December 17, 2004

Vol. LXXXIV No. 15 Omaha, NE

Celebrating 84 Years of Service to Nebraska and Western Iowa

5 Tevet, 5765 December 17, 2004

A Wedding Story JSS Generates Options That Help Keep Seniors Independent Recently, Shelly worked with a woman who had been avoiding a conversation with her father about whether he should still be driving.

Continued on page 7

Esther “Tibe” Stoler uses several community services to help her continue to live at home, including kosher meals-on-wheels from Jewish Senior Services. Gary Larson, a driver in the JSS transportation department, recently delivered a meal prepared in the Blumkin Home kosher kitchen, and paused for a conversation with her before continuing his route.

Ceremony in France Ends 60 Years of Betrayal of Jews

Inside Opinion Page see page 12

This Week: Senior Life Issue Starts on Page 5 What’s New in the Capitol-Lincoln Center: Page 4

M ET A Z

ER

by HOWARD SILBER We had Special for the Jewish Press accepted an They never said goodinvitation from bye.

Christian They looked the other Pierret, Saint way, the Gentiles of Saint Die’s mayor, to Die-des-Vosges, as 170 of participate in their fellow townsmen, ceremonies were pulled from their marking the homes and herded into 60th anniverthe rickety freight cars sary of the libthat would transport eration of the them to Poland where city along with they would meet the the adjoining “Final Solution.” village of Never would any of the Saulcy-sur170 return to Saint Die, a Meurthe from picturesque small city German occustraddling the Meurthe pation.

River deep in the Vosges I representMountains of northeast- Silber, right, and Simon Dargols during ceremony at the U.S. 103rd Infantry ed the 103rd Division monument in Saint Die, France. Both served with the 103rd when it Infantry Diviern France.

Now, the 170 who liberated Saint Die and nearby Saulcy in 1944. In the background are French sion of World departed for Auschwitz war veterans taking part in ceremonies marking the 60th anniversary of the lib- War II, which are mourned. Yes, there eration battle. fought its way may be a few descendents and some other Jews who across the Meurthe in the pre-dawn darkness of the mornsay Kaddish for them. ing of Nov. 22, 1944, and, after a daylong battle, sent the But the mourners whom my wife, Sissy, and I Nazi occupiers, including fanatical SS troops, retreating encountered on our recent trip to France were the toward the Rhine River some 60 miles to the east.

Gentiles of Saint Die-des-Vosges.

Continued on page 6

PIZ

by RITA SHELLEY for Jewish Senior Services Mom and Dad raised four great kids--a daughter who is an attorney in Phoenix, a son with a medical practice in Florida, another daughter who took over the family business in Omaha, and a son who is busy raising two pre-schoolers in Texas.

Even scattered all over the country, any member of this family will tell you “there’s no place like home.”

That’s why nobody wants to talk about Mom’s failing health or whether it is still safe for Dad to drive.

The family has several choices. They can wait for a crisis. They can lean unfairly on the sister who lives in Omaha. They can have tense holidays when the out-oftown relatives express their concern and the local relatives feel criticized and misunderstood. They can even conduct an exhaustive research project on their own to learn what services might be available for their parents.

Or they could make one phone call to the experts they probably already know--the staff at Jewish Senior Services. With that phone call, they can tap into a network of support services and ongoing support customized to each family’s needs.

Shane Kotok, Director of Community Outreach, and Shelly Fox, staff social worker, know plenty about alternatives, support services and all the ways people can stay independent where many of them most want to be: home. In some instances a short stay in the Blumkin Home rehabilitation unit for therapy can enable a person to return home.

“A lot of people think that because our offices are in the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home, that our primary role is admitting residents,” Shane said. “But helping community members move into the Blumkin Home to live is only one option that we may or may not explore, along with many, many others.”

by SUSAN PALEY for Chabad of Nebraska Celebrate Jewish marriage and Jewish women in a ceremonial bridal pageant titled “And My Beloved Is Mine” at a dessert reception on Sunday, Jan. 16, 12:30 p.m., at Ironwood Country Club. The community-wide event is the kick-off for a new series of enrichment classes on Jewish marriage to be offered by the Chabad House.

The original pageant was created by Chani Katzman, sister-in-law to Rabbi Mendel Katzman, to educate women in her own community about the beauty and importance of marriage in Judaism. She composed a fashion show of historic Jewish brides throughout the ages, complete with personal stories related to each bride’s unique contribution to the Jewish people. Enter Miriam Hurwitz, costume designer and makeup artist.

After seeing the wonderful success of the program, she decided to create permanent costumes for the brides. Further research utilizing the books of the Chumash, the work of Sir Alfred Rubin, a noted authority of Jewish costumes, as well as on-site visits to innumerable museums in Israel and Europe, provided her with authentic period gowns for each bride.

Louri Sullivan, general co-chairman of the event, commented, “When you see the video from other communities, it’s just fascinating. Everybody always loves to hear about other peoples’ weddings; there’s always something interesting to learn about every bride.

These brides are our Jewish roles models from the past, each bringing her unique story to us today.”

“The women’s classes at Chabad House have raised our awareness of the historic role of the Jewish woman. The goal of the pageant is to share the knowledge we’ve gained with the Jewish women of our community at large, as well as have a wonderful afternoon together celebrating Jewish marriage and the extraordinary contributions of our historic brides,” said Shani Katzman, educator for Chabad’s “Women of Worth” classes. “Invitations will be in the mail soon, and we look forward to a beautiful celebration.”

$2.7 million pledged to The 2005 Jewish Federation of Omaha Annual Campaign!

500increased 500 increasedgifts! gifts!

RAISE YOUR PLEDGE, SEND A PIZZA! Show your support and boost the morale of Israel Defense Forces troops! In honor of YOUR increased gift to the 2005 Jewish Federation of Omaha Annual Campaign, a private donor will sponsor the delivery of hot, kosher pizza to active-duty IDF soldiers with an acknowledgement from the Omaha Jewish community.

Pizzas provided by a generous donor. Pledge increases will NOT be used to pay for the pizzas. The Federation is working through Pizza IDF (www.pizzaidf), a non-profit website that lets supporters send pizza to active duty soldiers on the front lines.

Next Month: Guide to Tax and Financial Planning on Jan. 14

Bernie Meyers’ Column-How to Care For a Feed a Senior: Page 10

Book Review of Ozzie Nogg’s Joseph’s Bones: Page 12

Breadbreakers Meets Nebraska’s Next Governor: Page 13

Page 2

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

December 17, 2004

Temple Celebrates Bible Quiz Challenges Hanukkah and Collects Gifts Teens, But Winners Emerge for Needy Children

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by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Temple Israel Communications Coordinator Nearly 250 attended Temple Israel’s Shabbat worship service and Hanukkah dinner last Friday night.

Temple members collected gifts for Camp Fire USA which sponsors after-school programs for needy children. The Chanukah donations of new board games, markers, crayons, books, match box cars, soccer balls, basketballs, and activity books filled the trunk and back seat of a car.

In addition, more than $200 was dropped into tzedakah boxes on the tables at the dinner. The donations will help support Camp Fire’s snack program at Jackson Elementary School.

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Among those who came were top photo: Olivia, Horacio, Lucas and Carola Plotkin; and bottom photo: Audrey Sophir, Susie Kaplan and Florence Hauss.

CLIP & SAVE

Discovery at JCC This Sunday

CALENDAR OF EVENTS FRIDAY, DECEMBER 17 Scholar-in-Residence with Dr. Mandell Granchow, 5 p.m. at Beth Israel SATURDAY, DECEMBER 18 Scholar-in-Residence with Dr. Mandell Granchow, 9 a.m.

C at Beth Israel L Hazak Lunch and Learn, 12:30 p.m. at Beth El I 39 Forever Pot Luck Supper, 6 p.m.

P SUNDAY, DECEMBER 19 & Jewish Potpouri, 10 a.m. at Beth El Bible Study Class, 11 a.m. at Beth El S Hebrew Crash Course, 11 a.m. at Beth El A Bridal Pagent, 2 p.m. at Chabad House V “Discovery�, 6:30 p.m.

E MONDAY, DECEMBER 20 JSS Senior Luncheon, 10 a.m.

Hadassah Board Meeting, 1 p.m.

BEAM, 7 p.m. at Beth El “Kosher Kitchen� Class, 7:30 p.m. at the Hoffman home

C L I P & S A V E

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 21 BBYO Night, 6 p.m.

Sisterhood Meeting, 7 p.m. at Beth El Board of Trustees Meeting, 7:30 p.m. at Temple Israel TLC “Growth Through Torah�, 7:30 p.m. at private residence WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 22 C Beth El USY International Convention, in Chicago Dec. 22-30 L I NCJW Board Meeting, 7 p.m.

P THURSDAY, DECEMBER 23 & Beth Israel NCSY Sr. Conclave in Chicago/Lake Geneva Dec. 23-27 S Walk-in Drop-in, 10 a.m.

A Yiddish Group, 1 p.m.

V “Meaning of Life� Class, 1 p.m. at TLC E L.O.V.E Auxiliary Board Meeting, 7 p.m. “Crash Course in Hebrew Reading�, 7:30 p.m. at TLC All events held at the JCC unless otherwise indicated. The Jewish Press is not responsible for the accuracy of events. To keep calendar accurate or for questions, call Marlene Hert at 334-6437.

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

Citywide Delivery

7 Locations

C L I P & S A V E

by RABBI TUVIA HOFFMAN Director, Torah Learning Center Each year, close to 10,000 people experience the thrill of Discovery. With its crisp, entertaining style and state-of-the-art educational techniques, Discovery packs the wisdom and relevance of Jewish values and ideas into a spectacular and moving demonstration of the case for Judaism.

Discovery Seminars are presentations that combine psychology, philosophy, history and computer science to take the audience on a three-hour voyage into the “whys� of being Jewish. The seminar’s mission is to provide people with the opportunity to explore the wisdom and significance of their Jewish heritage.

Three mathematicians at Technion-Israel Institute of Technology in Haifa created Discovery 15 years ago.

The mathematicians brought a scientific approach to the Torah they hoped would engage uninvolved, even skeptical Jews. Since then, they estimate that “more than 100,000 individuals in 50 locations� have participated in Discovery.

Discovery begins by inviting participants to challenge Judaism’s central principles in a novel process called Failsafe. It is a rational examination of the Torah to determine its authenticity as a divinely written document, following analytical techniques developed by the Israeli intelligence agency Mossad.

A variety of original workshops round out the seminar, exploding the myth that Judaism is anti-pleasure and teaching participants how to take advantage of Judaism’s insights for personal enrichment. Through the warm, entertaining and nonjudgmental atmosphere, audiences discover that Judaism has the tools for enhancing one’s self-esteem, personal power and enjoyment of life. Discovery has been translated into Russian, German, Hebrew, Spanish and French.

Discovery, sponsored by Torah Learning Center, is being presented at the Jewish Community Center, this Sunday, Dec. 19, 7-10 p.m. Tickets are $5 if paid for in advance, $10 at the door. Seating is limited. For more information about Discovery or to get your tickets, please call 1.888.883.4726.

Winners of last Wednesday night’s annual Edward Zorinksy B’nai B’rith Bible Quiz include: Shevi Katzman, daughter of Rabbi Mendel and Shani Katzman, left (who tied for second place with Jason Rich); Ben Nachman, son of Beth Staenberg and Gary Nachman, fourth place; first place winner Gal Tsabari, daughter of Eadie and Eitan Tsabari; and Jason Rich, son of Dr. Phil and Diane Rich. Tsabari , a senior at Westside, has won awards in two previous Bible Quiz contests, and will use her prize money for airfare to Israel next year, where she will participate in Tzofim, the Israeli Scouts, and join the Israel Defense Forces. Judges inluded Rabbis Aryeh Azriel, Jonathan Gross and Mordechai Levin, and Prof. Leonard Greenspoon. Others assisting were Gloria Kaslow and Stan Mitchell, who created the questions; Lois Epstein and Gary Javitch, scorekeepers; Ron Gordon, timekeeper; and Steve Riekes, originator of the Bible Quiz.

Approximately 125 parents, teens and friends of the participants came to support the teens. Prizes were $600 for first place, $350 for second, $250 for third and $125 for fourth, with an additional $25 going to the winner and $10 going to each teen who answered at least three questions correctly.

Beth Israel Expands Children’s Shabbat Program

by BETH COHEN Executive Director of Beth Israel Beth Israel is fortunate to have Donald Gerber volunteer to lead Junior Congregation. He spends time each week preparing the 45 minute to one hour class for children, age kindergarten through pre-Bar/Bat Mitzvah age. Junior Congregation focuses on studying the parsha of the week, plus aspects of Shabbat services and upcoming holidays and rituals.

Because Beth Israel’s membership includes some 20 children age five and younger, Rabbi Jonathan Gross saw the need to expand the Shabbat morning program to offer more to this age group. This new addition to our Shabbat morning children’s program is a Junior Congregation program for children ages two- to fiveyears-old.

Anna Besser will lead this group with holiday and Shabbat stories and songs. She has a Masters Degree in Jewish Education, and is currently teaching Judaic Studies for kindergarten through sixth graders at Friedel Jewish Academy. Besser’s class will meet this Saturday, Dec. 18, and then every other week.

Contact the synagogue office for the class schedule.

In addition to Junior Congregation, Beth Israel offers babysitting service every Saturday morning, beginning at 9:30 a.m. and running through the conclusion of services. Due to the large group participating in babysitting, we have two sitters each Saturday. There is no charge, and infants are welcome.

Each week, following these children’s programs and the conclusion of services, all children participate in the weekly “Kids’ Kiddush.� A special kiddush table and chairs are set up just for youngsters, and Rabbi Gross leads them in their own kiddush, plus spends time with them teaching additional blessings as they eat cookies and fruit.

While it is a pleasure to see children as young as two learning “boray p’ri hagofen,� the Kids’ Kiddush also provides parents the opportunity to visit with friends while their children are occupied at their own table.

For more information about the Shabbat morning children’s program at Beth Israel or other educational opportunities, please contact Rabbi Jonathan Gross at 556.6288 or RabbiGross@OrthodoxOmaha.org.

December 17, 2004

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 3

Rabbi Kushner’s Presentation Filled with Warmth, Wit, Wisdom

by JILL BELMONT Beth El Publicity Coordinator Oprah calls them “ah ha!” moments--those enlightening, eye-opening bits of wisdom which can transform the way we look at life. Such moments were in great abundance Sunday night at Beth El Synagogue, as acclaimed author Rabbi Harold S. Kushner shared “Three Ideas the Jewish Left: Rabbi Kushner with the evening’s co-chairs, Vicki Sanford, left, and Julie Potash. Right: People Can Teach the Prior to Rabbi Kushner’s presentation, Rabbi Mordechai Levin watched as congregant Milton World” with the audience Katskee lit the Hanukkah menorah which he designed, created and presented to Beth El in honor of the synagogue’s 75th anniversary. of 400.

Kushner, author of such best-selling books as When Bad for taking the ordinary and making it holy,” he said. For Things Happen to Good People and Living a Life that example, the commonplace act of eating becomes holy Matters, spoke at Beth El as part of the synagogue’s year- when Jews observe kashrut. “Using these 3,000 yearlong 75th anniversary celebration. His thought-provoking old Jewish customs and prohibitions can transform 40-minute presentation was peppered with stories, humor breakfast, lunch and supper from simply re-fueling your body into an encounter with God,” he said. and a clear passion to share his convictions.

Judaism also celebrates the miracle of birth--another Among the three ideas Rabbi Kushner discussed during the evening was the importance of community as the everyday occurrence--by recognizing each newborn’s glue which holds the Jewish people together. This sense capacity to make a difference in the world, and of community presents the unique, structural difference acknowledges the gravity and heartbreak of losing a which sets Judaism apart from other religions, he noted. loved one. “The death of a good human being is a Community cuts across all spectrums of belief and theol- tragedy--the world is diminished,” he said. “We say ogy in Judaism, as opposed to Christianity, which is Kaddish so that God’s presence will be larger and greater and fill the vacuum left by the loss of that perbased on the common thread of shared theology.

“We were a people before we had a faith,” Rabbi son. We never take death for granted.

“This is the Jewish genius of taking the mundane, the Kushner said, citing the shared experiences of slavery in Egypt, of exodus, of crossing the sea and coming to ordinary, the everyday, and seeing it through the Sinai as events which helped to fashion the Jewish Jewish lens that will teach us to find the presence of faith. Judaism is about “who you belong to, and less God in every one of those moments.”

