Andee Scioli, and Mimi Silverman; Finance Committee Chairwoman: Roxanne Kahn; Nominating Committee Chairwoman: Beth Friedman; National Commissioners: Beth Friedman and Cindy Goldberg; Immediate Past National President: Jan Schneiderman.

The Top Ten Reasons to Start an Endowment Fund with the Foundation of the Jewish Federation of Omaha

10 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12

You’ve been meaning to meet with your attorney to revise your estate plan anyway.

Certain assets such as Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) that are passed on to family members at death may be subject to as much as 70 percent tax.

The government already gets enough of your income.

There are significant income tax advantages to YOU for setting up a charitable fund.

You can donate cash or appreciated property such as stock or real estate to establish your endowment fund.

The Foundation does not charge a fee to establish a fund and only a minimum fee for administering the fund which includes sending you semi-annual reports.

Your fund will secure support for on-going needs and safeguard existing services of the Omaha Jewish community.

You can restrict the use of the fund to an agency or program of your choice or set up an unrestricted fund giving the Federation great flexibility in responding to the needs of our community.

Three words: Tzedakah, Tzedakah, Tzedakah!

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11

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September 26, 2003

Hadassah’s Goal: Plant a Seed and Watch It Grow Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center’s two Jerusalem campuses, which house medical, dental and nursing schools and which serve as their teaching hospitals.

The frequent terror attacks of recent years have propelled Hadassah to international prominence. Nearly half of Israel’s terror victims of the last three years were treated at Hadassah’s Ein Kerem and Mount Scopus hospitals, making the staff the world’s most experienced in this field.

Recently first responders from the American west coast traveled to Israel for training with Hadassah personnel.

The American staff consisted of doctors, nurses, paramedics and firefighters. The contact was initiated by the Israeli Consulate in Los Angeles.

Mark your calendars now for the Omaha Chapter's annual HMO luncheon, which will be held Wednesday, Oct. 15 (Hol Hamoed Sukkot) at the Sunset Valley Country Club, 9300 Arbor St. This luncheon, our local chapter’s primary fundraiser for the Jerusalem hospitals, will feature 1290 AM KKAR’s morning talk show host Kent Pavelka and Anti-Defamation League Director Bob Wolfson, who traveled to Israel together so Pavelka could broadcast his daily show. In addition to interviewing notable government and other figures, he toured Hadassah’s Ein Kerem hospital; the two men will share their impressions of their visit.

In late May, the group held its annual Hadassah Israel Education Services (HIES) luncheon at Beth Israel Synagogue and installed the current Hadassah Cabinet. The program featured a panel of Omaha’s pulpit rabbis.

Upper Midwest Regional President Debby Jewett conducted the installation and met with the Cabinet following the luncheon.

The HIES luncheon supports the newly renamed Hadassah College Jerusalem (formerly Hadassah College of Technology), the only college in downtown Jerusalem, which is attended by more than 1,500 students and confers a variety of bachelor and associate degrees.

A December tea was the occasion when Rose Gross, left, was Their services are a very attribute in honored for her generosity to Hadassah. Mary Fellman important today’s Israeli economy spoke about Gross’ accomplishments and presented a cerContinued on page 56 tificate of honor.

by LESLIE SHRAGO Publicity Chairman Omaha Chapter of Hadassah Hadassah, the Women’s Zionist Organization of America, has more than 300,000 members nationwide, including male associates and child life members.

It is the largest Jewish women’s organization in America, currently celebrating its 91st year.

The Omaha Chapter of Hadassah has 500 members and welcomes prospective members and life members transferring from other chapters to join us for our upcoming programs and projects.

A fashion show and member recruitment event held last month netted 10 new members including four life members (both new and transferred from other cities). New members are actively being sought and Cabinet members are open to suggestion of informational and social programming that would interest women of various age groups to better serve the interests of our members.

Membership is currently $25 annually and $250 for life members, but both categories will increase next year or so; now is a great time to join while the prices are low. To inquire about Hadassah membership, please call Sandy Kohll at 391-5603.

In addition to being membership chairwoman, Sandy will also be teaching Ivrit l’Hadassah Hebrew classes on alternate Tuesdays. The classes will be held at the JCC and are open to anyone interested in learning and/or brushing up on their Hebrew skills.

Perhaps the most recognized beneficiary of Hadassah, the Hadassah Medical Organization (HMO) comprises the

The 2003-04 Hadassah Board, front: row: Lesli Shrago, left, Doris Shukert, Sandy Kohll; back row: Bette Kozlen, Beth Gaynes Ginsberg, Faye Ruback, Phyllis Fried, Georgia Ann Steinberg, Maxine Noodell, Anne Skolkin, Esther Wax, and Julie Stein.

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 55

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September 26, 2003

Hadassah’s Goal Continued from page 55 which is mired in a deep recession, greatly affecting the government’s ability to provide welfare benefits to new olim, discharged soldiers, single mothers, large families and others who were accustomed to receiving such assistance in the past.

In addition, terror victims whose permanent injuries have limited their ability to work in their previous fields have benefitted from the psychometric assessment and guidance toward new careers that HCCI has provided to them. Many of them now study at Hadassah College and elsewhere and will be able to support themselves and their families in the future.

Hadassah also is closely involved in sponsoring Youth Aliyah villages (with the Jewish Agency for Israel) and the Jewish National Fund, which cares for Israel’s environment through promotion of tree-planting (most recently inspired by the late Israeli astronaut Ilan Ramon), water conservation and purification efforts and much more.

Parenting and youth issues are important to our organization as well. In addition to Youth Aliyah, which gives at-risk youth a home away from home and motivation to succeed in life, Hadassah spon-

sors the Young Judaea youth organization and camps across the United States and year-long programs in Israel.

Here in Omaha, we are joining with Jewish Family Service, Temple Israel and National Council of Jewish Women for a series, “Jewish Family Life and Education.” The first one will be held Wednesday, Oct. 22 and its topic is “Transitions.”

Upcoming lunch and learns will be Tuesday, Jan. 13, featuring the “Sandwich Generation”, and Thursday, April 22, will be a panel discussion for parents of young children). Julie Stein is representing Hadassah on this committee.

As part of Hadassah’s national Healthy Women, Healthy Lives initiative, the Omaha Chapter will offer periodic seminars on topics of interest to women and those who love them as well as on general health issues.

Upcoming programming will include: “Check It Out,” breast cancer awareness with an emphasis on early detection and featuring breast cancer survivors of various ages.

“It’s in the Genes” will focus on genetic-based cancers and other illnesses that are more prevalent in the Ashkenazi

ANTI-DEFAMATION LEAGUE President: Sara Juster; Vice-presidents: Bucky Greenberg, Jim Harris, Gary David Gilinsky and Keri Workman; Javitch, Maury Katzman, Bob Kully, Immediate Past-president: Mimi Chuck Lontor, Jan Lund, Gary Waldbaum; Member-at-large: Irv Yaffe; Nachman, Bob Nefsky, Bob Newman, board members: Jill Belmont, Sharon Sharee Newman, Alan Parsow, Magda Brodkey, Bill Cunningham; Steve Peck, Larry Raful, Susan Rothholz, Denenberg; Chaplain Kalman Dubov; Kevin Saltzman, Jan Schneiderman, Joe Erman, Katherine Finnegan, Jim Sylvia Wagner and Rich Weiner; Fried, Herb Friedman, Ann Goldstein, Executive Director: I. Robert Wolfson.

Danielle Gordman, Yale Gotsdiner,

Betty Kozlen, standing, moderated a discussion among the rabbis at last year’s HIES luncheon, sponsored by Hadassah: Rabbi Aryeh Azriel, left, Rabbi Craig Marantz, Rabbi Mordechai Levin, Rabbi Howard Kutner and Rabbi Mendel Katzman. community than in the general popula- these or other health-related subjects, tion and issues related to diagnosis, test- call me at 963-9889 or e-mail: shraing and discrimination. “Women Take go@cox.net.

Heart”, heart health and current Inspired by Hadassah chapters in other advances in cardiac care; “Act Against cities, Doris Shukert is undertaking a Osteoporosis”, bone health; “Hormone knitting (and crocheting) project. Items Replacement Therapy”; “Peri-menopause such as hats, gloves and scarves knitted and Menopause”; “Pikuach Nefesh: To by our local Hadassah members will be Save a Life”, organ donation: as well as donated to Siena-Francis House. For programs dealing with nutrition, exer- more information, call 391-7530. cise, physical therapy, domestic vioHadassah has something for everyone; lence, mental health and more. we hope to see you at one of our proTo volunteer to help plan programs on grams in the near future!

OMAHA CHAPTER OF HADASSAH President: Georgia Ann Steinberg; Recording Secretary: Phyllis Fried; Treasurer: Esther Wax; Membership: Sandy Kohll; Membership Retention: Anne Skolkin; Jewish National Fund (Blue Boxes/Trees): Madeline Katzman; Donor Cards: Charlotte Kaplan; Past-

President: Beth Gaynes Ginsberg; Publicity/Newsletter: Lesli Shrago; Programming: Rini Gonsher, Bette Kozlen, Carol Parsow, Faye Ruback, Julie Stein, Nancy Wolf; Knitting Project Coordinator: Doris Shukert; Historian/Scrapbook: Maxine Noodell.

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2003

Beth Israel Forges New Place in Long Omaha History

by BETH COHEN, Executive Director Beth Israel Synagogue, Omaha’s Orthodox synagogue, has something to offer everyone--regardless of background, knowledge or level of observance. Affiliated with the Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America (OU), Beth Israel strives to perpetuate the legacy of Torah Judaism in the modern world. Beth Israel welcomes all persons of the Jewish faith to join, and accepts the diversity of practice and thought among its members.

Beth Israel offers a variety of religious, cultural and social programs throughout the year, including: Sisterhood, Adult Education Classes, Lunch and Learns, Scholar-in-Residence Weekends, Guest Lectures, and Shabbat and Holiday meals.

In addition, our award winning NCSY (National Conference of Synagogue Youth) offers the opportunity to fifth through 12th graders to attend local events, such as the annual Sukkah Hop or pre-Passover trips to paint kiddush cups and candle sticks. In addition, the Omaha chapter of NCSY participates at regional events with the Midwest Region of NCSY where hundreds of Jewish teens gather for weekends of fun and learning.

Our commitment to youth and education was most visibly seen in a landmark decision last spring when the Board of Commissioners of Beth Israel approved a motion to subsidize half of the tuition at Friedel Jewish Academy for children whose family’s primary membership is at Beth Israel. This initiative, in effect for the 2003-04 school year, reinforces a strong bond between Beth Israel and Friedel.

“Beth Israel feels an obligation to support our Jewish day school and to help it grow. As an incentive to encourage our

the

City

congregants Rabbi to send their Kutner has children to served Friedel, we since the have initiated summer of this tuition 1996. He subsidy,” said is a graduDr. David ate of K o h l l , Ye s h i v a President.

University In addition (YU), and to this new received initiative, smicha Beth Israel (ordinawill continue tion) from to provide Architect Marty Shukert, center, leads a tour of the new building YU’s Rabbi r e l i g i o u s at an Open House earlier this month. About 50 people attended. I s a a c school programming for any families Elchanan Theological Seminary. Rabbi who wish to participate, even if children Kutner is widely known for his warmth, are receiving the Friedel tuition subsidy. sincerity, and his unique ability to relate This program includes one hour per Orthodox Judaism to modern times. week of individual or small group learnRabbi Kutner also assumes the responing for each child enrolled, plus a week- sibility of being the Rav Hamachshir ly Junior Congregation program for chil- (Rabbinic Authority and Administrator) dren ages five to Bar/Bat Mitzvah age of the Va’ad Hakashrut of Omaha, the and a weekly high school class taught by mikvah and the Jewish Funeral Home.

Rabbi Howard Kutner.

The presence of an Orthodox commuAs part of Beth Israel’s “informal” edu- nity in Omaha dates back to 1883, when cational program, the synagogue runs a the “Litvische Shul,” or Beth Hamedrosh monthly Shabbos House on Saturday Hagadol, was built. Other small synaafternoons for all school-aged children. gogues were formed over the next few The Shabbos House gives children the years, including B’nai Israel (the opportunity to hang out with their Jewish “Kipplier Shul”), B’nai Jacob Anshe friends, and provides an educational com- Sholom (the “Kapulier Shul”), and Beth ponent to the afternoon. Parents are Hamedrosh Adas Yeshurun. encouraged to attend with their children.

Later B’nai Jacob Anshe Sholom and “In Jewish life, nothing can be more Beth Hamedrosh Adas Yeshurun merged important than chinuch--the Jewish edu- to form B’nai Jacob Adas Yeshurun, but cation of our children,” noted Rabbi kept the nickname “Kapulier shul.” For Kutner. “The children of today will be the purpose of attracting members, B’nai the Jewish leaders of tomorrow. Giving Israel and BHH merged to form the them a solid background in Judaic stud- Union of Orthodox Congregations of ies is the only way to ensure the future Omaha (the UOC), with the intention of of our people.” eventually designing a new building. In

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1951, this new building, known as Beth Israel Synagogue, was dedicated.

Meanwhile, BHH, at 19th and Burt Streets, was kept as a place to hold services for those who lived in the area and couldn’t move near the new synagogue.

In December of 1999, members of Beth Israel approved moving the synagogue building to 126th and Pacific. In October of 2002, a ground breaking ceremony at the new site was held. Work is in progress on the 18,000 square foot building that will house a sanctuary, chapel, social hall, multi-purpose rooms and offices. Anticipated completion of the new building is February 2004.

“We hope the new building will usher in a new era of growth and vitality for Beth Israel,” said Rabbi Kutner. “Our goal is to create a dynamic and thriving synagogue that will meet the religious, spiritual, educational and social needs of our congregants.

