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Celebrating Over 75 Years
VoLLXXIV
No. 43
29 Sivan, S7S7
Omaha, NE
Tempi® Israel's High School receives Spielberg and Livingston grants by Elyce Azriel. Director
Temple Israel's High School has received a Steven Spielberg/Righteous Persons Foundation Grant and a Milton and Corinne Livingston Foundation Grant for eligible 12th graders to participate in the program "Panim El Panim/Washington Institute for Jewish Leadership and Values." This program was founded in January, 1988, and started bringing student to Washington for the Institute in December of the same year. Some of the top professionals in the fields of Jewish education and Jewish community relations serve on an Advisory Board and Board of Trustees of the Institute. "Panim El Panim/W.I.J.L.V." is an independent organization with no religious- or political attachments. Therefore, it has gained acceptance across the spectrum of the Jewish community. Students from the Reform, Conservative and Orthodox movements will learn: and discuss issues that will affect their society and the Jewish community in the future. "Panim El Panim," will offer eligible 12th graders in Omaha's Jewish community the opportunity to learn about public policy and Jewish values in the nation's capital. • These seminars help young American Jews see
j cal, social and political issues facing our nation and our world. Not only do the seminars result in heightened pride in Jewish identity and appreciation for the work of the organized Jewish community, but students also come to understand their special responsibility to effect Tikkun Olam, repairing of the world. Having been deeply moved by the experience of directing the film Schindler's List, Steven Spielberg decided to donate his portion of the film's profits to help support a flourishing and vibrant future for the Jewish community. He consequently ; established the Righteous Persons Foundation. The Foundation believes that "American Jewry has an opportunity to create a true renaissance.in Jewish life and to articulate Jewish identity in terms that are positive, relevant and authentic. It is a moment to build a community that is spiritually meaningful, Jewishly literate, and committed not only to its
Omahans to attend annual Hadassah convention Celebrating the 100th anniversary of Zionism, nearly 2,000 delegates and participants from the 50 states and Puerto Rico are expected to attend the 83rd annual convention of Hadassah,. the Women's Zionist Organization of America, July 1316 in Chicago. Attending from Omaha will be Beth Gaynes-Ginsberg, President; and Sandra Kohll. . Highlights of the 1997 convention will include: • A group Bat Mitzvah and Hebrew naming ceremony for more than 100 women who never had a Bat Mitzvah or received a Hebrew name'; • Addreses by U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Donna Shalala, Christopher Meilui, Swiss guard fired'for saving wartime documents from a bank's shredder, and Dr. Ruth Westheimer; • Launch of the first International Research Institute on Jewish Women; • Exploration of the influence movies and television have on public opinion; • Medical ethics and physician-assisted suicide; • A book signing party for It Takes a Dream, the newly published history of Hadassah from its beginnings 85 years ago. Written by Marlin Levin, its foreWard is by Elie Wiesel.
own transformation, but transforming the world." The seminar has taught the true meaning that Jewish education is not just "learning about" Judaism. Ifs not reading about Judaism. It is living Judaism. It's not thinking about Judaism. It's doing Jewish things. Ifs not dreaming about a better world, it's making this world better. The seminars include a hands-on lobbying session with public officials and study sessions, which examine Jewish text material relating to public policy issues. The program is .now co-certified by The George Washington University which can make it an attractive addition to a student's application to colleges. Additionally, many students who have participated from other communities have been able to arrange special credit from their high school social studies departments. Over 3,300 students from 85 communities across the United States have already participated in this four-day leadership program. Typical group size is 50-60 students. Temple Israel High School expressed gratitude to both Foundations for their support of this program. Jerry Kiewe, Assistant Director of W.I.J.L.V., noted that this is the first time any congregation or Jewish organization in Omaha has . received a-jjr.anfc.from,the•Rijjhjteous-. Persons Foundation. He also stated in a letter that "You. (Temple Israel) should also be aware that to date, only two other communities besides your own were awarded the maximum grant amount" The agency receives about 200 grant requests per month, of which the foundation honors less than one percent, according to Rachel Levin, program officer. The Foundation is a grant-making organization dedicated to strengthening Jewish communal life. The curriculum that will be used for the participating seniors was written by the Institute. One of the co-authors, Mark Levine, will be in Omaha to conduct a workshop for those involved in the program on July 14. The curriculum is recommended for use prior to the students' visit to Washington to maximize the gains derived from participation in "Panim El Panim/W.I.J.L.V."
July 4,1997
Jewish Senior Services recognizes volunteers by Mary Fellman
Ann Belmont was named "Volunteer of the Year," at the first Jewish Senior Services recognition luncheon held recently at the Jewish Community Center.
TiUie Plotkin Ann Belmont Ann began her career work 24 years ago when her mother became a resident of the Dr. Sher Home. Since that time, she has participated in the Gift Shop organization, LOVE program, banquets, Pan and raffle tournaments and holiday parties, as well as the Hadassah Oneg Shabbats. Special recognition was also given to Joan Bernstein for a number of areas of service and leadership. Also receiving recognition from Lois Wine, Volunteer Coordinator, and Barbara Gottlieb, Executive Director of the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home; were. Shabbat and holiday service leaders Don Schwartz, Harry Noodell, Scott Bresler, Mark Levy, Steven Riekes, Alan Shulewitz, Yale Halperin, Harold Gottlieb, Phyllis Hoffman, Albert Friedman, Nancy and Sheldon Rips, Rabbi Maximo Shechet, Rabbi Myer S. Kripke, Cantor Leo Fettman and David Perelo. Groups receiving applause and recognition were B'nai B'rith Women, Temple Israel Caring Committee, Omaha Chapter of Hadassah, Beth Israel Religious School, Temple Israel Religious School, Beth El Caring Committee, Rabbi Gavriel Herzig, Headmaster of the Friedel Jewish Academy, and Beth Israel Sisterhood. The event honored more than 100 volunteers in 20 areas of service. TiUie Plotkin, a resident of the Home, expressed the thanks of the residents. ' In a "Salute to Home Volunteers of 1997," Lenora Lancaster, Executive Assistant of the Home, said, "The volunteers are the most important group to cross our door, the best in the land."
JCC Cultural Arts department offers scholarships The Dorothy Lustgarten Riekes Music Fund Scholarships for private music lessons were awarded to four youngsters ages 5-14. The late Mrs. Riekes waB a talented violinist and musician who loved children. She always wanted to provide for those children, especially Russian Jewish immigrants who might not have the means to develop their talent. The Fund is maintained by the Foundation of the Jewish Federation of Omaha.
