October 24, 2008

Vol. LXXXVIII No. 7 Omaha, NE

Author events highlight 35th Jewish Book Month

by SHERRIE SAAG Center for Jewish Education Administrative Assistant Celebrated bestselling author Mimi Schwartz kicks off the Kripke Jewish Federation Library’s 35th Annual Jewish Book Month. Presented each year, Jewish Book Month (Nov. 19 –Dec. 18) provides the opportunity for the Kripke Jewish Federation Library to introduce the community to renowned authors in addition to honoring the rich world of Jewish literature and culture.

In addition to the author events, the library will also offer an on-site book sale, featuring Jewish books for children and adults. Books of the featured authors are also available for purchase in the library and each event will feature a book signing. “Each year Jewish Book Month gets bigger and better. This year is no exception.

We have an incredible lineup of authors and events which will please everyone in the community.” said Gary Katz, Kripke Jewish Federation Library Administrator.

The Annual Book Month Luncheon features Mimi Schwartz, author of Good Neighbors, Bad Times, on Wednesday, Nov. 19, 11:30 a.m., in the Jewish Community Center Auditorium.

Schwartz grew up on hamburgers, french fries, her father’s boyhood stories, but she rarely took them seriously. What was a modern American teenager supposed to make of a German village where, according to her father, “everyone got along” before Hitler? It was only years later, when she heard the story of the Torah’s rescue in 1938 by Christians in the village, that Schwartz became interested in her father’s old world.

And so began a 12-year quest that covered three continents as she sought answers to how good neighbors, on the sidelines of history, managed during Nazi times. How, this book asks, do people maintain a modicum of decency when fear and hatred strain the bonds of loyalty and neighborly compassion?

The cost of the lunch is $18 and reservations are required by Nov. 14.

On Thursday, Dec. 11, 7 p.m., Michael Wex, author of Just Say Nu, will offer his practical guide to using Yiddish words and expressions in day-to-day situations.

Along with enough grammar to enable readers to put together a comprehensible sentence and avoid embarrassing mistakes, Wex also explains the five most useful Yiddish words – shoyn, nu, epes, takeh, and nebakh – what they mean, how and when to use them, and how they can be used to conduct an entire conversation.

Wex is also the author of Born to Kvetch, a sometimes hilarious look at the complaints of the Jewish people -- everything from food (or lack thereof) and children to very original curses (May you grow like an onion, with your head in the ground and your tuches --rear end -- in the air!).

Join Anne-Marie Asner, author of the popular Matzah Ball book series on Sunday, Dec. 14, 3:30-5:30 p.m., in the Kripke Library for Chanu-Kids.

Each book is named for a character with a Yiddish word that describes a central attribute of his or her personality (Noshy, Klutzy, Schmutzy, etc). These fun and lively picture books put the joy and color of Yiddish into Continued on page 2

Inside

Celebrating 88 Years of Service to Nebraska and Western Iowa

25 Tishrei, 5769

October 24, 2008

Rioting in Akko demonstrates tinderbox of Arab-Jewish ties

by LESLIE SUSSER JERUSALEM (JTA) -The rioting in the mixed Jewish-Arab city of Akko, which erupted after an Arab man drove through a Jewish neighborhood on Yom Kippur, shows just how combustible Arab-Jewish relations in Israel are.

Yet after four successive nights of clashes, in which rampaging Arabs stoned Jewish-owned shops and cars as Jewish mobs torched Arab homes, there was no sign of the violence spreading to other mixed-ethnic cities such as Haifa, Jaffa, Nazareth or Lod. Nor did the current Jewish-Arab tensions appear likely to reach the proportions they did following Credit: ISRANET October 2000, when Israeli Arab rioters in Akko were arrested by Border Police after Yom Kippur. police shot dead 12 Israeli Arabs and a visitor from the abates, it is sounding warning bells for the Israeli govWest Bank in clashes across northern Israel that coincid- ernment. Jewish-Arab tensions in Akko and in the couned with the launching of the second Palestinian intifada. try as a whole have been simmering under the surface (Editor’s note: Akko is located in Omaha’s Partnership for years. The rioting was an expression of Arab frustration and Jewish mistrust. with Israel region, the Western Galilee.)

The latest trouble started on the eve of Yom Kippur, But the rioting in Akko is more than an isolated violent episode in need of containment. Even if the rioting Continued on page 2

Huskers at the home games: RBJH residents root for Big Red

by OZZIE NOGG much. I asked to speak to In football, an end-run a manager.” is a play in which the ball The COX manager carrier tries to run around told Spencer that game or bypass the opposition’s prices are determined by defense in order to gain the participating colleges. yards.

“Well, then,” Spencer At the Rose Blumkin said, “I’ll just call Jewish Home, if you want Nebraska University.” to bypass the opposition, “Don’t waste your give the ball to Shelly time,” the COX manager Spencer, the West Wing advised. charge nurse. Spencer “Don’t you worry recently scored points about my time,” Spencer with RBJH residents and replied. Whereupon she their families when she called Tom Osborne. successfully outfoxed the “I left a message on powers- that -be at FOX his machine explaining Pay-Per-View. what we wanted. When Here’s the play-by-play.

Marc Boehm, NU’s “I knew COX offered Executive Associate residential subscribers Athletic Director, called three games for $79.99,” me back I gave him my Spencer said, “and I was Ron Dacanay, a Certified Nursing Assistant, takes Blumkin Home pitch. I reminded him sure the Blumkin Home resident Ben Lebowitz to a Husker game! that many Blumkin residents would enjoy watching the Huskers play on the Home residents used to have season tickets and have big TV sets in the RBJH lounges. Sort of a “Huskers at supported the team for years and given lots of money to the Home” idea. So I called COX to make arrangements the Cornhuskers. They should get to watch the games in to have the games piped into the Home.” their home -- in the Blumkin Home -- just like any other The COX representative told Spencer that the residential subscriber.” Boehm agreed 100% with Blumkin Home is considered a commercial account, so Shelly’s argument, but explained that Pay-Per-View -three games would cost $1100. “I thought that was not the University -- sets the prices. “But he volunteered ridiculous,” Spencer said. “I told the Cox representative to call Mark Hulsey, Executive Producer of Fox Sports that for our residents, the Blumkin Home is their home. Midwest, to see what could be done.”

We’re not some sports bar. It’s not fair to charge us so Continued on page 4

This Week: Special issue on Camping starts on Page 9

See Front Page Stories & More at: www.jewishomaha.org, click on ‘Jewish Press’ Opinion Page see page 12

B’nai B’rith honors Gary Javitch: Page 5

Coming Next Week: General Election Issue Temple students volunteer at Western Galilee camp: Page 7

Opossing op-eds for upcoming Presidential election: Page 13

Page 2

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

October 24, 2008

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Rioting in Akko Continued from page 1 Oct. 8. On this holiest day of the Jewish calendar, everything in Israel comes to a halt. For the duration of the 25-hour fast, businesses and places of entertainment are shuttered, and the roads are virtually free of cars. Even completely secular Jews and non-Jewish Israelis refrain from driving in Jewish neighborhoods.

So when an Akko Arab drove his car into a Jewish neighborhood that night, reportedly blaring loud music, the act seemed like a deliberate provocation.

Angry Jews forced the car to stop, pulled out the driver and beat him. News of the beating quickly spread across the city, and from the mosques Arabs were called upon to avenge what by then had been exaggerated to “two Arabs murdered by Jews.”

into the mostly Jewish neighborhood where he lived.

In a square outside city hall in Akko, members of the Mapam-affiliated Shomer Hatzair youth movement built a sukkah and invited both Arabs and Jews to visit in a spirit of reconciliation.

One of the first guests was Arab Knesset member Abbas Zakoor, an Akko resident and a member of the radical Raam-Taal party. Arab Knesset members, who often resort to inflammatory language as they compete for an increasingly radicalized Arab constituency, have played a remarkably conciliatory role in the current unrest.

Paradoxically, Israeli-Palestinian negotiations, which were meant to resolve the Israeli-Arab predicament, have sharpened tensions between Israeli Arabs and Jews.

Left: Jewish rioters stand-off with Border Police in Akko.

Right: A car was turned upside down in a mixed

Jewish/Muslim quarter of Akko by unknown rioters.

Credit: ISRANET

Hundreds took to the streets, mostly young, masked men who marched into the main Jewish neighborhood smashing shop windows, shattering car windows, slashing tires and torching vehicles. In retaliation, Jewish mobs set fire to several Arab homes in the predominantly Jewish neighborhood. Police appeared to be overwhelmed by the rioters.

The pattern repeated itself for the next three days and nights. Gradually the police ramped up their response, and by Monday hundreds of police officers were deployed in the city backed up by the Israeli army’s border police. More than 60 arrests were made.

To help defuse the tension, Akko Mayor Shimon Lankri postponed Akko’s annual Fringe Theater festival, explaining that the political content of some of the plays could further aggravate tensions. In any case, he said, audiences would stay away given the new of the riots.

“This is not a time for celebrations,” he declared.

But some saw in Lankri’s announcement an attempt to punish the city’s Arabs, saying Arab businesses benefit most from the business the festival brings to the city.

Meanwhile, right-wing Jewish extremist groups and radical Arab agitators tried to fan the flames while Israel’s political leaders -- including some Arab leaders -- struggled to restore calm.

Some Jewish extremists called for a boycott of Arab businesses, while Hamas leaders urged Israeli Arabs to start a “third intifada.”

Prime Minister Ehud Olmert accused extremists on both sides of “holding the city ransom.”

Mostly, however, leaders on both sides issued appeals for calm and a quick return to coexistence. After meeting Monday with Jewish and Arab religious and community leaders in Akko, President Shimon Peres said he was optimistic and “surprised at the degree of willingness for dialogue on both sides.”

Earlier, Arab community leaders had issued an apology for the desecration of the Jewish holy day. The Arab driver went to a televised meeting in Jerusalem of the Knesset's Interior Committee, where he said he had not intended any provocation but had made a terrible error of judgment: He said he thought that because it was very late at night, no one would notice his car driving

Israeli Arabs see their Palestinian cousins, once sworn enemies of the Jews, being offered full statehood, while they, citizens of the Israeli state, are ignored. They still recall with anger the October 2000 clashes in which Israeli police opened fire on Arab rioters. The Arabs point to the harsh police response -- Israeli police don’t use live fire against Jewish demonstrators -- as evidence of the double standard often applied to Israeli Arab citizens.

Similarly, some Israeli Jews point to the riots of eight years ago as a reminder that Israel’s Arab citizens cannot be trusted: When the Palestinians launched their intifada that month, Israel’s Arabs rioted in solidarity with the Palestinians.

The Orr Commission set up to investigate the 2000 clashes found “years of discrimination” against Israeli Arabs and urged the government to do more to promote Jewish-Arab equality and provide Arab and Jewish municipalities with proportionately equal budgets. This has not happened.

In 2006, Israeli Arab leaders moved to a more publicly critical stance on the Jewish state, producing a document seeking virtual autonomy for the Arab minority and calling for an end to the Jewish character of the state. Titled the “The Future Vision of the Palestinian Arabs in Israel,” the paper demanded veto rights and autonomy in domestic affairs, rejected Jewish symbols of state and provided a narrative of colonial conquest by Jews, naming Israeli Arabs as the land’s only indigenous people.

With the background of the ongoing Israeli-Arab conflict and day-to-day tensions between Israeli Arabs and Jews, particularly in mixed cities like Akko, the rioting there really should have come as no surprise. All that’s needed is something incendiary to set the two sides aflame.

Elie Rekhess, the director of the Konrad Adenauer Program for Jewish-Arab Cooperation at Tel Aviv University, says Arab-Jewish relations in Israel are a powder keg waiting to explode. If Akko is not the trigger, something else will be, Rekhess says -- unless the government finds a way to give Israeli Arabs a sense of truly shared citizenship.

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24 Temple Israel Shabbat Comes to You, 2:30 p.m. at Blumkin Home Family Shabbat & Dinner, 6 p.m. at Beth El Tot Shabbat and Dinner, 6 p.m. at Temple Israel C L I P & S A V E

C L I P &

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 26 BESTT 6 & 7th grade Minyan, 9 a.m. at Beth El Men’s Club, Bible Study Group, 10 a.m. at Beth El Teen Class with Rabbi Gross, 10 a.m. at Beth Israel Annual Klutznick-Harris Symposium, 10 a.m.

Mishacha Mornings, 10:15 a.m. at Chabad Rosh Hodesh: It’s a Girl Thing, 1 p.m.

MONDAY, OCTOBER 27 Annual Klutznick-Harris Symposium, 8:30 a.m.

Kabbalistic Insights for Women, noon at Chabad Judaism 102, 6:30 p.m.