“So many members of the Omaha Jewish community have roots at Beth Israel. We hope people will take advantage of the many opportunities at the new Beth Israel.” Rabbi Kutner adds, “It’s time to come home.”

As in 1951, a commitment to Beth Israel members has been made to maintain a location in mid-town Omaha for congregants living in the area of our current building Beth Israel looks toward a future as rich in heritage, community, and dedicated volunteerism as we have enjoyed in our past. For information on programs and services at Beth Israel, contact the synagogue office at 556-6288 or BethIsrael@novia.net.

Some information was gathered by Jeff Katzman for RDG Schutte Wilscam Birge, architects of the new Beth Israel building.

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It’s Time to Come Home

by RABBI HOWARD KUTNER Beth Israel Synagogue It is vital to the growth and vitality of any community to concentrate on getting newcomers to join its ranks. The pattern has been that rarely do our youth return after attending outof-town college, and therefore, our numbers are diminishing. To ensure the future of a strong Jewish community here in Omaha, we must address the issue of newcomers (pardon the pun).

The Omaha Jewish community has a lot going for it, and can be an attractive place for Jews to live. We just have to market our product in the right way.

We at Beth Israel are especially interested in welcoming newcomers as we celebrate our last Rosh Hashanah on 52nd Street and anticipate opening our new synagogue in February of 2004.

We hope that the new synagogue will generate an interest and excitement for our community to rediscover its Jewish roots and its rich heritage. We hope to welcome newcomers to the new Beth Israel with special programs geared toward attracting new members.

The subject of newcomers is very pertinent to this season of the year, with it’s theme of teshuva, or return. In America, the kiruv (outreach) movement of the past few decades has been gaining momentum. Today’s Orthodox world consists of many tens of thousands of “newcomers” to Torah observant Judaism. A host of kiruv organizations exist whose sole purpose is to attract

non-observant Jews to programs that expose them to what they have been missing in Judaism.

Never before in our history have there been so many yeshivot and day schools.

Never before have so many people been learning Torah and discovering the richness and beauty of living an Orthodox lifestyle. We are seeing a vibrant Baal Teshuva Movement, a movement where a return to Orthodoxy is taking place.

Up until the early 1960s, Orthodoxy was fighting a losing battle for the hearts and minds of American Jews. In the course of the past years, that has turned around. But despite the success of the movement, a majority of the Jewish community still remains unaffected. A cover story in the New York Magazine was entitled, “Are American Jews Disappearing?” Unfortunately, assimilation and intermarriage is still rampant.

As we approach Rosh Hashanah, we need to think about where we stand on the spectrum. Are our children and grandchildren going to be as Jewish as we are? Will they be raising Jewish children?

Perhaps we all need to become “newcomers”. Maybe not to Omaha. But to discovering Torah as a meaningful and fulfilling lifestyle. At Beth Israel, we welcome newcomers, and will help them along the path of a life of mitzvot. My slogan for the new building has been, “The New Beth Israel…it’s Time to Come Home.”

BETH ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS President: David Kohll; Vice Presidents: Bonnie Bloch, Maggie Gerber and Ann Moskovits; Treasurer: Russ Kaplan; Secretary: Toba Cohen-Dunning; Commissioners: Howard Gendelman, Julee Katzman, Sandy Kohll, Ann Moskovits, Fishel Paley, Lynne Saltzman, Dani Shrago, Georgia Ann Steinberg, Bruce Teichman, Dik Weiner, and Norm Zevitz.

SISTERHOOD CABINET MEMBERS Charlotte Kaplan, Georgia Ann Steinberg, Nadine Kutner, Leah Siegel, Sandy Kohll, Tibe Stoler, Susie Shyken, Annette Fettman, Jeanette Nadoff, and Bernice Cohen.

MARRIAGES Justin Alder and Barbara Feldman Ken Cox and Nikki Paley Benjamin Gonsher and Aviva Krombach Joshua Gonsher and Eva Warshawski Fishel Paley and Jean Shure Steve Kristoff and Renana Gross BIRTHS Sophia Leona Kohll daughter of Louis and Ivy Kohll B’NAI MITZVAH Audrey Gerber daughter of Donald and Maggie Gerber Arielle Levine daughter of Mike and Karin Levine Elina Yurikov daughter of Artur and Galina Yurikov DEATHS Celia Blank, Lester Bloom, Isadore Bogdanoff, Samuel Colick, Sam Eveloff, Morton Fisher, Ida Forbes, Shirley Gorelick, Celia Gorlicki, Miriam Grossman, Helen Guss, Yale Halperin, Lilly Joseph, Elsa Kahn, Sidney Klopper, William Poster, Dave Richtman, Genevieve Shwidelson, Yafa Shyken, Bess Weinstein, Jeff White, and Joshua White.

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Beth El Offers Warmth and Welcome

by LYNDA MIRVISH board, explained, “Our goal is to make Beth El a comCall it a shul, a temple or a synagogue, the Jewish munity of learners. We anticipate that when all ages are house of worship can be many things to many people- involved in continuing education, what will follow will -a place for prayer and spirituality, for learning and be an informed membership and an excellent school!”

With these thoughts in mind, the Beth El Synagogue educating, for fellowship and socializing. In turn, it provides opportunities for celebration and refuge for Talmud Torah (BESTT) is implementing important mourners.

Beth El Synagogue is such a place.

Both long-time members and first-time visitors experience the warmth and welcome as they leave the everyday world behind, and enter this “house of God.” On Saturday mornings, a synagogue volunteer greets worshipers with a cheerful “Shabbat Shalom” and hands them a copy of the Chumash. Services themselves abound with invitations to participate in the service‹from active roles on the bimah to responsive readings and song.

New Beth El members are made welcome with special The exterior of Beth El Synagogue shows the sanctuary, right, modeled after Polish shuls of recognition services and the last century, and the entrance, which also serves as the synagogue’s sukkah. events, and Beth El invites visitors to tour the building. changes and additions for the coming school year.

According to Education Director, Anna Besser, a new A relative newcomer to Omaha, Beth El’s Rabbi Mordechai Levin commented that he and his wife, Susi, Hebrew curriculum will concentrate on teaching stuand their three children, have found in Omaha “a com- dents to read the prayers fluently, and to understand mitted Jewish community. And besides this,” he added, and translate key words and roots, Moreover, the cur“Beth El is a vibrant congregation with meaningful pro- riculum calls for discussing the theme of each prayer in English, connecting the prayers to Jewish values, makgrams for people of all ages.”

Richard Fellman, Beth El’s President, is excited about ing connections between related prayers, participating Beth El’s present and future. “We wanted a rabbi who in the rituals and ceremonies of Jewish life and feeling combines spirituality and warm humanity with a deep comfortable in the synagogue.

The eighth grade program will focus on “Jewish knowledge of Jewish learning; in Rabbi Levin we have these qualities many times over. We have a new cantor, Values and Twentieth Century European Jewish Gaston Bogomolni, with a rich, romantic voice, a won- History.” The course will include studying Jewish comderful background in Jewish music, and a smile and munities of Europe prior to World War II, with Larry charm that have won over our congregation,” he said. Raful, the history of the Holocaust, with Gloria Kaslow, Fellman pointed out that, as a traditional and post-Holocaust Europe and the creation of the Conservative synagogue, Beth El holds daily morning State of Israel, with Beth Dotan. In addition, Harriet and evening services, “and our Shabbat services are Einziger will teach a course on Jewish values and their application in the students’ lives. attracting a growing following,” he added.

Other teachers in BESTT High School of Jewish “For almost a year, our innovative Friday evening services have been immensely popular. They are filled Studies will include qualified university instructors and with singing and warm feelings of welcome. And now,” community experts in an effort to expose the students Fellman explained, “once a month, we will offer an to excellent and mature instruction.

Kaslow pointed to the “Roots” program that will offer alternative to our traditional Shabbat morning service in the form of a parallel service that will focus on partici- a participatory approach to American Jewish history and culminate at the end of the school year in a trip to pation, discussions and song.

“Beth El has always offered an excellent after-school New York where the students will explore the immieducation program, and we continue to improve it. grant experience.

Beth El also plans to motivate parents’ involvement in Starting this fall, we have a full-time, fully-trained Jewish educator, Harriet Einziger,” he added. Einziger, their children’s Jewish education by developing a who has earned a Masters Degree in Jewish Education strong and active Parent-Teacher organization.

Beyond an academic Jewish education, Beth El offers from Spertus College in Chicago, assumed the position opportunities for young people to meet others in our as Adult/Family Program Director and Educator.

Gloria Kaslow, interim chair of the Beth El school Continued on next page

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 61

Beth El Offers Warmth and Welcoming Continued from previous page region and beyond through United Synagogue Youth (USY) and its middle school counterpoint, Kadima.

“The aim of these programs,” said Jeff Shyken, Beth El’s former youth director, “is to bring about a meaningful and fully reciprocal encounter between Judaism and the Jewish teenager.” He added that with USY, teens experience the Jewish way of living through study, action and fellowship and make lasting friends and memories.

Nor does the Jewish way of living stop with the education of the young people in the congregation.

“In fact,” says Kaslow, who also serves as co-chair of the long range planning committee, “we take our mission to embrace and include all members of our community very seriously. We offer programs for preschoolers, young people, men and women, older adults, and everyone in-between.”

Beth El offers congregational Shabbat dinners, and frequent Lunch and Learn sessions that follow Shabbat morning services and feature local or visiting scholars.

Periodically Beth El presents Scholar-in-Residence weekends for in-depth study on a variety of topics.

In addition, each Thursday at noon Rabbi Levin will lead the Introduction to Judaism class and, for those interested, he also offers a conversion to Judaism class. While children are in religion school on Sunday mornings, Rabbi Levin conducts a class for parents that focuses on how to transmit the Jewish traditions to children.

“This class is open to all Jewish parents in the Omaha Jewish community,” Rabbi Levin emphasized, “And we

invite all to attend.”

Rabbi Levin has found a high-tech way to reach out to his congregation and community. “I send a weekly message by e-mail,” he said, “It takes the form of a ‘Thought for Shabbat’ and is available to anyone who calls the synagogue office and asks to sign up.”

Beth El also has active Sisterhood, Men’s Club and HAZAK (for men and women over age 55) organizations.

These groups are dedicated to enriching the social lives of members and providing service to the synagogue.

Volunteers help tirelessly at synagogue functions and events and new volunteers are always welcome. Just call the office to learn about volunteer opportunities.

“It’s a great way to become involved in synagogue activities,” said Executive Director Larry DeBruin, “We always need help in baking for events, in the gift shop and for many other programs.”

A Rosh Hodesh group for Beth El women began earlier this year and has been extremely successful. Each month between 30 and 40 women meet at a home of a member to learn from a presentation by two of the members, and to share honest and deep discourse on matters important to Jewish women.

Beth El also offers a program of Adult B’nai Mitzvah preparation which concludes with a joint Bar and Bat Mitzvah ceremony.

On Shabbat mornings Beth El offers a sitter service, a K’tantan program with age-appropriate Shabbat activities for kids ages 6-9, and a Junior Congregation program to help students in grades 4-7 to learn the Shabbat morning service.

BETH EL SYNAGOGUE BOARD OF DIRECTORS President: Richard Fellman; Vice-presidents: Hyman Sukiennik, Michael Linn, and Sally Zipursky; Treasurer: Ron Feldman; Secretary: Lloyd Roitstein; BESTT Chairman: Gloria Kaslow; Past-president: Howard Epstein; board members: Ellene Edelstein, Sam Edelstein, Larry Hasslinger, Mikhail Ginsburg, Alan Goodman, M’Lee Hasslinger, Michael Hoberman, Fred Kader, Cheryl Lerner, Diane Malashock, Jane Murow, Allan Noddle, Larry Raful, Phil Ratner, Amy Reynolds, Steven Riekes, Joel Schlessinger, Andrea Scioli, Larry Shapiro, Martin Shukert, Sylvia Wagner, James Wax, and Harry Weiner SISTERHOOD President: M’Lee Hasslinger; Vice-president: Caryn Rifkin; Secretary: Kathy Weiner; Treasurer: Amy Reynolds.

Youth activities range from the High Holiday youth program providing Junior Congregation, learning sessions and activity sessions for children through grade seven, including infant and toddler care so parents can participate in services.

Beth El also sponsors a weekday program for preschoolers. In addition, the monthly Kids Snack and Learn for four-year-olds focuses on Jewish holidays or seasons, allowing the children to enhance the learning experience with craft making.

President Fellman extended an invitation to all members of the community to visit Beth El with these words, “to experience its unusually beautiful building (which, is fully paid for), enjoy the warmth of the service and the conviviality of the congregants.”

He made particular mention of the innovative “Gateway” program designed by the Jewish Federation together with Omaha synagogues and which offers young adults the opportunity to participate fully in Jewish activities in the Metro. Fellman further explained that those aged 19-30 who are not current members of the JCC or a synagogue may avail themselves of membership in both the JCC and any Omaha synagogue of their choice at the welcoming fee of $300 for singles ($450 for couples) for the first year. Membership dues will also be reduced for the second year.

Beth El will celebrate its 75th anniversary as a congregation next year, and has been in its present location since 1991. For more information about Beth El and its programs, call 492-8550; or visit us at :www.bethel-omaha.org.

MEN'S CLUB President: Larry Hasslinger; Vice-presidents: Harry Weiner and Ben Shapiro; Secretary: Fred Kader; Treasurer: Les Kay; Past-president: Glen Fineman; board members: Lloyd Roitstein, Jerry Shkolnik, Michael Linn, and Dan Levitan.