From left: Marcia Ldpsman, Chairman of the JCC Theatre committee, presents scholarships to Robert Mosenkis, 10; Vitally Tsyrlin, 13; and Pavel Tsyrlin, 10. Not pictured: James Spellman, 14,
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
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July 4,1997
3706 S. 132nd Street Phone (402) 330-5050
by Rabbi MyerS. Kripke
Deaths EILEENS.ERMAN Services for Eileen Erman were held. June 30 at Temple Israel with burial at Temple Israel Cemetery. She died June 29 at the age of 56. Survivors include her husband, Michael; children, Stacey and Jonathan Rockman and Lori and Michael Miller; grandchildren, Oliver and Caroline Rockman and Hannah Miller, all of Omaha. Memorials to The Eileen Erman Fund, Child Development Center, c/o Jewish Federation Foundation, 333 So. 132nd St., Omaha, NE 68154. ROLAND KAHN Roland Kahn of Las Vegas, formerly of Omaha, died in Las Vegas at the age of 63.' He was preceded in death by his wife, Gloria (Dolly). Survivors include a son, Brett; daughters, Kim, lisa and Melanie; seven grandchildren; and two brothers, Allen of Omaha and Stewart of Olathe, KS. EVAPASSER Services for Eva Passer of Council Bluffs were held June 29 at Bikhor Cholim (Oak Hill Cemetery). She died June 27 at the age of 90. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ben, and son, Jerry. Survivors include daughter, Linda Esterby of Denver; daughter-in-law, Fefe Passer of Omaha; seven grandchildren; and eight greatgrandchildren;
The Rights of the Dissenter In our regular schedule of readings from the DEADLINES HAVE NO MERCY Torah, we have come to the story of Korah. In surRemember2 things: ^ Onlta66 ^ prising stories of complaints against the leaderOur Bulletin Board Service is open 24 hours, 7 days a week ship of Moses, Korah's dissent is the most serious. And in this week of Korah's story, we come to July Free BBS Software! 'BBS; 330-3900 Fourth, the great, story of dissent in the American colonies —which led, in time, to the creation of the United States of America. The American Jewish homilist is almost commanded to reflect on these. two — Korah and Independence Day. What are the rights of the dissenter? Is his pubAlan H. Friedman lic dissent ever justified? Under what conditions? President Since he knows he dissents from public law and Graduate Gemologist order, should he bow to the majority and hold his 9107 Wilshire Boulevard. Suite 320 peace? Was Korah, the Great Dissenter, simply Beverly Hills, California 90210 impudent, to voice his complaints against Moses 888*489*4545 • Fax 310*278*5449 and Aaron? Were the American patriots right in rebelling against Britain? Member of West Coast Diamond Club Estate Jewelers Association of America The midrash for our Parashah includes many American Gem Trade Association reflections of the ancient rabbis where imagination is allowed to run free. It is taken for granted that Korah is guilty and is to be executed. In one (tasteless) comment, Korah is punished by both methods of execution: burning and by being swallowed up in the yawning maw of the earth, so that neither of the two groups who suffered execution could com100's of beautiful new items, plain that Korah got the easier death. Tasteless Tribute to Frank and pointless. including by Mary Fellman Another comment, more serious, suggests the A number of years ago, I asked Frank Ackerman, Mezuzahs and tyranny of halakhah. Here, Korah could have former Editor of the JewisR Press, to share some Tzadaka Boxes said, is a whole garment of t'helet (blue). Yet you, of his remembrances. In 1989, he wrote An Moses, say it does not fulfill the obligation of tzitz- Odyssey to Yesteryear, which I quote from in tribHurry in to enjoy the beauty of Israel it, since it does not have a cord of blue...And here, ute to Frank, who died recently at the age of 87: only at... Korah might have said, is a room with a full text of "Late in the 1920's, a dynamic salesman with Miracle Hills y the Torah in it. Yet you, Moses , say that does not lofty ambitions, David Blacker, bought the Jewish Square ( fulfill the obligation of having two tiny passages of 757 14 st Press from Nathan Green. In those days, the Press the Torah in a container on the doorpost, a was an independent weekly, privately owned and mezuzah. But the essential flaw in Korah's rebel- not subsidized by the Jewish community. 445-8880 * / Qtia. & $« lion was his urge to self-aggrandizement. "I'm a Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. "1928 found the Jewish Press edited full-time Sun., by appointment Levi too. Why do you,- Moses, and your brother, by my first cousin and closest friend, Irv Aaron, lord it over us? We're Levites just like you!'. Perimeter, step-brother of Mort Richards. Since I "But the Lord appointed us, not we ourselves! was so close to Irv, it was a natural that I was soon Your dissent is against the Lord, not against us!" CUP & SAVE writing Sports Splinter; a weekly column. Turning to the rebellious colonists, there is no "When Irv was offered a chance to climb a few apparent yearning for position and private glory rungs up the journalistic ladder, the position of C c among the galaxy of brilliant writers and idea- Editor opened and Dave offered it to me. L L men. Their complaint was intellectual and political I "Though.our Publisher, Dave Blacker, was an I and societal. It was principle that motivated them, outstanding salesman, it was not easy meeting P P not personal advancement. The dissenters willing- expenses. So, we hired Dave "Red" Greenberg, who & MONDAY, JULY 7 ly risked life itself for principle. The British would became a high-producing canvasser. In the meannot be slow to hang the leaders of the revolution if time, Creighton University students were selling s YES Meeting, 9:30 a.m. S they, the British had prevailed. A subscriptions to the Press. Soon, we could afford a Thus, motive seems to be at least one criterion full-time office secretary and an artist. V TUESDAY, JULY 8 that justifies or does not justify dissent. But we "After two years as Editor (and receiving a cum Hebrew Speaking Group, 11:45 a.m. E must bring ourselves up short to see that justifica- laude law degree from Creighton) Dave Blacker BBYO Night, 6 p.m. tion does not imply success to the dissenters. What asked me to practice law and edit the Press. Milton Beth El Executive Committee about these dissenting colonists? History reminds Abrahams had his law office on the same floor and us sad human beings that justice does not always offered to handle legal matters for me when I was Meeting, 7:30 p.m., at Beth El prevail, that what is right does not always win, otherwise tied up. that contingency and chance enter every situation. "In 1934, we bought the bankrupt South Omaha WEDNESDAY, JULY 9 Raw power overcomes justice and often defines Sun and transferred the printing to our own plant Breadbreakers, noon, Highland justice. across