Finally, Rabbi Kushner spoke about the beauty of about what you believe,” he said. That’s a good thing, he added, as Jews may hold varying beliefs, practice Jewish prayer and its central theme of thanking God, their faith differently, and still be embraced as part of not asking for favors. “If you understand prayer as begging, as asking, then you’re going to end up either the Jewish community.

The second idea on which Judaism thrives is the abil- angry at God for not giving you what you asked for, or ity to see the potential of holiness in everyday things, angry at yourself for not deserving what you asked for,” Rabbi Kushner said. “Torah is the instruction manual he said. “Either way, you’re going to be in a bad way.

“In Judaism, there are very few prayers that say ‘please give me,’ and a whole lot of prayers that say, ‘God, thank you.’” he said. “Prayer is gratitude.”

In addition, “prayer is simply inviting God into your life--not to change anything, but just to be there, because in the presence of God, everything looks different,” he said. “Prayer is not asking, ‘God, work a miracle and make my illness go away;’ prayer is not asking, ‘God, help me win the lottery.’ Prayer is saying, ‘This is a scary world I’m living in, but if You’re with me, I think I can handle it.’”

Following Sunday’s event, Beth El’s Rabbi Mordechai Levin called Rabbi Kushner’s presentation “enlightening and inspiring” and applauded him as a gifted writer and speaker.

A Helping Hand Commander of Ground Forces, Major General Yiftach Ron Tal, lit the second candle of Hanukkah in a joint ceremony with the children of the ‘Beit Tzipora’ institute. The institute was established by a fund run by author and Holocaust survivor Elie Wiesel for Ethiopian children in Kiryat Malachi. IDF soldiers visit the institute twice a week to help the children with homework and educate them on a personal level, thus making it easier for them to integrate into school and society. The soldiers and the children participate in additional activities-like shared trips and ceremonies for IDF Memorial Day. Copyright: ISRANET

Page 4

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

December 17, 2004

LINCOLN CENTER

Jewish Nobel Prize Winners

South Street Congregation Celebrates Hanukkah

PEOPLE

Congregants, young and old gather at B’nai Jeshurun--South Street Temple--to celebrate Hamnukkah. Left: Nick Lundholm gets ready

OF THE

to light the candles on the fourth night.

Right: Ruth Nisse helps herself to some latkes at the congregation’s potluck dinner.

SCC Hosts Exhibit: “Anti-Semitism Past and Present”

by JOSE J. SOTO Vice President for AA/Equity/Diversity Southeast Community College Using colorful photographs, newspaper excerpts and cartoon-like sketches, the exhibit graphically displays a record of how society ostracized, demonized and marginalized Jews. (NOTE: Because of the vivid nature of this exhibit, it has been recommended for audiences of middle-school age and above) Spanning

a much longer time frame than most Holocaust exhibits, it bears witness to 10 centuries of hatred, violence and oppression against the Jews, from the time of the Crusades through today.

The traveling exhibit, on loan from the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), is open thru Dec. 22, 2004 at Southeast Community College Lincoln Campus (Main entrance- east side) 8800 ‘O’ St.

Jewish Federation of Lincoln Schedules Annual Meeting Please join us this Sunday, Dec. 19, 6 p.m. at Tifereth Israel for “Beyond the Meeting...Listen to Daniel Pomp, PhD.” Pomp is professor of animal genomics at UNL and is the co-founder of GeneSeek, a global biotechnology company conducting DNA testing on

BYTE

by MARK MIETKIEWICZ

livestock with over 100 customers in eight countries.

He will let us in on the role of genetics in tracing history, including the genetic marker that identifies “Kohanim.”

Dining

Out

When you patronize these fine establishments, tell them you saw their ad in the Jewish Press.

Last Friday, Israelis Aaron Ciechanover and Avram Hershko and American Irwin Rose donned white tie and tails. At approximately 4:30 p.m., they ascended a dais in Stockholm and were awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for their work in “the discovery of ubiquitin-mediated protein degradation”. On that day these three scientists also entered an exclusive--yet surprisingly large--community: Jewish winners of the Nobel Prize.

You can shep some nachas from the contributions these leaders have given to the world. The Jewish Virtual Library has put together a list of Jewish Nobel Prize Winners since the Nobel Foundation of Sweden first awarded prizes for excellence in physics, medicine, chemistry, economics, literature and world peace.

“Between 1901 and 2004, more than 740 Nobel Prizes were handed out. Of these, at least 155 are Jews.” [http://tinyurl.com/68ttu] These various sites are not always in agreement about the exact number of Jewish winners, nor do most explain how they determined the winners cited were Jewish. Some of the winners include: • Physics: Albert Einstein (1921) “Einstein, Albert “for his services to Theoretical Physics, and especially for his discovery of the law of the photoelectric effect”; • Literature: Shmuel Yosef Agnon (1966) the first winner awarded for works in Hebrew “for his profoundly characteristic narrative art with motifs from the life of the Jewish people”; shared with Nelly Sachs "for her outstanding lyrical and dramatic writing, which interprets Israel's destiny with touching strength”; • Economics: Milton Friedman (1976) “for his achievements in the fields of consumption analysis, monetary history and theory”; and former Omahan Lawrence R. Klein, a relative of the Riekes family, (1980) “for the creation of econometric models and the application to the analysis of economic fluctuations and economic policies.” His autobiography and other information is available at: [http://nobelprize.org/economics/la ureates/1980/klein-autobio.html] • Chemistry: Former Omahan Alan Heeger (2000); he’s a professor at the University of California at Santa Barbara.

You can read his banquet speech from the awards ceremony at: [http://nobelprize.org/chemistry/laureates/2000/]

As for the Nobel Peace Prize, recent Jewish winners include: • Henry Kissinger (with Le Duc Tho, 1973); • Menachem Begin (with Anwar Sadat, 1978); • Yitzhak Rabin and Shimon Peres (with Yasser Arafat, 1994); • Interestingly, Elie Wiesel’s 1986 Nobel Prize was not in literature but in the peace category (1986). “Elie Wiesel has emerged one of the most important spiritual leaders and guides in an age when violence, repression and racism continue to characterize the world.” [http://nobelprize.org/peace/laureates/1986/] You can read more about Wiesel and all the other winners at the excellent, official Nobel Prize website. This year’s presentation ceremony was webcast live and will be available later as video ondemand. [http://nobelprize.org/] Who’s your favorite Jewish Nobel Prize winner? I’m not quite sure about the purpose of this site but if you feel strongly about a winner, you can make your voice heard at Famous Jews Interactive. When I last checked it out, Albert Einstein was in the lead with 533 votes. Hot on the trail was Paul Ehrlich, 1908 Nobel Prize winner in medicine for his work on immunity with 527 votes. [www.yahoodi.com/famous/ nobel1.html] When the Nobel Prize celebrated its centenary in 2002, the Jewish Bulletin of Northern Californian looked at the number of Jews who had been awarded the prize. “Jewish names appear 127 times on the list, about 18 percent of the total. This is an astonishing percentage for a group of people who add up to 1/24th of 1 percent of the world’s population.” [http://tinyurl.com/4zuc6] Why have Jews excelled at the award?

According to Uzi Arad, director of the Institute of Policy and Strategy at the Interdisciplinary Institute, in Herzliya.

Israel, “the reason for the disproportionate number of Jewish winners is the premium Jews have placed on learning and scholarship. The tradition of reflection and scholarship has sharpened the inquisitive Jewish mind. It takes an inquisitive, nonconformist mind to break into new areas and make discoveries.” [http://tinyurl.com/3vrgp] Israeli Aaron Ciechanover, this year’s Nobel Prize co-winner for chemistry put it more succinctly. “The human brain is the only natural resource that Israel possesses.” [http://tinyurl.com/6su8u] Mark Mietkiewicz is a Toronto-based Web site producer who writes, lectures and teaches about the Jewish Internet.

He can be contacted at highway@rogers.com.

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

December 17, 2004

Ceremony in France Continued from page 1 Among those present were the Air Force attache at My own 40-man unit within the 103rd--the third pla- the United States Embassy in Paris and the superintoon of Company A of the 411th Infantry Regiment-- tendent of the American military cemetery at nearby fought to liberate Saulcy. Eight of our 40 were killed in Epinal. that action, and it was principally in their memory that We met and chatted with several dozen French peoSissy and I, accompanied by French-speaking daughter ple. We were showered with “mercis” for our part in Irene Silber and her husband, Steve Ruce, made the trip the war, in the liberation. to France.

Through it all we wondered--but certainly hesitated There was no Jewish connection in the invitation for before asking--why the ceremony of the liberation was me to participate in the liberation ceremonies. I was accompanied by what could be viewed as strong asked only to prepare a short talk that would be trans- emphasis on the betrayal and deportation of the city’s lated into French. I have no reason to believe that offi- Jews more than 60 years earlier. cials in Saint Die associated with the anniversary obserPossible reasons that came to mind: vance were aware of my being Jewish--or cared.

• The site of the Natzweiller-Struthof Concentration Indeed, when we met the president of today’s Jewish Camp, the only Nazi death camp that was operated in community in Saint Die, he was surprised to learn that France, is only about 20 miles from Saint Die and we were co-religionists.

Saulcy. The crematorium chimney and the lofty shaft of We were equally surprised when the two-day pro- a monument to victims are readily visible from the gram was opened with the dedication of a plaque in nearby highway. As a result, people of the Vosges are memory of previously-hidden Jewish children who are constantly reminded of the tragic events of 1943 were dispatched to Auschwitz on March 13, 1944, after and 1944. their presence in Saint Die was discovered by the Gestapo.

One of the participants in the plaque dedication ceremony was a former Saint Die resident who now lives in Paris. She told how her pre-teen school chum, her best friend, was turned over to the Nazis by French collaborators.

The young friend was gassed at Auschwitz, the woman, who is not Jewish, related.

This was followed by a memorial service for the adult Jews of Saint Die who had been sent previously to the infamous death camp. And on both days the French movie, Au Revoir les Enfants, which tells of the Holocaust deportation of French-Jewish children, was screened several times with free Eight members of Silber’s platoon were killed in the Battle of Saulcy. The monument was a centerpiece in the observance of the 60th anniversary of he liberaadmission.

The ceremonies were grander than tion of the French village. we had expected--two parades, with marching bands, • Alsace and Lorraine were annexed by Germany in members of French veterans organizations carrying 1871 following the Franco-Prussia War and again by massed French and American flags, a regular French Hitler in 1940. As with today’s generation of Germans, army unit and an honor guard of American troops from some of the people of northeastern France are obviRamstein Air Base in Germany, participating. ously ashamed of the sins their fathers and mothers There were many speeches, the laying of floral pieces committed--collaboration with the Nazis and the at half a dozen monuments, a banquet, a luncheon betrayal of Jews. Mourning the Jews may have a mindattended by about 300 Saint Die community represen- cleansing effect. tatives, street entertainment, a fireworks show, the dedAnd because it is the right thing to do. ication of a World War II museum and much more.

Saint Die Mayor Pierret put it simply and succinctly About 50 school children carrying American flags when I finally asked him: marched in one parade.

“It is our duty.”

New Cassel

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I’m a Life Coach who can help you reach that goal and that dream. She provides a safe space for you to discover what it is that you really want and how you can make it a reality. Her coaching is done by telephone and it is completely confidential.

I holds a Master’s Degree in Counseling and am a Graduate of Coach U, the leading global provider of coach training programs. With my husband, Allan Kenyon, we are partners with Kenyon Coaching Service. I work with success-minded people who want to achieve their personal or professional goals faster than if they were to go it alone.

My clientele includes professionals, executives, entrepreneurs, business owners, sales people, and people in transition.

My coaching focuses on goals in the areas of career, money, retirement, health, relationships, getting organized, and life balance.

I offer a 30 minute complimentary telephone coaching session so potential clients can decide if her coaching is for them.

I can be reached at 402.423.2678 and her website is www.KenyonCoaching.com or via e-mail at: Barbara@Kenyon Coaching.com.

You can turn your ‘someday’ into now. Contact me today to schedule your complimentary session!

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by MARILEE LIEBER for New Cassel Retirement Center New Cassel Retirement Center was founded in 1973. New Cassel is known for its rich activity program, focus on service, and commitment to helping residents.

The welcoming community spirit generated by both residents and staff assures you security and a special feeling of home. Living at New Cassel includes everything necessary for a gracious and independent lifestyle. Delicious meals, a social calendar, assisted services and an array of other amenities provide seniors the retirement lifestyle they deserve ... a safe, worryfree lifestyle. We encourage families to call 393.2277 to schedule a tour of our community and see the benefits of living at New Cassel.

Within New Cassel Retirement Center is Franciscan Adult Day Center. Since 1985 the Franciscan Adult Day Center specializes in caring for older adults who benefit from mental stimulation, structured activities, social opportunities, medication monitoring, and nutritious meals in a secured environment. The Day Center is open Monday-Friday, 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Please call 393.2113 for further information.

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December 17, 2004

Explaining the Facts about Hospice Care

by KELLY ANDERSON Odyssey Health Care Discussing the need for transition into hospice care is often a difficult conversation for many physicians. In fact, dealing with the physical, emoional and spiritual issues that are a part of the end-of-life cycle can be a daunting process--and one many physicians shy away from. Knowing a few basic phrases to use when discussing hospice care can make the experience more comfortable--and It’s traumatic--for hoth patient and physician.

Foremost, remind the patient the patient’s family and any caregivers that one of the primary goals of hospice is effective pain management. Terminal illnesses may require aggressive pain treatment using a wide variety of medically sound therapies. Therefore, hospice is not an end to treatment but a shift to intensive palliative care. This care will focus on helping the patient to live his or her life to the fullest by managing pain and addressing the emotional and spiritual aspects of coping with a terminal illness.

Once you explain what services hospice offers, the next step is to contact a local hospice care provider. Here are a few important points to tell your patient about hospice: • As your physician, I will continue to see you and care for you.

• Our first priority is managing your symptoms.

• Services are available where you live.

• Your family and caregivers will also receive the support of the hospice team.

• Medicare, Medicaid and many private insurances cover hospice care. If the hospice is not Medicare Certified, there is usually a sliding fee scale for any billable services.

In the end, a good preparation for hospice care begins with creating and continuing a foundation of trust, care and concern with the patient and his or her family.

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 7

JSS Generates Options Continued from page 1 hurts to have an extra person to rely on.

“No one looks forward to a confrontation or hiding “We become part of their extended families and the car keys,” Fox said. “But you have to think about someone for out-of-town relatives to call when they’re the safety of the driver and the other people who are concerned but can’t just hop on a plane to check things on the road.” out for themselves.”

In this case, Fox was able to direct the family to a Which is not to say that all crises can be avoided. Or local agency that could evaluate the dad’s vision, hearing and coordination. The dad chose to stop driving, but Shelly was able to refer him to local drivers who provide transportation for shopping and appointments.

For JSS-sponsored events transportation usually is provided for a nominal fee.

JSS helps with referrals for home and personal care--house cleaning, grocery shopping, yard work, laundry and home repair, for instance.

Shane and Shelly also arrange for Lifeline service, a device for sum- JSS Director of Community Outreach Shane Kotok visited recently with Anne Rosenblatt. After moning help in case of a a brief stay at the Blumkin Home’s rehabilitation unit for physical therapy, Rosenblatt is lookfall or other medical ing forward to dancing again at family gatherings. emergency.

Sometimes these services are arranged after a short that family members are all in agreement as to what’s stay in the Blumkin rehabilitation unit following sur- best. gery, or simply to maintain quality of life whether or “Sometimes a situation that seems overwhelming can not health conditions are part of the picture. For a min- be solvable with one phone call,” Kotok said. “There imal monthly fee, this service can provide peace of can be tension involved and we can be the neutral mind to both the Lifeline clients and their families, third party who helps guide the conversation. Making Kotok said. sure no one in the Jewish community struggles alone “We make visits, too,” Fox said. “If someone is recent- with the challenges of aging--that’s what we’re here ly home from the hospital, we can check in and make for.” sure they’re okay. We have several people we call or If you’ve got any questions about the Blumkin Home visit regularly. They’re doing fine at home, but it never or services of JSS, call 330.4272.

