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-. • u Omahans march for Soviet Jewry at Washington Summit fOre than 50 Omaha teenagers and adults joined an estimated 200,000 of their fellow Jews from across the United States in demonstrating for human rights during last Sunday's mobilization in Washington, D.C. In this group of photos, from l^ft, are Rachel Skolniek, Jaime Zacharia, Debbie Baraclt, Susan Gurwitch, Rachel Goldberg, Jennifer Rabin and AUison Kntler; Aofmi PoUak and Joshua Parilman, Gloria Kaslow and Stan-
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ley Mitchell, Shirley Goldstein being interviewed by Gary Kerr; Steven Rod, Scott Forman, Robert Birt and Ally Milder; and Danny Fellman. Above photos were taken by Robert Maline, Gary Parihnan, and Deborah Goldstein. See editariol and more photos on pages 6-7.
Omahans participate in history making demonstration
^K By Oliver B. Pollak ^^F Vice president, Jewish Press Monday morning New York Times headlines, "March by 200,000 in capital presses Soviet on rights." USA Today proclaimed "Rally cry: L*t our people go." An historical event had taken place and due to the support of the Omaha JJeWish Federation, over 50 Omaha Jews, teenagers and adults had- been privileged to take part. Beyond the astounding numbers of Jews gathered in .common cause, beyond the speeches of Elie Wiesel, Mayor Koch, Senator Robert Dole, refusenik Natan Sharansky and •Vice President Bush, whose commitment was expressed forcefully and eloquently, I felt a deep sense of historical significance and irony in the events that transpired on Summit Sunday. ' "Let my people go," the universal idiom, captures the gulf between freedom and its absence. It had been transformed into "Let our people go." The first beseeches the Almighty to intervene, to smite the oppressor and to part the paters. However, in the contemporary world, devoid tor the most part of miracles, people must take responsibility for freeing themselves. In the wake of the pogroms, the Czar and his advisers did not oppose the mass flight of Jews from Russia's Westem borders. Holy Mother Russia was pleasM to be rid of
an alien minority. Between 1881 and 1910, 1,119,059 left ship during the Cuban missile crisis, Detente and the frostRussia for the Goldene Medina, an average of 38,588 per ing over of American-Soviet relations following the invasion year. In the next four years two million came from East- of Afghanistan are fresh in bur American memories. ern Europe, Russia, Austria-Hungary and Rumania. The The Nazi Holocaust, the creation of the State of Israel First World War led to the overthrow of the Czar and the and the military threats to her existence are fresh in our estabUshment of the Soviet Union. Jewish consciousness. Decolonization, the Black civil rights movement and the Communist ideology opposed traditional religion ideas and capitahst economics. Fearful of the West and counter women's struggle, Mahatma Ghandi and Martin Luther revolution they sought uniformity and loyalty among its Kingi the preachings of equality and the imposition of one's citizens. The Iron Curtain, Winston Churchill's phrase, es- body in a human movement to right a wrong are not fortablished a cordone saniiaire. The West wanted to prevent gotten even in the passive and Yuppie 80's. Peter Yarrow the spread of communist infection into the European body. and Mary Travers, of Peter, Paul and Mary, provided a voAnd the Soviets, defensive by nature, did not want the out- cal spirit of the 60's. side world to learn its national secrets, exploit internal disRussia, Jewish survival and a principled peaceful method content or shortcomings, or benefit from Russia's educa-. of demonstrating all came together on the Mall on the eve tional investment in its citizens- The result was a rigid of the visit to the United States of Soviet leader Mikhail emigration control. Gorbachev. There are between 1.8 miUion and 2.5 million Jews in the The lessons of the past were haunting. What if Jews had Soviet Union, the world's third largest Jewish population demonstrated after they had learned about the concentraafter the United States and Israel. About 385,000 Soviet tion camps in 1942, or 1943, or 1944? Would history read Jews have applied to emigrate. In 1979, the peak of emigra- differently today? Elie Wiesel suggests it would. How tion, 51,320 left. In 1986, 914 left. And so far in 1987, 7,300 would parents and grandparents in Germany, Austria, Pohave left. land, Czechoslovakia and Rumania have fared if someone Joseph Stalin's excesses, the Cold War, Nlkita Khrush(Continued on Page 6) chev's shoe pounding at the United Nations, brinksman-
A sea of Jews:
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The family gathers because some are in trouble
^^H By Steven J. Rod, executive director ^^K Jewish Federation of Omaha "Hey, Omaha ... how'ya doing?'Great to see you here!" *'Omaha! That's great! How many came today?—55??! Is that the whole town?" "Omaha! Hey, do you know Lou Rich •... Ben Nachman ... Abner Rubin ..." ''Hey, Omaha... did you come in this morning? What a trip that must ha've been!" "What a trip that must have been." What a trip that was. The words which follow cannot describe the day in. sufficiently vivid enough terms. How does one describe the exdtement of leaving Omaha at 6:20 a.m., by some miracle landing at D.C. International five minutes early and having an arm-banded marshal! say, "Omaha! Hi, there. I'm bere to make sure you all get on your bus and over to the Bll^ae. Do you have any questions?" With about 26,000
people coming in by plane this morning, it was amazing that she found us—but a fine tribute to the organizing committee. I'm not sure I can describe the feeling I had when our bus pulled up to the curb across from the Washington Monument. It was a "Sea of Jews"—tens of thousands, everywhere we looked. I was elated: it was an awe-inspiring sight. The 55 o^ us alighted and Jody Epstein's wellorganized effort enabled us to work together to assemble our signs and banners and within 10 minuteis our huge banner which said "Omaha Committee for Soviet Jewry" was up in the au- on its four poles. As Scott Forman, Bob Birt, Ally Milder and I lifted it up in the air for the first time, an amazing thing started to happen. People worked their way over to us and started greeting us as if we were longlost family-and maybe that's what made the day unique
for all. It was our Jewish family, somewhere between 215,000 and 250,000 of us, all getting together to do what a family does best—spend a Sunday together. Only today we were getting together not just to say hello, but to let visiting Soviet Premier Mikhail Gorbachev know that some of our family couldn't make it to D.C. todaysome of them were not free to travel or emigrate. These were the tenS; of thousands of our family members in the Soviet union who have had the courage to apply for exit visas so that they can join the rest of the family. For the sin of asking to leave the Soviet Union they have lost their jobs, been exiled to Siberia, and, in some cases, imprisoned. Our family got together today, all 250,000 of us, just so we could say, "£)nough, Mr. Gorbachev. Let our people go!" We made our way through the hug^ crowd to the "Ne(Continued on Page 6)
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Jewish Press
Dec 11,1987
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ORT opens annual gift wrap f bartto J \\ (imcn s Amcrkan OKT (Organization for Hehabilitalion through Training! is sponsoring its annual Hohday Gift Wrap. Dct. 11-24. at two locations. TheT.J Maxx location in the Westwood Plaza on West Center Hoad at 120th i. Street will be open daily 11a.m.- 9 p.m. The new Shopko location in the Galleria Plaza on West Center Koad at 144th Street will beiopen daily 10:30 a.m.9:30 p.m. "We believe two loca.. tions. increased dates and additional hours will benefit customers at this busy time.
SPOONER/MILDER Gayle Susan Milder became the bride of Oliver James Spooner on Dec. 6. Judge Jerry Gitnick officiated at the ceremony, which took place at the Swanson Towers home of the bride's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Jerome Milder of Omaha. A reception in the Sans Souci Room at Swanson Towers followed. The bridegroom is the son of Mrs. James Betts of Pacific Junction, Iowa, and the grandson of Lucille Hoppock of Shenandoah, Iowa. Sarah Osoff of Omaha is
of year." said Merry Alinsky and Beth Leeds, cochairmen of this year's event. In addition, several choices of holiday paper will be available, including a new designer foil appropriate for both Hanukkah and Christmas. Boxes may also be purchased at each location. Cost is dependent on package size with a minimum charge of SI. Holiday Gift Wrap is a major fundraising project for the Omaha chapter of ORt. The chapter, which has 180 members, received national recognition in 1987 for this project.
grandmother of the bride. Cheryl Cooper, sister of the bride, served as matron of honor. The bridegroom's brother, Benjamin W. Spooner of Wichita, Kans.. acted as best man. The bride attended the University of NebraskaOmaha and is a dented assistant in Omaha. The bridegroom, who has a bachelor's degree from UNO, is vice president of Equitable Federal Savings Bank in Fremont, Neb. Following a wedding trip to Hawaii, the couple will live in Omaha.
^•^I^ GORDON DCAS > PI10T0GR4PnY 12017 Pacific • 334-1138 CLIP AND SAVE -
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
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FHIDAY, DECEMBER 11 Torah Weekend Starts. Beth El Beth El Second Shabbal Dinner. 6 p.m . Beth El SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12 Dad & I Program, 6 p.m., Fuddruckers SUNDAY, DECEMBER 13 Chanukah Torch Relay Run. 9:30 am. Family Chanukah Parly. 3 pm. Bible QUIZ Contest, 2 p.m A Visit With Barbara Cohen. 2 p.m. Chanukah Concert. 3pm. Temple Israel Jr B'nai B'rith Bowling League. 130 p.m.. Cougar Lanes NAAMAT USA Adult Chanukah Party. 8 p.m MONDAY, DECEMBER 14 YES.. 10 am Federation Executive Committee, 4 p m Friedel Academy Exec . 7:30 p m.. Day School Camp Ramah Information Night. 7:30 p.m., Ron and C Cheryl Cooper's Home L TUESDAY, DECEMBER 15 Mom's Day Out, noon Foundation Board. 4 p.m. UTTO Board. 7:30 p.m., Beth El Latke Extravaganza Chanukah Party. 6:30 p.m.. A Rabbi Katzman's home N Erev Chanukah D WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16 Jewish Press Board, noon S JCC Building and Grounds, 4 p.m. A Hebrew High, 7:30 p.m. V B'nai B'nth Breadbreakers, nopn. Howard Johnson's E Kalah Franklin/Amit Regular Meeting, noon Jewish Studies. 7:30 p.m., Beth Israel Beth El Board Meeting, 7:30p.m., Beth El Beth Israel Board, 7:30 p.m., Beth Israel Temple Israel Board. 7:30 p m.. Temple Israel THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17 Braille Class, 9 a.m. _ Mom's Day Out. noon Hadassah/JFL Book Discussion. 1 p.m. Walk-in Drop-in. 10:30 a.m , Beth El Jewish War Vets. 7:30 p.m., Post "1 NCJW Board. 7:30 p.m.
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For quealions on activities' contact Jeanelle Fefrin at 334.82D0 EVt 271 The Jflwisfi Prtif fs no: responsible for Iha accuracy of Itw above evBr\Js.
'All ntntt held •! th« J.C.C. unlati oth*niiiM indicaltd.
(App^AJse • CLIP AND SAVE-
Margie and .Seth Lev\ ol Tulsa, Okla , announce the N'ov. 23 birth of a daughter, Leah Beth. The Levys have two other children, Jacob and Sarah. Grarfdparents are Rabbi and Mrs. Theodore Levy of Syracuse, N.Y., and Mr. and Mrs. Marvin Zale of Boca Raton, Fla. (Jreat-grandparents are Mr. and Mrs. Morris Zale of Dallas, Texas. Marge and Jim Bresel announce the Nov. 27 birth of a son, David Aaron. The Bresels have two other children, Michael, 6, and Amy, 18 months. Paternal grandparents are Mr. and Mrs, Morris Bresel of Omaha. Maternal grandparents are Mr. and Mrs. Leo Sivin of Chicago.