from South High School. And because of my Country Club We sometimes think it was dastardly for the other interests, Leonard Nathan of the Nathan Arabs to attack Israel on Yom Kippur. Do Lakes family, was then hired to edit the Press. American Jews have the same feeling about THURSDAY, JULY 10 "Any recollection of the years I edited the Washington's attack on the British and their Jewish Press would be remiss if I did not mention Walk-in Drop-in, 9:30 a.m. hirelings on Christinas Eve, when they were the vigorous gifted leadership from all segments Resettlement Committee Meeting, drinking and carousing? Was this brilliant or for every community office. The JTA lauded the 7 p.m. nasty? Omaha Jewish Philanthropies for collecting more The whole problem leaves us uncertain of per capita than any other community. A titan in FRn>AY,JULYll c answers. If the Nazis had prevailed, would there Jewish Philanthropies was H.A. Wolf, who was have been trials in Birmingham and Baltimore, housed in the Brandeis Theater building also. L Russian Club, 9:30 a.m. instead of Nuremberg? i "A peer among givers and leaders was William The progress of humankind leaves much to be Holzman of the Nebraska Clothing Company. p & desired, so very much that the centuries cannot Harry Zimman was unbeatable in the race for city & overlook nor history deny. Nature has not yet pros s duced a mankind worthy of our abilities and aspi- council. The firm of Henry Monsky could go headA All events held at the JCC unless otherwise Indicated. A to-head with the finest, and the law firm of Sam rations. And nature will not, since it is indifferent Beber reached toward the pinnacle with Philip V The Jewish Press is not responsible for the accuracy of the v _ above events. To keep calendar accurate or for questions, p to morality. Klutznick, who started here as Director of AZA. •-. call MarieneHert at 334-6437. . Jews necessarily revert to the values of the mil"My stint with the Jewish Press brought me in lennia of Judaism. It is hoped that one day the val- contact with so many leaders, like Dr. Philip Sher ues of continuing Torah will be internalized in and Jack Marer; so many businesses, like human life. Herzbergs, Goldstein-Chapman and Brandeis. • "And so ends the precious seven-year tie-in with PHARMACY & HOMECARE CORRECTION the Jewish Press, the saga of yesteryear, in In last week's story about books for Jewish essence an editor's portrayal of the panorama of'' • Delivery Service Senior Services, the books were donated by the golden era." • I Friends of the Omaha Public Library, not Swanson 50th & Dodge 553-8900 (A complete copy of this article is available in Library as reported. The information was incor- the Nebraska Jewish Historical Society). \ — CUP & SAVE :— *• niHTIKC • {OPTING • DIGIMl HHWOII
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July 4, 1997
TEMPLE ISRAEL Member of the Union of American Mebttjw Congregations 7023 Case Street, Omaha, HE 68132 ! " . * 556-6536 SUMMER SCHEDULE: From July 4 through Aug. 29, Shabbat evening service will be held at 7:30 p.m.; Shabbat morning service will start each Saturday at 10:30 aan. FRIDAY: Shabbat service, 7:30 p.m. Rabbi Stiel and Dr. Michael Walts will officiate. The Friday evening summer services will be dedicated to the study of the State of Israel as we explore its people and their culture. Tonight's topic is "Early Israeli Poetry." Sitter Service Sitter service is available each Shabbat evening service and the Saturday morning Shabbat service when there is a Bar/Bat Mitzvah. Please make a reservation. There are no facilities for infants. SATURDAY: Shabbat service, 10:30 a JH. Simcha B'Shabbat—an informal Shabbat service that includes study and discussion of a variety of Jewish texts. ADULT EDUCATION July 8-7:30-8:30 p.m., "Beyond Midrash," led by Don Schwartz.
TIFERETH ISRAEL Member of the United Synagogue * ' of Conservative Judaism 3219 Sheridan Blvd., tlncoln, NE 68902 Services are conducted by Rabbi Stanley M. Rosenbaum. Minyans on Mondays and Thursdays, 7:15 a.m. FRIDAY: Services, 8 p.m. SATURDAY: , Services, 9:30 a.m.
An Affiliate o f the Jewish Reconstnictionist Federation P.O. Box 241130, . Omaha, NE 68124-5130 . 758-9233 ; FRIDAY: Due to the holiday, there will be no services tonight, July 4. FRIDAY, July 11: Community pot-luck vegetarian dinner and services, 6 p.m., at the synagogue. Religious School has completed its school year, and classes will resume every Sunday, starting in Sept., at Wesjside Community Education Center, 108th & Grover, Omaha. Contact Dr. Marty Rosenberg at 390-9062 for placement.
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ROSE BLLJMKIN JEWISH HOME
SATURDAY: Services, led by Mark Levy, start at 9 a.m. Members of the community are invited to join residents for services and Kiddish.
CH ABAD HOUSE An Affiliate of the Worldwide Chabnd-Lufoavitch Movement 11923 Pacific, Omaha, NE 68144 697-1124 E-MAtL~chabad@aol.com SATURDAY: Davening s t a r t s a t 9:30 a.m., followed by Kiddish. WEDNESDAYS: Talmud classes, 9:30 a.m.j "Hooked on Yiddish" lessons, 7 p.m. THURSDAYS: Advanced Talmud, noon
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BETH ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE
BETH EL SYNAGOGUE
Member of the tTajon of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America 1502 No. 82nd St., Omaha, NE 68104
Member of United Synagogues of Conservative Judaism 14506 California, Omaha, NE 68154 492-8550 WEB--http://omahafreenet.org/bethci
Services conducted by. Rabbi Howard Kutner. Office hours: Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; Friday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. FRIDAY: Kabfyalat Shabbat Service, 7 p.m. SATURDAY: Services start at 8:45 a.m.; Jr. Congregation, 10:30 a.m.; Pirkei Avos class with Rabbi Kutner, 8:10 p.m. at the synagogue. Mincha, 8:40 p.m., followed by Shalosh Seudot, Ma'ariv and Havdalah. SUNDAY: Morning service, 9 a.m.; Mincha, 8:45 p.m. WEEKDAYS: . Services at 7 a.m. and 8:45 p.m.
Office Hours: Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Friday, j) a.m. to 4 p.m. Services are conducted by Rabbi Paul Drazen and Cantor Emil Berkovits. FRTOAY: Services, ft pan. ... SATURDAY: • • ,. Services, 9:30 a.m.; Kiddish following services. Devar Torah given by Devorah Waesch. Sitter service, 10 a.m. Shabbat Story Time-first and third Saturday at 11a.m. ICtantan-second and fourth Saturday at ,11 ajn.. Minha-Ma'ariv and Havdalah services, 8:55 p.m. SUNDAY: Services, 9 a.m. WEEKDAYS: Services, 6:55 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.
CONGREGATION B'NAI JESHURUN SOUTH STREET TEMPLE Member of the Union of American Hebrew Congregations 20618.20th S t Lincoln, NE 68502-2707 Services officiated by Cantor Michael Weisser. TUESDAY: Adult Education, 7:30 p.m. THURSDAY: Choir practice, 7:30 p.m. FRTOAY: Shabbat services at 7:45 p.m. SATURDAY: Torah study and service, 10 a.m.