Tattoos and Jews, 7 p.m. at Beth El Jewish Press Board Meeting, 7 p.m.

Derech Torah: Judaism 101, 8 p.m.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 28 Friedel Scholastic Book Fair, Oct. 28-30 JFO Agency Directors Meeting, 9 a.m.

Parsha, Prayer and Prophets, 9 a.m. at Chabad JSS/RBJH Board Meeting, 11:30 a.m.

Parent/Teacher Conferences, 5 p.m. at Friedel BBYO Night, 6 p.m.

Rabbi Dr. Immanuel J. Schochet Lecture, 7 p.m.

Women of the Bible, 7 p.m.

ADL 2008 Youth Leadership Mission Meeting, 7 p.m.

Kristallnacht Film, 7:30 p.m.

S A V All events held at the JCC unless otherwise indicated.The Jewish Press is not E responsible for the accuracy of events.To keep calendar accurate or for questions, call Marlene Hert at 334-6437.

FOR A COMPLETE LISTING,VISIT THE FEDERATION’S WEBSITE: www.JewishOmaha.org (click on calendar)

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Author events Jewish Book Month

S A V E

Continued from page 1 a form young people adore and will make any bubbe or zaide kvell.

Also, it’s time to celebrate Hanukkah! Pre-schoolers through third graders will enjoy a great afternoon of story-telling, games, food, and more! While the kids are having fun, adults will have the opportunity to browse the incredible selection of children’s books featured in the Jewish Book Month sale. This event is free and open to the community and includes a hands-on craft activity for children that relates to Ann-Marie Asner’s Matzah Ball stories.

The Dorothy Kaplan Library Book Discussion Group concludes Jewish Book Month on Thursday, Dec. 18, 1 p.m. in the Kripke Library. The Book Discussion

Group, one of the longest running book discussion groups in the country, meets each month at the Kripke Library.

Jewish Book Month is presented by the Center for Jewish Education through the Kripke Jewish Federation Library and is sponsored by the Special Donor Advised Fund of the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation and the Gertrude and Albert Newman Fund. ChanuKids is sponsored by the Ruth Frisch and Oscar S. Belzer Endowment Fund and the Morton Richards Youth Program Fund.

For information on any Jewish Book Month event, contact Library Administrator Gary Katz at 334.6462 or gkatz@jewishomaha.org.

October 24, 2008

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Local professor to discuss myths and realities Of Krisallnacht

Holocaust survivors featured in photo exhibit

by OLIVER B. POLLAK This year we commemorate the 70th anniversary of Kristallnacht. Professor Alan E. Steinweis will present the Annual Richard Winchell History Lecture on Tuesday, Oct. 28, 7 p.m., in Bootstrapper Hall in the Thompson Center on the Campus of the University of NebraskaO m a h a , addressing the subject “The Professor Alan E. Steinweis Kristallnacht Pogrom in Germany, November 1938: Myths and Realities.”

Professor Alan E. Steinweis received his PhD from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He joined the University of Nebraska history faculty in 1993. He specializes in the history of the Holocaust and Nazi Germany, and teaches courses on those subjects in addition to courses on European history, Jewish history, and historical methodology. He is the author of Art, Ideology, and Economics in Nazi Germany: The Reich Chambers of Music, Theater, and the Visual (1993), and Studying the Jew: Scholarly Antisemitism in Nazi Germany (2006).

The latter book was designated a

by ROBERT COHEN “Omaha: Portraits of Survival” is a unique black and white photography exhibit created by nationally known artist David Radler and sponsored by the Institute for Holocaust Education (IHE). The exhibit, part of the commemorative activities planned for the 70th anniversary of Kristallnacht (the Night of Broken Glass of Nov. 9-10, 1938) is a collection of photos of many of the Omaha Holocaust survivors. The exhibition will make its debut at the Joslyn Fountain Court on Sunday, Nov. 9 and will then move to the Jewish Community Center Main Gallery through Dec. 15.

Many of the photos feature the survivors in their homes. “As a photographer, this was the perfect opportunity for me to not only fulfill my interest in meeting the Survivors in Omaha, but also to try to capture their spirit. This allowed me to see their diverse personalities and to hear some amazing stories of their experiences. I am touched by what I saw and heard. I hope that this group of photographs will act as a reminder of the hardships they encountered (something we must not ever forget) both as victims and as survivors.”

Radler is a graduate of the Rochester Institute of Technology. He worked and studied with photographers Helmut

Finalist for the National Jewish Book Award in the Holocaust category. He has co-edited two further volumes: The Impact of Nazism: New Perspectives on the Third Reich and Its Legacy (2003), and Coping with the Nazi Past: West German Debates about Nazism and Generational Conflict, 1955-1975 (2006).

He has published articles addressing the memory of the Holocaust in Germany and the United States. Professor Steinweis serves as the Editor of the American edition of the Comprehensive History of the Holocaust, a series published by the University of Nebraska Press in cooperation with Yad Vashem, the Holocaust research and commemoration authority of the State of Israel. He is currently writing a book on the November 1938 Kristallnacht pogrom in Germany, to be published by Harvard University Press.

Professor Steinweis has received fellowships from the Social Science Research Council, the German Academic Exchange Service, the Fulbright Commission, and the Skirball Foundation. He has taught in Germany, Israel and England. He is the recipient of a Distinguished Teaching Award from the College of Arts and Sciences, a “People Who Inspire” award from the Mortar Board National Honor Society, and several teaching recognitions from the University of Nebraska Parents’ Association.

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Newton and Matt Mahurin and today is a successful commercial photographer with projects throughout the world. Radler was also the photographer of the 2005 award winning exhibit “Omaha Jewish War Vets.” This project was a joint effort of the IHE, the Omaha synagogues, and the Nebraska Jewish Historical Society.

The War Vets exhibit will also be displayed in the JCC Gallery Auditorium as a tribute to Veteran’s Day. Beth Seldin Dotan, Director of the Institute for Holocaust Education, found the “Omaha: Portraits of Survival Exhibit” to be a heart warming experience. “I have wanted to find a special way to honor those in our community who survived the Holocaust. Each person has contributed to Omaha and our Jewish community in so many ways since their arrival here shortly after the end of World War II.” She added, “David’s incredible photos provide an opportunity for us to get to know them a little bit and, most importantly, to reflect upon what they encountered many years ago as victims of the Holocaust and the lives they have led since. The exhibit is something we can give back to them -- a little honor and a lot of respect. This has been one of the most important projects I have been involved with during my work with the Institute for Holocaust Education. I believe Shelly Fox, who assisted in the project feels the same way. I wish we would have been able to do this for the many survivors who are no longer with us. But we honor them, too.”

For more inquiries or more information, please contact Beth Seldin Dotan 334.6575/6.

Page 4

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

October 24, 2008

RBJH residents root for Big Red

is contagious. She personally pops Continued from page 1 fresh popcorn and the aroma makes Meanwhile, Kevee you think you’re at the stadium.”

Kirshenbaum suggested that Pretzels, M&Ms, sodas, lemonade Spencer call Hyman and other snacks are also available.

Sukiennik, Vice President of Cox Business Services. When “We serve beer, too,” Spencer admitshe got him on the line, ted.

Sukiennik had already talked “The residents have been really with Fox Sports. “Hyman excited” she continued. “They cheer told me I must have made and applaud when the team makes a quite an impact, because touchdown or gains yards, and groan from now on the Blumkin when things go the other way. During Home and all nonprofit Jim Shamberg and West Wing Charge Nurse Shelly the night game some residents stayed groups who want to see the Spencer, who made the Home Games happen. up past ten. They didn’t leave until it was over.” games will get them at the residential price.”

Former RBJH Board President Quite an impact, indeed.

Joanie Bernstein and her husband, Terry, attended one of the games at Attendance at the first the Home. “We know that Husker three Husker games piped football is a universal pastime in into the Home has topped Nebraska, and our residents sat up the 150 mark. According to and cheered right along with the rest one eyewitness account, “Balloons and streamers decof the excited fans. They were glued orate the TV lounges. The to the TV, and for a few hours I staff comes dressed in believe they forgot their cares.”

Husker red and has as much For Spencer, giving up on “Huskers fun as the residents -- who sit at the Home” never entered her mind. “Once the ball got rolling, I in the comfy chairs -- and family members -- who sit in Stan Widman, RBJH resident, enjoys the Husker wasn’t going to stop.” the back. Shelly’s enthusiasm game with his wife Barb.

ORGANIZATIONS

B’NAI B’RITH BREADBREAKERS Rep. Lee Terry of Nebraska’s Second Congressional District, will discuss his campaign on Wednesday, Oct. 29, noon, at Regency Lodge. Rep. Terry is the incumbent in the race; Jim Esch addressed the group earlier this month.

An optional buffet lunch is $13; beverage service only is $3. All men and women are invited to attend. To get on the e-mail list of upcoming speakers and events, call the B’nai B’rith office at 334.6443 or e-mail lepstein@ jewishomaha.org.

WALK-IN, DROP-IN For those members going to the Ameristar Casino, please meet at the JCC by 8:45 a.m. For information, call Maggie Conti at 334.6521.

LOMIR REDN YIDDISH Yiddish brings us closer to our roots! Come join us every Thursday, 1-3 p.m., in the social hall of the JCC. For information, call Anne Skolkin at 343.1638.

DEADLINE NOTICE Please send all articles, photos and ads to the Press by Thursdays, 9 a.m., for all regular issues. Early deadlines will be announced in advance. Questions? Call 334.6448.

Jamie Friedland appointed to Newman Supporting Foundation Board

by MARY BORT for the Jewish Federation of Omaha The Jewish Federation of Omaha has appointed Jamie Zacharia Friedland to the Murray H. and Sharee C. Newman Supporting Foundation Board of Trustees.

Friedland fills the position left by her late father-in-law, David Friedland. She will serve as one of the Board’s Organization Directors.

“David was a Board member from the beginning and we are happy that the Jewish Federation has chosen his daughter-in-law to take his place,” stated Marty Ricks, Jamie Friedland Director of the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation. “Jamie has spent so much of her life on this campus, both as a participant and as an employee. It is fitting that she will serve on the Newman Supporting Foundation Board.”

The Murray H. and Sharee C. Newman Supporting

Foundation has been in existence since 1987. The Newman Supporting Foundation is one of three Federation supporting foundations. “We meet every year, in October, to review applications primarily from agencies of the Jewish Federation of Omaha and from Omaha area synagogues,” explained Ricks.

Friedland is a native of Omaha. She worked at the Jewish Community Center (JCC) as a summer camp counselor when she was in high school. After going away to college, Friedland returned to Omaha to live. She worked in the youth department at the JCC, helping with after school programs and programming. Friedland also served as the assistant director of Camp JCC for one summer. Later, she worked for Kidz Magazine and then All Makes Office Equipment. Her last position was back at the JCC, when she was an assistant pre-school teacher at the Pennie Z. Davis Child Development Center (CDC).

Currently describing herself as a “stay-at-home mom,” Friedland and her husband, Ted, have two children, Rosie and Alex. Both children are in pre-school at the CDC. Friedland is someone who is always giving back to the

Caring... is at the heart of what we do

community, serving on a number of committees and boards of different non-profit organizations. For example, in addition to her new board appointment to the Newman Supporting Foundation, she sits on the United Cerebral Palsy Board, the Pennie Z. Davis CDC Board and a parent advisory board for Children’s Hospital.

Friedland has worked as a committee member for the Child Saving Institute, Fontenelle Forest and the JCC Board.

Friedland is excited about the opportunity to serve on the Newman Board. “I am honored to have been selected as a director for the Murray H. and Sharee C. Newman Supporting Foundation,” she said. “I look forward to helping make decisions that will in turn help others in the Jewish community. I know it will be a very gratifying position.”

The Newman Board met on Oct. 17 to review applications. The grants that were accepted will be announced in a future Jewish Press article.

For more information about the Newman Supporting Foundation, please contact the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation office at 334.6439.

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B’nai B’rith honors Gary Javitch

by JOAN K. MARCUS Georgia camp. And, when the summer At a recent meeting of B’nai B’rith ended, I found a teaching job in Atlanta.”

Breadbreakers, Gary Javitch, leader of the Tabachnick moved to Boston to direct group, was surprised with a special award. another JCC and, a year later, Javitch left He was greeted by a standing ovation by Atlanta and went to Boston to live with the overflow lunch crowd. his twin brother.