SOCIETY OF SURVIVORS The Society of Survivors will hold a Hanukkah dinner on Dec. 27, 5 p.m. at Beth Israel Synagogue. The event is open to the community. The chai-ge for the dinner is $10 for adults, $5 for children five-13 years, and free for children under five. Reservations by check only must be mailed by Dec. 23 to Rachel Rosenberg, 926 South 85th Street, Omaha, NE 68114. A brief meeting wiU precede the dinner ai^^ entertainment will conclude the evening. For information call Hilde Gottlieb, 393-6357. JWVPOST#60 Epstein Morgan Post #60 Jewish War Veteran of the USA will meet Dec. 17, 7:30 p.m. in the American Legion Post'Club. The events for 1988 will be discussed. Twenty Scouts who attained the rank of Eagle Scout will receive the National Jewish War Veterans of the USA certificate of award for Eagle Scouts.
Synagogue dedicated Over 200 people attended the Nov. 8 dedication of the Hachnosas Sefer Torah during the celebration of the opening of the new Synagogue Ohel Joseph in Mifflintown, Pa. Located in the newly rebuilt facilities of Empire Kosher Poultry, the new synagogue will serve as a place of worship for the rabbis and employees of Empire Kosher. Ohel Jospeh, which is open to the public, is the first synagogue to be built in Juniata County, of which Mifflintown is the largest town. BANK HONORED NEW YORK (JTA) The Chaae Manhattan Bank was honored with the Israel 40th Anniversary Medal for its service to the State of Israel as fiscal agent for Israel Bonds since 1951. William Butcher, chairman and chief executive officer of Chase Manhattan, accepted the award on behalf of the bank.
Book Fair autograph session features young Omaha author
Chabad Rabbi Mendel Katzman has announced the following: Hanukkah menorah programs will take place Dec. 17 at 4:30 p.m. in Westbrook Plaza and on Dec. 21 at 4:30 p.m. in Crossroads MaU. He said that Cece Zorinsky will light the shamus candle at Crossroads and other dignitaries will be scheduled to light candles. Also, latkes will be served at both events, and Hanukkah kits, consisting of candles, menorah, dreidel, will be sold for $1.45. Those desiring to purchase kits in. advance may call the Katzmans at 330-7400. Rabbi Katzman also announced that the Dec. 21 program for children at the Jewish Community Center will take place at 10 a.m.
By Joanie Jacobson Amy Abrahamson is in the sixth grade at Morton Junior High School. She and her parents, Linda and ' Mark, are members of Beth Israel Synagogue. Most recently, Amy has become a published author. Her book. The School Days of the Forrest Kids, is being offered at the Omaha Jewish Book Fair Book Sale, going on now through Dec. 20 at the Jewish Community Center. Amy Will be making a special appearance at the children's program on Dec. 13 at 2 p.m. to autograph copies of her book. "It all started as a creative writing assignment in school," explained Miss Abrahamson. "We were supposed to choose a partner, mine was Kristin Knight, and write a book for younger children. We decided to write a story about forest animals. "The School Days of the Forrest Kids is about Sammy Skunk and his first day of school. He doesn't want to go because he thinks the other kids will
BREADBREAKERS John Knieeley, sportscaster for KETV, Channel 7, will be the guest speaker at the Dec. 16 Breadbreakers luncheon meeting. Breadbreakers meets every Wednesday at noon at Howard Johnson's. Cost for the luncheon is S5.
deatk^ SIMCHA COREN Graveside services were held at Golden Hill Cemetery on Dec. 4 for Simcha Coren, 30. Mi-; Coren was the victim of a hit-and-run accident while taking a walk on the evening of Dec. 2. Survivors: mother and fa. ther, Sheldon and Rae Coren; brother, David; sister, Ruth; grandfather, Noah.
Foundation sponsors arts projects The Bemis Foundation and the Collaborative Arts Project are seeking proposals for new works from artists of all disciplines. The project. New Work One, will consist of six separately produced evenings combining performance and a lecture-discussion relating to that performance. The original performance events will be held at the Bemis Foundation's CAT Theatre on alternate Saturday evenings, beginning Feb. 20, Proposals must be submitted by Dec. 18; an announcement of programming decisions will be made on or before Dec. 31. For details contact Robert Greenberg, project coordinator, 346-0846.
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make fun of him because he srnells like a skunk. He finds out that everyone has something about them that people could make fun of, like Bucky Beaver and his teeth, or the teacher, because she wears glasses . .. "The story teaches a lesson—not to make fun of other people because they're different. We should get to know people first. "It took a couple of weeks to write the story," explained Miss Abrahamson, "and the teacher thought it was exceptional. She sent it to a couple of pubUshers but nothing happened."I have, an aunt who teaches sixth grade at Pawnee and she sent the manuscript to the Children's Album—it's a children's magazine like Highlights. I remember the day the letter came in the mail—I started screaming. They were going to publish my story! "That's the neatest thing—being published," she added. "My friends think it's a real good story and my parents are really happy for me."
RUTH ORKOW Word has been received here of the Monday night death in Del Ray Beach, Fla., of Ruth Orkow, widow of David Orkow, a former executive director of the Dr. Philip Sher Home in Omaha. She was 81. Services took place in Florida. Before retiring and moving to Florida, Mrs. Orkow taught in the District 66 school system.
She is survived by son, David, of Denver, and daughter, Linda Sindelar of Omaha. BENJAMIN STIEFLER Graveside services were held on Dec. 2 at Congregation Emanuel in Denver, Colo., for former Omahan Benjamin Stiefler, 93. Mr. Stiefler is siu-vived by his son, William Stiefler, Denver; five grandchildren and eight great-grandchildreii. He was preceded in death by his wife, Ann. RECEIVES MERIT AWARD NEW YORK (JTA) Rena Costa, New York philanthropist and founder of the chair in Yiddish language and literature at BarIlan University, received the Merit Award of American Women for Bar-Ilan University recently.
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Children's Book Fair event features Barbara Cohen By Joanie Jacobson Federation public relations director The children's program ol the 1987 Omaha Jewish Book Fair, to be presented Dee. 13, 2 p.m. at the Jewish Community Center, will feature nationally acclaimed author, Barbara Cohen. "I am deeply interested not only in my own childhood, but in the childhood of nearly everyone I meet," says Ms. Cohen. "Perhaps that accounts for the wide range of her more than 25 best-selling books for children and young adults," remarked Linda Dunn, chairman of the children's event. "Her first book, Carp in the Bathtub, has become a modem classic, and her newest release, The Christmas Revolution, and People Like Us, are two excellent novels for teenagers. She's an author of.the highest caliber and deep insight, and Omaha children are fortunate to have a first-hand opportunity to meet her. "As a mother of young Jewish children, I believe that every opportunity to experience Jewish identity is important," Mrs. Dunn continued. "I don't think > ' that children have as many Jewish 'hands-on' learning experiences as adults and this particular one is so special. Barbara Cohen is not just another Jewish author who writes for children. She is one of the most loved and respected in her field."
Barbara Cohen Ms. Cohen has been praised for her ability to step inside a young character and convey the misfit's perspective that is so much a part of growing up. Her stories reflect "a warm, realistic perception of the strengths, strains and humor of family life." All of her work draws on the richness of the Jewish tradition. Her picture book, Molly's Pilgrim, was made into a film and received an Academy Award in 1986. Ms. Cohen has received the National Jewish Book Award, the Kenneth B. Smilen/Present Tense Literary Award and the Sydney Taylor Body-of-Work Award from the Association of Jewish Libraries. Other books by Ms. Cohen include King of the Seventh Grade; Thank You, Jackie Robinson; R My Name is Rosie; The Innkeeper's Daughter; The Binding of Isaac and I am Joseph. A reviewer writes: "Whether based on the Bible, her own childhood ex-
periences or stories from relatives about the past, all of Barbara Cohen's books speak directly to the reader in the voice of an authentic storyteller—one who truly understands what it is like to be a child." "Usually, Book Fair events are geared for the very young," added Mrs. Dunn. "But this year, Ms. Cohen will talk to children in grades one-four and older children can visit with her at an autographing session scheduled for 3 p.m." Barbara Cohen graduated Phi Beta Kappa and magna cum laude from Barnard College and earned an MA degree frotti Rutgers University. She has lived in New Jersey all of her life, is married and has three daughters. "I have no consuming hobbies," says Ms. Cohen, "perhaps because doing the work I do pleases me. I fulfill my yen for face-to-face coiltact with kids by speaking in public and playing with my grandson." The children's program will also include a story hour/sing-along with Debbie Greenblatt for pre-school and kindergarten children at 2 p.m., the Bible quiz sponsored by B'nad B'rith Comhusker Lodge at 2 p.m., and a family Hanukkah party of games, food and fun from 3-4:30 p.m. Reservations for the Hanukkah party are required and may be made by calling 3348200.
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Taba negotiations shift
By Tamar Levy ownership of Taba. a small GENEVA (JTA) - Israel strip of beach on the Red and Egypt, assisted by the Sea near the Israeli resort United States, are continu* cjty of Eilat, ing their efforts to reach a^ ^A,^„T,w^,ilc Meanwhile, both counsettlement of the Taba bor- tries are preparing for arder dispute before the case bitration. Each has submitgoes to a panel of interna- ted volumes of documents tional legal experts this win- and maps in support of its ter for binding arbitration. respective claims. More will Separate meetings were be submitted in February. held here last week between The arbitration panel is the Israelis and Americans, scheduled to open its hearthe Egyptians and Ameri- ings in March and is excans and later between the pected to reach a decision Israeli and Egyptian delega- by next July. tions. Their talks shifted to Paris this week. Michele Zipay Although Israel, at Michele Jacalyn Zipay, Egypt's insistence, agreed daughter of Diane and John to binding arbitration last Zipay, will celebrate her Bat year, the door was left open By Bonnie Pawloski Mitzvah Friday evening and to conciliation—meaning and Ruth Potash compromise—which Israel Saturday morning, Dec. 18 This week the Omaha clearly prefers. At stake is and 19, at Temple Israel. Committee for Soviet Jewry Michele is sharing this ocsuggests writing to Viktor casion with her Russian Bialik, a 47-year-old physitwin, Olga Sungurov, who cian and his wife, Ludmilla, has been denied the freedom Dr. Foster Cline will pre- an engineer and chemist. to practice her religion. sent a conference for profes- They live in Kiev with their Michele is a seventh- sionals who work with chil- daughter, Olga, 15, and son, grader at Westside Middle dren on Jan. 11, 8:30 a.m. - Vladimir, 13. School. She is an honor-roll 5 p.m., at the Regency The Bialiks first applied student and plays the flute West, 108th and Pacific for permission to emigrate in the school band. Michele Street. The conference, in 1979 but were refused on has been dancing for over "The unattached child: un- the grounds of "insufficient nine years and has per- able to bond, unable to kinship." Soviet authorities formed in numerous recitals trust,' is sponsored by claimed that they did not and workshops. She was a Kids., Inc., and costs $47 have close enough family in member of the Hadassah per person, including mater- Israel to qualify for reunifidance troupe. Her other in- ials. cation. terests include gymnastics, The "unattached child," Vladimir is unable to celswimming and reading. according to a Kids, Inc. ebrate his Bar Mitzvah beMichele is the grand- spokesman, refers to chil- cause the Soviets prohibit daughter of Lucille and Jack dren whose early life was so children under 16 from parEpstein of Omaha and Mar- damaging to their emotional ticipating in an act of pubgaret and John Zipay of development that they can- lic worship in the Soviet UnNew Brighton, Pa. She is not form healthy attach- ion. Postage to the Soviet the great-granddaughter of ments with caretaker fig- Union is 44 cents. Write to Abe Epstein 6f Omaha. She ures. For information on the the Bialiks at: Entuziastov has three brothers, Jeremy, conference call.Kids, Inc., 15, Apt. 15, Kiev, Ukrainian 9, Kyle„15, and Andre, 18. 330-4014. SSR, USSR.