B'NAI ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE Council Bluffs, Iowa 51503 ' ;;
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
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FRTOAY: No services this week.
OPFUTT 25th and Capehart Omaha, NE 294-6051 FRD3AY: Services, 8 p.m.
Orthodox Union looking fora few good stories In celebration of its upcoming Centennial, the Orthodox Union is taking a look at American Jewish life over the past 100 years. The O.U. is looking for information about "everyday" Jews who dedicated themselves to building Orthodox communities in America, though their efforts may be known only to a few. So dust off your family album and share your stories! And who knows? Your family^ treasured tale may wind up published in the special Centennial book. Mail or fax your story of 200-500 words, with your address and phone number, to: Legacy 100, c/o Elaine Salvit, Orthodox Union, 333 7th Ave., New York, N.Y. 10001; FAX: (212) 5649058, or e-mail to salvite@ou.org.
Leading Jewish authors to host workshop America's leading Jewish authors will gather in Wisconsin this summer to share their expertise with budding and published authors at SOFER: The Jewish Writers'Workshop. The retreat, which will be held Aug. 21-24 in Oconomowoc, WI, is sponsored by the Olin-Sang Ruby Union Institute (OSRUI), a camp, conference and retreat center set on 215 wooded acres with a lake, outdoor recreational facilities and an indoor sports complex. This year's SOFER faculty includes Rodger Kamenetz, author of The Jew in the Lotus; Donny Maseng, a playwright, actor-composer and teacher; Howard Schwartz, author, professor and Midrashist; Gerald Stem, a leading poet and lecturer; Steve Stem, an associate professor of English and fiction writer; and Dina Elenbogen, teacher and author of the memoir Drawn From Water, who will guide participants in journal writing. Award-winning writer/performer Ellen Gould, special guest artist, will present her acclaimed one-woman show Bubbe Meises Bubbe Stories. She will also be joined by Maseng in a lecture/demonstration of a work-in-progress. "The workshop is for anybody who intends to write professionally or just for pleasure, for those deeply fascinated with literature and the creative process, and those who care deeply about their connection culturally as Jews," said Donny Maseng, coordinator of SOFER. For registration information, contact Deanne Dunn Friedman at OSRUI, 555 Skokie Blvd., Suite 225, Northbrook, iL 60062. Phone: (847) 509-0990, ext. 12; Fax: (847) 509-0970; E-mail: DunnFried@aol.com -
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Page 4 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE July 4,1997
Editorial The 'Bill of Rights' for board members Today we celebrate the Fourth of July, our nation's independence. In addition to the picnics, barbeques, parades and political speeches, we recall the foundation of freedom on which this country is built. We remember the sacrificesof men and women who fought, and died, for the principles of democracy. And we tell our children the importance of civic duty. We in the Jewish community have duties, both to the cities in which we live-Omaha, Lincoln or Council Bluffs--and to our synagogues, Jewish organizations and the Jewish Federation and its Centers of Excellence. Last week, new board members were installed at the Jewish Federation's Annual Meeting; synagogues held their installations earlier in the month, along with many of the Jewish organizations. Since we expect so much of the hundreds of volunteers who serve on these boards, a discussion of their responsibilities-and rights-seemed appropriate on this, our nation's celebration of freedom. Boards of directors of non-profit institutions are responsible for seven areas: the governance of the organization; planning, goal setting and budgeting; evaluating organizational effectiveness; financial stewardship; membership; customer service; and creating a link to the community. Governance is self-explanatory; a board needs to create a structure which includes by-laws, policies and procedures, legal documents and parliamentary rules to create the infrastructure of the organization in order to carry out its mission. Financial stewardship is also easy to define. A board must raise the necessary funds through a variety of means and communicate with its donors in order to keep the organization on a sound financial footing.
Board members are responsible to the members of their organization for all the items mentioned above, but they must attract new members. This responsibility is similar to customer service: listen the needs of your members and to potential members and be prepared to respond. Plan for the short term as well as the long-term and budget accordingly. A budget should reflect the priorities of the organization. And programs, as well as personnel, should be evaluated annually. Even successful projects need to be reviewed to see
if they're stilling meeting the needs of both the provider and the recipients. Creating a link to the community translates as a board member's responsibility to act as a liaison between his/her organization and the public. Board members should be knowledgeable about programs, projects, goals, budgets and personnel if they are to inform and educate members and potential members. Those are the list of responsibilities each board member has as a 'generalist;' many board members
also carry portfolios making them specialists as chairmen of events or committees. So in addition to making decisions good for the organization as a whole, many board members also have to be advocates for their particular program or project. It does seem as though non-profit organizations demand much from their elected and appointed volunteers. In addition to responsibilities, board members da have rights. They have a right to a copy of the organization's bylaws and policies and procedures; they have a right to see a copy of the budget in advance of the vote and to have an end-of-the-year financial statement with a list of all restricted and unrestricted funds held by the organization. Board members have a right to receive an agenda prior to each meeting and background information on issues on which they are expected to vote. A list of the board and staff with addresses, phone numbers (and fax numbers and e-mail addresses) should be provided to all board members, along with an organizational chart and the lines of communication. And every board member has a right to be heard, in a safe, non-judgmental environment. Others should listen and listen respectfully. Board members should be able to debate issues and bring new ides and suggestions to the table. Volunteers have skills to offer, as well as time and money. If we in the Jewish community are going to demand that volunteers accept the responsibilities of civic duty, then our organizational leadership should be prepared to give their board members the kind of information, training and respect they need to make responsible decisions. Lastly, organizations must thank their board members and volunteers. And thank them again!