In presenting the award, Omaha attor“I kept in touch with Hy and, when he ney Steve Riekes said, “Gary is one per- moved to Omaha, he invited me to come son who, very, very quietly does his work. to the new JCC and become the Youth It isn’t just B’nai B’rith -- and certainly Director. I declined. He was quite persistnot our local group. He has always been ent and then requested that I become the involved nationally and it's much more new aquatics director. He also wanted me than just B’nai B’rith.” to be the program director at the Esther He added, “He is always there in so K. Newman Camp,” Javitch said. many ways for our community. He is “I was single and 27 and decided to involved in AIPAC, the Federation, the make the trek to Omaha! Barton ‘Bucky’ Jewish Press and helping Chabad. He has Greenberg, a world-class swimmer and an also helped synagogues and the Rose insurance executive, hired me and I Blumkin Jewish Home. He is always qui- worked with Hy and Chuck Arnold.” etly there and is a fantastic resource for Once moved to Omaha, Gary became our community. You can call him a men- the frequent dinner guest of Bucky, his sch -- or any other superlative word. Gary wife Caryl, and Carol and Alan Parsow, always does his work quietly and unobtrusively.”

Here is just one more example of Gary and his thoughtfulness, Riekes continued: “Recently, a Creighton University student called a meeting because he was concerned about the Muslim activity on the campus. The student was worried that there was not a sufficient Jewish presence.

The student called on Gary because he respected his Longtime volunteer Steve Riekes, right, congratulates Gary advice and help.”

Riekes concluded that Javitch.

“Gary is really an unsung hero in our who decided to fix Javitch up with a blind community that has helped us in so many date with Karen Sokolof, a former teacher ways -- not just this year, but for many of blind and visually impaired children years. I hope that, in presenting the award and an award-winning playwright and to Gary, B’nai B’rith represents the whole composer of music and lyrics. They were Jewish community!” married 11 months later, and have three Javitch was approached in 2000 to take adult children, Jenny, Mark and Rachel. on the leadership position of Omaha’s Javitch spent 18 years working with oldest Jewish service organization. Along Karen’s father, Phil Sokolof. “Phil was an with Al Abramson, Adams Jacobs (who extremely bright individual, a veritable died earlier this year), Riekes, Marty Ricks dynamo who frequently worked 60-70 and Gil Cohen, the Lodge was rejuvenat- hour weeks. I give to Phil a great deal of ed and has become one of the most suc- credit for teaching me about the many cessful groups in Omaha today. facets of business, economics, writing, “Leading the group gave me a creative investments, marketing and advertising. outlet and an opportunity to perform From him, I also learned the meaning of some community service-oriented tasks,” philanthropy and family. While his life lesJavitch responded in accepting the award, sons often hammered home, I appreciat“Our weekly speaker program, for exam- ed deeply the foundations that he providple, competes with any Rotary or Kiwanis ed me during his life.” club in the city and features high-profile Although almost speechless with surpresenters from government, education, prise, Javitch accepted the award by sayscience and industry. So does our annual ing, “Doing for B’nai B’rith and our banquet.” community has been very rewarding for Javitch came to Omaha about 32 years me. One of the things that gives me great ago at the request of Hy Tabachnick, then pleasure is that my son Mark has already executive director of the Jewish demonstrated dedication, sacrifice and Community Center. Tabachnick had honor by already helping with B’nai come to Omaha in 1971 to help construct B’rith Youth Organization.” and launch the new facility at 132nd and Mark is a local entrepreneur of ink jet Dodge. He had been the boss of the and toner cartridges. He and his father young Javitch at summer jobs in residen- recently returned from a B’nai B’rith offitial camping. cially licensed trip to Cuba. They traveled “I had learned quite a bit from Hy dur- legally from Miami on a fact finding mising two stints at a pair of beautiful sion and to study the Jewish population, overnight camps in the greater Cleveland bringing them clothing and medicines. area where I had grown up and also in In conclusion of the presentation, Cleveland, Georgia. I had been his water- Riekes said, “Some time ago, people front director or unit head and the employ- began telling me that Gary is the person ment opportunities helped me to earn my who, above all else deserves an award. way through college,” Javitch recalled.

There aren’t words enough to thank him “After my graduation from Ohio for what he has done and what he has University, I ran the waterfront at the given to all of us!”

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Former Omahan Jeff Nathan is bringing his NYC improv comedy troupe, “Eight is Never Enough”, to The Theater@ Maple Ridge, 168th and West Maple on Nov. 7-8, 8 p.m. The company, established in 2003, features actors

from Broadway and Off-Broadway shows, NBC’s 30 Rock, ABC’s What Would You Do, Nickelodeon’s Naked Brother’s Band, and HBO’s The Sopranos.Tickets are $20 and can be purchased in advance online at www.eightimprov.biz.

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Broadway & Brunch on tap for Beth Israel Sisterhood Donor

by MARY BORT for Beth Israel Synagogue Socialize, shop, enjoy a fabulous brunch and listen to terrific music. That’s what is in store for Beth Israel Sisterhood’s Annual Donor, “Broadway & Brunch� on Sunday, Nov. 9, 10:30 a.m. It is the Sisterhood’s main fundraising event of the year. “Broadway & Brunch� will begin with a time for attendees to visit with one another while they shop and participate in a silent auction. “All of the items from Sisterhood’s Gift Shop will be available for purchase, including items made in Israel,� explained Bette Kozlen, Sisterhood’s Fundraising Vice-President. “There will be some great new items to choose from, too, such as jewelry and Hanukkah gifts. We’ll also have vendors on hand with additional things to buy.�

Brunch will be served at 11 a.m. According to Beth Cohen, executive director, “Helene Shrago and Susan Polack have been busy working with our caterer, Nancy Mattly, to arrange a lovely brunch that everyone will enjoy. The meal will be a buffet, so there will be something for everyone.�

The event will feature musical entertainment by Chelsea Rose & “Dad� (Jeff) Taxman. Chelsea Taxman will sing Broadway tunes, as well as other songs, with her

father accompanying her. Both are accomplished musicians in their own right; now they are a wonderful father-daughter musical duo that will be sure to entertain.

Invitations have been sent out to all Sisterhood members, but the event is open to the community. Please contact the office to RSVP by Oct. 30. Attendees may select to be a Donor, choosing a Donor category that includes lunch, or just enjoy lunch for $15. Donor categories to choose from include $90, $72, $54 or $36.

Since the event is on a Sunday morning, it is the perfect opportunity to invite older girls to experience what Beth Israel Sisterhood is all about. Attendees are encouraged to invite junior high or high school-aged girls so they can be introduced to the Sisterhood community.

Other members of the committee are Julee Katzman, Ann Moskovits, Andreea Shnayder, Kathy Weiner and Sisterhood President, Debbie Kricsfeld.

Prior to the Donor, Sisterhood will hold its monthly “Spirits & Spirituality� on Tuesday, Oct. 28, 7:45 p.m. at the home of Kathy Weiner, and led by Liat Shyken.

Connect with other women and explore Judaism from a uniquely feminine perspective. Wine and light refreshments will be served.

For more information, call the office at 556.6288.

Author describes “bad girl� mindset at Temple Israel

by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Temple Israel Communications Coordinator In Seattle and Pittsburgh, teenage girls protest against companies that sell sleazy clothing. Online, a 19-year-old describes her struggles with her mother, who the daughter feels is pressuring her to lose her virginity. In a small town outside Philadelphia, an 11th-grade girl, upset over a “dirty book� read aloud in English class, takes her case to the school board.

These are not your mother’s rebels. In an age where pornography is mainstream and “experts� recommend that we learn to be emotionally detached about sex, author Wendy Shalit makes the case that today’s virulent Wendy Shalit “bad girl� mindset most truly oppresses young women, writes an online reviewer.

Shalit, author of Girls Gone Mild: Young Women Reclaim Self-Respect and Find It’s Not Bad to Be Good! released in 2007, will be the guest of Temple Israel at on Wednesday, Oct. 29, 6:30 p.m. The community is invited to attend Shalit’s presentation which is sponsored by the Lazier Singer Memorial Fund.

Shalit’s first book, A Return to Modesty: Discovering the Lost Virtue, was published in 1999 by Free Press.

According to Mona Charen, a nationally syndicated

columnist and author, the book is an “antidote to the vulgarity that is shoved in our faces from magazine covers, television, raunch radio, movies, and shows.�

Shalit’s first book attracted much controversy and earned her attacks in The New York Times by book reviewer Katha Pollitt and Hustler magazine’s publisher Larry Flynt. At the same time, Shalit received many letters of support from young women disenchanted with the sexual revolution.

In Girls Gone Mild: Young Women Reclaim SelfRespect, Sahlit’s second book, she writes, “We continually malign the good girl as ‘repressed,’ while the bad girl is (wrongly) perceived as intrinsically expressing her individuality and somehow proving her sexuality.�

Shalit was only 23 when she wrote A Return to Modesty, and now, in Girls Gone Mild, she draws on numerous studies and interviews to make her case that today’s virulent “bad girl� mindset truly oppresses young women. The outspoken author reveals how the media, one’s peers, and even parents can undermine girls’ quests for their authentic selves explaining what it means to break from the herd mentality and choose integrity over popularity. Written with sincerity and upbeat humor, Girls Gone Mild attempts to rescue the good girl and portray her as the real rebel.

Originally from Milwaukee, Shalit lives in Toronto, Ontario, with her family. Her articles have appeared in Commentary and The Wall Street Journal among other publications.

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by JILL BELMONT Beth El Publicity Coordinator Do you remember Brandeis department store? Do The Pompeian Room, the second-floor ladies’ shoe department or the oft-used suggestion to “meet you under the clock� bring back memories?

If so, you won’t want to miss “Memories of Brandeis,� a special event sponsored by Beth El Synagogue’s Hazak organization and planned for noon on Sunday, November 2 in the JCC social hall. The afternoon will begin with a special luncheon; afterward, attendees will watch “The Brandeis Story,� a film which chronicles the history of both the Brandeis family and the department store. The film has been provided by the Nebraska Jewish Historical Society and made possible by the Alan and Marcia Baer Foundation.

Hazak President Helen Rifkin noted that ‘The Brandeis Story’ was shown during the annual meeting of

the Jewish Historical Society, and at that time, she thought the entire community “would love to have the opportunity to see it. “There isn’t anyone over the age of 40 who was raised in Omaha who doesn’t remember something about Brandeis,� she remarked. “Maybe you worked there, maybe your mom took you there for shoes. It’s just a part of Omaha’s history.�

Rifkin applauded the Baer family for making this fascinating film available to the community, and said the upcoming program will offer “a wonderful afternoon and a great reason to share reminiscences with friends.�

The entire Jewish community is invited to attend. Cost (includes lunch) is $9; reservations are needed by Oct. 24, and may be made by sending a check to Tootie Simon, 8725 Izard St., Omaha NE 68114. For more information about the event, contact Simon at 397.3616.

Transplant patient arrives from Israel

by SHEVI KATZMAN Simi Shitrit arrived last week with her son from Israel with hopes of receiving a liver transplant at the University of Nebraska Medical Center.

The Shitrit family needs a lot of help from our community with moving in. At this point, Chabad House staff and volunteers need furniture for the Shitrit apartment and additional volunteers to help show them around

town, help them shop in our grocery stores, set up their apartment, and make them feel comfortable.

If there is anything you can help them with, please let me know when would work for you and the best way to contact you and we’ll set you up!

Please call me at the Chabad House at 330.1800 or email me at: shevi.katzman@gmail.com.

October 24, 2008

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 7

A Month in Israel as camp counselors is “amazing� for former Temple students

by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Temple Israel Communications Coordinator When Elyce Azriel, director of religious education at Temple Israel, heard about the Kefiyada program in Israel, she “thought it was a wonderful opportunity for our college students to participate in.�

Among those she contacted were Jamie Skog, a 24year-old Jewish Theological Seminary master’s degree student in Jewish Education; Kyle Baines, a South Dakota State University student studying nursing; and Jessie Danon, a sophomore at the University of Kansas. “They were all three interested in going,� Azriel said. “For Jessie, it would be another chance to see Israel, because her first trip there had been curtailed due to the 2006 war with Hezbollah.�

Kefiyada is a Partnership with Israel project that brings American college students to Israel as counselors at Israeli summer camps. They’re paired with English-speaking Israeli counselors. In addition to the usual summer camp activities, social outings for the counselors strengthen ties between the young Americans and Israelis.

Jamie had already been to Israel five times prior to this year including an ARTZA trip and a Birthright Israel trip. From June 30 to July 25, “I had the amazing experience of working with fourth through sixth grade Israeli children at their summer camp in Kibbutz Beit HaEmek.

The mission of the camp was to have fun,� she said. “Since I worked with the older children, it was a combination of children from the entire Matte Asher region.

The camp was half Israeli children and half Sadal children,� whose parents had been in the Southern Lebanese Army helping Israel fight Hezbollah. Their families have taken refuge in Israel since it was no longer safe for them to live in Lebanon, Jamie explained. “I was a counselor or a madricha. I developed English programming and games to help improve (the children’s) English,� she added.