HAZAK President: Jim Wax; Vice-president: Alan Goodman; Secretary: Harriet Marcus; Treasurer: Ilse and Marcel Kahn; Chairmen: Gloria Goodman, Natalie Rubin, Dee Goodman, Frances Gottlieb; Members-at large: Reva Oruch, Selma Sadofsky, Tootie Simon.

UNITED SYNAGOGUE YOUTH President: Sam Edelstein; Executive Vice-president: Josh Sweet; Vice-presidents: Jason Rich, Nathan Fineman, Daniel Murow, and Naomi Rennard.

Continued on next page

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2003

Let Us Improve

by RABBI MORDECHAI LEVIN Beth El Synagogue The High Holidays are a time for reflection and self-analysis, and bring us an invitation to change in ways that can heal ourselves and the world.

Rabbi Israel ben Eliezer (1700-1760)-known as the Baal Shem Tov, founder and first leader of Hasidism--was once gathered with his disciples at his home.

A cobbler passed by on the street and through the open window called, “Reb Israel, do you have something to mend?”

“No,” the Baal Shem Tov replied. And the cobbler said, “Look well and you’ll find something to mend.”

Then the rabbi said to his disciples, “Listen carefully, because the voice of God talked to us through the cobbler.

Each one of us should look carefully within, and we shall find things that need mending.”

If we are honest with ourselves, we must admit that we could be better in many areas. We could be more respectful with the people with whom we study or work, and increase our generosity, kindness, compassion and justice. We could be more sensitive in our relationship with our spouses, our children, parents or friends.

We could increase our Jewish knowl-

edge and observance of the ethical and ritual mitzvot, and strengthen our commitment to the Jewish people and Israel.

It is told that once Rabbi Simcha Bunam of Pshis’cha (1765-1827) went to the market to buy some food. The farmer, unsatisfied with the payment offered by the rabbi, said,

“Improve!”

The phrase touched the rabbi, and after that hechallenged his disciples and their self-satisfaction with their achievements, repeating the word of the farmer, “Improve!”

In the coming days, when we attend Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur religious services, let us search within ourselves and find those areas in our lives which we should mend. And when we leave the synagogue, let us take with us the determination to improve.

Best wishes for a year of life, health, fulfillment, justice and peace. Shana Tovah!

BETH EL SYNAGOGUE B’NAI MITZVAH Adam Krasne Edye and Howard Krasne Carolyn Ware Barbara Gottlieb Matthew and Thomas LeMaistre Deanne and John LeMaitre Leah Chapman Doug and Deborah Chapman Sara Klein Janet and Harry Klein Joshua Simon Steve and Marsha Simon Emily Giller Stuart and Barbara Giller Benjamin Nachman Gary Nachman and Beth Staenberg Rachel Reno Julianna and Russell Reno Daniel Canfield Sandra and Richard Canfield Sydney Goodman Suzy and Tom Goodman Nimrod Ginsburg Orly Gilat and Jacob Ginsburg

Jacklyn Saferstein Hansen Rhonda Saferstein and Jeff Hansen Michael Friedman Beth Friedman and Morris Friedman Arielle Levine Karen and Michael Levine Eugene Turetsky Lucy and Boris Turetsky Rachel and Kevin Kirshenbaum Barbara and Scott Kirshenbaum Rachel Gordon Sandy and Bruce Gordon Aaron Murow Allan and Janie Murow Liatte Dotan Beth and Amnon Dotan Steven Meyer Marcia and Michael Meyer Amy Durmaskin Julie and Jay Durmaskin Nikolai Salkin Trudy and Mike Salkin Gabriela Waesch Devorah and Guenther Waesch Tali Levin Rabbi Mordechai and Susi Levin

Erica and Sarah Chapman Doug and Deborah Chapman Henry Ginsburg Larissa and Mikhail Ginsburg

DEATHS Norman Batt, Milton Baum, Lillie Becker, Janet Berek, Joan Bernstein, Max Bittner, Helen Brodkey, Rabbi Kenneth Bromberg, Mildred Chudacoff, Phyllis Crandell, Faye Cooper, Jack Duitch, Dora Edelbaum, Ida Fridman, Lucille Gelenter, Marvin Gerber, Dorothy Parilman Glazer, Goldye Goldberg, Joseph Goldstein, Richard Goldstein, Yale Halperin, Jacob Justa, Linda Kahn, Sophie Kahn, Morry Kissin, Tillye Klaben, Sidney Klopper, David Krantz, Dr. Benton Kutler, Sarah Lewis, Adele Mandell, Marlys Marion, Stanley Mayper, Julian Mirvish, Edith Noddle, E. Leo Nogg, Selma Noodell, Harold Perelman, Yale Richards, Mabel Rips, Edward Rosen, Diana Rubin, George J. Schapiro, Celia Schwartz, Sylvia Schwartz, Ervin Simon, Tauba Szmerlak, Henrietta Trichter, Bernard L. Weiss, Margo Westfall, Louis White, Adele Wolf, and Adele Youcha.

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September 26, 2003

The Familiar and the New: Beyt Shalom Reconstructionist Synagogue Blumkin Jewish Home, leading Shabbat services

by MARTI NERENSTONE monthly, and helping various holiday celebrations, for Beyt Shalom Being new to any Jewish community offers a wide such as Purim, complete with costumes and Simchat variety of choices of synagogues. If you are looking for Torah, parading through the halls of the nursing home.

As a Reconstructionist community, we utilize Kol a synagogue which embraces community, encourages membership participation, has a warm atmosphere and HaNeshema (Voice of the Soul), the series written is accepting of all people, then Beyt Shalom may be specifically for the Reconstructionist movement. Both the siddur and the machzor are user friendly, containyour choice.

Beyt Shalom is part of the Reconstructionist move- ing Hebrew, transliteration, translation and commenment. A Reconstructionist Jew has strong commitments tary all together. This allows for full participation in both to tradition and to the search for contemporary services by everyone, as well as the opportunity for meaning. Reconstructionists encourage all Jews to individual and thought-provoking readings.

Worship services embrace a little of everything-- we enhance their own lives by reclaiming our shared heritage and becoming active participants in the building like to sing, and often welcome percussion and other musical instruments to accompany our guitar player. of the Jewish future.

Founded by Mordechai Kaplan, a rabbi and professor at the Jewish Theological Seminary, Reconstructionism defines Judaism as an evolving religious civilization. Each generation of Jews has subtly reshaped the faith and tradition of the Jewish people.

Reconstructionist Jews seek to nurture this evolution. We see it as the lifeblood of Judaism, the power that allows Judaism to continue as a dynamic tradition in every age. A Song leader Marti Nerenstone, center, leads children and parents of Beyt Shalom in the good example of this evoluHanukkah blessings. The congregstion is noted for their potluck dinners. tion is the fact that bat mitzvah, a staple for today’s girls, began with Rabbi You’ll hear familiar and new tunes, traditional and contemporary, Hebrew and English. Worship services are Kaplan’s daughter.

Beyt Shalom embraces this commitment to tradition, assisted by many helpers, and we often have a differcombined with our duty to question and study. Beyt ent Torah reader for each aliyah during the morning Shalom is small community--almost like family or a service of a bar/bat mitzvah or holiday.

Our membership costs are reasonable and accommohome away from home. We are inclusive and egalitarian, embracing all regardless of their age, sexual orien- dating to individual situations. Our services and activities are open to all who are interested. The Beyt tation, or level of observance.

A lay led community, we offer a wide range of pro- Shalom community meets at 3012 S. 119th St in Omaha. gramming and participatory opportunities. Regular Our mailing address is P.O. Box 390352, Omaha, Kabbalat Shabbat, family Shabbat and holiday services Nebraska 68139. To find out more, please call Helene are held in our leased building. B’nai mitzvah are cele- at 553-7184, Alice at 334-1755, Robin at 660-2395, or brated with the bar/bat mitzvah leading the Kabbalat Marti at 323-9504. E-mail any inquiries to Helene at: or to Alice at: Shabbat and Shabbat morning services. Religious hgold@creighton.edu school, taught by experienced congregational mem- aweiss824@aol.com.

Continued on next page bers, meets at the Jewish Community Center.

Beyt Shalom members love to cook and eat, and BEYT SHALOM prides itself on regular havdalah potluck meals, comRECONSTRUCTONIST CONGREGATION munity seders for Tu B’Shevat and Pesach, and baking Rabbinic Advisor: Rabbi Myer Kripke; Lay Leader: classes for challah and hamentaschen.

Marti Nerenstone; Co-Presidents: Helene Lohman and Adult education seminars are led by our rabbinic adviArnold Radloff; Treasurer: Jean Goldfein; Trustees: Jeff sor, Rabbi Myer Kripke, who was a student of Rabbi Ferber and Deana Liddy; Religious School Director: Kaplan. B’nai mitzvah students are given individualized Alice Weiss; Tikkun Olam Coordinator: Ken attention, from both me--our lay leader, and Rabbi Munzesheimer; Family Shabbat Coordinators: Robin Kripke, who helps each student with a d’var Torah.

Hellwig and Jenni Schlossman.

As a religious community, we also engage in mitzvah B’NAI MITZVAH projects as part of our dedication to Tikkun Olam.

Joshua Pilley Once a month, members, including teenagers, serve son of Dr. Mark Pilley and Karen Alexander food at a homeless/near homeless soup kitchen in the Anna Weiss Munzesheimer area. We enjoy a unique partnership with the Rose daughter of Alice Weiss and Ken Munzesheimer

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by RABBI MYER S.KRIPKE, Rabbinic Advisor Beyt Shalom Reconstructionist Congregation Contemplation of the New Year calls for a review of the old, and plans as well as prayers for the new.

Review of the old demands rejection of failed plans and necessarily calls for--are you ready? Reconstruction.

Rabbi Mordechai M. Kaplan happened on the word reconstruction when he studied American Judaism. He found that the approaches to Judaism in the old world didn’t work in the new. By the “old world” he meant “old” both in the temporal sense (they weren’t addressed to the problems of now) and in the geographical sense (what was true in Eastern Europe could not be conveniently and meaningfully transported to America).

He saw that the American Jew (and he was one of them!) was unhampered by the weight of centuries of second-class citizenship. The American Jew was a child of a new world, a world created by science and pragmatism, freed of old superstitions and unhampered by battered mental baggage. The American Jew looked to new horizons, with all of the rights and privileges of

other Americans.

His Judaism had new requirements. It had to be lovingly, optimistically and consciously reconstructed.

With that kind of background and that kind of thinking, the Reconstructionist congregation Beyt Shalom greets fellow Omahans and fellow Jews for the New Year. We wish you well as you pursue your own interpretations of Judaism. And we join with you in hope and in prayer for a new year of joy and achievement.

We pray for us all, one community, and for Israel, to which our hearts turn. And we pray, as Jeremiah taught us, for the welfare of our city and our fellow citizens in a great city and state, and in a great country, a country to which we owe our liberty, and to which now we pledge our sacred honor and our loyalty.

Soul Music

by RABBI M. MENDEL KATZMAN Chabad of Nebraska It is easy to describe Rosh Hashanah with the usual generalizations--it’s the Jewish New Year, a time for introspection. The Biblical term is Yom Teruah--a day for the sounding of the shofar. What is this ritual of hearing the ram’s horn blown? Is there a universal message in this tradition?

How would you like the opportunity to hear the voice of your soul? The unique inner voice that transcends the personality we superimpose at work, the masks we wear as we navigate our social circles and the defense mechanisms we employ as we protect our vulnerability?

On Rosh Hashanah we have exactly that extraordinary opportunity. On the New Year, the anniversary of the day on which humankind was created, we blow the shofar which mirrors the cry of the soul. The Bible tells us that on this day G-d breathed the soul of life into the first person.

Every Rosh Hashanah man blows his breath, the breath that G-d breathed into him, through a ram’s horn in order to hear the sound of his soul reverberate.

Through the cry of the shofar we renew our connection to our essential being, to our soul, and carry that strength into the year ahead.

But why a ram’s horn? The sheep or ram is known to be the most gentle and innocent of creatures, void of the aggressive nature of other animals. The ram reminds us that our soul is that part of ourselves that is gentle and innocent, untainted by the aggressive manipulative world we inhabit.

Our soul is not seasoned by experience nor is it the result of our connections, accumulated wealth, social status or ability to dominate others. The voice of our

soul comes from the most subtle innocence within.

We cannot use something man-made to express this voice because the human being is affected by his circumstances, his experiences and his ego. We therefore take something outside of ourselves--the ram’s horn, the simplest instrument--that produces the haunting, piercing cry most closely approximating the pure sound of the soul.

The prayer that we recite before the blowing of the shofar further unlocks the secret of the sound: “From my narrow place, from my depths and constraints, I call to You and You respond to me from Your expansive place.”

The challenges of life that force us into a “narrow place”--a place of difficulty, pain, frustration, regret or sorrow--are meant to be catalysts that compel us to cry out to G-d for something more than our materialistic reality. The prayer assures us that when we cry from the “narrow place” the response is not proportional to the request but flows from G-d’s most expansive generosity.

In fact, the shape of the shofar--narrow at one end and wide at the other--mirrors this experience. The purest cry that is emitted from the constraints of our lives reaches the purest place in heaven and opens up the channel of all blessings.

Recognizing that we live in a world that entangles us in the mundane struggles of life, the High Holidays provide an oasis in time during which we renew our connection to the essence of all life. In so doing we connect to the flow of G-d’s blessing which imbues our lives with physical and spiritual blessing for the year to come.

On Rosh Hashanah may we all be blessed with a meaningful New Year--a renewed vitality and commitment to the transcendent and unifying soul that lies at the heart of our own lives, the lives of our families and the lives of our communities. May the wonderful blessings of this year surpass anything we have ever experienced--with universal peace and tranquility through the coming of Moshiach now!