BEHIND THE Supreme Court blow against RFRA dubbed justices' 'worst mistake' HEADLINES by Daniel Kurtzman WASHINGTON (JTA) - The U.S. Supreme Court's decision to strike down as unconstitutional a 1993 federal law aimed at curbing governmental interference in religious practice is a devastating blow to Jews and other religious communities. The justices, in a 6-3 decision, said Congress usurped power from state and local governments and from the Supreme Court itself- when it enacted the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, commonly known as RFRA. . The move wipes out one of the Jewish community's crowning legislative achievements. Jewish organizations across the political and religious spectrum had been instrumental in pushing the legislation through Congress, and they had hailed its enactment as one of the most important developments for religious liberty this century. Still, word last week's decision hit Jewish leaders — indeed, religious leaders and civil rights advocates everywhere - with unusually blunt force. "It's sort of like one of your children getting killed," said Marc Stern, co-director of the American Jewish Congress' legal department. "There is now no more federal protection for religious practice," he added. "That hasn't been the case in two generations." Rabbi David Saperstein, director of the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism, called the decision one of the "worst mistakes this court has ever made." The RFRA ruling provides no further insight into the court's attitude toward church-state issues, legal analysts said. Under the 1993 law, passed nearly unanimously in Congress and signed into
law with strong support from President Clinton, federal, state and local governments were required to show a "compelling" interest before interfering with the practice of religion. Even then, the law requires governments to adopt the least restrictive means possible. Congress enacted the law in response to a 1990 Supreme Court ruling which said laws that otherwise are neutral toward religion can be valid even if they may infringe on some people's religious beliefs. In its ruling, the high court decided that Congress had overstepped its legislative authority and usurped judicial authority. Writing for the court majority, Justice Anthony Kennedy said, "Our national experience teaches that the Constitution is preserved best when each part of the government respects both the Constitution and the proper actions and determinations of other branches. "RFRA," he added, "contradicts vital principles necessary to maintain separation of powers and the federal balance." Kennedy was joined by Chief Justice William Rehnquist and Justices John Paul Stevens, Clarence Thomas, Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Antonin Scalia. Justices Sandra Day O'Connor, David Souter and Stephen Breyer dissented. Without the protections afforded under RFRA, it will be more difficult to claim that actions taken by government improperly restrict religious freedom, experts say. "Neutral laws regarding the drinking age and medical procedures could be enforced against
THE JEWISH PRESS '.."•. (Founded In 1920) The role of the Jewish Federation of Omaha is to involve Jews in meeting Jewish communal needs locally, nationally and in Israel. Centers of Excellence of the Federation are: Community Relations, Jewish Community Center, Jewish Education and Library Services, Jewish Family Service, Jewish Senior Services. The Jewish Press is a Constitutional Committee of the Jewish Federation of Omaha. The Jewish Press (USPS 275620) is published weekly on Friday for $26 per calendar year U.S.; $30 foreign, by the Jewish Federation of Omaha, 333 So. 132nd St., Omaha, NE 68164. Periodical postage paid at Omaha, NE. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Jewish Press; 333 So. 132nd St., Omah i' NE 68154; Telephone 402-334-6448; FAX 402-334-5422; E-mail <gshpress@aol.com> . ,
Stove Lsvtngsr Chairman . Carol Katzman Editor-in-Chief Morris Mallns Editor Emeritus Maureen LaPour Managing Editor Larry Axelrod . Advertising Manager Shetyl Friedman Bookkeeper George Schaplro Volunteer .
Christian; Communion'and Jewish circumcision rituals," the Anti-Defamation League noted in a statement. It will also be harder to make the case for excusing Jewish students from school Christmas productions, opposing a law prohibiting state employees from wearing hats or head coverings in the workplace. "Between 1990 and 1993, we lost some 60 religious freedom cases that we would have had a chance of winning under RFRA," Saperstein said. In the wake of RFRA's invalidation, Jewish legal experts seemed at a loss in trying to figure out where to go from here. "The fact that it was a 6-3 vote, BO broadly cast, would lead me to believe that it is not going to be easy to find a federal legislative fix," Stern said.
Letter to the Editor To the Editor: The article in the June 6 issue of the Jewish Press about Jewish journeys was wonderful. Thank you for your efforts in portraying the story of my conversion in such a sensitive and compassionate manner. I so appreciate the forthright way in which you'were able to present the issue of conversion since it is so important that Jews-by-choice know they are accepted and welcome. I know that your words touched many. Nancy Wolf
JEWISH PRESS COMMITTEE Lloyd Roitstein, Vice Chairman; Fred Tichauer, Treasurer; Joanie Jacobson, Secretary; Elyce Azriel; Jill, Belmont; Bob Birt; Steve Danon; Bob Eisonberg; Linda Lachin; Sheryl Lee; George Schapiro; Howard Silber. . Editorials express the view of the writer and are not necessarily representative of the views of the Jewish Press Committee, the Jewish Federation of Omaha or the Omaha Jewish Community as a whole. The Jewish Press reserves the right to edit letters and articles for space and content . The Jewish Press is not responsible for the Kashruth of any product or establishment. . .
July 4,1997 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE Page 5
COMMENTARY
The Land dealer murders: license to kill by Shalom Yerushalmi
The institutionalized liquidation of the Palestinian land dealers must be condemned in the strongest possible terms. Murder is murder. At the same time, there is no need to elevate these men to the level of martyrs. We are talking of people who take assets from the Palestinian population and sell them to settlers and yeshivas in the West Bank, Silwan, and the heart of the Moslem Quarter of the Old City and thus prolong to eternity the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Their story involves financial deceit, improper bookkeeping, threats, intimidation and exploitation. But the phenomenon cannot be ignored. Before our very eyes is emerging a Palestinian Authority whose violent methods of government exactly resemble those of Mobutu Seise Seko, the deposed dictator of Zaire. Murder, disregard of the law by the regime, kidnappings and corruption on a national level have been' the main characteristics of the PA since Yasser Arafat arrived here in the summer of 1994. This is without mentioning the incarceration of human rights activists and journalists, who have been freed for the moment, only as a result of international pressure. All this has hitherto been well hidden, if carried out in a crude, chaotic way - witness the forbidding of broadcasts from the parlia-' ment building in Ramallah. The Palestinian people, who, for a whole generation, fought Israeli occupation and sacrificed the best of their sons during the Intifada and before that, are now having imposed upon them a regime apparently even more oppressive that the one it
BEHIND THE HEADLINES
was their lot to live under before the Oslo redeployments. A Junta of extortionists is ruling over them and robbing them of their property and honor. A month ago, the story spread of the murder of an Arab who refused to sell a piece of land cheaply to a senior figure in the Palestinian Authority. A few days later the Ministerial Committee on Jerusalem heard reports of more grave occurances -of kidnappings ordered from above and killings going unpunished. These are ominous develop• merits, whether or not they will be used by some for anti-Palestinian propaganda. We cannot close our eyes, or refuse to peer outside the doorway. We are living in the same house, built on close cooperation - in the security, economic and employment fields. We also share the same water sources. The attempts at separation, the permanent status agreements, if they come, cannot completely do away with the reality of this symbiosis. And it is inconceivable that a corrupt dictatorship become
The current process endangers Israeli society, Palestinian society and, above all, the peace process. .