She wanted to be in a “Hebrew-rich environment� that would allow her to practice and improve her Hebrew skills. “Working with Israeli children is one of the best ways to do this.� Jamie, once a student at Temple Religious School who was active in Omaha Temple Youth Group (OTYG) and the B’nai B’rith Youth Organization here, had volunteered in Acco last year and wanted to return to northern Israel, an area she loves. Prior to arriving in Nahariya for camp, she led a Birthright trip and traveled a few weeks. “The overall experience was amazing. It added another level of understanding to my knowledge of the country. Each time I go back, I walk away with a different experience and a renewed appreciation for the complexities and diversities that exist within the culture,� Jamie

said.In addition, although her Hebrew was good, it improved over the summer. “I am still on a mission to improve my Hebrew.�

Jamie will no doubt be back in Israel as soon as she can arrange to be there. To quote a famous Jewish philosopher Jehudah Ha’Levi, she explained, “My heart is in the east.�

Kyle Baines had never been to Israel before this summer. “I was originally going to go on my Birthright trip, and then Elyce Azriel called me and told me about this amazing opportunity. From there, I just filled out the forms, and she made everything else happen for me.�

Kyle, who attended Temple Religious School since he

loved Israel ever since she went there two years ago. “I was waiting for another opportunity to go� when Azriel mentioned the summer camp program to Jessie’s dad. “This trip was so different than Artza,� Jessie pointed out. “Instead of touring for a month, we were stationed in one place interacting everyday with Israelis and their families. I felt most connected to Israeli life during the Shabbat dinners. I actually met family members I didn’t even know I had!� Jessie and Mor Terry, whose family hosted Kefiyada counselors, realized that Mor’s great grandmother and Jessie’s grandfather were from the same city in Yugoslavia and came to New York about the same time. “They also have the same last name!� Jessie

Kyle Baines, left, Jessie Danon, and a friend from Kentucky visited Jerusalem after working as counselors at Israeli summer camps. was in the third grade and was active in OTYG, worked Sunday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to noon as a camp counselor with children about eight years old. The counselors taught the kids American games, English, and about American culture. “After work, we went on tours of the western Galilee and surrounding areas of Nahariya. “I thought it was an amazing experience and it definitely gave me a new perspective on things. I knew no Hebrew prior to going, but now I can ask for basic things like a glass of water.� Kyle added that he is going to try to go back to Israel next summer.

Jessie Danon arrived with Kyle a couple days before camp started, and they stayed three days after it ended to see Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. A sophomore at the University of Kansas, Jessie attended Religious School at Temple from kindergarten through twelfth grade, become a Bat Mitzvah there, participated in Omaha Temple Youth Group, and was a teacher’s aide. This summer was her second trip to Israel having been there on the 2006 Artza trip. “Eight of us traveled to several different summer camps for Israeli kids� as Kefiyada counselors, said Jessie who has

Jamie Skog, left, from Omaha, Andrew Mirken and Ilene Solomon, from other Partnership regions in the United States, spent last summer as camp counselors in Israel.

What better way to spend an afternoon off than collecting eggs in a chicken koop on a kibbutz outside of Maalit! was astonished to learn. Mor was in the United States later in the summer to play on the Omaha team during the Maccabi games.

Although it was difficult at times to communicate with the children, Jessie said she did learn a lot of Hebrew. In fact, on the way back home, she and Kyle had to stop themselves from saying todah (thank you) to people.

Her desire to learn Hebrew motivated her to enroll in Hebrew this semester “so I can go back and actually talk to the kids!� “I could talk forever about the trip,� Jessie indicated. “It was something I will never forget. I actually felt like I made a difference and a connection with the people there as well as the people I was on the trip with.

Coming into the program knowing no one and coming out with some best friends was great. It’s amazing what a month can do to people. This program was more than I could ever ask for,� and she thanked “Elyce Azriel and Rabbi (Aryeh) Azriel along with the Jewish Agency for recommending and supporting both Kyle and I for this once in a lifetime experience.�

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Page 8

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

October 24, 2008

Temple Israel kids say Jewish summer camps are “cool�

by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Temple Israel Communications Coordinator We all belong to various communities. We relate to them and identify with them; membership in them helps us establish our identities. Our families, synagogues, neighborhoods, and hometowns are communities that serve vital roles for us all.

Jewish camps also give us the feelings of connection but even more intensely, according to Rabbi Ron Klotz, director of a Union for Reform Judaism camp.

Rachel Saag, 12, a seventh grader at Temple Religious School and Elkhorn Ridge Middle School, went to OlinSang-Ruby Union Institute (OSRUI) last summer. It was her first time and she spent two weeks there involved in drama, cooking, media, and sports. Her favorite activities were “campfires, dance parties on Shabbat and weekdays, lip sync contests, and evening stuff,� she said.

The other campers at OSRUI “were all really fun.� She talked about making banana boats at the home of camp assistant director Susan Alexander.

Rachel appreciated the difference between a Jewish camp and other camps. “We got to do special Jewish

Gathered around Rabbi Azriel at Olin-Sang-Ruby Union Institute are, front row: Lindsey Thomas, left, Rabbi Azriel, Bennett Ray, Jacob Wigodsky; back row: Brandon Friedman, Sophie Budwig, Rachel Saag, Jessica Pfrenger, Sarah Pfrenger, Jeff Gates, Josie Platt, Brandon Idelman, Max Gendler, Jacob Arnold, and Wil Beach.

IN THE NEWS

Twelve young Jews will embark on a unique leadership mission to Ukraine this October for the first organized trip outside of Israel open to Taglit-Birthright Israel alumni in the United States.

More than 100 people applied for the trip’s 12 spots.

The selected participants, who are between the ages of 23 and 30, were chosen on the basis of previous leadership experiences and their desire to become more involved in Jewish communal affairs. They will connect with Ukrainian Taglit-Birthright Israel alumni and participate in activities that aim to revitalize the local Jewish community.

The trip, organized by Birthright Israel NEXT and cosponsored by the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee, will take place from Oct. 26 through Nov. 4. Participants will spend most of their time in Kiev and Odessa, touring Jewish sites and taking part in hands-on volunteer work with local communities.

Some of the planned activities include: Visiting Babi Yar and Independence Square -- the site of the Orange Revolution; Packaging and distributing food for needy families at the community and welfare center Hesed Nahlat Avot Azriel; Meeting with three generations of a Jewish family in Odessa; Participating in a unique Havdalah service with Hillel students and other young Jewish leaders; and Taking a walking tour of “Jewish Kiev� on Shabbat with Ukrainian Taglit-Birthright Israel alumni.

stuff like Shabbat that we wouldn’t be able to do at other camps,� she explained.

More than 25 Temple youngsters went to OSRUI last summer. Albert Mars, an OSRUI staff member, will be at Temple on Camp Day, Sunday, November 2. Students entering grades three through ten in the fall 2009 are eligible to enroll for upcoming summer programs at OSRUI located in Wisconsin. On Camp Day, youngsters will get a taste of camp life. They’ll toast s’mores, tell stories, and make crafts. Parents and students will be able to talk with Mars in depth about OSRUI during the noon pizza lunch in the Milder Center and/or at an Open House at the home of Rabbi Aryeh and Elyce Azriel the day before Camp Day. Sarah Pfrenger, ten, also went to OSRUI for two weeks. She found out about it at Temple from her friend, Sophie Budwig. “It looked exciting,� said Sarah, who attends Temple Religious School and Spring Ridge Elementary. During her two weeks at camp, she swam, learned Hebrew, participated in sports and rock climbing, prayers, and went horseback riding.

Continued on page 11

Tashlich especially fun for kids “Birthright Israel NEXT’s trip to Ukraine represents a fantastic opportunity for the next generation of Jewish leaders,� Rabbi Daniel Brenner, vice president for education of the Birthright Israel Foundation and director of Birthright Israel NEXT, said. “Not only will it give the trip participants a profound understanding of Eastern European Jewish history and present, but it will also allow them to build global partnerships with TaglitBirthright Israel alumni from other nations.�

To learn about more Birthright Israel NEXT opportunities visit http://next.birthrightisrael.com.

Recent Central High School Hall of Fame inductees included: Charles Fishkin, left, Beverly Fellman and Sheldon Harris.

Credit: Joan K. Marcus

Trendwood Park was the locale for Tashlich for members of Beth Israel Synagogue, following a Chinese dinner.

Among the children present were, back row: Naomi Teetzel, left, Cleo Rogers, Sarah Potash; middle row: Joshua Kurtzman, Aaron Kurtzman, Isaac Rogers, Josh Polack, Ethan Shrago; front: Noah Shrago and Isaac Kurtzman.

Credit: Jordana Kurtzman

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October 24, 2008

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 9

Camps’ color war turns green as campers seek more aid

by JACOB BERKMAN NEW YORK (JTA) -- As social service agencies and charities brace for the fallout from the country’s economic downturn, Jewish overnight camps already have felt the crunch: They are reporting a dramatic increase in requests for financial aid next summer.

More than 70,000 Jewish children attend some 150 nonprofit Jewish overnight camps. That number reflects an increase in recent years as the Foundation for Jewish Camp, working with other local agencies and private foundations, has engaged in a multimillion-dollar program to provide incentives to first-time campers. The focus on camping comes as recent studies have shown that Jewish summer camps are the most effective form of informal Jewish education and identity building.

But many American Jews who once could afford camps, which can cost upwards of $7,000 for a season, are finding themselves priced out because of the squeeze on family budgets due to the economic downturn. This year they increasingly asked for help, according to camping officials.

“The pressure on the scholarship line to support families has been at the highest point that they have seen in many, many years,” said the executive director of the Foundation for Jewish Camp, Jerry Silverman. “In my time I haven’t seen this type of situation from a sense of pressure on the percentage of dollars they are being asked to use to support their campers.”

Silverman said the increased request has been heard across the country. To make up for the scholarship crunch, he said, many camps have been forced to cut other budget items, such as off-campus trips, food and maintenance staff, busing and capital improvements.

Camp directors and agencies that provide financial aid for camps almost uniformly confirmed Silverman’s observation.

Camp Ramah New England had to increase its budget line for financial aid from $180,000 last year to more than $200,000 this summer, according to its executive director, Rabbi Ed Gelb. The Combined Jewish Philanthropies in Boston tripled the number of scholarships it doled out for camp this year, according to its director of informal education, Ed Pletman.

In New York, the UJA-Federation of New York increased its budget for scholarships for overnight camps from $400,000 to $550,000 to help ease the situation, Louise Greilsheimer, the federation’s senior vice president for agency and external affairs, told JTA. In Philadelphia, the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia saw a 15 percent increase in requests for financial aid, according to its manager of allocations, Brian Mono.

And on the West Coast, the country’s largest financial aid program for Jewish residential camps, which is run out of the Bureau of Jewish Education of San Francisco, the Peninsula, Marin and Sonoma, received 180 more applications this year than it did last year, according to its financial aid director, Janet Rothman.

“On average, a three-week camping experience in California is about $3,200, and if there are multiple siblings, for some people there is just no way you can afford that,” Rothman said. “Absolutely the economic downturn is driving people to us.”

Many of the new requests are coming from higherincome applicants.

Continued on page 10

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October 24, 2008

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Waterskiing | Sports | Arts & Crafts | High Ropes Course | Jewish Friendships

Camp Young Judaea Midwest Located in Waupaca, Wisconsin | For 3rd-9th graders

New campers receive $1000 off tuition!

For information on the 2009 summer, contact us: 888-605-CAMP | info@cyjmid.org | www.cyjmid.org

Camp Ramah in Wisconsin

...where the best of Jewish life meets the joy of camping!

Check out our awesome one month programs for campers entering 5th and 6th grade in 2009!

Located in Conover, Wisconsin For children entering 5th-11th grades For more information: Rabbi David Soloff, Director 312.606.9316, ext. 221 registrar@ramahwisconsin.com

www.ramahwisconsin.com

FOLLOWING THE SUN Snowbirds

Please let the Jewish Press know in advance when you are leaving and when you are returning. Sometimes several papers are sent to your “old”address before we are notified by the Post Office. Every time they return a paper to us, you miss the Jewish Press and we are charged 70¢! Please call us at 402.334.6448 or email us at jpress@jewishomaha.org.

Is CD “laddering” right for you?

by GARY KUDYM, CLU, CASL State Farm® agent With the recent volatility in the stock market, people are hesitant to put their entire nest egg into the market. Additionally, with the economy creating tight times for families, it’s often necessary to make sure funds are available if and when we need them. For those investors who are either reluctant to jump head first into the market or those who may have a need for cash, the strategy of laddering Certificates of Deposit (CDs) may be appropriate.