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 65

Chabad Celebrates 17th Year in Omaha Doing “Good”

by GARY JAVITCH nated by Louri and Charlie Sullivan, Like it has for many years, Chabad enhanced the usage of the facility.

House of Omaha will send its heartfelt Now, there is a wonderful new kitchen wishes for a sweet, happy and healthy downstairs along with a warm and cozy New Year along with a beautiful and “Kids Area.” informative art calendar. The calendar In their effort to generate a spiritual will also mark the 17th year that Chabad revival, Rabbi and Mrs. Katzman have House of Omaha has been in existence. developed creative and innovative proFittingly, the word tov (“good” in gramming to serve the Jewish communiHebrew) has the numeric value of 17. ty, introducing a number of activities that Thus, that number has taken on added have enjoyed great success. significance for Rabbi Mendel Katzman Especially helpful to newcomers is the and his wife, Shani.

Since their arrival in 1986 to start the Chabad House, the couple has worked to provide good things for Jewish Omaha. In turn, Omaha has been good for them. “The warmth and welcoming spirit of this town made us feel at home immediately,” Rabbi Katzman stated.

“We came with a simple mission,” the rabbi contin- Eli Lipsker, father of Shani Katzman, center, and Rabbi ued. “We wanted to provide Mendel Katzman, celebrated the bris of the newest Katzman opportunities for every indi- baby, Schneur Zalman. vidual to enhance his or her Jewishness. 10-Point Mitzvah Campaign.

This We pursued our goals in a non-judgmental includes helping put up new mezuzahs environment. We did not require member- and koshering a kitchen. Other proship or a particular level of observance-- grams include “Getting Ready for the we accepted individuals as they were.”

Holidays” and the popular pre-school Because of the openness of the local enrichment and Talmud Torah programs.

Chabad, members of the Reform, “Of particular note,” Mrs. Katzman Conservative and Orthodox movements remarked, “is our W.O.W. program. The have warmly accepted Rabbi Katzman. weekly classes and monthly Women of A basic philosophy of the Chabad mis- Worth meetings focus on timely topics sion is “to do one more Mitzvah today and helping women achieve their innerand bring Moshiach Now.” most potential.” The rapidly growing Most recently, the Tom and Darlynn Chabad-Lubavitch center in Omaha also Fellman family renovated the lower level administers a wide array of youth proat Chabad House. The project, coordi- grams--like the Gan Israel Day Camp--

regular services and Torah classes.

Not as well known, but equally important in the community is Rabbi Katzman’s highly regarded police chaplaincy and his visits to the penitentiary to minister to the needs of Jewish inmates. Another community programming component is a kosher food pantry created at Chabad House for those in need who want to observe dietary requirements, according to Dinah Abrahamson, project coordinator.

In pursuit of doing good deeds, Chabad has recently established L’Chaim --a program that caters to adults with special needs. L’Chaim assists these individuals through support, education and mentoring, meeting weekly under the directorship of Nancy Wolf.

“Israel is a light unto the nations, and Chabad is a light unto Israel. Today, Chabad Lubavitch is the largest Jewish educational, outreach and social service organization in the world,” stated Daniel Ayalon, an Israeli Ambassador serving in the United States.

The Chabad mission for over two centuries has been Jewish continuity, and promoting peace and harmony with all mankind. The founder, the Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, sent thousands of emissaries throughout the globe in the last 50 years, from Bangkok to Zaire and all over America. For those familiar with the Chabad movement, there is a common Jewish saying, “Where there is Coca Cola, there must be Chabad.”

Chabad’s uniqueness can be characterized by an observation made by Rabbi Eric Yoffie, president of the Jewish reform movement at their national convention in 1999 when he said that “many, many Jews will tell you that a

Chabad Rabbi was the first one to care, to really care, about their spiritual lives.”

Communities respond to the Chabad movement, according to their website, because the religious movement chooses not to focus on what divides the Jewish community. The key to their success is that they build bridges across theological lines. An important Chabad goal is to make Jewish people proud of their identity. At the same time, they recognize the level of Jewish observance differs. Some Jews practice more and some a little less.

Chabad respects that and appreciates the reciprocal feelings in return.

The Jewish people survived throughout its turbulent history, and are flourishing today because Jews adhered to and revered true, authentic, unchanged Judaism. So the movement focuses on tradition, but is willing to get Jews to that level--one patient step at a time.

Unlike many other international organizations--all monies raised by individual Chabad Lubavitch centers remain in the local community. The thousands of Chabad centers throughout the world are all independently built and supported by local communities. Local individuals who strongly feel the necessity of this project contribute all the funds. It is their investment in their community.

“We invite all newcomers to join with us. We have great plans for the future, including Bar and Bat Mitzvah clubs to promote continuation of Jewish education after the special event,” said Shani.

“And for the New Year,” concluded Rabbi Katzman, “let’s all resolve to fill the coming year with more good than ever.

May we merit the coming of Moshiach, an event that will change the world.”

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September 26, 2003

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September 26, 2003

Happy Birthday!

by RABBI ARYEH AZRIEL Temple Israel I confess to a hang-up about celebrating my birthday.

It makes me uncomfortable. I would rather the day just slip by unnoticed.

The aging process does not annoy me. The usual banter about aging is that the alternative is worse.

Perhaps it’s the self-centeredness of the day that leaves me less than enthusiastic.

The birthday theme of Rosh Hashanah can on the other hand, be very satisfying. To start life anew, to overcome yesterday’s errors, to begin again when liberated by refreshed hope, to discover new possibilities, to wake-up to the excitement of surprises for tomorrow, that is the spirit of the Jewish New Year. I prefer celebrating Rosh Hashanah’s emphasis on the birthday of the world, than my own.

Take a look at the secular New Year with its raucous celebration. Frankly, I am as uncomfortable with this observance as I am about my birthday.

Surely the themes of the Jewish New Year are present as well on the eve of January. But there is another side to the secular celebration.

Drinking is the most universal image of New Year’s Eve. This Bacchanalian dimension commends these attitudes: Forget the world; have a wild time; relax a little and enjoy; raise your glass on high and escape from it all.

I don’t believe these purposes are fruitful, or even beneficial. The next day is nothing more than a hangover instead of an opportunity.

We all require respite from the pressures of our routine and challenges.

Nothing wrong, I believe, with such a purpose. But

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Rosh Hashanah Greetings is this renewing of life, the restoring of energy, joy and hope: To forget the world and to escape from it? I think not.

To discover the world and to embrace it in a different way; To find healing that diminishes old hurts with balm of tenderness and forgiveness; to pause by a gurgling brook somewhere in a woodsy place, where are heard only whispers of hidden things in God’s splendorous world celebrated this way the New Year becomes an embrace of life instead of its repudiation.

To grasp the hand of a loved one, and bound together in spirit to walk in the crisp winter's night; The music of a symphony; The voices of the choir; The stage whose drama is a catharsis: These are tributes to imagination and the mystery of creativity. I can list a thousand more human, loving ways to embrace the world, celebrating thereby life, love, family, friends.

For the New Year I yearn for an end to cruelty, to poverty, to loneliness, to sham, to hypocrisy. I yearn for a rainbow in God’s Heaven, the promise of contentment and peace. Wasn’t that in Noah’s time God’s promise? If God would not do it alone, then let us determine so to do as instruments of God’s will.

Make a rainbow for your Rosh Hashanah celebration this year. It is far better than a hangover. The spiritual uplift will be deeply satisfying.

Life is amazingly serene with a blessing when there is a rainbow in the house.

TEMPLE ISRAEL BOARD OF TRUSTEES President: Gary Kaplan; Vice-presidents: M. Ronald Brodkey, Larry Gendler, Wendy Goldberg; Secretary: Rick Fox; Treasurer: Jon Meyers; Assistant Treasurer: John Lehr; Past-president: Michael Walts; Board Members: Janet Baack, Kathy Beauchaine, Dennis DePorte, Harry Gates, David Gilinsky, John Glazer, Todd Hutton, Nancy Nogg, Jeffrey Passer, Barbara Rips, Jane Rips, Kimberly Robinson, Stacey Rockman, Jeffrey Schweid, Jeffrey Smedlund, John Waldbaum, Andi Willensky, Amee Zetzman, and Judy Zweiback.

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2003

Welcome to Temple Israel!

by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Temple Israel Communications Coordinator Founded in 1871, Temple Israel, the home of Reform Judaism in Omaha, was the first Jewish congregation to be established in Nebraska. In its mission to support and enhance spirituality, education, and tikkun olam, repairing the world, Temple Israel strives to promote a culture of prayer that links the congregation’s history with fresh approaches to worship and bridges tradition with modernity.

“We deeply value the presence of people of all ages and all lifestyles,” emphasize the clergy, Rabbi Aryeh Azriel, Rabbi Craig Marantz, and Cantor Wendy Shermet in a brochure especially for new and prospective members.

Regular Shabbat evening worship services at Temple are at 7:30 p.m. Once a month, there is a 6 p.m. service in the chapel and a concurrent family service in the sanctuary. Temple’s youngest congregants celebrate at a monthly 6 p.m.

Tot Shabbat with songs and stories followed by a cookie ‘oneg’.

Morning Shabbat services are preceded

by Bagels and Sacred Books at 9:30.

Worship services begin at 10:30 a.m. and are usually led by B’nai Mitzvah students.

On some holidays, congregational dinners precede services. A klezmer trio adds to the exuberant atmosphere of Simchat Torah, and frivolity reins at the annual Purim Spiel.

Music is an essential part of the worship experience at Temple Israel helping to define the yearly calendar and life cycle events and fulfilling the need for worshippers to express themselves.

Children begin formal Jewish educa-

tion in kindergarten and celebrate this milestone in their lives at a Consecration ceremony on Simchat Torah. They begin a curriculum that embraces learning activities that encourage them to have a relationship with God, to develop an understanding of Torah and their Jewish heritage, and to practice mitzvot.

The Middle/High School program allows students a degree of choice in their classes with a number of enriching extra-curricular activities. Intensive B’nai Mitzvah preparation, including instruction in chanting trope, culminates with Confirmation at the end of 12th grade.

Informal Jewish education begins with youth group participation for third and fourth graders in Club 34 and fifth and sixth graders in Club 56, Junior Youth Group for seventh and eighth graders, and Omaha Temple Youth Group for any Jewish teen in the community in grades nine through 12. Youth group participation often leads to Jewish summer camps and travel opportunities to Israel strengthening youngsters’ connection with Jews locally, nationally, and worldwide.

Catering to all ages, Temple presents a host of adult education courses, scholarin-residence weekends, adult retreats, and guest lecturers. From the clergy and local college professors to national and international scholars, Temple offers Hebrew language study, Torah and Bible study, current event discussions, introduction to Judaism, Jewish history, topics on Israel, raising Jewish children, adult B’nai Mitzvah, and parenting workshops to mention a few.

In addition, Temple’s Outreach pro-

gram serves the needs of interfaith couples, those considering interfaith marriage, Jews-by-choice, unaffiliated individuals interested in Judaism, relatives of interfaith couples, and all others interested in Jewish values and traditions.

Temple is supportive of interfaith families and helpful to them as they make Jewish choices. A number of opportunities are planned each year to connect, share, and deepen Outreach participants’ understanding of Judaism.

Based on the Jewish values of gemilut chasadim, acts of loving kindness, and tikkun olam, repairing the world, the

forums, partnering with inner-city schools, working with the homeless and elderly, and taking a stand on issues.

Women of Reform Judaism (WRJ) and Men’s Club also enrich the life of the congregation. WRJ plans numerous events such as speakers, book talks, cooking demonstrations, a retreat, and weekly Oneg Shabbats. Men’s Club organizes ushers for worship services, hosts speakers and events including an annual New York Deli Night.

For more information, Temple invites visitors to its website: www.templeisrael-ne.org.

The front of Temple Israel shows the office and conference room addition, as well as the Livingston Chapel.

Caring Committee and the Social Justice Committed “to comforting you in times Committee are involved in the Jewish of need and rejoicing with you when you and the secular communities. Activities celebrate the simchas in your life,” the include assisting Temple members who clergy foster “prayerful moments in our are ill, delivering welcome home meals sacred spaces, in study, and in all aspects for congregants who have been in the of congregational life,” Rabbi Marantz hospital, an annual blood drive, and said. “We hope these moments will nurShabbat services at nursing homes. ture greater spiritual reflection and growth Social Justice sponsors educational and bring you closer to God.”

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September 26, 2003

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Teshuvah Can Be Sweet

by RABBI CRAIG MARANTZ Associate Rabbi, Temple Israel The Yamim Nora’im turn our focus inward as we prepare our hearts and minds for teshuvah, repentance.

The Days of Awe help return us Godward to enlightened paths of virtue and goodness. And couched in the birth of the world and, more importantly, God’s creative process, the High Holidays help us, cleansed of our sins and wrongdoings, recommit ourselves to our partnership with the Source of All Being in the work of tikkun olam, the repairing of the world.

To be sure, teshuvah is often a sobering and challenging process; but it can also a sweet one. And what could be sweeter than a journey that brings healing and wholeness and change for the better? Therefore, we mark this important journey (and the new year in which it commences) with apples and honey--delectable treats that fill our palate with delightful sweetness, delicious reminders of how it feels to bring ourselves back to God’s path.

I suppose it comes as no surprise that we consider good food and moments of Jewish significance in the same breath. There is good reason. My theory is that wherever there is food, there is also opportunity for hospitality.

And hospitality, hachnasat orchim, or the “bringing in of guests,” is a mitzvah rooted in the early days of our heritage. In Gen. 18, Abraham and Sarah hasten to serve their guests bread so that they may be refreshed.