Soviet Jewry
Conference
Without a foundation, we cannot build.
THANKS TO A GENEROUS GRANT FROM THE KENNETH R. TRETIAK MEMORIAL FUND, established by his parents and administered by the Foundation o( the Jewish Federation of Omaha, we're taking better care of our children. "Floors That Teach" (a carpet game), 30 cots, 1 crib, 1 mattress, 2 walkers and 3 highchairs now service the Early Childhood Department of the Jewiih Community Center. THANKS TO A GENEROUS GRANT FROM THE ALLEN AND MONIE ZALKIN FUND, a set of large-scale foam blocks for large-muscle development are also in use. It's getting down to tiasics—first things first. We have to start with the children ... because without a foundation, we cannot build, (photograph by Gordon Deas Photography)
A
THEFOUNDAnON
of the Jewish Federation of Omaha
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Jewish Press
Dec. 11, 1987
Peace: A theme to live by Editor's Note: Scott Muskin, son of Linda and Alan Muskin, delivered the following speech during Shabbat services at Beth El Synagogue on Nov. 14. The occasion was the United Synagogue Youth Shabbat at Beth El. Scott, a junior at Burke High School and vice president of Omaha USY, presented this speech, and a poem he has written, at USY Kinnus in Denver over the Thanksgiving holiday. By Scott Muskin When I sat down to write the speech on the theme of Kinnus '87 in Denver, Colo., I realized that I had bitten off more than 1 could chew, so to speak. You see, the theme this year is "Peace, It's in Our Hands." Instead of a great speech, only problems filled my head: How could I, a "kid," write on such a monumental topic as peace? I 'm just one person, how can I make a difference? How Scott Muskin could I do this speech? So to get a start, I decided to find a meaning of peace. Well, everyone conjures up images of the "hippie," with flowers and lovebeads, incense and candles burning, and the familiar two-finger peace sign. But there has to be more; so when in doubt, turn to Webster. Mr. Webster defines peace as: 1.) freedom from war 2.) an agreement to end war 3.).law and order 4.) harmony, concord 5.) serenely cahn, quiet. This seems to cover it, but it still wasn't good enough for me. What about the total absence of wrongdoing, injustice, suffering and evil? Throughout the world, no hate; all the people living as one under God. Now taking all this under consideration, my task is a . pretty heavy one. So why worry? Why try? Can-we do it? That is, accomplish peace in our lifetime? No, probably not. So why worry? Because we must! It is our duty to make the world a better place, or at least try. Try to accomplish some part of our definition of peace. It's pretty simple. We have to work until it happens. After answering why we must work for peace, now we have to look at how. This is even more difficult because there are different kinds of peace. Between you and God, • between you and yourself, and between you and all mankind. Peace with God is accomplished by penance, prayer and good deeds. Peace with yourself is accomplished by knowing who you are, what you want to do, and where you are going. Biit peace with all mankind is the simplest; you can do anything, anything at all. Whether it's 15 cents in the little blue box at the Bagel Bin or helping free Soviet Jews. Work to end warin the Middle East, nuclear threat or prejudice. Join groups like Amnesty International, who make sure no one is tortured or murdered by their own government. Learn about peace and then teach it to others, especially the children. It doesn't have to be your goal to create a change in heart in Muammar Khadafi, just anything you can do. .. There are examples of people working for peace. This Kinnus having peace as the theme is one. Recently, I attended a workshop to educate and eliminate prejudice with 200 other high school students. This is an example of working for peace. The Federation sending students and other people to Washington, D. C, to join over 250,000 people at a rally for Soviet Jewry is ah example. Sol Parsow and Shirley Goldstein sending over $30,000 worth of donated clothing to needy Israeli immigrants, mostly Soviet Jews, that is an example of people working for peace. Obviously, the answer to my original, questions is that I cannot create peace by myself but I can urge others to follow these examples and help me. You see, our Denver peers were very wise in their choice of wording for their Kinnus theme. It doesn't say "Peace, It's in My Hands," it's "Peace. It's in Our Hands." So together, all of us, maybe we can make a difference. Peace won't be easy and we probably can't achieve it in the near future. But shouldn't we try?
Ballet excites Omaha yputh
New program
JTJ Andrea Friedman By Lynda Mirvish According to William; Shakespeare, "all the world's a stage," but for Andrea Friedman, Bryan Greenberg and Michael Lerner, their whole world will be the stage of the Orpheum Theater tonight when the curtain goes up on the Omaha Ballet's production of "The Nutcracker." These Omaha youngsters are three of the scores of chiUren who are part of the annual holiday spectacle—and they all have one thing in common— they love to perform in front of an audience. Bryan Greenberg, 9, son of Mr. and Mrs. Carl Greenberg, wants to be a movie actor. In fact, he had never really considered dancing. Bryan accompa^ied his sister when she went to audition for a part in "The Nutcracker." She was not chosen, but he was and landed a starring role, Fritz, Clara's older brother, for the Omaha and Lincoln performances, and was a soldier when the company toured outstate Nebraska and Iowa.
Bryan Greenberg
Michael Lerner
At 8, Michael Lerner, sou Bryan says the part of Fritz is very appropriate, of Dr. Gary Lerner, is in"He likes to torment his sis- terested in soccer, tennis— ter ... he keeps interrupt- and ballet! Michael will be ing her and breaks the Nut- the party child in the Orcracker. He's a lot like me!" pheum production, but on While he doesn't think of tour he played both a party making ballet a career child and a soldier, "We just choice, Bryan is considering had time for a fast costume taking some ballet classes change." Although his sis"to help improve my coolxii- ter has been involved in nation for other things, like dance, this is Michael's first swimming, basketball, base- season with the Omaha Ballet and he enjoys it so much, ball and wrestling." "When 1 grow up I want he may continue with ballet to be a ballerina." Andrea after the "Nutcracker" Friedman, 8, is a young lady closes. Whether they intend to who knows what she's about. Daughter of Sandy make baUet a profession, or and Amy Friedman, Andrea simply an exciting, one-time is a "Nutcracker" veteran. experience, Michael, Bryan This is her third season with and Andrea all agree that the Omaha Ballet and she dancing in "The Nutknows she has the support cracker" is great fun. On the down side, rehearof her parents to help make her dream come true. This sals, practice and tours have year, Andrea will play a caused some problems with lamb "with ears and paws missing school and having and bows" in the Orpheum to catch up on homework. performances. "I'm still too But to these hard-working, small to go on tour, maybe dedicated youngsters, the next year," she said hope- opportunity to meet new people, be with the profesfully. An avid music lover, An- sional dancers of the ballet drea, like all three children, and, most of all, to perform, is active in sports and en- far outweigh the disadvanjoys basketball and soccer.
SAN FRANCISCO UTA) — A synagogue here has started a program aimed at breaking a vicious cycle of homelessness for some of its non-Jewish neighborsi the Northern California Jewish Bulletin reports. Based at Peninsula Temple Beth El in San Mateo, Calif., the all-volunteer project provides to selected homeless persons a lump sum of $1,500-$2,000 to cover the first and last month's rent and security deposit, enabling them to rent a home they otherwise couldn't afford. Problems of the homeless are often brought to Beth El's attention through Samaritan House, a non-profit program that operates two soup kitchens and provides clothing and limited temporary shelter for needy San Mateo residents. Most aided by Samaritan House are Hispanic, blue-collar laborers who seek jobs in San Mateo's mostly uppermiddle class community. They may earn enough to pay the $30 to $50 a night for a motel room but; after food and storage bills, cannot afford their own place. All are beyond the income range of federal or state assistance. To supplement the $6,000 the program has raised, Beth El's Rabbi Peter Rubinstein is asking members of his congregation to help families receiving money to find apartments, to give financial or legal advice and to provide counseling.
At last there's time for a leisurely breakfast unhurried conversation and the chance to enjoy a second (or even a third) cup of . rich, delicious ivlaxwell House" Coffee. It couldn't be anything but Sunday morning. K KOSHER
** '^^ Gfnefai Foods Co'poralion
IT COULDN'T BE ANYTHING BUT MAXWELL HOUSE 'Oiftseisiii&j-nseai.it-jeiimnsi
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0«C. 11, 1M7
omen's Campaign Cabinet named
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By Joanie Jacobson Federation public relations director Bert Lewis, chairman of the Women's Division of the Jewish Federation of Omaha Campaign, has announced the names of 11 women who will serve on the 1987-88 Women's Cabinet. "In the past, the cabinet has been comprised of past chairwomen," Mrs. Lewis explained. "Today, the trend in most major cities is to appoint a group of women who are currently involved in community, have the desire to help and the willingness to work and who can effectively and responsibly take on a specific job. "Actually, the Cabinet has been in place since sumflier," noted Mrs. Lewis. "We have met twice as a working cabinet. Ideas have been exchanged, new ideas have been presented and some have already been implemented. The purpose of this reorganization is to provide a new structure to the Women's Campaign." The 1987-88 Women's Cabinet includes Miriam Simon (Chai/Grand Gifts DivisionSi 500'); Anne Broder (Chai/Grand Gifts Events chairman); Silvia Hoffman (Leadership Division-$500-$1499); Cheryl Cooper (lifesavers Division-$250-$499); Ann Goldstein (Heritage Division-$150-$249); Jody Malashock (Initial Gifts-$100-$149); Bar-
bara Simon and Patricia Newman (Business and Professional Division); Ruth Goldstein and Dorothy Riekes (Snowbirds Division) and Suzanne Singer (Workers' Training). "Each one of these ladies as individuals has already demonstrated extraordinary ability as well as commitment to commu-. nity," commented Mrs. Lewis. "With their combined knowledge and vision, 1988 promises to be a significant y?ar for the Women's Federation Campaign."
Campaign update Nelson Gordman, chairman of the Pacesetter Division of the 1988 Jewish Federation of Omaha Campaign, has announced that with 40 percent of the pledges in, contributions to date show a 24 percent increase over the same gifts made last year. "The early returns are very positive," said Mr. Gordman. "In 1987, monies raised by the Pacesetter Division accounted for 60 percent of all monies raised by the entire Federation Campaign. I am optimistic that the Pacesetter Division will continue to respond and that we will finish with a substantial increase overall."
Hanukkah and human rights By Rabbi Marc H. Tanenbaum (Copjrrlght 11X7, Jtwimi Ttkfnphlc Agmcr, 'tj
Eight lights for human rights. No more appropriate theme could be found for Chanukah 1987. Chanukah commemorates the victory of Judah the Maccabee over the massive invading armies of the S}Tian Empire, and then the rededicatiqn of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem, which the Syrians had defiled. The story of Chanu-
kah is a superlative Bible narrative and its meaning today is profound and universal. In effect, the Maccabean victory was the first successful triumph in the struggle for human rights, particularly for freedom of conscience and pluralism, in the history of humankind. Had the Syrians defeated the Maccabees in the epic struggle for the right of every group to be itself, in its own terms, Judaism might have
perished and, quite conceivably, Christianity and Islam would never have emergred. That's how fateful Chanukah was for the whole human family. Let us hope Chanukah 1987 will heighten the consciousness of the Jewish people, and that of many others, to rekindle the maccabean spirit in today's troubled world: to refuse to stand by idly, to resist capitulation to modem-day tyrants.