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Hospice is not a place; it is a concept of care for those who have life-limiting illnesses. Even when medicine cannot provide a cure, it can offer comfort, care, and assistance that help maintain a better quality of life for the patient. This type of attention called pallative care, involves the aggressive treatment of physical and emotional pain and symptoms. It focuses on enhancing a patient’s comfort and improving that person’s quality of life.

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Page 8

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

December 17, 2004

ORGANIZATIONS YOUNG ENERGETIC SENIORS Join us on Monday at the JCC as Bob Berg and the Foggy Mountain Cloggers entertains following lunch at noon.

Cost is $6 per person. Bingo will begin in the auditorium at 10 a.m., exercise at 10:30 a.m. in the social hall and the discussion group at 11 a.m. Call Maggie Conti at 334.6521 for reservations to Bluffs Run Casino on Dec. 30.

Call Dee Dee for transportation at 330.4272.

VISIONS Join us for a show at the IMAX to see Alaska: Spirit of the World on Tuesday, Jan. 4. Meet in the lobby of the IMAX at the Henry Doorly Zoo at 10:30 a.m.

Following the show, join us at the Bohemian Café. Lunch includes four choices for the main dish. The cost of $15 per person includes show, lunch, tax and tip. Make check payable to Visions. Send to: Sandy and Fred Bromley, 13419 Marinda Street, Omaha, NE 68144 by Dec. 29.

LOMIR REDN YIDDISH Come to the Lomir Redn Yiddish meeting at the JCC on Thursdays, 1-3 p.m. It’s guaranteed to enhance your Yiddish! Call Anne Skolkin at 343.1638.

BREADBREAKERS Mace Hack will be the guest speaker at our Breadbreakers on Wednesday, Dec. 22, noon, at the Park Inn Regency, according to Marty Ricks, Chairman.

Dr. Hack is head of research of the wildlife division of the Nebraska Game and Parks Division.

IN THE NEWS Cost is $10 for lunch and $2 for beverage service only. Breadbreakers is open to the community.

NATIONAL COUNCIL OF JEWISH WOMEN NCJW-Omaha Section will have its board meeting on Wednesday, Dec. 22, 7 p.m., at the Jewish Community Center. Mark your calendar for Wednesday, Jan. 26, 7 p.m., for a meeting on what need to be done for children in this state in order to develop a new NCJW community service project. Several guest speakers will be on the program.

For more information, call President Kate Kirshenbaum, 334.8541.

TORAH LEARNING CENTER (TLC) All classes are taught by Rabbi Tuvia Hoffman. Please call 981.0569 for details.

Mondays, 7:30 p.m.: “Kosher Kitchen”--learn the laws of keeping kosher. No prior knowledge necessary.

Beginner and Advanced students will gain from this class at the home of Rabbi and Ariella Hoffman.

Tuesday, 7:30 p.m.: “Growth Through Torah”--personal growth through studying Jewish philosophy from the Torah, at a private residence.

Thursdays, 1 p.m.: “Meaning of Life & Other Business”--based on the Kabbalistic text Way of G-d by Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzatto in the Kripke Library. At 7:30 p.m. in the Omaha Room of the JCC, learn to read Hebrew in just a few weeks with a “Crash Course in Hebrew.”

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The Omaha Public Library announced the latest addition to its digital library collection - eBooks. The eBooks, or “electronic books”, are digital versions of print books. Omaha Public Library cardholders can access eBooks from their home or office by visiting ebooks.omahapubliclibrary.org.

The eBooks are available in Adobe PDF format and Mobipocket format, and users can format them for PDAs, Pocket PC’s, Smartphones, or their PCs or Macs.

Scott Farkas and Omaha native Mimi Rogers have purchased the territory rights to operate an advertising direct mail business by the name of Valpak.

Valpak founded in 1968 is owned by Cox Enterprises out of Atlanta, Georgia and is headquartered out of Largo

President Bush meets with leaders of the Jewish community in the Eisenhower Executive Office Building during Hanukkah.

Among them was former Omahan Rabbi Rex

Florida. Valpak is the second largest customer of the US Postal service and mails out over 500 million of their famous blue envelopes annually.

Farkas has just concluded a 23 year career in Radio Broadcasting, his partner and wife Mimi is a native of Omaha and has a PhD in Sociology from Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan.

Rogers is a former professor of Sociology at Creighton University in Omaha.

Among those “40 Under 40” honored by the Midlands Business Journal this month were Jeff Beals, Vice-president of Coldwell Banker Commercial World Group; Jeff Kavich, President and CEO of All Makes Office Equipment; and Juliana Reno, Partner with the law firm of Stinson Morrison Hecker.

Perlmeter, senior rabbi of the Baltimore Hebrew Congregation, sitting two seats to the left of Pres. Bush. Credit: White House

December 17, 2004

Paying for Long-term Care: Can I Count on Medicare and Medicaid?

by JOSEPH JOHN, CLU, ChFC for The Prudential Insurance Company of America If you’re like everyone else, you’re probably confused about the role of government in providing long-term care. You know that the two governnent programs targeted at healthcare for seniors are Medicare and Medicaid, but you’re unsure at what each program covers and whether you’ll be eligible.

There are two parts to Medicare, hospital insurance (Part A) and supplemental medical insurance (Part B).

Part A is generally provided automatically and free of premiums to: • Persons age 65 or over who are eligible for Social Security or Railroad Retirement benefits; • Workers and their spouses aged 65 or older with a sufficient period of Medicare-only coverage in federal, state, or local government employment; • Individual who have been entitled to Social Security or Railroad Retirement disability benefits for at least 24 months; and • Government employees with Medicare-only coverage who have been disabled for more than 29 months.

Part A eligibility is also extended to certain individuals with kidney disease (end stage renal disease) as well as to some otherwise ineligible aged and disabled beneficiaries who voluntarily pay a monthly premium for their coverage.

Part A covers (1) Inpatient hospital care (21 limited skilled nursing facility care (3) limited home health care end (4) hospice care.

All U.S. citizens aged 65 or over and all disabled persons entitled to coverage under Part A are eligible to enroll in Part B on a voluntary basis by payment of a monthly premium.

Part B covers physicians’ and surgeons’ services, laboratory tests, outpatient rehabilitation facility services, mental health care services, radiation therapy, certain transplants, durable medical equipment for home use, and drugs that cannot be selfadministered.

Thus, on the surface it appears that Medicare’s coverage is extensive enough to meet most long-term care needs. But closer inspection reveals that Medicare is primarily designed to pay only for the cost of acute injury or illness, requiring a finite episode of care. This is because: • Inpatient hospital care is limited to 90 days during a benefit period, and a co-payment is required for days 61-90. * Skilled nursing home care is covered only if the stay follows within 30 days of a hospitalization of three days or more and is certified as medically necessary. Furthermore, Medicare only pays for 100 days per benefit period with a co-payment required for days 21-100 • Medicare payments for home health care are limited. Only part-time care is covered and for care delivered on or after January 1, 1998 Part A pays only for the first 100 visits following a three-day hospital stay or a skilled nursing facility stay.

Taken together these limitations mean that payment for longterm, inpatient, nursing home, and extended home health care must come from resources other than Medicare.

Medicaid is a Joint venture between state and federal governments. It pays for medical and health-related services provided to individuals who are below poverty level or have had to spend down their assets to meet Medicaid eligibility requirements. Determining eligibility for Medicaid can be complicated.

One reason is that under federal law there is more than one category of eligible beneficiaries. Another reason is that eligiblilty requirements differ from state to state.

For individuals qualifying for Medicaid nearly all expenses of

Desert Sounds

Some 900 meters above sea level on the rim of the unique Ramon Crater in the Negev Desert is an unusual park. The ‘Sounds of the Desert Park’ was inaugurated with four new sculptures made from musical instruments; they produce natural sounds as the wind plays against them. Mitzpe Ramon was established in 1954 as a work camp for men building the highway south to Eilat on the Red Sea. Today the city is in a development phase with 6000 residents.

Copyright: ISRANET

long-term care are covered. However, access to Medicaid facilities and the selection of providers of care, is limited.

The inescapable conclusion is that neither Medicare nor Medicaid is an ideal solution for long-term care. Medicare is targeted primarily at acute care and Medicaid is generally only available to those living below poverty level, or those who are medically disabled and have to spend themselves into poverty.

A licensed financial services professional can help you determine whether you need long-term care insurance, how much, and how to pay for it.

Joseph John is a Financial Planner with Prudential Financial and can be reached at 926.2850.

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 9

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Reverse Mortgages: Helping Senior Homeowners Move Forward

by MARY BYRNES for Great Western Mortgage Senior homeowners are now turning to a new source for cash income: their home. From paying for home repairs, home health care or medical expenses to paying off an existing mortgage or credit card debt, now, more than ever, Reverse Mortgages are providing the means for seniors to move forward in life.

Homeowners at least 62 years in age are now able to capitalize on the equity they have in their homes. Unlike traditional home equity loans, these special loans do not have to be repaid until the borrower(s) is no longer living in the home. This allows seniors to tap into a cash source previously unrealized.

The amount of money available to the borrower is determined by the value of their home and the age of the borrowers. The older the borrower, the more money they will be able to receive.

The borrower can select loan proceeds to be received in the form of a lump sum, monthly payments, or a line of credit.

Some still question how safe reverse mortgages are. “There are many reasons to feel that reverse mortgages are a safe and secure income option,” explains Mr. Hohman. “The first reason being, that the homeowner continues to own their home and their name remains on the deed. Secondly, the debt owed on the loan does not pass to the heirs and finally neither the borrower nor the heirs can ever owe more than the value of the property when the loan eventually becomes due. No assets other than the home will be used to repay the loan.

Furthermore, any remaining equity belongs to the borrower or their heirs.”

For free information on the reverse mortgage contact: AARP 800.209-8085/www.aarp.org/revmort or Fannie Mae’s Office of Public Information at 1.800.7FANNIE (1.800.732.6643) or contact Marshall Hohman at Great Western Mortgage.

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IFS-A045256 Ed. 7/2003

Page 10

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

December 17, 2004

How to Care For and Feed a Senior

IF YOU DON’T ASK, A DON’T GET IT! Y

by BERNIE MEYERS Seniors are not always easy to identify--because we come in a number of different sizes, shapes, ages, and needs and desires. Is it dangerous? What does it do?

I am not an expert on identifying the pitiful little group of doddering old men and women--whom we facetiously refer to as “Seniors”. But, I think I knows one when I sees one and it’s likely that I am one.

An important point to remember is that seniority has little or nothing to do with chronological age. Some days we’re old, and some days we’re incredibly young.

So it’s not always a slam dunk to identify and care for one or more of us. Be prepared to spend a lot of time and effort and loving kindness in treatment. We’re often like new born babies--dependent for many of our needs. Yet, we are sometimes quite self sufficient, strong, opinionated, ornery, self centered--see all, know all.

Seniority can be measured in both emotional and physical layers.I first recognized my body slip sliding-when I awoke one morning and found my somewhat under average face turned into a round, lined, sprouting potato--shorts and trousers snuggled over my tummy with no breathing room. I shrank from five feet, three inches tall to 4’11” short--as I stumbled down the pathways of middle age—in my quest for seniority.

Often, a senior type person does not feel comfortable, so I savor the mornings, I can crawl from my cradle and announce, “I feel great!”

We have our plus and minus moments. It’s a minus when we forget to complete a job we’ve set out to do.

But, it’s a plus that we don’t remember what we forgot to do. It’s a plus when I find my glasses in the refrigerator. But, it’s a minus that I never knew I misplaced them.

The emotional set backs are sometimes more hurtful than the physical problems—like our kids and grandchildren are all members of AARP—and the “kids” have all turned gray and are themselves grandparents. Ticket takers, waiters, sales persons give us senior discounts without our requesting them.

Our children start watching how we walk, talk, and perform task, analyzing every move. They send us to the finest doctors, who ask, “How do you feel?” My answer, “If I felt good, I wouldn’t be wasting my time here--and you could be out on the golf course!”

A visit to a physician includes study of long term

health care, analysis of wills and trusts. Many of us try to stay in some sort of physical shape with exercise.

Sometimes it helps. Often it’s a waste of time. I have a long list of physical problem areas: I’m unable to stand, so I lean against the wall--causing curvature of the dry wall. Walking, running, biking, bending, sitting, or sleeping are difficult, but lovely to dream about--as past goodies like oreo cookies and ice cream cones.

Some times seniors are less than gracious. And there is often much about which to be ungracious. We’ve misplaced our keys and cars. We have no idea how to run a computer--or what computerese language is. We have to pay more than 10 cents a pound for bananas.

A new Chevrolet goes for more than $998, and 2500 hundred square foot home costs almost a hundred thousand bucks. We forgot to pay our tax statement.

We overpaid our tax statement. But please bear with us.

You might be fortunate enough to latch on to a high class senior who could be a collector’s item.

My gripe that most of my body deterioration came in a quick acting lump sum, rather than a gradual diminishing of motor skills.

• Current Problems: Buttons are anti-senior. Every button on every shirt, pair of pants, shoes, stockings, lingerie is five times the size of the button holes--and far off center.

• Solution: Specially made button hooks.

• Resolution: I own a trailer load of button hooks. I can pull a trailer, but can’t button a shirt.

• Problem: Most of us can’t reach down to tie shoe laces.

• Solution: Buy shoes that close with Velcro.

Not to complain. There are thousands more of extremely expensive gadgets, on the market to help make the physical life of seniors far more bearable.

None of them work!

What’s that all got to do with seniority? Not a whole lot except to explain why I’m often grumbly and mumbly and often less than charmingly delightful.

So, the next time you see me crawling along the street, with my nose burrowing large holes in the pavement, moaning and groaning, don’t judge us all by my behavior. Some of us might be someone’s cute little Zayde. Some of us might still drive at night--short distances--and we’re cheap babysitters.

Life is good, and I’m grateful for all the senior bounties of my life in my search for certified seniorhood. I’m studying for a master’s degree in senior charm school— and will appreciate any suggestions for self improvement.

Don’t cry for me Argentina--Omaha--or Sarasota.

Bernie Meyers writes about his observations on a variety of subjects and can be reached at: 999BMeyers@aol.com.

Charitable Uses for Life Insurance Benefits

by ROB A. RANDELS CFP®, MBA, ChFC Northwestern Mutual Financial Network Most Americans give generously to their favorite charities and community organizations to share their good fortune each year.

Despite ongoing needs, however, non-profits have recently experienced an overall drop in donations. Experts point to the economic downturn, sluggish stock market and increased corporate distrust as the primary factors.

Now more than ever, charities depend on individual donations to carry out their missions. While we make donations because it makes us feel good to help those charities in need, an added benefit is the tax savings. If you are inclined to give, but wonder how to maximize your donation, consider the gift of life insurance. Life insurance is an affordable way to make substantial charitable gifts, and can be used in a variety of ways to meet your charitable objectives. Here are a few of the benefits: • Give a Larger Donation: The death benefit of a life insurance policy is a much larger amount than the premiums paid, so ultimately, you can give more to the charity.

• Access Cash Values: A charity-owned policy allows the organization to access and use cash values accumulated in the donated policy as needed.

• Share Tax Benefits: With proper ownership arrangements, the life insurance death benefit is not subject to estate tax or income tax. Charities receive proceeds on a tax-free basis upon the donor’s death or when the policy matures.

• Avoid Probate. Death benefits are transferred without the delay and cost of probate court. The contractual nature of life insurance also dissuades disgruntled heirs from protesting.

Gifting life insurance is a winning strategy because it allows donors to make contributions they might not otherwise be able to give comfortably within their lifetime. There are numerous ways to structure the ownership of life insurance policies for charitable gifts. For example, you could assign proceeds from your life policy to the organization, purchase a policy making the charity the owner (or name the charity the owner of already existing one) or use the life insurance as an estate planning tool.

Finally, life insurance can be an effective wealth replacement tool as part of an estate plan. If money, property or other assets are gifted to a charity, an income tax deduction may be immediately available for the charitable gift. The tax savings from the deduction can then be used to purchase a life insurance policy to replace the wealth heirs would have received from the donated assets.

Using the benefits of life insurance is an innovative way to provide meaningful, and often much greater, financial support to a favorite charity, regardless of the ownership structure. A good financial representative can help you determine if gifting life insurance is appropriate and guide you through the transfer strategies and tax consequences. Working in conjunction with your legal and/or tax consultant, he or she can help offer solutions for your particular situation.