In Exodus 2, Yitro invites an Egyptian stranger to break TEMPLE WOMEN OF REFORM JUDAISM-OMAHA President: Stacey Rockman; President-Elect: Nancy Nogg; Treasurer: Arlene Adelson; Vice-presidents: Karli Newman, Andi Willensky, Rosie Zweiback, Tami Field, Cindy Goldberg, Deb Marburg, and Andie Gordman; WRJ-O Special Projects: Gretchen Radler.

MEN’S CLUB President: Harry Gates; Treasurer: Alan Fredricks.

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

bread with him. The stranger happens to be none other than Moses himself. The Encyclopedia Judaica teaches us: “In ancient Israel, hospitality was not merely a question of good manners, but a moral institution which grew out of the harsh desert and nomadic existence led by the people of Israel.”

Thus, the apples and honey accenting our Rosh Hashanah meal remind us not only of the potential for own spiritual growth, they also punctuate our moral responsibility to nurture our Jewish community.

Our Sages teach us: “Kol Yisrael arevim zeh ba’zeh: All Israel is responsible for one another.” (BT Shevuot 39a) We cannot build a greater sense of belonging unless we reach out to each other, especially those who are new to our community or those we do not yet know.

So, as you bring in the new year, show some hospitality. Invite a newcomer or two to enjoy a meal with you and your circle of family and friends. Sit down with someone you haven’t taken the time to know and enjoy some apples and honey. And, as we all crunch away, may our hearts ring with this beautiful prayer from our tradition: “May it be Your will, our God and God of our ancestors to renew us for a good, sweet year.”

ISRAEL OMAHA TEMPLE YOUTH GROUP President: Janet Baack; Vice-presidents: Chelsea Taxman, Molly Needelman, Josh Bleicher, and Jake Bleicher; Secretary: Sara Rips; Special Projects Coordinators: Margaret Terry and Caroline Terry; Junior Youth Group Liaisons: Eliza Cowan, Jackie Neesman, and Anne Rips; Member-in-Service:Brandon Thomas.

Continued on next page

Page 69

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September 26, 2003

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TEMPLE ISRAEL BAR MITZVAH Daughters David Anderson Kallie Marie Baker Dr. Magda Peck and Debbie Malashock Baker Dr. James Anderson and Gary Baker Evan Baack Maya Isabel Budwig Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Baack Avvy Mar and Michael Budwig David Clark Emma Persell Ferer Mr. and Mrs. James Clark Courtney and Matthew Ferer Robert Friedman Rose Ellen Friedland Mr. and Mrs. Michael Friedman Jamie and Ted Friedland Isaac Frishman Lauren Tiffany Friedman Mr. and Mrs. Seth Frishman Joan and Michael Friedman Joe Goldberg Elizabeth Zoe Kazor Mr. and Mrs. David Goldberg Michelle and Stuart Kazor Matthew Heyman Laura Tompkins Kirshenbaum Ms. Betsy Baker and Jennifer and Matt Kirshenbaum Mr. Richard Heyman Rachel Miriam Kricsfeld David Hirshman Debbie and Dr. Alan Kricsfeld Mr. and Mrs. Stan Hirshman Lauren Sarah Kugler Robert Newman Traci and Lance Kugler Jeffrey and Dr. Patricia Newman Sydney Reese Kully Michael Vann Denese and Tim Kully Leslie Vann and Thomas Vann Leora Bethany McNamara Aviva Segall and Patrick McNamara BAT MITZVAH Ariana Rose Moser Jaclyn Adelson Traci Seldin Moser and David Moser Dr. and Mrs. Anthony Adelson Grace Ann Newman Sarah Bleicher Jennifer and Jamie Newman Dr. and Mrs. Joel Bleicher Isabella Delrogh Persky Rachel Brodsky Cindy and Joshua Persky Mr. and Mrs. Joel Brodsky Emilie Grayce Sacks Rebecca Crabb Jamie and Scott Sacks Drs. Suzan and Ian Crabb Samantha Ellie Slusky Samantha Kenik Gretchen and Jay Slusky Dr. and Mrs. Jay Kenik Olivia Grace Turkel Rachael Monsky Didi and Jeffrey Turkel Mr. and Mrs. Henry Monsky Abby Rose Vann-Cohn Sarah Sadofsky Leslie Vann and Barry Cohn Mr. and Mrs. Rodney Sadofsky Sophie Blair Widman Lindsey Wolpa Julie and Larry Widman Mr. and Mrs. Steven Wolpa Twin Daughter and Son BIRTHS Jordan Marissa Maged Sons and Jacob Karl Maged Zachary Cohen Bahar Marci Luefschuetz and David Maged Keri and Phillip Bahar Mason Charles Eisenberg ARRIVALS November and Steve Eisenberg Son Maxwell Bennett Goldstein Samuel Joseph Combs Patricia and Stephen Goldstein Rachel and Tim Combs Spencer David Gordman Daughter Allison and Jay Gordman Sophia Leona Kohll Yehuda Samuel HaLevi Ivy and Louis Kohll Ariela and Rabbi Baruch HaLevi Parker James Jazayeri WEDDINGS Julie and Peter Jazayeri Kimberly Janelle Broder Elijah Nathan Mogil and Justin Vaun Shur Leslie and Todd Mogil Courtney Claypool and Matthew Ferer David Michael Monasebian Jennifer Marshall Cribb Jacqueline and Dr. Douglas and Micah Ian Evans Monasebian Dana A. Current and Adam S. Wisnia Nathan Albert Munro Sharon Dorfman and Matthew Usher Lyndi and Eric Munro Barbie Feldman and Justin Adler Leo Truman Ray Jill Halvorson and Jeffrey Fredricks Shayna and Matthew Ray Katie Kaplan and Michael Cohen Benjamyn Paul Rosen Allison Kohll and Daniel Minzer Roseann and John Rosen Phyllis (Pam) Monasee Isaac Chia Schwartz and Arthur R. Rosen Esther Reed and Mordechai Schwartz Sarah Needelman and Tim Lake David James Simon Megan Marie Sampson Kim and Jim Simon and Andrew Jacob Weitz Brandon Randall Wigodsky Dr. Anne Stewart York Tereza and Andrew Wigodsky and Jeffrey Schrager Continued on next page Benjamin Louis Wilczewski Allyson and Christopher Wilczewski Max Menolascino Zweiback Amy Menolascino Zweiback and Timothy S. Zweiback

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September 26, 2003 TEMPLE ISRAEL DEATHS Evelyn Rosenquist Ahlstrand, Martin Archer, Bess “Babe” Aronoff, Alan Baer, Lawrence Batt, Norman Batt, Basya Beckerman, Celia Lipsman Blank, Freda Bleicher, Jerome Bleicher, Wanda Blotcky, Isadore Bogdanoff, Richard Bohbot, Edward J. Borofsky, Abe Brand, Bonnie J. Briece, Helen Brodkey, Tillie Bromm, Kirsten Budwig, Jennie Carnine, Peter Citron, Marvin Clumpus, Ruth Riseman Cohen, Gloria Lincoln Cohn, Robert Cohn, Samuel Colick, Irving Davis, Ruth Epstein, Sol Epstein, Harold Finkel, David Firestone, Harold I. Firestone, Morton L. Fisher, Ida Forbes, Helen Friedman, Marvin Gerber, Dorothy Glazer, Ethel Glusman, Richard M. Goldstein, Simon Hershorn, Louise M. Hill, Betty J. Jacobson, Lilly Joseph, Sol Joseph, Elizabeth L. Karnes, Doris Kahn Katelman, Eve Katz, Rose Kazor, Elisabeth Kennealy, Joseph Kennealy, Gerald Kibel, David Krantz, Jeanette Krizelman, Etta Lachman, Otmar Liebenstein, Irene Lyddon, Esther Lipshyts, Adele Mandell, M. Raymond Marsh, Miriam Martin, Stanley Mayper, Miriam Meiches, Melba Meyer, Edith Noddle, Ezra Leo Nogg, Louis T. Orloff, Milton Parker, Lillian Patis, Barbara B. Pierson, Toby Katelman Richards, Yale Richards, Jane Brodkey Richwine, Michael J. Riley, Elmer “Al” Rimerman, Margaret Robinson, Millard Rosenberg, Esther R. Ross, Sara Rothstein, Thomas Ryan, Glen “Sandy” Sandene, Celia B. “Cele” Schwartz, Sylvia Schwartz, Fred Silver, Ervin Simon, Steve Skid, James A. Smedlund, Joseph Soshnik, Vanessa Johnson Sosin, Philip Stein, Justin R. Stern, Leah Taiger, Helen Tarnoff, Bernard Wasserman, Lynn E. Weiner, Donald Weinstine, Yvette Weinstine, Lynne Eve Weiss, Jeff White, and Joshua White.

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 71

New Means Work

by RABBI DEBBIE STIEL Congregation B’nai Jeshurun Newness…newcomers, new year, new resolutions.

This is definitely a time to reflect on the quality of “new.” New can be great. It can be the pristine white Torah covers that we have not seen in a year. It can be a new High Holy Day outfit. It can be the way our souls feel after the Days of Awe. Yet ‘new’ is not always so enjoyable. As one who has had three new work environments over the last two years, I can readily recall being new! It can mean unfamiliar work environments; a host of foreign technology--including new computers, voice mail, cell phone systems, copy machines, and digital cameras; and new communities of people with their own culture and way of doing things. A newcomer to our city has, of course, even more with which to become accustomed.

It is helpful from time to time to remember the discomfort and huge learning curve of the newcomer.

What can we do to help that person feel more at home?

How can we ease their transition? Can we welcome this person into our home and our circle of friends? Can we lend a hand?

I remember stories my father would tell of working a fairly large territory when he was a young adult. He would go from town to town, and in whatever place he landed on Shabbat, someone (often there was more than one invitation) would invite him after Shabbat services for dinner.

We live in a time when we are more cautious in opening our doors. Yet it is vital that we, and every Jewish community, find ways to welcome the newcomer to our city and the newcomer to our religion.

Most synagogues do their best to help these newcomers feel welcome. If you are able to host someone for dinner or accompany a new family to services, let your synagogue know. They will match you up. Even beyond this--let us look for ways to open our hearts, hands, and homes to those who enter our communities.

To my new community--I thank you for all the ways you have welcomed me. I have the joy and the confusion of now being a new member of a community (Lincoln) and an “old” member of a community (Omaha) at the same time! I feel blessed by both.

“Hashivenu Adonai Eilecha Ve’nashuva. Chadeish yameinu kekedem. Help us to return to You, O Lord; then truly shall we return. Make new our days as in the past.”

May God grant renewal to you and yours. Steve, Micah, Jonah and I wish everyone a very happy and healthy new year.

B’NAI JESHURUN, LINCOLN Jeri Kohn BOARD OF DIRECTORS Richard and Cynthia Kohn President: Amy Zlotsky; board members: Linda Ben Boomer Emery, David Feingold, Alan Frank, Sara Friedman, Cheryl Boomer Lon Hollibaugh, Sarah Kelen, Randy Reinhart, Marc Callie Feingold Shkolnick and Barb Straus David & Ellen Feingold B’NAI MITVAH Alex Calidonna Ben Eisenberg Barbara Barron and Mark Calidonna Joseph & Lois Eisenberg DEATHS Steve Ganz Estelle Kominsky and Quentin A. Mortensen Pamela & Douglas Ganz BAT TORAH Emily Stanfield Judy McKeighan Barbara Straus and Scott Stanfield

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September 26, 2003

Despite Small Size, South Street Temple Runs Religious School

by BARB STRAUS for B’nai Jeshurun Lincoln’s South Street Temple sponsors a once-aweek educational program for Reform Jewish children from kindergarten through the confirmation: the Paula Storch Williams Religious School.

The South Street Temple has a small congregation, and the school enrollment stands at 25 students most years. Non-members can enroll their children for one year, then families must become Temple members to enroll their children in the Religious School in subsequent years.

In the coming school year, we will have four classes with combined grade levels and will offer two levels of Hebrew instruction. Each class day begins with an all school religious assembly, with the opportunity for each class to lead parts of the service. During the school year, we hold several all school and family events for holidays and special learning programs.

Under the guidance of our new rabbi, Debbie Stiel, who comes to Lincoln with a wealth of experience from several educational programs, we are shifting our curriculum structure. In past years,the entire school has focused on a single theme for the entire year.

This year we are moving to a “scope and sequence” curriculum model. In this approach, each grade will study Torah, Avodah (Jewish worship and observance), and Gemilut Hasadim (Jewish values) at age appropriate levels. Older students will also study Jewish history, Israel, and comparative Judaism.

Given Lincoln’s small Jewish community, a Jewish child is often the only Jew in his or her public school class or even the only Jewish child in that school.

Therefore, the Temple’s school holds a uniquely important place in our children’s lives.

In our warm, friendly, engaged community of learners, they know that they are part of a rich Jewish community in Lincoln and beyond.

Newcomer’s Guide to B’nai Jeshurun es offered Tuesday nights from 7-8:30

by SARAH KELEN for B’nai Jeshurun p.m. Fall topics for adult education will Congregation B’nai include: Jewish Ideas about God; Jeshurun, Lincoln’s “South Studying the Works of Amos Oz; and a Street Temple,” was foundHebrew Refresher course. Adult educaed in 1893, and is housed in tion offerings change monthly, so cona beautiful and historic tact the Temple for the most up to date building on the corner of information.