Jawlsh Pr*M
Pag* f
Women are Jews, too speaker tells luncheon By Judith Marburg "Men are the subjects, women are the 'other,'" speaker Susannah Heschel told a capacity crowd at the 14th annual Women's Community Book Fair Luncheon at the Jewish Community Center on Wednesday. ."Man is equated with human (what does that make woman?) and women are defined in relation to men." Ms. Heschel, author and daughter of modem Jewish philosopher Abraham Jmhua Heschel (I grew up in the household of Abraham and Sylvia Heschel, she told her audience) has lectured extensively on feminism and Judaism in this coimtry, in Israel and in East and West Germany. She spoke on "Judaism and the Modem Jewish Woman." "Throughout history the ' term Jew has been used as if it referred only to men. Think of art and try to imagine a holy, pious Jew. What do you see. You see an old, white-bearded man,,". Ms. Heschel said. "The Bible takes for granted that only men are being addressed. Indeed, it uses femininity to illustrate immorality. We need to make a place in Jewish religious life for women. Women should feel at home in a minyan. There should be a place for them on the bimah.
Women need to tell their stories," Ms. Heschel pointed out. "Women are unseen in history; history does not record what Jewish women did and felt and thought. What does it mean to be a Jewish woman?" The difference in perspective between men and women leads to different interpretations, Ms. Heschel said. Men are concemed with laws, with halacha; women are more interested in relationships, with feelings.
"Jewish women must articulate their perspectives," Ms. Heschel pointed out. "Judaism is a multiplicity, it has more than one aspect. Jewish women must set their own agenda, not answer the agenda that men set." The annual Book Fair Luncheon was co-sponsored by the Jewish Federation Library and all the Omaha Jewish Women's organizations. Luncheon chairman was Sheryl Lee.
J/lontreal tops $30m MONTREAL (JTA) Montreal's Combined Jewish Appeal attained $30,237,192 last month, becoming the first Jewish community outside of the United States to raise more than $30 million in its annual campaign. The figure represented an increase of more than $2 million over
the 1986 Campaign on a gift-for-gift basis. The Women's Division also attained a record total of $3,599,538. The Appeal is the fundraising arm for the Allied Jewish Community Services, the central planning, coordinating and fundraising body for Montreal's 100,000 Jews.
Singles of all ages Thursday, Dec. 24,1987 8-Midnight
atTHESCORECARD 114th & Dodge Munchies--DJ--Cash Bar -$3.00 cover for information call 334-8200, ext.232 A JCC of Omaha Adult Services Program
"TODAY, THE TREND IN MOST MAJOR CITES... is to appoint a group of women involved in community, . resourceful, and genuinely concemed about the quality of their Jewish lives, to serve on a working cabinet on behalf of the annual Federation campaign. I am both pleased and honored to introduce The 1988 Women's Division Cabinet of the Jewish Federation of Omaha Campaign. With them, we will effectively gain new insights, new ideas and new directions. DOROTHY RIEKES Snowbirds Division
With you, we hope to realize the most successful fund-raising effort in the history of this conunuruty." Bert Lewis Chairman
RUTHGOlinTEIN Snowbirds Divlsian
Jems/7 Federation of Omaha '•-."•1^ y^^^K^^i'a-'.
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A moment of pride Being editor of the Jewish Pres^ has its precious moments and this happens to be one of those times. For several days in advance of the Dec. 6 mobilization in Washington, I assembled my gear, cleaned my camera, and otherwise prepared myself for covering the story. In addition to Sunday's rally, other demonstratioDB took place in Washington during the mobilization. Here, Rabbi This was the big story, the momentous time in modem Avi Weiss of New York leads a prayer session in front of the Aeroflot office. Kneeling is long-time Soviet Refuaenik history when hundreds of thousands of Jews from across Yosef Mendelavich, recently released from the Soviet Union. To the immediate left is Irian Kara Ilvanov, whose astrothe land were to converge in Washington and protest in phyddat father, Vladimir Dashevaky, is not allowed to emigrate. behalf of human rights. I couldn't wait to hop on that plane and join with my fellow. Omahans in this great trek for freedom. Alas, what started as a mild sore throat earlier in the week, developed into a full-fledged illness with every flu Banners from sUtes, federations, BBYO and synagogues symptom recorded in medical textbooks. I was out. filled the air. '^'- re was a convention floor spirit. Posters (Continued from Page 1) My concern at this point was how to provide the coverbeseeched sup.... ^ for their candidates, the names of refuseage that the event deserved. nik famihes denied jjermission to leave the Soviet Union. had marched in their behalf, and advocated their human There was no problem in getting an overall story. We Minnesota was carrying portable audio equipment and rights to be different or to emigrate? knew that we could depend on the Jewish Telegraphic singing Israeli songs. 1 overheard "I like New Hampshire." The lesson is clear and must be passed from generation Agency to provide this on our computer. "I'm having so much fun." "There's Michigan." Marchers But, how do we get photos, particularly of the local dele- to generation. To paraphrase a Christian theologian, "They traded buttons and exchanged T-shirts. came for the Jews and I was silent. They came for the gation, and how do we get the flavor of local participation Ally Milder, candidate for Congress, was among the Catholics and 1 was sUent. They came for the Lutherans in this historic story? Omaha contingent. Chris McLain, a legislative assistant and 1 was silent. A;id then they came for me and there were When I discussed the needs with some of the healthier to Senator Exon, marched with a sign. people, I received assurances that many cameras and many none left to raise a voice in protest." The past cannot be Almost a quarter of a million Jews on the Mall speaks undone, but it can instruct the future. eyes and many fingers will go to work and help out. to the Solidarity of the American Jewish community and Comparison can go too far. What of the cruel irony of As a backup, I called my son, Robert, the mechanical enits unflagging concern for its brethren in Russia, Israel, gineer who works outside of Washington and asked Neville Chamberlain's famous statement, "I have brought Ethiopia and anywhere they are under duress. It speaks whether he could try to get some photos of the Omaha peace in our time," after returning from Munich in Septem- to influencing American foreign policy and Soviet domesber, 1938. The staunchest opponent to Hitler was Winston group. policy. He did, and proud father that I am, I am announcing his Churchill, leader of the Anti-Appeasors. He was a prophet ticWithin the view of the Washington Memorial and walkdebut as a photographer (modestly of course) with this is- in his own age, a Cassandra. Can this be the role the Repub- ing distance of the Vietnam and Lincoln Memorials, the sue of the Jewish Press. Thanks also to Washington attor- lican right has cast for itself Ijy castigating President Rea- concerted action of American Jewry, on Dec. 6,1987, shall ney Joel Rubin who got the photos to us in time. Joel is gan for his departure from the infantile evil empire men- go down as a day that will live in posterity. What is one tality? Fortunately, the personalities, philosophy and goals the son of Natalie and Herman Rubin of Omaha. life worth? What is one freedom worth? What would it be I also would like to thank Shirley Goldstein, her evinced in the 1930'8 and 1980's are not similar. As we walked from the Ellipse on Constitution Avenue, worth to make this the last generation of Jews without freedaughter-in-law, Ann, her granddaughter, Deborah, Standom of reUgibn and movement? As one of our signs said, ley Mitchell, Gary Parilman, and Oliver Pollak for taking 1 spoke with fellow Omahans. Susan Gurwitch, a junior at "We're not anti-Soviet. We're pro-Jewish." Burke, wanted to bdin Washington with everyone. Betsy photographs. The day had started at 4 a.m; the weather had been beauAdditionally, my thanks to Oliver end Steven J. Rod for Newman, a dance instructor, was there because it was a tiful. Summit Sunday was almost over, yet the experience Jewish cause she believed in. Joshua Parilman, a seventh turning in two marvelous stories for this issue. would never be forgotten. We arrived back in Omaha at With so much help, it's a pleasure to be an editor. And grader, had a sense of being in history. Jon Heimberg, a 11:30 p.m. We had traveled 3,00 miles and been through philosophy senior at Creighton University, cares deeply to have had a part in this great Jewish adventure is someabout Soviet Jews. Emmy Krasovitsky and her 17-year- Chicago twice. We were exhausted but elated. We had thing that we aiH can take pride in. old son came to Omaha in 1975. One of five Russian fami- represented our community, demonstrated our commitlies in Omaha, they wanted to support and participate in mept and had set the tone emphasizing human rights in the Summit agenda. this great experience.
Demonstration continues
History-making demonstration
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The Jewish Press (Founded in 1920) Suzanne Singer Presidenl. Jewish Pfsss Board of Directors
Board members: Oliver Pollak, vice presidenl; Bert Leviis, treasurer; Susan Budwig, secretary; Jill Kushner Belmont, Penny Endelman, Richard Fellman, Scott Friedman, Bonnie Honwich. Aaron Hosiyk, Rosalie Meiches, Patricia Newman, Sheila Priluck, Judy Sift.
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The family gatliers (Continued from Page 1) braska" sign. It took a great deal of effort to stay together. I was proud of Carol Kaplan's very loud but loving voice, which she used all day long to make sure our delegation of 30 teenagers didn't go astray. We arrived there and again found that many family members had been waiting for us .to arrive. There was Tom Neuman, for instance, who had flown in with a group of 28 from Chattanooga. We were right near "Nevada" and adjacient to "Minnesota." The family was assembling to begin our march down Constitution Ave., to the largest gathering of Jewish people ever to take place in Washington, D. C, if not the country. Several hours later, Elie Wiesel eloquently summed it up for all of us: "If a quarter of a million people gathered here in 1942,1943, and 1944—the world would have heard and been different as a result." He felt sure, as I did, that our unified voice has to have an impact. Again 1 felt very good. In this day when one feels so helpless in watching the worid spin around us, it felt good to know "I was there. If even one Jew is let out of prison, if only one Jew gets an exit visa, it's because I went to Washington on Dec. 6, 1987. I did It." I can't describe that feeling—but it will be with me forever. We heard from Vice President George Bush, who eloquently described the difference between our ability to be one quarter million strong to protest human rights oppression, and the 100 Jews in Moscow (and a CNN newscaster) who several hours earlier were beaten up by "KGB bullies" as they attempted to demonstrate in support of our rally. Our Vice President "kvelled" over the difference, and indeed he should have-it could happen only in this great country. I realized at that moment we don't remember often enough to express our good fortune about being citizens of this great and glorious country. He ended his remarks with a plea to Mr. Gorbachev to "let our people go." The speakers were eloquent. Natan Sharansky, Mayor Ed Koch, and a plethora of public officials and Jewish leaders. The biggest problem we had was there was no way to see any of them, the crowds were just too massive. 1 could see sometimes by standing on my tippy-toes. 1 was standing next to Dan Fellman and Shirley Goldstein, both shorter than I am, and they had to be satisfied with just listening.