Rob A. Randels, CFP®, MBA, ChFC is a Financial Representative with the Northwestern Mutual Financial Network based in Omaha. He can be reached at 402.390.8271

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December 17, 2004

Peace of Mind for Family with Immanuel Lifeline

by JOYCE BUSCH Here’s a letter we received: Dear Immanuel Lifeline Friends, Your service has been a reason for me to sleep well since Nov., 1994, when we had Lifeline installed for our mother who lived alone. Since double knee replacements, she had not been very steady on her feet and quickly became dependent on a walker.

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Making Transitions Easier

by AVEVA SHUKERT, PhD help and advice are needed and when they are preTransitions are always challenging, but we mature or intrusive? These are the same questions approach the joyful ones with more energy than the we ask when our children are growing up. We have difficult ones. As the baby boom generation to become better listeners and observers. approached the task of caring for aging parents, Our parents can help us by being as clear as who, on average, are living longer than their par- possible with their needs and proactive with planents, we do so without a good model. We are invent- ning. We are not mind readers and need to be told ing new strategies, mindful that these will be the when help is necessary. They should make their models our children have to guide them as we age. plans for living situations and end-of-life decisions The first consideration is usually emotional, as carefully as they prepare their estates. as this influences our judgment with all the othAssuming their children won’t mind going ers. We are sad, frightened and confused as we through 30 years of accumulated junk is also watch our parents decline in physical and also not the lasting legacy most parents wish to mental capabilities. Those we could depend leave. Talk about all of this; it can be upon now must depend on us. approached with love and humor, not morbid Old emotional conflicts and unresolved feel- dread. It is also a time for siblings to reconnect ings sometimes get in the way of this difficult if it is done before the stress of a crisis. shift in roles. Children who had solid, loving relaLastly, it is important to remember that help is tionships with their parents have an easier time available. We are lucky to live in a community with accepting the increased responsibilities. Those a fine array of senior services. This includes menwhose relationships have been strained have a tal health professionals who can evaluate skills tougher time. from financial competency to safe driving. Don’t Parents and children are not always a good be afraid to seek such help; planning with all the match for each other in terms of interests, atti- facts is preferable to crisis management. There tudes and temperament. Our parents realized are also counseling and support groups available. this when we were children; we realize it when You don’t have to do this alone. we help them in old age. These difficulties are Most important: enjoy your relatives. They are not insurmountable. still the same individuals they were 40 years ago.

Beyond the emotions associated with this are Don’t sell that aspect of your relationships short; the practical issues. How do we know when our continue to make memories with them!

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

The Oxford Encyclopedia of Food & Drink In America Vol. 1 and 2, Edited by Andrew Smith (Oxford University Press, $195)

R EAD IT AND EAT Reviewed by LOIS FRIEDMAN You’ll find an alphabetical history and culture of American food and drink from Coney Island to the California coast...from “pointing out the fast disappearing traditions and guiding the reader through the latest culinary controversy”. There are 800+ articles, hundreds of illustrations (many from private photograph collections and never seen before), fun facts and trivia...slow food and fast food, twists and turns, why we eat the way we do, historical overviews, biographies. This A to Z format in two volumes has an impressive list of scholars: writers, professors, culinary historians contributed articles in their area of expertise--an incredible two volume read you won’t want to miss.

Joan Nathan wrote the “Jewish American Food” article: “Throughout their wandering history, Jews have adapted their lifestyles to the local cultures within which they have lived-and food has been no exception.”

Many of the foods the Jewish immigrants introduced to America from their countries of origin have been labeled as Jewish food. What was once daily subsistence became special occasions foods for the second and third generations.

And as “healthy” has replaced “hefty” some foods like schmaltz have become obsolete.

In 1654, 23 Sephardic Jews arrived in New Amsterdam and set the tone for Jewish food in America. From other countries over the years, Jews arrived in America and brought their cooking with them.

Mrs. Esther Levy wrote the Jewish Cookery Book in 1871. Walk through the history of Jewish cooking and kashrut.

An article is included on Jewish Dietary Laws and of stories of the time when kosher meat went from 12 cents a pound to 18 cents in New York City’s Lower East Side; after a fiery boycott, the price fell to 14 cents a pound.

In 1915, an Atlanta rabbi had to swear that he would never reveal the secret formula for Coca-Cola, when the company received the kashrut certification.

There are several articles on delicatessens, funeral and wedding food,

holidays, even hot dogs and more.

There really aren’t recipes here, but you could make a tsimmes using this description: a sweetened, baked combination of carrots, sweet potatoes and meat, often made with dried fruits and sometimes with carrots alone. It is stewlike and often eaten on the Sabbath and Sukkot. In Yiddish, tsimmes means a “big fuss made over something”.

Lois Friedman can be reached at: ReadItAndEat@yahoo.com.

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

December 17, 2004

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Gift of Memory: The Marrow of Ozzie Nogg’s Narratives own experiences. Through her imagination and memory she keeps the narrative and its continuity alive.

BOOK REVIEW A brilliant writer, Nogg takes readers to new places.

by MICHAEL C. DUKE Houston Jewish Herald-Voice

“I reflect on things that really touch the heart,” she says.

“My father was a profound teacher, remembered fondJoseph’s Bones: A Collection of Stories (Oznas) is Ozzie ly and respected by all his students. He was able to Nogg’s most recent contribution to the arts and com- show people something inside themselves that they munity. A set of 12 vignettes that are succinct, often hadn’t yet discovered.”

The personal narratives of Joseph’s Bones have the humorous and poignantly self-reflexive, Joseph’s Bones echoes the author’s experiences growing up the daugh- same self-reflective effect that characterizes her father’s legacy: “My writing is very much about making conter of a loving, magical rabbi.

“As a child I loved listening to my father tell his sto- nections.” Nogg says that she loves to hear that her stories; he was always dropping little hints of things. This ries have helped readers discover a new sense of idenbook is very representative of what I collected and tity and belonging. “Writing,” Nogg explains, “is a huge responsibility, as an artist and Jew”; it is a craft, she gained over the years,” Nogg states. says, she loves.

The metafictional stories Writing for Nogg grew of Joseph’s Bones, which the out of her lifelong author also illustrates, by OZZIE NOGG reveal that Nogg is the When the time came to assign the ISBN number for Joseph's immersion in the performing arts. “I was heavheiress of her father’s imag- Bones, the form required a publishers name. ination, talent for yarning Since the book was self-published (not by the likes of ily involved in theater, plays, shows and the like and ability to inspire self- Doubleday, etc.) I had to make something up. discovery. The collection is So, since my real, legal name is Ozna, I decided to call the as a small child,” she a mosaic of narratives that publishing house OZNAS BOOKS. No big deal, right? A logical notes. The early stories of stitch together familial gen- choice, right? Only after some time had passed did I realize how Joseph’s Bones--such as erations with the calendar logical a choice it really was--yet how totally out of my awareness. “Bubbie’s House,” which of a Jewish life: Nogg magYou see, Don and I have five grandchildren. And what are their meditates on the disjuncture of memory and realnifies the spirituality of names? Olivia, Zachary, Natalie, Alexandra, Seth.

Hanukkah and the Bar I promise you, when those kids were given their names (and ity--began as performMitzvah, and reflects on the not in that birth order) no one saw a pattern emerging that would ance pieces. “Nearly 10 gifts of life and acceptance later be connected with a book dedicated to those same children years ago, four other artists and I put together of death. Though overtly and their parents. Spooked me, that’s for sure. a storytelling group, Jewish in subject matter, and peppered with Yiddish diction, the marrow of where we’d create stories and then perform them. The idea of putting a collection together in book form came Joseph’s Bones is undeniably transcendent.

Joseph’s Bones is an excellent present for the Jew who to me only in the last few years.”

The 12 interlocking tales of Joseph’s Bones arrived in wants to give a spiritual gift to a family or community member, and for the Jew who wants to give something the published form very much by their own accord, very special to a non-Jewish friend. Joseph’s Bones is for Nogg suggests. “The stories were left by my father and all readers and listeners. “The book reflects the modern his experiences. How they’ve taken their final form is human condition, if you’ll excuse the cliche,” the not necessarily the entire result of my own manipulaauthor notes. “Though I’ve written from my own life tion. Much of the process is rather unexplainable,” the experiences, both Jews and non-Jews have come to me author muses. As her own experiences indicate, a story to say that they see themselves in these stories, which can oftentimes write the author.

The 12 episodes of Joseph’s Bones are the written is a beautiful and powerful compliment.”

The universalism and readability of Nogg’s collection memories Nogg has of her father’s life as she experistems from its greatest strengths: the author’s use of enced it from childhood. Though the collection is unimemory and metaphor. Nogg, by recalling various fied under a single theme--a metaphorical continuation accounts from her childhood under an overarching of its biblical namesake--each story is highly individutheme, unifies her father’s legacy with a metaphor that alized, much like the jewels that represent the 12 Tribes of Israel. As the stories unfold chronologically, Nogg’s traces back to the beginnings of Jewish history.

The biblical story of Joseph’s bones spans from narrative voice reflects the author's growth and comGenesis to Exodus. It recounts the passing of Joseph, prehension, her personal embodiment of the legacy and how his 400-year-old remains were taken by Moses with which she is endowed.

Nogg first took pen to paper 20 years ago. She has from Egypt on the promise to lay them to rest in the land of Canaan, a mitzvah fulfilled by the Israelites studied at the prestigious Iowa Writers Workshop. In after Moses’ own passing. Midrash explains that the addition to her most recent collection, she writes and biblical, multivalent story of Joseph’s bones personifies publishes essays on the history and practice of Jewish the blessing: “L’dor vador, Hallelujah!--From generation holidays and festivals. She and her husband of 50 years, to generation.” In her rendition, Nogg adds a new layer Donald, have four children and five grandchildren.

To purchase Joseph’s Bones, obtain an order form at to this ancient Jewish narrative.

As a storyteller and Member of the Tribe, she partici- www.rabbisdaughter.com, or e-mail oznas pates in the biblical metaphor by personalizing it with her books@cox.net; they’re also available at Beth El.

How Oznas Books Got its Name

Gambling on Long-Term Care: Study Shows Many Not Prepared for Likely Need

by GARY L KUDYM CLU State Farm® agent A 48-year-old father of two is left with permanent injuries after an auto accident. A 66-year-old recent retiree suffers a serious stroke. An otherwise healthy 75-year-old grandfather falls and breaks his hip. These people have one thing in common. Quite unexpectedly they're each likely to need some form of long-term care, through nursing care at home, in a nursing home or at an assisted living facility.

The odds are good that many Americans will find themselves in a similar situation, as estimates by the Health Insurance Association of America indicate that over 70 percent of people over age 65 will need some form of long-term care. But a Roper survey recently released by the American Society on Aging (ASA) and funded by State Farm shows that most Americans are willing to try to beat those odds because so few have done anything to prepare for the high cost of long-term care.

“Long-term care may not be a subject people like to talk about, but it's something every family should discuss and plan for,” said ASA’s Jim Emerman. “The need for long-term care can arise so suddenly that unless we're financially prepared, it can rob a family of its assets and its financial future.”

With govemment data placing the average cost of nursing home care at $56,000 a year, failing to plan can be a costly

gamble. According to the Roper study, two-thirds of Americans 45 years of age and over say it's very important they have enough money to be able to choose the setting in which they’ll get long-term care if they need it. But only 37 percent say they've been able to put aside money for this purpose and only 17 percent have purchased long-term care insurance specifically designed to cover it.

By comparison, nearly nine in 10 of the adults surveyed have health insurance and three out of four own a life insurance policy. Why don't people plan better? Many tend to procrastinate, the Roper study shows. Half of all adults over the age of 45 believe they won't need long-term care until they're older and don't want to think about it now. Others take the long-term care gamble because they mistakenly believe they're already covered or that the government will pay for it.

Americans need to protect themselves and their financial assets by making sure they insulate themselves from the high costs of long-term care. That’s why I urge people to visit a financial services professional to talk about long-term care insurance. It can help protect assets, preserve long-term care choices and help control independence.

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December 17, 2004

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 13

Breadbreakers Meets Nebraska’s Next Governor

by JOAN K. MARCUS Dave Heineman, Lt. Gov. of Nebraska, addressed B’nai Brith Breadbreakers, just one day before he found out that he was about to become our 39th governor of our state. Heineman, a West Point graduate, is said by many to always be prepared.

When he addressed the group-who had come expecting to hear Governor Mike Johanns--unknown to even him, Johanns had been called to Washington, D.C., to discuss an upcoming appointment as Secretary of Agriculture with President George W. Bush.

Heineman’s shift to the governor’s position depends on the approval of Johanns as ag secretary.

Heineman was born in Falls City and grew up in Fairbury, McCook, Marty Ricks, left, introduces Lt. Gov. Heineman to the Breadbreakers group.

Benkelman and Wahoo where he graduated from high school. The 56-year-old was a to Nebraska’s two senators and three congressmen.

During his tenure as state treasurer, he focused on Republican Party official and congressional aid who finalchanging the office into a 21st century financial managely worked his way up to a statewide office. ment operation.

He took advantage of technology to Those close to Heineman say he has always wanted to emphasize the electronic movement of money. Under his be governor. He was appointed by Johanns to the lieuleadership, electronic disbursements increased by over tenant governor’s position and then elected in 2002.

75% and saved Nebraska taxpayers more than half a milIn 1970, Heineman graduated with a bachelors degree lion dollars in banking charges. in economics from West Point Military Academy. After Heineman spoke to the group about the Nebraska that, he served in the United States Army, where he rose economy, noting that “we’ve had a lot of financial chalto the rank of captain. lenges in the state during the last three or four years.

He later worked for Procter and Gamble and then However, I think that we’re finally beginning to see the began his political career by serving as chief of staff for economy coming around. Revenues at the state level former Nebraska congressman Hal Daub. He served on have been up during the past eight months. And, for the the Fremont City Council before being elected state treasfirst time in more than two years, we closed the books on urer in November of 1994 and again in 1998.

June 30th ahead of projection by $109 million.”

In his present position, Heineman is director of Each month of this fiscal year, we have been ahead of Homeland Security, chairman of the Nebraska projection.

“The forecasting board met this past October Information Technology Commission and the Governor’s and they’re predicting stronger revenues as we go forHomeland Security Policy Group, and the presiding offiward,” he added.

“Having said that, we have to balance cer of the Nebraska Legislature. He is also Johanns’ liaison

it with the fact that we ended last session with about a $295 million projected gap that includes the 140 plus million low-level waste judgment settlement we have to pay.

The current forecast on revenue is that there’s going to be about a 4.5% annual growth. That amounts to approximately $115 million for the state.”

The project revenue increase will be totally consumed by state aid to education, special education and Medicaid.

According to Heineman, “Each one of these programs is growing by about 10% a year and what we have are three items growing at about 21/2 times the expected revenue growth. So, you can begin to see the challenge!”

He said it is fairly clear there is no mood in the legislature for any tax increases in the state--“particularly as we move forward relative to our economy.”

Another key issue is behavior health reform process started by Governor Johanns. Heineman noted that “the state was in need of a reform in the mental health system.

We are making progress and it has been a consumerfocused priority.

“Also, the juvenile chemical dependency program has been expanded in Hastings due to increased need. The six behavioral health regions in the state seem to be moving forward. However, we still have a few challenges in Omaha.”

The drought and water shortage in western Nebraska is another problem. “The best thing that could happen would be if we could get a lot of snow and moisture in Colorado!” he said with a smile.

On the issue of Homeland Security, Heineman said, “Right now, terrorists want to attack a major symbolic target in America--primarily, in Washington, D.C., or New York. They want to inflict as many casualties as they can, and, most importantly, they want to be able to announce it 60 seconds after they’ve done it!

“That wouldn’t lead you to a scenario that might bring it out to the Midwest,” he explained. “However, there are other things of concern to Nebraska. Al-Qaeda said they wanted to attack America prior to the election. There was never a specific threat to Nebraska but, as you can appreciate, the terrorists don’t send you an e-mail saying they’re coming.

Continued on page 14

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

December 17, 2004

Breadbreakers Meets Next Governor Continued from page 13 “We were very concerned that we could have had a situation where al-Qaeda would engage in a series of activities that preceded the election. We would then have to make a decision whether or not we would go on a heightened state of alert. We wouldn’t know if it was the real thing. You can imagine, with the close presidential election, if we had to go on a heightened state of alert” what that might do to the national psyche.