CD laddering is the process of structuring your investment into CDs to take advantage of the higher rates afforded by longer-term time deposits, yet maintaining liquidity by arranging it so that equal portions of the invested money is available periodically.

Begin by buying numerous CDs with various maturities. Let’s say you have $25,000 to invest. Rather than investing it all in one CD

that matures at a designated time, by laddering CDs, you may choose to invest $5,000 in each of five separate CDs. In this example, you would then purchase a one-year, two-year, three-year, four-year, and five-year CD in equal amounts. After one year, when your first CD matures, you would invest it in a new five-year CD. Each year, a CD will expire and, if the funds are not needed, they will be reinvested in a new five-year CD to take advantage of the higher interest rate as compared to the one- or two-year CDs. This approach allows you the comfort of knowing that a CD will mature each year in case you need the money, yet still take advantage of the higher rates typically offered for longer maturities. CD laddering may be a strategy that’s appropriate for your lifestyle.

Plus, with the guaranteed interest rate offered on CDs, you will be able to plan your future with confidence. Talk with your insurance agent or financial expert for more information.

Live boldly

by Jennifer Mull CEO, Backwoods Backwoods was founded in 1973, by Lewis Mull, after he was unable to find the clothing and equipment in his home town that would withstand the rigors of his outdoor adventures.

Traveling to places all over the world – safaris in Africa, backpacking in Scotland, hunting in South America, fishing in the Pacific, sailing in the Caribbean, climbing in the Western U.S., hiking in the Rockies – Lewis knew firsthand that the success of a trip often hinged on having high-quality products. He discovered there were many other adventurers with the same dilemma. So, in 1973, he opened the first Backwoods in Wichita, Kansas.

In 2003, I became the President and CEO of Backwoods. From the beginning, I recognized that Backwoods had established itself as a tremendous resource for gear and clothing for the outdoors. As I shaped my personal vision for the company, I felt strongly that Backwoods

should remain authentic -- true to its roots of outdoor adventure -- while also expanding its scope in specific areas. Today, Backwoods has expanded its product mix substantially in daily lifestyle apparel, footwear, and travel as well as sustaining and growing our technical brands and product selection. We also stepped into the world of adventure travel in 2004 with the launch of Backwoods Adventures. We are now not only outfitting people for adventure, but are personally taking people out to experience the many wonders of the world!

Our passion, our goal and our mission is to inspire you to seek adventure regardless of whether you join us on a two week trip hike to Machu Picchu, take an hour-long walk somewhere in the Midwest, or travel to Europe to see it’s fabulous history. At Backwoods we are dedicated to assisting you in any way we can – no matter your destination. We look forward to talking with you soon at our location in the Tower Plaza.

Where Jewish children celebrate Judaism

by SARAH GRUESNER Assistant Director, Programming Herzl Camp Herzl Camp is a place where Jewish children come to make friends, have fun, learn about Israel and celebrate Judaism. Daily activities include basketball, drama, sailing, rock climbing, fishing, ultimate Frisbee, swimming, amanut (arts and crafts), wilderness survival, tennis, dance, volleyball and much more. T’fillot at Herzl Camp is an experience, as prayer is infused with music, Hebrew and camper participation in order to bring meaning and joy.

Finally, the camping experience would not be

complete without our incredibly talented staff from around the country and around the world.

Many of them have grown up “through the system” at Herzl, and their knowledge and love of camping is unmatched -- they are truly the best of the best!

For more information, please check out our website at www.herzlcamp.org, or contact the Herzl Camp office at 952.927.4002, or at info@herzlcamp.org, if you have any questions or would like to sign up for the Summer of 2009. We are currently accepting registrations for third-11th grade programs.

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Campers seek more aid Continued from page 9 The federation in Philadelphia, for instance, received 81 applications from families with net household incomes above $100,000, according to Mono.

Twenty of them received aid, primarily because they also were paying for day school tuition.

The Foundation for Jewish Camp is trying to double the number of Jewish children enrolled in Jewish overnight camps and has been working with private foundations to give out non-need-based incentives of up to several thousand dollars to first-time campers through its Campership program.

Camping officials said it isn’t clear now if the scholarships helped ease some of the financial pain or if the influx of campers has also brought an influx of campers with financial needs. But it is clear that in some parts of the country, the program itself has been crimped by the economy.

The New York federation, for instance, saw a slowdown in the growth of its incentive program as fewer parents than expected applied for the scholarships, said

Greilsheimer. Despite the discount from the scholarships, parents simply could not afford to pay the rest of the price of tuition, she said.

The situation stands to get worse, according to Miriam Chilton, the director of business operations for camping and Israel programs for the Union for Reform Judaism. The URJ operates 12 overnight camps for some 9,000 campers and allocates about $1 million annually for three financial aid programs, Chilton said. But for next year, the URJ already is looking at increasing the financial aid number to $1.5 million.

Camp officials told JTA they already are starting to raise more money for next year. In Omaha, the Center for Jewish Education recently distributed nearly a quarter million dollars in scholarships for college, the CDC and Friedel. That means more pressure will be put on funds to find money for camp scholarships.

Though the synagogues also have some scholarship money available, it’s not nearly enough to cover the growing cost of Jewish overnight camps.

October 24, 2008

Ramah is like a second home

Teach your children well

by ANGELA GOLDSTEIN Camp Ramah in Wisconsin is 150 acres of magical space, tucked away in the heart of Wisconsin's Northwoods. Within this space, campers and staff from throughout the Midwest and Israel unite each summer to form a very special Jewish community. Together, they experience the joy of overnight camping while leading vibrant Jewish lives. For campers, Ramah is a second home. It's also a place to learn new skills, gain independence, make lifetime friendships and become totally at ease as Jews.

A full range of fun activities integrates Jewish values and observances into the daily camp experience. Activities include sports, swimming, high and low ropes courses, climbing wall, sailing, kayaking, music, dance, nature, photography, radio, arts and drama. Sports courts upgrades enable campers to play softball, basketball, tennis and volleyball both during the day and under the lights at night! All meals are kosher and Shabbat is observed. The camp is located 15 miles north of Eagle River, Wisconsin, on beautiful Lake Buckatabon.

Ramah Wisconsin offers a half season for campers entering fifth grade (June 16-July 13) and a half season for campers entering sixth grade (July 15–Aug. 10). The full season for campers entering seventh-11th grades runs from June 16–Aug. 10.

For more information, call 312.606.9316 ext. 221, email registrar@ramahwisconsin.com or visit our website at www. ramahwisconsin.com.

by MICHAEL SIGMOND Edward Jones Financial Adviser As a parent, what steps can you take to teach children to save and plan? Here are a few suggestions: Explain the “three pools” concept. Encourage your children to divide their money into three pools: one for saving, one for spending and one for giving. The “spending” pool should be for fairly inexpensive purchases, such as small toys, whereas the “saving” pool should be earmarked for bigger purchases, such as video games or a new bicycle. Suggest that your children use the “giving” pool for presents or contributions to charitable groups.

Exhibit appropriate behavior. Children may learn best by imitating their elders, so it’s important that you set a good example in the area of smart financial behavior. Take the time to explain to your children that, for instance, you’d like to buy a new car, but you can’t afford one now, so you are saving up for it. Look for similar opportunities between saving and reaching goals.

Simplify the concept of investing. You might think that young children can’t grasp the meaning of investing. But you can connect the potential growth of stocks with the achievement of very long-term goals. And Make investing fun. Play a “stock-picking” game. Each family member could choose to follow the stock of a company with which the kids are familiar.

Award a prize to the person whose stock has gone up the most.

Children love to learn, so make sure they learn valuable financial lessons. The benefits can stick with them for a lifetime.

A summer of fun

Campers take pride in Judaism

by MARGARET SCHATZ

by ROBIN ANDERSON Director, Marketing & Sales, Jewish Community Center-St. Louis Assistant Director at Camp Young Judaea Midwest and There’s nothing that screams summer louder than sleep-away Area Supervisor, Greater Midwest Young Judaea camp … and there’s nothing that screams fun louder than Camp Founded in 1969, Camp Young Judaea Midwest is a co-ed Sabra at the Lake of the Ozarks! Whether you’re a first time Jewish community located in Waupaca, Wisconsin. CYJ Midwest camper or an experienced veteran, the St. Louis JCC’s Camp provides a full range of activities, while instilling in our campers Sabra has something FUN for everyone. From water activities pride in their Judaism and a love for Israel. Campers participate like waterskiing, canoeing, kayaking, swimming and sailing to in a variety of programs, including waterskiing, swimming, land sports like basketball, lacrosse, softball, archery, soccer horseback riding, arts and crafts, sports, high and low ropes and tennis, to painting, pottery, music, photography and the- course, music, drama, camping and much more. atre, Camp Sabra offers a wide range of programming for Our 80+ acre campsite includes a spring-fed lake and beach campers to choose from. waterfront, spacious dining hall and kosher kitchen, modern airAt Camp Sabra, you will learn how to build a campfire, pitch conditioned recreation hall, 40’ climbing tower with five climba tent and other outdoor skills, and then apply all of it when you ing elements, baseball, tennis and volleyball courts and an arts experience one of a variety of overnight experiences. Our exten- and crafts area. We tailor our attention to each individual need, sive ropes course will have you climbing, zipping and hanging while teaching the lessons of living as part of a community. around in the trees. On Friday nights, the entire camp walks to Campers return from camp self-confident, strong in their the dining hall as one family to celebrate Shabbat. While over- Jewish Identity and with more knowledge about Israel. They looking the lake you will enjoy creative camper led services, and won’t stop talking about what a great time they had! We mainexperience Shabbat like you never have before! Located on 365 tain a high staff to camper ratio and are able to provide each wooded acres, Sabra boasts 3.5 miles of private shoreline for camper with a safe, caring, fun educational and Jewish experiyour experience of a lifetime! ence. Most of our staff are CYJ Midwest alumni, including the Contact Terri Grossman @ 314.442.3180 or visit our website director! All meals are kosher and Shabbat is observed. at www.campsabra.com for more information including dates Scholarships are available for all programs and new campers and rates for our fabulous 2009 season! Don’t miss it, a sum- receive $1000 off. Check us out at www.cyjmid.org. For more mer of fun, a lifetime of memories! information, contact us at 888.605.CAMP or info@cyjmid.org.

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Page 11

Jewish camps are cool

Continued from page 8 She liked going to a Jewish camp, because, “it was really fun, and a couple of my friends were there and Shabbat was good.”

Others, like Jacob Vann, 11 1/2 years old, attended Shwayder Camp nestled in the Colorado Rockies. Along with his sister Cecelia, nine, Jacob spent two weeks at the camp surrounded by the beauty of nature. Jacob and Cecelia were among about 20 Temple Israel campers at Shwayder.

Jacob decided to go to Shwayder after listening to Zim Zimmerman, camp director, talk about the camp last fall at Temple. “It hooked me,” said Jacob, a sixth grader at Temple and Rockbrook Elementary School.

“It was great!” according to Jacob. “We had one of the biggest cabins. It was so cool being there!” As for his favorite pursuit at camp: “I would have to say either horseback riding, Battle of the Sexes, balloon shaving, or tag team running.” On second thought, he added archery. Among Jacob’s other memories are Shwayder Island. “You walk across a big log. It’s really nice and quiet. You could hear the sound of the stream.”

He also “got to know a lot of prayers better and how to dance to Israeli music.”

Jessica Levinger, 14, a freshman at Temple Religious School and at Millard North High School, attended Camp Sabra, located near the Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri. Last summer was her sixth year at Sabra. “My sisters went there first,” Jessica said.

One of her favorite parts of camp was a hiking trip to Arkansas. About 30 kids went on the five-day hike, sleeping in tents at night. Jessica also mentioned “swimming in the lake and pool, sailing, tubing, color wars, drama, arts and crafts, Israeli dancing, the World Series of softball, land sports like soccer and basketball” offered at Sabra. Along with her friends from Omaha, Jessica met kids from Dallas, St. Louis, and Kansas City.

“It was fun ‘cause you can do stuff that’s related to your religion and meet kids in youth groups like OTYG and BBYO.” Jessica’s sister, Amy, 17, was a junior counselor at Sabra. This was her eighth year there and her first time as a counselor. For a month, the Temple and Millard North senior “woke up kids, got them to their activities on time, and helped ones who were homesick. It was a lot of fun. I met so many incredible people -- kids and staff.”

“For many, Rabbi Klotz noted, “camp is the first opportunity to learn how to be a role model and how to actually perform acts of loving kindness. Counselors never forget the times they helped a child. Years later, we recall turning a tear into a smile. These are usually the first introduction to parenting lessons our staff receives.

The messages are incredibly powerful.”