I'm sure many Jewish Press readers do not know that one of the most powerful national leaders of the movement to free oppressed Soviet Jews lives right here in our community. Shirley Goldstein could have opted for all sorts of VIP status (the VIPs actually got seats in a grandstand!!!—we stood the whole day!), but instead chose to assemble and march with her Omaha family. The cries of "Shirley!" were heard all day long as she met people from all over the country. The day was a perfect success. No negative incidents. No problems for our group. We were due in Omaha at 11:31 p.m. and we landed at 11:31 p.m. Certainly not bad compared to the propensity for delays these days. It was a fantastic 19-hour marathon for all of us. I will always wonder about one thing: did Omaha do enough? I heard many stories throughout the day of the lengths to which all the Jewish of North America went (there were over 500 Canadians present and even small delegations from Alaska and Hawaii). I flew liome next to a past president of the Chicago Jewish Federation. They had a big problem. They offered Chicago Jews roimd-trip tickets on a chartered 747 for $125. (Omaha's tickets were offered to our folks for $120.) They neglected to put a limit on the offer «lnd had allocated $50,000 for the project. They had to have an emergency board meeting the week before the rally to vote an additional $64,000 and charter two additional planes'. They were amazed at the outpouring of interest and decided (as if in a prophetic vision of Elie Wiesel's remarks) every Cfaiicagoan that wanted to be there should be therel I heard many other stories throughout the day about Federations going the extra mile on this project. I was proud of the the Omaha Federation, we had subvented the 55 tickets by some $9,000, (we were able to offer our teens tickets at $36, an investment which I am sure will come back to us in huge dividends as they become leaders of our community in years to come!) but wished we had known in advance the full extent that the other communities were recruiting family members for this extraordinary family visit. Hindsight is always easy. All along, Federation president Mort Tractenbarg had said to me, "Why don't we do it right? Let's charter our own plane. That way we can take so many more people."
0«c. 11, 1M7
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Colorful, dedicated thousands attend rally By AiHlrew Mnchin WASHINGTON (JTA) - It looked like a cross between 8 football game and a political convention, what with thousands of enthusiastic souls dressed in bright winter clothing and crowded around banners announcing their home state. But the massive national rally for Soviet Jews at the Ellipse here Sunday sounded more serious and dignified than other mass events. Many of the more than 200,000 Jews and non-Jews attended because they thought the rally would help their common cause: to impress upon the superpowers the need to improve the conditions of Soviet Jews. "This is a big deal," said Sen. Tom Harkin (D-Iowa), who was standing with the 75 Iowa ralliers primarily from Des Moines. He asserted the rally would be noted by Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev and would demonstrate to the Soviet pec^le "about our American system." "We want to get Gorbachev to set the Soviet Jews free," agreed Pam Cohen, 10, of Aimapolis, Md. Ralliers came from as far as Hawaii and as near as the neighborhoods of the nation's capital, which produced an estimated 60,000 people. The amplified sound of the rally didn't travel even that far, as the rear half of the crowd heard only the most loudly emphet'c of the speakers' statements. Four Jews flew from Winn^wg, Manitoba, each symbolizing 100,000 Soviet Jews unable to emigrate, according to HiliainKroft. Cleveland amt 1,600 people, moat by bus. Three hundred
fl«w from Loe Angeles, 86 from Savannah, Ga., and 30 frtim Tulsa and Oklahoma City, Ok. There were more than 60 from Omaha. The Savannah delegation included two non-Jews, among them Marie Daniels, director of the Intematicmal Christian Embassy Jerusalem. She said her presence fit in well with her organization's goals of support for distressed Jews. "They don't have any other voice but our voice," she said of the Soviet Jews. Standing beside her in the dense but cheerful crowd was Steve Bierienger, who said he works for the AFL-CIO labor federation out of Colorado."The labor movement has a strong stake in the freedom of people around the world," he explained. "That includes Soviet Jews." He estimated that 500-600 union members were present. He was holding a small union logo, but many other ralliers came with signs created eapecially for the day, most of them announcing support of a particular refusenik or of Soviet Jewa in general. ' Some of the signs were made by children. The four members of the Goldman family of Baltimore wore on their backs cardboard six-pointed stars that announced, "Free Soviet Jews." The stars were designed by 11-year-old Rachel. She noted that she was "happy" to attend her first rally because "we might get pet^le out." Melissa Vigorito, 17, of Erie, Pa., wore on the back of her jean jacket an elaborate magic-marker sign declaring, "You have the key, you have the power!"
Chaim Gartman of Rockville, Md., held a green-lettered sign that announced in Spanish, "Let the Soviet Jews leave." He didn't speak Spanish, he admitted, receiving help for the sign from his son's Spanish teacher. His explanation? "So everyone could understand." he said. "I want everyone to know." The white painter's caps worn by the Detroit delegation of hundreds sported a similar sentiment. The 119 people from Texas marched under the Lone Star flag, and dozens of others carried IsraeU or American flags. The rally was the first public demonstration for most of the thousands of children present. RaUiers older than age 50 acknowledged that they, too, had never participated in a mass event. However, a few people said they had attended the 1963 civil rights march at the same site featuring the "I Have a Dream" speech by the late Dr. Majtin Luther King Jr. Lester Pines, one of about 80 people from Madison, Wis., said he had attended a mass protest against the Vietnam war in 1969, also at the Ellipse. He described the Sunday rally as less confrtnitational and more universally felt. He also noted that "This demonstration shows there's more to the Jewish community than New York City." Surveying the represenUtives of Syracuse, N.Y., Pahn Springs, Calif., and Fort Wavne. Ind.. he said. "There are all these very active Jewish communities in smaller cities." Sunday, at least, no one would disagree.
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Dae. 11, 1M7
Jewish Presa
Lincoln B'nai Jeshurun
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SERVICES: Friday: 8 p.m. Marsha Plotkin will conduct the worship service.
Lincoln Tifereth Israel SERVICES: Friday: Early Kabbalat Shabbat service, 6 p.m. Saturday: 9 a.m. Mondays and Thursdays: 7:15 a.m.
Bluml(in Home SERVICES: Friday: 7 p.m. Daily and Saturday: The residents and staff of the Rose Blumkin Home invite the families, volunteers and friends of the residents to attend services in the Herbert Goldsten Chapel. Kiddush follows services on Shabbat.
Offutt Air Base SERVICES: Rabbi Howard Zyskind conducts services in the Capehart Chapel every Friday at 8 p.m. An Oneg Shabbat follows the service.
Council Bluffs B'nai Israel SERVICES: First and third Friday each month, 7:30 p.nn. An Oneg Shabbat fol. lows the service. B'nai Israel Synagogue offers services led by members of the congregation. Volunteer Cantor Mandy Greene leads the sirigipg. Everyone is invited to attend. Persons interested in car pools may call Scott Kotzen, 402-553-3334. HANUKKAH The Hanukkah service and party will be held on Dec. 18. The service starts at 7 p.m. The congregation may bring Menorahs for the candlelighting which will precede the service. G ames, crafts and a gift exchange ($3 limit) for children will follow the service at a Hanukkah Oneg. LAW LIBRARY NAMED NEW YORK (JTA) New York University School of Law has named its new intemationed law library in honor of Herbert and Justice Rose Luttan Rubin. He is senior partner in the firm Herzfeld and Rubin and a member of the board of editors of the New York Law Journal.
PERSONALS To my family and friends: Thankyoufor your cards, flowers and thougntfulness during my illness. Most of all thank you for caring. Evelyn Hoberman
spsurks 5r®iM Th<s. W®irdl By Rabbi Myer S. Kripke
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Sabbath Candlelighting for Friday, Dec. 11, 4:36 p m.
Temple Israel
Beth Israel Synagogue
SERVICES: Friday: 8:15 p.m. SERVICES: Rabbi Stephen Barack Friday: and Cantor Harold FireKabbalat Shabbat, 4:45 stone will officiate. Rabbi p.m. James L. Simon, regional Late family service, 8 director of the Midwest p.m. ' Beth Israel first graders Council of the Union of American Hebrew Congre- of the United Talmud Togations, will be the guest rah of Omaha will be prespeaker. His topic will be sented with Hanukkah "Critical Issues Facing menorahs as a gift from Reform Jews. " The Oneg the congregation. FirstShabbat following the grade students are: Michservice will be sponsored ael Bresel, Elisha Gerber, by the Temple Sisterhood. Jeffrey Nathan, Jennifer Saturday: 11:15 a.m. Rifkin and Justin Spiegal. This family service will CLASSES Religious school—Satur- be instructional in nature day, Dec. 12, 9 a.m.; Sun- and will consist of explanations of the structure and day. Dec. 13, .10 a.m. content of the Shabbat Preschool—Sunday, Dec. evening service. An oppor13, 10 a.m. Hebrew school—Gimmel tunity will also be proand Daled, Monday, Dec. ' vided for questions from the coiigregation. 14, 4 p.m.; Aleph, TuesThe Orieg Shabbat folday, Dec. 15, 4 p.m.; Bet, Wednesday, Dec. 16, Re- lowing the service will be hosted by Sisterhood in cess honor of the 25th wedding Confirmationanniversjuy of Cantor and Wednesday, Dec. 16, 6:30 Mrs. Leo Fettman. p.m. BAT MITZVAH Michele Jacalyn Zipay, daughter of Diane and John Zipay, will become a Bat Mitzvah at Shabbat services on Friday, Dec. 18 and Saturday, Dec. 19. MEN'S CLUB Cece Zorinsky will speak to Temple Israel congn'egants and their guests on her life in Washington and national affairs and will answer questions at the Dec. 13 Men's Club brunch. Lox and' bagels yvill be served. The program is open to the community. There is a $2 charge for non-members. HANUKKAH DINNER The annual Temple • I^amily Hanukkah Dinner will take place Dec. 18 at 6 pim. Call the Temple office, 556-6536, for information and reservations.
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Saturday: Morning service, 8:45 a.m. The D'var Torah will be presented by Dr. Paul Shyken. A kiddush will follow in the social hall, sponsored by Mrs. Albert Newman in observance of the yahrzeit of Kate Lena Tatle; Class with the rabbi, 4 p.m. Mincha, 4:45 p.m. followed by Shalosh S'eudos, Ma-ariv and Havdalah. Sunday: Morning Minyanaire service, 9 a.m. The service is followed by breakfast and "Exploring Jewish Ideas" with the rabbi. Weekdays: 7 a.m. and 4:45 p.m. HANUKKAH The first Hanukkah candle is lit on Dec. 15. The Beth Israel Hanukkah dinner will be held Dec. 20 at 5:30 p.m.' (the night of the 6th candle). A Hanukkah program featuring the younger Talmud Torah students, under the direction of Shirley Goodman, will follow dinner. Everyone is asked to bring a menorah and candles for a joint candlelighting ceremony which will precede the diimer. Dinner chairmen are Julee Katzman, Teddy Levine and Cheryl Kirke. Reservations may be niade through the synagogue office.
Halacha hotline NEW YORK-(JTA) Questions about Jewish legal matters? Call the national Halacha Hotline— 1(718) 963-1236 or (212) HAL-ACHA, and Orthodox rabbis will answer the questions over the phone, free of charge.
Beth El Synagogue SERVICES: Rabbi Paul Drazen and Cantor Emil Berkovits will conduct the services. Friday: 6 p.m. ; Shabbat dinner will follow services. Saturday: 9:30 a.m. Kiddush will follow services. Lunch will be served during Junior Congregation. Mincha-Ma'ariv, 4:40 p.m. Sunday: 9 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Weekdays; 6:55 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. LUNCH AND LEARN The Lunch and Learn Series with the rabbi will continue on Dec. 18 at noon in the synagogue. LATKE PARTY Men's Club will have an all-you-can-eat Latke Festival on Dec. 13, 10a.m.-l p.m. Reservations must be in by Dec. 10. GIFT SHOP The gift shop will be open this Sunday, 10 a.m.noon, and daily, 9 a.m.4:30 p.m. LATKE LUNCH •A Latke Lunch will be served following Shabbat morning services on Dec. 19. Send reservations to Susan Paley by Dec. 15.