With the passage of time, the problem will become more serious. In a situation of political deadlock, external threat and economic crisis, the dictatorial and fundamentalist element becomes strengthened. There are signs of this even in Israel itself. Today, the PA.has been given a license to kill in the name of the "higher Palestinian interest," and the claim that this is an internal matter and no one has the right of criticism. Within the.Palestinian nation, there are strong democratic forces, mainly amongst the elements who grew up in the shadow of the occupation and the struggle against Israel. But at the moment, they are being trampled upon. The journalist, Daoud Kuttab, is only the most recent example. And one personal note: for many years I fought for the creation of a demilitarized Palestinian state alongside Israel, with its administrative capital in : Jerusalem. My friends and I development contacts, formulated agreements and experienced endless hopes and disappointments. On a few occasions, we disobeyed the law, which we regarded as anti-democratic, forbidding meetings with the PLO. Had I known what the results would be on the Palestinian side, perhaps I would have abandoned the whole idea.^
part of the fabric of Israeli life. In such circumstances, with such close proximity Shalom Yerushalmi is a noted Israeli jourbetween the two societies, there will not and can nalist and peace activist. This op-ed piece not be harmonious coexistence-between a democ- originally appeared in Ma'ariv, a daily newsracy and a dictatorship. paper in Israel, June 4,1997.
An empty Father's Day for MIA parents by Judi Steinig, Program Director, American Coalition for missing Israeli Soldiers
Presents, cards, calls and family reunions brought warm and loving feelings to many men on Father's Day. But for Yonah Baumel, this was not a day ofjoy. • Father's Day,.like-every other, day, is filled with emptiness and longing for a child whose absence is always felt. His son, Sgt. Zachary Baumel, is a soldier in the Israel Defense Force, who has been missing-in-action for 15 years. Each holiday and family event is an agonizing experience without the participation of an exceptional young man whose youth has been cruelly snatched from him.,. At the time of his disappearance, Zach was in the last month of his army duty, which was combined with religious studies at Yeshivat Har Etzion in Gush Etzion. At the Gush, Zach was a popular student who was known to be sensitive to the needs of others. Zach worked closely with American students, helping them adjust to Israeli yeshiva life. He could easily understand their feelings, having been born in America. He made aliyah with his family when he was 10 years old. On June 11, 1982, Zach fought in the battle of Sultan Yakoub, one of the costliest battles of the Shalom Hagalil Campaign, Operation Peace in the Galilee. On that day, two Israeli tanks were stopped by Syrian and Palestinian fire and six soldiers were reported missing. Although two were released in prisoner-of-war exchanges within a few years and the remains of another returned the following year, the status of the three remaining soldiers, Sgt. Zvi Feldman, Corporal Yehuda Katz and Sgt. Zachary Baumel, has never been cleared. After 15 years, they are still officially listed as missing-in-action. . .-.'... .'.., . ; : On that same day that they were reported missing, Dean BreliB, a reporter for Time magazine, witnessed and reported the following from Damascus, "...a huge crowd had gathered. At around 4 p.m., an informal parade moved through...the center of the parade was an Israeli; army truck manned by...a mixed crew of Syrians and Palestinians. A flatbed truck followed (and) contained what I believe were three young IDF soldiers. Their hands and ankles were chained. They looked deeply sorrowed, if not ashamed by their plight. They did not seem scared..." Since this statement was made, other reports (including Amnesty International 1988's report) have continued to circulate about the three men, The Syrian government, which is officially respon-
sible, according to the 1949 Geneva Convention, persists in denying any knowledge of their circumstances. On dec. 5, 1993, Yasser Arafat returned half of Sgt. Baumel's dogtag to an advisor of the late Prime Alinister Yizchak Rabin,' with the promise of more, information within two weeks. Three-and-ahalf years have passed and the fate of Sach, Zvi and Yehuda remains a mystery. A massive outcry of protest from the Jewish community is truly needed now. The 15th anniversary of the battle of Sultan Yakoub and. the disappearance of the three soldiers just occurred on June 25. For 15 years, these families have been tormented, not knowing whether their children are alive or dead. Resolution of this predicament largely depends on showing our elected officials that we are united in our demands for accurate information on the status of these three men. The National Council of Young Israel sponsors the American Coalitions for Missing Israeli Soldiers (ACMIS) in fulfillment of the mitzvah of pidyon shevuyim, redemption of captives. It is vital that Vice-president Al Gore hear from American Jewry on this issue. Tell him the following: • Zachary Baumel is both an American citizen
and an Israeli citizen who also registered for the ' Americandraft.
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• The Middle East Peace Facilitation Act was passed in September 1995, stipulating that aid to the Palestinian Authority be contingent upon several factors, including full disclosure on all information it had on United States citizens missing from the region. The PA is not in compliance since it has not given any accurate information on Zachary Baumel. Contact Vice-president Gore at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave., Washington, D.C., 20500 or email him at vice.president@whitehause.gov The story of Israel's missing soldiers is by no means over. But the commitment of every American Jew is needed to write the final chapters. It is our privilege as free Americans and an obligation we share as Jews to work together for their release.
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
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'Five Bright Chicks' to present storytelling
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The Five Bright Chicks Winging It, the Five Bright Chicks' upcoming adventure in storytelling, is scheduled for a twoweekend run, July 11-13 and July 18-20, a t McFoster's Natural Kind Cafe, 302 South 38th Street in Omaha. On Friday and Saturday nights these five, unpredictable mad women from the Big "O" ~ Vicki Baines, Lucy Duncan, Ozzie Nogg, Rita Paskowitz and Peggy Reinecke—will take adult audiences on flights of fancy and bring them back alive, and then some. Nogg will tell the story, "The night we almost, but not quite, became orphans," about the night her parents went to the movies and got stuck in a snowstorm. Always ready to push the envelope and take a risk, the "Chicks" expand the boundaries of traditional storytelling by presenting their own personal tales in fresh and unconventional ways. With backgrounds ranging from theatre, stand-up comedy, dance and graphic design, these five women share their stores in ways that are unexpected, hilarious and poignant. On Sunday afternoon, July 13 and 20, t h e "Chicks" will present special telling for children, proving to kids ages four and up that there is more to life than videos and the Cartoon Network. . The Friday and Saturday evening performances lift off at 8 p.m. Ticket prices are $10 for adults, and $5 for students and seniors. The Sunday Children's shows start at 1 p.m. Tickets are $5 for adults, and $3 for children. No doubt about it, based on the sold-out success of the Five Bright Chicks' past storytelling performances, Winging It is guaranteed to be a real trip. For reservations, call Vicki at 551-2582.