Page 12

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

October 24, 2008

Jewish camping and our children’s future In this week’s special issue on camping, JTA highlights the financial struggles many Jewish camps are facing. The article, which was written before the the precipitous drop in the stock market, demonstrates how rising costs and the current stress on the budgets of Jewish families are creating a situation where fewer children and teens will be able to afford to attend a Jewish summer camping experience.

As our community rabbis know full well, this would not bode well for the future of our Jewish communities.

Since some of them had even met their spouses while working at Jewish summer camps, they know the impact that a four or eight-week intensive Jewish experience can have on kids and teens. There’s plenty of evidence that Jewish camps instill pride, a curiosity about Judaism and Israel, and a desire to learn more and do more.

More than a decade ago, at the suggestion of Rabbi Paul Drazen (former rabbi at the Conservative Beth El Synagogue), the Jewish Federation of Omaha began giving a $500 voucher, good for any Jewish summer camp, to each B’nai Mitzvah preteen in Greater Omaha.

The program was so wildly successful, that a few years later, the Budget and Allocation Committee (which oversees the entire process of the Federation and its agencies), authorized yet another $500, this time to be used for the summer following a teen’s B’nai Mitzvah. This was later changed so that families can use the $1000 in one lump sum, or actually divide it in smaller

sums so it can last a longer period of time. One more change was recently made, too; now children are eligible for these grants in third through 11th grade.

Certainly our Federation has great foresight in making these funds available. But sadly, it is no longer enough to cover the $5000 to $7000 that six-eight weeks of camp now costs (not to mention additional expenses, like camp clothes and gear, spending money and travel).

Families who need additional funds can turn to their synagogues, which usually have money available for campers to attend their movement related camps. And scholarships also can be found through the Center for Jewish Educa-tion (CJE), which oversees a number of different endowments and funds geared specifically to summer camping experiences.

But even this is not enough. More funds are needed, especially now, especially to ensure that our children have the kind of exciting Jewish experience that will last a lifetime.

Anyone interested in providing funding for scholarship programs can contact Marty Ricks in the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation; he can be reached at 402.334.6440. Another avenue is to contribute to the CornerStones Fund, utilized by the Financial Aid Committee for scholarships for Jewish summer camps (as well as Jewish preschool, day school, and Jewish youth programs). For more information, contact Mary Sue Grossman in the CJE office, 334.6445.

For the sake of our children -- and our future -- we can’t ignore this.

BEHIND THE HEADLINES

by SHOSHANA BRYEN WASHINGTON (JTA) -- There are at least two problems with the increasing calls for the United States to engage Iran.

Asserting that the United States should “talk to Iran” assumes that we don’t -- but we do.

Asserting that America’s president should talk to Iran’s president misunderstands who wields power in Iran and what Iran wants -- it is not Ahmadinejad and it is not nuclear weapons capability.

Real power in Iran is in the hands of the clerics who formulated Iran’s broad, wellthought-out and very serious religious and political worldview. It is Shi’ite in design, not Persian. (Ahmadinejad talks about Iran. The clerics talk about Islam.) Their program is not born of imagined slights or misdeeds by a particular U.S. president, and a new president will not reverse it.

Their worldview is positive, not reactionary, in that it proceeds from the belief that expansion is the fate of Shi’ite Islam and that this destiny is a good one. They don’t want to be our friends; they do want us not to be in their way.

The nuclear quest began with the shah, was adopted by the Islamic Revolution and has proceeded through “reformist” and “reactionary” Iranian presidents -- Ahmadinejad is nastier, but no more important than the others. Nuclear capability is a tactical goal in the strategic quest for regional hegemony and expansion of Shi’ite Islam. Focus on nuclear weapons as an end in themselves distracts from Iran’s immediate, though not necessarily existential, threats to the United States and Israel.

In the Middle East, Iran arms, trains and supports Shi’ite Hezbollah in Lebanon, and Sunni Hamas in the Gaza Strip and increasingly on the West Bank. Iran’s investment in Hezbollah before the 2006 war was more than $1.5 billion; what was lost has been replaced

Ehud Barak told a visiting delegation of American Jews, “We have common ground with moderate forces in the Arab world.

Israel’s [nuclear] program never threatened them; Iran’s does...”

The Iranian people desperately hope we will not abandon them to “talk” to their jailers.

Iranian pursuit of nuclear weapons does not only threaten Israel, although Israel rightly takes the greatest interest in its progress. The Arab world from the Gulf to Lebanon to Egypt fears an aggressive Iran; it is terrified by the thought of a nuclear one.

Interestingly, Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barak recently told a visiting delegation of American Jews, “We have common ground with moderate forces in the Arab world.

Israel’s [nuclear] program never threatened them; Iran’s does. We have a common interest

Jewish Press Board Michael Sigmond, Vice President; Stan Mitchell, Secretary; Michael Siegel, Treasurer; Howard K. Marcus, Immediate Past-chairman; Marc Brodkey; Andie Gordman; Michael Kaufman; Bette Kozlen; Susan Lehr; Jamie Meyerson; Andy Ruback; Jim Simon; Nancy Skid; and Dorothy Spizman.

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In dealing with Iran, the wrong kind of talk can be dangerous and upgraded. Iran is the main supporter of Syria’s President Assad, has aided the PKK paramilitary group seeking an independent Kurdish state and provides training and equipment for militias in Iraq (including Sunni ones).

In our hemisphere, Iran has joined Cuba, Venezuela and Nicaragua in showy displays of anti-Americanism. Energy-based Iranian relations with Russia, China, India, Turkey and Western Europe serve to undermine American interests.

About what should we talk? Which of these, or nuclear weapons, will Iran give up and why?

And who would we betray in our efforts to cement a deal?

Inside Iran, the clerical police -- not Ahmadinejad -- are the guardians of “public morality.” They are the “modesty police” who can beat women for supposed indiscretions of dress, and they are the ones who hang homosexuals and stone adulterers. They arrest and “disappear” student leaders, ban books, monitor phone calls, break up demonstrations and persecute the Bahai.

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in not seeing Iraq subjugated by Iran and worry about the future of Syria.”

This suggests a policy direction for the United States: Don’t “talk” with a powerless “president” or clerics who believe they are on the right side of history, push back where alliances are possible and adopt an energy policy based on national security.

As Iran is positive in its worldview, we must be in ours. That means several important steps. In addition to maintaining strong support for Israel, we must: • Make Latin America more favorable to the United States and inhospitable to Iran by approving the Colombia Free Trade Pact, dropping tariffs on Caribbean sugar for ethanol (ecologically better than corn), taking socialist, pro-free-market democratic Brazil and Chile seriously, and isolating Nicaragua (not hard; the Sandinistas aren’t popular).

• Diversify American sources of energy, deriving as much as we can domestically.

Energy is fungible -- an increase in global supply makes Iranian oil less expensive and reduces the windfall to the mullahs.

• Strike back at Iran when it violates the border of Iraq to strike at U.S. troops. The same should apply to Syria’s decision to reopen its eastern border and allow al-Qaida access to western Iraq.

• Forge new regional relationships independent of the Palestinians. After the Arab states and Israel come to understandings about security, the Palestinians will have the Arab cover they need to make their peace with Israel.

• Avoid steps that legitimize the regime, otherwise we risk abandoning people who are not our enemies and who should be our friends.

• Ensure close coordination of American and Israeli policies, and continue firm American support for Israel; it sends a message.

Sometimes talk is cheap. In this case, the wrong kind of talk can be dangerous.

Shoshana Bryen is the senior director for security policy at The Jewish Institute for National Security Affairs in Washington.

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October 24, 2008

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 13

Foreign policy, experience make McCain the one Learning to love Obama after Hillary’s defeat

FOCUS ON ISSUES

by MORRIS J. AMITAY

WASHINGTON (JTA) -- As a patriotic Jewish American, I care deeply about Israel’s well-being and security as well as that of our own country.

In having to choose between the two presidential candidates, I find myself looking closely at their statements, record of accomplishments, the people who advise them now and those they were influenced by in the past. I do this with our future foremost in mind, and what we could expect their policies would mean to Israel going forward.

This measuring rod is critically important in the face of the unprecedented national security challenges that we will face in the next few years.

Today the choice for the pro-Israel community is clear: Sen. John McCain is the one. I regret that this choice is not shared by more of my coreligionists. As they vote Democratic, more out of habit than out of self-interest, too many fail to appreciate the growing menace of Islamic extremism to both the United States and Israel.

I realize that for many Jewish Americans, Israel’s and America’s safety and security appear to be a lower priority than certain social issues, such as preserving abortion rights. I’ve heard this expressed often by those who sincerely believe that the next president’s Supreme Court appointments are more crucial than how a president will face up to the jihadist threat to Israel and the United States.

If McCain had made the abortion issue a defining one of his public life, then this concern might have some validity. But this is not the case. Instead, McCain has focused his energies on issues pertaining to our national security and understands how to deal with the threat to America and free peoples around the world.

Sen. Barack Obama might be the choice of those Jewish Americans who have an “It’s all Israel’s fault” mentality, and who even feel anti-Semitism today is the result of Israel’s own actions.

But for Jews who are troubled by the moral-equivalence view of our State Department and some mainstream media like the New York Times, it is time to rethink the predilection to support Obama because he is the Democratic candidate, and to seriously consider voting for McCain. In my years in Washington going back to my first positions in the JFK administration, I have worked for both a liberal Democratic congressman and a liberal Democratic senator.

But today I am much more closely aligned with the diminishing number of Democrats who are considered centrists of the Joe Lieberman and “Scoop” Jackson variety. Unfortunately, the loudest voices now in the Democratic Party belong to the Michael Moores, Dennis Kuciniches, and the Moveon.org “progressive” types who are enamored with Obama.

When Lieberman, now a self-described Independent Democrat, endorsed McCain for president, Lieberman asserted: “I have worked with Sen. McCain on just about every national security issue over the past 20 years… I have seen Sen. McCain time and time again rise above the negativism and pettiness of our politics to get things done for the country he loves so much.”

This evaluation resonates with me and contrasts starkly with the shallow background and thin resume of McCain’s opponent. Obama’s boosters credit him with transcending race -- and by extrapolation everything else, including divisions

of region, class, party, generation and ideology.

However, his very lean record in the Senate to date indicates none of this.

Aside from winning elections and writing two books about himself, what accomplishments can Obama point to?

Comparisons between Obama and the young and charismatic John F. Kennedy also come up short. Actually, it is McCain, not Obama, who, like Kennedy, was commissioned as a naval officer, awarded the Purple Heart and decorated for helping his comrades.

And McCain, much like JFK, has pledged to fight for freedom around the world, not to retreat from our enemies.

This credo is certainly what we need more than meaningless slogans like “Change we can believe in” and “We are the ones we’ve been waiting for.”

Many in Congress have fine Israel-related voting records. Obama, in his very brief career, is among them. But some of these same legislators also appear reluctant to confront the growing menace of Islamofacism and the threat it presents to America’s vital interests in the Middle East and to Israel’s survival.

Only one presidential candidate repeatedly states that “the transcendent challenge we face today is the menace of Islamic extremism.” McCain asserts this frequently to all kinds of audiences, and at all times. He offers a clear choice to voters on Nov. 4, as he acknowledges the grim reality of today’s world. One can respect Obama for his ambition, his meteoric rise and his rhetorical skills. But his equivocation on issues like Jerusalem, public campaign financing and the success of the surge in Iraq are disturbing, as is his approach to dealing with Iran’s Ahmadinejad. When not scripted, he has spoken of the “legitimate claims” of Hezbollah and Hamas.

Also worrisome is his ultra-liberal voting record in the short time he has served in the Senate -- a record that does not fit with someone who claims to be a “unifier.” A unifier might be expected to come from the middle of a party, the place that gave us the constructive and bipartisan Senate Gang of 14, which forged a compromise on judicial appointments.

Obama was nowhere to be seen in that group; McCain was a lead member. And it is McCain, not Obama, who has pledged to appoint members of both parties to his presidential cabinet. Another primary concern is Obama’s meager national security record.

Instead of arriving at well-established positions through years of intensive deliberation and consideration, he will have to rely more heavily on a group of advisers -some 300 by his own count. Given both the backgrounds of several of the more prominent people who have counseled him to date and the endorsements he has received from an infamous list of Israel bashers, this is surely not a promising sign.

One speech to AIPAC cannot make up for off-the-cuff remarks that raise serious questions. If one believes we live in a dangerous world with unprecedented challenges, the choice should be an easy one.

On that fabled Day One, Iran, Iraq, Russia, North Korea, Afghanistan, China, global terrorism, Middle East oil and, almost incidentally, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict will be at the top of the new president’s agenda. Given the two candidates’ records, experience, and core values, this choice for Jewish Americans should not be a difficult one: John McCain for president.