Beth El sends gift to kibbutz A Hanukkah gift of over $600 has been sent to the Conservative Synagogue Kibbutz Hanaton in Israel from Beth El Sisterhood, Beth El Men's Club and the Rabbi's Discretionary Fund. The gift will be used for special playground equipment at the new children's houses at the kibbutz, according to Nancy Skid, Beth El Sisterhood president. ' Kibbutz Hanaton, with approximately 60 adults and 25 children, is situated in the lower part of the Western Galilee, 10 kilometers north of Nazareth. It's economy is derived from a factory which produces crewel and rug kits, milk from sheep which is sold to a neighboring community where it is made into cheese, and from its crops of wheat, oats and vetch. Its educational center provides and conducts programs for synagogue tours, Ramah Israel Seminar, United Synagogue Youth and others. Darlene Golbitz, chairnian of the Nov. 8 Sisterhood luncheon at which Kibbutz Hanaton was highlighted, said that by adopting the kibbutz as a special project "there will be an opportunity to build a bridge between the efforts they are making to foster Conservative Judaism in Israel and the on-going work of our Sisterhood at Beth El."
^^ Parashat VaYeshev Did Potiphar know? From time to time I encourage students to write stories to flesh out the limited details that Bible storytellers give. It is actually one of the admirable traits of the narrators in the Bible that they leave very much to the active imagination of the reader. Thus the reader is drawn as a participant as the story unfolds. Here is the story of Joseph in Egypt, for example. When he is brought down there as part of the merchandise-for-sale caravan of international traders, he is bought by a highranking Egyptian official. Soon he is in full charge of the household, directing other servants in their duties. But he is too graceful, too handsome. His master's wife (unnamed!) tries to seduce him, and when he resists her, she brings charges against him of attempted rape—and Joseph is thrown into prison. This is the Biblical account. An imaginative "addition" to the story might run something like this; Jospeh's grace, ability and natural intelligence soon brought him to the attention of Potiphar, a courtier of the Pharaoh, who had bought him simply because he needed another hand to replace a hand who had been executed for stealing. Potiphar had no need to ask questions about executing a slave. He was chief steward of the Pharaoh, with parallel duties as executioner. Both as chief economist and chief executioner he could do more or less as he liked.
And now he advanced Joseph, quickly, to major domo and chief steward of his own household. What a find! And he had bought this handsome lad for the ordinary price of an ordinary slave! He was confounded when his wife brought charges of attempted rape against Joseph. He questioned Joseph privately and got a full denial. But other servants, jealous of Joseph's rapid a"dvance over them, said, yes, they had long suspected this of Joseph and they had actually seen the attempted assault. But Potiphar knew something else, something that gnawed at him constantly. He knew that this oversexed woman who was his wife had been unfaithful, secretly, several times. But what to do? To exe-. cute Joseph would be easy, of course—but terribly un-just. To let the matter simply rest would shame his • wife; and the whole household would lose face, especially himself The solution? Throw Joseph into prison, with a word to the wisetreat him with especial kindness. So, I think Potiphar knew that it \yas his wife, not Joseph, who had wanted an illicit affair. And further: I think Isaac knew that it was really Jacob who had come in and wrested the dying old man's blessing from his brother .. . And I think thatJacob really knew not to believe the fish story the brothers brought him about a wild beast killing Joseph ... All three held their peace, Isaac and Jacob and Potiphar, and the Bible narratives are much enriched.
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Well, it's that time again! That's right —Hanukkah time is here and while you might outgrow the need to receive a plastic "cheapie" toy every night and the cutting out of construction paper menorahs, you never, ever outgrow the fun of receiving (and giving) gifts. Among the people I talked to, the choice of what gift they would like for Hanukkah this year varied greatly, Derek Altman wants a new compact disc player because it's the "new sound besides tapes," Meredith Lainof wasn't sure what she wanted but that she'd "probably want clothes," Chad Polikov wasn't sure either but decided he'd want a waterbed and, after some hesitation, money. Personally, I'd like a Walkman radio-tape player with all the extras. Oh, by the way, if you don't know what you want or aren't sure, you should decide now and bug your parents (nicely, of course!) to do theii- part in supporting our economy by buying gifts. Almost no one I talked to knew what their favorite gift of all time was. For me, it will be when our family flies to California this winter break, courtesy of my grandparents. Meredith wasn't sure but thought it might be videotapes. Chad thought the best gift he'd ever received was the com-
puter he got three or four years ago because he "wante$i it a lot and also it was a surprise. "He went oh to say that if he could have anything in the world for Hanukkah, it would be a Porche. "I like the looks and it would be fun to drive." The families of most of the people I talked to have the traditional family practices for the holiday, such as lighting candles and being with family. On the other hand, some people had different but most memorable Hanukkahs. Chad liked getting eight little gifts when he was younger. Meredith remembers going to her grandmother's. I remember getting a present every night instead of a couple of "biggies." Before I go, a couple of notes about my column on the Big Game. You have to admit I'm sort of good at predicting the score; I got half of it right by picking Oklahoma to store 17 points! Unfortunately (fortunately for those Oklahoma fans, whoever they are!), Nebraska scored 21 points less than 1 predicted. I'm not going to jinx either the Huskers or the Sooners by niaking any bowl predictions. Also, my apologies to Hubert "Hub" Monsky, an excellent Nebraska player in the late 1930's, who I accidentally left out of my section on great Jewish foot.ball players.
BBYO CONVENTION TheBnai Brith Youth Organization Mid-America Regional Winter Convention will be held in Omaha, Dec. 24-27, at the Holiday Inn Central. BBYO members from St. Louis and Kansas City will attend. The convention theme, "Th^choice of a new generation," will deal with decision-making and today's teens. Workshops and social programming, along with a special program on AIDS, are included. Coordinators Julie Fox and Scott Segal from St. Louis, are working closely with Steering Committee chairmen Kenny Polikov and Rachel Shkolnick of Omaha. Approximately 150 teens are expected at the convention. Any BBYO member may attend. For information contact the BBYO office. The cost for the weekend is $140 and scholarships are available. EDIAR ELECTIO;«JS Ediar BBG held elections on Nov. 22, The new officers are: Rachel Goldberg, president; Wendy Sheldon, vice president; Lori Kooper, secretary; Missy Kirke, treasurer; Tiffani Sherman, editor/historian; Gail Brodkey and Debbie Zacharia, Beau Dance chairmen. MZ ELECTIONS M. Z. Yoshanah BBG held elections on Nov. 22. The new officers are: Jennifer Chandler, president; Robyn Epstein, vice president; Sherri Zucker and Trudi Seiner, secretary/treasurer; Susan Helfeld, editor/historian; Pam Brodkey and Sherri Zucker, Beau Dance chairmen.
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CORNBELT COUNCIL Cornbelt Council of BBG met on Nov. 17 and made changes for the upcoming year. The meeting was led by Council N'siah Rachel Shkolnick. Both Council and chapter offices will become one-year terms beginning in June. It was also decided to permit eighth grade rusbees to be involved in chapter meetings and programs from April to June, 1988. Although these members will not be allowed to attend Beau Dance and Spring Convention, they will be allowed to become active chapter members in April. This was done to allow chapter members to meet and get to know the incoming freshmen before summer vacation. It was also decided to permit freshmen to hold certain offices with upperclassnien and by themselves to encourage the freshmen to get involved. Susan Gurwitch has been elected incoming Council N'siah. She will rijpresent Omaha at BBGRegional conventions and Executive Board Meetings and will be in charge of Council programming for Cornbelt Council BBG. Trudi Seiner was elected Council Beau Dance chairman and will responsible for overseeing and planning Beau Dance with the other chairmen.
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tike ir^cg^y^© Kathy Simon, director of college placement at Brownell Talbot school, was appointed by Senator David Karnes to be a member of the Academy Selection Committee. During the week of Nov. 30-Dec. 4, she interviewed nearly 200 young adults who have expressed an interest in attending one of the United States Service Academies. Dean Karen E. Craig of
Chai/Grand Gifts luncheon The Chai/Grand Gifts appreciation luncheon was held on Dec. 2 at Le Cafe in the Rockbrook Shopping Center with 65 women in attendance. The afternoon began with a "Four-Generational Prayer" offered by Anne Broder, luncheon chairman; her grandmother, Sara Krasne; her mother, Thama Lee Friedman; and her daughter, Kim. Iliey were accompanied on the guitar by Tom Friedman, Mrs. Broder'g brother. The original work spanned the life and thoughts, hopes and dreams of four generations of women from one Omaha Jewish family. Bert Lewis, Women's Campaign chairman, thanked the ladies for coming and for their continued support of the Jewish Federation of Omaha. New York singer/guitarist Judith Steel, a Holocaust survivor, presented a musical prograin of Hebrew, Yiddish and English melodies. Pictured above, from left, are Mrs. Brod^, Chai/Grand Gifts chairman Miriam Simon, Mrs. Steel and Mrs. Lewis. Pictured below, from left, Kim Broder, Willard Friedman (Mrs. Broder's father), Mrs. Broder, Tom l^riedman, Thama Lee Friedman, Sue Millward (Mrs. Broder's sister) and Sara Krasne.
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Rabbi Myer Kripke spoke at the Phi Beta Kappa Annual Founder's Day Dinner on Dec. 5. His topic was "Jews and Christians, Prologue to Dialogue."
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A new group called "Citizens Against Jackson and Anti-Semitism" will hold an organizational meeting Sunday at 11 a.m., during brunch at Beth El Synagogue, according to Dr. Joseph Berk.