A bio-terrorism incident could be an attempt to infect the food supply is also of concern to Heineman. “We are part of a five-state group that produces 70% of the nation’s beef. Fortunately, two years ago, Nebraska participated in a daylong simulation exercise in Washington, D.C. with the CIA, the FBI and the White House. We learned how we would respond as a nation.”

Heineman wrapped by talking about the extraordinary resources that are available in the Omaha area, noting that because of UNMC and Creighton University, we have the capability.

“I believe that we are a safer, stronger and more secure nation today as a result of our Homeland Security. The men and women who serve in our United States Armed Forces are doing an incredible job. We should thank these people whenever we have the opportunity.”

Who Says There’s No Free Lunch?

by TONI SLATTEN Crown Pointe Retirement Community has been providing retirement services for almost 20 years. We have served hundreds of residents, their families and friends and others through the years and have an established reputation for making retirement all it can be. No doubt you know someone who lives there or who has lived there.

Our community is in a neighborhood setting, centrally located to most families plus shopping, recreation and easy travel. Residents have the privacy of their apartments, plus the advantages of services such as: three meals a day, paid utilities, weekly housekeeping, scheduled transportation and a wealth of activities.

As our residents say, they can enjoy their apartments with privacy or open their doors to join in whatever ongoing activities interest them. Snowy days are no challenge--there is no ice or snow to shovel, nor any isolation--it’s very easy to get together with others to visit, play cards, dine or go out on the bus. Plus Crown Pointe is staffed 24 hours a day to respond to needs.

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Sharon and Generals Talked of Seizing Power Before 1967 War Israelis thought Eshkol’s indecisiveness meant Israel would end up waging war from a far less advantageous position.

by DAN BARON “The critical question was who would land the first blow,” Gloska told Army Radio. “The generals thought JERUSALEM (JTA) -- As an Israeli army general in the the people in government were a bunch of confused, tense days before the 1967 Six-Day War, Ariel Sharon panic-stricken men leading Israel to catastrophe.” proposed that the military seize the initiative from indeBut Gloska notes that the statements appeared to be cisive Cabinet ministers and launch a pre-emptive strike idle chatter among the generals, not a serious proposition. on the Arabs without government approval, according “The idea may have captivated” Sharon, “but one to a new official history of the period. shouldn’t overstate the significance of the matter,” The prime minister’s comments, in a book commis- Gloska wrote, according to Ha’aretz. “We are dealing sioned by the Defense Ministry, with an offbeat statement, nothing reinforce his image as a go-itmore than thinking out loud. The alone “bulldozer” at a time that same thought may have gone he has defied his own right-wing through the minds of other comallies with a plan to unilaterally manders, and Sharon was the one give up the Gaza Strip and parts who expressed it.” of the West Bank.

Throughout his career, Sharon Tensions in Israel were building -nicknamed “Bulldozer” for his in May 1967 as Egyptian President physical girth and tendency to Gamel Abdel Nasser closed the plough through opposition-Straits of Tiran to Israeli ships -would be dogged by charges of an act of war--ordered U.N. Ariel Sharon, center, and fellow army generals circumventing higher authorities. peacekeepers out of the Sinai arrive in the Negev on June 1, 1967.

As a reserve general during the desert and moved his armies Credit: David Rubinger/GPO 1973 war, he clashed with the toward the border with Israel. head of the Israel Defense Forces’ Threats of annihilation issued from Cairo, Damascus Southern Command over deployment of forces against and elsewhere in the Arab world as Israeli Prime Egypt--though historians say Sharon’s aggressive tactics Minister Levi Eshkol tried unsuccessfully to end the cri- dealt Egypt a crushing blow that forced it to end the sis by diplomacy, ignoring widespread appeals to war and sue for peace. launch a pre-emptive strike when it became clear war In 1982, as defense minister, Sharon masterminded an was inevitable. invasion of Lebanon aimed at crushing Yasser Arafat’s In the book, written by historian and reserve Col. Ami Palestine Liberation Organization and ending frequent Gloska, Sharon was quoted as saying that he proposed terrorist attacks on northern Israel. When Israeli troops the action because Eshkol’s vacillation was endanger- advanced all the way to Beirut, some critics claimed ing the state. He told fellow generals the army could Sharon had misled Prime Minister Menachem Begin “seize control, not in the framework of wanting to gov- about the war’s true aims, something Sharon strenuern, but to make a decision.” ously denied.

Sharon said he suggested to his colleagues that govSharon was forced to resign after an Israeli-allied ernment ministers be told to sequester themselves at Christian militia slaughtered hundreds of Palestinian command headquarters while the top brass declared war. refugees in two camps outside the Lebanese capital. An Cabinet ministers “would have accepted it with a Israeli inquiry found Sharon indirectly responsible sense of relief. That was my feeling,” Sharon said in the because he hadn’t anticipated the possibility of a masbook, titled: Eshkol, Give an Order! sacre when he let the Christian militia enter the camps Israel eventually did launch a pre-emptive attack on to take on PLO fighters hiding there.

June 5, defeating Egypt, Syria and Jordan in six days As prime minister, Sharon has drawn the ire of many and capturing huge swathes of territory, including the right-wingers for his plan to unilaterally “disengage’’ West Bank, Gaza Strip and eastern Jerusalem--where from the conflict with the Palestinians by withdrawing Palestinians now want a state--the Golan Heights and from some of the territories next year. the Sinai. Israel returned Sinai to Egypt after the two Right-wingers say the plan rewards Palestinian terrorcountries made peace in 1979. ism and betrays the Likud Party platform on which Rather than plotting a coup, Gloska writes, Sharon Sharon was elected in 2001. But surveys show most was voicing the exasperation shared by Israeli military Israelis support the prime minister, seeing Gaza as a chiefs convinced the Arabs could not be dissuaded bloody liability. from their goal of wiping out the Jewish state. Many This book is available at the Kripke Library.

BOOK REVIEW

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Sun, Sun, Sun, Here We Come 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¢! Use the form on page 19 or email us at jpress@jewishomaha.org.

December 17, 2004

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 15

Snowbirds: We May Be Gone for Winter, But Omaha’s Still Home

BERT’S EYE VIEW

by BERT LEWIS

Greetings from your foreign correspondent--yes, we’re fair weather friends and the minute the weather isn’t so fair, we’re gone. We’re back in the southwest, the land of styrofoam snowmen and where seasonal decorations include lights strung around cactus plants of various shapes and heights. Somehow it’s goofy to hear “Jingle Bells” coming from the radio of a convertible with the top down!

All else is mostly as usual, which means I have to stop and think exactly about the route to be taken when I drive someplace distant from my own neighborhood. I have to decide which grocery to shop in, and make an effort to remember which ones I prefer to avoid. And, of course, I have to remember which use little cards to give me special prices on certain items.

Everything here is a lot like at home, but at the same time there are minor differences. Kind of like that little apparatus we swipe a credit card through--they’re all the same and yet they’re not.

The coffee pot here is a little different, but most of my kitchen is set up somewhat like my kitchen “at home”. So if that’s the case, how come I’m always reaching for something in the wrong place? And why did I walk right past something I really needed at the supermarket because I thought I had plenty?

I did, but not in this kitchen.

On the plus side, we’re re-connecting

with friends here, some of whom are former Omahans. Those are the ones who want to hear all about what’s going on “at home”. That might mean “who’s doing what” (I hate the word gossip), or “what’s happening at the synagogue” or “did such-and-such a store really close?”

One thing always seems to ring true with folks who move away from Omaha --they have a hard time finding a congregation to join where they feel comfortable. I’ve heard stories about folks trying out this shul or that, in an effort to find one that seems right for them. The results frequently end up being a compromise, settling for one that doesn’t exactly seem to fit, but close.

I don’t know how long it takes before a person realizes there are some things in life which simply aren’t easily duplicated, such as the level of comfort one feels in the familiar synagogue. The people who are part of that scene are a large factor in that feeling...the folks who always are there for Friday night services or the ones only seen during High Holidays, it doesn’t really matter. They are the faces associated with the experience.

That being the case, it really isn’t unusual to walk into a shul, in a city away from home, see numbers of Jewish faces and think “who are these people?

Why am I here with them? Where’s Moishe who always greets me? Who is that lady sitting where Rose always sits?”

And, of course, to look at the bimah and think “that isn’t the way we do it”.

The other side of all that must be to take a fair approach and give the strangers a chance. Maybe in time, those

faces will just become nice people to see at shul, even if a name doesn’t immediately come to mind. A person can say Shabbat Shalom without needing a formal introduction.

So nu, why all the discussion? Mostly because I really couldn’t think of anything else to talk to you about today.

And, being a foreign correspondent, I feel I should have a topic relating to this area. Maybe I should have brought up the subject of Hanukkah, but it’s proba-

bly to late for that this year.

Anyway, I think a good rule of thumb when writing for a Jewish newspaper must be, when all else fails, talk about the synagogue. I mean, who could argue with that? No, on second thought, almost any Jew could engage in such a subject, and take either side of an arguement.

Let’s just leave it at that.

Bert Lewis can be reached at: Bertelewis39@aol.com.

Raising the Bar on Adult Day Services

by CHERI MUNDT Executive Director Dr. Michael Levine, owner and President of SarahCare, realized the opportunity to follow his visionof families being able to stay home together, coupled with the SarahCare mission of providing professional service in a secure environment for adults with health related needs, while giving respite to the caregiver.

SarahCare, an Adult Day program that supports caregivers in keeping their family members at home was started in 1985 by gerontologist, Dr. Merle Griff, in Canton, OH. Adult Day Centers are one of the fastest growing aspects in the continuum of care for seniors. From 15 Centers nationwide in 1975 to 4,000 in 2004, Centers providing adult day services still fall far short of the 8,500 needed.

Education is the key component and how they fit into the choices available for caregivers and families. As they age, the health and living needs of the older adult has become an increasingly important concern.

Caregivers are angels in disguise, but often we find they do not allow or give themselves permission to take time off. Personal interests, time spent with friends and family, begin to

take a backseat to the needs of the one for whom they are caring.

SarahCare provides services that allow the caregiver to take time for themselves, while their loved one has the opportunity to meet new people, socialize, and be mentally and physically stimulated.

The Center, open M-F, 7 a.m.-6 p.m., is staffed with a professional nurse, medication aides and an Activity Director. SarahCare provides a light breakfast, lunch and an afternoon snack. Pam Nygren, the Center’s Activity Director, plans activities around the interests of the participants.

The Center has partnered with professionals and businesses to provide a consignor menu of services that can be taken care of while at the Center. We provide dental, optometry, and podiatry services as well as physician-ordered speech, physical and occupational therapy.

SarahCare also provides take-home meals from various restaurant menus and dry-cleaning pick-up and delivery.

For information and how to obtain a “free day” coupon, call me at: 496.3379, or stop by 3615 No. 129 St. in Eagle Run Square for a tour.

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Page 16

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

December 17, 2004

Opinion Listen To Your Elders Remember when your parents told you you wouldn’t understand their position until you were a parent yourself? Well, the same applies for “elderhood.” It’s hard to understand the concept until the movie theater attendant tells you you’re now eligible for a “senior” discount and the supermarket check-out clerk asks if “those are your grandchildren” (no-they’re our children, but then, some of us were having too much fun to have children right after we got married!).

Senior? Grandparent? What the...?

It’s like a dream; one day you’re diapering your son and the next day, he’s having babies of his own. Your own parents told you life would speed by, but you didn’t believe them...until now.

And how lucky are we to have so many wonderful “elders” right here in Omaha!

(And, according to AARP, you’re a senior when you hit 50!) What a wealth of knowledge and talent we’ve got, and most of us don’t even realize it.

There’s a group of men who play cards every week at the Jewish Community Center.

Sure, they’ve been shifted from one room to the next, but they keep coming back because they love the company (and the game).

There’s another group that meets every Monday at the Bagel Bin--Omaha’s only kosher restaurant. there’s about 20 guys who discuss the latest current events, solve the world’s political problems, and give advice.

And when one is absent, the others call.

Of course, you’ll find “seniors” at the JCC Fitness Center, too. Just look at Abe Kukawka.

At 90+, he’s still working out. And he’s not alone; there are plenty of his contemporaries walking the track, lifting weights and using the bicycles. (Frankly, they’re better at sticking to a

(Founded in 1920)

fitness regime that most of us!)

As to the ladies--we’ve mentioned Rose Frankel and Helen Kulakofsky many times in these pages, but there are others, like 92year-old Tibe Stoler (who’s on the front page this week) who attends Shabbat services on a pretty regular basis, often accompanied by her friend, Charlotte Kaplan, who still, after more than 30 years, organizes volunteers to ritually prepare bodies for Jewish burials. And of course, there are card players among the women as well--a big group meets at Ironwood to play pan and bridge.

These folks know all about Omaha: the stories of how their families arrived and who befriended whom, who their teachers were at cheder and how the holidays were celebrated when their parents were immigrants, who married whom and who went away to war and never came home.

Ben Nachman and the Nebraska Jewish Historical Society have videotaped many of our “elders.”

They’ve told their stories of escaping the Nazis in 1930’s Europe or arriving penniless after the Holocaust. They’ve reminisced about the old ‘J’ on 20th and Dodge and witnessed the building of Beth El on 49th and Farnam or Temple Israel’s move from Park Avenue to 70th and Cass.

But we don’t have all the stories on tape yet and if we don’t hear them now, we may never learn the secrets of Jewish Omaha.

So, if you’re an “elder” or you’ve

got one in your family, promise yourself you’ll call the NJHS at 402.334.6442 this week and make arrangements to schedule a videotaping session. How else will our children know who was Queen Esther at Beth Israel’s Purim Carnival and who won the “Chaimie Bear” as Weizmann AZA’s Sweetheart?

Wealth can be lost if it’s not preserved for the next generation; that includes the stories, too.

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

The Jewish Press reserves the right to edit signed letters and articles for space and content.

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

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

The Lighter Side of Israel

OUR MAN IN ISRAEL

by CARL ALPERT Haifa--There is a lighter side to Israel but it never makes the headlines. One must search the news reports carefully to find items like these. They are there.

• From the classified ad section: A family of new immigrants is interested in looking after and taking care of elderly people, single or a couple, in return for the inheritance. * A Pardess Hannah woman was awakened by sounds of someone trying to force open her front door. Quietly she took her flash camera, crept up to the door, flung it open and took a full facial shot of the would-be burglar. Armed with the photo, the police had no difficulty locating him.

• Israeli prisons now house over 5000 militants, activists and gunmen also known as terrorists. A reader, Harvey Tannenbaum, appeals to the public: “Please submit to me your suggestion what should be done about this overpopulated prison issue, instead of feeding and housing them on our hardearned shekels.”

• Thus far in 2004, 20 Israeli promising start-up companies in the field of computer programming have been bought up for a total value of 3.2 billion shekels. Ten of the companies were acquired by foreign firms, and 10 by existing Israeli companies.

• Who supports the Palestinians financially?

The U.S. Agency for International Development reports that since 1993, in addition to others, the Agency has contributed $1.3 billion to the Palestinian people of the West Bank and Gaza. Have detailed reports

been received on what the money was used for?

• On Rosh Hashanah what did Israelis wish each other for the new year? A survey has indicated that good health was in first place with 70%, followed by economic prosperity (23%), happiness (22%), and peace and security next with 18%.

• American immigration authorities report that since 1949, more than 190,000 Israelis have formally immigrated to the U.S. where they have since raised families. The annual immigration from Israel to the States has been steadily declining in recent years. The figure does not include students, tourists, temporary employees and the like.

• Albert Einstein bequeathed his estate to the Hebrew University in Jerusalem, including all rights to use of his name. To date this has brought the University an income of about 10

From the classified ad section: A family of new immigrants is interested in looking after and taking care of elderly people, single or a couple, in return for the inheritance. million dollars. In the year 2005, the scientific world will mark the 100th anniversary of the publication of Einstein’s theory of relativity. Commercial exploitation of that fact is expected to bring the University further sizeable income.