Morris J. Amitay, a Washington attorney, is a former executive director of AIPAC and founder of the pro-Israel Washington PAC.

FOCUS ON ISSUES

by DEBORAH E. LIPSTADT ATLANTA (JTA) -- I am one of those 18 million cracks in the glass ceiling.

I was a Hillary supporter. I did not support Senator Clinton because she was a woman but because I liked her policies and record.

But as is often the case in life, my hopes were not to be. Once that became clear I sat on the sidelines, watching and wondering. Now I am firmly in the Obama/Biden camp. I have been both pushed and pulled in that direction. I am there as an American, a woman and a Jew. John McCain is a firm pro-lifer, having voted against choice more than 120 times in his career. His running mate opposes abortion even in the case of rape and incest. While there is nothing fundamentally wrong with these beliefs, I object to having someone’s personal views forced upon everyone else when it entails such a private family matter.

Furthermore, this view potentially conflicts with Jewish law, which holds that when there is a threat to the life of the mother, her life takes precedence over that of her fetus -- and leaves abortion decisions up to a woman and the rabbi with whom she consults. McCain’s views on abortion are not, however, my primary reason for not supporting him. I find myself diverging with him on a far broader array of issues.

The Torah repeatedly instructs us to care for the “widow, orphan, poor, and the stranger.” It is fundamental to Judaism that those who are blessed with “more” have an obligation -- not a choice -- to help those who have less. Taking care of the needy in Jewish tradition constitutes doing tzedaka, not charity. There is a world of difference between the two.

How then could I support McCain, who has voted against the minimum wage at least 10 times? Who believes in the privatization of Social Security? Can you imagine what would be happening today as the economy lurches toward implosion to people who depended on private Social Security accounts?

How could I support a candidate whose health-care program would leave millions uninsured and tax the health insurance benefits we now receive from our employers? Or who supports more tax cuts for the very wealthy and almost nothing for the middle class or the poor?

And then, of course, there is Israel.

Groups of Jews who oppose Obama want to strike fear into people’s hearts Why else would I regularly receive e-mails from them -- I like to know what the other side is saying -- referring to BHO, as in Barrack Hussein Obama?

Obama’s record has earned him praise from AIPAC and Israeli leaders, as well as condemnation from Palestinian leaders.

The recently defunct, solidly pro-Israel New York Sun declared in an editorial earlier this year: “Mr. Obama’s commitment to Israel, as he has articulated it so far in his campaign, is quite moving and a tribute to the broad, bipartisan support that the Jewish state has in America.”

Leaders in Israel -- on both sides of the political spectrum -- do not fear Obama’s commitment to Israel. Israeli leaders from Ehud Barak to Benjamin Netanyahu were impressed by Obama. Netanyahu, the Likud Party leader, told the Jerusalem Post that he was “impressed with Obama’s understanding of the Iranian threat and that they both agreed that a nuclear Iran was unacceptable.”

What about the famous “experience” conundrum? Obama’s familiarity with the

issues has impressed many, including the veteran journalist David Horowitz, editor of the Jerusalem Post. He compared his interviews with President Bush, McCain and Obama.

When he met a few months ago with Bush in the Oval Office, the president -- who at this point is “presumably as expert on Israeli-Palestinian policy as he is ever going to be” -- brought with him “no fewer than five advisers and spokespeople during a 40-minute interview,” Horowitz wrote. Horowitz’s meeting with Obama was markedly different.

Obama “spoke with only a single aide in his hotel room.” (The aide’s only contribution was to suggest that Obama and Horowitz switch seats, so the Post photographer would have better lighting.)

Obama did not lack for Middle East advisers. Dennis Ross, President Bill Clinton’s special envoy to the Middle East and one who is widely respected for his knowledge and commitment to a secure peace settlement, and Daniel Kurtzer, the former ambassador to Israel and Yeshiva University graduate and its former dean, were “hovering in the vicinity,” Horowitz wrote, but they were not in the room.

Contrast that with Sarah Palin’s rote repetition three times during the Charlie Gibson interview of precisely the same phrase about Israel that “We can’t secondguess Israel.”Can she only speak in sound bites? Does she have any knowledge of the nuances of the situation? The same thing happened in the vice-presidential debate.

Palin spewed a lot of talking points, but demonstrated no real familiarity with the situation.

I believe that those who know the history and nuances of the Arab-Israeli conflict and the track record of the different players cannot help but come down on the side of a safe and secure Israel. But in order to help broker a real peace, they must know more than rote talking points.

Many Jews, myself included, were deeply disturbed by the Rev. Jeremiah Wright’s most controversial comments, but there is nothing in Obama’s record to indicate that he adheres to Wright’s views. I was glad to hear Obama forcefully and publicly denounce them.

Contrast that with Palin, who sat in her church while a Jews for Jesus leader preached that terrorism in Israel is God’s “judgment” against Jews for failing to accept Jesus? Maybe she said nothing because she did not understand the implication’s of Brickner’s words, but that would be even more disturbing.

Lest someone assume that I am contemptuous of her deep religious commitment, let me stress that it is the contrary.

In my work and life I find myself more comfortable with those who are deeply committed to their faith than those who are unconnected and, even worse, contemptuous of those who are. I just don’t want them imposing their faith on me.

Finally, let’s talk about the 800-pound gorilla. Jews have prospered in this country in countless and unimaginable ways.

America has given us tremendous opportunities. While no one should vote for Obama because he is black, the fact that a black man is a nominee for the highest office in the land constitutes an affirmation of the fact that at long last, some of the final barriers of discrimination are crumbling. For Jews it is yet another reminder of the blessings this country has offered them and other minorities.

For me, the choice is clear.

Deborah E. Lipstadt is the Dorot Professor of Modern Jewish and Holocaust Studies at Emory University and author of History on Trial: My Day in Court With David Irving.

Page 14

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

October 24, 2008

Candlelighting Friday, October 24, 6:11 p.m

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rose Blumkin Jewish Home 323 S. 132 St. Omaha, NE 68154

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

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

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

If you’re looking at this space, so are others!

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

BETH EL SYNAGOGUE Services conducted by Rabbi Mordechai Levin and Cantor Beth Schlossberg.

FRIDAY: Musical Kabbalat Shabbat service, 6 p.m.; Junior Congregation Shabbat, 6 p.m., led

by Andy Greenberg and Eadie Tsabari.

SATURDAY: Morning services, 9:30 a.m.; Kiddush sponsored by Beth El; Shabbat Tunes & Tales, 11:15 a.m.; Minha/Ma’ariv, 6:15 p.m.

WEEKDAY SERVICES: Sundays, 9 a.m. & 5:30 p.m.; weekdays, 7 a.m. & 5:30 p.m.

Bible Study SUNDAY: Discussion Group, 10 a.m.; BESTT Minyan for sixth and seventh graders, 9 a.m., followed by breakfast sponsored by Men’s Club. At 10:15 a.m., presentation for seventh graders and their parents will be made by the Jewish Federation Foundation.

TATTOOS & JEWS: led by UNMC medical ethicist Toby Schonfeld on Mondays: Oct. 27, Nov. 3, 10, and 24. For more information or to register, contact Program Director Margie Gutnik.

NAVIGATING OUR SERVICES WITH JOY: led by Susi Frydman-Levin on Sundays, 1011 a.m., beginning Nov. 2. Cost: $36. To register, contact the office.

Open to the Jewish community.

I AM A JEW: Course led by Andy Greenberg, will meet on Sunday, Nov. 2, 10 a.m. All adults in the Jewish community are welcome. Cost: $36. For more information, contact the office.

THE MITZVAH CLUB: Weekly class taught by Susi Frydman-Levin will meet on Sundays, 11 a.m.-noon, beginning Nov. 2. Cost is $36. For information, contact the office.

MEMORIES OF BRANDEIS: Sunday, Nov. 2, noon at the JCC. Join Hazak for lunch and memories during the film, The Brandeis Story. RSVPs are required; send check for $9 by Friday, Oct. 24 to Tootie Simon, 8725 Izard St., Omaha, NE 68114.

WOMEN’S ROSH HODESH

GROUP: Monday, Nov. 3, 7 p.m. at Beth El. Attend Toby Schonfeld’s class, “Tattoos & Jews”. Dessert and discussion will follow. RSVP to Dee Goodman at 330.0545, or to Ann Goldstein at akgoldstein@gmail. com.

BETH ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE Office Hours: Mon.-Thurs., 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Fri., 8:30 a.m-2 p.m. Services conducted by Rabbi Jonathan Gross and Rabbi Yitzchak Mizrahi.

FRIDAY: Kabbalat Shabbat, 6:11 p.m.

SATURDAY: Shacharit, 9 a.m. free babysitting, 9:30 a.m.; Children’s Classes, 9:45 a.m. with Torah Parade; Kiddush sponsored

by Sisterhood; “Guard Your Tongue” and “The Great Midrash” are one hour before Mincha; Mincha, 6 p.m., followed by Seudah Shlishit; Havdalah, 7:11 p.m.

SUNDAY: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Rabbi Gross’s Teen Class, 10 a.m.; Ma’ariv, 8:30 p.m.

WEEKDAYS: Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Ma’ariv, 8:30 p.m.

TUESDAY: Sisterhood’s Spirits & Spirituality, led by Liat Shyken, 7:45 p.m. at the home of Kathy Weiner.

THURSDAY: Women of the Torah class, 9:30 a.m.; Rabbi’s weekly class, 7:30 p.m.

Make reservations for the next dinner on Nov. 2, 6 p.m. Menu is “Brinner: Breakfast for Dinner.”

Kabbalah: the Good, the Bad, and the Fad, 7:15 p.m. with Rabbi Immanual Shochet.

WEDNESDAY: W.O.W. Cooking from around the world, 6 p.m. featuring Indian food and a kosher Indian dinner. RSVP at office@ochabad.com or by calling 330.1800; Kabbalah Circle, 7 p.m.

THURSDAY: Jewish Thought, 12:45 p.m.; The Parsha Club for Level I beginners, ages 5-6; and Level II for ages 7-9, 3:40 p.m.

CONGREGATION B’NAI JESHURUN Services conducted by Rabbi Ilan Emanuel.

FRIDAY: Shabbat Service, 7:45 p.m. celebrating Simchat Torah led by Rabbi Emanuel, with oneg following.

SATURDAY: Shabbat Morning Service, 9:30 a.m.; Torah Study, 10:30 a.m. all led by Rabbi Emanuel; Game Night/Potluck, 6 p.m. If you have any questions or need a ride, call Deborah Swearingen at 476.7528.

SUNDAY: LJCS Grades 3-7, 9:30 a.m.-noon at Tifereth Israel; Grades 1-2, 9:45 a.m.12:15 p.m. at South Street Temple; Hallah High, 10 a.m.noon at South Street Temple; LCJS Teachers meeting, 12:30 p.m. at South Street Temple.

WEDNESDAY: No LJCS Hebrew classes.

OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE CHABAD HOUSE Services conducted by Rabbi Mendel Katzman. Office hours: Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

FRIDAY: Services, 7 a.m.

SATURDAY: Maamar class, 9 a.m.; Service, 9:30 a.m.; Youth Minyan, 10:30 a.m. MiniMensch title will be awarded; Kiddush lunch follows; join Rabbi Katzman from 12-1 p.m.

SUNDAY: Service, 8:30 a.m.; Mishpacha Mornings, 10:15 a.m.; Heading Somewhere, studying the book of Numbers, 10:30 a.m.

WEEKDAYS: Services, 7 a.m.

MONDAY: Kabbalistic Insights for Women, 12:15 p.m.; Halacha, 7 p.m.

TUESDAY: W.O.W. Prayer, Prophets, and Prayer, 9 a.m.;

FRIDAY: Services, 7:30 p.m.

ROSE BLUMKIN JEWISH HOME FRIDAY: Shabbat Comes to the Blumkin Home, 2:30 p.m. led by Temple Israel Members.

SATURDAY: Services, 9 a.m. led by Alan Shulewitz.

TEMPLE ISRAEL FRIDAY: Shabbat Comes to You at Rose Blumkin Home, 2:30 p.m. led by Rabbi Eric Linder; Tot Shabbat & Dinner, 6 p.m. led by Rabbi Linder and hosted by Kelly and Jeff Nogg, and Sarah and Adam Yale. Cost is $5 for adults; no charge for children. RSVP to office or email mkube@ templeis-

raelomaha.com; Shabbat Service, 7:30 p.m., led by Rabbi Aryeh Azriel and Cantor Wendy Shermet.