20th and South Street that Most weeks, Friday night Shabbat dates from 1924. The South services are held at 7:45 p.m. However, Street Temple is a Reform the second Friday of the month is a spesynagogue affiliated with cial 6:15 p.m. “Family Service”. This the Union of American service is shorter and is more accessible Hebrew Congregations. to young children who can participate The congregation has 115 through a lot of fun songs. Family servfamilies, and considers ices are great for “kids of all ages” among its strengths the including adults! Children are always warmth and friendliness of The beautiful interior of Congregation B’nai welcome at all services, and there is a small congregation where Jeshurun in Lincoln. babysitting available at the 7:45 services. everyone is mishpachah (family).

Shabbat morning services are at 9:30 a.m. on Rabbi Debbie Stiel joined Congregation B’nai Saturday mornings. There is also a weekly Torah Study Jeshurun on July 1 as the Temple’s 21st rabbi. Since her after Saturday morning services at 10:30. arrival, she has focused on enhancing the educational The South Street Temple strongly believes that everyopportunities for children and adults, and she is inter- one should be able to join the congregation, regardless ested in encouraging both adults and children to par- of finances and operates on a “Fair Share” dues policy. ticipate in all aspects of synagogue life.

Membership information is available from the Temple Rabbi Stiel noted, “A synagogue, in my opinion, is office, and informational brochures are available at the ideally a warm, welcoming and vibrant place where Temple as well. Non-members and visitors are always Jews come for community, prayer, education, enjoy- welcome to attend any service including all High ment, introspection, comfort, healing, inspiration, Holiday services. direction, and celebration.”

As the only UAHC congregation between Omaha and The Temple Board and its membership share Rabbi Denver, the South Street Temple is the congregational Stiel’s goal of making the South Street Temple a vibrant home for Reform Jews not only in Lincoln but across place that is open to all who come for worship and greater Nebraska. Member families live in Albion, study, and the Congregation takes seriously the biblical Friend, Hastings, Valparaiso and beyond. injunction to welcome the stranger.

For information about the Temple or any of its proThe Temple offers a Religious School for children grams, or to speak with Rabbi Stiel, call the office at from kindergarten through confirmation. Younger chil- 402.435.8004. dren participate in Gan Simcha, a pre-school religious Visit online at: www.southstreettemple.org or subschool run jointly with Tifereth Israel, Lincoln’s scribe to the announcement list, by sending an e-mail Conservative synagogue. to: announcements-request@southstreettemThe Temple also offers a wide range of adult educa- ple.org with the command “subscribe” in the body of tion opportunities through two to six week mini-cours- the message.

Best Wishes for a Happy and Healthy New Year!

September 26, 2003

Newcomers and Beginnings

by Rabbi Stanley M. Rosenbaum Congregation Tifereth Israel The Jewish New Year is a time of birth and renewal.

Rosh Hashana recalls the birth of the universe and of humanity. Every birth is a product of planning and labor.

“V’haaretz hayita tohu vavohu” (“And the earth was unformed and void”): From this simple beginning, stepby-step God fashioned the world we know. Whereas for God this process may have been elementary, for human beings-adults as well as infants--new situations often present great challenges.

This issue of the paper focuses on the newcomers in our communities. It is not easy to come to a new community.

Psychologists tell us that all major changes, even happy and beneficial ones, are stressful. We are facing the unknown and dealing with unstructured situations. We encounter strange people, places, and customs.

Indeed, as our ancient Sages taught, “Kawl hatchalot kashot” (“All beginnings are difficult”). And yet, they also observed that: “Mishaneh makom, mishaneh mazal” (“[One who] changes place, changes fortune”).

There is a popular (possibly inaccurate) statement that the Chinese pictograph for the word “crisis” is made up of two separate pictographs for the words “danger” and “opportunity.” Certainly while new situations contain the possibility of conflict and misunderstanding, it is also true that they possess the possibility of new friends, new relationships, new experiences, new learning, growth and development.

What is required for a desirable process of integration, whichever side of the process we are on, is an atmosphere of openness, acceptance, willingness to try, and tolerance of mistakes. A healthy and welcoming community is enriching

for newcomer and veteran alike.

There is another type of beginning to which we are all heir.

The Aseret Yemei Teshuva (the 10 Days of Repentance)--the period from Rosh Hashana to Yom Kippur--reminds us that God understands that human beings have frailties and often make serious mistakes. This period offers us the opportunity to re-evaluate our lives and to make a new beginning. Our God-given possibility--available to all humans--to make a new start, a fresh beginning, is possible any time.

Inhibited by embarrassment or shame or anger or guilt or laziness, we typically do not avail ourselves of the opportunity.

Judaism builds in a whole period each year to make it easier for us to put aside these inhibiting factors, and to repair our torn relationships and ourselves.

Self-examination (“chesbon hanefesh”) is the first step in self-improvement. It gives us an opportunity to affirm our positives, what we have achieved until now. And it also provides an opportunity to correct our errors, to see where we have failed, to learn from our mistakes, and to take steps to repair what can be put right.

A special case of renewal applies to newcomers to and those estranged from Jewish life. All too many Jews are ignorant about and feel alienated from many aspects of Judaism and synagogue life.

The rituals and customs are foreign to them. The Hebrew of the service is unfamiliar. And yet the values of Judaism, such as the ever-present possibility to make a fresh start, create a wholesome, optimistic, inspiring, and ennobling way of life.

Perhaps this year we all can make a commitment to begin exploring in depth our Heritage and its many riches.

Shana Tova!

TIFERETH ISRAEL-LINCOLN BOARD OF DIRECTORS President: Robert Evnen; Vice-President: Miles Bryant; Treasurer: Howard Feldman; Secretary: Nancy Coren; Trustees: David Brockman, Mike Eppel, and Jeff Mellen; Board of Education: Julie Brockman; Ritual, Adult Education: Charlie Coren; Social/Fundraising: Betty Mellen; Youth Activities: Richard Evnen; Kitchen: Bob Hutkins; Community Relations: Marcia Kushner; Federation Liason: Al Weiss; Membership: Cindi Weiss; Ex-Officio: Rabbi Stanley Rosenbaum; At Large Board Members: Jean Cahan, Joyce Davidson, Jane Graham, James Hamicksburg, Cece Hill, Brenda Ingraham, Allan Kenyon, Ben Kushner, Sheldon Kushner, Max Neiden, Jeff Spinner-Halev, and Rob Tobin.

Continued on next page

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 73

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Page 74

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2003

Rabbi Rosenbaum Celebrates 10 Years with Lincoln’s Centennary Congregation NORMAN M. SHELDON, DDS 12100 W. Center Road #110 Omaha, NE 68144

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by PAULA “PINKIE” HANSEN Administrator, Congregation Tifereth Israel Tifereth Israel was founded sometime in the late 1800s or early 1900s in Lincoln. A member of the Conservative movement and affiliated with United Synagogues of Conservative Judaism, Tifereth Israel is located at 3219 Sheridan Blvd. Today, some 130 families belong.

Rabbi Stanley M. Rosenbaum, a native of Detroit, MI, will celebrate his 10th anniversary with our synagogue this year. He teaches religious school as well as adult education and conversion classes. In addition to discussing Judaism with synagogue members, Rabbi Rosenbaum spends hours on community work and sits on the board of the Lincoln Interfaith Council.

A trained psychologist, Rabbi Rosenbaum also helps congregants on a personal as well as a religious level.

Tifereth Israel welcomes newcomers to attend Shabbat services on friday evenings at 8 p.m. and on Saturday mornings at 9:30 a.m. The Torah service usu-

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ally begins at 10:30 a.m. and Junior Congregation meets twice monthly at 10:15 a.m.

Weekly minyanim are held Monday and Thursday mornings at 7:15 a.m. Occasionally, we celebrate Family Services at an earlier time on Friday night.

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Our Religious School meets on Mondays and Wednesdays after school from 4-5:45 p.m. and on Sundays, from 10 a.m. to noon. The school’s curriculum is geared towards learning about Judaism, Jewish holidays, history, and Torah. During the school year, there are also many programs in which students, their parents and faculty are involved.

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 75

B’nai Israel Synagogue: the “Little Shul Off Broadway” when a blazing fire broke out and destroyed the building. After receiving a message from a neighborhood boy, the fire department rushed to the scene and used every piece of fire-fighting equipment available to battle the fire.

Howard Silber, a fellow member of B’nai Israel, said it best. “Much like the nation whose name it proudly bears, B’nai Israel Synagogue...has managed repeatedly to overcome adversity. With their hopes buoyed by the gamblingfueled boom in the economy of Omaha’s suburb to the east, leaders of the congregation express guarded confidence that the little synagogue on Mynster Street will continue to survive and might even enjoy some growth in membership.” Through good times and bad, we have managed to stand tall with smiles on our faces.

Although there are no longer organizations such as Hadassah and AZA here, there are other things that make B’nai Israel special. Whenever any member of the congregation leaves the community, there is a part of B’nai Israel that stays in his or her heart. Through this dispersion, there are many people countrywide that regularly seek out our services.

Whether it’s a college student from Maryland just looking for a place to spend Shabbat, or a lady from California who needed assistance with the Jewish cemetery, B’nai Israel has proven time and time again its ability to open its heart out and reach into others’ souls. This is why the phrase, “the synagogue that loves” is perfect.

B’nai Israel has gone through many

changes. One was the balcony built when the synagogue was still Orthodox for the women’s seating. Now it is the special place where the children go to play. Another may be the trophies and other awards that have been received.

These were once bragged and talked about, but now lay still in display cases for all to admire.

The chapel and sanctuary were once full and lively with young couples and children’s chatter, but now’ as I walk into the sanctuary, I feel a sense of protection. Perhaps this is because the synagogue captures the energy of all who walk through its doors’ so it always feels like someone is with you.

Though many changes have taken place, there is one thing that has stayed the same. It is the love for the synagogue.

When someone cares for you, it is hard not to care for that person. This holds true not only to people, but to B’nai Israel as well.

For almost 100 years, congregants have had a strong passion for their synagogue. Donations worth millions of dollars have been received, but not all in money form. The regulars who come every week, and those who come when they realize that they have been gone too long, even those who come just once for old times sake--these people are the ones that donate to B’nai Israel.

For these people are the ones who love that which loves them. These people take the time and effort to support the last standing Jewish institution in Southwest Iowa. It is these people who

carry the traditions from the past into the future.

These people are the ones that prove the title, “The synagogue that loves and is loved in return.”

June 1, 2004, marks the 100th anniversary of B’nai Israel Synagogue. There will be a celebration in honor of this incredible accomplishment.

I challenge every single person who has been touched by this synagogue to be there that day and everyday and thereafter. I challenge those who have not been fortunate enough to have the synagogue touch their lives to open up and let B’nai Israel into your heart.

I challenge those who may have been touched before but for one reason or another slammed the door to their heart to once again open it with a positive attitude. I challenge all Jews and and nonJews alike to support the bit of Judaism in Council Bluffs that once thrived.

I believe I speak as the congregation would, in saying thank you to all who have helped bring B’nai Israel to the place it is today.

B’nai Israel has survived so much. Our synagogue has been a victim of antiSemitic graffiti, destruction of property, burglary, vandalism, and more. Through these hardships, B’nai Israel still stands as tall and strong as do the Jewish people. B’nai Israel Synagogue will continue to stand tall and grow--regardless of what obstacles may stand in its way.

Forever will there be the small light flickering within each of us reminding us about the House of G-d that loves and is loved in return: B’nai Israel Synagogue.

l’shana tova

by SHAYNA KURLAND This is just one title given to Chevra B’nai Yisrael Synagogue, located at 618 Mynster St. in Council Bluffs, Iowa.

Another name I would personally give it is, “The synagogue that loves and is loved in return.” Why? Well, since people may not know, here’s what goes on across the river.

Services are held every Friday at 7:30 p.m. and every year during High Holidays as well. We even hold a service for Memorial Day at the Jewish cemetery closely associated with us. Hence--“The synagogue that loves.”

There is so much history buried in the depths of B’nai Israel’s walls. Perhaps that is why my mother has always said, “The walls smile,” when services or other joyous occasions take place. It is impossible to go into the synagogue without smiling more than once. Embedded on each room and each prominent object is a memorial plaque dedicated to someone. I find it very special that the community has come together in such a caring way.

The members of the synagogue who have long since left Council Bluffs, or unfortunately passed away, were incredible people. Through hard work, these people created a full-fledged synagogue.

The congregation started after Temple Emanuel disbanded in the late 1800s; its Torah and $900 left over from its treasury were donated to B’nai Israel.

The new congregation was made up of 14 men. Finally, a cornerstone was laid on June 19, 1904. The synagogue was a welcoming home for all Jews until 1930,

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2003

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The columns I do for special issues of the Jewish Press are by far, my favorite ones to write.

If you’re wondering why, I have to admit it has to do with my lazy streak.

You see, if it’s a special issue, there’s a theme or a topic, and that means I know what I’m going to write about. I just give it some thought, then take off on whatever the topic is. I don’t have to stare into space and wonder to myself what the heck I’m going to say this time.

All right, we’ve established that as a special edition, this paper has a theme running through it. In these pages we’re talking about newcomers to the Omaha Jewish community--folks who have moved here from other cities and now call Omaha home.

If you’re wondering what that has to do with me, I’ll tell you.

Of course I’m not a newcomer. I was born here and raised here and except for about five years, have lived here all my life. (so far!) However, there was a time 55 years ago, when my room-mate and I resettled in the Pacific northwest. We moved our meager belongings and our newborn first child to a very small town in Washington state.

We were fresh out of law school, we had a start on our family and we thought this was the best time to find a good place to live. That part of the country beckoned for many reasons (most of which escape me now), and early in September of 1948, we did it. The newly graduated attorney loaded the car and went ahead, finding us a small duplex in Longview, Washington.