• Dr. Joshua Levin, of New Jersey, has proposed that all newly formed Jewish communities in the West Bank should be called resettlements because their inhabitants are sim-

Joanie Jacobson Chairman Carol Katzman Editor Richard Busse Creative Director Allan Handleman Advertising Manager Timothy J. Ketelsen Bookkeeper Lori Kooper-Schwarz Production Assistant Jewish Press Committee Howard K. Marcus, Vice-Chairman; Bobbi Leibowitz, Secretary; Scott Meyerson, Finance Chairman; Steve Simon, Treasurer; Fred Tichauer, Immediate Past-chairman; Jean Duitch; Penny Endelman; Kip Gordman; Stanley Mitchell; George Quittner; Linda Saltzman; Joey Shyken; Michael Siegal; Nancy Skid; and Melany Weinstein.

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

ply re-settling land in Israel’s ancient patrimony.

• Israelis love household pets. A recent survey claims that 24% of Jewish homes in Israel maintain dogs; 7% have cats; 3%, fish; 3%, birds. The love of animals adds an average of about 2800 shekels to the annual budget of the family.

• A street sign at an important Tel Aviv intersection directs visitors to Jaffa with an arrow pointing to the right. The arrow pointing to the left is to “other directions”.

• Israel is in third place, after Japan and Taiwan, in proportion to population, in registration of foreign patents in the U.S. Leading is Japan with 2.98 patents per 10,000 of population, followed by Taiwan with 2.96 and Israel with 2.04. Other countries following Israel are Switzerland and Sweden.

• The Grand Canyon mall in Haifa has long since installed facilities in ladies’ wash rooms to enable mothers to change babies’ diapers with ease. In response to demand, similar facilities are now available as well in the men’s room at the mall.

• An Israeli soldier, upon descending from an Egged bus, suddenly realized that he had left a brief case with personal papers on board. As the bus drove off, the soldier fired several shots into the air from his rifle.

Fearing an attack, the driver stepped on the gas and sped off. Police quickly arrived and the soldier explained that he was afraid that when the abandoned bag was discovered, they would fear it was booby-trapped and would blow it up. Egged was informed, the bag was saved, and the soldier was handed over to the military authorities.

And that’s life in Israel.

Carl Alpert can be reached at: alpert@techunix.technion.ac.il.

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

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

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December 17, 2004

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 17

Proposals for U.N. Reform Hold Both Promise and Peril for Israel

BEHIND THE HEADLINES

by MICHAEL J. JORDAN NEW YORK (JTA)--It was only three years ago that Iran’s influential ex-president, Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, urged the Islamic world to develop nuclear weapons in order to annihilate Israel.

It might seem like nothing more than inflated rhetoric. But add the fact that many believe Tehran is stringing the West along while it races to produce a nuclear weapon, and is funneling all sorts of weaponry and money to terrorist groups that attack Israel, and Rafsanjani’s words take on a far more sinister cast.

Still, would that be enough for Israel to launch a pre-emptive strike on Iran under a proposal for United Nations reform that would allow states to lash out against “latent” threats to their security?

The United Nations released a series of recommendations recently aimed at making its Security Council more responsive to the “nightmare scenarios” confronting the world today--a combustible cocktail of terrorists, weapons of mass destruction and irresponsible states.

Also of interest in the report were a proposed expansion of the Security Council from 15 to 24 members and a proposed definition of terrorism.

Significantly, the new proposal goes beyond the U.N. Charter, which outlines a member state’s right to self-defense against “imminent” threats. If adopted, the proposal for the first time would endorse preventive action against latent threats as well.

But how to define a latent threat? If Israel were to take out Iran’s nuclear program -as it did to Iraq's in a surprise attack in 1981--would the move be sanctioned and the Jewish state applauded?

Given the U.N.’s often hostile stance toward Israel--and after Washington skirted a bitterly divided Security Council to invade Iraq last year--many are skeptical that the council ever would unite in support of a pre-emptive Israeli attack.

A spokesperson for Israel's U.N. mission refused to comment until the report had been fully reviewed. But one U.N. source, who requested anonymity, said, “When it comes to a latent threat, the threshold would be so high” that a country would never get international backing “to make it legal.”

“If Israel were to act unilaterally,” the source said, “it would be considered a pariah and to have engaged in an illegal action. The whole theory is, even if there’s a latent threat you'd still need global consensus and for the council to approve it. So for all practical purposes, we’re in the same place we started.”

Indeed, the reform proposal reaffirms the centrality of the Security Council as final arbiter in matters of war and peace.

Therein lies the rub for Israel: Of the five permanent, veto-bearing Security Council members--the United States, Great Britain, France, Russia and China-only the United States is particularly supportive of Israeli actions, often brandishing its veto to defend Israel from onesided condemnation.

Nothing in the new report--titled “A More Secure World” -- suggests the break-up of that core quintet, as only Russia has seemed willing to extend veto power to additional nations.

Not surprisingly, the five more often than not vote in their national, rather than global, interest. That self-interest, embodied by the veto, will determine whether or not the council acts when

crises emerge.

In March, U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan is expected to issue his own recommendations in response to the report.

Then the report -produced by a 16-member panel that included former U.S. national security adviser Brent Scowcroft, former Russian Prime Minister Yevgeni Primakov, former Chinese VicePremier Qian Qichen, and Amr Moussa, an Egyptian diplomat who heads the Arab League--will come up for debate in the fall when the U.N. General Assembly convenes for its 60th annual session.

Adoption of any related resolution would require two-thirds support from the 191member General Assembly.

M u c h attention will center on the report’s five “criteria of legitimacy” for using force: seriousness of the threat, proper purpose, last resort, proportional means and balance of consequences.

However, the devil is in the details, critics say: Each criterion is vague enough that it will be open to interpretation and politicization. For example, who decides when a threat is latent or serious, or when all non-military means have been exhausted?

As it is, Germany, France and Britain currently seem determined to give Iran every chance to cease nuclear activities to avoid Security Council sanctions, despite skepticism that Iran’s nuclear program really is for peaceful purposes.

Just as it would be remarkable if Israel were to win over the Security Council with an argument for military action, the new formula for intervention might easily be turned against Israel, says Malcolm Hoenlein, Executive Vice-chairman of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations.

“What happens when they want to apply this to Israel, that the security fence is a ‘latent threat,’ that targeted assassinations are a ‘latent threat?’”

Hoenlein asked.

Israel’s enemies also might seek to describe Israel's presumed nuclear arsenal as a latent threat to the region.

“This would be one more vehicle, more cover, for them to attack Israel,” Hoenlein said.

The report deals not only with socalled “hard threats” to international peace like terrorists and WMDs, but also endorses a more proactive Security Council stance in the face of genocide, ethnic cleansing and “soft threats” like poverty and HIV/AIDS. There are two other key aspects of the report -expansion of the Security Council and the definition of terrorism.

When the United Nations was created in 1945, the Security Council was formed with five permanent and six nonpermanent members. In 1965 it expanded to its present 15-member size, with 10 countries holding rotating, two-year seats drawn from five regional groupings, in addition to the five permanent members.

The report proposes expanding the council to 24, including six new permanent members, or with new regionally distributed seats renewable every four years.

Critics long have said that the system of five permanent members was fossilized in 1945 and mostly represents the industrialized Northern Hemisphere.

The developing world contends that the council should be more inclusive and balanced, especially since most of its decisions affect the poorer, Southern

Hemisphere.

Leading the charge to expand permanent membership are India, Brazil and economic powers Germany and Japan.

Israel for years was the only country in the world ineligible to serve on the council because the Arab world barred it from the Asia Group. Today, Israel’s membership in the Western European and Others Group places it on a waiting list that might see Israel finally sit on the council--but not before 2018.

With the council accused of being ineffective in confronting international crises, American critics from left and right contend that expansion simply will m e a n more chatter, more lobbying, m o r e debates and less action.

Pro-Israel advocates have ex-pressed concern that expansion could dilute the U.S. veto, though the panel explicitly states that no more vetoes should be awarded.

Hoenlein and others, though, envision greater potential for anti-Israeli rhetoric and a situation where Washington may appear more isolated: Instead of 14-1 votes against Israel, with the United States registering dissent, they may be 23-1.

But one analyst suggests some upside for Israel.

“I’m not saying Germany is Israel’s 'ally,’ but there has been some positive glimmer of support lately,” said Scott Lasensky, a Middle East expert at the U.S. Institute of Peace. “And with IndianIsraeli relations growing, the margins of

Israel for years was the only country in the world ineligible to serve on the council because the Arab world barred it from the Asia Group. Today, Israel’s membership in the Western European and Others Group places it on a waiting list...

this proposal might provide something positive to Israel.”

Some Jewish observers saw more good news in the proposed definition of terrorism. U.N. debate often has broken down over the Arab-Muslim bloc’s assertion that “resistance to occupation” justifies any methods used by “freedom fighters”--oblique but obvious backing for Palestinian terrorist attacks on Israel.

Annan in recent years has said that nothing justifies attacking civilians for political purposes. The reform panel, which Annan appointed, embraced his position.

Moussa, the panel’s only Arab member, reportedly threatened to walk out of negotiations.

In an editorial, the Forward called the report’s definition of terrorism as Annan’s “Hanukkah gift” to pro-Israel supporters. But such celebration may be premature.

Perhaps as a harbinger of Muslim dissent next fall, the Saudi news service SANA quoted Moussa as citing the need “to distinguish between terrorism and resistance,” and said that “resisting the Israeli occupation is not considered as terrorism.”

It’s unclear which, if any, of the report's recommendations will survive General Assembly debate. Regardless, a dramatic change in tone toward Israel is unlikely.

“As far as the United Nations being a hostile body to Israel, I can’t expect that to change much,” said Jonathan Lincoln, a senior research associate for Middle East Studies at the Council on Foreign Relations. “Only if Israel were to change its policy, to conform with what concessions to the Palestinians the U.N. has demanded of it.”

There Is A Season A time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted…

Nearly one year ago, Prime Minister Ariel Sharon announced his intention to evacuate settlements from the Gaza Strip and part of the West Bank. The very idea that one of the major architects of the settlements was serious about removing over twenty of them was met with deep skepticism, cursory dismissals, and loud doubts about his ability to achieve such a radical goal.

But Sharon recognized that Israel could not continue in its current situation, with casualties mounting from endless terrorist attacks, international isolation increasing, and demographic trends working against Israel's ability to maintain itself as a Jewish, democratic state. Against long odds, he embarked on a determined campaign to advance his disengagement plan.

A time to keep silence, and a time to speak…

Americans for Peace Now and the Israeli Peace Now movement recognized early on that disengagement presented an opportunity to set a precedent for the removal of settlements from the occupied territories and the possibility of eventually resuming negotiations with the Palestinians.

Even when the situation was bleak and few people were encouraging the prime minister to push ahead with his proposal, we were organizing rallies and demonstrations in favor of his evacuation plan, encouraging the Bush Administration and Congress to support it, and calling on Israelis and the American Jewish community to back this important initiative. Tens of thousands of Israelis and American Jews responded to our calls to speak out on behalf of disengagement and a chance to end the violence.

A time of war, and a time of peace…

What a difference a year makes. With the passing of Yasser Arafat, moderate, pro-peace leaders like Abu Mazen and Abu Ala have asserted their control of Palestinian political institutions and issued a call to end incitement against Israel. Democratic elections are slated to be held next month that could herald the beginning of serious reforms of Palestinian political, security, and financial systems. Prime Minister Sharon has announced his willingness to facilitate the ability of Palestinians to hold their elections and to potentially coordinate Israel's withdrawal from Gaza with the Palestinians. President George Bush has made it clear that the pursuit of Israeli-Palestinian peace will be a priority in his second administration. Egypt is offering to help reform Palestinian security forces and to stop the smuggling of weapons into Gaza. And the World Bank is spearheading an international effort to make sure that the disengagement plan leads to improvements in the Palestinian economy. Although there are no guarantees, after more than four years of the Intifada, Israel may finally be entering a season of peace.

A time to every purpose under heaven…

Now is the time for you to show your support for renewed hopes for peace. As you consider your end of year charitable contributions, please make a generous donation to Americans for Peace Now. Your gift will help us continue the struggle for peace for Israel, building on the momentum that we've helped generate and taking advantage of positive developments as they unfold.

Americans for Peace Now

1101 14th Street, N.W. · Sixth Floor · Washington, D.C. 20005 · 202.728.1893 114 West 26th Street · Suite 1000 · New York, NY 10001· 212.62.PEACE

www.peacenow.org

Page 18

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

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

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

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

Beyt Shalom An Affiliate of the Jewish Reconstructionist Federation 3012 S. 119 St. P.O. Box 390352 Omaha, NE 68139 660.2395 www.beytshalomomaha.org

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

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

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

December 17, 2004

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

BETH EL SYNAGOGUE Office Hours: Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

FRIDAY: Musical Kabbalat Shabbat service, 6 p.m.

SATURDAY: Morning service, 9:30 a.m.; Alternative service, 10 a.m.; Junior Congregation (3-7), 10 a.m.; K’tantan (K-2), 10:45 a.m.; Kiddush sponsored by Beth El; At 12:20 p.m., Jewish college students are invited to join Rabbi Levin and Cantor Gastón. Come for lunch, singing and a chance to share your college experiences.

Call the synagogue, 492-8550, to make a reservation. Evening Service, 4:40 p.m.

WEEKDAY SERVICES: Sunday, 9 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.; Weekdays, 6:55 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.

Sitter Service is available during Friday night and Saturday morning services, on a drop-in basis, at no charge.

SUNDAY: Jewish Pot Pourri Class, 10 a.m. Bible Study Class, 11 a.m.; Hebrew Crash Course, 11:10 a.m.

PATTER: There will be no PATTER classes on Dec. 22 or Dec. 29.

Rabbi Levin’s class, “The Most Important People and Ideas of the Hebrew Bible” will not be held on Dec. 30.

BESTT RECESS: BESTT classes will be on winter break from Dec. 22 to Jan. 4; classes will resume Jan. 5.

BETH ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE

his book, Journey Through the Minefields: From Vietnam to Washington, an Orthodox Surgeon’s Odyssey. Free babysitting service will be available for the book signing and reception.

SUNDAY: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Ma’ariv, 6:45 p.m.

WEEKDAYS: Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Ma’ariv, 6:45 p.m.

THURSDAY: Senior NCSY leaves for Conclabe at Indian Lakes Resort (outside of Chicago).

BEYT SHALOM FRIDAY: Kabbalat Shabbat, 7:30 p.m.

CHABAD HOUSE Services conducted by Rabbi Mendel Katzman.

FRIDAY: Services, 7 a.m.

SATURDAY: Mamarim class, 9 a.m.; Services, 9:30 a.m.

SUNDAY: Services, 8:30 a.m.

Mishneh class, 9:30 a.m.; Aleph Champion and Little Scholars Programs. Innovative, interactive learning for kids, 10 a.m.-noon.

WEEKDAYS: Services, 7 a.m.

TUESDAY: “W.O.W: Strength and Majesty, 9 a.m. Women only; babysitting available on request.

WEDNESDAY: Kabbalistic Journeys, 7 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 24: Dinner at Chabad House for “Jacob and the 12 Tribes” in story and song.

Please join us for a moving and inspiring Shabbat celebration.

Kabbalat Shabbat, 5:30 p.m.

Programs are open to the community. For information or to register, call 330.1800.

CONGREGATION B’NAI JESHURUN

the Federation Annual Meeting and Dinner, 6 p.m. at Tifereth Israel Synagogue.

ADULT EDUCATION SUNDAY: Adult Hebrew Class, 9 a.m.; This session will discuss Rambam (Maimonides), his life and times and beliefs. He was a great Jewish scholar, court physician, and spokesperson for the Jews. His masterpiece, The Guide for the Perplexed, was the first Jewish book since the Bible to become part of world literature, 10-11 a.m.

UPCOMING EVENTS RELIGIOUS SCHOOL FOOD DRIVE: Please bring non-perishable food items to donate to the Saratoga and Prescott Elementary Schools food pantries. Food items will be collected during the month of December.

LUNCH AND LEARN: Rabbi Lane Steinger will speak at a potluck lunch, Jan. 8, 2005, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at the South Street Temple. His Lunch and Learn topic will be “350 Years of American Jewry & 180 Years of American Reform Judaism: Glories of the Past & Prospects for the Future.”

TEMPLE ANNUAL MEETING: Annual Congregational Meeting on Jan. 23, 2005. Refreshments and babysitting will be provided.

Everyone is encouraged to attend. More information will be sent as the date gets closer.

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

ROSE BLUMKIN JEWISH HOME SATURDAY: Services, 9 a.m. led by Alan Shulewitz.