SATURDAY: Sparks Beneath the Surface, 9:15 a.m.; Shabbat Service, 10:30 a.m. Zoe Cohen, daughter of Marla and Bob Cohen, will celebrate her Bat Mitzvah; Haunted Havdalah, 611:45 p.m. Sign up before the event. Please contact Leora Azriel for JYG and Amy Katz for OTYG at 556.6536 for details.

SUNDAY: Teacher meeting, 9:30 a.m.; Grades K-6, 10 a.m.; Grade 1 Parents Learning Coffee, 10:15 a.m. Rabbi Azriel will outline “What to Expect after Consecration.” Children’s Choir Rehearsal, noon. Lunch provided for choir members and younger siblings.

WEDNESDAY: Grades 3-6, 46 p.m.; All School Dinner, 6 p.m.; Family School, 6 p.m.; Grades 712, 6 p.m.; Girls Gone Mild: Young Women Reclaim SelfRespect and Find It’s not bad to be good, 7 p.m. with author Wendy Shalit.

THURSDAY: Adult Study with the Clergy with Rabbi Azriel, 10 a.m.

NEIGHBORHOOD MINYAN No services will in October.

TIFERETH ISRAEL Services conducted by Nancy Coren, Lay Leader. Office hours: Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

MONDAY and THURSDAY: Minyan, 9 a.m.

FRIDAY: Services, 6:30 p.m.

SATURDAY: Morning service, 9:30 a.m. followed by Kiddush lunch and Talmud study.

SUNDAY: LJCS Grades 3-7, 9:30 a.m.-noon at Tifereth Israel; Grades 1-2, 9:45 a.m.12:15 p.m. at South Street Temple; Hallah High, 10 a.m.noon at South Street Temple; LCJS Teachers meeting, 12:30 p.m. at South Street Temple; Join Lincoln USY at Benson Farms in Denton at 2:30 p.m. RSVP to Lori Feldman.

WEDNESDAY: Men’s Lunch Group will meet at the Knolls, 12:30 p.m. Contact Yale Gotsdiner at 423.7066; No LJCS Hebrew classes.

NCJW distributes dictionaries to area fourth graders

YOUR AD CAN GO HERE...

to reserve space, call

Allan Handleman, 402.334.6451 or Robyn Belgrade 402.334.6559

Since 1998, the National Council of Jewish Women-Omaha Section has been distributing dictionaries to fourth graders in underserved elemtary schools in Omaha Public Schools. Stored in

the Jewish Community Center basement, left, boxes of the dictionaries were carted out by JCC maintenance staff for the annual event prior to Sukkot. Among the volunteers were: Tuffy Epstein

and Sally Zipursky, and Patty Nogg, right, who gives a cuddle to her grandson, Jordan, whose mother, Jamie Nogg also volunteered. The project was chaired this year by Kim Noddle.

Pulverente MONUMENT CO.

October 24, 2008

Shabbat: the first concern of the Bible

SPARKS FROM THE WORD

by RABBI MYER S. KRIPKE Parashat Bereishit Never mind that the opening words of the Torah demand the attention of Hebrew grammarians. Never mind that, for example, the superlative commentator on the Torah -- Rashi, of 11th century France, had to wrestle with the opening words and was obliged to make his way around the first two of the Sacred Text.

And never mind that the average reader is not impressed by the problems of scholars of grammar.

Finally, never mind that we open the Torah for the first chapters not on Rosh Hashanah -- the first day of the new year -- nor at the beginning of any season of the rest of the year.

Just pay attention to the subject matter of the first chapter and beginning of the second: the Torah draws our attention to an issue of major importance in Judaism -- Shabbat.

It may be that there is something magical and enticing about the number seven. Maybe. But we must be aware that the Sabbath is of major importance in Jewish life: ancient, medieval and modern. Those who neglect Shabbat have opened themselves up to the possibility of turning their backs on Judaism as a whole.

Notice particularly that the opening words of the Bible are concerned with creativity. Our ancestors had no inkling of evolutionary science nor of the “Big Bang” approach to our expanding universe. But they were concerned with the idea of creation: what is the world we inhabit? And the universe, where we recognize how small we are when we realize we cannot touch the sun or moon or stars. We cannot influence them; but they have a major influence on us.

In the face of all this, we realize what tasks lie before us in adjusting ourselves to the divisions we have arbitrarily made in time: the year, the month, the week, the day and minute and second.

How did all of this come about? What is this earth we inhabit? What is humanity? Why are lives so short in the face of continuing Time, which seems endless?

Never mind all these thoughts. We are comforted and reassured that the world is friendly to us on the Sabbath.

It is marvelously bipolar: in its restfulness there is creativity.

If you think I am introducing problems too big for me, you are absolutely right. But I am consoled by the fact that I am not required to solve these problems. I am required only to accept them and adjust myself and life and thought to them.

And what reward is there for my bowing out of any attempt at a solution to questions of : what is the world?

The universe? Humanity? We are rewarded with nothing less than Shabbat!

So we are reminded forcefully that our ancestors who published this literary gem, Bereishit, left us with this enigma: the creativity that lies in restfulness, in doing nothing. One may look at the opening chapters of scripture as a prose poem: its subject is creativity and its title is Shabbat. Shabbat Shalom!

Chabad’s next cooking club to feature Indian food

by PATTI ADLER Chabad has begun their popular women’s cooking class this year with a theme of “Cooking Around The World.” Each month the hostesses will prepare food from a specific country and participants will enjoy a cooking demonstration and full meal. Classes will alternate between evening and daytime so that all women can participate. This month’s class will be an evening program and will feature the food of India.

The October cooking program is Wednesday evening, Oct. 29, 6-8 p.m. at the Chabad House and is open to all women in the community. It will include a kosher Indian dinner and cooking demonstrations.

If you register before Oct. 27 the cost is $10. All reservations after this date will have a $3 late fee added.

If you need babysitting, please include that information when you make your reservation.

To RSVP call the Chabad office, 330.1800 or email office@ochabad.com.

DEATHS IRENE WOLF STEIN Irene Wolf Stein died Oct.12 in Sarasota, FL. Services were held Oct. 16 at the Jewish Center of Venice, FL. and officiated by Cantor Marci Vitkus.

She was preceded in death by husbands, Benjamin Wolf and George Stein and son Richard.

She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, former Omahans Martin and Edythe Wolf of Sarasota, FL; grandchildren, Jennifer Lear and Benjamin Wolf, and four great-grandsons.

Memorials to the Jewish Center of Venice, 600 Auburn Road N, Venice, FL 34292.

SOL YAFFE After a long illness, Sol Yaffe died on Oct. 13 at the age of 97. Services were held Oct. 16 at Temple Israel Cemetery.

A retired Captain in the U.S. Army, he was President of Yaffe Printing Company.

He is survived by his wife, Dorothy Anne Yaffe; son and daughter-in-law, Robert and Rita Yaffe of Chicago; daughter, Jane Yaffe Rowell; grandchildren, Angela and Asher Abenaim of Columbus, OH; Alicia Yaffe of Austin, TX; Abigail Rowell and Nathan Yaffe; Dr. Marc and Caryn Scheer and Abby Scheer of Chicago; two great-grandchildren; and brother and sister-in-law, Irvin and Annette Yaffe.

Memorials to the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home or Temple Israel.

HERMAN GOLDSTEIN Herman Goldstein died Oct. 16 at the age of 94. In accordance with his wishes, no funeral services were held.

He was preceded in death by his wife Florence Goldstein and his son-in-law Sherman Neff. He also was predeceased by his companion, Bernice Milder.

Survivors include his children, Jeanie Neff and Ellen and Tom Neuman of Cincinnati; grandchildren, Andrea and Todd Bodenstein of Chicago, Jane and Jim Rubin of St. Louis; Susan Tucker and Julie and Chris Sullivan of Cincinnati; and five great-grandchildren.

Memorials to the American Cancer Society, the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home or charity of choice.

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

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Forms are available through Omaha and Lincoln synagogues, by contacting The Jewish Press at 402.334.6448, or by e-mailing: ckatzman@jewishomaha.org.

Readers can also submit other announcements -- births engagements, marriages, commitment ceremonies or obituaries -- online at the Jewish Federation of Omaha website: www.jewishomaha.org. Click on “Jewish Press” and go to Submit Announcements. Deadlines are normally eight days prior to publication, on Thursdays, 9 a.m. Check the Jewish Press, however, for notices of early deadlines prior to secular and Jewish holidays.

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Page 16

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

October 24, 2008

Looking for perfection

The arba minim (four species) markets were full of those looking to buy the four species (palm branch, citron, myrtle and willow) for Sukkot. Prices were controlled by the Rabbinate in view of the schmitta restrictions on growing plants and vegetables in the seventh year in Israel.

Schmitta ended with Rosh Hashanah.

Credit: ISRANET

Renowned Judaic scholar to lecture on Kabbalah at Chabad

by SHANI KATZMAN The Barry Epstein Memorial Lecture at Chabad House, established to honor the memory of the son of Irv and Geri Epstein, will feature Rabbi Dr. Jacob Immanuel Schochet, a leading scholar in Kabbalah and Chassidic thought. His lecture, “Kabbalah: The Good, the Bad, and the Fad” is on Tuesday, Oct. 28, 7 p.m.

Kabbalah, loosely translated as “what was received”, has gained popularity in circles in the Jewish and general arenas. Much misinformation, as well as fascination and interest, surround this mystical and spiritual school of thought and practice once reserved for only the very pious and saintly scholars. What led to its dissemination to the masses, what it really is and what it is not will be the focus of Schochet’s address. The presentation is open to the community and is free. Donations are welcome; reservations are appreciated and can be made by calling 330.1800 or by emailing rsvp@ochabad.com.

Beth El’s new adult education classes promise to enrich Jewish lives

by JILL BELMONT Beth El Publicity Coordinator Four new adult-education offerings, joining the rich lineup of courses already offered by Beth El, will immerse students in Jewish ethics, mitzvot and prayers, enriching their Jewish lives in a myriad of ways.

Rabbi Mordechai Levin’s popular weekly class will resume on Thursday, Nov. 6, noon; this year’s class will explore a variety of contemporary issues and ethical dilemmas during “Jewish Ideals and Ethics for Everyday Living.”

According to the rabbi, the hour-long sessions will focus on “values, wisdom and moral teachings of Judaism. Rabbi Mordechai Levin We will discover the richness of thousands of years of Jewish ethical tradition as a living, vital resource, and will study laws, legends, maxims and anecdotes that show us a vision of how to live.”

He noted that attendees will also study Jewish viewpoints on a variety of contemporary issues, including “our relationships with others, protecting our bodies and preserving our health, the environment, business ethics, divorce, gossip, abortion and birth control, education, work, and many more.”

Teacher Susi Frydman-Levin will introduce two new classes to the community, both beginning on Sunday, Nov. 2, 10 a.m. The first is titled “Navigating Our Services with Joy,” geared to those who are able to read Hebrew but still find it difficult to follow during Friday night and Saturday morning Shabbat services.

“Let us teach you to navigate through our prayer book at an understandable pace,” she commented. “We want you to learn how to read the prayers, understand the contents and be able to fully participate during services.”

At 11 a.m., Frydman-Levin will lead “The Mitzvah Club,” during which participants will look at mitzvot the Torah’s ethical and ritual commandments - and work to translate the principles of Torah into action.

Susi Frydman-Levin Cantor Beth Schlossberg “Let Judaism be a constant journey of discovery and growth,” says Frydman-Levin of this new class. “All it takes is an open heart, an open mind and the desire to welcome the Torah into your life. Come and rejoice with the opportunities of mitzvot and embrace your Judaism as it blossoms.”

The fourth new class, “Synagogue Skills,” will be taught by Cantor Beth Schlossberg and will help students brush up on their synagogue skills, plus learn to chant Torah, Haftarah and their accompanying blessings. Beginning Sunday, Nov. 9, 11 a.m., Cantor Schlossberg will teach participants trope skills for both Torah and Haftarah; she will also offer instruction on basic tefillot of the Torah service.

All classes will run through May and will be held at Beth El; all adults in the Jewish community are welcome to attend. Cost is $36 for each class; for more information or to register, contact Program Director Margie Gutnik at 492.8550, or at programming@bethelomaha.org.

KIDS!

We Need Your Artistic Talent!

Your color drawing could be on the front of our Hanukkah Gift Guide! Use color markers,crayons, construction paper or whatever you like to create your drawing on an 8.5X11 piece of white paper. Prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners. Fill out the form below, attach it to the back and send or bring it to the Jewish Press,333 South 132 Street,Omaha,NE 68154.The deadline is Monday, November 24, 2008.

2008 Hanukkah Gift Guide Cover Coloring Contest This drawing by Yossi Katzman won him 1st Prize last year.

Name ____________________________ Parent’s __________________________ Address __________________________ Phone Number _____________ Age ___