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Organizations YES Celebrate Independence Day with friends Monday at the JCC. English class is offered at 10 a.m.; bingo and exercise both start at 10:30 a.m. "YES Talk" discussion group will meet in the adult lounge at 11 a.m. Following lunch at noon, Esther Pilster will entertain with patriotic sentiments. For transportation, call 330-4272. Reminders: Deadline is July 10 for the trip to Winnavegas Casino on July 17. Cost is $5. Deadline is July 24 for the trip to Boys Town on July 31. Cost is $3. Mah-Jongg Club will meet Wednesday, July 9, at 1 p.m. WALK-IN DROP-IN Members will meet Thursday at the JCC. English class and exercise both start at 10 a.m.; bingo starts at 10:30 a.m. Bring a dairy sack lunch to eat at 11:30 a.m. At noon, the movie Michael, will be shown in the Blumkin Home auditorium. Bring afriend!Popcorn will be served. JEWISH SENIOR SERVICES Omaha Symphony will present Itzhak PerLman Saturday, Sept. 13, at 8 p.m. Deadline is Aug. 1 for payment and reservations. Cost is $34 for ticket on main floor, section B, and $38 for ticket and transportation from the JCC. Make check payable to Jewish Senior Services. For reservations and information, call Maggie Conti, Adult Program Director, at 334-6521. Thanks to LOVE for making Father's Day a happy day. Boutonnieres were given to the men. Entertainment was music by Bill Ritchie Trio. The Youth Volunteer Corps of Omaha involves young people in community service, enabling them to see themselves as a vital and necessary part of the community in which they live. Teens learn the value of service to others and that their future is intertwined with the. elderly. Seven youth volunteers and a leader are coming to the Rose Blumkin Home Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., through Aug. 8. They will work with the residents in daily activities. RUSSIAN CLUB Members will meet Friday, July 11, at the JCC. Come exercise with Larisa a t 10 a.m. Following lunch at 11 a.m., Debbie Brown from the AntiDefamation League, will speak. For transportation, call Lydia Iinde at 697-9169. VISIONS Visions Board meeting is Friday, July 11, 9:30 a.m., in the conference room at the JCC. Visions Summer Membership Luncheon Meeting is Friday, July 18, 12:30 p.m., at Caniglia's Venice Inn. Cost is $6.50. Members will see musical highlights from Fiddler on the Roof. Mail reservation form to Vera Lewis, 5424 Lafayette. Ave., Omaha, NE 68132. Make check payable to Jewish Senior Services. Deadline is July 11. JEWISH WOMEN INTERNATIONAL The Mid-America Region of JWI recently held its' ri 100th anniversary conven"'•'\ tion in St. Louis, MO. Attending from Omaha were Frieda Krizelman, President, and Rose Rosenberg. Jewish Women International of Omaha.was awarded a special citation for successful ongoing fundraising project-Mali Jongg tournaments.
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GRIEF AND LOSS SUPPORT GROUP "/ can't talk about these (grief) issues anywhere else. : J feel like you are all my friends."-former group member , Jewish Family Service is again offering a support group, free of charge, for individuals who have experienced the death of a loved one. However, it is not recommended for those who have experienced a loss through suicide or violent death. The group will start Wednesday, Aug. 20, and run for approximately 12 consecutive weeks from* 7:30-9 p.m. in the Rose Blumkin Home conference room. Facilitators are Ellie Epstein, M.S., and Jennifer Meyerson, M.S.W. Pre-registration is requested. For more information, call JFS, 330-2024.
July 4,1997
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 7
'Chaplain'Katzman gives benediction at Mayor's inaugral
American Heart Association."
Sarah Kohll recently received a bachelor's degree from Brandeis University in Waltham, MA. She is the daughter of Marvin and Sandra Kohll.
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"Honorable Judges, Mayor and City Council Members: I am humbled by the privilege and honor to be t h e very first citizen to use t h e Omaha Steaks has been awarded 1997 Catalog renewed appellation of Mayor for Hal Daub, and of the Year by Catalog Age. The top honor was pre- refer to City Council Members by their new titles. "I offer you my blessings for success in all your sented at the magazine's 12th Annual Catalog Awards luncheon held recently at the Catalog worthy endeavors as communal servants and congratulate you upon your acceptance of this great . Conference in San Francisco. and awesome responsibility on our behalf. "Let me share with you a story. Laurie Weinstein, daughter of former Omahan "In 1991, the city of New York was plagued by Dr. Sam Weinstein, is one of a wide range of scholars and military personnel who have written Wives the nationally publicized racial tensions that took and Warriors, Women and the Military in the place in Brooklyn. David Dinkins, who was Mayor United States and Canada. The book has recently of the city, visited Rabbi Schneerson, more commonly known as the Rebbe, whose concern for the been published by Greenwood Press. Ms. Weinstein is an Associate Professor in well being of every individual is legendary. The Anthropology and Social Science at Western State distressed Mayor Dinkins sought the Rebbe's guidance and blessing to 'unite the two peoples.' The University of Connecticut in Danbury. Rebbe responded with great profundity as follows: • "*We're all one people, in: one city,' under one adini'nfstrationi'under Ohe'Cr-d.' ;'" r ''•' "'''•' "L "It is not merely coincidence that this riieariing-' ful event—the inauguration takes place t h e evening preceding the biblical hoh'day of Pentecost. Don Schwartz to facilitate This festival commemorates the revelation of G-d on Mount Sinai and His giving us the Bible and book discussion eternal covenant. Included were the seven univerDon Schwartz will be the facilitator a t the sal commandments known as the Noachide Laws. upcoming session of the adult book discussion "These laws are: (1) To believe in G-d; (2) Not to group, scheduled for July 17, 1 p.m., in the Jewish blaspheme His holy name; (3) Not to murder; (4) Federation Library. He is an instructor in composi- Not to steal; (5) Not to commit sexual aberrations; tion and speech at Peru State College, and a writer (6) To be kind to all living creatures and most relein the area of theatre and literary criticism. He has vant to this evening; (7) To "establish governments had over 60 essays and articles published. and courts of law. The discussion will focus on a group of short sto"May G-d grant that you find favor in the eyes of ries from the Oxford Book of Hebrew Short Stories, all the people of Omaha, that you be blessed with a new anthology edited by Glenda Abramson. This the wisdom, insight and compassion which are so collection demonstrates the richness and diversity vital to overcome the great challenges which you of Hebrew short fiction. Copies of the stories are will undoubtedly encounter. currently available in the library. ' "In a democracy, officials are elected not only to The group meets t h e third Thursday of the represent, but also to lead. May you continue to month. Future discussions will include: Aug. 8— maintain the high ethical standards of our great Lily White by Susan Isaacs; Sept. 9-Stones from city, may you succeed to turn the skeptics of govthe River by Ursala Hegi. ernment into active participants; may you have The book discussion group is open to the public the inner strength not to forget the education of and welcomes new members. our children and the feeding and clothing of our For more information, call the Jewish Federation poor. . Library at 334-6462. "And to quote our President, Shalom Chaveriml"
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Page 8