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Jewish Press
Page 10
Dec
11. 1987
Ruth Fredman brings Israeli art to Omaha I
By Lynda MirviBh Here he sita on my desk, bulging eyes, grinning mouth gripping phone messages and notes—a carved wooden frog I bought from the Israeli artist Frank Meisler 20 years ago in Jaffa. Imagine my delight when, while waiting to interview Ruth Fredman, I wandered around the Israeli art show at the Jewish Community Center and found myself drawn to the moet charming group of pewter and bronze sculptures depicting sophisticated, jointed animals, Biblical characters, multiuse Henukkah menorahs and intriguing silver pendants, all created by Meisler. These jewel-like creatures were the descendants of my humble frog! One glance at the colordrenched walls of the JCC Gallery made me very eager to meet Ruth Fredman, the owner of Collectors' Comer in St. Louis, who has brought this txUBction of Israeli art to Omaha. And I was not disappointed. She is as warm and colorful as the art she loves so much. Ruth Fredman found out just how much she loved art when she was in the Louvre Museum in Paris. She knew she enjoyed it, but didn't know why. Trained as a biologist and mother of three, the transplanted New Yorker returned to her home in St. Louis determined to learn more about the visual arts that so stirred her. Mrs. Fredman started by audit-
ing courses in art history at Washing University, but became so involved she decided to work for, and earned, her master's degree in that subject. Mrs. Fredman and her husband. Aaron, are observant Jews, deeply committed to supporting the State of Israel. They first visited Israel in 1961 and some years ago realized a life-long dream by buying an apartment in Jerusalem. "Aaron always wanted to own a piece of that city," Mrs. Fredman said. Mrs. Fredman found that she was more and more attracted to the art of Israel, and began to acquire pieces which she brought back to St. Louis. Finally, she gave up her teaching position at a local community college, and opened the Collectors' Comer in the lower level of her home. "The gallery, which is devoted to Israeli art, has its own entrance, but I only see people by appointment. That way I have time for myself and my family and can control my schedule." The schedule must not only allow for operating the gallery in St. Louis, but Mrs. Fredman, with the help of her husband, also brings the gallery to Jewish Community Centers around the country. "We are all set up to travd," Mrs. Fredman explained. "My husband has a furniture store, so we can use his expertise and facilities to bring an exhibit easily to another commu-
nity." At first, the Fredmans packed the pieces into a van and drove themselves. Now they are a little more sophisticated, they fly and have a truck driver deliver the exhibit! Active in Jewish community affairs, Mrs. Fredman is a member of the St. Louis Federation Fine Arts Committee (she is a past chairman). Earlier this year the Fine Arts Committee arranged a Chagall show at the Federation building. They were able to gather about 70 pieces frmn private collections and the show was a great success both for the Jewish and general communities. The exhibit at the Omaha JCC opened Dec. 6 and will continue through Dec. 20, coinciding with the Jewish Federation Library's Book Fair. The show features works by artists as wellknown as Agam, Reuven Rubin, Aharon Bezalel, and others whose names are fast becoming familiar in this country. Whether your taste runs to the primitive, brightlydetailed scenes by Seelig; mystical, calligraphic collages of Michel; colorful, quilted or band-stitChed
Rabbi Myer Kripke, rabbi emeritus of Beth El Synagogue, spoke at the Phi Beta Kappa annual Founder's Day Dinner at Clark's Cafe on Dec. 5. Phi Beta Kappa was founded 211 years ago on Dec. 5, 1776; Rabbi Kripke, a 54-year member of Phi Beta Kappa, spoke on "Jews and Christians: Prologue to Dia-
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"This is about half my gallery's inventory," Mrs. Fredman told me. "I work directly with most of the artists whose pieces I show and, I would like to add, to the best of my knowledge my prices are the same as you would pay in Israel for the same piece. "And, by the way, you don't only have to hang or place art," Mrs. Fredman said as she modeled a spectacular quilted jacket made by Bracha Lavee, "now you can wear it too!" So if you're looking for a Hanukkah gift for someone special—or for yourself, prices range from $12,000 for Agam's multi-dimensional "Polymorph," the costliest piece on display, to $110 for a silver pendant.
ISRAEL'S INDEPENDENCE By Helen Schwartz Let's pretend you're an astronaut. You and your crew have taken off from Cape Canaveral and have been circling the world for a number of hours when, all of a sudden, your spac^ ship develops a mechanical problem. You realize you must land very soon and in calculating your speed and time, find that your space ship could land safely in a mid-Eastem country. Naturally, you want to land in a country that is very friendly to the United States. You and your crew land in Israel. Mechanics have checked your space ship and informed you that it can be repaired. However, all the necessary parts must come from the United States and will take 10 days to two weeks for them to arrive, get your ship repaired and a launchpad made. You have 10 days to two weeks to spend visiting Is-
Phi Beta Kappa group hears Rabbi Myer Kripke
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wall-hangings by Koppel and Lavee; paper cUt pictures by Dvora; etchings; the extraordinary " Agamographs" created by Agam (just to mwJtion a few of the artists represented); or mezzuzot of plexiglas, pewter, brass or ceramic and inviting metal sculptures, you will find your eye entranced by the variety and individuality of the pieces on display.
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logue." Rabbi Kripke traced the changing emphasis of the National Conference of Christians and Jews from the 1920's to the present. Initially the Conference focused on "Brotherhood" and set aside a month when a Catholic priest, a Protestant minister and a Jewish rabbi would travel to communities aroimd the country. The Holocaust, the 1967 Arab-Israeli war and Vatican II changed the emphasis. He noted that he heard many Christian sermons on the question of abortion, but none on the Holocaust. Rabbi Kripke has been active in the recent dialogue through his presentations to the Catholic community at Creighton University and to Lutherans at Dana College in Blair. His criticism is that acknowledgment by church leaders of the Christian error of teaching contempt for the Jews, the basis for antiSemitism, has not been acknowledged from the pulpit and taught in the classrooms.
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Among those attending the dinner from the Jewish community were Forrest Knitter, Deborah Denenberg, Leon and Sylvia Summer, Dorothy Kripke, Jack and Jean Duitch, and Oliver B. Pollak.
rael. What are you going to do? What are you going to see? Write and tell us how you would spend your "pretend" time in Israel and why. What are you going to see and what are the things you plan to do? This is the story of Yom Ha'AUmaut's 1988 writing contest. Please do not make your entry more than two pages.. All entries • will be number coded. Do not write your name on your entry. Put your age and school grade in the upper righthand corner of your first page so your entry can be placed in the proper age category. On a sepwate sheet of paper, put your name, address, phone number, age and school. The judges will not see anyone's name or school on an entry. Put yoiu- sheets in an envelope and address it tp: Israeli988Contest, Jewish Community Center, 333 S. 132 Street, Omaha, NE 68154; or you may leave your envelope at the main desk of the JCC. The contest deadline is Jan. 20, 1988. Awards will be given to first- and second- place winners in each age group. The judges are looking forward to receiving entries from children in Council Bluffs, Lincoln, Omaha, and children who read the Jewish Press in other cities.
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Beth Israel honors Fettmans Cantor and Mn. Leo Fettman will celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary at a special Friday evening Oneg Shabbat reception tendered in their honor by the Beth Israel Sisterhood. The reception will follow the late family service on Dec. 11. The Fettmans have been port of the Beth Israel congregational family for the past 13 years and have l>een active in both synagogue and community activities.
University to establish Polish/Jewish archive
Bv Ben Kayfetz TORONTO (JTA) Toronto's billionaire Reichmann family has taken the first step toward what may become Canada's costliest libel action. Brothers Albert, Paul and Ralph Reichmann, who head the giant Olympia aad York Developments, and their mother, Renee, have served Toronto Life magazine with a notice of intention to sue under the Libel and Slander Act. A statement detailing their claims is likely to be served within several weeks. Among those named in the notice are Toronto Life Publishing Co., publisher Peter Hermdorf, editor Marq De Villiers and Elaine Dewar, author of the 53,000-word article in the November edition, entitled "The Mysterious Reichmanns—The Inside Story." The article was illustrated with Jewish symbols and published in the November edition of the magazine. The magazine sent Dewar to nine countries in five continents for research. The family is thought to object to suggestions in the article that their financial transactions in Tangier were of financial benefit to Axis powers. The family originated in a village in Hungary, moved to Vienna after World War I, and found refuge in Tangier during World War II. The Reichmanns are known to be strictly observant Jews.
By Haviva Krasner NEW YORK (JTA) - In said. "It's scattered all an attempt to develop a new over." • The materials are being generation of experts in Polish-Jewish studies, the collected, identified and inUniversity of Connecticut is ventoried by 14 graduate organizing a major project students—two American, whose main component is three British, six Israeli and establishment of an archive three Polish. The Polish stuof Polish-Jewish materials dents began their work last summer at the Hebrew Uniat the university. "After a Conference of versity of Jerusalem, while worldwide Polish-Jewish others worked at Jagiellostudies scholars held in nian University in Krakow. ELECTED Krakow last faU, it became Their work was partially NEW YORK (JTA) apparent that something sponsored by the Project had to be done," said Judaica Foundation of Delegates representing the Professor Saul Ellas, in- Washington, D.C., which 80,000 members of AMIT terim vice president for aca- awarded $36,692 for the Women unanimously electdemic affairs at the univer- program, and will raise ed Daisy Berman the new sity. "All of the scholars funds in conjunction with National President of the orwho attended were in their the university from private ganization, along with a new • and federal sources to sup- slate of officers, succeeding 70s or 808." Frieda Kufeld. The archive will house port the archives. "enormous quantities of materials,'' said Elias, that must be retrieved from Poland or transferred from the Dec. 13-14—Conference on "Addiction and Jews: Its ImYad Vashem Holocaust me- pact on the Individual, the Family and the Community"— morial in Jerusalem or the at Temple Beth Zion-Beth Israel, Philadelphia. Hebrew University in JeruDec. 27-30—Conference on "Jewish.Identity in the 21st salem. "The stuff is without Century "^at the University of California at Los Angeles. rhyme or reason," Elias
National Calendar
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Jewish Pr«M
Pag* 11
Gary Gross
the quiet philanthropist orchestra to make more money to live on," Mrs. Gross said. She said he played on KMTV and was the first local band to play at the Pax ton Hotel. Meanwhile, his insurance business began to grow. After he became involved in the insurance business, "Gary continued his love of music by supporting the Symphony," Mrs. Gross said. She also spoke of tlie hours they spent together at the piano in their home playing duets her husband wrote for them. "Gary played the piano and the trumpet and no one over knew his left arm was paralyzed to the elbow," Mrs. Gross said. "He had poho when he was three or four but even David didn't know until his father was dying and he saw the Ump arm resting on tlie hospital bed." Gary Gross David Gross did not follow his father's trumpet playing but instead played the clarBy Lynda Frank inet and piano for many years. He was not Gary Gross would have disliked this the prodigy his father was but the love of story. music was inherited. "I like classical, jazz Although he died last October, his mem- and rock music, but mostly classical and ory is being perpetuated in many ways and jazz," he said. • his acts of kindness and philanthropy are emerging into the pubhc domain. Jewish Press interest in Mr. Gross was sparked as a result of many. telephone calls "I was hooked" after his death, and the public attention paid to him recently by the Omaha Symphony and the insurance company he founded. About seven years ago, he became inAnd as an added incentive, his son, volved with the Symphony's Men's CounDavid, is now following in the proverbial cil and "I was hooked," he said. "Omaha footsteps with emphasis on the Symphony, needs the Symphony and the Symphony insurance, and yes, even golf. needs Omaha. It's good for the commuIt was somewhat easy to notice the obvi- nity," he added. Ms. Potter said the younous memorials to the late Mr. Gross—the ger Mr. Gross "is private and involved, like existence of a tea room in the Rose Blum- his father, and wants to carry on the tradikin Jewish Home, a back-page advertise- tion, it seems." ment on the Symphony program. He also followed his father into the insurBut, getting to the essence of the man's ance business. In 1979, his father's first philanthropy necessitated talking with fam- company was sold to a company in Switzerily members, friends, and Symphony land. Tlie elder Mr. Gross then started a spokesmen. new insurance company, employing five A devoted member of the Omaha Sym- people. Today, Acceptance Insurance Co. phony, Gary Gross served on the board of has 50 employees and his son is vice presidirectors, the executive board and executive dent. committee for many years. "I love the insurance business. If I wasn't in insurance, though, 1 probably would have been a professional golfer," the younger Mr. Gross said. "He was generous... Gary Gross had enjoyed golf and began giving his son golf lessons when he was only "He was generous with his time, talent three years old. Later, the younger Mr. and money," said Kathy Potter, director of Gross also took professional lessons. "My development for the Symphony. "He gave husband wanted David to be a professional us wisdom and was very helpful finan- golfer," Mrs. Gross said. "My father would cially." come to all the tournaments 1 played and David Gross, vice president of Accep- either rode with me in a cart or followed me. tance Insurance Co., is also president of the He shared my highs ajid lows with me," Omaha Symphony Men's Council, a social, David Gross said. educational and fundraising arm of the symMrs. Gross described her husband as a phony. Speaking of the nature of his' homebody and said they woUld stay up very father's generosity the younger Mr. Gross late talking or hstening to old jazz records. said, "For example, the director of the Sym- However, she also said her husband was a phony would come to my father and tell him very generous man who gave of himself they needed a new instrument and my dad both in time and money to a variety of orwould write out a check." ganizations and individuals. She said she . Ms. Potter described the elder Mr. Gross isn't sure.how many people he helped over as "a quiet and private person who didn't the years but she has received many, many want accolades or fanfare. He did it because letters from people and added "the number he loved the Symphony." In response to all of people who came from all over to his« he had done for the Symphony, last year funeral showed how much they cared." they honored Gary and Rose Gross by ded"His secret," Mrs. Gross said of her husicating a Tchaikovsky concert to them and band, "was making you feel you were the at the first concert of this season, director best at whatever you did and he had a Bruce Hangen dedicated the second half of knack for making people feel they could do the program, also Tchaikovsky, to the mem- anjrthing. He enjoyed giving and he always ory of Gary Gross. Ms. Potter also noted said he liked to give. He gave money to anyAcceptance Insurance Co. made a large do- body and everybody that asked him. If you nation in his memory to kick off the Sym- came and asked him, he couldn't say no." phony's annual fund drive. As an example, Mrs. Gross cited a recent Gary Gross' love of music stemmed from incident where somebody from Rotary his youth. According to his wife, he was asked for money for a project and although called "a child prodigy trumpeter" because he didn't know what it was, her husband he had no formal training. "He learned from gave a donation anyway. the caretaker of an apartment building," Among those who have-benefited from she said. At age 14, he dropped out of school Gary Gross' financial support are Creighto help support his family by playing with ton University, Jewish Philanthropies, Jeworchestras. He also played with the Sym- ish Community Center, Boys' Club. Rotary. phony, at the Brandeis "Tea Room and with Beth El Synagogue and the Rose Blumkin the Brandeis Theater Orchestra. Eventually Home. His wife said he was supportive of he went to New York and played with a cou- many individuals, too. And in addition to ple of big bands and then started his own the Symphony Boards he was a Board orchestra. When the Depression began, member of Beth El and the Jewish Federacausing the break-up of many orchestras, tion of Omaha, a director of American Nahe returned to Omaha tional tfank and a lifelong honorary memOn his return, the out-of-work musician's h& of the Musicians' Union. sister advised him, "When you don't know Gary Gross might not have liked this anything you sell insurance." After the war, story but he deserves it, not only for what the senior Mr, Gross formed his own insur- he did for the community but for instilling ance comptuiy. "When he first got back he his ideals in his son who is perpetuating made only $30 a week so he organized an them.