Tifereth Israel

Office Hours: Monday-Thursday, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Fridays, 8:30 a.m-2 p.m. Services conducted by Rabbi Jonathan Gross.

FRIDAY: Ma’ariv and Kabbalat Shabbat, 5:30 p.m.

SATURDAY: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; Free Babysitting, 9:30 a.m.; Junior Congregation, 10:30 a.m.; Kiddush sponsored by Sisterhood followed by a festive Shabbat Lunch. There is no charge for lunch; Mincha will follow; Rabbi’s class, 5 p.m. followed by Ma’ariv; Havdalah, 5:44 p.m.; Book Signing and Dessert Reception with Dr. Ganchrow, 7:30 p.m. Dr. Ganchrow will speak on

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

O.U. Expresses Satisfaction with Iowa USDA Official’s Statement on Kosher Slaughtering at Agriprocessors

Rose Blumkin Jewish Home 333 S. 132 St. Omaha, NE 68154

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

The Neighborhood Minyan Torah Learning Center 1313 No. 58 St. Omaha, NE 68132 553.5397

PERSONALS I would like to thank my friends and family, Rabbi Levin, and Cantor Bogomolni for all of their good wishes, cards, donations, flowers, and gifts during my illness. Anne Rosenblatt Our family appreciates all the cards, donations, calls and visits and the kindness shown to us during the difficult time following the deaths of our beloved Dean and Barbara Frankel.

Rose Frankel

by STEPHEN STEINER Director of O.U. Public Relations Officials at the Orthodox Union expressed satisfaction with Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Patty Judge’s statement issued Tuesday that kosher slaughter is conducted humanely at the AgriProcessors plant in Postville, Iowa.

According to a report carried by the Associated Press, Secretary Judge, after visiting the plant Sunday, declared, “What I saw today…was humane. It was quick and there was absolutely no problem with the way they (the cattle) were handled.”

Rabbi Debbie Stiel will be in Lincoln two weekends a month.

Please call her at 402.416.2321 or e-mail: dstiel@everestkc.net to set up appointments.

FRIDAY: Shabbat Evening Service, 7:45 p.m. led by Rabbi Stiel with an Oneg following.

SATURDAY: Morning Service, 9:30 a.m.; Torah Study, 10:30 a.m. all led by Rabbi Stiel; game Night/Pot Luck, 6 p.m. all ages welcome for great food, fun, and fellowship.

SUNDAY: Hebrew School, 9 a.m.-noon; Federation Board Meeting, 4:30 p.m., followed by

The story noted that the secretary was joined by reporters and state and local officials on her tour of the plant.

“We are gratified that a personal inspection tour of AgriProcessors by Iowa’s Secretary of Agriculture, Patty Judge, made it clear that kosher slaughter there is done humanely,” declared Rabbi Tzvi Hersh Weinreb, Executive Vice-president of the OU, and Rabbi Menachem Genack, Rabbinic Administrator of the OU Kosher division, in a statement. The Secretary’s visit follows release of

TEMPLE ISRAEL FRIDAY: Shabbat Evening Service, 6 p.m., Rabbi Aryeh Azriel, Rabbi Craig Marantz and Cantor Wendy Shermet will officiate. Join us for a special Oneg Shabbat to bid farewell to Jane Brooks, who is moving to Boston.

For more than 50 years, she has been an invaluable member of the Jewish community, which she has embraced with her wisdom, commitment and leadership.

SATURDAY: Bagels and Sacred Books, 9:30-10:15 a.m.; Shabbat Morning Service, 10:30 a.m.

a video by PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) that showed animals in distress following slaughter.

In a statement issued on Dec. 9, Rabbis Weinreb and Genack declared: “After carefully studying the video, Rabbi Genack and Rabbi Yisroel Belsky, one of the OU’s distinguished poskim (rabbinic decisors), traveled to Postville to review the procedures.

“They found that these procedures meet all OU standards to the highest degree, and that the shochtim (rabbinic slaughters) are all highly proficient, skilled

Candlelighting Friday, December 17, 4:38 p.m.

Justin Reed Idelman, son of Jill and George will celebrate his Bar Mitzvah at Shabbat Morning Services.

SITTER SERVICE: Available at each Friday evening service, Saturday mornings when there is a bar or bat mitzvah, as well as Sunday mornings when there is Religious School. Please make a reservation through the Temple office. Cost is $2 per family. Sorry, there are no facilities for infants.

COLLEGE STUDENTS GET-TOGETHER Saturday, Dec. 18, 3:30-5:30 p.m. at Espresso Mary’s, 5111 Leavenworth. Temple’s college students and college-age members are invited to stop by and chat with Rabbis Azriel and Marantz, Elyce Azriel and Lynne Jensen. Say hello and have a cup of coffee on us!

THE NEIGHBORHOOD MINYAN AT TLC FRIDAY: Mincha/Kabbalat Shabbat, 4:40 p.m.

SATURDAY: Shacharit, 9 a.m.; followed by Kiddush Luncheon and Mincha, 12:45 p.m.

TIFERETH ISRAEL Services conducted by Rabbi Stanley M. Rosenbaum. Minyan, MONDAY & THURSDAY, 9 a.m.

FRIDAY: Enjoy a light supper, 6 p.m. followed by Shabbat Services to be led by some of our school youth.

SATURDAY: Morning service, 9:30 a.m.

SUNDAY: Annual Meeting of our Jewish Federation of Lincoln, beginning with a light supper, 6 p.m. at the synagogue. Dr. Daniel Pomp, geneticist, will speak on the role of genetics in tracing Jewish history, including the genetic marker that identifies Kohanim. Babysitting service will be provided.

WEDNESDAY: Men’s Lunch Group will meet at the Knolls, 12:30 p.m. Contact Yale Gotsdiner at 423.7066.

ADULT EDUCATION MONDAYS: Introduction to Judaism with Rabbi Stanley Rosenbaum, 7:30-9 p.m.

SUNDAYS: (during Hebrew School days): Jewish Law through the Ages with Rabbi Rosenbaum, 10-11:45 a.m.

and knowledgeable. Nevertheless, the OU and AgriProcessors have worked together to make certain changes, namely that the trachea will no longer be removed following shechita.”

“Slaughter is never pleasant,” Sec. Judge said. She added that she was originally “disturbed” by the video, but then declared, “Now, I have reviewed the process with my own eyes.” This, she said, left her, “impressed.”

She also complimented the plant for its cleanliness, noting, “This plant was extremely clean, one of the cleanest I have ever visited.”

December 10, 2004

The Cultural Impact of Hanukkah

SPARKS FROM THE WORD

by RABBI MYER S. KRIPKE Parashat Vayigash Just as the Joseph novella is a masterful peak of rhetorical narrative in Genesis, so Judah’s speech is a masterful rhetorical peak in the Joseph narration.

Judah begins apologetically and self-negating before the mighty Egyptian noble. He proceeds carefully and gradually to the appeal that the Viceroy of Egypt cannot refuse. It is a tour de force. The Biblical narrator, who is generally a wordsmith of great skill, here reaches an emotional and psychological level that destroys the equanimity of the powerful Egyptian lord. Using terminology relevant to later times, we might say that Jerusalem conquers Alexandria.

It is fully appropriate that our Sidrah follows on the heels of Hanukkah. The historical event that led to the observance of Hanukkah was a hoped-for but unexpected victory of light over brute power and truth over tinsel.

History comes Alive at Book Fair Program

Rabbi Myer S. Kripke chats with Professor Jonathan Sarna at the Kripke Jewish Library’s Book Fair Program last week. More than 100 people attend his lecture on “350 Years of Judaism in America.”

JTA NEWS BRIEFS • Palestinian Authority presidential hopeful Mahmoud Abbas called for an end to violence against Israelis. “Our uprising should be social and popular in nature,” Abbas, the dominant Fatah faction’s candidate to succeed the late Yasser Arafat in Jan. 9 elections, told the London-based newspaper Al-Sharq al-Awsat on Tuesday. “Resorting to arms has been harmful” to Palestinians, he said. “This should be stopped and calm restored.”

• Prime Minister Ariel Sharon authorized an Israeli crackdown on Gaza Strip tunnelers. Military sources said Tuesday there would be imminent action against Palestinian terrorist groups that increasingly have used tunnels to stage attacks on Israeli troops and smuggle arms into Gaza. On Sunday, Hamas and another group, the Fatah Hawks, killed five Israeli soldiers by detonating mines in a tunnel under their outpost. Overnight, Israeli forces demolished 10 homes in the central Gaza town of Khan Younis that had been used for mortar attacks against nearby Jewish settlements.

• Israel, Egypt and the United States signed a sweeping trade accord. Under the agreement clinched Tuesday in Cairo, Israel will open businesses in seven Qualified Industrial Zones in Egypt, whose products will enjoy waivers of import duties to the U.S. • A new study found that recent North American immigrants to Israel are a major economic asset to the Jewish state. Each adult represents about $200,000 in value to the Israeli economy upon his or her arrival, according to a study commissioned by Nefesh B’Nefesh, a grassroots organization that encourages North American aliyah. Almost 3,000 North American Jews immigrated to Israel in 2004, a 20 percent increase from last year.

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 19

Pulverente MONUMENT CO.

Although Rabbinic Judaism did not favor Hanukkah, because the rabbis did not appreciate anything won by might, instead of by spirit, Hanukkah deserves to have won the place it has attained in popular Jewish life, as though it were a Holy Day. It does not pretend to the sacredness of Rosh Hashanah or Yom Kippur, or even to the official religious status of Shalosh Regalim; it has an appeal of its own to the Jewish heart.

Even without the usual and proper emphasis on the wall erected against the ineluctable sweep of Hellenism, defeated in little Judaea, Hanukkah is a constant, everrenewing, reminder that cultural imperialism is more dangerous to humanity than military imperialism.

The rabbis were right. If Hanukkah stresses only the Maccabees’ military successes which have a din and a clang that cannot but be heard, it is in the cultural and religious dimension of life that Hanukkah matters. The military successes against the Greeks and Syrians were forgettable skirmishes in an unimportant corner of the world; but the cultural-religious power of the Hanukkah story has impacted the cultural history of the world.

The ancient litergists missed a point of no small importance when they confined the Hanukkah story-not to the Bible--but to the Apochrypha.

DEATHS MIRIAM SOSHNIK Former Lincolnite Miriam Soshnik died Dec. 6 in St. Louis, MO. Graveside services were held Dec. 8 at Chesed Shel Emeth Cemetery in St. Louis.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Soshnik, her children Allan and Barbara Soshnik, and two grandchildren, Andrew Soshnik and Jennifer Soshnik.

She is survived by sons and daughters-in-law, David and Marsha Soshnik, Robert and Jeany Soshnik; grandchildren Mindy and Brad Horwitz, Danny Soshnik, Michael Soshnik and Leah Soshnik, Greg and Laura Soshnik and Brad Soshnik; three great-grandchildren; brother, Harold Saks of Seattle, WA; and sister, Betty Kelberg.

Memorials to the St. Louis Holocaust Museum and Learning Center, #12 Millstone Campus Dr. St. Louis, MO 63146.

DAN KATZMAN Former Omahan Daniel Katzman of Sarasota, FL, died at the age of 80 in New York City on Dec. 10.

Burial was held in Sarasota on Dec. 15.

In the late 1960s and early ’70s, Katzman was the Chairman of the JCC Building Project, involved in every phase of the planning and building process of the Jewish Community Center on 132 St. and the move from the old ‘J’ on 20th and Dodge. Because of his dedication--and his wife’s--the JCC today has a cultural arts wing with a theater, stagecraft and green room, art room and dance studio, noted his brotherin-law, Morley Zipursky. Dan also chaired the Israel Bonds Committee for several years.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Ruth; son and daughter-in-law, Steven and Sharon, all of Sarasota; daughter, Saragail Benjamin of New Rochelle, NY; three grandchildren, Justin Katzman of Sarasota and Joshua and Aaron Benjamin of New Rochelle, NY; sister, Sylvia Jess; and sister and brother-in-law, Charlotte and Morley Zipursky.

Memorials to charity of choice.

ROSALIE ZYSER NEWMAN Former Omahan Rosalie Zyser Newman died Dec. 10 in Aventura, FL. Services were held at Beth David Levitt Weinstein funeral home in Hollywood, FL, on Dec. 13.

A Holocaust survivor, she was born in Lodz, Poland, and was active in the Holocaust Survivors of Aventura.

She is survived by her husband, Stephen Newman; daughters and sons-in-law, Arlene and David Stine and Laurie and Steve Weiner; son and daughter-inlaw, Larry and Roberta Newman; grandchildren Aaron, Joshua, Jerad, Randy, Stefanie, Jordan and Daniel.

Memorials to the Florida Holocaust Museum, 55 Fifth St. So., St. Petersburg, FL 33701; or call the Development Department at: 1.800.960.7448; or to make a donation at the group’s website, contact: www.flholocaustmuseum.org/secure/store_new/ donation/tribute.cfm.

60 Years Experience With Jewish Lettering and Memorials

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with potential future benefits.

Send resume or letter of inquiry to: Allan Handleman, Advertising Manager Jewish Press 333 So. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68154 or call 402.334.6451

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Reach your buyer through jBay– the new classified ad section for individuals in the Jewish Press!

What a deal--36 words for just $18 (30¢ for each additional word). Call the Press, 402.334.6448 for more info.

Here’s my ad for jBay: Name ________________________________________ Address _______________________________________ City, State and Zip _______________________________ Phone _______________ Check enclosed for $ _________ Mail to jBay, The Jewish Press, 333 So. 132 St., Omaha, NE 68154 The Jewish Press jBay classifieds are only for use by individuals –businesses should contact the Advertising Department– Allan Handleman, 334.6451 for display ads.

Page 20

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

December 17, 2004

Join the Federation Family The following people have made a gift to the Jewish Federation of Omaha’s 2005 Annual Campaign.

Pacesetter, Lion of Judah and donors who increase their gift are listed in bold print. Donors who have maintained their gift are listed in regular print.

Pacesetters

Lion of Judah

(Men making annual gift of $6,000 or more)

(Women making an annual gift of (Men under the age of 45 making $5,000 or more) an annual gift of $3,600-$5,999)

●

Joel Alperson Harvey Aronson ❏ Baker Family ❍ Robert Belgrade Harold Bernstein Steven Bloch ❏ Irv Blumkin Ronald Blumkin ❏ Marc Brodkey Sherman Brodkey Jack Cohen Harold Cooperman ❏ Henry Davis ■ Steve Denenberg Gary Epstein ❏ Harold Epstein ❏ Paul Epstein ❏ Robert Epstein Joseph Erman ❍ Michael Erman ❍ Tom Fellman ❍ David Friedland ❍ Friedman Family Sandy Friedman Willard Friedman Lawrence Gilinsky Morton Glass ❏ Richard Glazer ❏ Donald Goldstein ❏ Leonard Goldstein ❏ Jeff Gordman Jerry Gordman Herbert Goldsten Trust ❍ Nelson Gordman ❏ Don Greenberg Paul Grossman Gary Javitch Arnold Joffe ❏ Howard Kaslow ■ Maurice Katzman Kevee Kirshenbaum Howard Kooper ❍ Howard Krantz Forrest Krutter ❏ Martin Lehr ❏ Jay Lerner ❏ Leonard Lewis Lynn Roberts Int Edward Malashock Bernie Meyers David Meyers Jerome J. Milder ❏ N. Pitlor & Sons ❏ Murray Newman ❍ Noddle Development ❍ Harlan Noddle Joe Kirshenbaum Allan Noddle Jay Noddle ❏ Steven Nogg Omaha Steaks ● Ann and Alan Simon Eve and Fred Simon Kathryn and Steve Simon Stacy and Bruce Simon Todd Simon Sol Parsow Michael Platt Larry Roffman Andrew Robinson ❏ Blaine Roffman Les Schneiderman Harley Schrager ❏ Phillip Schrager ❍ Millard Seldin ❍ Bruce Shackman Norman Sheldon Dan Sherman Steven Silver ❏ Stuart Simon Gerald Simons ❏ Milton Simons Slosburg Family Charitable Trust ❍ Jerry Slusky Phil & Ruth Sokolof Honor Roll Fund at the JFO Foundation ❍ Swartzbaugh Farber Associates, Inc. Isidore Tretiak John Waldbaum ❏ Arnie Weitz Eugene Zweiback ❏ Anonymous