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
July 4,1997
Meet Omaha's young artists
Book review by Rabbi Michael Gold
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I read Joshua Henkin's new novel Swimming Across the Hudson in one sitting, on an airplane flying cross country to my father's unveiling. When I finished the book, I broke out into tears. Perhaps it was the final scene, when the father of the story takes his two sons to the cemetery where he plans to be buried. I thought about my forthcoming meeting with my own brother at the cemetery where my dad was just buried. ' Or perhaps my tears came from something deeper. The book touched many of my hot buttons. I lost one brother who was gay; my other-brother married out of the faith. Both homosexuality and intermarriage figure prominently in the novel. However, the major theme of the book is adoption and Judaism. As I read Henkin's novel, the attempt by my wife and myself to raise our own three adopted children as committed, observant Jews kept coming to mind. Swimming Across the Hudson tells the story of two brothers, Sam and Jonathan Suskind, raised in New York City by Orthodox Jewish parents. The book is filled with flashbacks of a loving, religious home-images of their mother's Shabbat table, or walking in the park Shabbat afternoon while their father drills them on Hebrew. For all the warmth and comfort of their family, both boys dream of a wider world they would find, if only they could go "swimming across the Hudson* to New Jersey. The boys were both adopted as infants, and each has reacted quite differently to their adoption. As the novel opens, Jonathan and Ben are both adults living in San Francisco, far from the orthodox life they knew as boys. Frankly, I did not like Ben very much. His behavior towards his girlfriend, his birth mother, and his brother seemed ethically dubious. I kept wondering what would happen if one of my own children were contacted by their birth mother. Will readers not directly involved with issues of adoption feel the same affinity with this novel as I did? I believe they absolutely will. I found the novel utterly absorbing, and recommend it to all readers interested in contemporary family issues. Ultimately, the book gave some profound lessons about parenting. Eventually, all children must grow up and find their own way. Abraham is told by God to leave his father's home and lech lecha, literally "go to yourself." To be adults, we must go to ourselves. As the novel comes to a close, we realize that theirs is a love between a parent and a child far stronger than blood. This love is there no matter what life choices a parent might make. It was the realization of that love my late father felt for me, and the love I feel towards my three children, that brought me to tears on that airplane flight. Rabbi Gold serves as spiritual leader of Temple Beth Torah in Tamarac, FL, and writes for Heartfelt Communication, 1-888HEART15. Visit his website at http://www.heartfelt.com
by Joanie Jacobson
The Omaha Young Jewish Artists Exhibit is now on display in the Jewish Community Center Gallery. The exhibit features the work of 13 talented teenagers in the area. Participants include: Julie Abramson, 19, is a sophomore at the University of Nebraska, Lincoln. Art has been Julie's hobby since grade school and she also took art in high school. "She's always loved to draw," said her mother, Linda, "It's just a special gift." She is the daughter of Mark and Linda Abramson. Leigh-Anne Brown, 18, is a freshman at the University of Arizona. Leigh-Anne studied photography at Metro Community College and the OPS Career Center. In addition to receiving the Young Columbus Student Ambassador Award and Creighton University's Best Photo Byline Award (for two years), she had her own exhibit in the JCC Gallery in December and this summer, taught photography for Millard Public School's Gifted Program. She is the daughter of Jonathan and Debbi Brown. Calli Cohn, 14, is a sophomore at Central. For several years, she took lessons at Rhythm and Hues and last year, took art classes at school. She considers art a hobby and creates ^just for fun." Her work features marker, watercolor and acrylic. She is the daughter of Marvin and Susie Cohn. Robbie Epstein, 14, is a freshman at Burke. He studied art at Rhythm and Hues and Joslyn Art Museum and won First Place at the state level in the Reflections Contest, sponsored by the national Parent Teachers' Association. In addition to caricature, he will show his Bar Mitzvah invitation. He is the son of Gary and Lisa Epstein. Jeff Katzman, 17, is a senior at Westside. He has taken art classes since seventh grade and last year, took a class in architecture at school. He received an Honorable Mention in the Nebraska Scholastic Art Awards and currently, has a paid internship at RDG Crose Gardener Shukert, a local planning firm. He is the son of Michael and Carol Katzman. Jodi Lerner, 17, is a freshman at the University of Nebraska at Omaha. "I've taken art lessons ever since I can remember," she explained. The only potter in this exhibit, Jodi studied privately with Debie Plog for six years and took a variety of art classes at Burke. This past year, her pottery won her a Silver Key Award in the Nebraska Scholastic Art Contest. She is the daughter of Sheldon and Judi Lerner. Hilary Moshman, 17, is a senior at Westside. One of five photo-journalists for the school newspaper and yearbook, she studied photography
freshman year. Her work has been featured in "Teen Age" in the Jewish Press and says she "mostly takes pictures when there's an occasion." She is the daughter of Gordon and Ann Moshman. Ryan Olesh, 18, is a senior at The Accelerated School in Denver, CO. The second artist to exhibit his original Bar Mitzvah invitation, Ryan took a correspondence course from the Minneapolis School School of Art for two years. He is the son of Robert and Donna Olesh. Lena Raksin, 18, is a freshman at the University of Nebraska at Omaha. Originally from Minsk, Belarus, she moved to Omaha from the former Soviet Union in 1991. She has taken art classes at Millard North High school, including Studio art, Commercial art and Drawing, and plans a career in interior design. She is the daughter of Leonid and Irina Raksin. Jennifer Rifkin, 16, is a junior at Millard North. In addition to class at Rhythm and Hues, she has also taken private art lessons. Her school classes have included Art Foundations and Drawing I. She is the daughter of Gary and Karen Rifkin. Jeff Shapiro, 19, is a freshman at the University of Illinois. With a full schedule in high school, he was never able to take art classes as an elective, however, he did participate in a Hebrew High School art project headed by Carole Greenberg. He submitted one of 18 winning designs for the titles in the Peace Garden at Beth El Synagogue. He is the son of Larry and Sherry Shapiro. Jill Sherman, 18, is a senior at Burke. She has studied art since fifth grade, privately with Debie Plog, and in high school. Classes at Burke have included Pottery and Studio art; Jill's favorite subject matter is animals. She is the daughter of Marc and Claudia Sherman. Ryan Tichauer, 15, is a sophomore at Millard North. He took art classes at Kiewit Middle School, where one of his paintings was on permanent display. Ryan enjoys art as a hobby. He is the son of Fred Tichauer and Marty Tichauer. Funding for the Omaha Young Jewish Artists Exhibit was made possible by the Harlan Noddle and Joe Kirshenbaum Philanthropic Fund and the Norm and Irv Veitzer Family Fund of the Foundation of the Jewish Federation of Omaha. Coordinators of the exhibit are Harriet Slusky and this writer; designer is Ducky Milder. The exhibit will be open during JCC hours through the month of July. » '.
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