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Jawish Pr*u
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lme<0)M fliglkis) By Estelle Rosenberg Rabbi James Simon will address the Lincoln Jewish Community at Tifcreth Israel Synagogue on Dec. 12, 7:30 p.m. Kabbi Simon's topic is " Is there only room in Israel for Orthodox Judaism?" At the conclusion of Rabbi Simon's presentation, questions from the audience will be answered. Refreshments will be served following the program. Rabbi Simon joined the Union of American Hebrew Congregations as director of the Midwest Council in the summer of 1986. He received his undergraduate degree from the University of California in Santa Barbara and his juris doctor from Hastings Law School of the University of California in 1974. Rabbi Simon was ordained at Hebrew Union College in Cincinnati in 1983 and served as associate rabbi at Temple Beth Ah in Miami from 1983-86. Rabbi Simon is a third generation Reform Jew with roots in the Midwest. Although born and reared in California, his.family roots "are in Omaha, Sioux City, Council Bluffs and Kansas Citv.
Ibvs^rtt's <!Ey(K ^I(S^«y
Nili Twersky and Leah Weiss are chairmen. The cost is $6 for adults and $2.50 for children. Make reservations with Laurie Misle, 488-1359.
By Bert Lewis
One of my favorite authors began each chapter of a recent book like this: It was a quiet week in the hometown. Then he went on to relate intricate, involved tales that made the The Hadassah Study reader know it wasn't really quiet. We had Itind of the same Group will meet Dec. 21, 9:30 fi.m., at the home of Essituation around my family. Let me share some of it with ther Rae Chesnin, 3520 you. , To start with, we were lucky enough to have out-of-town South 37 Street. Suri Jacknis will lead the discussion. family visitors who don't get here very often. They're merhbers who hold a special place in everyone's heart so it was a treat. As usual, each time we sat down together it was nostalgia time and there was lots of "do-you-rememberThe fourth annual South when-we-used-to ... ?" Street Temple Children's Friday night around the table was especially geshmahk— Hanukkah Shopping BaCantor Harold Firestone and his wife, Madeleine, reno other word describes it. I must say when childhood nickzaar will take place Dec. 13 hearse their music for the Temple Israel Hanukkah connames were recalled and the explanation for why this one at noon. The Bazaar, which cert, Sunday at 3 p.in. Cantor Firestone is using a Kurzwas called "katchka" and that one was called "brayta provides a place for children weil electronic keyboard. nuze," hilarity was the order of the day. ages three-12 to buy inexAmong some of the details which kept it from being a pensive handmade gifts for quiet week was a comedy of errors that almost defies underfamily and friends, is open standing.' 1 had left my guests alone for a couple of hours to the entire Jewish commuThe five-part "Afjartheid" major events, forces and to attend a previously arranged appointment. In my nity. mini-series, produced by leaders who guided South absence, a series of things happened which made them The gift shop^vill also be public television's public af- Africa from the early settle- think they had accidentally gotten into a Peter Sellers open on Dec. 13. Suzanne fairs series Frontline, will ments in 1962 to 1986. The movie! It seems one was on the phone when suddenly she Strieff will take special premiere on the Nebraska programs are intended to was disconnected. The phone went dead and nothing orders throughout the year. ETV Network on Dec. 15 at provide viewers with a thor- revived it. Okay, she was cool. What she didn't know was 9 p.m. The program traces ough understanding of the this: our security system has misfired somehow and a silent roots of today's black acti- alarm went off telling the security people something or Jhe South Street Temple 400 years of South Africa vism and the white govern- somebody had broken into our place. racial history—from the extends mazel tov to Harment's oscillation between early battles between white From nowhere, with no explanation, my front door was vey Schwartz on his apreform and repression. opened and there appeared the girl from the downstairs pointment as executive Afrikaners and black AfriThe fifth episode of. office, accompanied by the police. Within seconds, a neighdirector of the Nebraska cans, through decades of British domination to the "Apartheid," produced by bor also joined them and shortly after that my roommate Republican Party. creation of apartheid, the Frontline, documents the came charging in to see what was the matter. They walked development of the black re- historic meetings in July, in to a lady who couldn't imagine what was going on and The South Street Temple sistance movement and the 1987, between liberal dissi- a man who wasn't sure whether or not it was an invasion Neal Unger. of San Franlatest attempts to reconcile dent white Afrikaners and from another planet! cisco recently visited his Congregational Latke Party leaders from the exiled blacks and whites. Well, what can I tell you—utter chaos. In due time it was will take place at the Temmother, Faye Unger, and atThe fb-st four programs in black African national Con; all straightened out and when the repair man from the ple at 6 p.m. on Dec. 19. The tended Dorothy Evnens mini-series were gress. The meetings, out- security company came out he discovered a short in the cost is $3 for adults, $2 for the 85th birthday celebration. produced by England's lawed in South Africa, were system and a dead battei-y and I don't know what all else. children. Suzanne Kalish is coor- Granada Television and held in the West African But he fixed it and nothing like that should happen again. The Hadassah Hanukkah dinating arrangements. were filmed over several countries of Senegal, Bur- Allevie. We could do without such nonsense! And my auntie Family Supper and Cankina-Faso and Ghana. (who was on the phone when it went dead) decided she won't dlelighting will be held Dec. Reservations may be made months in 1985 and 1986, use it imless it's absolutely necessary.) 15,6:15 p.m. at theTifereth with Bonnie Lapin, 489- working without the cooperNo, it really wasn't "a quiet week," but it was a good Israel Synagogue. Hadas- 9183. The evening will in- ation of the South African one. If I could have arrangeid it, there would have been sunsah members and Hadassah clude a gift exchange (ap- and under severe press-censhine each day and mild temperatures, but our Califomiana Associates and their fami- proximately $2) for adults sorship. These programs detail the A review met the challenge and never complained. Actually, they get and children. lies may attend. a kick out of a little snow. Fortunately it was only a little. The good part was the human contact. The family memBy Madeleine Firestone bers who most needed the extra hugs got them, plus a few "Walking Through encouraging words which were also needed. Walls" is another thoughtI guess the bottom line must be simple. No matter what provoking, interdisciplinary fancy stuff you yearn for and maybe get, no matter where production—the kind we've you go or What you do, nothing takes the place of family come to expect from The connection. Brothers and sisters need each other, period. Magic Theater. It combines We're thankful for the little episode we participated insculpture, visuals, music even though it included mishagoss like the security sysand text, and a very able, tem accident. We hope they come back soon. energetic cast that bring it I Moies-Gopliers • SIR SPEEDY PHINTINO CENTER to life. The new swivel seats at We make You ^^Sir I Call the Prolesslonal | the theater are a great imv,y^ LookGood^ SpBady' S tor 5 provement and an asset in Fast. Low Cost. I Pest Control f helping one enjoy the show; Qualily Printing & More as you can easily turn your I ^ ATLAS ^ Free Pick Up & Delivcty chair to follow the action. " s t; Pest Control ••FOR SERVICE CALL" "Walking Through Tlii.s Clianukiih, Mark Silberstein or Walls" dares you to be yourCarlTichauer ^dUJi. S5a-3094 let us kindle the lights lor Soviet Jews. self and interact with 3706S. 132n0 330-5050 others, by tearing down the Let us at the same time assist all Jews in need conventional wedls that septhrough our IJA I ederaticni Campaign. arate people. Some walls are necessary, to be sure, to -% Fabulous Hanukkah gift give us privacy and inner A strong Israel for the family! space, but some walls conand a united Jewish eomnnmit\ strict and keep one from usThe Original ing his full creative abiliwill help insure a bright Jew ish liiture. ties—these are the walls to be broken and walked through to attain freedom of spirit. "Croon like Sinatra or 1 found this production, Rock'n'Roll like Elvis" , like other Magic Theater productions, to be original Available nowl Limited Supply! and meaningful. In an age of trivia, it is important to at BERT LEWIS have a deeper look at ourLEONARD LEWIS Chairman, Women's Campaign selves and our society. Some CbBlnnan, Men's Campaign MIRIAM SIMON of the script is poetic and NELSON GORDMAN 131 Petticoat Lane some of it is very funny. It Chairman, Chal Grand Gifts Division Chairman, Paceiettcr DlTlilon 18 introspective and exaWestroads mines the structure of our 397-0822 1988 JEWISH FEDERATION OF OMAHA CAMPAIGN conditioning. The music fits the script well. It is a highly charged and innovative theRegular $450 atrical experience, a chaltSMOBArFOKTr Hanukkah Special $399 lenging alternative to traditional theater. hip^d b» tw M««* UnHK) JW.WI1 *«IPMI •• • J»**> K
Music makers
PBS airs 'Apartheid' mini-series
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Singing Machine
Crooner's