● ❏

◆

Margie Alperson Phyllis Aronson Judy Baker Frances Batt ◆ Sandra Belgrade Carol Bloch Marcia Cohen Susie Cohn ✡ Bobbie Epstein Sandy Epstein Ruth Erman Darlynn Fellman Frances Fried Nancy Friedland Roz Friedman ▲ Tham Friedman Margaret Gerber Janet Glass Jan Goldstein Shirley Goldstein Linda K. Gordman Nancy Greenberg Deborah Greene Rose Gross ◆ Andi Kavich Maxine Kirshenbaum Sharon Kooper ◆ Joan Lehr Bobbi Leibowitz Susie Levine Frances Milder Lyra Ann Monasee Jeanie Neff Sharee Newman ♥ Nancy Noddle Patty Nogg Carol Parsow Marcia Pitlor Zoë Riekes Kimberly Robinson Julie Rochman Jan Schneiderman Beth Schrager Terri Schrager Bev Seldin ◆ Sarah Seldin Anne Shackman Phyllis Sherman Ellen Slosburg Martha Slosburg Gail Veitzer Joodi Veitzer Anonymous

Jr. Pacesetter Jeff Kirshenbaum Bennett Ginsberg * John Lehr Allan Murow Eric Phillips Mark Robinson

Double Chai New Category (Women making an annual gift of $3,600-$4,999)

Susie Blumkin Pearl Richman Giventer Phyllis Glazer Gloria Kaslow Kim Noddle Suzanne Singer Mimi Waldbaum

Pomegranate (Women making an annual gift of $1,800-$3,599)

Bess Brodkey Esther Canar Anne Cohen Babe Cohn Cheryl Cooper Eunie Denenberg Elaine Feldman Deanna Gilinsky Ann Goldstein Linda Gordman Caryl Greenberg Joanie Jacobson Fran Juro Joanie Kaiman Susie Kaplan Renee Kasner Carol Katzman Madeline Katzman Sharon Kirshenbaum * Sandy Kutler Sandy Lehr * Bert Lewis Deanna Liddy Thelma Lustgarten Jody Malashock * Linda Mann Sue Meyers Ducky Milder Pam Monsky Ramona Pepper Barb Platt Arlene Richman Iris Ricks * Barbara Rips Jane Rips Hannah Schwalb Esther Simon Eve Simon Audrey Sophir Muriel Steinberg Louri Sullivan Selma Tretiak Nancy Wolf *

Ben Gurion Society (Men or women under the age of 45 making an annual gift of $1,000 or more)

Bruce Baron *Martin Cohen Toba Cohen Jeff Epstein * Ted Friedland David Gilinsky Jim Glazer John Glazer Bruce Goldberg Danielle Gordman * Kip Gordman * Susan Lehr * Trenton Magid Joseph Meyers * Lori Miller Jonathan Rockman Stacey Rockman Rick Schrager Dan Schuller * Michael Siegel * Steven Zalkin * Amee Zetzman Anonymous

Men’s Campaign

Men’s Campaign

Men’s Campaign

Women’s Campaign Women’s Campaign Women’s Campaign

Harold Abrahamson Alvin Abramson Tony Adelson Jeffrey Aizenberg Bernie Altsuler James Anderson Brett Atlas * Rabbi Aryeh Azriel Hubert Ban Donald Baum Thomas Bernstein Marvin Bittner Albert Bloch Howard Borden Bob Boumstein Morris Bresel Jack Brody Bruce Brodkey Peter Brodkey Ronald Brodkey Sanford Brophy David Bucksner Jay Chasen Irving Chudacoff Alan Cohen Carl Cohen Gilbert Cohen Michael Cohen Sheldon Cohen Gerald Cohn Marc Cohn Stephen Cohn David Cooper Jeff Cooper Justin Cooper Ron Cooper Meyer Coren Sheldon Coren Jerry Dann Arthur Davidson Jack Diamond David Dvorkin Bob Endelman Randy Endelman Richard Engel Robert Engel Arnold “Tuffy” Epstein Gary Epstein Howard Epstein Jack Epstein Jason Epstein * Richard Epstein Ron Epstein Sam Epstein Abraham Faier Ronald Feldman Richard Fellman Cantor Leo Fettman Glen Fineman Joel Finkel Doug Finnicum Thomas Frank Alan Fredricks Melvin Freeman Robert Freeman Samuel Fried Stuart Fried Lloyd Friedman Morris Friedman Scott Friedman Robert Fromkin Larry Gendler Donald Gerber Ron Giller Lawrence Ginsburg Sherman Golbitz David Goldberg Frank Goldberg Richard Goldberg John Goldner David Goldstein Herman Goldstein Howard Goldstein Brad Goldstrom Larry Goldstrom Mark Goldstrom Rabbi Allan Gonsher Alan Goodman Robert Goodman Thomas Goodman Gary Gotsdiner Steven Gottlieb Jon Gordon * Eddie Gorelick Saul Graetz Richard Grant Lonnie Graul Gary Green Andrew Greenberg Barton Greenberg Bud Greenspan Gerald Gross Alex Grossman Barry Grossman Joe Guss Victor Gutman Bruce Gutnik Mace Hack Jeff Halev * Michael Halsted

Marc Hamburg Sheldon Harris Larry Herman Donald Hoberman Jerry Hoberman David Hoffman Todd J. Hutton Philip Itkin Adam Jacobs Richard Jacobson Fred Kader Marcel Kahn Howard Kaiman Jerome Kaiman Gary Kaplan Myron Kaplan Robert Kaplan Sandy Kasin Richard Katelman Jerry Katskee Milton Katskee Michael Katzman Lawrence Kelberg Adam Kirshenbaum Corey Kirshenbaum Kevee Kirshenbaum Joseph Kirshenbaum Donald Klein Milton Kleinberg John Kolm Harold Kosowsky David Kotok Jack Kozlen Marc Kraft Leonard Krasne Manfred Kreitstein Stanley Krieger Abram Kukawka Gary Kuklin * David Kutler Howard Kutler Stuart Kutler Paul Landow Wayne Lainof Morey Landman Alan Langnas Ben Lebowich Michael Leibowitz Robert Lepp Roland Lewis Rabbi Mordechai Levin Michael Levine Steve Levinger Josh Levitsky * Jason Levy Michael Liddy Ruben Lippett John McGauvran Bernard Magid Ben Magzamin Larry Malashock Neal Malashock Robert Malashock Harold Mann Justin Manvitz Todd Manvitz Dan Marburg Eyal Margalit Myron Marko Irv Marcus Sheldon Masnek Maurice Meiches Gerald Meyer Bruce Meyers Jon Meyers Larry Meyerson Leo Meyerson Troy Meyerson Carl Milder Mike Milder Ben Miller Sidney Mirvish Stanley Mitchell Henry Monsky Stuart Muskin Simon Noel * Alan Nogg Alvin Nogg Brian Nogg * Dennis Paley Marvin Parilman Steve Parsow Jeffrey Passer Stanley Passer Steve Perelman Harvey Pickel Merle Potash Ira Priluck Dave Radler Steve Redler Don Rice James Rice Tom Rice Jonathan Rich Phil Rich Harry Richman Martin Ricks Gary Rifkin Stuart Rochman Bill Rosen

Brian Rosen Kenneth Rosen Gerald Rosenblatt Thor Rosenquist Steven Rothenberg Howard Ruback Michael Sadofsky Rodney Sadofsky Mark Saferstein Errol Saltzman Kevin Saltzman Mark Sanford Milton Saylan Abe Schloff Michael Schop Edward Schneider Scott Schneiderman Harry Schulman Natan Schwalb Michael Schwartz Sidney Schwartz Jeffrey Schweid George Shafer Howard Shandell Morris Shapiro Leonard Shefren Marc Sherman Mark Sherman Michael Sherman Dave Shkolnick Rodney Shkolnick Howard Shrier Marty Shukert Alan Shulewitz Paul Shyken Howard Silber James Silverman Michael Silverman *Scott Simon Steven Simon Harold Siporin Larry Siref Stephen Skulsky Harold Slosburg Norman Smeerin Ramon Somberg Nicholas Spellman Richard Spiegal Jim Spooner John Stern Alan Stole Eli Stone Bud Studna Mark Sweet Melvin Tatelman Scott Tatelman Jeff Taxman Fred Tichauer Steven Tipp Stewart Tully Jerald Venger Keith Wagner Jerome Wasserman James Wax Aaron Weiner Gary Weiss * Norman Whitman David Willensky Ernest Wintroub Leon Wintroub Philip Wolf Warren Wolpa Harry Wolfson Robert Wolfson Irvin Yaffe Harold Zabin Jeff Zacharia Laurence Zacharia Richard Zacharia Ted Zetzman Mikhail Zevakin Norman Zevitz Barry Zoob Mort Zuber

Helen Abrahamson Louise Abrahamson Doris Abramson Sheri Abramson Arlene Adelson Charlotte Adler Susan Aizenberg Eleanor Alexander Doris Alloy Millie Altman Bea Appel Joyce Ashley Stacey Atlas * Elyce Azriel Jill Baron Diane Axler Baum Robyn Belgrade Mary Bernstein Juni Bloch Chris Blumkin Claudia Boehm Cindy Bogdanoff Lena Bogomolni * Midge Bowers Becki Brenner * Beth Brodkey Carol Brodkey Sharon Brodkey Stacie Brodkey Florence Brody Michelle Bucher Molline Cassman Edith Chesen Helen Rifkin Chorney Sally Clayman Arlene Cohen Beth Cohen Elizabeth Cohen Joyce Cohen Marla Cohen Doris Cohn Linda Cohn Naomi Cohn Soralee Cohn Rae Coren Janey Dann Betsy Davidson Rose Davis Jean Duitch Harriet Einziger Edith Epstein Ellie Epstein Etta Epstein Helen Epstein Lisa Epstein Laurie Epstein * Rosaline Epstein Betty Falk Estelle Faier Judith Feigin Bev Fellman Mary Fellman Annette Fettman Carrie Fingold Paulette Flatowicz Shirley Fogel-Greenberg Jill Folsom Sonia Forbes Dee Fox Robyn Freeman Norma Fried Jamie Friedland Pam Friedlander Amy Friedman Gloria Friedman Lois Friedman Barbara Frohman Susana Frydman-Levin Marcia Gallner Jean Gendler Anne Gerber Bernice Gerber Julie Ginsberg Cheri Ginsburg Darlene Golbitz Cindy Goldberg Wendy Goldberg Barbara Goldstein Judi Goldstein Ethel Goldston Dora Goldstrom Andrea Gordman Bridget Gordman JoAnne Gordon * Rosalie Greenspan Pearl Gross Mary Sue Grossman Diane Graul Pauline Guss Margie Gutnik Wendy Hahn Debbie Hale Elyza Richmon Halev * Mendy Halsted Andrea Hamburg Sara Harding Janice Harris Kathy Helm Cookie Hoberman Jennifer Hoberman

Rabin Society New Category (Men under the age of 45 making an annual gift of $500-$999)

Jim Belgrade Robert Goldberg Rabbi Mendel Katzman Harry Klein Guy Matalon Scott Meyerson Joel Schlessinger

Pauline Hoberman Phyllis Hoffman Adele Hornstein Marsha Itkin Nancy Jacobson Sylvia Jess Sheryn Joffe Ilse Kahn Roxanne Kahn Sylvia Kaiman Babe Kaplan Charlotte Kaplan Dorothy Kaplan Bea Karp Frankie Kasin Lucille Katelman Myllee Katelman Eve Katskee Rose Katzman Shani Katzman Nanci Kavich Betty Kelberg Jenn Kirshenbaum Kate Kirshenbaum Myrna Kirshenbaum Janet Klein Ruth Klein Marsha Kleinberg T. Klotz Sandy Kohll Robyn Kooper Dorothy Kotok Betty Kozlen Peggy Krasne Cheryl Kricsfeld Traci Kugler Denise Kully * Debi Kutler * Harriet Kutler Nancy Kutler Carole Lainof Barbara Lashinsky Grace Lebowich Cheryl Lerner Lina Levit * Bonnie Levinger Barb Levitan Rachel Levitsky * Rocky Lewis Vera Lewis Louise Lippett Marcia Lipsman Carolyn Magid Diane Malashock Paula Mandell Deb Marburg Judy Marburg Ruit Margalit * Sally Masnek Elinor Matalon Beverly Mauer Kathy McGauvran Rosalie Meiches Tina Meyers Deenie Meyerson Jamie Meyerson Jenny Meyerson Miriam Meyerson Bernice Milder Harriet Miller Sue Millward Lynda Mirvish Evie Mitchell Susie Mogil Janie Murow Bettie Muskin Linda Muskin Jeanette Nadoff Lee Needelman Patricia Newman Babe Nogg Jaime Nogg * Marion Nogg Ozzie Nogg Marcy Noodell Susie Norton Rita Novak Reva Oruch Bede Ostrow Fefe Passer Magda Peck Betty Perelman Vicki Perlmeter Julie Phillips Shelly Pichik Kim Placzek Ellen Platt Yaffa Podbilewicz-Schuller Sheila Polikov Ruth Potash Sharon Quittner Jeanne Raznick Dodi Redler Lola Reinglas Juliana Reno Florence Rice Nancy Rips Judy Roffman Phyllis Roffman Silvia Roffman

Marjorie Rosen Rebecca Rosen Rita Rosen Rose Rosen Sheila Rosen Marti Rosen-Atherton Sue Rosenblatt * Dottie Rosenblum Julie Rosenquist Susan Rothholz Erica Rubin * Natalie Rubin Mary Saferstein Linda Saltzman Lynne Saltzman Betty Sanford Vicki Sanford Rivkah Sass * Rosalie Saylon Julia Schapiro Nancy Schlessinger Margy Schneider Melissa Schop Heidi Schneiderman Lillian Schrager Sophie Katz Schulman Phyllis Schwartz Diane Shandell Audrey Shapiro Jeanne Shechet Suzy Sheldon Claudia Sherman Patty Sherman Lisa Shkolnick Phoebe Shkolnick Aveva Shukert Sissy Silber Michele Silberstein * Esther Silver Mimi Silverman Susie Silverman Jill Simon * Josephine Simon Judy Simons Maxine Simons Marion Slosburg Charlotte Slutzky Koom Helen Soiref Susan Somberg Stacie Spies-Matz Dorothy Spizman Rocky Stern Susan Swartz Lynn Sweet Judy Tully Sally Venger Mary Lou Walker Phyllis Wasserman Joye Wees Anne Weitz Allyson Wilczewski Andi Willensky Sibby Wolfson Annette Wright * Annette Yaffe Dorothy Yaffe Phyllis Zabin Barb Zacharia Terri Zacharia Sally Zipursky Nora Zoob Bev Zuber Debbi Zweiback Rosie Zweiback

Prime Ministers Circle (Individual, families, corporations: $100,000 & above) ❍ King Solomon’s Circle (Individual: $25,000-$99,999 & Corporations: $50,000-$99,999) ■ Chai Circle (Individual: $18,000-$24,999 & Corporations: $25,000-49,999) Joshua’s Circle (Individuals: $10,000-$17,000 & Corporations $18,000-$24,999) ▲ Platinum Lion ($100,000 & above) ✡ Emerald Lion ($25,000 & 99,999) ♥ Sapphire Lion ($18,000-$24,999) ◆ Ruby Lion ($10,000-$17,999) * New in category

Your gift to the Jewish Federation of Omaha’s Annual Campaign impacts the entire Jewish world. Locally, your ONE gift to the Campaign funds a wide variety of community services provided by the Federation and our Family of Agencies: The ADL/CRC, the Jewish Community Center, Jewish Family Service, Jewish Educational and Library Services and Jewish Senior Services. In Israel and overseas, your gift helps feed the hungry, rescue the oppressed and fight anti-Semitism. Your annual gift to the Jewish Federation of Omaha’s Annual Campaign empowers you to make a visible and measurable difference in Jewish life.

The 2005 Jewish Federation of Omaha Annual Campaign 2005 General Campaign Co-Chairs: Maxine & Joe Kirshenbaum

333 South 132nd Street

Omaha, NE 68154

402/334-8200

info@jewishomaha.org

www.jewishomaha.org

Please note that this list of Federation donors is complete as of November 16, 2004. Every effort is made to ensure that the list is accurate and we sincerely apologize if any name was incorrectly printed or inadvertently omitted. To update information in this donor listing, please contact Brenda Frank at 334-6429.