I bundled up my six-week-old baby, boarded a United Air Lines plane with a generous supply of diapers, and bravely kissed my parents (brand new grandparents) goodbye.

As I recall, my baby started crying as soon as we took off and screamed most of the way to Portland, Oregon. He only stopped there because that’s where we got off the plane.

I’m not certain whose nerves were more shattered: mine or the poor souls who were traveling with us.

The thing I remember most clearly is how glad I was to get off that plane.

You have to remember, this was 1948 and it was a prop plane, not a jet. I didn’t think the noise of those engines would ever leave my ears!

We arrived to the welcoming arms of husband/daddy, and were driven the 60 some miles to Longview. And that’s precisely the moment we became newcom-

MID-CITY

ers. This was a very small community with maybe eight Jewish families, and though it sounds immodest, let me say we were welcomed very warmly.

Boy were they glad to get another Jewish family in their midst!

We were there for a little more than two years, then many circumstances contributed to our decision to return to our home town.

However, I have many memories of the lovely people who made us feel like family members almost immediately.

People our own age, people a little older and people much older--it didn’t matter.

We were welcomed in their homes and they took more than a passing interest in our lives and in the way our baby was growing into a toddler.

It was in one of those homes where our little one got a fistful of chrain (horseradish) one Passover and promptly shoved it into his mouth. You probably heard him and thought it was Elijah or somebody yelling, but it was just our little Stevie, mouth on fire, screaming gevald!

One of the reasons we were so welcome was because I was immediately drafted to teach a little sunday school class. Before that was established, the parents would drive the children into Portland for any religious classes or training.

Getting a boy ready for a Bar Mitzvah was really a labor of love on the part of the mom who drove the kid during the week, after school and on Saturday morning too. Naturally, I didn’t have anything to do with that, but for little kids and Sunday school, I was just the ticket.

In all fairness, it should be noted that whomever drove the kids into Portland was charged with the duty of shopping at the kosher deli and butcher. I don’t know if any of our new friends kept kosher, but you’d better believe they loved their corned beef and pastrami and the good breads from the Jewish baker. None of these things were available in our little town, obviously, so it was a double mitzvah to drive into Portland.

Yes, we were newcomers once upon a time, and it was an important experience in our lives. We met wonderful people and developed warm friendships. We learned what it was like to be the outsiders .....we who had grown up in a town where we knew “everybody.”

Of course we didn’t really know everybody, but when we walked into the Jewish Community Center or into a synagogue or into the lobby of a movie house, we could be certain there were people we had known for years.

Continued on page 76

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Page 77

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Continued from previous page The feeling is very different, even now, when we’re in Arizona during the winter and find ourselves in the midst of some large Jewish gathering. It’s odd to look around and realize we only know the people we came with and all the rest are total strangers. That’s part of being a newcomer.

I think if everyone had occasion to play that role, even for a short time in life, it might make us more welcoming to strangers. Here in our Jewish community, I often hear somebody say “it’s so clique-ish”...there are tight little groups and that’s the way they want to stay. I always hope that really isn’t true, and in fact, I’m sure it isn’t. I’ve seen too many instances where folks are brought into the warm circle of our community and soon feel like they’ve always been here.

I’ve spoken to some charming people who are, in fact, newcomers to Omaha. They seem settled, comfortable and at home. And we need as many new families as we can get, to keep us a strong Jewish group.

Many of my children’s generation left for college and never come back, except to visit. Unfortunately, that's a fact of life--my kids have gone on to become part of other communities, so it seems only fair to acquire other peoples children to help fill the gaps.

So what if your children grew up knowing the grandparents of their best friend? It was nice, but it’s also nice if one of your kids brings home a new friend and explain “this is David. He comes from New Hampshire but he lives here now and is in my Hebrew class.”

What’s wrong with that? By the time David gets to high school, he’ll hardly remember New Hampshire and we hope his folks will no longer feel like newcomers.

Yes. I was a newcomer once. If it hadn’t made such an impression on me, I’d have forgotten about it long ago. After all, that six weeks old baby just turned 55-wow, how could that be? He can still yell pretty loud too, but he no longer stuffs horseradish in his mouth.

He doesn’t have to. He’s a lawyer!

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2003

A Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year from the Jewish Press Advertisers Index of Advertisers Advertiser Page Above & Beyond Cleaning Services ............................... 77 Abraham Catering ......................................................... 42 Abrahams, Kaslow & Cassmann LLP ........................... 74 Absolutely Fresh Seafood Company .............................. 68 Acura of Omaha ............................................................ 45 Advantage Mortgage Service, Inc. ................................. 63 Aesthetic & Reconstructive Surgery, P.C. ....................... 14 Ak Sar Ben Beef ............................................................ 36 Alamar Uniforms ........................................................... 14 Albertsons ..................................................................... 41 Alkar Billiards ................................................................ 63 All Makes Office Equipment Co. 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.......................................................................... 67 Chabad of Nebraska ..................................................... 40 Child Development Center ............................................ 19 Christel’s ......................................................................... 4 City Glass Co. ................................................................ 26 Climate Control ............................................................. 64 Cohen Family .................................................................. 4 Cohn, Marisa ................................................................ 63 Cohn, Nichole ............................................................... 38 Commercial Printing Co. ............................................... 24 Complete Family Dentistry ............................................ 14

Advertiser Page Countryside Village ....................................................... 66 Creighton University ...................................................... 72 Crown Pointe ................................................................. 60 Crowne Plaza .................................................................. 6 Cruise Company ........................................................... 59 Daily Grill ....................................................................... 48 Dance Shoppe .............................................................. 66 Darland ......................................................................... 33 David Morton Food Marketing ....................................... 24 Davidsons ..................................................................... 13 Dolgoff Family ................................................................. 4 El Al ............................................................................... 13 Elliott Equipment Company ........................................... 52 Enterprise Bank ............................................................ 42 Eye Essentials ............................................................... 74 Factory Eyeglass Outlet ................................................. 27 Fahey, Mayor Mike .......................................................... 7 Family Enrichment, Inc. ................................................ 63 Fast Frame .................................................................... 42 First National Bank ....................................................... 50 First Westroads Bank .................................................... 25 Fitzgerald, Schorr, Barmettler & Brennan ...................... 38 Flatiron Cafe ................................................................. 29 Foundation of the Jewish Federation of Omaha ............ 54 Frankel, Zacharia, Arnold, Nissen, Stamp & Reinsch ..... 30 Fraser, Stryker, Meusey, Olson, Boyer & Bloch ............... 23 French Cafe .................................................................. 29 Friedel Jewish Academy ................................................ 15 Garbo’s Salons & Spa ................................................... 70 Gary Michael’s Clothiers ............................................... 46 Genji Japanese Steak House ........................................... 9 Girl Scouts .................................................................... 43 Girls and Boys Town ................................................ 70, 76 Goldberg & Shrier .......................................................... 45 Gordmans ..................................................................... 80 Grace/Mayer Insurance ................................................ 37 Grace/Mayer Insurance-Bob Nelson ............................. 77 Great Western Bank ...................................................... 62 Grillhouse ...................................................................... 48 Grubb & Ellis/Pacific Realty ........................................... 75 Hadassah ..................................................................... 40 Hagel, Senator Chuck and Lilibet .................................. 75 Hair Care Xtras-Marty Larson .......................................... 2 Hairitage Styling ............................................................ 24 Hampton Inn ................................................................ 64 Harris Center for Judaic Studies at UNL ........................ 37 Herman’s Nut House/Pear’s Coffee ............................. 35 Hilton Hotel ................................................................... 73 Hockenbergs ................................................................. 32 Horizon Dental Center ................................................... 74 Hostetter’s Jewelry ........................................................ 66 Hy-Vee ..................................................................... 12, 17 I-Go Van & Storage ........................................................ 22 Ideal Water .................................................................... 38 Indian Oven ..................................................................... 8 Industrial Label Corporation .......................................... 18 Industrial Packaging Corporation .................................. 25 Israel Bonds .................................................................. 44 Isuzu Truck of Omaha ................................................... 35 Jacobson Fish Co., Inc. ................................................. 26 Jams ............................................................................. 29 Jewish Community Center ............................................ 19 Jewish Family Service ................................................... 63 Jewish Federation of Lincoln ......................................... 59 Jewish Federation of Omaha ........................................... 5 Jewish Press .................................................................. 16 Jewish Senior Services ............................................ 40, 45 Jewish War Veterans ..................................................... 40 Jewish Women International ......................................... 40 Jim’s Dodge .................................................................. 62 John A. Gentleman Mortuaries ...................................... 76 Julio’s .............................................................................. 8 Katelman Company Antiques ....................................... 30

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(Westgate Plaza) 392-0430 • 10144 Maple (Maple Village) Mon & Thur: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. • Tues, Wed, Fri & Sat: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Advertiser Page Parcel Place .................................................................. 46 Parsons House .............................................................. 61 Parsow’s ......................................................................... 7 Passport Restaurant ........................................................ 9 Pasta Amore ................................................................. 53 Peterson Brothers Realty Co. ......................................... 63 Petrow’s ........................................................................ 69 Pharmacy Express ........................................................ 19 Planned Parenthood ..................................................... 47 Pollak & Hicks, P.C. ....................................................... 77 Prima 140 ....................................................................... 9 Prudential Insurance-Joseph John ................................ 42 Pulverente Monument Co. ............................................ 34 Randy’s Pharmacy ........................................................ 70 RDG .............................................................................. 68 Recroom ....................................................................... 24 Remington Heights ........................................................ 10 Residential Mortgage Services, Inc. ............................... 11 Ricks, Iris and Marty ...................................................... 11 Roberts Dairy ................................................................ 71 Rockbrook Floors .......................................................... 25 Rockbrook Village .......................................................... 53 Rossi ............................................................................. 53 Rotella’s Italian Bakery .................................................. 26 Ryco Packaging Corp. ................................................... 26 Salon Aura .................................................................... 35 Sarah’s ......................................................................... 66 Savannah Pines ............................................................ 44 Schrier Ford ................................................................... 11 Schwalb Realty ............................................................. 19 Second Story ................................................................. 14 Security National Bank .................................................. 33 Senior Market Sales, Inc.-Gary Katelman ...................... 77 Senor Matias ................................................................ 28 Siegler’s Catering Service .............................................. 51 Sol’s Jewelry & Loan ..................................................... 60 Sonny Gerber Auto Sales ............................................... 23 Souq, Ltd. ....................................................................... 6 Source One Mobility ...................................................... 59 Sparks Computerized Car Care ..................................... 51 Spirit World ................................................................... 69 St. Joseph Villa .............................................................. 18 State Farm Insurance-Gary Kudym ............................... 78 Steamatic ..................................................................... 67 Stokes Grill & Bar ............................................................ 9 Sunridge Village ............................................................ 31 Superior Pools, Spas, Etc. ............................................. 77 Swartzbaugh Farber ...................................................... 13 Sweet & Associates ....................................................... 36 Temple Israel ................................................................. 40 Terry, Congressman Lee .............................................. 65 Tilly ............................................................................... 65 Times Publishing .......................................................... 60 Topp’s ........................................................................... 70 United Distillers Products Co. ........................................ 38 University of Nebraska Medical Center .......................... 21 V. Mertz ......................................................................... 28 Vaad ............................................................................... 8 Valentino’s .................................................................... 28 Vann Realty .................................................................... 7 Village Needleworks ...................................................... 66 Visions .......................................................................... 40 Walnut Grove ................................................................ 44 Wells Fargo ................................................................... 61 Wiesman Development ................................................. 23 Winery ............................................................................. 8 Wolf Bros. Western Store ............................................... 64 Wolfson Used Cars ........................................................ 74 Wyndham Street Ltd. ...................................................... 4 Young Energetic Seniors (YES) ...................................... 40 Zio’s Pizzeria ................................................................. 49 Zuerlein, Brian W., D.D.S., P.C. ...................................... 55

A time for giving thanks

Skilled staff are at your disposal in both Bernina stores. They are ready to discuss and demonstrate all that is new from Bernina

Now available with Artlink/CPS Software Computer Hookup at no cost.

Advertiser Page Keystone Glass Company ............................................. 74 Keystone Group ............................................................ 58 Kids-Go-Round .............................................................. 52 King Fong Cafe ............................................................. 49 Kohll’s Pharmacy & Homecare ..................................... 20 KPMG LLP .................................................................... 34 KPTM/KXVO ................................................................. 76 Krieger & Krieger ........................................................... 44 Kutak Rock LLP ............................................................ 62 Lakeside Dentistry ........................................................... 2 Lakeside Hills Apartments ............................................ 52 Le Cafe de Paris ............................................................ 28 League Offering Volunteers for the Elderly ..................... 40 Lerner Company ........................................................... 54 Li’l Prince & Princess .................................................... 66 Lion’s Automotive Upholstery ........................................ 26 Louie M’s Burger Lust ..................................................... 8 Louis Liquor Grill & Bar ................................................. 49 Lynn Roberts International ............................................ 32 Mahogany Prime Steakhouse ....................................... 28 Mainstream Fashions ...................................................... 2 Malashock Jewelry ........................................................ 51 Malbar Vision Centers ................................................... 34 Manarin Securities .............................................................

Maplecrest Care Center ................................................. 74 Marathon Realty Corporation ........................................ 20 Mark Sanford Group ..................................................... 31 Market Basket ............................................................... 66 Marks Clare & Richards ................................................ 31 Marriott Regency Hotel .................................................... 9 McDermott & Miller ....................................................... 47 McGill, Gotsdiner, Workman & Lepp, P.C., L.L.O. .......... 25 McGrath, North, Mullin & Kratz, PC LLO ....................... 67 Mediterranean Bistro .................................................... 48 Meehan Drywall ............................................................ 34 Metropolitan Community College .................................. 74 Mid City Bank .................................................................. 4 Mid-City Jewelry & Loan ................................................ 76 Mid Con Systems Inc. ................................................... 42 Midwest Box Co. ........................................................... 62 Midwest Ear, Nose, & Throat, P.C. ................................. 37 Midwest Woodworkers .................................................. 58 Montemarano Landscapes, Inc. ..................................... 7 Mt. Sinai Cemetery ....................................................... 22 Mulhall’s ....................................................................... 64 Mutual Protective Insurance .......................................... 36 N. Pitlor & Son, Inc. ....................................................... 32 Nan C. .......................................................................... 77 National Council of Jewish Women ............................... 40 NCSY of Beth Israel Synagogue ..................................... 16 Nebraska Childrens Home Society ................................ 69 Nebraska Furniture Mart ............................................... 56 Nebraska Jewish Historical Society ............................... 40 Nebraska Spine Center ................................................. 60 Nebraska Warehouse & Cannonball Express ............... 65 Nebraska Wine & Spirits, Inc. ........................................ 69 Nelson, Senator Ben and Diane .................................... 43 No Frills ......................................................................... 30 Nobbies ......................................................................... 11 Noddle Development Company .................................... 70 Nogg Chemical & Paper Co. ......................................... 35 Norm’s Door Service ..................................................... 46 Nu Trend Dry Cleaners .................................................. 59 Old Market Candy Shop ................................................ 77 Omaha Center for Torah Learning ................................. 40 Omaha Compound Company ...................................... 36 Omaha Steaks .............................................................. 46 Omaha Surgical Center ................................................. 74 Omaha Temple Youth Group ......................................... 16 Omaha Temporary Services .......................................... 51 Omaha Trans Video ...................................................... 46 Omne Seafood Grille ..................................................... 49 One Drake Place ........................................................... 20

572-1212

FROM MY FAMILY TO YOURS

For the privilege of living and working in this community...

For wonderful friends and neighbors...

For serving your insurance needs.

May you all enjoy a safe and happy holiday.

Gary Kudym,CLU State Farm Agent Auto - Life - Health - Home 8514 Cass Street Omaha,NE 402/390-1166

State Farm Insurance Companies Home Offices: Bloomington,Illinois

L’SHANA TOVA

September 26, 2003

Synagogue Listings B’nai Israel Synagogue 618 Mynster St. Council Bluffs, IA 51503-0766 332-4705 email: docjeb@aol.com

Beth El Synagogue Member of United Synagogues of Conservative Judaism 14506 California Omaha, NE 68154-1980 492-8550 www.bethel-omaha.org

Beth Israel Synagogue Member of Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America 1502 N. 52 St. Omaha, NE. 68104 -5013 556-6288 BethIsrael@novia.net

Beyt Shalom An Affiliate of the Jewish Reconstructionist Federation 3012 S. 119 St. P.O. Box 241130 Omaha, NE 68124-5130 660-2395 http://welcome.to/beytshalom/

Chabad House An Affiliate of the Worldwide Chabad-Lubavitch Movement 1866 S. 120th St. Omaha, NE 68144-1646 330-1800 nebraskajudaism.com email: chabad@aol.com

Congregation B’nai Jeshurun South Street Temple Member of the Union of American Hebrew Congregations 2061 S. 20th St. Lincoln, NE 68502-2797 435-8004 jewishnebraska.org

Offutt Air Force Base SAC Memorial Chapel 301 Lincoln Highway Offutt AFB, NE 68113 294-6244

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

Temple Israel Member of the Union of American Hebrew Congregations 7023 Cass Street Omaha, NE 68132-2651 556-6536 templeisrael-ne.org

Tifereth Israel Member of United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism 3219 Sheridan Blvd., Lincoln, NE 68502-5236 423-8569 tiferethisraellincoln.org

Early Deadline Notice The Jewish Press office will be closed Monday, Oct. 6, for Yom Kippur.

The deadline for ads, articles and photos for the Oct. 10 issue is Wednesday, Sept. 30, noon.

Questions? Call 3346448.

Synagogues B’NAI ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE FRIDAY: Erev Rosh Hashanah, 7:30 p.m.

SATURDAY: Rosh Hashanah services, 10 a.m., featuring Oliver Pollak, “100 Years of Council Bluffs High Holiday Services.”

MEMORIAL SERVICE Sunday, Oct. 5, 11 a.m., at Council Bluffs Cemetery.

BREAK-THE-FAST Monday, Oct. 6, following Yom Kippur Concluding Services, B’nai Israel will host a potluck Break the Fast. To participate, call sandra Kurland, 323-8885.

BETH EL SYNAGOGUE Office Hours: Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

FRIDAY: Erev Rosh Hashanah Ma’ariv, 8:15 p.m.

SATURDAY: First Day Rosh Hashanah Morning Service, 9 a.m.; Alternative Service, 9:45 a.m.; Minha-Ma’ariv, 7:05 p.m.

SUNDAY: Second Day Rosh Hashanah Hashanah Morning service, 9 a.m.; Tashlikh Service, 6 p.m.; Minha-Ma’ariv, 7:15 p.m.

Note: Rosh Hashanah morning services end at approximately 12:30 p.m.

WEEKDAY SERVICES: Sunday at 9 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.; weekdays at 6:55 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.

MEMORIAL SERVICE Sunday, Oct. 5, 11 a.m., at Beth El Cemetery.

A THOUGHT FOR SHABBAT To receive Rabbi Levin’s weekly “Thought For Shabbat” e-mail message, please send your e-mail address to exec@bethelomaha.org. This is free and open to the entire community.

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Candlelighting Friday, Sept. 26 at 6:57 p.m.

Saturday, Sept. 27, no earlier than 7:55 p.m.

BETH ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE CHABAD HOUSE Office Hours: Monday through Thursday, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Fridays, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Services conducted by Rabbi Howard Kutner.

FRIDAY: Erev Rosh Hashanah, Mincha, 7 p.m.

SATURDAY: First Day of Rosh Hashanah Shacharit, 8 a.m.; Torah Service, 10 a.m.; Free Babysitting, 10 a.m.; Junior Congregation, 10:30 a.m.; Sermon, 10:30 a.m.; Mincha, 6:45 p.m.

SUNDAY: Second Day of Rosh Hashanah, Shacharit, 8 a.m.; Torah Service, 10 a.m.; Free Babysitting, 10 a.m.; Sermon, 10:30 a.m.; Junior Congregation, 10:30 a.m.; Shofar Service, 10:45 a.m.; Tashlich, 5:15 p.m. at Elmwood Park; Mincha, 6:40 p.m.; Havdalah, 7:53 p.m.

MONDAY: Fast of Gedalia begins at 6:06 a.m.; Shacharit, 6:30 a.m.; Mincha, 6:40 p.m.; fast ends, 7:45 p.m.

Weekday Morning Services, 6:30 a.m.; Weekday Mincha and Ma’ariv, 6:30 p.m.

Lulav and Etrog sets must be ordered from the synagogue office

by Sept. 29. Cost is $40 per set.

BEYT SHALOM FRIDAY: Erev Rosh Hashanah Services, 7:30 p.m. at the synagogue.

SATURDAY: First Day of Rosh Hashanah Services, 9:30 a.m. at the synagogue; Tashlich, 5 p.m., place to be announced.

SUNDAY: Second Day of Rosh Hashanah Services, 9 a.m. at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home.

Services conducted by Rabbi Mendel Katzman.

FRIDAY: Erev Rosh Hashanah, Mincha, 7:15 p.m.; Maariv, 7:40 p.m.

SATURDAY: First Day of Rosh Hashanah, Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Children’s Program, 10 a.m.; Torah Service, 10:30 a.m.; Sermon, 11:15 a.m.; MinchaMaariv, 6:45 p.m.

SUNDAY: Second Day of Rosh Hashanah, Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Torah Service, 10:30 a.m.; Children's program, 10:30 a.m.; Shofar Service, 11 a.m.; Tashlich, 5 p.m.; Minchamaariv, 6:30 p.m.

MONDAY: Fast of Gedalia, Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Mincha, 6:40 p.m.; Fast ends, 7:45 p.m.

Monday-Friday, morning services at 7 a.m.

CONGREGATION B’NAI JESHURUN Rabbi Debbie Stiel will be in the office Tuesdays and Thursdays, all day. You may reach her 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays at 416-2321 (local for Lincoln), or at rabstiel@aol.com.

FRIDAY: Rosh Hashanah Evening Service, 8 p.m.

SATURDAY: Rosh Hashanah Morning Service, 10 a.m.; Tashlich Service, 2 pm (at Salt Creek in Wilderness Park; maps available Evening and Morning Services); Children's Service, 3 p.m.

Rabbi Stiel will be featured on NPRN on Saturday, Sept. 27, 8:35 a.m., and Sunday, Sept.

28, 9:35 a.m., to talk about observing Rosh Hashanah in Nebraska. NPR is found at 91.1 FM in Lincoln.

Fewer Jews, Rising Intermarriage Mixes with Positive Jewish Trends

by JOE BERKOFSKY NEW YORK (JTA)--The Jewish population is aging and shrinking, its birthrate is falling, intermarriage is rising and most Jews do not engage in communal or religious pursuits.

Yet a majority attend a Passover seder and celebrate Hanukkah, Jewish education is booming, and many Jews consider being Jewish important and feel strong ties to Israel.

These are not dueling headlines, but parallel portraits contained in the long-awaited National Jewish Population Survey 2000-01. Federations and Jewish communal leaders use these studies every decade for policy and planning decisions.

The United Jewish Communities, the federation umbrella group, officially released the $6 million study this week, nearly a year after retracting initial NJPS data and delaying the survey's release amid controversy over its methodology and missing data.

Not only did the reviews reinforce the data’s validity, but the NJPS was compared to other communal studies and “our numbers checked out very nicely,” said Lorraine Blass, NJPS project director and senior planner at UJC. Those numbers add up to a complex Jewish continuum. On one end lies a small segment of the community experiencing a Jewish renaissance, on the other a majority that continues to assimilate.

Among the study’s key findings: • There are 5.2 million U.S. Jews, down 5% from 5.5 million counted in the 1990 population study.

• Of those, 4.3 million have “stronger Jewish connections,” meaning they attend Passover seders and light Hanukkah candles. This number also includes

Page 79

those more Jewishly committed--people who keep kosher homes, routinely attend synagogue, attend Jewish schools and belong to at least one Jewish organization.

• Intermarriage is rising but at a steady pace, at 47 percent for the past five years. That represents a 4 percent increase from 1990, which was calculated differently. Of all Jews currently wed, one-third are intermarried.

• Day school enrollment is rising, with 29 percent of youths ages 6-17 saying they have attended day schools or yeshivas.

• An estimated 353,000 people, including 272,000 adults and 81,000 children, live in households with incomes below the poverty line.

• Jews live in 2.9 million households, with a total of 6.7 million people, meaning that two out of every nine people living in households with Jews in them are non-Jews.

• The median Jewish age is 42, compared to 35 for Americans generally, and the birthrate was 1.8, below the 1.9 rate for American women generally.

While many of these figures did not change sharply from the last NJPS in 1990, some warned of troubling signs for the coming decade.

There was a drop in the population of Jewish children, especially in the 0-4 age bracket, and though the initial report did not contain the exact figure, it said 20 percent of the overall population were children, down 1 percent from a decade ago.

According to the NJPS, intermarriage stayed at the same rate of 43 percent between 1985 and 1990 and between 1991 and 1996, then climbed to 47 percent through 2001.

ADULT EDUCATION “Finding Our Way: A Look at what Judaism has to say about God and Spirituality” is a fourpart course.

TUESDAY, Sept. 30, 7-8:30 p.m.: An Introspection: The Personal Journey.

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

ROSE BLUMKIN JEWISH HOME FRIDAY: Erev Rosh Hashanah services, led by Andrew Greenberg, 7 p.m.

SATURDAY: First Day of Rosh Hashanah Services, led by Andrew Greenberg, 9 a.m.

Sunday: Second Day of Rosh Hashanah services, lead by Marti Nerenstone and members of Beyt Shalom Synagogue, 9 a.m.

TEMPLE ISRAEL FRIDAY: Erev Rosh Hashanah First Service, 6 p.m.; Second service, 8:15 p.m.

SATURDAY: Young Children’s service, 9:15 a.m.; Morning Service, 10:15 a.m.; Family Youth Service, 10:15 a.m.

SITTER SERVICE Sitter Service is available each Friday evening at the 7:30 service, Saturday mornings when there is a bar or bat mitzvah, as well as Sunday mornings when there is religious school. Charge is $2 per family. Please make reservations with the office.

MEMORIAL SERVICE SUNDAY, Sept. 28, 1 p.m., at Temple Israel Cemetery, 6412 No. 42 St. ADULT EDUCATION WEDNESDAY, Oct. 1: “History of Israel, Part 1: Biblical and PreModern Foundations” with Dr. Moshe Gershovich, 6:45-8:30 p.m.

TIFERETH ISRAEL Services conducted by Rabbi Stanley M. Rosenbaum. Minyan, Monday & Thursday, 7:15 a.m.

FRIDAY: Erev Rosh Hashanah Services, 8 p.m.

SATURDAY: First Day Rosh Hashanah Morning Service, 9 a.m.; Junior Congregation, 11 a.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 7:10 p.m.

SUNDAY: Second Day Rosh Hashanah Morning service, 9 a.m.; Junior Congregation, 11 a.m.; Mincha/Ma’ariv, 7:10 p.m.

Page 80

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 26, 2003

BEST WISHES BEST WISHES for a happy, happy, healthy for a healthy & prosperous & prosperous NEW NEW YEAR! YEAR!